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How We Fell in Love with The Biggest Story Bible Storybook Curriculum (and Our Favorite Upgrades!)

2026-10-12T14:00:00.000+08:00

If you’re a homeschooling parent, a Sunday school volunteer, or simply someone looking to intentionalize your family's devotional time, you know how hard it can be to find resources that strike the perfect balance. You want something that captivates a child’s imagination without watering down the profound truth of Scripture.

For our family, that perfect balance came in the form of a beautifully unexpected gift: The Biggest Story Bible Storybook by Kevin DeYoung.

My cousin originally gifted us the book, and from the moment we opened it, we were absolutely hooked. If you aren't familiar with it, it's a magnificent 104-chapter journey through the overarching narrative of Scripture, connecting the dots from Genesis all the way to Christ's redemption and the new creation. Not only is the prose incredibly engaging, but the stunning, vibrant illustrations by artist Don Clark bring the text to life in a way that hooks kids immediately.

Our Simple Weekly Rhythm

Because our schedules can get hectic, we don't try to force a stressful daily routine. Instead, we aim to use the curriculum at least twice a week. This flexible pace gives us plenty of breathing room while still keeping the stories fresh in our minds. It has become a steady, sweet anchor in our week that we all look forward to, rather than just another checklist item to rush through.

Starting Small (and Free!)

When we first started incorporating it into our routine, we decided to take advantage of the digital resources. A huge blessing for families trying out the ecosystem is that The Biggest Story Website offers an incredible array of free lessons and printables.

We regularly use these free tools to dive deeper into the chapters during our twice-a-week sessions. The printables—ranging from downloadable coloring pages to structured discussion prompts—make it so simple to keep little hands busy while we talk through what we're reading. It transformed our reading time from a passive activity into an interactive, family-focused discussion.

Milestones and Upgrades: Wrapping Up Volume 1

We’ve been on this journey for a while now, and right now, we are just about to finish Volume 1 (The Pentateuch)! Closing out these first 20 foundational lessons from Genesis through Deuteronomy has been such a rewarding milestone for us.

But this milestone is actually twice as special for our home. This curriculum hasn't just been a tool for my daughter—this journey marks my very first time reading through the Bible, too! Seeing the overarching story of Scripture unfold beautifully alongside her gave me the inspiration and the reason to finally invest in our very own family Bible. Now, I am reading right along with her, and we are learning together.

Because my daughter has become so deeply engaged in these stories—and because it has grown into a personal faith journey for me as well—I decided to celebrate this year by investing a little more into our routine. I officially purchased the physical Bible companion resources (like The Biggest Story Activity Book and verse memory cards) to complement our routine!

Adding the companion materials to our bookshelf has been a complete game-changer. While the free printables are a spectacular way to dip your toes in the water, having the dedicated physical companion provides a much richer structure. It features deeper thematic connections, curated questions, and beautifully cohesive tools that meet her exactly where her growing curiosity is. Seeing her excitement build as she opens her own companion pages alongside the main book has made the purchase worth every penny.

Why It Works for Us

What I love most about this curriculum is that it doesn't just treat the Bible as a collection of isolated moral fables. It treats Scripture as one massive, beautiful, redemptive story centered on the Gospel. Whether you are a parent who is brand new to reading the Bible yourself or someone looking to pass a long-standing faith tradition down to your kids, the modular design adapts effortlessly to whatever time or age bracket you're working with.

As we prepare to pivot into Volume 2 (History), I can confidently say that if you are looking for a Christ-centered, visually stunning, and deeply biblical resource for your home, I cannot recommend The Biggest Story Curriculum enough. Start out with the excellent free tools online, and if your little ones fall in love with it like mine did, you won't regret upgrading your library with the companion books!

Have you used The Biggest Story Bible with your kids? If you're a parent reading the Bible for the first time alongside your children, I'd love to hear your experience too! Let me know in the comments below!

BOOK NOOK: THE GREAT BOOK SHARE 2026 Empowering Communities, One Book at a Time

2026-10-09T14:00:00.000+08:00

SM Supermalls Media Partnership— BATANGAS, Philippines — September 30, 2026 — A single book can spark curiosity, inspire imagination, and open a world of possibilities. SM Supermalls is inviting Batangueños to help make those possibilities accessible to more readers through Book Nook: The Great Book Share 2026, its annual nationwide book donation campaign supporting public libraries across the Philippines.

Following last year’s successful campaign, which collected more than 70,000 books and served 88 public libraries, SM Supermalls is once again bringing together generous individuals, families, organizations, partners, and communities to share books and help strengthen public library collections.

In Batangas, residents can donate books at SM City Batangas, SM City Lipa, SM Center Lemery, and SM City Sto. Tomas until October 25, 2026. The collected books will benefit local libraries in Batangas identified by the National Library of the Philippines.

SM Supermalls remains committed to making a lasting difference through initiatives that promote literacy, generosity, and lifelong learning. Through Book Nook, every contribution—big or small—can become part of a larger story of community empowerment.

Have books at home that deserve to be read again? Share them forward. Bring your pre-loved books to any of the designated donation booths at SM Malls in Batangas and help connect your stories with new readers.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving for a new era shaped by how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

Finding Our Rhythm: Our Eclectic 6th Grade Homeschool Curriculum Choices!

2026-10-05T10:00:00.000+08:00

Welcome back to the blog, friends! I can hardly believe I am typing these words, but we are officially in the 6th grade!

Entering the middle school years brings a beautiful shift toward deeper conversations, more independent learning, and a unique rhythm to our days. This year, we’ve built an eclectic, rich curriculum that beautifully blends structured core subjects, local academic requirements, and plenty of room for creative expression.

If you are planning your own year or just love a good curriculum sneak peek, here is a look at what we are loving for our 6th-grade homeschool journey!

The Core: Our Love for "The Good and the Beautiful"

If you’ve been following our journey for a while, it’s no secret that we are massive fans of The Good and the Beautiful. This year, we are continuing our reliance on their open-and-go curriculum for our core subjects:

Language Arts & Spelling: The Level 6 Language Arts integrates grammar, geography, literature, and art appreciation seamlessly. We especially love their intuitive approach to spelling, which builds confidence without overwhelming daily schedules.
Math: Simply Good and Beautiful Math keeps math engaging, visually stunning, and highly conceptual without requiring hours of teacher prep.

The independence these books foster at the 6th-grade level has been a massive win for our family!

Finding Our Flow: The Power of Weekly Subject Blocks

If you look into our homeschool room on any given day, you won’t find a strict, hour-by-hour daily schedule. We quickly realized that a rigid routine just doesn't work for us! Instead, we’ve leaned into weekly subject blocks, because that is exactly how my child learns best.

Instead of frantically shifting gears between ten different subjects every single day, we dedicate focused blocks of time during the week to dive deep into specific areas. This approach gives us the space to truly immerse ourselves in a subject without feeling rushed.

Here is how we balance it all:

The Daily Anchors: Our open-and-go core subjects—like The Good and the Beautiful Math and Language Arts—along with Typing.com serve as our gentle daily anchors. They are quick, efficient, and keep our core skills sharp.
The Deep Dive Blocks: We dedicate specific days or blocks of the week to focus heavily on our other subjects. One block might be entirely dedicated to a DepEd Science exploration and experimenting with our art. Another block is carved out exclusively for A Little Princess reading comprehension and our GMRC discussions.
The Enrichment Synergy: Because our school's Filipino and Araling Panlipunan enrichment classes are scheduled at set times, they act as the perfect structural pillars for our week. We build our flexible subject blocks around these live classes, giving us a beautiful harmony of independent, deep-dive learning and structured academic support.

This weekly block method has been an absolute game-changer. It honors my kid's natural learning style, reduces subject fatigue, and keeps our homeschool atmosphere peaceful and productive!

Deep Dives in Reading & Comprehension: A Custom-Fit Approach

While our core language arts is robust, we love anchoring our reading block around living literature. This year, we are using the classic novel "A Little Princess" by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

Because my daughter has a bit of a weakness in reading comprehension, I decided to skip generic, one-size-fits-all worksheets. Instead, I personally curated our own reading comprehension guide specifically for this novel!

By tailoring the discussion questions, vocabulary deep-dives, and character studies directly to her pace and unique learning style, we are turning a challenging area into a strength. There is nothing quite like exploring timeless themes through the pages of a beautiful story, especially when it is customized just for your child!

Character, Life Skills & Fine Motor Excellence

Balancing head-knowledge with heart-knowledge—and practical everyday skills—is a priority in our home.

