#I tried my best to select the eleven most popular ships

[eurekq]

so here they are.... my revamped darlings. naohiko, rika, amane, and maya are new! im going to put all their bios under the cut, they’re mostly copypasted from the old ref though except for the new kids :P i really like naohiko, he’s basically an amalgamation of every percussionist i’ve ever known lmfao

basic premise: 16 fresh-out-of-highschool prodigies are invited to star in well-respected and widely-watched big brother-esque reality tv show, which takes place on a cruise ship. what they weren't expecting was for the show's 25th season to be a killing game! the students: CHOUMI YUKIYAMA: exceptional among even her fellow shsls, choumi made her historic mark on ballet by becoming the world's youngest ever prima ballerina at the age of 13 and japan's first ever prima ballerina assoluta at 18. fans flock to her ethereal, angelic grace on stage as well as to the percieved sense of otherworldlyness surrounding her albinism. on the darker side of her popularity, repeated sexual harassment from fans and male dance partners alike has hardened her world view to make her not quite cold, but definitely reserved in her emotions. she adapts fairly easy to stressful situations and pushes through pain with almost no visible outward struggle due to her all too common experience with dancing through foot and ankle injuries. because of this she usually ends up taking initiative in difficult scenarios if no one else steps forward. she is also a quite talented hobbyist figure skater and is fluent in both english and russian. REN KIKUHARA: a fairly odd florist in that instead of ordering flowers to arrange into bouquets, every flower he sells is grown himself. although this means that his selection is seasonally and fairly regionally limited, he has an incredible talent for working with plants and can even sometimes coax out-of-zone flowers to grow. he's fluent in hanakotoba and is surprisingly good at flirting through flowers without it seeming cheesy, although he doesn't do it very often. people often remark that his bouquets often seem to have more love and life in them than store-bought ones. ren is a calm and kind soul and prefers listening to talking, with what he does say always seeming to be just the right words for the situation. MARIKO MIKAMI: mariko was a sickly child, and spent a large part of her elementary school years in hospitals. around the age of seven, she began folding paper cranes as something to do, and wished to live normally after she folded her 1000th. she soon recovered, and feels that she owes her life to origami. she is precise and calculating in everything she does, which shines through in her art: every delicate, artful piece of origami that she makes is creased and folded perfectly. she also dabbles in wet-fold origami. she's most famous for her dry-fold though, and her pieces are well known for their complex, precise, mathematical beauty. she refuses to fold paper cranes anymore, feeling that they are too sacred for her to touch after they saved her life as a child. a calm, slightly disconcerting smile is always on her face, no matter the circumstance; her manner is polite for the most part, if i a little aggressive. MOMOTAROU KOBARA: momotarou, born into a rich family that fufilled his near-every want, made a name for himself in the world of collecting at the age of just eleven by, through luck and love for the series, collecting every pokemon card. from then on he set onto collecting just about anything non-perishable: pins, collectors set bandaids, vinyls, etc. he has exceptional luck in finding deals on ebay and other sites. he cant really be called a hoarder, since he likes to have just one of everything; he resells, gifts, or uses any duplicates. his mood swings between a dreamy, chilled out, flirtatious persona and periods of numb depression when it hits him that his whole life revolves around material possesions and that he has no real human connections. SARA KUROKAWA: a talented young woman from a long line of popular backalley tattoo artists. she combines traditional symbolism and youthful influence in her designs to make something new and more appealing for the younger generation, and is a huge proponent for tattoos being shown off for fashion rather than hidden away in the traditional style. sara does have (illegal) tattoos done by her older siblings on her arms despite the minimum age being 20, although her being homeschooled, looking older than her actual age, and having a tendency to wear long sleeves year round has led her to encounter few problems. she and her family are among the many who simply choose to ignore the statute requiring a medical license to tattoo. sara is a fairly rude person in a backhanded way, acts stereotypically catty and even a little deranged sometimes, and enjoys making herself the center of attention, whether through her appearance (dyed pink hair and white contacts) or the things she says. the only two things that can break her shell and make her excited and genuine are tattooing and piano, which she has played from a young age and loves. NAOHIKO KINZUMI: the son of a concert pianist and a professional jazz drummer, naohiko shortcutted the usual pots-and-pans percussion stage most children go through and spent most of his childhood hitting actual drums. blessed with perfect pitch and a natural feel for rhythm, his parents enrolled him in private music lessons at age five, and he joined onto his first indoor percussion ensemble at age 13. a fast learner, naohiko can play most all percussion instruments at a professional level, including both tuned and auxiliary. he is especially known for his drumset skill, specifically being able to match the speed and complexity of most double kick pedal rhythms with just one foot, and his delicate grace at bowed vibraphone. naohiko is loud, brash, and fun, with an infectious smile and sense of humor that draws people in. despite the flashiness of his drumset playing, his favourite instruments are actually the weird obscure ones, like the waterphone, mahler hammer, and "bucket of loud objects to be dumped on the floor". HARUMI HAMANAKA: harumi is a sweet and bubbly girl, if almost cloyingly so. her good luck is a fairly stable force (nowhere near as chaotic as komaeda, for example), generally acting in the favor of wishes of people around her. her mother intensly wanted for her to be on the show because of the exposure it provides, and this is what harumi attributes to her being selected. despite the way her luck operates, shes no doormat and in fact has an overwhelming force of personality, and her sweet demeanor can become rather passive aggressive if challenged on pretty much anything. SHOU KATSUKI (PROTAG): pushed to succeed in the game from a very young age, shou is japan's reigning chess champion, a FIDE-certified grandmaster, and went to international competition the year before the killing game. he played through to the finals with influenza, which worsened through the matches due to lack of treatment and culminated in debilitating pneumonia that left him in the hospital and unable to play for first. because of this, he's cultivated a sort of inferiority complex that he tries to cover for with self-confidence, which actually comes off as condescending rudeness. he has a natural talent for cause and effect analyzation and is good at planning ahead. he gets flustered easily over