A Day In The Life Of This Miss

It's Almost Father's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Tue, 29 May 2012 22:00:00 +0000

It's almost Father's Day once again. Have you thought about how you will surprise your Dad? Lucky me as I will never forget or miss this day this year since it also falls on my birthday. I plan to go home to my province and celebrate my birthday with my family as well as Father's Day of course. I can't remember anymore when was the last time I celebrated it with my Dad. I will also take the time to meet with suppliers, close some deals and wrap up some arrangements for my big day. Time is running so fast and I need to make sure everything is ironed out so we won't be so stressed about the preparations.

If you are still looking for items that you can gift your dad with, here are some ideas and some discounts too:

Get 15% off orders of $75 or more at PaulFredrick.com

Father's Day Special - Save 20% on Delicious Gift Baskets, Chocolates, Fruits, and more, at 1800baskets.com! (valid until 6/17/12) Use code DAD20

You may also opt to write your dad a heartfelt letter (eureka! I think this is what I'll do as this will be my last year being single), or treat him to a spa or maybe buy the gadget that he has been wishing for.

On the other hand, I have been thinking as well what boutonniere my dad and groom can use on our wedding day. I've saved a few pictures online but until now we have not really picked out "the one" yet. You know these little details are the hardest to decide on sometimes. Anyway, I hope I can accomplish a lot of tasks while I am home. General Santos City is just about a couple of hours away from home so I guess I can squeeze all the meetings in my calendar while there.

These boutonnieres would really go with our garden/nature theme and motif.

These cute boutonnieres would be good option if we want to add a feel of the industry where my fiance belongs.

I guess I will ask my dad which his choice would be. It would be fun to let him in on the planning as well. I will keep you posted. If you want to know more details on our wedding plans, please visit my wedding site, Aisle2Forever.

American Idol Season 11 Winner Is Phillip Phillips

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Thu, 24 May 2012 02:03:00 +0000

And so America has spoken, the winner of the Season 11 of American Idol is...Phillip Phillips!

The pride of Southern America (he's from Leesburg, Georgia) and all the swooning girls the world over prevailed over all the thousands of contestants. This guy is just a talented artist who knows how to entertain by putting his own spin in every song he sings. He continues the "White Guy With A Guitar" trend! He definitely has a career ahead of him.

They both are deserving to win but what matters at the end of this season is the number of votes. The majority of the history-breaking 132 million votes dictated that this time the reign of the guys is not over yet. Take it over Phillip Phillips!

Promise! I will buy your album. And yes, you'll be the second album from an American Idol contestant that I will buy (first was Elliott Yamin) because I like how unique your raspy voice is. I'm a fan!

World's Best Restaurant

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000

A meal in the world's best restaurant is a far cry from a single plate you get when you order from a fast food joint. On Monday, April 30, 2012, restaurant Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark snagged the top spot on the S. Pellegrino list of The World's 50 Best Restaurants for the third year in a row.

So what's the secret to culinary world domination? 26 Plates! Yes, you read that right. Not one, not two, not even three but 26 plates. Here are a few pictures by Elyse Pasquale.

Here are a few of the plates that Elyse has tried and that I wanted to try in the future too:

This is not just a simple flower centerpiece. The deer antler looking part is edible and is a malt flatbread dusted with juniper. The red flowers are edible and are stuffed with escargot.

Shavings of cod liver and thin strips of caramelized milk.

Steaming quail eggs on a bed of straw.

This is the DIY part of the meal. You cook your own duck egg for 90 seconds with 3 kinds of aromatic herbs.

Crispy deer licken dusted with cep mushrooms resting on a bed of brilliant green moss.

A paper-thin wafer of seeded rye toast and a crisp later of chicken skin form two sides of a creamy, smokey lumpfish roe sandwich.

Click this link to see the rest of the plates. Bon appetit!

Win 10 Pairs of Ipanema Flip Flops

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Thu, 17 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

I like wearing flip flops. I feel comfortable wearing them because my feet don't feel confined and they can literally breathe. Anyway, if you want a pair plus 9 more pairs to keep or to share to your family and friends then join this amazing giveaway from ARC Public Relations, Inc.

