tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224908292024-03-07T15:14:27.239+08:00Street but SweetTHOUGHTS, TALES, AND TRIVIAL THINGSTishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.comBlogger389125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-22500649889781503832010-04-03T09:27:00.003+08:002010-04-03T09:34:37.833+08:00Hullo and goodbyeDear all,<br /><br />Things have been really crazy lately. Sooo many changes that I find myself in a new phase of my life now--a phase that is quite different from where I was when I started <a href="http://streetbutsweet1.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Street but Sweet</span></a> and <a href="http://diaryofafoodluvah.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Diary of a Food Lover</span></a>. I've thus decided to say goodbye to these two blogs, and have started a new one to reflect my new life and all the new, wonderful adventures that will be coming my way.<br /><br />There'll still be stories of my day-to-day life, plus restaurant and food posts. It's essentially my two old blogs rolled into one. So, come follow me on my new blog, <a href="http://heretishietishie.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Here, Tishie Tishie</span></a>!<br /><br />Thanks for all your support and comments over the years! Now click <a href="http://heretishietishie.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here</span></a>!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-9330247190150844372010-03-18T19:25:00.006+08:002010-03-18T19:31:22.941+08:00Martha, Martha, Martha<a href="http://streetbutsweet1.blogspot.com/2009/09/oh-happy-day.html">Our wedding</a> made it to the pages of <span style="font-style: italic;">Martha Stewart Weddings Philippines</span>!:)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacdtta79QTkfydhfLOsMbNQV-cFmW00AzHWpH9vPXToEeJqGeNf7WSdez3D_bjL7qrNRWe7KuDBFmMoLBUSCEPj9w8oz4JyN-TcZT6wnEBaKUX10cCaGzMEeGjZA9wuq8XmAg/s1600-h/24537_387819536456_783451456_4739058_68568_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacdtta79QTkfydhfLOsMbNQV-cFmW00AzHWpH9vPXToEeJqGeNf7WSdez3D_bjL7qrNRWe7KuDBFmMoLBUSCEPj9w8oz4JyN-TcZT6wnEBaKUX10cCaGzMEeGjZA9wuq8XmAg/s320/24537_387819536456_783451456_4739058_68568_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449933662201926690" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The latest issue is out now! Isn't that such a dreamy cover? I think those flowers are edible!<br /><br />I also did the Registry section for this issue. I normally don't give myself a big pat on the back for styling work but I must say I quite like what I did here! And to think I was so stressed handling all those breakables and all. I especially heart the last spread, pretty cupcakes and all. Grab a copy to know what I'm talking about!<br /></div></div>Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-71786150270394639972010-02-24T21:55:00.009+08:002010-02-24T23:52:58.281+08:00Negros sojourn: The RuinsEarlier this evening, I finally got to see the famed <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ruins of Talisay</span>...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPwr0EALHFcvXGm9Vvie8Y_Zfh-URqTZA5b0HKMq6Z5_a2DVtQCyyeQPMN_HdlJcz3JKV3VbpjHgfvTh-T7KglvWxefiwC0YVZgJphKFwEJDbqJrTnR5InCuNS-ubwVqVcJu0/s1600-h/IMG_7777.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPwr0EALHFcvXGm9Vvie8Y_Zfh-URqTZA5b0HKMq6Z5_a2DVtQCyyeQPMN_HdlJcz3JKV3VbpjHgfvTh-T7KglvWxefiwC0YVZgJphKFwEJDbqJrTnR5InCuNS-ubwVqVcJu0/s320/IMG_7777.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441808796048999586" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />I first heard about the <a href="http://www.experiencenegros.com/the-ruins-talisay-city-a-gem-from-the-rubble/">Ruins</a> from a Bacolod native-friend who planned to have her wedding reception there. It was unfortunate that the sun had set by the time we reached Talisay from Bacolod (having been fed a wonderful <span style="font-style: italic;">merienda </span>by an ever-gracious resident), so I missed seeing the structure without the lights on. But even at dusk, with night creeping in and the hint of stars in the darkening sky, the Ruins were absolutely breathtaking.<br /><br />Maybe I'm just biased because I have a thing for ruins in general. But in the short span of time I was there, I was just enthralled. It was love at first sight. I wish I had known its back story before going--I would have sat longer on the steps (or the remaining skeleton) and allowed the house to speak to me, imagining myself in this mansion back in the 1900s. How magnificent it must have been! I marveled at how the walls and columns were ever so smooth, a result of the Grade A concrete used to build the mansion. Even after being burnt to its bones, the mansion still maintained its marble-like texture. I ran my hands across the walls and columns over and over in complete amazement.<br /><br />I think what I like most about ruins in general is that they seem to have a soul that newer structures don't possess; these in particular had a very powerful spirit that whispered of a storied past. They were absolutely bewitching, so hauntingly beautiful that they made my heart ache and sing and dream.Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-49290888644159859342010-02-21T18:57:00.006+08:002010-03-28T10:50:47.389+08:00Camp rocked!No, we still haven't had time to go on a proper honeymoon, but we finally did get to go camping! I had never gone camping before, so this was going to be an adventure!<br /><br />After weighing our different beach options (Putipot, Anawangin--which, I hear, is overrun with campers now), we finally decided on MV's suggestion: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nagsasa Cove </span>in Zambales. If you want to know how to get there (including expenses), just scroll down after the photos. For now, let's do a little photo narrative...<br /><br />The jump-off point is Purok 1 in Pundaquit, where we met our boatman <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mang Vic</span>. I pretty much found him off the net--aside from being referred by Nagsasa veterans, he had his own blog! (Unfortunately, I can't find the link now!)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLyYjlTPQnfZ-m6c3pC858ZiW5tRRrFlbXfjNCdbpakisRzfVwFPQb3Gm8MEdeqxpLqJRM7GeOGe7Pn7vWu-Us81LGtG_bIPFmyvu4EpNKzQXyvv2v5_ubs4lMMr1JJLvtNWu_/s1600-h/IMG_7584.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLyYjlTPQnfZ-m6c3pC858ZiW5tRRrFlbXfjNCdbpakisRzfVwFPQb3Gm8MEdeqxpLqJRM7GeOGe7Pn7vWu-Us81LGtG_bIPFmyvu4EpNKzQXyvv2v5_ubs4lMMr1JJLvtNWu_/s320/IMG_7584.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440650570982517042" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">From the jump-off point, you can see Camara and Capones Islands. They were out of the way so we didn't make the trip.</span><br /></span></div><br />You'll pass the more popular Anawangin Cove before finally--finally!--catching sight of Nagsasa Cove, about an hour's boat ride away from Purok 1. <span style="font-style: italic;">(Note: Try to get a boat with a roof! That sun could get pretty harsh.)</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBT61dJo_X3PcwvxBwiZF4czysBtlURWNinVjt0qXqFtx5F7gWkZSzHINwdF8qzjPW3gbWqlAiPa1GXTOADYX2ek3G_0-pU0Sz7b668F2oR8FQg9FSkffHemI0L1rd2fNozOT/s1600-h/IMG_7597.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBT61dJo_X3PcwvxBwiZF4czysBtlURWNinVjt0qXqFtx5F7gWkZSzHINwdF8qzjPW3gbWqlAiPa1GXTOADYX2ek3G_0-pU0Sz7b668F2oR8FQg9FSkffHemI0L1rd2fNozOT/s320/IMG_7597.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440650581710058530" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Once you get to the cove, you'll be helped out of the boat by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mang Ador</span> and his men, who are some of the few people who live on this part of the island.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEomKCNkQ9MVLTBugLV8Wg9vmoNjVNEsJwYpetAXt1tYxhuJZXwPN4M7bdyfVpi5dH6CdWZ-PvViCG2KlOgx9cBZn9VsvV2uU9_qXbGhcOzxFEVwExUx_cvbZL6GkW1ksQFPm/s1600-h/nagsasa9.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEomKCNkQ9MVLTBugLV8Wg9vmoNjVNEsJwYpetAXt1tYxhuJZXwPN4M7bdyfVpi5dH6CdWZ-PvViCG2KlOgx9cBZn9VsvV2uU9_qXbGhcOzxFEVwExUx_cvbZL6GkW1ksQFPm/s320/nagsasa9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441447448597148818" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">H and I with Mang Ador<br /></span></div><br />They don't really charge anything, but it'd be nice to leave them a little somethin'-somethin'. Especially since Mang Ador recently found out that his wife has cancer.:( Do pray for her and for the family. It was a little heartbreaking when he asked me all these questions about cancer--if it could be cured, if there were herbal alternatives to chemo. Sigh. I really really wish I could help. My own little way of doing that is promoting Nagsasa, and just saying what a totally kick-ass "host" he is!<br /><br />To entice you, a few photos of what the cove has to offer:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukO5Fw5Avq0Yt3sRCaEMHiWUbylHukIH_FPRLz9afEee09fx4PPONR1dUiEUB45qLxdeCQe222dA7PMCRyfTijloxkU_lYlUWe3zW6MgcCdJVqoxEkLA5P-Vp4zY_wZ6lz6WO/s1600-h/nagsasa7.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukO5Fw5Avq0Yt3sRCaEMHiWUbylHukIH_FPRLz9afEee09fx4PPONR1dUiEUB45qLxdeCQe222dA7PMCRyfTijloxkU_lYlUWe3zW6MgcCdJVqoxEkLA5P-Vp4zY_wZ6lz6WO/s320/nagsasa7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441447439911930674" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Crystal clear waters that are super calm, and a view of mountains; the sand has some lahar mixed in, courtesy of the Mt. Pinatubo eruption</span></span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDpQGRDi3zHGqynuBClk25aYR49CL_poMQk64xn_PV_cD817w8xgkCXRM0M4eBZiWyXYZYaJnYJl4aKrR7QqIDKbPiqeNfjouiqbcoWyT-_52zkpXeYPX79tBgnqs2ewoLnVS/s1600-h/nagsasa1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDpQGRDi3zHGqynuBClk25aYR49CL_poMQk64xn_PV_cD817w8xgkCXRM0M4eBZiWyXYZYaJnYJl4aKrR7QqIDKbPiqeNfjouiqbcoWyT-_52zkpXeYPX79tBgnqs2ewoLnVS/s320/nagsasa1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441444943547620978" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Pine trees! Right by the shore! Some people say that the seeds came from the ashfall courtesy of Mt. Pinatubo. We set up our tent by one of the big picnic tables, away from the other campers. We were there for peace and quiet and relaxation.<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-sV7nRFi8JF0eYWxHzBE3U0Av0qVtRL8rlOogehrCmaQSb0geE8LNmGU2hAPlNMtNCPVKdAwkqw6wXJdprCrC267DqzhccWcAQ9NftCHQO_1jpJ1U5e7Y80QWqKJqXsbI6g7/s1600-h/IMG_7600.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-sV7nRFi8JF0eYWxHzBE3U0Av0qVtRL8rlOogehrCmaQSb0geE8LNmGU2hAPlNMtNCPVKdAwkqw6wXJdprCrC267DqzhccWcAQ9NftCHQO_1jpJ1U5e7Y80QWqKJqXsbI6g7/s320/IMG_7600.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440650596602379362" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Lots of trees from which you can hang a hammock and doze off (which is exactly what I did)<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhML3k-s4i3dYDLLmPOFqIIePBSVweApVZHRccnP4pbb-WKtgtd573F5EDliAnAHHEUWP4RjivFTvi6agKqg4ViqCrzMrO3dNu27v5_-HZ3f3zo6h31B-mSY5OBpED8mTitnnL1/s1600-h/nagsasa8.