I am happiest when I make, and even though I am tied to work on weekdays and most of weekends, I still try to squeeze in a hobby with the little free time I get. Last weekend, I was able to make pineapple jam!

I will probably use a blender or food processor on my next batch so it’s finer, although I loved the chunks on this batch, too.

Anyway, I was lucky because I already had the ingredients needed in my ref and pantry, and the Instant Pot made everything a breeze! If you don't have honey, you can also use brown sugar or stevia, but honey is your best bet because aside from being a natural sweetener, it is also a superfood! 

One problem with superfoods is that they don’t appear appetizing. Why would you have a kale smoothie when you can opt for bananas and chocolate instead? The good news is, honey is the perfect antidote. After all, it’s sweet and delicious, and it has incredible anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. They are intensified if the product is organic, such as the raw and unfiltered stuff from Local Hive Honey. You need to be careful of using it too much because it does have quite a few calories, but a teaspoon on your breakfast cereal should be enough to start the day off right!

Your health shouldn’t be decided by your budget. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be if you focus on affordable superfoods. Yes, they exist, and yes, they are just as effective at boosting your immune system and helping you to burn fat. Aside from honey, here are some other examples!

Sweet Potatoes

Yes, the dreaded carbs don’t have a healthy reputation. In reality, the way people view carbohydrates is unhealthy since they aren’t all bad. Rice, for example, is a staple of some of the healthiest cuisines in the world. Still, opting for a less starchy alternative is never a bad idea, which is why yams make their way onto this list. They are sweet and tasty, unlike their white potato cousins, and are excellent sources of fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamins C and B6. you can find them at all good supermarkets.

Broccoli

If you’re ever struggling with your budget, broccoli is the ideal choice. Plus, Web MD says it’s almost as good for you frozen as it is fresh as the vegetable is frozen at peak harvest when its healthy properties are at their peak. You get everything from B vitamins to calcium from this leafy veggie, but the main attraction is the detoxifying elements that regulate the liver and kidneys. They are ideal after a long lockdown, particularly if you have been indulging! With that in mind, make it your staple every time you want vegetables with your meals. I love broccoli and I should add some to my next grocery cart!

Oats

Oats are packed with nutrients that fight cholesterol. This is great for middle-aged men and women who are attempting to remain healthy as their bodies age. Also, they come in different shapes and sizes. Therefore, you can have them in the morning as porridge - a drop of honey will work wonders - or you can opt for a savory option, such as cheese oats. I also love preparing overnight oats! Which reminds me... I need to buy more oats and yogurt because I currently have an abundance of bananas and honey, yum!

 Nope, this is not an engagement announcement. :p

It's not the wedding, it's the marriage. There are few bigger steps a couple can make than when they take the decision to get engaged and set in motion a process that will end with them being married. Looked at from outside, an engagement can seem like a pretty straightforward preliminary to that marriage. However, for many people, the period of engagement is where they learn more than at any other time. There are lessons about themselves, about their spouse-to-be, and more besides. And so, before you even get engaged, it is worth asking yourself a few questions to clear up worries so that you can be ready for this period of time.

Do I want to be married?

It sounds obvious, but it is a question that needs to be addressed. Marriage is not a small decision to make, and needs to be taken seriously. Keep in mind that a wedding lasts a day, typically, while a marriage is intended to last forever. There is a difference between getting married and being married, and there is no point getting engaged right now if you can’t see yourselves in the latter position eventually.

Will this be a long or short engagement?

Getting engaged tomorrow doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily get married in a few months, or even this year. An engagement can be as long or as short as the couple in question choose for it to be. So it’s not the case that you’re under pressure to get everything ticked off the moment the ring is ordered from Whiteflash or wherever you’ve picked it from. Being engaged just means you plan to marry in the future and are both agreed on that. A long engagement can allow you more time to save for the key expenses of the big day - and beyond. Let the duration of the engagement be decided by the kind of wedding you want to have.

Breaking this wall of text to insert a photo of my beautiful ring I got for myself I'd like my engagement ring to be unconventional and symbolic

Are we on the same page?

