Lavender & Coffee Stains

A Million Things

2018-02-27T03:39:00.000+08:00

It is nine o'clock in the evening on my side of the world. Normally, I stick to my rule of having my kiddo sleep at 8 o'clock in the evening as it is a school night after all. Today, I am letting him sleep a little late. I am the stricter parent. But today, I am letting loose. Just for today. Currently, he is doodling a family tree, which, I laid him the-who on this side and that side of the branch. But don't you worry, he will be in bed half past nine.

Eventually, all things fall into place. Until then, laugh at the confusion, live for the moments, and know everything happens for a reason. ~ Albert Schweitzer

So what is this momma doing at the moment while her kid is basking in joy for having to sleep late? He is happy...that, I can guarantee. :)

I am checking my inbox, reading an article, and thinking about decluttering my online presence. Obviously, I have halted doing those things as I am typing this. I am an OC with clutter and I am also a multi-tasker. I have a million things going around my head. Sometimes, I get overwhelmed and nothing gets done but most of the time, I do really focus and I get to check all the things in my to-do-list. When that happens, I feel gratified.

My thoughts on decluttering my online presence means lessening my so many email addresses, deleting some of my social media handles, simply utilizing the mobile upload process in Facebook instead of creating albums. I do not know why but I feel the lightness of being unburdened by these mundane things.

By the way, I am excited as well because I will be testing a corn muffin recipe. I will be baking later after my son goes to bed and the hubby arrives home. He is out with a good friend from Kuwait. Richard will be flying back in two days and they are buying some souvenirs.

Sharing a random shot of Doha at dusk. I love gazing at the sky everytime I am outdoors. An instant feeling of peace seems to settle over me whenever I look up.

Bookaholic Anonymous

2018-02-15T06:33:00.000+08:00

My name is Ivy and I am a bookaholic.

Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers. ~ Charles W. Eliot

No man can be called friendless who has God and the companionship of good books. ~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning

I have always been a loner during the earliest period of my school years. I have spent my free time studying my lessons and simply reading about my textbooks. My usual favorites then was learning about the historical past and the beauty of the English grammar.

Then one fine day at school, I visited the library.

I picked out one book from the shelf and I met Nancy Drew. I was reading the first book in the series and my free period was almost up. I asked the cute, gentle-looking librarian if I could bring the book home. He said I could if I could just fill up a form and acquire a library card.

Being a loner, the books in the library (and please include that gentleman from the library) had become my friends. They did not judge and never failed to make me feel happy about myself.

Books are delightful society. If you go into a room and find it full of books – even without taking them from the shelves they seem to speak to you, to bid you welcome. ~ William Ewart Gladstone

Honestly, I am always in awe being surrounded by books. And yes, it really feels like those books are talking volumes to me. Literally!

A great book should leave you with many experiences, and slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading it. ~ William Styron

Wherever I go, my relationship with books will never end. In between living a busy life, reading is a great de-stressor. By the time I am ready to put down a book, I am relaxed.

xoxo,

Ivy (^o^)

Beauty Finds

2017-08-12T00:35:00.001+08:00

Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.

Of course, it would immensely help someone's self-esteem if that beauty will be highlighted with the stuff that the world is offering. I discovered a number of beauty stuff online and I thought, "wow, this is interesting," or "sure, that is something that I will buy for myself."

The first one that really appealed to me was one of the limited shades of Laneige Two Tone Shadow Bar. There are two limited shades offered but I prefer the one called as Smoky Dust. It is your classic shade of dark brown with champagne shadow. I am not really into eyeshadow application because I wear contact lens and most of the time, I end up irritating my eyes. I may change my mind to acquire this product for it surely enchants me. Okay, I attribute that last sentence to the description given to these eyeshadow sticks for they are released under the Milky Way Fantasy Collection.

image courtesy from Laneige homepage

Another interesting beauty product that sounds so appealing is the Esfolio 2 Step Multi Oil Peeling & Cleanser. It is a functional cleanser that works two ways: it can be used as make-up remover and peels off old sebum and dead skin cells. I am not just sure if how the "peeling" happens but for practicality, make sure you use this when you do not have plans to go out. 😊

image courtesy from Esfolio homepage

The last beauty product that I came across was Benefit Cosmetics' Galifornia Box O' Powder Blush. This beauty brand has been offering a lot of bestsellers with their amazing design. This particular powder blush comes in a box with an admirable artwork print. With a golden pink powder blush and a cute blush brush and with a mirror to boot, I really would like to have this in my purse!

image courtesy from Benefit Cosmetics homepage

I took note of these to-own beauty products while I was in Manila. I did not have time to traipse around the city during my last vacation because of my mom's operation and other in-between important errands. I wonder if they are all available here in Qatar.

Next time you think of beautiful things, do not forget to count yourself in. --- Unknown

Relax and Let Go

2017-08-10T09:10:00.000+08:00

This blog is an on-and-off affair with me. I have tried so many times to leave this particular space and yet, I still find myself being led back to it. In fact, I have created a couple of online lair at Wordpress and the last one was here in Blogger.

I have neglected writing for more than a decade. There were snippets and random postings but the mojo was simply elusive. Facebook and Instagram were my main outlet but the desire to write more was palpable as the days go by.

Later on, I realized that I really do not want to leave this blog because my previous life was consolidated here. I know...it sounds so "boxed." Can you blame the mind of an "organized" (in a way, I will describe myself like that) person? 😀

The years have been very kind and generous to me. I thank God for those wonderful blessings. I have a loving and generous husband and a son (not-so-little anymore) who fills my day with happiness and insanity. 💕 My parents are together back home and I just pray that they live long enough for all of us to be together in one place, celebrate milestones. To my Mama, get well soon. Please pray for her to get her strength back. 🙏 To Papa, you are silent but you have been a rock of hope. 💓 My two siblings also have their own families now. All of us live miles away from each other. There are times that things get tough but I believe that God has a purpose for everything.