GMRC: For Good Manners and Right Conduct, we are using The Biggest Storybook Story Bible Curriculum. It provides a wonderful framework for discussing faith, morals, and character growth in an accessible, visually narrative format.
TLE & Tech: Practical tech skills are taking the spotlight through Typing.com. It builds typing speed, keyboard fluency, and digital literacy—an absolute must-have skill as school assignments start getting a bit longer!
Cursive & Handwriting: While tech is important, we aren't letting beautiful penmanship slide! We are using Handwriting Without Tears to refine her cursive writing. It’s an amazing, stress-free curriculum that helps her build muscle memory, control, and pride in her everyday handwriting.

Science, MAPEH & The Ultimate Passion Project: Her First Art Exhibit!

For Science and the academic portions of MAPEH (Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health), we align our studies with the DepEd Academic framework. This keeps us beautifully on track with local benchmarks while giving us the ultimate flexibility to customize how we learn.

This year, our MAPEH and Art blocks have completely stolen the show, leading to one of the biggest highlights of our entire school year!

The Big Milestone—Her First Solo Exhibit: Last year, as part of her homeschool Passion Project, I enrolled her in formal acrylic painting sessions. Over the months, she quietly and diligently accumulated a stunning collection of finished canvases. This year, we decided to celebrate that hard work by mounting her first-ever art exhibit! Seeing her collection displayed collectively was an incredibly proud moment for our family. It was the perfect celebration of her commitment, creative voice, and artistic growth.
The Art Upgrade: Having explored the bold, forgiving world of acrylics, she is ready for a new challenge. This year, we are slowing down to master the delicate, fluid techniques of watercolor painting. It’s been an incredible exercise in patience, water control, and a completely different style of creative expression.
Holistic PE & Wellness: Physical Education looks a bit different in our homeschool—it’s not just about physical fitness but holistic well-being. We deeply value mental wellness, so we incorporate intentional mindfulness practices into our routine. For the physical side, we love tuning into easy yoga for kids on YouTube. It’s the perfect, low-stress way to stretch, move our bodies, practice breathwork, and clear our minds between heavy learning blocks!

Cultural Enrichment: Filipino & Araling Panlipunan

To make sure our home education remains deeply rooted, we also take advantage of our school's specialized enrichment classes for:

Filipino
Araling Panlipunan (Social Studies)

Having external guidance and community support for these subjects ensures a comprehensive grasp of local history, culture, and language proficiency, giving us the absolute best of both worlds.

Final Thoughts

Our 6th-grade year is shaping up to be a perfect mix of academic rigor, character building, and creative exploration. What I love most about homeschooling is the freedom to pivot—matching a structured, beautiful curriculum with independent skill-building, mental wellness, and deep-dive artistic passion projects like my daughter's beautiful exhibit.

Are you homeschooling a middle schooler this year? What are your favorite curriculum picks or passion projects? Let me know in the comments below!

Why Slow Reading Leads to Deep Learning in Our Homeschool

2026-09-20T12:09:19.187+08:00

The Magic of Slow Reading: How We Used ‘A Little Princess’ to Transform Our Literature Lessons

Teaching Classics the Slow Way
Inside Our A Little Princess Literature Study

In a world that constantly tells us to move faster, optimize, and skim the surface, there is a quiet, rebellious joy in slowing down.

Lately, our mornings have been anchored by a shared journey through Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic, A Little Princess. We are currently on Chapter 6. By modern standards, our pacing is slow, almost meditative. But the result? Something truly magical is happening. My daughter is completely hooked. She isn’t just reading the words; she is living in them, eagerly anticipating what happens next to Sara Crewe.

This experience has reinforced a profound truth about home education: when we give a story time to breathe, deep learning naturally follows. Here is a closer look at how we turned a century-old novel into a rich, multi-sensory literature study and how you can do the same.

The Power of Multimodal Learning for Visual Minds

Every child processes the world differently. Because my daughter is a visual learner, relying solely on dense, 19th-century text could have easily led to frustration. To bridge the gap, we paired our reading with the nostalgia-inducing 1985 anime adaptation, Princess Sarah.

Watching the narrative come alive on screen has been a wonderful way to help her visualize the foggy, cobblestone streets of Victorian London and the stark contrast between the Miss Minchin’s warm schoolrooms and the cold, bare attic. It proves that media doesn't have to be a distraction from literature; when used intentionally, it acts as a scaffold that makes the text accessible and vibrant.

Intentionality by Design: The Curated Literature Guide

To make our daily lessons feel seamless and purposeful, I knew I needed a roadmap. Before we even turned the first page, I built a complete, text-based literature guide designed to sit side-by-side with our open book.

By having this curated resource ready, we eliminated the friction of paused reading to look up archaic words or scrambling for comprehension questions on the fly. Inside her finished guide, we focus on three core areas:

Deep Character Profiles: We don't just list names. We dive into the internal worlds of Sara, the gentle kitchen maid Becky, and the people orbiting their lives, tracking how status, kindness, and adversity shape them.
A Bilingual Curated Glossary: Victorian English can feel like a foreign language to young readers. To ease this, I built a glossary featuring complex vocabulary paired with clear Tagalog translations and contextual sample sentences. This grounds the vocabulary in a language structure she already understands.
Gentle Retention Activities: Instead of rigid, high-stakes testing, we use thoughtful fill-in-the-blank exercises after each reading session. It’s a low-pressure, engaging way to celebrate what she remembers and solidify her reading comprehension.

(Note: While we use visual character cards and animation stills at home to support her learning style, these are strictly for personal use due to copyright and won't be included in shared materials).

Bringing the Resource to Your Learning Space

Watching this intentional approach enrich our mornings and foster a genuine love for classic literature has been incredibly rewarding. It reminded me why we choose to educate at home in the first place—to cultivate thinkers, not just test-takers.

Because the text guide is fully complete and beautifully formatted, I want to make it available to other home educators who want to elevate their child's comprehension skills without the stress of lesson planning from scratch.

If this comprehension guide is something you would love to add to your own learning space, or if you're curious about the exact, unabridged book edition we are using to match the guide perfectly, leave a comment below so I can send the details directly to your inbox! 👇

Homeschooling Fifth Year

2026-07-31T22:07:59.260+08:00

I realized that I haven't made a blog entry for our fifth year homeschooling journey. Life gets busy, and sometimes we are overwhelmed with things. It seems that 2025 is a year of coming back to reality after 5 years of the pandemic era. I am still not used to it. Things are getting back to normal and even much more. People tend to forget what we surpassed for the last 5 years. Well, for us, the first months of the year 2025 were bliss, and we were sick up to the very last month that we ended up getting hospitalized.

As for our homeschooling journey, I think the first quarter is the most energized quarter in each year. We were excited and ecstatic with new lessons, new routines, and even new curriculum. Then came the 2nd quarter, where we are a bit slowly transitioning to a more relaxed day-by-day lesson for each subject. The 3rd quarter was by far the most boring one because of the back-to-back holiday season. But since my husband took a leave from work, we were able to have our first staycation. We were also able to secure two workshops this year, one for her music (Serenata) and another for her arts (Star Art) subject.

As for our curriculum, we retain our The Good and the Beautiful language, spelling, and math. We explore the science unit study along with an independent bird unit curriculum for her interest. We also retain the keyboarding and digital citizen curriculum. We started out fine with learning about the Bible using The Biggest Story Bible Storybook, but along the way we incorporated again the Character Builder's Bible for easy highlights of Bible stories. We added the HWOT cursive handwriting practice for her fine motor skills. I must say that she likes it and uses it sometimes when she writes.

My daughter had her first workshop for acrylic painting, and she enjoyed it. We ended up enrolling for 8 sessions after that!

We also had our mini field trip for her bird study unit lesson for her to be exposed to the outside and learn about facts about birds. You can read our adventure here: Rancho Blance day tour

As of this writing (Feb 2026), we are on our first week of the 4th quarter and dealing with a passion project. So much of her arts activity for this year is aligned with the project, and I am glad that her efforts are not put to waste.

This was the start of her art journey. I have so much in store for the next homeschool year, bits and pieces to be shared next time.

Surviving and Thriving in the Evolving Remote Work Era: A 15-Year Perspective

2026-05-15T22:29:44.249+08:00

Fifteen years ago, I made a pivotal career decision: I committed to working entirely from home.

Long before "remote work" became a household term or a global standard, I was at my desk juggling deadlines and diapers. My daily reality consisted of navigating data typing projects, formatting documents, and executing online research with high accuracy—all while managing the beautiful chaos of being a Work-at-Home-Mom (WAHM).

Back then, the remote work community felt like a tight-knit circle of specialists. Today, that landscape is completely unrecognizable.

The Reality of the Modern WFH Landscape

If you have scrolled through job boards or freelancing platforms recently, you already know the truth: the online space is deeply saturated.

Evolving Tools: Dashboards change overnight, and software automation is everywhere.
Fierce Competition: Landing projects requires more resilience and effort than ever before.
Overcrowded Markets: Standing out in a sea of thousands of global applicants is a daily challenge.

For veterans who have been in this space since the beginning, surviving this shift is a quiet masterclass in adaptability. It forces us to ask: How do we continue to thrive when the marketplace feels so crowded?

