Vania Romoff!

From Vania Romoff's Spring/Summer 2012 collection.

Her super adorable, sophisticated, and girly pieces made me want to Pin and blog!

While checking out this new website called Kristn.com from back home, I read a piece written by one of my good friends, Ana Kalaw, who is a columnist for the site. In "7 Designers That Shone in 2012," she showcases some of young designer Vania Romoff's creations. If I were still the event-going person that I used to be (magazine editor days), I would definitely make a beeline for her atelier. Well, on our next trip to Manila, I plan on dropping by anyway!

Loove... Oh where to wear this lovely dress?

I know it's alread Fall/Winter out here, but it's never too late to find a pretty summer—or all-weather!—
dress and designer!

Images courtesy of Kristn.com and Vania Romoff (opens to her Tumblr page)

On Lazy Days

For as long as I can remember, people in my stream of consciousness have held several occupations at once. When my dad was a bookstore owner, he also dabbled in writing and editing for the local paper (eventually becoming a journalist full-time, and now he's back to being an entrepreneur). During my early years working in the magazine business, all the editors I knew had other things going on besides turning over the monthly issue. Whether it was in the form of writing for sister publications, fashion styling, or makeup artistry, it was the side jobs that paid for cars, trips to Europe, and so forth.

I've pretty much kept the same outlook when it comes to my own work and career: have as much on my plate as possible.

So, suffice it to say, whenever I feel lethargic and all I want to do is stay in bed and watch cooking shows—eating and snacking along the way—I tend to feel guilty. Whenever I skip my to-do list for the evening, it becomes some sort of existential inner debate.

Last night was one of those moments: I had a ton of laundry to do, invoices to work on (for my other job), taxes to file, blogs to write…but all I did was remain in bed, watch TV shows on the desktop, and flip through an unfinished magazine. I simply felt tired—I didn't even feel like making dinner (although I did prep the pastry cream that will go into cream puffs that I have yet to make).

This morning, on the train to work, I read the following in this month's O, The Oprah Magazine:

"Georgia was a proto slacker," writes Karbo. "There were days and weeks when she would read, spend hours tramping around outside, write letters, sew, and play dominoes…. But when Georgia worked, she worked her ass off."

[Sidebar on the book, How Georgia Became O'Keeffe where writer Karen Karbo spotlights the life and times of "a Midwester farm girl as she becomes a self-assured art world phenomenon."]

I immediately felt a sense of relief after reading that paragraph. And, as the day went by, I realized that all these years and even leading up to today, I have benefitted from pockets of listless time. Whether it was a 30 minute afternoon milk-tea break, wasting the living daylights out of one weekend, or even a full-year sabbatical (which I did back in 2009 resulting in a page in a cookbook, among other fun stuff!), so-called lazy days have surprisingly yielded productive results.

A couple of months ago, on a bus ride out of town, I sat next to a writer and editor named Sara Marcus, author of the book, Girls to the Front: The True Story of the Riot Grrrl Revolution. We were talking about writing books and self-imposed deadlines, and I told her about this long overdue novel in the works. She asked, "What's stopping you?" But during the course of our conversation (it was a long bus ride), she turned to me and said—and, I paraphrase—"Oh, don't be so hard on yourself. In the last four years, you immigrated to a new country, worked on becoming a citizen, got married…that's a lot."

These days, it's good to be reminded to never underestimate slower-than-usual moments, or even one's self—knowing and having faith that a productivity boost is just right around the corner. In the meantime, enjoy the slabs of dark chocolate.

Moving!

I can't wait to get one of these! The Mamma Ro Garlic Keeper.
(Image courtesy of Inventorspot.com)

About to start packing for our big move ahead—hopefully in the most logical, non-overwhelming way as possible—and thought I'd squeeze in a blog post before I get carried away with everything that needs to be done. By Saturday.

Fortunately, I have a tiny room with not that much stuff (methinks).

What I'm most excited about is having my own kitchen again. Right now, I have roommates. Don't get me wrong, I have good roommates: One of them speaks the same disinfectant language that I do, and the others, happily share their garlic/milk/eggs/lemon juice/olive oil when I'm running low. (And, yes—I happily share my household loot too).

So going back to the subject, you see, the amount of cooking that I do is directly proportionate to the amount of writing and blogging I get done. Words seem to come up while I'm tinkering about in the kitchen, washing dishes, maybe even chopping garlic... A writer whose name I don't remember called this the "Kitchen Sink" method—doing something totally unrelated to writing to inspire the writing, and I absolutely believe her.

If you look at the gaps in my blogging (especially for All My Sugar), I can tell by the dates that in those weeks/months, I barely cooked or baked. Somehow while the food is being made, words percolate as well.

Pom-pom Pow!

