All-Around Pinay Mama

Peryang Adarna: Adarna House Celebrates 35th Anniversary

June 13, 2015

Adarna books have been part of my life since childhood. I have used them as tools for prelection when teaching my preschool students. I'm still collecting different titles because I never get tired of reading them most especially now that I'm a mom. Reading Adarna books with my children is a fun learning experience for all of us.

These books are part of my Adarna Book Collection.

Adarna House is the developer and publisher of educational products and services to instill in Filipinos, old and young alike, the love of reading and learning. Its products consist of all original publications that feature Filipino values, culture, history, and experiences that are being written and created by top Filipino writers and illustrators. Adarna House is considered a pioneer in the Philippine industry. Its aim is to promote the best educational products and services that nurture the values, love of country, and multilingual literacy of Filipino children in every home, school, and community. It works hand in hand with private and public institutions who also share their enthusiasm for children, commitment to education, and passion for reading.

On the 24th of May 2015, Adarna House celebrated its 35th anniversary through the event, "Peryang Adarna" at Trinoma Activity Center, Quezon City. Families were invited to join the whole day carnival-themed event. Peryang Adarna featured game and activity booths with Filipino games like Piko, Tirador, and Tumbang Preso.

Peryang Adarna Teaser (Courtesy: Adarna House Facebook Page)

There was a short program hosted by celebrity mom, Camille Prats, at 3:00 PM. Musical numbers by Pundaquit Virtuosi headed by Julliard-trained, Coke Bolipata, dance performance by Movement Studio, and story-telling session by Luisito "Kuya Bodjie" Pascua and Earle Figuracion entertained the families.

New books were also launched to add to Adarna House's over 500 titles. There was book signing by writers and illustrators after the program.

Adarna Digital, Adarna House's recently developed apps based on its popular books for a new generation of Filipinos globally was presented. It was inevitable that literature started to evolve online.

Playing and joining fun activities were more fun with my family! Kudos to Adarna House for organizing Peryang Adarna!

Entrance was free of charge. Each accompanied child presented any Adarna published book at the ticket booth and was given a ticket.

The child participant that visited and finished the activities of all booths had the chance to join the raffle. The stamped ticket served as the raffle coupon.

Ate Jewel won Php5,000 worth of gift certificate from the raffle. (Courtesy: Adarna House Facebook Page and @spyglasstree on Instagram)

My family enjoyed Peryang Adarna. It was memorable for me because it was the first time that Bunso joined me in a blogger event. It was revealed that his attention span increased as he was able to stand a crowded place and join other kids in games and fun activities.

Thanks, Adarna House, for organizing Peryang Adarna! Happy 35th anniversary and more to come!

See more photos of Peryang Adarna HERE.

Collective Post About Best 2015 Summer Workshops, Lessons, and Sports Clinics + Tips on Encouraging Kids to Engage

April 11, 2015

I believe that we, parents, should be supportive in what our children would love to do for them to grow up well-rounded persons. We should always be there for them to grow holistically. Summer is the perfect time for our kids to hone their skills in activities that they love to do. Through engaging into summer activities, they may also discover what they like to be when they grow up.

I've been so busy with my mom and mompreneur duties since summer vacation has started. My eagerness to create my own article about the best summer workshops for kids in the Metro has been set aside. I don't want to disappoint you, Mars at Pards, that's why I searched the internet to get the best articles for you. Here they are:

2015 Summer Workshops, Lessons and Sports Clinics for Kids in Metro Manila by Louise Fandino (Mommy Practicality)

2015 Summer Classes and Activities in Metro Manila for Kids by Ma. Celin Mendoza (Mastermom Speaks)

Your Guide: A Roundup of 2015 Summer Workshops in Metro Manila for Kids! by Khaye-Mydette Cardenas Macalinao (Shining Mom)

2015 Summer Classes & Activities: Sports and Camping by Jazer Basan (Smart Parenting)

2015 Summer Classes & Activities: Visual Arts & Crafts by Jazer Basan (Smart Parenting)

Learning is a continuous process and should never stop when the school year ends.

