Brain Dump

What is Soundproofing?

noreply@blogger.com (Ayeesha) — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 07:13:00 +0000

Appropriate room treatment is a standout amongst the most essential things you can do to take control over the sound of your studio. When you initially set up a space, your music may not sound great.

There is a wide assortment of studio treatment items—boards, bass traps, wedges, diffusers—in an assortment of shapes, sizes, surfaces, and densities, all of which are proposed to control some part of the room's sound. While we don't have space here to do even a fundamental "Acoustics 101" breakdown, we would like to specify the distinction between sound treatment and soundproofing. The acoustic froth items we offer are intended to control reflections and recurrence reaction inside a room, not soundproof it (keep sound from getting away). Genuine soundproofing requires particular development strategies and materials. In the event that your neighbors are griping about sound levels, none of these items will help tackle that specific issue.

Acoustic froth items are intended to diffuse sound waves to stay away from problem areas and nulls. Doing this can augment the listening "sweet spot." Acoustic items are additionally used to control reflections that can bring about ringing, vacillate reverberations, low recurrence standing waves and spreading of the stereo picture. Bass traps, for the most part, go in corners to lessen the likelihood of standing waves, and diffusors and ingestion boards are put on the dividers to help control mid-and high-recurrence reflections. Each room is distinctive, and unless you're sufficiently lucky to have the capacity to have an acoustic master outline it without any preparation, you'll have to invest some energy counseling with one of our sound geniuses to make sense of the most ideal approach to approach upgrading your room.

Go ahead and buy that soundproofing foam.

Ballad

noreply@blogger.com (Ayeesha) — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 07:02:00 +0000

Hear the ballad “Murdered WomanSuddenly Gets Up from Chair.”It’s an honest ballad, pennedneither to shock nor to offend.The thing happened fair and square,with curtains open, lamps all lit;passersby could stop and stare.When the door had shut behind himand the killer ran downstairs,she stood up, just like the livingstartled by the sudden silence.She gets up, she moves her head,and she looks around with eyesharder than they were before.No, she doesn’t float through air;she steps on the ordinary,wooden, slightly creaky floor.In the oven she burns tracesthat the killer’s left behind:here a picture, there shoelaces,everything that she can find.It’s obvious that she’s not strangled.It’s obvious that she’s not shot.She’s been killed invisibly.She may still show signs of life,cry for sundry silly reasons,shriek in horror at the sightof a mouse,Ridiculoustraits are so predictablethat they aren’t so hard to fake.She got up like you and me.She walks just as people do.And she sings and combs her hair,which still grows.— Wisława Szymborska

Best Place to Buy New Musical Instruments Online

noreply@blogger.com (Ayeesha) — Sun, 07 May 2017 03:39:00 +0000

I am a frustrated musician. I grew up with brothers in bands. I see them practice in our house on weekends. But despite my lack of talent in music, I love surfing for music-related content online.

I found a great site for all your musician needs. Musician’s Friend online store is the best place to find the best musical instruments. You can choose among their wide selection of keyboards, drums, live sound, DJ, microphones, recording, band and orchestra, folk, accessories, guitars, effects, basses, guitar amplifiers, and more. Moreover, they offer free shipping for all their items.

What are you waiting for? Buy new online!

The Best Headphones For You

noreply@blogger.com (Ayeesha) — Fri, 24 Mar 2017 09:29:00 +0000

If you're like me, listening to music is a daily habit. Whether I am travelling and want to send a don't-talk-to-me signal or relaxing at home, I alwasy prefer listening to music through headphones. But did you know that there are different types of headphones?

In-ear monitors (IEMs) and earbuds

Most sports headphones fall into the IEM category. In-ear monitors (or IEMs) are headphones that fit inside each ear canal. Earbuds, on the other hand, feature small drivers that rest on the ridge of your outer ear. They usually deliver lesser fidelity and isolation than other types of headphones.

They are cheap, very small and offer good sound quality for an affordable price.

On-ear

This is the type of headphones which sit right over your outer ear. On-ear headphones are similar in design to over-ear models, though the cushions sit on the outer ear rather than enclosing the ears. When you are wearing on-ear headphones, you can still hear outside sounds, and others nearby might be able to hear your music.

Over-ear

Also known as "around-ear" or "full-size" headphones, over-ear headphones have cushioned earcups that enclose the ears. Usually considered the best headphones for sound quality, most over-ear models also do a good job of isolating the user from outside sound. This feature is sometimes called "passive noise reduction."

If you're looking for topnotch headphones, Guitar Center has, shure headphones at a great price!

Want to travel to Japan and SEA Countries on a Cruise?

noreply@blogger.com (Ayeesha) — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 00:20:00 +0000

The National Youth Commission announces the start of the annual search for youth goodwill ambassadors who will join this year’s Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP).

Now on its 44th year, the SSEAYP is a flagship program of NYC. It is an annual cultural exchange program that started in 1974 as a joint statement between ASEAN Member States and Japan. Participated by young people from these countries, the program’s objective is to promote friendship and mutual understanding among them and the local youth in their respective countries.

Download forms here:

Participating youth - https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-9i1g0yfOhrTWN1VWJEeG9UZ2VfbGZMLUVDaGhOM1lFRGdF/view?usp=sharing

National Leader - https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-9i1g0yfOhrREZ2VUotanYwQ1RfS2QwcDhfemxnUWI3WlBv/view?usp=sharing

5 Reasons Why You Should Have Musician Friends

noreply@blogger.com (Ayeesha) — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 03:43:00 +0000

1. You may have a talent in music that you have yet to discover. Having muscian friends can help you unlock that potental. They can guide you in choosing the best gears to start with. Or you yourself is already playing an instrument. Your musiccian friends can help you hone that talent.

