Growing Beyond an Unfulfilling Marriage

Saturday, April 5





It's better to leave a marriage that is not helping you grow into the person whom you desire to become. If its holding you back from reaching your utmost potential then by all means just talk it out and Move on.




There comes a time in every woman’s life when she must pause and ask herself: Am I truly living, or am I just surviving?

For years, I believed that staying in my marriage was the "right" thing to do. I told myself that sacrifices were part of love. I buried my dreams, dimmed my light, and silenced the voice inside me that whispered, “There’s more to life than this.”

But lately, something in me has shifted. I've started to redefine what rich means to me. It's no longer just about money in the bank or material things — it’s about emotional freedom, peace of mind, purpose, and personal growth.

And the truth is, I can’t step into that richness if I’m constantly feeling emotionally drained, undervalued, or stuck in a relationship that no longer nurtures who I’m becoming.

A Rich Mindset Begins with Radical Self-Honesty

One of the most powerful steps in embracing a rich mindset is being radically honest with yourself. For me, it meant admitting that I’ve outgrown the version of myself that stayed silent just to keep the peace.

I’ve learned that peace bought at the expense of your own soul isn’t peace at all — it’s self-abandonment.

Growth Demands Space

Just like a plant can’t thrive in a pot that’s too small, I’ve realized that I can’t grow if I keep shrinking myself to fit into a marriage that feels more like a cage than a partnership.

I want to thrive — spiritually, emotionally, financially. I want to build a life that reflects the woman I am becoming. That requires brave decisions. That requires faith.

You Are Not Selfish for Choosing You

Let’s be clear: choosing to grow out of a relationship that limits you isn’t selfish. It’s sacred.

It’s saying, “I matter too.”

It’s saying, “My purpose matters.”

And most importantly, it’s saying, “I trust that God didn’t bring me this far to live a life half-lived.”

What a Rich Mindset Looks Like

  • Believing you are worthy of more, even when it’s uncomfortable to pursue it.

  • Taking accountability for your healing and growth.

  • Letting go of what’s no longer aligned — no matter how familiar it feels.

  • Trusting in abundance, not scarcity — in love, life, and opportunity.

  • Surrounding yourself with people who pour into your vision instead of draining your energy.

Moving Forward, Not in Fear — But in Faith

I'm not writing this because I have it all figured out. I’m writing this because I’m choosing courage over comfort. I'm choosing to believe that the best version of me is on the other side of this difficult chapter.

If you’re reading this and it resonates, know this: you are not alone. You are allowed to want more. You are allowed to pursue a life that reflects your dreams and honors your soul.

This is not the end — this is the beginning of your rich girl era — the one where you choose healing, growth, purpose, and power.

And I’m right here with you, walking the path, one brave step at a time.





For Inquiries, suggestions, and sponsorship, you may contact me thru: Email: gracina.estrella@gmail.com Instagram: @graciinnaa Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@graciinnaa


For Inquiries, suggestions, and sponsorship, you may contact me thru: Email: gracina.estrella@gmail.com Instagram: @graciinnaa Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@graciinnaa
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Curly Hair Care Update using Bremod Argan Oil

Curly hair is beautiful, unique, and full of personality—but let’s be real, it also needs a whole lot of TLC. As someone who has spent years trying different products and routines, I’ve finally found a go-to that works wonders for my curls and that is the Bremod Argan Oil.



Whether I’m going for a fresh wash-and-go or trying to tame frizz during Cebu’s humid days, this product has become a staple in my curly hair care routine. Let me walk you through how I use it—and why I love it so much!

i have always struggled with maintaining the locks of my hair this was taken last 2020


My Curly Hair Care Routine with Bremod Argan Oil

1. Cleansing & Conditioning

I start with a sulfate-free shampoo and a rich conditioner, making sure to finger-detangle while my hair is still soaking wet. Hydration is key for curls, so I never skip deep conditioning at least once a week!

2. Towel-Drying (with a Twist)

Instead of using a regular towel, I use a microfiber towel or an old cotton shirt to avoid frizz and breakage.

3. Applying Bremod Argan Oil

While my hair is still damp, I take 2–3 pumps of Bremod Argan Oil and smooth it over my curls, focusing on the ends and dry areas. Sometimes I mix it with my leave-in conditioner for extra moisture.

4. Styling & Defining

I use my favorite curl cream or gel to define my curls. The argan oil helps lock in moisture and gives my hair a gorgeous, natural shine.

