Russet Vixen

2011-11-30T04:56:00.000-08:00

beautiful, lonely bones...

Had a spontaneous road trip with Ashleigh yesterday afternoon, driving along a long country road at high speeds was not ideal, especially when finding signs leading to cute Chapels/ vines/ cafes & having to do a hundred + 1 u-turns.

2011-11-28T00:29:00.000-08:00

halloween was wonderful fun ...

2011-11-28T00:19:00.000-08:00

lack of sleep has never felt so good ...

in the coast this week...

2011-11-24T06:15:00.000-08:00

Mark Black wrote an article on Halifax punk and crust bands taking it on the road and he was kind enough to include us.

2011-11-24T05:15:00.000-08:00

childish uniformity.
collarbones and tiny dogs.
suburban dreams and slow afternoons.
milk and ice-cream.

THANKFUL

2011-11-22T11:51:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone:)

                          I am truly blessed.

I have so many things to be thankful for in my life:) And I wanted YOU to all to know that YOU are one of them. You have no idea how much I enjoy chatting with you all. I am so happy that I have found you and that you have found me. My life is so much more complete with you in it. Something I never even dreamed could happen. Some of you I know personally,some through emails and then others through your sweet comments.

So thank you for being such an important, inspirational part of my life. I am grateful for each and every one of you.

                      HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM MY FAMILY TO YOURS:)
'Till next time..............
~Debra xxx

P.S.
Thank you to all who helped me to find the dress I last posted about. I haven't found that one but have found some that on the top of my list to check out. I knew I could count on you:) xxx

Itchin' To Play R4$

2011-11-21T07:08:00.000-08:00

In class daydreaming of once again playing Rockin' 4 Dollar$ come semesters end. Maybe we'll win more snack foods or get to spit beer on Adrian again?! Either way school will finally be over and VIXENS will be cuttin' loose. REAL LOOSE!

A QUICKIE QUESTION:)

2011-11-19T15:58:00.000-08:00

Hellllloooooooo:)

Hope your weekend is a fabulous one.

My Son and his Fiance are getting married on a beach next year. Since we don't have to be too dressed up I thought I would like to wear this dress or something very similar to it. I think it is so gorgeous. It is not form fitting and the sleeves and bottom are just perfect for me. I think it is dressy but not overly dressy since it will be casual.

Does anyone know where I can find it or one like it????? If anyone would know, I just know that bloggers would. (You are just the savviest and the most resourceful)

Thank you in advance:)

'Till next time.......................
~Debra xxx

Happy Hands and Feet at Let's Face It

2011-11-19T05:58:00.000-08:00

Let's Face It is probably the most familiar beauty center to me. But the fact is, I haven't really spent a minute to any of its branch simply because what sticks into my mind is that Let's Face It is equivalent to painful facial services. However, there will always be a first time for everything, and last Wednesday, my feet strolled the road leading to LFI's Makati Cinema Square branch, not for a facial but for a manicure and pedicure session!

Interior-wise, I love the dimmed concept the place. They are trying to keep the noise at a very minimum level which makes your stay a pleasant one. Anyway, there mani-pedi service is nothing much of a difference to any salon services BUT what makes it very significant to me is that I've found my official "nail carer"! You might ask, why? Ok. So I am this type who wants my dead skin on the side of my toenails be really digged up up to the lowest level. I am a masochist when it comes to my nail care regimen. :p I have been to a lot of nail salons and I always end up either frustrated because I know my nails are not the fully cleaned (meaning dead skins were not fully taken out) or going home with a murdered toe. But not this time with Chai, my nail carer. She got the lightest hands and the sharpest hand and eye coordination that made the entire session so woundless and dead skin fully removed! I was so satisfied everytime she hits my nails with proper might and right timing. My feet literally felt lighter after it has been cleaned!

Another good news for me is that they have the likes of Orly and Essie nail lacquers for an additional Php 20 fee. Better than Enza who charges it at Php 40 and CANS at Php 30 (I think). They doesn't have a widest array of nail lacquers but dwecednt enough to choose your color/s for the day. Not bad. They also use Essie's Fill the Gap as a base coat and Orly's Sec 'n Dry as the top coat.

I chose Lady Like (pale pink) for my hands and Case Study (mocha brown) for my feet. After three days though, my right thumbnail already has a chipped nail polish on the sides. :(

Here are the swatches upon applied onto my nails. The photo does not display the true color of the lady pink as it appears to be like brownish when actually it is a lightest pink. While the ones in my toes are true to its color.

1/2 clean

Verdict: I am coming back to Chai again! Considering that the service fees (starts at Php 130 for the pedicure and Php 120 for the manicure) are quite reasonable for a labeled salon and the superb performance of my nail carer, it really is worth coming back!!! Good job, Chai!

SERENDIPITY, LITCHFIELD, CT

2011-11-16T13:00:00.000-08:00

During the Summer,our friend Lisa introduced us to a lovely shop owner, Liliana Kleid. She is the owner of SERENDIPITY in Litchfield, CT.

Lisa sells her beautiful hand painted furniture and her 'must have' signs there. She thought that Liliana's shop would be a perfect match for our pieces. Nicole and I were so excited!!!

We said "YES we are definitely interested". We met Liliana:) She is not only gorgeous but the sweetest person ever to do business with. And WOW what an artist she is!!!!She can do it all, paint, design jewelry, crochet.........Every time we stop in she is creating something else beautiful. Truly an inspiring woman.

We were there today dropping off our handmade Christmas ornaments and wreaths. I finally remembered to bring my camera to take some pictures to share with you.

I wanted to give you a tour of her shop and show you what she carries. 99% of her things are handmade in the USA.

These are some of the hats that Liliana crochets. All different, all beautiful.

SERENDIPITY is packed with fabulous hand made items.

We brought in this little child's table and chair set. Love the colors.

I love how she uses branches to hang display her things.

This is one of Liliana's paintings. See I told you she was an artist!

Cape Cod sign by LISA and handmade jewelry.

More pieces from LISA.http://serendipitychicdesign.blogspot.com/ She uses the best colors in her work, don't you think?

Liliana features several painters. Aren't these fun?

We just brought this little stool in today. Love that desk!

These belts are really great! So many choices.

These are our belts. I love how Liliana sells different styles. Something for every personality.

Love this color blue. More of Lisa's specialty hand painted furniture.

This is Lisa's too. Tell me what little child wouldn't enjoy coloring at this little desk and chair?

If you are ever in CT you really have to check out this fabulous little shop. It is a fun place to shop and there is always something new.
I hope you have enjoyed this little tour:)

SERENDIPITY
3AA WEST STREET
LITCHFIELD, CT 06759

'Till next time...........
~Debra XXX

Wave 4 Teaser!

2011-11-15T07:28:00.000-08:00

Ok. So my addiction to shoes is getting worse and worse. Cap it off with my friends' request to post more photos of cute shoes of different styles, here I am doing another round of shoe hoarding. I've browsed a literally a gamut of shoes and the pairs below are the "finalists" that made it through my "taste buds". You want proof? My former boss (who is by the way a really BIG boss) went gaga over all these selections and without question, she immediately asked me to get her two pairs! So yes to beautiful shoes!

So, can you guess what did my boss picked? How about mine? Do you want to join the shoe craze? =)

More importantly, scroll down for a very important question I have that needs your answer!!!

... Are you size 7? :) Virtually raise your hand!

Can't?

Then please comment or email me at dahlgren_17@yahoo.com. Thanks muchie!

REPURPOSING AN ANTIQUE CRIB AND BLOGGERS' BODEGA

2011-11-15T05:04:00.000-08:00

Hello:)

Thanks for stopping by. I have something fun to show you today.

As I walked up and down the rows at the flea market this weekend I spotted this fabulous, white, chippy antique crib. I have been looking for one with a decent price for a while now. I originally wanted it to turn into a seat for our future screened in porch.

When I put it all together, I decided that I loved it so much, I needed to use it in the livingroom for something else. Can you guess what I did with it?

The gentleman that I bought it from told me it was from a 90+ year old woman who used it as a baby. He also said it was handed down to her mother when she was a baby. I was so excited to get it. It is in great shape.color
The first thing I needed to do was support the springs. I had an old barn door that fit perfectly. I then moved it into a sunny window.

Love the details:)

Did you guess that I turned it into a wonderful plant stand? I sure did.
Yes, I now have a crib in my livingroom holding my plants. You're probably not surprised, right?

I am sooooo loving it!!!! What do you think??????

I smile every time I walk by it:) And, I have been walking by it a lot:) lol Of course, if you have been reading my blog long enough you know that now 3 rooms are a mess. How can I possibly bring something into the house without having to move lots of other things around? But for me that's the fun part. Rearranging, change, always evolving.

So, tell me,does anyone else have a crib full of plants in their livingroom? Have you repurposed anything lately? You know how much you inspire me:)

BLOGGERS' BODEGA
Tuesdays are BLOGGERS' BODEGA days. Read all of the details at the top of this blog. You will love all of our free advertisers! They all have great sites and remember Christmas is just around the corner:)

`Till next time...............
~Debra XXX

VIXEN ELVES ON DUTY

2011-11-14T04:58:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone:)
How are you all? You may have heard , we had a Noreastern. That's right, lots of snow on trees that were still full with leaves. Our power, heat, water, phone was out for 8 days.

It wasn't pretty. I will say this though, with all of the strange storms that we have been having we are getting quite resourceful with how we handle them. And talking to other people in town, we all share different ideas with each other. It has been a learning experience:)

I won't inudate you with tons of snow pictures, theres lots of time for that. But this is what the entire State of Ct looked like. We had gone to a show on Saturday evening in the snow and on the way home we had to actually dodge fallen trees on the highway! A little scary.

Our yard is such a mess with fallen trees, broken fences etc. But even with all of the destruction, along with no power, I felt very blessed. Our family and friends were all safe and our home was fine. People have gone through much worse than this. There is a lot still to clean up but we will do it and move forward. And we will have lots of firewood for quite a long time:)

In other news....

Nicole and I have been very busy Vixen Elves;)

We have been making Christmas ornaments for a great little shop we sell in called 'Serendipty' in Litchfield, CT. I will have photos of this shop later in the week. You are going to love it:)

We have a Christmas music theme going on this year.

Have you made any ornaments or Christmas decorations this year????

Vintage candy canes.

Don and I celebrated our 32nd Wedding Anniversary on November 3rd. We went away and look at what we found. LOL

Can you imagine the look on the faces of the parents of the child/children who surprised them on their Anniversary????Priceless:)

It's good to be back posting. I'll be around to see what you all have been up too:)

`Till next time.............................................
~Debra xxx

La Vida Es Un Mus

2011-11-13T15:58:00.000-08:00

Our demo is now available in the UK through La Vida Es Un Mus Distro. Thanks Paco!
Check it out here.

2011-11-10T18:37:00.000-08:00

Strawberries, and add your own cream ;-)

Office Outfit: Black, White, and Brown

2011-11-10T07:45:00.000-08:00

Forgive me for the crappy pictures but I want to drop by and share to you what I wore today at the office. You see, I love "recycling" my current favorite pieces and finding out a new combination is just a joy to behold! The elephant pants was worn here and the sheer top here. This was my re-created look!

sheer top from Bugis, Singapore, Elephant pants from Cash n Carry tiangge, heels from SM Parisian

my Coach laptop bag and my MK handbag.

multi-colored stone necklace

I love the loose on loose ped I had for the day. As Levy pointed out, I look sophisticated while wearing this get up. I should have used a bold belt but thinking that I should be more "formal" in the office, I opted to wear brown instead.

So, it's Friday in nearly 15 minutes to go! Hoooray!

Bacolod Outfits Wrap Up

2011-11-08T05:51:00.000-08:00

So a week vacation was spent to my hometown and I managed to sneak some photos of me while roaming around the city.

