Cheers to a Gorgeous Life!

There's something about Kuwait

2012-01-24T17:24:00.001Z

My Russian boss (haha sounds like a mob boss!) who's been here in Kuwait for more than 20 years warned me, "There's something about Kuwait, you'll get used to the easy life. Before you know it you've been living here for a decade."

When I heard that I was in denial. No, that will never happen to me! Hubby promised will just stay here 5 years max and that's it. He's a man of integrity...

It's not that I hate Kuwait. I am honestly growing to like this country. After all it's safe here and having none of those internal conflicts that some Arab nations are experiencing. I just don't want to stay here long. Because of the following reasons:

Bawal ang pork

Coming from the the land of lechon, this is a sacrifice for me. But it's not too bad, we can occasionally have it. There are ways to get it. Also when friends come back from vacation in Philippines they usually share the bounty (usually Purefoods tender juicy hotdogs) they're able to sneak in. But it doesn't compare with having fresh, succulent, cholesterolly pork. Aside from lechon I miss having my favourite pork meals; pork adobo, sinigang na baboy, chicharon...etc. Sigh. Although I just console myself with fact that because of this forced no pork diet I am healthier.

The hills are not alive

Remember the "Sound of Music"? Remember the opening scene of the movie - a sweeping view of the beautiful green hills and Julia Andrews suddenly runs and dramatically breaks into the song, "the hills are alive, with the sound of music...".?

Well, there are no rolling green hills here. Sigh.

I miss going for walks by the river where sometimes I chance upon swans a swimming (not usually seven at the same time) or gorgeous hunks canoeing topless (ooohhh). I miss seeing tall, green non-palm variety trees. It seems that the landscape here is just plain brown. So I have to be content with bringing in greens (potted plants) inside the house.

Nothing but malls and restaurants

Though there are no green fields there are still many outdoor activities to do here like picnic by the sea, yachting (which we haven't done yet, LOL) and sports. However during the summer and winter when it's challenging to stay outside there is nothing, absolutely nothing to do except shopping and eating out. There are no theatres, museums or art galleries to visit. I wish it will improve in the future because truly the government can afford it.

One must drive

Since I don't drive yet as I have to complete 2 years stay before I can qualify to apply for a license, mobility is a serious problem for me. There are no reliable public transportation options - no trains. There are buses and taxis but more often than not, they stink. I also wish the government will improve this too and ban stinky buses and taxis!

Laid-back life

This shouldn't be one of the cons for most of you but for me it is. A typical day for me is; Wake up (after snoozing the phone alarm many times), hubby drops me off to my office before he drives to his, work (or pretend to work for that matter) until 3:30 PM or until hubby picks me up. That's it. That's my routine for more than a year now. Except weekends of course

The travel to/from the office usually takes 15 to 20 minutes tops. We are usually guaranteed to be home before 6 pm unless we dine out somewhere.

Okay this is a charmed, peaceful life especially if we have kids. But we don't have one yet anyway. I am not a fan of this laid-back lifestyle. I like action. I like crowds. I like noise. I don't like traffic but a part of me somehow misses it. Sometimes I am bored because life here is so provincial.

But you see, Kuwait has its advantages that as of the moment outweigh my above complaints. My fear is that I might get used to this laid-back life and choose to get stuck here until it's time to go home to Pinas. I can't say for certain that this will never happen as no one can predict the future. I will most likely turn out to be a different, hopefully better person than who I am now; A person with different set of priorities. But one thing I am consciously putting an effort on is this - I vow to have fun, to build meaningful relationships, to be alive while I am here (or wherever I am).

Is it more fun in the Philippines? Absolutely!

2012-01-19T20:21:00.001Z

I cannot stop saying that I love the new tourism slogan “It’s more fun in the Philippines!”. It was time for a revamp; there was a serious need to replace or not continue with simply blah “Pilipinas Kay Ganda”....

Thank God we did not go back to “Wow Philippines!”. With “Wow...” black and white pictures of Banaue Rice Terraces and Hinulugang Taktak in my battered Sibika at Kultura textbook come to mind. It’s so yesterday!

The very moment I found out about “It’s more fun in the Philippines!”, I could not help but smile and gush my agreement. Because truly, absolutely, it's more fun in the Philippines! It's not only because of the numerous natural wonders that our beloved country is gifted with but the people who makes it more fun.

We, Filipinos, are inherently hospitable. When we receive guests at home we take out the fine china carefully hidden (or displayed) somewhere because we think it’s a crime to give them the chipped, overused plates that we ourselves use everyday. We strive to provide the best for our guests – the best food on the table and the best drinks that we can afford (almost always a Coke litro just fresh out of the nearest Sari-Sari store’s refrigerator).

Every tourist is guaranteed to be treated that way, sure to be welcomed in every single island of the 7,000+ islands.

But it’s not only our hospitality that we are famous for. We are also famous for our smiles. It's endearing that Filipinos always find a reason to smile, to laugh and to share that joy (big or small) to anyone nearby.

I can’t agree more on what Heather Carswell wrote about our beloved country for Lonely Planet

“Aah - the famous Filipino smile. It may not sound like something that’s worth visiting a country for but the old adage it true, it is the people that make the place. Throughout the archipelago you’ll find people are friendly and curious, wanting to know where you’re from - often shouting out their guess at where you’re from - and where you’re heading. At times when you’re not feeling in the best mood yourself, for example when you and 25 others are squashed in the back of a jeepney built for 10, if you glance around you’ll always find lots of smiles and laughter that will instantly lighten your mood” -- The Philippines, beyond the beaches. Read the whole article here.

Of course there are also criticisms against "It's more fun...". Original or not, in my humble opinion, DoT (Department of Tourism) has done a brilliant job for coming up with this exciting new slogan. It is already a winner as it has awaken our dormant devotion to our country. It has energised Filipinos all over the world to share why it is indeed more fun in the Philippines and even come up with these humorous versions of the slogan:

Future Donyatiks

2012-01-17T20:38:00.000Z

Working women are good money managers. We are good at budgeting our monthly pay check, stretching it from here to there just so after paying up all the obligations we still have money left for shopping. We are also damn good at finding solutions in case we are broke.

As good as we are at making sure current financial obligations are addressed; Filipino women usually don’t think long term. We don’t care about things like investing, setting up a retirement fund and stock market. We leave it to our husbands (or future husbands) to worry about these serious stuffs. We trust that they will financially provide for us forever. As long as we are contributing regularly to our savings account, we think that should be enough.

But that is so wrong. Women should strive to be financially literate as well. If we want to live comfortably when we grow old, not dependent on anyone for our basic needs, still have the financial means to contribute to our community or help needy even after we retired, and even afford as much botox as we “need” (LOL), we must educate ourselves. We should actively take part in the family financial planning and management, and not to dump all responsibility to the man. Two heads are always better than one especially when both are working towards the same vision. Even if you don’t bring home the bacon, you still have to get involved and make sure your husband’s hard-earned money is spent and invested wisely.

That’s why I have put up a blog, donyatiks.blogspot.com, chronicling the things I have learned so far as I embark on this financial literacy journey and start applying bits and pieces of what I have learned.

It is actually not as daunting as you think. Start with reading Bo Sanchez’s book, My Maid Invests in the Stock Market, which will give you the confidence that you can do it too. I am not advising that after reading the book you must invest in the stock market right away. Do so when you have the right financial mindset and you understand the risks.

Go to www.trulyrichclub.com to get a free copy of the eBook.

My 2012 Roadmap

2012-01-14T19:34:00.002Z

The Mayans and Nostradamus predicted the world would end this year. I hope they’re so wrong. Well who’s ready for the end. Honestly, I am not. I don’t want all this to end and not be able to hug my loved ones ever again. Nah I don't wanna think about that!

Of course nothing is certain. No matter how I wish that all this can go forever, our time here is just borrowed. But we shouldn’t worry much about the future. Let’s do our best to prepare for it, yes, but what we have is the present. The only time we have the power is now. Let’s just enjoy it while we can, live and be present at every moment. Okay enough spewing Eckhart Tolle’s teachings at the risk of being accused of plagiarism... LOL

It’s been ages since I last blogged. The culprit? My iPad. Since I received this gift from a dear (obviously generous) friend I found no reason to use my old toy... my trusty pink laptop. My iPad fuelled my passion in reading magazines and novels, playing angry birds and sims, lurking in twitter and facebook ... the list goes on and on with the many amazing things I can do with my favourite can’t-leave-the-house-without-it gadget.

I feel bad for ignoring my very faithful, very reliable 4 year old but still working perfectly pink laptop. It’s been months since I last tapped on its keys and honed my creative writing skills (I hope there’s some left). As I hear the familiar clicks of the keys – I feel like I am embracing an old friend. I vow to never replace this until it breaks down on me.

2011 is now a history. It was a year of wonderful blessings; it was also a year of challenges. It was the year when our dream of euro-tour was fulfilled. It was the year when we decided that we’re finally ready to be (but God must have a reason why it’s not happening yet). It was also the year when my husband’s mother was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, which was a big challenge to the whole family but it also highlighted how blessed we are with friends and relatives who continue to support us – absolutely heart warming.

2011 was full of ups and downs, like riding a roller coaster. I am personally relieved it that that year has passed. So far the beginning of 2012 has been promising. This year has begun with good news; pertaining to mother in law’s recovery and my hubby’s career. I have a strong feeling, feel it deep into my bone marrow that this year is going to be more fabulous than the last.

But to make sure to push that gut feel into reality I have thought of a roadmap. Here is my 2012 dream board. My goals for this year are

Having a baby
This is an enjoyable pursuit so no worries about not working on this goal. But I won’t be pressuring myself anymore. I surrender to Him that in His time He will blessed us with a child. I will keep on knocking on His heart to finally give in and grant us blue-eyed twins (a boy and a girl). Oh I should perhaps drop the “blue-eyed” part because that maybe the reason why it’s not happening...

Visit the US
The American dream has never been my dream. Of course I want to tour US someday, but never migrate to. I hope this year is that “someday” because I really want to visit my bestfriend whom I haven’t seen for two years now! Or maybe I should just see her next year so I can personally tell her “I told you so, the world didn’t end...”

More wise investments
According to HSBC our beloved country will be the world’s 16th largest economy by 2050. Even if when that happens I will be in my seventies but for the sake of the next generation let’s invest more in the Philippines. Why else? It is more fun in the Philippines! My husband and I want to go home and retire there and it is our plan to do so if not in style but in comfort. We vow to be financially independent when the time comes and be able to afford the lifestyle we desire. So we better prepare for it, plant the seeds that will enable us to achieve this goal.

Proud of Our Shamcey

2011-09-13T15:28:00.000+01:00

All Filipinos know by now that our bet for Miss Universe, Shamcey Supsup, has won the 3rd runner up place of the said prestigious pageant.

Congratulations Shamcey! In our hearts you are the winner.

Her full of conviction answer to the question, "Would you change your religious belief to marry the guy you love?" surely pleased our church leaders.

Oprah reportedly said via NBC News, a quote that has been reposted via Facebook & Twitter by ardent fans of Shamcey, that
"I have reservations with the results. If the only basis is the Q and A portion, after having trimmed down to 5, Ms. Philippines deserved to win. What made her different from the rest is that she had no seconds to rethink of her answer as she had no interpreter to break the ice. The rest had their interpreters and having breaks on seconds to think about their answers. Hands down, Ms. Philippines answered straight to the point."

Whether the Oprah Winfrey really made that statement or not is not relevant (I believe it's a hoax). The point is, it seems the whole Filipino nation is crying foul, that Shamsey should have been the rightful winner.

Oh come on guys! 3rd runner up is no mean feat! She has done our nation proud.

For straight 2 years now, we have back-to-back Miss Universe runner up winners. Our Bb. Pilipinas organizers must be doing something right. Keep it up!

Shamcey was gorgeous in her evening gown.

Shamcey Supsup, our Ms. Universe 2011.

P.S.
Just for laughs I am reposting a joke that's been going around in Facebook about Shamcey:
"Shamcey turned down a luxurious marriage offer by a son of slain Pakistani leader for the obvious reason that if she would marry the guy, she would become Mrs. Shamcey Supsup Bhutto!" LOL.

Jologs Moment: Kapamilya Live 2011 in Kuwait

2011-09-12T21:45:00.001+01:00

I allow my ka-jologan to escape when I'm abroad.

Well why not? If I am willing to spend here times 3 more than it costs in the Philippines for a movie ticket, notwithstanding scenes containing kissing or foul language are chopped off (that's roughly15-20% of the most movies), why should I hesitate to support our Filipino artists for more or less the same cost? Furthermore I appreciate the gesture of our sikat (famous) stars travelling miles away from 3 stars and a sun, braving to show up in some obscure venue to personally entertain hard working, homesick OFWs like me.

On September 8, 2011 I happily escorted my MIL (mother-in-law), an avid TFC fan, to watch the Kapamilyas Live 2011 held at Qadsia Sporting Club in Hawally. Guest stars were Jovit Baldivino (the Pilipinas Got Talent first grand winner), sexy comedienne Giselle Sanchez and heartthrob crooner Piolo Pascual. It was organized by TBIK (The Bicolanos in Kuwait) in cooperation of TFC Middle-East. Tickets were sold for KD 5 (approx. 775 Php) and KD 10 (approx. 1,500 Php).

When we arrived at the venue (2 hours before the show was billed to start) we were greeted by the sight of throngs of mostly female kababayans who couldn't contain the excitement in their faces. Before we got through the security entrance we received a handful of free back-issues of StarStudio magazines. The chismosa spirit in me couldn't resist leafing through the magazines right away.

Kudos to TBIK because it was well-organized. We were guided through the stadium to choose our seats by courteous organizers, who reminded as again and again not to loose our tickets as we might win prizes (I did not win of course. I rarely win at raffle draws). The venue was decent (clean), stage was properly set up and there were more than enough seats for all.

It would have been perfect if the main show started on time and the air-conditioning was properly working...

There were so many front acts by local (Kuwait-based) Filipino artists. As I already said I like to support Filipino artists but to listen each one of them perform at least two songs, dragging for more than an hour, it was almost unbearable under the baking Kuwait weather. It's sad because I ended up not appreciating some of their performances. (But I do remember enjoying one cute kid's version of Price Tag.)

Fortunately the main show was worth the wait. Giselle was really wittingly funny (it was my first time to watch her live). Jovit was amazing; His renditions of Queen's Too Much Love Will Kill You and Journey's Faithfully were incredible - what a powerful voice for someone small! Piolo was still the handsome Papa Piolo. Most (that excludes MIL and I) already started shouting when they got wind that he arrived (in the venue). The moment he walked on stage, they were hysterical. MIL and I incredulously watched a middle-aged woman straddling the ledge of the balcony, shouting at the top of her lungs hoping to get Piolo's attention.

Piolo's fans were not disappointed as he was in the mood to regale us with his famous songs (i.e. Kailangan Kita). He admitted that it was his first time in Kuwait. He gushed, 'Ang dami 'nyo pala dito!' (There are so many Filipinos in Kuwait!). Duh, yeah...

I hope this is just a start of the series of shows in Kuwait by ABS-CBN artists (I demand JLC!) so that with the media attention people back home will finally shed their very outdated notion of Kuwait, that's circa 1990 when Saddam invaded Kuwait. Kuwait is a lovely nation where Filipinos get to live comfortably and peacefully.

Date Night

2011-09-06T21:25:00.002+01:00

Tonight is our date night.

Sometime end of last year I demanded to Harley that he must date me at least once a week. I reasoned that he owe it to me since he was able to escape the obligation of taking me to dates for 3 years, before we got married. Of course it does not matter that we were on long distance relationship then...

We chose the middle of the work week - Tuesday (Here in the Arab world we work from Sunday to Thursday). The advantage is it breaks the monotony of the work week. I have something to look forward to before patiently waiting for T.G.I.T (I know it does not sound as cool as T.G.I.F :-| )

Since roughly almost 10 months ago, when we committed to this, I'm proud to say we have managed to be faithful to this weekly date night of ours.

These date nights should not be always fancy. We go to a pricey restaurant only once a month; only when one of us is craving to eat in some fancy place or we want to try out a recommendation by friends. Most of the time we just go to affordable restaurants or KFC (oh yes, I still love KFC...).

Sometimes when budget is tight, we go home, scavenge our fridge to prepare a delectable home-cooked meal.

After dinner we head out for coffee somewhere or a fix of Pinkberry.

Most of the times we cap the night with our feeble attempt of getting into shape... that is, hubby gets the chance to meet the 1000 steps a day goal as he trails behind me while I window shop in a mall. This exercise always guarantees an early night. Hubby is so exhausted after he jumps into bed as soon as we get home and snores in a blink. The highly probable cause is his exhaustion is from too much worrying that I might decide to drop the "window" from the "window shopping" before we call it a night. Nevertheless this assures hubby of a proper 8 hour deep sleep (Yay another advantage!) In fact at the moment, his snores is my "background music" while I am writing this post.

The point is during Tuesday nights it should be just the two us. No asungots (other people). No other distractions. Just us. Either to discuss about deep stuffs like our plans for the future or just whiling away by talking about anything under the desert sun.

Of course we are still childless - that's why it's easier for us to sustain it. But we are hoping that when time comes we will be blessed with kids of our own, we will still remain faithful to this commitment. This date night thing should be treated as an obligation you see. An obligation to our marriage.

Dream Vacation

2011-09-03T19:44:00.002+01:00

My parents always say it's never wrong to dream. What is wrong is to limit myself by being scared to dream big dreams.

When I was young as I devoured a novels upon novels of romance set in English regency period I used to vow to myself that I would someday set foot on England I did not know then how that could happen. How a skinny, brown-skinned girl who grew up in squatters area could possibly travel to England - fly out of the Philippines even. But you know what, it did happen. And God is amazingly good because I was able to go to England for free and live there for 2 years! (I was sent there by my then company as a software developer for British government projects).
That was definitely one check!, one fulfilled dream among my long list of big dreams. The next must-visit destination on my list was France - specifically the City of Lights.

Last January of this year I received a notice from KLM (the airline I used to fly with during my trips to/from the UK), warning me that my miles were expiring by end of July. Just out of curiosity I tried booking a flight to Paris for two with the miles - lo and behold it got through! I told my husband that hey, I've got tickets now for Paris all you have to do now was to get us some visas.Then everything soared from there as it turned out my husband was more excited (if that's possible) about the vacation. We even both decided to throw in Italy, specifically Venice, Rome and Florence, (para sulit na) into the plan.

On the 8th of July we embarked on a trip of a lifetime. The moment we arrived at Charles de Gaulle (though it did not look as impressive as I had thought) I had goosebumps all over my body as realization sunk in that I was finally, really there. I couldn't then shake off the silly grin from my face all throughout the trip.

We got lost many times as we tried to make out the guidebooks we bought, always the first purchase we made as we entered a city. We were the typical tourists - cameras slung on our necks, map folded and unfolded hundred times for dear life. No doubt sporting a look of perpetual silliness as we wandered every city we visited, trying to decipher the street signs and metro maps. But we also tried to look cool by clutching a bottle of wine as we "wander".

It was a magical adventure. A trip that I will never forget, ever.Furthermore it was another big dream come true. I never felt so humbled by His generosity.

A printed copy of the Eiffel tower posted on our ref to psyche myself that I would visit the real thing someday.

Finally! My first glimpse of the real thing :)

Sad Day

2011-06-02T19:04:00.001+01:00

It's a sad day for us.

My mother in law, whom we all love so dearly, has been diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. She is scheduled for surgery this coming Sunday and she will undergo chemotherapy after that.

Please include her in your prayers.

My dear husband is devastated... In fact, we all are but I guess he's feeling the pressure more because he is at the moment the substitute padre de familia as father in law is not physically here (he's in Africa). I just urge him to try to be strong because his strength is what is most needed by his mom, by everyone, right now.

We never expected this. Life is indeed full of surprises, both pleasant and unpleasant. We all just have to rely that He has greater purpose why these things happen. It's not always walk in the park. We are just lucky most of us are here during this difficult time. We have a fantastic support system. Also it's fortunate this has happened while she is here, in Kuwait - where she can be given the best care. A visiting French specialist is taking charge of her case, plus the whole procedure is free.

Can't Wait for July

2011-05-05T22:47:00.000+01:00

July is going to be great, amazing, fantastic, brilliant!

Why? Well it's not only because my handsome hubby and my beautiful BFF are going to celebrate their birthdays in July, and not only because we are going home to Cebu and La Union in July, BUT also because of this...

