menegurl

I'm turning Jewish.

2011-08-24T21:07:00.000-07:00

Recently I came across a Jewish reggae/hip hop artist whose songs and lyrics inspired me. No one has done that to me in a while... I've been mainly listening to typical mainstream songs by Maroon 5 - and following them in Twitter. And I guess I realized they're not as special as this one. The man is Matisyahu.

For those who follow him - yes, I know, where have I BEEN!?!?! Why have I not heard about his songs in years?!?! As Matis said in a TMZ interview, he's not just some artist who turns out to be Jewish. He sings and writes his songs about his culture and religion. King Without a Crown is just one of the best songs ever. One Day is just as inspiring.

I don't have to be Jewish to be inspired by his songs. We all have that concept and longing for God. Don't we? By the way, I follow him in Twitter too. His beard is just awesome, not to mention his beat boxin'!

Must grab boots in less than 24 hours.

2011-08-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

I have to get at least one of these boots from Rue La La, by Boutique 9 and Ash.
These boots are at least 50% off only in 1 day!!!

SCOOOREE-d first boot on the left!!!

Sun and shade.

2011-07-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

I love getting a tan at the beach. But every now and then, I need a little shade for that water break and to check if my tan is just right or bit too much. Over here we got some beach umbrellas. They're cool, but they're just too small, that you have to move every now and then to catch the moving shade. Bringing a tent to the beach on the other hand, just defeats the purpose of being at the beach, seriously! I've never really seen a better alternative, until now - thanks to some beach loving Aussies.

The Hollie & Harrie Sombrilla is simply awesome! Daily Candy adds, "the jaunty canopy ($150) provides enough shade for four people and is 95 percent UV resistant." They forgot to mention - expensive!!! Lol.

Regardless, I'm still digging it. Archiving it to my forever wish list. Ha.

Summer through my Blackberry lens.

2011-07-22T20:12:00.000-07:00

Here's how my summer's been so far... Been getting a tan, biking by the beach, and taking the train.. No biggie. Nothing grand. Just chillaxin.

Summer is here!

2011-06-15T21:09:00.000-07:00

Been a busy month for me. Crazy highs, and crazy lows. Seriously? Why can't I just be OKAY most of the time.. sigh.

Like every girl, shopping I guess is the only thing that can cheer me up when I'm really bummed out. So just in time for summer, I bought a new navy Catalina maillot from Red Carter - to replace my Victoria Secret too-sexy maillot that I can only wear in the comfort of my gay friends... lol.

Ain't it sailor pretty?! Apparently my ass doesn't look like that. Lol. Can't wait to get it in the mail... (I just hope it fits).

My New Bike!

2011-05-17T21:11:00.000-07:00

I finally got my bike - a Globe Daily 3 Step-thru with 7-speed internal gear and an awesome integrated rack, and a surprise front and rear lights. Downside? It wasn't the color and height that I expected. I thought getting a small would mean having my feet flat on the floor. Instead I have to tip toe and pray I don't fall down when I hit the breaks. Oh and not to mention, the bruise I got on my ass where my testicles would be if I were a guy - LOL. I was hoping for the grey blue - but I got it in a dark blue, seriously?!? Globe is messed up. Nevertheless, I think my bike is awesome.

Hope to ride it in the beach this summer... if I figure out how to fit it in my car. Looking forward to some butt-sore adventures!

Adam Lippes.

2011-04-27T19:49:00.000-07:00

I recently (just tonight) stumbled upon an up and coming designer, Adam Lippes. I was amazed by his collection. This is the other "me" talking - the I don't feel like being rocker chic today. Perfect words to describe his style: simple yet dressy (yes, it's possible), effortless, neutral (white is SO my favorite color) and basic, and so lady-sexy (if there's such a word). I think my taste is evolving. It scares me sometimes, lol. He is totally different from Balmain - whom i worship. Worship! Or maybe coz I'm just obsessing about his crochet skirt...

Lurv it!!!

The Spanish Galleon has arrived.

2011-04-23T19:14:00.000-07:00

I first saw the "Ship Ring" in an issue of Lucky Magazine. I'm a huge fan of rings and it has always been my staple accessory. I knew deep down I was a rocker chick by heart - and this was THE ring for me. Carried by Flotsam and Jetsam, this ring was "inspired by pirate ships and the dark & stormy mystery of the sea... Designed by a welder trained in the old fashioned art of silversmithing. Exquisitely crafted, intricately detailed."

I emailed the store and ordered one online - at a 20% discount. Yeah! This ring isn't inexpensive you know. As soon as I got the ring, I was simply awed by the details. It was beautiful and totally rocked on my hand. It was totally worth it. Downside - it was a bit loose for my middle finger. I tried to get an exchange but there was no more size. It's all good. I just settled for a ring snuggie - life saver!!

Featuring: Floundering

2011-04-13T22:01:00.000-07:00

Every now and then I will post a blog entry or feature or listing - any online page that mentions my book. Hey this is my blog - so let me enjoy the limelight every once in a while ;-).

As I posted on my Facebook status: "Floundering is still very much alive. I'm SO amazed at how readers have blogged about it and quoted their favorite lines.. and how libraries have added it to their archives. I admit I'm no great writer.. but wow, for a moment there, I felt immortal."

Tonight's feature is an article from Cosmopolitan magazine website, written by Irene Curtis: "Cosmo Reads: 8 (Almost) Cheap Books To Take Your Mind Off Your (Almost) Empty Purse." And book #1 - well hello there, pink book - sitting right next to Eat Pray and Love. Seriously?! Awesome!

Read article here.

Feet Lingerie.

2011-04-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

I love my feet so much, I bought them lingerie. Speaking of wish lists, this one has been on my list for about a year now. They were out of stock for some time plus it was kinda expensive for some "toe socks." Recently Vicki (close?) came out with new designs and colors - and I just had to get a pair before they're out of stock again.

I got the nude lace as well.. but I haven't worn it yet. Love it!!!

Visit Vicki Kysella's shop here.

Wish List#2.

2011-04-06T21:06:00.000-07:00

For some reason, I want to own a bicycle - a cruiser specifically. I guess hanging out at the beach and jogging around the foothills made me think that it would probably be awesome to cruise around in a bike. A vintage bike would be really, really great - with a basket for sure. But I haven't found "the one" yet.

The closest one I've seen so far is the Electra cruiser. It's brand new but it looks kinda vintage. Just add a basket and it's purr-fect! BUT - it costs around $599. Ka-ching. Ka-ching.

Wish List#1.

2011-03-30T21:22:00.000-07:00

I'm in luuurrvee... with a bag.

I promised myself to stop collecting bags - seriously. Until recently, I saw this feature in Lucky magazine about types of bags that are currently must-haves. Some of them I already have.. some, not really interested. And then I saw the short-strap square purse - it was love at first sight..

Why have I not seen this before?! Why have I not coveted one before?! Crazy, it's so beautiful, classy, oooh and very my-age. I realized I should stop dressing like I'm still in my early twenties.. and try to be more classy-trendy. Ya know!? Lol.

I was so hooked that I took a long-strap squarish purse given by a good friend last Christmas - and CUT the strap!! Yep, I LOVE IT MORE NOW..

Moving forward, here's the bag that's on my wish list: Kate Spade's Gold Coast Shimmer Evangeline bag.

CLASSIC. $395 - yeah, this one will be in my wish list for a long time, for sure.

Wish List.

2011-03-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

My wish list is piling up....

Since I'm hella bored and uninspired, let me blog about my TOP (insert number here) ITEMS in my wish list. I promised not to shop much this year... but I just recently swiped my card in Club Monaco. Ugh. I don't think I can do this. Help!!!

I ended up buying their Maggie Pant in olive green - among a sinful others. I think it's very spring and very my-age. I should cut down on jeans. It's just too casual, donchatink?

Anyway it's my sister's fault - she gave me a CM gift card for Christmas. She knows I LOVE this store, and that I just can't afford to shop there..lol.

Hello 2011.

2011-01-15T20:33:00.001-08:00

What to blog... what to blog... So what are your NY resolutions?
I need to exercise more, continue to eat healthy food, and take care of my skin. I have to keep my 'youthful' look.. coz this year I am officially off the calendar. EEK!!! Lolz.

Less shopping. More saving.
Less drama. More patience.
Only happy thoughts and happy disposition.

This will be the new MEE. :) Cheers!

Great tips to look younger.

2010-10-09T21:16:00.000-07:00

I have to blog this down so I can follow this regimen - and see it if works. The older you get, indeed the more conscious you are about your beauty and health. (Taken from Harper's Bazaar October 2010 issue.)

1) Stock up on olive oil. Extra-virgin olive oil contains fatty acids similar to those found in our skin and is an incredibly gentle moisturizer. Slather on a thin layer of unflavored oil at night.

2) Baby your hands. Apply a layer of Vaseline and wear cotton gloves to bed to keep the treatment in place overnight. Skin looks suppler, and cuticles will benefit too.

3) Treat your feet. Apply a thin layer of over-the-counter salicylic acid Keralyt Gel and a dollop of Vaseline to areas where your skin is thick or scaly, then put on your socks. The combo keeps calluses and blisters at bay for instantly prettier, younger-looking feet.

4) Reverse brown spots. Lemon juice diluted with water helps fade sun spots on all skin tones. Since acids can be irritating, apply it before bed with a Q-tip, and gradually increase to twice daily. Stop if your skin gets too light.

5) Refrigerate skin-care products after opening them. You'll get more of a lifting effect from your products if they're cold. A room-temperature depuffing cream can take up to two hours to work versus only 10 minutes when it's been in the fridge. Plus, this technique keeps products fresher longer.

6) REMOVE MAKEUP BEFORE BED. Although this is pretty obvious, I'm guilty of this sin sometimes.

Nature's wonder.

2010-09-30T22:31:00.001-07:00

Wow. Will you look at that!? It's much more awesome in real life. Swear.

Hellow Friscow.