The Undeniable Power of Longevity

Here is the biggest lesson 15 years in this space has taught me: trends change and platforms update, but the foundational need for reliability never goes away.

Artificial intelligence and automated systems can handle basic tasks. However, businesses still heavily rely on human precision, speed, and deep administrative experience. Software cannot replace the critical thinking, eye for detail, and trusted reliability that a seasoned professional brings to the table.

To my fellow long-term remote professionals navigating this shift: do not let the crowded market discourage you. Your longevity is your proof of concept. You have survived algorithm changes, platform updates, and economic shifts. Experience always finds a way.

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Join the Conversation: How have you seen the remote work landscape change since you first started? What strategies are you using to stand out today? Let’s talk in the comments below.

SM CITY LIPA’S ANGELS WALK DRAWS COMMUNITY TOGETHER IN CELEBRATION OF INCLUSION AND HOPE

2026-04-29T13:18:00.003+08:00

SM Supermalls Media Partnership—BATANGAS, Philippines, 29th April 2026 - Families, advocates, and supporters gathered in full force at SM City Lipa on April 26 for Angels Walk, drawing a total of 840 participants in a heartwarming show of unity and support for children on the autism spectrum.

The event transformed the mall into a vibrant space of acceptance as participants took part in a symbolic walk, proudly celebrating the uniqueness and strengths of every child. Smiles, cheers, and colorful expressions filled the venue, creating an atmosphere of joy and belonging for all.

A nationwide initiative by Autism Society Philippines (ASP) in partnership with SM Cares, Angels Walk became part of SM Supermalls’ continued commitment to build more inclusive communities. This meaningful event highlights the importance of awareness and encourages the public to embrace diversity with empathy and respect.

Beyond the walk, attendees were treated to engaging performances and interactive activities that showcased the talents of children on the spectrum. Families also shared inspiring stories, reinforcing the message that every individual deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

With the success of this year’s Angels Walk, SM City Lipa continues to strengthen its role as a space where diversity is embraced and communities come together in support of a shared cause.

For updates on upcoming events and initiatives, follow SM City Lipa on its official social media pages—because at SM Supermalls, everything we do is All For You.

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About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.

What you need to do first before ORUS Registration for Self-Employed Freelancers

2026-02-06T13:36:00.002+08:00

When I heard that tax filing and even business registration can all be done online, I took the leap of faith to update my tax type and information. Even if I know that systems here in the Philippines are not as smooth, I am also looking forward to at least the email for contact support being beneficial. Last year, I thought registration with ORUS was as easy as it may seem, but unfortunately, I need to update my records from the last work I've done. I've searched lots of tutorials online and even read the BIR guideline, but I have a headache moving forward. You really need to read between the lines.

First of all, this is for those individuals with existing TINs who wanted to update their registration as self-employed since they are now working as freelancers. In order for you to register online via ORUS, you need to update your email; it should be the same as the first email you used when you got your TIN application. But before you proceed, you also need to validate your TIN if you really have a working TIN, which you may have applied for before your very first work, or the TIN issued by your company.

1. Validate or verify your TIN via ORUS (https://orus.bir.gov.ph/home).

a. Simply click Verify TIN/Search BIR-Registered Business.

b. Click the PROCEED button.

c. Select Individual and fill out the necessary information for TIN verification.

d. Click the VERIFY button.

Now that you have a working TIN number, your next step is to update your email to be able to register your business via ORUS.

First go to https://www.bir.gov.ph/eServices, select Other Services, and find the TRRA or The Taxpayer Registration-Related Application (TRRA). It is the easiest application portal for you, so you don't have to visit the RDO branch upon updating of records. You need to choose letter D and get ready with the requirements, especially the filled-out form S1905.

After gathering the documentary requirements, proceed to Step 2 and select Updating of Email Address Application Sheet Form S1905. Proceed to Step 3. Usually, it will not divert you to email it directly using the website if you do not have a mailer installed on your PC. What I did was just fill out the buttons and manually email it through Gmail using the information here (RDO email and subject I need to input) and attach the necessary documents for the application.

I also include the body of the email specifically in a format like this:

Hi,

I'd like to update my personal information, including but not limited to my email address, contact number, RDO Branch, and permanent address, in order to register online through ORUS and further register for tax purposes as a freelancer.

Thank you.

After 4 working days I received an email stating that my application was successfully updated. Right there, I was able to register for the ORUS website and was able to generate my Digital TIN ID finally after years of waiting for a new and updated TIN ID from BIR. Thankful that my RDO branch, RDO58, was always quick to reply on email.

Staycation at Winners Cabin Oceanview

2025-12-11T22:06:00.002+08:00

It's been a year full of homeschool and work-from-home duties. We've been dreading having our mini getaway or staycation that is not so expensive and just a drive away from home. Thankfully we found one near our city, inexpensive but still catering to our needs to have a bit of privacy while we savor the vacation we needed to reset and relax.

When my husband returned from work abroad, we promised our daughter to have a mini staycation and have a swimming time together as a family. We were able to find a vacation rental house that is just right for the three of us and available at the earliest date that we aim for. You can book it on the Airbnb website or through their Facebook page. They have an ongoing promotion for now, so you can book a night for a cheaper cost but still can enjoy their full amenities.

The vacation house has a view of the ocean since it is located at a higher place, and trees are surrounding the area, so it's really a place where you can relax and feel the fresh air.

Situated in Masaguitsit, Lobo, Batangas, Winners Cabin Oceanview tiny house offers a panoramic view of the ocean and mountains. I enjoy the beautiful sunset after arriving from an hour drive going to the place. The plunge pool is perfect for our daughter, who wanted to submerge in water but was afraid to go deep. It is also an ideal bonding moment for a small family like us who just wanted to get away from the busy city and noise from everyday routine. This also serves as my first actual workstation away from home. My first and definitely not the last, since a breath of fresh air makes me want to work again out of town.

Their wifi connection is strong; although I have my data backup, it helps us with connecting to my work and my daughter's online class.

The amenities include a Netflix-ready TV and a portable speaker for your karaoke sessions. My daughter even had her own mini concert by the pool! The bathroom is sleek and even has a dryer and water heater. We brought our own food to cook with their mini kitchen, complete with pots and pans, plates, and utensils. You just need to bring your own condiments too. We also tried their tie-up cafe, 34 Valley Cafe, which also offers beach access. Unfortunately, since it's been raining, we didn't pursue walking by the beach. We just placed an order and had it delivered at the cabin instead. The frappe is good, and the prompt reply from 34 Valley Cafe up to their delivery is a plus!

We opted to place the booking on their Facebook page directly, and the caretaker, Donna, informed us that the owner herself was the one who was answering the page queries. Mam Monalyn was answering all of my queries even months ago when I was still undecided about booking. It took me a while to finally book a date and unwind with our little family. Ate Donna was very accommodating, and we didn't have any problem while staying at the cabin for 3 days. The only downside that the cabin had was the unpaved road leading up to the cabin. But since I have my husband with me, he managed to drive it past up and down afterwards.

I intentionally didn't take as many photos on this short vacation because I have to savor this moment, but I have bits of videos, which I will share on my vlog soon. If you want to take a look at the cabin's place, search through their Facebook page for customer reviews and satisfaction along with their Airbnb page for the photos and amenities.

Winners Cabin Oceanview Facebook

Winners Cabin Oceanview AirBnb

Overall we had a great stay, and I hope we can also try to relax in their other cabin, which was bigger than this one. If you needed a place to relax, this cabin is great for a small family, couples, or your alone time.

The Google Map might give you a wrong direction prior to going to the cabin, and the owner will also tell you that, but here's what I have edited so far. I requested Google Maps for an edit, and they told me that it was live already. However, when I try to access the direction again leading up to the cabin it will still direct me to the closed road. So I tried to edit it again and here's the correct path from Batangas State University as your marker.

Lobo BSU going to Winners Cabin Oceanview

Your New Shopping BFF: Why I Loved Using SM's Personal Shopper Service

2025-10-25T16:00:00.003+08:00

If you're like me, who loves to shop for essentials but doesn't want the hassle of going back and forth looking for something, ending up not buying anything or buying something that isn't on the list, then having a shopping bliss with SM's Personal Shopper is a must. First, have a specific item in mind and send a message to a personal shopper within your nearest SM Mall branch. You can find one by visiting this site - Order from a Personal Shopper.

Photo cropped from website's information page

My personal shopper experience started during the pandemic when I needed a replacement for my rice cooker that suddenly broke. To avoid being exposed and skipping the lines, I tried SM's Personal Shopper service. I was assisted by Ms. Allysa, and she was very accommodating that time. I sent a message through Facebook Messenger, and instantly she looked for the specific rice cooker and updated me on the available stock for other recommendations. After finalizing the order, she booked the delivery rider, and this came earlier than expected. Hassle-free, shop smarter, not harder!

