Homework is not only for kids. Even when you’re 35, survived college, and have a bachelor’s degree, you still get them, only they’re given by your boss at work. This is what they mean when they say you don’t really stop being a student. You continue to learn as life goes—and you continue to get homework.

We hate it, but sometimes, we need to get some work done outside the office. Finishing some tasks at home can be hard, what with all the distractions (aka your kids or the television). But if you have a good home office to lock yourself in till you finish everything, things are way easier.

Here are some tips for creating your own home office.

Helpful Tips for Creating Your Own Home Office

Finding the perfect location, choosing the right accessories, to coming up with a good theme, learn here some tips and everything else that should be kept in mind when creating your own home office.

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Location

Finding a space big enough to fit a table and a chair is not the right way to do it. You will most likely spend the whole weekend in that room, or if you’re taking a home-based job, not to make it sound scary but half your life will be spent there. Consider all factors. Is there anything that may distract you? Are there any clients you have to welcome? Is it big enough for meetings?

You can also have it somewhere there’s a good view you can marvel at when you’re exhausted. Remember that location is the first thing you will have to decide on when creating your own home office. Don’t be too careless when choosing one.

Theme

Choose a theme that invites productivity. Make it more conducive for working. Creating your own home office with a bedroom design in mind, you’ll end up spending the whole day resting. Sleep is life, but your job is important too. Colors and the overall design of the room matter. You can paint the walls with the color you love.

Furniture

Invest in the right furniture. From the chairs to the tables and the shelves, purchase the ones that will give you the highest level of comfort. You should not make price an issue here. Imagine the discomfort you’ll have to endure the whole day if you settle for the low-quality chairs just because they’re cheaper.

You’ll need a shelf for your books, folder organizers, and cabinet for all the important stuff you’ll need for work. You’ll probably need a computer too, so the table must be big and sturdy enough for everything. Also, you might want to buy furniture that matches the theme of the room.

Accessories

Accessories have the ability to make space look cozier, so choose ones that are homey. Don’t leave your table or your walls look too plain. You can add figurines, just make sure they won’t take up too much space that there’s barely any vacant spot you can use. Hang paintings or picture frames for inspiration and motivation or put up curtains.

Technology

Your home office will most likely be filled with electronic devices for the calls you need to take and the reports you have to make. While these devices do not come in different designs, there’s still a way you can make things look neat. Just make sure the cords are properly and safely hidden. You can use indoor picket fences that are specially designed for hiding cables. If you want to be a little more creative, you can paint these fences in a way that complements the whole theme.

Just because it’s only a place for work does not mean you should not pay attention to it. When creating your home office, comfort should be your number one priority. It’s your job that keeps some things in your life running, after all. You deserve to have a cozy workplace, at least.

Do you need some tips to redecorate a small-space home? Check our decorating ideas for a beautiful compact home.

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Have you not decided yet which 2018 color trends you should follow? We’re already three months into the year, yet there are still those who are caught between personal preference and what would actually complement the whole design of the house.

To give you the best pieces of advice, here’s paint and coating manufacturing company Sherwin-Williams to introduce the three 2018 color trends that will creatively set the mood for the whole year.

2018 Color Trends to Watch Out For

Here’s everything you need to know about the 2018 color trends expected to rule this year, according to Sherwin-Williams.

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1. Connectivity

This palette is greatly inspired by the innovations in technology. It includes vibrant colors like Queen Anne Lilac, Organic Green, and Black Swan, hues that are meant to breathe life into your space and make this year of the dog as fiercely beautiful as it can be for your home.

Pictured above is an example of a home design that adopts the connectivity palette.

2.Unity

Recent studies on millennial trends reveal that the younger generation spends a significant amount of time traveling. And with the rise of short-term lodging lease businesses like Airbnb and the car-sharing system comes the rise of “everyday nomadism.” But while we constantly seek the chance to explore the world, we also crave for security.

This color palette is heavily influenced by people’s want for security and adventure. One of the 2018 color trends to look into and consider applying this year, unity palette hues include Tatami Tan, Aged White, Exuberant Pink, and Indigo—colors that reflect transculturalism and indigeneity and at the same time scream fun and bold encounters.

