tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83424677705076372962023-11-16T19:34:56.185+08:00romyisagirlromyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-87225212034437904992018-07-02T09:00:00.000+08:002018-07-05T17:40:42.931+08:00On taking a break and taking the plunge. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsMN0UovUp1crGcbyFuNfz68ulsRY5vPlpxzHTPxZjDgO-NLU7t6QLOkw18-dQaYKO8mA12xnn0AQPRyHVilecFE9F3W7eDeP5nZDUAjJw4BysfmqDSqHOVdhGgctvHfQEO3whcA4o6Qr/s1600/Sunset+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsMN0UovUp1crGcbyFuNfz68ulsRY5vPlpxzHTPxZjDgO-NLU7t6QLOkw18-dQaYKO8mA12xnn0AQPRyHVilecFE9F3W7eDeP5nZDUAjJw4BysfmqDSqHOVdhGgctvHfQEO3whcA4o6Qr/s640/Sunset+2010.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
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Hi guys!<br>
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Don’t you miss the old days when a blog was an online journal where you talk about your days and your thoughts, and your readers comment on your day and your thoughts, and you even gain new friends in the process?<br>
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The blogging world has seismically shifted. I admit I’ve become trapped in that mode too, in that I often ask myself if my blog entry will add value to my readers (thus generate hits and views), that most of my thoughts get trapped inside my head, and so no entry gets published. And in social media posts, I get so disappointed when I read a sentence or two followed by a call to action for a sponsored product. (Did you know they hire people to write those post captions? Yeah, they do.)<br>
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I miss the old days though. So for today I have no eat list or travel post or wedding supplier to review, I have no shopping trick or beauty product to test, this is just me and my thoughts.<br>
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<a href="https://romyisagirl.blogspot.com/2018/07/on-taking-break-and-taking-plunge.html#more"></a>romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-83623688768064233462018-05-25T12:36:00.003+08:002018-07-05T17:41:22.351+08:00Romy Roams Baguio: Where to EatBaguio is always a good choice when you want to get away from the heat of the city life, literally and figuratively.<br>
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Jay and I had been to Baguio twice in just four months. The first one was back in November during the APEC holiday, and the second one this February for our high school friend’s wedding. Aside from climbing Mt. Ulap and celebrating with our high school friends, our main agenda for going to Baguio was to eat—nay, pig out.<br>
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We’ve both been to Baguio several times before so we’ve gone to almost all the tourist spots. What we really wanted to do was relax and satiate our appetites. Luckily, Baguio doesn’t fall short of good restaurants and food spots.<br>
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Here are a few of old and new favorites you should try on your next trip to the City of Pines.<br>
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<a href="https://romyisagirl.blogspot.com/2018/05/romy-roams-baguio-where-to-eat.html#more"></a>romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-75703743616233396072018-03-02T12:07:00.003+08:002018-07-05T17:42:23.714+08:00How I turn my receipts into cash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Now that I'm a wife, I've become more budget conscious and eager to find ways to save and get value for our money.<br>
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I downloaded this app called Snapcart (it’s available on iTunes and Google Play Store), which allows you to take photos of your receipts and gives you cash in return.<br>
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Read on to learn how!<br>
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<a href="https://romyisagirl.blogspot.com/2018/03/how-i-turn-my-receipts-into-cash_96.html#more"></a>romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-27709733005136256552018-01-19T12:00:00.000+08:002018-07-05T17:42:42.865+08:00Romy Roams Tokyo: Where to Eat <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Happy 2018, dear readers! I know it's been a while since I last wrote a post, but I've been busy with the life of being a wife and finishing projects on the side too, so the blog took a back seat. </span><br>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Hopefully with the new year comes a new drive to write more regularly. Please don't get tired of dropping by!</span><br>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">So, let's get on with my first post for the year. :)</span><br>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Now that you've read <a href="http://www.romyisagirl.com/2017/02/romy-roams-tokyo-5-places-to-visit.html" target="_blank">where to go in Tokyo,</a> it's time to let you in on all the good food we ate!</span><span class="m_2134247379684214893Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="m_2134247379684214893s1">Japanese food is something I grew up eating. My brother and I inhale a plate of sashimi within seconds. </span><br>
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<span class="m_2134247379684214893s1">My family and I frequented Kimpura, Sugi, and Saisaki when they were the only choices in Manila. When we grew older, we tried other restaurants to get our sashimi fix and other Japanese food staples. </span><br>
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<span class="m_2134247379684214893s1">So to say I was excited to finally try Japanese food in Japan is a major understatement.<span class="m_2134247379684214893Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_2134247379684214893s1">Here's my Tokyo Eat List! Hope you enjoy these restos and dishes as much as I did.<span class="m_2134247379684214893Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br>
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</div></div><a href="https://romyisagirl.blogspot.com/2018/01/romy-roams-tokyo-where-to-eat.html#more"></a>romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-72643017486926883982017-11-08T12:30:00.000+08:002017-11-08T12:30:07.659+08:00Wedding Supplier Review: Our Cake by Joy San GabrielOur cake supplier is one of the best decisions I made for our wedding.<br />
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Wedding reviews usually come with a rating and I forewent that in my previous entries, but for Ms. Joy, I will tell you that my rating is 5+++.<br />
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You know that supplier you can't stop raving about each and every time their product comes up in a conversation? This is that kind of supplier. If I can get married all over again just so I can have a three-tiered, all-edible, whipped cream cake with four different flavors, I would. Her cakes are THAT good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPPGfrQV3wEAR3BwQD1P29QPpE4CnVsbE9MlE76ZbV12-L75gw7nDaKJdK-x8Oybe4CUkrwpTIdWffqm7bNUaHK_p_bwc61jzm3BgpPfnYlhzxppX5ODm823sqwrGUOugCcG66yOWhbxM/s1600/IMG_9603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPPGfrQV3wEAR3BwQD1P29QPpE4CnVsbE9MlE76ZbV12-L75gw7nDaKJdK-x8Oybe4CUkrwpTIdWffqm7bNUaHK_p_bwc61jzm3BgpPfnYlhzxppX5ODm823sqwrGUOugCcG66yOWhbxM/s640/IMG_9603.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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To be honest, she wasn't my first choice. I didn't even know about her until I went to a bridal fair.<br />
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I already had a cake design and a cake designer in mind months before the wedding, and Jay and I even went to a bridal fair so we can avail of a discounted rate just in case we decided to get the said vendor.<br />
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But when we were there, the quote given to me was still way over our budget even with the discount, and for a design much simpler than I wanted. I could've worked on it if I wanted, but what made me decide to skip the said vendor was the taste of the cake. Let's just say I was expecting more.<br />
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I wanted our wedding cake to not just be beautiful on the outside, but decadent on the inside too. Our wedding cake wouldn't just be decoration. It will be eaten, and it will be eaten heartily. Mainly by me!<br />
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Haha. I love cake. Cake is one of my comfort food. I can finish a whole cake by myself , but I'm an adult now so I have to act like one.<br />
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So fast forward to another bridal fair my bridesmaid Kat and I visited. There we were, getting overwhelmed with the maze of wedding supplier booths all around us.<br />
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We got to the wedding cake vendor aisle and we sampled their products. One stall didn't have a lot of giant cake displays like the others, but they did have a lot of bite-sized samples laid out at their booth.<br />
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Different variants of cheesecakes, a carrot cake, a chocolate one, and some other flavors.<br />
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I was in cake heaven. First taste of the mango cheesecake and I knew, we found our supplier. But just to make sure, Kat and I went back another round so we can eat the samples again.<br />
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That vendor was Joy San Gabriel Young. Ms. Joy wasn't there during the fair, but her husband Martin explained their rates and cake details very well. I wanted to book them already, but of course Jay and I had to decide together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8N75Muh6SLWTSMb5Iu_Ijj1tEfwV3Wigmqf00TlIgX6I-I_Cp_zdW66Eono4maAxdOvH9rrSKZbyZ9bZMlwPRnppQRXS2hAhted65sa5pmQNhBwsURhwrNel4hw2eg8JzCMSVDa-Gked3/s1600/IMG_4686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8N75Muh6SLWTSMb5Iu_Ijj1tEfwV3Wigmqf00TlIgX6I-I_Cp_zdW66Eono4maAxdOvH9rrSKZbyZ9bZMlwPRnppQRXS2hAhted65sa5pmQNhBwsURhwrNel4hw2eg8JzCMSVDa-Gked3/s640/IMG_4686.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I sent an email to Ms. Joy for the specific design I wanted. What I love about her is she takes into account her client's budget so she can work around it and still give the client the best product she can produce.<br />
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She explained to me the kind of cake we can avail within my budget, the flavors available within that range, and also the extent of the design we can achieve.<br />
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There's a fast turnaround for email inquiries, and her replies are clear and thorough.<br />
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To avail of the discount, I went to another bridal fair and paid our down payment. Mr. Martin filled out a form and gave it to me, and that's what I brought to Ms. Joy's studio for our cake tasting.<br />
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Cake sampling is scheduled on Mondays and Tuesdays only since they have a busy week for events. The studio is located in Galas, Quezon City. I posted the map to her studio at the end of my review.<br />
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Our meeting was very productive. Ms. Joy was attentive to all the little details and emailed me her notes the day after. And of course, the samples she served were all delicious. I didn't finish everything so Jay and his family could taste them too.<br />
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I also met up with a friend and we were in agreement that everything was good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGYLgObeUtCnH0gW9Vwp8uVzjyk8gLSVMvz_Trmrg1eEr0QKn9XPX-b8JPqMVGGGz4OQIxG6cL1yzLimzheXLsiUw8IGlJItJ6MPpycho25radwXj_RGyjtmjADp4tZkKG7m55abXXNQr/s1600/IMG_4688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGYLgObeUtCnH0gW9Vwp8uVzjyk8gLSVMvz_Trmrg1eEr0QKn9XPX-b8JPqMVGGGz4OQIxG6cL1yzLimzheXLsiUw8IGlJItJ6MPpycho25radwXj_RGyjtmjADp4tZkKG7m55abXXNQr/s640/IMG_4688.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ms. Joy also gave me a sample of her cheese roll. Back then, they were still finalizing the details of a stand-alone kiosk for their baked goods to be sold in malls. And now, it's a reality! You can find their soft and yummy cheese rolls and ensaymada at Marketplace by Rustan's inside Powerplant Mall.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibnUmWW2e-7xal-s6DT6Z3gYsbV74O3Q4cTvkXJW_CJA2xKXlt00sAKgYLrysNOyzLsVo92Z4qxDuP8FrcbIG54XcoW8AJcqJitz5gM5-KQqiejBxcNj2Kq_e7XZwLglAVBXicJLSK7kqt/s1600/IMG_4687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibnUmWW2e-7xal-s6DT6Z3gYsbV74O3Q4cTvkXJW_CJA2xKXlt00sAKgYLrysNOyzLsVo92Z4qxDuP8FrcbIG54XcoW8AJcqJitz5gM5-KQqiejBxcNj2Kq_e7XZwLglAVBXicJLSK7kqt/s640/IMG_4687.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our final design was a three-tier, all-edible whipped cream cake with four different flavors. Yes, four, because the bottom layer could be divided into two flavors. Isn't that awesome? My main design element was a cascade of light peach peonies with green leaves made of sugar icing.<br />
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But in the end we just chose three flavors because the strawberry shortcake was out of this world. That was our bottom layer. Our other two flavors were mango cheesecake (top) and moist chocolate (mid).<br />
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The three tiers were sized as follows: 6x5, 9x5, and 12x5 round cakes.<br />
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The best part is, we ended up with a cake that cost less than our budget! It's because of the 5% discount we availed at the bridal fair. And of course, Ms. Joy's generosity.<br />
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The other flavors you can choose from include coffee caramel, tarta San Marco, apple, or carrot.<br />
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For other weddings, after the couple slice their cake, it just sits there like a sad kid forgotten by the others. But not me. I had plans for our cake. Since we already had several dessert options for our guests (including a white chocolate cake, I planned on reserving the wedding cake for us and our families.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtROWqsFn2UffkpT56xHwfyoWF6unncrmAoKcywjTDuca7QRY_Bb4utK2I16ir0YgQAWRUCIBwUHEOc5HYG6ZK2q4X_R8IEFNeOLuZXpRf_jU2da7rlATffSyo25yp4eliPHSifKAGmeC/s1600/IMG_9605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtROWqsFn2UffkpT56xHwfyoWF6unncrmAoKcywjTDuca7QRY_Bb4utK2I16ir0YgQAWRUCIBwUHEOc5HYG6ZK2q4X_R8IEFNeOLuZXpRf_jU2da7rlATffSyo25yp4eliPHSifKAGmeC/s640/IMG_9605.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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What's great is Ms. Joy offered to convert out top two tiers into styrofoam for the wedding day, and give us FOUR boxed cakes (two 6-inch mango cheesecakes and two 9-inch moist chocolate cakes).<br />
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It was perfect because we were able to give them to our families. As for the bottom layer, our lucky guests who stayed until the end of the wedding got to take home our cake too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQVV-KSpf8jUGs3o7UhAxuy2vtbSIEswkX-cNoGV9PTegAXXo8ybMUv1RBus_uHREAAk4QpxbKD0um496ona70a0SlzoOP3Y4ti6tNXhO8i-hb39aZaHb8kKn5hDI2AX20JUP4wleaZPk/s1600/BAZM3005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQVV-KSpf8jUGs3o7UhAxuy2vtbSIEswkX-cNoGV9PTegAXXo8ybMUv1RBus_uHREAAk4QpxbKD0um496ona70a0SlzoOP3Y4ti6tNXhO8i-hb39aZaHb8kKn5hDI2AX20JUP4wleaZPk/s640/BAZM3005.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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They have other options like converting one or two layers to cupcakes of mini-cakes. Just talk to Ms. Joy about your options.<br />
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Friends, don't overlook your wedding cake. It will be the first thing you taste during your reception proper (your coordinator is supposed to feed you before the program, but that doesn't count), and you want to make that memory great.<br />
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Choose wisely. Choose Joy.<br />
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Hehe sorry got a little carried away there with my copywriting brain. But, trust me. Go ahead and sample her cakes at bridal fairs. Drop by her stall for cheese rolls and ensaymada. You will not regret it.<br />
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<b><u>Joy San Gabriel</u></b><br />
Address: 3F PNB Galas Branch Building, 20 Bayani Street, Galas, Quezon City<br />
Email: sangabriel.joy @gmail.com<br />
Contact Numbers: +63917-5278837 / +632-7439306 / +632-2114820<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPLwnQOuZ0gOnrwG2InP8wF2JY39IVAWTXMI1xjcFZOslYCWR0yQ3b68r_W9m4JlJ_V_VV79nOb43_tIGJot5hI4BGG3ZuV5B0l0Q_V9QnIbmFuYb-8pSH_Gc_TT04lfNiQVkd4IAlMXw/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="750" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPLwnQOuZ0gOnrwG2InP8wF2JY39IVAWTXMI1xjcFZOslYCWR0yQ3b68r_W9m4JlJ_V_VV79nOb43_tIGJot5hI4BGG3ZuV5B0l0Q_V9QnIbmFuYb-8pSH_Gc_TT04lfNiQVkd4IAlMXw/s640/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-21415615638589445222017-09-27T11:55:00.000+08:002017-09-27T14:04:33.933+08:00I Worked Out for 30 Days and This is What I Learned<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Last month, I started working out again. I had gained back some of the weight I lost before the wedding and I felt lethargic from being in the house all the time. I also knew I had to start taking care of myself to prepare my body once Jay and I decide on having kids. But I'll be honest with you. My reason for wanting to work out and lose weight was this:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><b>I wanted my thighs to stop chafing. </b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">It may sound simple to many of you. I know I can just wear cycling shorts or half slips underneath my skirts/dresses. I know I can put baby powder and/or lotion to reduce friction between my thighs, even put deodorant. I tried these, but thigh chafing has been bugging me for a long time. I would see other ladies who are the same size (sometimes even bigger) as I am, and watch in awe as they walk in shorts and skirts and dresses seemingly without a care in the world or the chafing between their thighs. I would wonder whether they're wearing something underneath that allows them to walk comfortably. And I would scratch my head when I prove they aren't. Hoooow?!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">So instead of suffering and wondering all the time, I decided to hit two birds with one stone and just start working out. I would lose weight, and I would get rid of thigh chafing in the process. Easy peasy!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One Day or Day One. Choose wisely!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Not. I knew the challenge was to KEEP WORKING OUT. Like many good habits I tried to form in the past (applying body lotion every night before sleeping, dry body brushing, eating healthy), I would end up pumped with adrenaline in the beginning, usually the first three days, then fizzle out by the fourth day. So this was my short-term goal: to keep going beyond day 4. I didn't know if I could do it, in fact I highly doubted it, but here I am 30 days later and I'm still at it!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I only exercised during the weekdays, so that's 5 times a week. There were a couple of days I missed so I made up for them by either doubling my workout the next day, or working out even on a Saturday. I also started slow. I searched for beginner workouts on YouTube, and did those that were 10 minutes or less. Gradually, I increased my time and the intensity of my workouts. Sometimes I would do a 10-min HIIT workout with 20 minutes of yoga. Or sometimes I would do a 5-min standing arm workout coupled with a 30-min Zumba session. When I couldn't do some of the movements, I would modify them, but I kept moving. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I love High Intensity Interval Workouts (HIIT). According to <a href="http://www.shape.com/fitness/workouts/8-benefits-high-intensity-interval-training-hiit" target="_blank">Shape Magazine,</a> HIIT refers to any "workout that alternates between intense bursts of activity and fixed periods of less-intense activity or even complete rest." Most of these workouts involve cardio exercises, so it will get you sweating in no time. These workouts are best for people who love to say they don't have time to exercise. HIIT workouts are fast, convenient, and there are no equipment necessary. Best of all, they work. Researches have shown that short HIIT workouts are better than spending an hour at the treadmill. If you're really pressed for time, you can even <a href="http://www.shape.com/fitness/cardio/10-new-fat-blasting-tabata-workouts" target="_blank">work out for 4 minutes using the Tabata protocol!</a></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Now I will start to introduce weight training to my routine as well. This is to tone my muscle and also help in burning fat. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">There's a saying that motivation is what gets you started and habit is what keeps you going. That proved true for me. I had my why, and I kept going because eventually my body became used to working out, and my mind became conditioned to include a workout for a complete weekday. But I also learned the importance of having rest days and listening to your body. I skipped a workout once because I lacked sleep and knew not to push myself. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">I weighed myself when I started and also measured my waist, hips, and thighs. I was told sometimes you'd see no weight loss but find it on the tape measure. Thirty days in, my progress is slow but sure. I lost four pounds, one inch each on my waist and hips, and half an inch on my right thigh. I am satisfied with my progress but also know I can do more. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">How? By eating better. I admit I had a hard time saying no to carbs and fast food and my kind of sweets (a.k.a. cakes and pastries). I saw the difference when I substituted rice with kamote for dinner for a week. I lost two pounds. Then I gained them back the following week. I also plateaued by week 4. Are you working out and not losing weight too? <a href="http://www.health.com/fitness/working-out-and-still-not-losing-weight-here-are-7-reasons-why?utm_campaign=time&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_medium=social&xid=time_socialflow_twitter" target="_blank">This article</a> provides possible reasons why.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">What was my biggest surprise during the last 30 days? I discovered I could hold a plank longer than I thought! One day I took a video of myself planking and was ready to stop at 20 seconds. I always found it hard to hold a plank, my body shakes and my body just gives up. But that day, I was shocked I held it for 45 seconds! I know, it's still under a minute, but if you knew how physically weak I am, that's a big achievement. So I slowly kept increasing my time after that and I am now up to the minute mark. One day I will do two minutes, just watch me!</span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw2mE70mV-9RrxP92I8D_Dm86YWGXd79nako4K5ss1-b4CjRTCvIJYhzHrbrwTb693qns61YKN6E6rnKXGb6w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I don't know why my site cut the video to under 45 seconds. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">Here are three workouts that I find most effective. I am so happy for discovering free workouts, because paying for a gym membership is way low on my priorities. I also love that these workouts involve the barest of equipment (just a mat!), and can be done anywhere. </span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1_peyd-40Hk/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1_peyd-40Hk?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">This video is from the Emi Wong's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvGEK5_U-kLgO6-AMDPeTUQ" target="_blank">StayFitandTravel Youtube Channel</a>. This is what I did on my first day of working out and it was perfect. I ended up subscribing to her channel. I love her workouts because I feel the burn and sweat starts dripping on my mat a few minutes in. Most of her workouts also require no equipment and she modifies them for beginners. It helps whenever she says "I know it's hard but remember, I am doing it with you. No pain no gain!" Haha. It's true though. Pain means it's working!</span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zCMqMZcav3Y/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zCMqMZcav3Y?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">I discovered <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2sXkXBWd51cpk_5nyUha2w" target="_blank">Tracy Campoli's workouts</a> when I searched "standing arm workout no equipment" on YouTube. That's really my main criteria, so I'll have no excuse not to do them. You can do this while watching your favorite KDrama, while waiting for your dinner to cook, even at the office when you're itching to get out of your cubicle. Work those arms instead of stressing out on your deadline!</span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ZRS0Lvi1OPY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZRS0Lvi1OPY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">And finally, this one's for my thighs! Ooh when I did this workout I was so sore the next day. But I loved it. It's from the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBINFWq52ShSgUFEoynfSwg" target="_blank">POPSUGAR Fitness</a> YouTube channel. They have short-but-effective sets. One of my favorites also is this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRq7XtDW0wg" target="_blank">5-Minute Standing Flat Belly Workout. </a></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">I made my Instagram stories the daily repository of my fitness journey. That way there's some sort of accountability to stay focused and not get lazy. <a href="http://instagram.com/romyisagirl" target="_blank">Follow me</a> for video recs and hopefully meal planning in the future too!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">Do you have fitness and workout tips for me? Leave them in the comments and let's work out together!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></span>romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-43738426456040010872017-08-09T11:30:00.000+08:002017-08-09T11:30:15.276+08:00Wedding Supplier Review: Preps at Oakwood Premier Joy~Nostalg Center ManilaThis is a long read, but hopefully it will help you in your search for a good hotel for your wedding (or other event) preparations.<br />