As I grow older (and hopefully wiser), I have let go of people who proved to be toxic in life. So-called friends have been disregarded for they bring me nothing but sadness. I have also "given away" the link that bind me to kinship (one or two of them), figuratively. My logic is that people are old enough to understand actions and doing the same thing over and over again is simply exhausting for those people involved. Somebody close to me remarked that I am just holding a grudge. Probably. If I am holding a grudge, it only means that I still care, right? Honestly, I want to believe that I do not.

I still love to read books and drink coffee. Nothing would ever changed that. When it comes to food, I have taught myself to cook dishes that caught my fancy (rather my palate). I also tried baking and oh, boy, sweet things were always happening in the oven. It does not really help when you are trying to shed a few pounds. 😂

Literally, I am at a certain point in my life that I want to do more with my time. I have read somewhere that if you want something to change, you have to grab life by the horns and ride it, even it tries to throw you.

So good luck to me and hopefully, change will come.

First Chapter First Paragraph Tuesday Intros -- The Alchemist's Secret by Scott Mariani

2017-05-16T22:58:00.000+08:00

It has been a while since I blogged. Honestly, I am at a loss on how to jumpstart the writing part. I feel so ancient! 😁 Since I am re-acquainting myself with the process of making sense with words using the keys on my laptop, I thought of participating in First Chapter First Paragraph Tuesday Intros hosted by Bibliophile by the Sea. Basically, you just share the first paragraph, or two, of the book you are currently reading or the one you are about to read.

At the moment, I am reading a mystery/thriller book, The Alchemist's Secret written by Scott Mariani. For my initial participation, I prefer to share the first two paragraphs (it says I can use two) to depict an interesting scene.

Chapter One

France, October 2001

Father Pascal Cambriel pulled his hat down tight and his coat collar up around his neck to protect against the lashing rain. The storm had ripped open the door to his hen-house and the birds were running amok in a panic. The sixty-four year old priest herded them back in with this stick, counting them as they went. What a night!

A flash of lightning illuminated the yard about him and the whole of the ancient stone village. Behind the wall of his cottage garden lay the tenth-century church of Saint-Jean with its simple cemetery, the crumbling headstones and ivy. The roofs of the houses and the rugged landscape beyond were brightly lit by the lightning flash that split the sky, then plunged back into darkness as the crash of the thunder followed a second later. Streaming with rainwater, Father Pascal pushed home the bolt of the hen-house door, locking the squawking birds safely in.

Will this intro excites you to read this book?

School Days of Yore

2017-05-16T17:53:00.002+08:00

I was just checking my inbox a while ago and since I am a bookish gal, I am subscribed to various bookshop's newsletter. I realized that after a few more weeks, it will be June already. The month of June heralds the beginning of the school year back home. Thus, I receive offers and discounts on back-to-school shopping. They even provided a checklist to make the experience stress-free, which, back then, was a constant source of headache for parents (especially if you have a number of kids and you want the best deal ever).

But here in Doha, most of the school implements a September-to-June academic year. So while everyone I know in Manila are getting ready for the new school year, I am just waiting it out to end. 😊

On the other hand, I sort of miss the feeling of doing all those rushing about to prepare for the first day of class. I never had the chance of doing such for my son because he started his school years here in the Middle East.

I remember the times when my momma and I (and sometimes with my siblings) would go to the bookshop and malls (and Divi --- the possibilities are endless) to buy a new bag, pencil case, lunch box, pair of shoes, art materials and other school stuff. I get a kick when choosing my notebooks because I cannot seem to pick a limited number of notebooks with thousands of lovely covers to choose from (I am not sure if this statement even makes sense). I also buy extras for my journal.

But the most exciting part (aside from shopping for school needs) is the idea of the first day of school. Don't we all drool about meeting new classmates, friends and teachers? Of course, we also get to experience bouts of anxiety by just thinking of something going wrong. Who wouldn't?

taken when he was in second grade

Looking forward to new things happening in school is something I want my son to experience. I wish the time will come that we will be able to come back (hopefully soon) and share those joyous and sometimes, nerve-wracking moments of being an elementary student and mom of a school kid in Manila. What can I say? My heart still beats for my beloved 💜PH💜.

All children start their school careers with sparkling imaginations, fertile minds, and a willingness to take risks with what they think. --- Ken Robinson

Chicken Cashew Stir-Fry

2017-05-14T23:19:00.000+08:00

For days, I am feeling a little out of myself. It is like I am scattered all over the place, wondering why I am a little bit antsy.

I have been a stay-at-home momma for so many years now. My baby who was born less than a decade ago is now a strong, big boy. I know he still depends on me for a lot of things but I want him to learn to do some things by himself when I am not around. I also think that I have to do something for myself to relieve the crappy feeling that seems to surface frequently.

Anyway, when I feel like this, I resort to reading a cozy mystery book or trying a new recipe. Food has become a solace and no wonder I gained a "few" pounds. 😜 I have been meaning to cook this recipe last week but I was a little preoccupied with the tower of laundry I had to finish.

So earlier today, I had the chicken from the fridge thawed a little bit and cut them into bite-sized pieces. The size was intentional so my picky-eater of a son could have a taste and would be more receptive to the new dish.

When I am in the mood to cook, I usually try to incorporate veggies in the dish. One, it is healthy and second, I am constantly trying for Miggy to be open to eating different kinds of food especially vegetables. In this recipe, you have broccoli, french beans, bell pepper and carrots.

By the way, please practice caution for those allergic to nuts as this recipe requires peanut butter and cashew. Also, one of the ingredients for the sauce is sesame oil, which, can also trigger allergic reactions to some people.