Since then, whenever I needed to look for an item from the SM Department Store, I first asked about the availability through Ms. Allysa before buying one. The next item I purchased was for our homeschooling needs since I will be printing lots of printed activities for my daughter. I opt for a minimalist printer that is suited for my printing needs, the Canon PIXMA G1020. It is a single-function color inkjet printer for high-volume printing at a low cost. I don't need a scanner since I have a reliable app, and it's easier to scan using a mobile. Since most of the wireless printers available at that time had a scanner, I just opted for this; what matters is I can save on printing costs and maintenance without breaking the bank.

Would you believe how efficient this Canon PIXMA G1020 printer is for me? When I bought it last June 2021, the black ink only depleted last January 2025, and I refilled cyan and magenta last July 2025. The Canon maintenance cartridge lasted and needed a replacement last June 2025. If you have been following me on my homeschooling vlogs, you know exactly how many printed activity sheets and books I have printed out already for our homeschooling curriculum since my daughter turned Grade 1 and up to this date that she's in Grade 5.

After a while I met a new personal shopper, Ms. Ellen. From what I remember, I purchased home items from bathroom essentials to even appliances! Facebook Messenger just wasn't able to retrieve my old inbox, so I cannot show our conversations here. She was also accommodating and always at her best to reply to my inquiries, and she already knows my shopping style and my budget consciousness. But, as far as I know, Ms. Ellen was promoted, and I have yet to find a new personal shopper. I think that's the disadvantage of having an efficient and reliable personal shopper from SM Department Store. Kidding aside, you will shop till you drop, dropping your limited budget!

Came in the first quarter of 2025, after being sick for a month during the peak season of 2024 and avoiding being contracted again with a viral flu by not being exposed to mall goers, I sent a message through SM Personal Shopper once again because I needed to buy a specific rice cooker that I found at Lazada. Bearing in mind that SM Department Store might also have that same item to ensure that appliance will work as intended and afraid that shopping through Lazada will result in a defective item. That's when Sir Chad referred me to SM Personal Shopper Sir AJ. At first I was hesitant because in the past I had only experienced the bliss of shopping with female personal shoppers. And I have this persistent personality that he may not meet.

To my surprise, we clicked, and the next thing I know, I am splurging and checking off my "to shop list." Sir AJ was able to comprehend my needs, recommending other items if my first choice was unavailable but still bearing in mind that it still fit in my budget. What I also like about his service is he knows his limitation of not overexaggerating his selling expertise. I love the fact that he doesn't need to haggle and bug me with recommendations that are not aligned to what I am looking for. He also exerted his effort to cater to my specific requests for items before we finalized the order so that when the item was delivered, I had nothing to say but to thank him for his personal shopping service.

He was kind enough to answer my questions and even extended to more than what he could offer just to be able to explain to me further the answer I was looking for, which other sales clerks would just ignore.

He is polite and updates me whenever possible, not leaving me hanging, waiting for a reply in my inbox. He is always double-checking every fact that he conveys to me and leaves accountability to his service.

He also reminded me of the sale discounts and how I can save from shopping, giving me options for when is the best time to reserve an item or check out. I think being helpful is underrated for his service. He helped me so much with the items I needed at home, getting them at the best valued price, and without stressing myself to go back and forth in my busy schedule.

From purchase to delivery, he still makes sure that the item will be delivered timely and safely. Ensuring that the item that will be delivered is not damaged, is new stock, and is working. As if I were the one who shopped for it personally in-store.

I am just lucky and thankful that he far exceeded my expectations of having an SM Personal Shopper. I have high hopes that someday he will also be promoted, the same as Ms. Ellen and Sir Chad. But for now, I hope I can still ask for his excellent service at SM Department Store. And importantly, more sales to come. Hopefully, this will also give way for my friends and followers to let them know that they can also experience this chill shopping experience at SM Department Store with the help of SM's Personal Shopper.

If you're from Batangas City and shopping at SM City Batangas, you may reach him at his Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/PS.AJReyes

Disclaimer: Screenshots of conversations posted here along with my personal shopper experience are to the best of my knowledge and with permission from SM Store Personal Shopper Sir AJ. This is the least thing I can do since I want to commend his service, and I cannot offer a gift since it's not appropriate to their work ethics.

Smile Serve PH: Professional Aircon Installation and Cleaning Service

2025-10-15T17:55:00.000+08:00

It's the time of the year when I have to rely on another service that is affordable and dependable. At least twice every year, an aircon cleaning is a must for its efficiency and maintenance. Before we had our split-type air conditioning at home, we had a fair share of good and bad service from different aircon technicians and service providers for our 12-year-old Carrier non-inverter window-type aircon. This time around, I tried another service from Smile Serve.

photo advertisement from Smile Serve PH Facebook page

Last year, we purchased another Samsung product at Abenson's store (Batangas City Nuciti Branch). It wasn't a brand that they really recommended, but I trusted Samsung more than any other brand when it comes to home appliances, as we have Samsung appliances at home that we have used for years already. We also purchased our refrigerator back in 2016, and before 2024 ended, we also availed ourselves of a top-load automatic washing machine. After looking at many considerations to opt for a Samsung air conditioner (my 2nd choice actually after Carrier) and reading a lot of negative reviews, I still purchased one.

We have a Samsung Windfree Premium Inverter. Why did we decide to purchase at Abenson's instead of another store? Simply because Abenson offers a complete package when it comes to installation. The website already lets you know how much it would incur, and as a customer, I don't have the hassle of looking for other options because everything is there. I don't have to book another handyman for electrical supply because they can also provide it!

Before everything else, even if I already had a unit in mind, they also offered me a site visit and a survey for recommending the right HP I needed for the room and the recommended placement of the unit. For our Carrier unit before, we purchased it from another store. The salesclerk also recommended the right HP, but during that time it was just in-store, and I don't really mind since I don't know that it was very important. I was also able to get reliable information when it comes to owning a split-type air conditioner, bearing in mind our house location (from morning until afternoon the sun is facing our home) and future roofing so that I won't have to stress about it after. As we all know, not all stores have the ability to have after-sales services. But with Abenson, up to this date, a year after my purchase, I can still rely on them.

Initially, we looked for 1.5 HP aircon units, but upon survey I learned that our living room should have at least 2 HP since it has more windows, and I don't have to worry about enclosing the kitchen area if I need to cook something. We also discuss the placement of the condenser unit, electrical supply, and possible installation plan. Upon hearing the recommendation, I send a message again to Ms. Jam of Abenson Nuciti Batangas for a change of unit's HP but still with the same brand, Samsung. I'll tell you more about the Samsung WindFree on a separate post on why I chose that brand, and I don't have regrets up to this date aside from wishing we could have another one for our bedroom or we could have opted for the black one if only we had more cash than we had during that time.

I intentionally let a year pass before we had our first air conditioner cleaning. Sorry, I know it's overdue! Samsung Windfree has a Freeze Wash feature, an auto-cleaning feature that uses a cycle of freezing and defrosting the heat exchanger to remove dirt, dust, and bacteria. If I am not mistaken, during a span of a year, it has notified me twice only. Then I also use the Auto Dry feature after dehumidification (Dry Mode) on rainy and too humid days.

I send a message through Smile Serve's Viber account to book an appointment for aircon cleaning. I asked first for the rates for cleaning and then sent the necessary information. They confirmed the booking right after. The modes of payment available are cash and GCash; the latter is good since I opted for cashless as always. I also received timely notifications on my phone number regarding the status of the booking.

The morning of the scheduled date, the technician called me for confirmation. I found out that it was the same subcontractor who installed my air conditioning unit. I was relieved after that. When they arrived at my house, they immediately began their tedious work.

From gathering their data, capturing some photos, and inspecting the unit, they are even cleaning the work area efficiently. It was a service that you cannot always get from others. I can attest that Smile Serve (Cold Avenue Trading and Airconditioning Services) provided me exceptional service today and last year. Aside from that, I asked again if I happen to purchase a unit for our room this time, what are their recommended size and placement? Indeed, still the same service I got last year. True to their claim, Smile Serve PH gives you professional appliance services.

Nature Walk Birding Activity at Rancho Blanco

2025-09-06T18:28:00.001+08:00

Birding, or birdwatching, involves observing and studying birds in their natural environments. With our current homeschool curriculum in science, my daughter asked for a unit study about birds. At first I was hesitant since The Good and the Beautiful offers a paid unit study for that, and I am afraid that I cannot give enough information for this study. I've gathered a lot of research, and thankfully, I was able to print out lots of sources. And what's more, I was able to book a mini farm tour at a nearby rancho.