Need more details? Read on...

Be fashionable in warm or rainy weather with these colorful and ultra-comfy Ipanema flip flops. One lucky winner gets to take home all 10 pairs!

Step 1 - Like ARC Public Relations on Facebook

Step 2 - Comment on the poster question:

What's your favorite pick-me-upper in this drab rainy season? A pick-me-upper is something that brightens your day or gives you an energy boost :)

Step 3 - Like this poster and share it on your wall

Only 1 winner will be announced on June 15,2012. Most interesting/creative answer wins! One thing that is great about this giveaway/contest is that it won't be based on the number of likes.

*Note: Flip flops are sized approx. 7-10 (assorted sizing)

The Forbes Celebrity Top 100 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Thu, 17 May 2012 00:28:00 +0000

Last year, I shared to you the 2011 Forbes Celebrity Top 100. Yesterday, Forbes revealed its annual Celebrity 100 list and do you have your guesses as to who made the Top 10 this year? Your guesses are as good as mine so let's start the roll call... But first, let me tell that the list is calculated by these criteria: income and fame.

"Forbes compiles its annual Celebrity 100 list by looking at both the pretax income (from May 1, 2011 to May 1, 2012) and fame of Hollywood's biggest and brightest stars -- meaning how often we see their names and faces on TV, in movies and online, as well as their social media following."

It can be said that American Idol saved Jennifer's career as her salary formed almost 50% of her total earnings last year (US$52M). Her stint as a judge of the show has launched numerous hit singles, increased album sales and just the week over week presence in tabloids, the web and television. She also just recently launched a clothing line and added another fragrance in her growing list of perfumes.

Oprah Winfrey had the most earnings thanks to her syndicated shows (Rachael Ray, Dr,. Phil, etc), her magazine, own TV network among others. She is now actively reviving her struggling cable network OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network).

Justin Bieber is the youngest in this list at 18 years old. He has a whooping 21 million Twitter followers and earned US$55M last year with a world tour to top it off. He's venturing in stocks as well. Wise kid!

Last year was Rihanna's year to say the least. Her heavy tours propelled her in this list. She also snagged a few endorsements and her perfume is amassing sales. Not to mention her singles that have been party anthems.

Lady Gaga was #1 in last year's list. She did not tour as much as compared to the previous year but her social media presence was felt so she's staying in the Top 10 list this year. Not too bad for the world's most popular Twitter user with over 24 million followers.

With over 75 shows in the last 12 months, Britney is back in the list. Her endorsements and fragrance line contributed a lot to her spot.

Kim Kardashian's much publicized divorce has caused her to be in countless magazines in the past 12 months. Her family also signed a deal with E! for their reality TV show (KUWTK). She also has a fragrance and clothing line and a family boutique. She's all over the place.

Katy Perry also had to go through divorce last year. Her California Dreams tour contributed a lot to her earnings and she's the only music icon in this list who had 5 #1 songs all in one album (Teenage Dream). Oh yes, she has a fragrance as well.

Thanks to Mission Impossible - Ghost Protocol, Tom Cruise took this spot in this list. His star power cannot be underestimated as he still has his own set of following.

Thanks to The Adventures of Tintin and War Horse who both made it to the Oscar's, Steven Spielberg made it to this list.

For the entire list, including more newcomers, stars to watch, most powerful actors, and stars who didn't make the cut this year, head over to Forbes.com.

The History of Europe From 1000 AD To 2003

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Wed, 16 May 2012 11:40:00 +0000

Watch and pay attention:

Watch the Byzantine Empire fall apart, follow the victories of the Mongols, and watch national borders shift, all accompanied by a fittingly dramatic soundtrack by Hans Zimmer from the Inception score.

The map traces changes in Europe's borders from 1000 AD until 2003, and was created using software from the Centennia Historical Atlas.

Interesting yeah? I just wish there were time stamps. Then again, who would notice the time stamps in a very quick time lapse video. That's hundreds of years condensed in 3 minutes and a half.