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When I was researching for a good hotel to hold our preparations for the wedding day, I was looking for one with big rooms, affordable rates, good natural lighting, and one that was not strict with the number of people and outside food coming in. My search led me to Oakwood Premier Joy~Nostalg Center Manila in Ortigas. It received a lot of good reviews with former brides. Later on, another plus point was that they didn't have extra charges for shooting within their hotel premises. I remember during my brother's wedding, we had to do a guerrilla shoot on our way to church because the hotel only permitted shoots when the reception would be done there. Others charge exorbitant fees and don't even allow aerial drones.<br />
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The one concern with Oakwood was it was far from our church, the INC locale of San Francisco in Del Monte Avenue, Quezon City. But when I learned that my on-the-day coordinator handled a wedding with hotel preps in Oakwood and an even further church in the INC locale of Capitol (Commonwealth Avenue), I became confident that we could do it. This was more because I trusted my OTD.<br />
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We initially booked two rooms in November, two one-bedroom suites for me and for Jay who will stay with his family. Later on, I thought Jay needed his own room so he can relax during his last night as a single man (hehe) and in the morning the room needed to be clean for the photo and video shoot. He was going to stay with three women in the other one-bedroom suite and I knew there'd be a lot of things there. So in January we booked another studio for Jay. We got this at a higher rate so my first tip is to book as early as possible, because the nearer you are to your wedding date, chances are the rates will be higher.<br />
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We booked my room for three nights, my in-laws' room for two nights, and Jay's room for one night. The day before the wedding was our check-in. We arrived late and since I had my wedding gown delivered to the hotel, the wedding gown arrived before us. I just called the concierge and asked them to receive it for me. When we arrived, it was at the lobby but it was arranged in an orderly manner, the gown in the mannequin was on a hotel trolley and the skirt part was covered with a black trash bin bag.<br />
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During the booking I indicated that the rooms will be used for a wedding so when we arrived at my room, there was a cake with "Congratulations!" written on top. That was a sweet gesture. I also said if it was possible for them to give us a room at the side facing Podium so we can have as much natural light as possible. It wasn't followed, but my room had big windows on two sides so we were still able to maximize the natural light.<br />
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We got married on April 7, and that was the time Oakwood introduced the one-time cleaning charge when a room will be used for weddings, functions, and other events. These were the rates:<br />
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Studio - Php2,000<br />
1 Bedroom - Php2,500<br />
2 Bedroom - Php4,000<br />
3 Bedroom - 5,000<br />
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They were also charging Php200 per extra person, and Php50 per piece of extra luggage per guest (only 2pcs per guest allowed).<br />
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I was surprised. At the time of our booking these charges weren't implemented yet, and though I know it's the hotel's prerogative to change their rules, I thought it would have been proper to inform their clients especially since we indicated we were going to use our rooms for wedding preps. The receptionist I spoke to these charges were open to negotation, so I said we were only going to use one room for the preps, my room. So they had me sign the waiver (photo below) and charged us for one room only. As for the Php200 per extra person, we weren't charged for any extra persons during the wedding day. I'll discuss the extra luggage charge in the latter part of my review.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwN2-fvOuwiU1VDDFr15eGyPG6KjiTe4ctAGMgxKDQDrJnr9no6nkmL5w4JRXMqLi7uZuAzCcO-GC5c93oJhCzT_TVLA2sV8tqtKfP1I5xvPEDHo_utxADnerorve7P5LXGr5e8RBA9KFp/s1600/IMG_8817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwN2-fvOuwiU1VDDFr15eGyPG6KjiTe4ctAGMgxKDQDrJnr9no6nkmL5w4JRXMqLi7uZuAzCcO-GC5c93oJhCzT_TVLA2sV8tqtKfP1I5xvPEDHo_utxADnerorve7P5LXGr5e8RBA9KFp/s640/IMG_8817.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The night before our wedding, our florist delivered our entourage flowers. This was a surprise to me as this was not what we agreed upon. She just told me they were at the hotel lobby already after the fact. We were at the church for our wedding rehearsal so I wasn't able to do anything about it anymore. When we arrived, I was informed that they brought the flowers up to my room already. I appreciated that effort from them.<br />
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Our rooms were indeed spacious, Oakwood is a serviced-apartment more than a hotel, so we had a working kitchen complete with stove, ref, microwave, cutlery, plates, even a dishwasher. We also had a washing machine in our rooms.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgduLC4x2qUhQmMvL-SWGuILabs-x0S9J5dlEnuYeJdcrx261gPiigzMbxrHCi0gHkU4TcdBl2jMG1g5blOyuQaNGkP0x4KX8Y5C1cCtNi5xshX9pC-pI5VoHY0X34wmiet6D9ib00yQZIb/s1600/Ronald-Romy-8863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgduLC4x2qUhQmMvL-SWGuILabs-x0S9J5dlEnuYeJdcrx261gPiigzMbxrHCi0gHkU4TcdBl2jMG1g5blOyuQaNGkP0x4KX8Y5C1cCtNi5xshX9pC-pI5VoHY0X34wmiet6D9ib00yQZIb/s640/Ronald-Romy-8863.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigb_aAQKW5htV8ZryLPaeNMy8hB71Rf4aKH2o1bQB3uKu3pT0xHk2CgDPiBQACPQEsUPtT613vktzsoK_NETDxusZNFv8LbKFN0k3LT-zy-RFYtErDfHlCPn9PSj1Xoc9l7BdsWxXcWcvw/s1600/Ronald-Romy-8702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigb_aAQKW5htV8ZryLPaeNMy8hB71Rf4aKH2o1bQB3uKu3pT0xHk2CgDPiBQACPQEsUPtT613vktzsoK_NETDxusZNFv8LbKFN0k3LT-zy-RFYtErDfHlCPn9PSj1Xoc9l7BdsWxXcWcvw/s640/Ronald-Romy-8702.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Come wedding day, all of my suppliers, entourage, and other family members were able to move freely in my room. Since it's a one-bedroom suite, the living area is separated from the bedroom. My entourage HMUA set-up in the living room, while my own HMUA set up at the bedroom. Oakwood gave us keys that had access to the floors of the three rooms so our suppliers (coordinator, photo, and video) were able to transfer conveniently. Food deliveries were also allowed, provided we will meet them at the lobby and bring the food up ourselves. This was taken care of by our coordinator.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkgDQRLRNl0l4ngq95NxiGKiED0FCVRuP9Bb4vj-U8FwkvPlghv6PtRO9z4qllCwnIFJfHPVEiY8X48GxNaUXvqKn-NW6Rycyj_3ScTylEfTFSQ9G-8XHZ8IHTvmOUkRvymc5_rHxhva1/s1600/IMG_8818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkgDQRLRNl0l4ngq95NxiGKiED0FCVRuP9Bb4vj-U8FwkvPlghv6PtRO9z4qllCwnIFJfHPVEiY8X48GxNaUXvqKn-NW6Rycyj_3ScTylEfTFSQ9G-8XHZ8IHTvmOUkRvymc5_rHxhva1/s640/IMG_8818.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo was taken by my cousin. Oakwood really has spacious rooms.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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During the preps my rooms had a ceiling leak. The area near the closets and bathroom was leaking. It was tolerable at first, until it became big and the carpet was soaking wet. My bridesmaids were having a hard time moving from the living area to the bathroom to fix themselves. I heard my bridal assistant (I was being made up then) calling housekeeping (or whatever department handles this) about it. She called several times, up until we were about to leave the hotel, but I didn't see any officer from the hotel check the room. I have a vague memory of a maintenance personnel checking it, but what my bridal assistant told me was that they wouldn't be able to fix the leak at that time. So before we left, my coordinator told me the arrangement was that we'll just transfer to another room when we get back from the wedding (because we still had a lot of stuff in the room).<br />
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<tr> <td><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEt1RNzB340HNsXKzfTnKlfEu96_peymH98xITt3RBQrjE37W3oMnItD-mh8Rk0-W3mOCO7AePPGBp9JS6Xc8sO1ND8FWUthA1idcDp-IbpXh5KKO105vCjY4-_Qi6lSa-CDqOw2RRz1w/s1600/Ronald-Romy-1728.jpg" width="425" /></td> <td><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJFrWk4gEO34W35jb4-Av68Ci_iQ1tMZfUQQEvuLWGyUc-5i0-2xq149PkHvZPW47mGW2lInOZBnAqbb3FwYcmKKvvWr_SZAcH41NcjTeZ3tw32874u8q0MEhRp9DOp0gGmNYq2F5C5Hz_/s1600/Ronald-Romy-8681.jpg" width="425" /></td> </tr>
</tbody></table>
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After everybody finished their lunch (we ordered from Amber), my coordinators did a good job of cleaning everything up. Even the bed was fixed, so I thought there was really no need for the one-time cleaning fee. I understand there might have been former clients who trashed their rooms (probably had poppers/confetti or spilled champagne and what not during their video shoots), but they should check for damage AFTER the event and then assess whether to charge the fee.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRMBHtq0Dj1CHd3NefnDTObgIU15okNBClEq4GLt2HjxuIblHB7MiIM5U0rAV-766F3voN3NuVxKNTWA3t2k7eb7Rorvywi2N-AiXKxa3zOkKGWpKfmNnbLXPMzMwll0poivBc46E1zR-G/s1600/Ronald-Romy-8436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRMBHtq0Dj1CHd3NefnDTObgIU15okNBClEq4GLt2HjxuIblHB7MiIM5U0rAV-766F3voN3NuVxKNTWA3t2k7eb7Rorvywi2N-AiXKxa3zOkKGWpKfmNnbLXPMzMwll0poivBc46E1zR-G/s640/Ronald-Romy-8436.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After our wedding, we returned to Oakwood and that was when we transferred to another room. The leak still hadn't been fixed. There was just a bucket under the ceiling where it was leaking. My coordinator also informed me that they were being charged the Php50 per luggage fee, and they weren't allowed to use the trolley to bring the things from the wedding back to our room.<br />
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Since my coord didn't want us to incur any more charges, they brought the things up on their own. This didn't sit well with me because I was a paying customer, I was checked in for three nights, and technically, those were still my things. The luggage fee were only applicable to the wedding suppliers who would bring stuff up during the shoot.<br />
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But at that time I was so tired from everything that I just made a note to discuss it upon checkout.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4Td1S6SUYfYEvwNKgNmPGZ8Yq1KN1FTg6JjsIw_C-G3hZs5Sg2geLN_FmHLnUd3yjcZ1F_2W4XhOiOhNEaODdL9y1muPCm7y8apSyKWRhYy4QhWHDWMyASfLAr83mmGBqTLG6xhOR0CI/s1600/Ronald-Romy-8324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4Td1S6SUYfYEvwNKgNmPGZ8Yq1KN1FTg6JjsIw_C-G3hZs5Sg2geLN_FmHLnUd3yjcZ1F_2W4XhOiOhNEaODdL9y1muPCm7y8apSyKWRhYy4QhWHDWMyASfLAr83mmGBqTLG6xhOR0CI/s640/Ronald-Romy-8324.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPSI0gOzwBeDY7zr8PQbq-9xv33ZXcFBykzSeGviDwNZcNGgi5B2ppC_pGOMUXvmZKS0oQ22Y0BTacDm8zeOyyY5dqSpX7LbWbnElBMxkNs0ZAbTklGv0t-3BKy4560hHBCmRCwM52rHg/s1600/Ronald-Romy-9233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPSI0gOzwBeDY7zr8PQbq-9xv33ZXcFBykzSeGviDwNZcNGgi5B2ppC_pGOMUXvmZKS0oQ22Y0BTacDm8zeOyyY5dqSpX7LbWbnElBMxkNs0ZAbTklGv0t-3BKy4560hHBCmRCwM52rHg/s640/Ronald-Romy-9233.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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When we were about to check out, I discussed with the receptionist all of my concerns. I told her the one-time cleaning fee should be a case-to-case basis. I also asked her why no one was able to fix the leak in our room. It caused so much hassle to everyone. We discussed all of this in a hurry because Jay and I still needed to buy something at SM. So I settled our bill and we left our stuff at the concierge first.<br />
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But everything was still bothering me, and I also asked my friend who's a manager at Manila Pen if they were charging a fee for rooms booked for wedding preps. She said no. So after we returned from SM I asked if I could speak to the manager on duty at Oakwood. It took a while, but I waited. When I spoke to the manager, I expressed my disappointment in a very cordial way. I did it out of concern, really, because Oakwood has a good reputation and good standing as a venue for wedding preps. I told him how no one even apologized for the leak, how no one assisted my coords for our stuff when I was still checked in (for two more nights). I said, "What if I was a guest and I shopped really hard and came home with dozens of bags, would you charge me for them?" He apologized for this and said it shouldn't have happened.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJa02lj4gvk0vjpGGxk0vQGXdVgYgb1FK-RkcNo1Ceq44NFTjb8E9ja_QEDs8k3D5y24h6W3czX-GtY1nz7pALXBti1vOz5-bEqVDKnzcMksrWjxaAUjIDqmbHbKr5AQJt0TqJSmzvB6il/s1600/Ronald-Romy-2076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJa02lj4gvk0vjpGGxk0vQGXdVgYgb1FK-RkcNo1Ceq44NFTjb8E9ja_QEDs8k3D5y24h6W3czX-GtY1nz7pALXBti1vOz5-bEqVDKnzcMksrWjxaAUjIDqmbHbKr5AQJt0TqJSmzvB6il/s640/Ronald-Romy-2076.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The ending was, our one-time cleaning charge was waived. But I think this was more because my room had a leak. If it didn't have a leak, I don't think they would have waived it. Still, I'm thankful that the manager was very receptive to my feedback and he handled my concerns well (which is more than I can say for the receptionist).<br />
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This happened in April, and in the wedding group I joined, someone took the initiative to contact Oakwood. It was resolved that everyone who made a booking before April 1 would have their cleaning charges waived. But after that, the charges would apply.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitW5A7gtPKqsx1EIlqsC1aRkUvVfimr4y63jXZ1Y_zjIVcJ5Yt-TJDAMNvYovDD3k7kHhVqLhof0088XCaC7tjQ-Kwh05QLDXIMLc4JeMnHkpu_xXJBwv9jIGP_pQvkMkE2Q5Y4hnR3czY/s1600/Ronald-Romy-9161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitW5A7gtPKqsx1EIlqsC1aRkUvVfimr4y63jXZ1Y_zjIVcJ5Yt-TJDAMNvYovDD3k7kHhVqLhof0088XCaC7tjQ-Kwh05QLDXIMLc4JeMnHkpu_xXJBwv9jIGP_pQvkMkE2Q5Y4hnR3czY/s640/Ronald-Romy-9161.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b><u>TIPS:</u></b><br />
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1. Check the rates at booking sites like Agoda or Booking.com. We booked through Agoda and their rates were much lower than what Oakwood gave us. Book as early as possible.<br />
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2. If you want to further save on cost, book rooms without breakfast included. Since Oakwood is not strict with outside food, you can order fast food delivery, or you can also cook in the functional kitchen.<br />
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3. Look for a hotel that has a lot of areas you can use for your photo and video shoot. Oakwood didn't have a lot of these. You can only shoot in the rooms, hallways, lobby and outside the hotel. But what I love about Oakwood's rooms are the huge windows and abundance of natural light.<br />
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4. Clarify with your hotel first about extra charges, and read your booking contract until the fine print. So you'll have something to back you up in case you will contest charges that come up during check in or check out.<br />
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5. If you'll still go for Oakwood, ask your suppliers to bring their own trolleys, or ask your coordinator to help them.<br />
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6. Talk to hotel management cordially. Let them know about your side, and if it's possible to have a workaround with your concerns. I believe everything can be fixed when we don't let out heightened emotions get in the way. At the same time, be firm with your stand.<br />
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Supplier Contact Details:<br />
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<b><u>Oakwood Premier Joy~Nostalg Center Manila</u></b><br />
17 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City 1600<br />
Telephone numbers: (632) 637-7786 / (632) 910-8888<br />
Email: premiermanila@oakwoodasia.com<br />
Website: <a href="http://www.oakwoodpremiermanila.com/">www.oakwoodpremiermanila.com</a><br />
<br />romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-4185378078873281832017-08-02T14:43:00.000+08:002017-08-07T11:43:22.909+08:00Wedding Supplier Review: Our Wedding Rings by Tolosa's JewelryYou will be wearing your wedding rings your whole life so it is important to invest in them. They can still be within your budget, but make sure you research on reputable suppliers that do quality work. I've read a lot of problematic vendors who don't follow what's in the contract and create a lot of headaches for brides and grooms. I'm happy that our chosen jeweler was hassle- and stress-free.<br />
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Tolosa's Jewelry is owned by my bother's high school friend Kris. His family has been in the jewelry business for many years and they have a shop in Sta. Mesa, Manila. But because I already sent Kris the designs I wanted via FB Messenger, we didn't have to go to their shop. We just met in QC to discuss the details. I sent him three designs we were choosing from, and then he sent me price quotations for each pair. Jay and I discussed and decided on a design that was both beautiful but also within our budget. Our bands were made in 18k white gold and smooth finish, only mine had 5 pieces of small round-cut diamonds. Jay's band was also thicker since it's for men.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLA9HOdlIjYa_JKtVnbtiJ-SD3TTrZRwoa-0DMwR8cfqnsMFERTYcpeQNjU_LkXLy_sKRp-ZND35JB1ij9ymFFX28f4QpUfU8MctUVoSoOqp3D0bU2SuDChNEbYRLX6Yvvv9mtRs1_xLnb/s1600/Ronald-Romy-1266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLA9HOdlIjYa_JKtVnbtiJ-SD3TTrZRwoa-0DMwR8cfqnsMFERTYcpeQNjU_LkXLy_sKRp-ZND35JB1ij9ymFFX28f4QpUfU8MctUVoSoOqp3D0bU2SuDChNEbYRLX6Yvvv9mtRs1_xLnb/s640/Ronald-Romy-1266.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI6VQbPLvQ53_W18S4YK4tKkb2ZFErs2V7Ohk0j0Z8M4XUuqoFS1MTSbiwJzN_lr25su1IJ41AF6n1qP_rg9qM3UVg66K50nqRcJLO9DxTovCYN0ktXb8FefI1oxbz6jabnAtZAofv3uXw/s1600/Ronald-Romy-1339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI6VQbPLvQ53_W18S4YK4tKkb2ZFErs2V7Ohk0j0Z8M4XUuqoFS1MTSbiwJzN_lr25su1IJ41AF6n1qP_rg9qM3UVg66K50nqRcJLO9DxTovCYN0ktXb8FefI1oxbz6jabnAtZAofv3uXw/s640/Ronald-Romy-1339.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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This is one important tip I'd like to give brides out there. Discuss with your jeweler the thickness of your band. When Kris asked me whether I'd want my band to be the same width as the diamonds, I said yes. Of course I had imagined something similar to the photos I sent him, but you know, photos can be deceiving hehe. So when we got the rings, I was initially surprised that my ring was thinner than I imagined. BUT! Eventually I found it to be perfect because it went well with my engagement ring. If my wedding band was thicker, I'd be too hesitant to wear my two rings together because they'd look too much, too over-the-top for my taste. But with the thinner wedding band, my two rings together now look just right.<br />
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Here's how they look like when worn together:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQPBIUe5LJXMF6BILsDyru_LQDcDnrQzP13XcfkTYg0nMBHdD5lGbmK2e1PRv4tCLowutgURJbjz-0CLZxKQas2Q0CT0nFHbQaFgdkyLTv8r6DdJ6JSs7-H3Jsk-boKCUpgtWx3_aCqau/s1600/IMG_8779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQPBIUe5LJXMF6BILsDyru_LQDcDnrQzP13XcfkTYg0nMBHdD5lGbmK2e1PRv4tCLowutgURJbjz-0CLZxKQas2Q0CT0nFHbQaFgdkyLTv8r6DdJ6JSs7-H3Jsk-boKCUpgtWx3_aCqau/s640/IMG_8779.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my Instagram post after trying out the Happy Skin nail polish that's why the bottle is included in the pic. Hehe!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Still, it would be wise to discuss specifics with your jeweler. I don't care much about jewelry and I trusted Kris so I didn't have that many questions. I knew they would deliver and they did! A week after our first meeting, our wedding rings were finished. Kris also said they can do rush production of wedding rings (as in two days!), but those are usually for simple wedding bands.<br />
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We got a good discount from Tolosa's Jewelry, and they also threw in free engraving for us. :) I think it's just manual engraving, so you might want to check their output first if you're looking for a machine-style engraving.<br />
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We made a down payment during our first meeting and paid the rest once we got the rings.<br />
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<b><u>TIPS:</u></b><br />
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1. Know your ring size. Kris brought as measuring device with him so it'll be accurate. He also suggested we meet near our wedding date since there are instances when the bride and groom would lose/gain weight, and the finger size would be affected. He also advised to get a size that's not too exact, to give way to future pregnancies for the bride. Not to worry because if you have a ring that's a bit lose, you can do this hack! You know those colorful rubber cords you wrap around your phone charger so it doesn't get destroyed? Cut a couple of loops of the cord, wrap it around your ring, and it'll be snug as a bug on your finger! I've seen a lot of brides do this trick.<br />
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2. Discuss the band thickness and the diamond sizes.<br />
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3. Check if you're allergic to certain metals. This will save you time and money! Some people are allergic to nickel, et al. and it will be sad if you won't be able to wear your wedding ring, or if you have to replace it.<br />
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Click on the link below if you want to inquire about your wedding rings or your other jewelry needs. Happy preps!<br />
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Supplier Contact Details:<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TolosaJewelry" target="_blank">Tolosa's Jewelry Facebook Page</a><br />
