My 2012 Style Guide

Inspiration is key
I'm purging my closets later
Before I do the: KEEP, GIVE-AWAY and STORE thingy, I must know what looks and uses for that matter, I'm aiming for.

Decided to keep that comfy yet edgy vibe.

Loving Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen's takes, though not the extreme ones but the very chic and low key.

If only I could afford a few pieces from their THE ROW line...ack, so expensive but very very subtle branding, which is the best.

Jean Hunt

I'm really onto finding the right pair of jeans and with a specific color and texture at that.

It's so hard especially when I'm too lazy (Oh yes, nakakatamad talaga) to fall in line, fit the pants one by one and start all over again.

But I really need to update my jeans, I'm already purging and giving out most of the stuff that either don't fit me or items I know someone else will like and really need.

Here are the things I'm really hoping to get in my size:

Dark Denim by ZARA TRF

LOVE LOVE LOVE

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A BLESSED NEW YEAR TO ALL!

Thank you Lord for all the blessings, especially my family.

Hoping your Christmas is as meaningful and warm this time of year.

God bless!

Stress Drillon

Seriously, I can't wait for they year to be over.

This last couple of months have been the most stressful for me.

Mostly due to work and I'm not happy that it gets to me at home.

Do I need a change? Yes.

I get sick all the time and I hate it, it doesn't make me productive at all. Even if I'm home sick, I can't play or interact with my kids all the more.

Is this really the deciding point for me or should I just see what 2012 will bring and maybe things will change for the better?

I hope so.

OMG post: Super Transformations

Make-up, specifically concealers and eyeliners do wonders!

They can change the way you look in an instant.

I recently came across Korean make-up techniques online and as I researched more into the topic, I was so surprised to see several forums of transformations either through make-up or via plastic surgery of VERY young girls!

Some were already pretty to begin with.

Here are some photos I grabbed from google:

Super pretty girl!

As per the forum, she's a Korean star

But what did she look like before???

I really can't believe this is her!

Amazing! I doubt if this is just make-up

The Look For Less: Olivia's Zara Bag

It's definitely not the price tag.

No matter how expensive your bag is, if you don't carry it well, it won't really matter at all.

Nothing against luxury branded goods. Love them, wish we all had them, right?

But sometimes we just need to scrimp a little.

But that doesn't mean we won't get what we want right?

For some time now, I've been tracking down Ms. Palermo's (Olivia) style.

I love that she can go from uber high fashion to downtown casual chic.

Zara Plaited Shopper approx 5-6k php

And because I didn't want to fork over 5 grand, I look for an inspired alternative:

Available at Oohwables & Co. in 7-10 days!

Get the bag for only Php2,190 and with free shipping courtesy of multiply!

I obviously have 1 out of the 3 units I ordered heehee

Yes, this is a shameless plug (hehe) but you need to share fashion finds, and this is the best of both.

Cheers!

Tipping Point

I was able to read The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell and indeed, little things can make a BIG difference.

It comes to a point that you get confused about decisions and so you weigh the pros and cons.

When the scale is balanced, that's where the real dilemma starts because you'd rather have the easier decision which is to choose what weighs more.

Comfort or Risk?

In life there are so many decisions and some say that only a few of those will be the correct ones.

I beg to disagree.

The decisions you make in your life become correct only if you make it happen that way. That's why there is free will, God didn't give us that so we can fail, He gave that to us so we can succeed.

Free will basically allows us to correct our decisions as we go, the path never ends unless you decide otherwise.

I'm happy with the decision I'm making now.

It's time and He has given me all the signs to go through with it.

Cheers.

Shoe Post: Metallic Dreams

Trina by Anthology Php1,995
in Chocolate Nude

Here are my current shoe obsessions: I'm loving METALLIC and I want at least one two of these.


Maybe I should tell the hubby to get me a pair for Christmas. Haven't told him exactly what my wish list is.

Women's Angelfish Boat Shoe Slip-on
Sperry Top-Sider $90 (Php3,900+)

Wellness Post: Running and Yoga

After the very horrific VEET Experience, I'm still slightly annoyed with the slight scars on my upper lip.

Hopefully no more pinkish or light brown spots.

Serious lesson learned: NEVER WAX UPPER LIP and stick to threading

Anyway, I'm looking into a more positive way of life (LOL).

I want my flat tummy back.

I want the body pains to go away.

I want to loose 5-10 pounds.

So I'mm looking to do the following things:

1. RUN - run with the hubby in the evenings.
2. YOGA - I have 2 options:

image from Amazon
Bought this for Php1,400+ in Rockwell
(forgot the shop but they sell fitness equipment)

A. Do the basics at home, as I just recently bought a Reebok basic mat and downloaded Core Yoga which is looks like the SIMS game in terms of the instructor but very easy to follow. I love how easy it is.