Wishlist Granted

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Mon, 07 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Blessings are pouring in and I can only be thankful! A little while ago, I read in Twitter that I won the items in my wishlist courtesy of Nuffnang and Zalora. I joined the blogging contest last week and I am so lucky to be chosen as the first winner. There are still 4 winners so form your wishlist of 5 items and get a chance to win all of them plus additional Php5000 Zalora credits. How amazing is that?

All Nuffnangers with at least one valid ad unit and a Zalora account holder can show off their wishlist to be eligible. Contest period is from April 23 to May 23, 2012. Prizes at stake: All the items in the wishlist and a whooping Php5000 credit courtesy of Zalora. Interesting and exciting at the same yeah? Click this LINK to read more about Zalora. Like Zalora's Facebook Page and follow them on Twitter for updates.

Dive Trip To Anilao

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Sun, 06 May 2012 07:45:00 +0000

WARNING: Picture heavy post...

I just woke up from a very long and peaceful sleep. Yes, I went to Anilao again yesterday after working overnight. With no sleep and only a truckload of excitement in tow, I braved the Anilao waters again. I will reserve the story in another post as my brain is still not working at it's full potential right now. I still need some rest so here are some pictures for you to ogle...

I can't wait for our next diving trip...

Of Love and Gold Sequins

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Thu, 03 May 2012 16:01:00 +0000

Faith makes all things possible, love makes them easy.

I super love the gold sequined backdrop. Who wouldn't?

I'm Officially A Registered Voter

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

It's a long story why I just made efforts to be a registered voter this year. It involved me being a few months younger than the required SK age when I was 15. Anyway, early this year, I prepared my requirements and went to the 2nd Floor of the Makati Central Fire Station to finally take the first step in my right to suffrage. The registration started May 3 last year and will last until October 31 this year. I am so lucky that there were only a few people who were there to be registered as well so the process went smoothly.

If you are a resident of Makati and wants to vote as well this coming 2013 elections, you have to go personally to the Commission on Elections office during office hours, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, (Mondays - Saturdays including holidays). You will be deemed qualified if you are: at least 18 years old; 1 year residence in the Philippines; and at least 6 months residence in the place where you propose to vote. You will be immediately disqualified if: you have been sentenced by final judgment to suffer imprisonment of not less than 1 year; adjudged by final judgment of a competent court and considered to be an insane or incompetent person as declared by competent authority. Bring any of the following identification cards (both original and photocopy). If you hold residence in another city/municipality of the Philippines, click this link for the COMELEC office in your area. If you are an Overseas Filipino Worker, click this link.

Tip: Bring your own pen because you will be filling out 3 application forms. After filling out the documents, your biometrics will then be captured. An Acknowledgment Receipt will be given to you afterwards that has the date of the hearing if in case anyone opposes your application (if you are not a legit resident of the community and the like).

April 9 was the last day for anyone to oppose my application and so far no one has lodged a complaint, therefore I can say that I am now officially a REGISTERED VOTER!

SoFA Make It Happen

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000

THE DREAM: Become a SoFA student for ONE WEEK and TAKE as many classes as you can.

DESERVE:

1. Like the SoFA fanpage.

2. Go to the Make it Happen album in the SoFA fanpage.

3. Tag yourself in the Program Poster of Choice (see pictures below).

4. Comment the battle cry, “SoFA, make it happen!” in the comment box and let us know why you deserve to be a SoFA student for a week.

The top two winners will experience the DREAM for ONE WEEK and take as MANY CLASSES as they can under their tagged Program Poster of Choice.

MAC Hey, Sailor! Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Presenting the Hey, Sailor Collection from MAC. The expected release date in the US will be May/June 2012. Enjoy the pictures...

