It's #MerrySMChristmas Everyday

My son Charles as Santa's Little Helper at the SM Cubao's holiday display a few years ago.

Thank God for SM!” That’s how my son, who was three-years old then, expressed his happiness when he finally got the toy he describes as something he's “dreaming of all his life.”

It was Charles’ last birthday party and everyone in the family was trying to get her vote: Who had given him the best gift that day? It was quite amusing because, looking at the mountain of presents, gift wrappers with SM logos dominated the landscape. This is understandable because SM Megamall is just a few blocks away from our house.

The winner was Papa Lohel who bought the Dinosaur toy for his very makulit apo. We were thinking of filing a protest because we found out that he secretly asked Charles what he wanted for her birthday when they visited SM a week before the occasion. But we decided not to after he promised to treat us to dinner the following week. As usual, it was at the SM Food Court.

I got served served at Army Navy - SM Megamall

Speaking of Papa Lohel, another funny incident happened on his birthday recently. Knowing that he likes Sahara brand polo shirts, it was a no-brainer that this would be a gift he would surely appreciate. So when he opened his presents, he was amused to find three almost identical shirts — one from his wife Inday, one from daughter Hazel and one from daughter-in-law Minnie. Blame it on SM, they said. Good thing they all had different tastes in color.

Basically, SM has been a part of our family’s everyday life since it opened. From the food we eat, the plates, forks and spoons we buy, our frying pans and stoves, to the clothes we wear — even my boxers come from SM. I am a bargain bin scavenger and I’m not shy to say it: yup, one of my pairs of boxer shorts came from there.

With my boo at SM Cubao Toy Section

No important family occasion passes without a touch of SM. The mall is true to its motto: “We’ve got it all for you.” It’s like a one-stop candy store and we’re like kids excited to buy our stuff, going to one escalator to another.  Look for new appliances? Pick up home improvement tools and materials? Clothes to impress our partners? Where is the best place to buy Christmas gifts?  You can do all these things in one place, at the most reasonable prices, only at SM. And I still haven’t mentioned that we also do our groceries, bill payments and even banking at SM. (I must sound like a hard-sell TV commercial, but I’m sure I am not the only one.)

Rain or shine, I love joining events at the SM Activity Center

Speaking of Christmas, I am so grateful to my favorite mall simply because I have had a lot of great experiences and memories that happened there that can make me feel like it’s the happiest time of the year. My first date as a high school geek was inside SM Megamall. The first thing I bought with my very first paycheck was at the SM Record Bar (it was a cassette tape of the Eraserheads’ “Sticker Happy” album). I bought my first cellphone (a Nokia 5110) at SM City, Sta. Mesa. I could write a book on my life’s firsts and SM would be mentioned in many, many chapters.

It's a wrap! We're ready for the exchange gifts.

Thus, for me a #MerrySMChristmas does not just happen during December. It can happen any time  of the year. That magical feeling that you get when you give your best effort to scan every shirt designs at the SM Teen section to find the gift that can make your younger brother happy. How about the endless window shopping with your best friends and your promise that you will buy them all they want the moment you win the jackpot in lotto? Or buying baby cloths and feeding bottles with your pregnant wife who’s expecting your first baby soon, and moments like you care to share the spirit of Christmas to children of orphanages and charitable institution through the SM Cares Program's Bears of Joy.

Ahhh…  the joy that one can only find in SM. The spirit of giving that we thought can only or should only happen during the holidays is unfolding every day in our favorite shopping mall.

    

Thus, I totally agree with my son, “Thank God for SM!”

It's like a Merry Christmas for Charles in every visit to his favorite section at any SM Mall.

You too can experience a #MerrySMChristmas, visit http://bit.ly/MerrySMChristmas for more details on events of the nearest SM Mall in your place this season. Also, watch this cute video “How #MerrySMChristmas Begins” featuring Cheska and Kendra Kramer. Happy holidays, everyone!