Just in case your kids are clueless on what activities to choose, here are my tips:

1 ASK YOUR KIDS.

Help them decide by probing, "What do you really like to do?" If they answer, they like to rest and stay at home, let them be. Don't force them to enroll in summer activities. But make sure that they have something to do while staying at home. You may teach them to do household chores, give them new books to read based on their interests, let them watch educational videos like documentaries, or play outdoor games with them. You may also start limiting their gadget exposure because too much of its usage is harmful to their social and intellectual development.

2 HELP YOUR KIDS DECIPHER BASED ON YOUR OBSERVATIONS.

If they say that they like to enroll to any summer workshop or class but they are confused on what to choose, guide them, give them choices based on what you observe that they can enjoy. Take into consideration their learning styles and multiple intelligence. From these steps, surely you're going to arrive into consensus.

I know some parents who are pushing their kids to do activities that "THEY LIKE BUT THEIR KIDS DON'T LIKE". Based on experience, success rate is high when kids like what they do. They excel when the activities that they are engaged with are not being forced by their parents. They do them effortlessly and lovingly.

3 IF BUDGET IS THE ISSUE, LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVES.

For example, your kids want to enroll in three courses, that means you need more financial resources. If you can afford them all, well go ahead. Don't hinder your kids' enthusiasm to learn. But if the budget is tight, please be honest and give them alternatives that don't shortchange their learning potential. Let them choose one activity that they really, really like and tell them that they can do the others next time.

If you really don't have the budget for a single summer workshop, it's not the end of the world. Talk to your kids in a way that they can understand. The internet has a wide array of resources where you can get plenty of do-it-yourself summer activity ideas that your kids can truly enjoy.

Have a productive summer!

Learn Ballet from Prima Ballerina Lisa Macuja- Elizalde

March 28, 2015

Nothing beats learning from the expert. When it comes to classical ballet, no one could ever surpass the achievements of Lisa Macuja- Elizalde.

Lisa started taking lessons in ballet at age 8. She would later become a scholar at the Vaganova Choreographic Institute also known as the Academy of Russian Ballet at Saint Petersburg, Russia. She is the first foreigner to join Russia's Kirov Ballet.

Lisa was the first artist-in-residence of the Cultural Center of the Philippines and in 1995 she established her very own company, Ballet Manila. The company recently celebrated its 20^th anniversary.

In 2014, Lisa celebrated 30 graceful years of stunning ballet performances. She has happily retired from performing and is now focused on mentoring future ballerinas as Directress of the School of Ballet Manila. Lisa's school is the only Philippine ballet school directly associated with the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet in St. Petersburg, Russia.

"What makes us different from other companies is our commitment to the highest standards of classical ballet based on our Russian Vaganova roots," Lisa explains.

One of the main training techniques of classical ballet, the distinct characteristic of this style is the ballerina's flexible shoulder motion as each step is executed. Other dancers simply move with "square" shoulders.

"The Vaganova method involves the entire body. Arms, legs and torso move in perfect harmony. Dancers trained by this method jump higher and do powerful turns. The technique require dancers to remain in the air for a long time, as if they are floating," she said.

If your children are showing interest in dance, why not send them to ballet classes during the summer vacation? Ballet Manila offers several novel and fun programs for young and talented dancers. Apart from the basics of the dance art, the classes follow a holistic approach by including fun activities for a more engaging summer endeavor.

For example, apart from ballet techniques taught in the baby ballet class, the students learn to play musical instruments and create props using fabrics. The intensive dance exercises in the intermediate class is combined with street dance, yoga and pilates. There will also be lectures on injury prevention, film screening about ballet and inter-active workshops with theater artists.

Ballet Manila’s summer intensive program is composed of the following classes:

Maria Ballerina

The Maria Ballerina Class is for students from 3-5 years old. They will learn proper ballet techniques, develop motor skills, coordination, rhythm and musicality. The students will also work with fabrics, props and musical instruments for a more enhanced learning experience.

Fairy Tale Ballet

The Fairy Tale Ballet Class with Tap and Tumble is for students ages 6-8. Combined with magical fairy tale dances and stories, students learn to appreciate self-control, joy in movement, body awareness, rhythm, musicality along with the structure of classical ballet. It also includes classes in Tap Dance, Tumbling and Gymnastics for musicality and rhythm development.