In truth, this is a question you will also be asking during the engagement, and even after you’ve got married whenever future goals come into question. For as long as you are in a couple, it’s a question that needs an answer; because, quite simply, there are now a lot of decisions you have to make that will affect at least two lives. It’s not something that needs to be asked constantly, but at the point of any major decisions affecting one or both of you, it’s important to be in agreement on how you move forward. Don’t get engaged - yet - if you have differences of opinion on when, and even whether, to get married.

Is a proposal in order?

Tradition dictates that before an engagement is to happen, one of the couple will plan out a proposal, often after asking the father of their spouse-to-be for permission to do so. The second part of that sentence demonstrates why the first part is not essential. These days, it is considered anachronistic to ask anyone other than the other person in a relationship for permission to marry them - and even that isn’t essential. If you love each other, and want to spend your lives together, then you can just agree to become engaged. The “popping” of the question is not an essential part of the process, so if you don’t want to go through the nerve-wracking sequence of events that lead to a proposal, you don’t have to.

Personally, I don't want grandiose proposal nor a huge wedding. I think I've had enough surprises and stressful days that I'd like my wedding to be quiet, simple, and stress-free. Hopefully, when the Philippines is already Covid-free.

Ever since the first camera phone was released in 2000, built-in cameras on phones have progressively become more advanced. Nowadays, phones are able to offer the clarity and texture control to rival most professional cameras. They’re also more portable than chunky cameras and you can easily integrate them with apps or upload photos instantly.

I personally haven't had my own camera since my last digital Canon point-and-shoot gave up on me years ago. I've never owned a DSLR as a I can't justify the price since I don't shoot photos professionally anyway. I have a Huawei P20 Pro and iPhone 12 and they both take excellent photos, plus it's so easy to edit and enhance via my favorite apps like A Color Story, Snapseed, and Enlight. They're also very handy for quick snaps and chance encounters with someone you don't see regularly, as opposed to having to set up a camera and change settings (aperture, shutter speed, et cetera) just to take a photo. 

Photo taken by my friend Ed in my new home yesterday, using my iPhone 12 and a ring light, enhanced with A Color Story

Photo taken at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) last Wednesday using my iPhone 12

But then, despite the benefits of smartphone cameras, owning a camera as a separate gadget still has its benefits. Cameras are ergonomically designed for taking pictures. The lens choice and exposure also cannot be rivaled, plus there’s so much more hardware that you can use with a camera.

Ultimately, there are a few questions you need to ask yourself to work out whether a camera or phone is best for your needs.

What type of photography are you interested in?

When it comes to everyday photography, a smartphone is usually all you need. However, if you’re looking to become a serious hobbyist or go pro, it may make sense to buy yourself a ‘real camera’. For one, it might affect your credibility if you’re doing professional wedding shoots with a smartphone. Secondly, while you can do a lot with a smartphone camera, there are going to be limitations.

A good example could be landscape photography. Smartphones simply aren’t able to do long exposure shots. In order to make use of slow shutter speed, you need a DSLR. There are sometimes hacks to get around this. As this tutorial shows, you can simulate long exposure photography on an iPhone with the help of some apps. If you’re a hobbyist that doesn’t want to shell out on a camera, then it could make sense to stick with your smartphone and rely on these tricks.

What type of camera would you buy?

Some cameras are just as capable as your smartphone. In fact, there’s very little reason to buy a cheap digital camera other than as a fun toy to give to kids who aren’t ready for a smartphone yet.

A more expensive DSLR or mirrorless camera could have advantages. There are also all kinds of niche cameras such as GoPros, 360 cameras and camera drones. Then of course there are film cameras which may have the same retro appeal as vinyl or a classic car. These are the types of cameras that are actually worth buying because they offer features that a smartphone simply cannot replicate.

What type of phone have you got currently?

If you’ve got a basic older model of smartphone, then it’s likely the camera on your phone isn’t as good. In this case, it may make sense to buy a separate digital camera - even if it is fairly basic, it may still have better photo quality than a basic smartphone.

You could always upgrade your phone. However, if you’re happy with a basic smartphone, you may not see the benefit of spending a thousand pounds on a new phone when you can spend a fraction of this on a camera. 

