A NEW EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION OPENS THIS SY 2018-19 - NATIONAL BOOKSTORE COLLEGE

Dear mommy readers... I know you can relate to what I am going to say. In two weeks time, vacation will start. And as I imagine myself putting my son's school stuffs in the closet, temporarily, my mind is already thinking about tuition fees, and buying the school materials that he will be needing next school year.  Ganun ata talaga ang mga nanay, we plan in advance!

As a WISE TIP, what I usually do is make an inventory of school things that can be re-used or recycled.  In my case, I also include things that can be handed down, from my eldest to my youngest. 

Only after the inventory, will I make a final list of what I am going to buy at my go-to bookstore.  I always shop with my teens, because I want them to realize how much am I paying for school stuffs, so they will learn to take good care of them and most importantly... tipirin!

And speaking of planning in advance... as early as now (my teens are incoming grades 11 and 12) I am scouting for colleges/universities where it is ideal to enroll them based on their chosen strands.

So when I was invited to the media launch of NBS College -- I was excited to attend and learn more about this new educational institution.

NATIONAL BOOKSTORE COLLEGE

After 75 years if supporting Filipinos' education and lifelong learning, National Bookstore is taking the next step by creating an institution for higher learning at the heart of Quezon City.  NBS College is located on the 3rd and 4th floors of the National Book Store Building on Quezon Avenue corner Scout Borromeo and Panay Avenue.

For school year 2018-19, its pioneer year, it will be offering six in demand degree programs: BS Accountancy, BS Accounting Information System, BS Entrepreneurship, BS Computer Science, BS LIbrary and Information Science and BS Tourism Management.

NBS College President Adrian Ramos announced, that academic scholarships are open for qualified students from both public and private SHS.  Most importantly, a scholarship grant of Php12,500 a year for the pioneer batch will also be given, and tuition per unit locked-in for 4 years.  Malaking katipiran ito para sa mga nanay di ba?

WHY CHOOSE NBS COLLEGE

During the media launch, the dean of NBS college was asked, why would parents consider this college as a college choice for their children, over colleges and universities that have been in the education business for more than decades.  And this is what he has to say...

FAT DADDY'S SMOKEHOUSE, A MEAT LOVERS HAVEN!

It was a fine Sunday afternoon when we visited Fat Daddy's Smokehouse in UP Town Center.  By WE, it was 75% of the "wise-family".  My son had to attend a birthday party so he missed out on this awesome gustatory experience.  

Let me tell you more about it!

WHERE IT ALL STARTED:

Fat Daddy's Smokehouse, which is popular for its juicy rack of perfectly smoked ribs, has grown from its first branch at Dau Marikina. The Versoza siblings wanted to bring to the Filipinos the smokehouse experience they all love and enjoy, from all their travels abroad. For all of you foodies out there, I am sure you have heard of their famous surname -- the siblings now manage the trusted Josiah's catering.

Trivia: When they were thinking of an appropriate logo for Fat Daddy's - the artist made this cute chubby, moustached man... without realizing that it looked like daddy Boyet Versoza :)

photo courtesy: www.acigirl.com

FAT DADDY's EXPERIENCE:

I have to admit, in the family, I am the veggie-seafood lover. But any given opportunity to eat meat, I enjoy ribs!  I need all the protein I can get :) But my teens and Mr.Wise are all certified carnivores!  Especially the hubby, who knows good quality beef/pork when he tasted one.  Also, because he is the "king of the kitchen" at home (read: he is in charge of cooking!)

First to arrive is JERA'S ULTIMATE PULLED PORK AND BACON.  A serving of tortilla chips with generous toppings of bacon, pulled pork, tomatoes, corn salsa with cheese, garlic and barbecue sauces.  Because I love anything and everything with cheese -- I enjoyed this as a starter. 

JERA'S ULTIMATE PULLED PORK AND BACON HALF  Php330

Then came the BUTTERMILK FRIED LIVERS.  It was crunchy, tasty, but retained its "melt-in-the-mouth" consistency, which I think would be best eaten with beer or any other alcoholic drink, because I find its texture somewhat empowering. The alcohol will definitely neutralize that feeling... me thinks!