Rancho Blanco is so much more than just a Dates farm! Rancho Blanco now offers staycations and farm tours. Last year, our homeschool tribe wasn't able to include this in our activity, and I guess it is just fitting for this year. To end our first quarter and gather information for the lapbook, I book a farm tour specifically focused on bird watching.

Along the trails we were given an opportunity to see different types of birds. To name a few, here are some of the shots of birds we found in the vicinity.

ostriches

blue-throated macaw

Eclectus Parrot

Bengala

Sun Conure

Yellow crested cockatoo

not sure with this one since the info board has "peafowl" but it includes different types of turkey in the cage

African Gray Parrot

Philippine Hawk

not sure if this is the Visayan hornbill

Disclaimer: If the bird names are incorrect, kindly message me to make a correction. There is a designated farm tour guide; however, since he is still new to his job, he was sharing limited information only. But I can assess that "Kuya Joel" was friendly enough to help us with our tour. Maybe next time we can ask him efficiently or request through Ms. Cecille, the farm admin personnel.

The weather last Monday was so good—it was neither sunny nor even rainy—that we enjoyed our walk through the trails of Rancho Blanco. My daughter had fun running along the dates trees going back to the parking lot. Aside from the birds, there are also horses, goats, and sheep on the farm. If we weren't afraid that it might rain sometime soon, we could have extended our time there just walking and wandering.

The Rancho Cafe is still in build mode, and they told us that hopefully by November it will start its operation. For staycation and accommodations, you can book The Stable Hotel, Villa Marina and Capsule house. We opt for a daytour instead of a staycation this time. They recommend a pre-booking schedule for farm visits and for them to know the number of persons who will avail the package. You can also book it for events and photoshoots to make it extra special. For other information you may send a message through their Facebook page: Rancho Blanco Event Center and Dates Farm.

KABALIKAT SA KABUHAYAN FARMING PROGRAM MOVES FORWARD IN SM CITY LIPA: 93 FARMERS HONORED IN GRADUATION CEREMONY

2025-08-07T15:32:00.000+08:00

SM Supermalls Media Partnership—LIPA CITY, Batangas — SM Foundation Incorporated, in collaboration with SM Markets and SM City Lipa, proudly held the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) Farming Program – Moving Forward Ceremony last August 6, 2025 at Cinema 1 – SM City Lipa, celebrating the achievements of 93 farmers from various barangays in San Juan, Batangas.

Representing Barangay Janao-Janao, Barangay Palahanan 1, Barangay Paling-owak, and Barangay Pulangbato, the farmers were recognized for completing the program and embracing a more sustainable and market-ready approach to agriculture.

The Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) Farming Program, initiated in 2007 by the late Mr. Henry Sy, Sr. aims to uplift the lives of Filipino farmers through modern and effective farming techniques, ultimately improving productivity, profitability, and food security in local communities.

The program continues to expand its impact through strong partnerships with government agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The Moving Forward Ceremony featured testimonials from the graduates and discussions on the next-phase opportunities.

With the continued dedication of SM Foundation and its partners, Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan continues to plant the seeds of hope and progress across rural communities in the Philippines.

SM Book Nook Launches Nationwide Book Donation Drive

2025-07-14T12:18:00.012+08:00

SM Supermalls Media Partnership—In celebration of its 40th anniversary, SM Supermalls, through its flagship literacy program SM Book Nook, is calling on communities nationwide to help spark the joy of reading by donating pre-loved books as part of the SM Book Nook Book Donation Drive, starting July 7, 2025 in all SM malls across the country.

With a big smile and a stack of stories, a young story seeker

drops off her pre-loved books at the SM Book Nook— spreading the magic of reading one tale at a time.

SM Book Nook and the National Library of the Philippines formalize

partnership for Book Donation Drive, joining forces to expand access to books and promote a culture of reading nationwide.

Anchored on the theme “Under the Same Sky: Share the Magic of Stories,” this initiative encourages mallgoers, tenants, partners, and communities to donate quality books that will benefit children, families, and readers from all walks of life.

A portion of the books will be turned over to the National Library of the Philippines and its affiliate libraries, while others will support the expansion of SM Book Nook reading hubs to more SM malls and partner institutions nationwide.

“SM Book Nook was created to be more than a space—it’s a movement. With every book donated, we create ripples of knowledge, imagination, and inclusion. We believe that stories can bridge generations and uplift communities,” said Ms. Shereen T. Sy, pioneer of the SM Book Nook program under SM Cares.

A group of friends dives into their favorite reads at the SM Book Nook—where every page turns into a shared adventure.

Two young bookworms exchange smiles and stories at the SM Book Nook—proving that every book gets better when shared.

The campaign aims to collect 40,000 books in line with SM’s 40th anniversary milestone. Each SM mall will serve as an official drop-off point, where specially designed donation boxes will be placed in strategic in-mall locations. Starting July 7, 2025, mall communities are invited to drop off pre-loved books in good condition—complete, clean, dry, and free from major damage.

Empower Communities Through Your Book Donations

Accepted books include fiction and non-fiction titles, children's books and young adult literature, academic and reference books, as well as magazines and comics in good condition.

Beyond donations, the campaign also highlights SM Cares’ long-term vision to make every SM mall a hub for inclusive learning, community engagement, and shared hope—especially for young readers and future leaders.

This initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

A young boy brings tales to life as he reads to two curious little listeners at the SM Book Nook—creating moments of wonder and imagination through every page.

Visit. Drop Off. Share a Story.

Gather your pre-loved books and bring them to the SM Malls in Batangas nearest you. Through this collective effort, we aim to nurture a culture of learning, promote literacy, and inspire future generations—one story, one reader, and one community at a time.

To learn more about the SM Book Nook and its community programs, stay tuned and visit https://linktr.ee/smbooknook or follow @OfficialSMCares and @SMBookNook on social media.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving with Every You

SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls in the Philippines and 8 in China—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences.

Chattel Mortgage Cancellation

2025-06-13T14:33:00.000+08:00

We are already halfway through the year, and time has passed quickly. I almost forgot to share what we achieved recently. Our car loan that took five years to pay is finally settled, and we are finished paying off the debt. We were both skeptical when we acquired it. Do we really need it for our school service? Then the pandemic happened in the very first quarter of paying. For the last 2 years we were already burdened with the payment scheme through bank financing. Surely God does provide for us to finish what we started.

In the last month of our loan amortization schedule, I headed through the bank to pay it in full. We used to issue checks for the last 3 years, but then I was given the option to pay via bank transfer. However, for the last month, the bank advised settling it over the counter to avoid any further balances. I also received a little amount of rebate from paying earlier than the schedule every month. Upon settling the final amount, I was advised to wait for the release of the documents for me to be able to process the chattel mortgage cancellation. There is a corresponding fee for the processing since I didn't process it at the branch where the loan was processed at first.

After weeks of waiting, the bank sent a notice through SMS that the documents are now ready to be picked up at the branch I requested. You need to get the documents as scheduled, or you will have to pay a hefty sum if you prolong it in their vault. I am very thankful to PSBank for being accommodating and answering my questions. If I have to get another bank account, I'd choose PSBank because their customer service is exemplary.

After handing me the documents, I headed to the nearest Registry of Deeds to submit the required documents to cancel the chattel mortgage. There are two offices of the Registry of Deeds in our city, and I go to the city branch instead of the province since I am residing in the city. Processing takes 7 working days, so I was advised to go back on the said date to receive the documents ready for LTO encumbrance processing. There is also a corresponding fee upon release of the document.

After the processed documents, since our car was scheduled for renewal this October, I will just apply for it at the same time. A new CR will then be given after inspecting the car and removing the annotated "encumbrance."

Summary of Chattel Mortgage Cancellation
1. Obtain the Release of Chattel Mortgage through your bank financing branch.
2. Submit the Release of Chattel Mortgage documents to the Registry of Deeds for cancellation and notarization.
3. Submit the notarized documents and apply at the LTO office for the removal of encumbrance in your CR.

7 Ways SM Supermalls is Making Earth Day, Every Day

2025-04-29T11:02:00.005+08:00

SM Supermalls Media Partnership—SM Supermalls continues to champion the mindset that sustainability isn’t just a one-day commitment—it’s a lifestyle. In celebration of Earth Day 2025, SM invites everyone to be part of simple, everyday actions that make a big difference for the planet. Through innovative programs, eco-friendly infrastructure, and community engagement, SM’s malls have become leading platforms for greener living.

"Our malls are more than shopping destinations—they’re spaces where people and the planet can thrive together," said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. "Through programs that are easy to join, SM makes it possible for every visitor to take part in a more sustainable future."

Here are 7 sustainable ways SM is turning its pledge into everyday impact—and how you can take part:

1. Plug in Your EV—for Free

With 123 EV charging stations across 69 malls, SM has disbursed over 14,500 kWh of clean electricity to electric vehicle users, with 50 more chargers planned in 2025. It’s free, easy to access, and part of SM’s commitment to low-emission mobility.