For this recipe, you will need the following:

Chicken Cashew Stir-Fry

Ingredients

1-2 tablespoon of olive oil
500 grams of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 small head of broccoli, broken into florets
1 cup of sliced carrots
red bell pepper, julienne cut
1/3 cup of cut french beans
3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
chopped onions
small ginger, thinly-sliced
1/3 cup of cashews, unsalted ones
salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for the sauce

2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 tablespoon of honey
1 teaspoon of sesame oil
4 tablespoon of peanut butter
4 tablespoon of water
1/2 teaspoon of ginger powder

Directions

1. Prepare the sauce first. In a small bowl, whisk the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, peanut butter, ginger powder and water together to make the sauce. Add another 2 tablespoons of water should you feel like having a smoother or lighter consistency. Set aside.

2. In a skillet, lightly toast the cashew nuts in a non-stick frying pan until golden. Transfer to a plate to cool and set aside.

3. Using the same pan (or you can utilize a wok), drizzle olive oil and stir fry chicken pieces over medium-high heat. Add a dash or pinch of salt and pepper and continue sautéing for 2-3 minutes until chicken turned lightly brown.

4. Add the thin ginger slices, sauté a bit, followed by the minced garlic and do the same process for a few seconds, gently stir together with the chicken.

5. Add the french beans, carrots, broccoli, bell pepper and onions and stir fry for about 2 minutes. Keep stir frying until the veggies are tender and cooked through.

6. Stir in the peanut sauce, add the toasted cashew nuts. Gently mix all together to coat everything and quickly remove from the heat.

Serve it over a bowl of steamed rice and there you go! This dish is perfect for dinner with the family. Healthy, quick and easy to prepare.

Apologies for the photo above. I took a snap of the cooked dish in a rush. It does not really look appealing. I may have to re-adjust the water which I added in the peanut sauce to make it "less moist" in appearance but I assure you, you will love how it tasted. 😊 Liking how it turned out, somehow, my mood was uplifted with this first-time-to-cook recipe.

...no one is born a great cook, one learns by doing. --- Julia Child, My Life in France

Challenging Myself To Read More

2015-04-13T20:30:00.000+08:00

I used to read a lot of books back when I was still unmarried and with no bigger responsibilities in life. I averaged from 50-60 books per month. It is quite a small number compared to other bookish lovers I know. Some read like 100+ books per month and they even have the time to make reviews.

Here came my little boy. In between feeding him and changing diapers, I tried to squeeze in a little reading time. I also considered it my own version of "ME" time.

I get stuck with 24 books every year. It is the only number I can manage. I utilize Goodreads for my yearly reading challenge. It is less complicated to use and it also serves as my recorder of my reading accomplishment.

I am guilty of being a slacker for the past 2 months. Brief vacation, sickness from injury for my first grader, the stress taking its toll on me, my son's school activity, the great sandstorm...the list goes on. I only have 4 books read and according to GR, I am 2 books behind. At the moment, I am reading The Lanvin Murders by Angela Sanders. Now being aware of my sluggish reading tempo, I vow to enjoy this cozy mystery tale about Joanna Hayworth, her vintage clothing store and the murder brought about by this 1930s Lanvin coat. Fingers crossed, I can close this book in 2-3 nights.

Usually, I have a tbr pile to choose from. I pick books from the bookshelves, whether the plot excites me, the author engages me or the book cover simply lures me. During the course of this challenge, the book-splurging (shopping), recommendations from bookish friends and some magazines, the discovery of a very intriguing title (the plot has to be interesting, too) from an obscure author...the pile grows bigger and taller. This thing happens all the time. So I decided not to be so strict in following my tbr. These days, I choose a book based on my moody self. What is the point of reading if it does not interest you at all?

I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading! How much sooner one tires of any thing than of a book! -- When I have a house of my own, I shall be miserable if I have not an excellent library. --- Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice

It Has Been A While...

2015-03-22T17:23:00.000+08:00

...Great! A lot of things had happened. I just had the sudden urge to visit this old blog. I do not even know what had happened to Blogger. The platform seems so different compared to the last time I published something.

It is year 2015. This blog came up in 2003. As much as I love to write back then, life got in the way. So much that I have to neglect my online outlet to deal with the real side of human existence. Some years ago, I had the dilemma of inactivating this blog for good. But a wise soul breathed some words of wisdom. She said just let it be; let it float to oblivion. That someday, I will miss the fun part of writing, of fencing words and hearing the chipping of keys...of being back to journaling online.

So why am I here? I do not even know what the reason is. All I know is I am darn bored. Somehow, in my mind, my blog figured in my consciousness. The desire came about to see how it appeared online. I could not even remember the last time I tweaked it.

For now, I will not mess with whatever would make this blog "pretty." I really do not care. All I want is to revive the hobby of writing my mind, learning how to play with words.

I hope to be back.

Keeping Touch With My First Loves

2013-04-22T03:11:00.000+08:00

I love to read books. My preferences are crime fictions, mystery/suspense, thrillers (legal, medical and cozy mysteries), historical fictions and nonfictions.

I love coffee. Drinking coffee, that is. Generally, I prefer black with sugar but no cream, please. But I also love frappuccinos! And I collect mugs from Starbucks!

I love bags. A bag-aholic? Perhaps. I adore signature bags but I am not the type to hoard every branded bag there is (I am only lusting for 1 LV bag at the moment). I want a decent, functional bag where I can put all my stuff. I do not like the small ones and neither those over-sized bags. Medium? Probably.

I love postcards. Collecting them by themes (that I prefer) encourages me to learn more about other countries. I collect UNESCO WHS, pictorial map cards (I am navigationally-challenged, that's why), popular tourist spots, art-related, OWLs (as in the night bird)...So if you want to mail me a postcard, feel free to contact me for my mailing address.

And if you're going to ask me if I love to travel, I think any person you ask will say yes. And I do like to travel. I have visited Japan (Kyoto is heaven), Singapore (thrice, I think), Hongkong, United Arab Emirates (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) and France. Currently, I am based in Qatar (temporarily). Aside from the usual wandering around, it's the shopping for souvenirs...and postcards and snow globes that pumps me up! And now, I am waiting for the time "to pin" Italy, Spain, Turkey and Egypt on my mental map.