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhML3k-s4i3dYDLLmPOFqIIePBSVweApVZHRccnP4pbb-WKtgtd573F5EDliAnAHHEUWP4RjivFTvi6agKqg4ViqCrzMrO3dNu27v5_-HZ3f3zo6h31B-mSY5OBpED8mTitnnL1/s320/nagsasa8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441447440739189986" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">A freshwater stream that runs behind the campsite<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_b5GRyC4Ie0myTPIRTOacQUx0_LGoBYCQdW-g3SU6SjVR_lXRietFugym4_mzcRcNDg2kWyPiv1hyANqjFSLXJD5GrOdqnG5DBiRYy2ydPG3av7lBDXBRAoxZpUYseiOaSGK/s1600-h/nagsasa2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_b5GRyC4Ie0myTPIRTOacQUx0_LGoBYCQdW-g3SU6SjVR_lXRietFugym4_mzcRcNDg2kWyPiv1hyANqjFSLXJD5GrOdqnG5DBiRYy2ydPG3av7lBDXBRAoxZpUYseiOaSGK/s320/nagsasa2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441444952550028850" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">A 15-minute hike that leads to...</span></span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpJWz_Bb8rfb4dRycrUAXPUOog6ku1VgL446n2j_7fqOoXEcGI-peiD-7E8LQsAfYdLN1dl1J5Sfqutd3FEued8hSXrqq1HfvA1A2NaTQATerkjYnE8sO6jZ3s3AhI-LvT5dA/s1600-h/IMG_7618.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpJWz_Bb8rfb4dRycrUAXPUOog6ku1VgL446n2j_7fqOoXEcGI-peiD-7E8LQsAfYdLN1dl1J5Sfqutd3FEued8hSXrqq1HfvA1A2NaTQATerkjYnE8sO6jZ3s3AhI-LvT5dA/s320/IMG_7618.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440650603985484082" border="0" /></a><br />...waterfalls and a cool freshwater swimming hole! There was just a trickle of water when we were there since it's dry season.<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMk5Odcxs9JhEhJDNWDvydFBrcftmkn0BJ20A-fHEBdnhPq2Phora-Qf_F8e4E9XNFUYNjwAu3VHTET6Ae_SsPsVCLdtLaES08Yh53aldesoHmgQgW7hxo7t9CKqSKu-D1Esy5/s1600-h/nagsasa3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMk5Odcxs9JhEhJDNWDvydFBrcftmkn0BJ20A-fHEBdnhPq2Phora-Qf_F8e4E9XNFUYNjwAu3VHTET6Ae_SsPsVCLdtLaES08Yh53aldesoHmgQgW7hxo7t9CKqSKu-D1Esy5/s320/nagsasa3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441444955145376434" border="0" /></a><br />A sari-sari store that sells halo-halo<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBTy0rCKnaGIRqKMCBQ9K2Wd9m5ISV7BUGnKUMojL3wr8T-vgZGKPo4zeIxF6_GuopJqpVK-pp9eytiBYehP58xlX5-qTzLepXkHwHJnwNSzrDpYtlY9NROTW3-gyC1SVm8f3p/s1600-h/nagsasa4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBTy0rCKnaGIRqKMCBQ9K2Wd9m5ISV7BUGnKUMojL3wr8T-vgZGKPo4zeIxF6_GuopJqpVK-pp9eytiBYehP58xlX5-qTzLepXkHwHJnwNSzrDpYtlY9NROTW3-gyC1SVm8f3p/s320/nagsasa4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441444960375260066" border="0" /></a><br />A gorgeous sunset<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXki-MbuWL4UuoOFHPQTG3g2QC4dimLv6nK5kENCW98FLC31YRHdUJVc67DivhSy-o_dxTbAUoIP9KnmuFqPcuFqSt-e9fA5lPdlB0TX76NNHa1GSzevlqzPmYlEqDt58OWSQ/s1600-h/nagsasa6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXki-MbuWL4UuoOFHPQTG3g2QC4dimLv6nK5kENCW98FLC31YRHdUJVc67DivhSy-o_dxTbAUoIP9KnmuFqPcuFqSt-e9fA5lPdlB0TX76NNHa1GSzevlqzPmYlEqDt58OWSQ/s320/nagsasa6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441447433358897618" border="0" /></a><br />A chance to complete the camping experience with a bonfire. This one was built by the locals for some campers nearby. But since they weren't gathered around it yet, I snuck in and roasted some marshmallows, on a perfect twig that H found for me.<br /></span></div><br />More breathtaking photos by other Nagsasa visitors can be found <a href="http://lantaw.blogspot.com/2009/05/nagsasa-cove-taking-second-look.html">here</a> and <a href="http://libot.blogspot.com/2009/05/nagsasa-cove-zambales.html">here</a>.<br /><br />It was such a wonderful experience, even if it meant sharing a no-flush toilet in a makeshift bathroom with more than 20 other campers. And our feet were freezing because we didn't expect it to be so windy and cold, even inside our tent! <span style="font-style: italic;">(Note: Bring a blanket!)</span> It also felt like we were in a different country, with a nice beach, rolling hills, a lake, pine trees, and waterfalls all in one place!<br /><br />Want to go on a camping trip to beautiful Nagsasa Cove? Details:<br /><ul><li>Take a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Victory Liner bus</span> from Caloocan, going to Iba or Sta. Cruz, Zambales. Caloocan's a better option than Cubao because buses to Iba leave every hour (or half hour) going to Iba. <span style="font-style: italic;">(Note: That blanket I mentioned earlier will certainly come in handy here. Victory Liner evening/early morning buses are FREEZING!)</span><br /></li><li>Get off at <span style="font-weight: bold;">San Antonio, Zambales</span>--this isn't so far from Olongapo. Bus fare is PHP251, plus voluntary insurance for PHP5.</li><li>Take a trike to Purok 1 in<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Pundaquit</span>, PHP30 per person.</li><li>Take a boat to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nagsasa Cove</span>. You can try contacting Mang Vic, 0929-7170739. It was a little pricey since it was just the two of us (PHP1,700 round trip) but it should be cheaper if there are more of you. <span style="font-style: italic;">(Note: They don't offer life vests up front, but do ask for them.)</span> Tell the boatman exactly what time you want to get picked up the next day if you're staying overnight. You can't just text or call because there is absolutely no signal in Nagsasa.<br /></li><li>Get off at Nagsasa Cove and enjoy!</li><li>Going home: Once you get to Pundaquit, take a trike back to San Antonio and wait for a bus either bound for Manila (few and far between, we're told) or to Olongapo (which come every few minutes); from Olongapo, you could get on a bus back to Manila.</li></ul>You could also opt to drive to Pundaquit and park at a resort--I hear some allow overnight parking. But you'll have to research about that.<br /><br />Sigh. I'd love to go back, especially now that I'm sick from all the stress and that pesky bug going around lately. Camping in Nagsasa Cove is something I will always look back on with fondness. And I do hope to be back some day soon. Til then, Mang Ador and his family will be in my prayers, and I hope they'll be in yours too.Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-38166328186068228802010-02-15T18:56:00.003+08:002010-02-21T18:57:08.715+08:00Crazy, beautifulThat's what my life has been like the past couple of weeks. I have been skipping to the beat of Possibility, Options, and Gratitude. This last weekend alone, there was so much to be thankful for:<br /><ul><li>My friends' wedding</li><li>Our free <a href="http://diaryofafoodluvah.blogspot.com/2010/02/my-yummy-valentine.html">Valentine date</a> (yes, we were able to make it!)</li><li>Our Valentine weekend camping trip (which totally rocked)</li><li>My team's elimination-round win (semi-finals, here we come!)</li><li>A better understanding of myself and what I want</li><li>A greater appreciation for my husband, who amazes me more and more as each day passes<br /></li></ul>Will be blogging in detail soon. As soon as I catch my breath and manage to find a bit more time.Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-85533976297335687012010-02-12T00:59:00.003+08:002010-02-12T01:08:34.050+08:00Do you wanna know a secret?The Secret actually works!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN4Y6wMbzOopRaKpXlcIlFSNk6DS0-EU0HTr7mqbxAO2gKb0Wx_1GMo-rMAFYJ8dJWcaTsQIEcOZjVdcUv6vHgOTJX5aMBFIpnGP-KKxsy5jaBfZDYDU9n027MBF_G0yo51At/s1600-h/secret.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 248px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN4Y6wMbzOopRaKpXlcIlFSNk6DS0-EU0HTr7mqbxAO2gKb0Wx_1GMo-rMAFYJ8dJWcaTsQIEcOZjVdcUv6vHgOTJX5aMBFIpnGP-KKxsy5jaBfZDYDU9n027MBF_G0yo51At/s320/secret.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437032020443342914" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />I read it a couple of years ago and started rereading it recently when I was feeling all negative. And boy, did things turn around! It's little things and big things and everything in between, for example: On Sunday til Monday, I was seriously craving for fro yo. Then Monday, while waiting for friends, a lady handed me a card for free yogurt at a newly opened store! And I've been thinking about Boracay...and all of a sudden, I got an email saying I had a free trip lined up! Completely out of the blue. (Can't make it coz the dates are wrong though...perhaps I should've been more specific. But still!)<br /><br />I know skeptics might think it's all coincidence, but seriously, if you multiply those events by ten (which is pretty much what I've experienced in the last overwhelming couple of weeks), you kind of start to believe. I know some people think it's new age-y and all that. And maybe it is. But don't knock it til you've tried it!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-12345054358869697562010-02-03T16:13:00.003+08:002010-02-03T16:27:36.292+08:00Wanting our cake...and eating it too. But really, what else is cake for?<br /><br />Further proof that <a href="http://kbycunanancatering.blogspot.com/">our caterer</a> is the Best Caterer Ever. I got this through email today:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWTRXAegUQ2fHoJp1JNDEJ-PEbCe2r3NZ5R-c_u2PQEX41q430VcYCnS2g75Fr7nawPVnVtd8Q9wf2zn8jOYlc6x1IKn9RGdaGrrUYFVN0JNnZiBJv4PHuBMKqUAnSzsxHi5R/s1600-h/k_invite.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWTRXAegUQ2fHoJp1JNDEJ-PEbCe2r3NZ5R-c_u2PQEX41q430VcYCnS2g75Fr7nawPVnVtd8Q9wf2zn8jOYlc6x1IKn9RGdaGrrUYFVN0JNnZiBJv4PHuBMKqUAnSzsxHi5R/s320/k_invite.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433927601645711922" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Because it's Kaye, the food is <span style="font-style: italic;">guaranteed</span> to be delicious. And the setup will undoubtedly be chic. We really, really, reeeeaaally want to go. We got all excited and were about to confirm when we realized that we have a wedding to go to on the same day! I asked Kaye's assistant if they were going to have a similar event in the future, and she said no. She can't say if they're having it again next year. So H and I are trying to work out a sched... It looks like we might be eating dinner twice that evening!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-62807970488203282842010-01-30T09:19:00.006+08:002010-01-30T12:11:32.937+08:00Back on the boob tubeHad loads of fun at the recent radio tour, where I met a new set of DJs--Wave's George (so surreal since I do listen to her on the radio), RT's Ron, Jam's Hilary and Scottie (really cool), and U92's Eri (hilarious!). I was also back in the booth with CJ and Suzy--I really do enjoy being on their show!<br /><br />I generally like doing radio tours more than TV appearances, but lately I've had a lot of those too. Anything to pimp out my mag, encourage people to go grab a copy, and in effect, help me keep my job!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmdhwd3jooRV68k9q4SVd7wKiFQezOuxiOhbyF_NCt32sQMaXIXWePzSs3Su0XoMpFOOZVBu0pDEBfsB1Xw2Ezc8WZQKNB_3-wJ8rY7n3wPoRB5GjbUQZoDiE9M-qD8AqUY8j6/s1600-h/IMG_7318.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmdhwd3jooRV68k9q4SVd7wKiFQezOuxiOhbyF_NCt32sQMaXIXWePzSs3Su0XoMpFOOZVBu0pDEBfsB1Xw2Ezc8WZQKNB_3-wJ8rY7n3wPoRB5GjbUQZoDiE9M-qD8AqUY8j6/s320/IMG_7318.