Sweet Endings with my Cadbury Barkada

Linda Greyson, an American artist, once said, “There is nothing better than a friend, unless it’s a friend with chocolates.”

For me, friends are like life’s treats. They can be sweet, colorful, can make us smile, give some tootache, can be messy sometimes, and most of all, we long for them from time to time. Just like a bar of chocolate. Make it a Cadbury Daily Milk to be precise.

Now, here’s an out of this world question I love to ask my barkada the next time we meet: "If you’ll be given a chance to tour the galaxy, what kind of friends will you bring to be part of the crew and why?"

Well, it’s a no brainer for comic book fans like me. I’ll be bringing my barkada who I can actually compare with Marvels’ Guardians of the Galaxy. 

I have a friend who is like Star-Lord, a chick magnet whose charm have been very useful  in getting some free passes on events and extra scoop of ice cream.  If I have him in my team in the outer space, we can sweet-talk our way out in case we meet some alien invaders.

We also have a Gamora who’s beauty can be deceiving. Some people thinks that she’s all good looks but she’s actually smart and has a mean one-two punch for bad guys. She’ll be an asset to melt the hearts of mean space dude then break their back, literally if she wishes to.

To complete the crew, we’ll be bringing a tough guy like Drax the Destroyer to warn extra-terrestrial bullies, shape-shifter Groot to blend and introduce us with beings outside our circle, and machines and gadget specialist Rocket who is our geek-on-stand-by case the going gets tough during battle of the brains. These guys will make us a barkada to watch out for. So don't put your guard down.

This might be one dream that can be considered “unreachable” or “suntok sa buwan.” Speaking of going up, one activity I love to do with my family and friends that makes us feel a step close to high heavens in going to church every Sunday.

After connecting to tha MAN from above, we do a little bonding either going to the mall or dine in a restaurant for some food trip bonding. One Sweet Ending we did recently atter going to church was to share bars of our favourite chocolate. Indeed, a  sweet ending with my Cadbury Batrkada! 

So what's your Barkada Sweet Ending? Share your own stories and don't forget to use the hashtag #CadburySweetEndings. 

Unlock some office skills: Astig way to be a better employee

I hate office work.

But of course, I just can't leave my job today and pop a sticky note on the forehead of my boss that says "I quit!"

I hate office work but I love my family. In short, no food if no job. That's why I need to improve on some of my skills if I want to be someone here in our workplace aside from being known as "the guy who laughs so hard at his one knock-knock jokes."

You know what, I think I have to break my usual drill here in my cubicle and better start being a better version of me. How I hope it can be done as easy as it said or as easy like creating a powerhorse model employee with amazing abilities using an app on my tablet.

Well, we can do some imagination for now on how I'd like to be the perfect office guy in our office.

Type faster and flawlessly.
My boss once told me that I type like his grandmother. The next time he disctates a report, he'll get it bookbinded and covered with a colorful book cover of Winnie the Pooh before he can even say, "Yours Truly"

Never forget any detail.
It's always an awkward feeling when you're already presiding a meeting to discuss your presentation and you forgot an important detail on your report like the say, the name of the company's president. So please, God. Give at least 32GB more of memory for storage.

Create awesome presentation decks.
It's definitely an awesome feeling when your clients are impressed with your slides. The same feeling when received your first-ever SMS in your first-ever mobile phone. Made me think how did it feel again?

Multitask at any given time.
Time is gold. We have heard that so many times that I have no time to listen to people who are about to say such idiom. Kidding aside, Girl, if you can do three things at the same time, you're three times a lady!

How about you, what skills do you like to unlock? Feel free to share your thoughts and be part of the KitKat Break Movement.

20 Ways You Can Be The Best Friend Ever

There are at least three sure things that a man will experience in his lifetime--- birth, death and friendship.

A friend can come in any form, size, color, gender, shape whether it’s living or not. But seriously, I haven’t met anyone who confessed he or she doesn’t have a friend. Emo individuals might post in the Facebook wall, “Nobody loves me. I have no friend.” I’m pretty sure at least one kind soul will leave a warm message or comment just to assure him he is not alone.