Our flights are booked, the hotels are reserved and most importantly our visas are approved, weeee! It's still fresh from the oven - just claimed them not more than 6 hours ago :D

We can't contain our excitement. We haven't travelled outside lovely Kuwait for almost a year now so we're making it more sulit (don't know this in English, sorry). I am all agog thinking of a list of must dos in the two countries we're planning to visit and which places/tourist spots we should never miss out.

To my gorgeous BFFs, to the donyatiks-geisha and the ex-Jersey girl, yalla! (Come on!). Let's do it.

Glued to the Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T12:20:00.000+01:00

I am currently glued to BBC for 3 hours now watching the most anticipated royal wedding. The whole world is tuned in for sure. It's not every year a British monarch (a very paparrazied one since birth at that) gets married. And to stroke every girl's fancy, he married a commoner - in contrast to most consorts-in-waiting for over 350 years.

HRH Kate Middleton is gorgeous in her gown. I love her choice! Her simple yet very elegant McQueen gown is perfect for her slim and tall frame. I love that she didn't choose a big, bulky, garrish gown. And the dainty tiara, loaned by the Queen herself, brilliantly complements her wedding dress.

Growing up I fantasized, once or perhaps twice, about marrying Prince William. He was such a handsome boy. Like most girls who watched the funeral of the late Lady Diana, I wanted to hold him close and just hug him hoping to ease the pain of losing his mum at such a young age. But watching the wedding now I am not feeling a sense of loss (char!). Just happy that it's his choice, marrying his girlfriend of many years, that he has married for love that most monarchs have no luxury to do.

I think most girls all over the world feel the same way... genuinely in deep sense of celebration for the new royal couple and wishing them all the best. Besides it's not really a loss as there is still the more handsome unmarried Prince Harry to fantasize about :)

Toughest Place to be a Bus Driver - a BBC Documentary

2011-04-18T19:58:00.000+01:00

This BBC documentary really tugged at my heartstrings. If you haven’t seen it yet, this is a BBC documentary of a London bus driver who goes to our country to be a bus (jeepney) driver in Manila. He meets Mang Rogelio, a jeepney driver who shows him the ropes, and lives with Mang Rogelio’s family in a very humble (literally small) house located in the slums area.

The documentary also introduced me to “pagpag”; leftover food (as in tira-tira na ng ibang tao) from fast food chains are collected, cleaned and cooked again. A lot of people actually buy and eat it because it’s very cheap! So sad :(

Many of us Filipinos just think of ourselves and our immediate families and/or relatives. As long as our loved ones are alright, we are happy. We are so used to seeing beggars at our streets and slums littering our city skylines that most of our less fortunate kababayans’ living conditions do not touch us anymore. But I hope this documentary will spread awareness to show a little bit of care to our countrymen who are not as blessed as we are.

Root Canal Again

2011-03-30T19:52:00.000+01:00

I decided to book an appointment at one of the Maidan Group clinics here in Kuwait. I was thinking of getting a filling procedure done for one tooth. Well I wasn’t experiencing any pain whatsoever. I was just excited to avail my dental insurance, curious how significant the discount would be (LOL).

Okay this may not be a big deal to those used to first-world dental care but you see I was used to dental clinics that only consisted of a dental chair and a cabinet-full of medicines. So the first time I walked into Maidan Clinic, which a Kuwaiti friend of mine described as just a so-so dental clinic, I was surprised. Because it was a huge - like a mini-hospital! A receptionist who looked like a model greeted us, flashing us with her perfectly white teeth that I had to whisper to my hubby, Oh oh... this would be expensive.

A kabayan (Filipina) dentist-assistant welcomed us and lead me to the X-ray room. I panicked, noting the expensive (high-tech bah) surroundings I almost blurted out, Wag na lang po, sa Pinas na lang po ako. Pasta lang naman kelangan ko. (Uhmm I’ve changed my mind. I will just have this done in the Philippines. All I need is a dental filling anyway.). Kabayan must have detected my discomfort because she out of the blue reassured me and smiled, Libre lang po to. Whew!

I was then introduced to my dentist, a Lebanese. It was a relief because he seemed like (and really is) a nice guy. (Well like most people, I am kinda afraid of dentists.) He grabbed the X-ray result and gasped. It turned out that there’s something seriously wrong with my tooth, the one that had undergone root canal a few years ago. He tsked and showed me how botched it was as there was a festering infection inside. He then asked me where I had it done, to which I sheepishly answered in the Philippines 'doc....

But I was still lucky as the dentist told me it could still be salvaged by redoing the root canal. I immediately agreed. Well health is wealth of course.

Since then I visited the clinic for a series of sessions. The fee? It’s not bad at all. For more than one hour session that I had to endure this afternoon (My dentist assured me we are almost through with the root canal. It is the second to the last procedure, thank God!), and as it is mostly covered by my insurance, I only had to pay 5 KD (or Php750). Not bad at all :)

The Return of the Comeback

2011-03-29T20:56:00.001+01:00

I thought I got rid of it.

It disappeared when I was in the land of “cheers!” & lorries. It did not even manage to gather strength for a comeback when I returned to the land of sultry weather peppered with smog coming from the longest parking lot in the world (EDSA). When I was young it used to haunt me every day. It woke me up every single night. Then when I turned 25 the attacks got less and less frequent until it disappeared altogether. It was dormant for years, plus also I believe the regular romp between the sheets helped in keeping it at bay, I really thought it was gone for good.

But nooooo. It found a powerful ally here in the land of magic carpets. Not the scorching weather as summer is yet to come (and I was able to survive last year’s summer without a glitch), but it was the violent sandstorm that threatened Kuwait a few days ago.

As I try to make sense what’s the point of this blog entry, I am clutching the only ally that works against the fiend.

Just a single puff and ahhh everything is alright again.

Tsunami of Sand in Kuwait

2011-03-26T18:43:00.000Z

On March 25 Friday evening, I informed my husband that I was ready to go (for a grocery shopping) when we suddenly heard a bang on our glass window. Then from a perfectly lovely day it suddenly turned dark, all we could hear was some whooshing sound from the outside. Sandstorm, we immediately concluded. But we soon realized it was not an ordinary sandstorm as the whooshing sounds got louder and more forceful. It was really pitch black outside. We couldn’t even make out the lights from the nearby apartment buildings. We were lucky that though the dust managed to seep into our apartment we were still inside, which was definitely safer. It would be truly unfortunate if you're caught in the middle of it.

I was a bit scared since what happened in Japan was still fresh in my mind. I couldn’t help but think of the myth that 2012 marks the end of the world. Maybe we should reconsider our plan of getting preggy this year since the world will end soon anyway....?

People first. Pets second. Things last.

2011-03-20T19:07:00.002Z

I woke up yesterday with a sense of anticipation knowing that the 4-door wardrobe (bought on sale from Banta... see I do have frugal bone in my body) would be delivered at 10am. I literally had to shake my hubby awake as we had to get ready for it. I was excited, no kidding. I was actually up to the task of rearranging our bedroom and reorganizing our stuffs.

I have a little secret. I am a bit OC (obsessive–compulsive) when it comes to housekeeping. Believe me.

I like to keep things in order and every night before going to sleep I usually do once-over to make sure things are at their proper places.

Mama was even surprised when I gave her a virtual tour of our humble abode via Skype. She hadn’t expected that I have knack in decorating and housekeeping because God knows she had to nag me every waking day to keep my room tidy when I was still under her wings.
Of course the fact that we have a brilliant Ate Thelma who comes in every weekend helps a lot.

People First. Pets Second. Things Last.

I keep a philosophy similar to Nate Berkus when it comes to housekeeping: People first. Pets second (if you have one). Things last. I don't balk in throwing away stuffs that I no longer need. And this is one of the differences between my husband and me. He is a hoarder. He reasons out that it’s because he is sentimental. But the problem is he is able to make up “sentimental value” in every single thing he owns.

As I was going through his stuffs yesterday I was surprised to find that there are so many abubots! (knickknacks). To name a few there were carton boxes of his past eyeglasses (without the eyeglasses), empty diaries of years gone by, pens with inks frozen solid. I had no qualms throwing away most of them. Especially that love letter from his ex girlfriend which contained the cheesy line “Nalulungkot ako, titigil na naman ang ikot ng mundo ko pag-alis mo.”; That I had to tell hubby, “Puntahan mo naman, nalulungkot din ako kasi kawawa naman sya...“ :-| (btw she is also happily married now. Just couldn't resist teasing my husband.)

If things are kept in storage for more than a year and you have honestly forgotten their existence in the first place, then by all means get rid of them to create more space! Sell them on eBay or donate them. I live by the rule to store only things that have meaning to me, given to me by my loved ones or they should be reminders of fond pasts. It is the story behind every thing that should be the reason why I am keeping it.

But I am not a ruthless wife. I understand that my hubby is not at ease at throwing away things so I have a box especially reserved for him. This is where he can stash away things that he is not yet comfortable of discarding. I will do an inventory once in three months and try persuading him to remove an thing or two, and of course to make sure there is no stray love letter from another woman lying around....

Hubby's very own box

Ichiko Nails & Day Spa: A Piece of Heaven for Kikays in Davao

2011-03-18T11:51:00.005Z

I have always been a fond of Japanese beauty products. Whenever I had the chance to visit the interesting country, I made sure to experiment the trends and I was never disappointed with the results. For years now my daily moisturizer is Kose (a known Japanese brand) and I have always received compliments of how young looking my skin is.

Great news for Davaoeanas! A spa has come to Davao to offer the best in Japanese beauty trends at affordable price, Ichiko Nails & Day Spa. The service is to die for as the spa boasts of well trained therapists who will give the R&R that every client deserves. Plus the owner, Ria, is totally hands-on. She’s a walking encyclopaedia in kakikayan and is travelling to Japan regularly not only to personally handpick the supplies but to research what’s the latest in Japanese beauty market as well.

Though it has only been open for less than 3 months I already have come across rave reviews about the spa in the blogosphere. It is definitely gaining loyal clientele. I heard that this spa is going to open a branch in Cebu next year. Can’t wait! :)

If you’re in Davao, give them a visit and I promise you won’t regret it. Ichiko Nails & Day Spa is located at Door No. 1 Casa Graciana Inn, Juna Avenue Davao city.

Cap off your visit at Ichiko with a relaxing green tea at their zen garden

Ria is in Japan at the moment and look at these delectable beauty finds she's bringing back to her Ichiko clients!

1,000 KD to every Kuwaiti

2011-01-18T17:50:00.041Z

My Kuwaiti colleagues were ecstatic when they learned that His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah has issued instructions granting every Kuwaiti citizen KD 1,000 as well as free food rations for 14 months as of next month.

The grants, he noted, marked the occasion of the 50th independence anniversary, 20th liberation anniversary and 5th anniversary of Sheikh Sabah’s assumption of office, due next month. (from Arab Times).

Every Kuwaiti includes babies born before next month.

How big is 1,000 KD, you ask? Well it is $3,599 or roughly 158k pesos. So if you are an average family of four (2 children and parents). You will receive a whooping $14,000 or 630k pesos. Whew!

This lavish gesture is out of the generosity of HH the Amir and his fervent desire to minimize the suffering of Kuwaiti people.

Hmmm suffering? The ordinariness of seeing Porsches, Lexus, Hummers and Jaguars speeding along the Gulf Road everyday makes me ask out loud - What suffering?!?

Well truth of the matter is, this country is insanely rich!

Welcome 2011!

2011-01-05T18:46:00.000Z

It is an understatement to say that time is really fast. Wow. It's scary (we're getting old fast!) but I am very glad to bid buh-bye to 2010.

Why? Because, in all honesty, 2010 was a difficult year for us.

2010 was a year of major-major adjustments. It was a year full of challenges: starting with relocation to Kuwait, job-seeking for months and then trying to fit in to my new workplace (working with Arabs is truly different!).

I was excited to kiss 2010 goodbye and was truly looking forward to welcome 2011. Because I reason, with a heart full of hope, that since the year that passed certainly was not a walk in the park the new year has to be a better year for us.

But of course 2010 wasn't all that bad. Like what they say, in times of adversity one finds the most precious of treasures. Hey I don't mean that we were able to unearth a gushing oil supply. Because if that happened I would be writing this entry using an IFad while ordering Berkins (yeah lots of them) at a Hermes shop in Paris.

What I mean by treasures are more precious than material wealth (naks!). Looking back to those period when I was jobless, I can't help but feel this sense of wonder at my husband who was so patient with all my whining and dramatics. Well I'd rather think he must love me (instead of thinking that he had no choice - that he's just stuck with me hehe). Another treasure I personally found is being a part of another loving family - my husband's. I truly appreciate their support during our start up.

So yeah, it wasn't all that bad. After the wake of 2010, we are in a pretty good shape.

But I still believe that this year, 2011, is going to be better! Wohoo :)

Kuwaitis Over the Moon with Gulf Cup Win

2010-12-07T14:13:00.000Z

Kuwait wins the Gulf Cup with 1-0 score against Saudi Arabia. the last time they won was in 1998, truly, a very long wait. The traffic yesterday at Gulf road was horrendous as Kuwaiti football fans celebrated by honking their horns. Some climbed on top of their cars, waving flags and even dancing.

The Blues (Al Azraq), the Kuwait National Football team, return to a heroes welcome. Not only that, they received $1 Million from the National Bank of Kuwait and 1 Million KWD (that's 150 Million pesos!) from His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Being a football player is truly lucrative! My future son should be a one...

Kikay Side of Google: Boutiques.com

2010-11-26T08:41:00.000Z

Who says Google is just for the geeks? Last week it proved it cares for fashionistas too. Google launched a revolutionary online site featuring celebrities fashion and personal styling - Boutiques.com. Site visitors can explore boutiques to browse clothes and accessories by celebrity, designer, blogger, retailer, trend and styles. The products you see on Boutiques.com are sold by online retailers who submit their products to be listed on the site.

The concept of may not be unique as ASOS.com (As Seen On Screen) lead the way to this kind of online fashion shopping experience showing how to copy the looks of celebrities and fashion icons. But Google is able to provide perhaps the best feature to make fashionistas and shopaholics lives easier and merrier, the Create Your Boutique function.

Clicking on Create Your Boutique will take you to the Stylyzer Quiz where you can choose between a series of photos to help determine your style genre. As soon as you finish the quiz, you will receive your suggested style genre, which you have the option to save. Then you will be asked to create a Boutiques.com account, so the next time you login you will have a personalized shopping experience showing products according to your own personal style. You can also configure again your style love/hate preferences.

Check it out and enjoy!

Cirque du Soleil in Kuwait!

2010-11-26T07:29:00.000Z

For the first time Cirque du Soleil together with the Moscow Circus is coming to Kuwait, and, and we have tickets - we're watching it tonight! Wohoo!

Cirque du Soleil is famous for giving live performances that combine acrobatic acts with dynamic ambience of colours and sounds. After all the rave reviews I heard from friends who watched a Cirque du Soleil show, I am very excited to experience it firsthand.

Venue: Kuwait Entertainment Center-Doha.
Doors opens at 4pm. Event starts at 7pm.

This first time in Kuwait extraordinary event is brought here by X-Cite by Alghanim Electronics. You get 2 tickets free for every KD 200 (Php 30,000) purchase from X-Cite and you can buy extra tickets for KD 25 each (Php 3,000).

Lanvin for H&M Craze

2010-11-24T20:31:00.000Z

The Lanvin for H&M fever even reached Kuwait.

It was launched yesterday, 8am at The Avenues and Marina Mall. Good thing I didn't go because it was crazy. See how long the queue of people waiting for the The Avenues H&M store to open...

Photo grabbed from http://www.ilsul6ana.com/

I was told that everything on the line was selling like hot cakes, the women's line got sold out in no time! I would have wanted to buy a Lanvin for myself :( Maybe I'll just grab a shirt for Harley.

Kuwait: DSLRs Banned in Public?!

2010-11-21T17:57:00.001Z

Just when I thought I was starting to fall in love with this country someone forwarded me below (Please oh please, I hope it's just a rumor...).

Seriously?! WTH. What am I going to do with my DSLR?! Use it as a dumbbell, you say? Sosyal :-|

---
Multi ministry camera ban frustrates artists
Published Date: November 20, 2010
By Abdullah Al-Qattan, Staff Writer
Link: http://www.kuwaittimes.net/read_news.php?newsid=MzAwMTg4ODg1

KUWAIT: After the ban three ministries placed on photography, most Kuwaiti youth are a bit confused about what to do with their cameras if they can't use them in public and why such laws were implemented in the first place. The Ministry of Information, Ministry of Social Affairs and Ministry of Finance recently came to the conclusion that photography should be used for journalism purposes only. This has resulted in the ban of Digital Single Lens Reflex Cameras (DSLRs) in public, on the streets and in malls.

What most Kuwaiti photographers have come to wonder is how such a decision could be reached by authorities, especially considering that digital cameras and cell phone cameras have the same abilities. What most people think of photography as a hobby has become a bit misguided due to the fact that the country has so little exposure to art. While using a DSLR, passersby may wonder if the camera is being used for the wrong reasons.

Mohammed Al-Eisa, who picked up photography as a hobby more than 10 years ago, said that he has decided to take photos of animals or still life due to the fact that these subjects don't mind having their picture taken and don't make a scene. "I started facing problems the very first day I bought my camera," Mohammed added.

What often happens is that a big black camera tends to worry people. Taking a picture of a stranger would seem like much less of an issue if you were using a more discreet camera or even a cell phone. Mariam Al-Fodiry said that she has faced similar problems with her hobby and that being a girl doesn't help at all. She said that in some cases it makes the problem even worse. "Switching to abstract and landscape photography was one the options I considered after getting into enough trouble," Mariam said.

Majed Al-Saqer said that sometimes people stop him while he is in his car with his camera, as if he were planning to kill someone with it. He said that he isn't sure what the real problem is, whether it is people taking photos of each other or the size of the camera.

Road Trip to Wafra

2010-11-18T20:24:00.000Z

This morning I told Harley that we were going on a road trip to Wafra. He immediately nodded because perhaps he did not at first believe I was serious, or maybe just to shut me up. But when he realized that I was indeed not kidding he gently reminded me more than 3 times that we, or more accurately he had to drive about 200 km just to get us there, and there may be nothing worth to see there. Well I wouldn’t budge. He had to agree given the argument that here in Kuwait full tank of fuel only costs 3 KD (only Php 450!), which is of course so cheap compared to the price of fuel outside Middle East, we should grab the opportunity to explore the country while we are here.

Why Wafra? There are lots of farms there. I was hoping maybe we could buy fresh fruits and vegetables straight from one of the farms. Plus the chance to see lots of greeneries in one area was really something that I was looking forward to. Since living here in a desert I really missed seeing lots of green, trees for that matter.

Also Wafra is near to the border of Saudi. The thought of getting near that interesting country was a little bit exciting for me.

From Salmiya we took road 30 and then road 306 to Wafra. It took us about 2 hours, and for the most part the only sight to see was uninterrupted desert made the trip seem longer, to reach Wafra.

Though I was a bit disappointed that we weren’t able to go inside any of the farms as most of them are private and gated, I was elated to see camels! It was my first sighting of camels since I came to Kuwait.

I Heart ASQ Bride Musk

2010-11-11T20:12:00.003Z

A Kuwaiti friend recommended the Bride Musk from Abdul Samad Al Qurashi (ASQ). She vowed that it was one, if not her most favourite scent. We went to an ASQ store (Arraya 2 Mall) near our office and she asked the guy who worked there to dab a drop of oil on my wrist. Oh my, I immediately became a fan. It really smelled good! So fresh, oh so clean. I honestly loved it! The beautiful scent lingered through the rest of that day. Hubby even noticed it when he picked me up from work.

This morning that friend and I were both elated to find out that ASQ is doing a buy 1 take 1 promotion for all of their scents. We both grabbed the opportunity because the promo is until this Saturday only. Thankfully we also managed to convince the staff that instead of giving us the bigger bottles, he would divide the contents into pocket size bottles. I am indeed going to distribute these to my pretty girlfriends! I am sure they are going to adore it too. And also it is about time to start preparing for my Christmas gift packages for them after all :)

The bottle may seem cute but I guarantee that it will last long. The best way to use it is to apply immediately after a bath or shower a small amount of oil directly to your pulse points - inside the wrist, behind the ears, back of neck, base of throat and/or cleavage area.

A note of warning though, the Bride Musk perfume spray is not as good and the scent does not stay on as the oil. My friend's advice is not to waste money on it. Just stick to the oil.

