Christmas


 

Christmas 2020


 

The aftermath of Christmas day. Typical to my previous Christmas breaks, I was with my family the entire time. We attended the Christmas eve mass, had a great dinner and spent the 25th visiting our relatives. The best thing that happened this Christmas, I was able to see both my paternal and maternal families. This has been tradition but for some reason, I felt happier this year. Despite all the challenges that 2015 gave me, December became lighter and happier for me. And hopefully, this will progress to 2016. 

I wasn't able to capture photos on the 25th. Much of what I have here were taken either before or after Christmas day. 


I love Banapple's interiors :) 

Most of my friends and colleagues were enjoying the holiday break in the company of their loved ones over a great meal, out-of-town getaways and what seems to be an endless marathon of Christmas parties. My holiday break was way different. I was able to score a number of freelance works. As mentioned in my previous Sunday post, I'm most of the time at home. Spending hours in front of my laptop from night until dawn. I turned nocturnal again. I don't know but I really find my working pace when everyone else is asleep and the entire environment is very silent. I did this for a number of consecutive days. I thought I would survive the entire week. After some time, my arms started to ache. It felt like there were sand bags tied on both of my arms. I feel so light headed. I gave myself a break. I finally went out of our home's cave :) and treated my mother for dinner at Banapple. 



A few days ago, I'm about to sleep while everyone is about to start their day


In between work, I squeeze in a little inspiration Hahahaha I love you Ha Seok-jin!!!


Last minute mail, thank you Marieken and Terra!


I bid goodbye to my Korean friend who is finally flying home. I was lucky that my friend managed to squeeze in lunch. Thank you for everything Jenny! I will hold on to my dream that our next meeting will be in Seoul. 


Jenny and I have been exchanging gifts every time we meet. I give her local produced organic products while she has  been spoiling me with everything Korean. Much to my delight!! 

I have yet to try this Korean product from Jeju Island. My Filipino friends are surely laughing with the brand's name. :) If the product can eliminate all the annoyances I accumulated within the day, then I might asked Jenny to supply me with this every year. Hahaha 


Not everyone is aware that I love face and eye creams. Only that I don't often purchase because organic facial creams are so expensive. This Christmas and my birthday, someone played Santa Claus to me. :) Thanks T!


An additional gadget and probably, one of the best Christmas gifts I've received. I've been wanting to own a pedometer for the longest time. I haven't inquired and checked prices because I conditioned myself that it is expensive. My cousin gave me this freebie pedometer from Milo. Thanks A!


Christmas will never be complete without meeting my dearest friend T. Friends since 2005!


Me and my younger cousin M who unfortunately caught chicken pox during Christmas


My 2015 in instax photos, this reminds me I have yet to make a yearend post :) 


Hello from Baymax! 

I have been wanting to purchase a Baymax stuffed toy or lamp for the longest time. Everything I encounter is surely expensive. So for now, I can settle to this cheap balloon. :) 

I still have pending freelance works. I really hope to finish everything before New Year's eve. I just miss those days when I have nothing to do. I haven't done my annual decluttering tradition and my drama series marathon. I hope to finish everything before 2015 ends. 

Beautiful Sunday # 192 - Christmas Aftermath

The aftermath of Christmas day. Typical to my previous Christmas breaks, I was with my family the entire time. We attended the Christmas eve mass, had a great dinner and spent the 25th visiting our relatives. The best thing that happened this Christmas, I was able to see both my paternal and maternal families. This has been tradition but for some reason, I felt happier this year. Despite all the challenges that 2015 gave me, December became lighter and happier for me. And hopefully, this will progress to 2016. 

I wasn't able to capture photos on the 25th. Much of what I have here were taken either before or after Christmas day. 


I love Banapple's interiors :) 

Most of my friends and colleagues were enjoying the holiday break in the company of their loved ones over a great meal, out-of-town getaways and what seems to be an endless marathon of Christmas parties. My holiday break was way different. I was able to score a number of freelance works. As mentioned in my previous Sunday post, I'm most of the time at home. Spending hours in front of my laptop from night until dawn. I turned nocturnal again. I don't know but I really find my working pace when everyone else is asleep and the entire environment is very silent. I did this for a number of consecutive days. I thought I would survive the entire week. After some time, my arms started to ache. It felt like there were sand bags tied on both of my arms. I feel so light headed. I gave myself a break. I finally went out of our home's cave :) and treated my mother for dinner at Banapple. 



A few days ago, I'm about to sleep while everyone is about to start their day


In between work, I squeeze in a little inspiration Hahahaha I love you Ha Seok-jin!!!


