365 Days of Nathalie

Panda Girl

2012-11-07T11:15:00.000+08:00

Wonder why PANDA GIRL is my title post for today's blog? The fact that those fluffy, chubby, and adorable little creature are one of my favorite animals. I melt when I see videos and pictures of them on the web. I cant resist on their cuteness, and I could not wait for next year to actually see a panda. HK Trip!

Look! I'm wearing a panda shirt. Haha. First time I saw this on a bazaar, I instantly fell in love with it and I was the happiest girl on that day. Finally I own one, actually two. I bought two colors. yay!

Anyway, this is what I wore yesterday for work. Yeah, you may see me dress everyday like that. I wanted to be comfortable every time when I work. I work on a BPO company, and I should be in corporate attire. I know, I should be following policies and all that but hey I'm a Graphic Artist and I can dress what I want.

After I went to the bank, I had to ask boyfriend to take outfit shots of me and had to ask him also to buy me a doughnut on a nearby MINISTOP.
*excuse my huge face and sorry for my messy hair

Spike Rainbow Bracelet: Style Chic Parade

Studded Bracelet : Shop Siamese Sky

Blazer: Mom's closet (hehe)
Panda Top: Random Bazaar
Bandage Skirt & Glasses: Forever 21
Sneakers: Creative Recreation
Bag: Parisian

*Awkward pose. tssss

Borrowed the camera from a friend, cause my brother borrowed mine. Grrr

Bad Cherry Girl

2012-11-05T11:14:00.000+08:00

I'm hook to DIY projects lately and I'm having fun with it. You have seen my latest DIY project 'OMBRE SHORTS' which is in my last post and I have also mentioned I made another one which is I think it is way better than the first one. I bought the pants in Penshoppe, a year ago. There are some details at the back pocket that I don't like cause it doesn't match with the style of the shorts right now. So I might change the pocket with prints and some studs once I get some.

Here is the finish product, you may see the pockets are peeking out on the shorts. I might also change the pocket fabric/print.

So I tried the shorts, and it really looks good. I tried to cam whore in front of the mirror, don't mind my messy room. Sorry boyfriend is not around to take pictures of me in times like this. Cherry top is also DIY-ed. Actually it was the first project I have ever done so you may see the cutting of fringe is not perfect. But, the uneven cuts made it more perfect to me.

Leather Jacket: Forever 21
Cherry Fringe Top: Random Bazaar/DIY
Ombre Denim Shorts: DIYSunglasses: Ray-ban
Handkerchief worn us a Headband: SM Dept. Store

I've been very productive lately, so more stuff from me soon.
Ciao for now!

DIY: Ombre shorts

2012-11-04T21:02:00.000+08:00

Before I go to sleep, let me share you what I did today. Believe me, it's my first time to do a DIY project and it was a success. OMBRE SHORTS! I couldn't believe at first how it turned out just the way I want it to be. I was so very hesitant on doing this because it would be such a waste of time.

I was trying to clean/fix my closet this morning because it's like it was hit by a tornado. I had to get rid some of my old clothes cause I will be replacing some new ones soon. I saw this jeans that I wore since College, and it has a hole in the back. It still looks good though and it would such a waste to throw it away just because it has a big hole in the back. At first, I was thinking to cut it off and make a short out of it but I was going for a better idea.

I cut off the excess part, and try to look dilapidated. As I was heavily running the scissors on the ends, I accidentally rip off. AS IN BIG RIP-OFF! Good thing when I tried it on, it was too long for me. I have to cut the shorts again, and tried slashing and running the blade of scissors on the ends just to look distressed and all that. Afterwards, I soaked it on a bleach. About 10-15 minutes then, tried to soaked it again but this time half of the shorts only. I waited for 30-45 minutes before washing the bleach out of the shorts. It would be better when you do it outside, and under the sun so the bleaching would be faster. (FYI: Do not wash the shorts together with the others if you don't want to ruin your clothes.) I was so excited, that I kept on looking on the shorts while waiting them to be dry.

So here is the finish product. So awesome, I even tried cutting my other pants and had it bleach again.
I'll blog the other one soon.

I so love it, and I was thinking to put studs on it or patches. If only I have the time to go DV shopping for studs. Oh well, this baby will be having a trip to the sewing machine. Ciao!

Style Chic Parade

2012-11-03T16:24:00.001+08:00

I AM VERY SORRY FOR BEING M.I.A. FOR HOW MANY MONTHS.

