Pop Thoughts

A Very Important Milestone!

2012-02-01T21:25:00.001+08:00

The little girl had her first assigment, an artwork on creepy crawlies that she needs to share in class. I got stressed for a little bit because it was for her chinese class although the teacher said she can share in english.

Sigh yes, its now starting.... Its now starting!!! Haha, am just stressing myself for the future of school responsibilities.

Gong Xi Fa Cai!

2012-01-26T09:53:00.001+08:00

Hope everyone's lucky on this year of the dragon!

Drawing Smiles

2011-08-13T16:07:00.003+08:00

The other night, Peyton and I discovered a drawing app on the ipad which we enjoyed very much. We were drawing her favorite things -- twinkle twinkle little stars, the playground, her bike (with "clouds" that she drew), and of course Mama, Dada and Peyton:

I taught her to draw a happy face, which for some reason, made hegiggle after every attempt. Until finally she was able to draw her own happy face!

Ok, my drawing skills are not really good but she clearly appreciated my efforts. But more importantly, we both had fun! :)

Langkawi Fun!

2011-08-09T22:35:00.001+08:00

Yes, it took me some time but here it is -- a post on our short, tiring, but fun Langkawi trip.
After much internal debate on which camera to bring, I brought my LC-A+ but didn't get to use much. I ended up taking photos using my iphone and the underwater camera, the most convenient given that I was on full mommy mode for that weekend!

We mostly hanged out at the beach, then at the pool. The little girl had so much fun! I was worried at first that she'd be scared of the sand under her feet and the waves -- which was the case when we prviously went to Sentosa. But this time around, she was game for the beach, picking it over the pool most of the time.
Apart from beach time, we road a speedboat to a nearby island for lunch and jetski'd. Both times she'd be squealing, "Whee, this is fun!" Her happiness is so infectious.
So even though I got sick after coming back from this trip (and after every trip that we make without her yaya, because I get so tired), we are planning another beach weekend trip next week. Am excited again because I know how much the little girl would enjoy herself!

And so I've read Before Ever After ( by Samantha Sotto)

2011-08-06T21:56:00.002+08:00

There is so much talk about the Samantha Sotto (and her book)-- the first Filipina published by Random House New York, that its hard not to get caught up with the hype. I follow Sam on twitter and she sounds like a very nice person that I was a bit worried that I might be biased into liking the book. So before my expectation gets too high, I decided to make do with the ebook version since the book isn't available yet in Singapore, and read it as soon as possible.

As I type this blog post, my head aches with the little sleep I've had the past few days. I tried to read Before Ever After every little chance I've got, between working full day and my mommy duties. Its the type of story that is hard to put down. When I finished this morning, a part of me was sad that the journey is over, even if I did like the ending. But a part of me was relieved that I can sleep early tonight!

I love the journey of the story. I really like the historical pieces because I am fascinated with European history myself (currently obsessing with English Medieval history). I thought those portions were wonderfully written.

Its a romantic book and I liked Sam's take on (all kinds of) love but to be honest, I am currently too sleepy now to remember the quotes of my favorite bits. Nevermind, I plan to re-read this story once I get hold of the actual book. So that I can join Max and Shelly's journey once again.

Went out for a ride...

2011-08-05T23:56:00.000+08:00

And just like that, I became quiet again for a while. So sorry about that, my friends. I hope i can keep a steadier stream of blogposts again.

So what has happened the past few weeks? We had that Langkawi weekend. My little girl had so much fun! So much fun that we are doing a short beach getaway again soon! Then we got sick, work got a bit busier and then we did went out for a ride...

My wonderful husband brought over a cruiser for me during his recent trip to manila and we've been busy with that ever since. Not just with the actual biking but sprucing the bike with accessories like front and rear lights, a bell, bike pouch and even a child seat for the little girl. All that's missing is a wicker basket -- and I really want a wicker one, not those plastic types, so am holding out till we find the perfect one.

Growing up I've always loved biking, spending my summer afternoons biking with friends within the confines of our small subdivision. But I never had my owned my bike though, so this one is my first and am giddy with excitement! Can't wait for our family's biking adventures!

To our Papsy with love

2011-06-20T21:55:00.000+08:00

Taken during our last family trip before I got married

To our hero, who provided us with our needs,

and sometimes our wants :)

Who was fun and strict at the same time,

but only wanted the best for us.

Who taught us to value our education and

showed us how hard work pays off!

We honor you and thank you on your special day.

Happy father's day! We love you!

Langkawi ready!

2011-06-18T18:59:00.000+08:00

We are off to Langkawi next weekend! I am so excited even if its just a short trip. I have thought of the sand toys to pack for Peyton's first beach outing. Then for myself, I have been debating if I'll bring my dSLR since I am on mommy mode. Or should I just bring my compact LC-A+ instead? Hmmm, decisions, decisions.

But one camera that I'll be bringing along for sure is this Underwater Digi Cam from photojojo:

photo from www.photojojo.com

Tried it out for test shots this afternoon when we went to attend a swimming birthday party. Love the lo-fi images it produced -- perfectly capturing the water fun the kids had:

The happy birthday girl!

Peyton had loads of fun!

Noah's dive

Reese's mermaid swirl

Check out Berry's cute nail polish :)

Peyton didn't want to go yet...

This nifty little camera is a pretty good deal at just USD35. Its compact and cheap, making it stress-free to bring to a poolside or to the beach with a toddler in tow. Can't wait to use this next weekend, am so looking forward to the fun memories we'll be capturing with this little toy!

Feelin' retro

2011-06-16T15:57:00.000+08:00

Instagram has been giving me that analogue, retro photography vibe that I've been feeling lately:

I am not really into videos but I surprisingly had fun when I learned about Silent Film Director, an iphone video app that allows you to put that retro feel on your videos, whether its the 20's movie, '60s or 70's home video feel (complete with the "film projector" reeling sound). I played around with the app and came up with this:

Quirky fun, eh? Try it out for yourself!

Something Blue

2011-06-12T10:56:00.000+08:00

So yey, I finally got to watch Something Borrowed, the movie based on a book with the same title by Emily Giffin that I previously blogged about.

Since I pretty much knew the story, the movie did not disappoint. I really enjoyed John Krasinski's portrayal of Ethan most of all (I didn't remember him to be that funny from the book) which made me re-read Something Blue, the sequel story. Ethan is an important part of that story as well, although its about Darcy this time.

I really do hope they turn Something Blue to a movie too.I really liked the sequel story better, even though Darcy's character in Something Borrowed wasn't the type you would root for. She was a selfish person then. However the sequel is set immediately after Rachel and Dex' story so it tells what Darcy went through as she realized her mistakes, tried to be a better person and how she finally moved on. The change in Darcy wasn't an overnight thing, nor was it perfect. But with time, distance and new friends, she did change to the happy person that she wanted and deserved to be.

I like the idea of people changing to be better persons, about growing up, and moving on. Am that kind of optimistic. I hope its something I'd always remember, that change for the better IS possible. For me, for the people around me.

I never want to lose hope.

Off to Langkawi!

2011-06-01T21:51:00.003+08:00

Ok, not today nor tomorrow, but in a few weeks, hehe.

Photo from Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa website

Langkawi is an island off the coast of North Western Malaysia. Its our first time to go there and Peyton's first beach trip, if I do not count the two times we went to Sentosa for her to feel sand under her feet. I'll be on mommy mode but I hope to be able to take nice photos of the place (should I bring my dSLR? my lomo?) and have a blog post about it.

Its just a short weekend holiday but I am excited! Its always nice to have something to look forward to :)

Peyton speaks

2011-05-27T11:27:00.000+08:00

I realized I haven't written about my (not so) little girl since she turned one . And it was an embarassingly short entry. I take multitude of her pictures and since they say a picture is worth a thousand words, I didn't think I needed to write anymore! Ok ok, that sounded like a very lame excuse. So here it is, a quick update on Peyton especially for our family and friends back in the Philippines.

Peyton's a very active and curious little girl. But she took her time before talking so I get amazed when she's speak full sentences like:

"Mama, are you ok?" -- I hear this a lot of times, because I am a klutz and I'd always hit myself against something.

"Mama, let's play blocks" -- one time when I was working at home. This made me quickly close the laptop. She was right. I mean, I am home, I shouldn't be working.

"No, I am reading" - last night, when I told her we need to go to sleep (she's not actually reading, she was looking at the pictures of her Disney Princesses book)

"Promise, Mama?" - when I told her she can do something after she'd do something that I want, like she can watch Pocoyo after finishing her milk.

"How about a hug?" -- when we are already in bed and I'd ask her to go to sleep.

I am amazed with some of the words she'd use, like "beach ball" as opposed to just a ball, or "toy airplane" as opposed to a just airplane. (I guess coz she knows airplanes are really big)

Her first named friend is Berry. Usually after our playdates, for days, she'd be requesting to , "How about, play Berry?" Whenever I give her choices on what to do for the day like, "Do you want to play basketball? Go to the playground?"

She'd pick the shoes she'd want to wear, "Wear black!" She'd ask her Dada to carry her, "Mimi carry you!" (ok this is weird but that's how she'd say it) And where she'd want to sleep, "Sleep Mama's room!"

She gives her opinion on her next sibling. Our conversation would go like this:

Me: Peyton, do you like a baby sister or a baby brother?
Peyton: Baby sister!
Me: if that's the case, you need to sleep in your own room because the baby would sleep with mama!
Peyton: Hmmm, how about a baby brother?
(hahaha! I guess she doesn't want to be bumped off our bed)

There are so much more fun anecdotes! Peyton at 3 years old is really enjoyable. She doesn't talk much (takes after me, right???) But she gives her opinions, she voices her desires. My most favorite at this moment I guess is when I'd say, "I love you, Peyton..." She'd reply, "I love you, Mama." Sweetest words, sometimes together with a hug. I melt. (I am sure other mommys can relate!) Bob says that's my weakness. And its so true!

Why do we do things even if we're scared of them?

