pens n' paper

Hunger Games

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Sun, 20 Jul 2014 08:42:00 +0000

(Photo shoot behind-the-scenes) Also find this on instagram

Considering most of you are practitioners of the digital age, it's not anymore conventional that you spend far too much time on your mobile phone, on instagram to be exact. Or is it just me? Charge me guilty if I admit that I be a seasoned user of the social network (at least as far as I go by my posts since the first time) so I am almost often 'off the grid' propping for my next #igdaily. I mean, let's admit, there is much longer time spent preparing for what to post on IG (or any other social networks) than the time spent for posting itself, right?

Actually, let's not get too net- picky: I've just started to practice what I've learned in my few years in the social media and blogging world.

Here's to shamelessly unveiling the changes--major changes, in fact-- in this blog soon. Grant this is part of the reason I took a long blogging leave-of-absence lately. Tee hee!

There are many 'interesting' add-ons and minuses in terms of topics and blog contents. And a lot more improvements around the entire website. Yes, please?

Allow me to complete this post by way of making this time's pickings more relevant: the promise of a more professional, specific, and enjoyable blog posts in the coming months and this deep- etched hi- res no filter photo of me playing the 'hunger games'-- which I used with double meaning to signify my "hunger" for positive developments both in my on- and offline life.

Didn't I use the same word in my latest post? Eek, my gastro desires. [Insert tongue-sticking-out smile emoji here].

Syril

Hunger Fixes: Vogue x Hermès Kelly

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Sun, 06 Jul 2014 10:21:00 +0000

You might think I'm insinuating confusion for attaching the word "hunger" to the title. But no, I'm in fact speaking in terms of my current appetite for high-end staples. Today's fashion plate is serving one of Vogue's previous issues and THE HERMES KELLY. More on the Hermès Kelly.

But first, insert here my apologies for coming from a cyber-hiatus. When I'm not fixing my blog or running errands, I'm scouring for things I would not hesitate to invest 'in the bones'. On my latest shopping haul is this 30cm calf leather pink Hermès Kelly bag. I know, I know! This five-figure must-have was sold to me at a veeerry good price. Though it wasn't as cheap as you may think.

It came to me as a pre-owned item. But who cares if it's secondhand, right? An Hermès bag is still an Hermès bag. It was the one and only bag in store which nobody really cared to notice, thankfully.

Front view

Rear view

It wasn't the bag the shoppers have recognized immediately as compared to, maybe if it was, the Birkin. I blame it to Birkin-wearing celebs and to Sex and the City (for airing a whole episode of trying to get a Birkin in not that I know when). All these 'public' actions have made the Birkin more popular than the Kelly. Although there is nothing quite significant to be said about their difference-- in price, functionality, and utter perfection. So that once I saw the "Hermès, Paris Made in France" blind stamp, my heart skipped a beat. The next thing in my mind was whether it was fake or not.

Side view

I was reassured, nonchalantly but beyond doubt, with Google as one of the juries. The heavy not-cheap-looking leather, straight and clean stitches, high- quality hardware and carefully embellished blind stamps spelled the hailing word A-U-T-H-E-N-T-I-C in my face.

I'm aware of the imitation bags which are already made to look like the original, it's hard to determine, nowadays. I'm afraid of committing a rookie mistake of having the best (and real one) left put; my first time with Hermès. For those in the know, with the following photos as my witness, you also be the judge.

We know that H. bags are sauntered by A- list fashionistas that it becomes the 'symbol of wealth'. It's not that I want to blend in but having to carry it in the future (on special occasions only, mind you) would perhaps afford me an extra special attention, or not. To be asked to try on a Clive Christian is an overstatement.

Anyone who can tell me if this K 2 A code in my bag means anything?

This bag is crazy like that, it took me days before sharing it publicly. I thought I'd eschew being asked where I'd get it. I've never written anything brag-a-bag post before besides plain style- infused articles and instagram photos. I just thought I'd be Hermès-less all my life, hence the euphoria.

Inside my Kelly

I may be overly sentimental but owning one feels like experiencing 'Paris when it sizzles'. I owe so much of my appreciation for great style and great fashion icons, like Grace Kelly (to whom the Kelly bag was named after), to one equally great fashion history.

Shop Hermès here.

Best Travel Find: Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, China

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 04:09:00 +0000

Did you know that the country with the highest population also holds one of the top records in Guinness? The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China is still the World's Longest Bridge. It spans 540, 700 ft. traversing Yangcheng Lake in Suzhou. It is part of Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway and is three miles longer than the previous record-holder, the Lake Pontchartrain Bridge in Louisiana.

Image Credit: taringa.net

It's said to split six major expressway lanes. I only think you would need to fill up your gas tank. It's an odd feeling to be lulled by the long drive and the massive view of the sea only to badly need for a pit stop in the middle. That's highly possible!

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to hook up with the latest travel find on the blog. Also follow us on Pinterest to see a daily dose of travel- worthy pins which you can note down for reference on your next trip. See you!

Image Credit:

taringa.net

Best Travel Find: Blue Moon Valley, Lijiang, China

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Wed, 09 Oct 2013 01:42:00 +0000

We head out to our best travel find this week in Lijiang, in the western tip of Yunnan province in China. I reckon, the most fascinating attractions in the world are those that turn up to be endowed by nature.

Blue Moon Valley, also called Lanyuegu, is a massive terraces of thawing water from the snow mountain that holds four lakes: the Tingtao, Lanyue, Jingtian, and Yue lake. It appears turquoise blue on a sunny day, and white on damp seasons. From a distance, it has a crescent shape which looks like an inset of blue moon at the bottom of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain-- unabashedly, the reason behind its moniker.

Image Credit: holidayspots4u.com

It has an unprecedented distinction from the rice terraces in Banaue, Philippines, which is handcrafted by the Ifugaos, one of the Filipino natives. The remarkable thing about the two is that you can appreciate the magnificent ensemble they create from the outskirts of your vision.

In 2006, a 4,190 meter- long cable was put up, being the longest one in Yunnan province that people can ride to get to the peak to see the valley in an aerial perspective.

To get there, you can catch private bus number 7 around Lijiang at the Hongtaiyang square near the big water wheels.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to hook up with the latest travel find on the blog. Also follow us on Pinterest to see a daily dose of travel- worthy pins which you can note down for reference on your next trip. See you!

Image Credit:
holidayspots4u.com

Top 3 Ways to Conquer Your Fears & Worries

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 08:44:00 +0000

Image Credit: wehearit.com

90 percent of us in the world are diagnosed with what I call "fearonitis" and "hyperworrydosis". And although we have spent much of our lives knowing that we are not the only ones vying with this everyday, we still fall most vulnerable-- on wee hours-- when we're unaccompanied.

It's a recurring kind of woe. It finds a way to catch us unguarded, when our positive self- image is in short supply. But there are antidotes.

To begin with the battle, you have to first identify and avoid the factors that contribute to it. Otherwise it will always have a hatchway to jeopardize your life.

1. Take a break from social networks

Seriously, muster the willpower to leave your life on stream for some time. Your Facebook feed is jam-packed with press releases of friends who just got featured in a magazine, or had a two- week long vacation in Tuscany, or landed a job in a nation with a first world status. You may hit the thumbs up button for them but you know that there is still a trace of compare-and-despair trapped inside you. It makes you feel left behind and less appreciative of your own and other people's success.

If you cannot let a day pass without logging in to your accounts, at least make a time for the non- virtual once or twice a month. Meet your high school friends. Human interaction remains the most important key to generate the right perspectives and evaluate the real situation. It allows you to size up and express things a social network could limit.

A day you spend in front of Facebook may be a day you miss the chance to try a new skill or plan out how to make your life better.