2. Having musician friends means always having someone with a unique taste to enrich your playlist. You do not have to rely on radios that usually fill your playlist with whatever that is popular.

3. Having musician friends means having instant entertainment all the time. You can't possibly get bored when in the company of people who can provide live entertainment any time.

4. Musician friends live for emotions and feelings. That means you can be honest with them with your truest self. Who knows, your story can inspire them to write a song or a melody.

5. They will teach you living life in the moment. Musicians feel deeply. They have a grasp of reality that is different from regular people. Thus, having them around makes life so much more liveable and interesting.

Two Famous Guitars I Covet

noreply@blogger.com (Ayeesha) — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 03:20:00 +0000

In the world of music, an artist's instrument can become as icinic as he is. It's like the guitar becomes one as the artist that one cannot exist without the other. The choice of guitar conveys much of the artist's personality. It is an extension of himself.

Let's take two famous guitars in history that I covet:

Prince’s “Cloud” which was originally custom-built by Minneapolis luthier David Rusan in 1983, the guitar was featured prominently in Prince’s Purple Rain film. Though some fans might argue in favor of his symbol guitar, the Cloud just looks sexier, more like something a regular musician might actually want to play.

Kurt Cobain’s Fender Jag-Stang had a fair share of guitars played throughout the band’s career, a couple of the Fender models he played tend to stand out: the Jaguar and the Mustang. Rather than having to pick either one of those, it’s only natural to feature the Jag-Stang, Cobain’s very own combination of both guitars. As the story goes, Kurt designed the guitar himself via a montage of polaroid photos.

It is clear that choosing the right guitar is important. But where do you look? You can start by searching for a reputable guitar store. Some even offer classes to help you in your craft.

7 Most Painful Moments on the Morning After (A Breakup)

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 04:07:00 +0000

1. Waking up and the first thing that you feel is the sense of having something inside you ripped out. It's not exactly your heart that was missing, because you can feel it beating really fast like it is scared of something. You haven't exactly registered yet into your consciousness that he is gone, but your limbs, the tips of your fingertips, are tingly with weakness. Something has changed. Something was misplaced.

2. Because you are so used to reach out to your phone, because normally there is a text in your inbox that will make you smile, you look at your notifications and there is none. And that is when it sinks in. That is when you remember what happened the night before, the goodbye, the hurtful words, and the finality in his decision.

3. You are torn between waking up and going back to sleep. There is so much to be done today. And yet you are afraid to face the day, the first day of navigating through life without him, the first day of going through the motions without his presence. You know what it's like to be alone. But when you met him and fell into the comforts of having someone, you somehow lost the confidence in facing the harshness of life without someone who provides you with security.

4. In your morning prayer, you wanted to pray that everything goes back to what it used to be. But you didn't pray for it. Because hoping means opening up a little more to disappointment. You are wrestling with enough disappointments already. So you stay a little longer on the prayer mat, with your forehead pressed on the floor, you cry the hardest you have cried in a long time. And you tell your Lord, "I know you know what is in my heart. And this heart of mine cries out to you"

5. You come down to the kitchen and make yourself a cup of coffee. You are a big girl, you tell yourself. It's going to be alright, you convince yourself. And your mother wakes up too. You try to act normal. A part of you wants to hug her, tell her someone hurt you, like you used to run to her when you were a little girl. But your mother bore so much pain already. So you spare her. You know she will hurt too when she find out you broke your heart again. She liked that boy, though she won't admit it openly. You caught her smile when she saw those roses by your bedside.

6. You go through your routine of having breakfast with your family. You smile and engage with conversation with them. Under the mask that you put on your face, you are crumbling with them. You push back the tears so hard that you taste it at the back of your mouth. So you wash away the saltiness with the bitterness in your morning coffee.

7. As you put on your makeup, somehow your BB cream won't cling to your face like it used to. So you pile it on, masking the pain away. No amount of eye makeup can hide the swollen eyelids and under eye from all the crying from last night. You swipe on your lipstick to hide your pale lips. And when you are done painting on a face, you look at yourself. Despite the perfect arch of you brows and the glow from your highlighter, you don't feel beautiful anymore.

(To my best friend Hannah, to my Danny, cousin Ham, and to every girl who has her heart broken.)

Music Festival Season

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 12:38:00 +0000

To many artists, musicians, celebs, hipsters, Instagrammers, and music lovers, April marks the beginning of the season of music festivals. Coachella, this generation's Woodstock, is bringing the biggest stars this year: Elie Goulding, Of Monsters and Men, Foals, Years& Years, Joey BadAss, ASAP Rocky, Softest Hard, Guns N' Roses, Ice Cube, CHVRCHES. Moon Taxi, Zedd, Calvin Harris, Sia, The 1975, Flume and so many more.

Browsing through Maxine Magalona's Instagram account documenting her Coachella experience makes me jealous.

I can only imagine a crowd of millenials high with whatever that's making them high, big artists, flower crowns, sick instruments, sexy guitars like Amer Elites, hipster sunnies, parties everywhere, outrageous fashion choices, light shows, art installations, and everything that screams music fest.

This one is on my bucket list. I hope I am not too old when I get to go myself.

Vote and Help Global Innovation through Science and Technology Semi-Finalists from the Philippines make it to the Finals!

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Sat, 16 Apr 2016 02:35:00 +0000

U.S. Embassy Manila is pleased to announce that two of the semi-finalists selected in the 2016 U.S. Department of State’s Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) Tech-I pitch competition are from the Philippines.