Now, if you’re looking for someone to be a best friend or would like to be a best friend to someone, here’s a quick from-head-to-to list that might help you get that shoulder to cry on.

1.    On a bad hair day, just be there for her to comb her way out of misery.
2.    Be ready with your two listening, not just hearing, ears when she tells stories.
3.    Learn how to talk using your eyes. Isn’t it cute to be able to convey things with just a wink.
4.    Feast your eyes watching your movies and/ or TV shows.
5.    Smell good always. Consider this nosy but common, who doesn’t like fresh air?
6.    Compliment how rosy her cheeks are. Even if it’s really the magic of face powder.
7.    Ask her to be your taste buddies. Go on a food trip.
8.    Avoid getting into a neck-to-neck race on something. Try to achieve things without competing with one another.
9.    Be a shoulder to cry on when she feel like sobbing.
10.    Have time for a heart to heart talk on serious stuff.
11.    Tickle her funny bone during a boring afternoon.
12.    Rub elbows with other people. It’s also healthy for both of you to meet new acquaintances.
13.    You should always have open arms in accepting his flaws and shortcomings.
14.    Raise her arms and clap your arms during times of triumphs.
15.    Hold her hand and assure her that you are with her in times of trouble.
16.    Finger exercise with her for non-stop texting and chatting to kill boredom when you’re away from each other.
17.    Twist and wiggle those hips and dance together to your favorite tunes.
18.    Learn to bend your knees and admit to her when you are at fault.
19.    Travel on foot and discover the beauty of nature.
20.    Be that someone to keep her feet on the ground or bring her back to her senses just in case she’ll forget that one time in her life you were best of friends.

Hayyy… making this list made me realize that I haven’t talked to my friends from high school and college school and former offices.  A real friend calls not only in time of trials. I might give them a ring one by since since eith GoUnli20, it’s now easy to call without a need for a prefix and it’s just P20 for unli calls, 15mb of mobile surfing, and 20 texts to all networks! Kaya if you need a friend, don’t call me, I’ll call you!

Definitely Japan. Definitely Kojie.san

I used to think that I am handsome.

But when foreign models like  Fabio Ide, Akihiro Sato and Daniel Matsunaga came into the picture, invaded Philippine television and created the you-should-look-like-us syndrome (meaning hindi ka pogi kung di mo sila kamukha), my belief I have carried since birth was shattered.

Well, my wife already assured me that I am more good looking than these celebrities with Japanese surnames by her standards. That's why I have given her a deaf ear every time she complains about eye irritations and stuff that she want to consult an ophthalmologist.

In the hope that I can gain some pogi points if I have an oriental-sounding last name as an pseudonym, I asked friends for suggestions for my possible “new” alias but what I got are some “unfriendly” responses like Richard Taobako, Richard Asakapa, and Richard Matsingaba.

So much for this crazy idea. If I really want to look good, I must begin with taking care of my body. Thus, I got active in Zumba and see to it that I get enough sleep and a healthy plate during meal time. My wife also recommended  a facial soap that give me a better and whiter skin complexion that is not only safe but also budget-friendly. 

She explained that when it comes to your skin care, it is it important to use only an original and proven safe soap. The one she’s been using for more than a year now is Kojie.san, the first kojic acid soap to be commercially available in the Philippine market. Quality is almost synonymous to Japanese products. Well, if it's from the Land of the Rising Sun, it must be good, right?

My curiosity dragged me in front of the PC and Googled about  Kojie.san. I found out that it has a micro peeling effect, which makes it a potent whitening product.  It’s very safe because it does not contain any harmful chemicals. It is made of antioxidants and 100% all natural ingredients. The good news is for as low as P50, I was able to get two bars when I went to the grocery store yesterday.

And thus my Kojie.san journey begins. It’s time to redeem my former handsome ways and I’m very confident with this trusted brand which is definitely Japan, definitely Kojie.san.

