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.

Pray + Eat + Love

Missed me much? Well, I terribly did miss quietly seating in a cafe with no other agenda but to write and share my day with y'all. And I know it's way too late to excite you about this post but I have no more excuses left but to romance you with another sincere apology. So, a heartfelt sorry guys. 

Anyway, to take up where I left off, here's the finale about my sweet escape to Tagaytay last cold January for the celebration of our first year wedding anniversary where we ended the occasion in prayer, eating (a lot), and celebrating love the best way we know how... before your imagination gets playful, I meant spending quality time together. *cheese balls!* (A new expression I picked up from the movie Warm Bodies- MUST WATCH!) 

We were originally planning to hear mass at the Shrine of St. Therese of the Child Jesus, where we exchanged our I DOs a year ago, but since we decided to celebrate in Tagaytay, we made it a point to visit the Pink Sisters Cathedral instead to PRAY. It was my very first time to visit the church actually and I was pleasantly amazed with what I saw. I literally felt close to Heaven, with no 50/50 life and death state required. Misty clouds hover the spacious grounds while lots and lots of pine trees and other sorts hide the humble chapel where the Pink Sisters kneel in prayer.  

I had no idea why the church was called "Pink Sisters" until I saw them. And Pink Sisters they really were. Taking pictures inside the church was prohibited, so just imagine women of different ages who have devoted their lives to God, enrobed in bright pink tunic, heads covered with starched white colf, all lined up while they all sing in chorus with voice like angels. I really have no other words but "heavenly."

A lot of advocates visit the church because you can actually write letters with your intentions in a piece of paper then the sisters will pray for you. Now, don't stop kneeling in prayer since the sisters are already doing their jobs, it doesn't work that way. *lol* 

This visit was very timely because both JM and I were at a crossroad in our lives in terms of career, family/ life planning and hopes of achieving both our dreams and ambitions so this visit really helped us connect with God spiritually. I'm also thankful that JM is very faithful and God-fearing because he makes me want to become a better Christian. The fact is, he prays more and loooooonger than I do, which amazes me every time. Although he sometimes fall asleep in the middle of prayer because he talks to God way too long sometimes. *lol*

Here's the facade of the chapel. The exterior may seem structurally traditional with stone-colored walls but the interiors tell a different story. Polished light gray walls with darker gray trimmings and pale pink accents, and low hanging vintage chandeliers. Every corner of room was very pleasing to the eyes and simply breathtaking. I'm thinking, the place would be great for weddings although I'm not sure if they move the railings that encloses the area where the sisters usually seats at mass to cater to such.

As if the universe already heard me, a lucky penny crossed my path- a 1979 20 centavo Hong Kong Dollar. I have no idea why "this old" coin was doing there nor do I understand what it means. Maybe a Hong Kong trip is on the horizon? Hopefully?! I dunno... but it must mean something good. 

Here's me enjoying the cold and foggy weather early Monday morning after sending the Pink Sisters our long letters of personal intentions.

Pink Sisters(map)

After praying, WE EAT. We actually thought long and hard where to continue celebrating our special day. We were back and forth considering somewhere we haven't tried before and somewhere easier on the pocket since we already spent much of our humble budget on overnight accommodations. So, for the purpose of "memories of young love" we went back where year one started. Exactly where we celebrated our first year BF-GF Anniversary- Sonya's Garden.

The place was a lot different from what I remember. Definitely bigger and there were a lot of diners considering it was a Monday. There was even a wedding happening at the other hall. 

But the food? hmmmmmmm.... Still as GOOD as I tasted before or even better, actually. For only P610 per person, you can have unlimited serving of refreshing Dalandan Juice, Salad, Bread, and Pasta. 

Salad- fresh from the garden garnished with fruits, nuts, cucumber, and egg.

Soft, warm bread served with a variety of dips.

Sonya's spot for book signing

Pasta Arrabbiata w/ Blue Marlin bites, Eggplant ratatouille, shitake mushrooms, and capers.  

For Dessert - Turon, Dark Cocoa Chiffon Cake, and real-leaf Tarragon Tea.

The whole dining experience was both nostalgic and refreshing. I cannot wait to plan my next dining visit when the salad craving comes. Oh yeah, I'm a salad lover just in case you don't know. Must be because my mom munches on lettuce day and night when she was pregnant with me. 

Before we left the Sunflower dining hall, here's something that caught my eye. Sonya's Coffee Table Book that Clueless Mrs. like me would LOVE. Story of Sonya, tips on gardening, salad recipes *yum*, even tricks on removing stains! I think Sonya is the humble Martha Stewart of the Philippines. A-mazing. Well, my wallet was a bit tight at that time so I wasn't able to get myself a copy although my palms were itching until we got home because I really wanted one. The book retails at P1,850 and I think it's also available in bookstores in the Metro. If I get to buy one though, I'll get it at Sonya's Garden so I can have it signed by Sonya herself.  