2. Narrow your focus

You cannot control the way others want to live their lives.Whether you discredit them for their limitations or drown yourself in envy for their strengths, it'll never make you greater of a person. Doing this would rarely earn you millions but would mostly count up the nasty behavior in you.

Focus on yourself. It's okay to feel a little uptight about the good things you see in other people. Just don't develop hate towards them. Instead, grow up where you are lacking. If you intend to improve on the way you dress up, search on how to properly pull an outfit together. If you want to improve your conversation skills, read some grammar and try out new vocabularies, or watch how great speakers do it. If you're forgetting a skill in your profession, spare a few minutes a day reviewing it.

A little something is still better than nothing.

Image Credit: wehearit.com

Know what your ultimate goal is and take some time to look for opportunities to develop yourself personally and professionally in the areas that can largely help you reach that goal. Never mind if you feel stagnant at work. Don't wait for others to give you the privilege to improve when you can do it for yourself. Attend training or seminars to update your skills. You may not be able to apply it directly and immediately to your job but it adds or refreshes your knowledge. Take baby steps to face your fears and worries. That's the only way to get rid of them.

3. Condition your mind

Our life can be driven by different factors depending on our current situation and beliefs. Often these factors are the ones that create the biggest fears and worries in our life. But these differences also tell us that we cannot view life according to other people's footsteps. For instance, we know that there's an impact when someone does or achieves great things at an early age. But that's his own pace-- according to his capacity and resources. It's unfair if we also identify the criteria by which to measure our own success in life in conformity with his. Because as we say, we are different. Our capacity and resources will lead us to that success at our own bearing and time. But it doesn't mean we cannot become successful ourselves.

Condition your mind away from the tick tock. It's a huge robber of happiness and determination. Peter Mark Roget finished the famous thesaurus book at age 73. Andrea Bocelli didn't start singing the opera until the age of 34. Albert Einstein was mentally slow. He didn't speak till he was four and didn't read till seven. But he's one of the most famous scientists who won a Nobel prize. Walter Disney was fired for lack of imagination and was rejected 302 times (or so I read). But now he's the legend behind the most successful animation company in the world.

Get the whole picture. Someone else might be dreaming of the way that you are right now. Always find yourself moving forward.

You may hit the rock bottom at many points in your life, but the secret is to never fail to condition your mind to drift back up again and again.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for daily inspirations.

Image Credit:
wehearit.com

Luxe Parties' Great Gatsby Inspired Party

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Sat, 05 Oct 2013 11:08:00 +0000

If I am to love an old trend-- a really, really distant old trend-- I would go for the 1920s. A spread of high luxury fashion and style as best exemplified in Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby.

This Jazz age renaissance seethes as far as design and event planning. And it works wonders how throwing themed parties are come-at-able by nicks of event services-- a certain kind of Martha Stewart in a handy.

One of these days you can visit Luxe Parties (Quezon City, Philippines 6529 l Contact: +63918 985 1203) or like them on Facebook to see and put in for the party you have long since hoped.

They concoct deluxe party set up like the one they did for one of their clients in Restaurant La Girolle. Aureate tableware, vintage scripts, pearls and classic heirloom pieces glut the whole place. I should know that one great way to set this perfect mood is to avail their services now. And that's not me being biased for loving the Gatsby. Let the photos (courtesy of Luxe Parties) do the talking. Check the full album of this party here.

They know for certain what would make for an all- out authentic Gatsby themed party. It's no 1920's without adding sophisticated touches of pearls and vintage cars likewise the etsy- fied table cards and feathers.

The table settings are at the same time escalated.

With a flapper dress, a chomp of oyster Rockefeller, a champagne flute on hand and you're good to go-- the rest you can leave up to them.

I know I am booking them some time sooner!

Image Credits:

Luxe Parties

Currently On Trend: Fashion Bloggers in Birkenstocks & Slip- ons

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Fri, 04 Oct 2013 04:55:00 +0000

When slip-ons first boomed the catwalk for 2013 spring collection, it was considered a universally walloping fashion mistake. The ugly shoes as most put it. Those thick buckled straps and cork footbed, like the birkenstocks, widely remind us of a walk in the wet market, if at all, or of the days we're at home and would simply hoof it.

Aside from having that mannish oomph look, there are only two obvious reasons to love these slip-ons-- that is for simplicity and comfort. With its rather normal, 'nothing fancy' impression, I see that the biggest challenge now is how to pull it off without needing for elaborate dresses of some sorts. We say that a true blood fashionista knows how to rock the basics. Tweet about that!

Lately, fashion bloggers' been keeping the trend in right proportions. A faithful revival of old fashion pieces were paired with it. The secret was to actually keep it minimal as opposed to counterpointing it with slinky accessories and detailed outfits-- so it becomes a fashion statement.

But if critics were to be had, as all around they are, another good key is to have a fresh pedicure-- a metallic or neutral color at that.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Pinterest for the latest lifestyle and fashion exchange here on Pens n' Paper. We're scouring up-to-date fashion finds you probably don't want to miss.

Best Way to Celebrate the Largest Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Thu, 03 Oct 2013 04:49:00 +0000

About 6 to 7 million people come in attendance yearly to celebrate Oktoberfest, the largest beer festival being, in Munich, Bavaria, Germany that dates back since 1810. They hook up with this two- week long event-- watching lively brass concerts and parades-- where traditional Bavarian costumes, dirndl (bodice, blouse, full skirt and apron), a Landhausmode (country- inspired fashion), are seen on some women whose way of knotting the bow gathered at the waist signifies their current relationship status.

Image Credit: Michaela Rehle l Reuters

There is no definitive dress code for the festival. A pair of brothel creepers and knee- high socks is closest to looking like an authentic Bavarian aside from wearing the dirndl (which Mygola has a fun story on), but that isn't necessary except for the idea that it's one way to sensibly live up the festivities.

Today, Senior showman will meet in the Hippodrom and traditional gun salute will push through on the last day in October 6. See Oktoberfest's highlight schedule here.

It's best to get to know cahoots of Oktoberfest etiquette to maximize your experience:

Where to

There are 14 big tents built if you want to guzzle your beer tank, and there are 20 plus smaller ones if you want to find some place snug-- Glockle Wirt is an example.

Tent loaded with festival- goers l Image Credit: Johannes Simon/ Getty Images Europe

Oktoberfest serves pure Munich beer, which means that it was brewed on Munich ground and is about 1% stronger than your regular beer. It is sold thrice more expensive this time than in the previous years but there are cheaper ones in Vinzenz Murr Metzgerstubn and Museumszelt tents.

What to

A hoibads Hendl, Bavarian's crispy and well- spiced chicken skin is said to be the new in thing to go binge on aside from the usual roast pork and oxen and, of course, the beer. You can try the rides and meet new friends to umf your experience up a bit, but just that, nothing else unacceptable. Cameras are spread all over Theresienwiese, the area of the festival, and security's a huge thing.

Steinkrug, the official Oktoberfest collector's mug for 2013 has been presented by the city of Munich official Dieter Reiter. Bringing home this souvenir would make a better ulterior motive to getting all liquored up. Besides it's still fun especially when together with your family or friends.

Image Credit: Michael Dalder l Reuters

Prost! That is how you'll say, 'cheers'!

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to get updates on our latest travel and lifestyle scoops here on Pens n' Paper. Or should we see you in the keg party?

Image Credits:

Oktoberfest celebration- Michaela Rehle, Reuters

Oktoberfest tent- Johannes Simon, Getty Images Europe

Oktoberfest Mug- Michael Dalder, Reuters

Fashion Trends from the London Fashion Week S/S 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 06:55:00 +0000

Fashion weeks are preview of what you're going to see in the high streets for the year ahead. New trends, new brands, new stores and the street style unveil which bloggers and trendsetters should watch out for.