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432341580591701890" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">On ANC's</span> Shoptalk <span style="font-style: italic;">with Pia Hontiveros</span><br /></span></div><br />There are two kinds of TV shows: taped and live. Both have their pros and cons. While with taped shows, you can rest easy knowing that anything stupid you say can be edited out, the whole process normally takes longer. You get a call time, but often either the crew (for location shoots) or the host (in-studio shoots--I guess TV personalities' scheds are pretty packed) are late. So you end up playing the waiting game. And, in my opinion, sitting around and waiting is a huge energy drainer.<br /><br />Live shows, on the other hand, have a schedule to stick to, so things are brisk and efficient. However, there are no re-takes. And there are those dreaded Q&A portions. You really have to be on your toes and come up with quick, satisfactory answers. Very Miss Universe-esque, but instead of talking about world peace or the essence of being a woman, I have to talk about the best way to clean marble flooring, for example.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDyZeZ6mGP15VW8aCTM4drVnHys4qYXMwNiUHHZ02HvO6bVA9YIgZchQop10xHYWpab2Z9xllodDbHRPx-Baxy1M4jku13eJnxc2hhODMAeQ2bEKEvVZKct7fQaHZKUsSrY_B/s1600-h/IMG_7403.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDyZeZ6mGP15VW8aCTM4drVnHys4qYXMwNiUHHZ02HvO6bVA9YIgZchQop10xHYWpab2Z9xllodDbHRPx-Baxy1M4jku13eJnxc2hhODMAeQ2bEKEvVZKct7fQaHZKUsSrY_B/s320/IMG_7403.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432374960819729458" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Me with Wilma Doesnt and Lucy Torres on QTV's </span>The Sweet Life. <span style="font-style: italic;">Also in the pic is our mag's pimp (the one who arranges all our guestings) Kritzel.</span><br /></span></div><br />I'm thankful that I haven't been overcome by nerves so much, so my appearances so far have been alright. We've promoted the heck out of our latest ish, which covers Jan to Feb, so we have a month-long break from TV gigs for now. That leaves me enough time to look for 10-inch heels so I don't look quite so short beside Lucy!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-59136159027672154222010-01-22T23:24:00.004+08:002010-01-23T00:21:12.705+08:00Kids say the darndest thingsBecause my <span style="font-style: italic;">kuya</span> and his wifey are away, I made sure to drop by and hang out with the kids. Highlight of my day! (Btw, my brothers are just going<span style="font-style: italic;"> everywhere</span>! Germany for Oktoberfest, Rio for Carnival, Africa, the Caribbean...meanwhile, I didn't even get to leave the country last year! Boo!)<br /><br />So anyway, I love talking to kids because it is endlessly amusing. I'm all about the Socratic method because I think kids can have such interesting answers! Case in point, H's niece (one of our flower girls), Caity. This three-year-old seems so much older than her actual age. Some snippets:<br /><br />Caity: I'll show you my flowers!<span style="font-style: italic;"> (takes my hand and leads me to their sampaguita plant)</span><br />Me: Do you want to see a baby flower?<span style="font-style: italic;"> (I point to a bud)</span><br />Caity: Ooh.<br />Me: Do you know what happens to a baby flower?<br />Caity: It opens and turns into a mama flower!<br /><br />~*~*~*~<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(Caity was playing with her new toy unicorn)</span><br />Me: What do unicorns eat?<br />Caity:<span style="font-style: italic;"> (pause)</span> Hay.<br />Me: Ahh. Where do unicorns live?<br />Caity: Umm...<br />Me: Do they live in a stable? In a forest? In a cave?<br />Caity: It liveth in an enchanted foretht!<br />Me: What do unicorns do?<br />Caity: It hath magic!<br />Me: What kind of magic? Does it fly?<br />Caity: <span style="font-style: italic;">(rolling her eyes and holding the unicorn up to my face) </span>It doethn't have wingth!<br />(<span>Kulang na lang may </span><span style="font-style: italic;">"Hello?"!</span>)<br /><br />~*~*~*~<br /><br />This evening, I was with my two sweethearts (or "sweetie pies"--Diego corrects me whenever I say "sweetie"), three-year-old Diego and two-year-old Marga. I nearly had a heart attack watching them jump off things, and will probably have a sore back tomorrow after serving as their trampoline. But it is absolute joy just spending time with them--when they're in a good mood! Tonight's gems:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(Introducing me to their horsies)</span><br />Diego: This is Mister Diego!<br />Marga: <span style="font-style: italic;">(showing her horse)</span> Mister Marga!<br /><br />~*~*~*~<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(After they ran around barefoot)</span><br />Me: Diego, look at your feet. Yak. What color are they?<br />Diego: Black!<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(Marga was showing me her blue and green Tinkerbell nightgown)</span><br />Me: Marga, what color is Tinkerbell?<br />Marga: Black!<br /><br />~*~*~*~<br /><br />Me: Bye-bye <span style="font-style: italic;">na</span>, I have to go home.<br />Diego: Why?<br />Me: Because Tito Hamil is waiting for me.<br />Diego: When the sun is out tomorrow, you wake up then go to my house.<br /><br />~*~*~*~<br /><br />Me: <span style="font-style: italic;">(singing to Marga who literally watches </span>Cinderella 3<span style="font-style: italic;"> ten times a day!)</span> Salagadula, menchikabula...<br />Marga: Badada badada booo!!! <br /><br />Hahaha. That totally made my day!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-88397218251289820542010-01-18T09:25:00.005+08:002010-01-18T09:55:21.429+08:00These shoes were made for walkingA lot of people know me for my high heels. At my old job, I learned to run in three-inch heels because I was always rushing to beat the bundy clock (the security guards were on my side. And oh, I have since progressed to running in four-inch heels). And, on one occasion, when a co-worker caught me in sneakers on my way to the gym, he remarked, "<span style="font-style: italic;">Ang liit mo pala!</span>"<br /><br />Which is why I don't really wear flats. I always thought that ballet flats would make me look squat because of the width of my feet and my, uh, general self. Haha. But I resolved to buy ballet flats that I could live with, and so I went hunting. The result...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4J199D1b7LFmuI1oR853TZriN2GDSCivAA45eccmPPSv8-T3oMVdG1fTRDKrnnWsrR9lY32k4npwuHI7nbP1lqhIaHz4YpO9ghbReUMPfZkZb304z4zVvi_72T10j4UfSzvb/s1600-h/shoes.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4J199D1b7LFmuI1oR853TZriN2GDSCivAA45eccmPPSv8-T3oMVdG1fTRDKrnnWsrR9lY32k4npwuHI7nbP1lqhIaHz4YpO9ghbReUMPfZkZb304z4zVvi_72T10j4UfSzvb/s320/shoes.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427890646073770034" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />...Flats that I can't just live with, but which I actually love! As you can see, they're by el cheapo Parisian, found in all SM Department Stores. I heart this brand because they have such stylish shoes that don't cost a bundle. This pair, for example, was less than P500! Woohoo! I love the whole snakeskin thang it's got going. Funnily enough, while I was wearing these, I ran into one of the fab former <span style="font-style: italic;">Preview</span> girls, and she was wearing platforms in the exact same pattern. (She got hers on sale at H&M.) And they don't make me look squat at all--in fact, they seem to make my legs look longer. Yay! On the minus side, these pinch my feet a bit because they're a half size smaller than normal--SM ran out of shoes in my exact size. But I snatched them up anyway because they're just so darn cute.<br /><br />Hooray for cute, cheapie finds! Hooray for being a girl who can blog about such inane things!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-42198691534320614472010-01-10T20:48:00.007+08:002010-01-16T22:13:52.681+08:00On my nightstand<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Poirot's Early Cases</span> by Agatha Christie</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD1TfyHXzeUpQVb7TfzjFT-fDFSoKjLqExEN2e2qRL5eMuFSC3_qGK17hYVgUcl8GCJRoqVfOZxY26544X2r-l0noO9ZtF5LbGJGkCVWAHdQ5ds8cJcm-XFLkGI57XMBWDv4l8/s1600-h/poirot.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 189px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD1TfyHXzeUpQVb7TfzjFT-fDFSoKjLqExEN2e2qRL5eMuFSC3_qGK17hYVgUcl8GCJRoqVfOZxY26544X2r-l0noO9ZtF5LbGJGkCVWAHdQ5ds8cJcm-XFLkGI57XMBWDv4l8/s320/poirot.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427331038866898434" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Mystery, I've recently rediscovered, is one of my favorite genres. I remember being introduced to old-school Bobbsey Twins and Nancy Drew in second grade. Every Friday, I would borrow a hard-bound book from the library and spend my Saturday afternoon just reading. I can't remember when I stopped doing this. But I do remember that I was one of the few people who had to get another library card because I borrowed a lot more books than other students! Yes, I was (am) a nerd.<br /><br />I first read Agatha Christie a few years ago, when a celeb I interviewed mentioned that his favorite book was <span style="font-style: italic;">And Then There Were None</span> (also known as <span style="font-style: italic;">Ten Little Indians</span>). He absolutely raved about the book, so my curiosity was piqued. I must admit I wasn't all that impressed with the book, but started reading Christie again after finding a few volumes at my brother-in-law's. This particular book is a collection of short mystery stories featuring one of Christie's beloved heroes, M. Hercule Poirot. I like the short story format because I don't have to read an entire novel before I find out whodunnit! My favorite so far is "The Chocolate Box," because it seemed like the most plausible. While all mysteries have clues peppered here and there, this story seemed like it gave all the necessary info for the reader to solve it, no weird new info revealed in the end.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The Long Tail</span> by Chris Anderson</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJZY4KErSajOIKAAkF0DIf-tj5ExTKohf_KuNnjPASGLwAeJ0nfsQSyoZbJEFQK9lXagsjHsLWKP3jYIvQiecOPunZvcA_zkczrgVCP5XP7qOVlXyqCXTo_TepFsq094INS0iu/s1600-h/longtail.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 230px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJZY4KErSajOIKAAkF0DIf-tj5ExTKohf_KuNnjPASGLwAeJ0nfsQSyoZbJEFQK9lXagsjHsLWKP3jYIvQiecOPunZvcA_zkczrgVCP5XP7qOVlXyqCXTo_TepFsq094INS0iu/s320/longtail.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427331045153145394" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />No, not the Birdman. This Chris Anderson is the editor in chief of US magazine Wired. So anyway, yeah, non-fiction. I'm not big on the non-fiction. It's funny how H's row on our bookshelf is all non-fiction, while mine is full of fiction. At a bookstore once, he tried to persuade me to go for something more "useful" by getting a non-fiction title. "I'm a writer. Fiction inspires me," I said coolly, and he just let me have my way. In truth, I am just not a non-fiction kind of girl. But Frances told me about this book after we talked about making money off of blogs!