a dash of Lav

hey

2012-01-15T03:27:00.000-08:00

The first quarter of 2012 for me was filled with surprises. I got a new job! (Yay!) And, that explains why I haven't been very visible in the blogosphere lately. I wish I can tell you more about it now but sissie is waiting for me as we speak so I have to hurry. I also wish I could reply to your comments and messages but alas, time is running out. I will be back soon, my loves. :)

first day of the most controversial year yet

2012-01-01T01:34:00.000-08:00

I hope you don't get sick of this phrase. After all, it only happens once in a year. ;]

New Year Reminders

2011-12-31T01:15:00.000-08:00

Are you excited to make noise for 2012 and sing the "Auld Lang Syne"?

I do.

It's a common thing to look back when a year is about to end. 2011, for me, has been filled with various kinds of emotions and experiences. I had been hopeful, anxious, uncertain, stressed, triumphant, happy, grateful, yearning, adventurous, stupid, bored, perceptive, and so forth. I was able to accomplish my scholastic goals this year even though I struggled in the process. I visited places I've never been before, discovered new interesting websites, and tried something for the first time. Many things happened and I do not want to bore you further with excessive nostalgia. As we wait for the clock to strike 12 midnight later, allow me to state few reminders in welcoming 2012.

- Some pets are terrified with various types of firecrackers exploding in the neighborhood. It is advised to let them hide, comfort them, and play music to ease their sense of hearing.
- Don't drink too much alcohol and/or eat food with sticky qualities before lighting any firecracker. It's common sense but we should remember there are numerous of reckless citizens out there.
- Resolutions are not compulsory. They are good IF you carry out your objectives as planned. A New Year's resolution is a commitment. If you are not really devoted in carrying out your objectives, what's the point of making a resolution?
- Start getting used in writing 2012 when you're asked to put a date in forms or whatever. I'm sure I am not the only one who unconsciously commits the mistake of writing or typing the wrong year in the date section every first quarter of January.

guilty

2011-12-30T13:22:00.000-08:00

I like parties. But, there are times when my anti-social personality appears in the middle of the shindig. This 'exceptionally' occurs when there are blabbermouths, bigheads, and people whom I barely know and are also a bit shy to talk like me in the party. Sometimes I just blame it to being my boring self. Haha! That is why when I found this print created by Gemma Corell, I couldn't help but see myself in the illustration.

photos by: Gemma Corell

Lav's Unisex Gift Ideas

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

It's the time of the year when gift-giving does not start and end in one day. The exchanging gifts tradition during this season may take place within the family, extended family, co-workers, close friends, and plenty other circles you belong. Sometimes, parties are organized out of the blue and you're suddenly asked to bring unisex gift/s for the kris kringle. When this happens, the challenge of what "unisex" gift to buy is not the only thing you have to worry. You also have to find the time to scour shops or create a present (if you're fond of DIYs).

To help you have an idea of what to give and minimize the time you will be consuming in stores, take a look at the following list. Don't expect me to suggest you in buying a mug or a picture frame as these things, for me, are the most cliché ones among all the gifts given or received.

1. Unisex Pillow

If pillows typically displayed in department stores are 'big' for you to wrap, you can buy inflatable ones online or from a Dakki dealer. You can also opt to purchase a travel pillow.

2.Gift Basket

You can fill baskets with organic food, sweets, spa products or bath paraphernalia. Create a theme! Stretch your imagination! After all, it's really up to you. *winks*

3. Sarong

It can be used as a picnic blanket, a scarf, a towel, a skirt, a dress, and so much more! It's amazing how this one piece can become functional in many ways. Don't forget to choose a sarong that doesn't have too feminine or masculine designs. As the saying goes, "better be safe than sorry".

4. Unisex shades

This black wayfarer are so classic they will make a good gift for both genders.

5. Gift Vouchers

There are many kinds of gift vouchers out there (e.g. restaurant vouchers, spa gift certificates, movie tickets). Whatever you choose, be sure it falls under your budget and check the expiry date.

I hope this little list is able to aid you in your gift-hunting adventure. What are your thoughts? Do you have other gift ideas in mind?

Image sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

video friday: the long wait

2011-12-23T08:54:00.001-08:00

Aside from wishing you all a "Merry Christmas" , let me present you this heartwarming video by Blink

John Lewis - The Long Wait from Blink on Vimeo.

Have you felt like what the kid had in that short film? What are you planning to give this holiday?

my Christmas wish

2011-12-20T10:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Jesus and Santa,

I don't want any particular material thing this Christmas. My prayers goes for the victims of the tropical storm "Sendong" which has ravaged the lives of people especially those who are living in Iligan and Cagayan de Oro. I hope that they will be able to survive this difficulty and stand up again after what had happened. Moreover, please bless the rescuers and volunteers who have selflessly offered their services for the welfare of the victims.

Sincerely,
a dash of lav

***
Even if we're miles away, we can help the typhoon victims by dropping donations (esp. bottled water, food, and blankets) at any LBC branch in the Philippines. You can also visit redcross.org.ph where you can send cash or check donations online or through your mobile phones.

speaking of holidays

2011-12-17T08:41:00.000-08:00

Since it's just few days away before Christmas, I might as well talk about it just like what most people in the blogosphere are doing. Christmas tree is one of the must-have decorations at home if you're celebrating Christmas. This season, mom decided to put up a non-traditional Christmas tree.

That's still unfinished but we'll get that thing done before the 25th. I think this is the second time we created a non-traditional tree for Christmas. The first one was a small tree covered with artificial snow my sisters and I made about five years ago. I'll probably bring that tree back to life next season. Meanwhile, I am enjoying looking at other people's houses adorned with Christmas decorations both in the real and virtual world.

There is only one thing that has been currently bothering me, on the other hand. I am referring to having to dance in our upcoming family reunion slash holiday celebration! It's troubling me a bit because I'm trying to tell my parents this question: AM I TOO OLD FOR THAT? I'm used to see my young cousins and nephews dance during these occasions. I also used to do an intermission number with my sisters but that was when I was still in my elementary years. My goodness! I'm not extremely against dancing in front of my relatives because they're family after all. It's just that I haven't done this for so long and I didn't expect of being handed down with this task. If you'd like to help me, feel free to comment or e-mail me a link of an upbeat song. XD

video friday: there's something in the water?

2011-12-16T08:10:00.000-08:00

How about some Friday music, peeps? There is something in this video that makes me feel like I'm transported in an illustrated book. I hope you enjoy this!

Confessions of an Unemployed

2011-12-08T08:16:00.000-08:00

In case you’re curious of what I’ve been up to lately, I just resigned last month and I have now entered the world of unemployment. Sure, it has bothered me A BIT. It is so untimely for you to have no job when the holidays are just few days away, right? But after moments of reflection, I realized that I should not hurry in finding another job. I decided not to just take any opportunity which I might regret of grabbing later on. I hope I do not sound like I'm bragging but I already turned down some job offers mainly because I’m considering something which I could do for a long time. Besides, unemployment has its perks.

First, I was able to slowly change my horrible sleeping patterns. During the last few months, I had become into a total nocturnal but now I have gradually been able to be active in the morning. I still have to work more on it though. However, I am happy to be making progress.

Second, I got to learn the basics of driving a four-wheeled car at last! My original plan after graduation was to enroll in a driving school. But since I immediately found an employer, I wasn’t able to do it. I’m currently in the stage of needing practice so wish me luck on my driving! Haha!

Third, I have more time to go out with friends. When your work is home-based, the longer you stay at home, the more you’re longing to hang out with buddies. I also finally have time to go “window-shopping” although sometimes it leads to actually shopping. Pfft! Nevertheless, I enjoy it.

Furthermore, I have been reading fiction books recently. I’ve been craving to do this since college and it took years before I can actually do it again. If I’m still unemployed on the next few days, I’m afraid I’m going to burn more cash on books. But even if I’m enjoying this state for now, I’m praying to be back on working once again.

Bisous!

seriously...

2011-11-26T05:23:00.000-08:00

I need to reread and edit my blog posts before hitting the "publish post" button.

in the meantime

2011-11-21T02:11:00.000-08:00

There are a number of things that has been bothering me now which I would rather tell you in the near future. Right now, I'm just trying to be distracted temporarily with these shoes I'm eyeing from ASIAN VOGUE. Have you ordered a pair or two from this shop? Do you like their designs?

video friday: "euphorie"

2011-11-11T06:44:00.000-08:00

Earlier this year, I talked about Supakitch and Koralie in this post. For today's video friday, I'm bringing you once again a video about their tedious process of making another piece of mural art. Do excuse me for being a fan girl. I just can't get enough of their art!

SUPAKITCH & KORALIE "Euphorie" Paris from Raphaël Hache on Vimeo.

tattly

2011-11-09T03:07:00.000-08:00

These are not just ordinary illustrations. They are designs for temporary tattoos offered in Tattly which I totally love. The said online shop was born after Tina E. applied many [apparently] "bad" clip-art tattoos to her daughter. I like how these temporary tattoo designs take me back to the time when I tried to stick temporary cheap tattoos sold outside our elementary school.