Out and About:

Forever 21 dress, shoes bought online, Vente necklace, cute elephant and aztec-like bangles bought somewhere, bronze multiple slim bangles from Vente, owl connector ring bought somewhere

Playing blue and pink:

Thifted knitted loose top, random black sleeveless, Forever 21 Jeans, shoes bought online, Coach bag, Vente necklace, and bangles, personally made bracelets, random ring

Make it Red:

Color blocking top from Bugis, Singapore, Parisian shoes, all accessories bought somewhere, satchel bag from Divisoria

Sunday Swimming:

Summer dress bought at Robinsons

Dinner with college friends:

recreated this look by accessorizing too much and doning my fierce shoes!

Review: NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream (Amsterdam, Abu Dhabi, and Antwerp Shades)

2011-11-08T04:55:00.000-08:00

I felt like I need to get new sets of my lippies. There is no concrete reason why, but I just need new ones. :p Of course, it's always CFS whom I go to when it comes to online shopping of cosmetics. I wanted to try the other line of NYX lippies which is the soft matte so I asked Armie to choose three tubes for me and here are what she cherry-picked!

I normally don't copy any description in a product's label but I can't help but replicate how NYX describe this line. It is how I exactly view them and I am glad they've done it for me. Haha. NYX soft matte lip cream is:

"not a lipstick nor is it a gloss"
"something you haven't experience before"
"a lipstick cream that goes on silky but looks soft matte"

NYX soft matte lip cream for me is tha bomb! It just feels right when I swipe them on my lips and the scent, oh the scent!, is just so heavenly to smell but doesn't make you feel like nauseous afterwards. you know what I mean? There are some products that are just too "fragrant" it makes you feel like engulfed in a room filled with air freshener - but not the NYX soft matte lip cream.

The tube is so sleek and chic and clean that it adds up to the whole look of the product. I love good packages.

Top to bottom: Abu Dhabi, Antwerp, Amsterdam

As to the shades, I actually like the variations I got. Amsterdam is the red one making it a statement shade. My niece likes this very much! It is close to MAC's Ruby Woo but lighter when it comes to "redness".

Abu Dhabi is more of the nude type. Perfect for that smoky eyes and toning down your aggressive look. It is close to NYX's summer love but I like Abu Dhabi better as the former is really "too nude".

Antwerp is the pinky-pinky type where it is perfect to achieve that pa-girl effect. It is most wearable during the day when you just need a pop of color into your face without that heavy make up look. It is like NYX's tea rose.

here's me wearing Antwerp. See how it pops up even from afar. :)
Priced at Php325, surely you got a good deal!

2011-11-02T10:43:00.000-07:00

/./ ☂ \./ ☂ \./ ☂ \.\

... spring days ...

2011-11-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

☪ ~ ☪ ~ ☪ ~ ☪

>>so much 2 do, so LIL time<<
so much I want 2 do ?! ~!
p,s I gotz a front fringe now !!1!

Halloween and Bridal Shower Party

2011-10-31T05:44:00.000-07:00

One by one, the family members of USLS BSA 2004 are tying the knot. It was just like a dream away when all of us were struggling to cross the line between college and corporate world. We were young then, not so young now!

But first, my outfit post! :p

Nere doing my "cobweb" eye

model modelan lang

Preview shoot daw. chos.

So anyway, last Saturday was Julyvin's turn to be the queen of the bridal shower. This time around, we had it celebrated with her other friends from high school, from neighborhood, and from other college friends. It was fun knowing her other friends as well!

the beautiful bride-to-be

Lanoline, the best party organizer ever was as usual the brain behind the spooky set up, the yummy foods, and the naughty games! A rented room at Atrium Hotel near LRT Buendia (which is by the way an overly strict hotel) was turned temporarily into a creepy place. I admired how they set it up like a pro! Armed also with a masquerade, which the Liwag girls have heartily made themselves, we donned into our black pieces and slashed out some halloween make ups onto our faces. So wee, naughty evils were on their way to a naughtier night!

with the party organizer!

The first activity we had was to cut a thread at the lenght of your own desire. It was more of a "getting to know you game" as you need to tell the group how you are related to the bride-to-be and what will make you say "I do" to a person. And while you are narrating, you have to roll the thread on your fingers and you can't stop while the thread is not yet fully rolled. So the longer your thread, the longer you need to talk! This activity divulged an "ah talaga?" moments such as the group only knew that I am related to Julyvin in three ways": we are from the same subdivision, we are classmates in grade school, and again in college. It was only that time to know that Julyvin and Melai, our other classmate, are second cousins. Amazing, ayt? :)

Kristy giving her testimony

Enter the next activity. The objective was that you have to reach your hand on the floor and trace it on a piece of paper without bending your knees. Yes, it is hard! So what is the relation of this game to a so-called briday shower, you may ask. In one corner, there stood another group member who secretly jotted down all the words we uttered while doing the activity. Just think of these words:

- start na?

- sala man na (it is wrong)

- ohhhhh

- ahhhhh

- ay kakapoy (it's so tiring)

- on the floor

- sakit lawas ko (my body is aching)

- tapos na

...And these words should be used in a story to depict the first night of the couple after the wedding. H-I-L-A-R-I-O-U-S!!! Everyone was laughing so hard. Hard. Oh yes, our team won!

super challenging the game!

We've had another game called dress up the bride using a roll of tissue paper. The creative side of the girls surfaced as the two teams competed for the best wedding gown. It challenged our "delicateness" as you have to carefully create the piece without turning the tissue to its end state - "basura"! The result? Our bride with a peek a boo boobsie and the other team's uncovered butt!

The next game was showcasing your skills in "ayud" (how can I even vividly describe it in English?!). So here it goes, you have a stocking with calamansi fruits stacked in it and a can of beer which you need to artistically push on the other side using the former and your flexible waist! Just picture out how the player looked like while playing the game! :D

the Molavin sisters doing the "ayud" movement! :p

The last game was, simply put, a gross game!

Jermaine and I have to eat the banana slipped in between the legs of Giselle and Melai. And take note, the bananas are unpeeled and they keep on moving for us not to grab them!

But of course, what task can't I deliver? During the first round, I easily cut the banana with my teeth, and peeled it in inside my mouth and the second round, I managed to take out the banana meat with the skin intact. LOL LOL LOL!

Four crazy activities exhausted all our energies that on the next ones, we had Julyvin do all the activity. :p We asked her naughtiest questions which she gamely answered but of course, those were sealed in the four walls of room 2214 - Atrium hotel. :p We also palyed bingo where she needs to act out some naughty moves but July still managed to act them out "decently". Haha. And yes, the opening of the gifts! Girls really have creative ideas of what to give to the bride to be! I love all of them!

charade!

hmmmm... one steamy night! haha!

We capped the night with a group's cheers and wishing Julyvin all the happiness in her married life!

Oh, and yeah, our team was the overall champion! :p

hmmmm.... :p

the whole gang!

It was short but very well celebrated events! Thanks Lanoline for being the group's party organizer FOR LIFE! :)

Home!

2011-10-30T10:21:00.000-07:00

As of 1:17 AM, this is the status of my luggage. My flight is at 4:55 going to my hometown - the great Bacolod! Gah, I hateeeee packing!

On the side note, I have too many back logs in terms of blogs. I can't wait to drive down at our farm and jot some entries while having a frsh buko juice. Yum! So I had another accessory hoarding, and outfit post, a new make up purchase, etc etc etc!

So for the meantime, I need to get back to my unfinished task of packing, take a quick bath, and head to the airport!

Happy holidays everyone!

GOOD TIMES ON TOUR

2011-10-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

Here is a brief look at Vixens summer travels around our fair country. Lots of good people, cool bands and all dressed hot dogs. Big ups to : Meghan and Crystal, Marlee, Liz and Adjani for letting us crash at their place, Matt Cuthbert in T.O., Jesse of Mighty Atom, Germ Attack, Tay, Riley/G.O.D. and all the fine people of Peterborough, Alex at Death House, The boys of Contagium, Tom D. for blasting sweet metal all night as we slept, The Shambles, Candace, Vicky and Morgan, Sam for the BBQ and yachties, Laura, and Adam's parents keeping it real in Kanata.

Contagium at Katacombes, Montreal.

Basking in the afterglow of our first set of tour at Death House - Montreal

Crosss at Death House - Montreal

Chris and Jason at Rob's Mom's place - Ottawa

Parting ways with the boys - Bracebridge

Working the door at The Spill - Peterborough

G.O.D. - Peterborough
THE BUGGERS - Peterborough
Post show Karaoke - Peterborough
Peddling merch at Soybomb. Who could say no to that face? - Toronto
Ready to party - Toronto
Fine dining on the road - Kitchener
Polina (Nfld) - Kitchener
Mighty Atom - Kitchener
Impressed/unimpressed with 7 Eleven - Kitchener
Free eats at Casa de Popolo - Montreal
Back in the Maritimes - Truck stop somewhere in New Brunswick
Anticipating the last show of tour outside Gallery Connexion - Fredericton
Atomic Machetes - Fredericton
Making the most of our last night away - Fredericton

COLLECTING OTHERS PEOPLES PAINTINGS

2011-10-28T15:33:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:)

Do any of you paint? Or do you collect other peoples paintings? I am a self taught painter. Or at least I like to think I am;) lol
I do like to scour markets and tag sales for paintings done by others. Usually flowers and people speak to me.
I have many hung up on the walls like my own little art gallery. Some lean against furniture and yet there are a few on shelves.

This is one of mine. See, I told you I was self taught:) Roses are my favorite thing to paint, which is strange because when I use pastels I tend to do only portraits. Pastels I understand how to use.With paints I am still learning. I wish I had more time to practice my painting. The more you do something the better you become, right?
This is another one of mine. Don't ask me what style I paint in. I have no idea. Do you? It may just be my own. I'd love to know.
I fell in love with this painting of a little girl. She is so sweet, don't you think? Most of my paintings are not framed. I like them that way.
This painting of a beautiful woman, I did frame because I just happened to have a great old frame to fit her. Love the colors in it.

This is the second picture I've ever painted. I love old cars and trucks and a photographer friend of mine gave me a picture of this old truck that he photographed, so I decided to try my hand at painting it.
Here are a few more I have acquired. The pink roses and the white ones are mine. I believe the child is a very old painting.

I painted the top one and bought the bottom. See, I told you I like painting roses;) So what have you self taught yourself to do?

'Till next time................
~Debra xxx

Back in the Saddle

2011-10-28T10:56:00.000-07:00
Aww Yeeeah!! On October 15th we played our first post - tour show at The Purple House with ROOT ROT, PRIMITIVE ACCUMULATION, NEGATIVE CIRCLES, MAKE NO GAINS and MEAN MUG. Lots of people crammed inside for a sweet time of kitchen moshing. Thanks to those who put on the show! We would love to play there again in the future. Check out photos and a review by the cool folks at http://www.diyhalifax.ca/
We'll also be playing a Halloween house show on October 30th with SILENT ORDER, PRIMITIVE ACCUMULATION and MAKE NO GAINS. Special guest Tonetta will be filling in on vocals for the night. An evening not to be missed!

A WONDERFUL INTERVIEW WITH THE ONE AND ONLY CINDY ADKINS

2011-10-27T05:22:00.000-07:00

              Hello Everyone:)
Nicole and are were very fortunate to get an interview with the multi talented Cindy Adkins!!!

Cindy Adkins is one special lady. She is smart, talented, inspirational and along with so many other wonderful attributes Nicole and I consider her our friend:)

She has graciously agreed to an interview about her new E-Books, 'BLOGGING: IT'S A WOMAN" THING', 'BLOG FROM THE HEART: A WOMAN'S GUIDE TO BLOGGING', AND 'FOR BRIDES ONLY' CREATING A WEDDING BLOG.If you haven't read them yet, you are really missing out. They are short (you can read one in 20 minutes)and sweet and jam packed with fun information about blogging. Really they are fabulous!
You will want to print these out for future reference.