The GIST Tech-I pitch competition is an annual competition for science and technology entrepreneurs from emerging economies worldwide.

Mary Christine Ong-Reyes and Corina Lisa Cruzare among the 102 semi-finalists selected from 51 countries. Out of the semi-finalists up to 30 finalists will receive a trip to the Global Entrepreneurship Summit in Silicon Valley to showcase their ventures and to receive intensive one-on-one mentorship and training.

Help Mary Christine and Corina make it to the finals by voting for them!

Mary Christine's idea, ParentUp, is a mobile app that helps parents with newborns obtain information and emotional support for their health and well-being from pregnancy to postpartum.Meanwhile, Corina's startup, Joomajam, is an easy-to-use educational activity pack that combines bilingual music, videos and games to spark multi-domain education and nurture lifelong learners. You may view Mary Christine and Corina’s pitch videos here.

Voting began on April 1 and will continue until May 1. Please see this link for further instructions on how to vote.

For more information on the U.S. Department of State’s Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) Tech-I pitch competition, click here.

Ask Ayee #2

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 00:09:00 +0000

I'm answering these three already. I don't want to make these Anons to wait for too long.

1. Are you still single or married? -Anonoymous

I am not married anymore. So I am back to being single.

2. I have read from a post of a Muslim friend that engaging in war to spread Islam is fine. Is it true? -Anonymous

No, I do not think that warring with non-Muslims to spread Islam is okay. What is rightful, as far as I know is to assert that the land be governed in an Islamic way. For example, the cause of the Bangsamoro people. Other than the grievances, the injustices of the government towards the Muslims in Mindanao, it is right that the people fight for their right to live in an Islamic way. Part of that life is be ruled by Shariah Law. As Muslims, we should always choose the peaceful path. If we need to fight, war should be the least among all possible options. The battlefield is not the only place to win the war.

3. What is your opinion on arranged marriage? -Anonymous

I abhor arranged marriages. May I stress the abhor word more? Hate hate hate it for one simple reason: it is your life, you make your own decisions. Unless you have the balls to choose who you want to lie in bed with (sorry for the blunt words) for the rest of your life, then you are not ready to marry. Grow a pair first. The essence of marriage contract in Islam is consent, as they say, every fiber of your being, all seven layers, must agree to marry the other person. Now if the marriage is merely arranged, what are the chances that you will consent to it with all your heart and soul?

If you feel like asking me, kahit anong topic pa yan, go to the ask me anything tab on top of the page, or just comment here.

My Youtube Channel

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Sun, 13 Mar 2016 08:53:00 +0000

Perhaps it is a standard for bloggers to have a Youtube Channel. I just had to jump into the bandwagon. The truth is, my channel is where I dump video footage of stories I covered. So most of them aren't really worth your time. However, I still mean to upload better videos in the future, more personal ones

I have nothing better to do today so I made a welcome video for my Youtube channel. I'm a bit self-conscious about the way I speak. But I just had to try and see where this goes.

Please be kind to the noob Youtuber.

And yes, I have to get a new lens.

5 Ways I Healed a Broken Heart

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 10:59:00 +0000

It is not a secret that I went through a major crisis in my life in the second quarter of last year. I'd rather keep the details under wraps because airing dirty laundry is not my cup of tea. Instead, I am sharing pieces of advice for all the lovely ones out there who are asking how did I manage it. What is the secret recipe to moving on?

(I have received messages from friends, asking for advice. They say just a few months from the heartbreak, I have bounced back looking very happy, really happy not pretend happy. So I thought I might as well write down what I usually tell them as a response.)

1. Know when the battle is over.

At a certain point, a relationship has broken down enough that it is beyond repair. Although you are blinded by love, strive to see past you and him and see the relationship under a more objective light. What are the signs that it is beyond hope? Ask yourself these questions: Do we still trust each other? Did he choose someone or something (career, hobby, vices, etc.) over me? Do my friends and family support us, or at least like him? Am I willing to settle for this setup for the rest of my life? If you answered no to any of the questions above, chances are you two are heading to the ruins. Recognize the symptoms. Know that it is time to stop fighting for the relationship. It is time to ease your grip and let it go.

2. Mourn.

A lot of people will advice that the best way is to keep busy and keep your mind off the pain. But trust me on this: please take time to mourn. Feel the pain. Unless you go through this step, you will end up with sorrowful feelings towards the person even after several years. Cry it out. Listen to heartbreak songs. Stay in bed for days. It may take a while, but after all the pent-up emotions have been released, it is time to start the healing process.

3. Rediscover yourself.

Having a significant other can mean being heavily influenced by another human being. Some women actually lose their personality over the course of a relationship as they have deeply integrated their habits and interests with their partners. After losing him, you will feel that a big chunk of you has been amputated from your own flesh. It is normal. This is the time to rediscover yourself. Remember who you were before him. Did you always wanted to paint? Were you always dreaming of spending a weekend alone overseas? What else do you want to achieve right now and in the next 3 years?

4. Embrace the possibilities. Work. Achieve.

After spending weeks sitting around brooding, it is time to get that ass off the bed and get out the door. Slowly build positive habits that can up your game. Take care of yourself. Magpaganda ka teh! Put on your gym clothes and sweat all your frustrations off. Reconnect with your friends. In trying times, friends are your best support group. Bond with your family. Love from friends and family works wonders. Work harder. Or find a job you have always dreamed of. Every little achievement will mend your broken self-esteem. So load up on achieving you goals, one step at a time. Learn to do things for you own happiness.