BUTTERMILK FRIED LIVERS  Php185

WHERE TO GO WHEN YOUR KIDS HAVE DEVELOPMENTAL DELAYS

As a mother, I was so obsessed recording my children’s milestones. In fact, On their first birthday party, I displayed photos of their monthly progress. 

Mommies like me remember their kids first word, first steps, etc.  Sometimes, we get so stressed when there are developmental delays in our kids.  We even compare our kids with other kids when in comes to physical and intellectual development. (Hey, I admit I was guilty of this).

But did you know, instead of stressing yourselves out, there is a place and there are experts to help you  and answer your concerns on children development?

THE MEDICAL CITY CENTER FOR DEVELOPMENTAL PEDIATRICS

TRUE STORY:  First time mom Cielo had a feeling that her baby had a developmental delay. She knew the developmental milestones by heart. At 9 months, a baby must be able to make a lot of different sounds like “mama” and must understand “no”.  Cielo said her son does not make any sound at all at 11 months. She was advised by her pediatrician to bring her child to a center that provides developmental screening.  A friend referred her to the Medical City Center Developmental Pediatrics.

I instilled in my children to always take care of their bodies.  If they feel some weird symptoms or pain, we always end up at the doctors clinic.  Better to catch diseases early on. Symptoms shouldn’t be ignored.  When it comes to developmental disorders, it is the same – experts say that early identification is very important To the well being of children and their families.  Early detection is the key to helping children develop their potential.  This is why the CDP offers routine screening to identify children at risk for developmental and behavioral problems using standardized tools.

MRS.WISE NAYA BOUTIQUE SPA EXPERIENCE

THE POWER OF SCENT

Certain scents evoke happiness. Or memories.  Something similiar to Dr. Shaun Murphy's reaction to pine trees  :)   (Yes, Mrs.Wise is a big fan of The Good Doctor)

Its experiencing nostalgia when you smell your nanay's cooking.  Or excitement when you smell that scent your hubby was wearing when you first met him. Or you become teary-eyed when you smell the scent of babies -- makes you want to rewind the years back.  I swear --- all these three emotions I have experienced.  

This is the exact experience when I entered Naya Spa. The smell of peppermint felt very welcoming.  I've always associated peppermint scent to relaxation.  So right away I knew my Naya Boutique experience will be truly relaxing  :)

REJUVENATE FROM SKIN TO SOUL

If you are a full time mommy-freelancer like me, I bet you feel tired most of the time. Because motherhood is a 24-7 job. And being a freelancer that works at home most of the time -- makes it doubly tiring. Imagine my day -- trying to concentrate on writing, but I see the dirty laundry, dishes and floors -- and my mind goes berserk.  

So when there is a chance to relax and rejuvenate, I will grab it!  The idea of a body scrub, foot rubs, face mask -- is an indulgence I cannot resist. And I found an ideal place where I can experience such an indulgence -- at Naya Boutique Spa, at the heart of Quezon City.

 

Julie Magno, one of the owners, brings a diverse experience of pampering by launching their online store www.nayaboutiquespa.com.  She provides an uplifting experience for her clients even if they are not physically present at the spa. She believes that pampering should be available anytime, anywhere.

MRS.WISE SPA EXPERIENCE

I was treated to a lavender body scrub.  Lavender is known for its soothing and calming effect.  Not only did the lavender scent relaxed me, the mild scrubbing motion worked as a gentle massage on my body. 

Right after, I was given the gold facial mask.  The cooling mask stayed on my face for a good 30 minutes.  Very refreshing. I think its the ultimate way to pamper your face that is being exposed to the summer heat. 

After I showered, I loved the overall effect. My skin (face included) was soft to touch.  Dead skin cells are gone.  No itchiness and no red spots, so I can say that the products they used on me were of high quality.

IMPERIAL HOMES: SOLAR POWERED COMMUNITY AND MORE!

This post is dedicated to the following people:

>> those who are looking for a worthy investment. By worthy, it only means value for your hard earned money!

>> those who would one day leave their children "heirloom" properties, as in properties that can be literally transferred from generation to generation

>> and... for those who are into the advocacy of green, sustainable living.  