trivial things and is a sore loser, but tends not to crack under actual pressure. shou doesn't like to be associated with his family due to the intense pressure they put him under only to steal his winnings the second he began to succeed and thus prefers to be referred to by his given name, even by near-strangers. he does genuinely love chess, but his favourite board game is actually risk. (no one ever wants to play with him, though.) RIKA FUJIMIYA: originally scouted as a young child for her unique eyes and birthmarks, rika's first minor film role at the age of nine left the director stunned at her acting capability. as someone who grew up with a very murky self image and a difficulty interpreting social situations, rika lived most of her early life essentially "acting" the way she believed others would respond well to, which resulted in her easily adapting to doing the same for the cameras. she went on to have a very prolific child acting career without really settling into a niche. As a teenager she took her first steps into stage acting, playing juliet capulet at 16 in a moving and extremely impressive performance, and later at 18 performing a striking and memorable female hamlet. her deep and rich voice has also landed her several voice acting roles. her personality offstage has solidified a lot more since her younger years, although she doesn't go out of her way to talk to anyone, fan or otherwise. when approached, she is polite, gentle, and humble, although she has trouble separating her image as a celebrity from that of her as a person and thus it is extremely difficult to get to know her. KENJI MINAMOTO: an eccentric and a bit airheaded olympic fencer whose strange insistence on not wearing protective gear during practice (he believes it makes him better by giving him a stronger motivation to not get hit) has earned him many a scar over the years, and has left at least half of his joints in braces at any given time. he follows his own bushido-esque moral code (the details of which he will not tell anyone), although he will not put himself above whapping the occasional really annoying person in the ankles. his épée is his best friend and he carries it most everywhere. most of the scars on his face and hands are actually from trying to put in his very sharp industrial piercings while drunk. despite his oddities, his light-footed and elegant ambidextrous fencing has been compared by many to a graceful dance, and although in many respects he comes across as dumb, on the court his mind is laser-focused and unbelievably quick and analytic. AMANE BECKE: a more lowkey type of talented than her fellow contestants, amane hasn't won any major competitions, been on tv, set any records, or anything of that sort. she does, however, run what is widely considered the best bakery in japan. based out of nagano and the daughter of a swiss pastry chef, amane has a natural talent for baking nurtured through over a decade of dedication and love for the craft. she excels at interesting flavor combinations, but her true genius is in her classic, feel-good baked goods. many say that the things she bakes just taste like home and warmth. amane is as warm and sweet as her creations, but with a spark of wit and mad-scientist-y genius that make her an entertaining joy to watch work, if a little overbearing to talk to. EISUKE ITOU: eisuke grew up sewing clothes for his younger sisters barbie dolls, and he particularly loved dressmaking. he gained exposure in his first year of highschool by handmaking gorgeous outfits for his class's booth at the school festival, and, through application to various junior fashion competitions, he was eventually noticed by a big-name designer in paris. however, he found learning french next to impossible and has spent the year prior to the game in relative isolation, unable to have any real human conversation. his psychological state was fairly severely impacted by his long hours spent sewing and designing on internship with no company to get him by, and he is now debilitatingly socially anxious and finds conversation difficult and awkward. MAYA HANABAYASHI: maya spent her early teens with only a passing interest in survival-based media, having enjoyed hunger games and similar media, but not to the point of obsession. however, when traveling on a plane with her father back from visiting family in las vegas, she found herself in a similar situation when their plane went down in a heavily forested area of california, leaving a seventeen year old maya as the only survivor. with only a swiss army knife and a lipstick-shaped stun gun gifted to her by her father to feel safer during their stay in vegas, she survived alone in the woods hatchet-style for six months until late fall, when the fallen leaves made her campfire coincidentally visible to a very observant park ranger on firewatch. after being rescued and returned home to japan, maya found it extremely difficult to readjust to normal life. her thick and warm camo jacket, more a fashion statement when she was wearing it originally, was lifesaver to her during the cold spring, and she she can't bring herself to separate from it even with multiple rips and burns in the fabric. she has refused multiple book deals due to still being heavily traumatized, but after a long period of deliberation decided to go on the show as a way of finally moving forward and acknowledging it. maya isn't exactly socially anxious, but rather closed off and disconnected. JUN TENSEI: born jun harada, many believe that his spiritual connection is the real deal, but a few critics hold that he is most likely just an incredibly talented bluffer. the real truth about him is unknown, but many say that his seances do accurately reflect the personalities of their deceased loved ones and help them feel at peace. he is deeply religious, but not to any one traditional faith (although he does use traditional christian symbols such as crucifixes and items such as holy water on occasion). he believes strongly in the power of the soul and its ability to exist beyond death. his voice is soft and almost hypnotic, and he has a penchant for gentle teasing and riddles. he comes off as pretty shady to most, but he's fairly harmless. TOMOKO KAITA: a peppy and outgoing astrology guru who can read your deepest flaws and strengths with just your date and time of birth. known worldwide for her extremely accurate personal horoscopes. despite this, she strongly believes in the ability of an individual to defy their fate through hard work and self improvement. she dislikes giving negative horoscopes, and does her best to focus on the positives that the stars hold in store. her smile brightens the whole room! she is intensely loyal to her friends, to the point of self-sacrificing emotional labor. YUU IROIKE: yuu iroike isn't even his real name, and it's a mystery as to how show staff even tracked down his mailing address to get him on the show. he's a well-known public figure for painting huge, sprawling, colorful murals in tokyo, yet who he really is remains unknown. he paints faster than his murals can be scrubbed away, and has somehow never been prosecuted for vandalism because his graffiti is generally considered an improvment. he's sly, mysterious, and teasing in person, and gets a bit of an itchy trigger finger when he hasn't painted in a while. His skill with spray paint is so great that it seems as if the paint bends to his very will.