Last minute mail, thank you Marieken and Terra!


I bid goodbye to my Korean friend who is finally flying home. I was lucky that my friend managed to squeeze in lunch. Thank you for everything Jenny! I will hold on to my dream that our next meeting will be in Seoul. 


Jenny and I have been exchanging gifts every time we meet. I give her local produced organic products while she has  been spoiling me with everything Korean. Much to my delight!! 

I have yet to try this Korean product from Jeju Island. My Filipino friends are surely laughing with the brand's name. :) If the product can eliminate all the annoyances I accumulated within the day, then I might asked Jenny to supply me with this every year. Hahaha 


Not everyone is aware that I love face and eye creams. Only that I don't often purchase because organic facial creams are so expensive. This Christmas and my birthday, someone played Santa Claus to me. :) Thanks T!


An additional gadget and probably, one of the best Christmas gifts I've received. I've been wanting to own a pedometer for the longest time. I haven't inquired and checked prices because I conditioned myself that it is expensive. My cousin gave me this freebie pedometer from Milo. Thanks A!


Christmas will never be complete without meeting my dearest friend T. Friends since 2005!


Me and my younger cousin M who unfortunately caught chicken pox during Christmas


My 2015 in instax photos, this reminds me I have yet to make a yearend post :) 


Hello from Baymax! 

I have been wanting to purchase a Baymax stuffed toy or lamp for the longest time. Everything I encounter is surely expensive. So for now, I can settle to this cheap balloon. :) 

I still have pending freelance works. I really hope to finish everything before New Year's eve. I just miss those days when I have nothing to do. I haven't done my annual decluttering tradition and my drama series marathon. I hope to finish everything before 2015 ends. 

It's almost halfway December. The Christmas atmosphere is everywhere. At the workplace, there seems to be Christmas parties everyday. My Facebook newsfeed is filled with parties and never ending food feast. On the way home, fellow commuters carrying loads of goodies from Christmas parties or last minute shopping from the home of the best deals, Divisoria. :) Traffic is never mind. Last weekend, I went out with my friend Anne and had my own taste of the worst holiday traffic. We dropped by Landmark Makati and everything was chaotic. I'm still not done with my Christmas shopping. Still incomplete and growing, while my 13th month pay is starting to rest in peace. :p 

I'm trying to be become the complete contradiction of the holiday rush. On weekdays, I try to leave the workplace on time. Sometimes, I have dinner with my friend MFA. When I still have the energy, I drop by the smaller and less populated shopping malls to complete my Christmas gift list. I'm still unsure if I will meet some good old friends for lunch or dinner during the holiday break. These days, it seems like my group of real and trusted friends are diminishing. I'm starting to sound like an old Christmas grinch. Hahahah Before this turns to a negative post, let me share some beautiful things that made the past week.


Hello there! Can I take you home?
 

Of the rare times my feet brought me to Ayala, I caught Mr.Bean's car ;) and this huggable teddy


The best promotional strategy ever!





The reason why my feet dropped by Makati during the weekend. I will blog about the experience on my next posts. :)


Meanwhile at the workplace, I love these lights serving as a replica of the main building's facade


Second Christmas card from the Netherlands, thank you Marieken! 


How I want to spend mornings in December



I'm collecting these inspirational wall deco for my nook project at home. I'm beginning to get addicted with this inspirational signages. I want to fill our home with inspirational quotes :)

It will be my last week at work. After this, I'm off to a two-week holiday break. I will return to work in 2016. I have a lot of time on my hands. Hopefully, I can use the time to find more freelance works. Yes, work never stops especially when there are growing bills to pay and financial goals to achieve. I can't wait for those slow and quiet mornings, movie and drama series marathon, meals with my family, stress free and worry free times at home. 

Beautiful Sunday # 190 - Finding Hush in the Holiday Rush

It's almost halfway December. The Christmas atmosphere is everywhere. At the workplace, there seems to be Christmas parties everyday. My Facebook newsfeed is filled with parties and never ending food feast. On the way home, fellow commuters carrying loads of goodies from Christmas parties or last minute shopping from the home of the best deals, Divisoria. :) Traffic is never mind. Last weekend, I went out with my friend Anne and had my own taste of the worst holiday traffic. We dropped by Landmark Makati and everything was chaotic. I'm still not done with my Christmas shopping. Still incomplete and growing, while my 13th month pay is starting to rest in peace. :p 

I'm trying to be become the complete contradiction of the holiday rush. On weekdays, I try to leave the workplace on time. Sometimes, I have dinner with my friend MFA. When I still have the energy, I drop by the smaller and less populated shopping malls to complete my Christmas gift list. I'm still unsure if I will meet some good old friends for lunch or dinner during the holiday break. These days, it seems like my group of real and trusted friends are diminishing. I'm starting to sound like an old Christmas grinch. Hahahah Before this turns to a negative post, let me share some beautiful things that made the past week.


