Michi Photostory

Before you attempt professional-looking nails, you will need to make sure your nails are in their best condition. Part of this involves maintaining your overall well-being so that your nails are strong and healthy. Here's how to care for the health of your nails: 

* Make sure you aren't lacking any essential vitamins in your diet, as vitamin deficiency can cause your nails to change thickness, texture, and color;

* Don't cut your nails too short, as this can damage the underlying skin; 

* Break bad habits such as nail biting or chewing the skin of your fingers. Applying polish and coating to nails when the fingers are bitten is painful and unsanitary. 

Understanding the basics will set you up for learning more complicated nail techniques in the future. Knowing how to prepare your nails for treatment is a useful place to start. These are the basic preparation steps: 

* With completely dry nails, gently file the rough edges down. 

* Next, soak your nails so the cuticles are moisturized. 

* Gently push back your cuticles, but don't clip them as they are important barriers against infection;

* Apply a base coat before starting with your more elaborate designs. 

It's hard to go wrong with a single polish color applied plainly to each nail, but this doesn't scream professional even if it doesn't look bad. For impressive nails, you will need to invest in the right tools and supplies for the job. Retailers like igelbeauty.com offer professional-grade products such as nail lamps, pigments, and other nail supplies. You will be more likely to achieve professional-looking results with high-quality products. 

With each step of the process, be sure to use a steady hand and your full attention. Focus on performing each task slowly and carefully for results that perfectly match your vision. No one gets it perfect straight away. The first few times you try to give yourself the perfect professional manicure might turn out looking amateur. It takes time to learn new skills, especially ones involving minute precision and understanding various chemical interactions. 

A fresh set of perfectly manicured nails is a uniquely pleasant sensation. Going to the nail salon with a few friends and making a day out of it will always be fun, but if you ever want to keep your nails looking their best without spending too much money, becoming your own nail tech is the way to go. With the skills and tips listed above, you can now give yourself professional treatment without the painful price.

Importance of finding hidden gems for photography 

There's something special about stumbling upon stunning photo locations that have yet to be mainstream. Hidden gems for photography not only offer unique landscapes and perspectives but also promise originality - a key element in capturing compelling photographs. These locations are usually void of the typical tourist clutter, offering an unobstructed canvas for your creative vision. 

In this blog post, we'll be unmasking five of such unexplored spots that will breathe new life into your images. These unique photography spots have been carefully selected for their sheer beauty and exclusivity. Perfect for everything from landscape photography to beautiful portraits, they're destined to provide a fresh perspective and ignite your creative spark. So grab your camera and join us as we embark on this quest of visual discovery! 

Among the lush greenery of Oahu, Hawaii, perched magically above the clouds is the incredible 'Stairway to Heaven' or Haikū Stairs. This steel staircase, standing with over 3,992 steps, offers a fascinating climb up to the top of Ko'olau mountain range. The mystic aura of the cloudy skies, the panoramic view of the enchanting island below, and the azure Pacific beyond make it an incredible landscape for photographers.

Despite its undeniable charm, the 'Stairway to Heaven' remains largely unexplored due to its "off-limits" status. However, those who dare to venture and are lucky enough to dodge the local security, are rewarded with a sight that few have had the opportunity to capture. This exclusivity and the challenging climb make it one of the most unique photography spots. 

The 'Stairway to Heaven' truly lives up to its name, not only as a destination but also as a phenomenal backdrop for stunning stock photos. 

The Forgotten Forests of Vermont, often overshadowed by the bustling city life and conventional beauty spots, secretes unspeakable charm yearning to be captured. Nestled in the Northeastern United States, these dense, quiet woods are etched with trails that lead to breathtaking views. You'll encounter whimsical flora, moss-covered trees, and sunlight filtering through the dense canopy creating an ethereal, magical world. In the fall, the forest transforms into a riot of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows.

Though Vermont is famous for its scenic beauty, its hidden-away forests remain a wonder uncaptured in mainstream photography. Their outlying location, away from tourist hubbub, keeps them discreet. Yet, it's precisely this perceived inconvenience that gives photographers the peace and space needed to seize the forest's true essence. If you're looking for unique photography spots to dabble with your creativity without disturbance, this is your place. 

The Forgotten Forests of Vermont is undoubtedly a hidden gem waiting to be explored! 

Isle Royale is one of those sparkling secrets that never gets old. Located in the crisp waters of Lake Superior in Michigan, it spans over 400,000 acres and is populated by a mere array of wildlife. The island is home to busy beavers, majestic moose, and graceful loons, offering a dreamlike landscape for photographers. Its lush green vegetation intermingling with the crystal blue waters adds an enchanting depth, making it an unconventional but compelling subject for photography. 