[thefaeriereview]

Inside the Mind: Matthew Travagline

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  Welcome to Inside the Mind where we here at The Faerie Review interview authors and creators.

Our guest today is Matthew Travagline, the author behind Gleeman's Tales.

Lily: ​ Thank you so much for agreeing to this interview Matthew I really enjoyed reading ​The Gleeman’s Tales​. The book is post-apocalyptic, but a gleeman makes the reader think of the past, what inspired you to merge the two?  

Matthew:  I really enjoy dystopic and post-apocalyptic fiction. I also love a more traditional fantasy. When it came time to planning out what would become my debut novels, I wanted to write what I haven’t seen a lot of – a blend of the two together. So often in post-apocalyptic fiction, the emphasis is on the future, of technological progression, of returning to where we (humans) were. But returning to the same level of technology that we have now after a world-breaking event would be nearly impossible, in my opinion. Everything from the power grid, municipal plumbing, the internet… these would all prove mighty hurdles for humans picking themselves up in the apocalypse. And that’s assuming that there is unity and cooperation. So I don’t think a widespread usage of, to use my own term, “first age” technologies, would be possible. 

As far as the bard aspect…this came from a serious lack of culture, merriment, and the lighter arts within (fantasy and post-apocalyptic fiction). Yes, there are serious exceptions. Patrick Rothfuss’s The Kingkiller Chronicle and Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel are books that heavily center around culture (in fantasy and the apocalypse, respectively). Mandel’s work, especially, I’ve been watching the popularity of with glee (her work is more closely tied to the premise of Gleeman’s Tales). Oh, boy, I’ve gone off on a tangent already.

Lily: ​ I'll have to check both of those out. I loved the way you blended the two ideas! Were Gnochi and Cleo based on anyone? 

Matthew:   I tend to believe that a writer puts a little of themselves into each of their characters, even if that piece is an antithesis. I think Gnochi was cast from the idea of what role I would play in a similar situation. If a setting like that, I’m not likely to be at a forge, or on the front lines of battle, but comfortably settled into a story, perched atop a bar before an entranced audience. Neither of the characters, though, were literally based off of another person or even a likeness. I tried not to write them with too many exact, definitive descriptions (like Oslow’s beard) so the reader has more freedom to imagine them as they will. 

Lily: ​ I agree that even if it's not intentional a little of the writer gets into their characters. I can definitely see some authors turning into gleeman if the world was turned upside down. What was the highlight of writing this? 

Matthew:   Coming to a natural end on the first draft (which I hand-wrote) was definitely a highlight of the process. In that moment, when only a select handful even knew about its existence, and without the stresses of marketing or publishing, I had achieved my dream to write a novel.

Lily: ​ ​That had to have been a great feeling! I like the idea of writing something by hand but I'm not sure I'd be able to read what I wrote afterwards. Without spoilers, what’s your favorite part? 

Matthew:   I really loved working Gnochi’s vignette stories into the central narrative. They were, after all, the skeleton of the idea before I had even outlined, so ensuring they had a contextual relevance was an enjoyable puzzle to parse out. Imagine crafting a rib cage out of a pile of loose bones. It required a little finesse, trial, and error, but ultimately became a viable structure that proved vital to the heart of the story.

Lily: ​ Now we’d like to talk about you as a writer. When did you first consider yourself a writer? 

Matthew:   I’d written some stories and attempted a book when I was in in middle school, but it wasn’t until high school when I first learned that my writing was enjoyable for others to read. In my 9th grade English class, we had an assignment to write an additional chapter onto the end of Lois Lowry’s The Giver. What I turned in was particularly gruesome. A little dark. But my teacher read it aloud at the end of class. He then spoke to me about my writing and encouraged me to continue writing.

Lily: ​ That's awesome! I'm glad your teacher encouraged you even though it was a bit dark. What is the most difficult part about writing for you? 

Matthew: Battling with my own procrastination. Even with a full time job, I have plenty of time to work on my writing, but forcing myself to write or edit is often the real struggle, even if the ideas are there.

Lily: ​ I can imagine it's hard to get into the mindset sometimes. Do you read your reviews? 

Matthew:     I’d love to get to a point where I have so many reviews, I cannot possibly read them all, but we’re not at that point yet. Maybe some of your readers can help me get closer to that point [laughs]. But, yeah, I do read my reviews, especially if they offer genuine critique. There is a difference between a troll one-star review, offering nothing concrete to justify the score, and a low-scoring review with solid criticisms.

Lily: ​ I hope we get you some more reviews I definitely loved reading it! When I do feel like I have to give below 3 stars I always try to offer constructive criticism. When I see a low rating I always check to see if the reviews are constructive or just "I didn't like it", tells me whether a book is worth picking up. (Although if you want to know a secret I don't check reviews before I decide if I want to read a book an author has approached me with). Let’s finish up with some fun questions and get inside your mind. ​What is your favorite word and why? 

Matthew:   I’m not sure if I have a favorite word, if that’s possible. There are some words that I appreciate for their value, despite not being used colloquially. I think a better question would be, what is my favorite pun, to which I would say all of them, especially when used intentionally. (I never apologize for my puns!)

Lily: ​ I secretly love puns, they're a great example of how amazing language and words are! Now for an important question, are you a morning person or a night owl? 

Matthew:   I work nights, but constantly am changing back and forth between day and night cycle, so I’m a little sparrow that’s tired all the time.