I am happily married to my husband and we have a little boy to complete the family.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-05T22:17:00.003+08:00

May everyday of the New Year glow with good cheer and happiness...

May your 2012 be filled with peace, prosperity and good fortune...

From my family to yours, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

xoxo,

Ivy

I ♥ H&M

2011-12-20T14:50:00.000+08:00

I like the fashion culture but I am never a fashionable person.

I get by with simple tops and the usual black slacks and pants. On appropriate occasions, I don skirts and dresses. At any given day, I choose to be comfortable and confident with what I wear.

I only brought a few pieces from my wardrobe when I arrived in Qatar, which I regret immensely. But it was also a blessing in disguise for I have discovered this wonderful shop called H&M. Operating in 43 markets worldwide, H&M offers fashion and quality at the best price.

Here are just some of my recent hauls (apologies for the crappy photos):

Don't you just love those skirts? Well, I do. :)

I am not sure if this is a worthy purchase but I love its flimsy fabric. I just hope that this one lasts.

perfect fit for me!

Hours ago, I was browsing their homepage for the latest collection. I ended up viewing the entire catalogue and I found fashionable pieces that I would like to own.

Made of 100% woven silk, this short-sleeved black top sports small, gold-coloured rivets and a concealed zip at the neck. One word comes to mind when I saw this: SLEEK...and I do not even know if that is apt. I wish they have my size.

Honestly, I have a lot of toilet bags and this pretty pink one in canvas with imitation leather details and a zip at the top does not stop me from owning another one. Lined and with three inner pockets to house your mini stuff, it also comes in black elegance.

Comes in black, bronze and silver. A make-up bag with a glossy, crackled surface and zip with a patent trim at the top. I prefer the black one but if they have it in purple, I would gladly trade it. :)

How does this one look to you? A ring or a bracelet? I assumed it was a ring but I am doubting it because it was under the bracelet tag. I still have to see this for myself. Either way, I am getting this one. I have a penchant for earrings, rings and bracelets especially if they are in metal or are expected to look like one. I am a wannabe goth and gypsy combined. Rigid opening bangle in lace-look metal with a large bevelled stone.

There are other fascinating pieces in their collection but for now, these are my most coveted items. :)

I wonder when will H&M open shop in the Philippines. In Asia, they opened in Singapore months ago, recently in South Korea and this week, in China. Come 2012, new stores will be launched in Indonesia and Thailand. When is our turn?

xoxo,

Ivy

H&M in Facebook

Frolicking At Coco Beach Island Resort

2011-11-02T03:10:00.002+08:00

I am missing the idea of heading to the beach!

Just the thought of wading in the pristine water and spending the afternoon lying in the sand, reading a good book while sipping piña colada make me want to pack my bag and tag my 4 year old kid along!

I cannot be blamed for feeling like this. It has been a number of years since my bare feet has stepped on the sandy shore...doing my favorite things.

And this will be the place I will be booking myself (and my family) the moment I have the chance. Welcome to Coco Beach Island Resort!

I only took a few photos for I was more ecstatic to wander around and plunge in the water. I was with friends enjoying the weekend. We had a marvelous weekend getaway and it was so much F-U-N!

Coco Beach Island Resort is located in Puerto Galera in the province of Mindoro (specifically Oriental Mindoro). We were transported to this picturesque location via Coco Beach Express, your express pass that will directly bring you to the beach resort's sandy steps.

image courtesy
At 6:30 am, we were picked up at the Diamond Hotel (assembly place) by a white shuttle van owned by Coco Beach. The shuttle ride ended at the port and from there, we hopped in this cool Coco Banca. I remembered how fascinated I was to see the blue, serene waters so vibrant with marine life. Fishes were jumping out of the water and you could even see through underwater.

image courtesy
Upon arrival, we were greeted with a glass of refreshing lemonade. Check-in was a breeze and our luggage were brought up to our respective rooms. By the way, our accommodations were awesome. Classic Deluxe, very fitting. Our beds were comfortable and clean. Very spacious and with its own private balcony where we all spent one night chatting and drinking a bottle of red wine. Also, one thing that I would never forget and that I liked the most was the ambiance of the rooms. The use of natural materials in the furniture gave the room a homey and cozy feel.

During that time, rain came pouring down for an hour. Not to dampen our mood, we simply took a dip in the pool that overlooked the beachfront.

took these photos right after the drizzle

Coco Beach Island Resort has a number of amenities and activities that will surely make your very brief vacation worthwhile. You can relax and pamper yourself in the spa, fun dive with the ooohhh six-pack abs men-of-the-sea, swim in the lagoon-shaped pool, earn that gorgeous tan, hit the balls in the tennis and basketball courts, engage in the following water sports like waterskiing, knee and wake boarding, banana boat ride, kayaking and glass-bottom boat ride OR simply shop for souvenirs in their shopping arcade. If you want to learn something new, they also conduct how-to-make-soap workshops. They also have e-cafe, tv/video room and mini-library. If you are food-tripping, they have a number of restaurants offering several cuisine.

Should you feel ill or injure yourself in a way, they have a medical clinic located beside the main pool. The doctor is sometimes on call so should you find him nowhere, simply ask the staff for him.

One thing that I am most looking forward to check out is their children's playground. Back then, it did not look like a kid's haven. It looked dilapidated and uncared for. My four year old Miguel loves to play and exhaust his energy in the playground. For him, it means endless fun!

xoxo,

Ivy

PS. Coco Beach Island Resort offers exciting packages. Their published room rates are based on twin sharing and inclusive of buffet breakfast.

Coco Beach Island Resort
Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, PH
T#: (+63) 2 521-5260/(+63) 2 526-4594
F#: (+63) 2 526-6903

Untitled

2011-10-26T07:25:00.001+08:00

For the purpose of simply having a title, this entry is called Untitled.