3. Sincerity

The palette that wants to prove there’s beauty in simplicity has become one of the 2018 color trends worth integrating into our homes. Sincerity is more about minimalism and drifting away from the light and dark contrasts but instead adopting color fluidity.

According to Sherwin-Williams’s director of marketing, Sue Wadden, “With the Sincerity palette, silence is no longer empty but instead is rare and rich with possibility. Sincerity is about mindful living and creating an environment to disconnect and recharge. Soft, washed neutrals, greens, and sanctuary pinks work together to create harmony.”

Colors like Pearl Gray, Wheat Penny, Alluring White, and Functional Gray are just some of the hues part of this palette.

It’s now high time to redecorate your home, apply these 2018 color trends, and make your abode the cozy and elegant haven it should be.

Do you need more home design inspirations? Check the latest trends from Milan Furniture Fair.

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Filipinos are not a fan of leftovers, maybe that’s why the country’s cuisine has a lot of dishes that have them utilizing usually ignored animal parts and turning them into something so delicious, you’ll forget to ask what it is actually made of.

From the sizzling sisig that is made from pig’s ears and cheeks, dinuguan that is basically a pigs’ blood stew, to crispy pata or friend pig trotters, you can expect to see a variety of Filipino dishes you never thought could actually be made. But of course, just because these treats are cooked using the rarely used ingredients does not mean they’re not edible; in fact, these are one of the real treasures the country has to offer.

One particular food everybody is crazy over is the crispy bagbagis or crispy deep-fried pork intestine (yes, this time, it’s the intestine). This rather unusual delicacy is made from a pig’s large intestine, cleaned, salted, seasoned, deep-friend until crispy and crunchy. And it may not look like it, but crispy bagbagis is a very popular dish in the Visayas, particularly Ilocos.

Crispy bagbagis is best consumed with beer, which is why it is always present during fiestas and other big occasions. Now if you are preparing for a big event, it’s high time you learn this amazing dish. If you don’t know where and how to start, worry not, as we’ve got you covered.

Crispy Bagbagis Recipe You Definitely Have to Try

Here is a crispy bagbagis recipe you—and your guests—will definitely love.

What to prepare

1 kg pork intestines (preferably the large ones, pre-cleaned)
5 tbsp rock salt (coarse)
1 tbsp peppercorn
3 cups cooking oil
dried bay leaves
water

How to cook the crispy bagbagis

Note: before you proceed, make sure the intestines are properly cleaned. Clean the insides and outside walls using running water. Rinse it. This part takes a lot of time, but it is very important, don’t worry, it will all be worth it.

1. Boil water in a large container.
2. Once it boils, add the (cleaned) intestines and boil for another 15 minutes.
3. Discard the water. Pour in a clean batch of water. Boil again for another 15 minutes. And then discard.
4. After discarding the water, pour in another clean batch onto the pot. Let boil.
5. Add the salt, peppercorn, and bay leaves. Boil for 1 hour.
6. Remove the intestine. Let cool.
7. Cut the pork intestines into small pieces and rub the remaining salt all over it. Let stay for at least five minutes.
8. Pour in oil into a large pot and let heat. Add the intestines and deep-fry until it’s crispy and crunchy.
9. Serve.

The crispy bagbagis goes best with spicy vinegar, so don’t forget to prepare the sauce too before serving it to your guests. (Friendly tip, serve it first to your visitors who are enjoying some booze. They will definitely appreciate it.)

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April’s about to end and we’re about to enter the fifth month of the year. It’s in this month that most of us just settle for home relaxation, believing summer months are over and rainy days are now here to remind us that the Philippines, after all, is a two-season country.

But if you really want to unwind, you should never let this assumption rob you of your chances to enjoy a walk along the beach. This month, get ready to pack up and go on another summer vacation worth looking back on.

Can’t think of a destination? Well, here’s an island group that you will surely love—the Babuyan Islands.

The Babuyan Islands and What It Has to Offer

The Babuyan Group of Islands or simply Babuyan Islands is an archipelago in Luzon composed of five major islands: Babuyan, Calayan, Dalupiri, Fuga, and Camiguin. These islands each offer tourist spots that attract numerous guests each year. As to why it is so popular, the list below will speak for itself.

