Smart Ways To Improve Cat Plays
Disclosure: This post has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #PurinaMysteries #CollectiveBias
Believe it or not, the notion that cats love to sleep all day and not do anything is a myth. This may come as a surprise to you especially when you catch a glimpse of your cat sleeping soundly at the corner and occasionally stretching its legs. What would you give for a peaceful catnap like that, right? I know, I can totally relate! Everybody loves a good slumber just like the rest of our feline buddies.
But just like you, our furry friends need mental and physical stimulation in order to improve their wellbeing. And what is more fun and engaging than promoting playtime? Quality plays are important in their growth and health. Not only does it boost circulation throughout their body, it also lets them maintain their ideal weight.
There are many ways on how to introduce activities to your little companion but I’m here to tell you three important ways on how to easily develop playtime activities that your cats will love.
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Treat your cats like how you would treat yourself.
First of all, it’s important to take note of what your pet likes to do, eat, and play with. Does your cat prefer chicken over turkey? Or does she eat less when you offer seafood-flavored products? What’s her reaction to catnip? Does it make her more active than her usual self? Or does it make her calm and sleepy?
Pumpkin is turning one this June, and I can’t wait for her birthday. The fact that I was able to take care of her from day one is such a miracle to me. At first, I had doubts whether I can be a responsible pet owner, but looking back, I wish I never doubted myself. You might think that having a one year old kitty is already enough to know everything about her. No! Not in the slightest. Why so? Because just days ago, I discovered that she doesn’t like yarn balls as toy. Guess what she prefers!? Paper! A crumpled paper!
I knew that since she was four months old but crumpled paper over a commercialized yarn ball? You’ve got to be kidding me. It’s funny because I never really intended to buy that ball at Petsmart. BUT it was on sale! And it’s tempting to buy, I feel like it’s even calling my name! At least for next time, mumshie doesn’t need to spend a dime, lol.
Good thing Purina®‘s Party Mix is always there to save the day. It’s one treat that Pumpkin loves and won’t stop eating especially after a good walk. That’s how good and tasty it is! I particularly love their packaging because I can bring it anywhere we go without fear of it getting wet and the cap makes a perfect temporary bowl, too.
She enjoys it so much that she even posed for a photo sesh! I assure you, the playtime party will never be over with this treat.
2. Engage them in your activities. Your pet loves being with you!
And I mean DAILY activities. Whether you’re reading a book, doing groceries, binge-watching on your favorite episodes, even sleeping (this one counts of course!), your feline friend undoubtedly enjoys your company!
Pumpkin loves to be with me all the time. As soon as she hears my voice whenever I get home from work, I can already hear her meowing from her room. It’s such a delight to know that somebody’s waiting for me every day. It’s part of my day that I always look forward to. She just makes me feel loved and wanted which I definitely reciprocate with all my heart.
Included in the activities that we enjoy doing together is shopping! Just the other day, I brought her to Petsmart to buy her monthly supply of food and extra goodies. We bought Purina One, her all-time favorite daily food, Purina Tidy Cats, and some Friskies Party Mix. She met a lot of strangers, too! I’m sure she enjoyed all the his and hellos from them.
Her favorite aisle is the cat food aisle of course! We are currently in Lynchburg and the set up is a little bit different compared to McAllen’s. Here, the cat section is on the right corner. It’s pretty easy to find actually, since the big signs are obvious on top.
And if ever you get lost, your kitty companion can sniff the way! I swear, Pumpkin knows where the food section is!
3. Happy tummy equals happy life.
No matter how much treat you give, or the quantity of time you spend with your pet, everything comes down to one thing: quality food. I’m not saying you need to buy the most expensive one, all I’m saying is when you consider buying cat food, you should consider the brand that you can trust. And for me, I only trust Purina. It’s your average brand, yes. But it has proven itself worldwide and has been one of the most trusted brands ever since.
Pumpkin never had an issue with this brand and I’m really happy about it. No diarrhea, whatsoever. I’m a nurse by profession and I take into account all the nutrients that she is required to have. It’s vital to consider especially because she is in her growing years. Don’t forget that their energy depends on their intake.
