Merry Christmas!

I hope you all had a wonderful and blessed holiday celebration! :)

Above is a Christmas card I painted and printed as gift tags. It's the first time I've ever done this so you can probably tell that I'm feeling quite proud. If you've read the "Finding Your Passion" post, you'd know my hesitations when it comes to 'art.' If you'd like to use this as well for your gift-wrapping needs, go ahead and print it to your heart's content. But if you happen to be in the business of printing, please be fair :)

Anyway, THANK YOU to all of you who read my blog, and thank you for all your comments! It's so nice reading your reactions, and simply knowing that there are people out there who actually read what I write!

Wishing you all the best in the coming year. May 2010 be filled with all the love, happiness, moments, and trinkets that make life worth living! Godbless!

Happy Presents

It's been I while since I bought dressy, strappy sandals. And for this pair I have to thank my dear, dear friend Frances of Topaz Horizon, who gave me gift cheques for VNC (a.k.a. Vincci as made famous in Malaysia) when she wrote about me in her Magnificent Women blog series. I love the huge gems on the shoe; I have a weakness for big sparkly baubles.

Anyway, it already feels like Christmas morning over here. If, like me, you scatter purchased items on the bed and look at them lovingly the minute you get home (and maybe have them next to you all through the night) then you know exactly what I mean.

Laying on my back next to the shopping bags, it dawned on me that this past year has truly been a divine gift from above. About a year ago in New York City, I remember waking up and asking myself: What if I didn't have to work? What if I didn't have to pay rent? Can I ever stop working?

I simply felt tired. And now I know that God heard my exasperated plea. While I didn't know back then that I was probably calling out to the universe for a chance to live life differently, how succeeding events panned out has proven this divine understanding, love, and compassion beyond words—even when I wasn't fully aware of the big picture. While I haven't been exactly idle this past year (I think I'm wired to keep my plate full at all times), I'd experienced a languid lifestyle wherein I was able to zone in on the things I loved to do without the pressures of a rigid schedule, and perhaps most importantly, spend plenty of time with the people that I love. In the process of all of this, I also got the chance to reflect, and then redirect my life in ways I have not imagined possible. And now I can say that I am truly, forever grateful.

Photo: Mariel Chua

It's just like New York...

Taken two summers ago at Willet's Point Stadium in Queens.

...but instead of walking all the way, I can now take a tricycle to the train station :)

Roomba, Rumba

An opportunity has recently opened wherein, in the event I am accepted and managerially deemed qualified, I would officially be able to make a living out of what I've always loved to do: tinkering about at home, discovering new recipes, exploring (and applying) ingenious ways to make living more efficient, understanding unique relationship dynamics, a little fashion and beauty here and there, and then writing—or at least talking—about all of the above and help spreading the word out.

Reflecting on said possibility, random conversations/thoughts came to mind that only reinforced the observations and further fueled my light-bulb moment of late:

"Have you tried the Swiffer WetJet Mop? It's the BEST mop ever."

"I need a handheld mixer. I want the one by 3D because it doubles as a stick blender. And it's cheap."

"I'm not ready to be a parent because I know how hard it is, after helping take care of some little ones in the family."

"I'm torn between buying the hairdryer from Watson's or the oven toaster from Hi-top."


At a photoshoot a few years ago, just before I got together with my fiancé, I met a newly married forty-something who said, "What you want may not be exactly what you need." At first I didn't quite understand what she said; I thought she was just settling, or even justifying the new husband. Back then, I had the perfect idea and profile of the kind of man I wanted to be with—the qualities, interests, even down to how he looked, and I was so sure of myself, short of being cocky. So I simply ignored what she said, only to discover later on that she was right. The man I ended up with had in him the qualities I wanted in a partner, BUT IN A TOTALLY DIFFERENT, UNEXPECTED PACKAGE. My initial assumptions were proven wrong, and I ultimately ended up exactly where I wanted to be, with whom who has proven to be a very compatible match.

With this new possiblity I see plenty of parallels to what I went through that year:
the assumptions, labels, and unexpected (but wonderful) turn of events. And I only know that, as the world opened up for me at the time, whatever happens next will simply move my sugar-filled life forward and continue to pave the way towards even greater things.

I'm with the bandwidth

If you must Wi-fi...

As a freelance writer and editor, I am one of many who cocoon in coffeeshops and Wi-fi hubs to get things done. I won't mention my two favorite sweet spots in this post, but watch out for an upcoming blog at Yummy.ph to find out what they are. (And if you do go to one of them, please don't finish all the Sylvannas.)

While working on a recent Inquirer article ("Where to find the perfect hairstylist," 12/04/09), I ended up typing up some notes on the side involving café decorum. I know I'd already written two blog posts on etiquette, but at the risk of sounding uptight and a buzz-kill to the uplifting benefits of caffeine enjoyed in a communal space, I hope the tips below are indeed worth calling out—for the sake of my co-cocooners and coffeeshop cohorts.


Rule of hours

For every hour you spend lounging and making use of the Wi-fi, try to order at least one item from the menu. I’ve learned the value of turning tables when I worked as a hostess/Maître d' in New York. While neighborhood café staffers don’t rely on this particular system of waiting, it's still ethically sound to not be a freeloader on business space: No matter how cozy or 'homey' the ambience may be, you are still inside a place that relies on revenue to stay in existence.

If however, coffee is already coming out of your ears, leave a tip instead—a generous one.

I noticed in Starbucks the security guard also clears the table after patrons leave. Think of the gratuity as your way of saying 'Thank you' to the guard (who, by job function shouldn't even be busing tables) for doing his job of not letting thieves and thugs who could easily grab your laptop inside the establishment .


Ring, ring, go away

If you are within earshot of at least two people, please step out of the café to use your phone. If you're already wearing a Bluetooth headset, all the easier it is to quietly slip out and continue the (emphatic) conversation outside. I perfectly understand how Wi-Fi hubs can be such convenient workspaces, but note that these places are still first and foremost dining facilities—not your office.


One top, two top

It is indeed very, very tempting to make a beeline for the plush couches or big corner booths upon arriving at your Wi-fi hotspot of choice. But before you whip out the extension cord, look around and gauge traffic inside the establishment. If it looks busy, go for a smaller table that seats two, or to be even more prudent(?), park yourself by the solo bar stools, if available. But if you come in when it's quiet, feel free to stretch out and bounce off the walls. Once it gets busy though, take that as your cue to go offline and be elsewhere—your office, perhaps, or even better: home.

Yummy in my Tummy

Officially starting my blogging life at Yummy.ph, one sweet treat at a time.

In between deadlines—procrastinating, if you will—I'm mostly in the kitchen, tinkering about and trying out something I've seen on TV or browsed online.

Other than that time I applied as an editorial assistant at Quick & Simple (a New York-based title that folded last year and replaced by Food Network Magazine), it never occured to me to make a career out of the food I love to eat and make. Blogging about food was just that: sharing epicurean adventures along with tidbits—from the bittersweet to the palate-inspiring—about my life.