1. Babuyan Island or Babuyan Claro

Babuyan is the northernmost of the five Babuyan Islands. The Babuyan Island or Babuyan Claro, as it is sometimes called, boasts picture-perfect scenery that you won’t regret going the distance for. The high island features the Smith Volcano, which towers at 2,257 ft, and Mt. Pangasun at 3,543 ft. The hike to Babuyan Claro can take hours, but those who took on the challenge all say every step is worth it, as what will greet you is a majestic sight you will never get to marvel at anywhere else.

2. Calayan Island

The largest of the Babuyan Islands, on the other hand is a white sand paradise. While the Babuyan Island has only barely a thousand people, the Calayan island is home to more than 16,000 residents. Beaches and sea caves can be found in Calayan. The thing is, there are no hotels in the area, but tourist can book homestays.

With the scenic beaches and delicious food, a day won’t probably be enough, if you want to see every breathtaking spot this island houses.

3. Camiguin Island

Not to be confused with the Camiguin Island in Mindanao, the Luzon counterpart of the equally beautiful island is a real haven for those wanting to spend their summer somewhere that offers peace and solace. Fishing is the main source of livelihood in the area, so you’re free to try catching some too.

4. Dalupiri Island

Unlike Camiguin, people in Dalupiri Island raise farm animals for a living. The island has always been known for being the temporary home to migratory birds. You will also encounter exotic wildlife in Dalupiri, like the nankeen night heron and zebra ralle—now that’s something you wouldn’t want to miss!

5. Fuga Island

An island that costs billions, Fuga is the only island in the Babuyan Archipelago that is under the jurisdiction of a mainland municipality, Aparri. Fuga consists of three islets, each offering tourist destinations that you will never regret visiting. Luxurious resorts can be found in the island, so you don’t have to worry about accommodation when you reach the island.

Because of its location, the Babuyan Islands is rarely visited. Trip to the area takes longer than what people can only endure. This fact makes the island an unsung wonder. If you’re the type that loves adventures, then this groups of islands is the perfect destination to add you your travel bucket list.

Ready for more adventure? Make your summer  memorable by visiting the best tourist spots in Northern Luzon.

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Always been known as a largely Christian country and home to people who love to have fun, it comes as no surprise that the Philippines has a festival slated for every month of the year. Sinulog in January, Panagbenga in March, and Kadayawan in August, it’s clear to see, the Pearl of the Orient Seas never runs out of reasons to throw city-wide events.

The month of May is no exception. In this hot summer month, Filipinos have what they call the Flores de Mayo (literally Flowers of May).

So what is this celebration for?

Flores de Mayo: What It Is About and How It Is Celebrated

It is one of the country’s most famous festival, but not everyone knows what Flores de Mayo is about. Worry not, as this article will guide you to understanding the origin of Flores de Mayo and how it is celebrated.

May might be one of the hottest months of the year, with AccuWeather predicting temperatures may peak at 34’C, but surely, this won’t stop Filipinos from celebrating Flores de Mayo; if anything, they see it as the perfect opportunity to turn the sunny month into thirty days worth looking forward to.

Introduced by the Spaniards in mid-1800s, Flores de Mayo is a celebration long observed by the Filipinos in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The people it is the Blessed Virgin Mary that brings rain that makes flowers bloom after a dry season.

The entire month of May, churches and chapels hold a daily mass, and a significant part of it has children and young adults march down the aisle with a basket filled with flowers in hand. They then offer these cut flowers to the Blessed Virgin Mary as a way of saying thanks for the beneficial rain she brings. This whole time, hymns are sung and prayers are said.

The Santacruzan

The highlight of the whole festival is the Santacruzan, safe to say, the most colorful and beautiful day of the month. First observed in the 1800s in Malolos, Bulacan, Santacruzan is a beauty pageant held to honor Helena of Constantinople and her son’s, Constantine the Great, finding of the True Cross.

On the day of the Santacruzan, beauty pageant participants join in a procession. The procession follows a certain order. It is usually led by Ati-atihan dancers who are then followed by a parade of people in costumes and ladies in gorgeous gowns representing different religious and historical figures.