Why is this a hidden gem? The reasons are twofold: 

• Accessibility: Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale's seclusion is its main hurdle, keeping crowds at bay. Hence, limited human activities mean undisturbed nature - a bliss for photographers aiming for authentic, raw shots. 

• Seasonality: Being a national park, it closes each winter. Many potential visitors miss out because operations only run from April 16 through October 31. 

Imagining sunrise over Scoville Point, the total stillness punctuated only by bird calls and the lapping of lake waves provides photographers with breathtaking images. A beautiful sight that's become a popular stock photo. Another all-time favorite spot is the Stoll Trail beach, where the sunset paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson – a sight that can leave any photographer spellbound.

Located in Vietnam, the Halong Bay area is a hidden treasure for photographers. More than just a body of water, it's an ethereal expanse adorned with majestic limestone structures, emerald-green waters, and secretive caves that hold stories untold. The caves, with their stalactite and stalagmite formations, offer a unique setting for some jaw-dropping photography. 

Halong Bay itself is quite known among travelers, but not many have ventured deep inside the caves to discover the photographic magic that lies within. The reason? Accessibility! Many caves require a boat journey and some level of trekking, which discourages the casual traveler. Plus, the lack of artificial lighting elements inside makes it slightly challenging to illuminate the subject. But for a passionate photographer, these challenges only add to the appeal! 

Here are a few examples of what can be done at this location: 

So, brace yourself for an exhilarating adventure into the mysterious caves of Halong Bay and seize the opportunity to capture stunning stock photos! 

The Fairy Pools, located on the breathtaking Isle of Skye in Scotland, is an enchanting spectacle to witness. This piece of paradise boasts cascading waterfalls, and swirling pools of turquoise water, framed by some of Scotland's most impressive mountainous landscapes. The crystal clear streams appear surreal against the typical moody Scottish skies, making it a delight for naturalistic photography.

Despite its ethereal beauty, The Fairy Pools is still under the radar when it comes to popular photography locations. The relatively remote location, and weather that's often anything but predictable, probably play into this. However, these very factors contribute to its untouched brilliance and unique versatility in images. You can capture cloudy, brooding atmospheres on some days and vibrant, clear vistas on others. 

Indulge in the serenity of this place, and let the shimmering Fairy Pools grace your photographs with an unseen Scottish charm. 

Immersing yourself in the unknown and capturing the untouched beauty of lesser-known corners of the world is nothing short of magical. Here are a few tips to make your journey to these hidden gems smooth sailing. 

Choosing your destination is the first and most crucial step. 

Unfamiliar terrain and conditions might have unique demands. 

- Always carry your best camera gear for the perfect shot. 

- Pack according to the weather conditions and have a suitable set of clothes for all possibilities. 

- Essentials like water purification tablets, portable chargers, and a well-loaded first aid kit can prove helpful too. 

No picture is worth causing harm to Mother Nature or disturbing local life.

Remember, the essence of exploring hidden gems is not only to snap stunning photos but to also offer an enriching journey from start to end. 

Let's take a snapshot quick look at the breathtaking photo spots we ventured through. 

1. The mystical forest of Northumberland, England - A natural mosaic filled with rich flora, fauna, and ancient history. 

2. The starlit sky of Star Valley, Wyoming, USA - An otherworldly spectacle that's nothing short of a dream-like vista. 

3. The golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, Morocco - A desert wonderland showcasing brilliant hues, from sunrise to sunset. 

4. The ethereal beauty of Zhangjiajie, China - Lush landscapes, towering peaks, and dreamy clouds. 

5. The vibrant colors of the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Cape Town, South Africa - A display of culture and architecture that manifests as an explosion of color. 

Dear readers, you have a fantastic opportunity on your hands. Each photo you take captures a split-second moment that can never be exactly replicated again. So, why not make every click count by challenging yourself to explore new vistas? Don't confine yourself to familiar sceneries. Venture into fresh territories. Take chances. The undiscovered, far-flung corners of the world hold sights rare, exquisite, and absolutely picture-perfect. 

Photography, at its core, is an art of perception. It isn't merely about capturing what you see but about immortalizing the feelings and emotions that these sceneries evoke within you. So, carry your camera and your adventurous spirit, and go forth. You are not only a photographer. You are an artist, a storyteller, and above all, an explorer. Remember, every corner of the world, whether explored or hidden, has a new story waiting for you. It's time to make that story your next stunning capture.

As of this writing, Australia is the third visa country that we applied for as a family. My husband has other business visas but for our own family trip, we only experienced Japan Visa and Schengen Visa.  

