Hello!

Frinspiration: Everything 8-bit

2012-03-02T00:58:00.001-08:00

8 bit Invader (maping) from Darkfejzr on Vimeo.

Fox Retro from PUNGA on Vimeo.

Introducing EightBit.Me from eightbitme on Vimeo.
ich bin 8-bit from iam8bit Productions on Vimeo.

Everything 8-bit makes my heart beat. (may ma-rhyme lang!:P)

Enjoy! Relax a bit!

Back to Basics

2012-02-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

Back to Basics: Neon Analog Paper Objects by Zim and Zou. What is effort and awesome?

Orla Kiely for Uniqlo and other updates.

2012-02-26T21:37:00.001-08:00

Orla Kiely for Uniqlo and other updates. (not that you care lol)

After movie (Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, a must see!) we went to Orchard for dinner and a quick window shopping. We are finally moving in to the new place this week so I can't splurge on anything. All the money from the tree of persistence have been allotted to more important stuff. Naks, priorities!

So I just tried to keep calm when I saw the new displays in UNIQLO. Orla Kiely for Uniqlo - Make Life More Colorful

Some of the pieces I secretly called dibs. *gasps* All photos and videos from Uniqlo.

More great stuff added in my birthday wish list. Le Sigh.

Frinspiration: To Do List

2012-02-24T01:06:00.003-08:00

To Do List from Yaniv Fridman on Vimeo.

Because 1 Frinspiration is not enough for this day. How inspiring this video is!

I need to de-stress! Where to?

VIDEO AWWW: Jalouse Magazine

2012-02-24T00:48:00.002-08:00

Jalouse Magazine: Une Fille Comme Les Autres from Matthew Frost on Vimeo.

Voila! I think this is brilliant!

Frinspiration: The joy of being a kid

2012-02-23T18:45:00.002-08:00

The internet is ~~saving~~ making my relationship with my family stronger. I look forward to the everyday emails of my Dad and I really appreciate him for taking his time to do it for me. He even learned to resize the photos without my help! Booyeah! He recently sent me a family picture taken when my sister from Macau went home for a short vacation. It was heart-warming. I would "photoshop" myself in the picture one of these days. lol!

My Dad's latest email was photos from Gab or should I say Spider - Gab? He told me that It was Gab's idea to dress up and to have the photo shoot outside the house. What a bright kid! This is extra special to me because they know how much I love Spider-man. Adorbs!!!!

loving the shadow effect!

feel na feel

angle shot, anyone?

revealing his identity

and then as if nothing happened. haha!

I love you Gab! Don't grow up just yet.

May we never ran out of ideas to have fun and not take ourselves too seriously. Let's play dress up again just because.

Happy, happy Friday everybadeeeeeh!

Video Awww: All the petals are for you

2012-02-22T21:14:00.000-08:00

Hi Kids!

Allow me to recover from a reunion hang over and an unforgettable hug from Chris Carrabba (yes, a hug!weeee!)
In the meantime, check out Stradivarius' Spring 2012 Video. Me Encantos!

Friendly Reminder: Positive People

2012-02-20T00:54:00.000-08:00

Just saying.

Line and Draw, one of the many many many fonts I love

Closeness has nothing to do with distance.

2012-02-18T10:37:00.000-08:00

Okay maybe it has something do with it but not for Joses and I. She is my ultimate "slasher" friend. She's my cramming partner / secret-keeper / daydream buddy / fashion police and most importantly my bestfriend. She's smart, beautiful, talented and the most down to earth person I know. (I sound like I'm pimpin' my bestfriend huh?) Seriously, I'm so lucky to have her in my life and I wouldn't survive college without her. I wouldn't survive anything without her. That fateful Business Math class changed our lives. Okay, I'm gonna cry now...

Being crazy as usual during my 21st birthday

I didn't get the chance to see her before I left for SG and it sucked big time. We promised to keep in touch and we did. Our constant YMs and DMs made our friendship stronger and just rock-solid. Thank God for technology! We never had the chance to do typical girl bonding stuff back in Manila so we are going to do our best to do it here. Read: Slumber party and Movie night.