See more young, hipster-y, and retro-ish designs in Tattly's site

21

2011-11-08T04:11:00.000-08:00

My father celebrates his birthday a day before my birthday and I share the same birth date with my mom so it's a triple celebration every sixth and seventh of November. We originally planned to go to Lake Sebu on our birthday but we somehow had to change this plan. We went to my little cousin's birthday instead. Yes, we like to be born on November. :P

Here are few pics:

flower henna tattoo-- a remembrance from my cousin's birthday
birthday present from mom
a night with my h.s friends (this is a once-in-a-blue-moon occasion)
my favorite seafood
This is the only decent pic I have with the cake I bought. You see, I can't control my hunger when it comes to something that looks very delicious.

that bow hairdo

2011-11-05T12:31:00.000-07:00

Have you tried this hairdo? 'Coz I never had. Even though my sister can help me make a bow out of my mane, it would never stay long enough in that shape without the help of a hairspray. And since I hate what hairsprays do to our hair, I can never wear this style on a typical day. *sighs* Maybe, I'll just stick with the bow clips or those headbands with bows.

photo from: beautylish

video friday: behind the scenes of a docu

2011-11-04T08:02:00.000-07:00

Aside from movies, art films and various entertaining videos, I also enjoy watching behind-the-scenes. I suppose this is because of the course I took in college. Sometimes, curiosity just seeps in after watching a spectacular motion picture.

Indie filmmaker and mountain guide, Sebastien Montaz-Rosset made a short behind-the-scenes clip as a teaser and used a cloning technique (not sure about the technical term) for his feature documentary.

One question before you watch this video: Do you know anyone who dances Capoiera before jumping off a cliff?

Behind the scene " I Believe I can Fly" from sebastien montaz-rosset on Vimeo.

I hope you enjoy this one!

21st birthday wishlist

2011-10-29T13:46:00.000-07:00

Another year will be added to my age few days from now. While I still have no idea what to do on that day, I am currently posting this girly wishlist.

1. a black sequined bow beanie or a beret in any neutral color
2. a blouse with peter pan collars in blue, light pink, mint, or cream
3. a short sleeve pussybow blouse in lilac, coral, or white
4. a new pair of skinny jeans that will last for decades (yes, decades. haha!)
5. a pair of t-strap sandals in brown or black
6. a pair of brogues that looks like the ones you see in the picture
7. patterned tights

*This set was made in Polyvore

manila files: last of the bunch

2011-10-25T01:15:00.000-07:00

I think I'm already drowning you with my mid-year "vacation" photos this month so I promise this will be the last batch of my Manila photodiary.

a delicious and surprisingly affordable blueberry cheesecake from Vargas Museum Cafe

Mom and my tita walking along the pathwalk of UP Diliman

My friends and I in Wendy's (SM North Edsa)

a meal I ate before going to ze airport

on our way back home

manila files: ocean park

2011-10-16T04:31:00.000-07:00

Some people say that Ocean Park is for children because it is the favorite destination of kiddie field trips. I disagree. I believe Ocean Park is should be for everybody. Every person should know that there are so many lives that depend on water aside from us and that is why we should take care of it. If you thought your basic biology or science subject taught you about what an average person needs to know about marine life, maybe you should think again.

Do you know the difference between seals and sea lions?

I was so captivated with these school of dancing jellyfish that I didn't bother to know more about them. My bloghopping habit, however, made me discover something interesting about the said creatures. Jellyfish don't age! It's unbelievable, right? My source told me that once they mate, their cells become young again. They can live forever if they are able to escape predators or a disease.

I wasn't able to take pictures in the Oceanarium though because my camera's battery drained. I was using my mom's camera but she haven't uploaded the pics yet. The experience of seeing BIG species of fish there was overwhelming for me. Why didn't I charge it the night before???

manila files: out at night

2011-10-15T23:43:00.000-07:00

Part 1. The Meet Up

Maxine and I agreed to meet up at Ayala Avenue on a Wednesday night. Like friends who haven't seen each other for months, we talked about where life took us after school while strolling around Makati. After dinner, we happen to spot Forever 21 and decided to go inside HOPING that I would get to buy the brogues of my dreams. I did found the pair that I have been looking for but was disappointed because they didn't fit me and the store ran out of stocks. I guess it's not meant to be. :P

Part 2. Off to Eastwood!

Hello Eastwood! It's good to see you again after a long time. :)

Eastwood is a little bit different on weekdays. No bazaars. Less people. It made me notice the fountain show. I love the colorful lights!

Part 3. The Long Ride
It would have been easy to go back to Malate if MRT and LRT stations are open beyond 10pm. Since it's not, we have to ride a jeepney, take a bus, and ride a jeepney again. My friend is just staying at Caloocan so from that point, I'm on my own. The jeepney ride took so long that I realized I was exploring Metro Manila alone in the middle of the night. Minutes passed... I closed my eyes a bit and by the time they opened, I saw the Gil Puyat sign. Woops.

To make the long story short, I had to take another jeepney ride again and made sure I didn't commit the same mistake of not paying much attention to the road signs. I know. I know. It wasn't the right time and place to get lost. When I came at Gil Puyat, I had to face another challenge and that was walking about one kilometer to our inn safely. An empty street is not a safe street, you know. Good thing prayers are powerful. Experience is one damn good teacher.

Do you have an unforgettable story or adventure to tell? I'm willing to read 'em :)

video friday: a vid about manila

2011-10-13T12:53:00.000-07:00

It's been two weeks since my last "video friday" posts so I'm here to revive this segment I made few months ago. Here's a video uploaded by erinegreen01 on Youtube.

This October, this blog will most likely be filled with Manila-related posts since there are "Manila files" entries that are still on my drafts list. My schedule has been tight lately due to unexpected circumstances and I am trying my best to sneak blogging in between.

Watch out on my post about my late night road trip slash adventure from Quezon city to Malate, Manila (if you're interested, that is.) Have a great weekend!

manila files: ristorante delle Mitre

2011-10-09T10:06:00.000-07:00

After some meandering in Intramuros, mom and I decided to snack at Ristorante delle Mitre. I thought it was just a typical resto until I saw their menu.

The food they serve were actually named after bishops. The paper on the table says it was originally an eating place of Catholic Church authorities and was later opened to the public.

my first photographed panna cotta

Mom and her delicious "halo-halo"

*Ristorante delle Mitre is located in Intramuros, Manila near the San Agustin Church

manila files: intramuros

2011-10-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

Intramuros, also called the "Walled City", was built in the late 16th century to protect the Spanish government from the attacks of its enemies. Only the Spanish elite and the meztizos were allowed to reside within the fortress during the Spanish colonial period.

After so many years, Intramuros has become one of the most-visited attractions in Metro Manila, Philippines. I wasn't able to visit this place during my two-month stay in Manila last summer of 2008 so I made sure my mom and I wander here on the first day of our trip.

the Manila Cathedral

this is Mom. She wanted to experience a kalesa ride but I find it quite costly. (Kuripot much?)

Up next is a quick post about Ristorante delle Mitre. ;)

merry october!

2011-10-02T11:08:00.000-07:00

Two months to go and it's December. I hope time is going to slow down a bit because December is a 'spending' period for me. My recent week-long midyear vacation got me pretty broke so I need to save again for Christmas parties. Meanwhile, I am so glad to say that I was finally able to buy a new digital camera and it's waterproof!

image from google

I bought an Olympus Tough 3000 on the second day of our stay in Manila. It's shockproof and freeze-proof too! It was on sale in Electroworld at SM Mall of Asia (MOA) thus I was naturally tempted to purchase it.

This is one of my test shots using the said camera. Not bad for an above-the-water pic, eh? This picture was taken in Charles and Keith branch in MOA. You are not allowed to take pictures inside their store unless you take pictures of yourself. (Seriously, wth?!)

Anyway, Manila has given me memorable memories and I'll share some of them soon. We were blessed that we were not able to experience being hit by the typhoon "Pedring". I pray for people whose lives and source of revenue were damaged because of that tropical storm.

video friday: social media and ice cream

2011-09-23T01:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I miss going to class. I miss the chairs. I miss the blackboard/whiteboard. Heck, I sometimes even miss the wall. LOL. I also miss the learning that I get inside a classroom... though it sometimes bores me. That's why I like it when a teacher or a classmate shows videos at class. It's a break from the lack of music and movement of the typical form of lecturing. If I were assigned on reporting about what social media is, I would definitely consider this as a part of my presentation.

What are your plans this weekend? Study for exams? Watch movies? Sleep all day?
My weekend, by the way, will have no room for relaxation since I spent most of my weekdays getting lost in the streets of Malate, Manila. My absence at work will ruin my weekends but I won't have any regrets on this. I hope you all have a delightful weekend!

polyvore inspiration: bugs bunny

2011-09-18T01:53:00.000-07:00

Remember the time when I said I am having lots of fun in Polyvore? I meant what I said because from now on, you will see more posts about Polyvore collages here. My mind is filled with fictional character-inspired looks at this moment. I'm a spontaneous girl so we'll see what I'll come up with for the following days.

Meanwhile, today's inspiration revolves around Bugs Bunny. He is a Warner Brothers' grey hare who is known for his line, Eh...What's up doc?.

I made a simple, quick, and relaxed look since I frequently see Bugs being chased by Yosemite Sam, Tazmanian Devil, Daffy Duck, Marvin the Martian, Elmer Fudd, and even Wile E. Coyote. The carrot necklace was a girly version of Bugs' favorite object and the earrings was added for a more "bunny appeal".