In hindsight though, food was always in the background no matter what job I had. As an intern at Seventeen, one of my earlier assignments was the Eat section wherein I wrote about making yummy alternatives to dorm food, and how to spice up regular college fare (e.g. drop a few pieces of Tobi Mexican Nuts in your regular Nissin's Yakisoba for extra crunch and protein). One of the first things I had to ask a photographer to shoot was a jar of Nutella.

At work, food to me was always a priority. Ask any supplier I'd regularly worked with and I'm sure they'd tell you that the minute I got to the studio, as the models were being prepped and made up, I was ordering our lunch from Yellow Cab and North Park. Out of probably a hundred shoots, I can only recall one time when the makeup artist and hair stylist actually had to remind me about ordering food, only because I had a fever and was struggling to keep shooting.

So, I am HAPPY and absolutely THRILLED to announce that I'm going to be writing for Yummy.ph! The newly revamped website of Yummy Magazine! With special thanks to Frances Amper Sales for putting me up for the spot. When I got the email, I couldn't believe it; the only other time I've been a voice of 'authority' when it came to food was when I was co-president of the Young Homemakers Club, a.k.a. YHMC, in high school.

Click here if you'd like to read my first post for my blog Baked! over there, and as always, meet you back here for more sweet and savory musings along with all the other flavors that make life—and eating—even more exciting.

Couples Therapy

Ouch. The world never got over what happened between these two in real life.

In the past, I noticed having the uncanny ability to sense that a couple was going to break up.

At a party among college friends, I caught a glimpse of an underlying tension when my friend P's ex, A, casually signaled to her watch that it was time to leave.

At a small get-together at my old apartment, I sensed a particular discontent and yearning for something else with my friend I and her then boyfriend, M.

At a college friend's bridesmaid's fitting, I noticed the same fidgety feeling between a long-time couple I didn't really know very well.

Subtle, yet palpable, is how I would describe each incident.

The first couple would separate for good and move on to marry other people. The second, magically, touchingly, and beautifully reunited, got married, and now have an adorable baby boy. (I eventually apologized to my friend for having voiced out the info above when they were broken up; only to be embarrassed and proven wrong when they got back together and turned out to be right for each other. See, sometimes I really should just shut up.)

As for the third couple, I have no idea if they're still together, like I said, I didn't know them very well.

The point to all of this is that, when it comes to gauging the underlying things in life, a.k.a. my personal gut and instinct, I have a 50/50 accuracy rate, which for some may be disappointing, but to me is a huge relief. I am actually happy to be wrong every now and then, and well, to be wrong half the time.

Because whenever I get neurotic about weddings, proposals (by the way, if you're on the lookout for princess diamonds, round diamonds, or any other loose diamonds, you might want to check out the choices at Samsclub.com), breakups, failed/failing marriages (so common in my family, and not to mention, issues of infidelity), I take comfort in my hit-or-miss ability to judge things for what they are. Sometimes, I'm content to chuck it all to paranoia and move along with a productive sense of positivity.

Image courtesty of Channel4.com

About Shoes

Over the summer I'd written about Daniblack Shoes, and eyed the styles above. Unfortunately, I never got to buy them and I wish I have because they're no longer available.

What they do have on their site now is these Daniblack wedges, wedge boots, pumps, and the rest of the Fall/Winter collection.

I still remember my first pair of wedges; they were from Bass. And they were actually my mother's. I remember the V-shape of the sandal and the bone finish of the heel. Then came the Janilyn straw/espadrille wedges, which I'm sure most of you owned one time or another.

As for Daniblack shoes, one would notice a higher pice point, which the brand attributes to better materials (real leather vs. synthetic). Anyway, if they decide to bring back the sandals above, I'll most probably shell out the $ this time.

Young and Old

Two photos taken 20 years and 30 lbs. apart :)
(Nope, I'm not blaming the cake for that.)

If you're a regular reader of this blog, you may have noticed that I rarely place photos of myself or my family members (especially family members, and the kids). I am guessing this is partly because of having been spoiled during my magazine years with art directors who airbrushed, tweaked, and polished every stray blemish, excess flab, or wayward strand that whatever photo of myself came out in print was guaranteed to be flawless as realistically as possible. (And yes—consequently, I've had to deal with "Oh, you look fatter in person than in your picture in the magazine" side comments in the past.)

These days, I have to do my own airbrushing with the modest skills I've learned using Gimp.

Another reason for not uploading too many self-portraits is that I may have developed a defense mechanism of sorts of wanting to be read, understood, and scrutinized for my personality and the output of my brain—a.k.a. the "real me"—versus the color of my hair and skin.... I only have New York job interviews to blame for this budding insecurity.

Still, I couldn't help but share these two photos taken 20 years and about 30 lbs. in between. I find them somewhat similar, because of the pose, and interesting because my younger self can look like my daughter, if I had one.

These days I can empathize better with women who yearn for the poreless skin of their youth, that once smooth exterior/posterior, and that overall physical creaselessness of ages past.

MIA/NAIA

Hi, friends!

I've spent the last seven days in and out of airports and de-jetlagging out of town—that's why I've been M.I.A. over here at NyMinuteNow.com. I just wanted to give everybody a heads up that I'm still blogging, and that I'm just warming up for the next round of entries. (And my sleeping patterns are still somewhat strange despite the R&R!) So stay tuned and thank you as always for dropping by here!

Officially beached and sunkissed,
Mariel

Why I blog

I got the Neno's Award from Krissy of Krissyfied.blogspot.com, who's also doing her own 30-day Blog Challenge. The 'rules' and criteria for this award are as follows:

1. As a dedication for those who love blogging and love to encourage friendships through blogging.
2. To seek the reasons why we all love blogging.
3. Put the award in one post as soon as you receive it.
4. Don’t forget to mention the person who gives you the award.
5. Answer the award’s question by writing the reason why you love blogging.
6. Tag and distribute the award to as many people as you like.
7. Don’t forget to notify the award receivers and put their links in your post.

When I got this the other day, I got to thinking about my early blogging days at Chocolate Soundboard (now private). I ended up browsing my earlier entries, only to find out I'd deleted the very first ones from September 2003 and replaced them with representative photos culled from my old MySpace profile (now also deleted). I did still find special and heartfelt entries for the following month, and realized that Michelle Branch's Hotel Paper album pretty much provided the soundtrack and spot-on anthems for all that I'd gone through that year.

You see, among close friends, 2003 was THE year; one to be remembered and reminisced. I was single back then and at the crest of a wonderful magazine career that included very important life lessons in and out of work—if not the major bulk of it non-work-related. I started the blog as a private online journal, a space outside of home to chronicle random thoughts and musings. I appreciated the portability and mobility of this avenue.