2010-09-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

I took a short trip to Frisco this last weekend and spent a full day in downtown. I miss this place. I miss the Bart. I miss the street stench. I miss being able to get anywhere by just walking. I miss seeing the eclectic style of ordinary people on the streets - and dressing up myself. I miss AAU and the school bus. I miss Cole Hardware. I miss St. Patrick church. I miss MoMa. I guess the only thing I don't miss is... uh.. nevermind. I'd rather not say. Lol. Breaks my heart.

Anyhoo. I went to visit the MoMa, just in time for the free entrance. 75 Years of Wood Chairs greeted me as well as the Calder to Warhol collection.

Loved it!!!

Ray-Ban Aviator Rose.

2010-09-14T22:17:00.000-07:00

I never get to buy anything at Swirl that I can afford or that comes in my size - AND still in stock... until now. Love it!!! I hope it looks this good when I get it.

All things vintage.

2010-08-17T23:01:00.001-07:00

Long Beach swap meet was awesome! Photos say it all..

Warning: Nudity

2010-07-30T20:49:00.000-07:00

Bought the A&F Quarterly for a friend - and I was carded. What?!? Nudity?!? Didn't know I was buying soft porn. Lolz. I told my friend that before I send it to him - I HAD TO TAKE A PEEK. And boy did I drool...

Well basically it's just a catalogue of actors and models, either in A&F clothing or simply in their bare skin. I have no idea why some people would do anything to get a copy of this.. ;p.

Vintage Timex

2010-07-27T20:33:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased a vintage Timex watch at Club Monaco. I simply love all things vintage. Sometimes timeless pieces are just more interesting than new ones. It makes you wonder who wore this watch in its early years, or where it has been displayed just before they landed on my wrist.

CM: We hand selected this vintage one-of-a-kind Timex watch on our recent trip to London for their timeless design and stylish simplicity. Timex watches are known to "keep on ticking", but because this watch dates back to the early 1970's, they should be handled with care so that they can last for another 40 years.

It's a mechanical watch by the way - so I wind it every morning. Classic!

Adam in my room.

2010-07-20T22:41:00.000-07:00

Well hello blog. It's been more than a year now. I must say, in that ONE YEAR I experienced such GREAT LOSS. I preferred not to blog about them; they would just ruin the atmosphere. I try my best not to rant.. rather keep the positive vibe coming in.

Anyhoo, one post I'm most excited to blog about is my new acoustic guitar. It's not my first. I used to have one but I don't remember what happened to it. One day I just thought of getting one; hence I went to Guitar Center to check out prices.

A few days later Maroon 5 tweeted (is that the right verb?) about a signed acoustic guitar to be sold on Ebay for the benefit of Haiti earthquake victims. I clicked the link and bid $15, just for the heck of it. After a few days, no one else bid on it. So I thought, OMGYG I am SO going to win this. Unfortunately someone had to ruin my day and did a max bid. I so don't know how this bidding works. So I bid and bid until I outbid him/her - just in time for the bidding to close. In other words, I cluelessly won the guitar for ... wait for it... wait for it... tumataginting na 205 British Sterling Pound. Oh did I forget to mention, shipping was half the price?

Somebody whack that guitar on my head now. Lolz. I just hope to God all that money went to real Haiti victims.

Nevertheless, I LOVE IT!!!

My SheKa interview last May 26.

2009-06-29T00:05:00.000-07:00

Or you can view the YouTube version:

Purchase my book online!

2009-06-08T04:07:00.001-07:00

Finally those who want to purchase my book, but are out of the country may now purchase it through the PowerBooks online bookstore.

Kikay Exchange is raffling off my book!

2009-05-22T05:54:00.000-07:00

Jill from Kikay Exchange did a wonderful review on my book at her blog, Kikay Exchange. It was just what I was hoping to read - a personal review and not just the exact same thing that my publisher wrote ;).

Hello blog.

2009-05-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

I know you have been neglected since I got back from Manila. It's just that I've been so busy... not. Lol. I've been bored and lazy in this God-forsaken city. Chos. Anyway I just had to blog this.

Check out the Talaria by Matt Bernson. Witty!

My PhilStar book feature.

2009-05-13T03:30:00.000-07:00

Here's my first media book sighting in the Supreme section of Philippine Star. Exciting!

Read article here.

Star apparently printed the exact same article in Young Star a week later.

Nevertheless, THANK YOU!! :)

Surreal moment.

2009-04-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

I'm below Nick Joaquin!

My book is officially out!

2009-03-31T02:34:00.000-07:00

FINALLY... after 2 and a half years of writing... and after waiting for almost 3 years for my book to be published... my book has been printed, and will be out in most bookstores this coming April. (I believe it will be available in National and Powerbooks.)

Although I am proud of my book (very, very proud), I'm not too ecstatic about a pink and animated book cover. Lol. Well yes, I love pink, and I can be as girly-girl as ever.. but seriously. Some find it cute, some find it dainty, others actually like it, it even made me smile and laugh the first time I saw it - which is good. It's just that I find it too pretty for such a topic as the "quarterlife crisis." Good luck trying to get my guy friends to read it. Lol.

Anyhoo, as long as it has my name on it, then YES I AM PROUD TO SAY THIS IS MY BOOK!!! Although some editing has been done here and there on my lousy grammar... including my title (woe is me)... I still proudly say, I WROTE THIS BOOK. All I ever really wanted was to share my story and my message to those who need it, regardless of whatever form it may be in.

I haven't told my parents about it yet. Funny. I will soon, though. I'm just a bit afraid they will disagree to what the book has to say.

I never thought I would ever write a book. EVER.

Indeed, when you do want something in life, go for that dream and you can achieve it. :)

(Thanks to Marco who helped me start and continue writing this book. And thanks to Tony, who believed in my message, even though he wasn't too happy with my style of writing. Lol.)

More about my book.

More on my 30th birthday...

2009-03-06T01:25:00.000-08:00

My friends and I spent an overnight at one of the villas in Acuatico - a new resort in Laiya, Batangas. Fabulous place! Service was great! Privacy - the best! :) Worth the costly price ;).

This is the villa we stayed in - the 2nd floor wasn't included though.

And our photos...

My 30th birthday surprise!

2009-02-11T05:30:00.000-08:00

First Anilao trip of the year - fabulous, it rained the entire time! Anyway, I decided to cook for my friends (with the help of Tonito!). I (we) prepared pumpkin soup, caesar salad, pasta, steak - everything from scratch! And I brought along some Sonja's cupcakes for dessert and red wine. It's my 30th birthday soon and I decided to do something special for them, rather than have a big party (which I plan to reserve for a different occasion this year). I never really cook when I'm in Anilao. I don't really cook to begin with. Hihi.

Anyway, as dinner was over we all went down to the casita to drink.. And this is what I saw... !!!!

The casita was filled with 29 (1 popped before I got there) CONDOM BALLOONS!!! LOL. Bun, Rue and Paeng were apparently blowing 30 condoms while Tonito and I were cooking. And I thought they were lazing around waiting for the food to get cooked and didn't care to lend a hand!

The one that popped!

Since the sun didn't show itself the entire time, we just did some poi-tography. Below are my faves:

Thanks guys!! You're the sweetest!! :) I think the last time I had a surprise-something was on my 18th birthday...

Oh, Manila.

2009-01-28T01:18:00.001-08:00

Wow. I haven't blogged for more than a month now. I haven't blogged since I got back here in Manila. I guess I still have jet-lag. Well, not the actual jet-lag, which I had for about a week.. rather I'm basically still in denial that I'm back. Ugh. To help me get back on my feet, I decided to do this entry and list down what I missed when I was away. I will add items as I go along the way, until maybe when I have finally settled and decided to post another uninteresting blog entry. Lol.

Anyhoo.. I have good news though. I deleted my previous entry about my book to give way to this announcement: MY BOOK IS FINALLY GOING TO BE PUBLISHED THIS SUMMER!!! WOOHOO!!! I hope this is for real and will be on schedule. I will not say much info about it until its sure na sure na sure na.

Going back to the list of things I missed when I was away:

1) JUNK FOOD!!! I swear our junk food is way better and junkier than them Doritos and Lay's. I'm talking about Tortillos and Clover chips. Love it! I've been eating them since I got here.

2) Anilao with friends and beach trips in general. Summer's near and I can't wait to go to the beach. Can't wait for Anilao too, in two weeks! Beaches in Cali are just not the same.

3) Cheap haircuts, manicure and pedicure. To get a really nice haircut in the States, you gotta spend at least $80. Wow. And to get the ordinary manicure/pedicure, you gotta spend around $30-40. W-O-W. Not to mention the 15-20% tip.

Anything else?

I will miss San Fran...

2008-12-24T16:07:00.000-08:00

Furniture Construction class with the Korean kids and teacher Brad.

My donut stool.

My unfavorite pastime, sanding.

Teacher John.

Ooooh.. bad, Brad, bad.

Waiting for the school bus.

Glen Park...

That's my auntie's place in the middle.

My first furniture: Donut Stool

2008-12-13T10:12:00.001-08:00

Ta-dah!!! Hehe... I think it's pretty cute. ;) How did I do it? Well first of all I attend Friday classes in this building from 8:30 am to late afternoon...

We had to sketch a furniture piece we wanted to create. I was inspired by the "Barrel Chair" designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. I decided to make my own version with a different approach to designing the legs. After the teachers have approved the sketch, we had to choose among the maple wood available in class - depending on color or grain design. Then we had to mill it according to our furniture measurements. Milling would be cutting wood to different pieces and sizes. There are approximately TEN (or more) machines that mill wood into desired sizes - and yes, I used all of them. I never thought we'd use that much machines. It was just cool. Below is one of them.

To make a top, one has to glue pieces of wood together and then cut it to your desired shape and size. Mine was round so it was pretty difficult to cut a perfect circle. But achieving a round shape is possible by sanding the sides afterwards. I think I spent WEEKS sanding my furniture. I would sand for hours and hours and for days, that my teacher told me that he thinks I just love to sand. I told him I hated it the most. It's just that soft maple is so soft that it easily gets scratched so one has to keep sanding and sanding them away.