5. Above all, leave everything to Allah SWT.

Nothing is more comforting than the knowledge that everything has already been ordained for you. Be happy in whatever circumstance your in because your Lord knows what is best for you, including this heartbreak. Like a pencil, you need to undergo sharpening to reveal your truest potential. Trust Him. Cry it all out to Him. He will put back all the pieces together even if you are shattered to a thousand pieces. He is the Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Alhamdulillah!

Just let it go. The end of a relationship is not the end of you. There are more wonderful things that will happen in your life, In Shaa Allah. You will be alright.

Ask Ayee #1

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Thu, 25 Feb 2016 11:49:00 +0000

Let's take a break from all the bad news that I have been covering in the past few days. My stress level is off the roof, I need a dose of anything not-so-serious. Fortunately, I received a mail via my Ask Me Anything page from reader Maia.

Lezgedditon!

1. So, Ayee, do you pray? Five times a day?

I do pray, not necessarily 5 times a day. Some days, I can complete my daily prayers, some days my score can dip to zero. I don't want to make an excuse. Yes my work is tough but that's not it. Faith is like the tides. Some days my faith is strong, I can will myself to pray despite everything. Some days, my Imaan weakens, I get lazy. That's not a good thing. May Allah swt, the Merciful, forgive us.

2. What do you think of on and off hijabis?

I was an on and off hijabi before I committed full time. I can speak for myself that covering up is not easy especially if you are just starting. It's a lifestyle change. The fact that a girl already makes an effort to put it on is commendable. When they take it off, let's not judge na lang. We don't know what struggles they go through. In shaa Allah, those with the right intention will be able to transition from on and off to full-time.

3. Define modesty.

Wag na yaaaan. 😜

4. What's your advice to younger ones than you in academics and in life in general?

Just two things babe: 1. sundin ang payo ng mga magulang. I learned it the hard way. Some things in life, only those old enough to have wisdom will understand. Their advice are from their own experience. 2. Know your passion. Enroll in the course that you truly love. You won't be as happy if you study something na napilitan ka lang.

5. Do you seek for a total independent Bansamoro state?

No, I don't. I was born a Filipino and that is something that is already a part of me. I love my country, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. But I do wish for a more autonomous region where Sharia can be implemented well if not completely.

6. What are your I wish I had and I wish I were?

I wish I had more time with my Papang so I can fully show him my gratefulness for raising us with integrity. He is but a simple man, but he is the greatest man I know.

I wish I were prettier. Charot! Pero di nga. LOL

7. Professional or Ulama leader?

Someone who is both an ulama and a professional. Right now I am thinking of the likes of Dr. Hamid Barra. An may be morally upright and knows all the rulings of Shariah but he may not have the technical and scientific knowledge to be able to adapt to the modern times. A professional my not have the moral compass of a true Muslim, he may just lead the people astray. Dapat balance.

Maia thank you for dropping by. I had fun answering. Shukran. 💛, Ayee

Alleged kidnappers nabbed in Marawi, 1 killed, 3 wounded

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 00:03:00 +0000

I have more graphic photos of the crime scene, but since this is a personal blog, I chose not to publicize them.

MARAWI CITY--One of the kidnappers of 7 year old victim and his nanny was killed and three of his company have been wounded after a shootout incident in Matampay, Marawi City right in front of Jamiatul Muslim Mindanao As-Islamiah Foundation School around 6:30 on February 19, 2016. However, one male unidentified suspect with short firearm escaped arrest.

Initial investigation revealed, according to a police report, that when rescue team composed of PNP team lead by PSUPT. Erwin Bayani Meneses, CIU personnel, RID PRO 10, 103rd Special Action Coy, 1st Special Action Battalion, Anti-Kidnapping Group and Special Action Force, tailed the suspects on board a white Toyota FX, the suspects suddenly stopped at Baranggay Matampay and fired upon the two Innova vans boarded by the PNP team.

Police Superintendent Roel Lami-ing of Marawi Police reported that the PNP team retaliated and resulted to the death of one of the suspects identified as Jun Nasher Barao and wounding of three of his company.
According to PSupt. Lami-ing, minutes after the incident, Marawi City Police Station led by him, PPSC, Lanao del Sur PPO led by PSupt. Nasser Balindong, B Coy 65th Infantry Battalion let by 1Lt. Jefel Larita immediately responded to the crime scene.

According to one RPSB ARMM personnel who also responded to the incident, all injured in the incident were rushed in the nearby hospital. He also said the police recovered ransom money, getaway car, one caliber 45 pistol, one caliber 38 revolver, and one hand grenade from the crime scene.

The victims were rescued unharmed

LP Presidential candidate Mar Roxas tries to win the votes of Iligan City residents who dumped him in favor or VP Binay during the 2010 elections

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 04:11:00 +0000

In his first stop during his visit around Iligan and Misamis Oriental today (February 3), Mar Roxas met with local leaders and residents in Iligan City.

He attended a multi-sectoral assembly at the Congressional District Field office in Pala-o, Iligan City where he served as the guest of honor and keynote speaker.

Members of different sectors--transport group, religious leaders, and indigenous people came to see Roxas and show their support.

Local leaders including Cong. Vicente Belmonte Jr. of the lone district of Iligan, former Iligan mayor Lawrence Cruz, Vice Mayor Rudy Marzo and ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman came to the assembly.

Iligan City is important to Mar Roxas because he was number one here when he ran for senator, said Iligan vice-mayor and mayoralty candidate Rudy Marzo following the visit of Liberal Party presidential bet Mar Roxas yesterday (February 3) to meet residents and LP local candidates in Iligan City.