So to answer the question why I love blogging, it's all of the above, and everything that came afterwards; how my online 'home' blossomed to what it is today, the friends I've made, the friendships I've come to appreciate, and so much more. Before I go on and on, let me come up with the list of blogs/friends I'd like to send the Neno's Award, too:

• Topaz Horizon
• Hypermom
• Blue Law
• Chinachix's Crib Notes
  

I actually intend to add more to this list from my Blog Bites and Blog Roll sidebars, but I'm at the airport now and have to go in a bit. I shall update soon!

A Lesson in Etiquette (Part 2)

In the same vain as I'm never going to eat nachos drizzled with melted cheese and jalapeños with a fork, etiquette has plenty to do with common sense. And for whatever is written here, I suggest taking it all with a grain of salt.

To quote from Papa:

"The best way, forever, is to grab the chicken and chomp. I learned that there are so many useless information is this part of the galaxy and I coped better when I fixed on the big things. Max Fried Chicken just provides water to wash your hands after eating. I listen to successful people—free guide to fortune... Now, to Farmville!"


American vs. Continental Dining

Prior to reading The Little Book of Etiquette by Dorothea Johnson I had no idea that there were two ways to handle one's fork and knife. I'm tempted to just scan the illustrations, but I don't want to deal with copyright issues (and I'm lazy). I'll try to break them down as simply as I could.

The American way is to hold the fork in a downward slope, gently slicing food with the knife ("Don't saw back and forth at your meat with a knife. Stroke the knife toward you."). After cutting, place it down the edge of your plate, sharp side facing in. Switch the fork on your left to your right and hold it like a pencil. Convey food to your mouth as you would a mini-shovel.

The Continental way, on the other hand, has the diner holding both knife and fork throughout the meal. "After the food is cut, your knife to secure it on your fork. Bring the fork, tines down to your mouth by twisting your wrist and raising your forearm slightly."

If that sounds confusing, I'm sure a quick Google will yield some helpful images. As for me, I've managed to combine the two ways without realizing it. Now knowing this, does it mean I'll have to choose?


The 'Fish' Way

I'd been holding my knife like a pencil all these years, after learning this was the proper manner of doing so. It turns out, this is the way one is supposed to hold the knife when eating (and maneuvering) fish. Good thing I've eaten mostly seafood in the past decade.

For poultry and other meats, "the knife is not held like a fish knife because more leverage is needed for cutting." So do as you would when slicing vegetables on a cutting board, except stick your pointer finger forward to steady the knife. "Cut only one piece at a time."


Going Back for Seconds

This I needed to know: The photo above is how one should leave silverware on the plate when taking a breather or leaving the table with the intention of coming back to pick up where one left off. "A highly trained server will not remove your plate with the fork and knife crossed. This is a universally known silent signal indicating the diner has not finished and is only resting."


Bread and Butter

• "Do not pull the roll in half." (I am sooo guilty of this!)
• "Break off only one bite of your bread or roll at a time, then butter it with your butter spreader and eat." (This, I do, after I've pulled the roll in half, ha!)
• "Do the buttering on your plate, not in your hand." (Oops.)

Johnson advises that should the person on your left commandeer you bread plate, don't call him or her on the faux pas and instead, use your dinner plate for bread. "Resist the urge to take the bread plate on your right and confuse others."


Other Random Tips
(...and Tipping)

"Before you sit down, approach each person at the table whom you have not met beforehand. Extend your hand and introduce yourself, greeting guests you already know by name."

"White wine glasses are held by the stem and red wine glasses by the bottom of the bowl when one is at a seated dinner. Leave the wine swirling, gargling and stem maneuvers to the oenophiles."

"Tips are supposed to be a reward for services performed, as well as a supplement to an employee's income. The average gratuity is 15 or 20 percent (before taxes). A larger gratuity should be left for extraordinary food or service."

A Lesson in Etiquette (Part 1)

Image courtesy of Amazon.com

A Lesson in Etiquette (Part 1)

When it comes to table manners and proper social conduct, I don't consider myself completely ignorant. After all, plenty past luncheons, dinners, and events had required some form of proper decorum from my end, and as a child of the 80s and 90s, I knew early on from watching Pretty Woman that one used utensils from the outside in.

When my uncle—a self-made man—got together with my aunt who was from an old-rich family, my cousins and I (we all lived under one roof) benefited from a lesson or two on refinement. Tita Joan (pronounced 'Jone'), became our second mother, teaching us about manners and the good life by way of Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music. She taught us by example—never ever in a condescending way—and through countless invitations to dine at her parents' home wherein household help served meals from our right and cleared the plates from our left. (Or was it the other way around? Now you see why I needed the book above?)

Personally, apart from Tita Joan's open-minded and introspective outlook in life, I can mostly recall her culinary influences: chicken baked in paprika, how to properly sear meat ("Don't flip it about."), good mustard and marmalade, and so forth. She also taught me to eat Boursin and Havarti cheese; and for many years, I couldn't tell them apart. And because of her, when I had my own apartment and didn't really have a lot of money, I still went to Mandarin Hotel for the walnut multigrain bread.

That said, I always still get curious about other fine things in life, including the study of etiquette. So when I picked up the mini-book, The Little Book of Etiquette by Dorothea Johnson, I may have as well called myself ignorant all these years.

Here are some pointers that called out to me, including so many things I didn't know. Please feel free to add your own tips via the comment boxes, we all could use a new reminder or two. And as I write this, I realize the book covers a lot of ground with enough material to be discussed, so I'll do a mini-series as I blog along.

1. "Do try a little of everything served to you unless you know you are allergic to it."

I first caught wind of this dining 'Do' when I noticed almost a decade ago how my friend, Simon (my mentor Marie's boyfriend) never declined on snacks or food I offered him. This habit of his slowly clued me in that he was doing this out of good manners. After all, he always struck me as someone who had impeccable decorum—always tactful and refined.

2. "Blot your mouth before taking a sip of water."

Now I think I've been doing the opposite way, patting the napkin over my mouth after drinking from the glass. From now on, to be safe, I am going to blot twice: before and after.

3. "Do take medicine discreetly, preferably away from the table. If you must take medication at the table, do not mention it to anyone."

This is a good reminder for my Tempra and Claritin moments.

4. "Do remove alien objects from your mouth with your fingers and place them at the edge of your plate."

Good to know because I'd always assumed one had to use her fork or spoon to do this.

5. "Don't place personal items such as purses, briefcases, and glasses on the table. A small purse belongs on the lap and large purses near your feet."

And I'm adding phones to this list. I'm also guilty of placing my mobile next to my plate, so again, this is a good reminder not to. Also, those nifty jeweled bag hooks from CMG come to mind; must get one of those.

More table etiquette tips tomorrow, plus, what my dad had to say about all of this!

A Lesson in Etiquette (Part 2)

Image courtesy of BarnesandNoble.com

Where to go for custom t-shirts

In case you're scoping the scene for personalized items for the upcoming gifting season ahead, check out Ecustomwear.com for cheap custom t-shirts, bags, towels, hats, and caps that can be personalized with you brand logo or whatever slogan or statement tee you have in mind.