Shake your pom-pom!
(F.Y.I., the fur is faux.)

(Gotta get-get…)

I usually leave the fashion blogging to my more stylish friends and those who are in the media/event loop such as Kat, Frances, or Christine, whose blogs, Kat Dy Finds (and her shop, Martina-Martina!), Topaz Horizon, and Manila Fashion Observer, respectively, are read by many who are keen on the latest/cutest/super fabulous the fashion mill has to offer. These days, I'm quite the passive spectator when it comes to trends—choosing to finely filter a few key pieces to repeat, reuse, and add to my wardrobe.

Every now and then though, I chance upon things that indulge an old fancy. I know, that given the opportunity to splurge and go on a shopping spree, I could unleash that magazine-editor frenzy for clothing, shoes, and accessories, and totally bring it. (Back then I would randomly buy pairs of shoes during afternoon breaks. Well, our office was inside a mall, so shopping was eeeasy. Also, online clothing stores at the time weren't as available and readily accessible as they are now.)

Apart from the fluffy ball up top, I like
how the knits are created in a different
way with every layer.

During the recent Thanksgiving holiday shopping rush—yes, my husband and I participated in the shenanigan, complete with leaving the apartment at midnight on Thursday to scope stores in Soho!—I picked up two items with an unplanned and unexpected theme: pom-poms! First was a beanie from Urban Outfitters, and then a scarf from H&M. Both were fluffy knits warm enough for when the temperature dips. That said, I have no plans of wearing them both at the same time!

Anyway, if you're planning some holiday clothes shopping, you may want to look at Byron Bay Threads, an online store for women's clothing and more. They're based in Australia and I believe they ship internationally (their checkout page has a drop-down menu listing countries). Here's a link to their their website, and below is a playful video featuring their items:

Superserum

My editor friends will probably laugh at me for
being impressed by this: I got the usual press folder,
and in lieu of the accompanying CD/DVDs of
product info and images, this time there was
a bowl of USB sticks one could dip into.

Speaking of my affinity for many things European, I recently went to the US launch of BioEffect at The Library in the superposh SoHo House New York. The Iceland-bred "magic" serum is touted as "a next-generation serum that improves the appearance and health of your skin by encouraging the the skin to repair its own cells."

Now, having been a full-time beauty editor, I've gone to countless beauty events. Hence, exactly why these days, I tend to shy away from parties and nighttime shenanigans (and why you'll never get me to go to Happy Hour anywhere and for whatever reason). I'd much rather hop on the train home straight from work, or head to yoga class and find an excuse to indulge in a bowl of Japanese ramen post-session.

Anyway, back to this new skincare find, I did manage to RSVP for BioEffect, without knowing that the publicists were based in London and that the phenomenal product took 10 years to develop in Iceland. What sets the serum apart from others in the market are the following two key points:

EGF is grown inside barley seeds—planted in pure volcanic pumice—
in this geothermal-energy-powered greenhouse.

1) The active ingredient is Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), "a substance which occurs naturally in human skin and has the ability to speed up the rate of cell turnover." Now, before you get totally freaked—like I tend to with certain products, for example, that have the word "placenta" in them (not this one though)—the EGF in BioEffect is developed inside and extracted from barley seeds in state-of-the-art greenhouses. According to the brand's press release, "Producing EGF in plants, rather than in bacteria or animal cells, is very important to get an active, clean, and stable EGF [that is] suitable for a highly effective skincare product."

"Barley seeds act like mini-factories for the production of human-like EGF cellular activators."

2) The tiny bottle of potent serum contains only nine ingredients: glycerine, aqua, sodium hyaluronate, tromethamine, alcohol (less than 0.9%), calcium chloride, sodium chlodride, Hordeum Vulgare seed extract, EGF (transgenic barley SH-Oligopeptide-1—all clearly labeled in the packaging. This is great news if you're looking to streamline and simplify your beauty routine. And, when using BioEffect, all you need are two to four drops for the face, eye area, and neck.

The only possible drawback is the price tag: $210 (which includes the cost of shipping to the U.S.). Is it worth the investment? Ask me in a month's time. For now, if you'd like to read up further on the brand and this product, check out BioEffect.com and BioEffect.co.uk.

This photo (of the greenhouse) makes me want to go to Iceland.
The country currently has a population of about  318,452!

Beauty, Again

Cute, clean, and streamlined packaging.

Thanks to my friend Cat's recommendation, I am now the proud owner of an 8 oz. bottle of organic Jojoba Oil.

If you've never heard of this pure oil, chances are, you're already using it anyway. Jojoba (pronounced "ho-ho-ba") also goes by the name "Simmondsia Chinensis" and it's in countless skincare products and cosmetics—moisturizers, night creams, body lotions, face powder, shampoo, conditioner…you name it.