In addition, I am very much aware that, like humans, our pets like variety when it comes to texture and taste of food. And it’s one of the major points of Purina products. They have tons of options when it comes to food and treats. Wait, did I mention they also have litters? All in one brand, right?
This post may sound like selling too much for a brand, but it’s not really about the brand, honestly.
It’s about how we give the love back to our pets. They just give too much, don’t you think?
All I’m saying is they deserve the best that they can have. And how can we give that? By knowing how to take care of them. And by being smart on how we deal with them on a daily basis. After all, everybody should be petsmart. 😉
Promotion for Petsmart shoppers like me:
If you spend $40 on Purina products from June 1-30, you can get a $10 gift card. All you need to do is register with your contact information and then upload receipt to the redemption site. You will then receive an email confirming registration that will also feature Purina promotional deals that will also link through the PETM.com. A physical $10 Petsmart gift card will be mailed to the you in 4-8 weeks to use for follow up visit. Sounds good?
If you have questions, let me know.
Do you have pets?
Let me know in the comments how you make them feel that they are loved!
My Hair Story: How Natural Curls Straightened My Way of Thinking
Disclaimer: This post contains sponsored links from Hairstory c/o Bloglovin.
I’m twenty five years old, and for 25 years, I’ve had rebonding six times, gone to salon more than fifty times, and used a straightening iron more times than I can remember how my natural hair looks like.
You see, I have an unexplained dislike for my curls. I can condemn the culture I grew up in for popularizing the distasteful “kulot ay salot” (curly is cursed) or I can unapologetically point my finger at the ugly society altogether for coercing everybody to fit in a mold of what normal should look like, or for teaching us to desire what we don’t have.
Since I grew up with a curly hair, it’s “common” to want a straight hair simply because it’s easier to manage. Having curls demands time, effort, and lots of patience. Braids and mainstream hairstyles need a lot of adjusting, gels, and hair wax to maintain our hair kept for the whole day. We can’t just wake up, take a photo, and caption it with #wokeuplikethis and not look like a bruha with a nest on our head. No, I’m not even exaggerating.
So you’ll know by now where all the hair change came from. Right now, my hair is a little over shoulder-length, naturally bouncing with curls, and I’m totally loving it. If you ask me 10 years ago if I’d love my hair today, I’m sure my answer would be different. It takes a lot of maturity to accept what you have, and to feel content with what you are given.
When I accepted the 30-day challenge by Hairstory, I thought I’ll regret abandoning shampoo and conditioner. With the type of hair that I have, it’s pretty scary to try a product meant to “restore” my natural crowning glory. There are doubts, sure. But I was more afraid of what I’d feel afterwards. What if I don’t like it? How would I write about it? What if even after all this time, I still hate my curls? It was a pretty rough decision for me- but then again, that’s why it’s called a “challenge.”
If you’ve been following me for a while now, you’d notice that I’m pretty obsessed on how I do my product reviews. It’s either I like it or not. And I always tell my sponsors about that, and every time, they’d tell me beforehand that I’d love their products. Maybe it’s to condition me as well that everything will turn out great. And true enough, my experience with Hairstory was nothing but extraordinary.
Say no to shampoo. New Wash is the new way to clean hair with aloe and essential oils – instead of detergent – to respect the natural moisture barrier. New Wash works on EVERY type of hair, and you’ll never need conditioner again to mask the damage that shampoo and detergent cause. Rediscover your hair, restore its vitality, and prepare to be amazed. –Hairstory
Not a shampoo? Not a conditioner?
I know it’s hard to fully grasp the idea. But let me tell you what I know. Let’s start with its cleansing properties. It claims to have Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice which cleanses pores and balances scalp pH. It also adds shine and softness, and surprisingly has anti-inflammatory properties. That means if you have dandruff or itchy scalp, this could be a great option to try. Another ingredient that I like are Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil and Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil. They both loosen and dissolve hardened sebum around the hair follicle that can cause hair loss. I don’t know if you experience hair fall frequently, but I do, and it’s one thing that I observed from using New Wash- less hair fall!