LIPSTICK

Red Racer - Bright yellow red (satin)

To Catch A Sailor - Highly frosted tan (frost)

Sail La Vie - Bright mid-tone orange (satin)
Salute! - Neutral peach (amplified)

LIPGLASS

Cut Loose - White gold with pearl

Orange Tempera - Pale peach

Riviera Life - Bright tangerine

Blessedly Rich - Pale coral

Send Me Sailing - Bright yellow red

PRO LONGWEAR LIP PENCIL

Throw Me A Line! - Bright true red
Saunter - Pale nude beige

Shore Leave - Light vibrant coral

BRONZING POWDER

Soft Sand - Golden bronze with fine gold pearl

Refined Golden - Finely spun golden with soft pearl finish

PRO LONGWEAR BRONZING POWDER

Nude On Board - Bronzy, yellow tone

Sun Dipped - Dirty red tone

EYESHADOW

Crystal Avalanche - White with reflects (veluxe pearl)

Barefoot - Tarnished gold (veluxe pearl)

Jaunty - Light yellow beige (frost)

Feeling Fresh - Bright green (frost)

Nautical - Navy Blue (satin)

PIGMENT

Old Gold - High frosted tarnished gold (frost)

Naval Blue - Deep smoky blue (frost)

EYE PENCIL

Handforged - Metallic yellow gold

Emerald Sea - Kelly green

Blue Stripe - Dark navy

HIGHLIGHT POWDER

Crew - Soft peachy cream with fine shimmer

POWDER BLUSH

Launch Away! - True peach (satin)

Fleet Fast - Pinky, golden coral (satin)

NAIL LACQUER

Gold Knot - Brass gold (frost)
Touch of Red - Bright yellow red (creme)
Vestral White - Creamy white (creme)

TO THE BEACH BODY OIL

Seaside - Dirty blushy pink with multidimensional sparkles

Man Rays - Glowing tan with multidimensional golden shimmer

SUNTINT SPF20 LIQUID LIP BALM

Sea Mist - Peachy nude with multidimensional pearl

Au Rose - Poppy coraly pink with gold pearl

Abalone - See through hot pink with no pearl

Brush 167SH Face Blender

Zoom Waterfast Lash Waterfast Black

Gone Sailing Make Up Bag Set

Gone Sailing Tote

This collection is something that interests me so I might make a beeline when this is released here in Manila. Are you gonna haul? I don't think I will but I'll for sure pick up a few pieces.

Fresh Produce Clothing Review

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000

I was recently contacted by a US brand, Fresh Produce, to introduce their brand to me and offer an item of my choice to review from their website and then they will ship it to me when I tell them which one I like. Fresh Produce is co-founded and still run by a mom entrepreneur, Mary Ellen Veron and is primarily made in the USA. The clothing is available in more than 500 specialty retailers throughout the US, Canada, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

The brand has a wide array of clothes that looked very comfortable and colorful. The one thing that caught my attention is the dye used to manufacture the clothes. According to their website: "Garment Dye is the process that makes Fresh Produce clothing look and feel sun washed and beach worn. They sew up the style and dip it in a big vat of Fresh Produce color. The process requires heat so all of the garment dyed clothing is pre-shrunk, soft and fabulous! This is also why size specifications can be slightly different". No two items are exactly alike! How cool is that?

I sent them a reply and told them that I would be more than happy to receive the item that I will choose and review it so I can share to my readers. I chose the black twisted front dress which retails for US$79. It is made of 92% rayon and 8% lycra with 3/4 sleeves. I chose it because it looked comfy and I can wear it to work too. I chose a medium size but turned out it was still a little loose for me which flattered me big time. I like clothes when I can fit in a medium size (like the local brand Kamiseta). I wore it to work and as expected, I found it to be very comfortable and the garment is really soft. I think I can dress this down too so it can form part of my travel fashion when I travel to KL again in July.

After work, Uncle Don and I decided to have coffee in Starbucks 6750. On our way, I thought to have my picture taken wearing the twist front dress from Fresh Produce. Pardon the lousy pose as I am not of them fashion bloggers.

If you are looking for comfy cruise wear for women they have plenty to choose from along with casual tops and women's tops and for those non North Americans they have a sizing chart too, I always worry about ordering from the States because of the sizing. I am glad I chose medium and not large. I gained so much weight the past few months and i am still trying to lose it. Fresh Produce ships to over 200 countries and they have an $8 flat rate for those in the United States (additional payment if you want your orders expedited). Oh yes, they also have soft colorful scarves in different designs as well as dresses for little girls. I am sure kids would love the softness of the cloth used.