When asked about Mar's candidacy as vice-president in 2010, Marzo said that Mar did not win in Iligan because vice-presidency is not his rightful place. The campaign concentrated on the LP presidential candidate and the people forgot him, he added.

Marzo also said that Duterte is the biggest threat to Mar in Iligan.

However, Marzo added that Iligan is a bailiwick of Liberal Party because most of the prominent politicians are under LP.

Iligan City plus the twenty-two municipalities of the province of Lanao del Norte hold half a million votes.

US Ambassador says US supports the peace process

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 04:04:00 +0000

MARAWI CITY, February 4, 2016--During his visit in Mindanao State University, Marawi City, His Excellency US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg expressed the support of the United States to the peace process in Mindanao.

In his speech during the Opening Ceremony of the ACCESS Program, a US Embassy-sponsored microscholarship in Lanao del Sur, Goldberg said that the support of the US in the peace process is not just in words but through the deeds in carrying out projects trying to help the population and develop the youth in the region.

Goldberg said as a rection to the MILF statement that the failure of the passage of BBL can cause radicalization of the Moro that "The people in this region, the people of the Philippines want peace in Mindanao. And so, while we don't take a position as a foreign embassy on domestic legislation like the BBL, we certainly have done things to try to underpin the peace process to try to help people in this region and we hope that everybody rededicates themselves to the peace process and find way forward. And that's for Filipinos to work out and we will support that process."

The President of Mindanao State University System, Dr. Macapado Muslim, expressed gratitude to the United States. He said that if MSU became the second strongest state university in the country, that is because of the good beginning of the university in the 60s which was anchored largely on the support of the United States government.

Moreover, Muslim reiterated that America is a dependable ally of the Bangsamoro people and as a payback, he told Goldberg, to expect their continuing support of the US government initiatives in Mindanao.

[[ PROMOTIONAL ITEMS AND BLOGVERSARY GIVEAWAYS ]]

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:27:00 +0000

One summer while I was in Illinois, there was this group of students who were promoting a spring break event. They gave yellow pens, paper clips, and even Frisbees to passersby. Those items were personalized, on them were messages pertaining to the event that they were promoting. I thought that was a great way of advertising. Hey, when you receive those items, it will surely be difficult to shake off the thought of how great that event must be because their promotional giveaways are amazing too,

So that was ages ago when I haven’t learned the power of the World Wide Web.

Anyway, my blogversary is like three months from now and already I am thinking about you know, giveaways like every respectable blogger does. However, I don’t know what sort of things my readers will appreciate or would love to receive. So my thoughts went down memory lane to that time that I got promotional items for that spring break event. How about something useful that will benefit my followers, which is personalized with something that will promote my blog like the go promos ink pens that are very good for note taking. Perhaps a mug printed with the logo and url of my blog.

What do you think? Any suggestions?

[[ LADY GAGA SUED FOR CHARITY WORK? ]]

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 16:56:00 +0000

I can't believe what I read in yahoo news tonight, yes ladies and gents, Gaga is sued over fundraising efforts in Japan. Here's what the article said:

"A lawsuit filed in Detroit claims music star Lady Gaga is misleading her fans with an online pitch for donations for victims of the Japan earthquake.

Lady Gaga's website is selling $5 wristbands that say, "We Pray For Japan." The website also allows people to make additional donations and says "all proceeds go directly to Japan relief efforts."

But the lawsuit notes that sales tax and a $3.99 shipping charge are added. Detroit-area attorney Alyson Oliver believes not all money is going to help the Japanese. She wants an accounting.

An email seeking comment was left Monday with a spokesman for Lady Gaga. The lawsuit was filed Friday in federal court in Detroit. It seeks class-action status and possible refunds for people who bought wristbands."

I have a few thoughts in mind?

1. Is it Gaga's fault or whoever she hired to do the job?

2. Knowing that the Fame Monster is too busy with all her tours, shoots and appearances, does she have time to plan this swindling?

3. If Lady Gaga is behind this dark trick, she must born this way: Money+Fame Monster.

4. However, is the $5 plus $3.99 wrist band lucrative enough for Lady Gaga who sold millions of albums for her to do something as cheap as this?

5. Gaga shouldn't be sued this soon. It is just so unlikely that she meant to deceive fans to earn a meager amount which she can easily earn by granting a magazine an interview.

I'm not exactly a Lady Gaga fan. In fact I hate most of her songs, especially the recent ones, like Judas. How blasphemous. Maybe she just wants to embody everything dark and evil in her new album. I can't say for certain. I'm just worried on the extent of her influence to the kids who listen to her songs and watch her on the tv. If only music can have limitations as to who can listen and who cannot just like movies.

I have this love-hate relationship with Gaga. She is a pioneer and an adventurer, she goes where no one goes, she puts so much art in her songs and her persona yet she scares me sometimes with her overly dare-devilish antics and the negative message of her songs. One is entitled to his/her beliefs but to offend others by deliberately saying bad things about others' beliefs is just so wrong. But you know what I think? Gaga is just another woman beneath her intricate costumes. That woman is the one I want to know and understand.

[[ FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY: SIMPLE TIPS ]]

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 19:57:00 +0000

I don't assume to be a photographer nor a real fashionista. However, there are those times when we want to play dress up and. It is so cool if you know someone close to you who is damn good in photography. But what if you onlly have you and your usual point-and-shoot digital camera (which is always the case for me)?