B. Sign up with the nearest studio here in BF, there's a 2pm class every Saturday and a 6am class which I can fit in so long as I'm ready to leave for work by 8am. :)

ANAHATA YOGA AND WELLNESS CENTER
Phone: 401-5512
Cell: (0922) 881-9955

Hopefully I can get this going soon! :)

Cheers!

BEATEN UP BY VEET

READ: NEVER USE THIS PRODUCT EVER!!!

Lesson learned: Always research on ANY product, specifically cosmetics, for user feedback and experience online.

I used a different wax strip brand before but I couldn't find it so I settled for this, thinking its a well known brand, it should work fine.

Outfit Peg: Office Runabout

It does help me a lot whenever I post outfit pegs.
It's easier when I place them on the iPad then just open the library of pegs if I can't think of anything to wear or "assemble" from my closet.

I am so disorganized with my closet right now.

I need to purge and let go and re-think before 2012 hits me.

I'll be going to HK for a business trip soon but my colleague and I will try to sneak out after work and do some shopping...hehehe.

Got my Ray-Bans of course! a must have is your classic aviators, just tell them you want an L0205 model and you're good to go.

Read more after the jump

New Year Task List

I guess before the year turns out, I should be listing down stuff I really want and NEED to accomplish, so here is my 2012 list:

1. Enroll in driving school and complete the manual course (here we go...)
2. Get a driver's license before April
3. Sign-up with a good gym and go to it at least 3x a week
4. Get my flat tummy back!!!
5. Complete at least 2 design courses (Adobe Illustrator and Autocad)
6. Launch the furniture and accessories line before the summer starts
7. Go to Bangkok with my mom
8. Take the kids to the beach
9. Get the kids' passports done
10. Take the kids to HK Disneyland on Christmas
11. Start and finish all my 5 IPL treatments
12. Start baking again (gotta get the oven and tools first! hehe)

12 for now
Hopefully, like this year's list, I can get all of them done. :)

In other news, my babies went to our village's trick or treat event yesterday, it was fun!

The Princess Diva Rockstar - she specifically wanted this! haha

and of course Chicken-boy who already had a lollipop before going out

More halloween posts tomorrow.

Happy halloween and treat yourself to a great wish list for 2012. There's nothing like going back to it and getting surprised that most of the things you wrote down a year ago actually came true. :)

Cheers!

Chicken Boy-Chon

It's my little boy's first time to go trick or treatin' and we found this super cute costume in Rustan's.

If my sewing machine was still working and if I had time, I'd be making their costumes from scratch and would also be baking every Sunday. hay....soon...maybe.

Here's Peyton as Chicken Boy-chon hehe (he loves Bon Chon chicken so hence the name).

Complete chicken costume set for 1,599 Rustan's DS

Complete with the chicken head and feet! haha
Yes, a little bit pricey for a costume. I didn't have a choice.
Don't have time to go look for sizes and to make one.
I'll prepare ahead for next year.

Chicken Butt! :)

I hope he still wants to dress-up like this on Saturday.

Now, back to regular programming (working at home even while I'm sick because that's life).

Cheers!

Mamu we love you

Happy Birthday Mamu!

We love you so much! :)

Thanks for always being there for us and for always giving me the freedom to be me and for always supporting my every decision.

Though sometimes I do stumble, you have always been there to care and not to judge.

Thanks for trusting me with your thoughts, ideas, problems and everything under the sun. It makes me feel that I'm not the only person in the world because you're always open about things.

I hope God blesses you with great health and more love. For sure, we will never stop loving you!

This week's pegs

This week's dress-up guide
Some sort of a challenge if I can actually stick to this plan, though I'm too lazy to take pictures of myself and too embarrassed at this time to post them too (hehe).

TUESDAY

Left: Long top, leggings and booties - Edgy Comfort (Photo: The Sartorialist)

WEDNESDAY

Short Dress, Black Tights, Blazer, Heels - Corporate Chic (Photo: google) 

THURSDAY

Girly Top, Loose Jeans, Platforms, less Tom Cruise (hehe) - Height is might (Photo: google)

FRIDAY

Denim Leggings, Flats, Fancy Printed Jacket - Printed Friday (Photo: google)

SATURDAY

Loose Top, Flat Booties, Baggy Denims - Errand Day (Photo: google)

Let the peg challenge begin! hehehe

Cheers!

The Dex Flex

I scouted Shangrila Mall last Sunday and I found the perfect pair of ankle boots.