Disclosure: Fresh Produce provided me with a dress for the purposes of writing this review. No other compensation was provided. All opinions expressed are my own and without influence by Fresh Produce.

Go Paperless With Muji

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:00:00 +0000

In line with the celebration of Earth Day this month, Muji has come up with an initiative/promotion to increase awareness and encourage shoppers to go paperless to minimize waste and support the green initiatives worldwide. This initiative will also give discounts to its customers who will participate in the movement!

PROMO MECHANICS:

1. Every single-receipt purchase of P1000 with no paperbags or plastic bags needed, earns the customer one (1) stamp.

2. Promo runs from April 20 to July 31, 2012.

3. Booklets will be given to all customers who have made purchases starting April 20.

4. Single-receipt purchases of other items, whether regular-priced or on sale, may be included as long as no paperbags or plastic bags are used to package the items. One receipt, one stamp.

5. Purchases amounting to P20,000 and above do not entitle the customer a stamp even without the use of paperbags or plastic bags. Such big purchases may not be broken down into separate receipts in order to meet the promo requirements.

6. Items that usually do not require paperbags and plastic bags such as furniture, shelves and the like are not included in this promo.

7. Customer must present their booklet to get stamps from the cashier upon purchase.

8. A completed booklet of 18 stamps entitles the customer to a 10% discount on his next purchase. To avail of the discount, customer must present his booklet to the cashier.

9. Redemption period of discounts is from April 20 to July 31, 2012 only.

10. Discounts may not coincide with other discounts, promos, markdowns and/or sale items. Discounts may not be applied to food and stationary items.

11. Stamps must be countersigned by authorized store consultants or cashiers for them to be valid.

12. Upon availing of the discount, authorized store consultants or cashiers must also countersign to indicate that it has already been claimed. Customers must surrender completed booklets (those with 18 stamps) to the stores after availing of the discount.

13. Customers are not allowed to combine two (2) different booklets to accumulate 18 stamps. Stamps must be completed in one booklet only.

14. Employees of RGOC, their advertising and public relations agencies, and their relatives up to second degree of consanguinity are disqualified to join.

15. Customers can get the stamp booklets at all MUJI main and outlet stores. (BHS, Rockwell, GB3, MOA, ATC, Rustan's Makati and 158 Designers' Blvd at the Podium) Discounts may also be availed in any MUJI store and outlet.

NOTE: Thank you to Nuffnang for this information.

FITFIL Movement Fitness Boot Camp With Coach Jim Saret

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 03:30:00 +0000

I have been trying to find the rhythm to go back to my fitness routine so I can finally lose the pounds that I unfortunately gained because of stress, too much work and just plain and simple sedentary lifestyle. I have slowly incorporated running again in my weekend schedule and once a week I do a form of cleansing diet. Progress is slow though and I am starting to get discouraged again. I need some more motivation and I need companions to push me to once and for all lose these unwanted pounds that I lag around all day everyday. I have a little more than 18 months to be at my desired weight just in time for my wedding.

If you are like me who desperately needs to swing back to healthy living again, you better get ready to read this whole blog post. Yes, I will be joining Coach Jim Saret's FITFIL Fitness Boot Camp. This is a 15 sessions program running 3 times a week that will kick-off at the following locations:

CEBU

May 15 to June 9, 2012 (Tuesday and Thursday from 6PM to 8PM. On Saturdays from 6AM to 8AM) at The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu City

MANILA

June 25 to July 27 (Monday-Wednesday-Friday from 6PM to 8PM) at Fort Bonifacio High Street (grounds), Taguig City

I cannot wait to experience TRX, boxing, yoga, pilates, circuit, P90x, and other newest workout techniques in one fitness camp. This is going to be a big challenge as I work in the night shift but I am willing to push and give it my all. Go big or go home as they say. Every participant will be able to design their own fitness goal target. Meet like-minded folks passionate in fitness and will provide motivation all throughout.

Sessions include exercise briefing, nutrition counseling provided by Nestle Wellness, and fitness lecture. We also have games and raffle to add fun to the activity. Definitely, each training day will never be boring.