I do not want to rack my brains over some ideas on what to put in the title tab. It is because I do not even know what to write in here. I have so many things to say but I really do not know how to start. My mind is scattered because I have so many things I want to do, so many ideas I want to work on but I feel so hindered...by something.

It has been a long while since I have made updates. As what some people say, life happens. Sometimes, some things have to take a backseat so you can focus on the more significant and relevant things in life.

So why am I here? I do not even know the answer to that. But I got bored and needed a fresh start. Before, I had the desire to totally abandon this blog and start over but I have been here for years. Realizing that, I just let this piece float.

Boredom made me to tweak with my template. I did not even have to seek for a new design over the web. I simply had to tinker with this and that and clicked preview if I liked the outcome or not. If I did, click save. Since I have been so out of touch, I discovered that Blogger had introduced so many modifications and I am loving it.

I love the color combination of red violet and burgundy. It is quite refreshing to see these two color matches from my usual palette picks of purple (my favorite color) or brown (coffee-themed).

I also renamed my page because I really want it to be more personal. Simple explanation --- I love coffee and I am now, more defined, as a mommy.

Since I dislike clutter in a page, I threshed out some widgets in the sidebar. Keep it clean.

I dig my header! Hehehe. I know it looks so crude. I am no artist. I just tagged it all in with what I know about editing images. It looks so juvenile but what can I say, I love it! :) Although, I may have to change that sometime. I am gunning for a specific type of header --- images of coffee, books, fun and family! But that is for another boredom session or if I am quite lucky or feeling so sure, I will be most willing to shell out a little money to have it customized!

It is October and I can already smell the scent of the holidays. It is supposed to be snow flakes but there is something about the shape and the color that did not blend well with my new template. I opted for the drizzle of snow instead for it reminded me of holiday snow in New York City!

So much for not knowing what to write but I hope to be back on board.

image courtesy
Meantime, I am going to fix myself a hot mug of skinny latte!

xoxo,

Ivy

Teaser Tuesdays

2011-06-14T19:59:00.004+08:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

* Grab your current read.
* Open to a random page.
* Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page.
* BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS!
(make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away! You don't want to ruin the book for others!)
* Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

Here are my chosen teasers:

"Granted every baby comes with his or her own personality, but I'm amazed at how many solemn, serious babies are the offspring of moody, serious adults. Happiness is contagious."

~ page 124, I'm Too Sexy for My Volvo: A Mom's Guide to Staying Fabulous by Betty Londergan

Post 2010 Holiday: House-Hopping

2011-02-27T15:45:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

The idea of visiting my aunts and uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces from my father's side was conceived last November.

I have my little boy already and since my cousins have their own kids, too, I thought why not see them for the holidays and get re-acquainted.

Supposedly, meeting them would took place last December but my brother (together with wifey and less than year old baby Aira, whom we haven't met yet) then would be flying home from overseas and said to postpone it because he would love to join my game plan. LOL.

Last January 2, we headed to Pasig City and visited every family's home. We came bearing holiday presents for the kids and seeing old and new faces was sheer joy.

First stop was at Tita Lydia's house:

Tita Lydia (back, standing)
from left, seated: cousin Jean, moi, my little boy Miguel,
niece Jam, Bambi, SIL Ayin and Baby Aira

Right photo: my adorable little niece Aira with the Samboa family
Left photo: the young ones with the ladies in black

Right photo: cousin Jean, niece Jam, little Miguel, Bambi,
Ayin, Baby Aira, Jepoy
Left photo: younger generation of the
Manalansan, Samboa and Casagnap Family

Second stop was at my cousin Kuya Richard's house:

Kuya Richard (seated), nephew Apollo, little Miguel,
standing, back: Bambi, Apol, Jepoy

Right photo: little Miguel with his cousin Apollo
Left photo: another group shot

what got the little boys so preoccupied

Before we proceeded to our next destination, we decided to have our late lunch at three o'clock in the afternoon at Jollibee. While everybody had chicken, I ordered their crispy bangus (most of the time, it is unavailable and my craving made me order it) and oh boy, it was worth it. Truly crispy, crunchy and oh so satisfying! :)

With our stomachs full, we headed to our nearby destination.

Third stop was at Tita Grace's house:

Tita Grace (in green), cousin Stephen (kid in white),
Bambi, little Miguel, Ayin, Baby Aira, Jepoy

Right photo: little Miguel with Tito Stephen
Left photo: another group shot

Fourth stop was at Tita Linda's house:

Jepoy, little Miguel, niece Yeyet, Bambi, nephew JB, Tita Linda,
Tito Bernie, nephew JM (seated on the floor), cousin Stephen (seated on the floor)

moi with my siblings together with our kids and Tita Linda

Final stop was at my cousin Noel's beautiful home:

seated from right to left: Ofel, nephew EJ 2 (seated on mommy Ofel's lap), Bambi, moi with little Miguel, Jepoy

cousin Noel (standing) with kiddo EJ 1
Ayin carrying sleeping beauty Baby Aira

cousins getting to know each other

What I have in mind in bullet points:

My little boy Miguel is only game to have his photo taken when it is a group shot or when it is with his cousin Jam (the two bonded during our Cebu trip).
My niece Jam is always ready to project in front of the camera. :)
Baby Aira became the true little darling of the family since it was everybody's first time to meet her and she wowed them with her infectious smile and little giggles.
It felt great to see my cousin Richard. He's been sick for quite a while. But it was endearing to see him play with his kiddo Apollo.
For the first time, I met Apol (cousin's wife) face to face. I first saw her during my dear departed Grandma's birthday celebration and the next was during last year's family reunion. We were never introduced back then.
Nothing beats total enjoyment for two little kids of almost the same age than to play together with their toy race cars. Miguel cried when I said that it was time to go (I know, I'm such a killjoy). He and his cousin Apollo seemed to be having a great time. He would rather see me leave him there than to join us in our next home-hopping.
Wished I could have seen Tito Joe but he was unavailable. It has been a long time.
Every house we hopped in to had food served in front of us. We did not partake much because we were quite full then.
Learned from Tita Grace that having an internet shop is not a wise choice for a business venture these days. With all the available and affordable options a house can have when it comes to computers and internet connections, there is no way for you to survive the competition or even get the venture stand on its feet.
I was so surprised that the little bundles (Yeyet, JB) I used to know have grown past me (my height...hehehe). I'm sure Kuya Berlyn is happy from up there, seeing his kids growing up so well. They are lucky to have adoring grandparents Tita Linda and Tito Bernie to take care of them.
I loved Noel's homey neighborhood. It look so perfect when it comes to raising kids. Wish I can have my own house in a place like that. :p
It was another first...meeting Ofel (cousin's wife). I believed it was our very first meeting and she was nice and very accommodating.
My little Miguel was overjoyed to meet another cousin(s) in EJ 1 & 2. They got lots of toys, too. Like Miguel, both kids owned a roomful of toys. :)
I found it hard to get three little kids together in one photo but the little toy train and its train tracks gathered them together in one frame, even though they did not want to face the camera.
Seven to eight hours of doing this was not enough. Period.
It really pays to have a car handy in times like this. It would have been disastrous, time and energy-consuming if we were to commute.
Engaging in this kind of activity with my siblings was a fun thing to do. After all, it is usually a once-in-a-blue-moon thing since the one live overseas while the other lives some cities away. Hehehe. It was made exciting all the more with my sister-in-law with her baby and my little boy.

Truthfully, I initiated this uber-mini reunion because I want to rebuild ties with the family. I simply want to detach myself from the family conflict that has been brewing for years. All I know is that my generation has nothing to do with it; more so, my son's generation. It was ultra short notice but I cared about seeing them. For me, it was a great way to start my 2011. :)

By the way, we also dropped by my sister-in-law's house nearby to refresh. Hehehe. Afterwards, we hit SM Megamall to wander and shop.

In My Mailbox (1)

2011-01-30T14:41:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

It was not so long ago when hubby bought these two book cases for me.

And I was already on my toes shopping for more books:

The Deep End of the Ocean by Jacquelyn Mitchard
One Writer's Beginnings by Eudora Welty

Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far On Foot by John Callahan
Trick of Nature by Suzanne Matson
The Meaning of the Dead Sea Scrolls by A. Powell Davies
My Point and I Do Have One by Ellen DeGeneres

Echo Park by Michael Connelly
Black Hawk Down by Mark Bowen
The Pilot's Wife by Anita Shreve

Midwives by Chris Bohjalian
Dave Barry Does Japan by Dave Barry
Jewel by Bret Lott
Tight Squeeze by Debbie DiGiovanni

And these were bought for me by hubby a week after:

Blood Work by Michael Connelly
When in Rome: A Novel of Piazzas and Passion by Gemma Townley

Bloodlines by Jan Burke
Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich

In My Mailbox was started November 2008 and initiated by book blogger Alea of Pop Culture Junkie. Books featured maybe the ones you bought, picked up from the library, received for review.

Please pop by at The Story Siren's initial entry on IMM for more details. Also, don't forget to visit other posts by IMM participants.

Have a great Sunday!

2011 Movies To Look Forward To

2011-01-29T16:21:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

From tv commercials, printed ads promotions and online trailers, a number of great movies are lined up for film buffs this 2011.

And I am eagerly anticipating the following movie offerings in Philippine cinemas:

Shaolin (currently showing)

China is plunged into strife as feuding warlords try to expand their power by warring over neighboring lands. Fueled by his success on the battlefield, young and arrogant Hao Jie (Andy Lau) sneers at Shaolin's masters when he beats one of them in a duel. But the pride comes before a fall. When his own family is wiped out by a rival warlord, Hao is forced to take refuge with the monks. As the civil unrest spreads and the people suffer, Hao and the Shaolin masters are forced to take a fiery stand against the evil warlords. They launch a daring plan of rescue and escape. Jackie Chan portrays the role of a shaolin cook whom Hao Jie befriends.

I am no doubt a big fan of Chinese movies. Alongside with Jet Li, I adore Jackie Chan and Andy Lau!

Burlesque (February 2)

A small town girl from middle America travels to Los Angeles to seek out fame and fortune. She lands on the doorstep of a struggling burlesque club, where her talent and hard work soon land her a spot on stage.

courtesy of Sony Pictures
I am not a Christina Aguilera fan but I proclaim that I am a big admirer of Cher. I cannot wait to see this, Cher performing!

Water For Elephants (April 22)

A veterinary student joins a traveling circus as their animal vet after both of his parents were killed.

"To have a costar who is this reliable, this sensitive and circumspect and intelligent — it's just fabulous," says Christoph Waltz (Inglourious Basterds). He's not talking about Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson, who play the star performer and veterinary student in an adaptation of Sara Gruen's best-seller about a traveling circus in the 1930s. He's talking about Tai, a 9,000-pound Asian elephant.

Water For Elephants Teaser
I'm curious how Pattinson will fare in this movie considering his fame in the Twilight series. Another major role but very far from the film(s) that made him.

I still have to read the book, though.

The Philippine release will be on May 4.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (May 20)

Johnny Depp returns to his iconic role of Captain Jack Sparrow in an action-packed adventure. Crossing paths with the enigmatic Angelica (Penélope Cruz), he's not sure if it's love - or if she's a ruthless con artist who's using him to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. When she forces him aboard the Queen Anne's Revenge, the ship of the formidable pirate Blackbeard (Ian McShane), Jack finds himself on an unexpected adventure in which he doesn't know whom to fear more: Blackbeard or the woman from his past.

video courtesy
If I am to pick a movie to watch while having buttered or barbecue-flavored popcorn, I would not have chosen to watch the first three prequels of this movie. It was hubby who introduced this to me and from there on, I had enjoyed the adventures and antics of Jack Sparrow. Now on its fourth installment and this time in Disney Digital 3D™, I cannot wait to hear Sparrow's humor and daring adventures.