<br />romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-135050131091988302017-07-05T11:12:00.000+08:002017-08-07T11:42:33.863+08:00Wedding Supplier Review: Our Invitations by Yanna's Printshop<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12.8px;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9ZQZ_agVTl6dYRkkORBowSLeFj08xGrrKdKV3lhGJ7ZYwPAL8ZC-coHDMVpkuFKBoql9O4jP8LimKyhvqxSCTmeOCknOkWAgd9Ob-xMDmKowFvkYftgciLnwfzqiaF_W9hankK9kkxjc/s1600/Ronald-Romy-1057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9ZQZ_agVTl6dYRkkORBowSLeFj08xGrrKdKV3lhGJ7ZYwPAL8ZC-coHDMVpkuFKBoql9O4jP8LimKyhvqxSCTmeOCknOkWAgd9Ob-xMDmKowFvkYftgciLnwfzqiaF_W9hankK9kkxjc/s640/Ronald-Romy-1057.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1">Yanna's Printshop is a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/WaWieGroup/" target="_blank">Weddings at Work</a> find. I read positive reviews from previous clients and searched for them during the <a href="http://www.themesnmotifs.com/" target="_blank">Themes & Motifs</a> bridal fair. Jay and I also looked at other invitation suppliers (including ones at other fairs), checked out their designs, and decided on booking Yanna's because of their price points and quality of work. Since we booked them at the fair, we got a 10% discount.<span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's the breakdown of our order:</span></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">80 sets of invitations at Php76.50/set</span></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 pages of 6 x 8 inserts</span></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 envelope</span></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Free gold foil of bride & groom's names on first insert</span></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Free gold foil or embossing on envelope flap</span></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Total: Php 6,120</span></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We made a Php1,000 deposit at the fair. The person we talked to, Aldrin, wrote his contact number on the receipt and also gave us their calling card. He was also the one who did our layout and was our contact person throughout our transaction.<span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Because we were overwhelmed with all the designs at the bridal fair, Jay and I went to their shop in Recto, Manila so we could choose at our own pace. After taking photos of several designs, Jay and I decided on combining the elements and then I made a detailed guide (photos with markings, comments, and instructions) which I emailed to Aldrin.<span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwWL8G6Nz1XrVzgN8euq7pAWdUryU6ZA1f_l7w3McaWlQTxakMRQxrUo-OpAaDc0stegvai2fONvQR_7vTa4uEqHLv0hTvNP6HWN_cpsx-efCx0OYU1N_HgwEr3SHMCClHEBHAwMTbhvZ/s1600/Ronald-Romy-1101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwWL8G6Nz1XrVzgN8euq7pAWdUryU6ZA1f_l7w3McaWlQTxakMRQxrUo-OpAaDc0stegvai2fONvQR_7vTa4uEqHLv0hTvNP6HWN_cpsx-efCx0OYU1N_HgwEr3SHMCClHEBHAwMTbhvZ/s640/Ronald-Romy-1101.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had about 4 revisions, and during this time I needed to constantly remind Aldrin that I sent my reply already, texting and calling him to confirm if he had received it. Turnover was just right, and he would clarify things when needed. For example, I wanted our map to be rendered in water color which I had seen in one of their designs, but he said that was provided by the client.<span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM31ZbPaShnkING2hw4dQIEC_GhmDCj9TyXiZxF4LsmVXZ0KqbAeDTdsFOImAFyloYMNblG2FWbLNsyLdC2bkSaZMJmoadnNEdngCW3AKOnA870CQyQSehJ6t6gBufqeMaFih0Jgh2iQmv/s1600/Ronald-Romy-1070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM31ZbPaShnkING2hw4dQIEC_GhmDCj9TyXiZxF4LsmVXZ0KqbAeDTdsFOImAFyloYMNblG2FWbLNsyLdC2bkSaZMJmoadnNEdngCW3AKOnA870CQyQSehJ6t6gBufqeMaFih0Jgh2iQmv/s640/Ronald-Romy-1070.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the envelope flap, we chose the embossed option instead of the gold foil. It's one of my favorite things about our invitation! I provided the monogram made by my friend.<span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space"> It can't be seen clearly on the photo below, but under the monogram is our wedding date.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHAbzNJcdAh39M02JAdpwD6K-neXp4t25RbQBjTOEwWEMfmVobSjb_9ngHsEilqbRjAxLkmYD5UYRmNdKeqzonVe9_dHktpiarfiDr_WUeVXO0QzwXSmdPahuGDBRKAcmviJpF3qZyynn/s1600/Ronald-Romy-1038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHAbzNJcdAh39M02JAdpwD6K-neXp4t25RbQBjTOEwWEMfmVobSjb_9ngHsEilqbRjAxLkmYD5UYRmNdKeqzonVe9_dHktpiarfiDr_WUeVXO0QzwXSmdPahuGDBRKAcmviJpF3qZyynn/s640/Ronald-Romy-1038.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They printed a mock-up (not including the embossed envelope) and we went back to Recto to check it out. After giving our go signal, we waited the standard 10 days for their printing. We got them on time, choosing to pick them up rather than having them couriered to us.<span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHxefr9l5oOAJ7IndZnBQeDMZ4WDfP-2qNd4hoWM0xtZkXhmZupDawPUgXSfih_ernXGs6S8dh5pJo4OI8opa9uK26zPO3prrtAQHVNVeGBmaJyiVWHhy_8GH_t8frTLFSb-9koo0i3jhI/s1600/Ronald-Romy-1085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHxefr9l5oOAJ7IndZnBQeDMZ4WDfP-2qNd4hoWM0xtZkXhmZupDawPUgXSfih_ernXGs6S8dh5pJo4OI8opa9uK26zPO3prrtAQHVNVeGBmaJyiVWHhy_8GH_t8frTLFSb-9koo0i3jhI/s640/Ronald-Romy-1085.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="m_930984711821903859s1" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They gave us three extra copies, and each invitation set actually came with jute strings, which would've been perfect with our rustic theme. TWhen you open the envelope, the inserts would've been tied with the jute strings. However, we thought this would require much effort for the guests, so we did away with them. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgL1mIfJc0dd4UffjgVRVIrqWAWb5CgysDf0UztrIGhf3eUyRRCwMNuU8W3gXy9vc0fBxPFzq7sehSgyTZrlnReINz1S5Fondbu-Jngsdi_bt8g2AGVjk9e4q0OYWmdgY4kTsBeC90D-4/s1600/Ronald-Romy-1103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgL1mIfJc0dd4UffjgVRVIrqWAWb5CgysDf0UztrIGhf3eUyRRCwMNuU8W3gXy9vc0fBxPFzq7sehSgyTZrlnReINz1S5Fondbu-Jngsdi_bt8g2AGVjk9e4q0OYWmdgY4kTsBeC90D-4/s640/Ronald-Romy-1103.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="m_930984711821903859s1"></span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I'd say our transaction with Yanna's Print Shop was fast and relatively hassle-free. We started on </span><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_312882867" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); font-size: 12.8px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">January 30</span></span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> and finalized the layout by </span><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_312882868" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); font-size: 12.8px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">February 20</span></span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">, and got our printed invites on </span><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_312882869" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); font-size: 12.8px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">March 5</span></span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">.</span><span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></span><br />
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<span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;">I would highly recommend Yanna's Printshop for your invitation needs. Reasonable prices, a wide variety of designs, plus good output.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">TIPS:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">1. As much as possible, check out their designs at the bridal fair to remove the hassle of going to their shop in Recto. Take photos of the designs you like and just choose later on.</span><span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">2. If you decide to visit their shop, take the LRT for convenience. The shop is very near the LRT Recto station, it's across the Isetann mall.</span><span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> Call ahead because they might be attending a bridal fair so the clear book with their designs, along with actual mock-ups, won't be there. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">3. Be very specific with your instructions. Use photo apps with text, Photoshop, or even Power Point so the layout artist can follow your specifications to the letter. This would help minimize the revisions.</span><span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></span><br />
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<span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;">4. You don't have to print copies for each of your guests. We had about 180 persons in our guest lists and only had 80 hard copies printed. Most of them belong to one family, while several were from overseas. There were also a lot who favored a soft copy rather than a hard one. I'd say reserve the hard copies for your principal sponsors and family members. Make a Facebook event page for majority of your guests. </span></span><br />
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<span class="m_930984711821903859Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Invitations are nice to have's. If you have the budget, then splurge on it. Some people hire calligaphers and graphic artists to create a custom suite. Brides on a budget opt for DIY invites. It's up to you to decide which part of the spectrum you belong. Just don't dwell too much on it, because, let's be real, most people just throw away the invites after the wedding. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Supplier Contact Details: </span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yanna's Printshop</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Address: 1755 C.M. Recto, Manila</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Contact Numbers: +639493797028 / +63<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">9480934151 (Aldrin) / +63</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">2-5211156 / +632-8061905</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Invitations-by-Yannas-Printshop-137409906337246/" target="_blank">Invitations by Yanna's Printshop</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Website: <a href="http://www.yannasprintshop.com/" target="_blank">www.yannasprintshop.com </a></span></div>
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romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-79276169989410150442017-06-20T11:30:00.000+08:002017-06-20T13:39:39.145+08:003 Cooking Tips for Beginners + An Easy Recipe!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Don't you hate it when you check a recipe and they neglect to tell you something important? I still consider myself a beginner home cook but I'm trying to change that now that I'm a newly-minted wife. I've collected hundreds of recipes and cook books over the years but it's only now that I get to use them every day, as opposed to when I was still single and I would only cook when I felt like it.<br />
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The problem I find with some recipes is they assume that you're already an experienced cook and they forget to tell you something important that needs to be done in between the steps. For example, this may seem like common knowledge and automatic to a lot of cooks, but when using Baguio beans or green beans, did you know that you have to remove the strings on the sides? Yes, because if you don't it's highly likely they'd end up stuck in between your teeth. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i69T1Qaurb8" target="_blank">Here's a video</a> of a grandpa teaching us a fast way to string green beans!<br />
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Here are three other cooking tips you won't normally see on recipes:<br />
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1. When cooking paksiw or adobo, don't stir it immediately after adding the vinegar. Let it boil or reboil, and after that you can stir the pot. This is so the vinegar can cook properly, and it won't taste acidic or uncooked. In Filipino, it won't be <i>"hilaw." </i><br />
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<i>2. </i>When choosing okra for your sinigang or pinakbet, try to see if you can easily snap the tip. That's how to tell if they're still fresh aside from their bright green color. I once bought old okra and it was tough once cooked. :( Now I always remember to check my okra before I buy.<br />
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<b>EXTRA TIP: </b>It's better to buy in the market if there's one near you. The price is lower, and if you get there early enough, you get fresher veggies!<br />
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3. Tinola spoils easily. I don't know why since it doesn't have tomatoes or dairy in it (hit the comments if you know the reason!). Once you see bubbles, it's a bad sign. So either you cook it in small batches you can finish immediately, or always remember to store it properly in the fridge once it cools after cooking. When reheating, only reheat enough portion you can finish because the hot and cold temp also hastens its spoilage.<br />
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And now for an easy peasy recipe you can cook in 30 minutes! I just made it this Sunday. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you worked overtime, have a deadline to beat, or still have some household chores to finish.<br />
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I got this <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/924838/chicken-and-broccoli-stir-fry" target="_blank">Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry recipe</a> from Martha Stewart's website, and I just tweaked some ingredients with what I have in our pantry. You can visit the link because there's also a step-by-step video there to really guide beginner cooks. I'm also putting the recipe here with my tweaks. Comments in parenthesis and NOTES are mine.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry</span></b><br />
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<u>INGREDIENTS</u><br />
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2 tablespoons soy sauce<br />
2 tablespoons rice vinegar (I used apple cider vinegar)<br />
2 tablespoons oyster sauce<br />
1 tablespoon cornstarch (I used 3 tablespoons of flour)<br />
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil<br />
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (this is for cooking, don't mix it with the sauce)<br />
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1/2-inch strips (I used chicken breast fillets)<br />
3 tablespoons minced peeled fresh ginger<br />
2 cloves garlic, minced<br />
2 scallions, thinly sliced<br />
1 bunch broccoli, cut into small florets, stalks peeled and thinly sliced 1<br />
Cooked white rice, for serving<br />
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<u>DIRECTIONS</u><br />
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1. Whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.<br />
<b>NOTE:</b> If you don't have cornstarch at home, you can use flour. I used 3 tbsps. of flour to substitute for 1 tbsp. of cornstarch. You just need to cook the sauce a little longer later on.<br />
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2. In a wok or large skillet (I used a large frying pan), heat vegetable oil over high. Add chicken and cook until browned for 10 minutes. Add ginger, garlic, scallions, and broccoli and cook, stirring frequently, until broccoli is bright green, for 3 minutes. (I forgot to buy scallions but that's fine!)<br />
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3. Add 1/4 cup water, scraping up browned bits with a wooden spoon.<br />
<b>NOTE:</b> Add more water if you'd like it to be saucier, like my husband does. It's great to mix with rice.<br />
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4. Stir in soy sauce mixture and cook, stirring until thickened, for 1 minute. Serve warm with rice.<br />
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You can always adjust the sauce according to your taste. Either add more water or oyster sauce depending on your preference.<br />
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Broccoli is one of my favorite vegetables! So crunchy, filling, and nutritious. It also has few calories since it's mostly water. :)</div>
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You can also cook this in a big batch since it reheats well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. </div>
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Do you have cooking tips you want to share? Do leave them in the comments below!</div>
<br />romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-50324108349442854022017-06-18T14:13:00.000+08:002017-06-18T14:20:55.781+08:00Remembering My Dad on Father's Day<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
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<span class="m_-6456497926346556415s1">My father died when I was 14 years old, and that meant he wasn't there to see me during my milestones: graduate high school, turn 18, get my college degree, publish my first story, and walk down the aisle.<span class="m_-6456497926346556415Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-6456497926346556415s1">Even though my Dad wasn't physically there, he didn't just fade into the background when he left. For those who have read my earliest blog posts back in college, I have always strived to keep my Dad's memory alive, and I'm fortunate he left us a deep well of memories to take from.<span class="m_-6456497926346556415Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-6456497926346556415s1">A few months before getting married, I ran into a financial problem brought about by another family member. I asked a friend for advice on whether I should fix it and reallocate a portion of my wedding funds. What she and her husband told me gave me pause, and made me grateful once again that even beyond his life, my Dad tried his best to protect and provide for us.<span class="m_-6456497926346556415Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-6456497926346556415s1">My friend and her husband said I have survived without that certain problem hanging over my head for years, and it was not something that needed immediate fixing. My wedding, however, only happens once. And aside from the celebrations, what we need to prepare for most is the marriage that would come after. She said my father would have loved the thought that he helped pay for my wedding. I also can't forget what her husband said, "As a father, I would love it if my kids are still feeling my love for them even long after I'm gone." And we do!</span></div>
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<span class="m_-6456497926346556415s1">On my wedding day, with no one from my immediate family present except for my younger sister, I still celebrated with a full and grateful heart. I had a locket with my Dad's picture tied to my bouquet, so I can say he was still with me when I walked down the aisle to my husband. But even without that memento, I am living proof that you can overcome so much with more than enough love from a parent.</span></div>
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<span class="m_-6456497926346556415s1">This Father's Day, as billions of children around the world celebrate and honor their father, I am happy albeit a bit wistful, that they get to spend more time with their first heroes. I can only wish them well, and tell you dear readers to let your fathers know how awesome they are while you still can!<span class="m_-6456497926346556415Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-34132609046976930732017-05-10T16:14:00.002+08:002017-05-10T19:28:04.195+08:00Wedding Supplier Review: Our Prenup Photo Shoot with Bob & Zab PhotographyI'm going to jump a few steps ahead of my Wedding Wednesday posts to tell you what happened behind the scenes of our prenup photo shoot in February.<br />
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I wrote this supplier review to help other brides-to be out there in their quest of finding their wedding photographers, and to determine if they should even proceed with having an engagement/prenup photo shoot.<br />
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I remember when my brother and I were talking many years ago, he told me that he didn't want to have a prenup photo shoot. He said he found it awkward to be posing in front of people he barely knows, and that a couple who already had a lot of photos together (especially ones from their travels) didn't need a photo shoot anymore. It would probably best for couple who haven't been together for long. At that time, prenup photo shoots weren't a staple at weddings yet, and finding a good prenup location was hard especially for city folk.<br />
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When Jay and I got engaged, I initially didn't want to have a prenup shoot either. We have been together a long time and have accumulated more than our fair share of photos, including ones of our local and international travels. But my main concern was the budget. I felt like it was an unnecessary expense.<br />
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But when we booked <a href="https://www.bobandzab.com/jay-and-romy" target="_blank">Bob & Zab Photography</a> as our wedding photographers, their package included a free engagement shoot. We got<a href="https://www.facebook.com/bobandzabphotography/photos/a.581306195340019.1073741828.579696328834339/824181214385848/?type=3&theater" target="_blank"> a really good deal</a> from them, and I began to warm towards the idea of having our prenup shoot.<br />
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There are five main things to consider when preparing for your prenup shoot aside from your photographers:<br />
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1. Shoot Location<br />
2. Hair & Makeup<br />
3. Outfits<br />
4. Props/Styling<br />
5. Food & Transportation<br />
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If you add all those costs, they can really put a dent on your budget. So I had to make sure we can pull off a shoot without shelling out too much. Fortunately, my good friend and groomsman's family farm in Tanay, Rizal was a great location for our shoot. We didn't really have a theme in mind yet, our photographers just suggested an outdoor shoot and preferably with lots of greenery to blend with their light and vibrant style. After doing an ocular with Jay and our friend Kenneth, and getting the go signal from his lovely aunt to use the farm, we checked number 1 off our list.<br />
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For the hair and makeup, the best suggestion is to do a trial with the hair and makeup artist for your wedding. Trials usually come with a fee, so it's best to do a trial when you have an event to attend, or in this case, a photo shoot to do. When I asked my bridal HMUA if they were available for our shoot date, they already had a booking. Since it's harder to book my photographers, I had to search for an affordable HMUA. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000531523007" target="_blank">Tats Dionisio</a> was recommended by a sister from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/weddingsatwork/" target="_blank">W@W. </a><br />
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I contacted Tats thru Facebook Messenger, and only got his phone number a few days before the shoot. Tats does both hair and makeup, and he offers unli retouch for the day. His rate is very reasonable, and I only added a couple of hundred bucks for his transportation to our meeting place. <br />
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When I was searching for a HMUA for the shoot, I was a bit baffled why they would give an initial rate then ask for an additional stipend for their transportation. I asked my other bride friends why they wouldn't just automatically add them up to their rate. Some told me that it depends on the shoot location/meet-up. And that we need to consider the heavy tools and equipment they would need to lug around especially when they are only using public transpo.<br />
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As for our outfits, I knew we wouldn't hire a stylist anymore because that would be beyond our budget. I only planned for three layouts: one casual, one formal, and one for our picnic layout. Jay's suit designer, Bianca Cordero, had an RTW gown at her studio and it fit like a glove when I tried it on. It was light peach/pink and had a long, wide train, perfect for windy and willowy shots. Back story: Jay was supposed to wear a suit for our formal layout, but as mishaps go, he forgot to bring it on the day of the shoot. Hehe. Good thing he had several long sleeved shirts to choose from.<br />
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I had a short trip to Singapore before our shoot, so I asked my Maid of Honor to accompany me to Bugis Street to buy some of my outfits. I then picked out Jay's outfits to match mine, and consulted a couple of friends with my choices. Zab also helped me out by suggesting to bring/buy a flowy dress, and to bring matching white shirts. After the shoot though, Jay and I wished we changed one of our outfits as we think they didn't really translate well on the photos.<br />
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As for our props, I didn't need to look further than my own stuff! Aside from being a hoarder and natural <i>maarte,</i> I thank my experience doing production management for our high school plays and later on, producing magazine shoots for work. They certainly came in handy. It was also perfect timing that my aunt got married in Tagaytay a couple of days before our shoot, so she gave me several flower arrangements (including her bridal bouquet!) to use. And just to push my wish to wear a flower crown, I bought a simple headband at the grocery, and using the wires from the bouquets, I created my own flower crown! Haha.</div>