For those joining the program with weight loss in mind, the program aims to help you lose no less than 8 to 10 pounds in 4 to 5 weeks with maximal fat burning and fitness training. Biggest Loser Philippines former contestants Raffy, Hazel, Eric, JM, Winwin, and Leigh will also coach participants and share their experience in this 4 to 5 weeks program.

For more information and to register, click this LINK. There will be a total of 100 slots only so you better hurry and fill out the online registration form now.

Jessica Sanchez Is Safe on American Idol

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 01:00:00 +0000

So the Filipino-Mexican American Idol hopeful is still alive in the competition. I bet all her fans in the US and the Philippines (and maybe Mexico) are extremely happy right now. She is the recipient of the one and only "save" last week and this week she gave it her all.

Jessica Sanchez gave her fans and the judges a double dose of her talent when they were asked to sing two songs. She sang "Fallen" by Alicia Keys and “Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding.

While all her fans are rejoicing, Twitter and the web is abuzz with sadness from the fans of Colton Dixon who got axed from the show.

Way to go Jessica!

The BIG Summer Outlet Sale 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Looking to spend a few of your summer days in a cool place? Beat the heat and queue up for the BIG Summer Outlet Sale this year! Before you head off to your favorite summer destination, stock up on essentials and must-haves up to 80% off on select items from selected brands!

Need To Know

When: April 27-29, 2012 (Fri-Sun 10AM-9PM)

Where: SMX Convention Center, Hall 1, SM Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

Who: FREE Entrance to ALL BPI cardholders (with a valid ID), additional discounts & raffle draw for BPI Edge Cardholders, Php50 entrance fee to non-BPI Cardholders

Shopaholics, I have 20 tickets with me and I hope you can join me raid the sale for awesome finds. I will be giving 4 tickets each to 5 lucky shoppers.

What to Do?

1. Only GFC followers of this blog are eligible to win. If you are not yet a follower, just scroll down and join LMK's GFC followers.

2. Send me an email through kessathea26@gmail.com telling me what items you are looking to buy from the participating brands.

3. Tweet “I want tickets to #TheBIGSummerOutletSale2012 from @littlemisskessa". Paste the tweet link with your name in your comment.

That easy! See you there... Winners will be randomly chosen.

NOTE: Thank you to TriporTreats and Malibu Enterprise for providing the free tickets.

Cirque Mother Africa

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0000

rque

I am thankful to my new schedule at work as I can watch the morning news again. Yesterday, some casts of the show were in Umagang Kay Ganda to show off some of their tricks which they will be performing from April 19-22 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater at the Resorts World Manila.

There will be at least 40 talented artists to amaze everyone with their colorful costumes and passionate rhythmic dances inspired by the traditional African music and breath-taking acrobatic/human circus performances. The group was fused into a single unit but each member came from nine African countries, including Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ivory Coast, Benin, Zimbabwe, and Guinea make up the whole group. This two hour show is already seen by millions in Australia, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Spain, Russia, and New Zealand.

Here's a sneak peek of the show:

Ticket Prices

VIP PhP 6,095.00

C1 PhP 5,090.00

C2 PhP 4,065.00

C3 PhP 3,025.00

C4 PhP 1,500.00

Are you going to watch? For more details and information on ticket price, seat and time of Cirque Mother Africa in Manila 2012, visit Resorts World Manila Box Office. Buy your tickets at any Ticket World outlet.

Discover Scuba Diving Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 +0000

After my work week was over last week, we set off to a two-hour trip to Anilao, Batangas with our dive instructor. Yes you read it right, dive. Mina, Uncle Don, Ruby and myself decided to take on a challenge that we all never knew we would ever try in our lifetime (Thania, Ray and AJ were in the other car). All along the trip, everyone expressed their own fears. I think I had the most fear of all if I may say so. I have this profound fear of the open water ever since I was a little girl. I cannot forget biting my mom's shoulder when I was still a little girl when she brought me to the beach to swim. That memory would be on repeat every time I go to a beach. I would always be very scared and be very cautious. Anyway, back to my story, I was telling everyone if I can still back out of the plan up to the very last minute, even before I backrolled in the waters of Sombrero Island with the diving gear fully strapped on me.

