My Husband Wants An Open Marriage by Elysian Sparrow

My Husband Wants An Open Marriage by Elysian Sparrow

by | Apr 12, 2025 | Book Reviews

I usually shy away from stories with ridiculously long titles, such as “My Husband Wants an Open Marriage” by Elysian Sparrow. The reason is that these stories often tend to be predictable, formulaic, and frequently written by young authors whose first language is not English, which can be evident in the text. At times, I get the impression that the manuscripts have been machine-translated, as the English can be quite poor.

“My Husband Wants an Open Marriage” by Elysian Sparrow surprised me with its well-written narrative. The story follows a familiar formula: Ryan and Julie O’Brien have been married for several years but are unable to conceive. A significant event causes a rift in their relationship. In their case, the issue arises from their struggles to have a child, prompting Ryan to propose the idea of an open relationship. However, what he truly means is that he wants the freedom to explore outside their marriage, while Julie cannot.

Ryan is openly having an affair with his secretary, Emily. He even goes so far as to bring her to their home, forcing Julie out of her bedroom and effectively ending her role as Mrs. O’Brien. Meanwhile, Julie endures the pain and humiliation of working in the company where her husband is the CEO, all while managing the Marketing Department. One night, she decides to go to a bar to drown her sorrows. There, she meets Luke, who offers to be her fake boyfriend whenever she needs one. This is where the story starts to become interesting.

I found this story on Goodnovel, but I saw it on other reading apps as well. As is my wont, when I find myself engaged after a few chapters, I turn to Amazon and check if the story is available on Kindle. And, YES, it is there! Woohoo! “My Husband Wants an Open Marriage” by Elysian Sparrow is divided into three books on Amazon Kindle and costs $12.97— that is LOADS cheaper than on the reading apps. Click here for Book 1, Book 2, and Book 3 of this story on Amazon Kindle.

38 chapters in and I still love it! So far, it isn’t as predictable as I thought it would be and I love it! I think you will enjoy this billionaire romance, too. And like me, you might fall for Luke as well.

HATCH 2025: Filipino Street Art Debuts at The Manila Hotel

HATCH 2025: Filipino Street Art Debuts at The Manila Hotel

by | Apr 11, 2025 | Events

HATCH Emergence: A Fusion of Filipino Street Art, a one-of-a-kind exhibit celebrating the dynamic fusion of art and innovation, was officially unveiled on April 8, 2025, at the iconic Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel. The much-anticipated opening reception was a resounding success—distinguished guests, including Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel; Sharlene Zabala Batin, Assistant Secretary for Tourism Digitalization and Resource Generation and concurrent Regional Director of the Department of Tourism NCR; members of the media; and notable content creators, gathered to witness this spectacular celebration of creativity.

This edition of HATCH introduces its inaugural thematic showcase focused on Filipino street artists. It continues the tradition of promoting Filipino artistry and enhancing the appreciation of urban and collectible art. The showcase features an impressive lineup of both established and emerging talents who are redefining the boundaries of their craft.

This year’s art. exhibit was integrated with The Manila Hotel’s 2025 Easter Party theme, titled “Easter at the EGGmerald City.” At the center of the installation are intricatelyc eggs, each transformed into unique works of art that blend street art, pop culture, urban narratives, and toy-inspired aesthetics. The exhibit is a vibrant celebration of imagination, paying homage to the evolution of Filipino art and its increasing influence on the global stage.

The opening reception attracted a diverse audience of art enthusiasts, collectors, and media representatives, all eager to witness the emergence of a new generation of artists. The Grand Lobby was transformed into a vibrant and whimsical gallery space, showcasing the creativity of an impressive lineup of artists, including Jade Suayan, Trip63, Creon Chkn, Blic, Exld Manila, Distort Monsters, Gerilya (Jano and Mar Gonzales), Wesley Valenzuela, Isobel Francisco, Lianne Steffi Lim, Reen Barrera, Egg Fiasco, and Quiccs. Each artwork reflected the unique techniques and diverse styles that characterize contemporary Filipino artistry.

We are honored to continue providing a space that not only showcases the dynamic talent of Filipino artists but also fosters a deeper appreciation for urban and collectible art within our historic walls.

Marvin Kim Tan

Vive President, Sales & Marketing, The Manila Hotel

HATCH is more than just an exhibition; it is a platform for artists to push creative boundaries and explore new forms of expression. This exhibit has reaffirmed its importance in the local art scene, showcasing its dynamic and ever-evolving nature. HATCH is currently on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel until May 2, 2025. Admission is free.

Limited-edition HATCH postcards and stickers are available for purchase at the M Gift Shop. For inquiries, please call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email in**@************el.com.