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For our transportation, we rented a van for Php3,500 for the whole day (driver and gas included). We brought breakfast sandwiches and snacks for everyone, and we had our lunch at a nearby restaurant. Our gracious hosts served us dinner before we left. We were lucky that our photographers and our HMUA waived their out-of-town fees (OOTF) when we informed them that we'll be providing the transportation and food for the shoot.<br />
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We decided to meet with Tats along Kamuning in Cubao, and then proceed to Bob's residence also in Kamuning. Bob & Zab brought along their friend Earl to assist them, so all in all there were 7 of us traveling to Tanay. It was a Friday and we thought there would be heavy traffic along Katipunan and Marcos Highway because of the LRT construction, but were surprised that there wasn't. We arrived in Tanay a little past 9am. After showing Bob & Zab around the farm, laying out our outfits and showing them our pegs and props, Zab suggested we take a nap before heading out for lunch.<br />
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We started our makeup around 12:30pm. Everything was going well at first. Tats had a light hand, his tools were clean and arranged neatly, and he worked relatively fast. But we hit a snag when my right eye wouldn't stop tearing up because of my contact lens. I thought it was just natural at first as it happens every time I'm being made-up, but when it wouldn't stop even after I inverted the lens, we decided to just remove both lenses. Later on in the bathroom I found a makeup particle on my right eye, but even after flushing it with running water, it was already irritated. Also, I couldn't wash it out properly as I was already fully made up, and we will get delayed if we'll start over again.These things happen.<br />
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I'd like to commend Tats for his patience. I've lost count how many times he retouched my right eye makeup. He was also attentive during the shoot, ready with a tissue to wipe away my tears as the winds were picking up and further irritating my eye. I also requested him to take behind the scene shots using my phone. His makeup also lasted the whole day, and aside from retouching my eye makeup several times, he only needed to change my lipstick shade and my hairstyle for the other layouts. In Filipino, his work was <i>plakado </i>(in place or perfect).<br />
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Bob & Zab were a delight to shoot with. They kept a light and jovial mood during the shoot, cracking jokes and playing music to keep the atmosphere lively. They would direct us and find our right angles. During the portrait shots, Zab took my photos while Bob took Jay's. Bob also gave Jay tips that proved useful come our wedding day. And when they noticed that we were getting tired, they would remind us to smile. I won't disclose it here, but Jay and I really loved Zab's special way of getting us to smile and laugh. Even after the shoot, Jay and I would do it and it still makes us giggle.</div>
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Our contract stated that our prenup shoot is only for 3-4 hours, but of course we had Bob & Zab for the whole day. The duo is set to get married later this year, and during our breaks we talked about our wedding preps. This is when it dawned on me the importance of having a prenup photo shoot. Not only will you have great photos to remember this milestone by, but it will also allow you to bond with your suppliers, be at ease in front of the camera, and trust that your photographers will capture your best moments on your wedding. Having a supplier that goes above and beyond what is required is a great thing to have on your most special day. </div>
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Bob & Zab required us to bring a laptop or external hard drive and right after our shoot, they gave us all the raw files. This is a good step because you'll already have a copy of the files and you can retrieve them just in case your photographers' files get corrupted.<br />
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Because they have a specific style that requires color editing, we didn't get the edited photos right away. Zab just said to choose around 20 photos that they will edit immediately, so we can post teasers on our social media and wedding pages. </div>
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Prenup shoots are usually done around a month before the wedding, but I think it was a good decision for us to hold ours two months before our date. We received the teaser photos around 3 weeks after our shoot, and the whole set of edited photos a couple of weeks before the wedding day. I would suggest this if your chosen photographers still has a small team and do the editing themselves. Zab is a self-confessed OC and has particular standards for their output. But I can assure you, the wait will be worth it. </div>
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For more photos of our engagement shoot, head over <a href="https://www.bobandzab.com/jay-and-romy" target="_blank">here.</a> </div>
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Suppliers' Contact Details:</div>
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<b><u>Bob & Zab Photography</u></b></div>
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Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bobandzabphotography/" target="_blank">Bob & Zab Photography</a></div>
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Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bobandzab/" target="_blank">@bobandzab</a></div>
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Website: <a href="http://www.bobandzab.com/">www.bobandzab.com</a></div>
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Engagement Sessions: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bobandzabphotography/photos/a.581306195340019.1073741828.579696328834339/994865147317453/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">Singapore, May 14-22 & Japan, July 3-7</a></div>
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<b><u>Tats Dionisio Hair & Makeup Artist</u></b></div>
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Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000531523007" target="_blank">Tats Dionisio</a></div>
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Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tatsdionisio/" target="_blank">@tatsdionisio</a></div>
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Mobile No: +639361094709</div>
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<b><u>Van Rental c/o Kuya JR</u></b></div>
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Mobile No: +639225454980</div>
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romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-56442793208682520262017-05-03T16:19:00.001+08:002017-05-10T19:25:37.104+08:00Wedding Wednesday: How I Proposed to My Girls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">One of the first things I did after getting engaged was to let my sisters and girlfriends know I would love for them to be part of my female entourage.<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">Although I've already told some of them verbally, I still wanted to give them something special to mark this milestone in my life.<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">I went to good ol' <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/SuzySchettler/will-you-be-my-bridesmaid-creative-ways-to-askgift/" target="_blank">Pinterest to look for inspirations</a> to execute my entourage proposals. After finding the right words I wanted to use, I got in touch with Eleanor de Belen. Enon was my classmate in high school, and she's now an up and coming water color artist (check out her beautiful<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/elean21" target="_blank"> works</a>!).<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">Although water color is her primary medium, Enon sometimes posts song lyrics or quotes in calligraphy on her Instagram account. So I asked her if she could write my proposals in calligraphy. Fortunately, she obliged so I showed her my pegs and told her our motif was light peach and gold. I originally just wanted her to do it with normal white paper and black ink, but thank goodness for her creativity, she showed me samples of gold ink and splashes of water color in light peach. It was perfect!<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">Now this is a tip I'd like to give brides and grooms out there. While it's a plus to have creative friends who will happily do something for you for free, it would be nice to compensate them for their talent and efforts. Enon and I are friends, but we're not in the same <i>barkada </i>(group of friends), so I was hesitant to ask her this favor. Maybe she would've done this for me for free, but I didn't want to take advantage of her kindness. So I asked for a friendly discount instead. :)<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">After getting Enon's lovely calligraphy cards, I thought of a way to give them without revealing my proposal outright. I still wanted it to be a surprise. So I thought of ordering personalized pouches that can be used every day.<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">My search led me to Myriad Print Concepts, a startup that makes different printed canvas products. What I love about their pouches is that there's a foam in the inner lining, which is great for your mobile phones and small gadgets.<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> Each pouch costs Php100. I thought these would be great entourage gifts on the wedding day itself, but because I had low EQ and was too excited, I chose to use them for my proposals. Hehehe.</span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">Communicating with them thru IG direct messaging and email was fast and easy. After specifying my orders, they gave me a quotation and then I paid thru bank transfer. We then proceeded with the pouch design.<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">I just showed them the design and font I wanted based on their existing product line-up, and I asked them to adjust the color based on our wedding motif.<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> You may also ask them to do a custom design for you for an additional fee.</span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">After approving the final layout, it took only a couple of days for them to finish making the pouches and sending them by courier. Easy peasy!<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">Proposing to your female entourage is a great way to show them your appreciation and will serve as great bonding activity too. After all, your entourage will serve as your helping hands throughout your wedding planning. Invite them to lunch, tea, or coffee, and gush together about this new chapter in your life! There will be stressful months ahead but you can make it through with the right people by your side. :)</span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">My sisters and friends loved their gifts, and all of them said yes! Happy my proposals were a success.<span class="m_7532657742943106295Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7532657742943106295s1">Suppliers' Contact Details:</span></div>
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<div class="m_7532657742943106295p1" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<b><u>Eleanor de Belen</u></b></div>
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Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/enondebelen" target="_blank">enondebelen</a></div>
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Instagram:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/enondebelen/" target="_blank"> enondebelen</a></div>
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Youtube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/elean21" target="_blank">enondebelen</a></div>
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Upcoming Workshops Schedule: <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQuUtVzrHvjgWjTQwVsFbf__2HzC5XcTbj-BU_WubS5m2R_Q/viewform" target="_blank">Water Color Weekends</a></div>
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<b><u>Myriad Print Concepts</u></b></div>
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Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/myriadprintconcepts/" target="_blank">Myriad Print Concepts</a></div>
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Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/myriadprintconcepts/" target="_blank">myriadprintconcepts</a></div>
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Email: myriadprintconceptsph@gmail.com</div>
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romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-68224036180055524202017-04-25T15:38:00.002+08:002017-04-25T15:58:39.597+08:00Novotel Manila's Ice N Cream Shop is Now Open for Scooping!Summer just became sweeter with the opening of the newest ice cream shop in town. I was running errands near Araneta Center last week and I dropped by Novotel to cool my heels. Their latest offering, Ice N Cream, opened on April 16 and has been serving treats to cater to your sweet cravings.<br />
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Located on the ground floor of Novotel Manila Araneta Center, Ice N Cream is an ice cream lover's heaven. They created 18 flavors using no artificial ingredients or stabilizers. Just pure, creamy goodness. Diabetics are covered too with their sugar-free options. Ice N Cream also partnered with Carmen's Best, and there are 8 flavors of Carmen's Best ice cream to choose from.<br />
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Scrolling through my Facebook feed, I found out about their search for iScreamers, who will be the shop's ambassadors for a whole year. I sent in my entry and received a message saying I was one of the semi-finalists and won two (2) free scoops of ice cream. So after my errands one afternoon last week, I went to check the shop out and claimed my reward!<br />
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The Ice N Cream shop employees were very helpful in making me decide which flavors to try. I wanted one scoop of Leche de Almond for sure, but I wanted another flavor that will go nicely with it. Leche de Almond is a leche flan-flavored ice cream with crunchy almond florentine chips in the mix. I always go for rich and creamy flavors as these are what comfort food tastes like for me.<br />
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I ended up pairing it with Oh Honey Honey, a calamansi-flavored ice cream sweetened with Tagaytay honey. This flavor is one of their two sugar-free options, the other one being Yo Berry Yo!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ice N Cream uses natural and stabilizer-free ingredients. Just look at that calamansi rind on the left! </td></tr>
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Leche de Almond is my kind of flavor, going up there with my other top comfort foods, ube jam and bread pudding. It's sweet, milky, and rich, the florentine chips adding the right amount of crunch. Oh Honey Honey is the perfect answer to this summer's heat, its tangy flavor refreshing my taste buds.<br />
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Each scoop costs Php100-120, depending on the flavors. Aside from Leche de Almond, other Philippine flavors include Purple Dream (ube langka), Green with Envy (avocado), and Smell Me, Taste Me, Love Me (durian). They also have classic flavors such as Our Vanilla (vanilla), Wake Me Up Before You Go Go! (cafe latte), Choco Goes Nuts (choco peanut), and a flavor I'm going back for, It Matcha-a Been Love (matcha).<br />
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For those who want their ice cream with a little kick, they also offer three alcoholic flavors: Tijuana Surprise (cucumber dalandan tequila), Papa Don Preach (rum raisin), and Kirsch Me (black forest).<br />
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For a more refreshing option, they also have sorbets like Cocoyeah (coconut), Passionista (passion fruit), Wazzup Soursop (guyabano), Breezy Berry (mixed berries with mint), and Mango Tango (mango).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen's Best Ice Cream Flavors: Salted Caramel, Strawberry, Madagascar Vanilla, He's Not Worth It, Coffee Almond Fudge, Pistachio, Brazilian Coffee, Malted Milk, Green Tea, Hokey Pokey, Butter Pecan, and Dark Chocolate.</td></tr>
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Their creative names are a mouthful, but so are the flavors bursting from each scoop. You can also add your choice of decadent toppings (red velvet crumble and belgian waffle, anyone) or sticky sauces (eggnog and giandujas chocolate sound mighty interesting).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ChbgTYYD1SmTyHoXUectbnhaWKy-F_1EIy4AdmiNktsTta8FfJwX07kQ8pZ_2EGfZXLCIaPu0RLZyChWHw4GIKVVAESXC97tip_v4wIvk7pAJggqtiO1dmj4v8uGeEfn2zthHryb0_ln/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25289%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ChbgTYYD1SmTyHoXUectbnhaWKy-F_1EIy4AdmiNktsTta8FfJwX07kQ8pZ_2EGfZXLCIaPu0RLZyChWHw4GIKVVAESXC97tip_v4wIvk7pAJggqtiO1dmj4v8uGeEfn2zthHryb0_ln/s640/FullSizeRender+%25289%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For Php25 each, you can add toppings to your sweet concoctions!</td></tr>
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I can't wait to try the other flavors with Jay in tow! If we go with our friends, we can share the Le Mont Gourmand (999), Ice N Cream's signature bowl of 15 scoops of ice cream and sherbets with macarons, nuts, mixed berry coulis, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream. I'm getting excited just at the thought of it!<br />
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Ice N Cream also offers baked goods like breads, cakes, cookies, macarons, and pastries. I'm eyeing those ube ensaymadas for my next visit!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGIdia2fWBtgd6SfQ8E1v_S4nUy_OD8PKh61A2M5hZBFxsny-wYnOkpyvblw9PTd-jVrkUaF9q17v7I3K9a4Wo5tPTZS05ZogYXr9BxVarOWSshl_J4sEAzyjp8lVGyCg_m_65pbhA3_8/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252810%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGIdia2fWBtgd6SfQ8E1v_S4nUy_OD8PKh61A2M5hZBFxsny-wYnOkpyvblw9PTd-jVrkUaF9q17v7I3K9a4Wo5tPTZS05ZogYXr9BxVarOWSshl_J4sEAzyjp8lVGyCg_m_65pbhA3_8/s640/FullSizeRender+%252810%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOeoodYU_rAF_4oxdv4F0l86S69KmrLZee7EsTtcmoxnb4l7yRceZDRb7BmqAlMP5bxBOHXtDodDg5MD0PjYyEhYzCSXPDBcxWgRa94vtzRt0-HzGxA68nMJiBep3GfCNjwb_VbAwBxMZ/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOeoodYU_rAF_4oxdv4F0l86S69KmrLZee7EsTtcmoxnb4l7yRceZDRb7BmqAlMP5bxBOHXtDodDg5MD0PjYyEhYzCSXPDBcxWgRa94vtzRt0-HzGxA68nMJiBep3GfCNjwb_VbAwBxMZ/s640/FullSizeRender+%252811%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwGFhqVf7YXeBdw8x19CcDAtBJMSQFfxinQVXVDttH8_BGvzeCCKWtG90mw8ODPH4uj1_W3bekr66YbnwNl9wjK2eq3-MfI6yhJjhKTn8hHeXpleuYzPlwXFzTKP_dSQP3SqyEoUgiFta/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25288%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwGFhqVf7YXeBdw8x19CcDAtBJMSQFfxinQVXVDttH8_BGvzeCCKWtG90mw8ODPH4uj1_W3bekr66YbnwNl9wjK2eq3-MfI6yhJjhKTn8hHeXpleuYzPlwXFzTKP_dSQP3SqyEoUgiFta/s640/FullSizeRender+%25288%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great spot to chill and enjoy your ice cream and pastries. </td></tr>
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Drop by Ice N Cream shop now as they have an ongoing promo until April 30. Buy 1 scoop and you get 1 scoop free!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZH4SqsHSD5Tf7HOwB6ijxCeJDYvi8yNNEf1QHHKyGt-JaaZ0UrpoAXiq-CGD8gvXAFXuU6CiOtlHwm77yYNUKM2ZPdIkFYemot1m-q105zqlwuR6jmP4UulVjowMb7oqDIPv1ZqUMPVdY/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252817%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZH4SqsHSD5Tf7HOwB6ijxCeJDYvi8yNNEf1QHHKyGt-JaaZ0UrpoAXiq-CGD8gvXAFXuU6CiOtlHwm77yYNUKM2ZPdIkFYemot1m-q105zqlwuR6jmP4UulVjowMb7oqDIPv1ZqUMPVdY/s640/FullSizeRender+%252817%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Have your delightful treat in four easy steps: select your flavor, scoop in a cone or a cup, sprinkle with toppings, and enjoy!</td></tr>
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Here are photos of their full menu and their prices:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BbHSzPn5AIFsnV1tZRepU9ptLW2d8KypCf5aqT0UxT-3-Aw0SWyL65HEbXUZMUxgWz90GoFWvU7XaDGOinjTtQuWNJfmZHkkv3YGGceNZhQYlHh8R3n9MatgWPL9FkZTuw6PIWo2tA8d/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252814%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BbHSzPn5AIFsnV1tZRepU9ptLW2d8KypCf5aqT0UxT-3-Aw0SWyL65HEbXUZMUxgWz90GoFWvU7XaDGOinjTtQuWNJfmZHkkv3YGGceNZhQYlHh8R3n9MatgWPL9FkZTuw6PIWo2tA8d/s640/FullSizeRender+%252814%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ice N Cream<br />
Ground Floor<br />
Notovel Manila Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City<br />
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<br />romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-46031248203599462192017-04-21T12:38:00.000+08:002017-04-21T16:49:33.130+08:00How I'll Invest and Grow My Money Online with FundSmart<div class="m_7200405114187594454p1" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">One of the things I wish they taught in school is financial literacy. Can you imagine if they taught us about savings, investments, and stocks in high school? Sure, they taught us Economics, but they should have included savings and investing specifics in the mix.</span><span class="m_7200405114187594454Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="m_7200405114187594454s1">When I was invited to attend a press event for First Metro Securities, I accepted because I knew it was a good opportunity to learn about investing my money. I suck at Math and I've had financial troubles (not of my own doing) in the past, so now that I'm a newlywed, it would be nice to arm myself with knowledge on how to grow our money for the future.<span class="m_7200405114187594454Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7200405114187594454s1">Luckily, First Metro Securities, which is under the investment banking arm of Metrobank, has an online platform for stocks, mutual funds, and other financial services. They recently launched FundSmart, the first one-stop-shop for mutual funds online. </span></div>
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<span class="m_7200405114187594454s1">FundSmart enables us to invest in over 25 peso-dominated mutual funds of the six leading fund houses: AFLM (under BPI), ATR Asset Mangement (ATRAM), First Metro Asset Management Inc. (FAMI), Philam Asset Management Inc., PhilEquity, and Sun Life Asset Management. The great thing about it is they also partnered with <a href="https://www.firstmetrosec.com.ph/fmsec/39-Funding%20Through%20Other%20Banks" target="_blank">different banks</a> like BDO, BPI, and Landbank so it is easier to set up an account and start investing!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQhXqpVkd6PLLo3SthdilNcRqxrqbPQoIFJFytO7mrRXqv1ClFerMjrTVtrmXcwGPHKfDVFxpMZvXfBkYszDh6i2pwY_O6X-ij8TPDnGO23nr0z8pERkYrv5zpkbXTO30v1lhAtNKQPze/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQhXqpVkd6PLLo3SthdilNcRqxrqbPQoIFJFytO7mrRXqv1ClFerMjrTVtrmXcwGPHKfDVFxpMZvXfBkYszDh6i2pwY_O6X-ij8TPDnGO23nr0z8pERkYrv5zpkbXTO30v1lhAtNKQPze/s640/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here I am opening my account with FirstMetroSec. <a href="https://www.firstmetrosec.com.ph/fmsec/7-Account%20Opening" target="_blank">Here are the requirements</a> needed to open an account.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">"It's enabling the Filipinos to think of their financial health first before spending," says </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">First Metro Securities President Gonzalo G. Ordoñez about FundSmart. "</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">If you make it easy and available, if you make it mobile, then they put a little portion [of their income], it's instant gratification for them."</span><br />
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<span class="m_7200405114187594454s1">But first, what are mutual funds? For the uninitiated, a mutual fund is an investment which pools the money of many different parties called investors. It is then invested in a specific type of security for it to grow and get returns. It's like when you and your friends each contribute a hundred pesos, then you give the pot to a fund manager who invests it on something profitable, only when it's a mutual fund you don't necessarily know your co-investors and you have no control which security the mutual fund will be invested in. But with the right research materials and the risk assessment as an investor (both of which FundSmart provides), you'll have all the help you need to make the smart decision on where to put your hard-earned money. </span></div>
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To learn more about mutual funds and their different types, you can visit <a href="https://www.firstmetrosec.com.ph/fmsec/40-Mutual%20Fund%20101" target="_blank">this page.</a></div>