And they say, no conditioner, right? So how come my hair feels really soft afterwards? Let’s take a look at its conditioning properties as well. First of all, it has Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine that conditions without build-up; unlike commercialized conditioners, New Wash has this property to improve wet and dry combing and to provide static control. It doesn’t only help with moisture and shine, it also prevents hair damage. I’ve heard of Equisetum Hiemale extract before for its rich mineral content so I’m quite surprised to know that New Wash also contains this mineral. This helps to strengthen and condition the hair shaft; provides shine and elasticity; promotes circulation and rejuvenation with a soft, smooth, firming effect on skin.
Product review
In terms of packaging, it’s what minimalists have in mind when they think of presenting a product. New Wash is contained in a white box with bold and orange letters. I find it cool because they have their own way of making a statement in a world full of definitions and unnecessary details.
Scent. If you’re someone with a penchant for flowery scent, this is not your guy. I find it minty with a hint of eucalyptus and therapeutic oils more than anything. It’s relaxing and refreshing at the same time. The scent actually reminded me of the last time I went for hair spa. It kinda gives you that vibe.
HOW TO USE
- Expect a totally new experience:
- Thoroughly wet hair.
- Cover hair and scalp with New Wash.
- Be sure to use enough! Not enough = Not clean.
- Take a few minutes to massage it into hair and scalp to distribute evenly. (This is my favorite part because the scent is just relaxing. I really took the time to massage my scalp.)
- Make sure to rinse extremely well.
- For long hair, comb through before rinsing.
- Do NOT condition; you won’t need to
- Revel in your new, modern, amazing hair.
Let me just tell you that it’s not runny like other shampoo. It’s not slimy either. The texture is more like lotion but less sticky, if you know what I mean. It doesn’t bubble, too. And that is actually a good thing because you’re finally putting something that benefits you in the long run.
Do I like it? YES.
I’ll rate it 4 of 5. But the remaining 1 is mostly for the price. It costs $40 per 8oz, and I know it’s expensive for a consumable commodity.
After using it for 30 days, I feel like my hair is less greasy and more moisturized. I actually thought I can pull a bangs with this since my issue with it is getting pimples on my forehead. But then I got so satisfied with my hair right now that I can now go out without putting any hair products on. Just my bare hair- feeling more bold and amazing than everr.
This New Wash challenge is more of an eyeopening thing for me, to be honest. It’s not every day that you’d think about why we use stuff that we use, or act the way we act. If we knew decades ago that shampoo could be out of equation, do you think the way we treat our hair would be different? It’s not also every day that I get to assess my hairstyling choices and how they affect my hair in general. If you’re into embracing the natural “YOU,” I swear you’ll love this product like I do. At the end of the day, what matters is how you see yourself.
Whether you have a flat and thin hair or a curly-all-over-the-place tangles, or perhaps you’ve just recently dyed your strands in unicorn hues, whatever your hair story is, I’m telling you: your hair story is meant to be shared.
#TakeAShowerWithUs
and see it for yourself!
Behind the scent | Exclusive coupon code inside!
Disclosure: This post contains sponsored links from FragranceMarket.us
I can’t believe that April is almost over. Where did time go? I know some of you have updated your spring wardrobe already. The rest? Maybe you are one of those who are still doing a massive clean up of their bedroom, or adding upgrades to their routine. I can totally relate; the season’s changing and we just can’t help but to tweak a little something.
So before you consider buying another *stuff* to complete your floral-inspired vibe, you may want to consider this online shop that I discovered! When Fragrance Market reached out to me to do a review of their newly launched online perfume platform, I was in too much anticipation. I have always been a fan of online shops- they just make everything so much easier! And what product attracts women’s attention aside from shoes and bags? Perfume, of course!
“…a woman not yet seen, but whose perfume accumulates on the horizon like a storm cloud.”
― Fernand Dumont
Fragrance Market also gave me a 2oz bottle of Rose Eau de Toilette spray for Women by Mercedes Benz to review. Honestly, I didn’t even know that Benz has a perfume line. But it has good reviews so I was like, sure, why not give it a try?
In order to get the free product, they gave me instructions on how to access their website which was pretty easy actually. Then I did the whole process of updating my online cart, checking out, all those stuff that you normally do when you buy online. It’s pretty convenient and fast. Props to their wide selections of perfume; I was thrilled! How do I know? Because they have my favorite brands like Versace, Coco Chanel, and Prada! I bet they have your favorite brands, too! I usually go to stores for these three because it’s a hassle to purchase on separate websites. Using Fragrance Market, I got my perfume within a week. And all this, with just a few taps on my laptop. Sweet!