Lily: ​ I've always been a night owl but I have to change to a day schedule once or twice a week, so I understand switching and being tired. What’s the worst or best job you’ve had? 

Matthew:   I really have had enjoyable experiences with all my jobs (which is rare), but a standout for me were the two summers I was a park ranger. I got to spend all summer outside, but had a lot of free time to read and, more importantly, it was during these summers when I really developed the plot of Gleeman’s Tales and The Harbinger of Change. 

Lily:  That sounds like heaven in a job! How many chickens would it take to kill an elephant?

Matthew:   I’m wondering if this question was targeted specifically because of Typhus. If not, is this the first time you’ve asked it to someone whose written an elephant into their book? I feel like elephants can be spooked quite easily. Get the right chicken underfoot and the elephant could fall and break a leg. That might be able to do one over. 

Lily:  The opportunity was there I had to take it hehe. You're not wrong though. Although I wonder who would be more startled. The chicken at being released under an elephant or the elephant at the chicken suddenly showing up. Would you rather your only mode of transportation be an elephant or a camel?​

Matthew:   Elephant, hands down. They live for a long time and have great memories, so you can really develop a lasting bond with your elephant.

Lily:  That's very true. How can readers discover more about you?

Matthew:   Check out any of the links below:

Website | Amazon Author Page | Goodreads Author Page

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

To order a copy of Gleeman's Tales

Amazon US | Amazon UK

To order a copy of The Harbinger of Change

Amazon US | Amazon UK

If you're interested in a signed/doodled copy of either you can request one from this store (just give them a call, they will ship):

Bethany Beach Books

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[poolenick-blog]

Anniversaries, birthdays, christmas events, weddings — these are just a few of the various events in a year that warrants a ‘gift giving/‘ spree. If you’re like me, these affairs are always a struggle because it’s difficult to think of great gift ideas; unless of course, the person that I’m gifting has an intense love for something specific like Harry Potter or Game of Thrones for example (but then again, sometimes it can still be tough to think of what to give them!) Thankfully though, experience has honed me for these situations and I have finally compiled the following list of the top online shopping sites in the Philippines…

to help you discover gift ideas

to help save you time

to save on ridiculous international shipping costs (if you’re living abroad) .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, h2{ border-color: }

Philippines Online Shopping Sites

» General Marketplaces

style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">Lazada

» LINK: Lazada.com.ph

This is much like the famous Amazon marketplaces overseas given that it offers a vast range of local and international products to make shopping effortless and hassle-free right in your home!

Payment Options: Cash on Delivery, Credit & Debit, PayPal, e-Wallet Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep and Pick-up style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">Shopee » LINK: Shopee.ph

With its customer-centric platform: a lot of the buyers and sellers are more responsive, with items having more reviews and comments.

Payment Options: ATM + Online transfers, Bill Payment + Remittance centers, Cash on Delivery, Credit + Debit Cards, GCash, Over the counter bank payments, Shopee Wallet Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">Carousell » LINK: Carousell.ph

This buy and sell marketplace has now merged together with OLX.ph, so you will find a ton of brand new and pre-loved items for your use or for gift-giving.

Payment Options: Bank Deposit, Cash on Delivery, Credit + Debit Cards, Remittance centers, GCash, PayPal Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep, Meet-Ups, and Pick-up style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">eBay » LINK: eBay.ph

Much like the international eBay platform, eBay PH offers btoh brand new and used items on every category.

Payment Options: Bank Deposit, Cash on Delivery, Credit + Debit Cards, Remittance centers, GCash, PayPal Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep, Meet-Ups, and Pick-up » Deals & Coupons

style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">MetroDeal » LINK: MetroDeal.com

Save up to 90% when you grab deals on this website that applies to restaurants, hotels, spas, travel, shopping and more!

Payment Options: Credit Card, PayPal, Online Banking, Over the Counter / ATM Banking, Payments + Remittance Centers Shipping Method: Electronic vouchers style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">DealGrocer » LINK: DealGrocer.com

If you’re looking for more premium or exclusive deals and packages, DealGrocer should be your go-to website!

Payment Options: Bank Deposit, Cash on Delivery, Credit + Debit Cards, Remittance centers, GCash, PayPal Shipping Method: Electronic vouchers » Gadgets & Tech

style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">Poundit » LINK: Poundit.com

Offers a wide selection of authentic gadgets and accessories from brands like Apple, Samsung, JBL, etc.

Payment Options: Bank Deposit, Bills Payment + Remittance Centers, Cash on Delivery, Credit Card, GCash, Online Banking, PayPal Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">argomall » LINK: argomall.com

One of the great online shopping sites for tech gadgets, it’s good practice to check this too when comparing prices.

Payment Options: Cash on Delivery, Credit Installments, Dragonpay, Credit Card, PayPal Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">Kimstore » LINK: KimStore.com

If you’re looking for unbeatable prices, this site is a favorite among locals when shopping for affordable tech and gadgets!

Payment Options: Bank Deposit, Remittance Centers, Cash on Delivery, Credit Card Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep and Pick-ups style="color: style="font-size: 9px;">Henry’s Camera » LINK: HenrysCameraPhoto.com

Famous for its rock-bottom prices on camera gear, it’s great that they finally have an online portal for online shopping!

Payment Options: Credit + Debit Cards, Pesopay, Bank Deposit, Mobile Banking, Dragonpay, Cash on Delivery Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep » LINK: CDRKing.com

Yet another local favorite when it comes to cheap gadgets and hardware. It even has FREE delivery within Manila!

Payment Options: Cash on delivery, Credit + Debit Cards, PayPal Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep » LINK: Shop.Globe.com.ph

To widen your choices and your canvassing spree, Globe also has an amazing online shop.