Don't fret, the timer feature of many cameras always saves the day. Here are some tips from a non-pro:

1. If you don't have good lighting, shooting outdoors is a good idea. Especially when it is in the morning when the sunshine has this white softness in it. Haven't you noticed that most photographers shoot street fashion in broad daylight? Because cameras depend on light for quality. Point-an-shoot cameras will give you this grainy look if you shoot at night, or the colors of your clothes won't be as vivid.

2. If you do not own a tripod(I don't have one either) get a chair or anything stable to mount your camera on. Make a test shot to see the lighting and the right distance for you to pose. When it is too bright, adjust the exposure. When it is gloomy, some cameras have photo filters. Make sure too that where you'll stand to pose will show you head to toe. Remember, the shoe is like 40% of the outfit. lol

3. When you're ready, set the timer for ten seconds. That will give you enough time to pose, To be "in the moment" when shooting, see the signals that the camera gives that it is like seconds away before it shoots. My camera beeps once every 9 seconds, and then beep like 5 times before its aperture opens. It has the light too that is in sync withe the beeping which is helpful when you have difficulty hearing the beeps especially when you are somewhere noisy.

4. Lastly, a little help from Photoshop doesn't hurt either. What I usually do is adjust brightness and contrast, highlights and shadows, and the exposure. That is enough to give a vivid fashion photograph all by yourself. But sometimes, I just desaturate(make into grayscale) for a little drama.

This just make me wish for a decent SLR. Happy pictorial peeps!

[[ WHEN SOMEONE YOU LOVE IS SICK ]]

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Sat, 11 Jun 2011 00:26:00 +0000

I know I just did a fashion extravaganza like an editor of some fashion mag(a dream job actually) but I had this urge to share this touchy topic.

When we have friends/relatives/loved ones who are sick, especially when they are REALLY ill, sometimes when we visit them, we find it tricky to compose in our minds what to say. We want to make them feel better, but does what we say make them feel better? From my own experience and other loved ones I know, this is what I found out.

NEVER SAY...

1. WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP? Most patients I know grow to hate this ubiquitous, if heartfelt question because it puts the burden back on them. The patient is never going to tell you. They don't want to feel vulnerable. Instead, just do something for the patient. And the more mundane the better, because those are the tasks that add up. Want to be really helpful? Clean out the fridge, replace the light bulbs, unpot the dead plants, change the oil.

2. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. In my experience, some people think about you, which is nice. Others pray for you, which is equally comforting. But the majority of people who say they're sending "thoughts and prayers" are just falling back on a mindless cliché. It's time to retire this hackneyed expression to the final resting place of platitudes, alongside "I'm stepping down to spend more time with my family," or "It's not you, it's me." lol

3. DID YOU TRY THAT MANGO COLONIC I RECOMMENDED?

I am stunned by the number of friends and strangers alike who are full of tips for miracle tonics, Chinese herbs or Swedish visualization exercises. At times, the patient's inbox is like a Grand Ole Opry lineup of 1940s Appalachian black-magic potions. "If you put tumeric under your fingernails, and pepper on your neck, and take a grapefruit shower, you'll feel better. It cured my Uncle."

Even worse, the recommenders follow up! "Why are you not wearing the kabbalah bracelet I gave you, it's from Israel.

4. EVERYTHING WILL BE O.K.

Unsure what to say, many well-wishers fall back on chirpy feel-goodisms. But these banalities are more often designed to allay the fears of the caregiver than those of the patient. As one friend complained: "I got a lot of 'chin ups,' 'you're going to get better.' I kept thinking: You haven't seen the scans. That's not what the doctor is saying." The simple truth is, unless you're a medical professional, resist playing Nostradamus.

5. HOW ARE WE TODAY?

Every adult patient I know complains about being infantilized. When the adult patient has living parents, as I do, many mothers in particular fall back on old patterns, from overstepping their boundaries to making bologna sandwiches when the patient hasn't eaten them since childhood. Just because someone is dealing with a physical illness doesn't diminish their mental capacity.

6. YOU LOOK GREAT.

Nice try, but patients can see right through this chestnut. We know we're gaunt, our hair is falling out in clumps, our colostomy bag needs emptying. The only thing this hollow expression conveys is that you're focusing on how we appear. When people comment on my appearance it reminds me that I don't look good.

Next time you want to compliment a patient's appearance, keep this in mind: Vanity is the only part of the human anatomy that is immune to cancer.

So what do I want to hear if I wear (God forbids) really sick?

1. YOU DON'T HAVE TO TEXT ME OR CALL ME BACK

All patients get overwhelmed with the burden of keeping everyone informed, coddled and feeling appreciated. Social networking, while offering some relief, often increases the expectation of round-the-clock updates.

To get around this problem, the patient may have to appoint a "minister of information," whose job is to disseminate news, deflect queries and generally be polite when the patient don't have the energy or inclination to be. But you can do your part, too: If you do drop off a fruitcake or take the dog for a walk, insist the patient not write you a thank-you note. Chicken soup is not a wedding gift; it shouldn't come with added stress. Come on!

2. I SHOULD BE GOING NOW.

You'll never go wrong by uttering these five words while visiting someone who's sick.Just don't overstay. 20 minutes, even less if the patient is tired or in pain.

3. WOULD YOU LIKE SOME GOSSIP?

One surefire tip: a slight change of topic goes a long way. Patients are often sick of talking about their illness. We have to do that with our doctors nurses. By all means, follow the lead of the individual, but sometimes ignoring the elephant in the room is just the right medicine. Even someone recovering from surgery has an opinion about the starlet's affair, the underdog in the playoffs or the big election around the corner.