While browsing the selection over at Acne.org (where the namesake products featured in this post are sold), I chanced upon the AHA+ lotion, which is apparently good for smoothing the complexion, managing bacne, and generally keeping skin in the clear—thanks to Alpha Hydroxy Acid/Glycolic Acid's speedy exfoliating properties. I'm using the lotion on the backs of my arms, where the skin needs refining. I also plan on applying this to my face every so often. Acne.org proprietor, Daniel Kern, adds Licochalcone ("a soothing licorice root extract") to this particular skincare concoction; hence, its yellowish tinge. He also warns people who are using AHA-based products to wear sunscreen and to limit sun exposure, because of the active ingredient's tendency  to increase skin's sensitivity to the sun.

And, back to the Jojoba Oil, once you go the essential oil and/or plant-based carrier oil route, there's no turning back. One would think that applying something like this onto one's skin will make it, well, greasy. However, there's a beauty theory around that suggests applying oil on one's face signals the skin to produce less of it, because there's enough on the surface. I happen to like that theory very much and see it evidenced by products like Shu Uemura Cleansing Oils, Decleor serums and balms, and the ultra-luxe Rodin Olio Lusso. And, believe me, as I'm writing this, I've already applied the Jojoba thrice just this evening alone, and my skin just seems to soak it up.

I also like the "handwriting" on the tube (and the first-person copy on the website).

Disclaimer: Always patch-test products if your skin is prone to allergic reactions.

IT'S A WRAP!

DAY 30

of the 30-Day Blog Challenge, 2011

"Celebrate good times, come on!" [tanananant-tant-tanantant] "Woo hoo!"

Ooh la la! I've made it to the last day of this year's 30-Day Blog Challenge! This has been my third year of doing this around mid-July and I can truly say that the longer I do it, the more challenging it feels…which is a little surprising because one would expect things to be easier after having done it a few times. I am quickly reminded of my first major, Business Economics, wherein my third year, I still struggled with the economics subjects (hence, the shift to the more apt—for my personality and inclinations, at least—to Journalism). And, like college, I should probably keep at this until the fourth year, or even beyond.

Anyhow, sharing my thoughts about this whole process of blogging for 30 days straight!

1) Super (Mommy) Bloggers
I have newfound respect for daily bloggers in general. I know for many people out there, publishing a post everyday is the norm rather than the exception. Whereas I strive to follow a decent personal writing schedule, many of you just do it. I particularly admire the moms who find time to write posts on a regular basis, and even find the time to read blogs like mine (you know who you are!). While doing the Challenge, I struggled with getting everything done in one day—a full-time job, yoga (I've skipped some classes), my online part-time job (I've already missed a deadline…or two), updating my accounting Excel sheet (it's backlogged/back-dated as I write this), the occasional magazine article, and making it to the 12 midnight blogging deadline. I can only imagine what it's like for busy mommies out there who juggle jobs, PTA meetings, birthday parties, breastfeeding, and so forth. Hence, my virtual salute to all of ya!

2) Car Service
I recently asked a new friend how her boss—a famous person in the publishing world whom I shall not name here—managed her time and how it was possible for said boss to do everything that she did (books, magazines, speaking engagements). Even without asking, it's quite obvious that in order to successfully multi-task, one has to have top-notch staff. That's a given. But my friend gave two answers: One, the publishing executive woke up early and went to bed late. Two—and literally, two words: "car service."

You see, we all spend an inordinate amount of time commuting, running errands, and going from point A to point B on a daily basis. Being chauffeured to wherever means having pockets of space and time to zone out with one's Blackberry, iPhone, laptop, or iPad and do what one has to do…like blog! Even if it's as simple as doing your hair and makeup, being able to tick off something on your agenda while in motion gives you plus points in the productivity department. So, here's my friend's advice, and I paraphrase: "If you're negotiating a new job and it comes down to benefits and less money offered, ask for the car service."

Noted!

3) Gadgets To Go
Speaking of the things above, there have been times in the last 30 days that I've typed up drafts in my phone, or ducked into Starbucks and tip-tapped on the iPad (I recommend the Blogpress app, by the way). Once, I even worked on a post on the bus. If you're planning to do the Challenge, great gadgets are a big help, especially on days when you're pressed for time or when your schedule is packed; or even when you're just being lazy.

4) Bloggerjuice, Bloggerjuice, Bloggerjuice
I've said—or read?—this time and again: Writing is a muscle, and it needs regular exercise. I'd say it's like going to the bathroom; you need to do it everyday. The nice thing about having to blog everyday is that ideas flow and even when you're stumped for a post, something still comes up; the blogger juices flow. While I've mentioned that the Challenge gets harder every year, it's actually more of a function of time and scheduling, because it's more difficult to write after a long day when you're tired or sleepy, or, again, lazy. But, in terms of ideas presenting themselves or sentences/phrases/paragraphs forming in your head as you wait for the train to arrive, you get more of those as you write more often.