5. Air-Drying or Diffusing

Depending on my mood (and schedule), I either let my hair air-dry or diffuse on low heat. No matter what, my curls come out soft, bouncy, and frizz-free.





My Honest Review of Bremod Argan Oil

If you’re curious about trying it out, here’s a quick breakdown of my thoughts:

Pros:

  • Lightweight and non-greasy

  • Instantly softens and smooths curls

  • Helps reduce frizz and adds shine

  • Smells so good!

  • A little goes a long way

Cons:

  • May feel too heavy for very fine hair (use less!)

  • Not always available in smaller stores—best to order online or from resellers

⭐ Overall Rating:

4.8/5 Stars

Bremod Argan Oil has truly elevated my curly hair game. I love how it nourishes my hair without weighing it down, and it works well in hot or humid weather too. Definitely a must-have in my beauty stash!

Where to Buy:

I usually get mine from beauty supply stores in Cebu or Shopee/Lazada. Make sure you’re buying from a trusted seller to avoid fakes!

Have You Tried It?

If you’re a curly-haired queen like me, I’d love to hear what products work for you! Have you tried Bremod Argan Oil? Let’s talk in the comments!


FeatureRating / Comment
Moisture Boost⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Keeps curls soft all day
Frizz Control⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Great in humid weather
Texture⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Lightweight and silky
Scent⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Pleasant and subtle
Price⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Affordable and long-lasting


For Inquiries, suggestions, and sponsorship, you may contact me thru: Email: gracina.estrella@gmail.com Instagram: @graciinnaa Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@graciinnaa
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Debunking Common Filipino Myths on Children's Growth and Nutrition





The World Health Organization (WHO) has set global targets to reduce the number of children under five who are stunted by 40% by 2025 and to maintain childhood wasting at less than 5%. Yet, global malnutrition rates remain too high. 

In the Philippines, one in every four Filipino children below the age of five is malnourished and stunted. Despite concerted efforts, the stunting rate has plateaued over the last decade, indicating a persistent challenge in ensuring adequate nutrition for our nation's youth.





To ensure your children's health, it is essential to promote good nutrition. Yet there are some
myths around children’s health and nutrition. Dr. Jose Dimaano, Jr., nutrition medical director for Asia Pacific in Abbott dispels some common misconceptions and the truths that parents should be aware of:

Myth #1: A child's height is predetermined solely by genetics.


Truth: While genetics do play a role in determining a child's height, it is not the sole factor. 
Nutrition and environmental conditions significantly influence a child's growth, especially
during the first five years of life when 60% of adult height is achieved. 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 Proper nutrition, including a balanced diet with essential vitamins and minerals, is key to a child’s growth. A supportive environment with good healthcare, physical activity, and emotional support can also enhance growth, enabling children to reach their full potential. Relying on the belief that children will naturally catch up later can be detrimental, as early deficits are hard to overcome.

While puberty offers a second major growth spurt, it cannot fully compensate for missed
opportunities during these formative years. Ensuring children receive adequate support early on is essential for achieving their full growth potential.



Myth #2: Regular exercise might harm children’s early growth due to undue stress
or fatigue.



Truth: Regular exercise is essential for healthy growth and development, and does not harm
early growth when balanced with proper nutrition and adequate sleep. Exercise promotes strong bones, muscles, and overall physical fitness, while also contributing to mental well-being. Children should engage in age-appropriate physical activities that they enjoy. Coupled with a nutritious diet and sufficient sleep, regular exercise supports optimal growth.

Myth #3: Catch up growth can be achieved in three weeks’ time.


Truth: While rapid growth spurts can occur, they do not necessarily indicate that a child is
healthy. A truly healthy child grows consistently at a steady pace, reflecting balanced nutrition and overall well-being. Claims that short-term accelerated growth can be achieved in a few weeks don't necessarily indicate that you have a healthy child. For stunted children, catch-up growth may involve faster-than-normal growth rates to make up for earlier deficits. Catch-up growth is a process aimed at bringing a child back on track for their age and development stage.

If growth issues persist, parents can consider an oral nutritional supplement which is designed to support growth and development. In a study, children who consumed two servings a day of the oral nutritional supplement, PediaSure Plus saw faster growth in 8 weeks 8 and sustained proportional growth over 48 weeks 9 compared with the group of children who had only three balanced meals and regular exercise.