Unique points that I like:
Fragrance Market has “last minute suggestions” bar when you click checkout. I consider this a bonus point because not all online shops have that feature. I tend to be swayed by those, unfortunately. It’s like my pocket is saying ‘no more’ but my heart screams ‘yes please!’ They also have new arrivals every day! Too much for feeding the customers new meat, right? But the shopaholic always celebrates.
Since it’s a new website, there’s something that needs some acknowledging just like other startups out there. Their pop ups for discount deals are kinda annoying, so it’s a little bump in the road to those who are using their mobile phones to shop. But aside from that, I don’t really see a major downside.
Just my two (s)cents
Sorry, I can’t resist the pun! Lol. So I received this package in a medium-sized box; the perfume was delicately secured in a shiny silver wrap crowned with a blue ribbon. The presentation effortlessly added to my excitement as I unwrapped it. I love how they make it special with personal touch. It makes as a perfect gift, too, don’t you think? I mean, who doesn’t love perfume anyway?
To be honest, at first spray, I didn’t like it. It smells like sweet lemon if that makes sense. But then when I wore it throughout the day, I was actually impressed by its long lasting fragrance. I noticed that its light and fresh rose scent doesn’t change much on the skin. I sense mostly rose and citrusy notes. I think it’s modest and good for everyday scent, but I would say it lacks some nuances – something to make it more of an experience.
Fast fact
Composition of the new edition for women MERCEDES BENZ ROSE contains a cocktail of black currant and lemon, splashed by rose petals and magnolia in the heart. The floral heart is enriched by elemi shades and creamy rosewood, along with cedar, amber and white musk, lingering in the trail. Women’s flacon repeats the form of the original and is embellished with pink color of glass.
But overall, I think it’s fairly priced. I’m going to give Mercedes a chance on this one since they’re still building their perfume line. I read somewhere that they have cologne for men, too, which makes perfect sense because their clients are mostly men.
Coupon code
Fragrance Market is offering 10% off for orders over $65 when you apply the code 10OFFBEST upon checkout. Wait a sec, there’s more! Right now, on their online shop, they’re offering 25% OFF as their Mothers’ Day highlight. To avail that promo, use MOM25 upon checkout.
I don’t know about you but I get pretty excited when there’s an amazing deal like this. Shop wisely, though. With these jaw-dropping offers, it’s hard to control the impulse to buy things we don’t really need. And while perfume is just another “want,” buying yourself something that makes you feel good is highly encouraged especially to hardworking people like you!
Enjoy shopping, everyone!
Dear Readers Of The World
Spring time with JORD | GIVEAWAY
Is book subscription a thing? HELL YEAH!
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post from BOTM. I received free books as a compensation for this post and if ever you subscribe to them via my tracking link, I get commission at no extra cost to you. And believe me when I say, I’m actually going to subscribe to them even without their sponsorship because that’s how highly I believe in their services. I fell in love in a heartbeat. They sure know how to identify a book lover when they see one.
“A writer has to have an imagination- that’s what makes a writer. She has to be able to put herself imaginatively in the position of whatever character she selects.”
― Wyketha K Parkman
Even when I agree to this quote, I think the best tool a writer should have is his/her ability to read. Because that’s how we are able to put ourselves imaginatively in the position of all characters in a book. It is when we read that we gain more knowledge of something that we don’t know, or find words for things that we are already familiar with but struggle to sort it out in our head. I am a true-blue book lover. Even when I can’t find time to read, I somehow manage to transform my phone into a reading machine. Technology, however, has a way of stealing important things that a book offers- the scent of printed ink overwhelming your lungs, the feel of paper when you turn a page, the search for a position where your hands become one with the book. That’s why when I heard about book subscription service like what Book Of The Month offers, I was like, HERE! TAKE MY MONEY!
Why subscribe when you can just buy a book?
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Eliminate the sorting struggle.