Cindy doesn't just have one blog she writes for three!!! I know right? I sometimes have problems keeping up with just one;)
http://whimsicalmusingsmagazine.blogspot.com/

http://shabbychicgirlsclub.blogspot.com/

http://cindyadkinswhimsicalmusings.blogspot.com/

So without further delay, let me introduce to you; CINDY ADKINS!

Nicole and I first want to thank you so much for letting us interview you on your fabulous E-Books. We loved all three of them!

Cindy: Oh Debra and Nicole, thank you so much. I am so glad that you had fun reading them. They were intended to give women inspiration so that they could create the best blogs possible. Blogging not only opens up a whole new world to women, but unlike other social media, with a blog someone is the “star” of their own show. It is their private space and just like a home, women can make them whatever they want them to be.

One of the most common concerns women have about blogging is content. They often fear that they will run out of things to display or talk about. My books offer a whole new slant and help them relax and enjoy the process. They are not technical, but rather, inspirational. To me, blogging is like one big pajama party--it is a blast!

Debra & Nicole: How long have you been blogging and why did you start?

Cindy: I actually started blogging about a year and a half ago. Prior to that, I had a website for my mixed media art for a year. Visitors came to the website, but when I started my blog, it’s as if “the lights went on” and the traffic was amazing. I was finally interacting with people daily and it was a whole new exciting world for me.
But, blogging not only opened up contacts for personal reasons, but also, it was through my contacts in the blog world that I came in contact with art galleries and stores. For any women interested in working from home, I think that a blog is definitely one of those “must-have” items that can help jump-start their careers.

D&N: Tell us a little about your background.

Cindy: I have a Master’s Degree in Humanities and am a newspaper writer in New Orleans, as well as a mixed media artist and professional photographer. My work is featured in art galleries and I also have an Etsy store. In addition, I create digital art and am on 3 design teams. One of my favorite things to do is to create custom blog buttons and headers for people’s blogs.

Also, I enjoy helping people learn how to get more traffic to their blogs and understanding the “techie” part of blogging too. I have a seminar called Blogging 101: A Seminar for Women on my Whimsical Musings blog. I created a static page, so if anyone wants to take the class, it is free and is always available at the top of my blog.

The week of November 4, I am planning a week-long set of activities, including a giveaway and tutorials for “Victorian Christmas” week. There will be numerous projects that crafters can make with instructions.

D&N: You are such a giving person. What drives you?

Cindy: I would say it is my love of art, as well as my love of people. I have met so many wonderful friends through blogging.

D&N: What inspired you to write these wonderful books?

Cindy: I wanted to create a vehicle whereby women could be inspired to produce amazing blogs no matter what their interests are in life. I think that blogging is extremely empowering and gives women an individual, as well as a collective “voice.”

I have received so many emails about the books since I wrote them. In fact, I rarely check the stats on my books, but when I looked the other day, “Blogging: It’s a Woman Thing” went up 100,000 ranks on Amazon.

I think that it is rare to find material that is for women written by a woman that speaks to their needs and concerns, including time management and balancing home and families while blogging.

D&N: What is the main thing you want people to take away from these books?

Cindy: I want them to know that no matter who they are, they have a story to tell and people who will be interested in reading it and meeting them personally through their blogs. To me, blogging is about value and worth and knowing that each of us has our own talents and gifts and we grow so much from meeting others with similar interests.

D&N: We are curious, how do you remember everything about all of your followers? Do you keep some sort of journal or do you just have a great memory:)

Cindy: Oh my goodness, I don’t know how I remember everyone! I would say that it is usually because something about their blog makes it stick out in my memory. I remember the first time I saw your blog. Do you want to know what I thought? lol I adored your header. It is completely dreamy. Then, when I saw your home, I was in awe. I remember saying to my husband, “Honey, come look at this--it is astounding!” That’s how I remembered you, Debra. And how do I remember Nicole? It’s because we are Twitter pals and she taught me all about using Twitter--Did I mention that I think you are both awesome?

D&N: What is the biggest thing you have taken away from blogging?

Cindy: I have gotten so much from it, but I would have to say that it is the connection with other people that makes it so meaningful.

D&N: How do you organize your thoughts.

Cindy: I have been so used to writing academic papers, as well as a Master’s thesis, that writing my new books was actually pure FUN! Because blogging is something that I truly enjoy, it is very easy to write about.

D&G: And lastly, do you have plans for future books?

Cindy: I have 2 books in the works at the present time. One is about men’s blogging and it is very entertaining, especially because I am interviewing men with some interesting stories to tell. I am also writing a book called “Angles at my Door” and because I have had so many spiritual experiences happen in my life, I am excited to be able to put them into words to inspire others. I am hopeful that it will be released in time for Christmas.

Thank you once again, Cindy. Nicole and I just think you are an amazing,creative and giving woman. Thank you for your time.

Oh Debra and Nicole, thank you so much for this opportunity. It has been so fun talking to you about things that I feel are so passionate about. I want to thank you not only for this interview, but also for all you do on a daily and weekly basis for all of us who have Etsy stores. You have such a generous spirit and it is so apparent the minute that anyone comes to your blog.

Didn't I tell you she was great?!?! And fun. right?????
(All photos were taken from Cindy's blogs:)
Thank you for stopping by and meeting Cindy if you haven't already met her. Check out her blogs and her etsy.

'Till next time..............
~Debra xxx and Nicole

2011-10-26T19:04:00.000-07:00

Body & Balance.
Zen & Clouds.
- Seth Cray -

Seth is always a fun/ hectic person to work with. Yesterday was crazy, waking up at obscene hours and driving under harsh winds and rain. (Up and down the steep Perth hills, mind you!)
I've been photographing his garments on various models for the past year. His pieces may not be liable for everyday wear or if you're looking for something comfortable, but they show some sort of aesthetic which is untainted and are, integrally, an art piece. His pieces reflect what he aims for- he gracefully screws all trends that are around and exposes to viewers his unique out-take on a fashion + art theme.

The top two photos are most possibly my favourite from the shoot. With a wonderful location and model it was hard to choose.
I love, love candid photos (if you haven't already noticed)- the first is Seth fitting our model Tash. The second is Tash modelling my most favourite piece out of the nine garments.

P,s it's Tash's birthday today! Happy birthday Tash x

Product Review: The Body Shop Tailored Cheek Tint

2011-10-26T08:39:00.000-07:00
This card keeps me coming back to a The Body Shop store:

I guess it is a good form of marketing strategy. Anyhow, during my hiatus days, I have bought good and not so good things. Unfortunately, when my blogging mode started to kick in again, I have completely forgotten about them. But tonight, as I was looking for my lip balm, I spotted this little tube in side my kikay kit and have thought of spending some more minutes in the internet and talk about it. This little tube is Body Shop's cheek tint.

I bought this during those times when I am obsessed to practical make ups and this one just fits the purpose. I wanted to shy away from any powder forms or any texture that would produce undesired flakes on my office wears and those make ups that I need not to take out my brush set whenever I am applying them. Yes, I usually do my make up on my way to the office so it really requires that my stuff are "flake-free".

So back to this product, I love it because it is not a space-eater in my kikay kit. The tube is easily cleaned when dirt is embracing it. These two factors make it a winner for the packaging feature. And oh, white and pink just look so clean together!

The tip is like a "feathery" type just the same as the one for the lip gloss. It is soft so I need not to worry that it might hurt my face. With the right pulse in squeezing it, you'll get the right amount of tint that you need. But unlike the lip gloss with this type of tip, it cannot be used alone, especially when you already have to spread them in your face. The tip is perfect for applying a lip thingie, not on the cheeks. So I end up using my fingertips to lather them in my face (which I think is not hygienic). I have dirty hands you know. :p

I like the pink shade of this product. It is for me a good reference to a "pa-girly" effect. It is not a screaming pink but at the same time it gives you a blush shade that you need in an ordinary day. Another winner factor is that it is not greasy when applied - both to the face and to the hand.

See the pink thing on the photo above? That was it when I wiped off the product on my hand. It stays, really.

So there it is. It is something that I wan to see on my kikay kit especially if I needed an instant doll up. By the way, I got this for like Php 250 when they had their sale. :)

WHO LOVES RUST AND TIN?

2011-10-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

I do! I do!

Happy Tuesday:)

If you have been reading my blog for a while you know how much I love rust and tin. Who would have thought. I wanted to show you some of the pieces that I have had the pleasure of buying.

These galvanized tins and sap bucket are fairly new to my collection. What will I do with them you ask? Well the large one will hold my winter shoes and boots in my bedroom. The smaller one may hold extra pillows until I put a Christmas tree in it and the sap bucket will be filled with a plant or Holiday decoration. Can you picture it?
There is a sweet woman who cuts these tins out and sells them at Brimfield. I LOVE them!!! This one is pretty pink perfection.
                           This one is galvanized too. Saw it and had to have it. Can it get any rustier;)
This white one is one of my favorites. Just look at it, it's gorgeous!!!!! The vase is pretty great too.
                          I bought three of these stools for my kitchen island. The top fabric needs to be changed but the nuts and bolts don't look like they will be easy to get off. So for now I put some pretty vintage doilies on top. I'm happy with this look for now. Perfect for extra seating and they are my color:)
Got this beauty from Maine this year. I was so excited when I saw it!!! And for $10.00, how could I not bring it home;)
               Chicken feeders are great for plants. A bunch of Sea Onions make their home in this one.
                                I wonder what this tin was used for originally. Love the chippy paint.
        OH!!!!!!!!!!! LOVE THIS COLOR and just look at the  French embellishment.
LOOK!!!! I found a roll of this fabulousness last week at the market. Isn't it great? Not sure what I am going to do with it yet. It has to be special. What would you do with it? Do you have tin pieces in your home too?

Well, I'm off to get my tetanus shot so I can continue to live with all of my rust;)

Hope you are having a wonderful week:)

'Till next time...........................................
~Debra xxx

2011-10-24T19:44:00.000-07:00

jumping for many joys at the moment...
exams will start and be done with soon!
father is back!
projects piling up for summer!
meeting new peoples!
hurraaah!

Accessories Hoarding at Vente

2011-10-24T07:53:00.000-07:00
Yesterday, boyfie and I decided to spend the afternoon in the mall where we least frequently go and Robinsons Ermita came to our mind. I know that the Midtown wing is already up for quite sometime but I never really had the chance to check it out. I only have two intentions: to get my foot spa and pedicure and spend an ample time to walk and walk (you know, calorie burning). I wanted to try out Nail Spa Lounge by Ellabelle. But being poor in direction striked again, so I was walking and walking through the mall like a headless chicken. No joke, it took me more than an hour to locate the place only to find out that their service fees are too steep for me at the moment (I am currently in a shopping/spending ban) so I doubted either to get a pampering session. In the end, I surpassed the temptation. Hooray to me!

But I did not want to get out of the mall without something for myself. It is when I spotted a small stand of Vente in one corner and I remembered getting some cute earrings there before. So I scrolled down each display... and I got these:

All for just 498 Php!

They are so refreshing to see and it is exciting to inject them on my wardrobe. Casual wardrobe on that note. Accessories are really one of the things that give life to your entire look. Like shoes, it can make or break an outfit. I love them. And it is just in time to have them on my hands as I cannot find my other accessories. Yes, I am that disorganized! Lol.

So this whole shopping and spending ban is working for me, eh? We'll see until when can I suppress my system!

Review: Maybelline Clear Smooth Foundation

2011-10-23T04:27:00.000-07:00
There are instances in life that in due course of time, animosity comes between two things. I experienced this with my long time love, my Ellana foundation. I've got raves for their products specifically the foundie. But I don't kow why our relationship got stained. This was caused maybe by the long time I haven't swept it on my face and I outgrown my dependency on Ellana. It might also be that some elements in my face changed that using it just doesn't do good on me. We've lost that tandem, I may say.