An electric vehicle charges at SM North EDSA’s Electric Vehicle Charging Station—one of 123 across 69 SM Supermalls nationwide.

2. Walk into Solar-Powered Spaces

SM currently operates 47 malls and properties with solar installations, generating 27.6 GWh of clean energy in 2024 alone—the equivalent of removing over 4,100 cars off the road. With a goal of 100MWp rooftop solar capacity by 2027, more solar rollouts are planned for 2025.

SM City Tanza powers up with 2,286 solar panels, generating a peak capacity of 1,257.30 kW—part of SM Supermalls' commitment to clean and sustainable energy.

3. Experience Greener Malls with Natural Lighting

From Sky Gardens and skylights that allow natural light to brighten spaces and reduce electricity use, to LED lighting and motion sensor escalators, every corner of the mall is designed with energy efficiency in mind. SM also contributes 110 MW of capacity to the DOE’s Interruptible Load Program.

Natural light streams through the skylights of SM Supermalls, helping reduce electricity consumption while creating a bright, welcoming space.

4. Support a Waste-Free Future

Launched in 2023, SM’s #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign enforces proper waste segregation across all mall tenants through RDC (Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable) bin systems. Internally, SM is also building a culture of sustainability among employees, proving that change starts from within.

SM employees lead by example as they properly segregate waste using the RDC (Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable) bin system—showing that building a #SMWasteFreeFuture starts from within.

5. Turn Trash into Treasure at Trash-to-Cash

Held every first Friday and Saturday of the month, this recycling market has helped exchange over 1 million kilograms of recyclables annually across SM malls nationwide. Visitors can bring paper, plastic, metal, or even old appliances—and exchange them for cash.

Students weighs recyclables during SM Cares’ Trash to Cash, showing that small actions can lead to a greener future.

6. Recycle Smarter with Plastic and E-Waste Collection

Drop off used plastics at 15 participating SM malls and e-waste bins at Cyberzone areas nationwide. So far, these programs have diverted 63,874 kg of plastics and over 11,000 kg of e-waste from landfills—thanks to partnerships with Friends of Hope and Smart/PLDT.

Mall customers drop off used plastic wastes at SM's Plastic Collection Program—proving that small actions can lead to a cleaner, greener future for all.

Unused and damaged electronic items are being let go through SM's E-Waste Collection located at Cyberzone.

7. Join Coastal Cleanups that Protect Our Seas

In 2024, over 27,000 volunteers across 15 SM malls helped collect more than 157,000 kg of trash from coastlines and waterways. SM also initiates weekly and quarterly coastal cleanups, proving that when communities work together, the ripple effect reaches far and wide.

SM Bataan employee volunteers during the International Coastal Cleanup, working together to help protect our oceans.

From recycling programs to coastal cleanups, solar panels to EV charging stations, every small act adds up. And at SM, Earth Day isn’t just April 22—it’s every day.

JOF Laguna Plant Tour 2025

2025-04-04T22:42:00.002+08:00

With the homeschooling year-end coming, our school, with the help of our Tribe Leaders, finalized the Laguna Plant Tour, which was held last March 25. Three plant tours were included in our itinerary: the Yakult Plant at Calamba, Lucky Me! Noodle Factory at Santa Rosa, Laguna, and Gardenia Bakeries at Mamplasan, Laguna.

It was a nostalgic feeling since I was unable to join any school field trips when I was still studying. The first stop was at the Yakult Plant since it was the nearest landmark from our base. The call time was set at 8:00 AM, which was not our usual morning routine. Nevertheless, we have to do this to experience this once-in-a-lifetime field trip together with other homeschooling families at Batangas along with others from Laguna. I don't have that many expectations with Yakult, as from what I see from others, it was just a presentation of Yakult history. They gave us a bottle of Yakult upon entry to the conference hall, wherein we all gathered to watch the video presentation and warm welcome from their representative. After that we headed to the plant tour, but no cameras are allowed to document it. It was just the machines either way, and they are explaining the process to us. Since it was the manufacturing plant, they don't have the physical store for the purchase of goods and keepsakes. But we have the option to buy 3 packs with a free keychain of Yakult.

Next up, we headed to our second destination, and we were given free time to have our lunch along the way. We opted for the drive-thru instead of dining in, afraid that we might encounter traffic going to Nissin Noodle Factory. We arrived too early with the said schedule, so we roamed inside the store to look for any keepsake we could buy while waiting for others. A few weeks before our field trip, I saw a vlog of Lucky Manzano, their endorser and TV host, touring the Lucky Me Noodle Factory. From that vlog, it was also a similar experience inside, but an activity like the video presentation and the dance activity was added to our itinerary. I suspected maybe because it wasn't allowed to be filmed; that is why Lucky didn't also include it in the plant tour. You will not see any people and only machines. According to them, there are only a limited number of employees inside the plant. We also had a chance to take a picture and interact with Lucky M mascot. We also received a pack of Lucky Me Original Pancit Canton.

The last stop was at Gardenia Bakeries. We were happy with this two-plant tour because we are fans of their products. If you watch our grocery vlogs, you may notice that most of our stock is their products. But touring inside Gardenia was by far the fastest among the tours. We just watched a video presentation (again, no camera allowed) and then proceeded to the view deck of the plant to see the process, which was also already included in the presentation. Then they gave us a pack of Ube Cheese Sandwich after the activity. We stop at the store to buy some products and keepsakes.

Here are some of the items we got from our field trip. Some were not included because I gave it to my brother as his share. I asked him to accompany us and drive for us since I am not used to the SLEX yet.

It was a tiring whole-day activity, but we had fun. Definitely an experience added to my daughter's memory core as well as mine. Although she hasn't fully grasped the plant tour since it is not really kid-friendly information for now, I can see from her story before bedtime that she has her own share of fond memories from this field trip.

Hop Aboard MV Doulos Hope 2024

2025-03-15T17:00:00.001+08:00

For our homeschooling lesson, we are about to explore outside. We will have a mini trip to witness a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the biggest floating library! MV Doulos Hope once again docked in the Philippines, and we were lucky that it was near our place. Last 2008, I was able to experience going through the ship of MV Doulos and hoarding over books that the ship contained. I vividly remember the first time I hopped aboard because I lost the photo that we had back then. Back in the days where there were no phones with cameras and we just used a digicam for momentos.

It was indeed a one-of-a-kind experience, so I instantly booked a tour once again so that my daughter will be able to experience it too, along with my family.

You just need to book a tour via their website, pay for a minimum fee including the port fee, fall in line, and wait for your turn to go up. There was a bit of a misunderstanding with the queue because a lot of walkins didn't know that a booking was required. We were able to go up after an hour or so of waiting and meddling with the staff. Good thing we were still able to witness the sunset while on the ship.

A lot of books were sold out when we got up, and we weren't able to buy the Bible that we saw from a friend. Still, I let my daughter choose among the books that we saw on the bookshelves and have some photos aboard.

Did you know that MV Doulos Hope is the largest floating library or book fair? The MV Doulos Hope and Logos Hope visited over 480 different ports in more than 150 countries and territories and welcomed over 50 million visitors on board. Their goal is to share knowledge, help, and hope in every port we visit.

I hope that more than the books we bought, my daughter was able to impart a memory of hopping aboard the MV Doulos Hope. And I hope for another year ahead, she will be able to get to see the MV Doulos once again.

You may also watch our vlog about our visit:

MV Doulos Reel

MV Doulos Vlog

FRANCIS LIBIRAN DESIGNS FOR OUR HOME

2025-03-03T19:41:00.003+08:00

SM Supermalls Media Partnership—OUR HOME proudly announces its exciting collaboration with renowned fashion designer Francis Libiran for his debut home collection. Known for crafting pieces that balance beauty and functionality, OUR HOME serves as the perfect platform for Libiran’s unparalleled artistry to extend into the world of interiors. This exclusive collection epitomizes sophistication, practicality, and the distinct style that has made Francis Libiran a name synonymous with elegance.

Francis Libiran accent chairs, exclusively designed for Our Home, are more than just furniture—they are a heartfelt tribute to the people who have shaped Francis Libiran’s life, with each piece telling its own unique story.

Our Home proudly collaborates with renowned fashion designer Francis Libiran for his debut home collection. This remarkable partnership bridges the worlds of couture and interiors, offering a collection that reimagines celebrated style as functional art.

“This partnership is a heartfelt tribute to the people who have shaped my life, with each piece telling its own unique story,” says Francis Libiran.

A graduate of Architecture, Libiran expresses his gratitude for this collaboration, stating, “I am thrilled to work with OUR HOME, a brand that aligns with my vision of blending art and functionality. This collection allows me to showcase my creativity not just in fashion but in crafting spaces that embody beauty and meaning. A true Filipino home is not merely defined by its structure but by the warmth and cultural touches that reflect our heritage and the love shared by the family within.”