I really look up to her... (figuratively and literally lol)

We have Chris Carraba to thank for! Hahaha! We both love Dashboard Confessional that when they came to Manila and she didn't get the chance to watch it with me, we promised to watch him again together in the future. And the future is on Feb 21, 2012!!!! *GASP* Chris Carrabba will have a solo acoustic night at Esplanade and we just have to see him. NO EXCUSES! We are now on girly highschooly mood. We've been waiting for this epic reunion since 2011! She booked a flight the day after I told her so yeah, she's very excited too.

Artsy Chicken Art by Joses

I love you Chicken, Joses! Let's save all our energy for later. See you!

P.S. We need those colored jeans badly.

Global Game Jam 2012: The experience *badum tss

2012-02-18T01:49:00.000-08:00

Global Game Jam 2012 again and this time about our actual game. Trap Dash - is the brainchild of Jim (Game developer) and Dy Jacinto (graphic designer), a game that is all about making decisions under pressure. Haha ang seryoso? Jim and I keep saying that if only we Googled the meaning of the team then we could've make something different or maybe with a more polished concept? Hey! It's hard to be the game designer and coder / artist at the same time okayyyyyy. Maybe next year, we'll be more ready and awake! And more gutsy siguro... Anyway, behold.... Trap Dash!

Game play:
Collect as many smileys as you can by moving the hero around while trying to pass through the traps. Sounds easy? Be careful because the traps are designed for either "enlarged" or "shrinked" or "normal" character only. Decisions decisions! :P

Legends:

Up - enlarge character

Down - shrink character

Smiley - collect them as many as you can

Traps:

Metal - only an enlarged character can destroy it

Box - only a normal size character can move it

Small entrance - only shrinked character can pass through

Blank face, yet? You can play it with a simulator (geek talk), the game is uploaded here.

It was a fun and memorable left-brain right-brain experience for us. Jim helped me overcome (sort of) my fear and we consider this as an achievement. A game in less than 48 hours? Not bad right? Though at first we wanted to back out because of many reasons, we didn't. Don't get me started on how many times we got frustrated with inanimate objects (ex. extension cord) and with each other. How we managed to cope up with each other's mood swings is a mystery. or is it?

Here are some of the photos I grabbed from the Global Game Jam Singapore Facebook page.

good guy Shaun

hi mok!

GAME FACE ON

not sure if self-conscious or what

kunwari hindi kabado

what is fail resolution? Haha

smile ebrebadeeeeehhhhh!

and our team photo.... (we didn't plan to wear red, it just happened) #ternohits

In the end, alI can say is that there is beauty in doing things together. Heeeeee.

PRINT AWWW: Love you like...

2012-02-16T21:32:00.000-08:00

via Indigo Bunting

Aaaahhhhhh, this! Cute or what?

Frinspiration: Typo Concept Store

2012-02-16T18:33:00.000-08:00

Today's Frinspiration is brought to you by TYPO by Cotton On. If ever you're visiting Singapore and in love with quirky stuff, make sure to drop by at any TYPO stores and prepare to gasp and squee to death. You know what I mean. Above are some of the stuff I am planning to get for the new place. Yihieeeeeeeee!

I'm still positive that I'll get a new place by next week (as if I have a choice not to). The unit that I fell in love 2 weeks ago didn't work out so I'm trying not to get my hopes too high this time. #emo

Anyhoo, all photos from Cotton On--God's gift to mankind.

Happy Friday! Happy Weekend!

Hearts Skipped A Beat

2012-02-13T23:12:00.000-08:00

In the animation’s sweet story, a boy seeks the best way to show his affection for a girl skipping rope. The lad taps Google in his quest to woo her, but his online searches for flowers and chocolates and colorful balloons — all the usual go-to gifts for Valentine’s Day — prove fruitless. The girl is unmoved. Even a top hat containing a peek-a-boo bunny holds no romantic magic.