And because of this, I wanted to explore some other good products out there in the market. I was meaning to get a MAC foundation which I am pretty much confident that it is a good, if not the best, foundation there is. BUT, I am currently in a shopping ban so I need to delay my gratification at the moment for MAC. So while I was browsing through the Watsons shelves one afternoon, I spotted the Maybelline Smooth and Clear Foundation. I remembered my friend Rolla have one. I tried it once and it looked good on me. It was a close to perfect choice at that time because I've tried (and liked) some of Maybelline's products, had a good encounter with the product, and it is cheap at Php 249!

The foundation I got was the Honey variant. I tried using it without any BB cream and it still does its job of smoothening my face. There are times that my face gets cakey especially when I don't use moisturizer but nevertheless, my face looks better with it. Performance-wise, it does stay longer about 3-4 hours when applied. I've used this for less than a week.

The foundation itself is fine in doing its job but the biggest irritant for me is this:

You see, I bought a pressed foundation to spare myself from these annoying flakes scattering around while I do my make up but this one defeated my purpose. I haven't smashed it against the wall nor forcefully dropped it on the floor. It's just that it is hollow inside. Proof:

I am not the OC type but I just can't stand the mess it creates inside my bag. All of my things (wallet, ID, kikay kit) are dilapitated with all these irritating flakes. Just see the edges of the kit and the mess it created on my pants. Spell H-A-S-S-L-E. I'm alienating the kit on the side pocket of my bag so as not to create further "damage" on my things.

So there it is. I can't wait to get another foundie and get rid of this Maybelline Smooth and Clear Foundation.

Thrift Buys!

2011-10-22T10:07:00.000-07:00
I am a shopaholic. I admit it. But there are times that I need to overpower that eagerness to exhaust my bank account and spend lavishly to whatever fancies my eyes. So last pay day, I commanded myself to slash a bulk of my pay and pour it into my savings. It was hard, but I need to discipline myslef from time to time. Putting in my working bank balance to the level where it can only support my neccesity and being a lady who clamours for new things every now and then, I am in the brink of insanity. Exagg, of course. But you see my point, it is really hard.

Then one day, thrifting came into my mind. how could I not remember it in an instant? It bridges the gap between spending and saving practically the answer to my problem. Lol. The thought of it ignited my interest and I was too eager to step on the stores and find my new gems. So did I find something worthy to be called a treasure? Well, I did!

Here are the run down on what I have unearth in the excting place called "Ukay" in Makati Cinema Square!

Shoe Good Debut!

2011-10-22T03:53:00.000-07:00
I had a heartbreak last time when my seven lovely shoes won't perfectly fit me. But... I am happy that finally, after a series of hopeful tries, one of my most favorite pair welcomed my feet. It's still not a perfect fit but at least, I can walk with it. Lol.

Ignoring the wrong size, the shoes is a runaway winner! The heels are high, but they are sooooo light to walk with. It's like walking with just a feather on my feet. It really is a head turner - from the office down to random places I got to go with, people seem to glue their eyes on my shoes! Yes, that stare of oh-my-gosh-i-want-that-pair-too! No, I am not exagerrating things. The pair is so fierce. Period!

I'd like also to flaunt my new thrifted dress (next post is dedicated to my recent hoard!) which I'd say as more of a Forever 21 piece! You know how I adore laces now so my heart jumped when I spotted this piece. No stains, no loose threads. It's in a very good condition!

I wore this outfilt yesterday when everyone in the office was away and I had the self-proclaimed freedom of wearing jeans! Lol. Right after office hours, I went to eat at Baja in Greenbelt 3, watched Killer Elite, and muched on deli cupcakes! It was a nice and chillax Friday. A good one actually. Of course, I was with Levy. :)

Fridays are love...and so are Saturdays! =)

2011-10-18T08:52:00.000-07:00

† † †

Halloween is creeping up- Lisa and I are organising a spook-ta-cular night.
Possibly main thing on my mind for past days ... and it really shouldn't be.
ghouls, eyeballs, cauldrons with deathly potions, full moons, cats and crosses

† † †

"Forget about it, I willed my brain. Leave that for tomorrow as well. But the chances of tomorrow being an improvement on today were, unfortunately, slim. Gloomy thoughts weren't going to get me anywhere, I decided, and closed my eyes. I soon fell into a deep sleep."

Russet Vixen

2011-10-18T08:16:00.001-07:00
welcome friends from all over the world

AN AWARD AND BLOGGER'S BODEGA

2011-10-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone:)

How was your weekend? Mine was great. Went to the flea market, did some things around the barn and went for Chinese food at my Son Deg and Marci's house. Delicious!!!

I checked my email and guess what!!!!!

Revi from Revisionary Life gave me an AWARD!!! She is so sweet:) If you haven't checked out her blog you are missing some fun.
A BIG THANK YOU REVI!!!!!!


Now I am supposed to list 7 things about me that you may not know. Hmmmmmm
Well, here goes...........

1. I used to own a Pet Shop. Loved it but working 7 days a week was a killer.

2. I witnessed the birth of my three grand daughters. Is that too much info? Nicole and I were actually able to be silly and laugh during the births. She had great Doctors who laughed along with us. But I think I can deliver the next one myself.

3. I always have projects going on and have the messy house to prove it. Happiest when I am creating.

4. I love chocolate peanutbutter ice cream, is there any flavor better?

5. When I do something I am committed. I put my all into it whether it be a relationship, a project or eating chocolate peanut butter ice cream;)

6. I am a news junkie and love listening to talk shows all day while working or cleaning my house. Love to learn what others are thinking.

7. Don and I are getting bikes in the Spring and will be cycling together next year. Get ready for lots of funny photos. I'm already stressing about what I will wear because in this little town, bicyclists are very serious and wear those stretchy pants. You know the kind that just look like you want to drive up beside them and pinch their butts. lol Well, Don and I will not be wearing that look. It would be totally inappropriate for young children to see;)So I will be doing some research on the right look for us.

Hope I didn't bore you;0

Now the hard part. I am supposed to pick 15 of my favorite blogs. I struggled with this so much. I finished my list and came up with 32!!!!!! It's like picking my favorite child. I can't do it. The ladies I follow are all so sweet and funny and inspirational in their own special way. I learn every day. Then there is the "What if I forget someone". Seriously, I will lose sleep over this part. I love that Revi was able to pick her favorites. She is kind and brave. I am honored and humbled and really appreciate the award. I hope she will not be upset that I just can't pick.

         BLOGGERS' BODEGA
MAISONSTGERMAIN.COM IS STILL HAVING A 50% OFF SALE. STOP OVER AND SAY HELLO.

This is where you will find FABULOUS SHOPS that our fellow Bloggers own, every Tuesday!!! Everyone can visit and anyone can link up. Advertisement is FREE!
Why is it FREE ?Well, we know what owning an on- line boutique and etsy is all about. All the work and creativity that goes into it all. We wanted to be a place where you get a break from expensive advertising and just do it for FREE. No catches or jumping through hoops. We won't even ask for your first born;)

All we ask is that you grab the link and/ or button and put it on your blog. This will help in sharing these wonderful sites. This is a great way for your online boutiques, etsy shops, ebay, Bonanza etc. to find the cream of the crop shoppers. For more information, please click the BLOGGERS' BODEGA on our side bar.

`Till next time.........
~Debra xxx

Weekend Activities

2011-10-16T01:15:00.000-07:00

Jolly songs filling the air. Cold weather soothing our bodies. Annnddd... endless mall sales robbing our bank accounts. It's the countdown to Christmas 2011!

And just as everyone is excited about Christmas, malls are doubling their efforts in painting their establishments with that big and wide letters: S-A-L-E! I succumb (again?) to their ploy. :) Yesterday,, Levy and I took one of the "biggest" sacrifices we have on a Saturday and that is waking up early and do this sale-hunting. The metro is crazier at this time. As early as 9:30 AM all roads are jampacked and we reached SM Megamall at about an hour from Makati. Yes, on a Saturday early morning. So to ease the boredom, we had some photo ops while stucked in the traffic. ;p

sultry look daw... haha.

The craziness did not stop there as parking slots on that mall are already full up to the third level. Whew! Anyway, our first stop technically was the Megatent where BPI outlet sale is being held but we opted to catch a slot at Megamall. There wasn't much to see at the BPI sale but we ended up buying a Sebago Dockside for Levy, a Dockers polo for my dad, a cute dress for my niece, and an office longsleeve for myself. I was quite disappointed with Sebago because their stuff are sold for 20% off as opposed to their advertisement of 70%.
bargain hunters at Megatent!

After that we went back to Megamall to check out Forever 21 but again, I found nothing compelling to buy. Both the regular and sale items are so-so for my taste and I really didn't spend more time there because of too many people rummaging through the racks and racks of clothes. And yes, people at Megamall were like ants which led us to a decision to leave the mall and transfer to Rockwell to get our dose of Happy Lemon's rock salt and cheese! Gawd, I love that drink! Still didn't get anything to buy there so Levy and I just decided to take a rest and chit chat with his mom, Tita Ruth, at his place. Finally I got to sit down and relax!

I guess it was not my shopping day yesterday. My fairy shopping godmothers must have controlled my spendings. Ulk! Anyway, it doesn't hurt not to spend so I am thankful as well. Haha.

That's it for my Saturday.

Come in this morning, we had a brunch at Kanin Club in Ayala Triangle and grabbed some sweets at Amici. Here's what I wore:

I super love this jersey dress which I bought from Zara as it is so flexible to wear. This time, I have this overlapped with a loose, see-through like top I had from one of my ukay moments way, way back. :)

Green, pink, and brown combination.

Colorful ring from Quiapo, bag from Longchamp

That's it for my weekend so far, how about yours? :)

Shoe Good - Wave Two!

2011-10-13T07:57:00.000-07:00
Remember THIS? Well, I'm coming back with a vengeance! I'll have another wave of ordering shoes, this time, ill make my size right! lol. But to save more on shipping and hopefully on customs, I invite you to look on this Facebook album, scout for other cute styles ,and grab one for yourself! Together, we will all be happy! Haha.
I've priced them based on the last purchase I had. If in total the price is lower than the published one, I'll give rebates. Don't you guys worry, wala akong tubo here. hahaha!
So spread the news! Payment would be upon arrival of shoes, so I am taking the risk of buying them and you if in some sad reasons, not getting the pair you ordered. :|

Shoot me a note on either of the following communication channel:
1. comment on the Facebook album
2. email at dahlgren_17@yahoo.com
3. tweet me at www.twitter.com/dahlgrenjoy
4. SMS me at 09278593406

Thanks and happy scouting!

Some teasers!

VICTORIAN SETTEE REDO!!!

2011-10-12T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:)

This week I am joining WHITE WEDNESDAY and FURNITURE FRIDAY! This is the first time I have ever joined two fabulous blogs.
Remember I told you that I am switching things up a bit in the library?
OK, so I've had this Victorian Settee in my garage just waiting for me to come to its rescue.
When I found it I was amazed at how sturdy it was. It didn't move at all when I tugged at it. That and the fact that the price was great, well it was a no brainer.
I don't do tufting, yet. And I don't paint every piece I find but this settee had a strange shiny type of wood that I didn't care for so I painted it white. So happy that I did. Then I gave it a deep distressed look by using my little Mouse Sander. I love that sander.
         I found this great nappy fabric from my favorite fabric shop for the front of the settee. I used simple tacks. Nothing fancy.
But you know me, I do my own thing and did the back in one burlap bag. LOVE this color of the stripe And I do love my burlap. It matches the little table that I showed you in my last post. I seem to be so happy doing furniture like this, smiling at every tack I nailed in:)
I picked up this gorgeous wooden trim at the flea market from a gentlemen, Matt, who sells fabrics and trims. He always has a great selection to choose from. Guess how much I paid for this piece which is only a part of a piece. Only $3.00!!!!! for the whole piece. Love the markets!!!!
      The settee comes out a little in the front which is why the trim looks higher in the middle.
                                                                   Nubby love
                                         Love the deep distressed curves.
                                                 Gorgeous rose sits on top:)
                                     Don't you just love that stripe?????
The wrinkles will eventually relax. They don't bother me a bit.
                             So what have you been up to?
`Till next time...............
~Debra xxx

Celeteque DermoScience Soothing Lip Balm

2011-10-12T07:11:00.000-07:00
Taking a quick break from a whole day meeting drove me to Watson's inside my office's building. I haven't really bought any cosmetics during the last month or so because I wanted to rest my face with too much experiment. I had a major breakout of my life and I swear I don't want to go back to that again. My face is too far from perfect but at least now, zits are manageable and scars are slowly vanishing.