<br /><br />"The Long Tail" is a term coined by Anderson in an article he wrote for his magazine, and it has since become one of the most cited articles in recent times. It talks about how the Internet is changing the way business is done. In business, he explains, there are those items that sell the most (the hits) at the top of a downward curve. This curve includes all other items a business has to offer, right down to those that sell few to zero units (the tail). Interestingly enough, when it comes to virtual stores, this tail stretches seemingly endlessly, with even the most obscure items selling at least one unit. It's all about niches now--selling less of more.<br /><br />I've just started on the book, and I'm flexing my brain because I'm expecting a whole lot of statistics and economics (not my strong suit, even though I do come from a family of economists!). That part of my brain has lain dormant for a few years. Time to dust off the cobwebs!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-40730697732950406892010-01-09T12:15:00.004+08:002010-01-09T12:48:24.641+08:00The 3-in-1 workoutYesterday, I tried my hand (and the rest of my body) at a new class called <span style="font-weight: bold;">barre3</span>. It combines "the grace of the ballet barre with the wisdom of yoga and the strength of pilates."<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Q4xy2e94EQWHV3L4-xO0eS8pgm-Gy6KuJKPDIO5WAYpt52vU55zf_TyWyZoAh48r9slmfkJX2269y7AJwRXZBOlywnq69C25ZHtnlxTKkuhooH32iffQ3wNB0ViYhPrxeJIF/s1600-h/barre3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 314px; height: 170px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Q4xy2e94EQWHV3L4-xO0eS8pgm-Gy6KuJKPDIO5WAYpt52vU55zf_TyWyZoAh48r9slmfkJX2269y7AJwRXZBOlywnq69C25ZHtnlxTKkuhooH32iffQ3wNB0ViYhPrxeJIF/s320/barre3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424590447403695810" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">The equipment: a ballet barre, a strap, a ball, a mat, and muscle! (Photo from the <a href="http://www.barre3.com/index.php">barre3 website</a>)</span><br /></div><br />It is described as "a highly effective 60-minute workout using the ballet barre as a prop to create equal length and strength in the body." It isn't exactly a slow-paced class, as one might expect; instead, it's done with some upbeat music in the background. (When Kesha's "Tik Tok" came on, I wanted to drop my weights and dance!)<br /><br />The class I attended was at the new barre3 studio at The Spa High Street. It's a fully equipped barre3 studio with a cork floor, lockers, and a shower with hot water (a must for me!). It's recommended to come in yoga-ish attire, meaning somewhat fitted clothes, so that your form can be seen and corrected as needed.<br /><br />As seen in the photo, the workout makes use of a ballet barre, a strap, a ball, and a mat. There are also free weights (two-pound dumbells) involved in some moves. If my quads hadn't hurt from a leg-strengthening exercise that I did the days before the barre3 class, I might have been able to hold the poses longer and do the proper amount of reps (especially for the squats). But as it was, with all the existing aches and pains plus the excess holiday weight, it was a bit of a challenge! But a challenge is good. It's but right to give your body a push every now and then. It became obvious to me, though, how much strength I've lost since I stopped going to the gym and doing core exercises--I couldn't even hold the plank (bridge) for a minute and had to do the modified pose. Sigh.<br /><br />In a barre3 class, it feels a lot like your body is being sculpted (sans invasive machines sucking and tucking!). After that one hour, I felt like my core was firmer and that my body was all stretched out. Our instructor, Marie, revealed that their teacher grew three centimeters after doing barre3! Now there's something Vitamin B can't do for someone my age!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Want to try barre3? Classes are held three times a day at The Spa at Bonifacio High Street and Alabang. Classes at Rockwell and Eastwood to follow. Single class rate is P700. Monthly and annual rates available.</span><br /></span>Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-85145936393298382492010-01-08T21:37:00.004+08:002010-01-08T22:03:22.790+08:00Breathtaking<div style="text-align: left;">I first heard about Slim's a few years ago when I found out that a couple of friends were taking sewing classes there. I wondered about the name but wasn't curious enough to research. It was only late last year--when the office was all abuzz with excitement over the launch of the <a href="http://www.slimslegacy.com/exhibition.shtml">Slim's Retrospective at the National Museum</a>--that I learned that it's short for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Salvacion Lim Higgins</span>, one of the Philippines' most famous designers.<br /></div><br />I was not familiar with her work, but I got acquainted with it through <a href="http://www.slimslegacy.com/book.shtml">this book</a>:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0P1mPKjW0FJTj4L2mkuQOVWfakm4NnGwpCDzxngNXMr-fSgr8k3Zq8iSvXXVM30PgTwotXskNfNQzQNEn0oixkjSvBhB_zHIeVQFFXz6QQdY6HUnVQDchPvWX0qGfE4ZAetwt/s1600-h/slim_book.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 229px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0P1mPKjW0FJTj4L2mkuQOVWfakm4NnGwpCDzxngNXMr-fSgr8k3Zq8iSvXXVM30PgTwotXskNfNQzQNEn0oixkjSvBhB_zHIeVQFFXz6QQdY6HUnVQDchPvWX0qGfE4ZAetwt/s320/slim_book.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424367550345589874" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />I'm not a fashion person (though I often wonder what my life would be like now had I taken that <span style="font-style: italic;">Preview</span> job years ago), but that was the first time that I ever got lost in the pages of a coffee table book about fashion. Neal Oshima's photography was glorious, the subjects even moreso. Even vintage photos of Slim's works really struck me. Beautiful gowns seemingly floating in mid-air, the masterful draping--I was mesmerized. Such detail, such construction, such imagination! The inspired, architectural things she did with the <span style="font-style: italic;">terno</span>! Oh, this was a woman who was truly ahead of her time.<br /><br />I have to somehow convince my husband to accompany me to the <a href="http://streetbutsweet1.blogspot.com/2009/06/independence-date.html">National Museum</a> again, so I could see these works of art up close. If you get the chance, do head on over to Manila; the exhibit runs til March.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Slim's Retrospective</span> is at the </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Museum of the Filipino People, National Museum of the Philippines, Manila. </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Exhibit open daily except Monday and Tuesday, 10:00 am to 4:30pm</span>. <span style="font-style: italic;">Entrance fees: P100 (adults), P30 (students) free admission on Sundays. </span><span style="font-style: italic;">For more info, call (02) 527-0278</span>.<br /></span>Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-15028263619175292172010-01-07T23:39:00.011+08:002010-01-08T10:34:18.743+08:00Top 10 for 2009 (part 2)And the list continues...<meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.0 (Linux)"><meta name="CREATED" content="20100107;23062500"><meta name="CHANGED" content="16010101;0"> <style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.5in 11in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>5. GNO girls</b>
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jli7aBhVYxMZYcnRfv2NT3ELuI7BhMjdzD8u-Jv46BUsDI77oUvjaafrTu9F2VZk5lKLC3cV67Xz7KBZSxeCJLzQRBh2czyuB9yThVfhM7Wnzq3Af3RMX4b6s7SkIiPTiwdH/s1600-h/yearend_blog4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jli7aBhVYxMZYcnRfv2NT3ELuI7BhMjdzD8u-Jv46BUsDI77oUvjaafrTu9F2VZk5lKLC3cV67Xz7KBZSxeCJLzQRBh2czyuB9yThVfhM7Wnzq3Af3RMX4b6s7SkIiPTiwdH/s320/yearend_blog4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424024285227854450" border="0" /></a></p> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">I miss my girls! And my small waist! But not the stress that produced it.</span></span>
<br /></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The night was legend--wait for it--ary! My girls just gave me a night (stretching until sunrise) of fun, fun, fun! It was a rockin' way to bid my single life adieu! Jo, my reflective, creative, unbelievably intelligent friend, with whom I can have such meaningful, mind-blowing conversations. Mottie, my gorgeous gorgeous NY partner in crime. Chingy, my BFF--need I say more?
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<br />When I imagine what kind of friendships I might have thirty years from now, I think of <i>Mamma Mia!</i> and am quite convinced that that's the kind of friendship I would have with these ladies--jumping off piers in Greece, and just giving life and each other great big hugs!
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<br /><b>4. Mads</b></p>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3galm0HR8R-euStY6gBzINlGSyvx1TgmcdItL3vcEiQBTVKcKM_9lUUUh3aTYfIYT37VIY1eqjbelWBnzVUPPc4KZew1DcNSRSZowkvLzLDDFHxo4S0dpz1dh5m7SVxJyWtno/s1600-h/yearend_blog6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3galm0HR8R-euStY6gBzINlGSyvx1TgmcdItL3vcEiQBTVKcKM_9lUUUh3aTYfIYT37VIY1eqjbelWBnzVUPPc4KZew1DcNSRSZowkvLzLDDFHxo4S0dpz1dh5m7SVxJyWtno/s320/yearend_blog6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424031187001498866" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">My dress by Mads, of course!</span></span></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">What would I do without Mads? She is my soul sister, the one who never judges me, the one whose family has adopted me! Whenever I wonder if I'm a bad person, I try not to be too hard on myself and attempt to see myself through Mads's eyes. This pure-hearted angel always sees the best in people. Pancake House is my happy place, but her house--filled with the warmth of her family and the deliciousness of their food--is a very close second! I am ecstatic that 2009 was a milestone year for her as well, with her engagement to my soon-to-be brother-in-law. Mads deserves every happiness that this world has to offer.
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<br /><b>3. Marie and Tata</b>
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbcKbWw4p1SMcw9Dtu35F2dwEFXKqHaiNUQiOLQPY-eoBzG60a-Ps6V1Souym5p_B1AgoelDV5PYl7D-8m800Rf9-vFm5aJc6yjgInuKyxQjQop9fAo9c6O_GbHkdl15o7dtH/s1600-h/yearend_blog5.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbcKbWw4p1SMcw9Dtu35F2dwEFXKqHaiNUQiOLQPY-eoBzG60a-Ps6V1Souym5p_B1AgoelDV5PYl7D-8m800Rf9-vFm5aJc6yjgInuKyxQjQop9fAo9c6O_GbHkdl15o7dtH/s320/yearend_blog5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424029942134748450" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Only pic I could find for now. That's me, Tata (center), and Marie (beside me) with the fabulous </span>Preview<span style="font-style: italic;"> girls.
<br /></span></span></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The charmed ones. My two-man wedding committee. They helped me make decisions (not an easy task when the decision-making involves wedding details, mind you) and, more importantly, served and continue to serve as my nonwedding-related personal cheerleaders. From them, I get good vibes, lots of positive energy, great conversations, and plenty of laughs. And, in Marie's case, gorgeous makeup. When she remembers. Haha. (Sorry Marie, I couldn't resist! You know I love you.)