About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is situated beside Kilometer Zero (0), the point where the City of Manila begins, and is within walking distance of the Philippines’ well-known landmarks, including Rizal Park, Intramuros, and the National Museums. Renowned for its rich history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel is the preferred choice for distinguished guests. Since its opening in 1912, the hotel has consistently provided exceptional services and amenities to ensure a truly memorable experience.

The hotel boasts over 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three ballrooms. Guests can indulge in five-star relaxation and wellness experiences at the Manila Hotel Spa, as well as enjoy the adult and children’s pools and the Manila Hotel Health Club. Additionally, the hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into its illustrious past, along with an Art Gallery showcasing contemporary perspectives through the works of various artists.

The Manila Hotel offers a range of dining options across six unique outlets, each providing a distinct culinary experience.

  • Café Ilang-Ilang is a popular spot known for its extensive selection of international buffet dishes.
  • The Champagne Room is renowned for its Old European-style fine dining and is considered the most romantic dining venue in Manila, serving exquisite European cuisine in an elegant setting.
  • The Tap Room, inspired by traditional English pubs, offers a lively atmosphere complete with live music.
  • The Lobby Lounge is ideal for casual dining and is a great place to enjoy aperitifs, post-dinner nightcaps, or informal meetings.
  • Red Jade specializes in authentic Chinese cuisine and provides a fine dining experience.
  • The Delicatessen features the hotel’s signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.
GCash Eco Run plants 76,000 trees with Green Heroes’ support

GCash Eco Run plants 76,000 trees with Green Heroes’ support

by | Apr 5, 2025 | Advocacy

The time, effort, and dedication required to train for a race or marathon make crossing the finish line incredibly rewarding for many runners. Similarly, creating a greener, more sustainable future demands a collective commitment of the same magnitude.

The first-ever GCash Eco Run transformed the streets of Ayala Avenue in Makati into a platform for this eco-movement. Over 12,000 eco-runners laced up their shoes—not just to achieve personal records but to make a lasting impact on the environment. Thanks to the support of event sponsors and sustainability partners, this milestone initiative has already resulted in the planting of 76,000 trees across 11 hectares in the Negros region, showcasing the powerful effects of our collective actions.

A race that goes beyond the finish line

In support of the South Negros Reforestation Initiative, which is a long-standing partnership between Silliman University and GCash, each sign-up for the GCash Eco Run contributed to the planting of a grey stilted mangrove tree in Negros Occidental. GCash doubled its commitment by pledging an additional tree for every participant. As a result, the runners contributed to the planting of a total of 24,000 new trees.

Grey stilted mangroves play a vital role in environmental conservation. They help mitigate the impacts of extreme weather, sequester carbon, and provide habitats for marine life. Consequently, mangrove forests are among the most effective natural ecosystems for carbon storage today, making them a crucial asset in the fight against climate change.

In line with its commitment to using technology for good, the GCash Eco Run served as a platform to raise awareness about sustainable living. The event brought together partner organizations and eco-conscious brands to share their initiatives and inspire collective action.

Various organizations championing different sustainability causes participated in the event. For example, Berdeng Kalaw collects paper and metal for recycling, while Caritas Manila converts clothing donations into funds for scholarships. Zolo specializes in reselling and recycling e-waste, and Aling Tindera focuses on gathering plastic waste for recycling.

Attendees had the opportunity to explore products from partner eco-merchants including Cut the Craft, Bukid ni Bogs, Wonderhome Naturals, Eco Shift, and Commune. They also received GCash VISA cards made from 100% recycled plastic.

GCash facilitates positive change by connecting partners with Silliman University, turning commitments into tangible action. With the support of eight collaborating companies for a greener future, a total of 52,000 trees will be planted in Negros, in addition to the 24,000 trees planted by the eco runners.

Nuvali Run Club members joined the 10KM race of the GCash Eco Run

Runners gather at the starting line of the first-ever GCash Eco Run, taking strides for sustainability and mangrove restoration–planting over 76,000 trees in the Negros region.

Continue taking steps for the environment with GForest

GCash is committed to making sustainable living easier and more accessible for every Filipino. Through its GForest initiative, users earn green energy points with every transaction on the GCash app, whether it’s cashing in, sending money, paying bills, buying load, or even taking 20,000 steps a day. These points can be redeemed to plant virtual trees and contribute to a greener future.

In collaboration with various partner organizations, GCash transforms these virtual trees into real ones planted in key areas across the country. This demonstrates how GForest serves as a platform for technology that promotes positive change.

“Much like how GForest turns virtual trees into actual ones, the GCash Eco Run brings together our community of Green Heroes, driven by a shared purpose to create real-world impact—one step, one tree, and one action at a time,” said CJ Alegre, GCash Head of Sustainability.