After you glue together the pieces, you still have to sand it again and again. My teacher said that at one point, I just had to give up because it can never be perfect. True. It just gets crazy because there are 3 types of sanding paper that you have to use, which means that you have to sand each and every piece three times more!!

The final step is to apply the finishing, or color if you want any. I wanted to maintain the color of the wood to have that contrast to my fabric. So I just applied the finish. I had to put 3 coats - wherein I still had to sand after each coat. God I hate sanding. Lol.

When my stool was finally done. I brought it to an upholstery shop to add the cushion. I love it!!!

Anyway I just had to post the photo below. It's our comic relief in class. What's funny is that every time I go to class the black rimmed glasses with the nose and black hair would appear at a different position every time. Last time it was placed on the chest to make the guy look like he got some chest hairs. Lol. He's fully naked by the way, the students just dressed him up that way.

Guess what this is?

2008-12-13T09:40:00.000-08:00

This is an artwork displayed in a wall in one of my school buildings. It was done by a student who painted these thin pieces of wood with specific shades of brown and black and some red, and stuck them on the wall beside each other.

This is what you see as you walk further down the hall. Cool noh?!

Fire at the Square.

2008-12-10T09:43:00.000-08:00

I have been soooooo busy with school and work that I just don't have the time to blog anymore. Finals are here. I'm one project down, two to go. Hay. I've been sleeping really late and waking up really early... to the point that I actually bought eye cream already. Lol.

Anyway, I took a break from my hectic schedule to watch Isa "Glitter Girl" and the rest of the Temple of Poi as they performed at an event at the Union Square. If I pursued the fire classes, I would've performed with them that night. Unfortunately, it would cost me an extra $120 more so.... I just decided to pass and use that money to buy some poi toys.

Isa "Glitter Girl"

The Staff Man - he's my favorite hihi

Below are videos you may wanna watch:

Nice dance moves...

Fire Santa - nice stalls!!

The Staff Man is flaming hot

Glitter Girl

It's Christmas!!!

2008-12-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

Thank God it's Black Friday.

2008-11-30T17:55:00.001-08:00

I haven't been blogging much because I've been busy and will be very busy in the next coming weeks. Finals is near so no time really to be lounging around...

Last Friday I was up early for the Sale madness - I was shopping at 6:00am! H&M had 20% off your entire purchase of $50 and above. Club Monaco had a "secret" sale at 30% off everything. They were not advertising it but will take the discount at the register. I bought a top and I didn't get a 30% off - I got 60%!! Wow, and it was a new item. Forever 21 had a buy one take one sale on ugly clearance items. So it was pretty much a useless sale. Urban Outfitters had a 50% off clearance items as well. Who wants clearance items?!? Sephora was giving away $15 coupons to beauty insiders. FCUK also had a "secret" sale of 20% off but at least they were telling customers about it once they entered the store. I didn't even bother to go to Zara and Mango, but I heard Mango was having a 30% off everything in the store.

Anyway... I was walking in Union Square and saw these cute kids playing the violin. I thought only bums did that but these kids were performing in the street to raise money for their ballet lessons.. Aaaww.. how cute is that?!?

Do not touch the work of art.

2008-11-23T23:59:00.000-08:00

San Francisco is so rich with art and culture...

1000 Journals Project.

2008-11-20T23:59:00.000-08:00

I don't know if you've heard of the 1000 Journals Project. This was actually started by one of the faculty members of the Academy, Brian Singer, and before his project was to be displayed at the SFMOMA (San Francisco Museum of Modern Art), he had a live forum at the library.

Interesting, this is how it all started: "I've always been fascinated by what people scrawl on bathroom walls and in public spaces. I had been taking photographs of this writing for years, and wanted to put together a book. It seemed appropriate to encourage readers to become contributors, and join the conversation by writing in the actual book. From there, I decided that a blank book might be more fun... especially one that traveled around, to gather a variety of thoughts and opinions. And then, why not 1000 of them? It's such an absurd number. The project officially launched in August of 2000, with the release of the first 100 journals in San Francisco. I gave them to friends, and left them at bars, cafes, and on park benches. Shortly thereafter, people began emailing me, asking if they could participate. So I started sending journals to folks, allowing them to share with friends, or strangers. It's been a roller coaster ever since."

Click on this photo to view larger. Read it, it's funny.

Why did he do it? "If you ask a kindergarten class how many of them are artists, they'll all raise their hands. Ask the same question of 6th graders, and maybe one third will respond. Ask high school grads, and few will admit to it. (explained in Orbiting the Giant Hairball)What happens to us growing up? We begin to fear criticism, and tend to keep our creativity to ourselves. Many people keep journals, of writing or sketching, but not many share them with people. (when was the last time a friend invited you to read their diary?) You will not be judged here. And you will have company. This is for you. For everyone."

I was moved by his project.

To read and know more about this experiment, check the photos below or visit the website. Click on photos to view larger.

Of course I had to participate in this project. I went to the MOMA and there were about 7 books displayed, and anyone can actually write on them - share their story or add a piece of art. Below are some interesting pages done by people who have received these books (I'm sure these weren't done at the Museum).

I chose this book. He actually made several cover designs to make these books unique, and assigned each of them a number. I chose Journal No. 751. The books found in the MOMA actually came back to the author, but the pages weren't filled up so he decided to display them at the museum.

Visit the website and join in on this experiment! :)

Upholstery heaven..

2008-11-18T23:59:00.000-08:00

I went shopping for some upholstery fabric for my unfinished furniture piece. I felt like I was in Top Design. Lol. It was fun! I went to Sal Beressi at Bryant St. since it was one of the popular upholstery fabric stores in the city. Plus they are always on sale. Love it!

There's just so many nice prints and I ended up with this one. It may not be as great as the ones above, but it just fits the piece I'm making - something fun, playful and decorative. Oh I so hope we have stuff like these back home.

One random day.

2008-11-17T16:30:00.000-08:00

While waiting for the bus, I looked up in the sky.. I don't know why I did. I just did.

And I saw this.

Funny.

The last time I looked up for I don't know what reason, I saw a bat staring right at me - that wasn't funny 8).

Why Manila weather sucks.

2008-11-16T11:34:00.000-08:00

I've always loved Club Monaco, too bad we don't have them back home... I just LOVE the way they style their pieces and layer them. I'm obssessed with those diamond tights!! You simply can't wear these styles in a tropical weather.. you just can't.. boohoo..

Signs of aging.

2008-11-12T17:20:00.000-08:00

My teacher in one of my classes shared this website of mosquito ringtones. It lists several ringtones that can be heard or not heard by people depending on age. Everyone has a limit to how high of a pitch they can actually hear, and that limit changes with age. Younger ones can hear high frequencies that older people cannot.

I visited the website because it is intruiging. Try it also with a kid sibling or cousin to test if what you cannot hear can be heard by someone younger. Anyway I could hear the tones starting from Everyone to 60 and Below... then it became less and less audible until I could hardly hear 39 & Younger!!! Maybe because the room I'm in was pretty noisy.. but I had to put my ear closer to the laptop just to make sure I can still hear 30 & Younger. Lol. But for sure I could not hear 18khz and above. Waaahh.. somebody's getting old..

Light as a feather.

2008-11-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

I first saw Erin Fetherston in Rachel Zoe's TV show and I find her collection GORGEOUS! She has been in the industry for only four years and she's already making big waves in the fashion scene. That's her on the photo, by the way. Her clothes are breezy-dreamy. Below are my faves. Check out her website too and watch the Dollhouse mini movie (Special Projects page) - very Twilight-Zone, I must say.

Stop and smell the flowers.

2008-11-10T23:59:00.000-08:00

Flowers by the Neiman Marcus store.

Oh Marc!

2008-11-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

This is the main reason why I visited Fillmore last Election Day - to visit Marc by Marc Jacobs! Very few designers actually do create a line that is more affordable and more retail. Some may have done so and pretty much have brought their name down with it to the retail level. With Marc Jacobs though, his clothes are still FABULOUS and I swear I want to buy at least one... except that they cost an average of $350. Damn. And that's just a short dainty dress. So what's affordable here? That would be the accessories... bags, shoes, rings, necklaces, etc. etc. etc. Love it! So although he sells these accessories at retail price, his fashion wardrobe is still pretty much at a designer rate (for me, at least). Lol. Well for sure it's a big difference from the actual Marc Jacobs price.

He's got these canvas bags at $15 each...

...and tote bags at $35. I can't decide, should I get the cream one, the brown one or the purple one? Actually, I don't like the brown one - too chocolate for me. So cream or purple? What do you think? Help me out, will ya.

Oh and he's got condoms too! Lol. Now I know what to buy my guy friends back home for pasalubong. I guess this post will spoil the surprise :p.

Canvas shoes... so very-Rey, doncha think? (Why did you close down your blog again!!??)

Oh and I love these... perfect gift for a special friend. Too bad they only had 2 left: Inter Nos and Nemo Nisi Mors.

Angry little girls.

2008-11-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

This is another election day post. Lol. I just took a lot of interesting photos that day in Fillmore, that one post would be toooo loooong.

This entry is about those cute "Angry Little Girls" bags I found at a hardware store at Fillmore. Bun, my bestfriend, bought one of these in New York, I think. Oooh and I want to get myself one of these too. They cost about $20 something. Want one too?

Election day.

2008-11-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

We all know who the new President is of the US of A. The whole California is rejoicing, while some guy in New Jersey is weeping ;). Although Obama won more than half of the electoral votes that Mccain did, it does seem like on the map that they each pretty much won over equal amount of states. A lot of people are excited for the change, while the rest are very disappointed for the outcome.

I, on the other hand, was simply feeling under the weather. Regardless, I went out Election Day and decided to go to Fillmore street. It may not be like Union Square but they do have some interesting stores that I just had to come and see for myself.