The recent London Fashion Week Spring/ Summer 2014 that took place in the Somerset House was a poignant success. September 13 to 17 was the week for A- list dressers and front row head honchos from over 50 countries; all with the privilege to bask in such a high profile event.

The British Fashion Council opened its first store. It vended selected pieces from eight designers- Sophia Webster, Bella Freud, Zoe Jordan, Markus Lupfer, Prism, House of Holland, Dominic Jones and Lulu & Co.

It's easy to get swooned over trends with all these insightful fashion names parading in the runway. But the most interesting part is always taking the style on the street level.

Often fashion is equated with congruence. You pair skirts with pumps or wedges, and shorts with floppies and slip-ons. But the LFW is a switchover to that. It is where fashion doesn't need to match but go together. It's an eclectic blend of bold and classic prints and geometrical cuts, and an elaborate dare to be womanish and rugged at the same time. I think that if relationships can be fashion, it should be like the SS14. The boy goes with the girl, and so the other way.

Here's a snatch of photos from the LFW ramp, captured by Catwalking.com, of how designers matched androgynous basics with classic feminine pieces.

You can hop on over to London Fashion Week to see the designers' full collection. Follow London Fashion Week on Twitter.

Outfit

Oversize jumpers and A-line skirts ranked top in the collection-- from Antipodium, Christopher Kane, Burberry Prorsum, Fashion East, Holly Fulton and Orla Kiely.

Click to view photos

Domineering angular fashion also made its appearance in David Koma, Antonio Berardi, Erdem, Jean-Pierre Braganza, JW Anderson and Preen by Thornton Bregazzi collections while Peter Pilotto experimented it with the 90's crop trend combined. Zoe Jordan muted the measurements by pairing geometric skirt with a preppy printed top.

The oversize trend absolutely took its own life in the catwalk. It morphed between trend and season in the form of maxi boyfriend coats which showed up in different styles. Antonio Berardi sported it with a posh mix of dress. Eudon Choi attempted a good reinterpretation of the look with an asymmetrical dress and the 'socks in sandals' trend. Jonathan Saunders set the template for a sporty look using varsity colors and textures into the jacket and paired it with silk shorts and skirt. Markus Lupfer drowned the trend in prints while Mary Katrantzou and Mulberry went all covered up. Roksanda Ilincic moved the masculine side to a higher scale by pairing her collections with brogan shoes and a bit of summery neon colors. And Thomas Tait played up pastel colors. They created a perfect fusion of details, color and balance to pull it off.

The 'thigh high split trend' also made a good come back. Daks, David Koma, Jean-Pierre Braganza, and Ostwald Helgason gave it justice. Erdem on the other hand pivoted with an 'overlap skirt' style which is rather more seductive. House of Holland added a little touch of floral, a 'shirt wrapped around waist' trend and a snapback cap-- some sort of 'pops of tomboy' you can swear by the atmosphere of the 90s.

Cropped tops and 'shirtwaisters' both came worth investing in. Antipodium used aboveboard cropped tartan jacket paired with floral trousers; as for Bora Aksu, Fashion East, Mark Fast, Peter Pilotto, Preen by Thornton Bregazzi, Richard Nicoll, Mary Katrantzou and Sister by Sibling who did a good and classic twist by using plain colors and patterns.
Jean-Pierre Braganza and Osman went for shirtwaist style-- the 90s tucked in trend-- paired with pants while Holly Fulton, Ostwald Helgason and Roksanda Ilincic paired it with mod full length and calf length skirt.

Luxurious clouque' fabrics, floral designs, and elaborate graphic prints made a statement. This print trend dissected art and summer glow collectively.

Eudon Choi, Fashion East, GILES, Jean-Pierre Braganza, Makus Lupfer, Ostwald Helgason and Tata-Naka collections were very well appliqued. Holly Fulton and House of Holland flaunted baroque embellishments while Sister by Sibling and Sophia Webster donned girlish sweatshirts over neutral underclothes.

Fierce grunge look also fell in with a touch of sexy. Fyodor Golan's see through organza skirt paired with a monogram jumper was a pure excellence. Holly Fulton bragged some flesh in her cut out dress collection alongside Marios Schwab who designed a classic punk ensemble. Haizhen Wang, Orla Kiely, Paul Smith, Todd Lynn and Zoe Jordan picked comfy shorts and open coat style. KTZ pushed a metallic grunge-- a rhapsody of modern avante-garde.

Shoes and Bags
Cutting edge bags and shoes were never absent of course. Manolo Blahnik designed a double dose of on trend style-- 'all eyes shoes' and slide sandals while open ankle shoes forefront Pringle of Scotland collection. Anya Hindmarch's neutral snake print and double clutch collection was also perfect to fancy.

It's no surprise that a combination of man and woman style will go all out in the months to come.

Photo Credits:Catwalking.com

Travel Deals & Steals: Cebu Pacific's P1 Just for Fun for Every Juan

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Thu, 26 Sep 2013 11:12:00 +0000

I feel responsible to share the good news! Cebu Pacific is offering a Php1.00 seat sale promo for all of us globe trekkers. Promo runs till September 30, 2013 for travel period from June 1 to November 30, 2014 to all Philippine and international flights.

It's due season that a museum tour in Ho Chi Minh or a visit to the famous Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai is no longer a plain rodomontade but a much deserved trip to look forward to. Yes?

Hover your mouse to Cebu Pacific now to know more about the details. Booking thumbs, all ready!

Image from Cebu Pacific

Yes, that's my name erased over there from an email by that plane in a baseball cap. I suggest you register to their club to get firsthand updates of their promo flights. Oh, this post is not sponsored by the way. I am in no way connected to the airlines but just that their promos are sure attention- grabber. Stay tuned for more travel deals and steals on the blog! xx

Best Travel Find: Pulpit Rock Norway

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Wed, 25 Sep 2013 04:38:00 +0000

There I was, sitting on the edge, looking down a massive 604 meter high cliff. No feeling is more dominant than my veins squeezing its size and my guts shivering literally. It is not what you call butterflies in the stomach. It was the worst way to get sick.

As I pushed myself an inch further, I felt half of my body floating in the middle of the skies.

I know I'm in Ryfylke. But something is tapping me back to when I first recovered from a Peruvian hangover-- from a climb in Machu Picchu.

I pulled and took a brave stand. Traveling has become a means to discover more fully of the place where I am, and of the new things I may define myself as.The Pulpit Rock in Norway prompted a large part of that.

Pulpit Rock, colloquially known as Preikestolen, or sometimes called as Preacher's Pulpit is one of the most famous attractions elevating 886 feet above sea level in Ryfylke, Rogaland, Western Norway. It is reached by ferry or car from Stavanger, Bergen, or Oslo, and is a hike of about 1 to 3 hours in an uneven terrain.

Image Credit: Maul Photography via flickriver.com

Large chunks of boulders and turquoise waters fall beautifully right next each other like a canvass. As I've gotten a panoramic view of the place, another sense of satisfaction tanks inside me. Pulpit Rock is among the best alternatives to a summer trip discreet from the typical presence of beaches and busy streets.

All I had after is a gentle kneading by a Norwegian masseuse. The next thing, an enormous photo uploads of the cliff. And the last, a deep good sleep in a bed covered with a duvet. Then I realized, it was our last night in Kowloon. I had one great dream.

To know more of Pulpit Rock, the amazing mountain plateau in Ryfylke, Norway, go to visitnorway.com.

Image Credits:
Maul Photography, flickriver.com

How to (NOT) Argue Things with a Difficult Partner

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 05:48:00 +0000

Have you heard that 10 % of conflicts is due to difference in opinion and 90% is due to wrong tone of voice?