2011-05-26T23:06:00.002+08:00

Last Wednesday I did something I was afraid of doing. I presented during a forum, in front of maybe 80+ people. I did it because I was asked to do. But I do not like presenting in front of people. I hate it because I get scared. I get nervous, even if I know what I’m talking about. The unfortunate thing is, I need to do it as part of my job and I do it at least once a week. So I do it anyway.

I love riding roller coasters! But just right before the big drop, I get scared. I am actually afraid of heights! I’d get a wave of panic, every time. Like, EVERY TIME. But the rush I get after is worth being scared, so I’d do it again, and again, and again!

I am scared of failing as a mother. I remember telling a college friend while jogging around UP more than a decade ago that I think I don’t want to have any children. I was scared that I will not make a good mother. Then she told me, how I can not want any children, when it’s the greatest fulfillment of being a woman. That made me pause but it didn’t ally my fears. Fast forward to now – I am now living a life with a (not so) little girl who means the world to me. Every night I go to sleep worrying if I am doing the right thing but I never regretted being a mom. I can’t imagine life without my daughter.

I am such a scaredy cat. But I guess there are reasons why we do things even if we are scared of them.. Because there are things greater than fear. A sense of duty. A sense of adventure. Love and love of life.

Except if it’s great fear, like dying. And hell. So for sure, I can never kill myself. :)

P.S.

And cockroaches. Promise, that’s it!

Cambridge Satchel Love

2011-05-19T19:13:00.000+08:00

So I like bags. There, I've said it! If you notice I never really blog about bags much (ok so my list of never before blogged is getting longer), but whenever Bob asks me what I want for any occasion, I'd say, "A bag!" He doesn't like the idea but since I pretty much never asked for anything else, he gives in every now and then, hehehe!

Right now am loving the Cambridge Satchel. Bob got me the 14" yellow one from the website for my birthday and it was such a good surprise because he kept saying no (so really happy vibes from that bag) and the 11" purple I bought two months after (from Schu shop in the Philippines).

The leather smell even lingers in the room after you open the bag!

It might not be for eveyone but am loving the shape (really structured) , the colors ( the yellow really gives happy vibes! And I just have a soft spot for purple), and the price (less than $200)!

Yellow series

Purple series

You often hear it coz its true -- its a good buy for an all leather bag!

Something Borrowed

2011-05-14T14:05:00.009+08:00

Ok, on to a less geeky topic.

Last week I saw Thor with Bob and on the way in, I spotted this movie poster:

Went giddy with excitement! Something Borrowed is a movie based on a book with similar title by Emily Giffin. Read all of her books, liked all of her books!

Love The One You're With was the first book I read, followed by Something Borrowed

Although I must admit I loved the sequel, Something Blue more. But still, I would be catching this movie. Its about being single in your 30's, best friends with someone more "successful" and then falling for your best friend's fiance. Sound like a realistic mess, isn't?

I know some people who did not like the ending (won't mention it here for the risk of spoiling the story to anyone) but I did, and I love Emily's writing style.

Hmmm, I just realized I don't blog much about books which is weird given that its really my number one hobby since I was a kid. I have discount cards to Borders, Kinokuniya and Page One and they are all pretty well used. Goes to show how little I have been writing. Ok I think its time to change that!

Why I think I lived in England during the 16th century

2011-05-11T21:20:00.000+08:00

I don't believe in past lives but I think I previously lived in England during the 16th century.

Not that I had flashbacks of that era (although when I was pregnant I had nightmares about the Tower of London) but more because of my love for the England's 16th century history. The Tudor period. The time of Henry the VIII and his 6 wives, Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Elizabeth I. It first came about during 2007, when I was pregnant, on my second trimester, and had the chance to visit Bob in Scotland. I remember picking up my first history book about Mary, Queen of Scots and Queen Elizabeth I at the Palace of Holywoodrose bookstore in Edinburgh. My collection of history and historical fiction grew after that.

Some of my books :)

Bet that sounds very geeky but 16th century England is actually a very interesting time of history. Its full of action and drama, worthy of its own teleserye version. How women are discarded because they can't produce heirs (Katherine of Aragon). How people get killed because they are in line to the throne (Lady Jane Grey at age 16, can you believe it), or because the King wants a new wife (Anne Boleyn). How two people, cousins, vying for the same throne gets to be scared and wary of each other without ever meeting face to face (Mary, Queen of Scots and Queen Elizabeth I). How England's Virgin Queen, Queen Elizabeth I, managed to be single during her entire life at the time when women rulers are unheard of, and women are used as pawns for marriages for alliances. I could go on and on.

The English have seen just about everything in their history, and that's only the 16 century!

My life in lists

2011-05-10T09:09:00.000+08:00

Once upon a time there was a girl who wanted to be a writer but really never gotten around to it, but not for the lack of trying. She had diaries and journals of unfinished stories. She wanted to take up creative writing in college but her parents advised her against it. So she took statistics instead. She then started a blog, but would slack off every now and then and stop writing. Or write about nonsense things. As you can guess, that girl is me.

I have always struggled with good writing because I have difficulties sharing about myself. And because I am forgetful. And sometimes lazy. I know I would never change, not drastically anyway. So I was glad when I stumbled upon listography, where you get to write in lists!

My life in lists. There is an iphone app version but I prefer actual writing

I would randomly choose a list to write or a list to continue whenever I am in the mood to write. I don't pressure myself to finish one list in one sitting, since I don't get to remember a lot of things in one go anyway.

I love reading and yet I can't even remember all my favorite books!

Some lists are really interesting to fill up

Some are quite hard to fill up!

And there are those I would NEVER fill up, hahaha!

The best kind of lists are those you'd like to remember forever

I think about why I want to write. I think one of the reasons is that I feel like I have something to say, and I want to be able to read that "something" in the future. So I can remember! My life in lists might not fully articulate the "somethings" that I really want to write about, but its a great way to kickstart my brain to recall things!

Happy Mother's Day, Mama!

2011-05-09T15:59:00.000+08:00

I was reading Tin's mother's day post and thought of writing about my own version as well. Unfortunately, I am really a forgetful person so I can only come up with few lessons I learned from my mom! So I instead, I thought I'd rather write about the most important lesson I learned from her, and that is how family should always be the priority.

One of our all-time favorite family picture!

My mom would always, always tell us to prioritize spending time with family over friends. She'd say that friends come and go, but family would always be there for you. So growing up, I did a lot of things with my family. Then every Sunday was family day. No matter how late your Saturday night was, Sunday you must get up for the 9am mass. Then over the years there would be conflict of schedules, but we would always go to church together.

I didn't appreciate it much when I was younger and staying at home, (especially since its very hard to get up early on Sunday mornings!) but it was something I understood and valued when I started living overseas. And even before I got married, I know its the same value that I want for my own family to have.

It is because of all her effort that we turned out to be a close knit family. And I am really thankful for the closeness I share with them. Now even I am far away (fortunately Singapore is not THAT far), I regularly keep in touch with them, many thanks to technology (facebook, twitter, instagram...).

So Mama, thank you! I do not get to say it often enough, we all do not get to say it often enough, but we love you for being our mom. Happy mother's day!

Meeting new friends over at instagr.am

2011-05-09T11:22:00.001+08:00

My blog has been stagnant for a while now.

My dSLRs and compact cameras, and lomos have been resting for sometime too.

Not that I haven't been telling stories nor taking photos. But having the iphone and mobile internet just made it easier for me to share over at instagr.am. And I have been making new friends over there too -- those whose work delights and inspires me, and those who like my pictures as well. Its a fun community!


My instagram stats

As always, I take everyday photos. Mostly of Peyton, and some others that I find interesting. I don't post process much except for cropping, filtering and some tilt-shifting... haha, that might sound lot but there are others that really produces art. And I do everything with my iphone coz I am just lazy like that.

Apart from being able to tell my own stories with pictures, I like knowing about other people's stories too. I follow a lot of really creative people, as well as those who live in places I like to visit -- Paris, London and Japan.

So in case you are in instagram as well, look me up... let's be friends! Would love to see your stories as well. :)

Its Ash Wednesday tomorrow.

2011-03-08T23:17:00.000+08:00

I made a commitment to observe the Lenten Season more faithfully this year. To go to church tomorrow. No meat on fridays. But since I like fish, no-meat fridays aren't really sacrifices. So this year, am also giving up chocolates and those bubble milk tea I find so addicting lately.

All forms of chocolates!

Gong Cha's Earl Grey Tea with 3JS

Good luck and God bless to me! :)

You can find a quiet spot...

2011-03-06T19:48:00.000+08:00

... not too far from Tanglin Road, not too far from Alexandra Road at the newly renovated Alexandra Park Connector.

Entrance from Tanglin Road

I love how they renovated the place to be more than just a jogging path running along the canal. The landscaped area has a lot of places to sit, small "ponds" and open spaces for kids to run around.

Gentle slopes to elevated landscapes

Plenty of seats for weary bum

Fancy a seat near a "marsh"?

Path to the elevated area at Tanglin Road side

Open spaces to run free!

Overlooking Tanglin Road

It would a been a good place to pose for pictures but my mowdel wasn't willing, hehe.

I really like with what they've done to the place! And am so happy its just nearby. :)

Last year...

2011-03-04T11:16:00.002+08:00

I had a week long birthday celebration with many many friends. This year I opt for a more low-keyed celebration -- had lunch with a couple of my closest friends and just dinner with my family and I was very happy with it.

But don't get me wrong, I was excited for my birthday as I was since... forever. I think I will never get too old for it -- I hope I never get too old for it. I guess I am just in a constant happy state these days that I don't need much to make my birthday special.

I am very blessed with family and friends. I am happy! I am content. :)

What's on my (work) desk?

2011-01-18T14:34:00.002+08:00

A blah topic really, who would be interested on what's on my work desk anyway? But just in case you're bored and curious :) Not that I was bored when I did this. No, no, no, of course not. Mostly just curious on how photos using the lomolomo app on the iphone will turn out.

keyboard

iphone app magnets

Starbucks planner

My access rights

Support group

just a junk holder, really

For work. 'Nuf said.