Chic Accessories by Jojo

2010-10-08T16:30:00.000+01:00

I work for a major bank here in Kuwait. Every day during the morning rush, stylish female colleagues sashay into the elevators seemingly performing an impromptu fashion show. I enjoy observing them, admiring how lovely they all look. During my first few days at work, I had to control my eyes from popping out when I noticed the bags, scarves and accessories are mostly designer.

If there's anything that I have learned from spying them, it is never to underestimate the power of accessorizing. What could have been just a boring ensemble of pants and a plain top can be made interesting by throwing in cute accessories like a long necklace of glass beads, chandelier earrings or a dramatic cocktail ring. It doesn’t have to be designer pieces. One can still look chic by choosing the right, yes even brandless, accessories.

Jojo, a friend of great style and even greater talent in designing and creating accessories/jewellery (using semi-precious gemstones, silver, glass and wood), has finally decided to share her designs to the world with this online store; Jugi-Fashions.com. These are just some of my favourites among her collections.

Cute glass drop earrings

Ribbon tied bead necklace

Amethyst beads with butterfly pendant bracelet

And hey, Jugi-Fashions delivers worldwide for freeeee (!), plus they currently have a running promo that you get $1 off on each additional item that you buy.

Check it out and you will be amazed at how affordable they are.

Thanks Adsense!

2010-09-22T08:17:00.000+01:00

I opened my account a few days ago and was amazed to discover this amount from the big G.

Really I never thought, never expected that this hobby of mine could help me earn money. I was not certainly diligent in posting a new entry everyday, so imagine how happy I was to receive this unexpected gift. It was a pleasant surprise indeed.

So hey if you are diligent blogger and you are not yet registered to Adsense, why don't you cash in on your hobby :)

Only 988 Weeks Left

2010-09-19T11:34:00.000+01:00

I turned the big 3-0 this year. Though it’s been months since my birthday, it still feels odd that I can no longer say I am 20-something.

Do I feel old? Of course! I am not in some denial and say I feel young as ever because gosh I have already used up 60% of the years that I have before turning 50.

60%! Where did it all go? It’s amazing how time slips away just like that.

Fact is fact; I only have 20 years before I turn 50.

In days that is 7300 days. Seems like a lot of days, right? But wait until you count in weeks...
That is roughly 988 weeks. Less than a thousand weeks!

Still seems like a lot of weeks?

No, I don’t think so. These past 2 months I have been addicted to Social City. (Now you know why I haven’t posted a new entry lately...). Well according to this amazing calculator on my desk, 2 months are already 8 weeks. There is no tangible benefit from investing that much time, playing too much Social City. Those skyscrapers, those millions of coins collected from the factories will never be real. See how easily one can squander away a few weeks just like that? Gosh, I have wasted 8 weeks creating a city that will always be virtual...

Inasmuch as I want to bang my head on the nearest wall for not realizing this foolishness soon enough, I take comfort that thank God I have realized it now.

What’s written on this cup of Caribou coffee is so right. “Life is short. Stay awake for it.” I no longer wish for weekends to come faster.

It’s time to focus on stuffs that truly matter.

Life is indeed not fair!

2010-07-25T06:41:00.000+01:00

I chanced upon this blog while googling for before and after nose job pictures of currently the biggest teen star of Philippine showbiz. After I finished a quick skim, I just couldn’t believe what I read. So I had to scroll back up again and scrutinize each picture the blogger posted.

OMG! I did not misread it the first time after all. The blogger and her friends are truly Prada wearing, jet setting and as well as enviably pretty Cebuana teeners...

How could someone live a life of such perfect existence?

I hate them. Because I have been slaving my back for a decade now and still can’t afford a Prada. Why is life soooooo unfair?

Congratulations Spain!

2010-07-12T00:23:00.000+01:00

Gosh I love it when I am right. I can certainly give Paul the Octopus a run for his money.

Spain is the 2010 FIFA World Cup Champion!

It's a back to back victory for Spain this year. Nadal won the French Open and Wimbledon finals, while Spain has cemented their status as the best football team in the world! I hope this is not the end of Spain's lucky streak. I hope Nadal will win his first U.S. Open title next month.

Come to Mama, Wesley.
Stop crying. 2nd best isn't that too bad.

La Roja (Spain) FTW!

2010-07-11T15:13:00.000+01:00

I've gotten enough sleep, 10 hours to be exact, ready to witness Spain hoist their first World Cup trophy. It is not going to be a walk in the park. Oranje will give them a difficult time for sure no? But Spain's time has come. I can feel it!

Go Iker Casillas! (I don't care if your name sounds mabantot - you're still hot!)

Netherlands vs. Spain Preview

Watch history unfolds - both teams haven't won a World Cup in the past, so expect a blood bath! - the 2010 World Cup Final live on Studio 23, later at 2:00 AM.

It's Raining Men: Uruguay vs. Germany

2010-07-10T21:24:00.000+01:00

Germany is leading the number of goals 3 vs. Uruguay's 2. Although anything can happen, there are still a few minutes left to play, still I do believe that Germany will win it. They're going to finish 3rd in 2010 World Cup. Well they've done it before.

Thomas Muller scored the first goal. This young man (only 20 years of age) is making himself known in this world stage. He scored a total of 4 goals, which is really impressive.

It could have been an interesting match with Spain if this guy was allowed to play (he was suspended because of earning two yellow cards in their previous match against Argentina). That suspension proved to be costly for Germany for sure.

It's raining hard in Port Elizabeth but the game is still on. This is amazing, rain or shine the game must should go on pala. Sorry if this must be a common football knowledge, but hey, I'm new to this.

I hope it will also rain during the Spain vs. Netherlands final. It's kinda cute to watch dripping wet football players, their jerseys clinging to their ripped bodies...

Last Night's Fallen Angels

2010-07-08T16:19:00.002+01:00

Germany may have lost but their amazing run in the World Cup won’t go unnoticed because being 3rd place in the World Cup (I am sure they will easily demolish Uruguay) is no mean feat.

It may be their 2nd time loss in recent years against La Roja (Spain won Euro Cup 2008 vs. Germany) but the glorious Germans are also as skilled and as hot. I expect this rivalry to continue for more years. I'm fervently hoping for more eye candy matches like last night!

Football is truly a unifying sport. It's the only sports both men and women, yeah even the non sporty ones, would watch together. Bless the person who thought of adding the unspoken rule that hotness is a requirement to become a football player.

Here are last night’s fallen angels:

Arne Friedrich - position: Defender

Lukas Podolski - position: Forward

Mario Gomez - position: Forward

Philipp Lahm - the team's captain, position: Defender

Lahm must be devastated for their dream of being World Cup 2010's champion has been permanently taken away. Well, he can always cry on my shoulders...

As if the Germany national football team's hotness level isn't enough, they hired a Mr. Big lookalike for a coach!

Joachim Loew - Coach

Vamos La Roja!

2010-07-08T12:40:00.003+01:00

Spain vs. Germany was an exciting semifinals. For all their phenomenal run in the previous matches (bagging eight goals in their last 2 matches – not to mention burying Argentina), Germany slipped. Truly a very bad timing to do so because the underachievers La Roja (Spain) played so damn well and owned the game (was able to maintain above 50% ball possession all throughout). Spain have advanced to their first ever FIFA World Cup Final. Wohooo!

The most coveted case este trophy in the world at the moment.

So it’s going to be a very colourful final – La Roja (the Reds / Spain) vs. the Oranje (Nederlands). Though I love tulips, I am rooting for the mighty toros to win. Not only that red is my favourite colour but I love watching Spain play, most especially Iker Casillas - all those amazing footwork and ripped muscles... sigh. Well walang gwapo sa Oranje eh kaya Spain na! :)

Iker Casillas – the hottest este best goalkeeper in this World Cup.

Other brilliant (Of course I mean hot.) players in La Roja’s squad list:

David Villa – position: Forward

Fernando Torres – position: Forward

Cesc Fabregas – position: Midfielder

Joan Capdevilla – position: Defender

Xabi Alonso – position: Defender

I LOVE FOOTBALL!

Wish I am in Spain when they win the World Cup to join the celebrations...

P.S.
HAPPY 31ST BIRTHDAY TO MY GORGEOUS BFF!

Kikay At Heart

2010-07-04T19:03:00.001+01:00

Staying at home for 3 months, trying my best but all the time failing to be a biddable housewife to my handsome husband, gave me the advantage to learn more about myself. I have realized without any doubt that truly I am kikay at heart.

When I was working it was expected to take care of myself. I enjoyed thinking each night what to wear the next day and did not have qualms being late to work as long as I had enough "me time" that morning. I just hope my prospective employer is not reading this…

During those 3 months of waiting for hubby to get home from work, it’s so easy to slack off. But I discovered that I am not comfortable if I missed my nightly ritual. I don’t like it if I am not satisfactorily dressed up to my standards when we go out. It’s not, well, me. The thing is I don’t wanna be losyang. It is more of a personal desire than for hubby's satisfaction. So I still make sure that nothing from my beauty arsenal runs out and since Kuwait’s weather has the tendency to dry out the skin, I make it a point to regularly moisturize.

My favourite moisturizer at the moment is Kose Sekkisei. It has evened out my complexion. Thanks to my gorgeous friend in Japan for recommending this.
Naka-Kose ako kahit nagva-vacuum lang! Ang arte talaga, diba?

The Hynose Drama mascara by Lancome is a blessing to those not gifted with long, lush lashes - well, like me.

Here's a blog on how to fake long lashes with Lancome Hynose Drama mascara. I haven't been able to perfect this, maybe that's really impossible with the pathetically short lashes I've got to work with, but you may have better luck following the instructions.

I had to fly back to Manila last Sunday. It’s a long story why and very exhausting as well. (My flight got diverted to Clark due to terrible weather and NAIA’s lame facilities that always break down. Where does all the money go from the airport tax we have to pay every time we fly? Beats me.) In summary I’m here in Manila to process some papers for my visa. But instead of finding out where the Kuwait embassy is located, I booked first an appointment with Tita Fely of Piandre Greenbelt... Yep maarte talaga! But hey, that’s me.

P.S. I always turn to Tita Fely for every hair emergency. Tita Fely hovers like a mother hen, always checking that everything's alright. I don't feel at all na pinepera-han nya ako - unlike other stylists na walang ginawa but suggest ng suggest ng mamahalin na treatment. I am always satisfied with her service and the results. She is the best! If only I can see her at least every 3 months. Sigh.

Rafa is Back!

2010-06-08T20:08:00.002+01:00

I am hooked on tennis again after watching the recently concluded French Open on LIVE TV. (I managed not to mind at all that the commentary was in Arabic.) It was sweet revenge for dear Rafa, who won all sets during the finals against the one who holds the reputation of being the only player who stunned him at Roland Garros. Like all of his fans out there, I jumped on the couch, rejoiced at the proof that his wobbly knees are healed and he seemed emotionally recovered from his parents’ divorce – well at least emotionally okay enough to concentrate on his tennis. Rafa is back in the game!

It is his fifth French Open title, and he also won the 3 clay tournaments on the way to Roland Garros. There is surely no mistaking now that he is indeed Bjorn Borg’s successor – the King of Clay of this generation.

Due to his French Open win Rafa has returned to No. 1 in the ATP rankings, overtaking Federer.

This is like 2008 all over again. Thus, I am looking forward to another epic Nadal vs. Federer finals this upcoming Wimbledon tournament.

Rafa starred in Shakira’s Gypsy video. Perhaps getting the exclusive show of Shakira’s gyrating moves is actually the thing responsible for his good luck this year?

The Wisdom of Mirror and Throws

2010-05-30T14:01:00.001+01:00

It is sale again at IKEA – woohoo! It is by far the biggest IKEA sale I’ve ever experienced. Almost 70 percent of its products are marked down!

During the weekend I forced hubby to stalk IKEA wonderland with me, hunting for considerably marked down items that I imagined would look good in our flat. These are just some of the haul that we got.

A strategically placed mirror enhances natural light. This classic mirror not only serves as the temporary focus of our bare living room but also reflects the natural light coming through the windows into the rest of the room.

To create a cosier ambience in our living room I have covered the sofa with a throw, which is extremely handy during cold nights. Instead of buying a throw take out a rarely used pashmina or shawl from hibernation and use it instead for some splash of colour – like the fuchsia pink pashmina below (our wedding giveaway by the way) on our couch that I don’t have the need to use now that it is summer in the desert.

Since I haven’t yet found nor have a budget for the “perfect” coffee table, this lovely stool fills that purpose for now.

P.S. I don’t know if the IKEA sale is worldwide, but here in Kuwait it is until July 2, 2010. Rush while stocks last!

Nasuya Ko

2010-05-25T12:42:00.003+01:00

I am envious of my gorgeous friends now meeting in SanFo, flying to Vegas in a few days and then traipsing at Central Park in a few weeks. Shopping ‘til they drop at outlet stores must be part of their itinerary. While I on the other end of the spectrum is stuck here in the land of sandstorms and menos (if you watch Bleach anime, you get what I mean), and spend most days glancing from time to time at the watch, waiting for my handsome husband to get home. Ah the wonderful world of newlywed bliss.

Why oh why couldn’t they wait for me? It’s like, it’s just next year.

Oh well I wish them all the best. All the fun. I hope they’ll lose a lot of money in Vegas or their toddlers hate the lovely Victorian house they're staying at and start throwing tantrums everywhere.

Of course I’m not bitter. Because someday I will have the right to wear this.

Like A Pyramid, Charice Is Definitely At The Top!

2010-05-24T22:49:00.000+01:00

Charice’s self-titled album has landed #8 at Billboard 200, just behind Usher’s Raymond vs. Raymond. Charice is also charted on Digital Albums (#8) and Canadian Albums (#4).

Her hit single Pyramid featuring Iyaz is still at the top of Billboard’s Dance/Club Play Songs chart this week at #12. Last week it peaked at #1.

“Charice-with help from Iyaz-delivers a radio-friendly number about defying the odds while displaying the kind of vocal range that other budding pop stars simply don't have.”

“An already high-charting dance mix loops Charice's "oh, oh, oh" runs to crank up the energy even further. Like any strong pop song, expect this one to scale multiple charts.”
- Read full article by Michael Menachem

I am hardly surprised with the album’s fantastic performance at the charts. I expected nothing but greatness from this super talented artist. Kudos Charice!

Baby, Baby, Baby Boy

2010-05-24T13:20:00.002+01:00

Harley came home one night and announced that Toni and Guy has finally opened a branch here in Kuwait and just a few kilometres from our place. He excitedly added that he could finally have Justin Bieber’s look copied...

Errr. Okay. Fine.

Saying that my husband adores Justin Bieber is an understatement. Justin’s songs are his favourite cruisin music at the moment and good luck in stopping him from singing-a-long with much gusto - even if he doesn’t really know the lyrics.

But I just had to correct him when I caught him singing his most favourite Justin song like this

Baby, Baby, Babbbbbbyyyyy Boy...

Hoist, ginawa mo naman na bading si Justin! (Hey, you just made Justin sound gay!)

I'm posting here the correct lyrics for his benefit.

BABY Lyrics (Justin Bieber featuring Ludacris)

Ohh wooaah (3x)
You know you love me. I know you care.
Just shout whenever and I'll be there
You want my love. You want my heart.
And we will never ever ever be apart.

Are we an item? Girl quit playing.
We're just friends, what are you saying?
Said there's another, look right in my eyes.

My first love broke my heart for the first time,
And I was like
Baby, baby, baby ohhh
Like baby, baby, baby noo
Like baby, baby, baby ohh
I thought you'd always be mine, mine.

Baby, baby, baby ohh
Like baby, baby, baby noo
Like baby, baby, baby ohh
I thought you'd always be mine, mine (oh oh).

For you, I would have done whatever.
And I just can't believe, we ain't together.
And I wanna play it cool. But I'm losin' you.
I'll buy you anything. I'll buy you any ring.
And I'm in pieces. Baby fix me.
And just shake me til' you wake me from this bad dream.

I'm going down, down, down, dooown
And I just can't believe my first love won't be around.

And I'm like
Baby, baby, baby ohh
Like baby, baby, baby noo
Like baby, baby, baby ohh
I thought youd always be mine, mine.

Baby, baby, baby ohh
Like baby, baby, baby noo
Like baby, baby, baby ohhh
I thought youd always be mine, mine.

Ludacris:
When I was 13, I had my first love,
There was nobody that compared to my baby.
And nobody came between us or could ever come above
She had me goin' crazy.
Oh I was starstruck.
She woke me up daily.
Don't need no Starbucks.
She made my heart pound.
And skip a beat when I see her in the street and,
At school on the playground.
But I really wanna see her on the weekend.
She know she got me gazin'.
Cuz she was so amazin'.
And now my heart is breakin'.
But I just keep on sayin'...

Baby, baby, baby ohh
Like baby, baby, baby noo
Like baby, baby, baby ohh
I thought youd always be mine, mine.

Baby, baby, baby ohh
Like baby, baby, baby noo
Like baby, baby, baby ohh
I thought youd always be mine, mine.

(I'm gone)
Yeah, yeah, yeah (6x)
(Now Im all gone, now im all gone, now im all gone)
Gone, gone, gone,(gone)
I'm gone.

10 Items You Can Never Go Wrong With

2010-05-21T17:32:00.000+01:00

I would like to share this very brilliant article from THE OPRAH MAGAZINE May 2010. I find this very helpful. I'm sure you will too :) Enjoy!

10 ITEMS YOU CAN NEVER GO WRONG WITH
By Adam Glassman

I'm often asked for advice on what will be in style forever. So I've put together a list of mistake-proof items to fit any woman's wardrobe, from here to eternity.
Touches of animal print. On a bag or shoe, a little bit of zebra or tiger operates like a neutral. Michael Kors and Ann Taylor bring them out almost every season.
A leather jacket. Now a year-round staple, they come in lighter weights and pale colors, like Tory Burch's in camel or Banana Republic's in beige.
A men's watch. I like men's style because they're not too fussy or dainty. If you wear a lot of gold jewelry, go with gold tones (Tag Heuer's are great); if you wear mostly silver, pick stainless steel (Citizen and Swatch have affordable options).
Diamond hoop earrings. More youthful than studs, hoops polish off a casual look and complete a dressy one. Unless you want to be mistaken for one of Beyonce's backup singers, find a medium size.
A sequined scarf. Every woman should have sequins for day. I think the unexpected combination—plain plus fancy—is key.
White jeans. CJ by Cookie Johnson's and Gap's come in nice heavy fabrics.
A neutral shoe. In leather, patent leather, or fabric, a pair of heels that matches your skin color visually extends the line of your leg.
An oversize blazer. The "borrowed from the boys" look isn't going anywhere. At the office, throw on a jacket—black, navy, or pinstriped.
A pencil skirt. Sexy without being revealing, and appropriate at any age—it works for every woman. If you have a boyish shape, it gives the impression of curves; if you're curvy, it plays up your figure; if you're plus size, it's more flattering than a full skirt.
A lace-trimmed bra or camisole. Peeking out from under a V-neck, a little frill on a Soma bra or Mary Green cami adds a touch of femininity.

Ready to dash to hunt for the mistake-proof items you still lack? Wait! I have a few suggestions where to find some of them.

Left: A classic black blazer, a must-have for your work wardrobe.
Right: A casual gray pin striped coat perfect for jeans.
Both blazers available from Dorothy Perkins.

Mango also has figure-flattering blazers to choose from that won't give you a frumpy look.

Left: Neutral sexy pumps from Nine West
Right: "Invest" on these gorgeous Amada shoes from the latest Jimmy Choo collection.

Sequin scarves may not be as hard to find as you think.

Left: This trendy scarf is from Per Una Marks & Spencer
Right: This lovely butterfly sequin scarf is available at Miss Selfridge

Loving Charice’s Pyramid

2010-05-19T13:04:00.004+01:00

We have been helping a Filipino in integrating a payment gateway to their client’s website, Caboria (or Caporia?). That guy turned out to be the unofficial president of Charice Pempengco’s fans club Kuwait chapter. Why, he pre-ordered 20 copies of her self-titled debut album. Gosh 20!

When he received those CDs the other day, he went to hubby’s office just to give us a copy. He is giving away those CDs to his friends here for free... he’s almost fanatical! Hmm I wonder why? A relative perhaps? But I must admit he has the right to be because the moment I listened to the carrier single, Pyramid, I immediately became converted. I am signing up to join his Charice fans club!

The single Pyramid featuring Iyaz is available on iTunes and will be featured in The Sims 3 expansion pack Ambitions.