Yeah! I've been busy for months, and again I was thinking to put down my blog because the fact that I don't update anymore. I've been very busy and the overrated reason "procrastinating" all the time.

Anyway, there are lot things to share. Long overdue photos, my dad bought me a car, and I now belong to a band as their rhythm guitarist (dream come true). I will also revamp this blog, just like doing a make over to myself. I will try to be more of a fashion(I wish) and photo blogger. I promise to my self that I will update this blog often.

You are probably wondering why my title post today is STYLE CHIC PARADE. It's the name of my online shop. I now own an online shop of clothes, shoes, accessories, etc. I personally pick them, so I might say they are awesome finds/hauls. Some of them are DIYs also, which now on STP's first collection. Thanks to my friend, we had a photoshoot session with models wearing my collection.
Visit Style Chic Parade for the entire collection

Vintage Estela

2012-08-12T20:59:00.001+08:00

Kathleen Abadilla

2012-05-22T22:05:00.000+08:00

Model: Kathleen Abadilla

Location: Suba, Ilocos Norte

Sorry for being a lazy ass again on blogging, and yes same line... I'm very much busy with my life right now and my laptop is acting weird for how many weeks. At last, I find time to ask my boyfriend to do the reformatting for me. Time to finish all the backlogs, and I'm done with the first set and down to 7 more sets. I guess...

Anyway, I had a great time taking photos of these three young ladies, and here's one of them.

For complete set, Click here.

Instagram-ing

2012-05-09T19:51:00.000+08:00

I'm getting addicted to Instagram. Just sharin'.

Teaser

2012-05-09T10:47:00.001+08:00

Yes, I still exist and I'm very sorry that this blog has been dormant for how many weeks. Actually I have been busy at work and at the same time procrastinating. Too many back logs to upload and I hope I can post them as soon as I finalize all the photos. I still have more than five sets waiting to be edited.

Ciao for now!

(PS: Sorry for the low resolution of the photos, these are just sample from my previous shoot. Actually I just drag the photos uploaded in my facebook page. lol)

Little Rockstar

2012-04-06T22:56:00.001+08:00

Model: Railey Ambrocio Gonzales
Photographer: Nathalie Garvida Ratuita
Location: UP Sunken Garden

Cold Wacky Morning

2012-03-10T08:38:00.000+08:00

Good Morning! I woke up early today. I had a good sleep so being the hyper kid that I am, I tried my newly purchase super cute headband and grab my camera, and took pictures of myself. Cam whoring at 6 AM in the morning. Sorry for the blurry photos though, I don't have anyone to take pictures of me. Boyfriend is probably still sleeping(on his apartment which is only below my apartment, get it!?)

I've been absent from work for three consecutive days because of "STRESS". I had a flu since Monday because our office is like a huge walk-in freezer and at home it's like I'm being toasted in an oven. Who doesn't get sick with the sudden changes in temperature. It's the time of the month, so I was not comfortable with all the icky feeling and I can't even stand the pain due to menstrual cramp. Yesterday, I was already fine and I'm ready for work. I need to have my check up and ask for a medical certificate so I could file for my sick leave. Then again, my doctor wont allow me to work last night due to hypertension and advise me to take a rest. 180/130!!! Now that is too high. My blood test, ECG and 2D Echo results were VERY NORMAL. STRESS is the CULPRIT. A month of night shift plus 8 hours overtime, and we had to work overtime on Saturday. No rest day, who doesn't get sick? Right?! We're probably gonna have more restless days from work.

A must try: Sandboarding

2012-03-07T13:28:00.001+08:00

I have been very proud of what Ilocos Norte had become. I am very very amaze how progressive it is now. Ilocos has a lot to offer to all the tourist like food that are to die for, extreme sports and wondrous places.

Every time I had the chance to go home in my hometown, I always get excited with all the new modifications and stuff that had been made in the town. All thanks to our Governor Imee Marcos and also the people of Ilocos. I have been away for more than 2 years because of work. I go home only for a week vacation with my family. If only Metro is just an hour away.*sigh.

Anyway! Ilocos is known for their sand dunes, and it was one of the perfect place to shoot movies because it looks like a desert. I might as well add, that it is fun driving with a huge 4x4 wheel vehicles and quad bikes. People of Ilocos Norte loves extreme sports, and so a group of people came up with an idea and it was so brilliant that they decided to make it happen. Laoag Eco-Adventure Development Movement also known as LEAD MOVEMENT had come up with sandboarding. LEAD movement has a big contribution on promoting tourism in Ilocos. Last month, they had their first sand boarding competition.