4. I LOVE YOU.

When all else fails, simple, direct emotion is the most powerful gift you can give a loved one going through pain. It doesn't need to be ornamented. It just needs to be real. "I'm sorry you have to go through this." "I hate to see you suffer." "You mean a lot to me." The fact that so few of us do this makes it even more meaningful.

[[ DENIM LEGGINGS AKA JEGGINGS: THE HUNT ]]

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 02:02:00 +0000

I had secretly and somewhat shamefully been on the search for what felt like an ever elusive pair of perfect denim leggings.

If you’ve learned one thing from reading my blog, it is that I’m quite the lazy dresser. I dislike thinking too much about what I have to wear or feeling uncomfortable. Denim leggings? Right up my alley.
My goal was to find jeggings that could be a viable substitute for jeans. Impossible? Maybe. But was I going to try and find them? Absolutely.

I finally happened upon a pair of Bench( or was that from another local brand?) jeggings from a recent trip to CDO and I love them! They’re definitely not as good as regular premium denim and I would never wear them without a shirt covering my ‘hind parts (well actually, I shouldn’t say “never” ‘cause I probably will). But I can’t resist how easy they are to wear and how comfortable they feel.

They are definitely worth the small investment for a pair that will last more than few washes. Fashion-forward J Brand also makes a pair that feels a little more like leggings than jeans and are a little pricier, but super comfortable they say. Gap also has a few styles.

All I know is that these should be a permanent staple in my wardrobe and I should not be ashamed! I almost wonder if the people that so vocally dislike jeggings have ever put them on. Okay, so maybe they’re a little “tacky” but someone else’s tacky is another person’s chic.

But at the end of the jeggings hunt, i didn't find the perfect one so I settled on the smallEST Penshoppe skinny jeans I could find. The one below.

[[ SHEER DRESSING: APPROPRIATE? ]]

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 01:49:00 +0000

We’re seeing sheer clothing everywhere now, from the runway to daily life. Whether it’s a top, a skirt, or even a pair of pants, the look is no longer just sexy, but can be seen as classy and chic. But is it always appropriate? Can you wear a sheer top to work? To school? Or is it really just a style best reserved for the bedroom?

What’s Appropriate

Get it right in modestly and classically styled sheers—the key is to pair a sheer garment with something more covered-up for a look that can be worn on multiple occasions.Wear sheer top buttoned all the way up with longer shorts. Yes, you can see a hint of a brightly-colored bra, but it keeps the look playful and punchy. Demure, yet surprising. Another option is to wear your sheer top with white or nude undergarments, if you already have on a statement piece. This option is great if you don’t want the world to know what color underwear you’re wearing!

What’s Inappropriate (Unless, of course, you are a celebrity)

Sometimes celebs make pretty interesting fashion choices—they create looks the average person probably wouldn’t wear. And when it comes to sheer clothing, their looks can be downright inappropriate, at least for day-to-day life. Gwen Stefani is a repeat offender, wearing a super sheer black top with low-cut bra one day, and a panty-baring sheer maxi skirt the next. Leighton Meester and Kristen Stewart have also made some mistakes on the red carpet, wearing inappropriately underwear (or lack of)-baring dresses. Mischa Barton and January Jones have been snapped by the paps, baring it all in sheer black t-shirts.

When & Where

So we’ve discussed what is and isn’t appropriate in a general sense, but now it’s time to talk about the when and where (or wear, as the case may be).

If you’re still in school: You shouldn’t be afraid to rock new trends when you want to, but make sure you abide by the school dress code, if you have one. A tank under a sheer button down is a good way to wear this look while staying covered up.

If you go to work: It really depends on your place of employment. Wearing a sheer skirt to your new job at the grocery store? Probably not the best idea. If you work in a corporate setting, sheer garments can be iffy, but it’s better to err on the side of modesty—keep your undergarments under wraps.

On the weekend: For shopping, hanging out with friends, going clubbing, or doing whatever you like to do with your free time, your style should be your own and you should feel free to wear what you like. If you’re comfortable wearing a sheer top over a blue bra, go for it. lol

I will say that fashion trends and how they are seen can be somewhat circumstantial—for example, a sheer outfit may stand out less in a place like California rather than Ohio, but as long as you’re confident with what you’re wearing, that shouldn’t matter. Rock the sheer look and tell us all about here!

P.S. Conservatives may find this trend very difficult to pull off. Like me.

[[ HOW TO WEAR PASTELS ]]

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 01:39:00 +0000

Rainy season is rampaging the tropics now, but that doesn't mean giving up the spring/summery pastels. They give a fresh aura on a gloomy day.

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COOL VS. WARM COMPLEXIONS

Ever encountered a situation where you see this gorgeous lavender top but once you try it on, you end up, well, hating it? One of the reasons for this is probably due to your undertone complexion. Most complexions fall into either the warm or cool category. Let’s find out which one you are!

Discovering Your Undertone

1. Looking at your forearms under natural light or outdoors. Looking at the vein colour, what colour do you see?

- If blue, then you’re cool.
- If green, then you’re warm.

2. Coloured jewelry can also play a part in what your undertone may be.

- If you tend to gravitate towards silver jewelry, you are cool.
- If you look better in gold jewelry, then you’re warm.

3. Lastly, depending if you burn or not under the sun is a good indicator, too!

- You don’t get tanned – then you’re cool
- You can get tanned – then you’re warm.

Choosing the Colours

Now that you’ve established what undertone complexion you have, then we can see what kinds of pastels will look good on you.