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I'd like to invest in mutual funds because they give you the best of both worlds. You get to invest and grow your money while still have it liquid so that you can pull it out when you're in need. With mutual funds, your money can be invested in blue chip companies without you having to worry each day and doing your own research, because your shares are in the hands of able and expert fund managers.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtgbF3039Gc1NBsVS-R-g6h4itwM6hQt-LzB_NsHRg5xknP-8K0G_ggXD5mQFI-jjg7qtkw-O9jFS1_Y9K3hfL8JiL6DPCAQ3zJR097rNzodxr3XlkaHwdWUPqAApPtITK8i36ZnOlkd9R/s1600/FMS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtgbF3039Gc1NBsVS-R-g6h4itwM6hQt-LzB_NsHRg5xknP-8K0G_ggXD5mQFI-jjg7qtkw-O9jFS1_Y9K3hfL8JiL6DPCAQ3zJR097rNzodxr3XlkaHwdWUPqAApPtITK8i36ZnOlkd9R/s640/FMS.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Gonzalo G. Ordoñez, President of First Metro Securities. He says FirstMetroSec online and FundSmart give clients the confidence to trade more and trust their mutual fund manager more.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">"The first thing you wanna do is get the professionals to help you," adds Mr. Ordo</span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">ñez. "</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">You can choose the fund manager you trust the most depending on how you decide whether you want a fast performance for one year, three years, five years, whatever you want to use. Or maybe it's the institution that it's connected with. It's really up to you. And then you can start by giving him the decisions that you want on your investment.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">"It can be equities, it can be balanced, a mix of equity and fixed, or it can be pure fixed. But for millennials I think go equity. Take the risk and take the highest possible reward." </span></span><br />
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<span class="m_7200405114187594454s1">Of course, investing always contains risks. That's why it's important to know what type of investor you are. With FundSmart, you first take a risk assessment and they will suggest which type of mutual funds are appropriate for you. Each fund has its own profile where you can check its performance and other details. You can re-take the assessment anytime you feel that you have changed your investing preferences. For me, this is very important because it shows care and concern for you as an investor. They're not just out to get your money, but they ensure you know your goals and the risks you're willing to take to reach them. </span></div>
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<span class="m_7200405114187594454s1">I have taken the risk assessment and fell under a moderately aggressive investor, which means I "aim for capital growth" and I am "willing to take some risk for potentially higher returns over time." Yep, that sounds about right! Now I just need to discuss with my husband (I still get giddy whenever I call Jay that!) which specific fund we should invest in. Most of the funds only need a minimum of PHP5,000 initial investment. It's such an advantage that you have an array of fund houses to choose from, and convenient that you can fund your account depending on which bank you use. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cCKdlgOIzOFmautRW2_vuIsL-n91oQKtcF-iqR7vcm1XlW4dvdo8E966UOa8523lb0SMko6f_TmgEnZ4rD-wCQoR0tKNKEeMx-G0UXDKaMQeWwSBnBK5zoqVL-YqNfEqKrS6WBYsWDJa/s1600/FMS2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cCKdlgOIzOFmautRW2_vuIsL-n91oQKtcF-iqR7vcm1XlW4dvdo8E966UOa8523lb0SMko6f_TmgEnZ4rD-wCQoR0tKNKEeMx-G0UXDKaMQeWwSBnBK5zoqVL-YqNfEqKrS6WBYsWDJa/s640/FMS2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can choose from 6 of the country's biggest mutual fund providers. At the launch were ALFM's Ricky Espiritu, Philam Asset Mangement's Eric Lustre, SunLife Asset Mangement's Valerie Pama, PhilEquity Management Fund's Edmundo Bunyi, ATRAM's Phillip Hagedorn, and FAMI's Augusto Cosio Jr.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">"It's kinda new that one bank is selling all products, regardless of who's offering it," says Mr. Ordo</span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">ñez.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> "So it's really good for the client. I can go into one platform and decide. I don't have to talk to so many people to decide." </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">FundSmart allows you to buy and redeem your shares in mutual funds just like stocks. After creating your account, there are no additional requirements needed to invest, there are also no front-end fees and sales charges. </span></div>
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You can also download the FirstMetroSec app on your phone (it's available on the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/ph/app/firstmetrosec-for-iphone/id502802071?mt=8" target="_blank">App Store</a> and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.technistock.firstmetrosec&hl=en" target="_blank">Google Play</a>) to monitor your investments whenever you want and wherever you are. Fast, easy, and convenient. Won't it feel like you're such an adult when you're checking your funds' status instead of playing the latest addictive game on your phone?<br />
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I know what the questions inside your head are. "Should I invest my money? Should I invest my money now?" My answer for both is a resounding YES! Whether you're a student with an<i> alkansya</i> at the back of your closet, a yuppie who's just started working, a newlywed with cash gifts, parents with growing kids, or retirees, the best time to invest is now. You just need to make the commitment to set aside your fund for investment, research on the types of funds, weigh the risk and returns involved, create your FirstMetroSec account, and invest with FundSmart!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynFqPZsUmnwXr_5z6MZ8jyBGgm_YBcd2CujJeLZq_ygBgWYlgRY1oPCCT4ySr_FWyXQaEnwMwtibS5r5SjvVEtJJcbWFoZNcjqmgo9fj-q-Soo0alXeUzq9q-mGWeERf_g72sV22EicEM/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynFqPZsUmnwXr_5z6MZ8jyBGgm_YBcd2CujJeLZq_ygBgWYlgRY1oPCCT4ySr_FWyXQaEnwMwtibS5r5SjvVEtJJcbWFoZNcjqmgo9fj-q-Soo0alXeUzq9q-mGWeERf_g72sV22EicEM/s640/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-41551760928460955422017-03-01T12:00:00.000+08:002017-06-19T13:10:40.479+08:00Wedding Wednesday: 5 Tips on How to Start Planning<div class="m_9138314403812233352p1" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">You found your man and you got your ring, what next? Now that you've shared your news with family and friends, it's time to roll up your sleeves and start planning.</span><span class="m_9138314403812233352Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="m_9138314403812233352s1">Preparing for the biggest day of your life can be overwhelming. Let me share with you some tips on where to start.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">1. Set your wedding date and your budget. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">These are the two most important details you need to agree on with your fiancé. When you book your church, reception venue, and all other suppliers, the first question they will ask is the wedding date. If you're planning a long engagement, it's still better to look for suppliers early so you can lock in their current prices. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">The budget is also a big (if not the biggest) factor when deciding on your suppliers. Set your over-all budget, then set a limit for each supplier so you can already narrow down those that only fit within your budget. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid43QHfIVnMH3DXWhstIfXUFzSEwv_NU9U95rfKY6xEdvkQ-imorDP-qY9jmDs-GyGmVBNSgaUsGpDA6tIeh7QEkuRqspgt6rbdw-mILTiR4JZ78TwMfhdYgtAeQvnBKbZsCWMYLUyh0gM/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252816%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid43QHfIVnMH3DXWhstIfXUFzSEwv_NU9U95rfKY6xEdvkQ-imorDP-qY9jmDs-GyGmVBNSgaUsGpDA6tIeh7QEkuRqspgt6rbdw-mILTiR4JZ78TwMfhdYgtAeQvnBKbZsCWMYLUyh0gM/s640/FullSizeRender+%252816%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Planning can be stressful, but you can do it!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Make a need-to-have and nice-to-have lists. Focus on the need-to-have items first, then when you find that you still have the budget for them (this usually happens especially if you get discounts on your bookings), then you can add the nice-to-have items.</span><span class="m_9138314403812233352Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b>2. Set your theme and color motif. </b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">These will guide you when researching for pegs and inspirations. It will also give your suppliers (event stylist, florist, gown designer) an idea on how to execute your dream wedding. Some brides choose their motif based on the season they are getting married (pastel for spring, yellows and oranges for summer, burgundy for autumn), but I think you should choose the colors that you want, regardless of the season. I've seen morning summer weddings with bridesmaids in rich wine colors. It's really up to you!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b>3. Start your visual board. </b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Browse magazines and cut out pictures of anything that catches your fancy: venues, cakes, gowns, what have you. <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/romyisagirl/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">and the internet will be your best friend. Sometimes, typing the key words of your theme or motif will instantly give you a color palette, and all kinds of ideas for your big day. If you're not keen on sharing your ideas with everyone just yet, you have the option to keep your Pinterest wedding board a secret (that's what I did with mine). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Don't be afraid to go overboard, as you can always curate it later on. Let your brain be a sponge and get as much ideas as you can.</span><span class="m_9138314403812233352Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A screenshot of a sample search on Pinterest. So many ideas!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b>4. Find your tribe. </b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Aside from asking your family and friends to be part of your wedding entourage, it's also important to find people who are in the same boat as you. </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Joining <a href="https://www.facebook.com/weddingsatwork/" target="_blank">Weddings at Work</a> (Yahoo groups and Facebook) was one of the wisest decisions I made. My research for suppliers, feed backs, and reviews became easier because of this. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Your fellow brides-to-be and former brides are very generous to share their knowledge and experience, and are only a message away when you have a question. It's also great to find fellow brides who will wed in the same church, or have the same reception venue because you can ask about their experience and steps to take.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I also joined a group of Iglesia Ni Cristo brides, and they have become good friends over time. They helped me with church requirements and we also support each other especially those whose wedding dates are already near. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Another group you can join is <a href="http://www.femalenetwork.com/girltalk/index.php?board=144.0" target="_blank">GirlTalk.</a> You can also gather your friends who have already gotten married to a lunch or dinner, so you can pick their brains on all the questions you're itching to ask.</span><span class="m_9138314403812233352Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b>5. Attend bridal fairs. </b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Now that you've made your research, you should at least have a shortlist of suppliers you want to inquire from. Check out if they will be part of upcoming bridal fairs, then visit and book them there. Suppliers offer amazing deals and discounts during fairs and caravans (10-20% off, add-on services, freebies like additional desserts or free photo booth, etc). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">This is also a good time to check their sample works, as hair and make-up artists offer trials on-the-spot, photo/video suppliers have their albums and videos on-hand, while caterers and cake suppliers offer food tastings. Note that <b>it is best to first do your research before booking any supplier.</b> It may get overwhelming during fairs, and a great deal may sound too good to be true. So to prevent buyer's remorse, make sure you've read reviews and testimonials of their service.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hizon's Catering's Grand Food Tasting at a bridal fair in SMX, Pasay City. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Bridal fairs are usually a two-day affair, so what you can do is go around and scout on the first day. Then research for feed backs, make a shortlist, then go back and book the next day. If you're still not ready to book, ask them when their next bridal fair is, and if they will offer the same discounts there. Go with your groom or with a bridesmaid. This will be a great bonding activity for you!</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wj97j_VvjIuAluJZh0JgKmYaJQcmOHaPZxXqAw7mg4ztYGJMWz6IypwhGk5oJtPEltg7mKd7yb9gxmgL4oDn8Dyv0a0nx4XXAWAsQ7BudtSE8-Dmbe8i6jL2X6ghl61QH4B88Q0w7CN7/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252819%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wj97j_VvjIuAluJZh0JgKmYaJQcmOHaPZxXqAw7mg4ztYGJMWz6IypwhGk5oJtPEltg7mKd7yb9gxmgL4oDn8Dyv0a0nx4XXAWAsQ7BudtSE8-Dmbe8i6jL2X6ghl61QH4B88Q0w7CN7/s400/FullSizeRender+%252819%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jay and I went to three bridal fairs!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogFK3Wf5Eee30jYh7K08kFepMGLrHYt6I3MMAR4FruJM95_p5S_G5wqhOKL6Sfy4R9JHzvYHOxSncq9EQrBmXSaWF51aEhrnKGKIWJQYVuqCWWOO19K0D7JCpZSYLggZu8LSNryqimIJM/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252818%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogFK3Wf5Eee30jYh7K08kFepMGLrHYt6I3MMAR4FruJM95_p5S_G5wqhOKL6Sfy4R9JHzvYHOxSncq9EQrBmXSaWF51aEhrnKGKIWJQYVuqCWWOO19K0D7JCpZSYLggZu8LSNryqimIJM/s400/FullSizeRender+%252818%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With my bridesmaid Kat attending my first bridal fair. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b><u>IMPORTANT TIP:</u></b> I've heard a lot of stories about brides and couple who change their minds about their suppliers months after booking them. It's either they didn't research beforehand or they didn't click well while communicating with the supplier, but sometimes it's also because they saw another supplier who they think will be a better fit for them. The downside of this is letting go of their deposit or down payment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">To prevent this from happening, what I personally did was once I booked my suppliers, I didn't look at other suppliers for that service anymore. I purposefully did not follow their social media accounts, even wedding websites, so I won't be deluged with other people's weddings, that may probably cause me to change my mind. Put your blinders on guys and gals! Once you've booked your suppliers, don't go looking at others anymore. Have faith in your decision and the capacity of your suppliers to deliver. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Once you've done all this, buy a large clear book or binder. This is where you will keep all contracts and receipts from your suppliers. Organize them by type, and make sure to make duplicate (or even triplicate) copies for your coordinator and yourself. Give your fiancé a copy as well for good measure. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Then, make a spreadsheet for your budget. Some helpful headers could be: Type of Supplier, Name of Supplier, Allotted Budget, Actual Contract Price, Initial Deposit, Remaining Balance, Notes. Share this document with your fiancé on Google Drive so you can both edit it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">You can download my sample <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1OQwqecMwr1SiplVKa9FZY5aoijZZ7xLj6Oh8V3tEN-8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Wedding Budget Spreadsheet.</a> Click on the File Tab, select Download as, then choose the file type you want. I pre-filled some cells to give you an idea how it works. Thanks to my Excel Master fianc</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">é Jay for helping me out on this one. :-)</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNMuBRa8KWtAzkCXN3Gbx6hii1JwRa6WtH2l-I0Otknb4B2AhOxpSSdaG81_n4h4ETdDSuTrBAV3-boODiwnY4HGfHKEyW65FrrHlxpaZMs2Svwo8e_EHBtAxvv-EWeKUEpQjUSbDQGE9/s1600/IMG_4585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNMuBRa8KWtAzkCXN3Gbx6hii1JwRa6WtH2l-I0Otknb4B2AhOxpSSdaG81_n4h4ETdDSuTrBAV3-boODiwnY4HGfHKEyW65FrrHlxpaZMs2Svwo8e_EHBtAxvv-EWeKUEpQjUSbDQGE9/s640/IMG_4585.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still a fan of pen and paper? You can get a wedding journal to help you jot down important details! This was a gift from my high school friend Zanine. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Bonus: I also found <a href="https://www.theknot.com/content/12-month-wedding-planning-countdown" target="_blank">a timeline </a>to help you on things to prepare for starting from a year before the wedding. If you have a short engagement, you can alter it depending on the span of time you have. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">If you have any questions or want to share your tips and stories, comment away! Happy preps, ladies!</span></div>
romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-60146334480261991312017-02-24T11:45:00.002+08:002018-01-20T07:48:37.151+08:00Romy Roams Tokyo: 5 Places to VisitIt was my first time to visit Japan, and I honestly thought the trip wouldn't push through because I wouldn't get a visa (watch for my post on the application process). But God is great, and together with Jay, Tita Virgie, Ate Vina and her office mates, we set off last November for a 7-day trip to Tokyo!<br />
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Japan is one of my dream travel destinations, and even if we've only been around Tokyo (well, technically, we also went on a tour of Mt. Fuji), I'm already in love with the whole country!<br />
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So, without further ado, here are my picks of must visit places in Tokyo. I indicated below how to get to these places from Ikebukuro, where we stayed.<br />
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<h3>
1. Tokyo Imperial Palace</h3>
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Tokyo Imperial Palace is only open during certain hours, and the free guided tour is only available twice daily, at 10AM and 1:30PM, except on Sundays and Mondays. We got there early for the 1:30PM tour, so we first took photos at the lovely plaza across the palace grounds. This is beside the Wadakura Fountain Park.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi5Lk3gldbq-ncp2M5QlzIOEw8Ny3ii2ZVazqNwJGaQ1UvRR8x-xpH7KgOfGopk9Y1dGbe-xmwADy2WRAorkCd9p0tGgJEXfodmNezqtW2PkgckE3XfTLM82OSDitLUcyAFhiTd0PyWXLy/s1600/IPO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi5Lk3gldbq-ncp2M5QlzIOEw8Ny3ii2ZVazqNwJGaQ1UvRR8x-xpH7KgOfGopk9Y1dGbe-xmwADy2WRAorkCd9p0tGgJEXfodmNezqtW2PkgckE3XfTLM82OSDitLUcyAFhiTd0PyWXLy/s640/IPO.jpg" width="408" /></a></div>
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You can make <a href="http://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/index.html" target="_blank">advance registrations for the tour,</a> but we just lined up at the Kikyomon Gate for the same-day registration before the tour started. </div>
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The tour takes a little more than an hour and is done in Japanese. Foreigners have the option to take headsets that will provide English translation. Groups will be asked to share. </div>
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The photo below is of me standing at the Kyuden Totei Plaza. Behind me is the Choden Reception Hall, where the Imperial family appears before the crowd on New Year's Day and the Emperor's Birthday. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA9I1-Re6njTuf0T_jlen6sM6nHYEEGEIk6i3r6Uc4d_VQo7iZgtAlwGSLeNO-8kDI0TvDdnKrqUCdI8hyphenhyphen6vMmhq0E2qyP713y_aZOQ0D26Ivo9-fplSutw0k4D2dwLRSYQGv7nk-KDxYD/s1600/IPG+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA9I1-Re6njTuf0T_jlen6sM6nHYEEGEIk6i3r6Uc4d_VQo7iZgtAlwGSLeNO-8kDI0TvDdnKrqUCdI8hyphenhyphen6vMmhq0E2qyP713y_aZOQ0D26Ivo9-fplSutw0k4D2dwLRSYQGv7nk-KDxYD/s640/IPG+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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A view from the Imperial Palace Grounds:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoULQTdCKhApiwUx7062jDWKeC9T9M9jUWWbznNjqL_IzPeC8qMhSwueaFt_1yp0kgOXLHZEBIftdK8wgSzADP-U9e2w4Unlul3v7XM76_XkPDDzF3f_MXSp344xO8QHxl5Du45Y3hpctj/s1600/IPG+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoULQTdCKhApiwUx7062jDWKeC9T9M9jUWWbznNjqL_IzPeC8qMhSwueaFt_1yp0kgOXLHZEBIftdK8wgSzADP-U9e2w4Unlul3v7XM76_XkPDDzF3f_MXSp344xO8QHxl5Du45Y3hpctj/s640/IPG+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A photo of the Nijubashi, the two bridges that form an entrance to the inner Palace grounds. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-XaAUDcUSxs7X7UDC0ES9TU222Tdon3p8UBCL3SxT9XktR3FKHS6LVyZetk5NfrcCT2bqZFu9rvX1WE_wz5UkbSN5d-uHdtFYte1LjJrOIoHsNC5nuze5SiH_EAzLqYuTiyJ2KWeAR8sV/s1600/IPG+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-XaAUDcUSxs7X7UDC0ES9TU222Tdon3p8UBCL3SxT9XktR3FKHS6LVyZetk5NfrcCT2bqZFu9rvX1WE_wz5UkbSN5d-uHdtFYte1LjJrOIoHsNC5nuze5SiH_EAzLqYuTiyJ2KWeAR8sV/s640/IPG+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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How to get there from Ikebukuro:<br />
<ul>
<li>Ride the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line or the Japan Rail (JR) Yamanote Line, and get off at Tokyo Station. </li>
<li>Walk to the Imperial Palace. </li>
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</h3>
<h3>
2. Tokyo DisneySea</h3>
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This is a must for theme park lovers. You can actually go to both DisneySea and Disneyland as they are on the same area, but we chose DisneySea because it is the only one of its kind among the Disney franchise, and its attractions are different from other Disney theme parks around the world.<br />
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Allot a whole day for this trip, and expect long lines for the attractions. As with theme parks, it's best to go on a weekday and definitely not on a holiday. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCAuPq-qAoY33NZM6RgyFaxjmAT0_VUsQjgdrsFJG4vetAR4HqXdCOyaXiDKbxXxD4plD5avBS69ljwOO14cJSDLPP-LkdULOGTQZgFPtJBWC3LLiY9DEpi4KtjboC9YNU1Qn_wTeCLI5L/s1600/TDS+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCAuPq-qAoY33NZM6RgyFaxjmAT0_VUsQjgdrsFJG4vetAR4HqXdCOyaXiDKbxXxD4plD5avBS69ljwOO14cJSDLPP-LkdULOGTQZgFPtJBWC3LLiY9DEpi4KtjboC9YNU1Qn_wTeCLI5L/s640/TDS+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We celebrated Jay's birthday at the happiest place on earth!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrYH_FadA3xoFhHKru_ASafMZdW0CTo3HDkFyfRYf6pS6aTdrBbRw9fhMp8Owo42sbOD61ra5iQedA9qB4mVSQ5aqxEkfi68fZi7m60zc-KVyeldM-GFFeZiXdMXtZ9-hJDxUu9leVJnWT/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252815%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrYH_FadA3xoFhHKru_ASafMZdW0CTo3HDkFyfRYf6pS6aTdrBbRw9fhMp8Owo42sbOD61ra5iQedA9qB4mVSQ5aqxEkfi68fZi7m60zc-KVyeldM-GFFeZiXdMXtZ9-hJDxUu9leVJnWT/s640/FullSizeRender+%252815%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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We enjoyed the Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull, Sinbad's Storybook Voyage (it's the DisneySea version of the "It's A Small World" attraction), and King Triton's Concert. The latter is a live show that features Ariel in an aerial harness. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9H9a2ac1ArNKtXmSLmUocRVZt3xMVrp_eRRDrNuGn59oxm3iK5UaJjTR070OnhyjnyZtAgAKTwttsaSEEdcvbtHHTd4BbTw5DVzBGfMhOwjrkGeyesnsFBfjx_23TOFw2zcDVQCc5B9yl/s1600/TDS+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9H9a2ac1ArNKtXmSLmUocRVZt3xMVrp_eRRDrNuGn59oxm3iK5UaJjTR070OnhyjnyZtAgAKTwttsaSEEdcvbtHHTd4BbTw5DVzBGfMhOwjrkGeyesnsFBfjx_23TOFw2zcDVQCc5B9yl/s640/TDS+4.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A whole new world!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsIiwCszrA2Xl0BNpR1yy-ycCOUOcO-qyJZGcvdsK-qqL3uwc7gMGBQpt9tOagFCJnNA0PwUq47hxYFasz8STi3nML7iwZEZL1LxoMdHRaEntw82iPAoZDJ3N1qjU1yxBt1JUk6inmWi-7/s1600/TDS+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsIiwCszrA2Xl0BNpR1yy-ycCOUOcO-qyJZGcvdsK-qqL3uwc7gMGBQpt9tOagFCJnNA0PwUq47hxYFasz8STi3nML7iwZEZL1LxoMdHRaEntw82iPAoZDJ3N1qjU1yxBt1JUk6inmWi-7/s640/TDS+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sinbad's Storybook Voyage</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King Triton's Concert is at the Mermaid Lagoon</td></tr>
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How to get there by train from Ikebukuro:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Ride the Marunouchi Line and get off at Tokyo Station. </li>