5) What's Next?
Truth be told, I doubt if I'll ever get to blog daily. It also comes down to quality vs. quantity. And my take on that is to have hearty helpings of both: quality, for when you want to tone that muscle and hone this skill; quantity, for when cardio and consistency are called for.

If you don't hear from me as often, that means I'm actually spending time finishing my long overdue Manila novel…and then hopefully have the discipline and fortitude to start the next one for here in New York. Friend and former Seventeen boss, Maya Calica, blogged about writing a novel in 30 days in her post, "Who wants to write a novel?" You'll also find her Suite 101 article linked up, "Writer's Block Be Gone—Tips on How to Write Your First Novel," which is very insightful and a must-read.

A bit of trivia, it was actually a blog post of Maya's that prompted the 30-Day Blog Challenge back in 2009. In it, she said, "Do something regularly over a period of 30 days and you will create a habit."

So, off I go, and onto the next challenge! Thank you, everyone, for the pep-comments and, of course, for reading my blog! It means a lot and it makes sense out of what I do and why I should keep doing this. Again, thank you, from the bottom of my heart (and chocolate-starved stomach).

Moving to New York?

Postcard-perfect opportunities like these are actually free!

DAY 24

of the 30-Day Blog Challenge, 2011

I've always given the same advice to friends and aquaintances who approach me for advice on moving to NYC. And, everytime, I say the exact same thing:
Go for it.

Your experience will be different from mine. The setbacks I've encountered in the process of moving and settling in do not necessarily apply to your situation. As for the recession and the economy, these factors shouldn't deter you from moving anyway. Whether or not you pack up and leave, there's nothing you can do to single-handedly improve or worsen the economy, so might as well give it a shot. Plus, you never know when you're exactly at the right place, at the right time, in the right moment, and you're exactly what a company is looking for.

As for money...that is probably the trickiest variable and it's what paralyzes many when it comes to making a big decision like moving overseas. I touched on this in my "Take the Plunge" post. Again, money will always be an issue…only if you make it so. I've recounted this time and again—when I first moved to New York, I didn't have that much money. Heck, I barely had enough cash to buy a single mattress.

While it's ideal to wait and save up until you have a lumpsum before comitting to a major move, you're bound to come up with excuses one after the other and truthfully, it's never going to be enough (unless you're dipping into a trust fund). You might as well just take the plunge, settle right in, and make a living. That's how it works.

So come on down!

First lunch is on me :)

Orange-Spotting

DAY 19

of the 30-Day Blog Challenge, 2011

Lately I've been seeing plenty of orange. Or, make that noticing a lot of orange. It started when I saw a tangerine-themed page in the June issue of InStyle with Taylor Swift on the cover (rocking—what else?—a citrus shift dress!).

And then one Friday evening while grocery-shopping at Trader Joe's, one of the associates and the person behind me in line started chatting about these clementines. In New York, where people talk to each other randomly, I chimed in and expressed interest in the supposedly sweet little things. The associate, in true TJ fashion, got a bag for me to add to my cart. Nice, right?

Last and definitely not the least, is the August issue of OK! Magazine Philippines, helmed by my good friend Frances of Topaz Horizon, Topaz Mommy, and Beauty for a Living (yes, she has three blogs on top of the EIC job and being a mom!). What's special about this cover? Other than the punchy, citrus hues, it's the first one by former Cosmo art director, Red De Leon, whom I've had the pleasure of working with back when I was beauty editor. He's one of the best ADs around and also happens to be fun to talk to. I'd quoted him in my On My Mind "Comfort Clause" piece a while back.

Hope you're orange-joying your weekend!

Sunday Street Moment

DAY 13

of the 30-Day Blog Challenge, 2011

On the day I choose a t-shirt and jeans combo, I meet—and speak with!—the iconic fashion photographer.

When I saw the movie, Bill Cunningham New York back in April, I was so mesmerized by the iconic photographer's life—how simply he lived it—and his decades-long career with The New York Times. I would say that Bill Cunningham brought street photography to the mainstream, if not, invented street-style photo features as we see them today.

Now, much as I would like to be photographed by the man on his bicycle and trademark blue shirt, I know that what I wear on a daily basis isn't fashion-feature or society-page material. I leave that to my more stylish friends like Kat or Happy who have a sort of bohemian-meets-city-chic take on fashion that tends to be photogenic—especially with the accessories they pair with their outfits. Christine of Manila Fashion Observer also comes to mind, for her high-end style. I, on the other hand, am a little bit old-lady-French, or sporty-sleek. Not entirely un-fashionable, but you get my drift.