Unlike the previous films, which were shot primarily on location in the Caribbean, On Stranger Tides had most of its production in Hawaii.

Cars 2 (June 24)

Star race car Lightning McQueen and the incomparable tow truck Mater take their friendship to exciting new places in Cars 2 when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world's fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret spy mission, Mater's action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world.

video courtesy
I am really excited to watch this fun movie with my little boy. I am absolutely certain that he is going to love this as much as he loved the 2006 movie. Fast cars, colorful cars, talking cars, race and adventure...what's not to love, especially for a three year old boy? :)

I got more films in my list but mommy duties first. :)

365 Project

2011-01-29T10:09:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

Here I go again! Attempting to revive an old desire that got me nowhere.

Usually, 365 Project's begin during the first day of the new year and here I am doing it against the rules (if there are even spoken rules). I'm starting mine tomorrow.

Newest Toy: Sony Cybershot HX1

2011-01-28T09:05:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

I loved and still does love my old digital camera.

But it nearly conked out on me during our recent Hongkong trip along with another gadget, a Sony videocam.

Unlike the videocam that died (and never revived) during a cold visit at the Atoll Reef at Ocean Park, my champagne red digital camera was still functioning aside from one potential problem: the power button seemed to sink in the pit a little deeper than the usual.

I was so anxious because we still had three more days to go (and that day was still young to stop shooting) in our HK itinerary.

But we survived through it all with my pointer finger softly threading on eggshells, so to speak.

Hubby just gifted me this new toy to play. Actually, I have used it already a couple of times but never really got to toying with it. Oh, you know, the life of a solo busy mom!

Sony Cybershot HX1
It looks like a DSLR but it is not (I was told). I discouraged him to buy one unless he would be the one using it. Besides, I would not be caught toting that kind of toy anywhere when I had to manage my toddler without any company.

He bought this just in case the old one decided to retire so soon.

At first, I was hesitant to take this when we bought it. I preferred the little ones that I could just shoot in my bag. But when I held it the way it should be held, I was taken by it. Lighter and less bulkier.

As I said, I still have to learn its features before I can truly say I own it. :)

Up to now, the old one is still alive despite its physical defect. I love it and that is why I am still using it. :)

*More info about this cool gadget.

The Grammers

2011-01-18T08:37:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

Oh yes! I'm a follower of this show but not really a great fan. But what does being a fan means? Following the episodes from the start does not necessarily mean that I am one. Really? LOL.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills
(minus Camille and Kim)
at the NBC Universal press party in Pasadena
Based on my tv episodes folder log (where I digitally store the copies of each and every tv episodes I watch), I am now on the 12th episode of the first season of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

I think the most unforgettable thing about the last two episodes was Kelsey Grammer seeking a divorce from wife Camille. Apparently, Kelsey was so ready to dissolve his marriage with Camille so he could marry his British girlfriend, Kayte Walsh, a flight attendant.

Kelsey and Camille Grammer
He simply pops in and out of the reality tv show once in a while and very brief at that. My knowledge about him: Kelsey Grammer is an actor. Just an actor and not a big one. In fact, I even had the notion of him as an actor in a theater, in a musical.

The other day while downloading some of my favorite shows, I came across one of David Letterman's late night show (to be clear, this is not one of my favorite shows) episode featuring Kelsey.

Funny how I had a very different perception of this guy, thanks to Letterman. Grammer seemed funny and loose. I meant he seemed laconic and not the sociable type in the housewives' show.

And just right now, I truly discovered who he really was! Oh man! I am so dense. Wikipedia just revealed to my face that Kelsey Grammer was Dr. Frasier Crane in the NBC sitcom Frasier. I did watch that hilarious show from the '90s! How could I even not notice it was him!

Love in his marriage with Camille probably flew out of the window for so many reasons. I am not even sure if it has to do with Camille's very open and scandalous (that is how I see it) treatment of men around her. What married woman in her right mind and stature would kiss another woman's husband on the lips just to show that they are friends and enjoying each other's camaraderie? So what if you are one of the boys and not so at ease with other women who you think are catty enough to be your friend(s)? Like what Kyle said,

I don't really know. But the whole kissing someone else's husband on the lips is just bizarre. I can tell you that if Camille were to kiss my husband on the lips, she wouldn't have any lips left.

Oh yeah, Kyle! I would do the same thing. And for the love of Cupid, I wish that woman who is still married to Nick (the athletic guy/friend who keeps Camille company and whom Camille always kisses on the lips when they see each other) to do some action before she regrets it.

On the other hand, I found it so demeaning for Kelsey to be so romantically involved with another woman when he was still tied up. He should have first finalized his divorce before announcing to the world that he would be getting married...again to another woman.

Okay, guess he is really that in love with Walsh.

Truth is, it is their kids (Grammer has two children with Camille, daughter Mason, 8, and Jude, 6, and two older daughters, Spencer, and Greer, from previous relationships) who are really at the losing end of this situation.

*images courtesy of People

A February AfFAIR

2011-01-17T11:56:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

My sister and I have intentions of participating in this event: STEP UP: A FEBRUARY afFAIR. This enterprising event will be held on Feb. 19, 2010 at the Bahay ng Alumni, U.P. Diliman Campus.

Called "A FEBRUARY afFAIR" because it's right smack in the middle of the U.P. Fair, which will be held on the week of Feb. 15-19.