<li>Transfer to the JR Keiyo Line and get off at Maihama Station. </li>
<li>Walk to Resort Gateway Station and ride the Disney Resort Line.</li>
<li>Get off at Tokyo DisneySea Station.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
3. Tokyo Skytree</h3>
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At 634 meters above ground, Tokyo Skytree is the world's highest freestanding broadcasting tower. It is also the second tallest structure in the world, next only to the Burj Khalifa.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oaH7wRTH7M2Wonh8bNznE9D6V_clvFiqarbJ6oplntlbcBPc__ubHSK6Sza9nt2uAHz_yuPnZHwIRZbfZxK6IO9UPtUvYqxCGJfus-F5xizpjrO2KRUtPxV1HKEZ-kXqvQYGwCC-sTzD/s1600/Skytree+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oaH7wRTH7M2Wonh8bNznE9D6V_clvFiqarbJ6oplntlbcBPc__ubHSK6Sza9nt2uAHz_yuPnZHwIRZbfZxK6IO9UPtUvYqxCGJfus-F5xizpjrO2KRUtPxV1HKEZ-kXqvQYGwCC-sTzD/s640/Skytree+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The tower has two viewing decks or floors. The Tembo Deck is 350m above the ground, while the Tembo Galleria is 450m above the ground.<br />
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You can choose to go to only one, or to both decks. It offers a sweeping 360-degree view of Tokyo up to 70 kilometers away! From the Galleria, you can go to the highest floor (450th) via a glass tube. <br />
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You can book your tickets <a href="http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/reservation/" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItMMO9ztRxAZs1mQsEHtxV-g0s7XjujCQ01D2k6hHeS9RKVCc1cc7PclQKRR9XIw-vPQTpwAVEkjFEvWCggHiDcCkD3yNL66Bi__BxkqWwBUvm6si99W0_uvAkxbK_MxbSAS-feT8_gMF/s1600/Skytree+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItMMO9ztRxAZs1mQsEHtxV-g0s7XjujCQ01D2k6hHeS9RKVCc1cc7PclQKRR9XIw-vPQTpwAVEkjFEvWCggHiDcCkD3yNL66Bi__BxkqWwBUvm6si99W0_uvAkxbK_MxbSAS-feT8_gMF/s640/Skytree+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDBaGG84LtUmkkTQieElOg-EgFcKO7qAzJ5yWDvn3IJy0iuv4PSvvC6foFLfBuTHRQnudkd2oeOgZ0kuOngJJnKzlwOYwP1DN7z91v3EQoOQD4Zw7ft7FalpYiyq7QT6lPQSg8uhn2lD3/s1600/Skytree+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDBaGG84LtUmkkTQieElOg-EgFcKO7qAzJ5yWDvn3IJy0iuv4PSvvC6foFLfBuTHRQnudkd2oeOgZ0kuOngJJnKzlwOYwP1DN7z91v3EQoOQD4Zw7ft7FalpYiyq7QT6lPQSg8uhn2lD3/s640/Skytree+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At 451.2 meters above ground, the Sorakara Point is the highest point permitted to visitors. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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There's also a shopping center within the tower called Solamachi. I love their lights display!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkph7VngwBNUlWr2y34-dZehFLMM_kmivvqhetmed9ENw5OYBfNieqn9POWcNIuZnmPC7M-i3WR0ucsdP1xChcAPEtknWhPWNR_eBE7FP5dfcfYR5LXc54vmKkGq78DcK_ZjQisJI80pY8/s1600/Skytree+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkph7VngwBNUlWr2y34-dZehFLMM_kmivvqhetmed9ENw5OYBfNieqn9POWcNIuZnmPC7M-i3WR0ucsdP1xChcAPEtknWhPWNR_eBE7FP5dfcfYR5LXc54vmKkGq78DcK_ZjQisJI80pY8/s640/Skytree+5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhzy_OLrOPyr38l5wwkrhDOBTbPuz4up-iOEcA5pjNnJbG-tFhmjrfitHqygxK6aS1yuLWd3OpFiDx4QwvlwHek0ucgyOT37mqLlHLFyUjsDJu1PzhyJ4nk4thCGCasbRU1AjqXsRLAd2/s1600/Skytree+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhzy_OLrOPyr38l5wwkrhDOBTbPuz4up-iOEcA5pjNnJbG-tFhmjrfitHqygxK6aS1yuLWd3OpFiDx4QwvlwHek0ucgyOT37mqLlHLFyUjsDJu1PzhyJ4nk4thCGCasbRU1AjqXsRLAd2/s640/Skytree+6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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How to get there by train from Ueno Station (we came from Ueno Park):<br />
<ul>
<li>Ride the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and get off at Asakusa Station. </li>
<li>Transfer to Tobu Skytree Local Line and get off at Tokyo Skytree Station. </li>
<li>Walk to Skytree. </li>
</ul>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
4. Shibuya Crossing</h3>
<br />
Shibuya Crossing is said to be one of the busiest intersections in the world. Hundreds of people cross that street in minutes, and we noticed it personally when we went there on our second night in Tokyo.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2aEbsTkEkJ6mwo2xeN_bhINJWNpq3Cggns2GVsDKnozRWZm3503mOZ34zDas_-ABDkzz8vzDv0fbJiwAOBKdMhQR0biUFq84Yh9mKxSmuEhr835IuMIycjQM5_wyJSWqp2koBVtUs_j2g/s1600/IMG_3247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2aEbsTkEkJ6mwo2xeN_bhINJWNpq3Cggns2GVsDKnozRWZm3503mOZ34zDas_-ABDkzz8vzDv0fbJiwAOBKdMhQR0biUFq84Yh9mKxSmuEhr835IuMIycjQM5_wyJSWqp2koBVtUs_j2g/s640/IMG_3247.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posed for a photo as pedestrians wait for their turn to cross the street.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Here's a time lapse video I posted on Instagram (follow me!):<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BNELyETDoBI/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">🏃🏻🏃🏻🏃🏻#JapaNICE #RomyRoamsTokyo #RomyRoams</a></div>
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A post shared by Romy P. (@romyisagirl) on <time datetime="2016-11-21T08:24:17+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 21, 2016 at 12:24am PST</time></div>
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Several steps from Shibuya Crossing is another famous Tokyo landmark, Hachiko's statue. The loyal dog rose to fame because of how he waited for his owner by the train station, even years after the master had passed.<br />
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From the Shibuya Station, there's a path of paw prints leading to the statue. Of course there were many tourists angling for a photo, but each one was courteous to let others have their moment.<br />
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Shibuya is also a shopping district and there are many malls and stores you can visit. We went to Adidas where I was able to score the hard-to-find women's slip-ons, and in a new color too!<br />
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A friend of mine said there's a Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory store nearby, but the one we visited was at Skytree. Tokyo Milk Cheese are delicious cookies with cheese sandwiched in between.<br />
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How to get there by train from Ikebukuro:<br />
<ul>
<li>Ride the JR Yamanote Line and get off at Shibuya Station. </li>
<li>Take the Hachiko Exit and walk to the Hachiko statue and Shibuya Crossing. </li>
</ul>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
5. Yoyogi Park/Meiji Shrine</h3>
<br />
We enjoyed our visit at Yoyogi Park where the Meiji Shrine is located. The calming effect nature has is evident in this place, with its canopy of trees and flowers in bloom. Entering the park, we were greeted with falling leaves, like gentle raindrops.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpXqoMtagnbunASQ4_Yt4QJk5ZSi20to40a9U2Q0Sl0F3c_lWGtpdQStRLRsHjwqlPf25c3Ni6UPVI8Yp7a3nWoDhewOgQtr4vX5Z2kq2avrGzqY6dxUNM2Vq8abu-lVNgcVLXhQQ4Ie-/s1600/Meiji+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpXqoMtagnbunASQ4_Yt4QJk5ZSi20to40a9U2Q0Sl0F3c_lWGtpdQStRLRsHjwqlPf25c3Ni6UPVI8Yp7a3nWoDhewOgQtr4vX5Z2kq2avrGzqY6dxUNM2Vq8abu-lVNgcVLXhQQ4Ie-/s640/Meiji+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtJX117MX9TPSOXYuFAmbA1c2tBejj_7F4YxHu-wxPz7PxajwO2KKYq5GysW5disZzMY5nHL4viRF9KyQvJ0He5wYU96P4FE1Jndfo3Hv4NClIfLdmP8KchEKfxWac1X6KdiRiCJhVJR4/s1600/Meiji+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtJX117MX9TPSOXYuFAmbA1c2tBejj_7F4YxHu-wxPz7PxajwO2KKYq5GysW5disZzMY5nHL4viRF9KyQvJ0He5wYU96P4FE1Jndfo3Hv4NClIfLdmP8KchEKfxWac1X6KdiRiCJhVJR4/s640/Meiji+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posing in front of Sake barrels.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Further inside the park, you will arrive at Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.<br />
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In Japan, at the entrance of shrines, you are required to cleanse your hands and mouth with water.<br />
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There are also a section where people write their prayers on little slabs of wood.<br />
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By the entrance of Meiji Shrine, there's a box with two holes called Omikuji. You drop 100 Yen on smaller box in front, and get a Waka poem from the Omikuji. The left hole contains English poems, while the right hole contains Japanese poems.<br />
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The poems are from Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. A Waka is a traditional Japanese poem made of 31 syllables with the pattern 5-7-5-7-7. Emperor Meiji wrote about 100,000 Waka while Empress Shoken wrote around 30,000. These works help enhance the nation's moral character.<br />
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These are the words of wisdom that I got:<br />
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How to get there by train from Ikebukuro Station:<br />
<ul>
<li>Ride the JR Yamanote Line and get off at Harajuku Station. </li>
<li>Take the Omotesando exit and walk to Yoyogi Park.</li>
</ul>
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BONUS: Here are other places you can include in your itinerary if you have the time.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Tokyo National Museum/Ueno Park</h3>
If you like immersing yourself in historical artifacts, you'll enjoy a visit to the Tokyo National Museum. You will see a lot of exhibits and displays that explain Japanese history, and will make you appreciate the country more.<br />
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It was snowing the day we went there, so it was really cold. The snow and the rain made the temperatures drop and we were freezing. But we were still able to take a stroll at Ueno Park.<br />
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How to get there from Ikebukuro:<br />
<ul>
<li>Take the JR Yamanote Line and get off at Ueno Station. </li>
<li>Walk to Ueno Park and Tokyo National Museum. </li>
</ul>
<h3>
Odaiba</h3>
If you're going to Tokyo before April, make a stop at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba to catch the life size Gundam display, as it will only be there until <a href="http://kotaku.com/japans-giant-gundam-will-be-torn-down-next-march-1789549607" target="_blank">March 5, 2017!</a><br />
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How to get there from Ikebukuro:<br />
<ul>
<li>Ride the Yurakucho Line and get off at Shin-Kiba Station.</li>
<li>Transfer to Rinkai Line and get off at Tokyo Teleport Station. </li>
<li>Walk to Odaiba. </li>
</ul>
<h3>
Mt. Fuji Tour</h3>
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If your schedule permits it, I highly recommend taking a Mt. Fuji Tour. The magnificent mountain is said to only show itself a number of times in a year, so we were very fortunate to have a glimpse of it.<br />
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We booked our tour <a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Tokyo/Mt-Fuji-Yamanakako-Onsen-Experience-and-Outlets-Shopping-Day-Trip-From-Tokyo/d334-2142TYO_BUSS10" target="_blank">here.</a> It includes a trip to Mt. Fuji's 5th viewing station, an authentic Japanese lunch buffet, a visit to a Japanese Onsen (hot spring where you bathe naked. Think Wensha, minus the buffet), and shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets.<br />
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Because it snowed the day before our trip, the 5th viewing station was closed. But we were brought to Lake Kawaguchi, which our Japanese friend says offers the best view of Mt Fuji. And it does!<br />
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Just look at this beauty:</div>
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So there you have it, dear readers! Hope my entry helps you plan your Tokyo itinerary. You can also read my <a href="http://www.romyisagirl.com/2018/01/romy-roams-tokyo-where-to-eat.html" target="_blank">Tokyo Eat List</a> and watch for my entry on How to Apply for Janapanese Visa.romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-61857662251635436322017-02-17T12:00:00.000+08:002017-02-17T12:23:31.114+08:00Romy Dines at Bodega Casa VillaI don't usually venture around the Marikina neighborhood, but after a long day of wedding errands one Saturday, I only had one dinner destination in mind: <b>Bodega Casa Villa</b> on Dragon St., San Roque.<br />
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Full disclosure, my grade school friends Karen Villa and Jan Junsay own the place together with another business partner Keanne Andeza, and they asked me to check the place out. I didn't want to come alone because I wanted to try several dishes to give my readers a comprehensive review. So with Jay and Kenneth in tow, I knew it was the perfect time to go.<br />
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Bodega Casa Villa is open for dinner service, which starts at 5pm. We arrived early at 6pm, as the crowd usually comes later for drinks and the live entertainment, which starts at 9pm from Tuesdays to Saturdays.<br />
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From the outside, the Filipino-Mexican (Filmex) restaurant looks like your neighborhood hole-in-the-wall, with bare cement walls, barbed wires, and a wooden gate. An old garage was converted to an al fresco dining area, where the bar is also located.<br />
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Intricately-carved wooden double doors lead to a more family-friendly dining space, decorated with yellow walls, cream tufted booths, and wooden tables and chairs. Warm lighting makes it more conducive to long meals and conversations, in contrast to the low lighting at the bar perfect for friends sharing a drink or two.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the two murals at Bodega Casa Villa.</td></tr>
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Karen and I were classmates in third grade, and I am very happy to see her as a successful chef and now, a restaurant owner. "It wasn't my plan to open a restaurant," she told me. Karen used to be a chef for the Raintree Group, which operates several restaurants in the country including Chelsea Kitchen, M Cafe, Kabila, and Rocket Room. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the restaurant's plates, carefully chosen by Executive chef Karen Villa and co-owner Keanne Andeza</td></tr>
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But when Karen and her family moved houses, their old family home became a bodega for Rey's Auto Shop next door, owned by her parents. When Jan and Keanne asked her if she wanted to team up and open their own restaurant, Karen seized the opportunity.<br />
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We started our meal with one of their bestsellers, the <b>Mucho Nacho Bodega (Php220).</b> The photo doesn't do it justice, the serving is huge! It is topped with a mix of Filipino-Mexican ingredients: salsa fresca, jalape<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%;">ñ</span>o, lonnganisa, kesong puti, garlic cream, and quezo sauce. Even with a mouthful of toppings, we loved how the nachos weren't too heavy that it ruined our appetite. I'm not a fan of spicy food, but I tried them with the Bad Boy Tikboy hot sauce, and man what a bite. Not for the faint of heart diners. <br />
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Next we had the <b>Taco Trio (Php295),</b> where you can choose three among six variants: crispy buttered ox brain, lamb adobo, beef barbacoa, chicken inasal, fish sinigang, and pork bagnet sisig.<br />
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We chose (from left) fish sinigang, beef barbacoa, and chicken inasal. They come with salsa verde, chopotle salsa, and garlic cream sauce. Even without the dips, the tacos burst with flavor and I like the beef barbacoa best. The chicken inasal with atchara is also good. I liked the crunch of the fish taco, though it needed more of the sour taste of the sinigang soup.<br />
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Kenneth ordered the <b>Sticky Pork BBQ Ribs (Php295),</b> which we all loved. I often try ribs in restaurants that serve them, and this one is a winner. It's sweet and tangy, the meat tender. Bodega Casa Villa's servings are generous, and their plates can be shared among 3 people if you're ordering several dishes. The BBQ Ribs come with grilled corn and cilantro rice, which was a pleasant surprise. </div>
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Jay and I split the <b>Grilled Chipotle Lamb Chops (Php340), </b>which comes with grilled corn and Mexican rice. This is best eaten upon serving, but because we had so much to eat, we weren't able to finish it and had the rest packed to go (like I said, huge servings). </div>
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By the time we finished our entrees, Bodega was almost filled-up, with families, couples, and friends among the mix of diners. A few days later, the restaurant hosted a girl's Frozen-themed birthday party. Four months into their operations and the joint is already becoming a Marikina neighborhood favorite. </div>
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We ended our meal with a must-try, the <b>Boleros (Php170). </b>They're deep-fried donut holes sprinkled with confectioner's sugar, and come with salted caramel, maple, and chocolate dips. </div>
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Guys, I can't recommend this enough! Warm and packed, this dessert immediately made it to my Ultimate Comfort Food List (together with mac and cheese, ube, pudding, and truffle cream pasta). It's the kind of food you eat with your eyes closed, and you groan with happiness because it's so good!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming back for you, my loves!</td></tr>
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With everything we ate, there was still a lot of things we will come back for. Their large burritos, squid aligue pasta, and chimichanga mac and cheese are just some items that caught my eye.<br />
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Reasonable prices, top-notch food quality, and great service are what you can expect from this humble Marikina spot. Don't you just love servers who automatically refill your water glasses, and are attentive to your needs without being overbearing? I do, and Bodega's staff does just that.<br />
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Can I just also tell you quickly about their restroom? How cute is this! This is the powder area, and flanking this station are the his and hers restrooms, aptly labeled Senyor and Senyora.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I want to take home the mirror!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thoughtful details extend to the restroom. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some food for thought while in the loo. </td></tr>
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Another noteworthy detail that we immediately noticed upon entering the restaurant, it smells good. Not "cooking food" good (which you worry might stick to your clothes), but like how a home smells like. Fresh and welcoming, which says a lot about how Bodega Casa Villa is. It's an inviting place to come together and hang out.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tired but full! </td></tr>
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With restaurants and food parks sprouting left and right, it's refreshing to see a well-thought out concept that's also executed thoughtfully, but with good food still at the forefront. From the interiors to the regularly-updated menu offerings and their clever names (check out their cocktail list which includes Saging Ni Adan and Treau The Fire), Bodega Casa Villa is a work of love. Each owner is hands-on with the operations, with Karen at the helm of the kitchen and dining areas, Jan overseeing the bar, and Keanne in charge of marketing and entertainment.<br />
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Lunch service is in the pipeline, as the parking situation still needs to be addressed. For now, guests can park across the restaurant and at Rey's Auto Shop.<br />
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I'm excited with how the menu will further develop, and I tip my hat to my two grade school friends who made this unexpected project a reality. Congrats Jan and Karen!<br />
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<b>BODEGA CASA VILLA:</b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">48 Dragon Street, San Roque, Marikina City</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">+632-6451952</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Operating Hours: Tuesdays-Sundays, </span>5:00PM-12:30AM<br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Accepts cash and credit card.</span><br />
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<br />romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-37927589066761955512017-01-25T08:54:00.000+08:002017-01-25T19:30:36.657+08:00*Wedding Wednesday: How I Met My GroomHello there! If you read my<a href="http://www.romyisagirl.com/2016/12/2016-what-year.html" target="_blank"> year-ender </a>and my <a href="http://www.romyisagirl.com/2017/01/happy-birthday-dad.html" target="_blank">last entry</a> (a tearjerker according to my friends), then you know that I'm getting married soon. Many people close to us say it's been a long wait, but they are very happy now that we finally decided to take on the next chapter in our lives.<br />
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Jay and I have been together since third year high school. That's 16 years ago. We broke up a couple of times, but we still found our way back to each other, and here we are! I just want to tell you a little story about how we met and how our love story developed.<br />
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The year was 1999. I was a new student at New Era University, and I was missing my grade school friends, whom I was with for several years. My old school, Our Lord's Grace Montessori, only had three sections per grade so we pretty much knew everyone. When I transferred to NEU, I was a bit culture-shocked to find each year had 15 sections. That's like the whole grade school batch from OLGM!<br />
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Thankfully, it wasn't hard to gain new friends. A girl approached me one day and asked if we could eat recess together. That girl was Niña, and 18 years later she would become my maid of honor. Along with Raga and Tami, Niña and I became inseparable. But aside from girlfriends, I also busied myself with joining various clubs and extra-curricular activities. I became a freshman coordinator for a couple of clubs, which meant I went around different sections to let other members know if there were certain announcements and upcoming events.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrZ6s6WBlxnY3-IpaX66yJDGiXdhHT1__vqBF3-ELY86iZZJ8W3hPGrTyAIxIaGxbO_3XGFkAhyDmXi9F-y70X8Gk5Radullv7kE4asDG0-NkIDRQo7ekHbNTT6s_QPLEAY7eIV1EGl83D/s1600/10400145_82793898402_8024239_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrZ6s6WBlxnY3-IpaX66yJDGiXdhHT1__vqBF3-ELY86iZZJ8W3hPGrTyAIxIaGxbO_3XGFkAhyDmXi9F-y70X8Gk5Radullv7kE4asDG0-NkIDRQo7ekHbNTT6s_QPLEAY7eIV1EGl83D/s640/10400145_82793898402_8024239_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Niña (left), my first friend in high school.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tami, Me, Marti, and Niña</td></tr>
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It was during one of these rounds that I came across a certain boy who didn't look me in the eye when I talked to him. <i>Rude,</i> I thought. Cute, but rude. He was thin, with fair complexion, round eyes and long lashes, and a sharp nose so unlike my flat and wide one. But he was really quiet. I don't think he even uttered a single word after I relayed the club information, he just nodded and went back to their classroom.<br />
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Somehow I found out who he was, that he was an honor student, good in Math, best friends with the grade school valedictorian Jed (who would also become his best man). I found this out not because I was already interested in him, but because our sections were kind of competitors. We were in two of the three top sections.<br />
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Aside from the usual school contests, I didn't encounter him again during freshman year. But in second year, I found out the dreaded news that my new section included students who were mostly not from my old one, Jay and Jed included.<br />