Hello there! Can I take you home?
 

Of the rare times my feet brought me to Ayala, I caught Mr.Bean's car ;) and this huggable teddy


The best promotional strategy ever!





The reason why my feet dropped by Makati during the weekend. I will blog about the experience on my next posts. :)


Meanwhile at the workplace, I love these lights serving as a replica of the main building's facade


Second Christmas card from the Netherlands, thank you Marieken! 


How I want to spend mornings in December



I'm collecting these inspirational wall deco for my nook project at home. I'm beginning to get addicted with this inspirational signages. I want to fill our home with inspirational quotes :)

It will be my last week at work. After this, I'm off to a two-week holiday break. I will return to work in 2016. I have a lot of time on my hands. Hopefully, I can use the time to find more freelance works. Yes, work never stops especially when there are growing bills to pay and financial goals to achieve. I can't wait for those slow and quiet mornings, movie and drama series marathon, meals with my family, stress free and worry free times at home. 
Last week marked the start of what seems to be an endless month of EATING, EATING and more EATING. ;) The Christmas parties, dinner with good old friends, and my little birthday celebrations. While most people only give me one present for my birthday and Christmas, my birthday also serve as our small Christmas party. Yes, one of the unfortunate fate of being born in December. Haha Your friends are spared from buying separate gifts. Likewise, they are eagerly waiting for my birthday treat that serves as an instant Christmas party. Haha

Setting aside my repetitive Birthday and Christmas sentiments, here are the few beautiful things that made my past week.


The challenge of waking up early in December?!? - This semester is better because I don't anymore have evening classes. The trade off of this is having 7 am classes. Recently, I'm not anymore seeing any drop of sunshine before going to work. 

No work, more eating! - Bad! Bad! Bad! Work was suspended last Monday and Tuesday. The colder weather is unfortunately not helping me.... lose weight. Bed weather, no work, Korean drama series marathon best come with bags of my favorite junk food and a bottle of Coke... with a little cheesy message ;)


Snippets from the workplace's Christmas party - This year's theme was futuristic?!? Like, Lady Gaga, The Fifth Element, Star Wars?  If only I have the body and confidence, I would love to be Catwoman hahahahaha I ended wearing all black. There were colleagues who really came all the way. Wish I could seek permission to share their photos. What I can only share is from my boss, whose costume I didn't understand. Haha  Aside from getting entertained with my colleagues' costumes, I enjoyed the group bingo game. Every table was given a life size bingo card to play with.



My favorite from Brownies Unlimited - The cheapest yet tastiest cupcake for me. Pardon the repetitive appearance of this cupcake in my blog. But this has been my constant and favorite companion whenever things at work are not doing well or when I have those unpredictable mood swings.

Popcorn! - Another cheapest source of happiness. A bowl of microwable popcorn for less than Php 40. I've been tempted to try Chicago and Garrett. Are these brands worth the money? ;) 

Vanilla Cupcakes - Great food, Cath Kidston and the company of my favorite bloggers!!!! Will blog about this during my most awaited Xmas vacay.

Guess where I went after! - Two people gave me a free trip to Cath Kidston. Ang bait nila sobra! Will blog about this soon. 


Beautiful Sunday # 138 - December is getting better

Last week marked the start of what seems to be an endless month of EATING, EATING and more EATING. ;) The Christmas parties, dinner with good old friends, and my little birthday celebrations. While most people only give me one present for my birthday and Christmas, my birthday also serve as our small Christmas party. Yes, one of the unfortunate fate of being born in December. Haha Your friends are spared from buying separate gifts. Likewise, they are eagerly waiting for my birthday treat that serves as an instant Christmas party. Haha

Setting aside my repetitive Birthday and Christmas sentiments, here are the few beautiful things that made my past week.


The challenge of waking up early in December?!? - This semester is better because I don't anymore have evening classes. The trade off of this is having 7 am classes. Recently, I'm not anymore seeing any drop of sunshine before going to work. 