Today's caffeine fix

Work Inspiration.. food and Peyton

I think they're nice except purists out there would hate me for digital lomography :) Not that I have given up on lomography (especially since I got a sprocket rocket last Christmas!) but I just find iphone's camera apps so convenient to use. This made my point and shoot camera really obsolete.

iLove.iPhone.instagr.am.

2010-12-16T11:36:00.001+08:00

Hello blog reader. Did you miss me? It's been two months and a lot has happened. Most notable is that I finally climbed on board the iPhone bandwagon and I am loving every minute of it, from the first 4square check-in that I did right after I got it out of the box (when I was still at the Singtel shop).

No, I am not writing a poem about my great iPhone love like I did before, but please, allow me to share what I love most about it... Instagram! Instagram is a FREE iPhone app that allows you to snap a photo (or take an existing photo from the phone’s gallery), enhance it with eleven different possible effects, share it on the various social networks, as well as on Instagram itself. I love the photos that i produce with it.

And I love how simple (and fast!) it is to share. My flickr account flickered to life with instagram photos. My 4square check-ins have photos.

So if you are like me who likes taking random everyday photos and haven't tried instagram, please go ahead and try it! You might love it as much as I do. :)

Welcome to the neighborhood (market)!

2010-10-24T21:59:00.000+08:00

Hi Tin!

Today we had our usual weekend jaunt to the market for economic bee hoon and we happen to pass by your soon-to-be new place. So I thought of taking a few pictures to show you the oh so famous bee hon and your neighborhood market!

This is the Redhill market from the outside:

You get to the actual market first before the hawker center. We got to the market past 9am so it was bustling with the usual market activities.

The hawker center was already quite full when we got there; of locals having breakfast or early lunch. But we had no problem finding seats.

That's the queue for the bee hoon stall! Long queues means good food! After 10am, they serve other stuff for lunch.

That's Peyton waiting for Daddy to buy the bee hon...

And here it is! Ta-da! Haha, though it doesn't look very pretty, I assure you the taste surely makes up for it. :)

See how Peyton gobbles down her share :)

Afterwards, it gave Peyton the energy to run, gallop and skip all the way back but not without a few stops; by the local bakery (to gaze at cakes and feel the coolness of the display case on her cheek, hehe)

and without fail; her longing look at the playground on the other side of the gate (hehehe!)

Then off running again with Daddy trying to catch up with her (and mommy lagging behind)!

So that's it! Just a few snaps of what to expect. See you in the neighborhod soon! :)

Triumph vs Spanx

2010-10-18T11:06:00.004+08:00

Ok so I am unbashedly promoting Triumph's Shape Sensation for shaping underwear. But at the same time, am not oblivious that Spanx is currently hottt when it comes to shaping so the responsible shopper in me did the only right thing to do... try out Spanx too!

I creeped past Triumph's counter in Takashimaya Department Store to get to Spanx... and got overwhelmed. They've got so many types! But to be fair, I tried the closet thing to Triumph's high waist panty girdle.

Immediately, I can see a difference from Triumph's -- length is too long for my torso. High waist girdles supposed to reach just below the breasts but there was an inch extra for me. When I told the sales consultant about it she mentioned that its supposed to be "tucked" under my bra. Huh? But under my bra would be my breasts, so it would go over my breasts? Hmmm... But support-wise, there is nothing I can complain about. It was tight. Its pretty much a no frills, does-its-job kind of a girdle.

Spanx's Higher Power High Waisted Panty is priced at around $10 more than Triumph's. My verdict? Its a good functional piece which makes me understand its popularity. But the novice shapewearer that I am prefers Triumph's lacey black... because it fits me better, does its job and still looks nice :)

Shaping Up...

2010-10-12T09:56:00.002+08:00

I am not really into shaping underwear but after seeing pretty ones from Triumph's new Shape Sensation I can't help but wonder how they fit... I am undeniably impressionable in that way. So I trooped over to a Triumph counter to try them out. I am especially curious about the high waist panty girdle (the bottom that the model is wearing), so that's what I tried.

First impression, the black lace looks really pretty. It wasn't too difficult to put on, the top part reaches up to the edge of my bra where it should be. There is the (necessary) "tight feeling" that compresses my tummy area. But I can still breathe, hehe.I tried walking around, standing up and sitting down... yey! the top doesn't roll down!

So this one gets a thumbs up from a novice shape wearer like me! :) Price is at $ 79.90.

Spotlight your curves!

2010-10-06T12:38:00.004+08:00

Its the new body shapers from Triumph, for that "Feels nothing" everyday control:

Female Magazine, Oct 2010 issue

Pretty, isn't? Launching at Tangs Orchard/ Vivo City, there something special for Triumph-Tangs members!

Triumph-Tangs members get $40 off 1 set of bustier, girdle & corsage. Limited to 1 set per member. Terms and Conditions apply.

DEFINE your OOMPH with Triumph's MAXIMIZER Collections!

2010-10-04T11:53:00.002+08:00

Its cleavage unlimited time!

If you wear Triumph maximizers, now is the time to stock up. From 6Oct- 30 Nov 2010 ALL Maximizers get $$$ off:

1st set : $10 off
2nd set : $20 off
3rd set : $30 off

Get 1 stamp with every purchase of 1 Maximizer bra. Collect 3 stamps and receive a pair of FREE Briefs worth up to $29.90 (selected styles) or Bra Pads worth $19.90

Collect 5 stamps – Receive a FREE Maximizer bra worth up to $69.90. Triumph members get additional $40 voucher!

And if you're free this Saturday, October 9, 2010, come down to Raffles City Mall for the cleavage challenge!

Terms and Conditions apply. Visit Triumph counters and boutiques for details.

P.S. Now you can guess what I do for a living :)

Wise words

2010-09-24T22:06:00.001+08:00

From a deck of cards given during a wedding dinner

These days...

2010-09-22T09:38:00.001+08:00

These days, i am reading and reflecting. My best friend Anna gave me Rica's new book and am getting inspired to write again. Hopefully. Soon.

Assorted Munich

2010-09-13T13:21:00.000+08:00

Munich is is the capital city of the Bavaria state, the birthplace of Oktoberfest (which I found out that they celebrate in September). I wasn't able to explore much of the city, but what I saw reminds me something like Edinburgh. Its a big metropolitan city but still with homey feel. Must be the Bavarian vibe.

Here are some more Munich photos:

Old beautiful buildings

The Opera House

They still have a tram!

I spy... a Triumph ad

Sidewalk cafe near our hotel

Was a bit surprised to find a lot of Starbucks, this is near our hotel

View from our office

I realized my photos this trip are a bit boring -- I will just try to get nicer ones when I have the chance to go back.

First day (shopping) in Munich

2010-09-09T10:31:00.005+08:00

This is a much delayed posting of some photos from my Munich trip. Photos are few and not too great -- I wasn't really ready when I left, so all these pictures were taken using my Nokia E71 camera.

I basically did (only) two things in Munich, which is shop and work. I was only there for 4 days anyway. First day was shopping! Yep, we got our priorities right :)

I liked the location of our hotel! This is the view from my hotel.

Coz Karstadt is a department store!

First meal in Munich was lunch at this local cafe

It was a quaint cafe ran by locals

The menu was all german!

We asked the waitress what she'd recommend. Got this plateful of food

Half of the plate is potatoes

After lunch was shopping. Neuhauser straße, one of the main shopping areas, was walking distance from our hotel.

Pedestrian lane between rows of shops

The fountain at one end, near Karlsplatz

Street Performers

It has its share of wastelands, disposable fashion houses such as Pimkie, Fashion Club, etc

Got cheap EUR10 shoes here

Kiddle slide in one of the shoe stores

The high-end boutiques stores are inside Karstadt Oberpollinger. It got LV, Gucci, Prada, Miu Miu, Ferragamo, Longchamp boutiques, to nama a few.

My Longchamp haul. Ok, bought only one for myself everything else is for other people!

Together with shopping we've gotten some work done...I think in this industry, those two go hand in hand...went through various department stores checking out store displays and ads.

Window display at Karstadt

So that was my first day, the rest was just work. Next post would be the assorted photos of Munich, snaps I took in between working :)

Keeping in Touch

2010-09-06T16:38:00.000+08:00

Dear God,

I watched the movie Going the Distance (Drew Barrymore and Justin Long) and it reminded me of the long distance relaionships that I had and the ones I still have, especially since I am living in Singapore far from family and friends. That it takes a lot of effort to keep them.

So I just want to thank you for Singapore holidays, cheap promo flights, for the 3hr air travel time. For mobile phones, cheap SMS, for free emails, for Facebook, Twitter and this blog. They all help me maintain my long distance relationships in one way or another.

And thank you too for the time, that healed the heartaches for those relationships that didn't survive the distance.

Thank you,
Sara

Lucky me!

2010-09-03T12:07:00.000+08:00

Bob is into gourmet coffee these days. First he bought an espresso machine and a coffee grinder, and he's been waking up early every day (that he is here) happily preparing espressos for me (because it means espresso for himself too). Next he bought this coffee recipe iphone app and a stainless steel carafe to steam/foam milk and he's been making me cappucinos.

Today, I got his version of Café Noisette in the espresso doppio cup I got for him from Munich.

Obviously I support this endeavor of his as it helps me wake up in the morning (and I always always need help waking up!) :)

Froyo = love

2010-09-02T09:48:00.000+08:00

Frozen yohgurt makes me happy!

Because the first one I tried was when I was with Anna, during our special sleepover session last December 2009.

Because I eat at Red Mango in Eastwood with my sisters.

Because Frolick is our (mine and Wen's) pick me up dessert when we feel bad (apart from Bakerzin macaroons)

Because I was sad one day then Jeff and Bob brought me to the newly opened Red mango in Orchard Scape Youth Park.