The largest digital eco-movement is growing even bigger. Every step we take, every action we make, and every tree we plant brings us closer to a greener future. Become a green hero today by signing up on the GForest feature in your GCash app dashboard.

The GCash Eco Run is proudly supported by corporate partners who have also committed to planting trees, including IKEA Philippines, Globe At Home, Pay & Go, and eTap Solutions. This initiative enhances Silliman University’s efforts in mangrove reforestation.

About GCash

GCash is the leading finance super app in the Philippines. Through the GCash app, users can easily perform various financial transactions, such as purchasing prepaid airtime, paying bills through a network of partner billers nationwide, and sending or receiving money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts. Users can also shop from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers. Additionally, GCash provides access to savings, credit, loans, insurance, and investment opportunities, all from the convenience of their smartphones.

The mobile wallet operations of GCash are managed by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt— the first and only “duacorn” in the Philippines.

GCash is a strong advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially focusing on SDGs 5, 8, 10, and 13. These goals promote safety and security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as urgent action to combat climate change and its effects.

Wicked Easter Celebration & Holy Week Dining at The Manila Hotel

Wicked Easter Celebration & Holy Week Dining at The Manila Hotel

by | Apr 5, 2025 | Events

The Manila Hotel invites guests to immerse themselves in a season of reflection, culinary delights, and family-friendly festivities with a carefully curated lineup of Holy Week and Easter events, as well as special dining offers this April. From a magical Easter celebration to a spiritual Visita Iglesia pilgrimage, along with dining experiences at Café Ilang-Ilang, Lobby Lounge, and M Takeout, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Easter at the EGGmerald City

Families are in for a wickedly fun Easter at The Manila Hotel’s Tent City on April 20, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Inspired by the whimsical world of “The Wizard of Oz,” Easter at the EGGmerald City will transform the venue into a vibrant wonderland in emerald and pink.

The event will feature a variety of activities for children, including bouncy castles, face painting, cupcake making, arts and crafts, egg decorating, a magic show, balloon twisting, a musical, and much more. The hotel mascot, Willy the Bear, will also make a special appearance, ready to meet young guests and pose for photos.

We are thrilled to host a truly unique Easter celebration this year, bringing the wicked world of Oz into reality for the spectacle for our junior guests. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to create lasting memories together in a fun and magical atmosphere.”

Marvin Kim Tan

Vice President, Sales & Marketing, The Manila Hotel

Tickets for Easter at the EGGmerald City are priced at ₱1,999 net, which includes admission for one child (12 years old and below) and one adult companion (13 years old and above).

Families looking to have fun can take advantage of a special room package at The Manila Hotel for ₱10,000 net. This package includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room, a breakfast buffet for two at Café Ilang-Ilang, and one complimentary ticket to Easter at the EGGmerald City.

Bookings are open until April 19, 2025, with the stay date set for April 20, 2025. Terms and conditions apply. The offer is authorized under DTI Fair Trade Permit Numbers FTEB-217902 and FTEB-217877, Series of 2025.

Visita Iglesia: A Holy Week Pilgrimage

In the spirit of Lenten reflection, The Manila Hotel invites guests to participate in a meaningful and enlightening Visita Iglesia tour on Maundy Thursday, April 17, 2025. This tour will be led by Paul John Hernandez, known as The Traveling Salakot.

He is a social science educator recognized for his engaging historical tours that showcase Filipino heritage. Endorsed by the Department of Tourism and the National Parks Development Committee, The Traveling Salakot provides deep insights into the significance of each church along the tour route.

The Visita Iglesia event will include visits to the following churches: Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, Santa Rita Chapel, Saint Vincent de Paul Parish Church, Santa Maria Goretti, the Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora de Guia, and Our Lady of Remedies Church.

The package is priced at ₱1,500 per adult and ₱750 per child (12 years old and below). It includes a round-trip shuttle service and snacks. There are two available schedules: from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon and from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

With limited slots available, we recommend making your reservations early by contacting +632 8527 0011 or *********@************el.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>co*******@************el.com to secure your spot for this unique experience.

For a complete Holy Week retreat, guests can take advantage of the Visita Iglesia Room Offer at ₱10,000 per room per night. This package includes a stay in a Deluxe Room, breakfast for two at Café Ilang-Ilang, and Visita Iglesia tour access for two adults and two children.

Reservations are open until April 16, 2025, by calling +632 8527 0011 or emailing re***@************el.com, with stay dates from April 16 to 18, 2025, inclusive.