Beginner

Beginner Ballet Class is for young dancers ages 7-12 with no or limited ballet experience or training. The springboard course for classical ballet, aside from basic movements, concepts of rhythm, space, direction and music patterns are reinforced.

Intermediate

The Intermediate level is for students ages 12-14 open to boys and girls with previous ballet training. The classes include advanced barre work, intensive exercises and combinations, partnering and classical variations. The students will also learn street dance, yoga, pilates plus enrichment workshops to boost their dance appreciation.

Advanced

The Advance Level is for ages 14 years old and above with several years of ballet training. Also known as the pre-professional level, aside from the more complicated exercises and dance combinations it covers repertoire and variation learning which encourage students to become more expressive. The program includes additional classes in modern and contemporary dances like street dance, yoga and pilates, secondary classes in ballet technique and partnering and enrichment workshops.

Adult Classes

One is never too old to pursue a passion. Ballet Manila also offers classes for the young at heart. The adult ballet classes accept students who are willing to learn, including those minimal or zero dance background.

The summer workshop will run from April 6 - May 31; with enrollment ongoing until April 19. All participants will be part of the summer recital on May 31 at the Aliw Theater, where students will have a chance to perform alongside senior Ballet Manila dancers.

Ballet Manila is located at 1915 Donada Street, Pasay City and has a satellite school in Crossfit Halcyon in Fisher Mall.

Interested parties may enroll at Ticketworld outlets or via www.ticketworld.com.ph. All BPI credit card holders are entitled to an exclusive 20-25% discount off tuition fees.

For inquiries, email info@balletmanila.com.ph or call (+632) 400 0292 and (+632) 525 5967.

Sound Kaleidoscope: A One of a Kind Concert Experience

March 13, 2015

A few days before Valentine's Day, I won two Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra Sound Kaleidoscope concert tickets from Lotus Biscoff and Certified Bloggers. It was the first raffle that I won this year! Having no winner's luck was not an excuse! Those tickets were really meant for me. I was so lucky!

Instead of me watching with Papa to make it as our Valentine's date, I decided to make it as a Father and Son Date instead. I was so sure that Kuya would really appreciate it. He had no experience watching concerts or stage plays at Cultural Center of the Philippines. Exposure to an orchestra concert would also give him more inspiration to pursue his passion in playing drums. By the way, he is currently a member of his school orchestra where he plays other percussion instruments aside from drums.

Watching the concert would surely make Kuya very, very happy. Papa deserved to unwind too. He's been stressed out due to the demands of his further studies and work. It would be a breather for him.

As instructed by Mommy Sol Razo, the Head Administrator of Certified Bloggers, my boys claimed the tickets from Miss Christine Reyes at the Lotus Biscoff booth on February 13, the day of the concert itself.

Papa said that Kuya's eyes were twinkling as they entered the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater). They were escorted right in front of the stage where Kuya saw his orchestra instructor who was about to perform with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. He was so delighted to see him. It made him more excited to witness the show!

What they watched was CONCERT 6. Olivier Ochanine, music director and principal conductor of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, led the orchestra in performing the works of Sibelius, Dvorak and Haydn. Pei-Sian Ng, principal cellist of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra was guest soloist.

It was indeed a night to remember. Papa and Kuya went home with lots of stories to tell and fond memories to keep. They were oozing with good vibes! They enjoyed and loved the concert so much!

They said that the long trip was worth it. They also told me to encourage you to watch either of the two remaining Sound Kaleidoscope concerts:

CONCERT 7

March 20, 2015 | Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater)

Yoshikazu Fukumura, Conductor

Rossini: Overture to Semiramide

Haydn: Symphony No. 82 ("The Bear")

Ravel: Ma Mere l'Oye

CONCERT 8

April 24, 2015 | Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater)

Part- Fratres

Buenaventura- Mindanao Sketches

Ravel- El Alborado del Gracioso

Respighi- Pini di Roma

Tickets are very affordable for such a world class concert. Ticket prices are PHP1,500/ 1,200/ 800/ 500/ 400/ 300. For inquiries and subscriptions, please call the CCP Marketing Department (832-1125 loc. 1804), the CCP Box Office (832-3704), or Ticket World at National Bookstore (891-9999). Discounts and subscriptions available for students, senior citizens, and groups.

