1, 2, 3 of ABCs

Who hasn't taken a piece of paper and mindlessly doodled on it? While on hold, while daydreaming, while waiting for something. In high school, I was the girl with the bursting pencil case filled with every kind of gel pen: metallic, neon, chalky pastel. My filofax (LOL) was filled with colorful notes of the day's events. My classmates and friends would ask me to letter the dividers on their own organizers. So when the opportunity presented itself, I was more than happy to be involved in creating the very first local hand lettering book—made by such a young talented Filipina at that.

I remember meeting Abbey Sy at a craft gathering at Hey Kessy. When Koko suggested we make a book about lettering, Abbey was the first person I thought of who could write it. Koko and I were scared she wouldn't say yes, but little did we know, she had already been toying with the idea—even consulting with Mansy of Hey Kessy, who was my co-crafter on the Candy DIY Book. You can read more about Abbey's Road to ABC on her blog.

We met on a holiday—when Pope Francis was in the country—and went home with a complete outline of what the book would be all about. Five months later, here we are. (:

Proofs from The ABCs of Hand Lettering

Just a few of the art Abbey created especially for this book.

Making sure everything is in order! Art direction of the book by Jaykee Evangelista (who I also got to work with on The Friendship Bracelet Book a few years back).

This is personally my favorite page. (:

Putting it all together.

Abbey worked really hard on creating the guide for hand lettering. Whether you're a beginner or already a fan of lettering, you'll learn something new from this book. Hope you can grab a copy (for just P295—what a steal) as soon as you visit the book store nearest you. Then you'll always be creating, too. (:

The ABCs of Hand Lettering by Abbey Sy, P295

Snapshot: What I've Been Up To Lately

My niece is growing faster and faster, and I'm just grateful for the few moments we get to spend with her. We took her to Ocean Park on a holiday and while it was actually my dad who got a kick out of the Oceanarium, I was so happy to see this munchkin giggling and walking around the place. I still can't believe she's already walking! Next thing you know, she's talking.

Got to attend the #DesignHerStory conference, where Marla was a speaker. Absolutely loved being able to spend an afternoon with such inspiring women. These gatherings need to happen more often!

Currently in love with my hand embroidered Bensimon sneakers. Thinking of still adding a few more details to it in the future, but for now, I'm quite happy with how my favorite French phrase of the moment (LOL) turned out. Love looking down at my feet and being reminded that "it's always the right time."

One of my favorite things to make is Chocolate Turtle Pie. It's so simple: a graham crust, chocolate caramel cream, and pecans, and yet tastes so rich. Love making it for family and friends!

What about you? What have you been up to lately? Let's catch up.

Take It One Day At A Time

And just like that, the second week of the first month of 2013 is almost over. One of my friends, Patty (who's always #totessobes!), shared that her parents say the first 12 days of the year usually signal what the weather will be like for the rest of the year. If that's the case, 2013 will hopefully be much cooler than 2012 was. And gloomy. Perfect for hot cocoa, for snuggles, for cozy knits, and for lots of warm love. (:

If the past 12 days have been any indication of what the rest of my year will be, then there will be a lot of: babies (exciting!), family, crafting, rackets, food, friends. And that doesn't sound too shabby. I'll take it. (:

Ten Things I'm Thankful For

♥ Listening to letters being read out loud.
♥ New Christmas music.
♥ Friends in the office who are just as crazy as I am!
♥ Up Dharma Down's Capacities (Thanks, D-an for letting me copy your CD!)
♥ Receiving very sweet words from my former boss. Here's hoping I really have it in me!
♥ Yummy sangria to end the week.
♥ Gold glitter polish!
♥ Christmas lunch with my college best buds.
♥ A batch of freshly baked cupcakes to give away.
♥ My new favorite person: Mitos ♥ My best friend's most beautiful baby girl.

This Is My Office

And mine. And mine.

Hahaha! Have you been watching the latest season of The Vampire Diaries? If you have, you'll notice that the classic into ("...for over a century, I have lived in secret...") has been replaced with an updated version ("This is Mystic Falls. I live here. This is my home.").

So of course my friends and I decided to make our own version. Because why shouldn't we? Hahaha! I love these hams.

Outside My Actual Job

There are days when I get lucky to step outside my actual job (which has got a lot to do with this website), and do something completely different. Well maybe not totally, but definitely something I don't usually do as a website editor.

My very first racket was for Yummy, a story on using coconut in different recipes. Former Candy fashion editor Shar assigned me and we shot everything in her house. I was sooo nervous, but got so kilig when I saw my name in the magazine. Actually, I'm still so amazed that I have a recipe page on their website. Imagine how excited I was when they asked me to be part of the panel for their big dessert issue two years ago (multiple exclamation points here). Crazy!