Every now and then, I think about Cunningham. Just in the last two weeks alone, I can tell you of two moments that I have wondered about the very fascinating photographer. First, I was walking along Lexington Avenue and 57th St., and I thought to myself, "Will I ever see Bill Cunningham in person on his bike, as I walk down the street? Maybe not." The second time, I may have walked past the New York Times building or some other building and wondered, "Who'll take care of Bill Cunningham when he's older? A trusted assistant? The NY Times management?"

So, you could imagine my surprise when earlier this morning, as I was taking pictures by the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building steps on Fifth Avenue, a man behind me started talking and pointed out how nice the library was to shoot today as it was "clean" (or did he say "clear"?). When I turned around, it was Bill Cunningham! On his bike! In his blue shirt! I was so star-struck and to be honest, I can hardly remember exactly what he said about the library. Here are bits and pieces of our conversation (conversation!):

Me: "I'm so happy to see you! I watched your movie."
Bill: "[Smiling. I can't remember what he said, maybe something about it being a very nice day, how it's nice to shoot the library on this nice day.]
Me: "You work Sundays?"
Bill: "Oh, yeah. I'm on my way to the photo lab."
Me: "Okay. I'm so happy to have met you. Bye, Bill. Take care!"
Bill: [Smiles and pedals away.]

Sigh. It took a few moments to collect my thoughts and start walking to the next block. I couldn't believe it!

The ironic thing is, today, of all days, was a day I chose to dress down. I was going to be out and about with family, so I wore a very comfy electric yellow fitted tee, cuffed jeans, and my stripey pink-violet Keds slip-ons. I was also carrying a New Balance drawstring backpack and a black reusable shopping bag next to my handbag (the latter is pretty though). Oh well :)

If you haven't seen it yet, here's the movie trailer that I posted back in April. You may also read the blog entry here.

Bill Cunningham "On the Street" image courtesy of The New York Times.

Take Flight

DAY 7

of the 30-Day Blog Challenge, 2011

Part of flying is landing…with grace.

At a very lovely dinner with old and newly made friends, the subject of taking flight came up. And I paraphrase the words of Miriam, who, at the moment, holds the key to my next bowl of Ocean Don and being reunited with one of my favorite cafés in the world, even just for a moment. "It's easy to burst out and fly. It's in landing that you need grace and control."

In life, it's easy to be impulsive, or justify similar actions, especially when we truly want something, or when that something doesn't materialize nor come to our specifications. Finding ground means literally switching gears. It could mean learning how to react differently, breathing through a stressful situation, or simply being more respectful of circumstances.

When I first moved to New York, I made certain career mistakes—out of naiveness, impatience, or sheer ignorance (or all of the above). In my desire to reach new heights, I fell hard. I thought I'd never recover. But I did. And when that happened, I learned to be more deliberate in my actions, scrutinizing of people and situations, and most importantly, grateful for all the new opportunities that have given me the chance to try again, and try harder and hopefully make better decisions—in life and in career. True, some doors may possibly have closed permanently on me. But whereas a certain ship may have sailed, this plane has definitely landed.

Friday Night Plans

DAY 4

of the 30-Day Blog Challenge, 2011

I've just downloaded the Blogpress app for the iPad and I'm typing this at a Starbucks café. This will be a picture-free post as I am still working my way through the app. I will also apologize in advance if you spot any typos because I have yet to really get the hang of using the very flat keyboard of the iPad (at least it makes that crunchy sound I like!). Obviously, I am trying to make good with my 30-day Blog Challenge, so here I am, on a Friday night, tip-tapping away.

Now, I wasn't trying to make that sound like I was missing out. On the contrary, I rarely ever go out on Friday nights. I would rather be home in bed or at my desk, catching up on favorite TV shows like White Collar, Burn Notice, and as of recently, Suits (that show is super duper cool!). I easily get bored going to bars, and the only person I really would like to have dinner with on a Friday night is my husband. It's nothing personal, and my friends may already have come to understand. You see, I like to eat alone so I can quietly—and intensely—savor what I'm eating. Now, my husband finds humor in the way I eat (that's why I love him!), so what normally happens is he'll laugh at the way I "internalize" the very delicious chicken burger from Charlie's, and then he'll watch the basketball game showing on the flat screen TV across the table at the restaurant. And then we'll share a turtle pie and life is good.

Tonight though, is an exception. I'm going to my good friend Kat's despedida/going-away party (sniff!). Kat has been integral to my second move to New York City. Whereas my first move was marked by homesickness and a yearning for the friends I'd left at my old job, this time around, Kat made it feel like we were just Cosmo editors again, maneuvering our way into this big city, and carving careers out of the opportunities that have come our way.

Kat was also instrumental in helping me land the job that I have now, although I'd rather not talk about that here and now. Weird as it may sound, I'd like to keep the details of my day job, private.