Now, my thoughts why it is important to use only the original kojic acid soap. Never ever use on your skin, especially on your face, any product that has not been certified safe and effective and produced or distributed by companies not known in the beauty/ hygiene industry.

Koji.san products are proudly made by Beauty Elements Ventures, a company with a manufacturing plant equipped with the latest toll and packing technology that caters to an array of loyal clientele. Their Research Laboratory Facility is at the forefront of innovation and has established stringent quality control processes. The plant was designed to adhere to the parameters set by both the local Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) as well as the international standards in manufacturing private labels.

In the hope that people will be more aware and be sure to beware of untrusted skin products, I am sharing below some of the not so pleasant things that might happen to you when your oh so precious face got some problems with unknown merchandise. 

You might need to get new identification cards since you are unrecognized in all the IDs that you are holding.

 

You’re pet dog might see you as a stranger.

You will no longer be identical with your twin sibling.

Changing the profile picture/s of your social media accounts will be on a regular basis.

You might land on the cover of the next Diary ng Panget book.  

I hope this post made you smile. If you have a Koji.san story to tell, please share it as a comment below or visit www.facebook.com/KojiesanPH.

Need for Speed: From the Game Console to the Big Screen

Playing video games is something that every individual will experience before they die. It's not mandatory but it will get its way into your hands.

Even the poorest people or most killjoy fellows can't escape it. From the obsolete brick games to Street Fighter to DOTA, at least a moment of a man's life will be spent playing using just their fingers (hey, not that one you are thinking now).

Who does not know Need for Speed game? (Well okay, turtles and snails are exempted). It has a PC, Playstation, Xbox, Wii, iOS and mobile phone versions. I'm sure you have tried it even once if you are a car racing game fanatic.

Now, you can enjoy less the stress of maneuvering through obstacles and other cars because the movie version is now being shown in theaters. It stars Aaron Paul, the guy from some TV show. I think they call it Breaking Bad.

Here's the movie in a nutshell: Fresh from prison, a street racer who was framed by a wealthy business associate joins a cross country race with revenge in mind. His ex-partner, learning of the plan, places a massive bounty on his head as the race begins.

Exciting right? Start your engine and speed up to the nearest theater and find out why this is one of the most anticipated movies of the summer.

Thanks for the great people from Nuffnang Philippines and PLDT TelPad for the free tickets for their special screening at Rockwell Cinemas last night.

My gift to my beloved country

The Philippines is arguably the most unique country in the world.

Where else in the world can you find people who are so accommodating to foreigners (dumugo man ang ilong at maubos na lahat ng naitatagong ingles maituro lang kung saan ang Cubao sa naliligaw na turista); more behaved and law abiding drivers when in abroad; and never fails to ask “kumain ka na?” when you visit their homes or “San' ka galing?” when meeting an acquaintance outside.

Where else in the world can you find people who can turn notorious thugs and convicted felons to well-choreographed dancers; can survive a day with only 20 pesos ($0.50) and a tabo; and still finds time to smile in the midst of every tragedy.

Where else in the world can you find people who can create big celebrations or feasts on just about anything (carabao, tsinelas, lechon, mudpack festivals and etc.); play basketball in just about any place (mountain, flooded gym, and even in the middle of a busy street); and never get tired of watching the same old variety show during lunch time for more than three decades.

These are just few of the many reasons that make this country so unique. This is also the home of the some of the greatest men who ever lived: Manny Pacquaio (Boxing); Paeng Nepomuceno (Bowling) and Efren “Bata” Reyes (Billards) are considered the best-ever in their respective fields. Incidentally, all fields starts with the letter B (Other B’s where Pinoys excel are in boat race, basketball, and our world-class beaches).

I am proud to be a Filipino and I am grateful that I was born in the land of the longest Christmas celebration, closer family ties and adobo, sinigang and lechon. I am in my mid-30’s now and I have spent all my years of existence (except for two years of working abroad) in this wonderful country. Sometimes, I ask myself how I can give back to my motherland aside from being a good citizen with no criminal records and questionable tax returns.