Because Bob and I would pop by to the nearby Swirl Art for our "impromptu dates"

And because Peyton likes it as much as I do!

TRIUMPH End-of-Season SALE! 27 - 29 Aug '10

2010-08-25T09:14:00.001+08:00

I will be there on Saturday, hope to see friends! Here is a bigger view of the map and other details:

What's new?

2010-08-24T12:59:00.001+08:00

A new look for my blog! What's next? More blog posts! Hopefully.

Good morning, Munich

2010-08-03T12:50:00.002+08:00

View from my hotel. Its almost 7am here in Munich, my second day at my brand new job. Its a pretty place, from what I have seen so far.

I try not to be too sad with the fact that Bob, Peyton and I are all in different countries right now.

Espresso for one...

2010-07-11T16:05:00.001+08:00

Not so much fun :( coz it means sunday without Bob.

Following the suit

2010-06-23T09:19:00.002+08:00

I pass by Orchard Road on my way to work so I get to see the latest developments on the flood affected area. I am glad Starbucks’ upgraded their boxed up look.

Before

After

i'm needing a little bit of inspiration...

2010-06-20T16:55:00.001+08:00

All Boxed Up

2010-06-18T09:20:00.001+08:00

Here's a post flood photo of Hermes -- quite nice how they boxed it up, eh?  A lot of photos and videos surfaced on the net of the "great singapore flood" -- well, it wasnt that bad (not Ondoy standards) but given that it happened in Singapore, and along Orchard, on the intersection of one of the newest malls (Ion) was more than enough to alarm people.

Help!

2010-05-23T17:06:00.004+08:00

I was happy when I saw this:

A free film camera!

But then I saw this:

Needs to be assembled! :(

Needs to look like this:

Cool eh?

But the instructions are all in japanese!

OH NOOOO!

HELP!!!

Palace of Versailles

2010-05-20T01:08:00.025+08:00

A continuation of our Paris travelogue.

For half day, we went outside of Paris to see the Palace of Versailles.

The shuttle to Versailles. I got to sit in front! Wooot!

Versailles is located some twenty kilometers southwest of Paris. Louis XIV moved from Paris to here in 1682, until after the beginning of French Revolution.

This is Jonathan, our guide. He was nice and funny although I find his goatee weird. Afraid! He speaks English and French very well. Of course I can't understand his French but it sounded very good...

He is telling us where we would meet him after

The palace looks so grand from the outside doesn't? Jonathan said Louis XIV considers himself the sun king, thus the golden palace.

Long queue

When we got there, the palace was initially closed because the staff were on strike. Apparently, they do strikes very often. So we strolled around the gardens first because Jonathan was confident that they will open the palace before 11am. He said that though they like going on strikes, they would also like to get their full day's pay so they have to open before 11am to get paid.

So here are some garden views:

There is like a collection of gardens -- and all round were fountains and sculptures. Some nights there are fountain shows but we were only there in the morning so we don't get to see it.

We were let with only a few minutes to go around inside the palace coz we spent so much time in the gardens...

Hall of Mirrors

Queen's bedrooom

grand staircase

time to go home!

I have seen (and loved) the Buckingham Palace in London and Holyroodrose Palace in Edinburgh but I must say this Palace in Versailles is the grandest from its gold tipped architecture to its gardens of more than 800 acres! I like it!!! :)

Paris 2010

2010-05-19T23:08:00.001+08:00

Finally! I managed to get all my films developed after more than 2 weeks since coming back from our trip. It was my first lomo trip and I think I didn't take enough pictures! And I think I lost 1 roll somewhere..

But it was a wonderful trip nonetheless. It was only 6 short days -- actually 5.5 days in Paris but it was enough for me to enjoy the place. Of course not everything was perfect -- the weather would get too cold for my liking at times, but still, every aspect of the trip made the experience so memorable :)

One of my most favorite Paris photos-- River Siene at dusk

Let me start with the people -- there is this notion that the Frenchies are rude, refusing to speak English. My experience is otherwise. I found them nice and helpful, although not overtly friendly like us Pinoys. They speak to you in English, if they see that you are struggling with their French (or if they are struggling to understand your version of French, hehe). I didn't have any experience wherein a local was completely rude. Too bad I didn't manage to get a good picture of my favorite Monsieur and Madame at Chocolat au Pain. They were the best!

The French are fashionable -- oh yes they are... but mostly wear black. So yes, they are fashionable in black, hehe. But then since it was also cold, most are in long coats which happens to be in black. Carrying Longchamp. Oh, and the French are thin! Not stick thin like most Singaporeans but slim thin. To go with being fashionable in black.

At street carousel by a metro exit. See how everyone is in black?

Look! Some outliers in blue and red

Next up, the food. When we went to UK couple of years back, i got tired of eating their food after a few days. I then concluded that I am an Asian food girl. So it was a surprise that I liked French food! It helped that we found this cafe a few blocks away from our hotel where food is so good (Chocolat Au Pain, with the best Monsieur and Madame!). I think I have never eaten that many carbs in a loooong while.

Our usual brakfast -- coffee,glass of orange, croissant

French bread, of course

I am not exactly a wine drinker but I liked the French aperitif called Kir. Its white wine with blackcurrant liqueur. Its sweet, maybe that's why I liked it. Locals normally have a drink before dinner (aperitifs), then would have wine with dinner, and maybe another round after but for me, my lone drink stretches from before until after dinner. hehehe.

Lastly, the place itself. Spring in Paris is beautiful. I heard in summer it smells of dog poo (dogs are everywhere and owners don’t pick up after their dogs), but in cold Spring, it wasn't like that at all. It’s not bright and shiny like Singapore, didn't see a lot of Asians as well, so Paris really felt like an alternate universe.

Tree-lined street where our hotel was

River Seine in redscale

The hotel that we stayed at was near the Eiffel tower, a short walk from a Metro station, conveniently beside a grocery store with cafes and restaurants nearby.

Metro station by our hotel

Fruit stand nearby

Paris cafés are really everywhere – with huge windows and seats at the al fresco section facing the streets, they are designed for enjoying meals or a cuppa while people watching.

Cafe by the corner of our hotel. Notice the chairs facing the street?

On our first day (a Sunday), we went to a couple of churches – the Notre Dame Cathedral and La basilique du Sacré-Coeur. Notre Dame's outdoor facade was just magnificent but the ceiling and stained glass windows inside was as spectacular.

Notre Dame Cathedral

visitors waiting to get in (us included)

A closeup- amazing isn,t?

La basilique du Sacré-Coeur sits on top of Montmarte, highest point of the city. I was already in awe of Notre Dame's ceiling but was Sacré-Coeur's was even more breathtaking.

The trek going up -- it was such an effort!

La basilique du Sacré-Coeur

View of Paris ontop of Montmarte

There are metro (train) stations almost everywhere but we mostly walked and walked above ground to see the place. After walking the streets and taking stairs in Metro stations (no lifts, few escalators) then you’d understand how they can stay thin even with their love for bread and wine drinking.

Paris is so artsy -- with the street arts, the churches, monuments, museums... even the buildings in the central business district looks creative!

Paintings for sale by the river

A street performer near Sacré-Coeur

Pretty old buildings

Monument by the St. George bridge?

The Business District

artwork in CBD

An interesting tidbit, Paris is so artsy that you would not see any gas stations in the city. Jonathan, our guide during our Versailles visit, said that gas stations are located just outside of Paris, or underground in parking garages. (Will talk about Versailles on another blog entry)

The city is likewise amazing at night. We took a night tour to see the museums and monuments lighted up and it was painfully cold!!!! But seeing the Eiffel Tower lighted up more than made up for it.

The Opera

Forgot the name of this building

Moulin Rouge -- we didn't watch the show though

The ultimate must-see in my opinion. Eiffel Tower at night.

There are so many museums but we managed to visit only two -- the Louvre, of course, and Musee de L'Orangerie. Musée du Louvre is HUGE! They said you would need around 3 months (or was it 6 months?) if you were to stand in front of each painting for a minute. That is if you have the stamina to last that long. We only managed more than half a day and maybe 1/3 of the collection and was already very tired after. We only manage to cover some Egyptian antiquities, some Near Eastern antiquities, some of the Greek and Roman collection, some French sculptures, and some of the Italian and Spanish paintings.

the crowd around Mona Lisa

Can you see her at the distance?

Musée de L'Orangerie was amazing with its huge collection of Monet's waterlilies.

Monet's waterlilies

Displayed under natural sunlight, just like how Monet wanted it to be

Of the 5.5 days that we were there, I have allotted 2 days for shopping . Not that I bought a lot for myself, but just to see stores were enough for me! Even before leaving, I planned on visiting Rue St Honore for Longchamp and Mulberry, Rue Cambon for Chanel, Champs Elsyees for Louis Vuitton and George V for Balenciaga.

Its like Orchard Road but waaaay better!

Louis Vuitton at Champs Elysees

Balenciaga at George V. Part of it was under renovation,though

Bob agreeably took me to those places because he was confidently guarding me "not to hurt myself" anyway, hehehe. So yes, I didn’t shop much in Paris. But with the Euro down and with the 12% tax rebate, it was a good time to buy. Friends asked me to buy Longchamp for them and after conversion, a sgd229 bag here in Singapore turned out to be only sgd106! Pretty great deal.

So in short, I LOVE Paris. Because I was able to do the things I like doing -- eat good food, people watch, take photos, and ogle at bags. :)

Saan gawa ang poprice?

2010-05-18T01:01:00.002+08:00

According to Jenny, hindi siya gawa sa tunay na rice. But according to kupstah, its made from real rice.

Nakaka-addict kasi talaga. Once I pop, I can't stop!

Pop rice and kropek heaven...

2010-05-17T19:43:00.002+08:00

... Or hell, depending on how you look at it.  

My family brought THESE when they over came over for the weekend. Haven't had pop rice, in maybe 5 years before this. Now, i am always feeling full with too much junk food! Will just diet again after these ran out...