Lastly, LOVE. One year has passed but it still feels like we just exchanged I DOs yesterday. JM - you're my best friend, my hero, my soul mate. I love you. *major cheese balls!* *lol*

Sonya's Garden

Barangay Buck Estate, Alfonso, Cavite, Philippines

(within the vicinity of Tagaytay City)

For Reservations: +63917 5329097 or +63917 5335140

info@sonyasgarden.com 

xoxo,

The Clueless Mrs.

The couple who eats together, gets fat together.

Look Good, Feel Good, and Do Good with bobble

For the very first time in my blogging career, I have officially been invited (not inviting myself, take note) to a product launch of a new innovative brand - BOBBLE -  introduced to the Philippines by Terry S.A., the same company that brought in lifestyle giants such as Havaianas, David & Goliath, Dupe, Aura Athletica and Pininho.

Can you imagine my delight when I got the invite? *smiling up to my ears with very eager eyes* So, did I go? Umh, duh? I wouldn't miss this for the world!!! Though I feel there's an added pressure because I came from brand marketing as well and I know the expectations and whatnots behind the brand curtain, this is just an opportunity that I would never say no to and it is actually fun to finally be acknowledged as a blogger. *pat on the back*

Make Water Better. This is bobble's promise. And, what can you get out of it? Well, you'll definitely Look Good, Feel Good, while Doing Good. 

The launch of this product didn't come in a more perfect time because I was really looking for a water bottle as I am eyeing a month of transformation by ditching the bad stuff and live a healthier lifestyle- a 2013 resolution I intend to keep- starting by just drinking water. Oh yes, that is the new diet plan and bobble is THE answer! 

Did you know that drinking clean water daily helps flush out harmful toxins and help protect the body from illnesses? It also maintains the body's pH balance, improves metabolism, and keeps essential organs such as the heart, liver and skin healthy... Wow, I'm so proud with this new knowledge. I feel so smart and healthy already! *lol*

bobble is a chic, reusable drinking bottle, designed by renowned industrial artist Karim Rashid- the man behind numerous luxury goods and popular product designs for Christofle, Alessi, Umbra, Bondaldo, Vondom, and Hugo Boss, among others. bobble's iconic shape and curvy form make it easier to carry arround during workout sessions or while out socializing. I do wish though that they also have a sling strap, so I can also carry my bobble around, hands-free. Now, wouldn't that be nice? *wink*

Watch this video to learn how bobble works:

Celebrity Guest, Paolo Abrera, with Event Host, Gelli Victor.
Two inspiring people who truly embodies living an 
active and healthy lifestyle. 

TSA Managing Director, Anne Gonzalez, introduces bobble. 

Bloggers who won the trivia game & got all bobble colors
together with Asst. Marketing Manager, Jheric delos Angeles.
My team "magenta" landed 2nd place *envious and bitter*

Brand Development Group Director, Mr. Ammiel De Leon,
talks about the benefits of bobble.

Fun fact about bobble? It's unique, replaceable and recyclable carbon filter purifies potable water even further by eliminating chlorine and organic contaminants for a fresher and crisper clean drinking water. Through the ingenuity of its design, the 1:300 ratio- one bobble is equivalent to 300 single-used plastic bottles- you can now be more active in protecting the environment by reducing the use of PET bottles, in a fab way.  

What I like about bobble is that it's not just a wellness innovation but a bold fashion statement as well. I can already envision, by its vibrant colors, numerous ways of how I can match my outfits with bobble - Girly (Magenta), Sexy Vixen (Red), Country-Romantic (Yellow), Hippie (Green), Cool & Sleek (Blue) and Punk (Black). Now, if only I won the trivia game... hahaha... I am such a sore loser. #lol

bobble bottles are priced at P595.00 per 550-ml container and filters at P345.00 each and will be available starting December 1 at Aura Athletica, Power Plant Mall. Hmmm... I think I see a collection in the making...

The Clueless Mrs. with Gelli Victor
"The Green Sisters in Nude Pumps"

Sayang that I wasn't able to shoot my OTD (Outfit of the Day) but don't you think that my outfit was just perfect for the event? Green is totally in...

#instabobble
Follow me @AizaSoller on Instagram

To get to know more about bobble,

LIKE bobble Philippines on Facebook

or Follow @BobblePH on Twitter and 

@BobblePH on Instagram

So, how did I do for my first time? *cross fingers* 

Let me know by leaving a comment below.

xoxo,

The Clueless Mrs.