Cool Colours:
- Pink
- Lavender
- Baby Blue
- Mint Green

Warm Colours:

- Coral
- Light Yellow
- Peach
- Avocado Green
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POLYCHROMATIC

Once you’ve established what undertone you have, you can also wear pastels in multiple colours. “Colourblocking” is a great way to wear out pastels as you’re able to achieve an extravagant look while mixing different hues.

Examples:
Creat the ultimate cupcake look with her light blue and pink like Kirsten Dunst as the modern Marie Antoinette that warms hearts in her light yellow and coral dress.
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MONOCHROMATIC

For those who like the subtle appeal, you can still mix and match colours – as long as they remain on the same colour spectrum (i.e., mint green with baby blue).

Examples:

Execute the same colour spectrum perfectly. The combination of light yellow and light orange indicate that these two look ravishing in warm hues.
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ACCESSORIZING

Accessories are appropriate for gals who like to express a little pastel while wearing darker coloured clothes. Just make sure that the light and dark colours stay in the same warm/cool complexion. Clashing of the two categories may result in a pastel don’t!

Examples:

Blogger, Cheyser Pedregosa of The Walking Recessionista wears her cool green-blues on her nails and necklace in her look, while blogger, Dominque Nghiem of Devilishly Stylish keeps it edgy in her pink litas and black ensemble.

Let's shoo the rain away!

[[ HOW TO DRESS FOR YOUR HEIGHT (FOR TALL GIRLS LIKE ME) ]]

noreply@blogger.com (Bae a Meranao) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 01:30:00 +0000

We already learned how to dress if you’re a short gal, but now it is time for us tall girls to get a chance. I know it’s a challenge to find clothes if you’re tall, but let’s embrace our height and show the world how great tall gals can look!

Notable Leggy Celebs….
Taylor Swift (5’11”)
Maria Sharapova (6’2”)
Nicole Kidman (5’11”)
Florence Welch (5’9”)
Blake Lively (5’10”)
Michelle Obama (5’11”)
Julia Roberts (5’9”)

_______________________________________________________________________

1. GET CLOTHES THAT FIT
For tall women, inseams and shirt lengths often run short. Many stores offer ‘extended sizes’ in bottoms, but few do these for tops as well. So what’s the solution? Shop at a store designed for your height.

If you have a little bit more cash to burn, a tailor is also a great option. Although expensive, they can make the perfect clothing piece for you. You might consider going to one for an investment piece, like a black suit, if you can’t find one that fits anywhere. Make sure to go to a tailor that has been recommended by friends or research them.

2. THE PERFECT PAIR

The battle for the elusive pair of perfect jeans is one that I am fighting right now, and it becomes harder when you realize that certain jeans aren’t offered in extended sizes. If you are desperate for some denim in extended sizes, American Eagle, has some great options for tall gals. They add balance to vertical frames, and tall women can pull of wide leg jeans better than shorter women. Some other options for wide legged jeans are from Gap that looks great as well, but if they are worn paired with a tight top, you run the risk of looking very ‘pencil’ like. Since you are tall, you need to break up your lengthy frame.

3. KEEP IT ‘PG’

Skirts and shorts often look scandalous on leggy ladies, but you don’t need to shun them out of fear of showing off ‘the goods’. Many stores do offer shorts in extended sizes. Online Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic . And some other tips for wearing shorts: make sure they aren’t too tight (this goes for everyone!). Make sure the waist flatters and is high enough, and keep the inseam appropriate for the occasion. If you want to emphasize your legs, find a great pair of high waisted shorts, your legs will look like they go on for miles!

Example:

You may want to skip the miniskirts at Forever 21; they will look extra short paired with your extra long legs. But there is no reason not to rock skirts. Look for skirts that would normally hit at or above the knee on an average sized woman. This should be long enough to look ‘mini’ on you but not show off too much.

4. GO BOLD OR GO HOME

Bright and bold prints and chunky jewelry look great on tall girls. Often bold prints can overwhelm women with shorter frames, but if you are tall you can rock them. A shirt with a great print will look chic with some dark wide legged jeans and some heels (yes heels! Look below). Bold prints are great for when you’re running low on time and want to look good. An orange polka dotted tube top will look great on a hot summer night with some gold accents. And a floral kimono top will help you embrace your feminine side. Bold prints on maxi dresses work well for leggy girls, take a cue from Gisele Bundschen in her H&M ads and find a flowy, printed maxi.

Example:

Tall girls can rock the trend color blocking in candy colors and a pretty maxi skirt!
And statement jewelry. Luckily you don’t have to scour through the extended size section for these! Bright, bold, and chunky pieces won’t overwhelm your frame. So you can play around with interesting jewelry. Bright pieces would look great on a tall frame. And don’t forget the large bangles and cocktail rings as well too!

5. EMBRACE YOUR HEIGHT

Heels—now that’s a tricky subject for us tall gals. Some may argue that you should skip the heels, you already got the height, but I like to argue the contrary. Wear the heels that you want to wear, don’t be afraid of ‘towering’ over your peers. Heels complete and outfit, and there is no reason you shouldn’t be able to rock them! Do want YOU want to do before you listen to what others want you to do.

If you still can’t be swayed into rocking the high heels, or if your significant other doesn’t want you towering over him, there are other options. Michelle Obama is frequently seen wearing a kitten heel. These heels are only an inch or two high, but they make your legs look better than they would be in flats, and of course, they are comfier! And flats, if you are going to a formal occasion in flats, stick to patent leather ones. They are much more pulled together and will look great in place of a pair of pumps.

Hope this helped. I have a few friend complaining about their height. If only I was the one blessed with that model-y height!