If I were in Manila, I would head straight for Divisoria for cheap t-shirts and plain tanks I could embellish with beads, crocheted flowers, or even sparkly gems. But for now, this online resource for custom t-shirts and other silk-screen-ready products may be a viable option. I'm curious about the towels, robes—and even the aprons(!) that can be embroidered and personalized, which reminds me of those Personalize it! booths in the mall back in the 90s. Does anybody know if they are still around?

During a family reunion earlier this year featuring an excursion of sorts in three places out of town, one of my aunts—who hosted us in the second and third location—left embroidered towels, each with our own initials, on the beds. Such a lovely gesture, not only because it was unexpected, but also, who doesn't love new towels and, as an icing on the cake, with one's initials? It's a treat from ages past that I am only too happy to indulge in.

Before it's gone...

...I wanted to take a screen shot and post it here :)

Oh, Shoe!

I never thought the day would come when I would trade fashion-y footwear for cushy rubber shoes. In college, I was more or less known for having the latest trainers and sneakers, and my girliest shoes were a pair of Birkenstock Mary Janes that I wore to the ground. And then there were my Mojo [a local brand with Teva-inspired designs] sandals.

When I started working (and driving), the world of high-heels opened up for me. From wedges to stilettos, the sky was the limit for my teetering frenzy.

In New York, I'd easily adapted to the norm of toting two pairs of shoes on any given day: flats for the subway and heels for work. But eventually, I just got lazy doing this cumbersome—albeit unnecessary for some—switcheroo.

And lo and behold the queen of all switcheroos, I've had with me these beautiful Madden Girl Raleigh booties from DSW Shoe Warehouse for quite some time. I hadn't worn them yet and I'd planned on taking the pair with me back to Manila to happily sashay in them during the holiday season. Alas, I ended up returning the booties and exchanging them for a very, very sensible pair of New Balance 737 women's running shoes.

This is a big deal for me because I've said in the past that I would never get into running again—out of laziness and sheer tediousness of the sport. Just thinking about it makes me tired. Running to me feels like work, perhaps as a result of being 'coaxed' with an iron fist to run in college, and being duly rewarded for completing a successful training program.

However, I recently found myself, despite rebelling so, hopping on the treadmill; and there is a tentative plan to run at the park this weekend. I don't know where this is going this time around, as I still feel exactly the same way about the sport. I guess a new pair of orange-tinged, high-tech trainers is my way of bribing myself to just get on with it.

Image courtesy of Zappos.com

Reading List

In true Pinay form, I've spent the weekend outlet-shopping for mostly clothes I hope to wear often enough to justify the expense, and random odds and ends I simply couldn't resist.

Unusual to see at the outlet stores was a bookstore that sold a variety of reads, including these tiny ones that only cost three for $5. At the bottom of the pile is a crochet book at $2.99. Everything including tax (only now I'm learning to account for tax in list prices) came out to less than nine dollars or so. Sweet, right?

Here are the complete titles:

1) The Little Book of Etiquette by Dorothea Johnson [Running Press]
As I type this, I have a blog post brewing on the contents of this mini-book. It's proving to be quite the useful resource for proper dining decorum.

2) The 8th Habit by Stephen R. Covey [Running Press]
If you were an employee by the turn of the millennium, chances are your office mandated seminars on The Seven Habits of Highly-Effective People. So far I only remember the part about Emotional Bank Accounts (that can be overdrawn by certain people), plus the hefty leather planner and reading materials. I enjoyed using the former with the special custom paper.

3) Desperate Housecats by Meredith Parmelee & Christine N. Robert [Running Press]
This is for my dad's household. He and his wife, Leena (check out her Cat Addict blog at Catlovertalaga.com) have at least seven fuzzy felines in their home, along with dogs, fish, and as of a few months ago, lovebirds. Right now, I think my dad is addicted to Farmville on Facebook :)

4) Stitch Collection: Textured Crochet by Helen Jordan [St. Martin's Press]
If you go to the previous post, "Finding Your Passion," the crocheted pieces featured were actually made by me. A couple of weeks ago I came across this multi-colored yarn (I forgot the name for it) and ended up crocheting a few coasters/floral patches. I remembered a few things from grade school, plus some guessing along the way, with lots of yarn unraveling. I'm hoping this book can show me some new things to do for those lazy, offline afternoons. I wouldn't be surprised if I get into knitting down the line.

Cute mini-books.

Cooking for One

I just browsed this article by Judith Jones (Julia Child's editor!) on O, The Oprah Magazine, and I just had to share with you this excerpt ["Party of One" p. 198; October 2009]:

"Cooking for yourself is particularly creative because you are inspired by what's in your fridge or freezer or garden or nearby market. You don't have to follow a recipe slavishly; you can substitute if you like. If you are prudent, what you save on food costs will astonish you."

And this, I particularly loved:

"Going home at the end of the day or giving over a quiet Sunday afternoon to cooking—smashing the garlic, chopping an onion, getting all those good cooking smells going, stirring, tasting mindfully, and then adjusting the seasonings—is a comforting form of relaxation, something that is needed in our busy lives. I always love the moment of drama, too, when everything comes together and I quickly dish up my handiwork, arranging it pleasingly on a warm plate, and then take it to the table, where I've set a place for one with a cloth napkin in a family napkin ring. I open up the wine and light the candles, turn on some music, and I give thanks. I wouldn't miss this pleasure for anything."


She couldn't have phrased it better. While living in New York, I shared an apartment with a lovely young couple who were very respectful. I'd spent plenty of time whipping up my own meals, setting the table for myself—complete with stolen cloth napkins from a friend who worked in a restaurant—and savoring a sumptuous meal and quietly enjoying the solitude. I'm sure they'd wondered why I rarely went out; I was either cooped up in my room or tinkering about in the kitchen (or walking to and from the supermarket or laundromat). I chucked all that alone time to my long distance relationship. In the five years I've been with my fiancé, half of the time has been spent wielding emails and text messages overseas. At the longest, I didn't see him for 11 months (never again!).

So you can just imagine how I look forward to finally being in the same zip code as him, and down the line, preparing a meal for two instead of just for me. While it is absolute fun dining alone, a great meal is still best shared with someone you love (who can also help clear the table afterwards).

(Photo by Dana Gallagher courtesy of Oprah.com. Click here or on the photo for original image link.)

UPDATE 09/02/09: My first potato gratin the other day was a salty disaster. Good thing nobody else had tried it except for moi. Today I finally managed to make a good one and I've already eaten more than half of it. A formula to remember is this: Use only ONE teaspoon of salt for every five potatoes you use if you're adding cheese. I put sharp cheddar and a little parmesan in mine, along with crushed garlic, cream, milk, thyme, and parsley; plus plenty of pepper and a dash of sugar to highlight all the savory flavors. Last but not the least, don't forget the butter!