No work, more eating! - Bad! Bad! Bad! Work was suspended last Monday and Tuesday. The colder weather is unfortunately not helping me.... lose weight. Bed weather, no work, Korean drama series marathon best come with bags of my favorite junk food and a bottle of Coke... with a little cheesy message ;)


Snippets from the workplace's Christmas party - This year's theme was futuristic?!? Like, Lady Gaga, The Fifth Element, Star Wars?  If only I have the body and confidence, I would love to be Catwoman hahahahaha I ended wearing all black. There were colleagues who really came all the way. Wish I could seek permission to share their photos. What I can only share is from my boss, whose costume I didn't understand. Haha  Aside from getting entertained with my colleagues' costumes, I enjoyed the group bingo game. Every table was given a life size bingo card to play with.



My favorite from Brownies Unlimited - The cheapest yet tastiest cupcake for me. Pardon the repetitive appearance of this cupcake in my blog. But this has been my constant and favorite companion whenever things at work are not doing well or when I have those unpredictable mood swings.

Popcorn! - Another cheapest source of happiness. A bowl of microwable popcorn for less than Php 40. I've been tempted to try Chicago and Garrett. Are these brands worth the money? ;) 

Vanilla Cupcakes - Great food, Cath Kidston and the company of my favorite bloggers!!!! Will blog about this during my most awaited Xmas vacay.

Guess where I went after! - Two people gave me a free trip to Cath Kidston. Ang bait nila sobra! Will blog about this soon. 


What's the point of making a wish list if no one will ever fulfill it? Hahaha Pardon my bitterness. Maybe I'm just PMS-ing or having one of those unexplained moody attacks. So before going to work, I decided to entertain myself by compiling another shopaholic list. There's no way for me to purchase these because I already made advanced Xmas purchases. Nevertheless, let me compile some items that remain in my wishlist. Who knows, I'll have a secret and surprise Santa... Oh well, I think that's another wish to begin with. ;)

Photos not owned by the author

Monogram Necklace - I've explored Etsy and local producers for this monogram necklace. There are a lot of excellent manufacturers to choose from. Unfortunately, the hefty price tag prevents me from investing to this piece of personalized jewelry. If I will have more freelance works next year, this can serve as my next project. I particularly prefer the version in white gold .... which is definitely more expensive.

Unique Wooden Dining Chairs - This has remained as a promise for my family. Late last year, I was about to purchase a similar wooden chair from a neighborhood sash factory. Unfortunately, the owner can't wait for my 13th month pay. He sold the design to another buyer.

Book Shelf and Working Table - Exactly like this! My books and my laptop are contained in one area.

Vita Fede's Leather Bracelet - Another very expensive want!!! The last time I checked, a simple leather bracelet from Vita Fede costs around Php 6,000?!?

Photos not owned by the author

This Cath Kidston Wallet - The blue version is already on sale on Cath Kidston's site. Blue is my favorite color but I'm beginning to prefer the lighter color.

Lacoste's Women Polo Shirt - Yes, it has to be in blue! When I have the money to acquire one, I hope there will be decent sizes available for me.

Kipling's Beonica Shoulder Bag - So expensive at Php 7,200 from Zalora Philippines!!! I'm trying to use my discount codes only to later discover that it will never happen. This item is excluded in Zalora's promos.

Tom's Ballet Flats in Shinny Ivory Burlap - My size is no longer available in Toms' online store. I checked local retailers and learned that this style is no longer available. My only hope is Amazon and the Black Friday Deal.

Christmas Wishlist

What's the point of making a wish list if no one will ever fulfill it? Hahaha Pardon my bitterness. Maybe I'm just PMS-ing or having one of those unexplained moody attacks. So before going to work, I decided to entertain myself by compiling another shopaholic list. There's no way for me to purchase these because I already made advanced Xmas purchases. Nevertheless, let me compile some items that remain in my wishlist. Who knows, I'll have a secret and surprise Santa... Oh well, I think that's another wish to begin with. ;)

Photos not owned by the author

Monogram Necklace - I've explored Etsy and local producers for this monogram necklace. There are a lot of excellent manufacturers to choose from. Unfortunately, the hefty price tag prevents me from investing to this piece of personalized jewelry. If I will have more freelance works next year, this can serve as my next project. I particularly prefer the version in white gold .... which is definitely more expensive.

Unique Wooden Dining Chairs - This has remained as a promise for my family. Late last year, I was about to purchase a similar wooden chair from a neighborhood sash factory. Unfortunately, the owner can't wait for my 13th month pay. He sold the design to another buyer.

Book Shelf and Working Table - Exactly like this! My books and my laptop are contained in one area.

Vita Fede's Leather Bracelet - Another very expensive want!!! The last time I checked, a simple leather bracelet from Vita Fede costs around Php 6,000?!?

Photos not owned by the author

This Cath Kidston Wallet - The blue version is already on sale on Cath Kidston's site. Blue is my favorite color but I'm beginning to prefer the lighter color.