Payment Options: Cash on Delivery, Credit + Debit Cards, GCash Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep and Pick-ups .

» Beauty & Fashion

» LINK: YesStyle.com

This isn’t a local online shop but after years of trial and error, this is one of the best international sites for clothes wherein your package won’t get held up at the customs or post office. (They ship via DHL or LBC).

Payment Options: Credit + Debit Cards, PayPal Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep » LINK: Zalora.com.ph

Shopping for imported and local branded clothes is now made easier thanks to Zalora! Most of the time, you’ll also find great finds here that are normally not in our local stores.

Payment Options: Cash on Delivery, Credit + Debit Cards, GCash, PayPal Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep and Pick-ups at select 7-Eleven branches » LINK: BeautyMNL.com

This is arguably the top go-to website when shopping for local + international makeup brands, hair, and skin beauty products!

Payment Options: PayPal, Bank Deposit, Online + Mobile Transfers, Cash on Delivery Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep » LINK: Sephora.ph

This is one of the popular chain on personal care and beauty, and YES — it’s now in the Philippines for ease of shopping on those coveted cosmetics and whatnot!

Payment Options: Cash on Delivery, PayPal, Credit + Debit Cards Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep BONUS: If you’re looking for local fashion online shops, I would highly recommend the following:

Apartment 8 Clothing

Seek the Uniq

Neon Island

» Food or Groceries

» LINK: MetroMart.com

Ever since HonestBee’s disappearance, this has become the online grocery shopping store! It sure saves us the time and the effort.

Payment Options: Cash on Delivery, Credit Card Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep 8. » LINK: FoodPanda.ph

With select top restaurants all over Manila, you can directly order your food (or feast!) online and have it delivered to your address within the hour!

Payment Options: Cash on Delivery, PayPal, Credit + Debit Cards Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep » For Kids & Families

9. » LINK: TwoTots.net

Looking to order some high-quality personalized furniture for your children, nephews, etc.? Head on  over to this shop!

Payment Options: Cash on Delivery, Credit + Debit Cards Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep » LINK: BabyStorePH.com

Selling authentic and high quality baby items of sorts, this has got to be one of the best baby onling shopping sites in the Philippines!

Payment Options: PayPal, Remittance Centers, Bank Transfer/Deposit Shipping Method: Directly at your doorstep .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, h2{ border-color: }

Overall

These are just some of the many online shops in the Philippines that you can look into for gifts and trinkets. I’ve tried shopping with most of them and have trusted them; so, I hope that in turn, you get to enjoy them too!

How about you?

What do you think of these online shopping sites in the Philippines?

Which online store would you like to try the most?

Do you have any other suggestions?

Did you like this article? Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube and be notified about my newest posts and updates!

The post Top 20 Philippine Online Shopping Sites for Gift Ideas & More appeared first on I am Aileen.

[ayyyeshawtyfullofmelanin-blog]

Compare Diets Which One Prices The Least And Works The Best?