My other side jobs would be web-related features for our sister magazines. Haha! I think because I handle our magazine's website, people just assume that I would want to write about the Internet and everything related to it. Hehe! P.S. I can write about other topics too.

One of the major rackets I did was for the Team Azkals magazine last year. It was my first cover story (eep) and it just had to be with the Younghusband brothers (I had a huuuge crush on James when we first shot him for Candy years ago, wahaha!). Then add the fact that I have no sporty bone in my body. I managed to get through the interview part with the help of Mimi and Jo. And thank goodness for my brother, who's a football nut, I was able to understand all the terminology that popped up in my transcription. I was so happy to see the final layout when the pages were being proofed.

It's been a while since I've done an interview so I was actually thrilled when Liz of Yummy asked if I wanted to contribute for an issue. Of course I still got nervous, fumbled nervously through my questions, and had scary thoughts of the recorder conking out midway (must always remember to take notes!). I haven't written the article yet (hehe), but hopefully it'll come out okay. (:

Though I super love my job, I'm glad for all these extra things I get to do on the side. It keeps me from ever getting bored and I get to do stuff with the other magazines I like! Can't wait to see how this one turns out.

Weekend Report

This week has been pretty toxic. I've been sick all week, but I've been trying to mask it by taking medicine, which I usually don't do. I like to just let the fever, cold, cough, etc run its course rather than take chemicals into my body. BUT getting sick isn't really an option these days. Too many things to do, too little time to do them. So you really have no choice but to suck it up and get things done.

I'm happy to report that I survived the week. Ticking off all but one on my unusually lengthy to-do list. I know it's been done before and I'm pretty sure we'll survive, but it will take some getting used to.

There were a few disappointments this week, but nothing that would send me into depression. I guess it's really just another lesson learned and that sometimes, you just have to let go and move on. Also, we lost quiz night this week! Boo, maybe we shouldn't have worn matching stripes. Haha!

I've been feeling really stuffy and icky all week (right after quiz night!) so I plan to stay in bed all day till I need to head out for Church and for my best friend's birthday dinner tonight. I hope staying up late won't get me sick again. s:

Hope you all have an awesome weekend ahead! I couldn't be happier to say hello to mine.

The Thought Of You Picks Me Up When I'm Lonely

Music Monday

Missed Color Me Badd's concert, but apparently they didn't perform this. I used to have that entire Spanish verse memorized. I can still sing-along to it. ♥

Tasty Tuesday

Made some fancy cake pops for a shoot at work. I miss baking and this is the closest I'll get for now.

Wishful Wednesday
Jason Mraz. October 30. Please cross your fingers for me. I love this man and his music. I've seen him live twice, but a third time won't hurt. Universe, please make the stars align for me. Birthday ko naman na ng November!

Thoughtful Thursday

It's funny how Pottermore is making me feel like a giddy kid again. It's amazing how a simple book has turned into its own magical world—movies, a theme park (!!!), and an online portal! Got so stressed getting sorted (I got into Ravenclaw—not Gryffindor, where my heart truly belongs!) and figuring out potions (I ruined two because the site keeps crashing!), but it's so awesome! Add me as a friend: MoonstoneAvis117! (:

Fashion Friday

I remember spending afternoons with my mom, looking at her shelves filled with different shapes, sizes, colors of beads. There were Swarovski crystals of all sizes and colors, quirky beads from India, and glass pearls that looked like real ones. I finally asked Ate Elena and Pedro, our house boy, to unearth this box filled with all the pretty stuff. I have yet to find her wires and chains, but I've found some I can make charm bracelets with. I'm excited!

'Cause this ride's never gonna stop

I am totally loving the new Blogger interface! So sleek and clean. (:

I just wanted to let y'all know (all 3 of you, including myself, sigh) that I'm still alive. For a really short work week, this sure felt like the longest one yet.

Here's hoping I survive the rest of September, because it certainly feels like I'm in for a ride.

Two Nights in a Row

People are generally surprised when I'm out late at night because they know my bed time is actually 9pm (although these days I've been sleeping close to midnight and not too proud of it). But staying in an office building for more than 10 hours can really make your realize how much you've been just working. So whenever there's a chance to get out—an event, a premiere, a meeting(haha)—I try to go if time lets me.

So last Thursday after work, I headed to a 20-minute preview of Disney's Tron Legacy (which was AWESOME! Too bad we have to wait 'til December 17 to see the entire thing) and ETC's Vamped event. We're big fans of The Vampire Diaries so we figured, why not check out the party?