Out of ideas, the determined boy inadvertently finds the answer that was before him all along: The jump rope is the ultimate heartstring to pluck. Together, at last, their heart skips a beat.

Google Doodle, my thoughts exactly. Thank you!

Why so scared of romance?

2012-02-13T18:35:00.000-08:00

‎011010000110000101110000011100000111100100100000011101100110000101101100011001010110111001110100011010010110111001100101001001110111001100100000011001000110000101111001001000000100101001101001011011010000110100001010 <3

Codes and Assets

2012-02-13T17:54:00.000-08:00

While my other colleagues enjoyed Chinese New Year at home playing Mahjong, I was out having some quality time with my parents and Jim. It was the best 10 day-break ever ever ever. Jim and I are not into coupl-y stuff, so we take pleasure in movie marathon, swimming or walking around Singapore. One word: Tambay. He suggested that we join Global Game Jam Singapore 2012 and my initial reaction was "are you fudging kidding me?" (No, the word was not fudge.) He knows that my "talent" tend to shy away when I'm in front of people. I lose focus and I get self- conscious when I know that people are watching me do my work. Strange. I work best alone? Maybe. Self-esteem issues? Probably. So asking me to be his teammate was not exactly fun, more like scary. He will be the coder and I'll do the assets. Collab na 'to!

Came the GGJ and all we could think of is the theme. Global Game Jam revolves a theme that "jammers" need to draw inspiration from. This year's theme was Ouroboros, an ancient symbol of a snake eating his own tail. We were dumbfounded. Ano yon? Hahaha! We were the only non-Singaporeans (I think) so we were sort of out of place. Heeeee. Two awkward late comers was not really a good impression. We were both excited but so tired before it even started. It was very Big Bang Theory-ish, I was surrounded with geeks and the like.

Republic Polytechnic is such a beautiful school. Hnggggggggg! I can see myself ~~hanging out~~ studying on different areas around the school with my "tropa". Lol dibs on the bench!

obligatory photo op and #shamelessplug2012

architecture heaven?

one does not simply ignore wooden planks and green (some) grass

It was a memorable experience and we'd like to join again next year. We will continue working on our game and hopefully make a web version for everyone. Hahaha feeling! Ano ba kasi yun game namin? More about it soon :-)

Frinspiration: From Scandinavia with Love

2012-02-09T21:49:00.000-08:00

All photos c/o From Scandinavia with love

I am moving out soon and I am freaking out. All I know is I want a place like the houses in Denmark. Is that too much to ask? haha! The photos above are some of the 1000+ pegs I have of my future house. #truestory

I went apartment hunting with Ange last night and I fell in love with the third unit we visited. I pray to the universe to grant us two more housemates and that anytime today the agent would call me and say... "You got it!". I sooooooo want to live there! I am really hoping that our pa-charming antics worked for Mr. Owner.

Oh well, hoping for the best.

Lesson 8:Happiness is being with the people that you love.

2012-02-09T20:24:00.000-08:00

candid parents are candid

I had the best Chinese New Year ever. Lucky for me I had 10 days break from work and it was a perfect opportunity to see my parents. I miss them everyday and I knew I had to make ze visit count. I had a day with just them and Jim - the 3 people I loved most in one day... SO.MUCH.WIN. *this is a milestone for us guiseeee*

Anyway, we are a living proof that closeness has nothing to do with distance. It's a bit strange to think but I feel closer to them now more than ever. I hope I was able to give them the assurance that I'm okay and even though I live far from them, I am still grounded. You know what I mean. I am their little girl....trying to be a big girl. In those 4 days with them, everything felt right in the world. *tearssssss*

and what is photo dump? Soreeeeeh.