Jenny Craig and Nutrisystem are two of the very best and most popular diets available in the market. However you will have to be ready to stay with this for 4 months, in the event you plan to lose 20 pounds. I did the QVC deal and got the plan for less than what it will cost me to do good ones or lean cuisine. I started the eating regimen 3 weeks in the past I lost eleven kilos the first 2 weeks and nothing this week. This version of The right way to Simply Stick with and Get pleasure from a Weight loss plan Such As Nutrisystem was reviewed by Patricia Somers, R.D. on February 3, 2017. Nutrisystem has added many support elements in order that individuals will really feel comfortable to hunt recommendation and help as soon as they are past the pre-made meal stage. In early 2009 the company launched a brand new premium product referred to as NutriSystem Select NutriSystem Choose Menu gadgets feature increased quality frozen foods, with extra vegetables and fruit. I got $zero.85 money back for the shake buy at Walmart so now I am actually paying $1.sixty three per shake! For the previous forty years, Nutrisystem has helped tens of millions of people obtain real, important weight reduction outcomes. I additionally save a little bit more money by going through a website called TopCashBack that just hyperlinks to online websites like Walmart and then provides you cash again in return. This sample of eating is also known as the 5:2 food plan - you eat normally for five days of the week and reduce your energy to about 25 % of normal consumption on two nonconsecutive days of the week. So in the event you wanted to lose 30 pounds, your total cost to shed some pounds on Nutrisystem could be roughly $1619.94 - $2,159.92 relying on whether or not it takes you three months or 4 months to lose the weight. Really, just counting the calories, and consuming regular meals is loads healthier than eating special eating regimen foods. Howdy, I've been on nutrisystem for 3 and 3/4 months and I've lost 60 pounds. The Nutrisystem eating regimen could not curb starvation for all customers, since portion sizes are non-negotiable. To be prime-rated, a weight loss program had to be relatively easy to follow, nutritious, protected and effective for weight loss and stopping diabetes and coronary heart illness. What we would have liked to see extra of is scientific research displaying this program helps you shed weight. I've seen a lot of curiosity in and have been getting numerous questions concerning the new Nutrisystem Flex program and I can perceive why. I feel Nutrisystem is great, and I'll keep on it as long as I can to succeed in my purpose weight. So Nutrisystem has a guide for dining out, with recommendations for numerous cuisines akin to French, Italian, and Thai. For this reason, I do know that some folks discover it a lot more cost effective to order a custom month-to-month package and to make use of the coupons. It does, in case you persist with the plan and solely add what they tell you to. I misplaced 6 lbs in week 1, 2.5 lbs this week. The plan gives an enormous proportion of what is to be eaten per day, but does require the extra purchase of some contemporary grocery objects similar to fruit and vegetables, to supplement this system. Nutrisystem advertises 1-2 lbs misplaced per week after the Turbo Takeoff week, so I am completely satisfied that I virtually doubled that common. I did Nutrisystem two years in the past at age 38. I was (in accordance with BMI) about forty lbs overweight. Having been on Nutrisystem has also made it simpler for me to now walk away from unhealthy meals selections. The promo emphasis has shifted from last 12 months to their latest upgraded program referred to as LEAN thirteen. I can AID YOU get monetary savings, whereas reducing weight simply as fast as those overpriced diet plans! The vast majority of damaging opinions had been as a result of promoting disputes, and issues with the foods. There are special offers and discounts on the Nutrisystem menu listed on the official web site , together with free shipping and reduced pricing. Although the meals are served in small proportions, NutriSystem Evaluations say this eating regimen is more forgiving than others. However I completed a two month weight-reduction plan with Nutrisystem three months in the past and to this point I have not gained an oz of the 18 kilos I misplaced in that point! The most affordable option is the Primary program; when selecting this selection, prospects are sent pre-selected meal choices, and can't select the contents of the personal meal pack. You get every thing delivered proper to the doorstep; all you need to do is read the included menu plan and warmth it up. Each firms offer a variety of frozen and shelf-steady gadgets. NutriSystem also provides a big comfort bonus by delivery the meals directly to your private home. I need to exit with my mates and dress to kill like they do, however I feel too self conscious, so I decided to start a diet and I selected Nutrisystem. Atkins has been proven as unhealthy as it's unnatural and in some circumstances even harmful to completely lower out carbs out of your eating regimen. Chryseius, it isn't a food regimen as a result of that is the best way Kate is still eating with slight modifications, and it's the best way I will likely be eating for the rest of my life. I assume all weight loss program plans have their complainers, similar to most issues individuals will all the time discover one thing to complain about. It is a complete program that may result in healthier eating behaviors, one knowledgeable said. Possibly: Choose this more excessive plan provided that fast weight loss is your priority. This strategy is vastly completely different than the frozen or shelf-secure meals available within the other program options. They don't appear to advertise as a lot on tv as Nutrisystem and Medifast. Breakfast included two NutriSystem child banana muffins that weighed 2 oz complete, 1 cup of skim milk, and half of cup applesauce. These meals will fulfill your sweet (or salty) tooth and assist you neglect that you're on a food plan. I tried NS for 30 days, have been very strick , have lost less than 4 lbs, (I am over 60 and tried the plan for senior girls). The calorie rely is designed that can assist you lose a pound or two every week on this food regimen program. I typically get questions about tips on how to get Nutrisystem for the most affordable or lowest value. As a result of the Nutrisystem diet plan relies partially upon choosing Low GI foods, it's perfect for diabetics attempting to control their blood sugar levels via their diet. And as mentioned, the Nutrisystem meals are portion controlled so it's smaller than the meals you may have beforehand eaten and it's considerably lower than what people would normally eat. The whole concept behind the program is that every thing is finished for your comfort to make your life as simple as it's potential to be. The breakfast and snack meals have been good, and I favored the portion control of the program.