I like the style because you can wear them even in our weather and they go great with my outfits when I go to other countries particularly when it's also very cold.

It can dress up most outfits, weather casual or corporate.

The downside is, I hate getting them with those killer heels.

So I was so happy to get these shoes from Payless with the wedge heels!

Mind you, they are super comfy:

- They have extra cushioned soles
- The wedge heels will allow you to balance better, walk and stand for longer periods of time
- The ankle straps have garterized sides and adjustable straps
- The soles flex easily! Talk about comfy-ness to the nth level!

Women's Simone Short Shaft Wedge

Php1,900++ at Payless Shangri-la Plaza

Get comfortable style with this dexflex by Dexter wedge! It features a sleek faux leather upper with adjustable buckle detail for great fit, elastic and side zipper for easy on/off, and a flexible outsole for ease of movement with a 3" wedge heel. The soft footbed boasts a two layer insole. Memory foam, like pillows provided in five-star hotels, absorbs shock, shapes and holds perfectly to cradle the foot for lasting comfort. Latex foam has a premier bouncing nature which provides cushion and a feeling of protection with every step. Manmade materials. - From Payless.com

One for One

I have finally convinced the hubby to get a pair of Toms for himself. Why not? they're really super comfy and for a good cause.

He still tries to convince me that wearing socks with them is cool (Ok, grandpa! hahaha).

I love Toms. They're so comfy, if your feet are sweaty, best to place nice foot powder though, you don't want stinky feet! haha.

Since prices here are higher than the US, I have asked my sissy a favor and buy them for me in the US.

Here are the styles:

For my princess Yan,yan, she chose Pink Canvas Youth Classic:

Giving In

I was able to successfully not shop for anything non-essential for 5 months! So I ended the ban to reward myself and because I needed to update my wardrobe for work, which I do this time of the year (Oct-Dec).

I have been dodging a bag for the longest time.
I always thought the price was too expensive for a nylon tote with a few leather trims.
So I went ahead and bought different bags as the seasons passed.

Bought this Cambridge 14" Pink Satchel from Schu in Rockwell last April

Haven't been able to use it as much now because it has been raining and I don't want to ruin the leather.
Which reminds me, I have a water proofing spray can for leather goods, just need to find it. :)

Decision time

Man, I missed blogging.
Blogging meant that I:
1. had work-life balance
2. was getting personal projects on time
3. had TIME. period.

I have tons of stuff to document and share. But work literally has made me into a robot.
I have never been so stressed since yesterday.
I felt the world just sucked me into a vortex and took away years of my life.

Thank God the hubby is supporting me with my decision this time.
I love how we are now both very committed to hearing each other out.

I want a life with purpose, yes, with comfort but with more value than just $$$.


I'm really looking forward to next year. :)

I will get this blog started again.

The Good, The Fat and The Ugly

Gymboree with the babies

I have been so busy (and still am) that I have totally neglected this blog.

With all the things I wasn't able to document, I almost can't remember what I've been up to for the past months.

I'm trying to juggle my memory and so far, here's what I have unearthed

THE GOOD:
1. Changed my haircut and updated the color (finally!!!)
2. Went over my shopping ban time line! YEY!
3. Spent a nice Sunday with my family at Church then quality time with the kids at Gymboree
4. I have decided to live healthy, well, one step at a time and will start by running
5. I have decided to venture into something exciting and educational, I am praying to Him that it does go well and that I'm asking Him to point me further to the right direction
6. I love that I'm working with a team at the office whom I consider my work family, they are the best

Goals and Misses

No, it's not a football entry which seems to be getting quite the hype these days.

I'm not a sports fan of anything but I participate in rooting for our very own, siyempre, PINOY PRIDE.

Anyhoo...

I've been feeling unsure of certain things lately which makes me so stressed out (phrase of the year).

I just pray the He gives me a sign and point me in the right direction. =)

Goals for the month:

1. Continue with the SHOPPING BAN (I haven't bought anything I didn't need and only got basic necessities) - I'm so proud of myself but I feel weak! nyehehe

2. Get Fit and Healthy - my babies need me longer and I need to shake off all the stress and bad vibes anyway.

Ideas: start running, enroll to the gym later when I have proven that I can do some running and stick to a routine, sleep early by not taking home work or think of work before sleeping (hehe)

EAT BREAKFAST - something I should really start doing

3. Update my online shops - nuff said, super guilty for not completing the first set...huhuhu

4. Document more stuff into this blog

5. Dedicate Sundays to God and then Family - NO WORK DAY!!!

6. Get my new gig started (secret muna hahaha)

Misses I will avoid:

1. Hitting only 1 out of 5 of my goals...haha

2. Drinking coffee after 3pm (hard to sleep even when tired)

3. Not being able to say NO

Anyway, I'm in violation of goal #2. So I'll end and wake up renewed tomorrow. =)

Monday just ate up Tuesday!