Myth #4: Comparing my child’s height with his peers is the best way to know
whether he is growing right or not.


Truth: Visual observation alone cannot accurately determine a child's growth or health status.

It’s natural to assume bigger is better, but that’s not necessarily the case. In fact, healthy growth is measured by what’s normal for your child for his age. Pediatricians have several different tools to measure a child’s health. One of the most powerful among them is the growth chart. The growth chart uses a set of measurements based on WHO height and weight standards of children, by age and gender. Home tools – like the height charts and online growth calculators offered through Abbott’s Growth Watch program – can be useful for tracking the child’s growth consistently. With regular wellness checks, your pediatrician will also be able to monitor your child’s growth and recommend interventions if the child is falling behind.

Myth #5: A Child's Growth Is Normal If He/She Has A Good Appetite.


Truth: While a good appetite can be a positive sign, it doesn't necessarily mean a child is getting the right kind and amount of nutrients needed for optimal growth. The quality of diet is more important than the quantity. Children need a diverse diet that includes at least five out of the seven food groups daily to ensure they receive a balanced mix of essential nutrients. 

These groups include meats and fish, legumes and nuts, grains, roots and tubers, vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables, eggs, and dairy products. Additionally, it’s a common belief that rice and viand alone are sufficient for a child’s nutritional needs. However, relying solely on these staple foods can leave significant nutritional gaps, as these common foods might not provide all the essential nutrients required for growth and development. 

The Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) offers dietary guidelines that promote a balanced diet tailored to a child's nutritional needs such as the Pinggang Pinoy.  

These guidelines emphasize including foods rich in carbohydrates for energy, proteins for growth and repair, and fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins and minerals. Understanding the truth behind common nutrition myths can arm parents with information to support their children's health. Staying informed about evidence-based practices and information can help caregivers make the best decisions for their children's development.

Abbott’s Growth Watch campaign is dedicated to enhancing understanding and providing
essential resources for promoting optimal child growth. For more details and access to tools like the Growth Calculator, please visit the link.

About Abbott:
Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our
portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals, and branded generic medicines. Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.

Connect with Abott at www.abbott.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/abbott-/, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott and on Twitter @AbbottNews.
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That Life Update and Yes I am Back to Content Creation

Thursday, April 3

Hi Besties! How are you? It's been months since I have posted my personal thoughts here on the blog. I think that its only fitting for me to write again after all. As you may have known, I had a trip to Manila last February for an event for a mobile company and it was held in Makati.

It was an all expense paid trip so I decided to go. And give content creation a chance again, since they really reached out to me. I came along side other bloggers and content creators from Cebu as well.

with fellow bloggers as we dine in at Fely J's in Greenbelt Ayala Malls



We flew by Cebu Pacific Air and then we stayed at Green Sun Hotel in Makati. I had already flewn to Manila twice with the feeling that I am not good for it - you know for traveling. I am not a well travelled individual but this one is different, I felt really confident with myself and felt the excitement rushed through my veins. No fear, none whatsoever. I was really excited! 

For the first time ever.

We ate out at times and also bonded with them. I felt really happy to see new faces of the blogging scene and few familiar faces from the media too.

my new blog besties Johanna Marie and Jelly 




I did not know what to expect. As far as I know and my concern was that my phone is not at par with my co-content creators anymore. I knew I needed to step up my game.



But here I am typing this post, as I recall the events that happened that time. I was just happy to be part of this event and be able to reconnect with my fellow bloggers. It was a sight of relief on myself that I am actually doing good at this and that I may have a chance in really pursuing this as a career.




For now, my main focus is to share my goals of self-improvement and starting to cultivate this rich girl mindset and that there is abundance everywhere, we just need to change our perspective in life and focus our sails towards the positive.

I may not be that popular like the others, but one thing I know I have a voice that needs to be heard. That I can make an impact through my blog through the content I am putting out there.

I know I can do it. I can do it again. After all I started it when no one believed in me and yet here I am.

I am excited to collaborate and see what the future holds for the content creation community. 

Turning 39 this year and I must say, life has been okay and smooth sailing. My plans of pursuing a career in education is slowly coming into fruition as well. With the support of my husband and family.

Thank you for reading this post. Thank you for staying through the ups and downs of my life and hoping to be bolder and more confident in achieving my goals one step at a time again. 