They had makeup shops like Shu Uemura, Benefit and MAC....

They also have Betsey Johnson and Jonathan Adler shops. They also have Rachel Ashwell's Shabby Chic store. I love this store with all the vintage furniture - my dream shop! They have vintage chairs that I do want to be able to make and sell too someday. On the second floor, they even had a toilet that was ultimately shabby chic!! Love it!

At the end of my trip, I had a late-lunch at Johnny Rockets. Below is my attempt to do a panoramic shot from inside. So 'Lonely Planet' doncha think? Lol. I don't mind. I have fun still.

And they gave me a smile with some ketchup... kyot!

On the school bus..

2008-11-03T23:30:00.000-08:00

Girl 1: Hey, guess what? Did you like hear about you know who?

Girl 2: Yeah! Like totally! He was like damn!

Girl 1: I know right? I'm like oh my gawd!

Girl 2: I swear. It's like so surreal.

Girl 1: True, (swallow saliva from chewing gum) I was like that's awesome!

Girl 2: Like I totally agree with you..

Girl 1: Uhuh, and he was like this and that and dudududuh...

Girl 2: For real?

Girl 1: I'm like yeah, for sure. And it's like woah, d'you know what I mean?

Girl 2: Like totally!

Me: Ugh. Somebody kill me now.

Girl 3: Puts on her iPod earphones.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T19:50:00.000-07:00

Is datchoo piglet?

What's nice about Halloween here in San Francisco is that people wear a costume - not just to the Halloween party - but to work, at the mall, even at the Bart!! And it's really fun to see these crazy-happy people walking around. For a moment I wondered though if it was Halloween or April Fool's Day. Lol. The cutest was how parents dressed up their kids and babies in cute cute costumes while walking in downtown. I saw this little kid wearing a penguin costume and his dad was pulling him as they were crossing the street. He really looked like a baby penguin. Haha. Cute. I didn't take photos sorry. I'm afraid they'll get mad or sue me for invading privacy. Instead I've photos of a piglet - my cute cute niece in her "Anne Geddes" pictorial. Lol.

In her "don't mess with the zohan" look.

More "little miss piglet chomps on the pumpkins" photos...

She's lovin' them pumpkins.

What's up your alley?

2008-10-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

My furniture construction class is the whole day, every Friday. I would usually wear not too dark clothes because at the end of the day I'm basically covered in saw dust - even my hair, that my Italian classmate (whose name by the way is Morena) would laugh at me saying I look like an old lady. She's really nice. Actually she's the only person in class, excluding the teachers and me of course, who's not a young college student. Anyway it's funny too because we're the only 2 persons in the class who actually take pictures of what we're doing. I don't think she blogs too, but I guess when you're older do you only really appreciate school. I mean you're eager to learn and do well - not for the grade, because it doesn't matter anymore - but because you want to "personally enrich" yourself and make use of what you learn in your business or at work. She likes Filipinos by the way, and has met some Filipino friends back in Milan. That's just sweet.

Anyhoo, last Friday class I took a break from my usual $5-Japanese-meal or sometimes $3.33-McDonald's-meal and decided to eat something "healthy." I checked out this really fancy place which was less than half a block away from my building. I looked like a dusty carpenter-girl by the way, but I didn't care. I just had to wear my shades, and I blended in with the crowd. Lol. I love food by the way, although it may not look it, that sometimes I'm willing to spend to taste good cuisine. This place I'm talking about is the Belden Place. I saw it one time on my way to McDonald's. It's weird because between these ordinary buildings, you suddenly see an alley filled with al fresco dining restaurants. Love it! I just had to check it out. It is similar to Greenbelt 2 Strip, only more authentic and it has that "local" vibe to it - nothing pretentious at all. The restaurants were usually European cuisine and I finally decided on B44.

They removed the covers so the people could enjoy the sun.

I ordered Roasted Baby Lamb Chops with Panadera Potatoes and P.X. Vinegar Reduction - and WOAH! WOAH! WOAH! Can I just say that it was THE BEST DISH I have ever tasted or eaten in my ENTIRE LIFE?!?? I'm not kidding!!! Lol. I was loving every bite of it. Simot.

Although with a drink my bill was around $25, I didn't mind. It was all well worth it. If you do go to San Francisco, it's a definite must-try place. It's on Belden St. located near Bush and Kearny.

L'Officiel.

2008-10-23T17:08:00.001-07:00

These photos are so far the best fashion editorial(s) I've seen.
Photography by Jonathan De Villiers and styling by Sabrina Marshall, scanned from the L'Officiel Paris magazine from the school's library. You can click on photo to view larger.

They have that poison-ivy look that's creepy yet fascinating at the same time. Love it!

Floss evolution.

2008-10-20T22:24:00.000-07:00

I'm not a fan of flossing - it's difficult to do, time consuming and quite salivating. Not to mention icky. Why didn't anyone ever think of making flossing easier?

Finally, someone stepped up to the plate and came up with Floss Picks. It's so much faster and easier to use! Now I can finally make flossing a habit. Sounds like a commercial? Lol. I'm just sold. I'm not sure though if they have it in Manila na.

It was an ordinary day until...

2008-10-20T01:00:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I finally took a break (for the first time since I got here!) and did some sightseeing - alone (huhu). I've toured San Francisco years back so there's pretty much only a few places I haven't seen or taken photos of. Anyways, I took the school bus to one of my school's buildings at Northpoint. It's like just in front of Pier 39, cool huh? Just cross the other side of the street and you're there. Been here several times before so I didn't really take pics and go around, I just bought lunch. Funny though how there were so many people - doesn't seem to reflect the fact that this country's economy is at its lowest ever.

I went further down the bay, on foot, to check out the Cannery and Ghirardelli Square because I haven't been to those. Cannery is just a small place where there are restaurants and a few stores. It's nothing great really but I went there nonetheless to check out Steve & Barry's. It's the only Steve and Barry's I know in the area. Anyway, they carry Sarah Jessica Parker's Bitten collection so it was something I had to check out. Apparently the store was messed up because they were closing down to renovate. So I didn't see anything nice really except for some Sex and the City shirts on sale and a customer who brought in a cat sitting on top of a dog (Lol). Too bad my camera reflexes were too slow, I wasn't able to take a photo.

I walked further down and finally reached Ghirardelli Square. But before I could walk further I saw the beautiful Golden Gate bridge from afar with the sailboats enjoying the sunny day. Sweeeeet.

Finally walked towards Ghirardelli and looked at the chocolate stores. Only one caught my eye: Kara's Cupcakes. It reminded me of Sonja's Cupcakes.. only this was more classy and less homey than Sonja's.

They had nice pink interiors...

and deliciously looking and perfectly made cupcakes...

I tried only one since it was so expensive.. and damn was it too sweeeeet.

The day was almost over. I walked back to school to catch the next school bus going back to my Bart stop.... until.... I saw 2 sets of cleanly shaven, real live dicks - BUWAHAHAHAHA!! F*CK!!! These two men were walking, completely naked. They weren't homeless because they were really clean and flawless (LOL, can't believe I noticed that.) My jaw just dropped and found myself laughing hard. People around me, especially the girls were laughing as well. It was funny because they were walking around as if they were 'normal' people. ABSURD!! I didn't take a photo though, others may think I was some pervert. Lol. Yun lang.

So many bridges in this city. This is the bay bridge I saw from the school bus window on the way home. A day in the life of... hohum. Will miss this city when I leave ;/ .

Retail therapy.

2008-10-18T01:00:00.000-07:00

Been feeling kinda down lately. A lot of losers and maggots in this world. (Lol.) So I decided to go shopping, even if it was against my credit card's will - if it even has one.

Every Monday, I pass by this area on the way to class. It has been off-limits since I got here and finally I went in without hesitation. I just didn't care anymore to add more scratch to my debts. Lol. The Forever 21 store is just heaven - three floors of affordable and fashionable clothes. Although most of the pieces are pretty young, they have several that are just right for my age. They have lots of dresses, dainty ones, that cost below $25. The clothes and accessories here are such a bargain that they don't allow refunds at all, only store credit.

I left the store with 5 dresses and a few accessories. LOVE IT!!! I'm sure I'll regret this later on. Just a few steps away is H&M - also on my way to class. Dammit. H&M has better cocktail rings though. And I have my eye on several ones already. Then just across the street from Forever 21 is the Westfield Mall, where Zara and Mango are. I've recently ignored these stores over Express and Club Monaco. Pieces here are very classic and sophisticated - very much for a woman, unlike the fun and fancy clothes at H&M and Forever 21. Check out this lovely dress on sale - made in the Philippines, mind you. Good thing size 0 was still big enough for me. Ha!

This last one is for you Rey. I know it's not much but when my friend Ryan was about to take photos in the store, the salesgirl warned us that we're not allowed to take them. Shux. So he just took pics from outside the store. Lol.

I promise.

2008-10-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

This is one of the reasons why I've ALWAYS wanted a westie. THEY ARE SOOO ADORABLE!!!

More Cesar's commercials from last year.

The petal girl wins!

2008-10-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

I just watched the finale of Project Runway. There is no doubt about who won... ;). Before anything else, I wanted to say that I LOVED this show the most out of all the other seasons! It was so far the only runway show wherein I loved all the collections. It was also the first show where all finalists were women and where Tim Gunn was one of the judges (last minute coz JLo had a sprain or something - duh).

Kenley came in third place. Ha! In fairness to her, I loved her collection. I found her dresses very dainty and pretty and I would love to wear them.

But, but, but, one of her dresses was compared to the Balenciaga, and her wedding dress was pretty close to Alexander McQueen's. Hmmm.. regardless if she says they weren't knockoffs, the judges will not obviously accept that.

Korto came in second. Her collection was elegant, but I probably wouldn't wear any of them. I mean I love her collection a lot but it just wasn't my style. Below were my favorites.