Sandboarding Competition courtesy of Marianne Gaces Pasion

(Note: Photos are from Marianne Pasion, I have her permission to use it. Please do not copy)

I haven't tried it yet, since I have no one to accompany me. They said it was very thrilling and at the same time it was fun. My officemate recently visited Ilocos norte. He and his friends tried the sandboarding, and as he tell me stories about his experience I saw in his eyes that he had fun despite of the scorching heat of the sun.

Here are they together with the awesome people of Lead Movement

If you want more reviews and destination guides, I recommend you to visit the blog of Mrs. Tina Tan of Blauearth. One of finest people of LEAD Movement.

Also if you want to experience extreme sports, visit LEAD Movement's site.

I will be going home this coming April and hoping that I could find someone to try sandboarding with me. Anyway look here:

I wanted to invite everyone to joind and win a Barkada Package Getaway in Ilocos Norte with your friends. I tell you, It's the next destination you want to explore and experience.

Note: Ad use here was taken from Paoay Kumakaway's Facebook, I had their permission to include it in my blog, please do not copy without their authorization. Please visit and like them at facebook.

PS: Sorry, I wasn't really born to be good in writing reports and essay. I don't wanna make this as an excuse but I have to say that I'm very stress from work right now. Brain drain. *Bangenge!

Banana and Potato

2012-03-06T16:06:00.000+08:00

This is a very late post, and I blame my crappy internet connection. Anyway, Sunday afternoon before heading out. I was taking photos of my self imitating Agnes from Despicable Me. She was so adorable cute and oh yeah, have you watch the new teaser from Despicable Me 2. YES! New sequal from Gru and rest of the gang. The minions were doing a cover of Barbara Ann by the Beach boys (Please do correct me if I'm wrong) and I think it was the cutest and brilliant idea. The video went viral in youtube and even in social networking site. I have a copy of it, and play it every f*cking time. I even sing along with it, even the lyrics is a little bit weird. But all I know they are singing about Banana and Potato. Despicable Me 2 will hit the theater in Summer Next Year. I know, I can't wait it either but for sure all the waiting will pay off cause this will be another great movie.

I Am That Chic

2012-02-18T14:24:00.000+08:00

I know my blog consist of different entries. I would like to make it clear that this is a photo/fashion/food/health/travel or whatever I want to blab in this blog. Get it! lol. Anyway, this time I wanna share something about me. I love dressing up and every girl loves that. I sometimes want to be more feminine, and sometimes be boyish. Being comfortable is what I consider when dressing up. At the end of the day you still want to look good, right?

I consider music as a great influence in fashion. Rock music is been my first love, and had been my comfort music when I'm sad or frustrated or even when I'm furiously mad. It had influence me also in the way I act and the way I dress up. Here some sets that best describes me.

Set One

Set Two

Set Three

Set Four

Sweet Little Nathalie

2012-02-16T15:50:00.000+08:00

Here is what I wore on Valentine's eve. I wanted to wear my pleated maxi skirt and a corset like top but then again it would look too formal. I want to look sweet on v-day. So I had to wear this floral skirt, and my newly purchase dotted corset. It look sexy and yet too cute/girly for me. I had to wear a blazer/cardigan on it cause I still can't bare my huge arms. I don't know why my arms won't shrink, and to think that I do boxing everyday. I think boxing is making my arms bulkier. Grrr!

Anyway, here is my date! Of course my boyfriend, who did not make an effort to look great on v-day. Haha. He didn't even get me flowers and chocolates, talking about no effort at all. It was ok and I don't want to make a big fuss about it. However, he surprised me with a gift. He personally delivered it in our office last Friday. He got me a new mobile phone. He knew I can't wait to buy a new phone(was planning to buy it at the end of the month) so he bought one for me. It's a monthsary gift actually. It's one of the best gift I have received from him. He knew me well, and he sure knows how to make me smile. I love him not because of the things he is giving me but the love and care he is showing me.

Here is my message to him:

I am so thankful enough that I have you in my life. I am sorry that sometimes I nag, I make "kulit" and bully you. I love you so much mahal ko. And yes, less nagging but more kulit and pang-bubully. I know you cant resist my over pa-cute smile when I make kulit you. hehe..

World of Warcraft: Night Elf Hunter & Orc Rogue

2012-02-12T16:26:00.000+08:00

I'm a huge fan of World of Warcraft and DOTA I have been playing since my high school years. Up to now, I still play when I can. I'm not good as the others but I know how to play well using some random heroes.