Lacoste's Women Polo Shirt - Yes, it has to be in blue! When I have the money to acquire one, I hope there will be decent sizes available for me.

Kipling's Beonica Shoulder Bag - So expensive at Php 7,200 from Zalora Philippines!!! I'm trying to use my discount codes only to later discover that it will never happen. This item is excluded in Zalora's promos.

Tom's Ballet Flats in Shinny Ivory Burlap - My size is no longer available in Toms' online store. I checked local retailers and learned that this style is no longer available. My only hope is Amazon and the Black Friday Deal.



This is my fourth Christmas in the blogosphere. Yay! 

Merry Christmas to everyone!





  • December 24, 2013

Merry Christmas!



This is my fourth Christmas in the blogosphere. Yay! 

Merry Christmas to everyone!





I'm currently on a holiday break. Yay! Best about everything, I have two weeks to sleep without being disturbed by my alarm clock.

Days before my last day at work, this is how my work niche looks like. 
As Gretchen Rubin mentioned, declutter to happiness. I was throwing away some unnecessary things and brought home some work that needs to be accomplished. Yes, I still have pending works. I was quite unproductive this year. I failed to comply with my personal target. I want to redeem myself on the beginning of the year. Hence the take home jobs I want to finish. I'm also blessed with some freelance works. Hopefully all clients will proceed as planned.

Meanwhile, let me share the few beautiful things that made my week
Flowers and a little love story in the middle heehee Hi dear friend C! aiyiheee

I didn't buy anything from the flower shop. I joined a friend who bought something for her special one.:) While waiting for the arrangement, I took time to explore the shop.

The scene in the middle is something I did for a friend. I guess no one can argue with the fact that one of the best Xmas gifts is when your crush personally delivers a present. Sweetness overload for my dear friend C!!!

Still dealing with sweetness overload, we went to this chocolate house a few weeks ago. I accompanied my cousin who is currently addicted with baking cupcakes. Taking photos inside the premises of the store is unfortunately prohibited. If only I can show everyone the endless chocolates and baking paraphernalia.

Before going home, my nieces and nephews forced me to watch a live PBA game. While I love watching basketball games, I usually watch from the collegiate league. The last time I watched a game from this professional league was like 10 years ago. 


Some foodie discoveries here. Pocky in Choco-Banana is a recent discovery ... guess where, the nearby 7-11 store at the workplace.

Lotus Biscoff cookies, oh finally! Can I confess something, I finished the entire pack by myself in a week. Selfish glutton indeed heehee

Bibingka oozing with cheese and butter, Xmas will never be complete without this local treat.

 
Shopaholic hormones strikes again :) This time however, I shopped something for my niece.

As a birthday present, my best friend T gave me a gift card from Fully Booked. Bestfriends really know how to make the bookaholic in me the happiest. 

Speaking of book shopping, I discovered an online shopping mecca for all booklovers. Please check out Book Depository for your favorite books. Best thing about this shopping site is the everyday discounts and absence of shipping fees anywhere in the world.


Lastly, I just want to post this rare photo with my friends. :) Though I look so fat and healthy here, I just love our last photo for 2013.

Beautiful Sunday 87 - The last days at work

I'm currently on a holiday break. Yay! Best about everything, I have two weeks to sleep without being disturbed by my alarm clock.

Days before my last day at work, this is how my work niche looks like. 
As Gretchen Rubin mentioned, declutter to happiness. I was throwing away some unnecessary things and brought home some work that needs to be accomplished. Yes, I still have pending works. I was quite unproductive this year. I failed to comply with my personal target. I want to redeem myself on the beginning of the year. Hence the take home jobs I want to finish. I'm also blessed with some freelance works. Hopefully all clients will proceed as planned.

Meanwhile, let me share the few beautiful things that made my week
Flowers and a little love story in the middle heehee Hi dear friend C! aiyiheee

I didn't buy anything from the flower shop. I joined a friend who bought something for her special one.:) While waiting for the arrangement, I took time to explore the shop.

The scene in the middle is something I did for a friend. I guess no one can argue with the fact that one of the best Xmas gifts is when your crush personally delivers a present. Sweetness overload for my dear friend C!!!

Still dealing with sweetness overload, we went to this chocolate house a few weeks ago. I accompanied my cousin who is currently addicted with baking cupcakes. Taking photos inside the premises of the store is unfortunately prohibited. If only I can show everyone the endless chocolates and baking paraphernalia.