View my Polyvore sets at: http://sundrenchedlady.polyvore.com/

pre-travel rants

2011-09-16T11:58:00.000-07:00

It's ironic how I love traveling yet loathe packing. I just realized that I'm going to fly somewhere this Sunday with my mom and I still haven't prepared anything for that trip. I'll be out of town for a week so I'm thinking of bringing this amount of baggage.

That was a hyperbole, of course. But, I would have disagreed with mom about making me bring a shoulder bag that seems to hold only two days of clothing if I only was not too preoccupied of finishing this week's work. There is no time for me to find a bigger bag now so I guess I'll end up bringing a total of three bags this Sunday.

Enough of that.

I seriously need to decide what to bring now. Tomorrow will be a frantic "last-minute" packing mania for me. I hope I won't forget to bring something I need for that trip. Oh my! XP

photo from: apinacolada

video friday: escape machines

2011-09-15T01:52:00.001-07:00

Curiosity did not kill the cat. Find out what these three inquisitive people discovered about this mysterious big black box. Click the play button.

Escape Machines - Surprise from The Cool Hunter on Vimeo.

Have a wonderful weekend!

what makes a camera a staple thing to own?

2011-09-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

A photograph is not only an image (as a painting is an image), an interpretation of the real; it is also a trace, something directly stencilled off the real, like a footprint or a death mask. -Susan Sontag

My dearest friends from high school and I waited for a very long time before we bonded again. God knows how much I miss them and being with them again made my very happy! I thought of buying a black forest cake as a birthday present to my friend who was celebrating her birthday the other day. The cake also served as a reunion gift to all of us. But damn, I wish we were able to capture those ostensibly rare moments. It sucks when something memorable happened and you have no camera on hand. Ever since my own digicam broke down, I haven't had an extreme desire of getting a new one until now. Buying a new camera kept on slipping my mind. I get easily distracted--- especially with ice cream. Every first day of the month, I always say I'm going to save. Days later, I buy chocolate, strawberry, cookies and cream, rocky road, ube, keso, and all kinds of ice cream with my favorite flavors. I'm embarrassed to say this but I lost count on how many gallons of ice cream I ate for the last four or five months. And, I still haven't even talked about pizza and ... ughhhh. forget it. Did you noticed that I digressed from the main topic? I told you. Ice cream is a distraction in a form of a cold delectable dessert!

Let's get back to the camera thing please.

I'm not really a gadget enthusiast so I'm quaeritating opinions about this. What kind of digital camera should I buy? I am battling with myself whether a Canon Powershot camera or a waterproof camera is better for me. I had problems with the zoom capacity of my previous camera as well as the one I've been borrowing from my mom. I don't think a 4x optical zoom is enough. So I'm currently pondering over SX230 or the reported best budget cam, ELPH 100 HS.

Moreover, my fanaticism of the beach, waterfalls, swimming pools - with waters in general usually hindered me from taking photos when I'm on a trip. This is why I'm also considering of buying a waterproof digicam that doesn't cost too much instead. I heard the Panasonic Lumix waterproof camera takes pretty shots underwater but not much 'above' the water. I don't know. I still have a lot of researching to do.

*No copyright infringement intended in posting the photos above

video friday: digital graffiti wall

2011-09-09T01:15:00.001-07:00

Was there a time when you were tempted to draw on walls but didn't because you're afraid that someone might sue you? If there was, I think you might like this idea of having virtual life-size walls with all the virtual tools. Watch this video.

Digital Graffiti Wall - Stencils Feature from Alex Beim on Vimeo.

It's amazing what technology can do. As I am watching this video, I'm thinking that making a graffiti looks so much easier when done in a simulated way. People behind this digital graffiti wall are superbly brilliant!!!

GOLD nails

2011-09-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

There is a lot of nail polish colors that I would want to try on my nails and one of them is GO GO GGGGOOOLLLDDD. It's weird that I'm not drawn into gold accessories but adores the idea of having golden nails. That's because I just could not snub at this picture which also serves as a visual tutorial.

for more tutorial details click: thebeautydepartment

P.S Be sure to get back here for tomorrow's video friday! :D

the seven links challenge

2011-09-04T11:50:00.000-07:00

I love challenges! Once again, I thank my friend Kat of www.mikimotoangel.blogspot.com for being an amazing blogger and for tagging me in this blog challenge. I don't have any introductory thing to say anymore so let's start this challenge right away. Shall we?

+ A Post That I Am Most Proud Of: Hardbound Babies

When I started blogging, my site had been mostly about college life rants. As I look back to my old posts, I realized that my college journey had been a loooong roller coaster ride. There were nerve-racking moments as well as unforgettable triumphant events. This particular blog entry represents one of the blissful occasions in which I was able to recall all the years of hardwork trying to survive in the university. All those blog posts about fears, joys, learning and everything that is school-related finally came down to this gleeful moment. It may not be the most well-thought out blog entry but it was the one that showed that I did not give up despite the hurdles that came across. Maybe I should rename this challenge as the post when I felt most proud of myself, yes?

+ A Post That Didn't Get the Attention It Deserves: 30 day movie challenge day 18

My blogger stats doesn't count views on my individual blog posts. Therefore, I am basing this challenge through my blog's search keywords and referring URL statistics. This is not the most accurate basis but this is the only alternative tool I can find. [That's what I get from radically changing my blog template.]

Having said those things, my 30 day movie challenge-day 18 post has been the "most viewed" entry. Honestly, I wished I did better in completing the 30 day challenge than just post a movie clip or picture and state the reason why I picked those movies. The Harry Potter image was the reason it was viewed. What a downer! But, I let bygones be bygones. Note to self: Don't post lazy blog challenges.

+ A Post That Was Surprisingly Successful: Spongebob's Squarepants Quotable Quotes

Time for something to cheer upon a bit. This post was a proof that Spongebob's energetic face is phenomenal. And, that probably goes for the whole shows' quotable quotes too. Credits to this girl for her typography.

+ Most Helpful Post: Save Palawan

I may have not done something monumental in this post but I believe that I was able to help in my own little way in saying NO to damaging Palawan's ecosystem. The "No To Mining in Palawan" campaign is still ongoing and you can participate by visiting http://no2mininginpalawan.com I suggest you do it now. You might save threatened species by just signing the petition.

+ Most Controversial Post: Aftershock

In this age of online wars and cyberbullying, it is important for bloggers as well as social networking sites' users to be cautious of what they are posting. This is why I keep myself from posting about sensitive issues and subjects of abhorrence. I guess you can tell by merely looking at my blog's template. In this particular post, however, I think I got very upset with people who posted jokes in their facebook status about Japan when the tsunami incident happened. I don't think this post was that controversial but this is all I can find. Let's support peace, okay?

+ Most Popular: Hot Stuff: Cosmic Print

According to my not-so reliable source, the 30 day movie challenge- day 18 was the most popular and my post about cosmic print comes in second place. Since I do not want to place the former in two categories, I decided to choose the latter for this link challenge. Cosmic or galaxy print is a hit these days and that is the most simple explanation why a post about it is popular. :)

+ Most Beautiful Post: Enchanted by the River

Let's face it. Bloghoppers love looking at pictures. In terms of visuals, this is the entry that fit as the most beautiful among my blog posts. But I promise that this will not be the only visually-pleasing post you will see in this blog because this girl will try her best to give you more!

I am tagging anyone who wants to play this challenge. Just tell me if you made your own set of links so I can read them. baboosh! :)

video friday: revolution

2011-09-02T01:38:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's Friday? As much as I want to be bright and breezy about the fact that today is Friday, I can't help but think of how much work I still have to do. Despite of this mix-up happening inside my head, I took a time off to daydream about rides. I'm so good at daydreaming, aren't I?

REVOLUTION from Bill Newsinger on Vimeo.

Bill Newsinger was brilliant in adding filters to his video featuring amusement park rides. It was as if those filters helped the video in telling a story but still gives the audience the freedom of interpreting it. What do you think?

long weekend wrap-up

2011-09-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

Spending the long weekend in Davao city was not actually my plan but my parents thought that they had to buy groceries as well as fish and meat for my sister who is currently in her third year in college. We arrived in Davao city on a Sunday noon and decided to eat lunch at Grab A Crab. Originated from General Santos city, Grab A Crab restaurant has opened its branch in Abreeza mall. This resto specializes in Pinoy dishes particularly crabs. What do you expect from a restaurant called Grab A Crab? hihi.

I'm not gonna pretend. This post would make me a bad food blogger (hey, I'm not a food blogger in the first place ;P ). We didn't bring a camera that time so I couldn't give you clear food photos. I could not also remember every single food that we ordered but I'll try my best in telling you what I think about this restaurant. Please don't get mad at me now...

BECAUSE their food was utterly delicious! We ordered a healthy crab that was sauteed with olive oil and white wine as key ingredients. I have to say the flesh of the crab really tasted good with the sauce. Ooohhh, the thought of its taste makes me drool. Have I told you that I love eating crabs?

We also ordered soup which was really tasty as well. Their beef brisket tasted like.. um, beef brisket! :) The beef was perfectly cooked and easy to chew but the sauce was a bit sweet. Their chopseuy wasn't bad too. I mean I love how the resto's chefs were able to give their customers a well-balanced mix of protein and veggies.