With Angela and Tessa of ETC, making chismis about TVD and other ETC shows.



We had our picture taken with "Damon" and "Katherine" at the photobooth, had TVD-inspired drinks, and had salty calamares before we called it a night. We also got news that ETC is showing Pretty Little Liars soon!

***

Last night, after a loooong day at work (that included a very satisfying meal at Recipes, another payday waldas that I don't even know how to justify, plus a record-breaking chat event that made our numbers soar to great heights haha), my friends picked me up so we could all go "par-tay." HAHA! It's been a running joke that whenever we decide to come out late at night, it's called a lolas night out. And by lola, I sure don't mean Madonna's kid.

Speaking of lolas, this year, my friends and I decided to semi-dress up for Halloween. Last year, we dressed up as Josie and the Pussycats and actually won a prize (that we never used, come to think of it). We decided to just do a '50s theme. And we don't know but pearls seemed to have tied all our outfits together.


Binky actually did a '50s DIY project but ended up not wearing her dress. She stitched a poodle cutout on it—complete with a leash! Super cute. Laika channeled her inner Audrey Hepburn. I tried to do a Betty Draper but my brother told me I was more a Peggy. Whatever that means, I haven't exactly caught up with Mad Men. It's funny, though, because this is actually something I'd wear on any other given day. Maybe I was born in the wrong era. IDK.


As you can see, not a lot of people really dressed up. But when this girl stepped in, we all had to turn and look in her direction. She had fiery orange hair sticking up from her head and she was in a flesh bodysuit. She came as a Troll! Hahaha! Best costume of the night, I think.


And well, look at me in a club, drinking... water. Hahaha! I woke up past 8 this morning, which is late in my book. I've spent all day on the computer, only taking breaks to go to the bathroom and eat. I don't think I'm going to be out like that any time soon. I've reached my quota, hehe.

Three-in-One

Our November issue just hit the stands this week. It's our annual Hollywood issue and we've got not just one but THREE awesome covers. Emma Watson (who has a loffly accent! Still can't believe we were on the phone with her three months ago.), the cast of Glee and The Vampire Diaries.

Some of you might be wondering if you have to buy all three covers. They're actually all in one issue. We shot a super short video to show you how to change the covers.



If you're a big fan of everything celebrity-related, be sure to grab your copy of Candy!

Is Social Media A Fad?

An updated version of a video on social media I saw last year. A year ago, I was asked to give a seminar at work about using social media to market brands. (I don't remember why I was chosen.) Today, I was asked to give a similar talk to one of the sister companies of my office. I was nervous but quite thrilled that I was asked to do it. Of course I did it as a favor to my boss (therefore I wasn't paid for it, hehehe) but it only affirms that I must be doing my job right. (: It's something to consider although I can't imagine myself doing just this. But how awesome is it that I know enough to have people listen to me talk about it? I don't know. It makes me feel good about myself.

On my happy list recently

I'm quite the shallow person when it comes to things that make me happy. Recently, I've been on a streak—and hopefully I won't break it.

In the grand tradition of making lists, here are my instant cheer pills lately.

1. Silly boy crushes. I get all giddy like a high school girl with a crush whenever I see stuff about my current faves. I once spent half the day reading through 300 questions on Logan Lerman's formspring (and eventually falling in love with him ever more, hahaha! I know, I know. I'm 27, he's 18. So what? Haha!). Then when I read news about Nick Jonas playing Marius in Les Miz, I listened to Nick Jonas and the Administration the entire day. HAHA! I can get pretty obsessive.


2. Cheap thrills. Roch recently discovered this P16 treat in the grocery that almost tastes like Kinder Bueno. Yum-o! Look for a P100 pack of Tronky (strange name). It has 6 sticks of chocolate. I'm a sucker for anything with hazelnut chocolate.
   
   I also snagged a pack of Iced Gems at the grocery. I loved this when I was still in school—and apparently, I still do!
   
   And just this Monday, I snagged a bunch of nice stuff from ukay! I missed my usual haunts and got this super cute cardi for only P50!!! Can you believe it? Can't wait for Baguio ukay when my friends and I head up there.
   
   


3. Quality time with friends. I spent two nights in a row, hanging out with one of my favorite couples (hello, Kaich ♥ Ry!) spontaneously! First night was in honor of Sprinkles cupcakes semi-fresh from LA (they were yum even if they got a bit dry from being refrigerated—DO NOT REFRIGERATE, the box said hehe) and then congratulatory crepes the following night for my little victory at work. (:
   
   
   
   
   
   Just got home from a shoot (yes, on a Saturday) with my friends (I love that I can call them this and not just officemates). Treated them to Serenitea (our faaaave!) to celebrate said victory. Hee.