Image Credit: care2.com

Conflicts are sometimes inevitable but there are effective ways to resolve it. You and your partner have the full responsibility to work things out among yourselves. Otherwise you tolerate that your relationship is bound to fall apart, and you are ready to accept it if it does.

But how about if you are doing your part but your partner keeps breaking the rules?

Break out?

No.

Look for another person to fall for instead?

Not, either.

Choose not to argue. There are times when you will be pushed to your limits and be drawn to it, but instead of responding to the rode rage war, avoid the invitation to fight back with bitter words.

For a misinterpreting partner

If you are lucky enough to have a misinterpreting partner, the one who misunderstands a perfectly legitimate and polite word or action, do not argue but state calmly and reasonably: "I'm sorry it sounded like that. What I meant is that...", or "I'm sorry that it made you feel that way...". Do not forget to recognize his feelings and humbly apologize for it whether it's really your fault or not. But be sure to state what you actually meant with your words and actions by avoiding phrases that will trigger his defense.

For a partner with a sharp tongue

If your partner is specially blessed with sarcasm, be direct and tell him openly: "I feel hurt when you say words like... I know I do things that hurt you also but I hope you are open that we try to avoid such things already", or "It hurts when you do things like...We could find some time if there's anything you'd like us to talk about".

For a faultfinder

If he likes keeping records of your wrongs, do not defend yourself. Instead take note on your "sins". When he has said all of it, say something like, "I noticed you mentioned this thing about me. If I'm really at fault here, I apologize. I'm willing to talk it over with you and I hope you are, too". Remember to allow yourselves to cool down first.

For an exaggerating partner

When he makes ridiculous exaggeration about the things you say or do like "You never care for me", or "You always do..." do not attempt to correct it. Instead recognize that there is probably a reason why your partner felt that way and you are not there to invalidate it but resolve it by saying things like, "I know it upsets you when you said that I do this often. I'll try not to let it happen again by...". Again, recognize how it made him feel and show sincere willingness to address it and be specific about your solutions so that he'll know that you are actually taking concrete steps to solve it.

And if he insists on these kinds of attitude, tell him. But avoid putting pressure as to when he should improve. Some issues are hard to come by for some people, and your partner might just need to take a little more time to do it.

Remember too that sometimes, there are really some people who always seem angry and continuously look for faults in others. Do not go with it. The battle they are fighting is not with you, it is with themselves. You can choose to stay reasonable. You can assert your own thoughts and feelings without arguing. By maintaining tactful words and manner, you are saving tons in your relationship.

I hope you have learned something from this post. If you have similar issues which you think is fair for you to share with me, click anywhere in this paragraph to drop me a message, and comment below saying that you have emailed me with the subject Relationship Blues. I'd be willing to lend an ear for your heartaches. Or we can help each other.

God bless your heart!

Image Credits:

www.care2.com

Few Facts Before Buying Amber Ring

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Sat, 21 Sep 2013 10:43:00 +0000

Jewelry is something, which has its existence for many ages and will definitely remain forever. People always have different aspects and different perspectives to adorn themselves. Some feel elate by a ring and some merely by a stone.

It is probably true that the desire for purchasing quality and unique jewelry never dies. Moreover, as long as fashion lovers are alive; it's not possible. Well this is commendable that the jewelry shops in the present era are offering the genuine quality of gemstones to the people, but this is not true. There are some stores, which offer the same quality by using the low quality, fake type of stones.

Nowadays it's common to see the stones plated in-between the silver-coated chains, rings and bracelets. The stones are none other than the amber. Amber is the rare and unique stone, formed by the fossils of the tree and small creatures.

Where to find this rare gemstone

The rare gemstone is abundantly found in Baltic region; mostly in Poland. Apart from it, also found in Dominican Republic region of Caribbean Sea. Moreover, of its existence, says that this stone has ancient and ritual beliefs. Ancient king and queen use to wear the bracelet and necklace of this stone; this is the one reason for its popularity.

The other reason, which makes it popular, is that it is rare and unique. In addition, this stone is found in three different colors; mostly orange, green and blue.

The kind of Amber most trendsetters love

Among all the colors, the blue amber is the one pampering more to the fashion lovers. Using it in the ring or bracelets is always appreciated over time. It is not necessary to mention that seeing the craze of fashion, plenty of firms have opted amber as the path of success.

Stores selling blue amber run mostly out of stocks; but still anyone who wishes to have this stone at an affordable price has the option to purchase from Dr fine jewels.

Spotting the right Amber

To purchase the good quality of amber stones, it is important to know few facts before buying: firstly know about the material, color and varieties. Because there are other stones which have the same popularity as the amber does.

Secondly, the stone is made of resins trapped beneath the earth from thousand years. Generally, this stone has insects trapped inside the petrified stone. The stones have crack, bubbles are mostly costly than the plain one. Another fact is that most of the rings or bracelets are made of white or silver settings. Looking to the facts helps in better understanding of the stones.

A Guest Post from (About the Author):

John Dev is a content writer from Drfinejewels, this covers topics on Dominican blue amber jewelry and many more details, click here. You can also find them on Facebook and Google +.

5 Quiet Landmarks to Go in Paris

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Fri, 20 Sep 2013 09:19:00 +0000

There is something uniquely satisfying about being able to find outstanding but quiet landmarks in such a busy city like Paris. You get to explore and savor them without having to compete with an uncontrollable influx of tourists. It creates a personal experience.

There is also benefit in bumping along people you don't know, who without them would make your travel experience rather less enjoyable.

But there are times when you simply want to be intimate with your travel and find the chance to go somewhere you can sprawl alone-- a kind of secret affair between you and the place you travel to.

Below are few of the landmarks with lesser crowd that you can visit in Paris:

1. Statue of Liberty in Ile Aux Cygnes

Mini Statue of Liberty

The mini Statue of Liberty in Ile Aux Cygnes also called the Swan Island is located in a quiet area right at the heart of Seine River. It's about a kilometer away from the Eiffel Tower; it's best to take a bus or metro to arrive there quickly. There's also another replica of the statue in Luxembourg Gardens. I'm not sure with you, but I feel that tell- tale rush of excitement when I see little versions of huge and famous landmark icons like this in other places.

The one in New York is actually a gift given by France to the USA in celebration of the centenary of USA's independence.

2. Le Pantheon National

Le Pantheon Paris l Photo by Adil Rasheed

Pantheon is taken from a Greek word which means "Every God". It was originally built in the Latin Quarter in the middle of Paris left bank as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris. Today, it serves as a secular mausoleum which houses the remains of France's greatest you may know in the history of politics, art, science and literature: Marie Curie, Victor Hugo, and others. Inside the museum verges three amazing features: the paintings that depict the life of St. Genevieve, an invention by a physicist that shows how the earth rotates and lastly, the magnificent statue called "The National Convention" which shows the symbol of France, Marian.

You can take the closest metro in Luxembourg on RER B to get there and be sure to secure museum pass in advance.

3. Notre- Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Paris l Photo Source: My Hotels in Paris (dot) com

This is one of Paris' most famous landmarks so it's oftentimes difficult to come by here with not much people walking past on you. It's best to go there an hour earlier the opening time at around 9AM, or late in the afternoon at around 5:30.

It is a Roman Catholic Marian cathedral and is considered one of world's largest.

4. Pere Lachaise Cemetery

Pere Lachaise Cemetery l Photo Source: Prompt Guides (dot) com

The word cemetery alone would tell you that it's somewhere you'll never fail to find peace and serenity. Whilst the name can dread you slightly, it's something which can be worthy of your visit. It is considered as the most visited cemetery in the world and the largest one in Paris. You can find the tombs of famous people like the great Oscar Wilde, Moliere and Delacroix, and the legendary singer Jim Morrison. It'd be great if you go to the cemetery's summit for a better view.