The album includes 12 fantastic songs, released in the U.S. by Reprise Records. Listen to I Love You and All That I Need To Survive. They’re damn good!

One of the executive producers is David Foster, the same man who produced debut albums for The Corrs, Michael Bublé, and Josh Groban. He also is noted to have worked with great superstars like Celine Dion, Mariah Carey and the late Michael Jackson.

Charice thanks Ms. Oprah Winfrey, THE Oprah Winfrey, who is said to be responsible for giving her the to-die-for international break.

P.S. Let’s all support Charice! Download her album on iTunes or buy her CD, available now at Target, Best Buy, Borders, Barnes & Noble, Walmart and Hastings.

Monday is Movie Night

2010-05-18T22:15:00.006+01:00

I found something I love about Kuwait – movies on Mondays are 50% discounted! This applies only on movies showing at regular cinema screens – IMAX® and VIP movies are not included.

Ticket Prices

Regular movie tickets are priced at KD 3.000 each or approx. 450 Php (on Mondays it’s KD 1.500 KD or 225 Php)
IMAX® movie: KD 3.500 or 525 Php
VIP movie: KD 6.000 or 900 Php

Cinescape Theatres

Kuwait National Cinema Company (Cinescape) is the main exhibitor of movies (not only Arabic but also English and Indian) in the country. There is Cinescape theatre in every major mall, including those we frequently visit, 360° Mall and The Avenues.

A modern, sleek black look to Cinescape theatres in 360° Mall and The Avenues.

A VIP cinema features only 32 seats, all La-Z-Boy recliners.
Indeed an intimate and comfortable movie experience at a hefty price tag of KD 6.000 (900 Php).

Most snack bar staffs are Filipinos. They usually indulge us with extra nachos and popcorn when their manager is not around :)

Online Bookings

Go to http://webserver2.kncc.com/

Censorship and Subtitles

Here the movies have Arabic subtitle and sometimes an additional French subtitle making it two lines of large subtitles. Being a subtitle kind of gal (I am kinda bingi kasi lagi may tumatawag sa akin na, gwapa gwapa... Mwehehehe!) my eyes involuntarily dart a lot of times during the movie to the subtitles, which is very annoying because I couldn't understand them. Well in time, I will get used to it.

Movies are almost always censored here in Kuwait – even Princess and the Frog. Bed scenes, kissing scenes, almost nude and definitely nude scenes are chopped off. If the film suddenly jumps from one scene to a scene where the actors are now buttoning their suddenly unbuttoned shirts, you can surmise – oh something happened.

Ministry of Information (MOI) regulates all media and information in Kuwait, hence it is responsible for cinema censorship. A lot of cool movies have been banned for reasons like extreme violence, major plot is contradictory to the teachings of Islam (i.e. multiple Gods plot element of Clash of the Titans) or condoning immorality (okay Sex and the City 2 for the obvious reason, but The Back-up Plan because JLo’s character gets knocked up out of wedlock? Seriously?).

I was hoping to watch these movies (Sob). Have to remind myself that there’s no income tax here.

Well with Erap in 2nd lead at the presidential elections and, actors-politicians and trapos making a comeback in Senate, a banned movie or badly censored one at 50% discount is not a good enough reason to leave Kuwait and go back to our beloved country.

P.S. I am planning to pester hubby to buy Iron Man 2 blu-ray DVD when it comes out just to see Pepper Potts and Tony Stark kiss.

Conquering the Ironing Board

2010-05-16T19:36:00.000+01:00

One time Harley’s colleague asked him, “Harley did you iron your shirt?”
Harley looked at his shirt and I bet tried to sound cheery, “Oh yes man. My wife did.”
His colleague smiled, “Oh yeah? Maybe you jumped back into bed with the shirt on?”

There goes my conceitedness that I'm quite good with ironing clothes down the drain...

And if ever I will meet that guy in person, he will receive nothing but an icy stare from me!

Well I never had any training with long-sleeved shirts. I can’t remember owning one, I rarely wear one. Besides that particular shirt he was wearing that day is truly a nightmare to iron, believe me.

Almost every day I discover myself sorely lacking in housekeeping skills. It seems the only thing I am good at is spending hubby's money. I should have paid more attention to Home Economics in school instead of letting my mom finish my projects. Thank God for thoughtful people who upload videos on how to properly do stuff. Like this video:

Washing & Ironing:
How To Iron A Shirt

The instructions in the video are really effective. I tried it on one shirt - fumbled for it for 30 minutes - and I must say there's a lot of improvement. I have here three (3) more shirts to practice on. Must do my best to earn my keep... gahh I hate being jobless!

P.S. A tip from my mother-in-law - mix the water in the spray bottle with some Downy. Difficult creases will be more easier to iron.

The Brown Carpet

2010-05-12T14:50:00.002+01:00

I dream of having a home lovely home. A haven where after putting in a hard day at work I can jump straight into a comfy couch, hug a plushy pillow and wait for hubby to serve me hot dinner with dessert. Though we have decided that most tasks in our married life should be “unisex-ed”, there are just some things he simply cannot do, like decorate our place...

I complained a few times about the dark brown Persian carpet that he bought.
I said, di ko yan favourite colour, hello! (That is not my favourite colour!)
He reasoned, eh bagay sa flat natin, dami brown, dapat terno diba? (It matches our flat. There's lots of brown.)
I scowled and said, yeah the doors are brown!
He raised his arms and announced that he gave up. Everything about furnishing the house would be my call.

I am very mayabang (proud) of taking on that challenge because I have no interior design experience to speak of, but looking at the brown curtains that of course my handsome hubby also bought, I simply have to do it.

Moving around quiet a lot in the past, I would just buy stuffs that were cheap and functional, easy to discard. But now it’s different. Hubby and I decided to stay in Kuwait for at least 5 years. Our home furnishings should be comfortable and sturdy. And not only that – should all look good together in our humble abode. Because certainly going home everyday to a gorgeous home (at least in our standards) will be a huge bonus.

I found a way not to hate the brown carpet by relegating it to the far corner of the room and pairing it up with a lovely pink carpet!

Gorgeous home furnishings shouldn’t mean spending a lot of money.
We bought this comfy sofa at IKEA AS-IS section, discounted at 50%! It’s so comfortable hubby was able to sleep on it for 2 hours.

This oh so soft couch we bought at 47% discount at Safat Home.

With sipag at tiyaga (hard work and patience) in looking for bargains and flexing whatever puny muscles I have of home decorating , I am determined to put together our idea of a perfect home – a stylishly warm and loving environment to nurture our marriage.

P.S. Next on my list is the quest for the perfect coffee table. Do you agree that a white coffee table with glossy top will look good with our current furnishings?

Believing in Fortune Plants

2010-05-06T23:05:00.001+01:00

One night while shopping at IKEA with hubby’s family, mother-in-law suggested I should buy a fortune plant. After glancing at hubby and recognizing his go-ahead I selected one and placed it in our trolley. No big deal, he must have thought. It’s just KD 3.500 anyway (I of course “forgot” to remind him to convert it to our currency). Certainly it would help create a cheerful atmosphere in our super bare flat, I added. Buoyed by hubby’s agreement I began selecting two more indoor potted plants and was on the process of selecting a third when brother-in-law reminded me I was supposed to furnish an apartment, not a garden.

Fortune plants are believed to bring good luck to the persons living in the homes where they are displayed.

Hubby and his family are superstitious. When I told hubby about a gorgeous friend’s suggestion that for good fortune rice, salt and water should be the first among other things that should be brought into our house or apartment, to my surprise, he readily agreed. The next day he emailed me this photo as proof.

Do I believe in these superstitions? The answer to that question is, how do I put this, I can live without them. I strongly believe that man makes his own fortune, his own luck. And with God’s guidance and blessings, he will always have the chance to live his best life.

But as my father-in-law said “di masamang maniwala sa mga pamahiin ng mga matatanda” (it won’t hurt to follow old folks’ superstitious beliefs) - so I can also live with them. If hubby will insist on placing a fortune plant in every room of our flat, I won’t mind. Besides there must be some truth to my mother-in-law’s testament that their fortune plant really brings them good luck because they got lucky in their first daughter-in-law. Ehem.

IKEA Madness

2010-04-28T10:17:00.001+01:00

Hubby and I are renting an unfurnished flat here in Kuwait. It is lamentably bare but it has the basics that we need to live comfortably, i.e. hubby had managed to install a sturdy bed before I first set foot on our humble abode.

Though our flat is like a blank canvass that allows my artistic juices to flow wild and free, for now I have to contain it within the dark recesses of my imagination. With only one of us earning at the moment, well, budget is tight. (Sob)

But I can allow a brief spurt of these creative juices to escape my mind one in a while (especially when it is hubby’s pay day), thanks to Sweden for their greatest invention – IKEA! Since most, if not all, of IKEA’s furniture pieces are designed to be assembled by the customer the products they sell are relatively cheaper than those pre-assembled furniture sold in other stores. And I just love to wander about their showrooms as they provide fresh and creative ideas on how to decorate and organize our home. It is truly a haven for budget conscious start up couple like us.

Every week I drag hubby to the IKEA store at The Avenues to scout for lovely furniture pieces that I can squeeze into the budget that hubby has kindly set aside from his pay check for this new hobby of mine. Though the LED TV swallowed a huge chunk out of this month’s budget, I still managed to buy these furniture pieces, which we (yep I did help him) cheerfully assembled during the weekend, and some fixtures that only hubby could install.

A shoe cabinet that both of us assembled.
He did the whole thing except screwing the knob of each four drawers in place.
See our marriage is a partnership. We are both excellent team players.

Each drawer can hold 3 pair of shoes at most.
I know this is not enough for all of my shoes but this will do for now.
Ahhh the sacrifice I have to make. This must be love...

A bedside table that costs less than 10 KWD.
This is my masterpiece. I assembled it alone.
Oh okay, most of it. Like, 95%.
Well hubby has to help me undo some screws and redo the whole thing from step #3.
Not my fault one page of the manual got lost under the carpet.

A kitchen shelf. I chose red to liven up the place a bit.

This is a real kitchen organizer. I asked hubby to install this rail near the kitchen sink.
I'm so glad I chose a husband who knows how to use a drill.

Evening Strolls at the Scientific Center

2010-04-17T16:08:00.000+01:00

Our flat is located at Salmiya and one of the perks that we enjoy living in this rather lively area is being near to The Scientific Center of Kuwait, which is located on the waterfront along the Arabian Gulf Road. Hubby and I are aiming to go for an after dinner stroll there every other night. The refreshing walk along the one (1) kilometre provides a great opportunity for us to burn at least a couple of our excess pounds, as well as lets us enjoy a breathtaking view of Kuwait’s evening skyline. And what more, during these strolls hubby and I get to spend some bonding moments – talk about us, our marriage and our plans for the future.

The three (3) main attractions of the Scientific Center, the IMAX theatre, the Discovery Place and the Aquarium, is open for admission every 9:00AM - 9:30PM on Saturdays to Wednesdays, 9:00AM - 10:00PM Thursdays and 2:00PM – 10:00PM on Fridays. For those who are just interested to jog or stroll along its promenade, it is open to the public until the wee hours of the morning. Parking costs 250 fils per hour. But one can park for free outside the Scientific Center.

The Scientific Center of Kuwait (parking area)

The Scientific Center of Kuwait Promenade

One of the two (2) fishing piers the Scientific Center has for fishing enthusiasts. Each pier extends 70 metres into the Gulf.

Enjoy a beautiful view of the Kuwait’s skyline at the Scientific Center

Filipinos are Everywhere in Kuwait

2010-04-07T16:05:00.002+01:00

The Filipinos is a considerable chunk of minorities here in Kuwait. You will see our kababayans literally everywhere. Although with more than 500,000 in population here in Kuwait, the Indian nationals still account for the single largest expatriate community (the State of Kuwait’s current population is estimated at 3 to 3.5 million people only), but you will also find a huge number of Filipinos working in the medical sector (i.e. nurses), IT, restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores and supermarkets.

It’s funny because we were at The Sultan Center (a 24-hour supermarket here in Kuwait) one night and I was really surprised to hear the song playing in store – it was The Day You Said Goodnight by Hale. And just recently we passed by an Italian restaurant at The Avenues (so far my favourite mall in Kuwait), we couldn’t help but smile when we noticed that the song playing there was Love Moves In Mysterious Way, the M.Y.M.P. version.

Really, whenever Harley and I go out we are rarely required to speak in English because almost always the attendant serving us is a kabayan. Well I thought I escaped Manila and would not have to struggle to speak a decent Tagalog anymore. I was so wrong.

A Filipinos corner in Carrefour, a French international hypermarket chain, at The Avenues.

My First Arabian Night

2010-03-30T11:29:00.001+01:00

... was spent at the Dubai airport.

I was excited for my first Arabian night having had watched Aladdin in flight. Truly it’s the best prep to the Arab world that I could think of.

Harley booked me an Emirates flight to Kuwait. I had to layover in Dubai for 2 hours. I must say Dubai International airport was designed to impress. It features two Zen gardens in the middle and numerous recognizable pastry and fast food shops.

One of the Zen garden in Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 - an Oasis of calm

These two cafes were two of my favourites in the UK. I am liking the Arab world more...

I rather have a complain though. Customer service is appalling. There was one attendant who turned blind eye in helping you me lift my carryon baggage on the conveyor belt for security scan. When I approached the information counter to ask for directions, he answered alright with nary a smile. Oh well, maybe because it was midnight and everyone in the airport was a bit grumpy over lack of sleep.

But the Emirates Business Class Lounge did live up to my expectations. The interior design was very relaxing. I enjoyed the unlimited wine and other beverages that were offered.

Harley was green with envy when I showed him that you can do this (above) at the Emirates Business Class Lounge.

1,000 Places Before I Die

2010-03-23T12:50:00.002Z

A dear friend and an equally passionate traveller gave me an excellent travel guide to me as an advance birthday gift – 1,000 Places To See Before You Die by Patricia Schultz.

Thank you, thank you Steng! I had long wanted to buy this since I came back to the Philippines; it’s a pleasant surprise indeed that you gave this to me. Makes it more valuable and of course forces me to actually use this. I hope I will manage to visit up to 500 place listed in the book - only 50% is my goal. And for each place in the book I shall endeavour to write next to it the exact date of my visit (for those places I already seen in the past, just the month and/or year).Yes I too wish you’ll be with us in one of our future travels. Brazil in 2016, right?

Curious of what Ms. Schultz listed as the places that must be seen in the Philippines? Well there are actually three beautiful places featured in the book (enumerated below).

Two down. Been to Banaue Rice Terraces and Taal Volcano already. Yay! How about Amanpulo (err Php100k per night)? Oh well, someday. There’s no pressure. Like I said, my goal is just 50% anyway...

I am going to finally fly and relocate to Kuwait in three days. Of course I have browsed the book to see the place(s) that I should see there. But lo and behold, there’s none, zilch must-see in Kuwait. Gah! What have I gotten myself into? :-S

P.S. 1,000 Places To See Before You Die is available in National Bookstore, Powerbooks and Fully-Booked nationwide.

Take me around Singapore, Uncle

2010-03-18T16:27:00.013Z

On March 11 to March 15, I visited Singapore - my first. It's more like a leisure trip really - I didn't prepare some kind of a long checklist of must-see or must-do and then spent all my energy running around ala Amazing Race. My goal was to take it easy, meet some friends and wander around this cute country like a local.

Marina Bay, Singapore

From now on I will travel with PAL for my Asia trips

Taking into consideration the free hot meals on board and 15 kilos baggage allowance with Econolight, it's cheaper than Cebu Pacific's Go Lite. On March 11, I took a PAL flight from Manila to Singapore. I also must commend the improvement in service. I had used to travel with PAL years ago for my CEB-JPN flights and I had always found the flight attendants snobbish, a bit discriminating. But with my flights on March 11 (MNL-SING) and March 15 (SING-MNL), I totally enjoyed flying with them. Even the staffs at the airport were very helpful. I almost forgot getting annoyed why on earth we have to pay airport tax (Php 750) and travel tax (Php 1620) when other airports abroad don't impose these. With thousands of passengers travelling everyday, it’s truly a wonder where does the money go? I could not see any upgrades at any of our airports at all!

Changi Airport is top class

PAL flights arrive at and depart from Changi airport Terminal 2. It is way better than Heathrow Terminals 1 to 4. It's very spacious and stylish. My good friend Janice picked me up from the airport and we had dinner at Crystal Jade, a Chinese restaurant at Terminal 1. Food there was a good preview of the delectable dining experiences possible in Singapore.

Getting around Singapore is a piece of cake!

Singapore is a well connected country. There are lots of reliable public transportations available - bus, taxi and train. My friend let me used her extra EZ-Link card for use on the MRT, LRT and public buses. It's similar to London's Oyster card.

If you don't have a friend who can lend you his/her extra EZ-link card, there's another option for tourists - the Singapore Tourist Pass, which can be purchased at the Changi airport. Using this pass you can enjoy unlimited train and bus rides at only S$8 a day.

Cabs are readily available everywhere in Singapore. You can even text or phone their trunk lines so Uncle (that's what they call the taxi drivers) can pick you up wherever you are.

Can and Cannot

They say Singapore is a fine city. And I couldn't agree more. It has developed the reputation for penalising even the smallest offences like dropping gum or litter and dancing in public.

As tourist, you should better take note what you can or cannot do if you don't want to kiss your pocket money goodbye.

Warnings inside the MRT

Can and Cannot - these are the most useful English words in Singapore. To be on the safe side, ask an Uncle or a local about something and he would just answer can (meaning it's okay, go ahead, you can do that or i don't care, just do it or as simple as yes) or cannot (meaning it's not okay, no, don't do it or you would get a private tour inside of the Changi Prison).

PLACES TO VISIT

Merlion Park

Of course never miss the Merlion Park that fronts the Marina Bay. Nearest train station is the Marina Bay MRT.

There are two Merlions that you can find at Marina Bay. The original Merlion statue, which is male and right behind it is a Merlion cub.

From the Merlion Park you can see the Marina Bay Sands, which was still under construction. Though it still looked like a giant fancy ironing board, I have no doubt it would be magnificent once it's finished. It boasts of three 55-storeys towers with Casino, theatres, luxury shops and golf course (hence the ironing board look). It's set to open mid this year.

Singapore Flyer

Just a few kilometres from the Merlion Park is the Singapore Flyer (similar to the London Eye), gives you a breathtaking, panoramic view of the Marina Bay and the Singapore landmarks dotting the city skyline. Ticket price is S$29.50 per adult.

Shop and Dine at Chinatown

Don’t forget to shop for your souvenirs at Singapore's Chinatown. Here you would find buildings and shophouses with quaint architecture, dominantly in pastel colours.

Of course aside from cheap souvenir T-shirts and ref magnets, one could buy many interesting knick-knacks there.

Elderly locals like to hang around outside this temple while sipping coffee from a plastic bag using a straw (must be not that hot) or whiling away playing chess.

The stroll along the streets at Chinatown that time was more pleasurable with these fragrant cherry blossoms (Sakura) in full bloom.

Clubbing at Chijmes

My friends took me to Insomnia where two excellent Filipino bands play. I really had a great time especially since the bar imposes a no-smoking policy. Thank God I didn't have to go home stinking! Nakikitulog pa naman ako kay Janice, hehehe.

Of course there are many more things to do in Singapore that I did not try during my visit. I'm reserving for my next visit with Harley, namely the Night safari, Singapore Zoo (Harley goes gaga over animals) and the Universal Studios and Songs of the Sea at Sentosa.

THINGS TO DO

Shopping!

I perfectly timed my Singapore visit for the IT show so I can buy a laptop for my sister at a discounted price. Not only was I able to buy a lovely red Fujitsu netbook at the IT show at Suntec City, I was lucky enough to experience not just one but two warehouse sales - Body Shop (also at Suntec City) and Charles & Keith (at Paya Lebar). Shopping is indeed the Singaporeans favourite past time.

Eat, eat and eat!

Singapore, aside from its local cuisine, offers wide array of delightful dining experiences from humble hawker fare to gastronomic 5-star restaurants. Cuisines like Chinese, Indonesian, Japanese, Malay, Thai and Indian are available there. I love, love, love their spicy foods!

Must Try
1. Marché
2. Food Republic
3. Makansutra Gluttons Bay
Am I willing to go back to Singapore solely for the food? Oh, definitely!