When you buy a book, say you go to a book store, it takes a lot of time for you to pick one. You read synopsis after synopsis and before you know it, you’ve lost track of time and you’re just gonna end up buying the last one you’ve laid your eyes on. It’s all drowning in love but when reality tells you that it’s time for you to get out of the book store, there is always a tug of regret not having all the time in the world to choose what book really speaks to you.
2. Convenience.
If you’re a workaholic like me, you don’t really have the luxury of time to go to a local book store. I bet the closest book store that you have been in a while is the grocery store, which by the way, has a limited books selection. They usually showcase pieces that are way too mainstream. And it makes you cringe because other writers need some loving, too, and you know it! Nothing beats a special box right at your doorstep, and being hypnotized to open it right there and then.
3. Options, options, options.
The thing about subscription services is its algorithm of offering you the best read that is perfect for what you are looking for. You love a certain genre? They got you! Book subscription is a great deal for readers who want to explore a certain genre but don’t know where to start. In a pool of great authors, BOTM can do the dirty work for you. No hassle!
4. Exclusivity.
It does make you special being included in 90 years of literary heritage. Yes. You read that right. 90 YEARS. Aside from that, they give premium services to their members. Like what, you ask? Like EARLY BOOK RELEASE!!! If you go to BOTM’s website, Marlena by Julie Buntin is already available to BOTM members (in fact, I already have it) WHILE the rest of the world has to wait until April. Talk about special treatment, right?
5. Great selections.
I know the feeling of being hesitant to something you don’t know. What if you don’t like the book? What if it’s not your “type?” I assure you one thing: BOTM members are readers, too. And just like you, they want the best of the best. Most of the book choices in their subscription list are highly rated and loved. And don’t worry, you’ll have your say which book to receive for every month.
6. Ace that book challenge.
Three books for one month will be easy peasy. Yours will be lined up and ready to go. You know what to read, when to read them, and not be late with book discussions and latest authors’ debut. Isn’t it amazing to be relevant to the thing you love most? And book challenges won’t intimidate you anymore because YOU are actually IN YOUR ZONE! Reading is your turf. You’re gonna beat this.
7. Your voice matters.
Every year, members vote for the best books of the year. Why is your voice heard? Because YOU HAVE THE CHANCE to pick which book gets noticed in those mainstream shelves. Have you ever wondered who decides whose debut work is a success? Let’s face it, most of the reading class will choose a known author over a starting one, especially if you don’t know a thing about that author or about that book. But by having nominations like this, you’ll get an idea what book ranks the highest among others.
8. Never miss out on great books!
BOTM has been around for a long, long, time. BOTM members introduced J.D. Salinger, Hemingway, and Mitchell to the world. They just relaunched ONLINE last year, and if you want to keep their legacy of helping us discover the best books of our time, join the club. Sign up here.
“Is there anything more satisfying than to keep abreast of the best new books of our time as they appear? In reading them, in enjoying them, in talking with others about them, we feel our day taking shape.”
—Book of the Month Club founding statement, 1926
How does it work?
I know you won’t sign up right away if you don’t know how it works. Because you are smart like that.
Three simple phrases: Awesome books. Better reading. Every month.
What you need to know:
- You get one book every month from 5 GREAT selections of BOTM judges. You can choose which book to get. If ever you get curious who the judges are, THEY are professionals in their field. Some are news writers, celebrities, hosts, editors, YOU REALLY NEED TO CHECK OUT THEIR WEBSITE because they are all awesomeeee!
- If you want to add a book, you pay additional $9.99. Due to their great selections, I bet you’ll pay for more. Don’t worry. It’s FREE SHIPPING.
- If ever you don’t feel like buying one from their great selections, you can skip any month. No hassle of unsubscribing. Because they know you’ll go back for more.
- Say you come across a book that your friend will love, YOU CAN OPT TO GIVE IT AS A GIFT! No stress of wrapping it because they’re gonna make sure it will be delivered in a special way, just like how you’d want it to be.
- PLUS you get an exclusive review from one of their judges. What if you receive a review from a news anchor that you love or a writer that you’re dying to see? What a BONUS right?! And it makes a great bookmark, too!
“A BOOK IS A DREAM YOU HOLD IN YOUR HAND”