I was so excited to be invited and travel all the way to Sto.Tomas Batangas, for the launch of the Philippines' first lifetime home and its second generation of solar-powered low cost housing -- Imperial Lifetime Homes.

THE FUTURE OF HOUSE BUILDING: ECO-HOMES

This is very timely, because the tandem of Mr. and Mrs.Wise is looking into converting our house into a true solar-powered green eco home.  Oh well, we have started ten years ago, when we built it, to at least make it GREEN.   High ceiling and big windows made us enjoy lesser electricity consumption.  Less lights, and no airconditioning unit. We also made sure that there are trees and plants all around for better air circulation and constant oxygen supply.

HOMES THAT WILL LAST YOU FOR A HUNDRED YEARS! 

Imperial Homes Corp. is breaking the world record by producing high-performance concrete house panels that can last a lifetime for low-cost homes in the Philippines. The Imperial Lifetime Home is the first low-cost housing line in the Philippines to use Connovate, a high-performance concrete building technology developed in Denmark and intended for the high-end market.

ARE YOU BEACH BODY READY?

I heard something funny over dinner the other night:

ME:    Kakain na tayo nag protein shake ka pa?
DAUGHTER:   Eh I just finished working out. I need my protein shake!
ME:  Talaga?   (complete with eyes rolling)
DAUGHTER:   Yup. Papa said the other night, we need our beach bodies. Pati siya nagwo-work out din!
ME:   (sounds of crickets and more eyes rolling)  OMG!

This is my crazy family come summer time. They suddenly become body conscious. My son, you wouldn't believe, will just enter the bedroom and blurts out "Mama, do you have a whitening soap?"  Oh my.... 

BEACH BODY READY:

Ok. Let's be serious.  With only a few weeks till vacation -- I don't think we can achieve as a family a beach-ready-with-6-pack-abs-body!  So what I will share with you my dear readers -- is my latest discovery as far as -- skin whitening is concerned.

A lot of my friends get insecure showing off some skin during summer.  Because of ugly dark spots, especially in the knee and elbow area.  If you can lighten it a bit, why not? 

MORRISON LOTION  249

SRP:  249.00

Is a paraben-free whitening lotion for pigmented elbows and knees.  It has Microwhyte Moisture technology from Japan that promises whitening and smoothening of rough areas.

What I like about it:  I love its distinct gentle baby smell that remains on the skin for a long time.  It is NOT sticky and actually and leaves a light and smooth feeling to the skin instantly  (lotions tend to give sticky and yucky feeling when applied during summer).  

BELLISSIMA EGG WHITE  55

SRP:  55.00

Its kindda cute.  Shaped like an egg!  It is made from real egg whites.  And just like egg whites, it helps tighten and brighten skin.  

What I like about it:  Again I love the gentle smell, not so overpowering. It also has a rich, creamy lather that leaves the skin soft even on the first application.  

Momshies (and daddies too) -- will keep you posted on this blog article if both products will live up to its promise of "whitening".  Like any other beauty products, you will not see the effects with one time use. You just have to put in a little effort, use it daily for a couple of weeks, and hope that it works!

SM WOMAN: GLAMMED UP AND EMPOWERED

This is the photo I posted on my instagram in celebration of International Women's Day!

I am a woman, capable of doing extraordinary things! Gave birth twice via lamaze... Can you imagine that strength? How about you...what super woman strength do you possess? Happy International Women's Day!!! . .. ... #mrswiseblog #mrswiseadventure #positivity #girlpower #superpower #woman #femininity #womensmonth #WeMakeChangeForWomen #lifestyleph #lifestyleblogger #travel #travelbloger #momblogger #mommyhoodisawesome

A post shared by tina perez (@itsmemrs.wise) on Mar 7, 2018 at 5:40pm PST

Being a mommy -- I consider myself a SUPERWOMAN for multi-tasking and bringing forth two human beings to this planet.  It is not an easy task, takes a lot of patience and hard work, but I did it. Survived the early years, and I am not fully concentrating on the next phase -- teenage years.  And yes it is equally daunting and exhausting -- more on the emotional than the physical aspect  :)

With that -- I remind you fellow mommies, to continue taking care of yourselves. That is one way of giving your family all the love, you need to love yourselves first!