Also, if it weren't for my friend, I wouldn't have discovered the beautiful borough that is Brooklyn. Her first apartment was my jump-off point when this second move happened, and her next apartment, also in Brooklyn, became a comforting refuge when I wanted some quiet time to write, or relax, or simply be in positive company. When I found my apartment in the Bronx (another misunderstood borough, if I may add), she helped me load up the town car and carry boxes up the elevator and into my new home.

I have many other things to share about Kat and our friendship, like how the other night I told her that I felt guilty for being such a passive friend and that I never inititiated meeting up. It's just that—I guess—it was enough for me to know that she lived in the same town. She told me not to worry about it, "I know who you are," she said.

So, I will stop here first. Now, Kat's journey is taking her to another country. While I am sad to see her leave, I am happy for this next chapter in her life. So, off I go to celebrate with a dear, dear friend, and with other people whose lives were also touched by her positivity and happy energy.

University Fashion and Beauty

The 2011 version of what
I would have worn in college.

In retrospect, it perfectly worked out that none of the "cute" boys I liked and pined over back in college found me attractive—maybe because I looked like them and dressed like them.

I fondly refer to my college days as the time when I had fashion amnesia. (I pointed out my penchant for t-shirts and shorts back then in my "Blast from the past" and "Short Shorts" posts.) As a tween, I pretty much was as prissy as the next Selena-Gomez-Justin-Bieber follower if it were 2011 back in the late eighties/early nineties, but for some reason, by the time my college years rolled around, I had no semblance of fashion nor concept of beauty (I do remember purchasing one tube of lipstick in my junior year. I still remember what it was: Revlon Raisin Rage…so maybe I did have the makings of a beauty editor).

It would take a magazine internship, an editor promotion, and a makeover to snap me back to the kikay youngster I once was. One of my early purchases at this new stage was a pair of turquoise BCBG pointy mules from DSW (back when BCBG shoes weren't as readily available online) that I wore to one of the Seventeen anniversary parties. This is why when the whole magazine thing happened, university friends were baffled by my so-called "transformation," whereas my co-Sweet Valley Twins cohorts were probably just as surprised at how I managed to even start looking like a boy.

And, going back to those college guys, all the platonic friendships and unrequited crushes gave me enough time to climb, go to the beach and road trips, and make great friends—both male and female. If I had snagged a boyfriend back then, I would've been too distracted by the serious emotional involvement to create awesome memories of those carefree years.

Suffice it to say, I was finally asked out by good-on-paper boys during those early years as a magazine editor. True, it was fun and exciting, but now that I think about it, it was ironic because I was still the same person from college who wore t-shirts and Birkenstocks to class. Is it because of clothes that I attracted class clowns and geeks instead of frat guys, jocks, and politicians' sons? (On another note, those nerdy types turned out to be great career men and responsible partners later on.)

Fast forward to 2004, when I met the man who would become my husband, it was time for yet another makeover: I'd gained a lot of weight and was in the middle of trying to shed it all off. Simply put, I met my husband when I was fat, and no amount of beauty or fashion could have covered up all of it. That, too, surprisingly worked out. And, that's the subject of another blog post.

Image courtesy of Bluefly.com.

Peek-a-Shoe!

Open-toe, bejeweled heels...so spring!

When blogger Christine Dychiao of the popular Manila Fashion Observer asked me to participate in her MFO Shoe Series, I was actually in the middle of spring cleaning—storing winterwear and giving way to a more colorful, vibrant wardrobe that simply signifies the change in temperature (Hello, sunny dresses!). I hadn't gotten around to the shoes, so the blog invite was a nice way to document footwear of this past cold season, and, get a closeup of the roster of heels, sandals, and other shoes, old and new, I had around.

The boots—save for my fave Kamik rainboots—are now on the topmost shelf and in their place
on the "front row" are spring/summer sandals!

Want a sneak-peek into my closet? Click on the photo to read the MFO feature :)

My "shoe closet" is also my "everything-else" closet, as you can tell from the Swiffer mop peeking through!

College Musical

One of the most memorable movie soundtracks around.

While in the kitchen prepping ingredients for banana bread and chocolate chip squares, my Pandora Quickmix suddenly played the song, "Crash" by the Dave Matthew's Band. I stopped in my tracks and took a moment to listen to the song I hadn't heard in YEARS. I found it odd that the anthem of my late teens never found its way to my iTunes playlist. So, suffice it to say, I have been fixating on songs I used to listen to back in the day.