Potato success!

Finding Your Passion

I once read before that what you were when you were 7 is what you’re likely to turn out to be when you’re a grownup.

Looking back, the things I did during playtime and countless afternoons were activities I eventually made careers out of.

If you’re hitting some on-the-job roadblocks and feel like it’s time to branch out, perhaps all you have to do is look back on those summers you spent as a child. What appealed to you the most? What made you look forward to those days without school? Or what subject in school was your ultimate favorite throughout your academic life? You’ll be surprised to put two and two together and come up with a promising and potentially perfect career mix.

Here’s my own trip down memory lane, plus some realizations along the way.

Makeup and Playing Dress-up

When I was little, maybe around 3, my mom gave me a small green shoebox filled with old lipsticks and other makeup she no longer used. Around that time, I’d also successfully bitten my aunt’s strawberry Chapstick and discovered that how it smelled and lingered on one’s lips wasn’t necessarily how it tasted once you’ve chewed a chunk of it.

Eventually, at 7 or 8, when my parents were out working, I spent afternoons rummaging through my mom’s closet trying out her Splash Cucumber astringent and Mary Quant mascara. I also wore her high heels and oftentimes wrapped a blanket around me pretending to be a Miss Universe contestant. (My cousin and I loved doing this. That year, Miss Thailand won, and we both wanted to be her. So in our version of the pageant, the commentator would say, “And the winners are, Miss Thailand 1 and Miss Thailand 2!”)

Working in magazines was not unlike all of that. I got to wear a lot of makeup—and also put it on other people—and play dress-up, and got paid for it(!).Who would’ve thought?

Cooking and Baking

In the 80s, my aunt had a flourishing baking business wherein she made beautiful birthday cakes and formed them into famous cartoon characters like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and all those cool caricatures from that time. She was also known for her araro [cornstarch cookies] and Sans Rival, and at some point, she sold egg pan de sal from her home bakery.

I used to spend plenty of summers and weekends in her shop. In retrospect, I’m surprised at how generous she was that she just let me tinker about. I had free reign on the sheet pans, candy thermometer, and powdered sugar, and I even made my own frosting using Anchor Butter, like there was an unending supply of it. I also learned early on the difference between butter and shortening, a.k.a., vegetable lard (the latter is gross).

Fast-forward 20+ years and I’m wielding my own electric mixer, sifting flour, and making my own sweet treats in the kitchen—going through sticks and sticks of good butter. It’s a delightfully decadent example of history repeating itself.


Reading and Writing

Growing up, I was only allowed to watch TV on Thursdays—that was when Okey Ka Fairy Ko aired—and on weekends. So I spent many quiet nights reading and going through children’s encyclopedias and fairy tale books to my heart’s content (my dad also owned bookstores back then).

With all that reading came writing. My earliest memory of being ‘published’ was in second grade, when I wrote a poem(?) for Mother’s Day that came out in the school paper. I still vividly remember because that was the only time I didn’t spend my 10-peso allowance for a day (or two) so I could buy my mom this red-orange lipstick from the store beside my school.

As the years went by, writing and reading have been mainstays in my chosen career path. When I got a copy editing job at a famous fashion retailer in New York, I was stoked: What could be better than reading all day while getting to look at beautiful clothes in the process? When I had that job, I also did my writing projects at night. To me that was the perfect work balance doing both the things I loved to do.

These days, I still try to maintain that equilibrium of doing the things I enjoy and, even if it’s sometimes literally just pennies, earn an income in the process. Like my dad said (and that I always repeat), “Do something you love to do and the money will follow.”


Drawing and the Arts

Now, I’ve never really fancied myself a drawer. I’ve carried what I call ‘drawing guilt’ ever since that summer when I was about 8 and my mother got me a portrait sketching book. I got impatient following the steps, so I traced the faces. When my parents got home that day, my mother kept on raving about how talented I was and how marvelous my drawings were. I didn’t have the heart to tell her that I cheated.

So all my life, I simply assumed that ‘art’ wasn’t really my thing or calling. After all, I’d worked with so many amazingly talented artists and art directors and there was no way my stick drawings could have been up to par with what they produced.

When I got into makeup artistry, I did wonder why I was able to shade people’s faces, but was still ultimately clueless when it came to sketching and drawing. I figured, I probably just had to take up an art class to learn technical skills.

It wasn’t until years after that I would find out from a ‘real’ artist that tracing was actually a start, and that it was perfectly okay! So instead of feeling guilty about tracing those portraits, I could’ve persisted and become really good at drawing. Oh well.

My mother recently cleared her storage room and unearthed some ‘paintings’ (I really am uncomfortable with the whole artsy-fartsy thing in relation to myself) I did when my little brother was younger and had this kid easel set up in the living room. When I saw them, I was surprised: They actually looked better than what I remembered. So maybe I could pick up ‘drawing’ and ‘painting’ as sensible hobbies after all, without being embarrassed or feeling pretentious, and maybe someday, no longer underestimate my art skills.

I’m not saying I’m going to ditch everything and live in the woods to take up painting full-time, or anything extreme like that. What I do want to do is get to know other tools—I am now absolutely curious about Adobe Illustrator—that could further hone any skill I may (or may not) have. If I now draw like a 5-year-old, maybe 10 years from now I’ll start drawing like a 20-year-old, and so forth.

My ‘art’ skills may never catch up to my real age, but I’m only happy to explore.

Part of this month's Cosmo Series, 16th of 16 posts also published at Cosmo.ph.

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Shopping for Pashminas

I still dream of owning an Hermès scarf, or something as fabulous from Pucci. But frankly, my current favorite cozy shawl is a jewel-toned aqua pashmina scarf bought on the street in New York for $10—or even less. I doubt the quality of the fabric, but having laundered it many times this past year has rendered it soft and plush to the touch. It's true what they say, sometimes, ignorance is bliss. (But when it comes to high-thread-count bedsheets, there is no turning back.)

If you are scoping the web for high-end, good-quality pashmina shawls, I suggest dropping by UniquePashminas.com (they've been around since 2000). I'm quite happy with my meager collection of comfortable cover-ups, but if I were to add to what's in my closet, I would probably go for the Blue/Orange Jewel Tone Pashmina Shawl or the Cranberry/Gold Pashmina Throw Blanket—I can imagine the latter lazily thrown over the couch or at the edge of the bed.

And then there are silk scarves I am always likely to impulse-buy: I have two favorite ones from Van Heusen and H&M that I love wearing as hairbands during the summer, or simply decorate random things with.

How about you? What's your shopping weakness (shoes are a given, but what else)? What unleashes your impulse-buying streak?

Seven Easy Ways to Stay Slim

No pressure: Find an easy, breezy food and fitness combo that works for you.

Ever since that year I’d uncannily gained 15 extra pounds (it took a year to shed them), I thought I’d completely resolved my body issues and have learned to be happy with what I weighed. Because when I did get fat, only then did I realize I was thin before after all.