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We have to thank our Filipino class for bringing us closer, though. In NEU, seating arrangement usually changes every period, and we were seated beside each other for Ms. Agapito's class. It's hard to explain how it happened, because we were supposed to be listening to our teacher, but Jay and I ended up talking A LOT then. We were seated at the back, probably the second to the last row, and I remember he was at the leftmost column, right next to the window. I'm going to go a little YA novel here and describe how when I looked at Jay, he had a halo of light behind him and it made me want to listen to him more, especially because he was always so quiet. He seldom talked outside of recitation time, and he rarely talked to girls. So Filipino class was a special time. We talked about movie plots, music, wrestling, and books. I told him about the stories I read about real-life "miracles " (more like serendipitous/Chicken Soup for the Soul stuff), and he told me about Robin Williams' <i>Bicentennial Man (1999). </i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5LMWqov6ebtgQxMxw8e-oq0D9mqsCDnmbLrve0AYMPIcA8Qg3r1rZRax5ynDwzB9tDMetD2SVZCAyg5E-46YCEPKGxy0RFd9T013D2PjUsBhJDihhM4c-DK-A-sLLPmXlrqT8_VNDzSF/s1600/BM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5LMWqov6ebtgQxMxw8e-oq0D9mqsCDnmbLrve0AYMPIcA8Qg3r1rZRax5ynDwzB9tDMetD2SVZCAyg5E-46YCEPKGxy0RFd9T013D2PjUsBhJDihhM4c-DK-A-sLLPmXlrqT8_VNDzSF/s640/BM.jpg" width="430" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jay told me the entire story of Bicentennial Man during Filipino class</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A scene from Bicentennial Man (source:<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0182789/mediaviewer/rm168400896" target="_blank"> IMDB</a>). </td></tr>
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Then we had a presentation for <i>Linggo ng Wika,</i> where we had to do an interpretative dance that involved wearing black clothes and white gloves, wave yards of fabric in Philippine flag colors, while the song <i>"Dakilang Lahi"</i> sung by Ciara Sotto was playing. At one point in the presentation, we had to form a big heart, shaped with our hands, and we would make it beat (as in dugdug, dugdug beat). So our hands should be coordinated while pushing them back and forth at the same time. The lights would be out during the presentation, so our white gloves would glow, it was really cool.<br />
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Somehow, Jay and I ended up together during the heart part. As you can see in the photo below (I'm the one in the glasses, with my left arm covering most of my face, and Jay is the one behind me looking slightly at the camera.), only a teeny, tiny part of our hands touched. But in high school, every little thing counts and is amplified when it came to your crush. You can say we looked forward to practice.<br />
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How I found out he had a crush on me was a bit tricky. But it involved index cards, my name written down, and a classmate accidentally seeing it. My friend Marti (also one of my bridesmaids), teased me whenever Jay was called on to recite. During our year-end party, we had an exchange gift, and with the help of our friend Doy and a little name-switching, Jay and I got each other as recipients. I gave him a WWF (now WWE) poster, while he gave me a stuffed red and yellow heart pillow from Blue Magic. Before the school year ended, we also played the leads in our Filipino play, <i>Florante at Laura. </i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's Jay on the topmost row, with his arms in an X-shape in front of him (a gesture from WWE wrestlers who were DX members). I'm fourth from right, standing second row.</td></tr>
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So that's how I met my groom. A lot of other things happened that year, and this is just a little snippet. Our love story is long and winding, and one blog entry is not enough. I just wanted to share how it's possible to meet the love of your life in high school, and get married to them more than a decade later.<br />
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How did you meet your groom? Sound off in the comments, I would love to know your story!<br />
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*Wedding Wednesday will be about my wedding preparations, tips, and reviews. Watch for my entries and join me in my wedding journey!romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-58839728860660590142017-01-18T13:53:00.001+08:002017-06-19T14:02:06.933+08:00Happy Birthday, Dad!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBWJv8JkGlpPZvVIUtjgX6WBKKv4r5wc04ydB9XWPNBrQqlI0bJRxIO0z4Ba4juyFqWteiePI4A9Fxp_m9JBs5_SHvJF54YnTKbOrt1Rys2OE-lP8TVCiTEActmYsv-_eXD5ZrHYlxTWt/s1600/IMG_4816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBWJv8JkGlpPZvVIUtjgX6WBKKv4r5wc04ydB9XWPNBrQqlI0bJRxIO0z4Ba4juyFqWteiePI4A9Fxp_m9JBs5_SHvJF54YnTKbOrt1Rys2OE-lP8TVCiTEActmYsv-_eXD5ZrHYlxTWt/s640/IMG_4816.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The look of love from a father to his baby.</td></tr>
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Dear Daddy,<br />
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Happy birthday! You would've been 71 today. I miss you every day, but now more than ever. I am getting married to my high school sweetheart in a few months, and I would give everything to have you walk me down the aisle.<br />
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Do you remember our deal? That I wasn't allowed to have a boyfriend until I was 18? I'm sorry I broke that. The good news is I'm getting married at 30 years old, to my first and only boyfriend. I bet you thought I'd get married at a young age. A relative said I'd get married before I was 25. Look at me now.<br />
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Dad, as I'm about to change my name, I would like you to know that it was an honor being your daughter. It still is. What a privilege to have you as a Dad, to live with you in the same house, to see you be a stern leader but a loving father, and to receive from you the immeasurable treasure of our faith.<br />
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Thank you for all the time you chose to spend with us. Thank you for being there for our special occasions, but also for the everyday ones. You were the busiest person, overseeing a region, even the whole country, hosting a TV and radio show, and yet you made sure we will always have dinner together as a family. That is why food and meals are important to me. Going out and eating together was our thing. I looked forward to our conversations, even your teasing. Back then there were no smartphones and internet to distract us, you made it a point we shared with you our days, and you shared with us yours. When we were together, you were really there, and because of that we'll always have fond memories of you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QfI2M5f_Ad7qhYsZp5ih9xd7J5keVl70BSIGrn3iliqlClAf2nDpl4sA85gjs4FoxopmCWPur4Y0hAM-xitpruAf9-o71d3A94D_1Wh9W51XG0Vl6wLBUbD_daurJ4H-LotDf_UVsbmt/s1600/IMG_4819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QfI2M5f_Ad7qhYsZp5ih9xd7J5keVl70BSIGrn3iliqlClAf2nDpl4sA85gjs4FoxopmCWPur4Y0hAM-xitpruAf9-o71d3A94D_1Wh9W51XG0Vl6wLBUbD_daurJ4H-LotDf_UVsbmt/s640/IMG_4819.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At my grade school graduation, before you gave me my medal.</td></tr>
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Memories of you and me driving together to Greenhills so I can buy a scientific calculator. You and me having milk and pan de sal at midnight. You and me hugging in my bedroom with Nanay watching, a few months before you left. You and me climbing the steps to ATC and you telling me you could buy me new clothes also, without knowing that was your way of saying I shouldn't be swayed by material things and false promises. I'm sorry I didn't realize it then, Dad. That remains my biggest life regret, but I'm trying to move on now. Even if all the money and possessions you left were <strike>stolen wasted spent</strike> taken, we will always have the love and time you had with us. That is ours. So thank you.<br />
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Thank you for your sense of style. You were always the sharpest man in the room. Not a hair out place, no screaming designer logos. Just well-tailored shirts and suits, pressed slacks, and a watch. Maybe a ring now and then. But you had swagger. Even when wearing house clothes, you looked dignified. A friend sent me a photo of you attending a wedding, you were probably a principal sponsor then. Look at that suit and tie! Oh Dad, I'm sure you would have been so handsome at my wedding,<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpggNXqmweDTYhbQAWLbm-sp4Fn7EBpqCjEJHyufJlWPRiacBUII8xrlrU1cCm0j8TSt79iaz7ps7nns1RnEEBT_FUzRf0cfFv5kTANJq9aPRGHZhXmtMT0w2Ej2_wkYHvKax79T5iw6P/s1600/IMG_4821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpggNXqmweDTYhbQAWLbm-sp4Fn7EBpqCjEJHyufJlWPRiacBUII8xrlrU1cCm0j8TSt79iaz7ps7nns1RnEEBT_FUzRf0cfFv5kTANJq9aPRGHZhXmtMT0w2Ej2_wkYHvKax79T5iw6P/s640/IMG_4821.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who can top a double-breasted suit?</td></tr>
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Thank you for passing down a love for photography, and for capturing our moments. Because of you, I have thousands of snaps that chronicle my life. But I wish we had more pictures together, you were almost always behind the camera.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfTgiE5WWPPeVDPqymSZJx3JxkYjTl9LeywbMml3KePNb8cC2Mf-s0qYt5KbYkGiFXEp-CemuLNmhYQaT2KZAEqGJ4IBT9X48z1xqMFu5wW6PDwl4YluVYdyzReMnL4ueGkraA_8jH1X4/s1600/IMG_4812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfTgiE5WWPPeVDPqymSZJx3JxkYjTl9LeywbMml3KePNb8cC2Mf-s0qYt5KbYkGiFXEp-CemuLNmhYQaT2KZAEqGJ4IBT9X48z1xqMFu5wW6PDwl4YluVYdyzReMnL4ueGkraA_8jH1X4/s640/IMG_4812.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you for capturing this moment during my 5th grade holiday presentation.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ETANiw4XuJ4PXJpku4dLFRZi93sMGSoEt1rJDzRUmYgRNAw5VV94d_suETG-Q2-dcarHIK19V1wASP_inAiS6BiZUuZVaLuKi3AN07iWuhZcdrm8ef5vhYcCiMP4jPaZwBQC8cdYycHi/s1600/IMG_4818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ETANiw4XuJ4PXJpku4dLFRZi93sMGSoEt1rJDzRUmYgRNAw5VV94d_suETG-Q2-dcarHIK19V1wASP_inAiS6BiZUuZVaLuKi3AN07iWuhZcdrm8ef5vhYcCiMP4jPaZwBQC8cdYycHi/s640/IMG_4818.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You always asked us to take your photo in this profile pose. Hehe!</td></tr>
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Thank you for setting the bar high on the love I deserve to have. Being the best father to us made me realize the importance of having a family that doesn't shy away from expressing their love, a family that sticks with you no matter what, one that doesn't let distance or work get in the way of maintaining connections. Thank you for instilling in me that people can claim to be busy, but if they want to spend time with you, they will make time.<br />
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Thank you for showing me that friends are the family you choose. You told me this long ago, "Tell me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are." I had reservations and wild reactions then, but I understand now where you were coming from. Over the years, I've met a lot of your friends and my heart is filled with stories about you, about how you were proud of us, about what a good person you were. And just recently someone told me a story about one of your closest confidantes and revealed how sometimes the people most concerned for us and lend a helping hand are the ones we least expect.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbUB6Nkc_P3FaXbFDTAPdjTohMUn6AFRp3WQhGlZoxTetA12i2wtqc_Mm5qxPCQnYrEiLgfjq7YdEzwLemOfISzHSjMYZIXUo82ZvdWQYCM19xD-y9TQUmWeRK7mOG_-f8kMvW-eq-vsXA/s1600/IMG_4817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbUB6Nkc_P3FaXbFDTAPdjTohMUn6AFRp3WQhGlZoxTetA12i2wtqc_Mm5qxPCQnYrEiLgfjq7YdEzwLemOfISzHSjMYZIXUo82ZvdWQYCM19xD-y9TQUmWeRK7mOG_-f8kMvW-eq-vsXA/s640/IMG_4817.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That face. Love you, Dad!</td></tr>
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Most of all, thank you for being gentle with us. Dad, I am proud to say that I met a man who has never raised his voice or lifted a finger to harm me. He may not be the typical ideal guy for many, but I believe he is the one God intended to accompany me in this journey. He's hardworking, patient, makes me laugh all the time, and most importantly a man of strong faith.<br />
<br />
Dad, thank you for setting that example. You were tough at work, but completely different at home. Ours may not have been the normal family setting, but I wouldn't trade those four years of living with you for anything. I can only pray that when I have children of my own, that I can give them the same love and security you gave me, and if I'm also going to leave the world before they do, that they will have more than enough memories to tide them over in this cruel, cruel world.<br />
<br />
I love you.<br />
<br />
Romyromyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-88630531296140503802017-01-06T15:00:00.000+08:002017-01-06T15:26:10.179+08:00Simplifying in 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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During our Japan trip in November, I had a sudden realization. Traveling makes me happy, and it's one of the things Jay and I enjoy doing together. I'd love to continue doing this at least once a year. But trips cost money, and with our upcoming wedding and a married life together, we need to set priorities.<br />
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It was then that I decided on my word for 2017: Simplify. I told myself, if I want to continue traveling the country and the world, I need to simplify my life. I need to learn to do away with frills and wants that don't really serve me purpose and only give me fleeting moments of "happiness". I need to invest on experiences and learning. So here are the things I plan to do to simplify my life:<br />
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<b>1. Downsize my closet. </b></h3>
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When I was still living in a condominium, I had a walk-in closet all for myself. It was always full and had more clothes and shoes than I could ever need. When I cleaned up one time, I found several pairs of shoes I'd never worn, and they were already in different stages of disrepair. Because my mom used to own a garments business, I was never left wanting for clothes. </div>
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When I left to work for my uncle in the province in 2015, I had to make do with the clothes I could fit in my suitcase. I basically used three pairs of shoes: two sandals and a pair of rubber shoes that I barely wore. And what do you know, I survived!</div>
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Before I left the condo, I had a huge garage sale of my stuff. But there were still several pieces that remained. So in the next two months I plan to unload majority of my clothes and shoes. It's a good thing there are now Facebook groups and even selling apps available to easily dispose of your things. </div>
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<b>Bonus: </b>Here's a video about the genius behind creating a "uniform," or wearing the same thing every day. I'm not at that stage yet, but curating my wardrobe seems also fitting now that I am about to turn 30.
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<div class="fb-video" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/ATTNVideo/videos/1638931369745151/?pnref=story" data-show-text="false" data-width="500">
<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/ATTNVideo/videos/1638931369745151/" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ATTNVideo/videos/1638931369745151/"></a><br />
Wearing the same clothes every day is actually really smart.<br />
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ATTNVideo/">ATTN: Video</a> on Thursday, December 22, 2016</blockquote>
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2. Limit my shopping. </h3>
I inherited a shopping habit from my mom, and that includes buying designer things. My mom had a neat collection of branded bags but because we had different tastes, I dreamed of buying my own. When I started working, I saved part of my salary to acquire them. Looking back, it seems I bought a designer bag for every job I had. So even if I'm saying goodbye to a lot of my things, I'm keeping my totes and purses. They represent a time when I was more carefree about my spending. A lot of my bags were also gifts. And because I already have several of them, they will have to do. I will think of them whenever I am tempted to buy another one. Let's hope my will is strong enough!<br />
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<b>Tip:</b> If you're also reining in your shopping habit, cleanse your social media feeds of what can distract or tempt you. Unfollow accounts of brands and sellers, at least until you are strong enough to look at posts and not get the urge to buy. Make window shopping your guilty pleasure! Or if you really want something, make sure you save up for it first before making the purchase.<br />
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<br />3. Befriend a seamstress and other craftsmen.</h3>
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This is related to number 2. I have been attending a lot of weddings, and I don't really have a lot of formal wear. They don't come cheap, so last year I had a friend's mom make a dress for me. It only cost me less than half of what they sell in stores! So this year I plan to make more visits to my friend's mom. From our entourage dresses, to ones I will wear to worship service, to tops and skirts, I plan to have them done by a local seamstress. I'm even thinking of learning how to sew myself! An aunt of mine shared how she makes her and her family's clothes, even those they wore for her parents' golden wedding anniversary. I think sewing is a very useful skill to learn.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGHGS3iOPwkfQEl00_b8wvnFEkGtufiCRUV4fTvuE8mecwB8dvTcIVph7Bg2rwLVxAf5rieBOjsNUuDwO33HQ5k7eqaC2iN_bav8xIh2sDJsNEuPhTsIWp0qLtn7gMgRiLUE0zxysoPio/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252812%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGHGS3iOPwkfQEl00_b8wvnFEkGtufiCRUV4fTvuE8mecwB8dvTcIVph7Bg2rwLVxAf5rieBOjsNUuDwO33HQ5k7eqaC2iN_bav8xIh2sDJsNEuPhTsIWp0qLtn7gMgRiLUE0zxysoPio/s640/FullSizeRender+%252812%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No full body photo, but this is the dress I had made for a friend's wedding.</td></tr>
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This doesn't end with clothes. Whether it's a piece of furniture or a service, I will expand my search beyond shopping malls and online advertisements. I'm sure there are hidden gems in our neighborhood, as there are in yours too!</div>
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These are just some of the ways I plan to simplify my 2017. Another thing I did was choose a nondescript planner from the bookstore. In previous years, I used the red Moleskine weekly planner. For a couple of years I also joined the Starbucks planner craze. This year I was also planning to get another coffee chain's planner, but decided I didn't need the calories, and the price difference between that and the Php250 one I picked up was huge. </div>
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What's your word for the 2017, dear readers? Are there ways you wish to simplify your life too? Share them in the comments section! </div>
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romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-40429088387109176802016-12-31T15:58:00.001+08:002016-12-31T17:56:50.807+08:002016: What A Year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdC1II4ALyqCwrvsNb8ixED9jLjftwcNDCTn_w_U0uWgd0IzF0zZIac0DtnkfYSSPDv4TJar-oaWDygWBfG1V5-TwZj0pYlyfM1Fb1r6kwvJ-ApHktlCEteq3FLp51SnBBPtdSqr6IiAz/s1600/Fuji+pano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdC1II4ALyqCwrvsNb8ixED9jLjftwcNDCTn_w_U0uWgd0IzF0zZIac0DtnkfYSSPDv4TJar-oaWDygWBfG1V5-TwZj0pYlyfM1Fb1r6kwvJ-ApHktlCEteq3FLp51SnBBPtdSqr6IiAz/s640/Fuji+pano.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">To say that 2016 was a tumultuous year is an understatement. From beginning to end, it seems that the year dropped on us one bomb after another. From deaths to tragedies to political situations, our country and the rest of the world went through one tough year. You don't need to go beyond your Facebook feed to see how divisive the world has become.</span><span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">Personally though, 2016 was good for me. I needed to go through 2016 to reboot, recharge, and realign myself with what I really wanted with my life.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">The year before this, 2015, had been rough. Between family drama, a business venture that didn't pan out, and getting sick again, I needed to breathe. In the latter part of 2015, an uncle offered me a job in the province, and it was the perfect opportunity for me to reset. I stayed there for a year.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">After living independently for many years, it was refreshing to be cared for again. I didn't need to worry about cooking my own food, doing the laundry, and cleaning the place. I had to adjust living with others though, because I wasn't used to not being alone in the house anymore.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many afternoons in the province were spent enjoying snacks like suman sa lihiya or tamales, a delicacy from Tiaong, Quezon. </td></tr>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1"><br />My job was pretty easy, the office a mere five minutes away from the house, and I always had a ride to and from the municipal hall, save for some days when I had to commute. On weekends, I went back to Manila to spend time with Jay and his family.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">Slowly, I began to heal. I began to dream again. I began to pick up the broken pieces and believe that things can still get better.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I enjoyed bonding with my aunt, who loved entertaining guests over food. We had tacos for dinner one night!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">And they did. After a year in Quezon, I went back to Manila. I took classes and workshops that helped me pursue my passion for writing, and I started being active on this blog. I met with friends, family, and carefully chose the jobs I applied for. I traveled. I felt my faith being restored and my commitment to God get stronger.</span><span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">4x4 ride at the <a href="http://www.romyisagirl.com/2016/09/romy-roams-ilocos-day-2.html" target="_blank">Laoag sand dunes in Ilocos. </a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With authors and editors Mina V. Esguerra (left) and Ines B. Yao at the Writing for YA workshop in September.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Experienced fall and winter in Tokyo, Japan.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the airport before our flight back to Manila, I mailed a postcard addressed to my Dad, the first of many. At that moment, my siblings and I were in different parts of the world. I was in Japan, my Kuya in the States, and my sister in Norway.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With my high school girlfriends turned maid of honor and bridesmaid.</td></tr>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">The most important blessing I received this year was when Jay and I decided to get married. We have been together for more than half our lives, and to finally take that step toward marriage is a prayer He answered in His perfect time.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">Our Japan trip was the cherry on top of my beautiful cake. We witnessed our first snowfall (it hasn't snowed in Tokyo in November for 54 years), and were fortunate to glimpse the magnificent Mt. Fuji. With the snowcapped mountain behind us, Jay asked me to be his wife. It was amazing.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"He has made everything beautiful in its time." -Ecclesiastes 3:11</td></tr>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">But God wasn't finished because there was another bonus in store for me. I planned to sell my banana loaves in December just in time for the Holiday season. I prayed that people would order because having no regular job, this was my chance to earn an income. And boy, did God deliver.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many friends ordered for their gifts and personal consumption. My heart is full!</td></tr>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">My baking sidehustle was such a success, orders have spilled over to 2017! This is the path I really want to pursue, and I hope I get to have an opportunity to do so.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">2016 taught me a lot of things. To patiently wait, but to also ask for what you want and need. To pray, but to also work hard. To hustle, but to also rest when needed.<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">Thank you dear readers for going on this journey with me. I know you're there (so please leave a comment! heehee), and my wish is that thru this blog, may I meet new friends and kindred spirits. See you in 2017 and let's discover together!<span class="m_-9062051255502078412Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-9062051255502078412s1">Happy New Year! </span><span class="m_-9062051255502078412s2"><img alt="🎉" class="CToWUd" data-goomoji="1f389" goomoji="1f389" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/e/1f389" style="margin: 0px 0.2ex; max-height: 24px; vertical-align: middle;" /><img alt="🎉" class="CToWUd" data-goomoji="1f389" goomoji="1f389" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/e/1f389" style="margin: 0px 0.2ex; max-height: 24px; vertical-align: middle;" /><img alt="🎉" class="CToWUd" data-goomoji="1f389" goomoji="1f389" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/e/1f389" style="margin: 0px 0.2ex; max-height: 24px; vertical-align: middle;" /></span></div>
romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-73750898220888965452016-12-09T11:30:00.000+08:002016-12-09T11:30:23.421+08:00Friday Fiction: Debts, Deaths, and Dreams <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Dani stared at the LED screen showing lithe, bespectacled girls riding a gold bus down Las Vegas strip. Awash in cotton candy pink and yellow lights, the models blew bubbles and strutted down the street like it was their personal runway. Tall, confident, carefree. The girls on TV were everything Dani will never be.</span></div>
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1">Deciding she's had enough, she turned her back from the digital ad billboard and turned to the crowd in the shopping mall coffee shop. It's been fifteen minutes and her client is nowhere to be found. A brown envelope of cash burned through her purse, twenty thousand pesos she failed to deposit before the bank closed for the day. A handful of money and yet she couldn't spare to waste a cup of coffee for herself. She'd have to commute back home with the cash, but it's not something she hasn't done before.<span class="m_7042495190983123233Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1">The trick is to act like there's nothing valuable in your bag. It helps that her nondescript tote is tattered at the edges, the synthetic leather peeling in different areas. Unlike the black nylon tote she sold that afternoon, a high-end bag she purchased two years ago before she left her last company. She originally asked for a higher price since the bag was in very good condition (she only used it once on a trip to Bali), all the gold hardware scratch-free and the straps were made of Saffiano leather, but her client was a frequent buyer and asked for a discount. With another deadline from the corrupt BIR officer looming, Dani had no choice but to give in.<span class="m_7042495190983123233Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1">The last two months had been a blur of buying and selling her things, material possessions she acquired since she started working, stuff she now realize don't really amount to much in the grand scheme of things. Not when you were left with a mountain of debt by your mother, who decided to up and leave without any warning.<span class="m_7042495190983123233Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1">Dani had a plan. Before she resigned from the events company she toiled in for five years to start her own wedding coordination team, she prepared everything needed to make her dream come true. She crafted a business plan, consulted her network of industry insiders, reached out to her freelance friends to jump on board. Everything was ready. What she didn't count on was her mother ruining everything for her. Again.<span class="m_7042495190983123233Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1">When Dani was about to apply for a sole proprietorship at the BIR, she discovered that she was in fact, several years due for tax payments and penalties. It turns out, her mother used her TIN in opening a short-lived massage place (one of her many big ideas), forged her signatures, didn't pay the taxes, and never bothered to inform the bureau when it closed down.</span></div>
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1">So instead of starting her dream venture, Dani had to spend her savings to first pay for the fines of a business she never benefited from.<span class="m_7042495190983123233Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1">Sadly, it was an all too-familiar scenario for the petite, insecure, and uptight lady now waiting to let go of another possession at a loss. She dug through her purse and felt the small drawstring pouch that holds a gold 18k necklace with a medallion pendant bearing the letter "D". It was a gift from her late father Danilo, after whom she was named.<span class="m_7042495190983123233Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1">Dani tried her best not to break down. She had no time for drama right now. She gripped the wooden table before her, holding on tight as the tears threatened to spill. The necklace was the last thing her father gave her on his last trip back to the Philippines, when he spent two whole weeks of uninterrupted quality time with Dani and her mother. They went to a beach in Zambales, gorging on mangoes and grilled seafood. They went to Baguio and hoarded jars of Good Shepherd Ube Jam and Lengua de Gato. <span class="m_7042495190983123233Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1">The next time Mang Danilo came home from Saudi he was in a coffin.<span class="m_7042495190983123233Apple-converted-space"> A freak accident with a cement mixer at the factory where he had worked for ten years. Dani was sixteen. </span></span><br />
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<span class="m_7042495190983123233s1"><span class="m_7042495190983123233Apple-converted-space">Mang Danilo made sure Dani and her mother would have a good life even after he was gone. But all his hard work went down the drain in two years when Dani's mother started gambling. It was small time at first. Cards and Mahjong whenever she and her friends would meet up for dinner at one of their houses. Then a friend introduced her to e-games, where she spent hours in front of a digital slot machine, befriending all the attendants and security guards where she played. She was winning too, but became too addicted that she ended up losing more than what she won. </span></span></div>
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Soon Dani noticed pieces of furniture and appliances were missing. Her mother's handbag collection, gifts from Mang Danilo every time he went back home, started disappearing too. Then she saw a text message on her mother's phone, to an unnamed number, saying she needed to see him and pawn her ring because she already lost three hundred thousand that night.<br />
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When Dani confronted her, she denied everything. She said she was just destressing, handling her grief and passing time. A month later she disappeared, leaving a trail of debts and angry former friends banging at their door.<br />
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That was six years ago. And now the ghost of her mother still haunts her. Dani slid the necklace back to its pouch and began to stand up. It looks like her client is a no-show, and just as well. She won't be selling the necklace after all.<br />
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She's done paying for debts she doesn't owe.<br />
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<i style="font-size: 12.8px; letter-spacing: 1px;"><b>*Friday Fiction</b> is my attempt at writing again. Writing to better myself, and not just because I need it to earn money. On Fridays (not every Friday though), I'll be posting something I wrote. It can be snippets, short stories, or even poetry. Hope you can come back and check! </i></div>
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romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-21901157582766491012016-12-05T12:22:00.002+08:002016-12-05T12:27:12.859+08:00Flawless is Fab@15, and They're Having the Biggest Beauty BlowoutI went to Flawess Trinoma branch to redeem the Revlite Insta Facial gift certificate I received during the <a href="http://www.romyisagirl.com/2016/10/blog-biz-blogging-and-chika-workshop.html" target="_blank">Blog Biz Blogging Workshop.</a> But I found out that the beauty clinic is celebrating their 15th anniversary this year, and clients are in for a treat!<br />
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December 8 is National Flawless Day, and because Flawless is Fab@15, they're hosting the biggest beauty blowout this entire month. They are giving away coupons that entitle patrons to awesome beauty deals good until December 31: buy 1 take 1 on facials, free products, service upgrades, and discounts on purchases. You can get these coupons at any clinic with no purchase necessary, and you can redeem them immediately!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_-5aHeh0LTeE33HKDVl6nY0XEqYuGYqY6JbLttSs4nRcOVM5SaQd8aZsCuS6tDGYiiwZEnMUKdUOrJK9LIM8bHJfaVtAkb6UBLi1PYm_-B4eT49UH8UXKrB4gY01HemVCFSRTFICrzFG/s1600/IMG_4171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_-5aHeh0LTeE33HKDVl6nY0XEqYuGYqY6JbLttSs4nRcOVM5SaQd8aZsCuS6tDGYiiwZEnMUKdUOrJK9LIM8bHJfaVtAkb6UBLi1PYm_-B4eT49UH8UXKrB4gY01HemVCFSRTFICrzFG/s320/IMG_4171.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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So I took mine and chose the Free Facial Upgrade. My Classic Facial was upgraded to Oil Control Regular Facial. That means I only pay Php399 instead of Php625, and I save Php226! The catch is, I wasn't able to use my Revlite Insta Facial gift certificate because I can only use one promo at a time. But not to worry, because I can use it on another day.<br />
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Before the procedure started, my aesthetician showed me the sealed bag of tools she will be using for my facial. Flawless prides itself in ensuring hygienic practices for the safety of its clients. I have gone to different facial clinics and this was the first time I've seen this practice. It's important because no matter how beautiful the ambiance of a facial clinic is, if they're not implementing hygienic practices, then you're in the wrong place.<br />
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At the treatment room, my aesthetician showed me the locker by the foot of the bed where I could store my bag and other things. She gave me the key and asked me to lie down. We then started with my facial. She cleaned my face, started the steam, and proceeded with the pricking. During the procedure, she mentioned that instead of the Oil Control Regular Facial I chose, we should switch to Acne Control Regular Facial because she noticed my breakout on my chin area. This way, my skin would benefit from the facial more. I love that she mentioned it to me first before proceeding, so I was able to clarify if there was a price difference between the two (there was none).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSlbn6_y8LHsyYdZhKouFkQEFuOWMhKaX6H6ssIZxdLJBHBYsVzPOBPgzmQhKfN1cjIyzhhxyj3m8mtw1G-vIPaR-RGOPFFIJDSPMGGEsKsWXD02H1-RkUnT6z2iNUvDplmIRS_DFFosu/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSlbn6_y8LHsyYdZhKouFkQEFuOWMhKaX6H6ssIZxdLJBHBYsVzPOBPgzmQhKfN1cjIyzhhxyj3m8mtw1G-vIPaR-RGOPFFIJDSPMGGEsKsWXD02H1-RkUnT6z2iNUvDplmIRS_DFFosu/s400/FullSizeRender+%25287%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of my kilay was erased. Heehee.</td></tr>
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After pricking, a mask was applied to my face and left on for about 10-15 minutes. Next to steaming, it was the most relaxing part! The final step was the laser for my face. All done! I was advised not to wet my face for eight hours, and that I can come back the following week to redeem my Revlite Insta Facial gift certificate.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kloUAwVz747FYg64zcaeNWt9uWUbbCilwcryPttK5yUEYLwA8wUlGiTp290mWXETt0kF7_trIAhyxpD03Tm5GKao0oBoHe6ShiLpd8yhIhF96ZwWzRguyBZRs5yLHQFhgcWZMuIByPok/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25288%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kloUAwVz747FYg64zcaeNWt9uWUbbCilwcryPttK5yUEYLwA8wUlGiTp290mWXETt0kF7_trIAhyxpD03Tm5GKao0oBoHe6ShiLpd8yhIhF96ZwWzRguyBZRs5yLHQFhgcWZMuIByPok/s400/FullSizeRender+%25288%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me-time is pamper time!</td></tr>
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When I finished paying, I filled out a coupon for a chance to win awesome raffle prizes, including a Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge in Rose Gold and a Yamaha Mio 125 motorcycle!<br />
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So this holiday season of giving, don't forget to treat yourself. Drop by any Flawless branch and celebrate the Fabulous You!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhk3CkX6lWm0xboRAf_9EsSq_uaY6zV-VR2vQ6fh1XZ9f35csXnTSNUO8C0GNQVUHbkuc1L6QHx11GFTmJ-TNd-VnSXWD9EM00WAdp8FFrOlNzkHVbvyO8FQ5vqZeP-bEhdwZa3Pt8V5ax/s1600/IMG_4174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhk3CkX6lWm0xboRAf_9EsSq_uaY6zV-VR2vQ6fh1XZ9f35csXnTSNUO8C0GNQVUHbkuc1L6QHx11GFTmJ-TNd-VnSXWD9EM00WAdp8FFrOlNzkHVbvyO8FQ5vqZeP-bEhdwZa3Pt8V5ax/s640/IMG_4174.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://flawless.com.ph/contactus" target="_blank">Flawless Clinics Nationwide</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FlawlessFaceandBody/" target="_blank">Facebook</a><br />
<a href="http://instagram.com/myflawless" target="_blank">Instagram</a><br />
<br />romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8342467770507637296.post-37850411538659159752016-11-28T11:30:00.000+08:002016-11-28T11:33:06.687+08:00Road-tested: Pure Beauté Bath and Body Products<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">When I attended the <a href="http://www.romyisagirl.com/2016/09/get-blisstified-afternoon-of-passion.html" target="_blank">#GetBLISStified </a>workshop, I received a lot of goodies from partner brands. The thing I was most excited about was the Pure Beauté skin and bath products. They are made from all-natural ingredients, and don't contain any SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) or parabens, which are harmful chemicals commonly used in commercial personal hygiene products. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgne8R9CqjMWEHUvoStydlY9vdTDfI8-w2KX-80xcQQC-e-FWcujNq4kbpSdtR2EHQr-slUGuRdTwExhORoP2VW4DqUFY0aT4eDp0nIuFR5W8Z-ggxon5wHCINuoC51SZQneZ40tdQD9i9G/s1600/IMG_1879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgne8R9CqjMWEHUvoStydlY9vdTDfI8-w2KX-80xcQQC-e-FWcujNq4kbpSdtR2EHQr-slUGuRdTwExhORoP2VW4DqUFY0aT4eDp0nIuFR5W8Z-ggxon5wHCINuoC51SZQneZ40tdQD9i9G/s640/IMG_1879.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Pure Beauté is a work of love from Jean Javier, also known as <a href="http://simplemama.ph/" target="_blank">Simple Mama.</a> Her husband comes from a family who makes products from coconuts, so she decided to develop a brand of products made from virgin coconut oil. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">"Simple Mama PH has been something in my heart for a really long time," Jean tells us in an interview. "I wanted to make luxurious natural living available to the middle class (simple) mom. I know that an all-natural lifestyle can be intimidating to the simple mom especially in terms of cost (because we are ever aware of our home budget) and I really wanted to break the barrier."</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I'm not yet a mom, but I became part of Simple Mama's target market because I want to be more conscious of the products I use for my face and body. Knowing that these natural products will also help lessen my carbon footprint is a bonus. Ever since I saw posts about Pure Beauté on Instagram, I couldn't wait to get my hands on them. I was especially drawn to the invigorating body scrub, which looked so luscious!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1T0EapibQfdtoUDM5VRgZr9Rt4DDFQb60Zf7Iv_K7q4FfjNiXD0QNIK7BBuIjEUgtuXvhJIXAfuEZWgD6tKa3HB-VsDY4-zqVwUEMgtuXnZeTm90f441OhgGVnds8ovfAx-b35K85gaGS/s1600/PB2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="636" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1T0EapibQfdtoUDM5VRgZr9Rt4DDFQb60Zf7Iv_K7q4FfjNiXD0QNIK7BBuIjEUgtuXvhJIXAfuEZWgD6tKa3HB-VsDY4-zqVwUEMgtuXnZeTm90f441OhgGVnds8ovfAx-b35K85gaGS/s640/PB2.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entire range of full-sized products from the Pure Clean line for Php1,800. Love the packaging!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">But because I have sensitive and acne-prone skin, I hesitated in buying the full sized set. I can't count how many times I bought products I had to throw out because I broke out after using them. The thing was, the travel-sized products weren't yet sold then, and were only available for special orders. So it was a pleasant surprise when I found out we were taking home the travel-sized kit for our workshop! Finally, I could try the products first to test if they're compatible with my skin.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">The kit includes the clarifying facial wash, the revitalizing shampoo and conditioner, and the nourishing moisturizer. It comes in a clear resealable pouch perfect for traveling. The facial wash and moisturizer also has an additional cap to prevent spills. Although the body scrub wasn't included in the kit, it was fine. I still have a big tube of body scrub I haven't finished anyway.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMZmMIYAFhcEEmn9YNM6cMVRC8BYmxX8oL3Crzos8Y-HEHsoTVQ0N1CL8pzfGd-5qknvhA-07X4jKhbGSx6iVNg9PWp4Go7TMAWRd-S4x94S0jrGI5HPbV3-hbZ8lWDeAU_akiXcpUR2L/s1600/IMG_1878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMZmMIYAFhcEEmn9YNM6cMVRC8BYmxX8oL3Crzos8Y-HEHsoTVQ0N1CL8pzfGd-5qknvhA-07X4jKhbGSx6iVNg9PWp4Go7TMAWRd-S4x94S0jrGI5HPbV3-hbZ8lWDeAU_akiXcpUR2L/s640/IMG_1878.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">The first thing I tried was the clarifying facial wash. It has a thicker consistency than most facial washes, and its color is clear rather than white. One small pump is enough to wash the entire face, but you'll wish to use more because it smells so heavenly! The scent reminds me of cotton candy, and I enjoy washing my face with it. There's no tingling or tightness after washing your face, just a smooth and squeaky clean feeling. It also removes makeup well, but you may want to wash your face twice to be sure.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">After washing my face and applying my usual toner, I used the nourishing moisturizer. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Confession: I'm a few months away from turning 30, and moisturizing has never been part of my skin care regimen. Shocking, I know. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize has been drilled into my magazine-reading consciousness since I was a teen but I never really followed through. Because of my problematic skin, the closest I had to a skin regimen was the Proactiv line, which has an anti-pimple cream instead of the moisturizer, and that's not really the same, is it?</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">So it was my first time to use a moisturizer. The first night, I pumped more than I needed and I just used the excess as lotion for my hands. And because I'm a noob, I also used the product around my eye area. A couple of days later, I noticed that the skin around my eyes felt more tender than usual, and it stung. The only thing different with my routine was the moisturizer, so of course I Googled if I could use it around my eye area. You can guess what the answer is: a big resounding NO. The skin around our eyes are more tender so we need to use a separate eye cream for them. So for newbies like me, you have been warned!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">But other than that mishap, I LOVED applying the moisturizer. Like the clarifying facial wash, it smelled like cotton candy and the formulation is not sticky at all. I have oily skin and this is a perfect moisturizer for me. I use it twice a day, and I regret starting it too late, because just a week after using it, the difference was so noticeable! </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I attended another workshop and when I posted my photo on FB and IG, three people told me I was blooming. And I totally credit the moisturizer because I wasn't even wearing concealer on the photo, just regular face powder! The evidence:</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5VpkESChOBavutnxHNw51-BCE0ED9uurNjDG-MP2QMoSFpaGwjxf6P4iDp2yhjaMwMlxi6blG7cnQ4igmVHLNj0TSF3Igo6K7EAI6XcIb-f5yY8M6VMTgdL2l7kqv7quFPynW-5IlVAg/s1600/IMG_2295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5VpkESChOBavutnxHNw51-BCE0ED9uurNjDG-MP2QMoSFpaGwjxf6P4iDp2yhjaMwMlxi6blG7cnQ4igmVHLNj0TSF3Igo6K7EAI6XcIb-f5yY8M6VMTgdL2l7kqv7quFPynW-5IlVAg/s640/IMG_2295.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's me on the left, with Frances Sales of Topaz Horizon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">So there. If I had to pick a favorite among all four products, it's the moisturizer hands down! One pump goes a long way because you don't need a lot for your entire face. And while I still got a couple of pimples, it was during my period, and what's different is they seem to heal faster now. Maybe it's because my face is moisturized and not too dry from using the anti-acne gel on my pimples. I also brought this to my recent trip to Japan, and it worked great for the cold weather. It prevented my skin from becoming dry. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">You want to know something shocking? As I was reading other feedbacks from those who have tried the Pure Beaut</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">é products, I found out that the moisturizer was used for the hands! So I clarified with Jean and she said it's actually a face and body moisturizer. See, it is so good and pure that it's gentle enough for your face! I am hooked, I tell ya.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">As for the revitalizing shampoo, I was surprised that it lathers well, considering it doesn't contain any SLS. It also smells like cotton candy, and even if I've had an active day (from working out or running errands), my hair retains the smell. I also dyed my hair and even if I didn't use any other treatments, my hair didn't become dry or frizzy. That's the virgin coconut oil at work!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">Among the four products, the revitalizing conditioner is the one that smells like coconut. Using it instantly transports me to the beach! And like the shampoo, this worked great for my dyed hair. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">I'm so excited for the other products they will offer. I hope they come out with a makeup remover since I've seen a lot of articles on the web about the wonders of coconut oil as makeup remover (and general beauty use). </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">For now, you can buy the Pure Clean set at the<a href="http://simplemama.ph/store/" target="_blank"> Simple Mama website. </a>They also offer other lines such as the Pure Detox (a set you use once a week to remove product build-up and impurities), Pure Baby (the gentlest products for your little one), and Pure Bounty (Virgin Coconut Oil, which I'm interested to use for my baking). You can buy them as a set or individually. You may also order thru their hotline, +639067044249. They're now offering the Pure Clean travel-sized kit for only 599! </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAO6nuG8JQLKvhnXqMnxYE86KgtMNlrpQ-3vA_IS2grzbNR6oqHMyE3QA9IyYGKj-cbgLHAV8LvT3i-2FwwDYFea7AWHR9d_Ftkix8008W6Y_eTH2kLivAHuQW1ZRnHrMV62zvt0ej5bQ4/s1600/PB3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAO6nuG8JQLKvhnXqMnxYE86KgtMNlrpQ-3vA_IS2grzbNR6oqHMyE3QA9IyYGKj-cbgLHAV8LvT3i-2FwwDYFea7AWHR9d_Ftkix8008W6Y_eTH2kLivAHuQW1ZRnHrMV62zvt0ej5bQ4/s640/PB3.PNG" width="638" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">Simple Mama has also begun to get distributors around the country to reach more clients and help moms earn. Jean shares: "T</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">hat is the other aspect of Simple Mama PH, we are built for distributorship so that moms may have the option to make an income as well."</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">Now for the best part! Because you read until the end, you're in luck because the generous Simple Mama is offering a 10% discount to those who will purchase their products from my page! Just <a href="http://www.simplemama.ph/store" target="_blank">go to their website</a>, create an account, choose the products you want, and input the code <b>SIMPLEMAMAPH-RIAG</b> upon checkout. This is an EXCLUSIVE OFFER for my dear readers so go, go, go!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="http://simplemama.ph/" target="_blank">Simple Mama PH</a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;">+639067044249</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/simplemamaph" target="_blank">Facebook</a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="http://instagram.com/simplemamaph" target="_blank">Instagram</a></span></span><br />
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<b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; letter-spacing: 1px;">*Road-tested</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; letter-spacing: 1px;"> is my review of products I purchased (unless indicated otherwise). If you have product recommendations or situations for my next road tests (waterproof products on the beach), leave a comment below!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">**2nd and 4th photo from Simple Mama's Instagram.</span>romyisagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00126641742033717387noreply@blogger.com0