The two boys guaranteed that you'd enjoy the concert as much as they did!

Source

Thank you, Lotus Biscoff and Certified Bloggers, for this wonderful opportunity!

I'll Join Mommy Bloggers Philippines Mini Photography Workshop!

February 19, 2015

When I was in high school, I dreamed of studying photography and making it as a hobby or profession. Unfortunately due to financial constraints, I left that dream behind.

Photography in the 90's was not just very expensive but also tasking. Imagine, you would buy films and have them developed after the shoot. If the shots weren't nice, we couldn't delete them and reuse the films.

Due to the advent of digital age, photography is still expensive but waste of money is already minimized. All we have to do is to purchase a good camera, tablet, or android phone. There are many choices nowadays and we don't need to buy expensive ones. What we can do is to improve our photography skills by reading articles from magazines, books, and here on the internet. We can also join forums or attend workshops to learn from experts.

As a blogger and business owner, I like to share photos on my websites which are pleasing to the eyes for my followers and clients to enjoy because I prefer the same when I do blog hopping and doing purchases online. I love to see nice photographs! They speak so much more than words can say. I have no further knowledge about professional photography. I just love taking and appreciating photos but I need to learn more.

For me attending workshops is still the best option in learning this art because I'm a visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learner. I learn best by combining these three. When Mommy Bloggers Philippines offered the Mini Photography Workshop, I signed up immediately.

For less than a thousand pesos there will be so much in store for the attendees and most of all, Joy Gurtiza of Joy Bites will be the one teaching! Oh my! I am a big fan of hers because she is a really, really good photographer. You may see her portfolio here: joybites.com/portfolio/.

Let me share with you why we shouldn't miss this workshop.

Mommy Bloggers Philippines

Take Blog Worthy Photos Mini Photography Workshop

Mommy Blogger’s Philippines is having its first ever workshop! The workshop focuses on Taking Blog Worthy Photos and is a mini photography workshop.

To be held on February 21, Saturday with two 3-hour sessions, Mommy Bloggers Philippines aims to inspire and increase your knowledge on how to take amazing photos through your point-and-shoot cameras, camera phones, and your DSLR.

Mommy blogger Joy Gurtiza of joybites.com will share techniques and practical tips on how to take blog worthy shots of anything and everything under the sun.

The workshop will cover harnessing the use of natural light, prop styling, composition, DIY tools and post-processing techniques. It also includes a demo, hands on practice and photo critique.

Joy Gurtiza will teach everything she knows about natural light photography.

Studio light set-up will be included in the discussion. This will be helpful if we prefer to take our photos indoors or during night time.

Mommy Bloggers Philippines has collaborated with Raintree Restaurants for the workshop venues. The AM session will be at Museum café/Kabila in Greenbelt 4 and the PM session will be at Saboten in Glorietta 5. Food and drinks are FREE!

AM Class: 10am-1pm- Museum Cafe/ Kabila in Greenbelt 4
PM Class: 2pm-5pm- Saboten in Glorietta 5

Generous sponsors will also be providing raffle items and giveaways for the attendees! Everyone will bring home worth of Php1,500.00 gift bag INSTANTLY and will have a chance to WIN worth of Php5,000 of merchandise from sponsors.

Join the workshop and learn photography strategies that will help you take memorable photos worthy to be shared to your loved ones, your friends online or on your blog.

The seminar fee costs Php600 for MBP members and Php650 for non-MBP members but the things that you will learn and the freebies you'll get will be all worth it! Remember, KNOWLEDGE IS PRICELESS!

To sign up please click this link: https://docs.google.com/…/1Wy9FxNEdA5y04Iz6CHB1rEk…/viewform

SEE YOU THERE!

Peryang Adarna: Adarna House Celebrates 35th Anniversary

Collective Post About Best 2015 Summer Workshops, Lessons, and Sports Clinics + Tips on Encouraging Kids to Engage

Learn Ballet from Prima Ballerina Lisa Macuja- Elizalde

Sound Kaleidoscope: A One of a Kind Concert Experience

I'll Join Mommy Bloggers Philippines Mini Photography Workshop!

SJ Valdez

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