If there is one thing I can give to the Philippines, I’d say I’ll leave a good legacy that will be of good use to many people in future. I read before that there are three legacies you can give to the world and I am proud to say that I have accomplished them all (and would still continue to do them for as long I am able). 

Plant a tree.  Since my grade school years, I’ve planted trees during different events like camping, jamborees, hiking trips with friends and company activities. I even have one tree somewhere in the mountains of Bataan named after me. I just hope it will grow with longer bangs and firmer trunk than me. Trees give food, shelter, and other use and it helps saves lives and maintain the balance of nature. If only I have the resources and enough support, I would like to organize a tree planting event with my family, friends and other nature advocates. Tress are sure fool-proof gifts the Philippines need today.

Write a book.  I am associated with a NGO that advocates harmonious relationship between employers and employees in the country. We publish different books every year about best people practice and labor-related topics. I am proud to have collaborated with other writers in coming up with “Humor in HR” which promotes having fun at work. As one saying goes, “Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.” If I'll be given a chance to write a book again, I am planning of publishing "7001 Reasons why I love the Philippines" that will showcase the amazing people, sights, and uniqueness of our country. I'm sure a lot of fellow bloggers can help me out in coming up with a wonderful output.

 

Raise a child. Although my 4-year old son Charles knows more English words than Tagalog, I see to it that he grow up proud of his roots and tells him that the Philippines is one awesome nation. He asks me “Which team is Philippines?” when I watch basketball (even if the Gilas exploit in the FIBA-Asia tournament is already finished months ago) or “Where’s Pacquaio?” when I watch boxing. Then he’ll shout, “Philippines is the winner!” He is also not shy to points out if he sees someone not throwing trash in the garbage bin or a motorist crossing the intersection even it’s a red light. I’m pretty sure he’ll be a good leader of the land someday because he’s not fond of holding money as long he gets his dose of soup, fried chicken and pancakes regularly. There are a lot of other deserving kids who, if given a chance, can create a big difference for the Philippines in the future. One of my dreams is to build a mini library at least in one identified institution (orphanage, public school, rural community). Anyone who learns to read through this project is one priceless accomplishment.

One at a time, my dream is to fulfill each wish of gifts for my beloved country.  My gift of legacy is not only a personal milestone but also to those who will be touched and reached out along the way.

How about you, what is your gift to the Philippines?

Leave a comment below and you might win an Apple gadget.  If this blog post wins in the #GLOBEProjectWonderful2014 promotion, one lucky commenter will take home an iPad mini 2.

You can also help create a wonderful Philippines. Visit www.projectwonderful.ph if you’d like to volunteer or make a donation.

Be the Best at what you do with Timex Hero

When I was a child, I actually believed that I am special.

I can climb trees effortlessly ala Tarzan, run around our village tirelessly like The Flash and carry three fully-loaded school bags everyday because I feel I’m a muscle man like the Incredible Hulk.

More than two decades later, I still feel I’m a stud but this time with fear of heights, slower feet and an ab (singular form for abs). But hey, I still have the hero dream and continue to do even the simple things that makes me look like a hero to some people--- sacrificing an important basketball game so my son can watch his favorite show over Baby TV; taking over the kitchen on weekends so my wife gets a well deserve rest; or covering some tasks for an officemate who filed an emergency leave in the middle of busy week.   

This Christmas, I feel like rewarding myself something special. Hmm… another wrist watch, perhaps? Just like what my wife would tell me. I think she already got a clue after I posted that I want to receive a watch winder from my “daddy” or “mommy” in our upcoming family exchange gift on the 24th.

Well, heroes should always be on time and in style whenever a call for help arises. Incidentally, Timex, one of the well-known brands in the world of time pieces, just launched their line of Hero watches.  Timex made available Ironman Run Trainer, Ironman Sleek, Expedition Field Chrono, Originals Vintage Inspired 1978, and the one I'm eyeing for: the Adventure Series™ Linear Indicator Chronograph with Intelligent Quartz™ Technology.