Moving on, my family strolled for about an hour at the mall. My sisters and I "windowshopped" at some clothing stores then bought a nail polish at Etude House. I was really glad that Etude is finally in Davao. I was so excited to use the nail polish I bought that I immediately applied it on my nails after dinner.

Before we left for Mati last Tuesday, we took a short trip to Punong restaurant in Carmen. We ate there last month. The food was not something very memorable but the place was great. We just ate snacks there that time and took a little time to relax before facing the following working days.

Busy days, here we go again!

video friday: LED shoes

2011-08-25T13:06:00.000-07:00

It's Friday again!!! Ho ho ho! Are you up for some crafty weekend? Because this video might give you an idea.

LED Shoe Clips from MAKE magazine on Vimeo.

It might be a little weird to own glowing shoes. But, do you know anyone who owns a pair? Ha! You can surely turn heads with these shoes ladies! I also immediately thought of my sister, Odette after watching the vid. She's a DIY wonder. The only problem I find with this "twinkle toes" project is the LED sewing kit. I wonder if they're available in hardware stores.

See more DIY projects in www.craftzine.com

if i were asked to wear blossom the ppg

2011-08-23T11:35:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite cartoon characters is Blossom of the Powerpuff Girls. Even though I don't watch the Powerpuff Girls show anymore, the heroines of Townsville will always be my favorite cartoon characters because they're part of my childhood.

Blossom usually acts as a leader among the girls. She's composed and analytical but can sometimes appear to be bossy. Her signature color used to be my favorite color. I dreamed of wearing a Blossom-inspired wig and costume when I was younger. Now that I'm a grown-up, I wish I'm wearing a pink top with black blazer, black pants, maryjanes, pink accessories, and Blossom's hairstyle with her signature red bow.

P.S I'm really having lots of fun with Polyvore right now. Do you have a Polyvore account? I would love to see your sets :)

solarized

2011-08-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

It was a hot afternoon. The sun glared at me through the window like I was an organism that hasn't caught sight of its rays for centuries. I felt so uncomfortable that I stopped what I was doing with the computer and tried snapping images with the literal solarized effect.

In the digital editing world, this is one of the things that happens to photographs when they're applied with the solarized effect.

(No copyright infringement is intended in posting this picture)

The following photographs, on the other hand, show what happens when the object is experiencing the said effect in real life.

I liked how the sun naturally changed the eye color

see how the sun almost masked half of the face

Conclusively, Mr. Sun seemed to be happy what I did that afternoon and thought I enjoyed his blinding rays display. The next day, he made a part two of that display with his friend, the Wind.

Gaaaaahhhh!!!

video friday: bon iver "holocene

2011-08-18T12:55:00.001-07:00

BON IVER "Holocene" from nabil elderkin on Vimeo.

Today, let me take you to Iceland and listen to Bon Iver at the same time. I have to give credit to the whole production team for this wonderful creation. The cinematography, directing, and editing were spectacular. The boy in the video did a great job as well. *sigh* Can I just live in that video for a moment please?

Have a happy friday!

Save!

2011-08-16T11:30:00.000-07:00

Endangered animals aren't the only ones facing the precipice of extinction. A lot of words are dealing with the same kind of threat too! To say "a lot" is actually an understatement. In English language alone, lost words make up a 20-volume print set of the Oxford Dictionaries.

For the sake of expanding my vocabulary and trying to "save" words from being neglected forever, I researched and listed words that I have never bumped into and then put their respective meanings beside them. From now on, I will use these words everytime I find a chance to include them in my sentences. You, the one who is reading this post now will be my witness to the said pledge.

So, let the list begin...

1. latibule- hiding place
2. eicastic- imitative
3. tragematopolist- seller of sweets
4. seplasiary- seller or producer of perfumes and ointments
5. perantique- very old or ancient
6. labascate- to begin to fall or slip
7. sacricolist- pious worshiper
8. lugent- sobbing;grieving
9. gelicide- a frost
10.quaeritate- to ask

The last word is a little bit hard to spell though. Are you familiar with the words listed above? Or were you just able to encounter them today?

heureux lundi

2011-08-14T20:13:00.000-07:00

Sure, I miss lazy Mondays in UP. Being a girl with a job, I just can't have days like that anymore. Somehow, I'm been feeling that "manic monday" mode for the past few months after college. But, I just had a very amazing time with my high school friends last night that I'm eager to start the working days with a jovial note. So,

that green-fleshed fruit

2011-08-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

How do you eat avocado? Aside from eating the fruit with a pinch of sugar or evaporated milk, I eat it as a salad, an ice cream, ice candy, or drink it as a shake. Apart from what I said, I didn't know how to eat or taste it in a different way.

Luckily, I stumbled upon a page on Bon Appetit's website and found OTHER "ways to use an avocado". Here are some infos you may find useful :)

If you like cooking tacos, why not try making an avocado puree with yogurt and use it as a topping?

How about spreading an avocado mash on your sandwich?

Have an unusual twist on your cake with avocado frosting.

Bath avocado wedges with tempura batter and fry. I tried eating (and enjoying) squash being cooked this way. I think avocado would taste yummy if cooked in this manner too! (although I know squash and avocado have different flavors).

A green mac and cheese would be interesting. A food review on this dish please?

You can also turn avocados into marshmallows, serve with eggs, grill its slices, and more. Find recipes on Bon Appetit's page itself. Click here

*all photos are from Bon Appetit

video friday: fashion with google

2011-08-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

Fashion Show with Google from Robbin Waldemar on Vimeo.

It's time for video friday! This video gives us a wonderful idea for a slumber party. It shows a fun way to play dress-up without rummaging a closet. You can search for your-most-coveted and expensive outfit on google and pretend to wear it through the magic of an LCD projector. If only I had a projector... Haha!

Have a marvelous friday! :D

i ♥ Laughing Cow cheese

2011-08-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

Cheese is an irresistible type of food. Don't you agree? Everytime, mom asks me to dice a block of cheese to put in a salad or in a dish, it is very hard to stop myself from eating the whole thing. When I eat cheese, I sometimes forget that chocolate and ice cream are my favorite food too! I'm making myself look like Jerry the mouse to you right now, do I?

I have to say, this Jerry in me has a new obsession. It's the Laughing Cow Cheese! It's softer, milkier and less salty than the brand's commercial counterparts. It comes in a circular packaging with eight individually wrapped triangle-shaped cheeses inside. You can eat it with bread, crackers, or anything you want! You can also eat the cheese by itself.

I am so glad my father introduced this cheese to me. I don't have to compete with my sister on who empties the bottle of Cheez Whiz first every now and then anymore!

On a second thought, I love cheese regardless of what brand it is. So sissy, I still want that whole bottle of Cheez Whiz resting on the dining table by myself! Hihi.

heartspring

2011-08-09T04:00:00.000-07:00

My family loves spontaneous short trips but I'm probably the only member that is aware of this hereditary trait as of now. My parents??... well, they are one of "the most impulsive travelers" I know. Having lived with them for many years, I should know when they are having this urge to go out. Eeep!!! Wrong! There are no signs and certainly no special occasions that tell my sisters and I that the whole family is going somewhere. One lazy Saturday, I woke up and was told to take a bath and change clothes because the whole family is going to Tagum City. Although I was still in a half-asleep/half-awake state, I could clearly remember that there was no special occasion that day. No one told me the night before that we're going on a two-hour drive to that city. There was no emergency either. They just want to travel! There was also a time in summer when my father suddenly told me to change clothes because the family wants to eat in a restaurant. Before I could even say that I have to take a bath first, he ignited the vehicle's engine. Now that is what ORA MISMO means.

Those instances are just two out of the many spontaneous outings that we had. Last month, my parents told my sisters and I on a Saturday morning that they woke up and felt that they want to go on a resort later in the afternoon. My mother's coworker which happen to be my high school friend's older brother, went to a place called "Heartspring Resort" the week before. He posted pictures on facebook and told my mom about what's there. Shocked about an another spur-of-the-moment decision, I asked "Do you even know where that is?". My mom was like, "Um, we haven't been there obviously but my friend told me about the directions".

"Heartspring Resort" is located somewhere in Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental. Read: SOMEWHERE. Meaning, we have to look for the signs on the road that will lead us to that resort. Bingo! We found it. "This would be easy", we thought. My mother's friend told her that the resort is close to the highway. In bisaya language, "duol ra kaayo". There was an intensifier to the adjective "duol (close)". Hmmm....... Guys, there is a reason why we shouldn't trust our friends all the time. Sometimes the phrase, "duol ra kaayo(it's so close)" means "you have to pass two unknown villages and cross a river". What a tease!

Many of our unplanned jaunts did not involve having a time to bring a camera. This time, we made sure we took the device along. Here's an assortment of pics.

Heartspring is actually a coconut farm that has swimming pools, a function hall, and amenities for short and overnight stays. For those who do not want to take a dip, there's a karaoke machine within the premises where you can sing and not worry about infuriating a bunch of households.

Well, that's it for today. I've been busy working for the past days that I failed to bloghop. So what did I miss?

video friday: gulp

2011-08-04T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! To make up for being absent in the blogosphere for a week, I'm going to start a "regular segment" in this blog. I like watching videos and have been sharing my favorites to you for quite some time. So I thought, "why not make it a blog routine?" I decided to feature a short video in this blog every Friday!