5. Les Egouts- the Sewers Paris

Les Egouts Paris l Photo Source: Flickr

Egouts is among the first underground sewer system in Paris that dates back since 1370. While it may not be everyone's dream of how a Parisian travel would be, it has interesting exhibits. It's probably one way to discover a large parcel about Paris as described in the misfortunes of Jean Valjean in Victor Hugo's Les Miserables-- an experience that is surely off the beaten path.

Thank you for keeping in touch with The Quiet City [Paris] Travel Series. Here's a video I thought I'd share to you to end it:

Click to read more travel guide to Paris. Profiter de Paris!

Photo Credits:

commons (dot) wikimedia (dot) org

adilrasheed (dot) com

myhotelsinparis (dot) com

promptguides (dot) com

flickr (dot) com

What I Learned About Success from Albert Einstein

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Wed, 18 Sep 2013 01:13:00 +0000

If only ambition is as easy to come by as poets quote it. The chances of people becoming successful would count thousands. I'm at 0001.

Half of those successes are driven by hard work; the other half driven by luck. But none without constant or occasional prayer.

If the road to success is put into words, I can summarize it into two: "The most successful people are those who didn't give up on themselves" and "Success is not just about what you know but who you know".

Decent jobs alone are hard to get these days. We're in the era where CV is no longer the only thing to gamble, money is required of us before we can earn it, and "backer" is a stronger qualification than having Latin honors.

The world is more competitive. And investments barely return.

While some people have the ready option for easy success, most of us learn by trial and error. We tolerate daily hardships in the hope that our sacrifices can mean a good change one day. But the hardest part sometimes is in not knowing when that day will arrive, or whether our actions always lean towards that success. We don't know. But haven't you ever wished life came with a detailed instruction manual?

How I wish there's a crash course for it with no demands for an average score to pass. On a second thought, the point of success, I guess, is that it is never equal to mediocrity. We cannot really call ourselves successful by simply aiming for the "good enough". We should settle not to be the best but to be better.

I realize that only now do I truly understand what Albert Einstein meant: Imagination is more important than knowledge. It is essential that we do not only know, but that we apply what we know and we do not intend on stopping.

Einstein deserves the moniker, genius. With emphasis.

30 Things to Stop Doing to Yourself

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 07:01:00 +0000

English writer Aldous Huxley once said, "There is only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving, and that's yourself". What power does it to develop ourselves and cut whatever negativity that holds us back from realizing it?

When you stop chasing the wrong things you give the right things a chance to catch you.

It is easier to believe when we are at our best position. But we are all meant to live a happy and successful life, except for the fact that the very things that keep us from experiencing it is neither our lack to start doing the right things nor our failure to stop doing those that are wrong.

Marc and Angel of Marc and Angel Hack Life has a brilliant take on the 30 things we can stop doing to ourselves. They have explained in details the benefits of dismissing all these things that, we might have subconsciously been missing to notice, are ruining the happy and successful life we deserve. They have covered far and wide between facing problems, to making decisions and handling relationships. I suggest you NOT to skip a single sentence. It will be all worth it.

Here are my favorite tidbits:

1. Stop spending time with the wrong people.

Life is too short to spend time with people who suck the happiness out of you. If someone wants you in their life, they'll make room for you. You shouldn't have to fight for a spot. Never, ever insist yourself to someone who continuously overlooks your worth.

4. Stop putting your own needs on the back burner.

The painful thing is losing yourself in the process of loving someone too much, and forgetting that you are special too. Yes, help others; but help yourself too. If there was ever a moment to follow your passion and do something that matters to you, that moment is now.

5. Stop trying to be someone you're not.

One of the greatest challenges in life is being yourself in a world that's trying to make you like everyone else. Someone will always be prettier, someone will always be smarter, someone will always be younger, but they will never be you. Don't change so people will like you. Be yourself and the right people will love the real you.

7. Stop being scared to make a mistake.

Doing something and getting it wrong is at least ten times more productive than doing nothing. Every success has a trail of failure behind it, and every failure is leading towards success. You end up regretting the things you did NOT do far more than the things you did.

8. Stop berating yourself for old mistakes.

We may love the wrong person and cry about the wrong things, but no matter how things go wrong, on thing is for sure, mistakes help us find the person and things that are right for us. We all make mistakes, have struggles, and even regret things in our past. But you are NOT your mistakes, you are not your struggles, and you are here NOW with the power to shape your day and your future. Every single thing that has ever happened to your life is preparing you for a moment that is yet to come.

9. Stop trying to buy happiness.

Many of the things we desire are expensive. But the truth is, the things that really satisfy us are totally free-- love, laughter, and working on our passions.

10. Stop exclusively looking to others for happiness.

If you'e not happy with who you are on the inside, you won't be happy in a long- term relationship with anyone else either. You have to create stability in your own life first before you can share it with someone else. Read Stumbling on Happiness.

11. Stop being idle.

Don't think too much or you'll create a problem that wasn't even there in the first place. Evaluate situations and take decisive action. You cannot change what you refuse to confront. Making progress involves risk. Period! You can't make it to second base with your foot on first.

12. Stop thinking you're not ready.

Nobody ever feels 100 % ready when an opportunity arises. Because most great opportunities in life force us to grow beyond our comfort zones, which means we won't feel totally comfortable at first.

13. Stop getting involved in relationships for the wrong reasons.

Relationships must be chosen wisely. It's better to be alone than to be in bad company. There's no need to rush. If something is meant to be, it will happen-- in the right time, with the right person, and for the best reason. Fall in love when you're ready, not when you're lonely.

15. Stop trying to compete against everyone else.

Don't about what others are doing better than you. Concentrate on beating your own records everyday. Success is a battle between YOU and YOURSELF only.

17. Stop complaining and feeling sorry for yourself.

Life's curveballs are thrown for a reason-- to shift your path in a direction that is meant for you. You may not see or understand everything the moment it happens to you, and it may be tough. But reflect back on those negative curveballs thrown at you in the past. You'll often see that eventually they led you to a better place, person, state of mind, or situation.

18. Stop holding grudges.

Don't live your life with hate in your heart. Forgiveness is not saying, "What you did to me is okay." It is saying, "I'm not going to let what you did to me ruin my happiness forever". Forgiveness is the answer...let go, find peace, liberate yourself!

19. Stop letting others bring you down to their level.

Refuse to lower your standards to accommodate those who refuse to raise theirs.

20. Stop wasting time explaining yourself to others.

Your friends don't need it and your enemies won't believe it anyway. Just do what you know in your heart is right.

22. Stop overlooking the beauty of small moments.

Enjoy the little things, because one day you may look back and discover they were the big things. The best portion of your life will be the small, nameless moments you spend smiling with someone who matters to you.

23. Stop trying to make things perfect.

The real world doesn't reward perfectionists, it rewards people who get things done. Read Getting Things Done.

24. Stop following the path of least resistance.

Life is not easy, especially when you plan on achieving something worthwhile. Don't take the easy way out. Do something extraordinary.

26. Stop blaming others for your troubles.

The extent to which you can achieve your dreams depends on the extent to which you take responsibility for your life. When you blame others for what you're going through, you deny responsibility-- you give others power over that part of your life.

29. Stop focusing on what you don't want to happen.

Focus on what you do want to happen. Positive thinking is at the forefront of every great success story. If you awake every morning with the thought that something wonderful will happen in your life today, and you pay close attention, you'll often find that you're right.