4. A piece of paper. Isn't amazing how a single piece of paper can totally make your day? Two days ago, I signed a piece of paper that—to me, at least—meant I was doing a good job. After four years, I can happily say that I am in the right place. (:


5. Cool nights. It's a luxury for me to turn on the AC at night. Even if it's only for two hours before I sleep, I always feel guilty for turning it on. So now that it's been raining and it doesn't feel to hot anymore, I can get by with just the fan. (: Pretty sure our electric bill will be happy about it, too.

So despite four consecutive weekends of working (seriously!), I am tired but happy and fulfilled. Now if only my connection would be a tad bit faster, I'd be ecstatic! Have a good weekend!

Cheap Finds

Sometimes, getting out of the office (away from the computer and the harsh fluorescent lighting) is a welcome break. Today, we got invited to try out this new nail spa (will post it on Candy soon!). It had a beach theme going on and they had a "menu" where you could choose your treatment. It was super fun! And I'm glad I went with the other Candy Girls.



After the event, we decided to check out the department store before heading home. Eep. I was supposed to buy white plimsolls (my boss found super affordable ones) but I ended up getting a dress (floral!), a tank (white and bright green stripes), a bikini (halter top, string bottom!), and white bermuda shorts. Oh, and the white plimsolls, too (they were only P199.75!). All reasonably priced and all stuff I've been wanting to buy. I guess I sort of preempted my payday splurge. Hahaha!

Hopefully this week will end on an awesome note. Can't wait for Friday. ♥

Grab a copy of our October issue! (:

My pretty cupcakes are co-starring with some yummy-smelling beauty products. Hee hee.


Here's a sneak peek at the issue.

Are you ready?

I can't believe I'm going on my fourth year at work. And tomorrow, we're having the fourth Candy Fair! I love that I get to work by going to a fair. Haha, cute boys, fun game booths, lots of food, and shops! Can't wait to check out the Accessorize booth. 20% off tomorrow, Candy Girls!

I've been eying these for a while now.


Aren't they pretty? Also checked out a teacup and teaspoon necklace and a bird necklace. Wah! So many cute things!

PS
Interview about Listography came out on QTV last night. Didn't get to catch it because I had dinner with my high school girls. My dad was so cute. He woke up at 10pm just to watch it. (:

Sending this out to the universe

My head is about to explode (and it's just 10 in the morning) from all this planning and slide editing. But I had to stop for a few minutes and join this most awesome contest in the world.

Fifi Lapin, I ♥ you! Please make me win that bag! (:

I want to start fresh

Finally baked a cake again! (: I am itching to slice myself a piece so I can taste it, but I will wait for my relatives so we can have it for dessert later at lunch.

I can't believe it's only the end of January. I feel like there's just so many things going on! My friend and partner-in-crime at work and I were talking about it one day. How we've got shoot schedules coming out of our ears but it still felt sooo good. We're excited over the little things that we've been trying to do and everyday is just a chance to do, well, more. (:

Tomorrow, I'm going to the beach for work. How awesome is that? It would've been even more fun if all the girls could come. Pfft. I hope it doesn't rain, though. The weather's been pretty unpredictable. Woke up to a super cool morning when just a couple of days ago, it felt like summer!

I can smell the barbecue! Time to hit the shower! (: I missed lunch with titos and titas and my sometimes sungit lola. Hehe. Can't wait to try the cake with them. (: Cross your fingers that it turns out great!

At long last.

This is what she would tell me, "Bakit ngayon lang?" or maybe "Dapat lang."

And then, I'll just hear about it days later, that she's told all of our relatives and all of her friends, who probably don't care much. :P

Because that's how she is and I'll always remember to be.

In our house, we are never bida. But outside, she's mighty proud of us.

I miss you and I know we're extra blessed these days because of you.

Work it

The past week was rather hectic and I almost felt a fever coming the other night. (You know, when your throat feels scratchy and all your joints are aching when you wake up?) Instead of drinking medicine, I slept a little bit past 9 for the past two nights. And I'm proud to say, I'm not feeling sick anymore. (: The other night, I woke up every hour after midnight, but willed myself to go back to sleep until 6 in the morning. I managed to get out of bed and was working an hour later on the computer yesterday morning. Go, me!

Are you a workaholic when you expect people to have the same work ethics as you do? You know, get your work done before going home (unless you plan to finish it at home, maybe?) or not having other people worry about your responsibilities as much as possible? I've always had a hard time passing work stuff to other people because I've always hated people doing that to me. (Back read through my blog archive and you'll know what I mean, haha) Maybe sometimes, I really should adjust my expectations.