Frinspiration: Kate Spade Spring Campaign

2012-02-02T17:55:00.000-08:00

Hellllooooooo! It's Friday again and I am feeling excited for the weekend! Read: Get some sleep. I will do my best to fulfill my commitment to blogging and to help me with that is my new label:Frinspiration. Friday + Inspiration = Frinspiration (insert sarcastic laugh here) Maybe I'm the only one who'll find it catchy? Frinspiration, it's a thing you know. ;)

So today and first official Frinspiration is the.... Kate Spade Spring Campaign. Isn't it lovely? My favorite favorite shade of salmon and orange. *dies* It also reminded me of my Creative Slum Portfolio and CV so I'm just going to admire it for the whole day. Who wouldn't? Kate Spade is as always lovely.

This video of the Musical chairs is just adorable!

And oh I also renamed my labels ---- I'll do a separate posts on that along with many other pending posts. Bleh.

Happy Friday! Happy Weekend!

FRIENDLY REMINDER: It gets better.

2012-01-31T18:51:00.000-08:00

Tough times, piles of work, hectic schedules and overdue deadlines - Don't worry, it gets better.
Speaking of overdue stuff, I have overdue posts. Bleh. Come visit the site again, yes?
Hang in there!

TIRED BUT HAPPY

2012-01-26T05:24:00.000-08:00

Pagoda tragedy?Haha! Tired but happy - I think this is exactly what I'm feeling right now. After spending Chinese New Year with my parents (more on this soon), I can't help but feel very exhausted yet very happy. I also feel contented and humbled by this experience and will always be thankful for this opportunity. (also broke but happy lol)

I shall get some rest for now, for it will be a long weekend for Jim and I. Why so? Last month, we registered for Global Game Jam Singapore and it will be our first time to participate. He's the coder and I'm the artist. I'm nervous and excited to see what game we will come up together. Left brain x Right brain indeed. *Weeeeeeeeeeeee*

Watch the trailer below and game on!

Global Game Jam 2012 Trailer from Adam Barenblat on Vimeo.

SWEET LIFE

2012-01-24T05:51:00.000-08:00

Yes I look super awkward but I don't care! Haha! I'm just so happy to be reunited with my parents after six months. I'm very happy to see them walk together hand in hand and tease each other like teens! Ahhhh, good times! I'm just reminded how blessed we are to have each other. May we never take things or people for granted and never forget to thank the universe for this sweet sweet life!

Today was a memorable day. Happy +65 6 monthsary to us! Haha!

I hope you had a good one too :-)

6 MONTHS & COUNTING

2012-01-22T13:32:00.000-08:00

a blurred screensaver of my mum and dad

It's 5 in the morning and I don't know what to write. Can I just rant about the hormonal internet connection? How frustrating it is and is acting up like a crazy selfish b? #firstworldproblem. Wait, why sweat the small stuff? There are many other things I can share with you that has nothing to do with complains and negativity because that's how I roll. Haha corny.

I know it's New year but for me it feels like Christmas. My parents will be arriving from the Philippines tonight and I couldn't be more happier. (Sorry Death Cab for Cutie, "Mommy and Daddy live in Singapore" is my most anticipated event of 2012. Haha!) It has been six months since we moved here and that's the longest I have been away from my family. Will there be awkward moments? Will I get very emotional?ALAM NA. I just miss having them around. You know the feeling of not having to worry about anything because you know as parents, they'll always be there for you. Like a default loyal team. I knew it was hard for them to let me go just as much how it was hard being away from them. The anticipation of having to spend some quality time with the most loving and supportive people I know is just priceless.

It was June 26, 2011 when I emailed them my "interest" to go abroad. I wrote them a 6-page letter and planned to give them once they're back in Manila. After many weeks, I just couldn't wait so I just poured my heart out in a e-love letter. I wrote how grateful I am for all the support and love they have given me while I gather myself together again after hitting rock bottom.

"......I want to express my interest to........ blah blah blah... Daddy, Mommy, if I don't do this now, I'll just keep wondering what might have been and I'll be filled with regrets that I didn't even try. Just give me a chance."

How tv dramaesque! It makes me laugh now, haha! I was scared for many things. I was scared yet excited at the same time. What made me worry less was that I knew I was doing it for the right reasons and with good intentions. It was safe to say I was hoping for a favorable response. Then came these words.....