Living life from a positive perspective makes you happier, reflects in your healthy relationships, and even spikes your odds of success in any aspect of life. Are you a half-full or half-empty type of person? Research reveals that those who have a positive outlook are 13% less likely to have heart issues. Did you know that your perception of situations and conditions in life can significantly affect you physically and mentally? The days in which we find ourselves have made it much easier to worry, but you can remain positive. Here are four ways to maintain a healthy attitude towards life.

1. Practice gratitude

A quick reflection on your life will reveal that there’s at least something to be grateful for, including being alive. The daily things you may sometimes take for granted, such as family, friends, loved ones, the sunshine, a nice cup of coffee, or even a silly joke, are opportunities to savor precious moments and show gratitude. Many experts and therapists suggest that you get a gratitude journal to help you record these. You can easily do this and track how soon your favorite journal will get to you via https://www.shiply.com/us/truck-loads. Frequently penning down the list of things and situations you are grateful for gives you a beautiful overview of life.

2. Engage in positive self-talk

Jim Kwik, a well-known memory and performance coach, describes the brain as a supercomputer that’s programmed by your self-talk. This suggests that your mind easily eavesdrops on your self-talk and engages your whole body in the conversation. Saying some positive words to yourself consistently gives your mind the power to channel those thoughts into your attitude, which becomes your lifestyle and reality. A healthy dose of encouraging and positive self-talk goes a long way to change your view concerning life.

3. Focus on the good side of things

Do you feel tired, stressed, or worn out? Make a conscious effort to take some time off to rest and shift your focus. Instead of keeping your mind on the negative things, it helps to identify the positive lessons to be learned from every situation you face. Your options in a problem might be limited but not your attitude towards it. Always consider the bright side of life.

4. Be proactive

A proactive person chooses and maintains their attitude. In contrast, a reactive person allows people and situations to determine how they feel. Positivity requires that you choose and sustain your attitude and enthusiasm throughout the day. How mentally prepared are you for anything that comes your way? And what activities are you getting involved in to keep your mind and body in good shape? Regular exercise, quality time with family and loved ones, listening to music and reading a good book are a few ways by which you can proactively take your well-being into your own hands.

In summary, feeding yourself with optimistic thoughts translates into a positive and healthy lifestyle. Enjoy the humor in silly situations and try to live life to the fullest.  

I can't wait for the vaccine. I know going back to the way we used to live and do things is next to impossible, but I just wish things were normal again. One of the things I miss the most is traveling and exploring a new place, and I hope we can do that again once we've been vaccinated.

Exploring Chinatown in Singapore, April 2019

My left hand after getting crazy at a Sephora in Singapore You have to understand, we can only order them online here :(

Do you miss shopping in a foreign country? Are you looking for the ultimate shopping experience? Some of the cities listed below could provide just the experience that you’re looking for. ;)

New York

New York is hard to beat in terms of its shopping experience. It’s definitely not a cheap city to shop in, but you’ll find practically everything here and there’s an undeniable buzz to it.

5th Avenue is a must for anyone visiting this city - it’s here you’ll find all of the luxury boutiques and huge department stores (shopping here around Christmas can be magical). However, this is far from the only place to shop: Greenwich Village, Lower East Side, Soho, NoLita and Chinatown all have their own character and array of stores selling everything from designer urbanwear to vintage clothes.

A trip to New York can be very fun as there are many other sights to see. Look for accommodation that isn’t too central and avoid taking too many taxis if you want to keep your spending low.

Paris

Paris is another city renowned for its shopping. From department stores to chic boutiques, this romantic European city has a huge range of shopping opportunities.

The Champs-Elysees is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world and is worth a day trip to. Rue di Rivoli and Marais District are meanwhile great for shopping on a budget (here you’ll find all the most unique and trendy stores).

While in Paris, you’ll likely want to visit many of the landmarks. Marais can be a great district for accessing landmarks while also having shopping opportunities on your doorstep. Make sure to save up in advance as Paris can be expensive.

Tokyo

Shopping in Tokyo can be a real adventure. Nowhere embraces the weird and wild like this city. Shopping is also surprisingly affordable.

Shinjuku is the city's largest shopping and entertainment district - you’ll get lost exploring all the wonderful shops here. Shibuya meanwhile is the place to shop for youth fashion, while Ginza offers more luxury and upmarket shopping. There’s also Nihonbashi, where you can buy traditional goods and local foods.