Seriously!? I didn't feel the long weekend at all.

I feel tired and harassed having used my Monday to finish some work needed for today.

I just hope my entire week is sneeze-free, highly-productive and by a miracle, a little less stressful...hopefully.

I was able to fix some parts of the room and organize some items in our room so that's a start.

Haven't shopped since the time I posted except for necessities so that's a great deal of restraint and effort. 11 weeks to go! huhuhu hahaha!

Couldn't sleep because all the emails I made, so I capped off the night making first few accessories for my online store relaunch.

I decided to make bold pieces for the relaunch line.

I want them unique, fashion forward but all affordable.

So wish me luck and all the best to you all as well!

Saving + DIY all the way

Image from Google

After reading the latest post from Ms. C of Chuvaness I felt empowered!

Seriously, I need to pool-in and save up for rainy stormy days ahead:
1. Big scheduled bills
2. Savings
3. Premium Health Insurance

and also, so that I won't feel the slump in terms of budget when Christmas season hits.

Home Project: Bath, Dresser and Vanity areas

We moved to my in-laws extra house in Paranaque.

They were really kind and nice enough to let us stay here and it really makes the kids happy to be able to roam around a larger space, play within a safe yet outdoor space in front of the house and have ample space to put each of our stuff.

I have been so busy with work and the best I could do is put things in place.

When put I mean, literally just putting them there but they still look cluttered!

So my goal is to fix areas one by one and I must admit, it's still a struggle.

I get home by 9pm on the average and on weekends, If I'm not at work on Saturdays, I spend the whole day with the kids or resting.

So when I put my schedule in order, I'll be fixing these (crossing my fingers its soon!)

The Bathroom Counter

The bath and toilet area are separate which is nice!

Travelog: Bora May 2011

Not me in the pic, some random shots I took

I have been to Boracay for work and with the hubby (then boyfriend) who tagged during the last day when I had free time back in 2006.

I went back last year after 5 years!!! But for work again.

Been wanting to go back but with my kids and the hubby.

I want the kids to see the must-visit places even before we go out to travel outside of the Philippines.

Party Time!

My little boy turned one last June 5 and we are so thankful to the Lord for blessing us with Peyton.

The hubby unfortunately was (currently is) assigned in Australia (and we can't wait to see him soon!). So though it was such a happy day, we really did miss him.

Good thing there were family and friends with us there to celebrate.

We couldn't thank them all enough. We had a blast!

As for the party, we celebrated it at Fun Ranch in Pasig (near Tiendesitas) using their new Skye's Room, a basketball themed function room, PERFECT for our chosen theme.

Back from Zombieland

Well almost!

How I missed posting entries...I can't believe how busy my work and home life is.

There are so many things to do but so little time! Cliche, yes! But It's reality for me.

I have TONS of things I wanna share. So many pending personal projects. I guess this is the "prime time" of my life.

You go home so tired, the most productive thing you could do is take your make-up off before spending time with the kids.

So let me share how WONDERFUL this make-up remover is (segue to blog post feature..hehe!)

Maybelline's Eye and Lip Make-up remover is by far the best one I've tried

WHY?

1. It does not STING - I really don't like the sting some make-up removers do, it just makes me lazy to take off make-up altogether just to avoid being stinged

2. I won't go BLIND - yes, I've tried make-up removers and I get so scared that after taking off my eye make-up, my vision gets blurry!!! This product doesn't do that for me, PERFECT!

3. It's AFFORDABLE - Just under 300 and will last you a long time

4. No more waterproof struggle - I hate it when I get panda eyes and wash all over again because some make-up removers can't get mascara and any waterproof eye make-up off. This does the trick and again, without blurry vision!

5. Odorless - I like how it does not smell like anything! Leaving you with a cleaner feeling. Also, "eskinol" smelling stuff makes me feel..well...old nostalgic..sorry! hehe

It's available at most beauty counters like Watsons, Rustan's, etc.

Make-up, on the other hand, is another post I have yet to complete.

Till next! :)

Almost!

While the babies are asleep, mommy will try to make a blog entry.

First off, I'm so happy we have been able to move and are still sane (hehehe).

Still so much to do at the house and so many things to organize but it's all worth it.

Seeing the kiddies so happy here where they have an outdoor area to play in (while dodging falling "indian-apple" mangoes but that's another story...)