When my husband purchased our Manila - Sydney- Manila flight during the Great Mabuhay Miles Getaway Promotion, I started reading blogs and articles regarding the Australian Visa Tourist Application. In my mind, everything is easy because I can do it online but I spoke too soon because… 

1. I was surprised when I needed to answer 20 pages. 

2. We are applying as a family but we need individual applications. I can only create a group to inform them that this is a group process. 

3. Biometric and Health Assessments are needed. Good thing that we only need biometrics. 

4. I need to scan all the entry/exit stamps of our expired and current passports plus visa documentation. Sa ibang countries kasi, current passport lang ang need. 

And because of this, it took me two days to finish our application forms, including the scanning, uploading, and attaching of documents. It was kinda stressful because I only had limited time. We need to submit our applications and schedule our biometrics before my husband’s business trip. I am just thankful that we don’t need to submit our passports. 

Despite the stress that I experienced, I can still say that applying for an Australian Tourist Visa is not hard as long as you are not in a hurry. 

Visitor Visa (subclass 600) is a tourist visa stream that allows you to visit Australia as a tourist, go on a cruise, or visit your family or friends. They can grant you a stay of 3, 6, or 12 months. Tourist needs to be outside Australia when applying for this type of visa. 

1. Create an ImmiAccount 

Just like our Schengen Visa application, I only create one online account and use it for all our applications. For Australia, you need to create an Immi Account, it is where I fill out forms, attach documents, pay the visa fee, and check the status of our applications. 

You need to fill in 20 pages but there is no time limit so you can take your time in answering don’t forget to save the form if you are not ready to submit it yet. 

You can attach up to 60 documents for each person. The site accepts .jpg, .png, .pdf and other type of files. Just make sure that the file is not encrypted or secured PDF files. Also, the file should not be over 5 MB.

Dito ako nastress sa 5MB kasi nascan ko na lahat ng passports ni hubby, ending I can’t attach it because the file is over 5MB so I have to repeat it again. I reduced the pixels and I scanned per passport na lang.

Documents may vary depending if you are employed, unemployed, a student etc. You can see the required and recommended documents after you fill out the form. We just submitted the documents that we have. 

Passport Profile Page 

Entry and exit of expired passport 

Entry and exit of current passport 

Visa documentation 

Birth Certificate 

Passport 

Photo ID of Parent’s showing signature 

Form 54 

Birth Certificate 

Marriage Certificate 

Itinerary 

Flight Ticket 

Certificate of Enrollment (Dito ko na lang nilagay sa may others) 

Bank Certificate 

Bank Statement (3 months) 

Title Deed 

Latest Credit Card Statement 

Travel Insurance 

Income Tax Return 

Payslip 

Payslip 

Certificate of Employment 

Evidence of Leave 

I uploaded JPG and PDF files only. The site knows if you attach encrypted files or secured files, I experienced this when I attached our travel insurance, nag-error yung file so I had to print and scan our travel insurance so I could attach it. 

The “Other Documents” option will appear after you paid your visa. So just in case there are documents you want to add or if they are requesting more documents, you can attach them here. 

Note: It is not advisable to purchase your plane ticket and travel insurance before applying for your visa. Actually, first time namin itong ginawa, we just took a risk kasi sayang ang sale. Pero ayaw ko na ulitin kasi super worry naman ako habang naghihintay ng decision, natatakot ako na masayang ang pera kung hindi granted. 

You can pay per application or group application. I chose the latter so I paid AUD570 + AUD7.98 = AUD577.98. The amount may vary depending on the foreign exchange, PHP21,982.54 is the amount posted on our credit card. 

After payment, we received our receipt and instructions about biometrics. 

To schedule your biometric, visit the VFS Global site. I am glad that I can book a group appointment. You only have two weeks to finish your biometric. 

1. Electronic or printed copy of the appointment letter as proof of your appointment date. 

2. Passport 

3. Electronic or printed copy of the Biometric letter issued by the Department of Home Affairs, Australia showing your personal details and a Visa Lodgement Number (VLN) to enable enrolment of your Biometric. 

4. Biometric Service fee 

Biometric Collection fee: PHP 892 (per person) 

Modes of payment: Cash 

Cebu Monday to Friday 07:00 - 16:00 

Manila Monday to Friday 07:00 - 21:00 

Mezzanine Floor, Ecoplaza Building, 2305, 

Don Chino Roces Ave Extension, 

Makati City 1231, 

Manila, Philippines 

The schedule that we got is already evening. Once you arrive at the VFS office, the staff will check your appointment and will give you a number. If I remember it right, there are seven booths so mabilis naman and natapos kami in 40 minutes.