I have a huge appreciation for animation. Having been taught how to animate through Flash once made me realize how tiring it could be. It truly takes a talented, patient, and passionate person or team to animate. Today, I'm going to feature a video that shows my favorite animation technique where objects are made to "move" through series of photographed frames. It's called stop motion. I posted videos that display this technique before here and here. You can watch them by clicking the links.

The video below broke a record for having the largest animation stop-motion set. Can you believe it was shot with Nokia N8 phone?

Gulp. The world's largest stop-motion animation shot on a Nokia N8. from Nokia HD on Vimeo.

Here is the official behind-the-scenes video of the short film.

Enjoy your weekend!

Vino 50

2011-07-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

This is Yamaha's Vino 50 scooter and it is the vehicle that can make me live my retro dream. Its style looks like it was built to make it easy for any girl to drive while wearing a dress and not look divergent from the vehicle she is driving! I mean, vehicles are still commonly associated to the male species. Although we can see many female drivers nowadays, they are easily stereotyped as bad drivers. I'm not a hardcore feminist so there is no need to make a big fuss about it. After all, it's just an oversimplified idea.

Despite my fragile-looking physique, I have managed to get mobile through a motorcycle. I'm not really shocked when some people are surprised to know that I can run a motorbike. It's just so sad that it's impossible for me to own this Vino scooter because it is not suitable for the Philippine roads. It's definitely not for bumpy rides! Sorry Yamaha, it seems that you can only exist in my head. I'll stick to my Honda XRM with rugged and masculine tires for now. :)

photos from: here and here

time waster: the color of

2011-07-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

If you're wasting your time in the Internet on a weekend JUST LIKE ME, you might want to try visiting this link:

http://thecolorof.com

The objective of this site is simple. It's trying to find the color/s of any word that comes to your mind. I tried typing my name and the words, "Philippines", and "happiness" on the search bar, and these blend of colors popped out!

This is made for the bored, baby! Go on! Visit this site and discover the color of something that's been sleeping inside your brain for quite sometime. :)

fruity bus stops

2011-07-18T23:40:00.000-07:00

It's pretty obvious in this blog that I have a penchant for all things cute. This is why I like going to Japanese stores. There are always stuff that screams KAWAII in those shops. Someday, I'm gonna go to Japan and immense myself to an authentic Japanese kawaii-ness.

But for now, I want to share something I found in Konagai, a town in Ishaya City, Japan. Bus stops that look like fruits are spread along the road in this town. Don't they look CUTE??

If stops like these exist in the Philippines, I swear people will flock there to take a picture with them. lol!

photos from: dailyonigiri

awards make me happy

2011-07-13T13:17:00.000-07:00

I received a blog award the other day from Kat. Weee!!! Thank you friend!

There are rules for the award and these include:

-giving a link to the person whom you have received the award
-writing seven things about yourself
-passing the award to 15 other blogs and inform them about it

Kat's blog is www.mikimotoangel.blogspot.com (you can simply click the link to go to her site). For those who do not know me yet, there are seven things you might want to know about me.

1. I have insomnia.
2. I usually blog at night.
3. Even though I don't have much time to read books, I always try to find few minutes reading articles from Reader's Digest.
4. I hate desserts that taste like pure sugar.
5. I'm lazy when it comes to cooking but I always enjoy watching cooking shows. How weird is that?
6. I always want to go to new places.
7. Some of my favorite songs have lyrics I could not relate to. I just like them because of their beat and melody.

These are the blogs I frequently visit and read:

http://ximeeximeelipglossbarbie.tumblr.com
http://shannoneileenblog.typepad.com/happiness-is
http://thewalkingrecessionista.com
http://fashionistafortunecookie.blogspot.com
http://odettevionesse.tumblr.com - owned by my sister :)
http://itspatriciaprieto.wordpress.com
http://wearjunk.tumblr.com
http://miss-raspberry.blogspot.com
http://crissey8.tumblr.com
http://maryanelnar.blogspot.com

I am also passing awards to five blogs which I recently followed.
http://thecapriciousclub.blogspot.com
http://dapattylaurel.blogspot.com
http://annelorraineuy.blogspot.com
http://melbourneonmymind.blogspot.com
http://liveandenliven.com

Harry Potter in 3D?

2011-07-13T12:24:00.000-07:00

Mom, no way. First, I'd be already wasting money from a trip to the movie house alone. Second, I'm practically a frugal child. Third, you asked me to pay for my sister's ticket. Fourth, I'm not willing to pay extra charge for 3D simply because I'm not particularly asking for that experience. Fifth, I am saving my money for something.

These reasons, however, will be applicable UNLESS there are no more regular movie tickets available or I suddenly got a little crazy. Also, if anyone who wants to treat me to watch Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in 3D, you are welcome to do so and the things I just enumerated would be thrown out in an instant. I don't have time to watch the movie though on the first day of its release in the Philippines. Thus, if you're able to watch the last movie of Harry Potter, please don't spoil it to me. Thanks!

Bissous!

hot stuff: cosmic print

2011-07-12T10:39:00.000-07:00

I noticed a certain print that's coming out every now and then in the world wide web. It's called the cosmic/galactic print. I think it has been popularized particularly in Tumblr. From being a simple image,

it has become a top;

a skirt;

and leggings.

You can even see it in shoes, bags, and dresses. If you can't go to the outer space, maybe you have all the right to wear what the outer space look like and imagine that you're there. There is this one type of cosmic print that I really want to have though and it's ...

the cosmic nail art! pretty ambitious of me, eh?

*photos from: misterfaith, lookbook.nu, and tiffany

when insomnia strikes

2011-07-09T08:05:00.000-07:00

This is how to make your own band name and album cover in less than 25 minutes. I got this instructions from thecapriciousclub. She was bored that's why she did this. I, on the other hand, could not get myself to sleep early.

1. go to wikipedia: click random article and whatever article you get, that's your band's name;

2. go to flickr's explore: click last 7 days and choose one of the images you get. that's your album cover;

3. go to the quotation's page's random quotes (click here for the direct link) and choose the last 4 or 5 words of the second quote you get. that's your album's name.

4. go to photoshop/paint/whatever photo editing software you use, put them all together and make your album cover!

This is what I got!

P.S
a) Orff refers to "fictional alien species in K. A. Applegate's young adult book series, Animorphs".
b) the words for the album name were from Virginia Kelley's quote,
"There is nothing like a newborn baby to renew your spirit - and to buttress your resolve to make the world a better place". I have to put a comma between the words "world" and "a" to make sense.
c) there will be no remake of Katy Perry's Firework in this album.

tummy desires :)

2011-07-07T12:24:00.000-07:00

Enough talking about tennis, let's talk about food because I'm really hungry in this crack of the dawn. I'm dreaming about eating

an expensive scoop of Haagen-Dazs

a bowl of salad made of strawberries, bananas, and a real heavenly chocolate syrup

and a cute looking bento (what am i saying all bentos are cute!)

*photos from here, here, and here

out of happiness

2011-07-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

This is somehow an odd way to celebrate your triumph. I wasn't exactly sure if Novak put the grass in his mouth that day until I saw a short clip and article from Yahoo.

Novak, what were you thinking??

new. 1 one tennis player is 2011's Wimbledon Champion

2011-07-03T08:47:00.000-07:00

Novak Djokovic from Serbia defeats the famous Rafael Nadal (6-4, 6-1, 1-6, 6-3). Deep inside, I wanted Rafa to win but Novak is just so good, clever, and in perfect condition to win this year's Wimbledon. I wish to share an entertaining interview after the match with you but I am blogging as the awarding ceremony is going on. Anyway, congrats to him. :D

"It's always a pleasure to play against a great champion and hopefully we can have many more great matches here..." - Novak Djokovic

photo from: http://yfrog.com/h0bkchoj

The Lefty Won!

2011-07-02T07:37:00.000-07:00

Kvitova beats Sharapova for the Wimbledon title: 6-3 6-4

That's a disappointment for Sharapova's fans. Nonetheless, congratulations to the winner :)

Who Will Win?

2011-07-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

I can't think of anything to blog about today except for the Wimbledon's Finals. After Venus and Serena Williams were defeated, I have become more curious of the players who qualified in the semifinals. After Sharapova and Kvitova won in the semifinals, the two will compete in the Wimbledon's ladies' singles finals later. Will Sharapova's experience, groundstrokes, and inspiration (aka fiance) make her win Wimbledon later? Or will Kvitova's aggressiveness and serves stand a chance?

Djokovic and Nadal match for Wimbledon's men's singles finals, on the other hand, will be held on Sunday. With Nadal's aching left heel, Djokovic will have an advantage over him. But, the game has not started yet. So, I'll zip my mouth and watch.

*No copyright infringement is intended in posting the photos above

Enchanted by the River

2011-06-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

(the last post on our Surigao trip)
*****

After Doll House, we all went to a resort in Hinatuan to stay for the night. We didn't have any photographs of the resort because the only thing we probably enjoyed was the 9-feet pool with a water slide. The accommodation was below average so I am not encouraging tourists to go there if you're going with a big group.