  • “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And you are the guy who'll decide where to go." — Dr. Seuss

Also, I should really invest in new gears right? :D
On to more content soon and thank you for reading my post. 
Till the next one!

Keep Shining!

Grace



For Inquiries, suggestions, and sponsorship, you may contact me thru: 

Email: gracina.estrella@gmail.com
Facebook Fan Page: It's Your Gurl Grace
Instagram: https://instagram.com/graciinnaa
Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@graciinnaa
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EastWest Dream Run 2025 Happening in Davao, Cebu & Manila!

Wednesday, April 2

EastWest Dream Run 2025 is set to bring together runners of all levels in Davao on April 6, Cebu on May 4, and Manila on June 15 as part of EastWest’s 30th Anniversary and Filinvest’s 70th Anniversary celebrations. In partnership with RUNRIO, this event promotes health, wellness, and community engagement.



Runners can choose from 1K, 2K, 5K, 10K, and 30K distances. The 1K Dog Run offers a fun and unique experience, while the 30K category pushes endurance athletes to their limits. All finishers will receive an exclusive Dreamcatcher medal, with top runners taking home special prizes.


Beyond the race, participants can enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, and post-run festivities, making it more than just a run it’s a celebration of progress and perseverance. A portion of the proceeds will also support EastWest’s community initiatives, adding purpose to every step.




Register now at www.eastwestbanker.com/dream-run2025 and be part of this exciting event.




For Inquiries, suggestions, and sponsorship, you may contact me thru: Email: teamcabanog@gmail.com Facebook Fan Page: The Cabañogs Instagram: @teamcabanog Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thecabanogs
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Awesome Intelligence for All: The Galaxy A26 5G is now available in the Philippines!

Friday, March 28

The arrival of the Galaxy A26 5G completes the Awesome Intelligence lineup with Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A56 5G, now available at Samsung.com!

Samsung has finally launched its most accessible AI phone, the Galaxy A26 5G in the Philippines – bringing awesome intelligence to even more Filipinos. With Circle to Search with Google, Object Eraser, Edit Suggestion, and Photo Remaster, anyone can now enjoy mobile AI features like never before with the Galaxy A Series.






Joining the lineup of Awesome Intelligence devices, Samsung has also announced the availability of the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G at Samsung.com.

Awesome Intelligence is the first comprehensive mobile AI platform for the Galaxy A series, bringing powerful, fun, and easy-to-use AI tools to first-time AI smartphone users with the Galaxy A26 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, and Galaxy A56 5G.

Awesome Intelligence is also powered by One UI 7.0, bringing a personalized mobile experience that fits any lifestyle.

Awesome Intelligence, Now Accessible Than Ever with Galaxy A26 5G


The Galaxy A26 5G comes equipped with a range of impressive AI features. The Galaxy favorite Circle to Search with Google feature will also be available on this device. This feature allows users to effortlessly search and discover content directly from the screen. Circle to Search can recognize phone numbers, email addresses, and URLs displayed on the screen, enabling users to take action with just a single tap.

Galaxy A26 5G users will enjoy a smooth and intuitive editing experience, thanks to features like Object Eraser, which allows anyone to effortlessly remove unwanted distractions from their photos. Additionally, the Create Filter feature offers a personalized touch to photos, enabling users to customize filters without the need for third-party apps.

The Galaxy A26 5G will also feature Edit Suggestion, where Awesome Intelligence analyzes the photos stored on the device and offers suggestions to enhance the image or video. Additionally, with the Photo Remaster feature, users can effortlessly improve all their photos with just a single tap. The device will automatically enhance your photos to their highest quality with a simple touch of the screen.

For those looking to take snapshots of their most wonderful memories in every single scene, the Galaxy A26 5G is loaded with 8MP Ultra Wide Angle, 50MP Auto Focus, 2MP Macro, and 13MP Front Cameras, along with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for capturing stunning dynamic scenes with clarity.

For those who love to binge-watch, they can now experience the shows and movies they love vividly as the Galaxy A26 5G’s 6.7 Super AMOLED display boasts a slim, minimized bezel for that immersive mobile viewing experience. The Galaxy A26 5G is also integrated with the latest Exynos 1380 for a smooth, seamless performance, with a long-lasting 5,000 mAh (typical) battery with up to 17 hours of power, perfect for long TV show marathons.