Ok. I think I am getting further from my post as lip balm does not really affect my face. Lol. I think the best reason why I was compelled to buy one is that I ran out of Carmex and my EOS spheres are nowhere to be found. I can't stand using a lipstick without a lip balm underneath so I end up having pale lips these days.

I was about to detach a Lip Ice lip balm on its holder when a Celeteque lady approached me and introduced me to their brand's lip balm under the DermoScience+ line. Honestly, I cannot muster good words for the line as one of the causes of my breakout was the their facial wash. It must be the classic "hiyang" issue. But at the end of it all, I still managed to give Celeteque another shot - this time in their lip balm.

Winning factors:
- Opening the little round container excudes an enticing smell which might be produced by mulberry extracts. The scent is so nice I want to bite it. Haha.
- I love the mositurizing oil for it softens and smoothens my lips. I guess this is the basic principle of a good lip balm.

Drawbacks:
- I am used to a tubed lip balm so it's a major turnoff for me to dip my finger on the container and glide it on my lips. It's just gross.
- Quite pricey at Php 199. I'd rather go for EOS if this is the case.

Overall, I am happy that I have a new lip balm to do the basic job of smoothening my lips. While it is not something irreplaceable, I could say still say that Celeteque lip balm is a decent buy.

So tomorrow is a lipstick day once again!

DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH

2011-10-12T05:06:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:)

I wanted to show you one of the 'treasures' that I found at the flea market this weekend. I am doing some changes in the library and was looking for a small table to replace the big round table that we had in front of the sofa. I was thrilled when I saw this little number. I couldn't wait to bring it home and work on it. Now stay with me, I know it looks horrible.

But I saw potential. And I was right:) Someone had put this fabulous contact paper on it. lol I'm sure it was spiffy in its day;) But it needed to be cleaned up a bit.
First I took off all of the contact paper, cleaned it again and again and then sanded it for a more distressed look.
Look at this great drawer. I love that it is so big. And I also love the knob. The more I sanded the more I could see the different shades of green and blue coming through. Looooove it. (It doesn't take much to make me happy).
    It is the perfect size and height for the space. And you know how much I love this color:)
But LOOK at what I uncovered! When I sanded the side, the word SCIENCE came through!!! It must have been a child's desk. I was so excited as I sanded and found this happy surprise. Isn't it great ?

The color matches the colors in the pillows that I have on the sofa. I just love it. I am probably the only one who would have bought the table/desk but I am glad I did.

What treasures have you found lately?

I am going to join Furniture Friday over at Miss Mustard Seed on Friday. I have something else to show you then. You won't want to miss it. I can hardly wait to show you!!!!

`Till next time............
~Debra xxx

Outfits: Singapore Trip

2011-10-11T08:43:00.000-07:00
I badly need a vacay due to the toxic schedule I had at the office so I felt so refreshed when September 30 came. Armed with my travelling bag and the excitement to see my friends, Levy and I finally made it to Singapore. We only had two things in mind - go there to relax and see our friends.

Here are some of the outfits I wore upon roaming around the merlion city:

*Dress by Forever 21 PH, Bag by Michael Kors, Earrings from Forever 21 SG

*Top by Forever 21 SG (color block) / by Forever 21 PH (loose top), Bag by LV, Flats from Parisian

Ah, the moment I laid my eyes on this color-blocking top, I know it is for me. I couldn't wait to wear it asap so the next morning, I paraded the streests of Singapore in this lakas-mayaman top! Seriously, it is a very good buy!

This loose top is the confiest piece I brought in this trip and I felt so refreshed when I changed to this after a scorching heat and sweatrolled over my body!
segway: it must be a sign of aging but I lost my guts to ride this thing at Universal. Man, I felt like throwing up just by staring at this giant roller coaster ride!

*Dress by Zara:

a dollar ice cream with wafer on each side!

This classic dress is the second I got from Zara and I am loving it to bits! Zara really creates fitting dress which strategically hides unwanted bulges. I swear, I love it! Who would not? I've used this as a gimik/party dress, an office dress with a cardigan, and a casual one (as worn above)! Steep price - justifed!

It was a good time to unwind, reconnect with old friends, and just walk to your heart's content on the streets of Singapore. I loved seeing different nationalities scattered everywhere while still feeling close to home! I can't wait for our next travel!

CLEARING WAY FOR NEW STOCK AT BLOGGERS' BODEGA

2011-10-10T16:44:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:)

AWESOME NEWS TODAY!!!
MAISONSTGERMAIN.COM IS HAVING A 50% OFF SALE!!! WE ARE MAKING ROOM FOR AN ALL NEW STOCK. PLEASE VISIT US AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SALE.

Also welcome to BLOGGERS' BODEGA. Stop by the many shops that advertise with us for free on Tuesday and get started with your Christmas shopping.

                                BLOGGERS' BODEGA

This is where you will find FABULOUS SHOPS that our fellow Bloggers own, every Tuesday!!! Everyone can visit and anyone can link up. Advertisement is FREE!

Why is it FREE ?Well, we know what owning an on- line boutique and etsy is all about. All the work and creativity that goes into it all. We wanted to be a place where you get a break from expensive advertising and just do it for FREE. No catches or jumping through hoops. We won't even ask for your first born;)

All we ask is that you grab the link and/ or button and put it on your blog. This will help in sharing these wonderful sites. This is a great way for your online boutiques, etsy shops, ebay, Bonanza etc. to find the cream of the crop shoppers. For more information, please click the BLOGGERS' BODEGA on our side bar.

`Till next time........................
~Debra xxx

P.S. Check back on Wednesday. I want to show you what I got from the flea market this week:)

Office Outfit: Black to Black

2011-10-10T08:21:00.000-07:00
My friend Ermz and I have this thing of buying exactly the same stuff, clothes particulary, when we see how good they are to either of us. So last Friday, I fell in love with her elephant pants that I needed to have my own the soonest possible time!

Ermz told me she got the pants at one of the tiangges in Cash and Carry Makati (yes, Cash and Carry!). So I went there last Sunday to buy one for myself. I did not expect that the pants will look good on me and that I would be comfortable enough to wear it. I have the biggest thighs on earth so wearing an elephant pants is not a good idea for me. But surprise! I could say that the pants fitted on me well except that it is just too long I need to secretly fold it. :)

I easily spotted the pants the moment I went upstairs (near the cinema)so I immediately grabbed and fitted them. It was a quick buy. Roaming around the area led me to the top I also wore on the above photo. I initially plan to wear a printed top but I thought that a black one with a simple accent would make it more öffice-like. I think the top went well with the pants only that maybe I should have worn a belt. Anyhow, I super like the top. the puffed sleeves with polka dots makes it a very interesting piece.

I sealed this look with an earring I randomly bought from Vente, bangles from Boracay, and a bag from Michael Kors. Shoes is another favorite from Parisian. =)

I love that I love what I wore on a Monday. This means that I am in the mood to dress up for the rest of the week... we'll see. :)

Shoe Good!

2011-10-08T09:03:00.000-07:00
EDIT: Shoe #5 (Mary Jane Brown Shoes) is already sold!
            Shoe #6 is sold to me! :D

It breaks my heart that i need to let go of these shoes because they won't fit me... Ive waited for so long for these to arrive (I bought this online) but it's not my luck.

Anyway, I want these beautiful shoes to be unleashed to the world beacuse they deserve it and I need gorgeous ladies to be their muses!

Selling these shoes at their net prices (price, shipping and custom taxes excluding the hassle of claiming them :p).

Get them at 1850 (already includes the shipping). Please email me at restohunt@gmail.com if you are interested.

why i bought it:

the heels are killer ones in their own rights. add up the studs beautifully placed around the shoes and the subtle color of pink. all these sum up to one thing - a statement pumps!

why i bought it:
black as sophisticated and classy, pink to be girly and sweet. these two combined? you'll get an attention-grabbing shoes!
why i bought it:

you can never go wrong with black pieces, shoes included. if there this little black dress, you gotta have that classy black shoes - this is it!

why i bought it:

an eye candy! nothing can be lovelier than a combination of white and pink. it may seem so girly but the thick heels says that it is designed to be an epitome of a strong woman!
why i bought it:

it's something that i envision to be fiercefully good with a skinny jeans, a shorts, and even a dress!

why i bought it:
one word - fierce!

Saturday Evening Outfit

2011-10-08T08:33:00.000-07:00
Back from a hiatus!

Last month's working hours went way beyond the normal that the last thing I wanna do at the end of the day (or the evening) was to blog. Thankfully, I got a breather in the past few days so here I am now, finally had a peek a boo on my blog and manage to click the "new post" button.

Sharing to you what I just wore tonight during a quick visit to Rockwell to get my Happy Lemon's rock salt and cheese and some window shopping. :) Ah, I am still craving for another dose of rock salt and cheese! Anyway, here are some photos!

bear with the umbrella on the side. haha.
oha, door mat and bag are of the same brand, LV! haha!

The top is from Bugis in Singapore. I am madly in love with sheer and color blocking styles nowadays. I like the comfy vibe of the white top and at the same time, it denotes that it really is rainy season here in the Philippines. Jeans is from Forever 21. Oh how I love that store! For someone like me who really finds it hard to look for a pair of jeans, I am thankful that Forever 21 just got a pair for me. My bag is an anniversary gift from Levy, and my first ever LV bag. I love them! My shoes is from an online purchase. Sadly, out of seven pairs that I bought, this is the only pair that fits me. I'm selling the pther pairs but details on the next blog entry! Levy calls it weird, I call it cute. Hehe.

That's it folks, happy weekend!

LIVING WITH HOUSEPLANTS

2011-10-04T14:53:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:)

Have you ever noticed that house plants are rarely shown in homes in decorating magazines? I mean, maybe one here and there but it seems like no one really 'collects' houseplants. Well, I do, always have. I find they bring life into a room like nothing else can.
During the Summer, many of them go outside to enjoy the sun and rain while I tend to the garden plants. Mother Nature takes care of them for me:)
I bought this vintage green table from the flea market specifically to hold my houseplants in my living room window. I can put plants on top and underneath since my windows go to the floor in here. The little white bench holds my white throws. Watering cans sit under it.
My loft is a favorite place for my plants. It has been getting chilly at night now so I have brought most of my plants inside. It is amazing how much they grow during the Summer. This window gets direct sun all day and the plants just love it. This hallway leads into the loft bedroom where I just added more plants.
This is another view of the loft. I can't squeeze many more in;)

A happy fern lives here in the solarium with my flower frogs.
I like to put taller plants on the back of the stone pond in the solarium. (which needs more water) The Begonias love this spot and continue to flower all year. I just love them.
                 A couple of plants on the table in front of the sofa.
And, of course there are plants in the kitchen where ever I can find a place that they will be happy in.
So, do you live with house plants too? I would love to know:)

'Till next time.................
~Debra XXX

OUR ANNUAL OKTOBERFEST

2011-09-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone:)

I am finally posting some photos from our Annual Oktoberfest that we had over the weekend. Don has more photos on his camera but I couldn't figure out how to down load the photos onto my computer. Geesh!