A Delish Idea for a Friday Gimik: Banchetto

2010-03-09T18:35:00.001Z

Every 12 midnight Friday until 11AM Saturday (overnight) one side of Ortigas Emerald Avenue is closed off to motorists to make way for a unique, gluttonous experience, that is the Banchetto-Emerald.

Inspired from the Italian word that means "a feast", Banchetto is a Street Food Fiesta. Numerous stalls, that fill the street, offer wide array of food to delight the senses. Whatever you fancy - Filipino, Italian, Japanese or any cuisine - you're sure to find it there.

With Banchetto call center agents in Ortigas area who work night shift can still enjoy a Friday gimik :)

Our favourite food stall is Le Blanc by real (not sure) chefs.

Their food is a bit pricey but hey, the serving is hefty! (Wow, it rhymes :-| ). I am addicted to their lasagne and tiramisu.

A feast in the Philippines is not complete without cancer-causing charcoal barbecue.

Relyenong Talong (stuffed eggplant), anyone?

Or maybe you fancy some kebabs?

Pasta galore!

Delectable, cholesterol-loaded Shawarma

Japanese delights - takoyaki (dumplings)

If you still have room for more, why not squeeze in some of these yummy desserts.

Of course, food is more enjoyable with the company of good friends.

Handsome Men's Club

2010-03-09T15:38:00.000Z

My bff forwarded this to me. If by any chance you haven't seen this yet, this is hilarious. Enjoy!

Alice in Wonderland 2010

2010-03-07T16:32:00.001Z

I always look forward to every Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter and Tim Burton collaboration, always expecting it to be weirdly amusing. Their latest film, Alice in Wonderland, is exactly that. We watched it in IMAX 3-D this afternoon and oh it was such a wonderful, magical ride!

Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter are brilliant as always. The Mad Hatter (Depp) is not just a one-note strange character who is fond of nonsensical riddles and obsessed with tea party. Here in the film he is able to form a deeper connection with Alice, is surprisingly courageous and actually makes sense sometimes. The Red Queen (Bonham Carter) though still has a penchant for cutting the head of anyone who displeases her is also more human - someone who wants to be loved than feared - whose vile behaviour psychologists might attribute as due to an insecurity - her sister (the White Queen) is beautiful, ethereal while she suffers from a curious affliction... an enormous head.

This is a watered-down Tim Burton film - not as twisted as I had hoped, too Disney-ish. But still you must not miss this visual treat. It's more enjoyable in IMAX 3-D. (Showing in SM North Edsa IMAX Theatre: 10:45 1:00 3:50 6:40 9:30)

Also enjoy my cousin's Alice inspired pieces for the art exhibit Curiouser and Curiouser: Inspired by Alice in Wonderland.

Stores Specialists Inc. Offers 0% Interest

2010-03-06T17:18:00.000Z

I found this gorgeous boot style shoes in Aerosoles that fit me like a glove. Of course, I had to buy it. I handed my Mabuhay Miles HSBC card to the cashier and was surprised when she asked me if I wanted to pay for it in installment for 3 months at 0% interest. Wow, I thought that's only for furnitures or appliances!

Stores Specialists, Inc. (a member of Rustan Group of Companies) offers 0% interest installment plan for purchases of 3,000 Php and above using HSBC, Citibank, Metrobank or BPI credit card. SSI brands include Beauty Bar, Burberry, Charriol, Marks & Spencer, Ermenigildo Zegna, Mexx, Prada, Gucci, Zara, etc. What a great opportunity for Shopaholics like us to better manage our expenses. We can now give the excuse to our husbands or partners after every satisfying shopping spree na "3 months to pay yan, 0% interest pa!" :) We don't have to worry anymore of them suddenly passing out from emotional distress...

Featured in M+K's Blog

2010-03-04T04:50:00.000Z

Yesterday Mimi tagged me in Facebook for this pleasant surprise; our wedding is now featured in their blog! Yey!

Being lurkers of their blog for quite some time now, of course Harley and I are ecstatic. Thanks M+K! You truly are real and heartfelt photographers.

I suggest RSS Mimi and Karl's blog too. If you are soon-to-be bride, you will absolutely enjoy their posts that will give you great ideas on how you want your prenuptial and wedding photos to be like.

Click on the image below for M+K’s post about our wedding. Enjoy!

I Love MYLC

2010-02-27T18:37:00.000Z

I just got home after watching the last full show of Miss You Like Crazy at Shangri-La. I am at the moment experiencing an aftershock... kinikilig pa rin ako! Although actually, it’s not a typical kilig or cutie-cutie movie. This one is mature. There is a bed scene - oh okay, a "floor scene" to be exact. And I won’t be surprised if Bea or John Lloyd cried literally a bucket of tears for this.

I agree with the director, Bea is excellent in this movie. And John Lloyd’s acting, as expected, is the best complement. They truly have a fantastic chemistry. This movie, in my opinion, is the best John Lloyd and Bea movie to date.

Every cast delivered, even those that only have supporting roles like that Malaysian guy, he is very convincing as Bea's loving fiancé. I was truly surprised to find out that Maricar Reyes, the straight-laced sosyal girlfriend, can actually act. And even the narrator/investor, who talks cheesily about love and who encourages John Lloyd to never give up the fight, is also good.

From start to finish, I have nothing bad to say about MYLC. I enjoyed it a lot. It doesn’t fall flat, like most much-hyped movies do. Thanks to those who thought of, planned and made this much-awaited reunion a reality for us to savour.

Miss You Like Crazy, don't miss it. Now showing in theatres nationwide.

Memo to Self:

Gotta try the Pasig ferry soon!
Start carrying a pen and stones around. A stone has a more character than a Post-It. Really.

High Street Fashion Spring 2010: Other Collections

2010-02-26T05:37:00.001Z

Other collections this Spring 2010 aside from the most prominent Denim and Stripes trends

Mango Army Green

Khaki becomes one of the key players of the season. Dare to wear slim-fit bleached trousers or the military pattern skirt, accessorise your look with maxi handbags and patform sandals.

Warehouse Utility

Fashion goes indeed crazy military this spring.

Next Star Style

I so love to covet this gray belted leather jacket.

But if you prefer a more feminine style, you might fancy the following trends.

Dorothy Perkins Nude Romantics

Blush pinks, delicious peach and delicate off-white - this season, build your look around a dreamy palette. Wear ruffle and lace detail separates with antique inspired jewellery, and pair nude and dove grey accessories with your look for an instant style update.

My top pics from this collection are the black vintage crochet neck and the nude beaded lace bubble dresses.

Warehouse Lilac Sandstorm

My favourites from this colection, aside from the one shoulder mesh frill dress, are the gorgeous pleat pocket skirt and the embellished empire dress.

High Street Fashion Spring 2010: Denim & Stripes

2010-02-25T16:39:00.006Z

Denim and Nautical Stripes are the hot fashion trends this season in the high street.

Scarlett Johansson still looks seductive in denim by Mango

Mango Think Denim Collection:

Your ally for spring. Different shades, torn, faded, on jackets or skirts combined with this season's hit, stripes. No garment can resist denim. Can you?

Oasis Denim In Distress Collection:

Get the ultimate casual look with oversized denim shirt. Pay homage to the wild west, whilst keeping it simple with leggings, a cool pair of brogues and a wood shimmer rope necklace.

Oasis Nauti-Cool Collection

Riviera chic reigns supreme once again, but this time we've added a twist. The trusty breton stripe gets flipped, turned and reassemble on a simple jersey dress for a fresh take on a classic, voila!

Dorothy Perkins Denimology

A denim is an essential addition to your wardrobe this season. Pair it with skinny jeans for a fashion-forward 'double denim' look, tuck into shorts for a touch of 'Western chic', or wear as an extra layer over a cute floral tube dress.

Add this season's must-have accessory, the belt, and you'll stay on-trend all the way through to summer.

Dorothy Perkins Cruise Into Spring Collection

Take a style voyage in preppy prints and flirty frills. With red, white and blue the key colours for this nautical take on a pretty look, try classic stripes or dots with black colour separates, adding a string of pearls or dainty bow accessories.

Zara Lookbook February 2010

Craving for C2's Crispy Kare-Kare

2010-02-24T18:09:00.003Z

A friend, who really has high standards when it comes to food because her family owns a famous restaurant in Bicol, recommended C2 Classic Cuisine. So we decided to have a dinner there, four of us, at their branch at Level 6 of Edsa Shangri-La Plaza. And oh gosh it was such a gastronomic treat!

We ordered Bam-i (combination of egg and rice noodles sauteed with chicken, shrimps and Chinese sausage), Seared Tilapia in Coconut Emulsion (tender tilapia fillet served with pineapple salsa in creamy coconut sauce), Pinakbet at Bagnet and Crispy Kare-Kare.

The Pinakbet at Bagnet was very very yummy.

***Pinakbet at Bagnet, Php 245.00: An Ilocano favourite - stewed baby vegetables in fish bagoong topped with crispy bagnet cubes

The Crispy Kare-Kare is absolutely C2's star!

Kare-kare is a favourite dish of mine but I had never thought it could get better. C2's version is pure mouth-watering goodness. Crispy on the outside, but oh so soft in the inside!

Yeah I know just its mere picture can evoke a heart attack. But it's really a must try. Better bring some Lipitor just in case...

***Crispy Kare-Kare, Php 640: Crispy boneless pork leg drizzled with rich peanut sauce.

Prices are very reasonable. Cheap even, because the servings are generous. Though our party included two grown men but we weren't able to finish them all. (Or probably our bodies were having a hard time taking in a large dose of cholesterol all at once.)

See this for C2 Classic Cuisine's menu.

Will definitely go back for the Crispy Kare-Kare and to try the other tempting entrées.

*Thanks to my fab friend Mau for the photos used in this post.

Our Honeymoon In El Nido

2010-02-23T17:50:00.000Z

Our honeymoon was extra special, extra unforgettable (yes that’s possible!) because we were blessed to be in one of the most beautiful place in the world - El Nido, Palawan. We booked a 4 days / 3 nights package at the Lagen Island Resort of El Nido Resorts. Though before going there I already had high expectations based from friends’ recommendations, it still blew me away. El Nido Palawan is a paradise on earth, one of the best places to commune with nature. And we should take pride that it's located in our very own country... gosh we are very lucky indeed!

The package we got from El Nido was already inclusive of roundtrip flights from Manila to El Nido in Island Transvoyager, a 16-seater plane (exciting!).

Other inclusions in the package were:

Sumptuous eat all you can buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Believe me I want to go back to El Nido for the food alone. It's that good! Especially the happy pig...

One buri bag in the room and a pair of native slippers per adult

Services of Guest Activity Coordinators from 7am to 9pm daily

Services of a Marine Sports Guide during day tours and activities

Use of all water sports equipment (hobie cat, windsurf, pedal boat and kayak)

Complimentary use of mask, snorkel, and full foot fins for duration of stay

At least 20 exciting land and water activities

Service charge and 12% government tax

Lagen Island Resort (El Nido, Palawan).
Beautiful, isn't it?

Inside the Island Transvoyager plane.
Since it's low flying, the views of the islands it afforded were absolutely gorgeous.

In El Nido you don't have to chase the fishes because they're not people-shy (or camera-shy). In fact I suspect they love the attention...

Activity coordinators are always ready to help you choose and organize the activities you would like to do during your stay.
Hubby and I really had a great time with the introductory dive. I will never forget the experience (and the cutie diving instructor - hehe!).

Roundtrip boat transfers from El-Nido airport to the Lagen Island (or Miniloc) resort were also included in the package.
I must say, El Nido staff's service was top notch. They were very approachable and always attentive of every guest's needs. And they would talk to you about El Nido with such passion. It was clearly evident that they love their place.

Our hike at the Snake Island rewarded us with this breathtaking view.

You must snorkel and/or kayak at the small and big lagoons.

No To The Bouquet Toss

2010-02-18T10:41:00.001Z

We received a lot of praises regarding our reception program. Many of our guests congratulated us, saying that they were impressed and truly enjoyed it a lot. It was neither too long nor too short. It was just perfect, they said. Again, thanks to our wedding planner. She did a wonderful job in organizing the flow, advising us on what to do and what to avoid, and recommending the best people (emcee, sounds and lights) to make it work. Truly, she is an expert.

Here are some bits I picked up. I hope these tips will help you plan your wedding reception program.

Prepare an AVP that will give your guests the opportunity to get to know you better

The guests in a wedding can only be grouped into two, the groom’s side and the bride’s side. Naturally the groom’s side don’t really know what the bride is really like, and vice-versa. Except your closest relatives and friends, most guests are also not aware of the details of how you two met.

Before we were called by the emcee to make our grand entrance into the reception area, a video presentation of our growing-up pictures, short commentary of who we are as individuals, how we met and how lucky he is to have found me (*wink*) was shown first. The AVP was a gift from our dear friends, the power couple who know best of our love story because they witnessed it right from the start. (They were the matchmakers of course.)

Have the requisite traditional elements over and done with as soon as possible because they tend to be boring

After we were finally introduced to the crowd as the newlyweds, we were guided to head directly to the cake for the cake-cutting and wine-drinking.

Hire the best, if not really good people

I have nothing but praise for our emcee, Mr. Adrian Ding. He was fantastic. He came there prepared. He’s got a hypnotic DJish voice, which was very effective in keeping us engaged. His wit and his comedic timing were spot on. He is highly recommended.

For Cebu brides I definitely also recommend our band, Infrared. They’re not some kind of an 80’s band or their music didn’t give me a blast from the past. They were able to play many of today’s hits and their upbeat renditions were very good.

Skip the most dreaded part of every wedding reception

I lost count of the number of guests who came up and thanked me because we didn't include the part of the wedding reception program they dread the most - the bouquet/garter toss. They said it’s the first time they genuinely enjoyed a wedding from start to finish. Believe me, if most of the single ladies and guys of your guests in attendance are already in their late 20s or 30s (or even beyond!), skip it too. Most grown men or women are extremely uncomfortable at being rounded up for being single and then asked to stand at the front to “flaunt” it. Then to have this moment immortalize in a video is pushing your friendship with them too far.

To break the ice we had a couple's game instead. We called some couples to participate. (All of them were close friends so they didn't really have the heart to refuse, which I admit we counted on that.) Each person was given a bag of marshmallows and at the instructions of the emcee was told to stuff their partner's mouth with marshmallows. They were not allowed to swallow the marshmallows. They had to be creative in keeping those in their mouth. Then each couple were approached by the emcee and asked to shout "Congratulations Harley and Georgia!". The couple who managed to shout those words most coherently would win the game.

The marshmallows game was really hilarious.

If your budget allows it, get an Onsite Video package

This is a definite wow factor. Our guests, especially our parents and relatives who belong to the older generation were amazed by the fact that a beautifully made MTV-video recapping the wedding ceremony highlights of barely 2 hours ago was played at the reception.

Lastly, Work It Out!

I remember attending a wedding wherein the groom danced to Stop... yeah that one by Spice Girls! I had never imagined he would go to that length to try to liven up the mood of the reception. But I say, that’s very sweet of him. It must be just love.

My groom, who is not even remotely can be labelled as a dancer, also sucked it all up and just danced his heart out in front of our guests for our first dance. And I also did my share – with the help of a glass of wine of course. We did it to entertain our guests. And we were successful. I guess.

Because really, even if you hired the best of the best emcee, band, sounds and lights crew – but if you’re both not game, it will all fail. Like it or not, the bride and groom are the main entertainers and the reception is your show. Might as well just enjoy your 30 minutes of fame :)

Valentine's Day

2010-02-15T12:37:00.003Z

Yesterday I woke up to the sound of someone banging on our door. When my flatmate informed me that there’s an Island Rose delivery outside for me, I was genuinely surprised. I had thought such sweet gestures would stop when we got married. But apparently my hubby is just inherently romantic. Truly, lucky me :)

I really do hope it would be his last purchase with Island Rose. Not because I am dissatisfied with their merchandise, it is because it would mean that next Valentines I get to finally celebrate it the proper way. With him. Now where the h**l is my visa?!

Fortunately my flatmate is also alone yesterday (her fiancé works in Singapore) so I had someone to celebrate Valentines with. We enjoyed a lovely dinner at Dome Shangri-la, where we ordered the works – pasta, cake (1 for each! I reckon every girl has a license to overeat on Valentines), coffee and a bottle of wine. After that we then headed, a bit more giggly than usual (thanks to the wine), to watch the it movie this Valentines, the creatively titled (what else?) Valentine’s Day.

Warning: Spoilers ahead.

Valentine’s Day is the American version of Love, Actually. Although the latter is still way better than the former in my humble opinion, Valentine’s Day did not disappoint me. Its A-List cast, which includes Julia Roberts, Ashton Kutcher, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Garner, Anne Hathaway, McDreamy, etc., is enough to delight me. The multifarious plot lines satisfactorily come together and get closure in the end. Though I hate that Bradley Cooper's character is gay (and I must say after leading me to believe he would end up with Julia Roberts' character plus of course he's sinfully cute, it’s downright cruel!), it is a pleasant twist that the Pretty Woman herself aside from being a tough Army captain doesn't need a requisite leading man to get her happy ending. It is a feel good date movie. Definitely not a waste of money.

P.S. Oh by they way, belated Happy Valentines to all! Hope you had a wonderful day yesterday :)

A Photobooth Is A Sure Winner!

2010-02-13T08:51:00.002Z

It was a very good call we hired Partypics photobooth during our wedding reception. Since Filipinos just love having their photos taken, it was selling like hotcakes. Oh boy, our guests totally loved it! I could notice them queuing not just once at the Partypics corner. And they treasure the pictures. I even suspect they treasure it more than our official souvenirs because when we visited our relatives’ homes days after the wedding we could see their Partypics photos proudly displayed in the living room. Some friends immediately uploaded and used theirs as Facebook profile photo.

We were so happy with the service of Partypics. Unusual sunglasses, wigs, mascaras were provided so guests could goof around with them in front of the camera. After the 2-hour of service they immediately gave us the CD containing all the photobooth pictures, which we really appreciate because we revelled in viewing them the day after. We were delighted to see proofs that our guests had a great time. They also gave us the tarpaulin, which was used again during the 2nd celebration organized by hubby’s father in their hometown.

Partypics is highly recommended. It’s sulit! (Worth it!)

We must the happiest couple on earth that day!

It's more beautiful because my gorgeous girlfriends were there to celebrate with us.

It's been almost a decade since we graduated from the university. Everyone looked more fab!

Our Gorgeous Wedding Pictures

2010-02-11T18:00:00.003Z

Just 4 days after we got engaged I immediately inquired if Mimi and Karl were still available for our wedding. They were not only still available but Hana, their very efficient studio manager, kindly informed me that they were not yet open for 2009 bookings. (Well of course! Our big day was still a year and a half away. Haha!) Hana then assured she would email me when they do.

As soon as I got the email from her that they were now accepting 2009 bookings, I immediately wired the money for the reservation fee. I remember being so ecstatic when I received the confirmation that yes, we booked them.

The service we received from the dynamic and absolutely talented couple during the prenuptial shoot and the wedding itself was impeccable. It was a pleasant surprise when we were given the link of our pictures for proofing just less than a month after our wedding. And oh, the output? They are gorgeous, gorgeous pictures! Harley and I are over the moon. The beautiful and amusing candid expressions of everyone on that finest day of our lives were skillfully captured.

If I have to rate Mimi and Karl, without any hesitation I say they’re a perfect 10! We are so glad that we decided to invest on wedding photography and hired one of the best in the industry. These are pictures Harley and I will definitely view over and over again, year after year, even when we grow old and toothless, even when we start having difficulty recalling the names of some people in the pictures. These are pictures we can proudly show to our children’s children as proofs that their lolo never looked so dashing (to the snow?) when he married their gorgeous (ehem) lola.

Here are few of my favourite snaps.

Our very pretty flower girl

Will go anywhere with you

Enjoying the lovely guestbook (we got this also from Mimi and Karl) while my girlfriends were busy with the chit-chat (chismis I bet!)

Fireworks!

Our Midsummer Night's Dream Themed Reception

2010-01-30T12:56:00.003Z

Though I had every confidence that Ms. Pinky Chang's team of Pink Flora and our very dear wedding planner Ms. Cielo Villegas of Blushing Bride would effectively pull off our desired Midsummer Night's Dream themed reception, still the moment I walked into the Shangri-La Marquee I was totally blown away. Our reception was magical, enchanting, surreal... like walking into a very wonderful dream.

And the beautiful and very tasty cake created by Ms. Marissa Unchuan was the perfect complement.