Before going home, my nieces and nephews forced me to watch a live PBA game. While I love watching basketball games, I usually watch from the collegiate league. The last time I watched a game from this professional league was like 10 years ago. 


Some foodie discoveries here. Pocky in Choco-Banana is a recent discovery ... guess where, the nearby 7-11 store at the workplace.

Lotus Biscoff cookies, oh finally! Can I confess something, I finished the entire pack by myself in a week. Selfish glutton indeed heehee

Bibingka oozing with cheese and butter, Xmas will never be complete without this local treat.

 
Shopaholic hormones strikes again :) This time however, I shopped something for my niece.

As a birthday present, my best friend T gave me a gift card from Fully Booked. Bestfriends really know how to make the bookaholic in me the happiest. 

Speaking of book shopping, I discovered an online shopping mecca for all booklovers. Please check out Book Depository for your favorite books. Best thing about this shopping site is the everyday discounts and absence of shipping fees anywhere in the world.


Lastly, I just want to post this rare photo with my friends. :) Though I look so fat and healthy here, I just love our last photo for 2013.


I'm currently rushing a freelance work. But why am I here? Heehee  Thankful and blessed because it means additional income for my family. Hopefully I'll have more during my most awaited two-week break.

Work and teaching are both fine. Things are smoothly running except for some self-imposed deadlines I failed to beat. I was hoping to finish my documentation project before 2013 ends. With the way things are going, it looks like I have to accept my defeat. :( I have to settle with what I can accomplish for December and complete everything on the first quarter of next year.

Setting aside the negativity, let me share the few beautiful things that made my week.

Biscoff Cookie Spread : the CRUNCHY version - Finally! I've been looking for this like forever. Haha  My parents are the happiest now heehee

Happy Haus Munchkins - Candy sprinkled coated munchkins I discovered in the train station

Deck the Hall! - The lone but not lonesome Xmas decor at the workplace. We have the traditional Filipino lantern called Parol courtesy of the Big Boss.

New Read! - Khaled Hosseini is my new favorite author. The shopaholic and bookaholic in me wants to buy all of his books. I found a copy of A Thousand Splendid Suns from Booksale for only Php 180!

Slammer Burgers -Another finally for me haha I discovered Slammer Burgers from another blogger years ago. The burger and fries addict in me has to try. I was more than satisfied with their mini burgers and belgian potato fries.

Marks and Spencer - I love M&S paper bag theme this year. I'm forever in love with color blue!

Freshwater Pearls - Yes to anything prettifying.


Homemade Spring Rolls - Thanks Nanay for making the tastiest spring rolls either in pork, tuna or chicken.


Chicken Bonchon - Had a relaxing dinner with a great friend last Friday

AVA.ph - Online shopaholic hormones attacked again. I bought a basic shirt, which I hope to review and blog. 

Small office problem solved! - I found this huge green clip / cup holder that fits drinks of all sizes. This prevents spillage and moist on my working table.  


French Macaroons from Tous Le Jours - Thanks to my student E for the early birthday gift. 


Happy Sunday!

Beautiful Sunday # 85 - First of December


I'm currently rushing a freelance work. But why am I here? Heehee  Thankful and blessed because it means additional income for my family. Hopefully I'll have more during my most awaited two-week break.

Work and teaching are both fine. Things are smoothly running except for some self-imposed deadlines I failed to beat. I was hoping to finish my documentation project before 2013 ends. With the way things are going, it looks like I have to accept my defeat. :( I have to settle with what I can accomplish for December and complete everything on the first quarter of next year.

Setting aside the negativity, let me share the few beautiful things that made my week.

Biscoff Cookie Spread : the CRUNCHY version - Finally! I've been looking for this like forever. Haha  My parents are the happiest now heehee

Happy Haus Munchkins - Candy sprinkled coated munchkins I discovered in the train station

Deck the Hall! - The lone but not lonesome Xmas decor at the workplace. We have the traditional Filipino lantern called Parol courtesy of the Big Boss.

New Read! - Khaled Hosseini is my new favorite author. The shopaholic and bookaholic in me wants to buy all of his books. I found a copy of A Thousand Splendid Suns from Booksale for only Php 180!

Slammer Burgers -Another finally for me haha I discovered Slammer Burgers from another blogger years ago. The burger and fries addict in me has to try. I was more than satisfied with their mini burgers and belgian potato fries.

Marks and Spencer - I love M&S paper bag theme this year. I'm forever in love with color blue!

Freshwater Pearls - Yes to anything prettifying.


Homemade Spring Rolls - Thanks Nanay for making the tastiest spring rolls either in pork, tuna or chicken.


