1 Laba Guarantee? Possible.

Ever since I earned my new title, "mom," removing the toughest stains, from spilled milk, baby food, even poop, has already been a major problem for me. While I do love all the ups and downs of being a mom (with all the poop and all), facing laundry duties is what I dread most.

Hence, the journey to find "the one" detergent that will help me fight this one dreaded chore. Good thing there's Breeze ActivBleach, with its 1 Laba guarantee. Boasting of a revolutionary formulation, Breeze ActivBleach removes even the toughest of stains in just one wash. Safe for both white and colored clothes, Breeze has a four-enzyme technology that removes more types of stains and a patented whitening technology that delivers visible whiteness in just one wash. 

UNIQLO Spring/Summer Collection 2014

Last Friday, 28 March 2014, I got invited to the launch event of UNIQLO's spring/summer 2014 collection and its latest global collaborations, held at the Mega Fashion Hall in SM Megamall.

I'm a UNIQLO fan so I got really excited to see what they have in store for me at the event. To my surprise, they're actually launching three new collections and collaborations all at the same time. *bells ringing, stomach turning, wallet shouting* Oh yes (oh no), I'll be going shopping tonight...

Let's Drink Pure!

What kind of water do you drink? Filtered? Purified? Mineral? Alkaline?

Whatever it is, we all share the same need when it comes to drinking water. It must be CLEAN and GERM-FREE. That's why we spend so much on water filtration systems at home or have drinking water delivered right to our doorstep. But, do you ever wonder... Is the water we drink really clean and safe?

My dad, for one, is one of those who are skeptic about the cleanliness of water refilling stations. He once shared that we must switch up water stations from old to new ones because equipment gets old and you're not sure how well those water stations maintain or update their filtration system. Besides the equipment, the handling will also be always in question. Have you ever observed how the "kuyas" wash your water container? How they seal, store, and carry them from the refilling station, to the delivery truck, up to your doorstep? There are just so many chances of contamination we neglect to see. This is where Unilever Philippines newly launched brand, Pureit, comes in.

Pureit is the largest selling brand of in-home water purifiers in the world, starting with the Excella, a non-electric water purifier that converts tap water and even untreated water into guaranteed clean and safe drinking water.

The Power of Play

Do you remember playing patintero, piko, luksong baka, tumbang preso, 10-20, chinese garter, luto-lutoan, teacher-teacher, doctor-doctor, or dressing up with your mom's (or dad's) clothes to play adult, wrapping the blanket around your body and pretend you were in a gown, walking the red carpet, or maybe even spending the whole day just painting, cutting art paper and gluing stuff on anything you find at home? I know I have done everything and so much more when I was a kid. I'm proud to say that I have a vast imagination that I even crossover to an alter universe for pretend play. It was FUN.

With all these kinds of play though, it's very very sad to see today's kids, we call the "iPad generation." Friends are now being replaced with gadgets, socializing are done in Facebook and exploring happens in Youtube. *sigh* 

Being a new mom, it's very worrying what kind of future my baby will have. I don't want to succumb to the digital generation, although I allow my baby to see Mickey Mouse Club House on TV from time to time, coz hey, who doesn't love Mickey, right? I want my child to enjoy her childhood to the fullest, even if it means I have to hug a sweaty sun-scented muddy child everyday. I want her to experience the innocence and freedom of being a child and not pressure her into becoming an adult. She has a lot of time for that.

I once asked one of my best friends, who has a 9 year old daughter, doesn't she play outside the house with neighbors? And her answer was that she's scared that her daughter might get kidnapped. "You never know. Sometimes, crimes happen even inside the neighborhood. She plays in school with her classmates during P.E. time." And truth be told, I felt a bit sorry because I know for a fact that she doesn't know what she's missing, although I also have to admit she has a point.

I wonder, is there a safe and fun environment I can bring my daughter to when the time comes?

Low and behold, the answer came in the form of an invite from Kidzania Manila.

A New Chapter

With such a long hiatus, I am simply lost for words on where to begin... Surprise!? Hello Hello!? Long time, no see? Super extra mega sorry? Intros to this post are just countless. *sigh* And with my loooooong absence, comes a looooong list of blog post I've been attempting, dreaming, lazily drafting in my head, to do. 

I know I have let my humble number of readers down by putting my blog life on hold because of life-changing events that has happened in my life since last year, and honestly, I've been pondering whether I should kill the Clueless Mrs. and give up already or keep it alive.

10 Things I Learned about Pregnancy

Like any new mom, I was very clueless on what to expect during the course of my pregnancy. To be honest, when I saw the positive sign on the pregnancy test I took after five days of missing my period, I cried. And, it wasn't totally of happy tears at first, which confused my husband because I've been wanting to have a baby for so long already. I was really scared. Scared because I don't know if I'm going to be a good mom, scared that my current illnesses with some that I haven't really dealt with would affect the baby, and the list of worries go on. Good thing my husband was sweet enough to reassure me that everything's gonna be okay and that God will help us every step of the way.