My Wedding Dress + the Shoes + My Groom's Suit + Our Entourage

2010-01-27T17:18:00.008Z

I told Jun Escario I just wanted an elegant lace wedding gown with a silhouette that would add inches and would not overwhelm my petite form. I love what he created for me.

When I found these shoes in Westfield as I was waiting for a friend, I immediately knew I found the one. It's definitely perfect for our pink and plum wedding.

Who says nobody should wear white on a wedding day other than the bride? Of course, the groom can! And I wanted my handsome groom to stand out, so...

And he did stand out! The effect was more enhanced because his groomsmen were all in black.
(Groom's suit and groomsmen's linen barongs are by Harley Ruedas. Excellent embroidery and superb quality. We're very happy of their service. Harley R.'s staff really went out of the way to serve us!)

Something unique for my bridesmaids... printed tops! Picture perfect :)
(Gowns by Jun Escario)

Our First Dance

2010-01-24T16:54:00.009Z

It was literally our first dance because we never went dancing before. Being in a long distance relationship, having only the chance to meet twice a year, it had never crossed our minds to go dancing. Besides, though I love him so much I don’t want to lie and say he’s a brilliant dancer...

Okay I am not much of a dancer too.

But there’s no escaping it. As customary in weddings, we had to dance our first dance as husband and wife. We ruled out dancing waltz as I wouldn’t want to bore our guests (and me) to tears. Or Swing, as I am awfully clumsy in anything ballroom. So we opted to copy the style of some first dances we saw in YouTube. A mix of slow dance first and then the music would suddenly change into a jolly or "dancy" tune.

Fortunately Harley has a skill in mixing music. A skill I forced him to unearth on Christmas day, just 2 days before our big day.

We were supposed to meet a fantastic choreographer as suggested by our wedding planner but we simply didn’t have the time. Instead we made up steps ourselves and just practiced the night before the wedding. Yes the night before... at 11:00 PM to be exact. And we had to rush it because I had a body scrub appointment at the spa downstairs at 11:20 PM.

But we did well I suppose. Our guests enjoyed it. Most likely because either they're a very easy to please bunch or they had low expectations, maybe none at all, of our dancing prowess in the first place. It's good that we had the chance to blow them away with our oozing bravado.

Our slow dance. Thanks to Mimi and Karl for capturing this sweet moment.

We each had a glass of wine before embarrassing ourselves in front of people who all knew us.

Ahh the things you never thought you would to do to keep guests entertained.

I had to take off my gorgeous shoes because as creative as we are, we didn’t include a trip-and-dive-face-first-to-the-floor routine into our dance.

Our finale step - the dip. Very original. I bet we're the only one who thought of that...

Wishing you were there to witness this one time only moment? Here’s the video. It was just taken from the back. We’re too ashamed to show our faces.

Married at Last!

2010-01-17T15:38:00.001Z

Yes I am finally a missus :)

And not only did our December 28, 2009 wedding went by without any glitch, it was everything I had hoped it would be. From the church ceremony to the reception, everything was magical.

They say that to a bride's point of view her wedding day is usually one big blur as so many things happening seemingly all at once. But mine was not one big blur. Not at all. Believe me, I remember every minute, every second of it. I was able to soak it all up. A gorgeous friend of mine even commented that I must be the most relaxed bride she has ever seen. True. Not because I am good at suppressing my nerves but because from the moment I woke up that day I was already confident everything would fall into place. Our big day would be perfect. We were in good hands. We had an excellent wedding planner (Ms. Cielo Villegas of Blushing Bride). And true enough, she delivered... more than 100% even! I enjoyed our big day so much that I was sad it had to end.

Here's our onsite video, which shows the highlights of the wedding ceremony. This video was shown during the reception. This is a masterpiece by Jason Magbanua's Team B. We are very happy of this and even if it's already more 20 days since our wedding, I still can't stop watching this again and again :)

UK Movie Locations

2009-11-24T23:49:00.001Z

During my two years stay here in UK, I had the privilege to visit some locations that were used and featured in my favourite films. Here’s the initial list.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone

Oxford University Christ Church College’s dining hall was used as Hogwarts dining hall during the sorting ceremony in the Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone film. At present the dining hall is still used for meals by students of this famous Uni.

Oxford University Christ Church College's Great Hall

Staircase leading to the Christ Church College's Great Hall

Also in the first Harry Potter film, as the new first-years enter Hogwarts they are greeted by Professor McGonagall. That scene was shot on this enchanting staircase that leads to the Christ Church College’s dining hall.

Christ Church is open to the public most days of the year.

Braveheart

They may take our lives, but they'll never take our FREEDOM!

Glen Coe, Scotland

Some Braveheart scottish scenes were filmed in and around Glen Coe, one of the many scenic places in Scotland.

The Da Vinci Code

As in the book, Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) and Sophie Neveu (Audrey Tautou) in the The Da Vinci Code film have to look for the tomb of Sir Isaac Newton, which is located in a niche on the north side of the nave of Westminster Abbey. In the film the facade of Westminster Abbey is featured but Lincoln Cathedral was used as a double after Westminster Abbey officials refused to allow filming to take place inside.

Westminster Abbey contains the tomb of Sir Isaac Newton

Lincoln Cathedral doubled as the interior of Westminster Abbey in The Da Vinci Code film

Bridget Jones's Diary

In the film Bridget Jones's Diary, Bridget (Renee Zellweger) on her way to work goes through Picadilly Circus. The next scene of the film shows her crossing Tower Bridge, as if it is over the road. This is obviously a mistake as this can take an hour (with my short legs) to walk that far, from Picadilly Circus to Tower Bridge.

Bridget Jones crosses the Tower Bridge on her way to work

Notting Hill

I'm also just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her.

Notting Hill is a romance comedy film about a famous Hollywood star Anna Scott (Julia Roberts) who falls for a mild-mannered, simple English bookseller William Thacker (Hugh Grant). In the film William is the owner of the down-at-heel Travel Book Company on Portobello Road. That bookshop does not exist but however a real bookshop, the inspiration of William’s shop in the movie, can be seen just around the corner.

It’s The Travel Bookshop located at 13-15 Blenheim Crescent, just off Portobello Road, Notting Hill.

Filipino Efren Peñaflorida is 2009 CNN Hero of the Year

2009-11-22T11:05:00.002Z

"As I say to my co-volunteers, you are the change that you dream, as I am the change that I dream. And collectively, we are the change that this world needs to be. Mabuhay!"

Efren Peñaflorida ended his speech with these inspiring words after he was hailed the 2009 CNN Hero of the Year at an All-Star tribute at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood on Saturday Night.

Congratulations! Mabuhay ka Efren! We are so proud of you!

Efren Peñaflorida, who will receive $100,000 to continue his work with the Dynamic Teen Company, was selected after seven weeks of online voting at CNN.com. More than 2.75 million votes were cast. Read full story: Pushcart educator named CNN Hero of the Year.

My Jimmy Choo for H&M Haul

2009-11-14T22:42:00.009Z

Barbs and I went to the H&M store at Oxford Street around 10AM. There was of course a queue at the doors but it wasn't too bad. We breezed through in just 10 minutes. Inside we were told that could we shop freely at the womenswear area but had to queue again inside to get into the shoes area.

Queue again? No worries. We were only there for the shoes after all. It's Jimmy Choo. Duh! On our way to the shoe area queue I grabbed for myself a sequined racer-back sleeveless top, slim fit trousers and some cool accessories. Barbs got her hands on an exquisite sequined dress and some accessories as well.

One hour passed. It was 11:00 AM. The queue still wasn’t moving. Barbs and I were already hungry as we didn’t have a decent breakfast that morning, just one banana for me and a bunch of grapes for Barbs, in our excitement and haste to get to H&M. Yes the appalling weather did not deter us in our quest for a taste of Choo heaven.

Fortunately one H&M staff, perhaps noticing that we were all getting pale from hunger, passed around a bowl of candies. Very thoughtful. It helped a bit.

Another hour passed, 12:00 noon. I was still rooted on the same spot.

An H&M staff then made an announcement to assure us that the queue would eventually move after the lucky 160 bracelet holders finished their shoe shopping.

At about 5 minutes to 1:00 PM we were ushered downstairs (where the shoe area was) and were told to queue again to enter the cordoned off shoe area as the H&M staff still had to replenish the stocks. While in queue we were briefed with the rules of the game...

35 people would be allowed inside the shoe area at a time and would be given just 10 minutes to shop.

Just 10 minutes? Surprisingly, no one reacted violently. No grumbles. It’s either all of us had no energy left to complain after waiting for 3 hours, or our eyes were just busy darting to the gorgeous stilettos on display and our minds running complex decision algorithms regarding which pairs to buy.

Finally the go-signal to go in was given and we (Barbs and I were among the first 35 in the queue) immediately rushed towards the Choo heaven. I could feel my adrenaline kick in as I made a beeline to the stiletto I had already been eyeing while in queue, asked for my size right away, shoved the box right into my shopping bag and then headed to scrutinize the other stilettos.

It was a crazy experience. With an H&M staff standing on a chair shouting almost every minute how many minutes we’ve got left, I felt like I was on Amazing Race.

My Jimmy Choo for H&M haul

Queuing to get their hands on affordable Jimmy Choo stilettos

Queue to get downstairs where the Jimmy Choo for H&M shoe collection was

Jimmy Choo fashion enthusiasts sitting on the floor while in queue

the Choo heaven: Jimmy Choo for H&M shoe collection area

Jimmy Choo for H&M

2009-11-13T14:13:00.002Z

Jimmy Choo is coming to H&M on Saturday, the 14th of November.

Yep, that’s tomorrow! And you now you have an idea where I will be tomorrow.

Gosh, Barbs and I are so excited! I still don’t have a bridal shoes, so really, I have to be there…

The uber high-end designer brand has teamed up with the affordable Swedish mega fashion store to bring their merchandise more accessible to the public. The Jimmy Choo for H&M collection includes womenswear, menswear and accessories, with prices starting at £14.99.

"It’s all about capturing the DNA for the H&M price point," H&M's Jen Uglialoro said.

Doors will open 9:00 AM. But die-hard Jimmy Choo fans who can’t wait to get their hands on the much coveted fashionably high-stilettos are expected to start queuing at midnight.

The first 160 in queue will receive a bracelet. Each lucky bracelet holder will be given specific time to shop in the VIP area for shoes, bags and accessories. Read on the image below for more about how to shop Jimmy Choo for H&M.

There are 9 H&M stores in London where you can find the Jimmy Choo collection. These are:

234 Regent Street
London, W1B 3BR
+44-207 758 3990
Nearest underground: Oxford Circus

27-29 Long Acre
Covent Garden
London, WC2E 9LJ
+44-020 7395 125
Nearest underground: Covent Garden

H&M Bond Street
360-366 Oxford Street
London, W1N 9HA
+44-020 7518 1630
Nearest underground: Bond Street

Brent Cross Shopping Centre
Unit N14- N15
London, Hendon, NW4 3FP
+44-0208 382 3277
Nearest underground: Hendon Central / Brent Cross

H&M High Street Kensington
103-111 High Street
London, W8 5SA
+44-207 368 3920
Nearest underground: High Street Kensington

H&M Knightsbridge
17-21 Brompton Rd
Knightsbridge, London, SW3 1HY
+44-0208 382 3262
Nearest underground: Knightsbridge

H&M Oxford Circus
261-271 Regent Street,Oxford Circus
London, W1B 2ES
+44-020 7493 4004
Nearest underground: Oxford Circus

H&M Oxford Street East
174-176 Oxford Street
London, W1N OEE
+44-0207 612 1820
Nearest underground: Oxford Circus

White City
2082-2084 Westfield Shopping Centre, Ariel Way
London, W12 7GF
+44-0208-6003300
Nearest underground: Wood Lane

Hearthrobs London 2009: A Recap

2009-11-12T00:18:00.004Z

I was a bit disappointed with Hearthrobs London 2009, which was held on Sunday, the 8th of November. With the thousands of pesos (in equivalent) I spent, it was just so-so. The stage was plain. Just a big LCD screen with, some lights, then tarpaulins that featured the sponsors. That’s it. Okay I can forgive the ordinary stage because I’m guessing it’s expensive to fly in the artists and their entourage to London, and of course the artists’ talent fees plus the rental of Theatre Royal Drury Lane for exclusive use must have taken a huge chunk from the production budget, but still they should have put on a better show. It seemed like the artists were just told to bring along minus ones (yes there wasn’t even a live band) handed them microphones and then pushed towards the stage where they had to sing three songs each. It was poorly conceptualized and poorly prepared, if any preparation was given to it at all. Well I know they are movie actors and possess no singing prowess close to West End performers’ calibre but I had expected a concert with ala-ASAP production numbers. Not a karaoke show.

At least I am consoled by the fact that part of the proceeds would go to typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) victims.

But I have to give credit to the artists though. I could see that they were trying their best to liven it up. It takes courage to go on stage and sing karaoke alone in front of thousands of fans without any backup singer to bail you out in case you go out of tune. It’s not easy dancing up there, telling everyone to parttyy, without any a soul of backup dancer behind them.

Pokwang was really hilarious. She brought the house down. Without her the show would be boring. I am a fan. Sam was so sweet. He defied the guards and hopped down the stage to personally shake the hands of his adoring fans. (Piolo later commented that he couldn’t go near the audience because Sam was reprimanded backstage for doing that.) I was surprised that Bea can hold her tune. I love her pink dress. If only I can borrow it. Piolo can also sing, impressive actually. But my attention kept on zooming to his biceps, which were still obvious, bulging even under long-sleeves sweater. And John Lloyd? Ahhh... the main reason why pinatulan ko to in the first place, was adorable. His comedic attempts to entertain everyone made him all the more endearing to my heart.

Pokwang harrassing a member of the audience

Pokwang doing her thing while singing the infamous Aegis song,

Nangangarap ng gising. Nakatulala sa hangin...

Sam!

Oh why don't you smile my only star? Smile on baby. Smiillllee, my only star.

is still my favourite song of his

After this he got off the stage to greet his fans. Those at the front literally leapt from their seats and those at the back rows sprinted and swarmed onto him like there's no tomorrow. It took a few burly guards to break the crowd apart.

Bea is really pretty in person.

Singing a dance song without a backup dancer, plus dancing around the stage on 4-inch stiletto shoes... I admire the effort!

Ahhh... John Lloyd.

Bea and John Lloyd - their loveteam was one of the best, in my opinion.

C'mon, closer John Lloyd...

Awww John Lloyd, stop staring at me... *blush*

Piolo's biceps

Piolo singing Kailangan Kita. He sounded a bit miffed when the audience told him they would like him to sing this song. Tehee - he must really be sick and tired of singing it. Well he shouldn't have asked. Or he shouldn't have brought its minus one...

Sam, why the shocked expression...?

They ended the night by roll calling their sponsors. Makes me convinced that there was enough budget to give us a better concert!

I enjoyed the pre-show acts. The young performers were fantastic, pure raw talent. Boy, these kids can sing! I won't be surprised if all of them will be international hitmakers someday.

The Cachero sisters. These sisters already performed in the West End musical, Miss Saigon.

Natalie Grace Chua won Singer Songwriter UK at the age of 11. She has appeared at various Harry Potter films and was part of the band Angelis, managed by Simon Cowell.

Silverdale Boyz, who had already performed in serveral shows in the Philippines, and have 2 CD albums released under Camden Media Production. Their next album will be released in 2010.

Tru Colorz, whose achievements include: Top 24 X Factor 2009 Finalists and Filipino's Got Talent UK 2009 Winners

Theatres Galore

2009-11-07T22:46:00.000Z

In a span of less than a week, I have watched not just one but two theatre shows at London West End and not alone mind you, but with friends! Ahhh to share the good things in life with friends indeed makes every experience more enjoyable.

The first show we went to was Les Miserables. It was my second time actually. The first was in December 2007 with Harley, in which we were amazed and literally bursting with pride because one of the major cast, Fantine, was played by a Filipina - Joana Ampil.

Joanna Ampil as Fantine (lifted from www.joampil.com)

Les Miserables is a musical based on a novel by Victor Hugo. Set in the early nineteenth century during the French revolution, it centres around the story of Jean Valjean. I remember crying a few times during the tender, tear jerking moments of the show. And I cried again on Saturday even having watched it the second time around, just couldn't help it, especially the scene when the cast belted out

To love another person is to see the face of God...

(What a beautiful line this is, don't you agree?)

Another trivia, the show had a concert at Royal Albert Hall here in London to celebrate its 10th year anniversary (1995). It was dubbed as Les Miserables: The Dream Cast in Concert, as the best cast was chosen from all over the world, from the 17 countries where Les Miserables was in production that time. And guess what, our very own Lea Salonga was selected to play Eponine.

The second show we watched this week is also a popular one, Mamma Mia!. If Les Miserables is serious with a confusing, heavy plot, thus not for kids at all, Mamma Mia! on the other hand is a feel good musical that does not require you to mull over its storyline. It is still not for kids because there are naughty moments and of course it's hard to explain to them how a girl can have three possible dads. Even though I am not much of an ABBA fan, I didn't leave the theatre without singing a long to their iconic songs.

Waterloo - I was defeated, you won the war

Waterloo - promise to love you for ever more

Waterloo - couldn't escape if I wanted to

Waterloo - knowing my fate is to be with you

Which one is better? Mamma Mia! the movie or the theatre show. I don't know really, can't decide. I'm torn. Although the theatre cast really was impressive. Their voices, absolutely powerful. But it's still not the same as James Bond singing S.O.S. and wearing spandex and lycra...

This Is It! Our Wedding Invitation

2009-11-02T23:55:00.001Z

Finally we have started sending our invitations. First to our overseas guests so they will have ample time to decide if they will attend or not, and then prepare should they give their word to be there. We fervently hope, fingers cross, that all our invited guests will grace us with their presence.

The exact moment I handed the first set of invites to a Royal Mail staff for posting I felt a rush of excitement, a spine-tingling emotion (no kidding) washed over me. It was a this-is-it moment, making this long awaited event of my life more real than ever. Blimey - we are truly getting married!

I am very proud to share with you our wedding invitation. Kudos to Adworks for the job well done! The execution is really top notch. We are very happy. Thank you!

We also would like to thank our wedding planner Cielo, not only for helping us come up with creative ideas for the invite but also for patiently and effectively liaising with Adworks.

And of course, we would like to thank Mall for sharing her amazing gift with us. Her taking the time off from the increasing demands for her art to work on our illustrations makes our invitation all the more meaningful to us.

Our wedding invitation by Adworks.

We wanted it cost effective so we opted for digital wax seal and digitally printed lace instead of the real thing.

The purple velvet band is the only non-digital material. It was actually a last minute addition. It wasn't at all part of our specs. What happened was when the owner, Che, first saw the finished product, she was not satisfied and decided that it was kulang. She asked her staff to look for some purple velvet ribbon and told them to add it on top of the digitally printed lace. We are so delighted that she took the initiative to improve it because it certainly makes our invitation pop out, livelier, more beautiful. And the best part is, she didn't demand that we pay them extra for the velvet ribbon and the labour to put it on. It's free! Trust Adworks to always deliver 100% quality output, never half baked!

Don't you agree it's more beautiful on the inside? :)

Among the first recipients, baby Derek! este Derek's parents pala.

What a lovely smile... baby Derek seems to like our invitation! (^-^)/

Must Have: Jeggings

2009-10-29T20:04:00.004Z

I love leggings, especially jeggings a.ka. jean leggings (leggings that look like jeans). Jeggings are more comfortable than the real ones, skinny jeans. During my last visit to the Philippines I really enjoyed wearing my jeggings because they suited our hot, humid climate. It's more airy than denim, plus, a real space-saver too! You can just roll it and stuff it in your luggage.

I received my first pair of jeggings from a gorgeous friend in Tokyo. It's a bit faded now - proof that it has been used and washed dozens of times. So I need a new pair pronto.

I am itching to buy these exciting leggings and jeggings by Mango, which are bolder in colours. There are also leggings that come in lace!

But these Mango jeggings are totemo takai desu ne (super expensive). Okay - will just wait when they go on sale at the Mango Outlet website.

Or head to the nearest M&S this weekend as I just googled it, they also sell jeggings at more than half the price of Mango's!

Honestly, I still like the styles of Mango's jeggings more.

Oh HSBC, why did you increase my credit limit?

Keeping the Love Alive Even When You're Apart

2009-10-29T00:18:00.006Z

Long Distance Relationship - Will it work?

Yes. Definitely.
But it takes bloody work.