It also occurred to me, how, for a good decade—from the early nineties to the turn of the new millenium—I'd regularly played the guitar as a hobby. As a teen, one summer I taught myself to play, and that school year in high school, I chose guitar as a music elective. I didn't become quite the expert, but I learned the basics in a more academic setting. I played random classical pieces, and my teacher—a lanky, long-haired guitarist who probably had his own band and was working as a music instructor during the day—would sneak in some contemporary hits during practice sessions. Eventually, as college rolled around, I learned how to play songs by Dave Matthews, D'Sound, Everything But The Girl, and all of those artists who were popular back in the day. It felt like a lifetime ago, and I instantly started to wish I had a new guitar to completely reminisce, as well as relearn, the tunes of my yesteryears and actually pick up new pieces (Taylor Swift's "Love Story," perhaps?).

One particular song that got my heart thudding today was "We Meet Again" by Nancy Wilson, which was featured in the Jerry Maguire OST (sample the iTunes track here or on Amazon.com). Now, this one was incredibly memorable and special because at the time, my ex-boyfriend and I were just friends at the climbing gym we both frequented, and I tried to impress him by learning the complicated track, which required precise plucking of certain notes, versus collectively strumming chords. So what I did, since the College of Music was just across the street from MassComm, I approached a random musician and asked if he could translate the song into sheet music for me, into "tabs" as what they're commonly called. 

Looking back, I couldn't believe I did that(!)—both the fact that I commissioned a music student AND went through all that effort to get a boy's attention. How I wish I still knew who the guy was—he did an excellent job that within a week or so, I had pages of music to study. I probably told my ex the story when we did get together about a year after. He and I are actually still friends to this day (his wife did my beautiful invites and they both were guests at my wedding). I do have some thoughts on staying friends vs. not staying friends with people whom one dated and that would merit another post altogether. 

It's just amazing how my life changed throughout the years, and how the music I listened to changed with it in the process (now it's plenty of house, Chicane, Phoenix, Katy-Perry-pop), and, now that I'm married and living here in New York City, how I'm rediscovering good bits and pieces from my past and finding ways to incorporate them in my current life.

Image courtesy of Amazon.com.

Choux-in

I'll huff and I'll puff...

Pâte à Choux ("pat-teh-shoo") is the building block for all cream puffs, eclairs, and profiteroles. And, I just found out that it's the same dough used for churros (usually dipped in chocolate, once fried). Same goes for donut holes, and, if you wish, for savory chicken or tuna salad sandwiches.

I first chanced upon the idea of making cream puffs at a birthday party, where my cousin-in-law's former roommate prepared these delightful airy treats. She said they were easy to make, and shortly after that party, I saw a recipe in an issue of Martha Stewart Everyday Food. I've made it twice so far ever since, but it was only last week that I decided to make a full-fledged batch filled with pastry cream made from scratch, folded with Crème Chantilly (a.k.a. sweetened whipped cream) and dipped in melted dark chocolate. The results were phenomenal, and the cream puffs even tasted better once refrigerated.

I referenced three recipes—Martha Stewart's, Alton Brown's, and Chef Eric Crowley's (of The Culinary Classroom in L.A.). I went  with Crowley's, whose how-to video may be viewed on YouTube. But, note that if you're making smaller cream puffs, to go with the oven temperature in Stewart's version. Brown is usually my go-to for precise measurements, but given that I do not own a kitchen scale here in NY, I had to skip the Good Eats host's Pâte à Choux. But, I highly recommend watching his "Choux Shine" episode—educational and entertaining as always.

For the filling, again, it was a combo of Francois Payard's Pastry Cream recipe from Marthastewart.com and Crowley's Crème Chantilly (you basically just have to fold in the aerated cream into the cooled custard).

Recipes follow (modified and edited as applicable). You'll find the rest after the jump. Enjoy!

You'll need:

1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup water
3 oz butter (6 tablespoons)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 to 5 eggs

powdered sugar to sprinkle on top of finished dessert (optional)
muffin tin or baking sheet
parchment paper (a.k.a. Glad Bake and Cooking Paper)

Oscar Moment

A lovely and inspiring afternoon,
in more ways than one.

When my friend Kat invited me to tag along at the photoshoot with Stefanie Walmsley, in the most ho-hum way I said, "Sure." I had no idea who the Oscar-winning producer of the short film, God of Love, was, but then I had no better way to spend my Saturday. Besides, I could help with the hair and makeup if needed. So, off I went along, ready to ask questions about what was inside the famous (ultra-mega-pricey) Oscar swag bag.

Little did I know how inspiring and wonderful my afternoon would turn out to be. While I'd love to share specific bits and pieces from the interview and shoot, I'd like to respect the editorial schedules of the magazines running her feature. But let me just say that Walmsley proved to be vastly entertaining, down-to-earth, and inspiring to talk to. I particularly enjoyed how she simply showed her bubbly personality, honesty, and I think that's all I can say for now. Catch a glimpse of the Pinay producer as she talks about the crew's journey to Academy Award territory in this video interview on YouTube. And, below is the trailer to the movie directed by Luke Matheny.