This wristwatch has a very unique and cool design that fits my extra-ordinary ways. The Adventure Series spells TIMEX with the quality features it has which definitely suits my need, my want and my personality.

T-ough. It has a black ion-plated finish stainless steel case.
I-nnovative. With a 4-hour chronograph movement with linear indicator for minute subdial.
M-arvelous. An impressive black dial with neon color accents.
E-legant. Looks amazing with its black silicone strap.
X-treme.  It is water-resistant to 100 M (330 feet).

Wearing this will not necessary make me an instant hero but it will definitely make me feel extra special. And I always believe that if you feel good, you do great things to others. And that I think is the essence is being a modern day hero.

Watch the Timex Hero Story TVC on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2MZxNd_Bag

Fibr: Home’s Most Powerful Broadband

Calling all districts! Calling all districts!

There is a emerging outbreak in the nation today and everyone is advised to take necessary precautions to be protected from any harm. Here are the symptoms of the said outburst:

1. You curse your internet provider and make your rants known via FB and/ or Twitter.

2. You get the same message over the phone: “There is an upgrading of our facilities in your area to improve our service. Sorry but I can’t provide you a definite time when this will be completed.”

3. You slam your desktop keyboard and/ or mouse or hit the CPU subconsciously.

4. You dream of a circling light with a note that says "buffering..." as if it’s going to be like that way forever.

If you are experiencing two or more of the mentioned symptoms, there is a big probability that you just caught the wave called SLOKONEKSYONMOSIS.

Do not take this lightly because this epidemic has been reported to have caused a lot of damage to unwilling victims:

a. Loss of sight. Watching videos over Youtube is now a mess and you’re missing an average of a dozen of viral clips a day.

b. Loss of hearing..Downloading of mp3s either from iTunes or Bearshare and listening to  E-radio, podcast and is completely silenced.

c. Lost of sense of touch. Well, a good thing in a way. Only cyber perverts will be affected by this.

d. Lost of sense of taste. You can’t decide what and where to eat because you can’t get updates from your fave food blogs.

e. And worst of all, loss of life (blogging life, that is)

During times like these, you'll feel like you want to engage with a brawl against the customer service representative of your internet provider specially if you have some deadlines to finish. This situation reminds me of The Hunger Games.

Well, he fans of the best-selling novel adapted to film will wait no more because the second installment of the movie, Catching Fire  will be shown in theaters worldwide this month. 

I am one of those who have been wanting to see the second part of the film (as if there will be major changes from the novel) because the suspense and excitement that it brings sequence by sequence espcially during the pageant or tournament of the tributes.

I am for Team Peeta Mellark, the male tribute chosen from District 12 who is a former schoolmate of Katniss who once gave her bread from his family's bakery when her family was starving. To some, he might be a weakling but look what he have become after surviving the first warfare--- a winner who got the chance to lock lips with THE Jennifer Lawrence. I wish I was him (envy mode) not only because of he's J-Law BFF but also due to the fact that he has this boy band-look crossed a a starving puppy eyes. Chicks can't resists those.

Since Peeta is not that of a hunk or a warrior type, I'd like to improve his wit and knowledge instead. If I am Peeta, I would spend some hours browsing the internet for just about anything that relates to suvival. It can be easy-to-learn martial moves, how to create explosives out of kitchen stuff or deceiving techniques without really trying. Well, you just need a dependable internet connection to get started to have an effective training for the pageant.

If you are still stuck with your old and slow internet provider, better change for the better. Fast. I would like to recommend PLDT Fibr, the most powerful broadband today that allows you to seamlessly and simultaneously experience the following: (a) Browsing of multiple websites; (b) Stream hundreds blockbuster movies on-demand from Clickplay; and (c) Watch Cignal Digital TV Channels.