You can stay in any of the above shopping districts mentioned and get a good deal on accommodation. There’s so much more to see in Tokyo - you’ll want to give yourself at least a week here if you’ve never been.

Dubai

Dubai can be a pretty exciting place to shop. Even if you don’t buy anything (it can be expensive) there's a lot to gawp at in this over-the-top Middle Eastern metropolis.

The city is home to the largest mall in the world, The Dubai Mall. Inside this mall is an Olympic sized ice-rink, a waterfall, theme parks, an aquarium and an indoor souk. It’s so big that there are malls within this mall. And The Dubai Mall is not even the only mall in Dubai - there’s also the Mall of Emirates (which contains an indoor ski resort) and many others.

Aside from malls, there are plenty other things to do in Dubai. Save up before you go - it’s not a cheap city.

London

London has an impressive range of places to shop ranging from luxury department stores to quirky markets. Like Paris, New York and Dubai it is very expensive - so be prepared for this.

Oxford Street is probably London’s most famous street and is the city’s most popular shopping destination. Here you’ll find some of the biggest and swankiest department stores in the world. Beyond Oxford Street, you should also check out Covent Garden, Knightsbridge, Camden Market and Brick Lane. 

You can save money on accommodation in London by staying on the outskirts. Use the tube to get around (not taxis) and book attractions ahead (fortunately, many of the museums are free).

Marrakesh

Marrakesh in Morocco has its own unique shopping experience. It’s also not too expensive to shop here. 

Most people are drawn to the souks - a maze of market streets stretching north from Djemaa el-Fna. Here you’ll find crafts of all kinds, raw fabrics and multicoloured piles of spices. On top of this, there are also unique boutique stores to shop in.

It’s worth booking accomodation in Medina where you’ll find the souks. Beyond shopping, make sure to explore the city’s great history while you’re here.

Milan

Milan isn’t just a shopping capital but a fashion capital. If you love high end fashion and all the glitz and glam that comes with it, this is the city for you.

The Quadrilatero Della Moda is home to some of the biggest brands like Gucci and Versace, as well as many high end boutiques. This includes Via Montenapoleone - one of Milan’s most renowned high streets. Beyond this, there are also malls and trendy markets elsewhere throughout the city.

Shopping in this city is expensive, so save up your cash. There’s lots of sightseeing to do in this city and lots of great places to eat - Brera and Porta Nuovo are two great places to stay.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s capital offers some of the most exciting and diverse shopping opportunities in Asia. It’s also very good value - you won’t struggle to find a bargain in KL.

Most of the shopping is done in the city’s malls, which are absolutely huge. In fact, 3 of the 10 largest malls in the world can be found in Kuala Lumpur. Here’s you’ll find everything from premium brand stores to indoor markets. The likes of 1 Utama meanwhile sports various other attractions such as an aquarium, indoor rainforest and huge indoor rock climbing facility.

KL is a great city for a family shopping trip. To save money, you could look into sewakan rumah (aka ‘rented houses’). Make sure to also visit the city’s other landmarks and try the local cuisine while here. 

Buenos Aires

This Argentinian city is another shopping hotspot that is popular for its homemade boutique goods and second hand items.

For antiques, try the stalls of the historic cobblestone Feria De San Telmo. For upscale fashion, try the glamourous region of Recoleta. For bargains and crafts, try the bustling Parque Centenario market. You’ll also find malls and some of the best independent real-leather shoe shops in the world.

When in Buenos Aires, make sure to soak up the rich culture and history. It’s not as expensive as many cities on this list.

Sydney

Finally, there’s Sydney. This Australian city has some great shopping experiences to offer, including plenty of unique Australian brands and independent stores.

There are areas like Newtown that are perfect for thrifting and there are busy streets like George & Pitt Street where you can shop in department stores. Bondi’ sunny market is meanwhile the place to go to buy beachwear.

Sydney can be a little pricey so watch your spending. Look for accommodation out of the centre and take advantage of the city’s cheap public transport for getting around.

How about you? Where is your next destination the minute we're allowed to travel for leisure again?