Chicken Bonchon - Had a relaxing dinner with a great friend last Friday

AVA.ph - Online shopaholic hormones attacked again. I bought a basic shirt, which I hope to review and blog. 

Small office problem solved! - I found this huge green clip / cup holder that fits drinks of all sizes. This prevents spillage and moist on my working table.  


French Macaroons from Tous Le Jours - Thanks to my student E for the early birthday gift. 


Happy Sunday!

Soon enough, November will be over. The next month is my favorite time of the year for the two reasons. It will be Christmas and I will be celebrating my birthday. Yay! While all birthdays are meant to be special, 2013 will be most remembered because of a milestone I have yet to reveal. Heehee For now, allow me to have this selfish post. Selfish because I'm writing some items in my wishlist. I'm sharing a few of my material wish list for my birthday and Christmas. A few years ago, I made a similar list in my other blog. Majority of the wishes were granted. It's just that I was the person who made things happen. LOL No generous friends felt my silent manifestations.

For this year, I'm hoping that my friends (Code Names: Anne Klein Small King River, JCO Doughnuts, and Legally Blonde) will not just read this post. I need responses and confirmation dearest friends. Heehee Everyone still has a month to find an item in my list.

1. LL Bean Tote
Source
I've been wanting this canvas and monogrammed tote from LL Bean. Unfortunately, the only way for me to acquire this piece is through online shopping. The bag costs around Php 2,000 with the mongogram. It will cost me some money but cheaper than my favorite branded items from Lacoste or Longchamp. When I considered Johnny Air, I learned that the transfer and shipping chargers might cost me more.

In case any of my blog friends will be interested, we could join forces and share the shipping and transaction costs. Anyone?


2. Makeup Brush Set
source

The Marionnaud brushes from Watsons will do. I also saw some cheap but nice brush sets from Forever 21. For the longest time, I've been battling the decision of investing to these beauty paraphernalia.


3.  Alex and Ani's Bangle
source
I've been lusting my own "D" bracelet since I discovered the arrival of Alex and Ani in the Philippine market. 

4. Gift Certificates from Fully Booked or National Bookstore

source
Yes to book shopping! Books from David Levithan, Cecelia Ahern and Sophie Kinsella, will also make me happy.

5. Gift Certificates from any of these
Photo not owned by the author

Beauty shopping this time :) I want to collect eye shadow palettes, try the powdered BB cream from Etude House and a new bottle of mild perfume from Body Shop. 


6. Moleskine
source
The dream that is yet to be fulfilled. The frustrated writer in me has been wishing for her own Moleskine.

7.  Macbook Air's VGA port adapter
source

So I can finally use my laptop during my class discussions and lectures.

8. CUTE Armando Caruso Handkerchiefs 
source
I've been collecting and losing these cute hankies every now and then. A new set of cute designs can make me happy.

The last two items in the list are my impossible dreams .... as of the moment :) The hefty price that comes with these wishes will obviously not work for me and my friends. Hahaha Three years after the publishing this post, let's see if I earned enough to acquire these stunning pieces.

9. Valentino Studded Leather Pumps
Photos from Net-a-porter
Can I have both? I love flats so the beige version is a must! :) I researched the specs of the heeled version and I think I can manage the 2 inches. The pointed shoes and the studs appeal so much to my heart.


10. Tory Burch Nylon Mini Ella Tote

Source

To my dearest friend : Legally Blonde,

I'm hoping you will push through with your Asian trip. As much as I want to join, I decided to rest my struggling financial status. I can lend you my credit card and please, please, please, buy this for me in Singapore. It's way cheaper in Orchard. 

So there, dearest friends. I have presented my options and preferences. Please fulfill your duties too. Heehee

Christmas and Birthday Wishlist : The First Attempt

Soon enough, November will be over. The next month is my favorite time of the year for the two reasons. It will be Christmas and I will be celebrating my birthday. Yay! While all birthdays are meant to be special, 2013 will be most remembered because of a milestone I have yet to reveal. Heehee For now, allow me to have this selfish post. Selfish because I'm writing some items in my wishlist. I'm sharing a few of my material wish list for my birthday and Christmas. A few years ago, I made a similar list in my other blog. Majority of the wishes were granted. It's just that I was the person who made things happen. LOL No generous friends felt my silent manifestations.

For this year, I'm hoping that my friends (Code Names: Anne Klein Small King River, JCO Doughnuts, and Legally Blonde) will not just read this post. I need responses and confirmation dearest friends. Heehee Everyone still has a month to find an item in my list.