Have you been to the library?

2010-05-11T16:29:00.001+08:00

In preparation for my next project, i headed to the main library with my colleagues during lunch time. Its my first time to borrow books from the library here in singapore. Didn't realize it would be such a breeze. For PR, we only need to pay sgd10 for basic membership registration. That's it! Then i can borrow up to 6 books at a time for 21 days for free!!!  Another bonus, I can return the books by dropping them at any library -- not necessarily where I borrowed it. Great isn't?!  Ok that's it for my nerdy post. Hehe.

Surreal...

2010-05-10T00:03:00.002+08:00

Came back over the weekend, still haven't recovered from jetlag. Can't believe i spent a week in Paris. It was surreal!  

More pics and detailed post once I got my films developed. :) it was a lomo trip for me.

crash course in French

2010-04-25T22:39:00.005+08:00

Bob said (and the travel books I've read mentioned) that the French aren't as snobbish if you try to speak to them in their language. Once they see that you've at least tried, they would switch to English to help you along (and maybe so that you won't get to murder their language). So I am trying my best to learn as much French as I can within a week, since we're leaving for Paris on Saturday. Unfortunately, I am really bad with learning new languages. Really. I tried learning Mandarin when I first came to Singapore to no avail. On the other hand, Bob can order beer in like, 8 languages. Well he can say that plus other essentials like hello, good bye and where's the toilet.

Bob used this book when he was learning French:

But then it would take 6 weeks to finish the course so I decided to get a phrasebook to help me as well:

To be honest though, I don't think I would be confident enough to really converse in French so to lessen the stress, my game plan is to memorize the most essential phrases:

Bonjour Monsieur/ Madame! (Hello!)
Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?)

Should the answer be Oui (yes), then I am safe! I can switch to English.

If the answer happens to be Non (no), I'll say:

Merci, au revior! (Thank you, good bye!) Then off to find another person that would say Oui to my question. Hehehe!

Hope my plan works. Wish me luck! :)

a certified gLeek!

2010-04-23T10:47:00.003+08:00

I really can't get over the latest Glee episode, Power of Madonna. Not that I am a Madonna fan, but the episode is incredibly packed with wonderful choreographed numbers, and singing is AMAZING!!!

I really, really can't decide which is my favorite song from the episode. But I guess these three are my top choices:

lomo love

2010-04-19T01:27:00.011+08:00

I know it's been around for a long while now but it was just recently that I joined the lomo bandwagon. Lomography emphasizes casual, snapshot photography capturing everyday life using film. Lomography is casual, fun, quirky, and maybe a bit weird. Colors are over-saturated colors, photos have off-kilter exposure, a bit blurred here and there... "happy accidents" they call it.

Lomo cameras have simple controls. My first lomo camera is a Diana Mini, a small toy-looking camera which takes square and half frame photos on 35mm film. I got it because I wanted something not so expensive and small enough to bring everyday. But then I realized I wanted more functionalities so I sold my Mini to my sister and got myself an LC-A+. :)

I still have a lot to learn but here's a few of what I have so far, from my first two rolls (these are still using Diana Mini, the LC-A is still on its way):

My lomo love has its highs and lows -- the cost of using film, getting crappy results, and snapping films makes lomography a bit frustrating. But together with the crappy ones I get pretty cool pics so its been worth it so far :) I just need to be more careful with the shots I take. And need to find a cheaper film developer. And cheaper films!!!

Next Time You Fall In Love…

2010-03-24T12:02:00.004+08:00

(for W,C & T)

Can it be with someone who can make you smile? That can crinkle your small eyes flat into one thin line, make your dimple appear on your right cheek. And can make you laugh, that hearty sound that shakes your entire body and is music to my ears?

Can it be with someone you can talk to about everything under the sun? Someone that you can talk to about food, and football, music and movies. Someone that can make you think, and re-think the values you hold dear, someone who will argue out the stubbornness in you, and someone you’re comfortable to hang out with until wee hours in the morning?

Can it be with someone who can eat?!? Someone not obsessed with diets and calorie counting or harboring secret jealous thoughts against you for eating French fries and burgers when she’s stuck with side salad and carrot sticks?

Can it be with someone who will not make you cry? Who will not cut into your heart by keeping your relationship a secret from the world, and by saying that she is not sure if you’re the right guy for her?

Can it be someone who will pray with you, pray for you? Someone who will randomly whisper to God during the day to take care of you as you travel to faraway places…

Next time you fall in love, can it be with me?

care for some tea?

2010-03-17T01:28:00.000+08:00

Dearest Anna,

Remember I told you about this tea place that I want for us to try out? It's TWG at ION Orchard.

The place is small and cozy and has an old English feel. Perfect for an afternoon of catching up over tea and some pastries.

But I have to confess, their tea selection is overwhelming. I think one pot would be enough for us to share but choosing that right kind of tea is akin to choosing the perfect outfit to wear on a first date. It'll either make or break our afternoon....

Or maybe not. The reason why I want to bring you to this place is for us to have some quality time together. Catching up. Talking about our families, and our friends. Our hopes, our frustrations, our secrets. And eating! Did I ever thank you for introducing me to the world of frozen yoghurt?

I liked the time we spent together last December and hopefully, we get to do it again soon. Once a year is too infrequent, don't you think? Come over to Singapore as soon as you can. It'll be my treat at TWG. :)

Maybe we'd have two or more pots of tea to last us all throughout our stories.

I miss you,
Sara

Hongkong cafe

2010-03-16T23:00:00.000+08:00

I am trying out blogging using my phone so this would be a very short entry.  Just wanted to share this place where we had lunch today -- Xin Wang Hongkong Cafe at Anchorpoint. I don't normally like their food but the baked cheese porckchop spaghetti that I had today was yummy! I think its mostly because of the cheese. I like cheesy food.

yummy Bonifacio!

2010-03-08T15:20:00.011+08:00

I haven’t done a food post in a long time, haven’t done a Filipino food post ever, so I’d say this is about time! I don’t rave too much about Pinoy food in Singapore coz I have Jenny at home and she’s a great cook! (You can see I rave about HER) However a friend of ours recommended Bonifacio so we tried it, and sure glad we did!

Bonifacio is a few minutes’ walk from the Outram Park MRT station. It’s in a row of shophouses along Kreya Ayer St.

Ain't it pretty from the outside?

The restaurant is cozy and inviting. We didn’t get to eat there though, coz the party packs we got was for lunch celebration at home. But we will surely come back to experience the ambience.

From the entrance

some Bonifacio and La Liga Filipina artwork

I miss the sweet smell of Philippine mangoes!

Tita Divine, the restaurant manager, is warm and friendly, and embodies great customer service. I noticed they make it a point to remember their customers' first names.

Tita Divine with a few customers

And of course, the food itself is worth coming back to! Although I was too preoccupied with eating to take pictures of the food that we had, haha. But from the party pack that we got, I enjoyed the inihaw na pusit, pancit canton, palitaw, and banana turon.

The servings were generous – I got 2 party packs for 10 people and an additional order of pancit but the food was enough to feed 11 adults and 3 kids for lunch, 3 adults and 1 kid for dinner!

So come and let’s go EAT!

Address : 35 Kreta Ayer Singapore 089000(opposite Kreta Ayer Community Centre)
Telephone : (65) 6222 6676
Opening Hours : Lunch 11am to 3pm - Dinner 6pm to 10pm (last order)
Open Tuesdays to Sundays - Close on Mondays
Website : http://www.bonifaciogroup.com

A birthday post.

2010-03-02T00:38:00.002+08:00

I realized I have never written a birthday entry on my blog. So, I am writing one now.

I am turning 31 today. It’s a big deal!!! Yep, I am one of those who gets excited on their birthdays for no reason at all, apart from the fact that it’s their birthday. Last year, I thought I am too old to be excited about something silly, so I willed myself to be deadma about it. Thus my birthday was a bit like an ordinary day. Don't get me wrong, my family and friends all remembered my day but because I was nonchalant about it, the day didn't feel special. It made me sad. I made myself sad.

I realized that I needed to be true to myself, otherwise I would not be happy (who would have guessed, huh?). I am wired to be an excitable person – something I can’t help about myself. My loved ones are used to it – they would sometimes complain about it, but accepted it as a part of me nonetheless. So why should I not give myself a break and just be myself this year?

So this year, this year I’m saying my birthday would turn out great! I don’t really need a big birthday party, just an acknowledgement (by me, most especially) that it’s my day and I am so blessed. I have lived for 31 years already, after all.

Happy birthday to me!!! :)

So we went...

2010-02-22T01:05:00.017+08:00

...and it was such a tease! The rides were all operational but people weren't allowed to ride yet. I guess they just want the people to get excited for the rides... got me super excited! All the shops were opened though, and characters went out for meet and greet, and we managed to catch a couple of shows. Not a bad offering for sg10/ticket. Especially since you can exchange the ticket for a combo meal (complete with drink and dessert).

The park isn't that big, no surprise, but it's packed with things to do, places to see that I can't find anything to complain about. They made good use of the available space, and the canopies which other people found annoying, was actually such a blessing especially since it rained when we were there. But I can imagine how crowded it can be once its fully operational.

One of the main attractions is Revenge of the Mummy an indoor dark roller coaster.

We only spent 4 hours in the park -- from 5pm-9pm and yet I felt so tired afterwards! And all we did was walk, didn't even get stressed yet with queues for the rides. We estimated that you need a full day to be able to do everything. Unfortunately, I didn't manage to take much photos of the main attractions though, as I was with my little girl.

Can't wait to come back when it finally opens!

sneaking a peek...

2010-02-19T14:17:00.004+08:00

Universal Studios Singapore will be partially open during the sneak peek week in view of the Chinese New Year Celebrations. For sneak peek week, Universal Studios Singapore will open from 5pm to 9pm every night from 14 Feb to 21 Feb. However, the rides will not be operating for the visitors, it will be more of a touring around the park instead.

Got tickets for Feb 21, I can't wait to have a look! I will write all about it, I promise.