The good news is that it is available now in over 800 fiber-powered villages nationwide. Visit www.pldthome.com or call 101-FIBR (3427) for more details.

Now, if this won't get Peeta another kissing scene with with Katniss Everdeen, I don't know what.

Hardys: It Gets Better with Time

I remember one time when I was still active in online forums, somebody posted the question, "What is the essence of being a man?"

It was an fun and lively thread with some amusing replies mixed with a few serious ala-Miss Universe responses.

Well, one of my favorite answers was an excerpt from an essay by American writer Judith A. Middlebrooks that goes, "The essence of a man lies not in his riches or status but in the strength of his backbone, spirit and word."

It stuck with me.

It just happen that I read it during the time that I am in one of the lowest points of my life--- my newly-born daughter passed away.

My strength was tested physically, emotionally and spiritually. There were times I wanted to cry but I have to postpone sobbing because my wife is with me. I don't want her to see me shed tears because if there is someone in the world who suffer more than I do, it's her.

Everyday I prayed to God that if I'll be given a chance to be a father again, I promise be the best parent that I can be. Two years later, my son Charles came and life has never been the same again.

And just when I thought that I am fully-prepared and equipped to face fatherhood after spending hours reading books and other references and asking tips from my Tatay and Nanay and in-laws, I was caught off guard on the first day of being a dad again for the second time.

I fought against sleepless nights, stumbled many times before mastering the art of putting diapers, and would often get confused to whether my baby cries because he's wet or hungry.

Fatherhood is indeed one heck of a journey. But everything gets better with time. All I did was to hold onto my promise and soon I realized that I'm actually starting to be the good father that I want to be. Some signs that you are becoming Mr. Ideal Dad: If you are...

1. Not minding carrying a baby rattle, a can of milk and a stroller to what should be a relaxing weekend family date.

2. Memorizing the theme songs of Barney, Hi-5 and the Mickey Mouse Club House and other silly tunes to be able to sing along with your child.

3. Conceding to change the TV channel for another replay of Winnie the Pooh even if it means you would miss the last two minutes of an exciting basketball game.

4. Smiling even when your favorite shirt gets messy with spaghetti sauce and ice cream because you allowed your kid to have it “his way.”

5. Praying that you could change places with your baby whenever he is sick.

6. Waking up in the wee hours to change your child’s diaper even though you just slept for a few hours and need to rise up early for work in the morning.

7. Experiencing the greatest joy a man can feel even with the simplest thing like every time your child says, “I love you, Daddy!”

See, things get better over time, just like the finest wine.

Talking about wines, Hardys is another good example of something that just keeps getting better through the years. I am a fan of the brand that is served in some memorable occasions that I have attended in the past. Here's HARDYS in a nutshell.
 

Heritage. This wine of choice is a product of 5 generations of winemakers up to present day from founder Thomas Hardy to the current top honcho Bill Hardy.

Award-winning. With over 3000 awards recieved in the last decade, Hardys is considered as the most Powerful Australian wine brand characterized by quality and consistency.

Range of sub brands. Hardys has a strong appeal across a wide range of consumers with the many choices it offers for different social events.

Dependable. The brand is produced by the pioneers of quality blending techniques that maintains Hardys as a premium, aspirational product and relevant to wine drinkers.

Years of experience. Established in 1853, Hardys is not just a name. It's speak of quality and excellent taste perfected by 160 years of wine making experience.

Sure fun. Whether it's a dinner with a loved one or a party or picnic with friends and families, Hardys is the perfect companion for special occasions.

Through the years, I learned the true essence of being a man. For me, it is being able to raise a child who will also be a good parent to his future sons and daughters. I hope every man reading this post will drink to that.
   
And  to all my readers, friends and family who are also experience triumphs in life, no matter how simple or big it is. Let us celebrate every goal we reach in life! Indeed, things get better over time, just like Hardys – after 160 years, it just keeps getting better.

Like Hardys Facebook fan page by clicking the image below.