"Yes, anak we will support you all the way, we're so proud of you"

For sure it wasn't easy. Nothing ever worth it in the end was easy in the beginning, right? (How about a comic strip to illustrate the "wasn't easy" part? Suuuuuuure.) They've been my strength and inspiration from the start and I knew that when I took the risk, I took it with them. It was knowing that I have them made every struggle bearable. So remember kids: if you don't ask, the answer is always no.

I'm so psyched to see them again and to make new memories with them. Daddy, Mommy I miss you everyday. I can't wait to see you tonight and hug you for real. Also to have those OTP - Obligatory Tourist Pictures. Heeeeeee.

Six months and counting, sweet!

FRIENDLY REMINDER: You can't lose what you never had.

2012-01-19T18:11:00.000-08:00

I remember a story about someone who was ~~overly dramatic~~ heartbroken because her crush had a girlfriend. She felt horrible as if they were supposed to be together or something. I get that she's pretty upset about it but, did she even tell the guy how she felt? that she did exist? How do you move on from something that was far from a sure thing?

We often think of "the one who got away", a guy, a girl or a job offer. I came to realize that the possibility of what-might-have-been" is just exhausting to think about. Life goes on and so should you. Don't allow your life to leave you behind. Trust me, you'll end up regretting the time you spent regretting so just quit the "I wish I had" game.

Do you regret something you did or didn't do?

FRIENDLY REMINDER: Live with passion.

2012-01-18T17:30:00.000-08:00

An excerpt of the article "Maximise your potential" by Ian Berry"

"What is passion?" It is loving what yo do and doing what you love. It is the desire to work towards a worthwhile goal that stimulates your enthusiasm. - Mr. Abraham

"Once you have found your passion, how do you keep it alive?" Make sure that you are spending time pursuing your passion each week or day. Focus on the things that count for you, that give you the greatest energy and enjoyment.

Spend your time with passionate people. Don't hang around energy suckers or negative people.

I say we say YES! to terrific people and NO! to toxic people.

GO INTO THE ARTS.

2012-01-18T01:07:00.000-08:00

{ Image source }

Just saying.

STRANGE TIMES

2012-01-16T21:35:00.000-08:00

Hello all!

I want to invite you all to Strange Times, an exhibit by lovely and talented people Wiji Lacsamana and Yvette Tan. You should know by now how i love my Tita Wiji and help me extend that to her by attending the exhibit! Dibs on the poster! Ang gandaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa.

I love you, Tita Wiji! Please know that your fans here in Singapore are very proud of you :) See you soon and Lola L, please?

And yes, "going" talaga ako according to the Facebook event. Haha!

OH WELL.

2012-01-16T18:17:00.000-08:00

Most of the time I'm thrilled to see what's in the daily newspaper. But not this morning. Today I learned that while I enjoy my weekend lying around and spacing out with music little did I know that I could actually watch them live. I still can't believe it. What if I missed the only chance I'll see them here in Asia? I've already accepted that I'll miss Foster the People because I want my bestfriend, Joses to watch them with me. But, The Naked and Famous, Metronomy, Bombay Bicycle Club, Unknown Mortal Orchestra? #impossibru (read: SAYANG TIMES INFINITY)

( WHERE WAS I??????? )

So what I'll do now is panic "like", "follow", "subscribe". I don't know why I have to panic but it's just who I am. Haha! I have to stop being lazy, too! I also wish for the internet connection be stable or else......

Shout out to @abadfran I made the meme, am I doing this right? LOL

Pretty legit. Huh? Oh well.

"Don't fret, it's over now" - @TNAF's a wolf in geek's clothing

LISTOGRAPHY: New Year Resolution No.1

2012-01-15T17:57:00.000-08:00

My New Year's Resolution No. 1: Stop making excuses

Whenever I feel like not doing something I need to do, I always try to remember this quote:
"The day you take complete responsibility for yourself, the day you stop making any excuses, that's the day you start to the top"

No more excuses, no more delays.

