It’s liberating to start afresh
“Energy, like the Biblical grain of mustard seed, will move mountains.” —Hossea Ballou
Your true potential is in danger when you live a life of fear, frustration, and complacency. Focusing your energy on past events and circumstances can only lead to negative growth. Shifting this energy instead to self-love brings abundance, joy, and everything you deserve.
Beginning my year with so much vision and clarity, I focus on my new purpose now that my marriage is officially annulled. It is quite liberating to start afresh even at this later stage of my life. It took me a year to clean up toxic matters, but I am positively energized now with so much to look forward to.
Jan. 19 has been always special to my family because it is the birthday of my eldest daughter, Jordan Ariadne Prieto Valdes. Living in Siargao Island for the last three years, Jordan has become a successful entrepreneur and talented artist. Between enjoying her love of surfing and creating pottery, she runs Naga Restaurant and Copacabana Siargao Boutique Beach House with her partners.
I draw so much strength from her, especially in the early days of my breakup. We will always be parents, but somehow kids give more sound advice and serve as stable platforms of love and compassion.
Exactly 20 years ago, Jordan’s father was in a helicopter accident in India. Fortunately, he didn’t need a spine operation there and was instead sent home by medical air ambulance to recover. Thankful for my parents’ support, I continue to live with gratitude and respect. We are responsible for our life choices, and shouldn’t blame others for the path we make in moving forward.
New adventures
January is always the best time to set goals and start new adventures. I am so delighted that I have been in the Usana family as their brand ambassador for many years now. This time, I was at the Usana headquarters for the launch of the Usana Celavive Resurfacing Serum. This product encourages us to take on the journey toward 365 days of glowing skin, as its cutting-edge, science-based formula covers the skin with supercharged AHAs, BHAs, mandelic acid, and bakuchiol, which is clinically tested to deliver immediate, visible results in just one use. Continuous use is also proven to lessen the appearance of dark spots, breakouts, and visible redness, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
In the exclusive launch of the Usana Celavive Resurfacing Serum, Usana PH general manager Cherry Ampig reiterated one of Usana’s values: “We are proud to be part of a company that takes a full-science approach to product creation. This ensures that every product that Usana produces is meant to deliver its promised results to its end-user. And today, we confidently say that after just one use, you will see how the Celavive Resurfacing Serum will transform your skin.”
Even before its grand launch on Jan. 26, the Celavive Resurfacing Serum was already sold out during its two online preselling days last December and is getting its waitlist filled, proving the product’s efficacy and outstanding results.
At Usana’s exclusive product launch, Usana brand ambassador Francis J. Kong and I shared our amazement at how the serum worked wonders for us. “We heard that the product was sold out in just two days, and I must say we’re lucky to be one of the few who were given the opportunity to try it first,” said Francis.
The Celavive Resurfacing Serum is now available. Make sure to check Usana’s official Facebook and Instagram pages for updates or ask an authorized Usana associate.
Newest wing
On the same day of the launch, Manila House opened its newest wing, The Avenue Bar. It showcases elegant decor designed by Jonathan Matti and a striking mural by Pope Bacay inspired by legendary jazz clubs. The venue comfortably accommodates about 60 guests, which is ideal for intimate gatherings and lively conversations.
The curated menu features delightful lunch options, afternoon tea, happy hour, and exquisite dinner choices, all complemented by an impressive selection of signature cocktails crafted by renowned mixologist J. Boroski. A range of sophisticated mocktails is also available for those who prefer nonalcoholic beverages.
As evening falls, the vibrant lights of BGC enhance the atmosphere, complemented by live music, including jazz and bossa nova. The bar plans to host open mic nights and stand-up comedy events to create a dynamic experience for its visitors, whether they’re looking for a quiet escape or an entertaining night out. Check out Manila House’s Instagram page for the weekly entertainment calendar.
The Manila art scene also started this January with the newest furniture and painting exhibition of Kartini Asia Gallery. It showcases a treasured collection of furniture and artworks from Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Philippines, China, and Myanmar.
The “Asian Renditions” exhibit is a captivating exploration of the rich and diverse cultural heritage found across Asia. Visitors will encounter exquisite Indonesian teakwood furniture and intricate Wayang inspired porcelain pieces by renowned Filipino artist Pacita Abad, vibrant Indian sculptures, delicate Vietnamese pottery and jade fortune sculptures (money wheels, horses, and arowana fish), each representing the historical and cultural narratives of their respective regions. The exhibit also features striking furniture designs that blend functionality with aesthetic beauty.
Through immersive displays and thoughtful curation by Nina Malvar, the owner and CEO of Kartini Gallery, the “Asian Renditions” exhibition invites attendees to appreciate the beauty of cultural exchange celebrating the rich tapestry woven by the various artistic expressions of the different countries.
The exhibit runs until Jan. 25 at the main lobby and Kartini Art Corridor of the Palms Country Club on Laguna Drive, Filinvest Alabang. For inquiries, please contact Ria Malvar, managing director of Kartini Gallery, at tel. 0926-6899014 or 8771-7171.
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