Last but not the least, I loved loved loved Leanne's collection. Who would've thought that the geeky looking girl would create these fabulous silhouettes?! They're so soft, crafty, dreamy, pretty... and although they all had that petal structure in them, I still loved them nonetheless. It was a very different and fresh approach. And as the judges said, I hope she doesn't have those in all her other clothes. Below are what I loved the most, and obviously they are a lot.

I WANT that dress on the right the most.

Don't you just LOVE them?

Light my fire.

2008-10-14T01:00:00.000-07:00

Fire lasso - super cool.

A few days ago, GlitterGirl invited me to an event in downtown - to watch, that is. She didn't invite me to perform. Ha! It's okay. It was a fire event so obviously she can't invite me since I didn't take fire classes with her.

GlitterGirl

Anyhoo the event was in an alley right beside one of my school buildings. Coolness, that means I could watch since I didn't have to commute to an unkown area at night since the performance started at 8pm.

Fire Hoop

The great thing about poi dancers here is that they're not limited to just fire cathedrals (unlike in Manila), they have fire hoops, lassos and staffs too.

Watch the Fire Staff below:

Congratulations!!!

2008-10-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Choosing to be here meant missing Nanette's new born baby, and most especially missing my bestfriend's wedding. :( Sniff, sniff.

She understands why I have to miss it. I'm really sad I'm not there, but I'm super happy for you guys. :) This post is for Cel and RB. I love their prenup photos. Prenup photos should be like these! Non-cheesy, not as if you're making a calendar for a resort in Tagaytay. Lol. Yakish!

Below are some more of my favorites. Photos taken by SPG .

My first poiformance.

2008-10-10T21:33:00.000-07:00

(Me and GlitterGirl. We had to use led poi balls before dark. Shux!)

I've been taking poi since January and I had to stop when I left for Frisco. But, but, but... apparently there are a lot of poi aficionados out there. And in San Francisco they have the "Temple of Poi." Ooooh.... I checked it out and this group of poi dancers offers classes and is lead by the one and only, GlitterGirl. Oha. GlitterGirl was called as such I think because she likes to put glitters on her face and body when she performs.

(Isa's partner, my fellow poimate, Isa "GlitterGirl", moi)

Anyhoo, I tried out for the classes. She was probably surprised someone from Manila would know how to dance poi. She even insisted that I show her my moves first before she agreed that I can take her intermediate classes. Well things turned out pretty well, thanks to my Planetzip mentors :). Don't ask how much her classes were, because when you're here, you just have to STOP computing. Lol.

(This is me getting really, really nervous.)

A few days ago she invited me along with other students to perform for a charity event in downtown San Francisco called Light the Night Walk. This event supports the work of hundreds of the world’s best and brightest researchers in their search for better therapies and cures for leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. It was actually voluntary and I took the opportunity to join and have my first ever poiformance. I mean it would be an honor to dance with GlitterGirl (she's sooo galeng-galeng!) plus I'd have to perform in front of people I'll never see again - what's the harm in that? Lol.

(Other poimates.)

The fun part of it too was that I was able to share the event with a familar face, a friend from Manila. Small things like those are most treasured when you're far from home. ;) Sniff. Right Sia? Thanks for taking the photos!

P.S. Below is one of my favorite videos of GlitterGirl.

Would you be my shootie?

2008-09-27T18:20:00.000-07:00

Finally I can say it is the Fall season! I mean when you're in Manila, it's basically summer, rainy season, holidays, and everything else in between. We don't have winter, fall and spring seasons and fashion. And that's just sad.

Fall season started early this week and everyone's gearing up for the season's hot fashion trends... because in a month or so, everyone will be so covered up come winter. I bought some boots to prepare my pretty feet for the cold weather, and the shootie was on top of my list.

A shootie is a hot hot silhouette that's half boot, half shoe. It's similar to a bootie, except that that's more of a boot than a shoe. This one looks more like a shoe. (I think). You can wear this with skinny jeans, tights (I can finally wear tights!), and pencil skirts and you'd look oh-so fabulous walking down the street. Downtown San Francisco may not be like the streets of New York or Milan, as seen in the Sartorialist.. but a significant few do dress to impress even at daytime.

I love Rachel Zoe.

2008-09-23T22:35:00.000-07:00

It's my ultimate favorite show, as of the moment - The Rachel Zoe Project. I love her! She is super fashionable and stylish, plus she's the only who makes me feel good about being skinny. Lol.

The show is about her work life - which is basically meeting with different designers, new and old, famous and soon-to-be famous, as well as dressing up models and celebrities. Her team store-hops too to find really great pieces for their clients. She has this huge collection of dresses, shoes, bags and accessories (mostly samples that are not found anywhere else) that are probably worth millions, and she gets them all for free of course, since it's her job. Well she doesn't get to own them, but she and her clients get to wear them. I mean, sure you don't need to own them, you just need to wear them once.

It's such a fun show and it's just exciting to see what she's wearing and what she's wearing it with... except of course when she's home because she's always in a bathrobe. Plus you see designers, famous ones especially, as if they're normal people talking to Rachel as her friends and not like in an interview setup or not as hosts/judges in some reality show. She loves vintage too, so that's a plus for me in the show, since she always tries to find vintage pieces for her clients. I totally love vintage... and I totally love her job.

I'm not sure though where you can watch it online from Manila. Probably YouTube or Torrent. :)

Let it rain.

2008-09-22T18:42:00.000-07:00

Rain has never been this fashionable. A few years ago I bought a black rain jacket in Zara, and everyone loved it. One has to be fashionable too when wet, ya know. Although jackets and coats aren't as popular in our tropical country, it doesn't mean we can't wear them. There are thin-lined coats too that would fit perfectly for the rainy and cool season.

I recently came upon this online store with I-want-those-now rain jackets and I-wish-we-had-winter coats! The one above is my most most favorite. Plus you can pack it up in a tiny bag. How fab fab is that! I'm also loving their coat collars. Fierce!

Check out the hot men too... Visit Mackage online.

My first woodwork.

2008-09-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

My Furniture Construction class meets only once a week for about 6 hours. On our third class, I was able to make my own "tenon and mortis" - with the help of my professor of course. WoWoWee!! :) Brad is one of my teachers in class. He's kinda cute but I thought he was gay until he talked about his wife in class. Hehe.

Anyways, although this looks easy, believe me it's so not! This started out as a huge flat wood which we had to cut into pieces, mill, sand, glue and put together. I used a total of 6 saw machines - really scary huge saw machines - just to do this small plank with one leg. Cool huh? By the end of the semester I'm supposed to make my own table or bench. Good luck....

$15-dollar brunch.

2008-09-20T21:50:00.000-07:00

Served with coffee, of course. I had brunch with a friend at Union Street. I love this street! It has a nice town-like atmosphere with stores, restaurants and salons that are about more than 5 blocks long. You can just walk along Union Street and for sure you'll find an interesting shop on every corner. I also like those restaurants with tables on the sidewalk... it's like dining al fresco, city style. Love it!

Oh by the way, we had brunch at Caffé Union. Yum-my. Keep this up and I'll be broke in no time. Har har.

Home sweet home.

2008-09-19T21:12:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, I visited San Francisco to check out the school I was going to. Unfortunately there was a storm at that time and I did not have an umbrella with me when I went to downtown. The rain caught me at a food court area. I was so desperate to find a store selling an umbrella - but there were only buildings/offices nearby. As I looked to my right, I was so surprised to see Mango. Wow, they finally have Mango! Lol. For a while there I felt like I was in Manila. I ran to the store, because for sure they had an umbrella or hat for the strong rain. True enough, they did. This was the Mango store I saw and I took this photo just a few days ago - out of boredom. Hehe. They have less interesting items though.. I believe Mango collections back in Manila are far better. Although this one had a tiny, tiny men's section.

Mango opened in the U.S. around late 2007 with its flagship store at New York's Soho. I remember a few years back, my cousin from San Francisco has never even heard of the brand. Now they have 2 stores in the Union Square area. Zara on the other hand, has been in the U.S. for a pretty long time before they opened in Manila. As for Topshop, they have yet to hear of the brand as its flagship store opens in New York's Soho this November. And to think practically every mall in Metro Manila has Topshop. Although they are missing out on such a great brand - we are so missing out on H&M!!!!

My first godchild.

2008-09-14T10:38:00.000-07:00

I visited Camarillo for about a week to visit my first godchild. She's soooo kyot!!

Swimming in her pool.

She looks like a cabbage patch kid!!!

Wearing a dress I bought for her from Zara.

Me take picture with Yoda.

2008-09-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

When I was a lot younger, I used to have a collection of the Star Wars characters - Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, and even a Stormtrooper (among others)! They're about 4 inches high and stamped with a 1979 copyright. Collector's item, definitely.

Oh by the way, they all disappeared. We moved houses and they're ALL GONE!!! Dammit.

I'm left with only one though - Yoda. Cute cute Yoda. Lol. Anyway, this photo was taken at the Letterman Digital Arts Center at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge. It's where Lucasfilm divisions are located (animation, arts, etc.) and I think there's a school there too.

Guess who's back?

2008-09-11T21:58:00.000-07:00

Wow. It's been weeks since my last post. I have been so busy trying to settle down and no, I'm not done yet!

In case you want to know, since you're reading my blog anyway, I finally decided to take some classes on Furniture Design at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Well the Academy may seem perfect if you're still a prospect student - but once you've paid and been photographed for your ID - little by little you realize that it's not much of a big deal really.

This is the building near my Bart stop so this is where I ride the school bus to my other buildings. That's the school bus right there.

I know it's my first blog entry since I got here, but I just want to let out my frustrations NOW. Lol. Since all you read about the Academy on the internet is positive, I might as well write something otherwise. ;)

1) Their class descriptions are vague and unreliable. Since I'm under "Personal Enrichment" (meaning I choose my subjects and not have the school provide me a course outline), I rely on these class descriptions. It's so freaking vague that I ended up taking then dropping 4 classes because they were apparently not what I thought they were teaching. And to think I was already talking to FIVE different student advisors.