Our Oktoberfest is an annual  weekend event. We have it here at our home. It lasts from Saturday through Sunday. We even sleep out in tents on Saturday evening and wake up to have a yummy breakfast Sunday morning. I love sleeping out in the fresh Fall air.

Every year we invite our favorite people to join us for the last picnic of the year. Since we have many 'home brewers', we call it the Oktoberfest. This year we had about 200 guests. We have lots of delicious food and the brewers brew to enter into the contest.We give out trophies for 'best light and best dark beer' and for horseshoes too.

Mark Lohman, the photographer, doing what he does best. So happy he and Fifi were able to attend. They were shooting for their new book. There was a lot going on this year.
                  Lisa and Suzy helped keep the bonfire going. It will be ready for smores at night.
                                          Good job ladies!
                             Fifi, the sweetest and busiest lady I know:)
                      Cutie cowboy eating a yummy pretzel.
We had two pinatas for the kids this year. Manny was in charge of 'tricking' them;) Thanks for the help Manuel:)
             Fibi was here too. She and Nicole are Siamese twins. She rarely leaves Nicoles' side. lol
The Oktoberfest is a family event. I love seeing everyone every year and how the kids have grown. They always have such a fun time. It is memories in the making. LOVE that:)
This year the food was awesome again. We had salads, desserts, 5 deep fried turkeys, homemade french fries, pork and clams, pumpkin soup, pot pie, wings...................................................................!!!!!Everyone brings their favorite dish.
I was happy that Carole and Lisa were able to make it. I always love it when they stop over. That is Sami, Lisa's gorgeous daughter.
                                         Sami and Maci, best buddies.
Nicole and I made all of the girls hair pieces and bought cow boy hats for the boys. They all looked adorable:)
                               OMG, is this the cutest cowboy ever????
                    Nicole brought the sun:) It was a gorgeous day.
      Thank you to all who came out and joined us:) And to those who couldn't make it, we will see you next year:) We love having you all here. Getting together with family and friends is what it's all about. You all bring such joy to us:) Thank you:)

'Till next time..............
~Debra xxx

Picturesque Errors

2011-09-19T15:21:00.000-07:00

It is possible to find beauty in everything, even mistakes. (in both past events and photographs)
Don't pivot: accept and re-evaluate. Appraisal and recognition.

in a silent room, turn the lights off, watch this, &
i hope you feel peace. with yourself, the world around you, and your life...
at this moment in the time continuum

NOW IS THE TIME TO SHOP FOR CHRISTMAS AT BLOGGERS' BODEGA

2011-09-19T13:59:00.000-07:00
Hello Everyone:)
                                  White Pumpkin Love
Have you thought about Christmas shopping yet? I know, I know it's not even Halloween yet, right? I'm right there with you but this is about the time of the year that I start my shopping. It helps so I am not stressed out later in the year. This way I can enjoy the Holidays a little more. And it is pretty easy to sit and order online too:) I can't believe how busy this year was and how quickly it has gone by, can you?
                     Fall decorating with color:)
So stop by our favorite shops to see what they have to offer:) There are so many talented people who advertise here on Tuesdays for FREE every Tuesday. Happy shopping!

Welcome to BLOGGERS' BODEGA!!!!WHAT IS BLOGGERS' BODEGA, you ask?????
                                        Fall flowers and weeds;)

This is where you will find FABULOUS SHOPS that our fellow Bloggers own, every Tuesday!!! Everyone can visit and anyone can link up. Advertisement is FREE!

Why is it FREE ?Well, we know what owning an on- line boutique and etsy is all about. All the work and creativity that goes into it all. We wanted to be a place where you get a break from expensive advertising and just do it for FREE. No catches or jumping through hoops. We won't even ask for your first born;)

All we ask is that you grab the link and/ or button and put it on your blog. This will help in sharing these wonderful sites. This is a great way for your online boutiques, etsy shops, ebay, Bonanza etc. to find the cream of the crop shoppers. For more information, please click the BLOGGERS' BODEGA on our side bar.

'Till next time.................
~Debra xxx

2011-09-18T18:26:00.000-07:00

longing...?
unluck- james blake

model: hannah jane peters

2011-09-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

raw and rustic '11

I took these photos a fair while ago, been plastered all over Facebook but never on this blog. I have so, so many photos that fit under that category. I think I'm gonna stop the blogging spree that I've been on tonight... Been a clean break from all the reports/ essays/ assignments I have been completing for mid sem uni assessments.
Back I go ...
xx

Collaboration project in progress

2011-09-16T18:14:00.000-07:00

Good morning lovely earthlings.

Two of friends own a little clothing online store called Tenfold Apparel. They make simple and comfortable threads for mostly for the male type (but girls- feel free to rock out with the whole androgynous/ sk8ie look). I have a surprise for everyone very, very soon. Mohi, Scott and I have been working on something super cool and will be released in the next few weeks! Yay :) But for now, check out their a/w 11 line that they released a few months ago. They are still new to the game but doing great at it already.

This is their Facebook page and this is their Tumblr.
Go like to support and follow their quirky little brand!

Lots of Love xxx p,s will update/ upload more photos very soon!

WHITE WEDNESDAY IN THE LIBRARY

2011-09-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:)

Today I am joining Kathleen over at Faded Charm for WHITE WEDNESDAY.

If you have read my blog for a while you know how much I love books. So instead of a dining room, we decided to create a library. A place to keep our books and sit and read. My shelves are filled and I have stacks and stacks on the floor and on the tables. I love it!

One thing I wanted was a looooong table with chairs on either side. The idea came from when I was a child and used to go to the library. The tables were always long with lots of seating. So I came up with the idea of a door table. Someone had given me an old door. I painted it ' that vintage green' and Don built a frame and put it together. He did an awesome job. It came out just as I wanted. I placed a long piece of glass over the top and slipped little vintage photos and dried ferns under it.
An old cupola sits in the middle of the table to give the area a little height and interest.

I also wanted 8 mismatched chairs . So I searched the markets until I found the perfect ones. I either got them for free or only paid $5.00 each. I painted them all with the same white paint, numbered them and today I took off the tulle bows and put on some great webbing with a pin of bling in the center. I really like the look:)
Puzzles have been made here, business done, art projects and computer work. It is the perfect place to be. I also have a Dove that keeps me company in here along with a sofa chairs and a fireplace for those chilly days. I love our little library and never miss having a dining room. We are more 'gather around the kitchen table' kind of people anyway and would probably never use it;)
One more white.....At a show Nicole and I were supposed to be selling at I spotted a pair of great cement planters. I always find the best things when I am supposed to be selling and not buying:) Does this happen to anyone else? They are too fragile to put outside so they are in doors. This one is home to a 'sea onion' plant with squiggly runners.

I hope you enjoyed my White Wednesday today. I will be stopping by yours to say hello:)

~Till next time....................................
~Debra XXX

FALL DECORATING AND BLOGGERS' BODEGA

2011-09-12T15:21:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:)

I have started to decorate for Fall, have you? I love the Fall colors and the crisp air. I wanted to share with you a few pictures of what I have done around the barn.

I placed   some Asters, Mums and Cabbages here and there. Yes, Fergie helped;)
This is the top from an old stool. I had vintage black shoes that were perfect to decorate with.

I just love this old scale. It is great for fruit and any seasonal decor.
Not sure what this flower is called but my friend Bev gave me some a few years ago to plant. Would you believe there are none where I planted them but they are every where else:)
Some purple Mums and this year we have flower boxes so I filled them as well. I can't wait until they flower. I have always wanted flower boxes and Don put them up about a month ago. I was so excited and couldn't wait to fill them:)
Isn't this the cutest child's Adirondack chair? Bought from a flea market, I thought it was adorable. Love the chippiness.
Have you started to decorate for Fall yet?

BLOGGERS' BODEGA

We want to thank everyone who has joined our 'Bloggers' Bodega'. And welcome those of you who are new. I hope this brings you more viewers (and buyers) as well as those of you who shop , well, you get the best products:)

Welcome to BLOGGERS' BODEGA!!!!WHAT IS BLOGGERS' BODEGA, you ask?????

This is where you will find FABULOUS SHOPS that our fellow Bloggers own, every Tuesday!!! Everyone can visit and anyone can link up. Advertisement is FREE!

Why is it FREE ?Well, we know what owning an on- line boutique and etsy is all about. All the work and creativity that goes into it all. We wanted to be a place where you get a break from expensive advertising and just do it for FREE. No catches or jumping through hoops. We won't even ask for your first born;)

All we ask is that you grab the link and/ or button and put it on your blog. This is a great way for your online boutiques, etsy shops, ebay, Bonanza etc. to find the cream of the crop shoppers. For more information, please click the BLOGGERS' BODEGA on our side bar. Happy Shopping!!!

Hope you are having a wonderful week:) We are getting ready for our Oktoberfest. Very, very busy!

`Till next time....................
~Debra XXX

A Productive Saturday Morning

2011-09-09T20:52:00.000-07:00
I was unusually up by 9 AM today! I don't know what happened to my sleep fairies but I am not up and going on a Saturday morning! So to start the day right, I jumped from my bed to my stationary bike and rolled the pedals! I like how I was situated beside my window and the sun knocking off my face. The sweat, ah the sweat!

I want to make use of my early time to bond with the bike so I thought of doing other things while doing the exercise. Vanity and exercise in one? Why not! I grabbed my Watson's Repairing Treatment Wax scooped an ample amount of it and lather it on my hair, and sported the shower cap. It was an impromptu hair treatment galore! Next in line was my Tony Moly's Tomatox. I spent another 10 minutes applying it on my face. I felt like serving three masters all in one time! My body weight, my hair, and my face! LOL.

So this is what I look like when juggling on those three things!

It's one of the biggest advantage for me to have a stationary bike at home because it gets me to exercise without spending my time preparing to go to the gym or park to jog. it's the most convenient way for me to shed those sweats even in my "pambahay" get up. :)

It was a healthy 30 minutes spent! Now it gives me no guilt to indulge on these food (that I personally cook (or fry?))! Yum yum!

And the best thing so far for today? I've taken my bath before the noon strikes! On a lazy Saturday. Hoooray!!!

Happy Saturday!

Lavender and lilies

2011-09-09T02:22:00.000-07:00

Iced Pipsqueak cider, toasted avocado + sundried tomatoes bagel, graphite thoughts and a lavender& lily stem

The Little Me

2011-09-07T06:24:00.000-07:00
Make ups? Shoes? Bags? Accessories? These are all me! But what makes it more interesting is that I think I've found the little Dahlj in the person of my cute niece (who's liek my very own kid) named Clesh. My gaaad, she really wants to be me and have already "sealed" the deal with me to give her all my shoes when she grows up. Cute!

Anyway, here are some of the photos I've snagged when I went home last weekend. I am surprised to see her wearing my things that I can't help but held my phone and get her photo. And yes, she poses like a pro!

She is only three but she can already confidently walk in my sky high heels, can model my accessories, can apply and wear my make up. She is born to be kikay, that I am sure of. LOL.

Anticipation;

2011-09-07T05:27:00.000-07:00

summer freckles, barefoot in ponds and rivers, daily freshly squeezed fruit juices, longer days& early mornings, music festivals, late night picnics in parks, sharing summer mixtapes, sandy hair and salt water skin, short shorts and sandal tans, endless loves & giggles

go listen, love& share: sophistry - sketch for summer

xx

The beginning of a new end

2011-09-05T19:48:00.000-07:00

After nights and days spent contemplating this hobby/ where its headed/ what I want to pursue/ how I want to construct it and most importantly how I want/ wish/ hope others to perceive me, out from the photos I capture. Viewing others success/ failures and attempts of mirroring themselves through their artistic development, and seeing as mine as a standstill- only thoughts have been imagining what I could be, and no actions being a result. Hence why I am changing outlooks and goals. I've been trying too hard to explore different styles and thoughts through photography and its not really working.
What I gain out of photography should not be influenced by the general demeanour of what trends or popular photography techniques are around at the moment. I should not try and be confined by what people want to see, rather let them see what I want them to see.
This blog is going to reflect more of a photo journal. Things that my eyes and camera lens capture regardless of who/ what/ when/ why- both candid and set up. Anything. No boundries.