I ask my friend to lend his toy to me, and I want to take pictures of it. He is a fan of these collectibles and still he is adding more on to the collections. He lend me two female heroes and I had a quick shoot with them. I had to edit the photos quickly cause I can't wait to blog it since the photos turned out just what I wanted it to be. Had to make a mini studio for the toys and used an improvised reflector and a bulb to have a back light. Here are the photos.

NIGHT ELF HUNTER: ALATHENA MOONBREEZE

Assassination (scene)

ORC ROGUE: GARONA

Lets Do This

2012-02-05T00:20:00.000+08:00

I am having a problem losing weight lately specially now that I'm getting depress of what is happening to me. I haven't been focus on my diet and exercise regimen because of stress from work. I eat when I get stress. That explains why I'm gaining weight again. I do boxing but since I go home late at night because of overtime, I'm too tired to do a cardio exercise and boxing.

I was browsing the other day when I stumble upon a blog site where it features a celebrity whom I admire since her teen years. She was all chubby back then, now she is ~~fucking~~ sexy. I was like "How did she do that?" and I learned that she is a pesco-vegetarian and doing the PLANA FORMA technique. I was inspired so I was motivated. I want that kind of body too.

A while ago, I had to do a 30 minutes of boxing. I wanna get serious this time, and I'll do this 30 minutes a day. Cardio and toning on every other day. More water, and healthier meal. I wanna shed 10-20 pounds and make it as a challenge to my self.

Here are some tips on how to lose 5 pounds and hopefully this would be a big help to everyone.
(Source: All Women Stalk - http://weightloss.allwomenstalk.com/best-ways-to-lose-5-pounds/)Control your portion
Portion control is one of the most excellent ways to lose 5 pounds, and it doesn’t really require any extra effort on your part. Many experts suggest actually weighing your food, measuring everything, et cetera, at least once a week. If you have the time and patience to do that, go for it. However, there are simpler methods to follow as well. For instance, eyeball your portions; typically, sides like starches should be about the size of your palm, meats should be fist sized, and you can generally eat as many vegetables as you like, as long as they aren’t cooked in an unhealthy manner. You can also start eating off of smaller plates. That way, if you always feel inclined to clean your plate, you’re at least eating off a smaller surface size.

Eat more often
This might seem entirely counterproductive but, again, it’s all about portion size, control, and moderation. Rather than eating three large meals a day, you can eat five to six smaller ones throughout the day. This is a great way to improve your metabolism and it will keep you from feeling hungry and turning to fattening snacks.

Cut the fat
Cutting down on the amount of fat you eat will also help you lose 5 pounds fast, but I don’t mean just avoiding fatty fast foods and the like. You can also stay away from salad dressings and instead use oil and vinegar, or use balsamic vinegar to dilute a tablespoon of your favorite dressing.

Avoid temptation
As I mentioned, making smart choices is one of the best ways to lose 5 pounds. You need to stay away from the foods that really tempt you. If you adore Hot Pockets or frozen pizzas, it will be better to keep your distance from them. There are certain things you can simply moderate, but some foods should just be avoided altogether.

Getting more active
You simply can’t lose weight without exercising. Shedding 5 pounds isn’t a lot, but even that amount requires some activity. If you simply don’t have time for the gym or regular workouts, you can still introduce more activity into your daily life. Just take the stairs instead of the elevator, park farther away from your destination so you have to walk, and try walking to some of your errands rather than driving.

Watch what you drink
When looking for healthy ways to lose 5 pounds, you simply have to think about what’s going into your body. Lots of different beverages can cause weight gain, so cutting them out of your diet, or at least moderating your intake, can really help you shed those pesky pounds. Above all, drink lots of water. Avoid drinks with lots of sugar. If you have to drink soda, switch to diet. You should also seriously moderate your alcohol intake, because those are all empty calories.

Keep a food diary
It’s often hard to keep an eye on what you eat while you’re doing it; you just don’t think about it. You eat on the fly, you want something fast, and the kinds of foods that lend themselves to a quick bite are often bad for you. So, keeping a food diary is one of the greatest ways to lose 5 pounds, because it holds you accountable. Once you see the kinds of things you’re eating throughout the day, it makes you more aware of what you’re putting in your body, and that can lead you to make healthier choices more naturally.