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2. My mom</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKysQe7akMnf7YFaKw5h7AxlfI0aZjEEYeUJ-Di6jf7EehUw2irZ0gDvUcl2XIzA9QraLWc-i7gy4nLeATaoVxP8tHac59EkXihVirvUSZgm__Efh4zsITsBy3dflB5Vy2508E/s1600-h/yearend_blog7.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 238px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKysQe7akMnf7YFaKw5h7AxlfI0aZjEEYeUJ-Di6jf7EehUw2irZ0gDvUcl2XIzA9QraLWc-i7gy4nLeATaoVxP8tHac59EkXihVirvUSZgm__Efh4zsITsBy3dflB5Vy2508E/s320/yearend_blog7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424032369238370930" border="0" /></a></p> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">My beautiful mother with my sweetheart of a niece (she was in her Snow White phase when this was taken)</span></span> </div>
<br />Being married is awesome, but what do I miss most about my past life? Or, more appropriately, <span style="font-style: italic;">who</span> do I miss most? My mother. If it hadn't been for her, our wedding probably would have been delayed, more expensive, and more stressful. When H was away and I slept over at their place, she had packs of Moo stashed in the fridge for me. She sometimes sweetly asks me if I need our trusty driver Lolito. She is one of the kindest, most loving people that anyone would ever be lucky to meet, and I am immensely blessed that she is my mom! (The rest of my family rocks, too!)
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1. Man of the Year: My husband</span>
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKuxU-leVhZcLuiNTU4rQaS4ScUHBGLIdPYnV8wZ0ijwrfUo1Bza4N1qaGYiZM4tlsUXjT6E1JI4D3XsMyAZhN1y1lfa6AueiLVitNjMQzkzcygn3Mao37RbWmogsUd7z6GEh4/s1600-h/yearend_blog8.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKuxU-leVhZcLuiNTU4rQaS4ScUHBGLIdPYnV8wZ0ijwrfUo1Bza4N1qaGYiZM4tlsUXjT6E1JI4D3XsMyAZhN1y1lfa6AueiLVitNjMQzkzcygn3Mao37RbWmogsUd7z6GEh4/s320/yearend_blog8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424036215663667138" border="0" /></a>
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Our first Christmas as husband and wife. A very merry Christmas, indeed!
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<br />Of course!
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<br />What can I say that I haven't said before? That, even though I didn't think it was possible, he's an even better husband than he was a boyfriend? That every night, I relish sleeping beside him, and that every morning, it is absolute joy waking up next to him? That it makes me teary-eyed (case in point: um, now) just thinking about how deeply I love him? That I want to spend my whole life thanking God for blessing me with such a wonderful partner?
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<br />In fact, I want to spend my whole life thanking God for surrounding me with such amazing souls. (Miguel, that includes you. Haha.) Every person on this list has touched my life--in 2009 and even in years before that. And there are many more people who may not be on the list, but who are constantly in my prayers. To my family, friends, all the people I hold dear--thank you!
<br />Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-84539390348207669122009-12-31T11:25:00.008+08:002010-01-08T00:42:40.227+08:00Top 10 for 2009 (part 1)Instead of blogging about the top 10 experiences of 2009 (number one, of course, would be the day I became a missus!), I've decided to honor 10 people who made an impact on my year and helped make it memorable.<br /><br />I originally intended for this to be just one post, but I've had to divide it into two. I figured that these people deserve more than one line each!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">10. D&G<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV07GoQHsGLIxBz3qtNfDQdGUZA8hn1VeZNN2AKM_5GTzNAJGudbFjj9kLYRz8qMAWmXcHb153Xr-fN1CmEGEt7Te-GVf3DKMRaZdnY3ABQRu_x12wHjuXGyF7NAOo7RCELw7Y/s1600-h/yearend_blog1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV07GoQHsGLIxBz3qtNfDQdGUZA8hn1VeZNN2AKM_5GTzNAJGudbFjj9kLYRz8qMAWmXcHb153Xr-fN1CmEGEt7Te-GVf3DKMRaZdnY3ABQRu_x12wHjuXGyF7NAOo7RCELw7Y/s320/yearend_blog1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424015168337615026" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Me and the brothers with Xtian and his scary-ass stare<br /></span></div><br />Lolo and my lil bro. These boys actually watched me dance on stage...and made fun of me afterwards (but also asked me to teach them the steps to "Single Ladies")--surprise of my life when the stage lights went on and I heard a familiar voice from the audience yell, "Go, <span style="font-style: italic;">tanda!</span>" They joined my team for whatever reason (most probably alcohol). They took me out for drinks when I needed it most (i.e., the peak of all the wedding stress). They were there on my wedding day, and D supposedly got out of work just to be able to do so.<br /><br />T: <span style="font-style: italic;">Kumain ka nang marami.</span><br />D: I can't, I have a shoot next week.<br />T: <span style="font-style: italic;">O sige, uminom ka na lang. </span>Open bar.<br />D: <span style="font-style: italic;">Hindi rin pwede.</span><br />T: <span style="font-style: italic;">Hindi ka kakain, hindi ka iinom. Ano ba yan!</span><br />D: <span style="font-style: italic;">ANG DAMI MONG HINIHINGI! NANDITO NA NGA AKO!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">9. Blue<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vqftH-qJ-vej2l6fvpe-gom_NzWz2VV6sryoMAS5HBm5Kk3rnwD3_4Ak6oWDxmMxmnI12CkSnXUVdquQlMU6DCft6irXSgYjKbQMA26Nn8ovkGhEeFztriUWBvCzptiBz8Q2/s1600-h/yearend_blog2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vqftH-qJ-vej2l6fvpe-gom_NzWz2VV6sryoMAS5HBm5Kk3rnwD3_4Ak6oWDxmMxmnI12CkSnXUVdquQlMU6DCft6irXSgYjKbQMA26Nn8ovkGhEeFztriUWBvCzptiBz8Q2/s320/yearend_blog2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424014681328404098" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Photo by Ogee</span><br /></span><br /></div>My favorite Blue quote of the year: "<span style="font-style: italic;">Sayaw nang sayaw, akala naman niya kagalingan! Gusto pa sa gitna!</span>"<br /><br />I once told him, "For someone who says a lot, you sure don't reveal much!" I can tell him <span style="font-style: italic;">anything,</span> and I completely trust that he won't yap about it to anyone else--even when he threatens to. He was my bud in Dumags, and for some reason, I feel like I could chat or talk to him forever. He's a great listener and gives really sensible advice. <span style="font-style: italic;">Oo, ako rin nagulat.</span> Hahaha. Peace, dude.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">8. Mia</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fau<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span>I've looked up to this very smart, kind-hearted woman ever since I was in grade school. Mia was there for me when I was so conflicted over something, and she helped me sort through my muddle of thoughts and feelings. When I felt like I was being judged by people who mattered to me, she gave me tremendous support and guidance. I feel like we have somewhat similar values and even somewhat similar lives, and so she understood me in a way that others couldn't. Hearing her words of comfort and her counsel really gave me a bit of clarity, and helped put my mind and my heart at ease.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br /></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">7. Mike<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFk-qdwHEPp6TyFYuLO7bTCZGWz3CfLn0H1AGyPbvV7cKc-t2FOdmsYnxmtpO2F2-nMpW0jJkSLwfUl98OBSrDraVbvpsbQWo_MVYqYLi8pXMEhgs9LC8dg69DDNgBgpqXL-66/s1600-h/yearend_blog3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFk-qdwHEPp6TyFYuLO7bTCZGWz3CfLn0H1AGyPbvV7cKc-t2FOdmsYnxmtpO2F2-nMpW0jJkSLwfUl98OBSrDraVbvpsbQWo_MVYqYLi8pXMEhgs9LC8dg69DDNgBgpqXL-66/s320/yearend_blog3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424014684034541186" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I just realized Cheng's in this photo too! Just look for the girl in the wedding gown!<br /></span></div><br />Our future neighbor. Haha. Mike and I have this grand plan of building our future houses on adjacent lots, and leaving the kids with H as he, Cheng, and I play disc! (H, in turn, would take off on basketball days.) In 2009, I got nothing but all-out support from Mike, one of my closest friends on the team. Through leagues, weddings (both mine and his), relationships, I felt like he was there for me, and I was more than willing to be there for him (and Cheng!).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">6. Addie</span><br />(Alas my wedding-day pic with her is in another computer!)<br /><br />Oh, Addie, how I love her so. Because of her, I was utterly relaxed on our wedding day. After going to sooo many weddings and seeing how pushy (veiled as "professional") some coordinators could be, I told her that I totally appreciated how nice and charming and pleasant she was at my wedding, even when craziness was happening all around her (no safety pins for corsages, a guest --who sent regrets!--who came asking for a table for 10, etc.). I loved that she made it a point to go to my <span style="font-style: italic;">despedida de soltera</span> with Milo and Paolo in tow, so she could meet some of the key people at the wedding. I was glad she came, not for coordination reasons, but because I wanted my family and close friends to meet one of the most special people in my life.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><span><br />The second half of my top 10 for 2009 to follow!</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-67936226243548822142009-12-29T17:10:00.003+08:002009-12-29T17:22:45.478+08:00Jane Austen in Beverly HillsSo, I didn't know that this movie (a modern classic)...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZa2RsvD2MT0n_j0MyH_xt74TPEwxBMUvfSJcO7yQAbt7F1lJmVLc1ET3ovmNb77XD2k449EoeyhLty8vcND5HUJ_wcinxJLhiwv0QqVQa04zXNS_4LjyAMvlC7p462sjxCDD/s1600-h/clueless.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 217px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZa2RsvD2MT0n_j0MyH_xt74TPEwxBMUvfSJcO7yQAbt7F1lJmVLc1ET3ovmNb77XD2k449EoeyhLty8vcND5HUJ_wcinxJLhiwv0QqVQa04zXNS_4LjyAMvlC7p462sjxCDD/s320/clueless.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420583163335940546" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />...was actually based on:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjog4hi6kmqpZ6S_BfjJOugquhYlJJRDRJkhXIZDtwpfxpKi3WS10nhkpXdz6M87oMLbc1agP9raxEEMn6dvwkmrlMdAeWRIQn-E7bswUzTN6cWk-4xc1rnl49LvO0FD39dssTq/s1600-h/23760.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjog4hi6kmqpZ6S_BfjJOugquhYlJJRDRJkhXIZDtwpfxpKi3WS10nhkpXdz6M87oMLbc1agP9raxEEMn6dvwkmrlMdAeWRIQn-E7bswUzTN6cWk-4xc1rnl49LvO0FD39dssTq/s320/23760.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420583164921600578" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />So who's clueless now?