I'm a bit dramatic, I know, and the hormones doesn't help. Pregnancy can really be overwhelming at times so it helps to have a good support system, like your family, to share your ups and downs. Pregnancy is not a simple walk in the park that's why I thought of sharing with you some of the things I learned in my journey towards motherhood.

Welcome Me Back

Surprise! I know I already told you a million times that I'll be more faithful blogging again but that doesn't seem to happen. It even took me a ton of courage to visit my site again to face the absence of my existence in the blogosphere. And heck, I have missed a lot! 

Mommy Mundo Clearance Clear Out SALE!

Shopping alert to all mommies and moms-to-be out there! 

Mommy Mundo is holding another Clearance Clear Out SALE happening this weekend at Fun Ranch in Pasig. Check out the banner below for more details and for the list of awesome brands who will be at this amazing sale. 

New Leaf

Wow, after three long months I finally found myself the courage to hit the "New Post" button on my dashboard. I know my repeated hiatus is already inexcusable but coming back is what matters right? Please agree with me... Honestly, I'm almost in tears for neglecting my blog for far too long... 

Okay, now that I've got that off my chest, you might be wondering what I've been up to lately. Well, aside from the obviously redesigned blog (What do you think of my new blog layout by the way? Doesn't it look more fab and exceptionally clean? Would you believe I came up with the whole new look in a dream? Well, in between sleepless nights anyway... And, all designed and produced by moi! *Pat on the back* I am just so proud). Going back to my REAL story though, if you can please take a moment, the image below says it ALL.  

Summer Brights

I just LOVE Summer. April might have gone too fast (and I have only been to the beach once!!! *what a disappointment*) but hoooray that we still have 31 days of May (well, 29 days of May from today) to have all the beach trips, adventures and whatnot that we can still squeeze out of our short scorching bright summer.

Anyway, to my avid followers, remember my post about how people go all bright and colorful when it's summer?  Well, this post is exactly how I incorporate brights into my summer ensemble. And thanks to Yishion for giving us the opportunity and the challenge to do so. Check it out and let me know what you think. 

Live Active

I've always deemed myself for living a healthy and active lifestyle (or at least I try to) and  playing sports, going to gym or joining a fun run are just few of my "get fit" (sometimes pocket-burning) activities that I'm very fond of, until lately. 

Yes... It saddens me to admit that I've reached the "point-of-no-return" as I call it when the weighing scale is about to tip and the muffins (not the yummy looking ones) are getting more and more obvious. They say that step one into self transformation is admitting what you've been trying to deny to yourself. So Yes, I have gone overweight, so much so that I sometimes find it hard to carry myself already and all my fave clothes just won't fit flatteringly anymore, and it is with deep regret that I have become victim of my own depression that led me to the unhealthy couch potato habit. *sigh*

B-U-T. As one of my favorite saying goes "It's never too late, if you start now." 

It took me a while, and one fun-filled visit to the Village Sport Club sealed the realization that... I HAVE TO TAKE BACK CONTROL OF MY LIFE! (Sorry for the big bold emphasis. I just had to so it would stick to my head) 

A southern treasure, or should I say, a hidden lifestyle paradise tucked inside BF Homes, Paranaque - The Village Sports Club (VSC), an exclusive members-only lifestyle community, is viewed as a utopia for sports lovers and regular active individuals like me (or just how I wish *lol*) who wants to find the perfect balance between work and play. And a few weeks ago, I've been very fortunate to get invited to an exclusive tour and experience what VSC can offer. And I have to say, they offer a whole LOT well within the comforts of my own community. *Proud Southern Belle* Getting envious? You should.

The Gallery - a welcoming facade of the Village Sports Club

Since I'm an event planner as well, what first excited me most was their function rooms, ballroom and event areas. And, If I were to organize a holistic business with pleasure event that I can freely do in the South, VSC will absolutely be my top choice. Spacious rooms, well-equipped with high-tech AV equipment, a ballroom that can sit more than 300 guests, and a lush and breezy cocktail area with a view? What more can I ask for?     

Business Center (photo courtesy of VSC)

Going back to the business at hand though- that is, the "exclusive tour," I was amazed to discover that the event areas that tickled my excitement was just the tip of the iceberg coz there's soooo much more one can find and experience inside VSC. 

To give you a somewhat digital version of the tour I experienced, let me start off with the Tempus bar, where they house the media room where you can sing your hearts out with a videoke session with the barkada or maybe play xbox with the kids...

Media Room (photo courtesy of VSC)

Play Foosball or Air Hockey...