Fast Forward >>

The Enchanted River was the third highlight of our Surigao trip. It would be best if you get there early in the morning when there are barely tourists around. My family, however, arrived there at around 10:30 a.m since we wanted to meet our relatives before we go back to Mati. As a result, we missed an underwater photoshoot. Oh man! But then again, family is more important.

Here are a bunch of the visual part of the "Enchanted River" experience.

off to a boat dock

boat trip

the sea where the river flows

more greenery beside the sea

short trip to a cave

We also went to a fish cage where there are turtles and schools of fish with bright-colored fins. I couldn't take a clear shot of any fish. But, I managed to take few decent shot of turtles. Here's "Lolo Sheldon" (my sisters and I like naming things and animals btw)

We went back to the river by about 11:30 and immediately ate lunch. There was a little time left for us to swim in the river since it is compulsory for everyone to leave the waters by 12:00 noon for fish feeding. My sister and I wanted to rent life jackets. We know how to swim but we were not confident enough to fight river currents that day because of few muscle pains. Unfortunately, there were no life jackets available. So, we decided to swim beside the ropes.

This may look shallow but some parts of it are a little bit deep.

And, that's a wrap.

Have a great Sunday!

a beach house prospect

2011-06-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

just got home from my aunt's beach wedding and oh my, i can say it was a wedding of her dreams. there were minor impediments such as the rain and an unexpected traffic but everything turned out to be wonderful in the end. I didn't expect that I would be inspired to have a detailed plan for my future wedding. Ayiii! But then again, I have so many other things on my mind like having a dream beach resort. Would you like to take a peek on what's inside my head on this particular matter? Take a look at the picture.

A pyramid house like this would be the owner's headquarters in my imaginary beach resort. I have observed that architecture can pull people's interest and therefore contribute to promote tourism in a place. This building's postmodern structure design would help characterize my dream resort. We don't see buildings like this often so it will be one of the reasons why people would go to my imaginary resort. hehehe!

photo from: thefoxisblack

the bee and the nectar

2011-06-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

While my third entry for the Surigao trip has not been posted yet, here's a little hint of where I'll go tomorrow.

I got this photo from my new favorite blog, color me katie. I was never ecstatic about participating a throwing of bouquet ritual. I always felt obliged in getting that bouquet since I don't want to be a "killjoy". This posy, however, would make me feel the opposite. I'd be very eager to get and bring these flowers home if they are to be given away. Real flowers are undoubtedly pretty but it's just so sad when they wilt and die.

I wish I could spend more time resting to avoid being lifeless tomorrow but my week has been really crazy. I seriously need a lot of energy this weekend. It feels bad thinking of unfinished stuff. pff! I hope everyone's weekend will be wonderful!

The Doll House

2011-06-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

There is a reason why I said I'm not fond of dolls in the 30 day movie challenge- day 26. The kind of dolls that I was introduced when I was a child was the imitation of Barbie dolls. I never liked the smell of plastic (or whatever that material is) in those dolls. They also did not stir my interest in playing them. So, I played with paper dolls instead which were fortunately cheaper. I actually had a collection of paper dolls and paper dresses before. Now, I don't remember how I lost all of them.

Before we arrived in Surigao del Sur, my mother told me that we were going to visit a doll house and I imagined it to be a small building with shelves that displays ridiculously expensive barbie dolls inside individual boxes. Deep inside, I also hoped that I won't see any moving dolls that would scare the hell out of me.

Okay, so the Doll House sits on top of a hill therefore, a little bit of sprightliness would help you get there. We just had to bring our sarongs with us because rain was pouring before we even get to climb.

And so we went inside the room and we were like woooooohhhh...How many dolls are there?

The dolls were really high-priced as most of them are from overseas.

dolls from Switzerland

The Barbie dolls

the biggest doll in this section is the most expensive among the dolls that were displayed.

the Pinay dolls
L-R: Reyna Mora, Reyna Elena, Maria Clara, and Reyna Emperatris
Wait, was that really Maria Clara's hairstyle??

The owner also has a collection of twin dolls!

I want to have a Matryoshka doll too!

cute Japanese dolls

my favorite set of dolls

Most of the dolls represent real people. Their hair comes from the real hair of people they represent. This doll is one of my "most liked" among my favorite set. She is Anna Katharina. Behind this beautiful and well-dressed lady is a person who has a very sad story. Her family, who was a Russian billionaire, were massacred and she was the only one who survived. I wish I knew more about how she was able to deal with it.

Another "most liked doll" is Coleen, a popular model in United Kingdom. The dress was really something!

I wish we have took pictures of every single doll. There were a lot and the caretaker told us there are more in the owner's house! The collector must have spent a serious great deal of money for this collection. They were even planning to construct a second floor for the other dolls.

Somehow, my whole perspective about dolls was changed after that visit. There is so much to learn about other dolls that I haven't mentioned. Dolls go beyond about giving someone a temporary materialistic joy. It can reflect a part of one's culture. It carries stories. It's a reminder of something that we might have forgotten. The owner has never given birth to a child and the doll represents and fills something that she wants but cannot have. So, no matter how unfathomable she gives affection to her collection is, the best thing we could do is to respect it.

Revisiting Tinuy-an

2011-06-11T07:58:00.000-07:00

God must have read this post about my desire to go back and see Tinuy-an Falls in Surigao del Sur again. I was able to visit it last May with my family, titos, titas, and their kids. We took the ComVal route when we first visited Surigao. This time we took the Davao Oriental route. We left Mati about 4:30 am then made a stopover at Baganga by 7:00 am for breakfast. The road trip went on for hours and arrived at Tinuy-an Falls at about 12:00 noon.

Sorry if I could not get a better picture of the map. The pink line indicates the route we took to Surigao; the blue one, from Surigao back to Mati.

the miniature falls you see right at the entrance

Tinuy-an Falls

There are actually more scenic views above the falls. Stairs are provided. If you want to get to the top, you have to pay P20. The first time we went here, we went up for free. Things have changed.

This is just a part of the view you can see above the main falls. My cousins and I call it the "second floor".

A natural pool on the "second floor"
On the left side is my sister accompanied by my cousins. People with lighter weight (which I also am) were struggling while swimming back to the edge. As a warning, swimming against a current is a tiring and scary thing to do.

fun with the water gushing right through our bodies

view from above =)

the third floor

We didn't have much photos here because nobody wants to hold a camera. All of us just wanted to swim since there were only six of us plus four strangers there.

time to go down!

views from the stairs going down.
I think I have better shots from that angle than the frontal angle. These are just actually some of the big bunch of photos we took. I wish I could just make one blog entry for the entire trip but I am too tired to upload the others. So, I 'm gonna make a separate entry for the rest. You better watch out then! :D

covet this raincoat

2011-06-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

There is one thing I noticed since June and that's the rain. I'm surprised that it has been raining almost everyday in Mati this week. My hometown does not experience storms. Old folks here says it's because of the mountains that surrounds it. Whenever a tropical storm hits some parts of the Philippines, it would rain hard for one day and have a windy weather with small rain showers on the next day.

Rains remind me so much of Mintal. Because it nestles on a mountain, it rains almost every night and on early mornings. I tell you, a lot of my umbrellas got lost when I was in UP. Last year, I saw this picture of Sandra Beijer of Stockholm and I instantly wished that I could find a raincoat like it in stores.

Sometimes, an umbrella is not enough to keep you dry. We need a raincoat like this too! Well, at least for me..

photo from: Sandra of Lookbook

little ideas to my dream home

2011-06-09T08:47:00.000-07:00

As of now, I still have a hazy visualization of what my dream house would be like. I don't really think much about it at this point because first, it's not my priority YET. Building a dream house for me is like settling down in one place and as much as I want to do that, I believe this is not the ideal time for it. I'm in a stage where I want to explore places, gain experiences, work, earn, and gain more knowledge.

Second, preferences change. What I like now maybe different from what I like in the future. However, there are little things that I am sure that I want to have in my dream house like a craft room/corner, a big walk-in closet, and a garden terrace. I also want to have a library in my dream house but I don't want it to look like what you see in school libraries. I don't want my future collection of books to be stacked in boring bookshelves. I've researched pictures on home libraries since second year college and so far, nothing has caught my attention yet.

A long time ago, I discovered an online quiz that would help me get wind of what my kind of style is. I really enjoy quizzes like this. If these are the kind of quizzes that people have to take in school, academic stuff would not give much headache to slackers. hehe. This quiz is from stylishhome's website. It's really easy! All you have to do is to click which pictures appeal to you.

The url of the quiz is http://www.stylishhome.com/Design/Style-Maker-Quiz#

And, here's my quiz result:

"An intimate home of modest proportions. A kitchen that reflects your passion… large, sweeping - authentic. A button down bedroom belies it's comfort. Like a master painting, your projects unfold over long periods. Enjoying elegant outdoor fare. Afternoon refreshments on the patio Clean lines,,, modern with history. Bookcases, reading nooks and private studies provide a learned atmosphere at home."

It says that I most resemble a "California Country" home just like Sandra Bullock, Harrison Ford, and Jeff Bridges. (Char!)

Some of the World's Most Unconventional Buildings

2011-06-08T10:37:00.000-07:00

The Basket Building (United States)

So what is it like to be an employee of the Longaberger Company?

The Dancing House (Czech Republic)

This is exactly one of the reasons why I want to go to Prague

The Piano House (China)

I am indeed in an awe.