<br /><br />Forgive me, I wasn't a big reader of the classics when I was younger, but now I try to alternate between classic and contemporary works. After I saw and read <span style="font-style: italic;">Pride and Prejudice</span>, Jane Austen's works quickly made it onto my reading list. I thought it would be better to see the movie (if there was one) before reading any of her books because I found that it gave me a better appreciation and understanding of the prose. But seeing as there was no <span style="font-style: italic;">Emma</span> DVD on hand, I just decided to plunge into it and hoped I wouldn't get lost in the language.<br /><br />The deeper I got into the book, the more I realized that it was a lot like one of my 90s favorites. And true enough, I only recently learned that<span style="font-style: italic;"> Clueless</span> really was loosely based on <span style="font-style: italic;">Emma</span>—so I have seen it after all!<br /><br />And that is what you call <span style="font-style: italic;">huli sa balita</span>! Nearly 15 years too late!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-7677907675599137932009-12-20T13:20:00.004+08:002009-12-24T12:38:11.726+08:00The night that I was John, Paul, George, and Ringo...and Anthony Kiedis, Alanis, and Deborah Harry!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQlnSbhY0OJGYi_d4U1BfhmIXJ3eJv4CkeTazzh9qK9ugj0K22TftGyZ-XdJRPLeV4Dd2Ej099TbJBjaqBXecywZ-cbE7DUXkZPo87tX6V-IC1GZ1UzhuOP31lYwWsNk0N5O3w/s1600-h/IMG_6864.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQlnSbhY0OJGYi_d4U1BfhmIXJ3eJv4CkeTazzh9qK9ugj0K22TftGyZ-XdJRPLeV4Dd2Ej099TbJBjaqBXecywZ-cbE7DUXkZPo87tX6V-IC1GZ1UzhuOP31lYwWsNk0N5O3w/s320/IMG_6864.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418654865448165458" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />I was also Offspring's drummer because I insisted on playing "Come Out and Play" even if no one else knew the song! Haha.<br /><br />As you can see, I have finally discovered the wonders of Rock Band. I'm a little late to the Rock Band party, I know. But last Friday, I was lucky enough to be invited by<span style="font-style: italic;"> OK! Mag</span> to join their Rock Band Night at Frances's place. Woohoo! It was just the kind of night I wanted--prior to the invite, I was either a) going to stay home and feel all alone and loser-y because the husband had a Christmas party, or b) heading to Encore with some friends--a gimmick I really wasn't up for, but which I thought kind of beat staying home feeling all loser-y. So, thank you <span style="font-style: italic;">OK!</span> and Coni!<br /><br />It was my first time to see Frances and Vince's fabulous place, er, live. I had previously only seen it in pictures (in my mag! But I wasn't at the shoot), so it kind of felt like I was seeing a celebrity in person. Haha. A few photos:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsTg-iPzdE7iIGYzL_2mlOLNo-U67UuQcX4OuMTUfN3iTAmg3R78jnMBLzHFS5fh2QCKP3zfNFypOPsr3E5NTa6403q81F2X_83DNqUtwiecwh_XcqGkhaEcpD_uhNlefkFmT/s1600-h/IMG_6859.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsTg-iPzdE7iIGYzL_2mlOLNo-U67UuQcX4OuMTUfN3iTAmg3R78jnMBLzHFS5fh2QCKP3zfNFypOPsr3E5NTa6403q81F2X_83DNqUtwiecwh_XcqGkhaEcpD_uhNlefkFmT/s320/IMG_6859.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418654874491939986" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WCxOm0nRdNCsbNL3y1FPmt4BBJiBD9B9V8wJ31yQeQwJC-qQIZxcKEikNiudSsqsui6PHe0XAX2WgQtBiNUSu3mZtkRkaEtRFHkxEHZCckElYwpanQ8-_jzPpmfHDRs4W5wq/s1600-h/IMG_6854.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WCxOm0nRdNCsbNL3y1FPmt4BBJiBD9B9V8wJ31yQeQwJC-qQIZxcKEikNiudSsqsui6PHe0XAX2WgQtBiNUSu3mZtkRkaEtRFHkxEHZCckElYwpanQ8-_jzPpmfHDRs4W5wq/s320/IMG_6854.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418654880629694226" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">(Top) Vince, super husband that he is, gave Frances a hot pink Christmas tree. It stands near the window which offers an awesome view from their unit. (Above) Their dining room. Note the dreamy Louis Ghost mixed in with the other dining chairs.<br /></span></div><br />I tried my hand at the guitar (I sucked), vocals (super fun, kind of tiring, especially if you're doing "Give It Away" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers!), and the drums (my specialty. I used to kind of play the drums. Kind of). While my vocals weren't bad, my bandmates inexplicably failed whenever I had the mic in my hand! Oh well.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdxFXRDWPEFriORwl7v6Fe-FAvKriRPC2yHkYHEGu4kG2yfToz5fuh73v22eelQFC25CWFctHZMB38PQG0h81oQaqAkJ55BM8df5uuzgU0leWptQXm1w95B5XE-mhnKjvQU96J/s1600-h/IMG_6873.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdxFXRDWPEFriORwl7v6Fe-FAvKriRPC2yHkYHEGu4kG2yfToz5fuh73v22eelQFC25CWFctHZMB38PQG0h81oQaqAkJ55BM8df5uuzgU0leWptQXm1w95B5XE-mhnKjvQU96J/s320/IMG_6873.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418654890877978066" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Cosmo's <span style="font-style: italic;">Red looked uber cute rockin' out.</span><br /></span></div><br />After a pizza dinner and some songs on Rock Band 2, we switched to Beatles Rock Band. Nice! I never realized that there were so many Beatles songs that I didn't even know! I kept singing "Here Comes the Sun" the following day!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzxBXOdFjvDbjsHTQJ7POi1PAbb58upkUqHoF5NWSR74IYbnwNCWPG3E2iwwQCS9Fmo_jg3hJ-6VeJydyzffSskz1CjqRTsUeZ8foifHgcfnZPFcXw7XUplXKdvncnsmkwJsE/s1600-h/IMG_6876-ed.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 210px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzxBXOdFjvDbjsHTQJ7POi1PAbb58upkUqHoF5NWSR74IYbnwNCWPG3E2iwwQCS9Fmo_jg3hJ-6VeJydyzffSskz1CjqRTsUeZ8foifHgcfnZPFcXw7XUplXKdvncnsmkwJsE/s320/IMG_6876-ed.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418654894309677298" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Clockwise from left) Lana, Frances, Red, Coni, and Elaine</span><br /></span></div><br />'Til the next Rock Band Night! Can it be soon? Please?Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-18824280916669568422009-12-14T21:27:00.005+08:002009-12-14T23:32:26.936+08:00I've got a crush on you<div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5d-8JeuiDNd63vczmf0zoZzpr2gfYvlQigCGoCdySDQI3mk1Bh2tvs_zy10D0w3MerQixoFt-0ethgGrRlPL5W85SvIzkBSInAzJ3M95ut30p8Jz3Z1R1duvQTfbJBjUerVK/s1600-h/sloan+getup.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 185px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5d-8JeuiDNd63vczmf0zoZzpr2gfYvlQigCGoCdySDQI3mk1Bh2tvs_zy10D0w3MerQixoFt-0ethgGrRlPL5W85SvIzkBSInAzJ3M95ut30p8Jz3Z1R1duvQTfbJBjUerVK/s320/sloan+getup.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415083478858526386" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Today's look was inspired by...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sidereel.com/_post/170657"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 189px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXsGIOJdHBKK9dNT4wbshwFpmxQtX4yumAH9UquN64hlZtBHFnzMf6oeFA_Ram81B2MeRIoT2TTAY_OCec_SzuY9kcyrw8aX_Ev2nqXe-Wtbv6DBcsQUxN2Kb2LaaH5HieIYhA/s320/sloan1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415083481985643842" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />My girl crush, Emmanuelle Chiriqui, aka Sloan on <span style="font-style: italic;">Entourage</span>. I've always found her so gorgeous, but she was especially so in season 6. And I loooved her clothes that season--classic and chic, never weirdly edgy.<br /><br />In the season finale, pictured above, she wore a men's gray sweater over a coral tank and distressed boyfriend jeans (not shown), which she wore in a number of other eps. I could never pull off boyfriend jeans, at least not REAL boyfriend (or, in my case, husband) jeans. I'm just so small that I would look like a little boy in his dad's clothes. And I'm convinced that the look works best on skinny frames--something I have never had!<br /><br />I do, however, have a pair of distressed jeans that weren't even intentionally distressed. They've got a few rips here and there because I played disc in them one time. (Couldn't help myself.) I also have a favorite gray off-shoulder top from Bangkok. First option was to wear it over a white tank, but I dug through my closet and found my almost-forgotten hot pink Topshop tank. Too bad my silver hoop earrings were no longer usable.<br /><br />It feels weird doing this because I don't really put pics of myself in a post about clothes. (I'm far more interested in interiors than in fashion.) Plus there's the possible comparison with the incomparable Emmanuelle (a five-foot-three goddess, that one). But whatevs. I was just slightly giddy to find Sloan-esque stuff in my closet!<br /><br />Now if anyone can tell me what shades she wore in that episode, I would owe you big time!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-19530328761921168962009-12-12T23:02:00.006+08:002009-12-13T10:10:19.795+08:00Oh, Christmas tree!I haven't been able to blog about November, The Month I Got Some Awesome Free Stuff. One of the things I got was a free Christmas tree! I fully intended to make a 2-D tree using foam board, but I wasn't about to say no to a real fake tree!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibvR96kkBskwwqEyD7SFszZlcaUmxdVErs_OxWC4BVSvPvb2dEMQXyqhPEXxRNSQlSrjtzVO0OQnjdyD3uQkZtVYFtB_ujHFsKhffcS5fSurCABdrECtQAzgklW_NG55__zRYP/s1600-h/IMG_6805.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibvR96kkBskwwqEyD7SFszZlcaUmxdVErs_OxWC4BVSvPvb2dEMQXyqhPEXxRNSQlSrjtzVO0OQnjdyD3uQkZtVYFtB_ujHFsKhffcS5fSurCABdrECtQAzgklW_NG55__zRYP/s320/IMG_6805.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414366823787576786" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Thanks to my sister-in-law's sister, Ann! The back story: She wanted to change her tree's decorations, but the ones she wanted didn't suit her existing tree, so her husband surprised her with a new one. Hence, extra tree!<br /><br />Hamil walked in one night and chuckled as he saw my little surprise. It was bare for about two weeks, but today, I finally dressed it up. Doing research for work, I checked out this wholesale store called <a href="http://untc.multiply.com/">Unique</a> (as recommended by Ann), which supposedly had cheap decorations--I'm not sure how the prices compare to regular department store prices, but my one grand does look like it went a long way. Yeah, so I got some shopping done while working.<br /><br />I asked my husband if he preferred traditional Christmas balls, but he entrusted our tree's look to me. I opted for baby blue poinsettias--I thought they would look quite purty against the dark green tree, which in turn stands against our apple green accent wall. I was thinking of going for a silver garland made up of beads, but got an idea from one warehouse-like room at Unique. I saw wide, stiff ribbons running down the length of a tree-for-sale, and thought it would look cute with the flowers. I tried it out on one of the trees before making my purchase.<br /><br />When we got home after our run, I set to work on the tree. I peppered the tree with the flowers, created bows out of the ribbon, and draped the ends across the leaves. And my husband approves! Yay! All we need now are a star to top it and some lights.<br /><br />P.S.<br />Doesn't the hot pink gift offset the baby blue nicely? The thin blue ribbon kind of ties it all together. Love.Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-59932147788403080882009-12-06T18:23:00.003+08:002009-12-09T18:34:22.722+08:00Lucky 9<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbrm9vSQz0kv2jOiW0ftZugbtDDHwlVTO25oSKxRL58c7yJKQPEREq6y59hCvsOm6Zkc8aGpsY3KF_WOS96PxKW8xWEDIeHrqNnDHjaP04FxPwLU3zMfheiZMn9yc8zBu1DfA/s1600-h/first+dance.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbrm9vSQz0kv2jOiW0ftZugbtDDHwlVTO25oSKxRL58c7yJKQPEREq6y59hCvsOm6Zkc8aGpsY3KF_WOS96PxKW8xWEDIeHrqNnDHjaP04FxPwLU3zMfheiZMn9yc8zBu1DfA/s320/first+dance.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413182714473631234" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div>Nine years ago, I got the surprise of my life when H removed my blindfold and I found myself at ASSOC, surrounded by candles and the ASSOC boys. They serenaded me with "The Promise," and H gave me a bunch of flowers and sang "I love you."<br /><br />Three months and one day ago, I walked down the aisle as the choir sang "The Promise."<br /><br />Today, I woke up beside the love of my life. As anniversaries go, this day might have been unremarkable: We stayed home as our furniture guy made us a TV console and a coffee table, cooked and ate a simple but absolutely delish pork steak lunch, went to mass, and went on a run with the cool December air in our faces. It seemed mundane--except for the fact that we are now husband and wife.<br /><br />Today, I am thankful for my husband who, for nine years, has been proof that God loves me and wants me to be happy!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-89332173126239505582009-11-22T13:05:00.005+08:002009-11-24T10:18:26.510+08:00A few days ago, I whipped out my brand new wallet--which H bought on his trip abroad, after hearing me say that I needed one--and my husband smiled, saying, "I like buying you stuff." It was my turn to smile after seeing how happy he was to get his little gift...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6EjnPVwXVlgJa0c4pZBnpg4jgWhnKxQGXgYg-MofMyAnTc9l57qxWkRdON7qTVANFYr9RSPBQFGAnQgJPCZjA8FnHkSiC5hUxe4hrTmZgr8j-l65T2r2GpIuTpjvLiPqu0E5/s1600/LG.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6EjnPVwXVlgJa0c4pZBnpg4jgWhnKxQGXgYg-MofMyAnTc9l57qxWkRdON7qTVANFYr9RSPBQFGAnQgJPCZjA8FnHkSiC5hUxe4hrTmZgr8j-l65T2r2GpIuTpjvLiPqu0E5/s320/LG.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406790727316409058" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >Read about this beauty <a href="http://www.lge.com/products/model/detail/lh20%20series.jhtml">here</a>.<br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Thanks to Dino, I got this 32-inch LG LH20 LCD TV at a really good price. H and I already had a TV but it was a tad too bulky for the living area, so it's found a place in our guest room. (We've banned the TV from our bedroom.) I offered to give him his much-coveted LCD TV as an early Christmas gift, and he gladly accepted. He did the research and decided on this sleek unit, which now stands shining in the living area. It's resting on a side table for now, so next up: a custom-made TV console!<br /></div></div>Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-40085399746015738912009-11-20T00:02:00.006+08:002009-11-20T00:18:17.542+08:00"And you're the werewolf girl..."Thanks to the folks at <span style="font-style: italic;">OK! </span>Magazine (who, earlier this year, gave me a free courtside seat to <a href="http://streetbutsweet1.blogspot.com/2009/08/seventh-heaven.html">see Kobe</a>) for giving me a free ticket to the premiere of...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.collider.com/2009/11/07/robert-pattinson-interview-the-twilight-saga-new-moon-plus-rob-talks-future-projects-like-bel-ami-and-unbound-captives/"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf8JirRpO3DjNz8gAJtaBFIC2wgtAn6P2kpsPCdSaTKc0HHGh_AUQjzv63NYJZOi3a6lP3R-wRAcRGWlyUYGvvb0x0U-RKEaES940kmmYHFGGMQ4bpow4IcLUw-GzcRWFMqjpL/s320/new_moon_poster.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405846580713972610" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Woohoo! I intended to watch <span style="font-style: italic;">New Moon</span> after the crowds had gone, but when the opportunity to see it first presented itself, I just couldn't let it pass me by.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVGDDgKl1102sYVN3TDgHH6TN6Md8uVa_VnshNa7uYSvAM-wMmwZNEZTF6sSphGSuJbE5punQ0UCy-Lfe5SUT2IXkkfWMnw2Z9caGS8nv6kSSwlsybKJt4I6qr_bZOMpoWJuk/s1600/new_moon.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVGDDgKl1102sYVN3TDgHH6TN6Md8uVa_VnshNa7uYSvAM-wMmwZNEZTF6sSphGSuJbE5punQ0UCy-Lfe5SUT2IXkkfWMnw2Z9caGS8nv6kSSwlsybKJt4I6qr_bZOMpoWJuk/s320/new_moon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405846575187346882" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">A blurred pic of me and Coni from her mobile phone, taken outside the cinema</span><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I am not a die-hard <span style="font-style: italic;">Twilight</span> fan, but it's pretty cool that I got to watch it. So yay! And I must say, it was much better than the first. I like how they interpreted the book. There were a couple of cheesy scenes but whatevs. And it is totally a Jacob Show! I was indifferent before, but I am now officially on Team Jacob! Sigh.<br /></div></div></div></div>Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-29591212662295461052009-11-14T10:37:00.010+08:002009-11-14T11:26:01.009+08:00That's the spirit! (Thrillah in Manila: Manila Spirits 2009)To be honest, I didn't really want to join <a href="http://www.philippineultimate.org/spirits2009/">Spirits</a> this year because it was quite pricey, and I figured that I had "been there, done that," and didn't need to repeat the experience. But I'm so glad my teammates convinced me to join! Even though I had a heartbreaker of a play that I'm still replaying in my head, it was an awesome tourney over all.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Reg par-tey</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfwLDmWgItFZIFQfybrsv3X7ib5wl3TnTPWwdMRcILc3uDuiyTlivHyTYRny0n7GJOnKGMuuv487nQqMy2hWmhUJDTFF-iAn5CO5rHExjh1LvXMKOcvUseqeJkjmOryWhTTQIF/s1600-h/spirits1"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfwLDmWgItFZIFQfybrsv3X7ib5wl3TnTPWwdMRcILc3uDuiyTlivHyTYRny0n7GJOnKGMuuv487nQqMy2hWmhUJDTFF-iAn5CO5rHExjh1LvXMKOcvUseqeJkjmOryWhTTQIF/s320/spirits1" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403787632874657010" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Oldies (Mundz, Mina, Dino, Cel, Kring, me), newbies (JM, Lloyd), and in-betweens (Yelle, Jacq, Jim). People were surprised to see me with a beer.</span></span><br /></div><br />The registration party was held at Giligan's--free food and booze, but I didn't get to really enjoy it because I was stuck in a room for the captains' meeting. (Hmm, didn't I resign from this?) I was one of maybe three girls out of an entire room of male captains from all over the world. Thirty-two teams in all! Met a Korean guy from the team KUNT, a French guy based in Sri Lanka, a Pinay-looking girl from Guam...and the common complaint was the traffic! Welcome to Manila, y'all!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 1</span><br /><br />I'd be lying if I said I wasn't utterly frustrated the first day. I really should work on my temper. We were all still feeling each other out because this version of the team hadn't really played together. I sorely missed the old members, but saw a lot of potential in the newbies. We're a work in progress. Again. Haha. Funny scenes:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-11MhL7vqI6n-EIxGmBclZvJ6EhWqnzc3c0RIPojy9oCttXZwhtHC85ycH-0KOT1MG4F1xYQIo9nF0vgdkyveFPCcOoXaPhiVhwuVmpwBvsY-Qazc5UF6lrmMH33BYr73YZ0m/s1600-h/spirits2"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-11MhL7vqI6n-EIxGmBclZvJ6EhWqnzc3c0RIPojy9oCttXZwhtHC85ycH-0KOT1MG4F1xYQIo9nF0vgdkyveFPCcOoXaPhiVhwuVmpwBvsY-Qazc5UF6lrmMH33BYr73YZ0m/s320/spirits2" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403787634348905074" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">A Mindanao team dressed up as fairies when they played against the Hong Kong Fairies! The boys were even skipping and doing jetes on the field when they came out!<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNHZ7eplYiwcLXRQWfSlFWzjXawFj4BF3hmQ6W8K4RQIhD_Iqq76UjiMp-FG53KwgbuPXXNfh8V_Nfwc2sb9bvBc89Aey8inv4mStoRmJ-mT0NnJMw3bhjo8m_4XnSnh-iCM3/s1600-h/spirits3"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNHZ7eplYiwcLXRQWfSlFWzjXawFj4BF3hmQ6W8K4RQIhD_Iqq76UjiMp-FG53KwgbuPXXNfh8V_Nfwc2sb9bvBc89Aey8inv4mStoRmJ-mT0NnJMw3bhjo8m_4XnSnh-iCM3/s320/spirits3" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403787640333794226" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Another Mindanao team teaching us to "bumba."<br /></span></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Z-Day Party</span><br /><br />The theme: Z-Day. The costumes: zombies. The music: courtesy of a totally bitchin' band that played 90s rock music! (And Sherwin rapping to "Humanap Ka ng Panget." Hahaha.) The highlights: good food, free-flowing drinks, stage divers and body surfers...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLFQBqbXjtqfUng4tyP5lQeibAO31Nx7fqrRLH1D00nYpxDJGxef_DeJisoODmxeo1Nmf7cay08NuBVY5PU33v30VOH3MIuyY9QfmWn8-Q6Pftlfg-gb_dzlP-xUDQ4cUmXOH/s1600-h/spirits6"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 209px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLFQBqbXjtqfUng4tyP5lQeibAO31Nx7fqrRLH1D00nYpxDJGxef_DeJisoODmxeo1Nmf7cay08NuBVY5PU33v30VOH3MIuyY9QfmWn8-Q6Pftlfg-gb_dzlP-xUDQ4cUmXOH/s320/spirits6" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403787905991297010" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Zombie killers spraying the zombies with booze from their water guns, a team full of zombified Elvises...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdPYTTeBhPJXESNLErvr2Px1JNmJxE9Z_Whyphenhyphenm0NAd9VKjG2H39wJpG_YhNu4ic-EyhcKfkFZtlcyEzbsHRrAJcX2dpUzE3R9FxrJNI1naGs723l7C5rnGcSn11dDlORBC2gd9/s1600-h/spirits5"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdPYTTeBhPJXESNLErvr2Px1JNmJxE9Z_Whyphenhyphenm0NAd9VKjG2H39wJpG_YhNu4ic-EyhcKfkFZtlcyEzbsHRrAJcX2dpUzE3R9FxrJNI1naGs723l7C5rnGcSn11dDlORBC2gd9/s320/spirits5" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403787651200737666" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">It amazed me how teams from abroad made an effort to pack costumes!<br /></span></div><br />And a photo booth!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh30flP-iDHrhZ18dzLXWLy6ghBtmj_xSgO9It37Pa8JqdHu7wn3WzQDXma342wYeIQge8YtKeDaHLWmFoPvoMNc5E7wK-eycGE2WwzisWCItXTEwIkJKlKaKdWn5qxmyz7OBp2/s1600-h/spirits4"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh30flP-iDHrhZ18dzLXWLy6ghBtmj_xSgO9It37Pa8JqdHu7wn3WzQDXma342wYeIQge8YtKeDaHLWmFoPvoMNc5E7wK-eycGE2WwzisWCItXTEwIkJKlKaKdWn5qxmyz7OBp2/s320/spirits4" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403787646315141794" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">From baicapture.com. One of many many photos we took when we monopolized the photo booth!