For example, I took a class on Textiles assuming it was about the introduction to different textiles used for fashion as well as home furnishing, plus some silk screening techniques. That's what the catalog said plus it was recommended by an advisor for my furniture design goals. I arrive in class and the first thing we did was do silk screen. I asked the teacher and YES, she said, we will be silk screening every week until the very last day and we won't have any lecture at all, isn't that fun? - she added. Uhuh. I will spare you on my other class mistakes. Groan. I still haven't finalized my class schedule yet (as of the moment).

Here are my very kindergarten silkscreen artworks. LOL. I left them in class and didn't bother bringing them home.

2) The buildings of AAU are scattered around downtown San Francisco. It's not like Ateneo where you just walk to the next building or perhaps ride a trike. Sosyal sila. They have scheduled school buses to take you to your building before and after your class. So what's the downside? They have more than 10 buildings so I'm assuming they have more than 10 buses going around the city everyday - that's not too environmental friendly. Tsk tsk tsk. PLUS the bus schedule SUCKS. I've talked to students who have been going late to class because the school bus did not come on time.

3) AAU has been increasing their tuition every semester. Currently, undergrad is $670 per unit while graduate is $770 per unit. A class has the usual 3 units. Not to mention, there is an extra "course fee" of about $25 to $300 depending on your course (or class or subject). The lesser your course fee only means the more materials you need for your class. Materials may average to more than $100 while books average to an extra $100 plus plus. Goodness.

4) They boast of their cafeterias and kiosks - they even have one named Cafe Dior. Sounds sosyal diba. I dropped by one time and all I saw were 4 small round tables, 2 vendo machines, a coffee corner (in thermos containers) and the cashier. Wow. I'm impressed. It really lives up to its name. Chos.

This is the building where Cafe Dior is located. I go here often since the library is found here too. I will probably take photos of the infamous cafe next time. Lol.

5) Housing for AAU students cost about $5,000 per semester. That is San Francisco cost of living right there... but San Francisco way of living? I don't think so. Getting an apartment in a nice area near downtown will cost you probably half the price. You get your own room and probably your own bathroom as well. I heard AAU housing offers you a smaller room than the usual apartment room size. Not only that, you get to share the room with 2 other people plus you get to sleep in bunk beds. HAHAHAHAHA.

6) I don't know if this is how it is in the U.S. but this University does not even have a health clinic for its students - not even a school nurse. And so I wonder where that huge tuition goes to.

So what's good about this school, you ask? Or why haven't I refunded my tuition? Well to be honest with you, their students are really gifted. I don't know if that's a result of a good academic program or it just so happens that their students are really talented. I feel such a loser around these kids - to think they are much much younger than me.

This was made by a student. It's a huge-ass rabbit, probably 10 feet tall, made out of tin packaging material.

The school also boasts of their teachers as not only professors but also professionals in the industry that they teach - which is really great. I mean my Furniture Construction teachers are real furniture designers and makers and have their own shops.

And although there is no entrance exam or portfolio requirement to get in the University, it is very hard to stay in the school. They have very disciplined programs, demanding projects, and pretty high standards. So slackers are detected earlier on and eventually kicked out.

In fairness to the school, their educational program is really good and they are pretty much lacking only in the "other services" department - which should have been compensated given the fact that they have been increasing tuition. So it's either lower the tuition or put up a REAL Cafe Dior. Lol.

Pawikan fun.

2008-08-18T07:06:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Pawikan. Our Anilao trip was the funnest ever! It has been raining for the past weeks, but God said not this weekend!! I'll surely miss Manila, the beach, my friends... the sun... the sand... the air... chos.

Words can't describe the fun we had. The photos will just do the talking ;) (btw, most of these photos are those not posted in Facebook/Multiply - pay back time!!!).

Introducing, Da-Who? Models... (click on image to view larger)

From left to right: Pu3ska, model ng sunblock, model ng.. ng.. ng.., shampoo model, Neet model, at ito model talaga ito. Buwahahaha!!

- See you guys next year!
Yours truly, Katie (Margarita) Holmes. LOL.

The new Astralis.

2008-08-16T06:47:00.000-07:00

A few nights ago, I dined with some friends for dinner at the Restaurant Le Bellevue in Diamond Hotel. We were there to try out the menu that will be served at their new restaurant, the Astralis, which will open in Powerplant come September. It will be where Rastro was located. Rastro closed down July, I think. We had dinner there during its last few weeks, hoping to find that Mati atmosphere we miss...

Moving on... the food was great! It was sort of a dry-run-slash-food-tasting so we pretty much had to give comments afterwards. I'll reserve those for my ex-boss ;) but here are some of the food we tasted. I had Baked Camembert Cheese and Wagyu Burger Patties - loved the burger!

We also tried, for starters, Cauliflower dip with poppyseed flatbread (my personal fave), the Fresh mozzarella, tomato, grilled zucchini with mescluna and ciabatta parmesan toast, and the Apple and smoked bacon salad. Then my friends had the Pan-grilled Philippine seabass, Roasted beef tenderloin, and Pan-grilled lamb chops (didn't bother to post the photos coz the lighting was just baaad).

For desserts, we had the Tofu cheesecake, Profiterolles of the Islands, and Fresh fruit platter. Yu-mmmy! Too bad I won't be able to check out the place pretty soon.

Deeply soulful sundrenched summer listening.

2008-08-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

I finally got my copy of the latest Beach House 2008. Listened to the entire album on the way to Anilao last weekend (will post about that later)... and I am beginning to LuRrV it!! My friend Tonito, said the compilation was quite Latin-ish. I agree. Although it may seem at first that the 2006 Beach House album is still the best ever, I think this album will grown on you pretty soon.

Check out the song "Walking With A Smile" by Wez Clarke and Maxine Hardcastle - I fell in love with it the first time I heard it :). My next bet is "Sun In My Eyes" by Myomi. Listen here.

The smiling horse.

2008-08-14T07:03:00.000-07:00

I had dinner with my Zip friends last night at Metrowalk and we ended up having one round of drinks before hitting home. They (boys and girls) ordered a bucket of Red Horse, to my surprise. I never thought girls drink Red Horse. Hee hee. I just ordered my usual SML... anyway, the point of this blog entry is... I never heard about the smiling horse until now.

Maybe I'm not just a Red Horse drinker, but apparently everyone in the table knew about those rare smiling horse bottles. True or not, I was told that only one case of smiling horse bottles was ever made and distributed throughout the country. Ashteeg! Well, maybe not just one case.. So anyway, one of the girls got a smiling horse bottle (the one with the red circle around the horse) and everyone was excited including me, who took a picture of it. Lol. (left photo mine; right photo taken by j.naval). One of the guys even took it home as a souvenir. I want one too!!!

Afam galore.

2008-08-14T06:27:00.000-07:00

"Afam" by the way in gay lingo, means foreigner. Heniwei, I was in Tips and Toes, Greenbelt 1 this afternoon. To my great surprise, 70% of their customers who had an appointment or went in to inquire were caucasian women. Have I been in ghetto L.A. (Lower Antipolo) for so long that I haven't noticed the influx of foreigners in Makati, whether as tourists or expats?

One woman's phone rang, and in her english accent answered, "Oh, you're in England?" Lol. The next customer who took her seat was a French woman I think, with her boyfriend. I felt like a tourist in my own country.

Nevertheless, it's good to hear that they like it here and even considered to live in Manila despite the obvious poverty, pollution and incompetent government. ;p

Thoughts of your love...

2008-08-08T01:27:00.000-07:00

Ready, sing... Lol.

A few days back I visited my alma mater to get a copy of my high school transcript - aah, pure nostalgia. There was the old building... and the new building.. the big field where we slept in the tents when we were still girl scouts and where we played kickball and soccer too... the corridors where we'd eat lunch with our baon. Everything else seemed the same, except for the old canteen and new canteen that were being renovated.. and I heard the gymnasium had an escalator (huwat?!?). I didn't see Baguio though. AAAWWWW... I miss those days. I spent 14 years in this school - wow that's like half of my life.

Showers.

2008-08-06T08:17:00.000-07:00

The rainy season has finally begun - better late than never. I barely see the sun nowadays and I've missed my zips class for about a month now due to the bad weather... but apparently I LuRRv this weather.

Anyhoo, the metro isn't the only one getting satiated with showers... In a span of less than 2 weeks, my high school friends and I have had 2 showers - considering the fact that we're only 4.

Last July 25, Net had her baby shower party at Bel-air. It's the first baby for all of us and the rest are obviously ninangs! Fun! :) Little Ledda will by my second godchild. Wow do I feel old: I found myself recently shopping in Mothercare and Zara Baby (sale of course) for my 2 new godchildren - my sister made me a godparent too. Well as long as I'm not shopping for myself then it's all good ;).

Then come August 3, Cel had her bridal shower. It's the second bridal shower for us this year and I swear these girls are making me more broke than ever!!! We treated the bride with brunch at Fely J's in Greenbelt 5. We had crispy pata - HAHAHAHA - tortang talong and adobong pugo. I was so excited for the adobong pugo until they served us 4 little chickens. EUW!!! They turned out to be grown pugos. Yuck. It was so sad. So sad.

Afterwards we treated her to Mamma Mia! since it seemed appropriate for the celebration... and since we'd rather not watch the Mummy. My mom will so love this movie, I swear. It's like one big ABBA MTV. Lol. The highlight of the movie? 3 European-looking girls sitting beside us raised their legs and rested their feet on the chairs in front. How jologs naman. Buti na lang manong guard came up and scolded them. Har har har.

Finally we went back to Greenbelt 5 for some merienda. We couldn't decide where to have coffee so we just ended up in Pia Y Damaso. AND ang saaarrraaapppp ng desserts! We had Sisa's Dementia, Brazo ni Doña Vicki with Lemon Lime sauce, and another cake I enjoyed so much I forgot its name (it came with mango balls). I loved their coffee cups by the way - so Alice in Wonderland meets Palm Beach meets Victoria's Secret.