Except that from time to time, I still get bothered by superficial concerns like how my belly spills over my jeans, or how my already chubby cheeks have become more pronounced in the last few years.

I understand with women, it’s a constant struggle to accept and appreciate—or even love—what we were born with, all the physiological facets and contours that make each form unique.

I’ve picked up some strategies throughout the years to help combat the body blahs, whether it’s that puson [paunch] that makes you look pregnant, or those stubborn five pounds that seem more noticeable during that time of the month. I’ve learned to turn to them whenever I need a nudge or just overall accept the present and, as much as I would like to look (and weigh) like my 22-year-old self, my priority these days should be to be healthy and enjoy life and its multitude of culinary delights. And if you’re lazy like me, scanning—and following—these tips should be a piece of cake.

1. Start Small

I was a former athlete and I now live a sedentary life. And the thought of exercising just makes me want to be even more sedentary. I bet this is a common dilemma. My solution is to start really small: as in something so miniscule and seemingly irrelevant that it doesn’t put pressure on you to charge full steam ahead in terms of going to the gym and getting on the fitness bandwagon.

The other day I decided to get on a treadmill for exactly five minutes. That's right: five minutes of leisurely walking, no more, no less. I was literally still in my sleepwear and just slipped on my rubber shoes.

It doesn't even have to be a treadmill: you could grab a jump rope, do one push-up here, a crunch there. As the days go by and at your own pace, add little increments to your routine of choice. Before you know it, five minutes on the treadmill becomes seven, and then 10; one crunch and push-up becomes a set of 12. And surprise! You're actually…working out!

But if you’re still not ready to get off the couch just yet, skip to the next step…

2. Make Like The French

I had a Parisian colleague who stayed thin throughout the time I’d worked with her. And no, she didn’t obsess about what she ate or how often she exercised. In fact, she signed up for the company gym but only ended up going once a month. She would eat a croissant for breakfast at her desk daily, and almost everyday, she and I went to the same lunch buffet line in the cafeteria. One time, she even invited me to her apartment to dinner where she made pasta with cream and salad, which we enjoyed with glasses of wine and hunks of bread.

I know genetics plays a big part in how our body morphs (or dismorphs), but what I noticed with the French (at least from this one person I’d befriended) is that they eat in moderation and enjoy exquisite things and aren’t likely to binge on them. They have cheese with every meal, but not slabs of it. They have dessert with lunch, but not the whole cake. Realizing—and then copying—this manner of eating, I noticed that I rarely feel deprived (or worse: guilty) for indulging.

So if you’re craving for ice cream and cake, don’t skimp by going low-fat or diet. Get the real thing and don’t torture yourself into thinking that you’re never ever going to have more of it afterwards. Just feel welcome and entitled to the food you love to eat. You’ll be surprised that this tactic actually makes you eat less.

3. Take It From Chin-Chin

I met the actress, Chin-Chin Gutierrez, at a shoot a few years ago. Both vegetarians at the time (I now eat chicken; I think she’s still vegetarian), we got to talking about food and nutrition. She mentioned a particular sequence of eating and a theory that made sense and to this day I still try to follow: She said to start a meal with something raw, like fresh fruit or a crisp salad. Since these are natural products, our bodies recognize them easily and our stomachs produce enzymes that help digest food and whatever comes next in the meal.

That versus the usual way of eating something hot and cooked, and having fruit for dessert. From what I remember, this is how she explained it: “The hot meal has already been processed so it ‘surprises’ your belly. So by the time you introduce fruit for dessert, the enzymes go into overdrive and that’s when you get gas.”

Again, this is just a theory, but I like the idea of prepping your belly to digest food more efficiently (and well, yes, have less gas in the process).

4. A Little Green Tea (Goes A Long Way)

I’ve heard before that Oprah was a staunch believer in the metabolism-boosting benefits of green tea. And I’ve seen people lose weight from taking concentrated green tea supplements. Now, I’m averse to anything in pill form unless it’s Claritin, Tempra, or Vitamin C, so freshly-brewed green tea is fine by me.

I actually started drinking tea not because of Oprah or those people who have lost weight, but rather, I quit going to Starbucks that year I started paying rent. I had to improvise and budget my money strategically, so home- (or office) made green tea it was for me.

Since I also happen to love dessert, I try to make it a point to wash it all down with tea—hot or cold, with little or no sugar especially when I’m already eating something sweet. I go as far as carry my own packets for when I’m being a cheapskate and just order hot water in restaurants.

5. Look Up!

Just like those ballerinas and dancers: It’s all about posture and form. Standing tall gives the illusion of a leaner, longer body. So if you find yourself staring at your belly, that means you’re not holding your head up high and you’re most likely slouching. Remember: It’s also about confidence. And the neatest part about confidence is that you can "fake it ’til you make it."

6. The Abs Diet

Some people have found fitness success in the South Beach Diet, or even Atkins. Personally, these programs have failed for me for the sole reason that they require one to give up sugar (and carbohydrates) for the first two weeks.

Now, I live and breathe sugar. Not a day goes by when I don't have a piece of chocolate or anything sweet. During previous Lenten Seasons, I chose to abstain from dessert or chocolate on Fridays, only to find myself waiting for midnight to have a piece of chocolate. I know it defeats the whole purpose of sacrificing and abstaining from something. But you get the drift.

Anyway, what worked for me that year I gained all that weight (that I still try to follow to this day) was the Abs Diet [Rodale] by US Men's Health editor, David Zinczenko. I went straight for the spin-off book, Eat Right Every Time Guide, because it was so small and undaunting. But boy, was it a treasure trove of easy, practical information that has helped keep the weight off, give or take a few pounds.

What I love about the Abs Diet is that it isn't really a ‘diet,’ but more of a lifestyle program that tells you what you have to eat MORE of, not the other way around, as in the case of other eating plans. The core of the program is the ABS DIET POWER 12, which stands for:

Almonds and other nuts
Beans and legumes
Spinach and other green vegetables

Dairy (fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese)
Instant oatmeal (unsweetened, unflavored)
Eggs
Turkey and other lean meats

Peanut butter
Olive oil
Whole grain breads and cereals
Extra-protein (whey) powder
Raspberries and other berries

You only read the book once and you're pretty much set. No need to count calories or remember certain carbohydrates that are allowed or not allowed. Just eat often (Zinczenko recommends six times a day) and sensibly from the list above. Easy, right?

The small book also discusses fastfood options for when you’re on the go, plus easy MICROWAVEABLE breakfasts you can take with you to work or for those hectic days when the last thing you want to think about is your diet. After all, diet culprits are triggered by those hunger pangs when you can't think straight that you just reach for the next sugar bomb or grease grenade to quell the hunger…or mindlessly chow down lunch in front of the computer.