The roles include Methuselah, Reyna Banderada, Aetas, Reyna Mora, Reyna Fe, Reyna Esperanza, Reyna Caridad, Reyna Abogada, Reyna Sentenciada, Reyna Justicia, Reyna Judith, Reyna Sheba, Reyna Esther, Samaritana, Veronica, Tres Marias, Marian (titles given to the Virign Mary, traditionally includes the Ave Maria to be represented by eight girls, Divina Pastora, Reyna de las Estrellas, Rosa Mystica, Reyna Paz, Reyna de las Propetas, Reyna del Cielo, Reyna de las Virgines, and Reyna de las Flores), and Reyna Elena.

The number of reynas included in the parade varies, depending on how big the community is. That means it’s not always that all these figures are represented in the procession. However, there are reynas that are always present, the most prominent ones, and that include the following:

• Reyna Esperanza—carries an anchor as a symbol of hope
• Reyna Caridad—carries a red heart as a symbol of charity
• Reyna Fe—carries a cross to symbolize faith
• Rosa Mystica—carries a bouquet of roses
• Divina Pastora—carries a shepherd’s staff
• Reyna de las Flores—carries a bouquet of flowers
• Reyna Emperatriz—represents the Queen Helena’s title of Empress or Queen Mother
• Reyna Elena—represents Saint Helena accompanied by a boy who represents Helena’s son, Constantine

Flores de Mayo is held in every town all around the country. It may not be as grand as Sinulog, but it is just as important. The festival is one of the many things that show just how religious the Philippines is and how joyous the Filipinos are as a people.

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City life can be overwhelming sometimes. True enough, living in the urban side of the world offers more opportunities than a life in the mountains. But there will come a point where the bustle and hustle of living in a metropolis will take its toll on you.

It is for this reason that some people choose to build a home on the quieter side of the planet. While life may seem uneventful, what with the lack of establishments where fun usually is, the peace and solace life in the rural area offers is something you just can’t trade for anything.

If you’re facing the same dilemma and are planning to move to a rural home, here are the country home and garden design ideas that you can take inspiration from when you build your own.

Best Country Home and Garden Design Ideas

If you’re planning to move to the rural area, here are country home and garden design ideas you can use to build your own haven.

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1. Bamboo bungalow

Bamboo materials have a way of creating a serene and cozy atmosphere without costing you too much, this is why bamboo houses have quickly become a trend over the years. So if you want a house that is both comfortable and budget-friendly, a bamboo bungalow is the one for you. If you need some inspiration, check these bamboo home designs that are truly stunning and stylish.

To complete the eye-catching and relaxing look, an outdoor space where guests could rest and take a nap when they need to would be perfect. Don’t forget to add wooden chairs and pots of plants. As to the type of plants, the freedom is yours.

2. Traditional stone house

Stone houses may not be the trend now, but that does not make them less of a good choice if you’re planning to start anew in the countryside. This Aegean Coast architecture-inspired house is one of the best home and garden designs you should go for.

The stone facade ensures a sturdy foundation and the white walls create a vibe that is bound to give you peace and comfort. A wooden pegola outside is perfect for welcoming family and friends who want to have small talks.

3. Cozy village residence

You might think a combination of stone and brick is too 1900s, but incorporating a bit of the contemporary house designs, this village residence will never look shabby. Full-length glass windows and a landscape that is reflective of modern lifestyle will do the trick.

4. Wooden haven

To live in the rural area doesn’t mean you have to build a smaller house. If you’re looking for something big, this wooden pavilion design will surely catch your attention. If you could secure a large space, don’t hesitate to make the most of it. Definitely one of the best home and garden designs, this blue-chip abode also has huge windows that you can let daylight through and from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the scenery.

5. A magical cottage

A fan of fairy tales and fantasy movies? Maybe that’s even one of the reasons you decided to build a house in a less populous and quieter area. If so, here’s one design that will complement your interests. The bungalow house pictured above can be found in Olympos National Park and has been known for its simple yet elegant design that looks like it’s taken straight out of the fairy tales you enjoyed as a child.

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