Rich Friend, Poor Friend

"Champagne wishes and caviar dreams..."

I have a varied selection of friends: middle-class, rich, self-made, and those who get by with very little.

I think my ultra-rich friends like me and I get along with them just fine and enjoy their company because, for one, I don't pretend to be wealthy. And two, while I have a picky palate and have evolved in my tastes (becoming meticulous when it comes to manners in the process), I don't mask my middle-class quips like, "Is that caviar pie?" (and later on admit to myself that I actually do not like the taste of caviar pie) or "What does [any term rich people use] mean?" True, sometimes I am unnerved by the opulence of their lives (one friend has back-to-back flat-screen TVs in his Park Avenue apartment), but I enjoy learning about things like Fornasetti plates and luxe coffee machines.

As for my self-made friends, I love their company as well because we all, more or less, come from the same background; raised by middle-class, entrepreneurial/hardworking parents who happened to like fine things and read good books. We've put in the time to grow and nurture our careers and have become great friends along the way. We've also had our "poor" moments and we enjoy what we have these days and don't mind the treats and the splurges.

And, since I did not grow up rich, I have the money habits of the non-rich—meaning, my finances are not set up the way my wealthier friends' are, with their short- (wallet), medium- (wants), and long-term (nest egg) bank accounts. I find myself broke from time to time and exactly because of my upbringing, I do not worry much because I know that money is meant to be spent, and that one can earn it again and again.

Eating Well

I particularly enjoyed reading my friend Frances's recent blog post, "Market Day" wherein she talks about how one didn't have to have a lot of money in order to eat well. "I don't really buy into the excuse that poverty equals poor food and nutrition," she shares. "My grandmother lived through the terrible war and she taught me a lot of tricks on how to eat well even if you have just three ingredients." And, she's not talking about ramen noodles.

It's true what Frances said: You don't need plenty of cash to eat well. It's just easier if you did—because you don't have to be extra discerning about where you do your grocery shopping and the cost of food and its preparation. That's just about it. For example, instead of buying, washing, and processing your own produce and fruit, you can buy them pre-washed and pre-cut, usually in fancy plastic containers. If money weren't an object, you could hire a personal chef (just like a superstar), or order those healthy delivery meals—or even something as posh as the Blueprint Cleanse.

The reason why I could still afford to shop at specialty stores and wouldn't think twice about walking into Zabar's and the like—despite having limited funds at the moment—is because I also shop at Key Food in the Bronx and make it a point to buy from fruit stands. Now, if I were more liquid, I wouldn't probably go to three different places to get three different things (or go to Chinatown to buy a pound of fresh cherries), I would probably just do Freshdirect and order my organic eggs, milk and all online, and then pay for delivery costs.

While I do acknowledge the novelty of going through a ramen-noodles-phase—a rite of passage of sorts if you will—eventually, one must explore wiser food choices. It can actually be fun, and again, affordable. Notice that the more fresh produce you place in your shopping basket, the lower your bill is at the cashier. I get a kick out of this, actually.

Mmm...

Here, I've compiled a list of items that make the most out of your cash on hand. Call them staples, call them building blocks, bottomline is, you get value for your money and maximum benefits to your health. (And maybe, just maybe, you'll have some cash left for a delightful pint/tub of ice cream.)

One Big Table

I have a recipe in this book! Talk about a FANTABULOUS birthday present!

I have yet to own a copy of the hefty 880-page read written by former New York Times food columnist Molly O'Neill, but as I've just found out tonight, my Milk Chocolate and Marshmallow Cornflake Cookie recipe made it on page 756! Here's a snippet from the Simon & Schuster website, describing the book and its author:

"Meticulously selected from more than 20,000 contributions, the cookbook's 600 recipes are a definitive portrait of what we eat and why. In this lavish volume—illustrated throughout with historic photographs, folk art, vintage advertisements, and family snapshots—O'Neill celebrates heirloom recipes like the Doughty family's old-fashioned black duck and dumplings that originated on a long-vanished island off Virginia's Eastern Shore, the Pueblo tamales that Norma Naranjo makes in her horno in New Mexico, as well as modern riffs such as a Boston teenager's recipe for asparagus soup scented with nigella seeds and truffle oil."

You'll find the full article here. And, my friend, Bianca Garcia—whose Pork and Chicken Adobo recipe is on page 502—blogged about One Big Table at Confessionsofachocoholic.com.

Will post my feature and recipe once I have a copy of the book!

Image courtesy of Simon & Schuster.

UPDATE 01/19/11: I have a photo of the page! Click on the image to zoom in and view the recipe.

UPDATE 06/07/12: You can also view the full recipe at All My Sugar :)