Zinczenko also addresses the issue of belly fat in the book (as the title suggests). “[This] is the most dangerous kind of fat. That’s because belly fat often comprises both subcutaneous fat (fat that’s under your skin) and visceral fat (fat that lies beneath your stomach muscles, snug up against your internal organs). It’s this second type, visceral fat, which can cause some long-term harm,” he explains.

“In one report, researchers concluded that visceral fat is the single-best predictor of diabetes.” Other studies also link that extra fat on your midsection as an indicator for high cholesterol and heart problems down the line. “Shedding fat from your frame is essential to living long and healthy,” says Zinczenko. So beware.

Anyway, if that doesn’t get you picking up the Abs Diet, just know that on it, you get to eat ice cream(!) AND lose weight at the same time! Not kidding.

7. Celebrate The Non-negotiables

Now, back to genetics: there are some things you can’t change unless you’re willing to go through the hassle of plastic surgery. In my case, I’ve always had a belly and paunch, even way back in high school when I only weighed as much Nicole Richie. The puson is just in the family.

It has crossed my mind several times to get liposuction (or mesotherapy injections), even on my cheeks or arms. But then again, I know that after lipo, the fat you do accumulate could show up in really odd places—like the armpits. I don’t think I’m ready to hop on that roller coaster. Plus, over the summer I’ve had some lumps on my breasts surgically removed; it wasn’t the most delightful experience and I promised I’d never ever go through surgery for the sake of vanity: It’s just not worth the pain and stress for me.

Besides, understanding your own unique contours and lovely lady parts makes fashion a more enjoyable undertaking full of promising surprises. Can you imagine what fun it is to find the perfect floral dress that accentuates your curves, or that skirt that emphasizes your behind in the most flattering of ways? If you’re considering cosmetic surgery, I suggest splurging on a new wardrobe instead and a night on the town with your best girlfriends. (And don’t forget the cake!)

Disclaimer: Before trying any new diet, eating plan, or exercise regimen, consult with your physician.

Part of this month's Cosmo Series, 15th of 16 posts also published at Cosmo.ph.

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Paris in the House

For some reason, Americans don't really like Paris Hilton. But most people (who know her) in Asia do. I'm Asian, so go figure.

I actually heard someone list specific reasons why she's not well-liked out here in the States, but I prefer not to quote the person as she is prominent in publishing, and I still want to eventually work for her, one way or another.

Anyway, I must admit, I bought my first beach gown from Maldita three years ago because I saw Paris in her now trademark flowy sundress (for more long dresses, click here). Paris also happened to make famous the Juicy Couture trend years back, when nobody would dare traipse around town wearing matching jogging pants and hoodie. Well, now it's back to not-traipsing-around-town-in-sweats, or que horror, around the airport, but this girl gets people looking (and copying).

I came across this online retailer, Shopdcd.com, specializing in clothes made famous by celebrities like Ashley Tisdale, Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Vanessa Hudgens, and Lindsay Lohan—the latter who has just partnered up with Emmanuel Ungaro. I have yet to check out the pieces.

Except for sale items, the site offers Free Worldwide Shipping on every item $99 and above. Something to think about if you're on the lookout for something to splurge on for the upcoming holidays.

Image courtesy of http://shopdcd.com

The Perfect Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Easy, cheesy goodness

Over here at NyMinuteNow.com, at least half of my posts are food-related. I can't help it: While I've never gone to chef school or anything fabulous like that (it's still a distant dream of mine to be able to attend the French Culinary Institute in New York City...on full scholarship), food—and the creation of food—is very close to my heart. Ever since I'd put two and two together that it's cheaper and immensely enjoyable to go to the supermarket and whip up my own fare, the kitchen has been one of my favorite places to be in.

When I’m not watching Giada de Laurentiis or Ina Garten whip yummy, yummy things—I, of course, am only too happy to copy—on Food Network, I'm online checking out Alton Brown's Good Eats episodes.

I got the perfect grilled cheese recipe from one of these YouTube uploads. Basically, it shows you how to spread dijon mustard on a slice of bread (just on one side), grate cheese over it, add salt and pepper, cover it with another slice, and then press onto two hot, lightly-buttered pans.

If you happen to own a panini press, I suggest we become friends.

I've made mine using a sandok, pressing the sandwich down as flat as I could with a big peppermill on top of the utensil (you can also use a big can of corn to do this) and flipping the sandwich back and forth—like that scene in The Devil Wears Prada wherein Adrian Grenier’s character is standing by the stove, making a Jarlsberg cheese sandwich.

I usually accompany my sandwiches with a big pile of Nacho Cheese Doritos, but this time, I've 'kicked it up a notch' by lightly oiling a small bowl, grating fresh parmesan cheese over the bottom—forming a circle of cheese—and microwaving it for about a minute. You'll know it's done when the kitchen smells funky. What you end up with is this crispy, delicious, knock-your-socks-off accompaniment to a classic, comforting grilled cheese sandwich.

Finish this off with an icy glass of iced green tea or lemonade. And for dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate syrup and topped with sliced almonds sweetly caps a truly delightful meal (or midnight snack)!

Tell me: What’s your favorite comfort food? What ultimately makes you salivate?


Part of this month's Cosmo Series, 14th of 16 posts also published at Cosmo.ph.

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Why I plan on being a dishwasher

Stylish dishwashing, anyone?

As much as I have big dreams and fantasies of being a prolific writer and novelist who works from home—"home" being either a lavish apartment in an NYC high-rise or a cozy, modern home in the Hamptons, a la my "friend" Ina Garten—I still have to make a living to sustain the lifestyle I want (I have an expensive chocolate habit).

So when my head isn’t above the clouds, my practical side emerges. I am aware that down the line, I might have to take on a second (or third) job that is non-writing-related. Right now, I’m at a comfortable place in terms of reaping some seeds I’ve planted in New York and working on blogging projects. I keep thinking, though, that if I were to apply for another job, it would be that of a dishwasher in a restaurant.

Shocked? Let me explain.

A few years ago, I was talking to a prolific photographer in Manila who specializes in lifestyle, travel, food, and still-life assignments. If you knew him, you would find his demeanor very mild and steady—making him a joy to work with because not only is he a great photographer equipped with tip-top technical skills, he’s also 100% drama-free.

One time, as he was quietly shooting beauty products in the conference room, somebody (was it me?) asked: “[Name of photographer], how come you like shooting products?” This is in light of several shutterbugs opting to do more location-centric fashion and beauty shoots.

“I like shooting products because they don’t talk,” was his answer. “They’re just there.”

I am guessing he meant this literally: Unlike models, stills didn’t require to be tediously prepped, and one needn’t engage in small talk. I liked this line of reasoning.

In relation to my dishwashing dreams, that is the same logic and point applied to this seemingly silly endeavor of mine.

When I first moved to New York and while waiting for my ‘dream job,’ I worked for three months in a Japanese restaurant as a hostess/maitre ’d, ushering hungry patrons to their tables. If I had better dexterity I probably would’ve also applied as a waitress—servers earn way more than hostesses—but I constantly feared breaking glasses or spilling food on the floor, or worse, on people.