After Biometric, I clicked the “I confirmed I have provided information as requested” and our application changed to “Further Assessment” status. 

The global processing time for Australian Tourist Visa (600) is about a month and according to their website, you need to apply at least 4 months before your intended travel date. So it is better to apply as early as possible because you cannot predict how early or late they will finalize your visa applications. 

25% of applications: 3 Days 

50% of applications: 7 Days 

75% of applications: 13 Days 

90% of applications: 22 Days 

Some people are lucky that they got their visa, minutes or hours after their biometrics but based on our experience, we got our visas on Day 13. Fortunately, we all received the visa grants email on the same day at a few-minute intervals. Some people even though they applied as a group, they received the visa decisions at different times. 

We did not apply for multiple entry but we got multiple entry for one year with 3 months stay per visit. Yey!

Day 1 (Friday)- Submit/Lodge the Application Form 

Pay the Visa Fee 

Book Biometric Appointment 

Day 4 (Monday) - Biometric Appointment 

Day 13 (Thursday) - Visa Granted - Multiple Entry for 1 year - 3 Months Stay 

Fragrances are classified into various families or categories based on their dominant notes and characteristics. Understanding these fragrance families is the first step in narrowing down your choices at shops like directfragrances.online. 

It's essential to identify your fragrance preferences to find your perfect scent. Think about the scents that you naturally gravitate towards. Are you drawn to the freshness of citrus, the warmth of spices, or the elegance of florals? Understanding your preferences will help you narrow down the fragrance family that resonates with you. 

Once you have a sense of your fragrance family, it's time to explore specific scents within that category. Visit a fragrance store or counter and start testing different perfumes. Remember that the fragrance you smell initially may not be the same as the one you experience after it has settled on your skin. 

Fragrances are divided into top, middle, and base notes. The top notes are the initial scents you smell when you first apply the fragrance, the middle notes appear after a while, and the base notes are the long-lasting, final scents. 

Pay attention to how the fragrance evolves over time. Sometimes, a scent may not captivate you at first sniff, but it can develop into something beautiful as the middle and base notes reveal themselves. 

Consult with friends, family, or fragrance experts for recommendations. They may introduce you to scents you haven't considered. Online fragrance communities and reviews can also be valuable resources for discovering new scents and learning about their characteristics. 

Finding your perfect scent is not a rushed process. Allow yourself time to explore and experience various fragrances. Wear them throughout the day to see how they interact with your body chemistry and how they make you feel. 

Your fragrance preferences can evolve over time. What you loved a few years ago may not be your favorite now. Being open to change and adapting to your evolving tastes is essential. 

Finding your perfect scent is a personal and enjoyable journey. You can make informed choices by understanding fragrance families, identifying your preferences, testing and sampling, and considering factors like the season. Take notes, seek recommendations, give the process time, and be open to change. Trust your instincts to find the fragrance that resonates with you and enhances your personal style. Remember that fragrance is a unique and individual choice, and finding the scent that feels like a perfect match can be a rewarding and self-expressive experience.

My son is now a teenager and fortunately, he can study on his own so I no longer need to print practice worksheets and make mock tests or reviewers. I am also thankful that math is one of the highest grades in his school card. So I am sharing the different strategies that I applied when I was still teaching math.

The majority of the kids are visual learners so if you want to teach math, use pictures and images. I purchased picture books and flashcards when my son was still in his toddler years. 

As I mentioned before, we use math every day so we can teach math to our kids while cooking, baking, shopping, playing, and many more. 

Kids love to play games and playing games enhance their analytical thinking and curiosity. We used to play puzzles, tangrams, monopoly, and others. 

I bought a printer and I searched for free math worksheets online. This makes my life easier because I don’t need to make a lot of exercises because there are free printables online. I just print the worksheets so my son can practice his math skills. 

Whenever the school year ends, I instructed my son to answer the exercises in his math book. It is one of his activities every summer. He will answer a few pages so he has something to do every summer. Practice makes perfect.

We can’t deny that we live in a digital age so nowadays, kids love playing online games. My son used to play educational games too when he was young. I just can’t remember the names of the games because it’s been a decade already and he no longer uses his old iPad. 

But I recently discovered that there are free online games that will help you in teaching math. I tried some online games and here are the 3 games that I like, these games involve addition and subtraction.

1. Cashback - the goal is to calculate how much change you should give back to the customer before the time is up. 

2. Grocery Cashier - it is a game where you can practice addition and subtraction along with monetary familiarity. What I like in this game, there is a virtual cash register so you can feel that you are really a grocery cashier. 

3. Supermarket Numbers - this is an arithmetic practice game.