VIDEO AWWW: The future belongs to the curious

2012-01-12T21:36:00.000-08:00

The Future Belongs to the Curious from Skillshare on Vimeo.

From the moment we open our eyes it fuels our existence. We are on a mission to remind everyone to never lose your sense of curiosity or wonder.

What an inspiring video! Don't forget to be part of the community too, Kudos Skillshare!

Stay Curious!

FRIENDLY REMINDER: Be excited.

2012-01-12T17:42:00.000-08:00

I remember watching Rebecca Black's Friday and all the versions of it last year! My favorite is Brocks Dub. I can even mimic "My hand is a dolphin!" and "Everybody's Russian" haha! Rebecca Black was not only right about the days of the week, you know tomorrow is Saturday and Sunday comes after..... wards. She's also right about how we look forward to the weekend! We will all have that day again of non-school / work related things for ourselves. So make your mind up on which seat you should take 'coz it's Friday! We-we-we so excited!

Whether you're chillin' in the front seat or back seat, I wish you a happy Friday! :D

Happy Weekend! Good Vibes!

( Now I can't get the song out of my mind! GREAT! )

***
Font, Novecento
"I'd have that day with you again" based from original image

FRIENDLY REMINDER: Think happy thoughts.

2012-01-11T17:33:00.000-08:00

Relax with what you have, Live Now / Ok, Mikey Burton / Always Learning, Live Now / Stay Strong, Live Now / Let's begin by letting go, I love dust / To stop being afraid and get more freedom, Creative Slum

Just take whatever life brings you. Happy Thursday!

BEHOLD... THE HIPSTER ANIMALS

2012-01-10T04:06:00.000-08:00

Currently smiling over these awesome hipster animal drawings in full detailed outfit. More than just memes, they are adorable art! Dyna Moe, you rock!

Were you thinking of a particular ~~hipster~~ person while looking at them? I do! Hahaha

Check out Hipster Animals via tumblr / facebook / twitter

*images courtesy of Hipster-Animals

YOUR DAY, A YEAR AGO WITH TIMEHOP

2012-01-09T18:24:00.000-08:00

I have a new habit and it has been helping me in so many ways. Every morning I see to it that I get the free newspaper to keep me occupied through my travel to work. Besides keeping me from "sleep standing", it's keeping me updated with the current events. Naks! Very daddy-ish! Hahaha! It was in the newspaper I learned about train schedules and upcoming concerts ~~(that's making me broke)~~, you know those kind of current events. Haha!

Anyway, my latest discovery is TIMEHOP. Curious to find out what was your day ago? What were your posts in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram? Places you checked-in with Foursquare? You can find out with Timehop. Timehop emails you things you posted in those social networks a year ago. *dundundundun*

Why Timehop? I'm not really a fan of the Facebook Timeline and I find it hard to back read tweets in twitter so why not? Plus I like the branding and who can resist that cute dino? Heeeeee! So I signed up yesterday and today was my first blast from the past. It turned out that I was almost homeless this time last year and was very giddy about the success of Jim's surprise party. Fuma-flashback! Haha!

Note: I had to blur the captions for confidentiality purposes.lol!
And oh, the instax photos were taken by my good friend RJ, check his cool instax project here!

Honestly, a part of me is really scared to see what I was like or what I was doing a year ago. (damn these social networks! Haha!) BUT I have decided that whatever Timehop shows me it will serve as a reminder of how much things changed for the better and how important it is to focus on what I have now than what's in the past. So TIME HOP, BRING..... IT.....ON!!! *cues eye of the tiger*

“Everything is more emotional when it’s in the past.” - Jonathan Wegener, co-founder of Timehop

Will it matter now whoever you were then? It's up to you. Just don't allow whatever bad things you did or said last year stop you from being happy. Just let it go and make new memories this year.

Welcome to the present!

Read elsewhere:
Timehop article from TechCrunch. Laughingsquid.

FRIENDLY REMINDER: Make time for the things you want to do.