Its time to resurrect this blog (again), don't you think?

*image from http://www.rwsentosa.com/Attractions/UniversalStudiosSingapore

Let's pray for the rain, rain,( to) go away...

2009-09-29T15:38:00.001+08:00

A lot of people are still recovering/haven't recovered from Typhoon Ketsana(Ondoy) and yet another (or 2) storm/s are threatening to come our way. Let's pray that it will weakened, or be averted.

Taken from http://rosarycreations.com/prayers_against_storms.htm

Prayers Against Storms

Prayer or Blessing Against Storms

Jesus Christ a King of Glory has come in Peace. † God became man, † and the Word was made flesh. † Christ was born of a Virgin. † Christ suffered. † Christ was crucified. † Christ died. † Christ rose from the dead. † Christ ascended into Heaven. † Christ conquers. † Christ reigns. † Christ orders. † May Christ protect us from all storms and lightning † Christ went through their midst in Peace, † and the word was made flesh. † Christ is with us with Mary. † Flee you enemy spirits because the Lion of the Generation of Judah, the Root David, has won. † Holy God! † Holy Powerful God! † Holy Immortal God! † Have mercy on us. Amen!

(From the Pieta Prayer Booklet)

Another Prayer to Avert Storms and Hurricanes

Father, all the elements of nature obey your command. Calm the storms and hurricanes that threaten us and turn our fear of your power into praise of your goodness. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Chaplet of Protection

(To be prayed on ordinary rosary beads)

Jesus attached specific promises of protection to this prayer. This prayer goes even FURTHER than storms, natural disasters, and military strife. It has a GREAT HEALING POWER attached to it, as well, in that it can mend broken marriages, and cure spiritual, physical and emotional troubles. It has "another dimension of protection, even greater than what we can understand at this time."

In the context of protection against storms, natural disasters, and increasing global military tension, Jesus has asked us to URGENTLY spread this special devotion. It is NOT intended to replace the everyday Rosary of our Blessed Mother.

The chaplet is said by starting with the Crucifix and reciting the Apostles' Creed, then the Our Father, followed by three Hail Mary's on the group of three beads nearest the Crucifix.

First Hail Mary in praise of God the Father; Second Hail Mary in petition or (request); Third Hail Mary in thanksgiving with confidence that your request will be granted.

Instead of the Glory be to the Father..., recite "Holy God, Holy Omnipotent One, save us who dwell in this land."

On EACH decade, instead of the Hail Mary, recite

"Jesus Savior, merciful Savior, spare your people."

On completion of the fifth decade, recite "Son of God, Eternal Son, thank You for the things You have done." Say this a total of three (3) times to complete the Chaplet of Protection.

"Jesus, Mary, Joseph, I love You, Save Souls"

Let's help.

2009-09-27T20:43:00.005+08:00

I was worried sick (and feeling useless) the entire day yesterday. My family's home in Quezon City was submerged in the flood. The entire first floor was underwater. Luckily, the water level went down during the evening. Our second floor was still intact. Today they were able to start cleaning and sorting out the stuff that can still be salvaged on the ground floor. But most importantly, I thank God, that everyone in my family was safe.

Others are not so fortunate however. People were carried away by the strong currents. Others would be spending a second night stranded on rooftops, waiting to be rescued. Water level hasn't gone down in some parts of the Metro. Some had looters went through their stuff, heartlessly taking advantage of the unfortunate situation.

There are many, many Flipinos who need help. AND WE CAN HELP. There are lot of ways. Below are some ways which we can:

Donations thru Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org.ph/Site/PNRC/wtd.aspx

Donations thru Sagip Kapamilya (ABS-CBN Foundation): http://www.sagipkapamilya.com/index.php?page=don

Can also be done online: http://www.abs-cbnfoundation.com/donate.php

The myth of 'The One Who Got Away'

2009-09-23T15:17:00.003+08:00

I was going through my old emails and stumbled upon this article, which was forwarded to me by my best friend years ago-- Hi Anna! :)

No, this didn't make me think of 'The One Who Got Away', but rather, reminded me of how I wanted to write. Of how I want to be good with words. Nowadays, Bob has to remind me to "use my words" when I talk as I tend to exclude nouns, or leave sentences hanging.

Sigh. I hope the "write" time comes for me to start writing again...

***********************************
The myth of 'The One Who Got Away'
By Rica Bolipata-Santos
The Philippine STAR 09/03/2006

Something about the rain always makes me melancholic. Maybe it's the way everything suddenly turns gray. Just a few weeks ago, the garden outside my window - let me correct that, the fabulous English garden of my kapitbahay - was filled with color. The grass had finally turned awesome green, no longer dusty from long summer days. Her bromeliads were out in full regalia, and the white blossoms that hung by her gate were all at attention. And then, the rain came down, and washed all the colors away.
These gray days come with their own sense of ritual. Gone are shades, sexy tank tops, interesting flip-flops, seasonal white trousers, the lingering iced coffee dates in air-conditioned coffee shops, and conversations about plans and dreams and all the things that can possibly be. Possibilities seem part of the spirit of summer. Instead, we have raincoats, umbrellas, vitamin C, rubber shoes, steaming tea in the same coffee shops, and this time, conversations about all that could have been, but can no longer be. Regret and reminiscences seem part of the spirit of the rainy season.
It was in this kind of weather that I met up with "The One Who Got Away." You know who I'm talking about, right? The one we could have married; the one that could have lasted forever; the one you thought was the one. (The people who love us sometimes call him "the mistake," or "the proof of God's mercy.") We all have, hopefully, one of those lying around in our memory banks.
We had planned to meet for some time because I was in the area and had something to give back to him. Before I had to meet him, I stood in front of the mirror, and found myself curling my eyelashes. I knew why I was curling my eyelashes: more than anything, I wanted to look beautiful; I wanted him to sigh at the end of the day and whisper to himself, "There's the one who got away." As I curled the eyelashes on my right eye, I wondered: "Why would I want him to think I had gotten away? After all, wasn't I infinitely grateful that I had gotten away?" And as I curled the eyelashes on my left eye, I wondered, "And why would I think he had gotten away? After all, it could never, ever have worked."
I live and function in a marriage that is, by all definition, beautiful. I have children, work, meaningful commitments and wonderful relationships. It is almost brazen to want more out of life. And yet, these rainy days, "more" looks quite appealing. I go back to my old love stories and recall how I felt when I was younger and in love. An old song comes back to me: "I remember the boy, but I don't remember the feeling anymore." In my situation, it all seems reversed. I don't remember the boy, but I remember (and miss) the feeling more and more.
Apparently, I am not alone. My Saturday all-girls brunch group attested to the same activity of wanting to go back in time. April admitted that she tends to sleep earlier these days, "so that I can spend a few minutes fantasizing." Pray tell, what do you fantasize about, April-girl? I asked. "Well, I fantasize about Gary, my college boyfriend. I go back to when we broke up and..." And what? I pushed. "I change the ending and not break up with him."
May, the stodgiest and most conventional of us all, surprised us by having the naughtiest look on her face. I had presumed that when I turned to look at her, she would definitely be on her high horse! But she is not, and quickly shared with us her own remembrance of things past. She looked around to make sure no one could hear her and whispered: "I'm worse! I actually sent him a text message to say hello! Out of the blue!" April, June and I screamed in unison. "And then?" It was April's turn to push. May said, "I think we were flirting via text messages for like five exchanges!"
April, May and June turned to look at me and pounced. They knew I went to meet my One Who Got Away. But there was nothing to share except to say: "I curled my eyelashes before I met up with him." We all giggled like old schoolgirls. Somehow fantasizing, flirting via text and eyelash curling are equivalent to each other. We all sighed in some kind of tacit agreement that, deep down, we were good girls. On the way home, I wondered if thinking and fantasizing about the One Who Got Away was something particular to us as friends; or if it was something many people did. I would soon get my answer.
Last Saturday, I was asked to give a workshop on writing to a company in Pasay City. I was told that this company provided employees for different clubs. Once such club was a writer's guild. They asked me to talk about how they could write creative nonfiction. I said yes, because I honestly love to talk about writing, and I love helping people articulate themselves through writing.
Anyway, at one part of the workshop, we talked about how important the activity of "wondering" is. I made them make a list of things they normally wonder about. It was hard to do at first, and I needed to give a list of examples of things I often wonder about. Such as, "I wonder how antibiotics can kill a virus?" Or "I wonder what would happen if we could all choose when to die?" Once they got started, however, they wouldn't stop, and many gave more than five wonderings. They put these on a piece of paper and stuck them on a wall, and we took a look at what they had written. Out of 40 participants, more than 10 wondered about The One Who Got Away. The experience tells me that this particular wondering might be a human need, a need to mythologize the one who got away.
Myths are actually ordinary stories that have happened to us. They become elevated into a myth because they remain in our memory in spite the passage of time. They become myths by the way they become repeated in conversation. They become myth because they explain why we are what we are. Think of what stories get repeated at your family reunions. Aren't the most repeated stories also the most fantastic? (One of our family stories includes a lolo who can disappear from family albums!) They become myths by the way we embroider the original story to make it look more like fiction than fact.
In fact, The One Who Got Away was a first-class jerk who broke my heart because he never truly saw the real me. In myth, The One Who Got Away suffered when he lost me. In myth, he was not really a jerk but rather a lost soul afraid to love me. In myth, the truth becomes easier to live with.
More interestingly, I have come to the conclusion that we keep the myth of The One Who Got Away, not because we want to run away from the one we are with, but rather because - and I need you to hang on to your chair before I say this - because we are afraid of losing our youth. This myth should actually be called the eternal fountain of youth.
In the story of what-might-have-been, we are eternally young. We never age in these stories when we tell them. In the story we have chosen to be in, we have become mothers, workers and real people. We have become grown up and, even worse, we have become our parents. In the myth, however, we are frozen in time, and the recklessness and possibility of wonder and excitement forever exist. Oh, in the past, in the imagined past, the possibilities remain endless. (Just look at what happens to the old when they tell us stories about their old loves!) We keep this myth and trot it out every once in a while, not because we are in love with someone in the past and regret our choices (although that does happen); but rather we are in love with ourselves in the past where we elude aging. It is the old me that I wish to revisit.