Choose healthy hobbies
There are lots of hobbies and activities you can do each day that will ultimately help you lose weight. You won’t be thinking about it, however, and that can make it easier. Doing housework isn’t exactly a hobby, but you burn plenty of calories just by mopping up, making dinner, or running the vacuuming. You can start a garden, which will both keep you active and provide you with healthy foods. You can even take up video games if you turn to the kinds of games that encourage full body movement.

Moderation
As mentioned, you have to hold yourself accountable. You are responsible for what you put into your body. Don’t have two scoops of ice cream when one is enough – or go with frozen yogurt or sorbet instead. Don’t have seconds right away; give yourself about 20 minutes so your brain gets the message that you’re full. If you’re still hungry, then have a small second helping. Avoid super sizing your foods at all costs – you don’t need that much!

Remember to eat breakfast
I never eat breakfast; most of the people I know skip this highly important meal. Even though you’re eating, having breakfast is still one of the most fantastic, effective ways to lose 5 pounds. It keeps your metabolism going strong, it gives you the energy you need to get through the day, and it actually stops you from overeating. If you know what it’s like to skip breakfast and end up starving at lunch, you understand why.

Little Miss Twenty Four

2012-01-25T23:10:00.002+08:00

[Black top | Feather gold earrings: TLTSN | Asymmetric skirt: Random bazaar | Heels: Jellybean | Clutch : Parisian]

One of my late uploads, and this was taken last year. It was my birthday, and prolly you wonder how old I am now. Try to read my title for this post and you might be surprise, I just don't look like my age. Yes? Kidding!

Little China Town

2012-01-25T02:32:00.000+08:00

Binondo, Manila
Kung Hei Fat Choi!

Random Things

2012-01-23T02:03:00.000+08:00

Again, I've not in the mood lately so that's why I haven't been updating my blog. I'm also having problem sleeping, and I only get two hours of sleep. Anyway I have a list of things I wanna share with you.

1)Reason why I'm not in the mood for everything lately, because I got robbed at Eastwood City. Yeah, at Eastwood, Libis. I was so disappointed with Eastwood's security cause they can't provide us satisfaction with their services. We were just asking them to show us their recorded videos on their CCTV but then they asked us to file a complain and a request form for the video, and the annoying part is we have to wait for it if this will be approve or not. Oh come on! Seriously?! Waiting for approval? and who knows if this will be approve by their head of security. Just the face of that person who took my phone is all we ask for. Damn it! I guess their services are just for the rich ones. Tsk tsk!

2) After days of waiting, I got my new baby. My 50mm from Nikon. Thanks to my awesome tita.
(Late graduation gift, and yes I graduated 2 years ago) I originally asked for watch, but since she can't find the watch I want I asked for a lens instead. Will try this later for our photowalk in Binondo for the Chinese New Year.

3) What happened? Boxing happened. Been boxing for a while now, shadow boxing or practicing in a punching bag. Whatever you call that, I don't even know the term in boxing. GAHD! I just wanted to try this and hoping that my arms will shrink in no time.

Laoag City at Night

2012-01-18T02:30:00.001+08:00

Sinking Bell Tower

Plaza

Ilocos Norte Capitol

This photos were taken when I went home for a vacation in Ilocos. I miss my home town, and so me and boyfriend went for a walk around the city that night. Thanks to my friend who lend me his tripod, I was able to take long exposure photos.

Anyway, been busy for the past few days, and always come home very tired. Stress is killing me. Too many backlogs! Haven't finish editing some photos, and I still have two sets to go. GAHD! I need to manage my time, more time on my programming and less on Facebook-ing.

Exotic Beauty

2012-01-15T03:04:00.003+08:00

Model: Lorrie Anne "LA" Sanchez
Photographer: Nathalie Garvida Ratuita

Lost in Ilocos

2012-01-13T17:47:00.000+08:00

TEASER: Lost in Ilocos

2012-01-11T17:56:00.003+08:00

Had to ask my boyfriend to be my photographer that day, and glad all photos came out just fine. Will post everything tomorrow and Ciao for now cause I'm trying to get back on PHP programming so need to practice.

If you can rope me, you can have me

2012-01-10T15:55:00.000+08:00

Model: Lorrie Anne "L.A" Sanchez

Photographer (Self-proclaimed): Nathalie Garvida Ratuita

Belle Fille

2012-01-09T15:29:00.000+08:00

Model: Floricel "Kaye" Labuguen
Photographer: Nathalie Garvida Ratuita

Assistant: Lorrie Ann Sanchez