30. Stop being ungrateful.

No matter how good or bad you have it, wake up each day thankful for your life. Someone somewhere else is desperately fighting for theirs. Instead of thinking about what you're missing, try thinking about what you have that everyone else is missing.

You can also read Marc and Angel's sequence to this post, the 30 Things to Start Doing for Yourself.

I hope it inspired you too. Share it to your friends and loved ones. Doing so might unexpectedly turn a negative situation into something positive.

God bless you!

Photo Credits:

Rob Brucker

Organizing a Vanity Table in 1-2-3

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 02:40:00 +0000

Vanity table is the royal residence of all things that make us look pretty. But with our daily routines, it probably has succumbed to the ugly-- blotches of eye shadows and lipsticks, spilled liquid foundations, and nail polish streaks on the surface. It might need a little vain- ing to do as well-- a revamp.

Makeups

Allot one compartment in your vanity table that is solely for your makeup paraphernalia- foundations, pressed and loose powders, lipsticks, eye shadows, bronzers, blush-ons, concealers, eyeliners, and the likes. You can make use of metallic cases and trays.

If possible, provide separate compartments for each of them so they don't mix up, and put on labels.
Place your everyday-makeup items on your vanity table and leave the others at the dresser, so they don't overcrowd. Make sure to store these items in a cool, dry place. Maybe a makeup bag which you can keep.
Glass jars are elegant receptacles to keep cotton balls, makeup remover pads, and other small items.
Also put your makeup brushes in one place. There are makeup organizers that are available in boutiques and online shops. But if things become too expensive, you can just store them in vignettes or plastic containers. But brush off excess particles before putting them back to the container.

Accessories

Wipe jewelries with damp cloth, and dry before storing.
Place earrings, neck-pieces, and rings with delicate beads or pendants in soft- linen (ed) interiors to maintain elegance.
Assort accessories according to type-- bangles, arm candies, necklaces, wrist watches, brooches to easily locate them when needed.
Hang neck- pieces on hooks, belt rack, or cork boards.
If you have a lot of earrings, you can make use of earring caddy.

Avoid placing jewelries next to liquid solutions like perfumes to prevent damage.
Put hair bands and scrunchies into boxes or plastic containers.
For larger items like cravats, ties, hats, suspenders, scarves, gloves, hosiery, and muffs, place them in a separate compartment inside your closet.
Stash delicate jewelries inside a drawer, if your vanity table has one.
Throw, give away, or auction accessories that you don't anymore need or wear (on ebay, facebook and metro deals, for example).

Fragrance Bottles

Don't place them in the part of the vanity table that will be exposed to direct heat and sunlight. Or store them in a cool place.
Make sure they are all well- covered.
Place what you regularly use on top.
Arrange them on one side, or inside a tray.
Place those with irregular shapes and colors beside each other for aesthetic purposes.

And there you go. On my next post about vanity tables, I'll share tips on how to decorate them nice and sleek. You can also read my posts on vanity table inspirations if you want to get some ideas.

Photo credits:

pinterest (dot) com

Freepping

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Fri, 13 Sep 2013 03:05:00 +0000

Everyone has the right to revel in shopping. While there are people who prefer to cave in other interests, there are also others who surprisingly end up obsessive compulsive at it. Thank God I don't need Shopaholics Anonymous to get me in control with my shopping habits.

Growing up a little inadequate in funds has worked to my advantage. The limitations have relatively trained me to one: choose the best-est item that will work for myself, two: embrace the joy of window shopping and the courage it gives me to spend wisely so I could buy what I really want in time, and three: be more of a mindful shopper.

The good news is that it can work for you, too-- may you be lacking or abundant in cash! And we shall call it, freepping!

Freepping is a word used to describe carefree shopping. It's the context of visiting shops to buy new items without spending too much or fearing to have nothing to spend at all, but only to live for the moment.

It is meant for two things: get the item you want at a price you can pay, and relieve stress-- lighthearted and untroubled-- which essentially makes shopping subconsciously healthy for you.

If you have watched Confessions of a Shopaholic when Isla Fisher auctioned all her clothes and, towards the end of the movie, the mannequins at an Yves Saint Laurent store were beckoning her again but she resisted and instead portrayed the look of a person who enjoys shopping but is now conscious about her expenses? That's also freepping! The act of shopping at ease.

The secret to freepping?

Surprise visit your favorite stores-- one after another. Be spontaneous with your search for items that suit your taste. Allow yourself to scour chic finds that you don't expect of buying.

There's something reassuring about buying accidental good stuffs. And this is the most exciting part about freepping.

But always remember the exact amount you have on hand and stick to it. Learn to muster up the courage to disregard the item that goes beyond your estimates.

Yes, I hear you!

There are certainly times when impulse buying hits us. Buying prompted by a whim on seeing the item displayed.

I suggest you check the price first before you feed your eyes with the details of how good that item is. Because when you're already lusting over it but your money's coming short, that's when it gets extremely frustrating.

Sometimes, better things come later. You only have to learn to detach yourself from things. Who knows you might thank the circumstance for denying you of the privilege to own one item in exchange for something exceptionally better.

But then again, it's still freepping to simply find therapy in "just looking" at the items in stores in the grounds of comfort and leisure. Just for comfort and leisure. Then buy an item or two without going crazy about price tags like we go crazy about calories.

Drop the guilt feelings and savor the moment. That's the real purpose of it all.

Take freepping to a grander scale by treating yourself with feelgood eats, maybe a Belgian waffle and a frappe. But if there's none left in your wallet for this pleasure, cluster your shopping bag(s) on your hand and freely swing them as you walk your way home. This act alone is respite from negative vibes, granted!

#freepping

Start hashtag-ing it NOW!

Photo Credits:

pinterest (dot) com

8 Simple Ways to Solving Relationship Problems

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Mon, 09 Sep 2013 03:49:00 +0000

Conflicts and misunderstanding in any relationship is inevitable. Because no two person are created exactly the same. We have different views as well as different ways of doing things. And these differences can apparently cause disagreements.

We are taught since childhood that conflict is no good a thing. That it destroys relationships. That's why most of us are threatened when it arises, and our way of coping varies, too-- either we avoid it, or divert our attention to other things. But we know that it still exists. The problem is when it is rather kept and ignored, and it bottles up into a more serious problem later on. In other cases, we want to immediately patch things up because it's becoming a total distress.

Whichever the situation may be, the rules to solving these conflicts and problems constructively is by:

1. Know the ways to communicate effectively with your partner

You'll need it to let out what you and your partner have to tell each other without stirring the wrong buttons.

2. Choose the best place, too

Aside from choosing the best time to talk, look for a place where you will have the privacy and comfort to talk. Put the conversation off at a later time until both of you have yourselves composed.

3. Be direct and focus on the problem

Understand the main cause of the problem and state your feelings clearly and straight to the point. Stick with it and avoid bringing up previous records of wrong.

4. Respect

Show respect no matter how eager you are to cut in his talking. No violent threats and insinuation, no name- calling, no fault- finding, no throwing of disrespectful words on family members, no bashing on physical appearance and mental capacity, and no yelling. You can hardly take back a hurtful word. So listen and speak with respect.

5. Share ideas and be clear about it

Brainstorm every possible solutions you both can come up with and be open to different points of view before reacting. Accommodate each other's ideas and be transparent and firm about it. Conflict cannot survive without your participation, says Wayne Dyer. It's important that you agree on how you're going to solve things. It's like meeting halfway.

6. Decide on the best solution

Best here means the most acceptable, appropriate, and beneficial for the two of you. Winning should not be the goal. You should compliment each other, not compete. Just so we are clear with that. One, if not both of you, should compromise reasonably and give in to the other. Remember that it takes two to tango.