We reached the resort where we are staying (Halo Anilao Dive Resort) just in time for lunch. We had a sumptuous meal of fish cooked in coconut milk, fried chicken and sinigang with fresh ripe mangoes for dessert. We were then asked to accomplish a questionnaire about our health and a waiver in case any untoward incidents will happen. Imagine the shock of my life upon reading a line that says accidents may happen that can lead to death. Whoa! How encouraging?

After ingesting all the food and accomplishing the necessary paper works, we were asked to change to our diving clothes. We then had a lesson on the gears, proper breathing, techniques on equalizing, and so on and so forth. It was a crash course that made excited and scared at the same time. Up to the very last minute, I was convincing myself that everything will be okay. I didn't want my mind to play tricks on me so I did not entertain any negative thoughts, I just kept motivating myself. I'm sure the rest of my companions were thinking the same too. After the lesson we then set sail to go to Sombrero Island. It was a bumpy ride which further increased everyone's anticipation.

Sombrero Island resembles a hat underwater, so its profile makes the name Sombrero quite appropriate. The rim of the "hat" stretches a long way underwater from north to south. Gorgonians, black coral shells, turtles, rays, grunts, jacks, snappers, and a great variety of soft corals are abundant. Currents are normally strong during the full moon. Diving is fairly shallow on the rim down to about 50 feet in certain area. -SOURCE

When it was my turn to dive, I just completely gave my trust to Sir Allan, our dive instructor, who guided me and my companions to see the beauty of the marine life in that part of the very vast ocean. I was awed. It was so beautiful. I was proud of myself for taking the plunge. I have done something I never knew I could. It was a simple case of mind over matter.

Now I feel like encouraging everyone to dive to see what's under the ocean. It might seem scary at first and really challenging but if you have an open mind to learn something new and the willingness to do something you think you could not do, then give diving a chance. After all, our planet is still 2/3 body of water. Wouldn't you want to explore just a fraction of that? If you are interested to join our next diving trip, please let me know. Let's explore the oceans together, one diving spot at a time.

And I leave you with the prettiest sunset this side of the planet...

Philippine Fashion Week Go See for Models 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

I can smell Fashion Week season once again. For those interested who have not gone to any castings for Philippine Fashion Week yet, please see official guidelines and schedule below:

The Philippine Fashion Week Holiday 2012 runway shows will be from May 22 to 27 at SMX Convention Center SM Mall of Asia.

I will be posting more update as the information becomes available.

Happiness Is...

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 05:11:00 +0000

Exciting times... I am definitely so happy right now.

Conti's Pastry Shop & Restaurant Greenbelt 2

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:01:00 +0000

One of my favorite restaurants in Makati is Conti's no doubt. I first heard of this restaurant when we surprised my former boss with a gigantic Mango Bravo cake at work. I got intrigued by the cake so I hunted a branch that's near my apartment and so the love affair with Conti's began. I would usually come to Conti's when I want to eat some comfort food or when I want to indulge in the sweet embrace of its varied dessert or when I celebrate something special like a birthday or something.

Chicken Tocino Php145 (around US$3.35)

Tokwa't Baboy Php95 (around US$2.20)

Buffalo Wings Php195 (around US$4.50)

Chicken a la Kiev Php285 (around US$6.62)

Conti's Baked Salmon Php355 (around US$8.25)

Mango Royale Salad Php160 (around US$3.70)

And presenting the dessert that is synonymous to Conti's... If you don't order this, it's like you never dined there. This is the most sought-after sweet treat to end a satisfying meal.

Mango Bravo Php145 (around US$3.35)

VERDICT

Service: 3 out of 5

Food: 4 out of 5

Ambiance: 4 out of 5

I had to rate the restaurant as 3 in Service because when we went there, the staff were unbelievably slow. We had to wait for a few minutes for our bottomless iced tea to be refilled. We also had to wait several minutes for our cake to be served. Definitely, we will come back but we will not go there during lunch as apparently the staff were all over the place and did not know which customer to serve first. Even then, the food was amazing and I am still salivating over the mango cake until now.