</span><br /></span><br /></div>Too bad we don't have the boys' photo with the Spotlight security guard! Classic!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 2</span><br /><br />We finally won! I realized that, save for that heartbreaker point, I'm much more effective on D than on O. I had a lot more blocks than points last weekend. BUT I also realized that maybe it was a little easier for me to mark and defend since I didn't have to play with the usual speedy ones that I guard. No matter. My new objective is to work on my D. Which means I'm going to have to have to start running again.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Finals and the After-Party</span><br /><br />The finals were a bit of a snoozer, but oh well. Hung out with Peng (who didn't play) and Dindi, and played with a Ben Affleck-lookalike's daughter. Met Jim, an American dude from China--he ducked under my (er, Mundz's) umbrella and offered me a free beer in return. Woohoo! Peng calls him Wengweng. Haha. He's taller than me but there's something so lovably hobbit-like about him and his brother Joe (Dusk-til-Dawn candidate who wouldn't stop dancing). As we were talking, the bleachers behind me--filled with my teammates and sister team, Circus--chanted "Ger ger! Ger ger!" Real mature, guys. Haha.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAD58x-0NwkAIynAvzBY1THoA7eAsKN9XqYYt7tkKKkpJPbmgeckYZEPXlq2pj3ZSqQrxADmgiqebcWTiuizuLN_KQpPcwzVJ7ahxEmQVWG-xG_19EcUDBrUBChJE3BYFE3neS/s1600-h/spirits8"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAD58x-0NwkAIynAvzBY1THoA7eAsKN9XqYYt7tkKKkpJPbmgeckYZEPXlq2pj3ZSqQrxADmgiqebcWTiuizuLN_KQpPcwzVJ7ahxEmQVWG-xG_19EcUDBrUBChJE3BYFE3neS/s320/spirits8" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403787917037324834" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">With Jim (in black) aka Wengweng, who offered to, uh, rescue me should the beer bring about an allergy attack. The Warriors took a papparazzi shot of the two of us talking before they rushed forward and joined in.<br /></span></div><br />The highlight of the party: getting our pic taken with various ultimate superstars (e.g., Panoy of Dragons, members of champion team Black Flag) and random people from other teams, such as this white dude who, under his shirt, had taped nipples. Don't ask.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGw9_GKvOI7MxjcjFiV0oztk6SawAYd3ZpZOwtskFovYoDb5_tISTcuDacFP5WWyX5PMR5a4fmOH6TBt_dXmbRNqsRN_Kb_jAlrkxEM4z1YkRXKQpNz94eGE1YUft2jhie8Cce/s1600-h/spirits7"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGw9_GKvOI7MxjcjFiV0oztk6SawAYd3ZpZOwtskFovYoDb5_tISTcuDacFP5WWyX5PMR5a4fmOH6TBt_dXmbRNqsRN_Kb_jAlrkxEM4z1YkRXKQpNz94eGE1YUft2jhie8Cce/s320/spirits7" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403787911099629634" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">After about ten minutes of talking with us, he said, "Who ARE you guys?!" Hahaha.<br /></span></div><br />Too bad Team Pilipinas didn't even make it to the finals. But everybody wins when the parties are rockin'!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">My husband took our cam with him on his trip abroad, so all pics stolen from Kring, Ogee (Z-Day pics), and Jacq (last pic).</span><br /></span>Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-4107827535052524822009-11-09T19:36:00.006+08:002009-11-09T20:27:45.452+08:00Three-month recap, the short versionDelinquent blogger = incredibly busy. The irony is that there is so much to blog about, so little time. I realized that I haven't even given a recap since August! I'd love to give a blow-by-blow, but I am so incredibly exhausted. Am typing this in bed after going home from work early--felt so sick and faint today, especially after a shoot in this blasted heat.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5BZlx_PDn8eo0F-T5opbNF0mx-hFUtMMEAPgFgcGAPaSZv4PrV3aIAcrCBybeHvVxD16H0qqHV5d3HuZa7FkUXHAWnC-CEwhIpD1aCIlNdPD9HymlPpQr_It8Tvxww6PweWS/s1600-h/IMG_0278.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5BZlx_PDn8eo0F-T5opbNF0mx-hFUtMMEAPgFgcGAPaSZv4PrV3aIAcrCBybeHvVxD16H0qqHV5d3HuZa7FkUXHAWnC-CEwhIpD1aCIlNdPD9HymlPpQr_It8Tvxww6PweWS/s320/IMG_0278.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402077954967715874" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The last few months have been hot! And the sweat on my forehead proves it. Me and H at the bonfire for back-to-back UAAP champs, the Blue Eagles and Blue Eaglets.</span><br /></span></div><br />So anyway, a short highlight reel, because even though it's long overdue, those months definitely deserve some blog space:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">AUGUST</span><br />1.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Lots of bridal showers.</span> And a legendary girls' night out!<br />2.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Increasing my alcohol threshold. </span>Preparing for a wedding does that to ya! I was so stressed that I was drinking practically every night two weeks before my wedding. Not getting wasted though--just enough to calm my nerves. (Dude, if you and your fiance were still cutting out seating cards a few days before your wedding, you'd drink too.)<br />3. <span style="font-weight: bold;">...and while I was at it, I ended up hanging with celebrities.</span> Strange. Was out with Lolo D a couple of times, who intro-ed me to his friends. Was baffled by a mind-blowing card trick by Angel's male best friend from the biz. Had a really weird, funny conversation with this famous male model. (Such a beautiful face. And the sign of a very handsome man: When other men think so too! H played basketball with him once, and my manly husband said, "<span style="font-style: italic;">Guapo talaga.</span>" Hahaha.) Had drinks with a sexy starlet. The most rockin' new people I got to meet were Mika and Amanda from <span style="font-style: italic;">Survivor Philippines: Palau.</span> They were so cool and so incredibly nice!<br />4. <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Dumaguete trip.</span> It was awesome. I didn't really get to meet people from the provincial teams since I didn't play much, so it totally surprised me when a Dumags dude who was in town recognized me. He said hi first and said, "You're the newlywed, right?" Then he said something about remembering me because I kept drinking. Haha. Hey, people kept sending free drinks my way! What're you gonna do, right? I think it's an engaged thing. Everyone wants to wish you well by giving you a drink!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SEPTEMBER</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marrying the love of my life!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OCTOBER</span><br />1. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Back-to-back champs, baby!</span> Didn't get to watch the finals live, but we partied at the bonfire. Woohoo!<br />2, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Media (over)exposure.</span> I had taping for two different shows, and a radio tour around four stations. The TV segments were pretty lengthy too, not the teeny sound bites I used to give. I've got another taping tomorrow. And I have no idea what to wear.<br />3. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kit and Kris's wedding.</span> The kids are finally married!<br />4. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Settling into married life.</span> And I am love-love-lovin' it!Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22490829.post-82021006536426517822009-11-01T19:18:00.006+08:002009-11-01T19:54:55.618+08:00Kitchen cutiesI normally feel a range of emotions when I (or we) make a big-ticket purchase: appliances (a ref and a washing machine, for example), furniture (dining table, sofa), soft furnishings (custom-made Roman shades...sigh, how I love our chocolate brown Roman shades!). There's happiness and relief, that we can check one thing off our list--and finally don't have to eat breakfast standing up because we actually have something to sit on. A bit of anxiety, because our wallets are so much lighter. (I'm a one-time-payment kind of gal. For some reason, I much prefer paying for things upfront, rather than in installments.) Pride and gratefulness, that I could actually afford to buy these things.<br /><br />But when I buy stuff that I need for the house, and they're cheap and oh-so-adorable, the only emotion I feel is glee! The latest item that has brought me such pleasure:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoChPvE9ggbzBySB8H8cy6Ly81Zm-YsBa97SQmEO1UbJrgZxf7ylNMnCGXo4vOAXuhgyGUyswfA58xXG_5k3h4NhYzR0yy468Tn4FJV4wsGmDjD1VRk6WjIdn89cALQj_vV1o/s1600-h/potholder.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoChPvE9ggbzBySB8H8cy6Ly81Zm-YsBa97SQmEO1UbJrgZxf7ylNMnCGXo4vOAXuhgyGUyswfA58xXG_5k3h4NhYzR0yy468Tn4FJV4wsGmDjD1VRk6WjIdn89cALQj_vV1o/s320/potholder.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399097614703182770" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">A sweetheart of a potholder! Found this in Landmark, and if I remember right, it was less then P40 or P50. I had been meaning to buy a potholder because, given that I'm so clumsy, I don't trust myself to take things out of the oven with a kitchen towel. I also found this cutie:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRBCFyOyOmFy0_wf2fcXOnkE3jD04sn5ln9c1dk6IRhBEz4Fn8isCR-Yoeo59M8deHWA7OLWV-EsVHLQuGGh_EdktRvoY2gcd4M19tnSat3sKdTwbxXo8LZERkSgXqRyuyNDn/s1600-h/IMG_0484.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRBCFyOyOmFy0_wf2fcXOnkE3jD04sn5ln9c1dk6IRhBEz4Fn8isCR-Yoeo59M8deHWA7OLWV-EsVHLQuGGh_EdktRvoY2gcd4M19tnSat3sKdTwbxXo8LZERkSgXqRyuyNDn/s320/IMG_0484.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399099125702982706" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div>At P29.75, I couldn't resist buying two!<br /><br />But I was giddiest when I scored some fabulous placemats from Robinsons Department Store, bearing a very familiar print:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh31Laaa61Sg7uQyRPLFybucgBnD5f1Wz3uTAJzFTJsqaa8dr8O-tlUwA4TL3Yk8NqKNmjIspUzRYHC5D8RIDAkOyX_nDfiX4V6XZkHoDceScjfSz9vtvTL5VEuHyTAfeWvIKQi/s1600-h/IMG_0491.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh31Laaa61Sg7uQyRPLFybucgBnD5f1Wz3uTAJzFTJsqaa8dr8O-tlUwA4TL3Yk8NqKNmjIspUzRYHC5D8RIDAkOyX_nDfiX4V6XZkHoDceScjfSz9vtvTL5VEuHyTAfeWvIKQi/s320/IMG_0491.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399099133606205890" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.marimekko.fi/ENG/interior/fabric/maijaisola/unikko/frontpage.htm">Marimekko</a> at RDS? OK, so at P49.75 a placemat, this probably ain't the real deal, but I really couldn't resist! I originally intended to buy just two, after picking up some sensible black placemats. (Chargers would have been more elegant, but our everyday plates are square...and chargers are much pricier!) But the salesperson informed me that there were just four of these babies left, so I hoarded them! We use them every day; they sit beneath our plates as we eat breakfast. It's been nearly two months and they still make me smile. Such a cheery way to start the day!<br /></div></div>Tishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06149574045272280288noreply@blogger.com0