I AM SM WOMAN

SM Woman brings out the best in women, no matter what age, size or shape. Their main objective is to empower women to feel good. To be beautiful, confident, strong and driven. Who wouldn't want those traits right?

MEGAN YOUNG:  share her thoughts on women empowerment

CELEBRATING WOMEN'S MONTH AT SM

It was a fun filled afternoon celebrating Women's Month at SM MOA.  Megan Young shared that she wants to encourage other women to be who they really are. Guests, that includes me of course... had a glimpse of some summer's colorful accessories, clothes and shoes for the empowered ladies!

For the entire month of March, SM Woman is giving "What Women Want" with the best of the best offers starting with up to 50% off on great selections and buy 1 get 1 deals. Exciting mall events include the Women's Sale on all Wednesdays of March. There is also the Ladies' Wellness Camp for tips and hacks from style gurus one wellness, nutrition and fitness.

SM Supermalls is on the lookout for beautiful, strong, confident, fierce and driven women who believe, support and empower other women, standing tall amidst all challenges that come their way. These women are encouraged to join this women empowerment movement for a chance to win stunning prizes!  Plus, winners will each receive a power portrait taken by Niccolo Cosme that will be showcased through an exhibit at SM Megamall on March 22.

Here's a glimpse dear readers of the fashion show that transpired on that day! Enjoy and continue to feel fabulous every single day!

LOVE FOR ARCHITECTURE + PHOTOGRAPHY = SYNTHESIS

Very seldom that I attend 2 events in one day.  As an urban commuter, I find it too "taxing" to travel from one place to another on public transportation.  By public transpo, I mean -- jeepney, bus, mrt.  Now that the weather is getting hotter (summer is just around the corner)  its doubly tiring to commute!

But when I got the invite to SYNTHESIS -- I couldn't say no!

 

Why?  Because it will feature two of my favorite disciplines -- architecture and photography.  I love houses. I have the tendency to just stand in front of a building or a structure and just stare at it. Breathing in and enjoying the intricate details - or simply imagining what it feels like living everyday of my life in one awesome eco-friendly house!

I also love photography.  I am a struggling photographer.  I sometimes get lucky with my shots. But I am far from being an expert. I am always amazed how photographers can take the most amazing photos.

BUDJI + ROYAL

Is a design firm led by the visionary tandem of Budji Layug and Royal Pineda, who together conceived a total design approach where architecture, interior design, furniture, styling and landscaping would be planned into an integrated whole specifically for the unique needs of each project.  The partnership continues its advocacy of Modern Filipino Design -- that I really LOVE.  Imagine a modern take on our nipa hut. Or incorporating the idea of "bringing nature in" -- the Philippines being a tropical country.

THE ARTIST:  MARC HENRICH GO

A multi-awarded photographer who has won numerous competitions and completed many international commissions.  He has travelled the country, and the world, collaborating with the DOT for travel photography (Ok, I admit I am envious).  

Marc is a graduate of B.S. Architecture from the University of Santo Tomas and recently placed Top 1 in the January 2018 Architect Licensure Examination. So this exceptional artist knows Architectural Photography without a doubt.

His approach is a fusion of both professions, allowing him to interpret the essence of architectural masterpieces in his own extraordinary perspective. But what I liked most in his works -- the story that each photos tell.  As a writer, I can weave a story or two just by staring at his photographs  :)

THE EXHIBIT:

SYNTHESIS is an exposition of the harmony between two arts -- architecture and photography.  A first of its kind demonstration of #ArtInAura, the evocative photos are set to indulge mall visitors with meaningful spatial experience of atmosphere and emotion through architectural photography.

LIVING SPACE IN DAYLIGHT,
 SILANG CAVITE 2016

CANTILEVER REFLECTION
MANILA 2017

Catch this wonderful exhibit from February 28-March8 at the Upper Ground Atrium of SM Aura Premier.  This is a part of SM's National Arts Month celebration.

So was it worthy that I had a very tiring two-event day yesterday?  A BIG YES!  Because I truly enjoyed Synthesis and meeting Budji and Royal -- artists that I truly respect!