Being in the front lines of the resto scene was okay for those months, but I wouldn’t go back again. Nothing against the job (it kept me afloat back then), but I believe I’ve had my fill of hungry, irate people who needed a table NOW!

I figure, if I were a dishwasher at the very back of the kitchen…

1. I wouldn’t have to talk to anybody other than my boss, who will just probably ask me about my shift schedule.
   
   
2. I don’t think one would have to deal with office politics in the business of dishwashing. It’s a clearly autonomous job description with simple job requirements.
   
   
3. I wouldn’t have to dress up for work. I can roll out of bed, wear whatever, and be ready in no time.
   
   
4. It’s going to be like a multi-hour facial. Have you seen those industrial-type dishwashing stations? They’re steaming hot! (I’ll just have to make sure to bring a face mask, as I don’t want to inhale all the toxic detergent fumes.)
   
   
5. Most importantly: I’ll still be able to write when I get home. After all, many of my articles have been borne out of times I had been staring out the window, doing the dishes, and tinkering about in the kitchen.

Part of this month's Cosmo Series, 13th of 16 posts also published at Cosmo.ph.
(Image courtesy of CasaSugar.com)


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Working Happy: To Each Her Own

What's your work forecast?

My college (and early work life) ex who remains a good friend once used to find it funny and amusing that I wanted to be a journalist...but only for happy news. We used to joke that, in the event I became a broadcaster, my segment would start like this:

"And now, for the good news..."

Little did I know then that I would eventually work as a beauty editor—a job which was as close as I could get to being a bearer of sparkly-happy updates. What better way can one be positively entertained and willingly distracted than by perusing beautiful baubles of perfume bottles or marvelous palettes of face paint?

While working in a magazine was stressful especially during tight, back-to-back deadlines—and when it comes to the nitty-gritty, an editor’s life isn’t as 100% glamorous as it seems (fashion editors are expert plantsadoras behind the scenes)—it was a unique career path. For many years, I had a hard time explaining what exactly I did because it was a bit challenging to discuss the minute details of what goes on behind the pages, and not to mention incredibly boring once you get past the sparkle (we got used to disappointed interns).

But overall, I did get what I wanted: I had a HAPPY job. I reckoned, my way of being charitable, helping people, and contributing to the common good was by providing readers with a beautiful, glossy escape. I did tackle (and still do) some not so peppy subjects in my beauty pages and articles like "Breakup Makeup" or "How to Look Pretty After You've Cried Your Eyes Out."

On a drive back from out of town with my cousin-in-law, a neurosurgeon, he and I talked about our work. My memory of the whole conversation is hazy, but I most probably regaled him with stories about how I lugged shampoo bottles to and from shoots, interviewed dermatologists, decoded complicated ‘breakthrough’ ingredients of new skincare products, etc.

But what I do remember is this: at some point, he said, "I understand now that what you do isn't necessarily 'less' than what a doctor or engineer does. Same goes for janitors and other blue collar employees. Each one has to do their job, because all these jobs contribute to the whole of society.”

Not verbatim, but in essence: “When one does a good job, it propels everyone forward.”


Part of this month's Cosmo Series, 12th of 16 posts also published at Cosmo.ph.
(Image courtesy of Sony Pictures Animation and Columbia Pictures)

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A Clutter-free Life

When I decided to finally move abroad, I had to tackle eight years’ worth of belongings back at my old apartment. This included trinkets and mementos from high school, stacked notebooks from college, and paper calendars, photos, and cards collected over time. Not included here are shoes, clothes, handbags, and accessories amassed from working all those years as a magazine editor.

It also didn’t help that I was a classic hoarder and easily found sentimental value in anything and everything.

A few months before I’d planned to leave, I was walking out of Mall of Asia from a lunch event and passed through National Bookstore to get to the exit. And then this book called out to me: It’s All Too Much by Peter Walsh [FREE PRESS/Simon & Schuster]. In bright tangerine, its cover wasn’t hard to miss. Immediately I picked it up and impulse-bought into “An Easy Plan for Living a Richer Life with Less Stuff.”

And boy-oh-boy was this book life-changing! (It’s also one of my favorite books to date.) Not only did it help make sense out of letting go of things I’ve collected, it also de-mystified my age-long struggle with hoarding. Walsh, a professional organizer and host of TLC’s Clean Sweep, shares a systematic approach to getting rid of emotional and physical clutter so that one can create a happier, more stress-free home and life.

“Clutter stops us from living in the present,” says Walsh. “The future is important. But you have to consider the quality of your life today and strike a balance between the life you are living today and the multitude of possible paths your life may take in the future.”

This means, say, you find a little black dress you love but doesn’t fit, don’t buy just because you may (or may not) lose weight in the future. Same goes for those jeans you’ve had in first year college that you’re still hoping to fit into “someday.”

“The clutter somehow becomes a life raft for all the ‘just in cases’ we can imagine,” explains Walsh.

Other than the I-might-need-it-one-day excuse, the book lists other excuses we make for keeping things we don’t need around in our homes, work desks, and anywhere there is space. Walsh also walks the reader through each room, sharing tips and strategies for establishing zones, determining function, and dealing with sentimental objects you do want to keep: giving them places of honor in your home and not somewhere gathering dust.

For example, if you’ve inherited heirloom pieces from a loved one, don’t keep them stashed, forgotten in boxes. Instead, start using them already or put them up in display shelves. “You can’t own everything so you have to pick and choose,” says Walsh. “The value you say an item holds for you must be reflected in the place you give that item in your life, otherwise your words have no meaning and the object is little more than clutter.”

As for unused ‘special’ plates and kubyertos sitting pretty in dining room cabinets, here’s what Walsh has to say on the subject (you might want to clue Mom in on this):

“If you have formal china, do you guard it as if it were a national treasure? China can be expensive and beautiful, but what’s the point of owning it if you never use it? This is not to say that you should serve your three-year-old hot dogs on a Royal Copenhagen platter, but please try to use and enjoy it.”

One of the memorable sections in the book is the quiz, “How Clutter Free Are You?” When I first took it more than two years ago, I turned out to be a “Hard-core Hoarder.” Yikes.

While writing this blog post I went through the questions again. And I’m happy to say that I’m now in between “Clutter Victim” and “Clutter Free”—a huge leap from the hoarder that I was years ago.

True, even if I still hold on to precious trinkets, gadgets, and mementos here and there, and haven’t followed Walsh’s advice to the letter, plenty of the things I’d picked up from his book have afforded me a more mobile lifestyle mostly free of useless clutter to lug around.

(And just so all of you know, I’m never ever going to get rid of my seven-year-old iBook in the event that it finally conks out for real in the future. I reckon, it would still make for a lovely, shiny white paper weight.)

Part of this month's Cosmo Series, 11th of 16 posts also published at Cosmo.ph.

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