1. LL Bean Tote
Source
I've been wanting this canvas and monogrammed tote from LL Bean. Unfortunately, the only way for me to acquire this piece is through online shopping. The bag costs around Php 2,000 with the mongogram. It will cost me some money but cheaper than my favorite branded items from Lacoste or Longchamp. When I considered Johnny Air, I learned that the transfer and shipping chargers might cost me more.

In case any of my blog friends will be interested, we could join forces and share the shipping and transaction costs. Anyone?


2. Makeup Brush Set
source

The Marionnaud brushes from Watsons will do. I also saw some cheap but nice brush sets from Forever 21. For the longest time, I've been battling the decision of investing to these beauty paraphernalia.


3.  Alex and Ani's Bangle
source
I've been lusting my own "D" bracelet since I discovered the arrival of Alex and Ani in the Philippine market. 

4. Gift Certificates from Fully Booked or National Bookstore

source
Yes to book shopping! Books from David Levithan, Cecelia Ahern and Sophie Kinsella, will also make me happy.

5. Gift Certificates from any of these
Photo not owned by the author

Beauty shopping this time :) I want to collect eye shadow palettes, try the powdered BB cream from Etude House and a new bottle of mild perfume from Body Shop. 


6. Moleskine
source
The dream that is yet to be fulfilled. The frustrated writer in me has been wishing for her own Moleskine.

7.  Macbook Air's VGA port adapter
source

So I can finally use my laptop during my class discussions and lectures.

8. CUTE Armando Caruso Handkerchiefs 
source
I've been collecting and losing these cute hankies every now and then. A new set of cute designs can make me happy.

The last two items in the list are my impossible dreams .... as of the moment :) The hefty price that comes with these wishes will obviously not work for me and my friends. Hahaha Three years after the publishing this post, let's see if I earned enough to acquire these stunning pieces.

9. Valentino Studded Leather Pumps
Photos from Net-a-porter
Can I have both? I love flats so the beige version is a must! :) I researched the specs of the heeled version and I think I can manage the 2 inches. The pointed shoes and the studs appeal so much to my heart.


10. Tory Burch Nylon Mini Ella Tote

Source

To my dearest friend : Legally Blonde,

I'm hoping you will push through with your Asian trip. As much as I want to join, I decided to rest my struggling financial status. I can lend you my credit card and please, please, please, buy this for me in Singapore. It's way cheaper in Orchard. 

So there, dearest friends. I have presented my options and preferences. Please fulfill your duties too. Heehee

I won a set of washi tapes from Lea's giveaway. I told Lea that the washi tapes will be very useful to my DIY projects for Xmas. My first project is the wrapping of Xmas presents for my colleagues. I initially wanted to involve my nieces for this task. Unfortunately the kiddies are busy attending Trick or Treat activities everywhere :) The Tita has no choice but to literally and figuratively DIY.

I started shopping for presents before my week long break. Aside from the gifts, I remember needing to purchase kraft papers for the project. I searched a number of bookstores and found nothing. Quite frustrated, I searched for an alternative. I opted for this cheaper substitute.

A roll of Manila Paper saved the day!



Here are the Washi Tapes I've been meaning to use


Here are the initial outputs of my project



My favorite design
The best thing about using Washi Tapes is its capability to prettify everything ordinary. My basic gift wrapping output was improved when I played with the designs of the tapes. 


The gifts are all wrapped up and ready to be distributed a month from now. 

Thanks again Lea! I hope you don't regret choosing me as the winner :)

My First Washi Tape Project

I won a set of washi tapes from Lea's giveaway. I told Lea that the washi tapes will be very useful to my DIY projects for Xmas. My first project is the wrapping of Xmas presents for my colleagues. I initially wanted to involve my nieces for this task. Unfortunately the kiddies are busy attending Trick or Treat activities everywhere :) The Tita has no choice but to literally and figuratively DIY.

I started shopping for presents before my week long break. Aside from the gifts, I remember needing to purchase kraft papers for the project. I searched a number of bookstores and found nothing. Quite frustrated, I searched for an alternative. I opted for this cheaper substitute.

A roll of Manila Paper saved the day!



Here are the Washi Tapes I've been meaning to use


Here are the initial outputs of my project



My favorite design
The best thing about using Washi Tapes is its capability to prettify everything ordinary. My basic gift wrapping output was improved when I played with the designs of the tapes. 


The gifts are all wrapped up and ready to be distributed a month from now. 

Thanks again Lea! I hope you don't regret choosing me as the winner :)

Hello!

Thank you for visiting :) My name is Diane and welcome to my home in the blogosphere. Please feel free to explore my posts and check my ABOUT ME page.

Popular Posts

@Instagram