If this in any way resonates with you, let us all wish together for the rain to go away quickly and clear all our fantasies away.

Jellicle songs for Jellicle cats!

2009-09-23T09:52:00.002+08:00

I didn't like the musical itself when I saw it, but I love this song:

Because there are

Practical cats, dramatical cats
Pragmatical cats, fanatical cats
Oratorical cats, Delphicoracle cats
Skeptical cats, Dispeptical cats
Romantical cats, Pedantical cats
Critical cats, parasitical cats
Allegorical cats, metaphorical cats
Statistical cats and mystical cats
Political cats, hypocritical cats
Clerical cats, hysterical cats
Cynical cats, rabbinical cats

And I am a statistical cat, hehe :)

Modern Broadway and Show Tunes favorites

2009-09-14T21:45:00.007+08:00

I love, love musicals. I love the magic that comes to life onstage. But most especially,I love the stories that span across the songs used. And I love listening to Yahoo Music as I get to hear my favorite songs and get to know new musicals from their Modern Broadway & Show Tunes stations. It was from Yahoo music that I get to first hear my current favorites:

Brave Enough for Love (from Jane Eyre The Musical)

What About Love (from The Color Purple)

Everybody Fits (from Altar Boyz)

And lastly, my top favorite, the I Love You Song (from The 25th Annual Spelling Bee)

When I finally saw this onstage, I cried. A lot. Buckets. As in hagulgol. Kinda embarrassing actually but I wasn't able to stop myself. For my friends who know what I've been up to these days, they can understand why.

Ok, enough senti. On a lighter note, I finally, finally figured out how to imbed videos, hahaha!

Ellen DeGeneres takes Paula's place on 'Idol'

2009-09-10T23:36:00.002+08:00

This should be interesting. Well, I like Ellen so I am looking forward to this.

*********

So much for the idea that Paula Abdul might reach some sort of accord with "American Idol" and return to the show for its ninth season.

Nope.

Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres will be "Idol's" fourth judge in Season 9, Fox announced Wednesday. Before she begins her stint, a series of guest judges will be part of the audition process. Those guest judges include Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Kristin Chenoweth, Joe Jonas, Neil Patrick Harris, Avril Lavigne, Katy Perry and Shania Twain.

“I’m thrilled to be the new judge on 'American Idol,'” said DeGeneres. ”I’ve watched since the beginning, and I’ve always been a huge fan. So getting this job is a dream come true, and think of all the money I’ll save from not having to text in my vote.”

TV Guide posits that DeGeneres will be a softer judge who will counteract Kara DioGuardi's judging style.

""Hopefully I'm the people's point of view because I'm just like you. I sit at home and I watch it and I don't have that technical... I'm not looking at it in a critical way from the producer's mind," DeGeneres said at a taping of her talk show, according to TV Guide.

Back in August, when the news broke that Abdul was leaving the show, some thought that she and Fox might patch things up before Season 9 began. But Fox, which started lining up guest judges within days of Abdul's departure, is done with Paula, at least as far as Season 9 is concerned.

It's something of a risk for the show, which has seen some ratings erosion in recent seasons. Will DeGeneres' brand of folksy humor be as popular as Abdul's patented brand of erratic effusiveness? Who knows.

Regardless, it's a shame that Fox isn't reverting back to the three-judge format. Four judges seemed to be one too many in Season 8, when many episodes of "Idol" ran long. That was quite irritating.

Critic Alan Sepinwall also didn't like the four-judge format, and he thinks that the new season could be "awkward," despite DeGeneres' ease on camera.

"Take Kara - and/or the equally useless Randy Jackson - out of the mix, and this probably all sorts itself out nicely by the end of the semi-final round. Leave four judges in there, and make one of them an incredibly high-profile newbie, and this has the potential to be awkward for at least half a season, if not more." Sepinwall wrote.

If you're an Abdul fan, by the way, you're in luck: She'll appear in the Sept. 20 episode of Lifetime's "Drop Dead Diva."

Taken from: The Watcher: Ellen DeGeneres takes Paula's place on 'Idol'

Shared via AddThis

Invictus (William Ernest Henley; 1849-1903)

2009-09-09T12:05:00.003+08:00

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find me, unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate;
I am the captain of my soul.

I don't mind that they're hand-me-downs.

2009-08-24T21:48:00.003+08:00

They're from our neighbor whose daughters have all grown up. They are supposed to be for Peyton but she's too young to play with these for now, so Mummy will be playing with them first. hehehehe!

I never had these much Barbies growing up! And the shoes!

Happiness in ramen form

2009-08-20T15:37:00.001+08:00

Shio ramen from Men tai, along Robinson Road. We had to take a 20 minute cab ride, then queue for another 15 minutes for this. But we were badly needing happy food. And this is worth the effort. :-)

Mathematical love.

2009-08-13T00:14:00.003+08:00

* taken from http://poetryinink.wordpress.com/2009/07/02/the-mathematician-attempting-to-solve-love/

Mathematical Love

I started thinking
that if there is only a fixed number
of people we will meet in our lives
constraint by time, space
and our socialbility
then perhaps how sad it is
that we will never ever meet
the one that is truly meant for us
( I have no clue what truly meant means)
but only settling for someone
that we have somehow chose to be with
given all these constraints!
That subconsciously,
we have factored all these
in our self balancing equation
and chose finally to say, yes
she or he is the one… given all these factors…
What if,
our life span is extended by another 200 years
how then would this equation work out
and what a test is this for Love!
Somehow,
I am still figuring Love out
but perhaps Love needs no figuring?
It is an unsolvable
equation
meant only for the heart.

Even if I called him sissy, I think this kid is my favorite poet, hehe. :)

ok, so I lost...

2009-08-11T22:23:00.003+08:00

I bid for this bag on day 2 of the silent auction for the benefit of Fabella Hospital and within the day I learned that someone outbid me already. Ok, never mind then. At least that means the donation would be bigger. And as what Bob always say, "Must not feed your (bag) addiction!"

I wasn't really planning to bid (ok, I write this for the benefit of Bob who also reads my blog, hahaha), but when I saw the pictures of the multiple babies in bassinets I couldn't help but get affected. Never mind that I lost, will just be donating instead. But I wish I can do more. :(

I heart Gelatissimo!

2009-08-10T23:44:00.001+08:00

One of the reasons why we live where we live – proximity to our favorite eating places, one of which is this ice cream place in Orchard (Shaw House). As it is only six bus stops away, getting ice cream is becoming one of our after dinner rituals.

When in diet mode, I go for their 100% fat-free fruity sorbets with mango and rock melon as top favorites

But when I'm being true to myself, I go for their chocolate flavors, with choco banana as my first choice. Its not so bad being 90% fat free, hehe.

here's the view from where we enjoy our ice cream....

The ION is alive!

Bad, bad Muji!

2009-08-02T21:20:00.001+08:00

their snacks are so addictive!

Pictured below is their Corn snack covered with chocolate. Parang sosyal na Moby (not sure if anyone remembers it)!

They have a number of chocolate covered snacks, my favorites include chocolate covered cornflakes (parang choco flakes from Baguio) and chocolate covered (dried) strawberries.

Muji is at Marina Square, Paragon and ION Orchard.

and my fixation for jap food continues...

2009-08-01T22:44:00.006+08:00

Its been around for while now, but only last friday did we get to try the Japanese restaurant in Wheelock Place,
Sun with Moon Japanese Dining and Cafe . So happy we did coz we liked everything that we ordered!

Starting off with cheese pork age -- breaded cheese cubes wrapped with pork

I was craving for ramen so I tried theirs. The soup was richer than my favoite Men Tai ramen (along Robinson Road), but it was goooood.

Bob had wagyu steak (I am ordering this the next time!)

And of course, dessert! I forgot what its called but I'll probably order this again. Meant to be shared.

Check it out if you haven't! Its on the 3rd flr of Wheelock Place, Orchard Road.

How we got the news

2009-08-01T22:07:00.004+08:00

It was the first SMS I got for the day. Although I have been politically apathetic for a long time now, this news made me sad. :(

Rest in peace, President Cory.

i likey!

2009-07-31T01:00:00.000+08:00

A friend is coming over to bring me one... yey!!!

website:http://www.teammanilalifestyle.com/

tie a yellow ribbon...

2009-07-30T22:08:00.002+08:00

This makes me happy!

2009-07-29T13:48:00.002+08:00

Ok, i should have taken a picture before i started eating but i was so hungry and excited that i forgot,hehe. Coming from another client site and before heading off to the faraway land of Jurong, i passed by California Pizza Kitchen along Orchard for lunch.

It's CPK's Miso salad with grilled chicken. Yum!!!

Craving for Japanese dessert...

2009-07-20T01:06:00.005+08:00

My favorite these days is the Matcha Shiratama Zensai from
Shokudo:

*photo from the site

But its branches are nowhere near Jurong, so I settled for sundaes at Ajisen Desserts, IMM. It was just okay, but its 2 for sgd4.00! So not too bad. And the boys who ate with me liked their sundaes. (I had to say that -- else people might think I had all four!)

My blog's been mostly about food these days!

Expensive Ride

2009-07-17T13:15:00.004+08:00

On a rush hour 830am morning with no available cabs passing by, I mistakenly hailed a Chrysler cab which made me pay 3 times more than my normal SGD6.00 cab fare.

Haaay, never again!

I am not the only one!

2009-07-17T13:08:00.002+08:00

I am not the only one in dire need of good food. This guy finished off three rice bowls!

Pepper Lunch is happiness!

Sunday morning at the (Holland) Village

2009-07-05T22:00:00.000+08:00

My craving for happy food continues.