You have to work together to solve your problems, that's why you are called partners. Giving in to the other amidst conflict takes real maturity. It means that your analysis of the situation intends to solve for the benefit of all rather than yourself alone.

7. Reassess your solutions

Are they really for the benefit of each other? Will it not cause harm and hurt to the other person? Do you both sincerely agree with it? What are its effects? How will it work to your advantage? And how can you prepare for its disadvantages?

8. Implement it

Work up what solutions you have decided to apply. Decide who will do what, when, and where.

The italicized words are your keywords to remember these tips. Just remember to: know, choose, focus, respect, share, decide, reassess, and implement.

In the end, it already wouldn't matter who is right or wrong. For so long as you are both genuine and willing to work your relationship out and consider why you have loved each other in the first place, you're on the right track. Above all else, do not forget that there is a higher being you can both turn to-- God.

God bless your heart!

Photo Credits:

blogs (dot) curbkicked (dot) com

Vanity Table Inspiration: White Bliss

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Sat, 07 Sep 2013 03:54:00 +0000

White is the most basic of all colors we can add to our home. It is probably the safest way to go when choosing colors, either for wall paints or furniture, but also the hardest one to maintain.

The most direct benefit however is that it softens or accentuates whatever color we combine with it (warm red, or strong blue). Except for the irony that while we say it's the hardest color to maintain, it's also the best one that epitomizes cleanliness and class.

I picked this first vanity table inspiration for its advantage on functionality and aesthetics. It has more of an Asian modern design, one that will look elegant not only within the confines of your bedroom but in the living space as well. The idea of putting flowers on one of the drawers adds more feminine touch to it while the ottoman keeps everything look simple. It is decorated in a way nothing overpowers the other.

It is said that choosing the right white for your vanity table or any area of your home takes a little introspection on your part first. If you'd like to make it look more modern and contemporary, go for cooler white whites. If you'd like to make it look traditional and classic, opt for whites with yellow tones.

This second vanity table inspiration is modern/ minimalist and traditional combined. The table is in itself sleek and clean and the drawer gives you enough space to organize your vanity items. The frames that go together with the neoclassical design of the mirror gives it the traditional sophisticated canvass.

The tips is to incorporate photo frames having that vintage vibe in it. Go for the ones with irregular shapes and frame designs. Also add statement pieces on your table like the black and white flower vases. Decorating it in this fashion will add artistry to your seemingly plain vanity table.

This third vanity table inspiration is one example of the traditional/ classic design. The drawers have that A- list framework that's best if you particularly want to amplify aesthetics in your home.

Sometimes white does not become as simple as it gets. Knowing that it has the ability to blend all colors in, we tend to add too much stuffs as decoration. And that's when it becomes waaaay overstated. The trick is to contain all your items in one tray. The table is already too beautiful to be overthrown by all the decorations you keep adding to it.

I hope this post served you some tips worth adopting to your own vanity table or home. I'll talk about how to organize your vanity table on my next post. Don't miss that out!

Photo Credits:

pinterest (dot) com

simpledetailsblog (dot) blogspot (dot) com

Amber Jewellery, Back On Trend

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Fri, 06 Sep 2013 04:10:00 +0000

I'm dropping by today to talk about my first jewellery love, amber! I thought I'd go through this resin's long history, religious uses-- and how to accessorize with this weird and wonderful object.

Where this precious jewel comes from?

When we think of amber we usually group it in with the many stones we find in our jewellery. Amber isn't actually a stone, or tree sap as some believe; it's a resin. This is what has always fascinated me about amber. Resin is like our blood. When a tree is damaged it releases honey- coloured liquid resin to cover and heal itself (which hardens over time). Each piece of amber you own is a piece of the life- force of a thousand or even million year old tree!

Most of the amber jewellery you'll ever own comes from in and around the Baltic Sea (this is the area between the goats- headed shape of Scandinavia and Central Europe). How long have we been wearing amber jewellery? People have been accessorizing with amber for more than 15, 000 years! Most of your amber will come from Gdansk in Poland, as this is one of the biggest amber sites off the Baltic coast and these guys have been making jewellery since 1100.

The perks of wearing one

Like many 'stones', throughout the years amber has been thought to have many positive properties. Before civilizations we wore amber amulets to protect against evil spirits and diseases. Later on eastern countries began to use amber jewellery along with amber incense to cleanse the body of jaundice (they believed the amber absorbed what was causing people's skin to turn yellow).

Countries in Central Europe also caught on this, and they believed that this resin also increased the courage and integrity of the wearer.

By 1200 Christianity discovered the importance of amber. The Knights Templar took over most of Prussia (including Central Europe) and found the harvesting fields out on the Polish coast. At this time the seven sins were taken very seriously, so if the devout wanted to avoid the greed related to gold, this gold couloured substance became the next best thing. Amber was declared a pure substance that could only be used in rosaries or in church/ religious friezes and anyone harvesting their own or using it otherwise would be severely punished. This went on for many more years, and amber rosaries are still popular with a number of Catholic denominations due to it being natural, cheap, and beautiful.

How to glam up with an Amber jewellery on

Now to accessorize! As amber has such a warm tone by itself, it's best worn by people with a warm skin tone. If you have a cool tone you'll have to wear smaller pieces, but combining it with silver jewellery like I do works wonders for even the coolest skin tones (like pasty old me).

Big pieces of amber make a big statement, so are best combined with animal print, tribal, and Aztec patterns to make a strong- looking outfit. If the big amber pieces are polished and delicately cut they can be used with a very basic, classical outfit such as a cream fitted dress (one you might wear to a christening), cream shoes, and brown based accessories.

Some big oval earrings with a big- beaded necklace would pop against the sleek neutral colours. If you like your jewellery to say a bit about you, or to accent (but not take over) your outfit gor for smaller pieces, but more of it. Maybe try a small amber pendant with a silver and amber ring and some simple bead- shaped earrings. It brings a bit of colour to any outfit, but dotting the amber around keeps it from being too full- on.

Click individual items to buy

Inspiration for this look

If you're not fond of orange or yellow, amber can actually be found in a number of other colours. From the Baltic you can also get milky (cream), green and cherry red amber. Although it's a lot rarer and more expensive, you can get blue amber mined from the Dominican Republic. This gives you a lot more opportunity to wear amber as these colours are more forgiving, and suit more outfits.

Inspiration for this look

While most amber pieces are in traditional and rough cuts, there are a number of up and coming companies making contemporary designs that can make more meaningful, individualistic and quirky pieces for everyone's needs. You don't see many people wearing amber anymore, so wearing amber will make far more of a statement and can tell other a lot about you and your style. My favorite piece at the moment is this lovely pendant; very fitting for the coming of autumn where I live.

A Guest Post from (About the Author)

Adina Flanagan is a writer, website tinkerer, and lover of all things geeky. She likes to find quirky or unknown things to share with other people, and blogging gives her a great way to do that while meeting some awesome people along the way.

5 Quiet Hotels to Stay in Paris

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Wed, 04 Sep 2013 08:31:00 +0000

Traveling is partly stressful. You're bound by the rules of a jam- packed itinerary, on top of no time to fully fray the jet lag. It's no doubt that you heart will itch for a silent sanctuary to recoup for lost energies.

There's also a recent study by J.D. Power that says most of the 53, 000 travelers surveyed encounter problems with ranked noise at hotels-- either brought by street drillers or door- slamming guests.

The thing is, you can be as intentional with your choice on the best place to exercise your rights to silence. It will depend on which you prefer to experience most-- a quiet place that overlooks a hundred acre woods or a quiet place at the atrium of the city? Whichever the case, expect that you cannot always find a place with all the A- list criteria combined.

