One with Nature at El Jardin de Zaida

I truly cherish the times when my two loves cross paths — quality time & traveling. Even though staying at home is not really a foreign or distant idea to many of us anymore, there will always be something that will make my heart jump when I become reunited with nature, fresh air, lots of sunlight and yes…wide open spaces!

I’m writing this blog entry to once again give inspiration and ideas for families who are also looking for ways to continue making life memorable, while still putting health and safety as a top priority.

I hope also, that as you browse the photos, you will be able to relax as you take a mini online photo walk with me!

I was left without words for a few good minutes, upon arriving at El Jardin de Zaida, Batangas – but I took a couple of full breaths too before I got in touch with my time-traveling buddies, Team Domingo!

Stay-at-Home parties or house parties really became a staple pandemic activity, to prioritize safety and yet still be able to mark milestones for children and their parents. Irvin and Tina wanted to make Bea’s first birthday a little more special by driving out to El Jardin de Zaida where their kids can freely run around and play.

They also made their visit extra lovely and memorable by bringing their own party kit which was specially made by event stylist, Dianne Khu. Dianne has been styling all their family events as well ever since the birthday of their first child. And I’m happy to be a chronicler of their journey as well.

I find it very cool, that young kids like Rafa, can already grow their appreciation for places and homes with Filipino themed interiors, furniture and artworks, even when they are just at play. One day, perhaps, they will naturally be able to embrace and practice traditions celebrating their identity as truly and proudly Pinoy!

Here are Bea’s best friends, his brothers — Rafa and Santino who also helped out in decorating her birthday party corner. 🙂 They are growing up to be such playful and funny characters! Hearing them laugh out loud is such a treat!

Party Time!

Our celebration was equally as fun and enjoyable as our previous occasions together. It is after all, at the very core, a thanksgiving party for Bea. We came together, to honor the Lord that He has once again blessed the Domingo family.

After our intimate celebration, the family got to use the amenities of El Jardin de Zaida, making more time to enjoy the good weather, with the kids and the members of their household. 🙂 Here are some more photos!

Look at these! 🙂

Planning for an out-of-town celebration? Here are some of my thoughts:

1. Assess. Check the news first and get to know the latest updates on covid 19 restrictions and safety protocols. As of this writing, inter-city travel restrictions are starting to be eased, but remember the risk is still there. You can always consider replicating your celebration at the comforts of your own home for the protection of your family. I know you will eventually want to scratch the itch of traveling soon, but remember, home is wherever your heart is.
   
2. Creating your Party Atmosphere. If you can’t change your venue, just decorate it! If you are a DIYer, then I’m pretty sure you’ll enjoy preparing your decorations. But, you can also use GrabMart. Just look for a party-favors supplier near you and see what party favors are available can be delivered to your doorstep.
   
3. Booking your Staycation. Before you release the break from staying at home & stepping on the gas to go out of town, pause. Breathe! Contain your excitement and calm your nerves. 🙂 The pictures of the venues you will research may be very inviting. But might I suggest, please, act with caution.
   
   I would probably suggest to ‘delay’ your celebration at this time, for the sake of children and seniors. But, you shouldn’t stop yourself from looking forward and planning for better days.
   
   *(This shoot was performed at a time when the restrictions were eased, briefly, and it was truly by God’s grace and goodness that it happened, before the the alert levels in Manila and NCR plus were raised again).
   
   In a nutshell, you can always wait it out, but continue to keep tabs on the places you want to go to someday – like El Jardin! Their friendly and accommodating staff may make you want to live there! ^________^
   
   Staying safe and healthy is also a a good and responsible decision.
   
   Just in case you are curious where they are located, If you’ve ever driven all over to Laiya Area in San Juan, Batangas, it’s just there too! 🙂 Such a beautiful (hidden) haven.
   
4. Swab Testing. As of this writing, onsite swab tests/ antigen tests are being required by certain venues for the safety of guests, but this information varies, according the policy of the resort or hotels you will choose to go to. It’s best to get in touch with the hotel staff to verify, and to know their most recent updates in safety protocols.
   
5. Activities. If you’ve reached this point, and the weather is awesome, all your potential “hurdles” have disappeared, and you’re decided that your trip is good to go, it’s time to keep life memorable!
   
   1. Relax. There is no program on staycations! It’s a time for freedom and spontaneity. Don’t stress about it, time is your friend! Just enjoy with your family and use the amenities!
   2. Minimalist Birthday Kit/List. To identify the main celebrant from the rest of the gang, prepare a birthday outfit, and maybe a birthday cake too. Have their name as a decorative element, to personalize your special occasion.
   3. Take Pictures! Yes! Whether or not you will book a photographer for your trip / occasion, I encourage you to take on the role as your family’s best story teller. Your eyes today, will be your children’s window to your own family’s practices, values and traditions. Just show them that you love them —- in pictures!
   4. Savor the experience. Isn’t it great that good memories are not only restricted to what you see? It’s about supplying all your senses with valuable information that can make you remember a seemingly normal day more vividly!
      1. Savor your food!
      2. Savor your playlist from Spotify!
      3. Savor your hugs, high fives and fist bumps!
      4. Savor the beauty of your loved ones!
      5. Savor the fresh air and the healing embrace of momma nature!

I hope you enjoyed reading this article, as much as I enjoyed writing it! Thank you for reading even if it is quite long 😉 Take Care, stay safe and healthy!

Want to see more?

Bea’s Baptism

Santino’s First Birthday

Rafa’s First Birthday