A spacious room with extra closet space even for shoes! :)

A functional dining and living area where we can actually invite guests in and not be ashamed of all the clutter (well, still cluttered now since we're getting a storage room made this coming week but I'm hopefully by May, we'll have a clean and organized home!)

Hubby and I won't be arguing on who's going to get "mirror time" (yes, we had only 1 functional mirror because my full length crashed at the condo) because there's lots of those here

Laundry will be guaranteed safer, cleaner and faster because we're having a fully functional laundry area made


I can look forward to baking in the future (future because I have yet to acquire an oven and also I have no time at all...T_T)

I have decided to make this moving thing a project and document it (gulp!) and I know...it will be a tough battle and will take much of my inner Jedi to make it all happen.
 
So here's the list:

1. Before and After Pics of

- Bedroom Project
- Living Area Project
- Bathroom Project
- Storage Room Project
- Organizing Project

2. Shopping Adventures

But of course! So many things to buy, so little budget, hence, Mommy will definitely go to market and HUNT for the best bargains and cheap thrills! (Ayos...nagamit din ang title ng blog!)

3. My summer giveawayS
- Because I was able to organize my stuff, I'll be able to give out nice little things that remind me of summer

I am seriously looking forward to hear what other mommies and even singles out there do, know a lot of people and get to share stories and tips here and there, hence this blog.

So excited!

Another busy day tomorrow!

TO DOs:

1. Nail Spa (naawa na ko sa nails ko, I need it, nakakahiyang pumasok sa office on Monday eh...hehehe)

2. True Value and Home Depot

3. Grocery shopping

Goodnight world!

System reboot needed

I worked all week even on a Sunday.

I know.

Today, my system finally crashed and I am in need of a total reboot.

I'm hanging with several urgent projects and another big retail installation this Friday.

I have a Saturday appointment then Sunday is the day for Church and then off to finishing the packing
for our move on Monday. Ugh...I hate packing!

I need to let go of stuff and I'm looking at donating them as I've seen a lot of people lose their homes because of various fires and other disasters. I just need to find out where.

I've been wanting to post new pictures to share. Hopefully I'll have time after this week.

Today is my son's 10th month birthday which means we only have 2 months to plan his party. YIKES!

Rest. I need it now.

Celeb Styles

Currently loving how these celebs style their usual / daily outfits

Katie Holmes' Laid back Luxe

Taylor Swift's Girly Girl style

Selena Gomez' Rock Chick Vibe

I desperately need to re-organize my closet...well soon as we move. :)

Wrist candy

I am definitely addicted to bracelets.

Most recently, leather and leatherette cuffs and wraps.

I usually feel "naked" when I'm not wearing anything on my wrist.

Orange leather wrap from Accessory Lab

Gold and Black thin bracelets from The Ramp

Gold studded bracelet from Yhansy

Here are some from my online shop (ahem..shameless plug)

Faux snakeskin leatherette P200

V-neck Restyle

Re-working a basic V-neck tee
Style experiment with a bejeweled belt from The Ramp
Oxford shoes from Cole Vintage
Current fave bag from Zee
Uniqlo cotton pants

Went out with the family for dinner

That Vintage Vibe

I love this vintage top and my all time fave Uniqlo slim cotton pants
Piled up leather bracelets
The vintage inspired belt I made for oOhwables & Co (I'm giving one away so stay tuned!)
Parisian Peeptoe pumps, comfy because of the chunky heels
AW inspired duffel bag by Zee

I wore this today at my baby's moving up ceremony

Moving Up Day

I was so surprised that my princess moved up with 2 awards today.

2nd in class (Academic Excellence Award)
Excellence in Language Arts

She really loves to read and write. We were so surprised that in less than 12 months, she can read almost most words and write legibly.

Proud Momma here!!!

My pretty!

Facebook Page

I'll be utilizing this for upcoming contests and updates soon. :)

Hope you can visit: MOMMYGTM

Thanks!

Monday Blues

I'm documenting my outfits in Lookbook.nu and I have yet to get the hang of it and should commission the husband to take pictures because I can't find my tripod and do the self-timer thing.

Unless...I teach my 4-year-old to take pictures...hehehe.

Here's one of my first posts and there's still a lot to work with.

I want to see how my style will evolve in the coming years...hopefully for the best!

I think everyone dreads Mondays...me before I went out this morning for my daughter's moving-up parent's briefing and for the office.

Emo! hahahaha

Bag by Zee from FB, Forever 21 Tulip Skirt Dress, Sugar Platforms from People Are People, Animal Print belt from Landmark