For those looking for a strong, reliable device, the Galaxy A26 5G is made for full durability with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. Everyone can now enjoy Awesome Intelligence for a long time as the Galaxy A26 5G is also packed with 6 generations of OS upgrades and 6 years of security updates to keep the device secure and performing at its best.

Awesome Deals for Awesome Intelligence Seekers, Available Now

The Galaxy A26 5G, along with the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G is now available for purchase on the Samsung Online Store! It comes in three vibrant colors: Awesome Black, Awesome Mint, and Awesome Peach Pink (online exclusive). It is priced at P15,990 for the 6GB + 128GB variant and P17,990 for the 8GB + 256GB variant. 

On the other hand, the Galaxy A56 5G is available in Awesome Lightgray, Awesome Graphite, and Awesome Pink, while the Galaxy A36 5G is available in Awesome Lavender, Awesome Black and Awesome White. 

Customers can also avail of 0% installment payment plan with Samsung Finance+

For every purchase of the Galaxy A26 5G, customers can get a free 25W Travel Adapter by purchasing at Samsung.com, Authorized Samsung Dealers, Online Partners, or Operator Partners until March 31, 2025!*
*DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-218490 Series of 2025.





For Inquiries, suggestions, and sponsorship, you may contact me thru: Email: gracina.estrella@gmail.com 
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Dining at Fely J’s Kitchen: A Memorable Culinary Experience in Greenbelt Makati

Tuesday, March 25

Last February 2025, we had the pleasure of dining at Fely J’s Kitchen in Greenbelt, Makati, during a special event with fellow bloggers. Nestled in the heart of Greenbelt 5, this restaurant is known for serving home-style Filipino and Asian-inspired dishes that bring comfort and nostalgia with every bite.

A Warm and Welcoming Ambiance

Stepping into Fely J’s Kitchen felt like entering a cozy yet elegant Filipino home. The warm lighting, wooden interiors, and family-style dining setup made it the perfect venue for catching up with fellow bloggers over delicious food. The staff welcomed us with friendly smiles, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience from start to finish.

The Food A Feast to Remember

photo by sassycebuana







We were all excited to indulge in Fely J’s well-loved dishes. Here are some of the standout plates we enjoyed:

🍛 Crispy Patang Bawang – A must-try! The pata was deep-fried to perfection, with crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat, complemented by a garlicky dipping sauce.

🥘 Bangus Belly Bistek – This dish was a crowd favorite! The boneless bangus belly was cooked in a rich, tangy bistek sauce with lots of onions, making it both hearty and comforting.

🌿 Pinakbet with Bagnet – A perfect balance of fresh vegetables and crunchy bagnet, this dish was a great addition to our feast, offering a delicious way to enjoy classic Filipino flavors.

🍚 Tinapa Rice – One of Fely J’s signature dishes, this smoky, flavorful rice paired well with everything on the table and was a hit among the bloggers.

🍲 Gising-Gising – A spicy and creamy dish made with chopped green beans, coconut milk, and ground meat, offering a rich and mildly spicy kick.

🐟 Sugpo sa Aligue – Fresh prawns smothered in a rich and indulgent crab fat (aligue) sauce, making every bite sinfully delicious.

🍖 Lola Ising’s Adobo – A unique take on adobo with fork-tender pork belly, cooked in a deep, flavorful sauce with a balance of salty and slightly sweet notes.

🍰 Guinumis for Dessert – To end our meal on a sweet note, we tried the Guinumis, a refreshing dessert made of coconut milk, sago, and pinipig, drizzled with a sweet syrup. A perfect way to cool down after a savory feast!

A Place for Every Occasion

Whether you’re dining with family, meeting friends, or celebrating a special event, Fely J’s Kitchen is an excellent choice for those craving classic Filipino dishes with a touch of nostalgia. The generous portions, rich flavors, and warm ambiance make it a go-to spot in Greenbelt for locals and tourists alike.


Final Thoughts

Our visit to Fely J’s Kitchen was not just about good food—it was about the shared experience, laughter, and connection we had with fellow bloggers. If you’re in Makati and looking for a great place to dine, Fely J’s Kitchen should definitely be on your list!

Have you dined at Fely J’s before? Share your favorite dish in the comments below! 🍽️


you may also follow them on instagram  https://www.instagram.com/felyjskitchen/


For Inquiries, suggestions, and sponsorship, you may contact me thru: Email: gracina.estrella@gmail.com
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