“I am thrilled to work with OUR HOME, a brand that aligns with my vision of blending art and functionality. This home collection allows me to showcase my creativity not just in fashion but in crafting spaces that embody beauty and meaning.” – Francis Libiran

This partnership seamlessly marries Libiran’s signature design sensibility with OUR HOME’s trusted reputation for curating elegant and contemporary home pieces. Francis Libiran’s debut into home design bridges the worlds of couture and interiors, offering a collection that transforms celebrated style into functional art. Homeowners can now infuse their spaces with the same elegance that graces the runway.

Add a touch of elegance to your home with Francis Libiran's cushion covers, crafted with intricate designs and luxurious fabrics. Each cover combines artistry and comfort, offering a refined accent that complements any interior.

Libiran’s collection goes beyond décor; it’s an invitation to create spaces that reflect beauty, serenity, and individuality. From statement accent chairs to plush cushions and delicately crafted candles and scents, each piece is thoughtfully designed to inspire and elevate home living. True to his artistry, the collection features Francis Libiran’s signature elements: intricate details, timeless appeal, and impeccable craftsmanship—each piece telling a story of elegance, creativity, and joy.

Redefine your space and indulge your senses with luxurious scents and candles. Each piece is expertly designed to infuse your surroundings with sophisticated, long-lasting fragrances that evoke a sense of calm and elegance. Inspired by timeless beauty, these premium scents create an inviting atmosphere for any setting.

A centerpiece of the collection is the six (6) accent chairs, each inspired by people close to Libiran’s heart. Combining comfort and style, these chairs create sophisticated focal points for any room and are crafted in timeless color palettes using premium materials. Complementing the chairs are soft, stylish cushions adorned with intricate patterns and textures, adding subtle elegance to any space. The collection also includes scents and candles that evoke tranquility and luxury, transforming spaces into serene retreats while embodying Libiran’s refined aesthetic with subtle fragrances and sleek designs.

Francois Accent Chair. Francois, translating to “free man” in French and sharing its roots with Francis in English, represents the designer’s boundless creative freedom. Its seamless blend of curves and angular lines makes it a true statement piece. Exclusively designed by Francis Libiran for Our Home.

Rebecca Accent Chair. Rebecca is a vision of elegance and inspiration. With a warm, inviting design, its soft, curved silhouette echoes the comforting embrace of a mother, embodying both dynamism and timelessness. Exclusively designed by Francis Libiran for Our Home.

Anita Accent Chair. Anita, vibrant and full of life, is inspired by the warmth and radiance of the sun. Named in honor of a remarkable woman who has been a source of unwavering support and light, its bright yellow fabric brings a cheerful energy to any space, while its structured design blends comfort with timeless style. Exclusively designed by Francis Libiran for Our Home.

Ellison Accent Chair. Ellison, a cozy armchair with soft upholstery and clean lines, is the perfect spot for relaxation. It reflects the designer’s brother, Ellison, whose presence brings warmth and ease. Exclusively designed by Francis Libiran for Our Home.

Ramona Accent Chair. Ramona, a chic and functional piece with an open-back design and patterned upholstery, pays homage to the designer’s grandmother. Her unwavering strength and guidance were foundational to Francis’ journey, much like the supportive design of this chair. Exclusively designed by Francis Libiran for Our Home.

River Swivel Accent Chair. River, bold and contemporary, features abstract patterns that invite one to drift into a reverie. Exclusively designed by Francis Libiran for Our Home.

This exclusive collection is a testament to Francis Libiran’s dedication to artistry and OUR HOME’s commitment to helping customers create beautiful, meaningful spaces. Together, they invite you to experience the perfect fusion of couture and interiors, where every piece tells a story and every home becomes a masterpiece.

The Francis Libiran Home Collection is available exclusively at OUR HOME stores and online in limited quantities. Only at OUR HOME – Great Designs, Great Prices!

Visit OUR HOME Batangas located at the 2nd Level of SM City Batangas, contact a Personal Shopper at 0917-5575526 or shop online at www.ourhome.ph

About FRANCIS LIBIRAN

Francis Libiran is an architect and fashion designer. He is one of the Philippines’ most celebrated fashion designers, known for his innovative use of intricate patterns, clean lines, and timeless elegance. With a career spanning decades and a clientele that includes international celebrities, his designs have graced runways, red carpets, and editorials worldwide. A distinguished Filipino fashion designer, Libiran is renowned for his exquisite craftsmanship, attention to detail, and innovative designs that have

captivated audiences both locally and globally. His unique blend of modern aesthetics with traditional Filipino elements has set him apart as a trailblazer in the world of fashion. The Francis Libiran for Our Home Collection marks his first venture into interior design, bringing his artistic vision into living spaces.

About OUR HOME

Since opening its doors in 1997, OUR HOME has been a trusted name in modern home furnishings and decor, offering carefully curated collections of contemporary furniture, home accents, and accessories to help customers create their dream spaces. With a commitment to great designs, affordable prices, and exceptional service, OUR HOME continues to elevate the shopping experience through innovative solutions like online shopping, personal shopper services, and expert interior design advice. The partnership with Francis Libiran highlights OUR HOME’s dedication to collaborating with visionary artists to bring exclusive and world-class designs to Filipino homes.

How to Avail GrabFood PWD Discount

2025-02-26T11:09:00.002+08:00

Last December, I tackled how to avail the Foodpanda PWD Discount, and now I am going to share how we avail the Grab Food PWD Discount using the app. We are regular customers of these two apps, and being able to avail discounts is an additional saving to our wallets.

You can access the application through the Grab app Help Centre, just look for "How to Apply for Special Discounts.". Fill out the form provided, and you will receive via email a confirmation of your request. After a few hours, I received an email reply from one of the customer support representatives that reviewed my application. She asked me for some documents to support my application since my child is a minor. Among others are:

One (1) valid government-issued ID of the parent if the PWD is a minor.

Note that Grab Account should also be managed and named after the parent if it's a minor.

After submitting the necessary documents for the application, I received the notification that my application was approved. I was able to use the vouchers every month via the Grab app. However, please also note that not all merchants are applying the discount code. Sometimes, a discount code is not applicable to a merchant in Foodpanda but applicable to their Grab merchant (example: McDo = FP - N Grab - Y). So before I checkout, I carefully chose the merchant wherein I can use the discount vouchers for PWD.

If you have other questions, don't hesitate to reach our Grab Help Centre via your app. They are responsive and able to answer queries.

Celebrate Fortune and Feast at SM Malls in Batangas This Chinese New Year

2025-01-24T13:07:00.004+08:00

SM Supermalls Media Partnership—Get ready to welcome a year of cunning, wisdom, and good fortune! As the Lunar New Year approaches, anticipation builds for the vibrant celebrations that usher in a fresh start. And this 2025, as we embrace the Year of the Snake, SM Malls in Batangas are set to be your go-to destinations for a truly unforgettable festive experience.

The Year of the Snake is celebrated in style at SM City Lipa, with a captivating centerpiece located at the Event Center featuring red lanterns, year of the snake forecast and lucky prosperity tree.

The Snake, a symbol of strategic thinking and resilience in Chinese zodiac, promises a year of growth, transformation, and perhaps, a little bit of mystery. And SM is embracing this spirit with open arms, planning an array of activities and offerings to help you celebrate in style and prosperity.

Vibrant prosperity tree adorned with red lanterns and auspicious oranges creating a festive atmosphere for the Lunar New Year at SM City Batangas.

A Feast for the Senses: Chinese New Year is synonymous with family, tradition, and of course, food! This year, SM will transform into a haven for food lovers, with a delectable spread of Chinese cuisine. From classic dumplings and delectable noodles to savory roasted meats and sweet treats, tantalize your taste buds together with your loved ones and indulge in a culinary journey that will satisfy every craving. Expect to find specialty menus that restaurants will be curating specifically for the Lunar New Year, featuring dishes believed to bring good luck and prosperity.

Chinese New Year decorations at SM Center Lemery capturing a child's delight.

More Than Just Food: Experiencing the festive spirit beyond the gastronomic delights, SM will also be brimming with festive decorations and activities to immerse you in the heart of the celebration. Expect to be captivated and greeted with stunning decorations and dazzling display of red lanterns and of course, prominent depictions of the auspicious snake and vibrant prosperity trees perfect for photo opportunities and a truly immersive festive atmosphere.

Dine in or take out, delicious-looking dishes including noodles, fried rice, spring rolls, and sweet and sour chicken, highlights a Chinese New Year feast at Chowking located at the ground level of SM City Batangas.

Family-style dining at Classic Savory showcasing their flavorful Chinese New Year offerings located at the ground floor of SM City Batangas.

Indulge in delectable flavors of tradition this Chinese New Year at Hen Lin and welcome prosperity in every bite of their famous dishes.