Tempus Bar - Foozball and Air Hockey table games
(photo courtesy of VSC)

Or watch your favorite game with the boys. Don't you think Tempus bar can also be a perfect venue for a wholesome bachelor's party? This room just screams testosterone...

Tempus Bar - Big Screen for the Big Boys

And... yes, I'm not finished yet... They also have a bowling center! Beat that! VSC Member and Pro bowler cutie, RJ Bautista, also practices here. As a matter of fact, we met him *with yabang effect* but I was just too shy to ask for a picture. *haha*

Tempus Bar - Bowling Alley

After that, we crossed the lot and went to the more sporty side of the club and on our way had a peak of their body magnetizing pools. I swear, if I could, I'll jump into water to beat the heat right then and there but we had few more rounds to do. And oh, for Matteo Guidicelli fans, as another proud VSC member, he does laps here too. More reasons to join the club , huh?

Pools (photo courtesy of VSC)

Upon entering the two-storey facility at the other side of the club, we were greeted by two doors (not counting the clinic), one for the ladies and one for the gents. And I won't be including this in my digital tour of VSC if they were just doors to the restroom. *lol* They are actually locker rooms, and not just any other locker room because it was a maze with amazing interiors that leads to...  

The Locker Room

the Zenith Wellness Spa complete with relaxing sauna and steam rooms... 

Zenith Spa

the Day Care Center for the kids to play while the parents do the same...

And the Zenith Gym that's equipped with the most advanced, high-tech exercise equipment from Technogym, including the finest strength and cardio equipment carefully handpicked by VSC to provide its membres the ultimate workout experience.

Zenith Gym (photo courtesy of VSC)

Here's the chubby version of me reminiscing my young ballet days inside Zenith Gym's dance class room.

Moving on with the tour, we then crossed more sports facilities that made my eyes just bigger and bigger with excitement, such as the covered clay tennis courts, a football field with jogging path... 

I love sunset photos and this in particular makes me miss playing football.

And more modern sports facilities like their indoor basketball court, built with a FIBA-approved maple hardwood flooring, with court overhead lighting and an electric scoreboard... 

Basketball Court (photo courtesy of VSC)

Impressive eight (8) indoor Badminton courts certified by the World Badminton Federation that are used for Badminton and can be converted into multiple courts for Volleyball or Futsal...

Badminton Courts (photo courtesy of VSC)

and for table tennis.

Table Tennis (photo courtesy of VSC)

*Sigh* How I miss my P.E. and Volleyball Varsity days just by stepping on the courts.

Before I forget, after a day's work and exhausting play, don't worry because VSC also offers a wide array of dining experiences to satisfy every craving. Click here for Dining at VSC

To end our tour, we were treated with cocktails at their Verde Events Lawn, a perfect outdoor setting for a wedding or a debut party. And if you can see the open lots in front, that's going to be part of VSC's phase 2 development where villas and more events and lifestyle areas can be expected to bloom. I, personally, can't wait for that.

Another sunset shot. This place would be perfect for 
romantic cocktails right after an intimate wedding ceremony.

What a lovely sight. Can you imagine a walk down the aisle in an intimate Christian wedding here? *sigh with much kilig*

Anyway, nothing beats a relaxing day with people you share the same interests and have engaging conversations with. Here's a photo of the girls of the group I shared the day with at VSC. And just to share... What I will forever remember from this sweet afternoon is a quote from Alexa who's a journalist, a blogger, and a girl who finds time every week to attend a dance class right after work- "I decided to make time" - a short phrase that makes a lot of sense especially to those who think they just don't have the time for exercise and to live a more active life *guilty*. So, how do you find the perfect balance between work and play and live active? Decide to do so and make joining the Village Sports Club part of that. Amen.

photo courtesy of Ruth Floresca of MommyWrites.Blogspot.com

To learn how to be a member of the Village Sports Club and enjoy the privileges that come with being part of this exclusive lifestyle community, call (+63 2) 822 1000 or email vsc@thevillagesportsclub.com.


The Village Sports Club
El Grande corner Tropical Avenue
BF Homes, Paranaque City
T: (+63 2) 822- 1000 
E: vsc@thevillagesportsclub.com

Make "I decide to make time" your mantra.

xoxo,

The Clueless Mrs.

VERO

To all the ladies reading my blog, do you remember when we were young and just die over our mom's precious jewelry box with all the gems, pearls, golds and silvers inside and imagine how beautiful we will look and feel wearing them?

Well, that's exactly how I felt *with matching jaw-drop and drool action* when I got an email from an old friend from MEGA magazine, introducing a new local fine jewelry label by a talented Cebu-based jewelry designer Gladys Young- VERO, where he is now connected. 