I switched again to eating a nutritious diet of real food and shortly shed pounds and felt higher. I did the unique Nutrisystem food plan in the early 90s, again when the food truly was horrible. It is a weight loss program plan designed by docs, specifically for individuals with an active way of life who could not have time to arrange healthy meals. While weight loss program and train are the keys to shedding weight and sustaining a wholesome way of life for women and men, not each diet plan is geared for or marketed to each sexes. You are proof that this eating regimen actually does wok if you find yourself decided and stubborn enough to keep it up it doesn't matter what. I've heard that its vital nutrisystem diet to stay to your eating regimen as greatest you possibly can without cheating however the temptation is very sturdy, especially for the fried meals that I really like. Was up late one evening and noticed Marie who appeared tremendous-so this fats boomer determined to give the program a attempt. However, you will see that a few weight-reduction plan packages that not merely have a verity of tasty food, but also will ship these items to your door, saving you time and tension. However, as of this writing, here is the menu that is supplied on the essential nutrisystem plan. After being on Nutrisystem for 6 months, I decided to vary my plan to the weekends by myself plan, often known as weekends off. Hey there, I used to be on the fence about whether or not to attempt Nutrisystem to lose some weight however could not find any actually helpful data online. Please get on a meals plan and purchase contemporary groceries it's so less expensive, better tasting and more healthy. Two gadgets that come as part of the Turbo Takeoff portion (Nutricrush Shakes and Bars) it's a must to purchase a la carte from Nutrisystem. At DietSpotlight, we like when there's proof a self-monitoring 9 weight-administration plan is efficient and has the proof to again the claims. This weight loss meal kit consists of Bean Bolognese, Hen Noodle Soup, Path Mix Bar, Double Chocolate Caramel Bar, and a Loaded Potato. Members obtain a two-week personalised fitness plan with steering on tips on how to increase their exercise as fitness degree improves and the weight loss journey progresses. If you are in search of a weight-reduction plan food that frees you from serious about meals, Medifast is a superb choice. Individuals can easily drop some weight just by sticking to the food regimen and making sure they do not go snacking on different foods after they assume nobody is trying. Nutrisystem is a nicely-recognized and profitable weight reduction program that has helped thousands and thousands of people drop some pounds and improve their well being. I've started to get quite a lot of questions on NutriSystem's vegetarian plan and I pretty much understand why. One of the largest considerations I hear from others concerning the Nutrisystem plan is the fee. Hiya Pam, thanks for dropping by. These two food regimen packages are so comparable, but some people hate JC's meals and others say NS's food are terrible. I've tried the Nutrisystem food plan lately and for me it worked extraordinarily nicely. I do know I will not stick with the food regimen if the food tasts horrible and among the reviews make me suppose it does. The general cost of Nutrisystem meals goes to be dependent upon the plan one chooses and any discounts that she or he might receive. Now I plan to maintain going for two more months until our anniversary Cancun vacation. Not like most diets which can be aimed primarily at women, Nutrisystem may be very understanding of the particular wants of male dieters. It will possibly change into extraordinarily tough to maintain up with a program when it has very restrictive content material in either its choice or quantity of food. It seems to be cheaper in the long run and the montly package is cheaper still if you're considering of value per meal. I suppose the only choice that I steer clear of for breakfast is the eggs, however I do not like non weight loss plan eggs either. Weight reduction and a balanced weight loss plan may also help to enhance the lifestyle of a diabetic individual, reducing their blood sugar ranges, as well as bettering other health-associated statistics. I was loving the Uniquely Yours plan until my last package got here with moldy meals. That happened to me the first 2 days and I used to be really irritable..then the diet was totally tremendous! You will discover dozens of on the web resources, evaluations and success tales offered that will help you find out about feasible plans. The diet plans embrace two extra snacks you'll be able to eat through the day between meals to assist if you feel hungry between meals. In response to the official web site, Nutrisystem does work if you adhere to the plan. Although it is strongly recommended limiting your consumption of alcohol, your marketing consultant can work with you to fit some alcohol into your menu plan. Hi, I am three weeks through my first month on Nutrisystem core mens and I'm doing great. Nonetheless, if you end up constantly consuming meals out at restaurants or rapidly meals locations, then you definitely would most likely uncover that Nutrisystem is cheaper (and healthier). There are some drawbacks with placing an overweight baby on a Nutrisystem food regimen that must be addressed. Help Provided By Both Plans: Both Medifast And Nutrisystem provide an enormous amount of help to their members. However, that you must select essentially the most applicable plan for you or you're extra likely to fall off the bandwagon. I simply began my Quick 5+ food plan every week ago and to this point each meal, dessert and snack I've eaten has tasted OK to me. And I simply weighed myself and I lost 6 kilos! Nutrisystem worked for me because the program is easy to comply with, the meals tastes nice, and it gave me the construction I needed to perform my weight reduction goals. The Core pack is the mid-stage option available, permitting the shopper a free choice of the menu, excluding frozen goods, which are available completely on the Select Program. Pattern Nutrisystem Breakfast: I think that breakfast is actually composed of the most effective that this weight loss program has to supply. The cheapest approach, if you're determining your cost per meal or item, is a month-to-month bundle. The THOUGHTS food plan takes two proven diets - DASH and Mediterranean - and zeroes in on the foods in each that particularly affect brain health. Based in 1972, Nutrisystem has helped millions of people shed extra pounds on its handy portion-managed meals. Each diets work.. they each make you drop some weight however you have to follow the maintenance program and proceed to eat wholesome. Total, the Nutrisystem weight loss program program is very efficient particularly when you persist with its plans. So, you may get that assist you to want from the Medifast help group, or from different individuals making use of Nutrisystem throughout the chat rooms. The opposite day, I obtained an electronic mail from a potential dieter who wanted to know how many energy the nutrisystem meals contained. This is the rationale why many users of Nutrisystem Eating regimen have discovered it to not fulfill appetite. Dieters often discover themselves choosing between the popular Jenny Craig program and Nutrisystem. Danish High quality Weight loss plan was examined and accredited by Danish hospitals and clinics and was used to assist 1000's of people to shed extra pounds.

[isabellelambert1975]

20 best vegetable varieties to grow

I’m creating a super-list of the best vegetable varieties to grow.

Out of curiosity, I threw myself on the mercy of Twitter. I asked the garden and allotment bloggers which one vegetable variety they wouldn’t be without. It should be easy to grow and tasty.

The answers were really surprising. I expected a roll call of familiar old favourites, but I’ve also discovered several unusual, delicious and easy-to-grow vegetables.

And I found some very interesting new posts on growing veg in the process.

Best tomato varieties to grow

Richard of the Homeallotment.com blog votes tomatoes as his favourite veg, and particularly loves ‘the fantastically named Japanese Black Trifele. It grows well as a cordon, either outside or in the greenhouse, and just needs the usual feeding and watering. They’re good either raw or cooked.’ Available from Brown Envelope Seeds.

Richard is also a Seed Guardian with the Stroud Community Seed Bank, and has written a very interesting post on 5 Reasons Why I Sow Seeds.

Richard’s Japanese Black Trifele Tomatoes

And The Chatty Gardener recommends Tomato ‘Costoluto Fiorentino’. It’s an old-fashioned big tomato, cordon-grown and an RHS AGM winner.

And because tomatoes are really one of the most popular home-grown vegetables, there is a third recommendation. Daily Mail gardening writer Constance Craig Smith says that ‘Sungold’ tomatoes are at the top of her list: ‘Irresistible!’

Best vegetable varieties you’ve never heard of…

There were some really exciting new recommendations. Professional gardener Joff Elphick of the Pot and Cloche Garden Podcasts loves growing puntarelle and agretti/barba di frate. ‘Puntarelle is something of an obsession in Italy. And I remember taking agretti to the Wilderness Festival and the chefs couldn’t get enough of it. I was backwards and forwards picking it to keep up with demand.’

Agretti or barba di frate is otherwise known as Salsola soda, Friar’s Beard or saltwort. It is a delicacy with a taste somewhere between seaweed and spinach. Serve in salads, stir-fries or lightly steamed.

Puntarelle is a variant of chicory, with light green stems and dandelion shaped leaves. It can be served raw or cooked. For stockists of both, see the end of the post.

The tastiest potatoes….