And the biggest laugh trip of all...

... LOL!

I'm out.

2008-07-30T19:06:00.000-07:00

I've yet to get my copy... tomorrow. I'll blog about it soon. I'm just so excited I had to post it.

360 mascara.

2008-07-17T07:59:00.000-07:00

I've been too busy putting my life in order... finances included - that nothing I've seen, heard, or read lately made me want to hit my lappy and blog. Except for this.

Givenchy has come out with the first-ever spherical mascara: Phenomen'Eyes. It's a mascara with a round brush designed to grip at the lashes starting at the roots. It is said to perfectly curl and separate your lashes to a beautifully fanned-out panoramic effect - but doesn't every mascara promise that? Well this one boasts of its high-tech and patented round sphere that reaches every lash and adapts to all eye shapes.

Well it's definitely something I must try - after I've used up my Diorshow that is. I barely use it nowadays, but it's drying up because of global warming. Ugh.

50lb-limit.

2008-06-27T23:05:00.000-07:00

You gots to be kidding me.

I received an email from PAL regarding their new travel advisory, effective July 1, 2008. They will be putting a limit of 50 pounds or 23 kilos to each of the two pieces of free baggage on flights to and from the U.S. and Canada. That's like cutting off 1/3 from the original weight limit!!!

"PAL is constrained to take this step as a consequence of record-high fuel prices that have adversely impacted the airline industry worldwide. The International Air Transport Association has forecast a massive global industry lost of $6.1 billion for 2008. In response, most major carriers have reduced free baggage allowance or imposed new fees for checked baggage as a way of easing operational cost."

Oh puhleasee... I wonder if Cathay Pacific has done the same. I heard they have better seats - you have your own TV screen - and nicer flight attendants. Time to switch carriers.

I want a ring.

2008-06-24T21:18:00.000-07:00

No, not an engagement ring... but just these 2 lovely rings I found on the net ;).

Check out this Single Ring by Nishi - a jewelry line by New York-based Japanese designer, Joanna Bengoa. It's sterling silver that's available also in 14KY gold. I think it costs about $115. I'd rather wear this than the singleringen.

Have you ever heard of a knuckle ring? I've only seen those worn by pimps and I never thought I'd want one of them. So pretty and fabulous, this knuckle ring was designed by Zoe Chicco - and way too expensive for me..

D.Y.O.

2008-06-18T08:05:00.000-07:00

Ever heard of Do Your Own custom couture? I've always dreamed of having an online store for swimwear, where you can mix and match tops and bottoms, customize the style, fabric and fit - then checkout and have your swimsuit delivered hot and fresh at your doorstep. (Nobody better copy my idea!) Anyway, I chanced upon this website which does the exact same thing I had in mind, except that they do dresses - I LOVE IT!!!

Studio 28 Couture offers customized dresses where you can 1) choose your bodice - I chose the Carrie Halter Top; 2) select the skirt - the Cocktail Party Skirt with Ruffles was perfect as it's short and flirty; 3) choose among the many dress fabrics - I had a hard time choosing, but I ended up with the Passion Vine Pink and finally 4) selecting the trim fabric - if you chose a dress with ruffles at the hemline, which in my case I chose Honey Dew.

The dress cost $200 by the way so I didn't proceed to checkout and just played mix and match with the website. Lol.

Mega Mango Sale!!!

2008-06-16T01:38:00.001-07:00

I know it's too late to announce the sale, but I found out about it late as well. I was checking out the BDO website late Saturday afternoon to check my savings account balance and there I saw: MANGO weekend sale at the Rockwell Tent - Invitational. What!?! You gots to be kidding me. No way is that sale open to only BDO credit cardholders. So Sunday lunch time I checked out the tent - open to all, of course.

Madness!!!! One of the dresses I bought was there at the same size and at 30% off! Grrr... Anyway, I was able to buy 3 lovely dresses at a mega discount, a fancy coat at a super discount, a tote at a fantastic discount, and black linen shorts at an unbelievable discount! Lol. Those with invitations get an extra 5% off. Good thing the girl at the cashier fell for my lovely charms and gave me a used invitation so I could avail of the extra discount. :)

Now I'm fabulously broke. By the way, this sale is like a sneak peek on what's to come in the next few weeks at Mango. So for sure, watch out for the upcoming sale at your favorite outlet.

Summer in June.

2008-06-14T07:59:00.000-07:00

Am I in California? Can someone tell me why it's so freaking hot in June?!? It seems like it's way hotter now than it was last March - scurry.. we're now feeling the real effects of global warming. Tsk tsk tsk. It's like everyday I'm always sticky and icky, and the more you want to use the AC, you just can't because of the damn skyrocketing electric bill. We are so doomed. Gas will reach P60 per liter they say - WOW. A few months back, I remember a liter was only P45 and a full tank would cost around P1,500. And in just a few months, pretty soon my full tank will cost me P2,100. I think I'll just walk to work.

Paeng finally uploaded old photos! Aahhh.. my long-hair days..

How cool is that?

2008-06-10T19:03:00.001-07:00

Wow... it's been a while. Been too busy to write about anything - not even Sex and the City movie made me blog about it. In all honesty, I liked Kung Fu Panda better.. "this is all just a joke to you.." Hahaha.

Anyway, I came across two interesting gadgets that I just had to blog about. Ever heard of a USB beverage chiller?!?? It's simply the coolest desktop accessory in town. RedEnvelope is selling this Father's Day an innovative and space-efficient beverage chiller that keeps your drink at a cool 45 degrees. It plugs right into a computer USB port, BUT it does not serve as a USB drive (boo hoo). And it fits a can, bottle or glass. For only $40, how cool is that?

Next item is the Solio: Solar Gadget Charger. It can charge any device with a USB port. Place this lightweight and portable Solio in sunlight, spread its wings, and once the internal battery charges you can power or charge your iPod, iPhone, Blackberry, cellphone or digital camera. It also charges on traditional AC adapter. It's so environment-friendly that it is also made from recycled and recyclable materials ;). This item is also available at the RedEnvelope for $99.

Pretty bitter.

2008-05-29T20:04:00.000-07:00

"Stationery that pushes the envelope." What better way to express your feelings than through a dainty note card? Pretty Bitter is a stationery store in New York that also sell note pads, sticky pads, and fauxtos. Their "bitter" cards sold at $2.99 each include Asshole, Hot Mess, Douchebag, Suck It, and Die - so not your grandmother's doilies. Lol.

The Gap opens at the Shang.

2008-05-26T07:33:00.000-07:00

Went to Shangri-la Plaza Mall today and a huge-ass streamer with the height of 4 floors greeted me: The Gap now open. I'm not quite sure if their store collection is what's in season but they have some pretty interesting very-Gap expensive items.. hmmm. Almost everything I liked cost above P2,000 - and they're all casual. I wonder how much the items over at the Banana Rep costs.. hehe.

The 2012 Mayan Prophecy.

2008-05-25T01:07:00.000-07:00

It's been 2 weeks since my last post. I've been busy and lazy... and a lot of things have happened in those 2 weeks. I'm getting sentimental here, but I saw how a great love turned into a complete lie, I realized how one single instance can change your future plans forever, and how some people believe that death is closely inevitable.. (plus my best friend gets engaged and another friend suddenly decides to close down his blog). I apologize for greeting you with such a gloomy post... but no, I did not break up with anyone. Lol.

First I hear and see about the Inconvenient Truth, how our world is dying at a faster rate because of all the carbon dioxide we're putting out there. Then I hear about the Obama prophecy of Nostradamus, that the first black pope or president is the sign of the beginning of World War 3. Then someone tells me about the 2012 Mayan Prophecy, that the world will reach its natural end on December 21, 2012. Wow, that's like 4 years from now.

As bothersome as it may be, I decided to blog about it - amidst all my fashion-kikay entries (which were all basically due to my current job). There are certain points that I want to stress out and that I want to share to those who are interested to know about it. I apologize for using excerpts, because I think Brett Kopen would say it better than I would. ;)

On Christmas Eve 2012, the sky is divided by the sun and all dry land begins to rise. The oceans respond to the tectonic shifts and the great flooding of the Earth begins. New York is washed away by a tsunami ten times greater than the Indian Ocean wave of 2004. Chicago returns to its swamp roots as the melting ice from the North Pole quickly fills the basins of the Great Lakes, causing Lake Michigan to burst at the seams. Gravity from the North speeds up the process of course, as the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans collide in Nebraska. The new era of humanity turns from dominance to survival. Rather then the plot for a blockbuster Hollywood summer movie, this is the way the world could end according to Western interpretation of the Long Count calendar, one of several created by the Mayan Indians who populated the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico hundreds of years ago. While many Mayans still exist today, the classical period of their culture ended around 900 A.D. They studied the stars and the movements of the moon and sun, developing several calendars including the Long Count, which measures huge periods of time, along with a calendar to mark the passing of a year.

No one knows why the Maya marked the beginning of creation on that particular date. Every year the Sun, Earth and the Milky Way galaxy align in a particular manner in the days leading up to the winter solstice. What is special about 2012 is for the first time in 26,000 years this alignment will occur on December 21, the actual date of the winter solstice. This has led to rampant speculation that the Maya believed something catastrophic will happen. The problem is that none of these predictions were made by actual Mayans, only individuals from the West who have interpreted the calendar themselves, according to Dr. Robert Sitler, the Latin American Studies director at Stetson University in Florida.

While Sitler says the dire predictions of apocalypse in 2012 are off-base, he does believe that the current state of society is in a downturn. “Will all that crazy stuff happen? No,” he said. “I think there is cause for concern when you look at the environmental situation we are in. The current lifestyle on planet Earth is unsustainable.”