If other couples only have to survive short periods of being apart - just a few weeks or months because one has to be away for a business trip maybe - ours on the other hand are in a long distance setup right from the start.

Oh yes you heard, uhh read that right. Unconventional? True.

But we have managed. In fact we just celebrated our 3rd year of being Us on Saturday and of course as you may well be aware of (if you have no idea, how can that be when the title of the blog blatantly suggests it?) that we’re getting married. Just 61 days until our wedding! And finally after that we will never be "long distance” anymore. Thank God!

So we consider ourselves experts and here are some tips that truly helped our long distance relationship thrive.

Know where it is going.

Before going into a long distance relationship (LDR) you must discuss, be clear of where it is going and when it’s gonna stop.

You must have a goal in mind that at some point you will have to be together physically and enjoy a normal relationship. It should be realistic and achievable. Remind yourself and your partner frequently as possible of the goal you two are working towards. This will motivate you to really make it work.

(Image lifted from http://lovedose.blogspot.com/)

Trust your partner. Period.

Most LDRs don’t survive because of jealousy.

Just because you’re in an LDR your lives should not pause.

Allow your partner to go out, socialize with his friends. Let him enjoy his life.

When you’re miles away from each other what’s the point of worrying if he is cheating or not? That will just add more wrinkles to your face. Besides if he’s really a cheat, he will always find ways even if you’re living under the same roof.

Trust that you have chosen well - a good and honourable man.

Still finding it hard not to listen to those tiny whispers of suspicions in your mind? Maybe it’s not because you don’t trust him. Maybe you’re just insecure...

An insecure person is always doubtful of her partner’s faithfulness. No matter what her guy does to reassure her of his loyalty, she may nod but deep inside she harbours the thought that he’s lying. If you’re like that and you are going into or already in an LDR, please stop. You are only making yourself miserable and that poison will eventually leak and kill the relationship.

An LDR setup is more tasteless to men than to women. They need, desire physical intimacy more than we do. So for him to agree into an LDR with you simply means he is so into you. So straighten up your spine. He wants You.

Be open. Communicate.

Men have a hard time to open up. They are not vocal about their feelings.

We ladies on the other hand are naturally chatty. So we should make the first move.

Tell him of what you’ve been up to, where you’ve been and people you have met. Be transparent with your day-to-day activities even if they’re just mundane or trivial. Tell him of your plans, dreams and aspirations. Ask for his opinions about matters that have recently occupied your thoughts.

Be honest. If you suffer bouts of loneliness (which is normal because otherwise you should be alarmed if you don’t miss him at all!), then tell him. Don’t pretend that it is all okay. Share your feelings about the separation. This will give you the opportunity to comfort and reassure each other.

When you talk about your resentment about the separation, be sure that you don’t appear like blaming him. Just like you, remember he is having a hard time.

Communicate in some way, every day.

Oh yes everyday. Many times a day if possible.

Take advantage of the available technologies. Email, Skype, chat. Set up webcams so you can arrange video calls and see each other.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls are way cheaper than regular phone (landline or mobile) calls. Skype to Skype calls are free. Skype to Philippines (mobile) from Europe is € 0.232 ($0.341) per minute VAT inc. Skype to Philippines (landline) from Europe is cheaper, € 0.185 ($0.272) per minute. Text is £0.062 ($0.102) per message. (Discount international phone calls with Skype)

Yahoo Voice is cheaper than Skype but the quality most of the time is flaky. Yahoo Voice calls to Philippines (mobile) is $0.199 per minute. Landline is $0.159 per minute. (Yahoo! Voice call rates)

You can also create an account on Chikka to send free text messages to mobile phones from your PC.

Visit each other often.

You need to rekindle your relationship up close and personal as often as your budget allows. Set up some rules about frequency of visits and stick to them because consistency will help an LDR survive.

Be makulit and malambing.

Let your presence be felt. Be makulit. (I don’t know what’s this in English. Sorry.)

No, don’t call or email him every bloody chance you get. Be makulit in an adorable, malambing (sweet / romantic) way.

The key is to let him feel that you’re always there, thinking of him. If you miss him, don’t wait for him to make the move. Call him.

Since you don’t have the luxury of touch, to reach out and simply hold his hand for a while, tell him you love him whenever you feel like saying it. You have the license to get all mushy and corny.

Do exciting things together.

Emails, phone calls or IMs can get bland so try to reinvent.

Defy the distance. Do things together like watch the same movie or TV show simultaneously, YouTube videos, etc. Here are some activities that LDR couples can do from a distance.

Take advantage of the benefits.

Oh yes there are benefits...

You get to be involved in an intimate relationship while still retaining your personal space.
You get to have more time for yourself, time for your friends and time for personal pursuits.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder – you always have something to look forward to.
You actually get to really miss each other.
You may not have a lot of time to be together but the time you get to have becomes extra special.

Beware of overhyping your next reunion.

Almost always both of you have high expectations about your next reunion. Especially if it’s been such a long time, months or even a year since your last one. Then when you see each other again you may find there are awkward silences or even arguments. You will feel disappointed, frustrated that the reality is not matching up to the lots-of-floating-pink-hearts fantasy.

You can prevent this by making sure you’ve talked beforehand about how you want the reunion to be. Set realistic expectations. It is expected that you are both excited to see each other again, but just don’t overhype it. Remember, it may take time to get used to being around each other again.

Be optimistic.

Don’t zero in on the negatives, focus on the positives. Don’t listen to anyone who discourages you and says LDRs don’t work. Do redirect them to this blog and say hey there’s this couple who’s getting married after 3 years of LDR...

Point is, the whole point of this blog entry really, is that LDR is definitely doable. It can work out. As long as you’re both optimistic and determined that it will work out - it will.

Absence is to love as wind is to flame.
It extinguishes the weak and feeds the strong.

- Anonymous

Can't Say No to Derek Gerard

2009-10-27T19:44:00.003Z

Harley has just been asked to be the Godfather of Derek Gerard – the firstborn of our good friends Ria (my bridesmaid) and Dan (his groomsman).

Derek’s got the perfect mix of features from his good-looking parents... his father’s trademark nose and his mother’s pouting lips. He is so adorable. Certainly one of the cutest babies in the world! I can’t wait to meet this little guy in December.

So cute, isn’t he?

Of course Harley’s only answer is a resounding Yes. He is over the moon really, absolutely delighted and honoured to be Derek’s Godfather.

But I can't help but find what’s written on the card as uhm, amusing. Read on why.

Harley,

You are successful,

Of course! Successful in getting a gorgeous catch like me :D

generous,

Hmm expectations are already set high...

kind-hearted,

I absolutely agree!

and amazingly patient man

Why? Please do justify what made you reach that conclusion? Is it because since he has survived three years with me and even decided to marry me then he has to be amazingly patient?! Aba...

And as one of Dan’s few trusted friends
we’d like to request you to be Derek’s Godfather,
to guide and influence him with your virtues
so he will grow up to be an admirable man like you.
Dan & Ria.

Huh, so that’s it? No because you’re handsome? Not even a because you're tad good looking?

Shame. Because Harley will be MORE generous if that kind of buttering up was also thrown in...

Happy 2 Years in UK!

2009-10-24T20:19:00.037+01:00

Exactly two years ago I arrived at London Heathrow, breathed England’s cold air for the first time, hopped on my first black cab ride and headed to the Anne Boleyn hotel in Staines, Middlesex.

Two years ago I did not own a pair of boots. Now I have two pairs of knee-highs and a pair of ankle-length boots.

Two years ago I did not own a single pair of skinny jeans. Now I have 3. No wait, it’s 4. Errrm no. I think there’s one stuck in the laundry basket so, oh, it’s 5 actually.

Two years ago my hair was still a virgin in highlights. Now it’s a wonder it has amazingly survived the abuse of half-head highlights not just once, but thrice. There was one time I dared to go blonde. I just couldn’t resist the thought of going blonde and not having everyone staring at me because blonde is so common here. So I did it. It was not really blonde as in platinum blonde but only honey brown. Well it was too flashy for an Asian like me that every morning I got a shock looking at myself in the mirror. After a month I just couldn't take it any more so I bought an over the counter colour to tone it down.

I can’t believe it has been two years!

I started to enjoy reading Victorian romance novels way back in high school. My favourite are of Judith McNaught's. Since reading her books I dreamt of visiting England someday – stroll at Hyde Park, walk along the river Thames, shop at Mayfair...

I had never expected to visit London, to have done all that and actually live here. This has been my home since that day two years ago. I will be very sad indeed to leave it at the end of next month.

The river Thames and Big Ben.

Thames should be pronounced as temz, without the h and a hard e, listen.

Don't ask me why it's pronounced that way because I've asked lots of my colleagues about that and no one has given me a clear answer yet.

Today is also our anniversary. It is our 3rd year. How time flies! 3 years of long distance relationship. Harley works in Kuwait. So it doesn’t matter really if I am back in Manila or deployed in UK.

From Harley. Happy 3 wonderful years to us as well!

Three years, ang tagal nun. Difficult? Indeed. It is a lie if I would say otherwise. But our relationship has prevailed and it is going strong. How we’ve done it? Well, read my Keeping the Love Alive While You're Apart blog entry :)

Must Have Girls' Gadgets

2009-10-18T22:29:00.036+01:00

I finally received my long awaited Visa extension (yebah!) on Friday. So to celebrate, I went shopping yesterday. I found really good bargains in Debenhams that even the cashier expressed her envy of my finds and gushed that I am such a good bargain hunter (Grin. Pat me on the back.).

I was in such a grand celebratory mood that I grabbed not just one but two gadgets. Oh no not the Sony eBook Reader Touch that I yakked about in my previous post. Though I was in a big spender illusion I still could not afford that. Sigh. But nevertheless I am happy with my new gadgets - my first epilator and my first hair straightening iron!

No, I am not still in my teens. Wish ko lang (I wish). I am just a late bloomer...

When I was still in Manila I used to use the Sally Hansen Hair Removal cream on my legs until I got some burns. So I just go to the salon for professional waxing.

But going to a salon here in the UK is uber expensive. Good thing I discovered the Veet Ready to Use Wax Strips for Sensitive Skin. I really like it. It’s very quick and easy to use. And it’s not messy. The trick is to spread baby oil on your legs to remove the sticky feeling on your skin. It’s £9 (Php 688) per box, which can last up to three to four usage. Although Php 150 to Php200 per usage is not that expensive but if that’s accumulated to years of buying wax strips, it’s a lot of money.

I was twiddling with the idea of “investing” on an epilator. Yesterday I finally took the leap and bought the cheapest Braun (since I read in Amazon that it’s the brand with mostly good reviews) I could find in Boots. It costs £38 (Php 2,907).

Brain Silk.epil Soft Perfection Epilator

I opened it at once when I got home. Too excited about this little thing that I accidentally cut on the manual. LOL.

Yes I immediately tried it and the verdict? Love it!

Epilator's head closeup

Braun Silk.epil Soft Perfection:
    20 tweezers for a gentle introduction to epilation
    2 epilation speeds. Perfect for beginners new to epilation, or for experienced users.
    Active massaging rollers stimulate and relax skin which makes the epilation more gentle,
        even on sensitive areas.

Gosh Braun should give me some freebies for this free endorsement!

Before using it I was already preparing myself for the pain. I had heard that it’s more painful than waxing. But no. Not really. It’s way more tolerable than waxing. If you’re used to plucking your eyebrows, an epilator is a piece of cake.

The second gadget I bought is this BaByliss ceramic hair straightening iron. I just couldn’t resist buying it because it’s so cute, can fit in a handbag and it's red! Its size is perfect for fringes*.

BaBylis pro 200 nano

*Fringes are bangs by the way. The first time I went to a Toni and Guy salon here for a haircut I asked the stylist that I wanted some bangs and she went blank. I had to make some gestures, pointing on my generous forehead, to make her understand. Then she exclaimed, ohhh fringes! Oh okay, fringes. Same as a lift is an elevator, a lorry is a truck, a torch is a flashlight and the list goes on and on. Apparently we were not taught the proper English at school. Tsk.

Sony Reader Touch: A Virtual Library Anywhere You Go

2009-10-16T21:49:00.010+01:00

I love books. I don't travel without books. Oh not the techie, educational stuffs. I love fiction novels and I read almost all genres: Fantasy, suspense-thriller, chick lit (my current passion as I have just recently discovered how delightful Marian Keyes' books are), sci-fi and of course romance! Especially historical romance! Oh every once in a while I have to get a fix of a cheesy novel about feisty gorgeous heroines and their tall, dark, brooding men. A novel wherein I am not required to do much thinking. Just a lot of imagining about the tall, dark, brooding men.

I can’t live without books. And that passion has increased during my stay here in UK. A few days in a week I have to travel to/from my London office and a book is my lifeline to survive the sheer boredom of an hour train journey each way. But always carrying around a book in my bag I suspect has caused my right shoulder to be a bit lopsided and seemingly permanently pained (just slight). Of course emptying out half of my kikay kit’s (beauty kit) contents is definitely out of the question.

But Sony has just released a new gadget that can effectively ease the strain on my shoulder bag straps - the Sony eBook Reader Touch! It’s so light. It weighs just less than 300 grams.

The Sony Reader Touch can carry up to 350 eBooks in its built-in 512mb memory. You can add up more memory with its MS Duo and SD card slots for up to 13,000 eBooks. Virtually your entire library everywhere you go.

Its screen is a 6" E Ink® Vizplex™ - a paper like screen that has no backlight or flicker so you can read for hours even at direct sunlight and any angle.

It’s Touch! You can just turn pages with just a slide of a finger.

Its advance features include quick search for books by authors, titles, keywords on its virtual keyboard.

You can also create notes, highlight a phrase and search its meaning in the built-in Oxford English dictionary.

Its battery life can last up to 7,500 continuous page turns from a single charge. You can even listen to music while you read as it supports MP3 files. Currently its sleek aluminium design is only available in two colours: black and silver. Sony might be cooking up a pink version soon as its earlier non-touch Reader Pocket version comes in pink.

Sony Reader Pocket Version

Okay this may not be a new concept. There are similar gadgets out there in the market. For example the Amazon Kindle. But this is Sony. I have always been satisfied with Sony products. My Sony Vaio pink that I use every day, sometimes even 24 hours on weekends, has never conked out on me. If it is from Sony, it must be good!

I really x 10 to the nth power want this but it costs 249 quid! (or Php 19k). Sigh. I hope Santa is listening. I have been a good girl the whole year round so I truly must deserve this eh? Santa, I wouldn’t mind if it’s not pink.

ASOS.com: UK's Largest Online Fashion Store

2009-10-15T23:34:00.004+01:00

ASOS is the UK's largest online-based fashion and beauty store. It is a one-stop fashion store that sells not only lines from its own label but designer fashion goods as well. It features all the works - accessories, bags, shoes and clothes.

It full name is really As Seen On Screen. Its intention is to supply the public with outfits similar to fashion icons or celebrities. I subscribe to ASOS Style Update emails because I look forward to their Look of the Week columns where they suggest how us regular gels can put together regular outfits to copy the styles of featured A-List celebrities.

What's great about ASOS is that it delivers not only within Europe but also to the rest of the world including Japan, United States, United Arab Emirates and, I bet you won't believe this, the Philippines! International shipping is charged on a flat rate basis, regardless of the weight of your parcel. See more of ASOS international shipping information and destinations.

Currently ASOS is having a Mid Season Sale up to 75%. I say it's the best time to try it :)

Designer items on SALE

ASOS own-label items on SALE. There are items below £5.

My First Art Investment

2009-10-12T20:30:00.001+01:00

I have long wanted to collect art pieces and decided that now is the good time to start since I will be moving (looking forward indeed) into a permanent home next year. My days as a wandering adventurer (in Cebuano, laagan) are numbered.

My first art purchase is no other than by my future cousin-in-law, the uber talented Mall. Here it is. Ta da!

Provoking me by Mall

Okay it is still marked as reserved in her blog because I have not yet paid for it. LOL.

I am not biased. I honestly love her works. They are very uplifting. Every time I look at an art piece she has created I feel transported to a happy place, a fantasy land, somewhere like Little Prince's world. I plan to decorate our home with her artworks.

Actually it is an investment. Because I have a strong gut feeling, oh it’s a certainty really that she will be world famous someday. More famous than she currently is. She is continuing to gain admirers. In fact here is a link of Julius Babao's blog about Mall.

Mango Outlet Online

2009-10-11T12:48:00.005+01:00

Since I am saying goodbye to England in less than 2 months, I am starting to keep an online record of the good stuffs that I have discovered here during my 2 years stay. Who knows, I might have to come back here in the future.

I adore Mango fashion because its style is chic and sophisticated. But I rarely buy from the Mango store. (Okay "rarely" is subjective, but still...) Why? Because if I would just wait for styles that have caught my fancy to go out of season (I don't really care if what I'm wearing is so last season. Not that choosy. Besides I try to buy something that is wearable for all seasons.) I can purchase them at super discounted prices at the Mango Outlet Online store.

See that blazer, second row, rightmost? It's retail price of 69.90€ (4,797.90Php) has been reduced to 19.90€ (1,365.92Php). What a bargain!

I have purchased from Mango Outlet more than thrice and I have never been disappointed upon receiving my orders. The clothes are always packaged well. Usually they would give you a really big box that sometimes I would panic that maybe I had hit the Checkout button twice and all I had ordered are in that box in twos. Delicate dresses / blouses often come with specialty hangers. Too bad it's only available in European countries. I will truly miss this :( Perhaps I should make one bulk purchase before I leave England... hmmm?

Holiday in Paris for 2,500Php Only

2009-10-09T09:32:00.001+01:00

And you don't even have to win Project Runway :)

Visit L'Oreal Paris Exclusif for more details.

Hearthrobs Here I Come!

2009-10-08T19:30:00.002+01:00

This is it! There's no turning back. A point of no return.

Drum roll please.

Brilliant. Exactly a month from now I will finally see Piolo, Sam and John Lloyd live!

Vote for Efren for CNN Hero of the Year. Apl.De.Ap's Take Me to the Philippines video.

2009-10-06T13:31:00.003+01:00

Though I am currently living in a far away land, stories of Filipino heroic acts never failed to reach me. Mind you, I don’t have TFC. The internet is my only window to what’s going on back home. But these stories of the remarkable Filipino spirit have resonated and moved people around the globe. Here in the UK a few have been featured in the telly and newspapers.

The story of Muelmar Magallanes who lost his life, died of exhaustion after saving 30 people during the flooding.

The sorry of a Filipina catering business owner, immediately mobilizing her staff and her friends the day after the flood to provide delicious and most importantly clean food to the victims.

The story of my colleagues back home, who gladly pledged a portion of their salaries and were able to raise 100k in just 3 days to donate to the Ondoy flood victims.

... Countless admirable stories of our countrymen rallying, uniting to help the victims, our country, to recover from that catastrophe.

In all honesty, believe me in saying that I have never been this proud to be a Filipino.

But there is one story that has made me beam more with pride – the inspiring story of Efren Peñaflorida.

Efren or Kuya Ef despite of his own humble beginnings, thought more of how he can help impoverish kids in our country. He was still in highschool (August 1997) when he created the Dynamic Teen Company (DTC) to offer his classmates an outlet to lift up themselves and their community. Until today children flock DTC’s kariton (pushcart) classroom to learn reading, writing, arithmetic and English from Peñaflorida and his trained teen volunteers.

What he's been doing is so amazing that he is shortlisted, in top 10, a strong candidate to become CNN's Hero of the year. Let’s all vote for him. Now na!

Click here to vote for Efren Peñaflorida now!

Visit the Dynamic Teen Company’s website if you want help make a difference.

Here’s another to uplift the Filipino spirit. Watch Apl.de.ap's (of The Black Eyed Peas) music video just released on 1st of October TAKE ME TO THE PHILIPPINES. Enjoy!

Watch out for "In Baguio, Cebu, in Subic, I take ya!"

Missing Jojo's Cooking. Missing Nathan more!

2009-10-05T19:32:00.004+01:00

Jugarisa was my highschool classmate in CIC and after graduation we lost communication, until last year. I was absolutely delighted to find out she is now living here in the UK.

Finally it was this weekend that I got the chance to visit her. It had been planned meticulously as going to their place, Lincoln City, is a bit tricky. Well tricky for someone who does not frequent the north of England. (I live in south-west of England). But technology, Google to be exact made it easier to find a way.