Your eyes will view upon the innards of my camera-minded side and will gain little more knowledge.
Instead of being someone that I thought I wanted to be, I will start to reflect someone that I have always been and reflects myself.

So here's an attempt to begin this revised chapter with a few photos that hopefully transcend explanations for my long absence.

Welcome to my photo-like-journal visitors. Words and thoughts can still be found on le other blog.

IRENE, TREASURES AND GUESS WHO'S COMING FOR A PICNIC

2011-09-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,
Gosh I've missed you:) We have been very busy with clean up and without power due to Irene. I do hope everyone came through it OK. We lost power for 4 days. And can I tell you, I was never so happy to vacuum and do laundry once again!

Before Irene came through, I gathered up a bunch of different bottles and ran outside to pick flowers from the garden. I thought they would look better in my house than all over the yard.
Well, after the storm, I am happy to say that I still have flowers outside:)
I also have THESE......Oh, don't let their innocent looks fool you for even one minute. Their minds were churning even at the time I took this photo. Their house was flooded so Nicole, Manny and the munchkins are staying with us until Nicole and I are done putting in new floors. We were going to finish today but when we got home from the flea market our power was out again!!!! It is back now:)
I wanted to share with you a few things that I have found on my trips. I saw this apple bucket and knew it would go on the front door filled with Fall decor. I may change what is inside yet. One would hang this around their body, fill it with apples, and pull a string at the bottom to release them. It is quite large and I just loved it when I saw it.
I also found this cute little childs' desk. I painted it white, distressed it and put it in the kitchen where the girls love it.
Wooden geese were always a favorite of mine. When I saw these for $5.oo a piece, I knew three were coming home with me:) I just hope they don't attract real ones. lol
Fall has me cleaning and rearranging. I added this pretty bow tied sheet music that I received from Suzan
I just picked up this gorgeous millinery hat today. Love the flower!
I have been bringing in my house plants too. Do you put yours out for the Summer? This trailing one is actually an outdoor plant that I am going to try to keep growing inside. It is a Passion Flower and so pretty when it blooms.
I am sooo going to miss my favorite Flower Guys from 'Joes Flowers at the flea market when it is closed for the season. I LOVE having fresh flowers every week. They always have the prettiest combinations. I bought some small pumpkins today too and the most delicious corn.
OK, have you guessed who is coming over for a picnic??????Oh yes, the dynamic duo. Fifi and ...............
.............................Mark:) They are shooting for a book that Fifi is writing. We have a big end of the year Oktoberfest family picnic every year. This year I am thrilled to say that they will be joining us. I will be posting more on it in a week or so. I am going to be sooooo busy, but fun busy.

So, that's some of the things that have been going on here. What are you up to? Are you having a picnic tomorrow or just relaxing? I hope what ever you do it is fabulous:)

`Till next time..................
~Debra XXX

2011-09-02T08:29:00.000-07:00
I love this photo so, so, so much.
My grandma and grandpa, in Taiwan.

♥

Forever 21 Haul

2011-09-01T08:15:00.000-07:00
I have been going in and out of Forwver 21 (both in Megamall and Makati) for how many days now and everytime I do, I always score a piece or two from a gamut of clothes displayed in the store. I don't know but I find their current collection so soothing to my taste that I am always a happy girl after stepping out of the store. :) Anyway, below are some of my loots which are mostly in sheer and lace. And shades of pale pink. I fancy them now. :) Bear with me, I am not good at taking pictures so yes, I don't give justice to the pieces I've got. :)

The print of the dress makes it an interesting piece with carefully picked color combination. I love how the sleeves strategically falls on the elbow as it hides my enormous arms (:p) while still looking chic and smart. I also like the fact that I can wear it in the office during "meeting-less" days. Made of sheer. Php 1025 (more or less)

The simple cut of the dress was the buying factor for me. Little dots dashed all over the dress prevents it from being too plain. I love the middle cut in the sleeves which makes it a bit of a sexy dress. Equally wearable in the office just like above. Thinking of matching it with my sky high heels in the office and wedge during malling days. Php 855. Such a steal for me. =)

I love the softest texture of this sheer top and the lace details at the back makes it a classy piece. The sleeves are also perfect. I am envisioning it as a lovely partner of my skinny jeans or my office slim pants or my shorts. The best part? I fit in small size. LOL.

Weee! Soft lace all over! I find this dress so sexy I want to parade this all night! I just simply love how it was made. Simple yet very sophisticated. =) Php 1125 (more or less)

I also piled up on dresses to be used during cocktail or wedding events. This is just to have a reserved one especially when I run out of time to seek for a nice get up (which I always experience). This was on sale so I grabbed it at Php 755.

Perfect also for wedding invites. I don't know but I look better in empire cuts. I love the flowy effect of this dress. Got this at 50% off for 500 I think.

That's it. I swear this pay day was a super gastos one for me. This were just some of my recent purchases. I.need.to.stop.shopping.asap. But nevertheless, I am a happy girl! =D

New Kicks from Parisian

2011-08-31T07:51:00.000-07:00

Yes, Parisian again! This brand is really the one that I frequently check on and would have no plans to get a pair but I always end up grabbing one. For one, the price is outrageously cheap and the quality is decent and not compromised. This time, I got a wooden clogs with a t-strap design.

The boost in my height is one of the greatest selling factors, and yeah, the lightness of the "wood" makes it bearable to walk longer, too. With these two features at hand, I would never regret shedding my one thousan pesos for a pair. I don't know, but brown footwear tickles my "kikayness" and I find it sexier to wear brown than black shoes. :) The details of the brown, pink, and orange running through the vertical strap excites me as well as I feel that it is both playful and sexy. Overall, I could say that I get the right balance of casual and formal effect in this pair! I love it!

I plan to wear these on Friday when I would already buy that top from Forever 21 which I have been meaning to buy since yesterday. Yes, it is a sign that I do waaaant that top. :)

Afternoon Delight at Nail.a.holics

2011-08-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

I can be impractical sometimes (or even always!). Last July, I bought a Cosmopolitan magazine and got that freebie of free Php 180 worth of nail services at Nail.a.holics. I wanted to try it but laziness digged up my system. One day after its validity expired, I managed to go to Cash n Carry and puff, I ended up setting my feet to the posh salon. Haha.

I agreed to spend my time inside the nail salon while Levy was out there doing some groceries. :D Anyway, the cute pastel colors of blue and yellow were so appealing to the eyes. It detoured to the default girly color of pink for nail salons and it is quite refreshing to relax with these colors. Ah, it reminded me of the old Heaven and Eggs! Haha. Like other salons, the place is little with big, comfy sofas sitting side by side. The place also gives an illusion of a relaxing feeling through its beach-themed wall. :)

Nail.a.holics is one of the salons which charges additional fee if you opt to go for high end polish brands such as Orly and China glaze at 40 php. Plain manicure costs 180 php and 220php for the pedicure. There is nothing much remarkable on their services where they got a lukewarm water to sooth your feet before the pedicure session and wrap it up with a minute of massage. I opted to get the normal polish for my feet (the brand is BK in brown, I think) which I commend the lasting power. I only got a polish change for my hands and chose Orly's Coffee Latte. The two colors look good on me!

Overall, I have a so-so comment on this nail salon. I neither recommend or discourage their services. It's something that I would go if I have spare moolah to waste or a branch is nearby me but I won't go out of my way just to have my nails done by them.

Children live in the present

2011-08-27T11:48:00.000-07:00
More on these thoughts about where we "dwell".
I spoke to a friend today, and we were talking about our children and somehow it came up-and she made the comment "children live very much in the present moment" , and I thought yes, how true- they are fascinated by the intricacies of the things at hand; they delight in the temporal world so well.
The scene which remains in my mind today as I go to bed is of the kids playing with a vintage tea set. The tea set sits on a small ornate metal lace table in the middle of the lush grass. The kids are pouring sand into the cups and tea pots and mixing it with water. The sun is in the most perfect position in the afternoon sky, so that it causes my daughters golden hair to glow as if she were an angel.

Tonight as I put my head on the pillow, I can hear my sons sweet breathing while he sleeps. How stunning the treasure is!

WINNING.................

2011-08-25T11:51:00.000-07:00
...........................and a very cool cabinet:)

Hello Everyone:)
Hope you are having a great week so far. We are here waiting for the hurricane to hit. Not really happy about it as I am a big 'ole baby when it comes to wind storms. I have called for a hurricane party at our house. Just got off of the answering phone of friends of ours who live by the shore to invite them to it. I am hoping Nicole, Manny and the girls come too because last time we had a lot of rain they were evacuated because they were flooded. I hope those of you who are in its path stay safe. We'll talk after the storm.

                        OK, now for my HAPPY NEWS:)

I never win anything......really never:) But boy has my luck changed. I feel like I've won the lottery! I entered a give a way from Suzan over at OLD GREY MARE and WON!!!!!!!!!
Come on, I'll show you what fun goodies I won:) (I am sooooo excited)
OOOOOOOHHHHHHHH!!!!!!! Let's take a look, shall we?!

Burlap wrapped berries, I already know where they will live. Felted Roses - LOVE the color!!! A tin of fabulous white buttons and a 'nice' card:)
But wait! There's more................
The cutest Teddy ever, just look at that gorgeous fabric. Love the long postcard, it is soooo pretty and felted balls that will be perfect little snowballs for my Christmas decor:)
BUT....that's not all................................................................................
Will you take a look at that adorable little white pitcher. How did she know I have a mini collection of them?
Sheet music wrapped in a black bow and beads........love them. And just look at how pretty the wrapping paper is. A perfect backdrop for photos, don't you think? BUT wait! We're not done yet.........................
OMG, I LOVE THESE BAGS!!!! Yes 'these', there are TWO of them!!!! I plan on using mine for everyday use. Suzan sews so beautifully. It is amazing how creative she is and what a big heart she has:) THANK YOU SUZAN FOR SUCH A BEAUTIFUL and GENEROUS GIVE A WAY! You have no idea how happy you have made me today:) XXXXXXXXXX

          Now for MORE HAPPY NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
   You know Lisa from Serendipity Chic Design and I are friends and live pretty close to each other right? I follow her great blog and she is ALWAYS creating another masterpiece. She can take the worst looking piece of furniture and turn it into something fabulous. And her signs? Oh don't even get me started on those. But I digress.....Anyway, she showed this beautiful Victorian cabinet last week on her blog and I had to have it!
Can you see why? Of course I had to change around two rooms to do this, but that is how I roll. She painted it a butter cream and distressed it to perfection.
          I put some of the fun things I got from Suzan in it. They are in the color pallet I was using.
                                            I displayed some of my brushes and birds in it too.
                           I found this nest outside and placed it into one of the flower pots I collect for my African Violets. I just love how birds create such beautiful homes to lay their eggs in.
                                                        More birds and a bust on top.

Well, gotta go and get something done in this barn today;) Thank you again to Suzan and to Lisa. Two very gifted ladies.

'Till next time....................
~Debra XXX

Not so easy to go to bed

2011-08-25T09:28:00.000-07:00
Tonight I am sitting here after watching "the Proposal"...Sandra Bullock. I'm a sucker for romantic comedies.
There was no treading in poo today (Hooray !!) but the day was a whirlwind. Let me think...what did I do first? Oh yes, I got woken up by my little boy who was driving his toy car across my face. Usually somehow he manages to drop a toy on my face, but this morning he actually slept in and woke me gently with rolling toy car wheels.
Next, I tried to track down some fabric...semi unsuccessfully, and time traveled thru a few hours until taking the kids for a ride around the block. And here I am...umm, ok so I can't think, bed time...!