My curiosity was piqued when I first saw this promotion from The Reading Room. Owners Sandy and Benjamin Beltran recently launched S.T.E.P. U.P. (A Showcase for The Enterprising Pinoy, U.P.) to provide low-cost bazaar-setting venues for those who wish to try selling anything from brand new to second-hand items at a professional & legitimate event with low rates.

Mainly, I planned to join because I really wanted to dispose a lot of things in my closet, clothes, accessories and other knick knacks. Months before, I engaged in a spring cleaning session in the house. I discovered too many things that I had no further need of or simply in the forever state of gathering dust. I had thrown, given away and even donated usable yet considered unnecessary items (at least here in the house).

But there were stuff that I simply could not and did not want to dispose. And so the idea of holding a garage sale came to mind. The only problem: I did not have the space.

So I jumped at the idea the moment I saw this ad. Called my sister and urged her to join me.

Come next weekend, we will register for a space to let go of our pre-loved items and even sell some brand new, cutesy stuff. I am even thinking of buying some girlie accessories from Cebu a week before the fair.

S.T.E.P. U.P.: A FEBRUARY afFAIR
Feb. 19, 2011, 9am-5pm, Saturday
The BAHAY NG ALUMNI
R. Magsaysay Ave., U.P. Diliman Campus
Diliman, Quezon City

BOOKS + MAGAZINES + CLOTHES + SCHOOL & OFFICE SUPPLIES +
SHOES + DECOR + ACCESSORIES + ARTS + CRAFTS + SO MUCH MORE!

Brand New / Old Stock / 2nd-Hand / Vintage!

Check out our multiply.com site: http://stepup2011.multiply.com

SELLERS ARE WELCOME!
Check out our rates:
- LATAGAN 3ft x 5ft = P375.00
- LATAGAN 6ft x 7ft = P1,050.00
- MESA 7ft x 7ft = P1,425.00
- FOOD 7ft x 7ft = P1,425.00
- MESA 8ft x 9ft = P2,000.00

If you are interested in joining, simply email:
benjaminsbeltran@gmail.com

& request for the guidelines in A FEBRUARY afFAIR.

Magnolia Ice Cream: Caramel Cheesecake

2011-01-16T16:50:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

My little boy and I just came home from the supermarket an hour ago since he ran out of diapers. While we were there, I could not help but take a peek at the ice cream section.

And you know what I discovered? Cooling inside were the recently released Magnolia Ice Cream Christmas Limited Edition flavors: Vanilla Praline, Apple Strudel and Caramel Cheesecake.

I missed attending an invitation from Jonel of LetsGoSago early December last year. Days after that, I checked every supermarket I went to just to buy and have a taste of it. Unfortunately, the waiting bored me and I totally forgot all about it. Up until now...

Well, I am about to taste this one. Armed with a big mug and spoon, I am going to dig in and cherish this cold dessert.

Signing off!

January 2011 Reading List

2011-01-15T15:13:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

I am committing to reading a book per month.

Back then, I was able to finish 4-5 books a month. Aside from mountaineering, reading books is my only vice (if you can call it that).

I became a mom and doing all the things that go with it on my own. Reading had taken a backseat.

2011 marks my conviction to get back to my first love: books.

I will make sure that I will find time to read despite the busy schedule. I do not care if I have to read in between doing various house chores or in a cab or train en route somewhere.

For this month, I am aiming for two books. Concurrently, I am being engaged by Tom Gabbay and Robin Cook.

The Berlin Conspiracy by Tom Gabbay

Jack Teller is through with the CIA -- until the Berlin station is contacted by a Colonel in the East German Stasi just days before President John F. Kennedy's scheduled visit to the Wall. The Stasi officer has an important message -- and he will speak to no one but Jack.

The informant claims a treacherous plot is brewing to assassinate the American president in Germany -- a conspiracy originating at the highest levels of the U.S. government. Only Jack Teller believes the threat is real, and it has left him alienated and alone in a divided city that holds too many dark secrets. And if he forgets the two essential truths of the espionage game -- that lies are currency and nothing is what it seems -- he won't live to prevent a global catastrophe.

Critical by Robin Cook

Angela Dawson, M.D., appears to have it all: at the age of thirty-seven, she owns a fabulous New York City apartment, a stunning seaside house on Nantucket, and enjoys the perks of her prosperous lifestyle. But her climb to the top was rough, marked by a troubled childhood, a failed marriage, and the devastating blow of bankruptcy as a primary-care internist. Painfully aware of the role of economics in modern life, particularly in the health-care field, Angela returned to school to earn an MBA. Armed with a shiny new degree and blessed with determination, intelligence, and impeccable timing, Angela founded a start-up company, Angels Healthcare, then took it public. With her controlling interest in three busy specialty hospitals in New York City and plans for others in Miami and Los Angeles, Angela's future looked very bright.

Then a surge of drug-resistant staph infections in all three hospitals devastates Angela's carefully constructed world. Not only do the infections result in patient deaths, but the fatalities also cause stock prices to tumble, leaving market analysts wondering if Angela will be able to hold her empire together.

New York City medical examiners Laurie Montgomery and Jack Stapleton are naturally intrigued by the uptick in staph-related post-procedure deaths. Aside from their own professional curiosity, there's a personal stake as well: Laurie and Jack are newly married, and Jack is facing surgery to repair a torn ligament at Angels Orthopedic Hospital. Despite Jack's protests, Laurie can't help investigating-opening a Pandora's box of corporate intrigue that threatens not just her livelihood, but her life with Jack as well.

**I'm almost done with the other book. :) Way to go!

2011 Commitments

2011-01-12T07:02:00.002+08:00

Dear Me,

As I mentioned before, I rather have COMMITMENTS than resolutions for the new year.

I commit to munching less junk foods (chocolate bars not included...hehehe).
I commit to exercising 30 minutes a day.
I commit to reading a book per month.
I commit to broaden my little boy's physical, mental, social and emotional abilities.
I commit to being sweet to my husband. Nyahahaha. :p

May the Force be with me!