For the meantime, below are hotels I suggest you to check in to give your sleep and rest impediments a fair remedy, or so I say:

1. Hotel du Jeu de Paume

This photo of Hotel du Jeu de Paume is courtesy of TripAdvisor

This hotel is earning good reviews for being clean, well- decorated, and intimate. It is suggestive of a Parisian atmosphere. In fact you can reach Notre Dame, shopping spots, wonderful restaurants, and most of the Metro stations by dint of easy walking. But you can still sleep without having your ears blanketed with pillows. It has access to wifi connection and staffs replenish the toiletries everyday.

Location: 54 Rue St. Louis en Ile, 75004 Paris (Hotel de Ville)

2. Jays Paris

This photo of Jays Paris is courtesy of TripAdvisor

This is considered an enormously quiet hotel in the 16th arroundisement. You can never go wrong with the rooms, only that it has no elevator so care to pick one in the lower floors. Concierge arranges airport transfers besides the fact that they will specially welcome you upon arrival.

You can speak to the staffs in English, or practice your French without getting snickered for your novice- ness (if that's even a word). Also meet your fascinating neighbors, Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysees, and Eiffel Tower. Aaahh, how about a 5- star experience like that?

Location: 6 Rue Copernic, 16th Arroundisment, 75016 Paris

3. Secret de Paris

This photo of Secret de Paris is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Would you even think twice at the thought of its name? If that looking-at-the-Eiffel-from-a-terrace scenario in your mind is hardly possible to realize, this is the right place to go. Because the rooms are designed after the most frequented tourist spots in Paris being the Louvre, Musee d'Orsay, and of course Eiffel Tower. It is perfectly quiet and romantic, best for those who dared tie the knot.

Location: 2 Rue de Parme, 75009 Paris

4. Hotel Fouquet's Barriere

This photo of Hotel Fouquet's Barriere is courtesy of TripAdvisor

This is a clean and tidy hotel located at the corner of Champs Elysees. Probably one with excellent sound proofing despite being close to swanky tourist areas. But not the best-est one for comfort. However spas and pool areas are well - appointed and it offers a courtyard for you to dote on peacefulness.

It also has a touch of discretion as you won't have to always pass through the reception area where customers crowd.

Location: 46 Avenue George V, 08 Arroundisement, 75008 Paris (Champ Elysees)

5. Hotel Luxembourg Parc

This photo of Hotel Luxembourg Parc is courtesy of TripAdvisor
This hotel is also walking distance from St. Germain and Notre Dame. It has a quiet and inviting atmosphere as it is more of a private residence than a hotel. It has rooms that offer views of the peaceful garden-- a view that might be a good option to rest your eyes after seeing so much of the cosmopolitan Paris.

It is 10- 15 minutes away from shopping spots and museums, but the rooms are astoundingly guzzled with a French aura.

Location: 42 Rue de Vaugirard, 6th Arroundisement, 75006 Paris

I hope this post helped. Here is where you can also find quiet places to dine in Paris, just in case. Stay tuned on my next post for The Quiet City [Paris] Travel Series!

7 Ways to Listen Effectively to Your Partner

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Mon, 02 Sep 2013 04:04:00 +0000

Agree or not, research says bad listening habits are one of the root causes of relationship problems. When our partner wants to talk about something important, faulty listening can reap negative understanding. Yet, most of us still want to talk more than listen. We have the tendencies to let off our thoughts and meaning than pay full attention to someone who is speaking his.

Our auto- programmed desire to be heard manifests in few of our actions when we listen: appearing bored, selecting which to listen to and which to reject, being defensive, or interrupting. Are some of these actions familiar to you?

One useful key to remedy these habits is by listening to our partner with feeling. Let me say that again, listening with feeling. Usually the process in communication is we first analyze the information, recall it, and draw conclusions from it. But listening with feeling allows us to hear the feelings of the one speaking first before we analyze the information.

Our nature is to process information according to our own understanding, and convey what we think about it back to the speaker. But that is not always the case in courtship and marriage. Or in any other kinds of relationship. We have to listen attentively not only to what has been said, but to what is meant in what was said. That's the way we can understand our partner and perhaps an issue. By doing so:

1. Maintain good eye contact

Tuck away-- your whatchamacallit-- your cellphones and tablets. Good eye contact can help focus your attention.

2. Sit attentively

Lean forward in your chair. Or block all other distractions as if it's listening to what your partner will say is the only thing that matters in the world at the moment.

3. Act interested in what is said

Nod or express an understanding by one, restating what was said, or two;

4. Say appropriate phrases that affirms you are listening attentively

Phrases like, "I understand" or "I hear you say...".

5. Ask appropriate questions

It's also one way to show you are interested and you can use it to clarify some things you don't quite understand.

6. Pay attention to other details

Listen to what your partner is NOT saying, too. Nonverbal cues.

7. Listen a little longer

Nancy Van Pelt said, "Just when you think you are through listening, listen thirty seconds longer".

Understanding what is meant in what was said is only doing communication half the job. You also have to focus in resolving the real problem.

And how do you resolve a conflict or an issue? Tune in on my next post on RELATIONSHIPS.

God bless your heart!

Photo Credits:

wheartit (dot) com

Pens n' Paper's MONOCHROME FASHION GIVEAWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Sat, 31 Aug 2013 15:59:00 +0000

The monochrome fashion has been all around the corner. What's best about this classic staple is that it allows you to go the extra mile to look taller, cooler, and more sucked in. I have been a fiend of this trend myself.

I pulled the heartstrings in order to share to you the overall tips, I know and I've learned from equally amazing fashion bloggers, on how to pull off that monochromatic look. And right now, I am giving away one glamtastic item to celebrate it.

Follow the uber simple instructions below to enter the giveaway.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winner and her prize will be randomly chosen by Rafflecopter. I will announce the winner through this site and on our Facebook and Twitter account on Sunday September 15. Who knows what you're gonna get? It will surely be a fashionspiring addition to your wardrobe.

And oh, don't forget to subscribe to our NEWSLETTER to get you updated with our latest articles and future giveaways. Don't worry, it's FREE!

Good luck!!!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

And this giveaway is officially CLOSED.

Congratulations to Jean Rose Rapanan of Cebu City for winning 1 Bangkok Clutch Bag! We'll send you an email on how to get your prize. Yay! xx

Thank you all for joining this giveaway. Subscribe to our newsletter or keep visiting the site to know what we are giving in the future. There will be MORE.

Lots of love,

Syril

Vanity Table Inspiration: Elegant Black

noreply@blogger.com (Syril Tañala) — Sat, 31 Aug 2013 03:52:00 +0000

This is by far, the third vanity table inspiration which I'd like to share to you home design spuds. What I like about today's inspiration is its edge over functionality and design all manifested into one piece.

This comes no way less than the delightfully pink- shaded vanity tables in my previous post because black is a natural seducer. It has a way of pulling specific neurosis in women that also works well with men.

This first inspiration speaks particularly of that gender- sensitive advantage of black. The table allows you to stash your pretty-fying stuffs in the drawer. You can also separate your items accordingly in the three drawers while keeping the top of the table from too much clutter. We know that anything goes with black. The touch of orange and teal colors as adornments invites versatility.

This second inspiration serves the best of versatility and aesthetics combined. The table also has several drawers to contain all your needed things in. It is built in a detailed manner to the point of integrating architecture. The jewel- colored flower more likely accentuates the whole thing, too.

Look closely one more time at the photos if you agree that when you plan to purchase a vanity table or customize your own, these inspirations are good choices to count on.

On my next post on vanity table inspirations I'm covering the simplicity of white. Stay tuned!

Photo Credits:
designspongeonline (dot) com
marthastewart (dot) com