Once again, there were some unexpected recommendations. Robbie Cave of the Clockhouse Nurseries says that Spunta is one of their most popular sellers. Clockhouse Nurseries have 91 seed potatoes in their list. They don’t do mail order, so if you live too far away, there are suppliers at the end of this post.

New blogger, the Country Cottage Gardener, says she tried four seed potatoes last year, and loved Jazzy. And Julieanne Porter of Gwenfars Garden blog says that ‘ Sante is a good all-rounder and the most divine baked potato I’ve ever grown.’ Available from the Organic Gardening catalogue. She added that she’d like to nominate sorrel, too. ‘It’s a perennial, needs almost no work and rewards you all the year round.’ See her post on sorrel. 

Beetroot is a must-have…

One of the great bonuses of growing your own veg is to be able to enjoy unusual varieties. Many people mentioned beetroot as a top vegetable to grow. Steve Mercer (@stevemercer4) is a member of the RHS Veg Trials Forum and he says that ‘Boldor, a golden beetroot, is always on my list.’

Richard Chivers of the allotment blog Sharpen Your Spades also recommends a golden beetroot, Burpees Golden. ‘It’s much sweeter than the reds’.

Everybody loves garlic…

I was amazed by how many people had garlic on their ‘must-grow’ list. I’ve tinkered with growing garlic myself, but not wholly successfully. I was about to give up. However, I am freshly inspired by everyone’s recommendations. Gigi Allen writes a blog on interiors, art, gardens and all things flowery. She says she ‘wouldn’t be without elephant garlic. It’s milder, roasts beautifully and is delicious alone, on kale, or in fish, roasts or pasta. And it does well in my clay soil.’

My last garlic harvest was two bulbs, but everyone has inspired me to have another go.

…and cavolo nero?

Kale and cavolo nero cropped up in many recommendations. Liz of Hay Bulbs, a private botanical collection, says that her family’s health has improved enormously since she started growing cavolo nero, due to its high calcium and magnesium content.

Magnesium is associated with a number of benefits – it aids circulation, helps restless legs and calms horses (my words not hers). When my daughter was heavily involved with riding, I was curious to discover that people were giving their horses magnesium to calm them down. There certainly wouldn’t be any placebo effect on horses!

Personally, I am wedded to kalettes. The whole family loves them, even the kale haters. But maybe this is the year to try cavolo nero.

And other green leaves…

My own personal recommendations of the best vegetable varieties to grow include Swiss chard. I prefer the silver variety, but others like the Rainbow colours. If you pick around the sides, then one plant will crop for months, often during the winter.  Travel and lifestyle blog Fossils in my pockets agrees: ‘Swiss chard for me – stir fry, Sunday lunch, spanakopita, Thai curry, soup, pasta sauce, salad…keeps on trucking all winter and always there when you need it.’

I also adore komatsuna or Japanese mustard spinach. It is like spinach, but is easier to grow and less watery.

Komatsuna and Swiss chard are two of my top, easy-care, versatile green veg.

No veg patch should be without beans…

Brighton allotment holder and artist Pemblebee Art says ‘borlotti beans for me. They’re easy to grow. I just leave them on the vines to dry and when the weather starts to turn, I lay them out to finish drying on a tray in the window. But you could just pod them and eat them fresh or freeze them.’

New blogger Katharine from The Tea Break Gardener says that ‘Cobra’ climbing French beans are her must-have. ‘They look so pretty, with lilac flowers, bountiful green beans and grow up a wigwam so take up very little space.’ Cobra is one of my favourites, too, so that will go on the list.

And an unusual, delicious squash..

I was just going to wrap this up when one more tweet came in from ‘allotment geek and unusual veg enthusiast’  Modern Veg Plot. ‘Winter squash is a must-have for me, and Black Futsu is my favourite variety. It has a nutty flavour, firm flesh and stores well over winter.’ Available from Plant World Seeds.

Where to buy…

No single supplier stocks everything recommended here. I have included stockists for the most unusual ones, such as Japanese Black Trifele tomato and Black Futsu squash, in their entries above.

Amazon stocks a good selection – eleven out of the twenty recommendations. (I am an affiliate, so if you buy I may get a small fee): Sungold and Costoluto Fiorentino tomatoes, sorrel, Spunta seed potatoes, puntarelli, beetroot Burpees Golden, Kalettes, Cobra and Borlotti beans, elephant garlic , komatsuna and Swiss chard.

Mr Fothergill’s also stocks eleven: kalettes, Sungold tomatoes, Jazzy potatoes, agretti,  sorrel, beetroot Burpees Golden, Elephant garlic, Swiss chard, komatsuna, Cobra climbing beans and Lingua di fuoco borlotti beans.

Thompson & Morgan have Beetroot ‘Boldor’, kalettes, borlotti beans, Swiss chard,  Jazzy potatoes, Sungold tomatoes, Elephant garlic and sorrel, as well as lots of other veg. I particularly like the look of their four variety All Season Long Kale Mix which includes cavolo nero. They also have a ‘5 packets of seeds for the price of 4’ offer on at the moment.

Franchi Seeds of Italy have agretti, puntarelle, sorrel, Costoluto Fiorentino tomatoes, Spunta potatoes and more.

Start the adventure now…

I’ve placed my orders. To buy seeds or seed potatoes for everything in this list cost me around £85 in total, including shipping. Although my maths is not brilliant and I did have to buy from about five different companies so that figure is approximate. I’ll let you know how it all goes (so do subscribe if you’re new here).

It’s really quite exciting to have other people decide what I will grow, rather than dithering over seed catalogues myself. Although, of course, I’ve done my share of dithering, too.

PS: February’s Garden of the Month on the Middlesized Garden YouTube channel is Posy Gentles’ long narrow urban garden. She is mapping out a few changes so if you have a thin town garden, do pop across to see what she’s doing:

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