We think the one at Holland Village is the nearest, so we strapped our little girl in her stroller and we headed over to Holland Village for breakfast.

After breakfast we walked around a bit, although most of the places were still closed, including our suki, Parisilk -- best prices in town for electronics (promise!)

We passed by this extensive magazine stall where Bob picked up a French FHM - he's learning the language, he explains, and the magazine should help him. (Right.)

Of course the little girl was B-O-R-E-D. hehe.

Cant wait for the Circle line to open!

Can ya blame me?

2009-07-04T22:58:00.014+08:00

For wanting good food on a late friday night?

It was late for me and Bob (10pm) because I left the client site late, and an even later dessert (12mn!) but good food is A MUST to unwind and relax. Especially since I have weekend work to uhm, look forward to.

So we trekked over to Holland Village (because we already know we'll be having dessert there) and discovered Foster's, a small nondescript English Pub, decently full of locals for a Friday evening. Place looks like every English Pub wannabe in Singapore, drinks selection is just okay (no beer on tap, only in can) but we just loved the food that we ordered! Bob had steak and mushroom pie while I had pepper steak (hehe, hungry).

Their Menu

My pepper steak

Then they gave us SGD5.00 voucher for next visit -- we're definitely using it! (I think Bob got envious of my steak)

Afterwards, the real reason why we were in the area, we had Haagen Daz Ice Cream fondue for dessert! Ths is like our second in the last 7 days. The Filipina waitress actually remembered us and when we left, she said, "See you next week!"

Happiness!

We shared the fondue this time with The Luvs (who are commemorating their last week as legal singles, they'll be having their ROM next weekend).

Speaking of ROM, their's is actually the first that I'll be witnessing in my almost 4 years here in Singapore so I am curious about it. ROM actually stands for (Singapore's) Registry of Marriages but the locals use it to refer to a solemnization ceremony.

Its the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee!

2009-07-02T21:19:00.004+08:00

In Singapore! Can't wait! We initially planned to go back to Manila last March for this, but sadly we weren't able to. So I am so glad that they are coming over instead.

For those in Manila, they are having re-runs ths month of July (3-12) to prepare for the August run in Singapore.

For Manila tickets, call Atlantis Productions at telephone numbers (632) 892-7078 or 840-1187 or log on at TicketWorld: www.ticketworld.com.ph.

For Singapore via Sistic, Booking Hotline: (65) 6348 5555 or book online via www.sistic.com.sg

Follow them on twitter!

Coffee Jelly is back!

2009-06-30T21:54:00.003+08:00

When I am not tired or stressed out with work, I drag Bob around the city to satisfy my need for my "happy food". What I stumbled upon last Sunday night: Starbucks Coffe Jelly is back!

Sadly though, its not the same as before. :(

I prefer the square chunks of Coffee Jelly that was so addicting back in Manila, 2005. Now its just slabs of jelly that snakes into the straw as you sip. sigh.

* picture courtesy of Strabucks

Here I go again...

2009-06-20T18:49:00.008+08:00

Check out new stuff from Everyday Minerals!

I can't help it, I go back again and again to the EM website even if my drawers are chokeful of mineral makeup... I still find EM the best value for money plus they always find ways to reinvent and improve their products.

Below are my new favorites:

Everyday Minerals Eye Compact

Pressed Mineral Foundation in new packaging

Retractable Kabuki brush

Baby Flat Top

* photos all taken from Everyday Minerals website

Keeping Things In Perspective...

2009-06-06T08:58:00.002+08:00

I just placed a ticker on my last expensive bag purchase upfront to remind me of my "reforming shopaholic" status. Its a onsite work free weekend (read: still have to work at home though. huhu), so I am itchin' to do a quick trip to Orchard (living a few bus stops away, how can I resist?) to check out what's on sale! sigh.

I MUST STAY PUT...

It's that wonderfull time of the year

2009-05-26T10:27:00.002+08:00

The Sale is on starting this Friday!

For details visit http://www.greatsingaporesale.com.sg/2009

Cool! It worked!

2009-05-24T10:39:00.001+08:00

Now if i can only figure out how to add picture attachments...

--
Sent from my mobile device

This nifty thing called mail2blogger

2009-05-24T10:27:00.001+08:00

am trying out this (maybe not so) new thing called mail2blogger
wherein i can email my blog posts. Am currently using my phone to
email so in theory, this should help me write more.

Let's wait and see if it'll work.

--
Sent from my mobile device

I want to write again, really.

2009-05-24T09:09:00.003+08:00

sigh.

Its Sunday morning and I am at client site. That should give an indication of the kind of life I am living these days.

sigh.

buzzzz.... buzzz...

2009-05-14T23:02:00.000+08:00

are those flies buzzing over my stagnant blog?

my wheel of fortune (is going down)...

2009-01-28T11:48:00.001+08:00

Got this from Chuvaness:

GOAT
Zodiac’s Nature:
Honest, sincere, creative, peaceful, artistic, playful and amorous. Good natured and generous, but sometimes can be undisciplined and irresponsible. Often feels gloomy and discontented, is also indecisive and at times too passive. Renowned for their grace and creativity and likes luxury.

With their fluctuating luck this year, Goats should be flexible to cope with sudden change. Basically, this will be a rough year for Goats. They will be surrounded by rumours and envy, so they have to be patient and keep a low profile. They should take this challenge as part of their life, i.e. be patient while in darkness waiting for the sun to come out. It is important that they should not put a finger in every pie; they need to concentrate and work with their whole mind and whole heart and strive continuously to make new progress at work. Goats may lose money because of spending, but it is important that they should not act as a guarantor for friends or relatives. In love affairs, Single Goats should be patient with their lovers. If not, they will end in separation. Married Goats should reach mutual understanding with their partner. Goats have to keep away from sharp objects and be cautious on the road. They have to control their diet as well and regulate their blood pressure and prevent stroke. Apart from this, they should not go to funerals and wakes.

Just this morning I was telling Bob how "unrestrained" I am when it comes to shopping and how I should really control it for 2009, given the downturn of the economy. I am such a shopaholic, I need a support group!

Meow!

2009-01-27T14:49:00.000+08:00

Watching with friends on April 18, 2009 at the Esplanade Theatre. Yey!!!

She's toothy, she's happy, she's ONE!

2009-01-26T14:42:00.004+08:00

Turned ONE last January 17, 2009. Happy birthday, pretty girl! Photo courtesy of Tita Joyce.

Another chance.

2009-01-25T23:38:00.000+08:00

ok, maybe I won't say goodbye just yet...

So long, farewell...

2009-01-20T17:20:00.001+08:00

So long, farewell
Auf Wiedersehen, adieu
Adieu, adieu
To you and you and you...

The Grand Mineral Makeup Weekend This Dec 20-21!

2008-12-16T22:13:00.002+08:00

I am such an MMU addict, I CANNOT not post this!

I have been quiet lately but my mailbox has been steadily busy receiving packages, hehe. Since my last few posts, I have gotten new goodies, currently having new favorites. :) But even so, I am excited for this event, as it happens, I am flying back in Manila for Christmas on the 21st and will be catching the tail end of this event. Can't wait!!!!

Read on!

From the huge success of Manila's Mineral Makeup Weekend last year, we're definitely bringing it back! It'd be so exciting to see mineral makeup addicts drag along their friends and introduce them into mineral makeup. Mineral makeup is such a wonderful thing to share because it's absolutely safe for everyday use, it's beneficial to the skin, and it's not too expensive as well! Most of all, it brings forth better looking skin without looking like makeup at all, that further boosts self confidence that I embrace it with all my heart for it changed my life, first and foremost. I began to love me when I started using mineral makeup. *wink*

Anyway, for details, my lovelies, read on!
YOU ARE INVITED TO THE GRANDMINERAL MAKEUP WEEKEND!
When: December 20 and 21, 2008 (10am-6pm)
Where: Greenmeadows Clubhouse(inside Greenmeadows Xmas Rush Bazaar)

After the huge success of last year's Mineral Make-Up Weekend, we are bringing back the much-awaited event this week!The Mineral Make-Up Weekend brings together different mineral makeup brands in one venue to celebrate mineral makeup and create more awareness about it. Six brands will be joining, and as a treat, FREE SAMPLES will be given away to all pre-registered visitors, as well as free makeovers and skin consultations.Moreover, talks will be held by skin specialists, makeup artists, and mineral makeup brand owners as they showcase their strengths and advantages, and show us how to create simple yet stunning day and night looks.

FREEBIE ALERT!

We are giving away 300 FREE mineral makeup lootbags, worth Php500 each!!! Each loot bag contains product samples from all the participating brands. Plus a free mirror if you come on Saturday!

To avail of your free loot bag, here's what you need to do:
1. Post about this event, together with the banner, and a link back to this site on your multiply blog or blogspot. (Just copy the text above until this part - procedure on how to avail of free loot bags, then include a link at the bottom.)
2. Send your blog entry URL together with your full name, address, and mobile number to claudbaron@yahoo.com, with subject: MMU Weekend. Also, please indicate if you are a mineral makeup user or newbie.
3. Only one free loot bag per blog, per person. Sorry, but we cannot accept submissions for your friends.
4. To claim your free loot bag, simply attend the event and present a valid picture ID at the MMU Room Registration area.

This event is brought to you by: Bare Beauty (Bare Escentuals), Beauty & Minerals (Monave), LaurEss , Blusche Minerals, Pure Anada, Mikabella, and Minerales.

Avenue Q rocks!

2008-11-17T09:41:00.005+08:00

I had been looking forward to Avenue Q since May but was only able to watch it last Sunday -- its last show in Singapore. My only regret was that I wasn't able to catch it earlier -- otherwise, I would have told everyone to go and watch it!

Avenue Q is so funny and entertaining and I've never seen a Musical in my 3 years here in Singapore where I thought the entire cast was really good until this! I felt so proud for being a Filipino -- the Avenue Q run presented by the Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT) was actually the Philippine production.

Big cheers to cast! You guys rock!!!

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