Kansas City Library (United States)

Don't you just wish to have a library like this in your neighborhood?

The Robot Building (Thailand)

Nope. This is not a Robotics Institute. It's a bank!

The Blue Building (Netherlands)

OMG. It's blue!

The Crooked House (Poland)

This is not a distorted photo. I thought this kind of building only exists in cartoons!

Source from: oddee

climb into the wall of frames

2011-06-07T12:05:00.000-07:00

As the new media continues to push people to be healthy and fit, more fitness clubs are sprouting in many cities around the world. This fitness club called the Illoiha Omotesando in Tokyo, however, has caught my attention. At first glance, you would not think of it as an exercise room. The wall you see below is not just a display of art but an actual climbing wall. Who says functionality and art can't go together?

I would love to have a fashion photoshoot here. Haha! Any volunteer models?

photos from: freshome

the new mulan

2011-06-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

So we heard that Anne Hathaway is going to be the next Catwoman and Andrew Garfield as the new Spiderman. I'm so excited for these films to be released in cinemas. I just hope that ticket prices would not double by the time they are out.

While the two films mentioned above are still works in progress, there is a new buzz that Disney is going to make a real life version of Mulan starred by the beautiful Asian star Zhang Zi Yi.

Favorite Disney story + favorite actress = LOVE LOVE LOVE! The excitement level is rising! *smiles*

time waster: your harry potter name

2011-06-03T08:51:00.000-07:00

If you are a Harry Potter fan like me and you're bored, try to visit this site:

http://www.springhole.net/generators/britishfantasynames.htm

If you're a character in Harry Potter, what would be your name?
Mine is Lisa Denholm. This name reminds me of the Vampire Academy series though. pff! I was expecting something quirky. Oh well.

a super random answer

2011-06-02T10:35:00.000-07:00

The admin of the I Am Number Four Movie asked:

If you were a Number on the run, where would you hide?

I quickly thought of North Korea. I hardly know anything about this place. It's definitely one of the most discreet yet intriguing country. It seems to be resistant of alien forces making it a good option for a hiding place. From tiny pieces of information that I have, North Korea also gives an impression to be a strict domicile. Or is it?

Early this afternoon, I stumbled upon this website and thought what it's like to be there. But don't get me wrong, I am not wishing to go there. I'm just curious in a cultural sense.

a photo from the site

30 day movie challenge- day 30

2011-06-01T10:13:00.000-07:00

Day 30: Last movie you watched

Old Dogs

Today is the last day of the 30 day movie challenge. I've been wanting to watch Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and Kung Fu Panda 2 with my movie buddies but I am stuck in a place that is four hours away from movie theaters. My closest access to movies are Star Movies and HBO. (Poor me!) I can't download movies because waiting is definitely not my favorite hobby.

Because of work, I wasn't also able to watch movies that I haven't seen before. The last time I saw a movie was two weeks ago and it was entitled Old Dogs. The main stars were John Travolta and Robbin Williams. It was an "okay" type of movie for me. They were laughable moments but, I read that this movie has received bad reviews. I guess people expected this movie to be thought-provoking or something that is of high quality because it was starred by two big time actors in Hollywood. I'm just making a hypothesis.

*Sighs* I'm a bit sad that 30 day movie challenge is over. But there are other 30, 60, 100, and 365-day challenges waiting to be taken. I'm just not going to do it next month otherwise I'd bore myself. And now I'm off to bloghopping!

30 day movie challenge- day 29

2011-05-31T10:00:00.000-07:00

Day 29: First movie you ever remember watching

The Lion and the King

Dear 30 day movie challenge: day 29, I really hate you for making me feel old. If you wished that I would have a hard time remembering about the first movie I saw, you won! I have to battle myself whether it was The Lion and the King or Tom and Jerry the movie, or Matilda. But, guess what? I figured it out -- by instinct (lol!).

The Lion and the King left a small mark in my heart. I was captivated with its "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" by Elton John song. It was also the first movie where I got my heart broken because of the scene where the cub's father died. What a sensitive heart I had back then!

So much with that, I want to end this post with an upbeat tone. So here's the famous Hakuna Matata song :]

Oops!

2011-05-31T09:49:00.000-07:00

I was reviewing my past blog entries and was sooo ashamed of myself reading some of it. If you have found some grammar slips in my blog, I am truly sorry. This is the price to pay when you are writing with a sleepy head. I'm giving a big thank you to people who invented the edit and backspace buttons. I just can't imagine the stress people who lived in the typewriter era had to undergo in the old days.

P.S If you know where this photo comes from, please message me. thanks! mwuah!

30 day movie challenge- day 28

2011-05-30T10:12:00.000-07:00

Day 28: Movie with your favorite hero

Megamind

Megamind, a self-confessed "incredibly handsome criminal genius and master of all villainy" turned into someone he did not expect to be when everybody in Metro City thought that his nemesis was dead. The movie, best watched in the big screen, is an example of how an environment and upbringing of a child affect how he behaves and what he perceives in the future. It took him a long time to know that if there's a bad, there's a good; and actually realize which side is best to take.

30 day movie challenge- day 27

2011-05-29T20:07:00.000-07:00

Day 27: Movie with your favorite villain

Alice in Wonderland

The Red Queen in Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland" is the most remarkable villain I know. We hate most villains because of their irksome looks and bad guy/witch kind of laugh. The Red Queen is somehow different because she doesn't laugh like a witch or give this I'm-gonna-outsmart-you-look (think Joker). She uses a "trademark" phrase which is "Off with their heads", instead and I can't get over it. I just can't make myself hate her with her odd behavior and "extraordinary looks" (you know what I'm talking about).

The casting crew of the movie made a fantastic choice for choosing Helena Bonham Carter for this role. She gave a more different performance in this role if you'd compare it to her role as the ever annoying Bellatrix in Harry Potter. Okay, I think it's becoming obvious that I admire Ms. Carter as an actress so I guess I should stop. haha!

Have a great Monday everyone!

30 day movie challenge- day 26

2011-05-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

Day 26: Movie you're most embarrassed to say you like

Barbie movies

It's a little bit embarrassing to say that you watch and like Barbie movies when you're 20 years old-- especially for someone who is not fond of dolls ever since. If it weren't for my love of animation and their princess and fairy costumes that I enjoy looking, I don't think I would have watch 14 out of 17 Barbie movies. Whoa! I'm surprised with those numbers. I didn't realize that I have watched almost all Barbie movies until now. Haha!

Photo from:
b0ttledwater of Flicker

30 day movie challenge- day 25

2011-05-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

Day 25: Movie with the most beautiful scenery

The Chronicles of Narnia Dawn of the Voyage Treader

I could have picked the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Da Vinci Code, or Eat Pray Love. I heard that these movies have beautiful sceneries but I haven't seen this movies yet (yeah, I know. I'm such loser! I'm gonna watch them when I have time anyway). I would have chosen Letters to Juliet too, but I don't want to post one movie on two different challenges. So, I'm left with The Chronicles of Narnia: Dawn of the Voyage Treader.

The setting of this movie was certainly unconventionally beautiful. I particularly like the library scene (esp. the part when snow was falling), and the garden scene. I'm actually thinking of having that kind of garden in my dream house. hihi. And because I'm a beach buff, the beach scene (the one when the mouse was about to enter Aslan's world) was also a favorite. But, the real reasons of choosing this movie were Ben Barnes and Skandar Keynes. hehehe. Yup, I have a crush on them. For me, they were the icing to the cake. :D

photos from:
http://www.aceshowbiz.com/still/00004032/narnia_dawn_treader_poster02.html
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/arts/the-chronicles-of-narnia-the-voyage-of-the-dawn-treader/story-e6frg8pf-1225972385288

30 day movie challenge-day 24

2011-05-26T10:55:00.000-07:00

Day 24: Movie with your favorite soundtrack

Ice Castles

I was a little bit confused of what movie to choose. There are just so many movies with good soundtracks (i.e Tangled, the Wizard of Oz, Love and Other Drugs, Toy Story 3 etc). But, today I chose Ice Castles because I feel that there is a deep sentimentality behind the soundtrack. My favorite song from the movie was "Through the Eyes of Love". The way it was sung for me, is very expressive.

On a side note, the movie that I saw is actually a remake of Ice Castles released in 1978.

30 day movie challenge- day 23

2011-05-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

Day 23: Movie that inspires you

3 Idiots

It would have been very difficult for me to post something for this challenge without 3 Idiots. I love movies but I am rarely inspired by them. This is probably because of the notion that stories that appear in movies only happen in movies OR it could be the fact that reality inspires moviemakers to produce one. BUT, this particular movie which is said to be the highest-grossing Bollywood movie of all time, somehow gave me a motivation just when I needed it. I watched 3 Idiots when anxieties about graduation was building up. This movie inspired me to finish my studies and dream. "All is well", was the most famous quote in this movie. Weeks after I watched this movie, I was able to graduate and now I'm taking my first steps in pursuing my goals. How about you? What movie gave you an inspiration?

30 day movie challenge- day 22

2011-05-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

Day 22: Movie you wish you could live in

Letters to Juliet

I do not want to live in a movie. I am happy with my life! It's not perfect but I love it. For the sake of "dreaming", I agreed to accept this challenge and think of what movie I wish I could live in. That movie would be "Letters to Juliet". I have said in this post before that Italy seems to be very inviting because of the beautiful place and the food. Living in the movie, Letters to Juliet, would not only take me to Italy but to New York too. That sounds exciting to me plus, I would be with my "Romeo" if I am able to live in that movie. wahaha!