I was actually invited to the exclusive viewing of VERO's new jewelry line that *seriously* every woman will just drool and die over and I very much want to kill myself for mixing up my own schedule therefore missing the event. *grrrrrrr* Just see for yourself and share my awe.

These are just few of her stylish pieces from VERO's latest summer collection entitled "Under the Sea." 
And all I can say is AHHH-MAZING!




VERO talkes into heat the sanctity of luxe style, creating pieces that are unique and edgy, yet timeless and elegant. Intricate and enthralling, these are set in precious metals -- gold and silver, as well as bronze infused with silver, amidst colored diamonds and gemstones of the finest quality. I am really out of words just be looking at the photos of these exquisite jewelry by this talented Cebuana. 

Gladys Young - Designer

Customized, extraordinary, and indeed one-of-a-kind, VERO has placed a premium on the concept of investment pieces - as treasures that can be passed on as heirlooms, or an iconic style that can last even for the stylish generations to come.

This pair of earrings are my favorite. I can totally see the inspiration behind this exquisite creation. Its intricacy, the coral details and simply how it was made is just breathtaking. Something to really save up for.

Be VERO, be beautiful, and stand out from the ordinary.

VERO

2/F Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center, Makati City 

(Inside Jun Escario)

E: vero@veroconcept.com

LIKE VERO on Facebook

xoxo,

The Clueless Mrs. 

*sponsored post*

Subspace Encountered

I've been holding on to this blog post for a time already because I sO wanted to combine this with a related feature of a store I've been dying to visit. And so I did... all because good things are worth waiting for. Agree? 

Very well, while I try to justify my laziness *haha* feast your eyes with these creatively peculiar work of art and uniquely crafted furnitures found inside a one-of-a-kind coffee shop in a small corner in Ortigas - Subspace.

If this is not the first time you've heard about Subspace, good for you, because Subspace is truly a must-visit, must-try, coffee experience.

I've been reading a lot about Subspace coffee before from other blogs and so I've been planning and wanting to visit this place but never got the chance. Then, on one sunny afternoon, while I'm out and about in Ortigas trying to find a place where I will be meeting with a potential client, guess what I stumbled upon - Alleluia - it's Subspace! Like, God was really pointing me to the right direction because he knew I needed a boost of caffeine in my body *lol* (just exaggerating). 

The place was smaller than I expected it to be but the artistry of it and its coffee did not disappoint.

I'm a self-confessed coffee addict, like running without caffeine in my blood for a day is like not drinking water for a week. (okay, exaggerating again but I'm just really that mad about coffee) I was pretty amazed and confused, both at the same time, when I looked at their menu. Amazed because their coffee offerings are not the usual. Confused because I'm a creature of habit and so I didn't know what to order. After about 10 minutes starring at their menu in utter confusion, I went for their best recommendation - Hot Purple Potato Latte - just to try something new since I'm in a new place. 

I didn't know what to expect exactly, and then this cute little cat surprised me *meow* courtesy of Subspace coffee artist.

I didn't want to kill the art but I had to drink my coffee, my body was just begging for it... So, I swirled the cutesy cat away then this creamy froth just excited me even more. Since I had no idea how the Hot Purple Potato Latte will taste, I had to take few breaths before taking a sip. (Isn't it obvious that I'm some kind of a control freak too? - Again, creature of habit) *haha* 

Verdict? Yummy. And I bet this tastes good over ice too... I'll try that next time after trying their Peanut Butter Latte, Dark Choco Mint Latte...(and the list goes on) Oh, and they have awesome milk tea creations too! Gotta try that also.  

As mentioned, my "space" adventure did not end there because I also made it a point to visit Subspace's brother, Space Encounters - a custom-made furniture shop for out-of-the-box accent pieces that can turn every empty space an artsy livable one.   

Space Encounters is just a few steps away from the coffee shop so if you're already in the area, do check it out. It's just unfortunate that the place was undergoing renovation so I didn't see much of their usual displays but what they had in store was enough to take my breath away. 

Come to think of it, if I were to do a line up of careers I would have considered before given the exposure that I have now, if only I can go back to college? Interior Design would definitely be in my consideration. If only I heard the cry of "ART" calling me when I was dead set wanting to become a lawyer (surprising huh?) *sigh* 

Oh well, there's a reason for everything and I am just glad that the turn of events led me back to my true passion - Art, Design, Fashion, Events, Travel, and believe it or not Marketing. As my FB status said a few weeks ago, if I can have the best of all worlds, why not?

The Furniture Menu

Subspace Coffee House

GF Grand Emerald Tower, F. Ortigas Jr. Road

Ortigas Center, Pasig City

Space Encounters

Unit B Mezzanine, Padilla Building

F. Ortigas Jr. Road

Ortigas Center, Pasig City

E: info@spaceencounters.net

xoxo

The Clueless Mrs.