Time to live in the present...Note to self #1 - don't follow Heathcliffe's example

2011-08-24T10:31:00.000-07:00
Today started essentially- or more accurately- most "memorably" with me stepping in a large, huge dog poo. I went to open the car door for the kids to get in and I felt the 'flow' under my foot, and sure enough the dog had deposited his waste in the same place as last month.
We have a part time dog, meaning we share him with a friend. We have 2 weeks, and the other owner has 2 weeks...its a complicated situation...well not the poo part!

I have been thinking about how much time I spend thinking about the past- mostly I realize because I am trying to garner some truths about myself, or trying to re live a moment where I saw myself more distinctly...maybe?

And tonight, before I went to bed, i thought Id write down some of the things I've been thinking about lately.
I love my best friend- pictured above, and I love what we get up to together...she lets me dress her up for photoshoots, put her in crazy dresses and she lets me paint her face with wild make up.. we both agree she is my muse!

If I record these fragments here, maybe I will treasure these precious day to day happenings, and see more of myself in the present and stop hearkening back to the past...

Maybe I thought about this more because I watched "Wuthering Heights" on TV tonight...?? poor Heathcliffe is consumed by the past and tries to recreate it over and over. It where his love is- and where his life is...Cathy is dead- To me, she is figurative of the "past"- an elusive and indescribable thing which seems to carry so much weight and substance at times, even though it no longer exists. We have the present, we have the future, but we no longer have the past- at least not as a place to dwell in.
It reminds me of a Stephen King book I read once called "the Langoliers"- The Langoliers were things which ate up the past...I used wonder what happened to the "substance" of the past, and I never thought anyone else had entertained the idea.
Time for bed, xx

2011-08-23T08:36:00.000-07:00
                         WELCOME TO BLOGGERS' BODEGA

We want to thank everyone who has joined our 'Bloggers' Bodega'. And welcome those of you who are new. I hope this brings you more viewers (and buyers) as well as those of you who shop , well, you get the best products:)

Welcome to BLOGGERS' BODEGA!!!!WHAT IS BLOGGERS' BODEGA, you ask?????

This is where you will find FABULOUS SHOPS that our fellow Bloggers own, every Tuesday!!! Everyone can visit and anyone can link up. Advertisement is FREE!

Why is it FREE ?Well, we know what owning an on- line boutique and etsy is all about. All the work and creativity that goes into it all. We wanted to be a place where you get a break from expensive advertising and just do it for FREE. No catches or jumping through hoops. We won't even ask for your first born;)

All we ask is that you grab the link and/ or button and put it on your blog. This is a great way for your online boutiques, etsy shops, ebay, Bonanza etc. to find the cream of the crop shoppers. For more information, please click the BLOGGERS' BODEGA on our side bar. Happy Shopping!!!

'Till next time.........
~Debra XXX

Apologies

2011-08-21T08:24:00.000-07:00
I always have this love-hate relationship with blogging. One moment I'm into it, and the next thing I know, I am detaching myself to scribbling. The last few weeks were helluva ones in the office with all sorts of meetings, presentations, documentations, decision-makings, etc. etc. I am damn tired when I reach home and the least that I want to do is bury myself again for an hour or two in front of my laptop and blog. Yes, blogging requires thinking, and thinking demands time, and time was scarce for me in the past weeks.

Maybe, this one also comes with the fact that I do write to relax myself. I don't use this as a medium to make a business so I don't give myself that extra stress just to produce a piece. But on the other side of it, I know that there are people who look into what I have put in here (thanks to statcounter!) and the sweet messages I got from my readers are all making me guilty. Believe me, I have a lot of things and discoveries to share and I am dying to relay them to you. Apologies, but I will make it to you this week. I have garnered my thoughts and insights to the different products I have tested used over the weeks. Everything is just in sitting in my head waiting to be doodled here. =)

Now, let me just wish you a blessed week ahead and may you enjoy whatever endeavors you may have!

All the best!

WHITE HOME COLLECTIONS AND BLOGGERS' BODEGA

2011-08-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:)
Hope your weekend was fabulous:) Don and I took a little get away and drove up to Maine to go antiquing. Maine is such a beautiful state. It is not very easy getting away being self employed. So when we can sneak away for a few days we go for it.
On the way back we drove through New Hampshire. We were looking for a particular antique store when I saw a rainbow, heard angels sing and and heard a voice from somewhere singing LOOK!!!!! It is then that I saw WHITE HOME COLLECTIONS! I said "I really, really, really, want to go to that shop back there", to Don. (If I said 'really' only once, he would have stepped on the accelerator;). So being the wonderful guy that he is he quickly turned around.

OMG my friends can I tell you this was THE highlight of my trip. You all would have LOVED this place.

It was a home, barn and tiny buildings outside filled with all of the things I love!!!!! The two ladies that worked there were soooo awesome and friendly. Would you believe I was so thrilled to be there that I forgot to ask them their names. Yes, you would;) I asked if I can take pictures for my blog and they said sure:) Let me tell you they were as beautiful as their wonderful shop. So grab yourself a cup of tea because I am going to show you some of the wonderful treasures they were selling.
OK, got that tea? Great! Now sit back and enjoy the loveliness. Check out those numbers!!! Now I wish I had bought one:( They were so perfect for the barn. (I wonder if they ship).
This is one of the little spaces outside. Click to enlarge any photos. Look at that great aqua piece. And there were chickens enjoying the area as well. Isn't that great???? As I missed mine.
Just LOOK at these GORGEOUS pillows!!!!! and that great window in the back.
I had soooo much fun shopping in this great shop. I mean, look at all of the treasures.
Can you take this kitchen? How cute! Look at that sink and the way the cabinet doors were removed. I am so loving that. If I had cabinets I would definitely do that.
                                                  Gorgeous frame.
Lovin' that burlap bag and the pillows. So much inspiration in one place.
  OK do you love this ottoman as much as I do?
Another awesome ottoman and pillow. Look at how that cute table is decorated. See the little kitty bowls below the brown table?
                     ~ I LOVE EVERYTHING IN THIS PHOTO~
                        This is the front porch that was also so pretty. Curtains on the outside of the windows:)
One of the prettiest cats I have ever seen. Check out the spots on its little legs. And isn't that a beautiful face:)
This was another space outdoors. See that tall ornate silver vase on the gray table? Oh yea, it's mine:) I can't wait to fill it with flowers:)
            The best part stopping here was that Don loved it too and had sooooo much fun. LOL He is the best:)
A cozy place on the second floor. Oh, did I mention that there are 3 floors? Yes, three floors of fun.
This room had lots of fun things in it but what I really like was the radiator. lol They just don't make 'em like that any more.

I hope you loved the tour of this charming shop as much as I have enjoyed shopping in it. And thank you ladies for letting me photograph your fabulous shop.

If you are ever in New Hampshire you MUST put this on your list of places to stop at. WHITE HOME COLLECTIONS
                    9 GREENVILLE ROAD, WILTON, NH 03086
                     OPEN 7 DAYS, MON-SAT 10-5   SUN 11-5
                    WWW.WHITEHOMECOLLECTIONS.COM

                                                    OK, now for BLOGGERS' BODEGA
***************************************************************************

              WELCOME TO BLOGGERS' BODEGA

Welcome to BLOGGERS' BODEGA!!!!WHAT IS BLOGGERS' BODEGA, you ask?????

This is where you will find FABULOUS SHOPS that our fellow Bloggers own, every Tuesday!!! Everyone can visit and anyone can link up. Advertisement is FREE!

Why is it FREE ?Well, we know what owning an on- line boutique and etsy is all about. All the work and creativity that goes into it all. We wanted to be a place where you get a break from expensive advertising and just do it for FREE. No catches or jumping through hoops. We won't even ask for your first born;)

All we ask is that you grab the link and/ or button and put it on your blog. This is a great way for your online boutiques, etsy shops, ebay, Bonanza etc. to find the cream of the crop shoppers. For more information, please click the BLOGGERS' BODEGA on our side bar. Happy Shopping!!!

                                              HAVE FUN SHOPPING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

'Till next time.........................
~Debra XXX

2011-08-15T06:55:00.000-07:00
I'm not sure if apologising for not having any photographs published lately is right. Maybe from my camera, but not really from myself.. if that make's any sort of sense at all. I know that I had a lot planned for the past few months, but I've realised that I just need to pace myself. Then again, I need to stop being so lax about everything, waiting for the opportunities to come to me. These opportunities need to be found, and not everything is based on luck (I also have a shit attraction to luck anyhow).

Life, in itself, has just been swirling around, making my balance unstable and my brain tired.

But with this lack-of-apologetic-tone blogpost, it does come with a sort of selection of photos from the past two months or so :-)
So keep you're eyes peeled and ready to soak in the colours and emotions!
Will be up by tomorrow night

Lots of love alwaaaays,
Annie xxxxxx

(why am I feeling so loving tonight??!)
(thank you guys for all the nice comments!!)
(also here's a song that should accompany the wind and rain that has been non- stop over the past few days:

)

♥ ♥ ♥

Afternoon (and Evening) at Ystilo Salon

2011-08-14T07:18:00.000-07:00
I said before that I want to try out other salon to overhaul my "dying" hair. Well, guess what, I still ran to Ystilo for their superb service. This time thoiugh, I spared myself from hassle of going to MOA (my stylist, Romy, is at MOA branch). I opted to go to the branch near me in Pasong Tamo. I was delighted to see that they have a current promo for rebonding so I was there sitting for about 7 hours to get my hair done. Lol. What can I say, I still get the same superb service that I got from MOA branch. My stylist now, Aidan, is very accomodating and not to mention very dedicated to me. And yeah, they got complimentary beverages here! I already had two cups of my Nescafe. :)

my untamed hair. ugh.

tadddaaaaaaa! after seven hours of treatment! =)

The whole treatment was a very good experience to me. The service, the in-between massages, the good music made the session not just bearable but delightful as well.
I also discovered something in Ystilo. That is, they have Orly and China Glaze nail laquers and the price of the mani-pedi is just very decent! One hundred bucks for my manicure and Php 120 for my pedi - with Orly! Amazing! Other high end nail salon would charge you additional fee if you choose the likes of Orly laquers but at Ystilo salon, they have it as a default brand. Sowshal! So while I was nailed on my chair for the hair treatment, I availed of the mani-pedi and got Platinum for my feet and ancient jade for my hands. The colors are jsut so vibrant. I love them!

I am really impressed as to how Ystilo does its business. No frills, no whatsoever, just purely giving their clients that so-called customer satisfaction. I love this salon to bits!

HAPPY WHITE WEDNESDAY

2011-08-09T13:02:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:)

I am joining Kathleen at Faded Charm for White Wednesday this week. Thank you Kathleen for having this fun get together every week. It is so much fun:)

I had game boards on the wall that leads up to the bedrooms. I needed a change so I took them all down and put up something new. I love the look of beautiful frames hung up without painting inside of them. I made this shelf/wall hanger a while back. I found this wonderful chippy pink architectural piece. Then I looked for some old hooks and found this fabulous tin for the center. I just love how it came out.
This was the perfect spot for it. I hung some of my vintage white hand mirrors along with a couple of tins and children's shoes set on top.
                                     Isn't this tin piece pretty?
                                   Some of my favorite frames.
                                   Love this white one with just the right amount of chippiness.
I may hang something in the round frame yet. Dons lanterns hang from the beam below.

I found this great corrugated letter 'G' at Brimfield this year. I was so happy it fit into the frame:)
I repainted our white hutch and put the little chair (from my last post) in front of it. Very cozy.
LOVE alabaster lamps. I found this vintage shade, stripped it of its fabric and added some crystals to give it a little bling for the kitchen counter.

Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you enjoyed my whites. Don't forget to stop over to say hello to Kathleen and see more fabulous whites.

'Till next time.....
~Debra XXX