Aside from a booboo that cost me dearly (I queued for a coffee at Pumpkin Cafe at one of the train stops, Peterborough. Perhaps I was so focused on having my daily fix that I missed the train and I had to wait for 2 hours for the next one. Darn! Glad I brought along a book. I always bring one in case something like that happened. Oh yes, missing train schedules had happened to me before. Many times, I’ve lost count actually), the journey to Lincoln was uneventful. I was so delighted to find her with her little family tagging along, waiting for me at Metheringham

Her husband, a Briton, is very nice and obviously adores her. They call each other ‘Lang (short for Palangga, the Cebuano word for “my love”). Though he is English he is very fluent in Cebuano. He knows a wide vocabulary and can understand most of the words, especially the bad ones. He is so good in fact he has set up an English-Cebuano dictionary website.

They were such gracious hosts. They toured me around Lincoln. We visited the Lincoln Cathedral and the Lincoln Castle (just the outside, it was already closed when we got there).

I also got to meet Jugarisa’s in-laws and they are so nice! They received me warmly. By the way Jugarisa is “Jojo” here now because her in-laws couldn’t pronounce her name properly. Jojo? Sosyal na!

Jojo was like a mother hen during my visit. She was literally feeding me something every hour! Though it was goodbye-my-week's-worth-of-diet! I was nevertheless happy to be pampered, spoiled and fattened like I would be sent to the executioner’s block or the slaughterhouse the next day. The stone I suspect I gained out of it was worth it. The meals she prepared were all yummy (My favourite is the Chicken Curry. Gosh my mouth is watering right at this moment thinking of it. Paging Jojo... The recipe please!). The meals were prepared the Filipino way. Oh you know, Filipino taste? Not bland at all. Perfect.

Though I truly miss her cooking (especially now after having had a micro-waved cod fish for dinner courtesy of Sainsbury’s) and TFC (although SNN were sombre because of a terrible calamity that has befallen our country), I miss Nathan more. Nathan is her son. He is cute, adorable and simply gorgeous. Aside from that he is so well-mannered. I couldn't believe that such a well-behaved child exists. But he does. He's truly an angel. You can’t help but fall in love with him.

Everywhere we go there were always people smiling at him, gushing admirations of what an adorable child he is. He can absolutely give Piolo a run for his money. Since I can’t adopt him (though I did more than once plotted in my creative mind to kidnap him) I am more dead set than ever to give birth to a girl someday. So at least I will have a chance, no matter how slim, to have him as a son-in-law. Since I am a believer of The Secret, perhaps I should start calling Jugarisa Mareng Jojo! LOL.

Mareng Jojo, thank you love for such a great weekend!

His lashes are to die for. Such a shame to be wasted on a boy! (Oh yes I am bitter.)

Can I take you home, love?

A Visit to Lincoln Cathedral

2009-10-05T16:40:00.002+01:00

Lincoln Cathedral is one and finest Gothic structures in Europe. It has been a place of worship for nearly a thousand of years (dates built 1185-1311).

Its Gothic spires, stained glass windows are a site to behold. This cathedral is indeed so gorgeous that it has been featured in two major films:
Da Vinci Code (a replacement to the Westminster Abbey scene as the film wasn't able to get a permit to shoot in Westminster Abbey) and Young Victoria.

HOW TO GET THERE
Lincoln Cathedral’s postcode is LN2 1PX

By Rail:
From London Kings Cross take the National Express Rail service to Edinburgh. Transfer at Peterborough Station. Then take the connection train at Platform 2 to Lincoln.

Other connections include Nottingham, Grantham, Skegness, Grimsby and Birmingham.

By Road:
A1 and A46 east from Newark
A57 east from Sheffield
A15 south from M180 Scunthorpe and Hull
A15 north from Sleaford
A46 south from Grimsby

On our way to the Lincoln Cathedral

Lincoln Cathedral Information

Lincoln Cathedral Nave

Beautiful stained glasses adorn all over the Lincoln Cathedral

The Dean's Eye window - an 800 year old British heritage whose restoration completed just recently costed millions. (Source: Stewart Design UK)

Historical key stages of the Dean's Eye.

The East Window of the Lincoln Cathedral

Spot the Lincoln Imp!

Close-up of the Lincoln Imp. It is the symbol of the city of Lincoln.

The Lincoln City Football Club are nicknamed "The Imps" and an image of the Lincoln Imp appears on their crest. (Source: Wikipedia)

Filming of theYoung Victoria in the Lincoln Cathedral.

Sir Ian Mckellen and Audrey Tautou while filming Da Vinci Code in the Lincoln Cathedral.

(Image lifted from: http://www.mckellen.com/)

Sir Ian Mckellen and Tom Hanks while filming Da Vinci Code in the Lincoln Cathedral.

(Image lifted from: http://www.mckellen.com/)

The Lincoln Cathedral is indeed beautiful.

Typhoon Pepeng Advisory. Be safe!

2009-10-02T12:56:00.001+01:00

Typhoon Pepeng (international name Parma) is predicted to make a landfall at north Luzon on the 4th of October, Sunday. It has maximum sustained winds of 195 kph near centre and gustiness of up to 230 kph. This makes the typhoon categorised as Category 5, a “Super Typhoon” - the first time this term has been coined.

Our beloved country is still reeling to recover from the terrible damages brought by Typhoon Ondoy and now this. It's just sad. This is too soon. Let's all hope and pray that Pepeng will weaken and just dissipate. Or that it will stray from its expected course and will just die down at the ocean.

Please to all Pinoy back home, especially those living at the area where Pepeng is expected to hit, be safe! Make sure your mobile batteries are fully-charged and you have enough torches, emergency lights or candles, supply of clean water and food at home.

Ondoy Flood Victims: How to Help

2009-09-28T15:49:00.008+01:00

Typhoon Ketsana (PAGASA: Ondoy) devastated Metro Manila, Philippines and other parts of Luzon on September 26, 2009. The latest tally from NDCC (National Disaster Coordinating Council) the number of casualties has risen to 100 and the damage to infrastracture and crops estimated at P109 million. (source: inquirer.net).

Though Ondoy has left the country, its wake has left many Filipinos displaced, without homes, without access to clean food and water. Please help. Any amount will do.
You can donate online thru Bo Sanchez or Kerygma Family Foundation.

Help Ondoy Flood Victims Today

or thru OnePhilippines.co.uk

Please do all you can to help. Pass this on.

Honeymooning in Bohol

2009-09-27T16:15:00.012+01:00

Harley is giving me my dream wedding, so I am giving him his dream honeymoon. Thankfully he doesn’t demand a European tour (Although I do! But I can wait. LOL.). He is a simple guy, so easy to please. I could not have been luckier.

Whenever we go home to the Philippines and our schedule permits we make time to island hop to Bohol. Harley adores white sand beaches. So it is a no brainer choosing where to go for our honeymoon. Our beloved country, with its 7,107 islands both high tide and low tide, boasts numerous beach getaways flocked by many tourists from around the globe. As there are so many to choose from, the challenge is choosing which island to go and which resort on that island to book.

Since I don’t possess a bottomless pocket, I have to choose wisely. I am looking for a destination that will blow his socks off but not outrageously expensive or it might turn out I can only afford to send him there. Alone. Without me. Yeah some honeymoon...

Are you are in the same predicament and looking for an unforgettable beach honeymoon destination? Or are you planning a perfect romantic getaway with your loved one. Why not visit one of the gorgeous beach resorts in the Philippines? Convinced? Well to jumpstart your planning, read on for some stuffs I have researched. Let me start with Bohol first.

Bohol
HOW TO GET THERE?
Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have as many as Manila to Cebu flights a day. A MNL-CEB flight usually takes around an hour and 15 minutes. Of course waiting at the airport takes longer than that and make allowances of your flights getting delayed. Typical of Filipino’s infamous habit of tardiness. As a precaution, it is better to take the first flight of the day.

To go from Cebu to Bohol, you need to take a “fast craft” ferry. Journey time is around 2 hours and 40 minutes. As far as I know there are only three (3) ferries with route CEB to TAGBILARAN (Bohol). These are:

SuperCat – Schedules and Fares
Ocean Jet – Schedules and Fares
Weesam Express – Schedules and Fares

Oh yes their names blatantly say they’re fast. But I would have to agree as on the bigger ferries like Cokaliong Shipping Lines and Trans-Asia Shipping Lines it takes approximately 5 hours.

Cokaliong : M/V Filipinas Dinagat Rates
Trans-Asia: M/V Asia Japan Schedules and Rates

From Mactan International Airport (Cebu), take the cab to the Cebu City Pier 1 for SuperCat , Ocean Jet and Cokaliong. Pier 4 for Weesam Express and Trans-Asia.

If you haven’t got ferry reservations or tickets yet upon arriving at Mactan International airport, you can go directly to the Cebu City Pier. The ticketing office per shipping line is also located at the pier area (number) mentioned above. Or if you are a bit scared to wander aimlessly at the port area, go straight to Ayala Center Cebu. There are ticketing offices there. Just ask around.

To get from Tagbilaran Pier to Panglao Island (where all the good Bohol beach resorts are located) you can arrange with your chosen resort for a van/car to collect your party. Or if don’t have resort booked yet and want to shop around, there are vans / cars at the pier area that will take you there at a fee of course. I don’t know how much it is but haggle. You can always negotiate for a lower rate.

WHERE TO STAY?
Bohol is perfect getaway for newlyweds who want to cocoon themselves from civilization, and just spend time together rolling around on a white sand beach, basking in marital bliss. It is not as crowded and not as commercialized as Boracay but there are still plenty of things to do. I have shortlisted here resorts in Bohol that I highly recommend to honeymooners:

Amorita

This resort is nestled on a cliff at Alona beach. Harley and our families spent two days there on December 2008 and we definitely want to visit again. I highly recommend this resort. Food is great although a tad expensive but really could not complain because the service we got was top class. Whenever you bump to someone from the resort, you’re greeted with a smile. The staff easily provided us with a relaxing atmosphere.

For packages and rates, click here.

Eskaya

At the moment, this must be the most expensive and exclusive (yes because it’s very expensive) resort in Bohol. It has villas with their own infinity pools and whirlpool baths. I have no idea what a whirlpool bath is I’m afraid.

For packages and rates, click here.

Alona Palm Beach Resort

The beach strip of this resort is to die for. I’ve heard that the service here is also world class; it was after all the top resort before Amorita and Eskaya opened in Bohol. Reviews of this resort in TripAdvisor are generally high.

For packages and rates, click here

MUST DO / MUST SEE

Dolphin Watching

Make an arrangement with your resort for a boat tour or you can contract a local boatman for a cheaper price (usually you can haggle a thousand pesos cheaper than what the resort charges). You need to wake up early so as not to miss the dolphins. Arrange for your boatman to collect you from the resort at around 530 AM.

The last time we did this our boatman was able to get very near to the dolphins. We could almost touch them! So don’t forget to ask your boatman to get as close as possible. Dolphins in Bohol I must say are born entertainers. They love giving a show. And it is such a joy to watch them playing at their natural habitat. This is really a must do activity, a real treat enough to make want to come back to Bohol again and again.

Snorkel at Balicasag Fish Sanctuary

When the dolphins have decided they’ve entertained you enough and they scatter away to wherever they spend the rest of the day, your boatman will then take you to the Balicasag Reef / Fish Sanctuary where you can spend the rest of the morning snorkelling! Floating on top of thousands and thousands of colourful fishes is an experience one will never forget. Remember though to bring enough cash with you as you still have to pay for your snorkelling gear and for the banca (as only shallow hulled banca can get near the sanctuary). You can inquire about these beforehand from your boatman so you’ll get an idea how much these extras will cost you.

Virgin island / Sandbar

After you’re thoroughly scorched from hours and hours of snorkelling and decided you’ve had enough swimming with the fishes, ask your boatmen to take you to what they call the Virgin island. You and your hubby or loved one can do a HHWWPSSP (holding hands while walking pa-sway-sway pa) on this crescent-shaped sandbar. How romantic!

You can also arrange with the resort you’re staying for a day sightseeing tour around Bohol. Or if you want to get a cheaper deal, as we all know resort hotels charge a lot that even their local rates are still pretty steep, ask some locals you might see around the resort. Even ask one of the staff or the guards secretly for some local tourist guides they can recommend. Haggle. For the Bohol day tour I think we were able to get it for 2500 only, compared to Amorita’s 4k price. Not bad, eh?

A Bohol sightseeing Day tour usually includes trips to the

Hinagdanan Cave

This is an underground cave with fresh spring water and old stalactites and stalagmites located at Dauis. Click here for more about Hinagdanan Cave.

Blood Compact Site

The blood compact of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna happened at Barangay Bool Tagbilaran City on March 1565. It marks the first treaty of friendship between the Spaniards and the Bo-ol natives. Click here for more about the Blood Compact in Bohol.

Baclayon Church and the Church Museum

The spot where the Baclayon is was just a visita erected by the Jesuits in 1595. Sometime in 1717, the construction of the church commenced. Native Baclayanon forced labourers constructed the church from coral stones, which they took from the sea, cut into square blocks and piled on top of each other. They used bamboo to move and lift the stones in position and used the whites from millions of eggs to cement the coral stones together. (source: http://www.bohol.ph/article8.html)

Loboc River cruise. Don’t miss the eat-all-you-can lunch experience on a floating banca/restaurant that can accommodate up to 50 people while being serenaded by local musicians. The cost of this is outside the day tour package. I think the buffet costs 280 per person.

Tarsier

The tarsier is the world’s smallest primate. Usually the Bohol Day Tour package will take you at Tarsier sites along the Loboc river. But it is strongly advised not to patronise these sites as the tarsiers are kept for tourists or display purposes only... they live shorter lives than Tarsiers living in its natural habitat. Please visit and support instead the sanctuary of Philippine Tarsier Foundation, located at between the municipalities of Corella and Sikatuna in Bohol. Corella is 14 km northeast of Tagbilaran City.

Man-made Forest

On the way to Carmen for the Chocolate Hills, don’t miss the man-made forest of mahogany trees. If you don’t want to get off, just open the windows of your car, stretch out your hand and feel the cool breeze these 2 km rows of giant trees bring. Click here for more about the man-made forest.

Chocolate Hills

Bohol is world famous for its 1268 (or more) chocolate hills that spread the towns of Sagbayan, Batuan, Carmen, Bilar, Sierra Bullones and Valencia. They are not made of chocolate, which what my parents had led me to believe when I was a child and was terribly disillusioned when I first saw them and realized I couldn’t lick them. They are strange geological formation and actually look chocolatey (brown) during the summer. There is a viewing deck atop one of the hill at Carmen town that provide a 360° view of the hills.

Hearthrobs London 2009 LIVE!

2009-09-20T09:11:00.015+01:00

Kapamilya Fiesta in cooperation with KCC Productions proudly present…

SAM MILBY, PIOLO PASCUAL and JOHN LLOYD CRUZ
with Pokwang and Bea Alonzo in London

on 8 November 2009, Sunday
at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane Catherine St. London WC2B 5JF

UPDATE!
I received an email this morning (30th of September) from Ms. Roselle Collado on behalf of Kapamilya Fiesta / KCC Productions that for every ticket sold £1.00 will be donated to Typhoon Ondoy Victims.

Of course I am going. In fact I already reserved a ticket. JLC watch out! *evil grin*

How to reserve and book a ticket? Click here.

Indeed I wouldn't miss this for anything. It's a rare opportunity. Imagine Sam, Piolo and JLC under one roof? This is going to be the grandest jologs moment of my life and here in London no less! Finally I will see JLC in person! Gosh I think I'm gonna swoon. Help.

Map of Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
Nearest underground: Covent Garden

View Larger Map

Wedding AVP Songs (3rd List)

2009-09-19T22:39:00.003+01:00

Here's another list of music that you might want to use for your wedding AVP.

Yellow (Yellow)

Hopelessly Addicted (The Corrs)

I know this is very outdated but this is the most favourite song of my favourite band ever... the Corrs. I just have to include it here because I hopelessly miss them :(

Giving Myself Over To You (Jennifer Hudson)

Now this is a gem, definitely a keeper from the famous American Idol alum, Jennifer Hudson.

Thanks to my good friend Noel for this. I don't know how he does it but he can always find the right songs for you. Those that are sentimental and touch you to the core.

This song of Jennifer's is on the top of my list. Most likely I will use this for our Wedding AVP. It conveys my feelings towards Harley perfectly.

Click this link for a non-live version in YouTube.

A Wedding Dress Tip: Not Your Mom’s Girdles

2009-09-15T22:58:00.016+01:00

I am not overweight but like most girls I am not blessed with taut midriff. I have soft tissues on it. Front and sides. Love handles.

Since I am daring to be ambitious with my choice of wedding dress, (yeah it’s kinda body hugging) I am considering of cheating...

Oh no, not liposuction. No way! But yep, as the title of this post suggests... GIRDLES!

Oh okay maybe when you think of girdles you cringe as you can’t help visualizing those hideous "diapers" your mother used to own. So let’s just refer to it as shapewear, shall we?

Shapewears available nowadays are not only fashionable but really do their jobs. They are made with lightweight materials cleverly designed not only to make us look sexy but also to feel sexy and comfortable wearing one.

Click on this very informative article at Oprah.com regarding how to choose the right panty solution per type of dress.
For my wedding dress I think the best shapewear for it is the second one below:

Where to buy one of those?

Well there's La Perla if you want the high end, expensive one.

With its hefty price tag of $272, it better be effective!

Or you might want to try SPANX. They have a cool range of shapewears. The one below that I like is 75% less than La Perla’s.

Or Fleexes Shapewear by Maidenform is more affordable, price is just £32 or $52

Wacoal sadly doesn’t have that many choices of shapewears. I like the one below but no idea how much it is!

I am sure in the Philippines there are options from Triumph and Avon.

But the question in my mind is (and I'm sure most of you are thinking of this too), how would I pee with one of those?!?

UPDATE!!!
If you're interested of getting a SPANX, a fellow Cebuana W@Wie got hers from another W@Wie. Visit her online shop: http://shoppingabroad.multiply.com/

Debenhams SALE: Excuse for early Christmas shopping

2009-09-12T20:27:00.004+01:00

Debenhams is having a 4 day sale. Again. This started on Wednesday, so it is on its last day today. I went there this afternoon, just out of curiosity. I did not have high expectations about it since the posters just say up to 25% off all departments. But to my glee I did find some racks with items on sale up to 70%! It would be stupid of me to pass up the opportunity and start shopping Christmas presents for my gorgeous girlfriends, wouldn’t it? So definitely you can’t blame me for buying a basketful of really good bargains. Yeah I know. Credit crunch is not yet over. But the world economy is already on its way to recovery, right?

After having combed Debenhams to my heart’s content, I made a beeline to Dorothy Perkins just in case they also have a sale. Lo and behold I couldn’t be more right. (I think I have a sixth sense on these things or something like that). Although there are only a few racks of sale items, I was still able to pick up really lovely pieces discounted to as much as 70% too.

So today I have officially started my Christmas shopping. It’s already a “-ber” month after all.

Below are some photos of the haul I got. I hope the recipients of these will love them. But I do hope more that I can resist from keeping them all to myself and part from them without bawling over. LOL.

A Payroll System for the Philippines

2009-09-09T17:45:00.001+01:00

Four years ago, my cousin who owned a distributorship business at that time asked me if I could create a program that could aid him in his payroll and inventory system. He wanted something he could run on his laptop at anytime and from anywhere he needs it. It may be an easy system to make but as an IT engineer who worked for a demanding company, I never got to start the project he requested. Instead I referred him to a small-time software company who could make the system for him at a reasonable cost but even then he still find it expensive as he didn't have that much capital yet to spare for automation of the system.

This was the first thing that came to my mind when I came across SerBIZyo! technically it's called Sotware-As-A-Service but to put it simply, it's a software program that anyone can access and use anytime, anywhere at no initial cost. In short, a free philippines payroll software. You just need a computer and an internet access, you don't even have to use your own server computer! because your data (e.g. employee list, stock list) are stored securely in SerBIZyo's server, Meaning having your very own system that is accessible through the internet, all you need are your username and password and voila! you can finally do your payroll calculations while lounging in Boracay!

Finally the best thing with SerBIZyo! is that you don't need to allot a big slash on your company's operational budget to automate your system because with SerBIZyo, you only pay when you access your system, pretty much like a pay-per-view movie. And if you try it now, you'll get it for free software in 3-4 months!

Now SerBIZyo! is certainly heaven sent for businessmen like my cousin who can finally enjoy the luxury of having an automated payroll and an upcoming inventory system without causing an arm and a leg!

Give it a try and sign-up for free!