By the way, here's the list of the Soup Of The Day (Php 80 or around US$1.85):

Monday - Cheesy Vegetable

Tuesday - Cream of Broccoli

Wednesday - Cream of Cauliflower

Thursday - Cream of Corn and Crab

Friday - Fresh Mushroom Soup

Saturday - French Onion Soup/Pumpkin Soup

Sunday - Seafood Chowder

MAP and MENU
Conti's Pastry Shop & Restaurant
G/F Greenbelt 2, Ayala Ctr. Paseo de Roxas cor. Legaspi
Makati City, Metro Manila
Philippines
Phone Number (+632) 756-0137
Payment Methods: Cash, Credit Cards
Operating Hours: Sunday to Thursday 7AM-10PM / Friday and Saturday 7AM-11PM

Inspiration Boards

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 16:01:00 +0000

Inspiration board is a simple way to gather your ideas about a project together in one space like a corkboard, a wallboard and the like. By pinning items of inspiration to a board, you're able to see at a glance the direction you want your project to take (more like Pinterest). Inspiration boards are common among creative professionals, including artists and designers and now it's common to everyone who have been using the online tool mentioned.

Here are a few inspiration boards I made using my WeddingWire account:

Photos by:

Bella Capelli Hair Studio, lori j white, Mimi Nguyen Photography, Symphony Photography

Photos by:

ABACUS WEDDING STUDIOS (Photography & Videography), elle.g photography, Enzoani, Life & Love Photography, Our Hobby to Your Home &Wedding, Stephanie's Floral Design, Wendi Riggens Photography, You're That Girl Designs

Photos by:

Lynn Fletcher Weddings Inc., Sweet Layers Cakes & Pastries, WeddingWire

Photos by:

RSVParties Inc, WeddingWire

Photos by:

Bella Destinee, Green Door Photography, J Weddings of Grand Rapids, L.L.C., Kacy Kizer Photography, Laura Billingham Photography, MB Wedding Design & Events, Oeil Photography, revert photo

What do you think of my inspiration boards? Please do share what websites you use to create interesting inspirations boards. Yes, you guessed it right, I am starting to look for inspiration now. Only because, I am a planner and I think planning way too early is better than being stressed bigtime. Have a great day!

And oh, let me leave you with the wedding video of the famous Matt and Ginny:

Making the Movies Jealous - Matt & Ginny's Official Wedding from Ray Roman on Vimeo.

Walking The Streets Of Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 16:01:00 +0000

Singapore will always be one of my favorite place to visit. Here are some more of the pictures I took when I was there last month with my Danish boyfriend, Christian. Yes, we both love to travel!

Getting lost in Chinatown. We went there without a plan and just walked the streets and checked anything interesting.

You can buy an assortment of food, trinkets, clothes and the whole slew of finds in this side of Singapore. There is also an Indian worship place in the vicinity.

We discovered temples and museums that weren't in our itinerary. Ah, the wonders of getting lost!

We ate in an authentic Chinese restaurant. I really wanted to try the world-famous crab dish but since Christian isn't a fan of anything spicy we opted to order for some greens and dimsum/dumplings.

What's your favorite place in Singapore? Have you walked around and found interesting places and streets you never thought you'll see? Please share so we can explore them when we go back.

The Magic of Concealer

noreply@blogger.com (Kessa Thea) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 16:01:00 +0000

Just thought I'd share this interesting video I saw a couple of days ago. In late 2011, Rick Genest became part of a campaign entitled "Go Beyond the Cover", promoting Dermablend professional makeup products, appearing in a video where a makeup team covered all the tattoos on his head, torso, arms, and part of his back in its concealer product, with the cover-up process video documentation played in reverse to show the concealer's effectiveness.

Featured Song In Video: "There Is Hope" Zoo Brazil feat. Rasmus Kellerman

Here's the behind the scenes:

By the way, in case the guy looks familiar to you and if you are wondering who he is, he's the famous Zombie Boy (Rick Genest) who starred in Lady Gaga's Born This Way video. He is a Canadian artist and fashion model born in Montreal. He's got interesting body art which I don't dream of getting but I like the power of the concealer used.

Where can I get Dermablend products here in the Philippines?