30 day movie challenge- day 21

2011-05-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

Day 21: Movie with your favorite actor

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus

Behold the movie that does not only feature one but four of my favorite actors in Hollywood. I am so jealous of Lily Cole for being with Heath Ledger, Andrew Garfield as well as Johnny Depp and Jude Law (they made special appearances) in this movie.

The production was interrupted after what happened to the late Heath Ledger. With "imagination" as the theme of the movie, the creative team decided to put actors Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farell in some scenes portraying the transformation of the lead actor's character as he enters the magical realm of Doctor Parnassus. Gilliam, the director and actor of the movie, chose the three actors since they have been friends with Heath. This film was completed as a dedication also to the original lead actor.

30 day movie challenge- day 20

2011-05-22T21:33:00.000-07:00

Day 20: Movie with your favorite actress

Miss Congeniality

Ms. Congeniality's star, Sandra Bullock is one of my favorite actresses in Hollywood. This one skilled motion picture performer cannot only make one kind of movie. She can act and she can shine in a comedy, action, love story, chick flick, and drama movies.

30 day movie challenge- day 19

2011-05-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

Day 19: Film that made you cry the hardest
My Sister's Keeper

I watched this movie right after the movie, Hachiko. If you have watched these two movies in one night, maybe you would understand why I cried so hard.

My Sister's Keeper is about a 13-year-old girl who has donated parts of her body to help her sister, a cancer patient, survive. She filed a petition for medical emancipation when she was expected to donate her kidney. A truth was revealed in the later part of the movie and that was when my tears could not stop from falling.

30 day movie challenge- day 18

2011-05-19T11:52:00.000-07:00

Day 18: Film that is your guilty pleasure

Harry Potter movies

Have I ever mentioned anything about Harry Potter in my blog before? Because if not, maybe this is the exact time to say that I am under JK Rowling's Harry Potter spell. Talking about this makes me so excited to see the seventh movie!!! Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 2 for me, is the most exciting part of this Harry Potter madness. I hope that the movie would meet or even surpass my expectations. Now, are you inviting me for a Harry Potter movie marathon? If yes, COUNT ME IN!

30 day movie challenge- day 17

2011-05-18T11:36:00.000-07:00

Day 17: Least favorite book adaptation

Twilight

It's 2:40 am in my clock. I'm in a sleepy mode so I'll get straight to the point for this challenge. There are two main reasons why Twilight (the first book adaptation in the saga) is my least favorite. First, this movie which, apparently gave birth to the vampire genre trend, got overrated. Second, they picked a lead actress who could hardly give more than two facial and eye expressions.

30 day movie challenge- day 16

2011-05-17T22:22:00.000-07:00

Day 16: Favorite book adaptation

The Moving Castle

Books and movies are different channels of entertainment and information. Each of these medium have their respective advantages and limitations. If a movie is based from a novel or a storybook, we can expect that the book is better than the movie. It has always been! The movie is an audiovisual version of the book. The book is the foundation of that movie. The director and screen writer cannot just modify the story let's say to make it better or something. Otherwise, it's not a book adaptation.

There is one particular novel that had me amazed because of its incredible imagination. The story is a little bit cheesy at the end but the way Diana Wynne Jones put her story altogether was the one that captured my fancy the most. The movie adaptation is animated and Hayao Miyazaki, the director of the animated feature, did a remarkable job. It truly takes a talented team to make a wonderful book adaptation motion picture. This statement applies to all movie makers who have created a good movie based from a good book.

30 day movie challenge- day 15

2011-05-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

Day 15: Favorite play adaptation

Closer

Reasons why I like it:

1) Julia Roberts is in the movie.
2) Natalie Portman has already been an excellent artist even before Black Swan.
3) The plot is metaphorical.
4) Jude Law is handsome and has an amazing talent!

30 day movie challenge- day 14

2011-05-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

Day 14: Favorite documentary

"A 'documentary film' was originally a movie shot on film stock— the only medium available, but now includes video and digital productions that can be either direct-to-video or made for a television program. "Documentary" has been described as a "filmmaking practice, a cinematic tradition, and mode of audience reception" that is continually evolving and is without clear boundaries." (Bill, 1997)

This quote is reposted so people would not get confused whether a documentary falls under the category of movies or not. A documentary is a non-fictional kind of motion pictures. Now that we know, what's my favorite documentary?

I'm a fan of I-Witness documentaries though I was not able to watch any during my senior and after-graduation days. It's aired during late Monday nights and I used to watch it after I finished doing school assignments or taking a break from doing it. If I were to pick one documentary from this program, I would choose the documentary that featured what grade school students have to do to go to school. I forgot the title of the documentary but I do remember their story. This challenge just made me want to research and see the best of I-Witness documentaries. Hmmm... But, first I have to work. BRB!

30 day movie challenge- day 13

2011-05-15T02:21:00.000-07:00

Day 13: Favorite chick flick

White Chicks

Sorry for skipping a few days for this movie challenge. I got busy at work because of series of power interruption last week. So, let me continue what I've left hanging on my blog. Here's for Day 13.

I chose "White Chicks" as my favorite chick flick NOT because it has a 'chick' on its title. C'mon that's a ridiculous! This movie is one of the first chick flicks I saw in high school. If you're the type who likes comedy, femininity, and action, maybe you can spend some time watching it.

30 day movie challenge- day 12

2011-05-12T04:32:00.000-07:00

Day 12: Favorite love story

The Proposal

I found the film, "The Proposal", amusing the first time I watched it. From then on, I can't stop replaying it. I've watched it more than 10 times and if you'll ask me if I am willing to watch it again, I'll gladly say yes. Ryan Reynolds- I am blaming you for this. hihi!

30 day movie challenge- day 11

2011-05-11T00:06:00.000-07:00

Day 11: Favorite kid's movie

Finding Nemo

Love the characters. Love the setting. Love the story. Brilliant animation. And, those vegetarian sharks? Hilarious. Just. Hilarious.

30 day movie challenge- day 10

2011-05-09T21:26:00.000-07:00

Day 10: Favorite foreign film

Windstruck

Did you know why the girl protagonist was desperate to commit suicide in the first part of the movie, Sassy Girl? Windstruck, a Korean film is a prequel to it. The ending was sad but I find the love story amusing.

30 day movie challenge- day 9

2011-05-09T10:48:00.000-07:00

Day 9: Favorite musical

Moulin Rouge

The production was fantastic, the story was lovely, the music was pleasant to the ears and the acting was well executed. Moulin Rouge is definitely one of my favorite movies.

30 day movie challenge- day 8

2011-05-09T07:32:00.001-07:00

Day 8: Favorite thriller

Prom Night

It's really not one of the most thrilling movies ever made but Prom Night is the first thing that came to my mind when I found out what Day 8's challenge would be. I watched it with friends and had a good laugh and pretty shrieks because of it. Indeed, the best companies to have while watching a thriller are the ones who are more scared and jumpy than you are.

Summer Break

2011-05-06T09:40:00.000-07:00

Few hours from now, I'll be taking a road trip to the east coast. I'm from Davao Oriental but I have rarely seen the east side of it. I just haven't had a chance. The trip's destination is not really in Davao Oriental but we are going to drive through east coast's roads which I am really excited about. I'm praying for another good weather later. I thank God for an opportunity to travel this summer despite how busy I have become these past few days. I have come to realize firsthand that earning money is not easy. But i'm happy with all these blessings! :D

30 day movie challenge- day 7

2011-05-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

Day 7: Favorite animated feature

Okay, I admit. I had a hard time choosing a favorite animated feature. I just love sooo many animated films that I don't know which one to pick. Good thing there is Oscars. I had a basis and proof that Toy Story 3 deserves to be picked for this challenge.

30 day movie challenge- day 6

2011-05-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

Day 6: Favorite horror

Sleepy Hallow

It's not the most scary movie but Johnny Depp is a protagonist to fall for!

30 day movie challenge- day 5

2011-05-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

Day 5: Favorite action

The first thing that came to my mind right after I read today's challenge was Jackie Chan. One can say that there are action movies that are better than his like the Oscar awarded action movie that I had watched 48 years ago thus I, the ever forgetful damsel, fails to remember the title. BUT then I thought, "Chan's stunts are just so amazing that everytime I see his martial arts skills on screen, I feel like I just want to get myself a kung fu teacher and learn how to kick butts!" So yeah, that explains why Jackie Chan's movies are my favorite. Now, I'm off to work! :)

30 day movie challenge- day 4

2011-05-03T17:22:00.000-07:00

Day 4: Favorite drama
Everybody's Fine

"Catch a falling star and put it on your pocket. Save it for a rainy day".
I love the song played at the beginning of the movie. The screenplay was so dramatically beautiful without even trying hard and the actors did a very good job on this one. It touched my heart enough that I cried when the movie was about to end.

30 day movie challenge- day 3

2011-05-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

Day 3: Favorite comedy

Ang Tanging Ina

It's fairly easy to make me laugh but I have to pick a local movie for this challenge because there is no humor that is more relatable than a local humor.