Be mesmerized by the energy and grace of lion and dragon dances as one of the activity highlights as a staple of Chinese New Year celebrations. Witness these powerful performances, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. Take advantage also of the Scan and Win Lucky Angpao promo and special discounts happening during the festivities. You might just start the Year of the Snake with an extra dose of good fortune!

This Chinese New Year, let SM City Batangas, SM City Lipa, SM Center Lemery and SM City Sto. Tomas be your partner in welcoming prosperity, happiness, and good health. Gather your family and friends and head to your nearest SM Malls in Batangas to celebrate the Year of the Snake with a feast for the senses and an abundance in good fortune!

How to Avail Foodpanda PWD Discount

2024-12-10T15:18:00.006+08:00

The Foodpanda app is a lifesaver for us whenever we crave something to eat or even when we need something to buy in an instant. But recently I discovered that we can also avail discounts using the PWD ID that my daughter is bearing. We don't regularly dine out, but every month I make it a point to treat her to food that she likes to order in the comfort of our home. So when I learned that we can use her PWD ID for her food cravings, I asked their customer service, followed the instructions, and availed of the PWD discount in my account.

Read first the information here: SC/PWD Subscription Plan

1. Open your Foodpanda app

2. Click "Account"

3. Click "Help Center" and choose Senior Citizen and PWD Discounts

4. Select "How to apply for Special Discounts (Senior Citizen and Person with Disability)"

5. Look for the application form to fill out. Make sure that your Foodpanda app name is the same with the PWD ID holder. I have to change the name of my account under my daughter's name since it is required with Foodpanda even if I am the guardian/parent who is ordering thru the app.

6. Get ready with the valid PWD ID, I was also asked to upload my valid ID and I think that was because my daugther is still a minor.

7. Once everything is set, wait for 2-3 days for verification and approval of the account.

Our application got approved last September 9 and since then we are availing the PWD Discount for our orders instead of the Pro subscription.

Not all restaurants offer PWD discounts, but for me it still helps since most of the time we order food for my daughter and for her consumption. Fortunately, most of the restaurants we order food from offered discounts. If you have any question regarding the PWD Discount Application, you can contact Foodpanda Help Center.

LTO Accredited CTPL Insurance thru GCash

2024-11-15T23:34:00.004+08:00

It's the time of year when I have to renew my car registration. I thought the renewal process would be blissful, but I found out that I would still have the same issue I had last year. I already fixed the LTO Portal seamlessly via their client care after they issued a new LTMS account for my renewal. Only then did I realize that what they claimed to be a quick and online renewal process was not for everyone, even if you already have an LTMS account.

First, I purchased the required CTPL for my car registration renewal through GCash again, but with a different insurance policy from last year. There were two options to avail: one for the first year or new registration and two for the registration renewal. I chose the latter, hoping that I would not have the same issue last year wherein I was advised to get a new policy because the system rejected it or tagged it as a new registration instead of a renewal.

FPG Insurance Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL) - Last year, I had at least a week when I purchased the policy. Due to an error in the database, I sent them an email to issue a new policy. Two days later, I received a new policy, but the hassle of confirming it again and waiting a long line at the LTO office was dreadful. I was able to renew my registration after that.

Standard Insurance Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL) - I got CTPL Insurance from a new insurance provider this year. At the GCash app, it has two options to choose from. But then again, I was issued the wrong Insurance Policy. It was a day before my due date of registration so I had no choice but to contact them by all means however, the reply was also late, and had to resort to a new plan. I also try calling their branch located near our area but advised me to call the Manila Hotline since they are the only one who can fix the error made from GCash. She was kind enough to help me sent an email in my behalf for urgency. Afraid that the registration will be due tomorrow and will also have a corresponding fee, I immediately purchased a new policy just to proceed with the same day registration renewal of my car. I tried looking for possible solutions for the existing CTPL from Standard Insurance and look for ways on how I will tell them that I wasn't able to use the insurance policy.

Luckily I was able to find a solution and tried sending them an email about it. They replied after calling them thru another hotline I found at their website. They guarantee that they can refund the payment since I wasn't able to use it and will cancel the policy issued on my behalf. However, the payment refund will no longer be in full since they had to deduct the VAT that was already processed. Still, knowing that I can have my refund was already helpful. So I waited patiently for them to process it and I was able to receive the refund a few days after to my GCash account.

Lesson learned here was next time I will not avail any CTPL via GCash and will just directly avail over the counter to avoid hassle and to ensure that I will get the correct insurance policy for my registration renewal.

Also, if you've been wondering how online renewal registration works, it is only for those who opt for renewal process with LTO Accredited PMVIC or Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center. They will be the one to upload the documents thru LTMS Portal along with your chosen MV Certificate of Coverage from Insurance company. It will be populated in the LTMS portal of the client, payment will be made online and the receipt will then be sent via email registered by the client. Seamless as it sounds but only for those who are near any LTO Accredited PMVIC. Unfortunately, I had to stick to the usual process since the nearest to my area is the LTO branch. I really hope that we can also have the opportunity to process our registration renewal online so we don't have to wait for a long line anymore and had to do it for a whole day worth of job absence.

Homeschool Mini Trip: The Homestead PH

2024-10-26T22:33:00.003+08:00

We were able to visit a farm for our homeschooling year and I decided to choose The Homestead PH because of the animal interactions that Adrienne can experience aside from exposing her the farm environment. There is a need to set an appointment and luckily we were able to secure one upon inquiring.

The Homestead PH is located at Antipolo Del Norte, Lipa City. Their schedule of operation is Mon-Fri 9 am-6 pm Saturdays 9am-3pm. There is a minimal fee for every person to be able to do different activities which includes: animal feeding (Chicken, Goats and Sheep), picture taking with the animals, egg picking, fruits or vegetable picking, picnic & grill area, planting, nature arts and crafts/activities and educational eco-farm tours.

During our visit we weren't able to do some of the activities mentioned because it was just right after a storm. Also their plants are still recuperating hence we cannot pick out fruits from it. But the quality of the education tour was superb. The staff were accommodating to explain everything inside the farm.

I bring my husband, my daughter, my mom and my niece with me to keep us company however they were a bit bored with all the talks that is happening. Well my small family enjoyed the interaction with the animals and the feeding activity. I was happy to let Adrienne finally see real animals aside from the normal day to day animals roaming around the subdivision. She was able to see a turtle, rabbit, sheep, goats, chicken, and the singing bird Kikay! She even sing and dance with it. Watch our vlog below for other things that we did when we visited Homestead Farm.

A Day at Homestead Farm

I hope that we can find another one to visit nearby soon. I want to expose Adrienne to different environment with our homeschooling setup. I have too many plans and places to visit but I am also looking out for quality, educational and fun trip with her.

Journey to Kabukiran: A Day in the Farm

2024-09-14T22:12:00.003+08:00

Ever since we join homeschool coop around our area, the activities were indeniably fun and a wonderful experience not just for me but also for my daughter. Just before the school year started, our new school provide us a wonderful experience to the farm life. The location of the farm is just less than an hour drive from my place so I was excited upon knowing that we can join the group for this Kabukiran experience. At first I have doubts that my daughter would not be happy since we have to do a little trekking going up to the site. I also have initial thoughts fearing that she would not be comfortable being with a lot of people.

All of my fears were set aside when I met the group early in the morning. We just arrived just in time before the trekking started. I was appalled with the hospitality that our Administrator have done from ensuring that my daughter can go up not just by holding her but also cheering her. My daughter was not used to heights and she is afraid of going up, much more with no definite steps to walk onto. But she was able to surpass that mini challenge because of Ms Wea. I was grateful and felt relief that this was really the best decision to join that day. I wasn't expecting that much either but we really have a great time!

First, we were welcome by Mr and Mrs Salvio in their farm and talk about a little back story with how it started. Then we were given assignments, kids were group into their task and even set up the tent. I don't have one but luckily one of the family shared their tent to us. Food preparation were assigned to kids spearheaded by daddy's of each family. My daughter was assigned to cook barbecue. I know she wouldn't be troublesome but I don't know exactly how she will be able to help. Fortunately, their leader was capable of handling kids!

I took the liberty to take some snaps and video, so you can watch it here: A Day in the life of JOF Homeschoolers: Journey to Kabukiran

The kids were impressive with how they do their task as a team and how we were able to have a sumptous lunch because of it. Afternoon was filled with sharing, art activity and even fun play. My daughter instantly gain friends and I am thankful for those kids who really take time to mingle with her. It is heartwarming for me as a mom whenever I see kids who doesn't shrug away my super friendly daughter. It breaks my heart whenever she felt sad even upset when someone doesn't want to include her. That's why I always observe first before I leave her with newfound friends.

After the tiring activity but full of wisdom and new experience I can't help but wish for another coop activity with this bunch of people. My daughter really have a great time and an added memory core to our homeschooling adventure.