In fact, Sitler said the Maya people currently living in places like Guatemala, Mexico, and Belize are learning about the 2012 prediction like other people: through the media. This has led some Maya to interpret the calendar to mean their people will return to autonomous rule. Other Maya resent what they consider to be another example of the white man taking over their culture by interpreting their own documents for them. Sitler believes nothing extraordinary will occur specifically in 2012. However, he does warn that unless changes are made regarding toxic dumping, pollution and the way we treat the environment, the end is not far off.

“The trajectory is in place and we are already in this disaster,” he said. “It will collapse, it has to. It has no choice. We desperately are trying not to see the writing on the wall. I think we’re kind of in a collective delusional state.”

“The Maya were amazing, there’s no doubt about that. We have to be careful how far we take their beliefs.” As for what will happen on December 21, 2012, we know the planets will align and for sure, there will a lot of individuals proclaiming the end of days. But as Michael Coe, professor emeritus of anthropology at Yale University, puts it: “No one really knows what is going to happen.”

However, if we continue to turn a blind eye to such issues as pollution and global warming, we will not need a calendar to tell us the world is ending. All we will need to do is look out our window.

I can't wait!

2008-05-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

After years of no Carrie, no Big, no sex.. the movie is finally here! Sex and the City: The Movie had their world premiere at the Odeon Leicester Square in London yesterday, May 12. It's supposed to come out this May, but I've been checking Sureseats forever and still no sign of sex sex sex...

We're not getting any younger.

2008-05-10T07:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Nanette!! :) Sorry, delayed post. Hehe. Congrats also to the mother-to-be... the soon-to-be newly wed... and the 2 remaining single ladies. Lol. Cheers to good times!

2 become 1.

2008-05-07T22:34:00.000-07:00

I recently saw something new and odd in the latest fashion trend in bags - the bag with a pouch. Yes, there are already bags with an attached purse or pouch on the handle perhaps or inside the bag itself. These purses are usually miniatures of the bigger bag. But these bags I'm talking about are handbags with mini purses literally attached on them that they look like two different pieces put together. They're so quirky! Right bag is by Marc Jacobs and left one is by Dolce & Gabbana.

Season's sandals.

2008-05-01T06:23:00.000-07:00

This season, flip-flops are out and sandals are in. I used to be a flip-flop freak that I had about 10 pairs or more which I wore almost everyday. Until recently, I donated most of them and I'm left with about less than 5. I'm getting older I guess and I should avoid making them a staple item in my wardrobe, lol.

My idol and fashion guru, Rachel Zoe, has recently featured three perfect must-have sandals for this season: a wedge, a metallic, and a gladiator.

1) Wedge. You can wear either an espadrille, cork or wood stacked heel. Rachel loves them for their 70s flair. Left cork wedge is a dainty Dolce Vita ($115), right wedge is what I bought on sale at the Gap (mine came in black straps though) - for about $5, lol!

2) Metallic. A little shine would look great, especially on a sandal. Rachel says this trend is still going strong, so go for the silver or gold depending on your skin type. Left gold metallic sandal is Mars by Bernardo at $115. The one on the right is Belle by Sigerson Morrison at $225 - it's similar to what I recently bought at Zara (check out my photo, 2 posts later than this) which is a gold braided t-strap sandal. It cost almost P2,000 but it was worth it - it matched almost all outfits I wore.

3) Gladiator. I agree with Rachel - gladiators are amazing. They are a fun style and apparently wearable with almost anything. Aside from leather, try them also in exotics or patents. Left gladiator is Rome by Mia ($70) and right is by Chinese Laundry ($50). The sandal on the right is similar to Ilaya Couture's gladiator sandal in faux some-reptile skin which I bought for about P700. Mine came in bronze, but they have white and silver too. In fairness, their gladiators were selling like hot cakes!

I-wear vintage.

2008-04-27T06:18:00.000-07:00

I love anything vintage - eyewear included. Here's a website I came across that sells super fine shades. Check out these 70s styles by Nina Ricci, Paco Rabanne, Cazal, Dior, Playboy, among others. All sunglasses have never been worn, and they cost a few hundred dollars to about more than a thousand. They're so hot, I would not mind investing in one of these timeless pieces.

I'm not worthy!

2008-04-26T02:20:00.000-07:00

Something bewildering greeted me in my mail today... an invitation to a Platinum upgrade!!! W-O-W!!! I was screaming with delight! I'm so not worthy! I can't afford this! Annual fee is P5,000 - geez.. but then again, they offer exclusive benefits. Sana black AMEX na lang. Lol. I have this feeling I'll be in plastic debt for life...

Little siopao.

2008-04-21T05:42:00.000-07:00

Are you a boy or a girl? Hehe.. sooo cuuuuteee!! My sister just gave birth recently to a healthy kyot baby girl, Nichola Una. Gugugugu...

Urban bazaar.

2008-04-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

This is my first time to visit the Urban Bazaar at the Rockwell tent. I had a haircut appointment with my stylist at Empha, but I arrived early from my eye checkup and decided to hang out at the bazaar while waiting. This is one of the major reasons why I hate malling... I always end up buying stuff I don't really need. I'm such an impulsive buyer that I simply mess up any plans for saving. Tsk tsk tsk.

Anyway, here are the cool stuff I bought..

The bangle is hand-painted by "baubles, bangles and beads." They have a lot of funky bangles with different sizes. I decided to get this one for a friend who's having a birthday pretty soon. It cost me P450 - mahal! The earrings - I LURV THEM! The top pair is P400 and the bottom pair is P350. They are a bit pricey but I think the style and material is so worth it. The owners are 2 Koreans who were really nice - compared to some designers who stood in the middle of their stall acting all snotty.. as if their clothes were all that great. Anyway their stuff is branded as Jewel Box and they said it's their first time to join the bazaar and that they brought all items here from Korea - ganon sila ka-chika. Check out their multiply site.

These are printed scarfs I bought from Trunk Show. Actually they're more of a headband/bandana which could also be used as a scarf or belt or whatever. And they're only P120 each!!! They don't have multiply but I think they have stores in Rob Place, Trinoma and Shoppesville.

Last but not the least, I bought a pretty Grecian/goddess cotton dress from Unarosa. It's so dainty! I bought a white one, but I also plan to buy the blue and black one. Hehe. It's only P990 and it comes with a braided belt too. They recently opened a store in 5th level Shangri-la Plaza Mall. They also have branches in Galleria, Shoppesville and Tiendesitas. (Plugging ba? Lol.) Btw, below is the shot we did with Vanessa, Rey and his team - Sarah Black and Robbie Pinera.

Earth day.

2008-04-17T08:27:00.000-07:00

April 22 is Earth day. How are you going to celebrate it? Well it's something that we should be celebrating everyday, hence I have been practicing eco-friendly habits recently as an effort to contribute to saving our planet Earth :). Are you doing something about it? Maybe it's about time you sacrifice a thing or two as well.

Here are the small things - but huge efforts - I've been doing to GO GREEN.

1) I ALWAYS keep used paper for scratch and re-use them later on. I also recycle gift boxes, not gifts ;).

2) As soon as my laptop is fully charged, I unplug it right away until it's almost drained.

3) I stopped throwing old batteries in the trash. Instead I'm gathering all of them for the meantime. As soon as I've enough, I plan to bring them to a battery disposal bin in Greenhills (or Megamall and Greenbelt).

4) I turn off the lights in a room when no one's there. I turn off the lights when no one is reading or writing, but maybe just hanging out or watching TV.

5) I used to keep the TV on while sleeping and turn it off only when I wake up in the morning. Now I put it on sleep mode for about an hour - wish my aircon had sleep mode too.

6) Although it's so freaking HOT... when bearable I do not use the aircon in my room. Instead I use the electric fan. But if I really can't sleep because of the heat, I only turn it on when I'm about to fall asleep. Then I turn it off as soon as my eyes open, regardless if I go back to sleep or not.

7) Most of the time I do not use the aircon while driving - unless I have a complaining passenger.

8) To lessen laundry load, I wear my clothes more than once if they're still clean enough and wearable for a different day - of course. These are the clothes I wear only for a few hours and/or where I'm hardly exposed to pollution and heat - like jeans and shorts for sleeping.

9) When I brush my teeth, I don't keep the water running - I used to do that. Tsk tsk tsk.

10) To save water, I take a bath once a day - WAHAHAHAHA!!!!

I still have quite a list to follow, but it requires great commitment - just like commuting/walking/carpooling/riding a bike to nearby places... but I live far!! Another is to use eco bags for groceries - if I do that, I don't know what to use for our trash bins anymore.. Well, I'm gonna work on that.

Basically it's all about conserving energy and water and avoiding things that are harmful to the environment. For me, it's all about simple living. Live simple, live free, live happy.

Happy Earth Day and spread the word!

I lurv MNG's must-haves.

2008-04-17T00:12:00.000-07:00

1) printed maxi dress 2) shocking colour 3) wrapped scarf dress - lovin it! More...

4) the polka dot dress 5) degrade print 6) black tube skirt

7) matt and vinyl combo 8) 50s flared skirt

9) naive t-shirts? 10) checks and stripes 11) off the shoulder blouse

LURRV IT! Zo woman-lee.

Not my Michael!

2008-04-12T03:30:00.000-07:00

Why?!? Why did you vote out Michael Johns from American Idol?!? Something is just not right.

He's my favorite and I believe he is the best performer, if not one of the best singers in the group. Plus he's H-O-T... and married. Sigh. I mean he is faaar better than the other bottom-2 girls, Carly and Syesha. Ugh.. I guess not everyone appeals to his kind of music and rocker-blues look. But I LOVE it. I loved his rendition of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody and Aerosmith's Dream On. He was never in the bottom three, that's why it has been a real shock to all of his fans including Paula.

On the brighter side of things, maybe this would be good for the Aussie. I see him more as a lead vocalist for a band like the Doors, as opposed to a solo artist like Clay Aiken. Blech.

How low can you go?

2008-04-11T06:42:00.000-07:00

I love this commercial. I saw it in the States a few months back and came across it recently in YouTube. Cha-check it out!