Pampanga Food Festival at Café Ilang-Ilang

Back due to popular demand, the Pampanga Food Festival returns to Café Ilang-Ilang from April 1 to 15, 2025, showcasing the rich flavors of Kapampangan cuisine. Lunch and dinner buffet will feature a rotating selection of beloved regional dishes, including Pako Salad, Sisig, Batuteng Tugak (stuffed frog), Sipo Egg, Pritong Itik, Suam na Native Mais, Kalderetang Bibe sa Gata, Adobo Balut, Bringhe, Tibok Tibok, Turrones de Casoy, and more.

Lenten Specials at The Manila Hotel

In observance of Holy Week, The Manila Hotel is offering a special Lenten Menu at the Lobby Lounge, available until April 20, 2025. This menu features a selection of delicious meat-free dishes, including Easter Salad, Barley Vegetable Soup, Salmon Carbonara, Shrimp Pesto Pizza, and Norwegian Salmon Fillet.

Norwegian Salmon Fillet

Salmon Carbonara

Shrimp Pesto Pizza

For those who prefer to celebrate the season at home, M Takeout provides a convenient Lenten Home Buffet. This buffet includes traditional and seafood-based dishes such as Green Mango and Singkamas with Bagoong, Tuna Kinilaw with Gata, Escabeche Maya-Maya, Halabos ng Hipon, Inihaw na Lumot, Rellenong Alimasag, Kilawing Puso ng Saging, Vegetable Pancit Bihon with Tokwa, and Steamed Rice. Available from April 1 to 30, 2025, this set is priced at ₱4,880, offering a hassle-free way to enjoy a delightful Lenten feast.

For further inquiries and reservations, please call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, email in**@************el.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

About The Manila Hotel

Located beside kilometer zero (0), the starting point of the City of Manila, The Manila Hotel is just a short distance from some of the Philippines’ most famous landmarks, including Rizal Park, Intramuros, and the National Museum. With its rich history, elegant atmosphere, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel stands out as the preferred choice for distinguished guests. Since its establishment in 1912, the hotel has consistently provided exceptional services and amenities for a truly memorable experience.

The hotel features more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function spaces, including three ballrooms. Guests can indulge in five-star relaxation and wellness experiences at the Manila Hotel Spa, enjoy the adult and children’s pools, and utilize the Manila Hotel Health Club. Additionally, the hotel houses the Heritage Museum, which showcases priceless memories that highlight its illustrious history. The on-site Art Gallery provides a glimpse into contemporary art through the perspectives of various artists.

The hotel’s six dining outlets each offer a unique culinary adventure.

  • Café Ilang-Ilang is a favorite for its extensive selection of international buffet delights.
  • The Champagne Room, known for its Old European-style fine dining, is celebrated as the most romantic room in Manila, featuring exquisite European cuisine in an elegant setting.
  • The Tap Room is inspired by an Old English pub, where guests can enjoy live music during the evening.
  • The Lobby Lounge is perfect for casual dining, aperitifs, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisurely meetings.
  • Red Jade is a fine-dining restaurant specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine.
  • The Delicatessen offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.
Ever Bilena’s TikTok-viral makeup bar lands in three locations

Ever Bilena’s TikTok-viral makeup bar lands in three locations

by | Mar 24, 2025 | Events

Attention beauty enthusiasts! Ever Bilena’s makeup bar, the viral shopping experience that has captivated TikTok, is now available at three exclusive locations for a limited time only.

Find EB’s Makeup Bar at:

  • W Department Store, Waltermart Makati
  • Robinsons Galleria Ortigas Department Store
  • LCC Department Store Tabaco, Bicol (Yes, they brought the Makeup Bar craze all the way to Bicol!)

How does the Ever Bilena makeup bar work?

Pick a pouch size

Choose from three sizes:

  1. Medium – ₱499
  2. Large – ₱599
  3. Extra Large – ₱999

Fill it up!

Grab your favorite Ever Bilena makeup products and fit as many as you can inside your pouch! You’ll find best-selling essentials and new launches to upgrade your beauty routine.

Seal the deal.

Once you’re satisfied with your haul, head to the cashier to pay for your chosen pouch.

Personalize your pouch.

Make your makeup bar experience even more special by decorating your pouch with cute, stylish stickers (courtesy of Ever Bilena!)

What’s new at the makeup bar?

This limited-time event features exciting new products, including the EB Moisture Boost Lipstick—a creamy and hydrating lipstick that provides rich color and all-day comfort! You will also find popular items such as EB Serum Tinted Lip Balms, trending blushes, and top-rated eye and brow products.

The Ever Bilena Makeup Bar will be open only until March 31, 2025, so don’t miss your chance to create your ideal beauty pouch at an unbeatable price.

GOOD NEWS! You can shop for as many pouches as you like while supplies last.

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