2012-01-08T20:58:00.000-08:00

Here's a little motivation and optimism kick inspired by Scott Albrecht. I discovered him a while back from Eric Smith's compilation book Live Now. Be part of the happy community here. Shoot! That reminds me that I still owe Eric Smith hi-res photos of my room with the Live Now pages. My to-do list is overwhelming and it makes me sad how it keeps on pilling up every day. Oh well.

Let's make time for the things we want to do, shall we?

***
Fonts: Marketing Script / Novecento

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JIM! (PART 2)

2012-01-07T10:58:00.000-08:00

"When I first met him, I knew in a moment that I would have to spend the next few days re-arranging my mind so that there would be room for him to stay. " - B.A Story People #truestory

Overall, I'm a success kid. Here's why:

I knew Jim would want a simple birthday celebration so no surprise party or grand gestures, just a day together would be fine. How fun to see we are sort of matching porma. I wore red kahit hindi ako yun may birthday haha! I wore "A-OK" shirt because I want to keep reminding the birthday boy that everything will be okay.

29 brownies as his "cake"! Though we didn't light up the birthday candles because of location constraints, I still hope he made his wish.

I officially invited him to join me to the DCFC concert on March 7. I compiled Death Cab for Cutie discography so he can learn to appreciate them. Haha!

I guess his most favorite part of the day was when I gave him the new shirts from Threadless. A little background story on them: I've been told a lot of times that I look like Velma, Velma Dinkley from Scooby doo. Totoo ba? haha! Anyway, so this shirt is a reminder of me! Haha! In here is a badass Velma, ang ganda. The other one is called Playing God which graphics reminds me of his online game which for him looks "80s". Oh, you can play Shooter x here. #shamelessplug2012

As planned, we watched "The girl with the dragon tattoo" which is brutal, wild and highly entertaining and disturbing in some ways but was really really good. We had dinner at Mcdonald's (start of the tradition). We ordered twist of fortune and happiness.

Lastly, it amazes me how he looks younger than his actual age. Mga 1 year younger, haha joke lang. Pero age doesn't matter naman, diba? :P He loved the comics so yay!

You're a good guy, Jim. Happy Birthday!

...And alam mo na yun :)

*Threadless shirts: / A-OK / Playing God / We've got some work to do

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JIM! (PART 1)

2012-01-06T10:59:00.000-08:00

Sorry for "lying" that I had to sleep early because I was tired from the company dinner and other excuses... Ang drama pa! haha! (I won vouchers pala, so yay!) I just really want you to not get any hint that I'm preparing something for your birthday. Yihieeeee....There's more later! BWAHAHAHA! Okay, Please don't hate me. Haha!

Happy Birthday, JRA! You da man!

Hopia, hopia like it!
:)

GETTING MY HOPES UP.

2012-01-05T23:43:00.000-08:00

Fireworks by the bay, long walks and talks, a good night sleep, a 40-minute bus ride to town, a visit to Ange, food coma, a foam party, unexpected influx of page views --- all in the first 2 days of 2012. I'm getting my hopes up, 2012 so don't let me down. I'm really excited and I really believe this year will be a great year. Golden Age na ba 'to? Haha! So many concerts and reunions to happen! (kilig) That's why I'm expecting good vibes and more ~~expenses~~ worthwhile things to do this year.

"I like beginnings because they're so full of promise. The first page of a book, the first day of a job, the first time you buy yourself flowers, the first date with a new man, the first touch, the first kiss, the first kick of a good liquor, the first moment you hold your own baby. I like beginnings because I know there's always more to come" - Quoted from Shyama Perera

Ganda diba? How beginnings give us hope and a fresh start. This year, I wish for us to stay hopeful and happy despite the uncertainties. Let us not worry so much and believe that there will be better days ahead.

How has the new year treated you so far? Do you see it getting better or just the same? Sending you positividy no matter what! :)

P.S. Tonight is our company dinner, I can really feel I'll win the grand prize or something big! (Read: Takashimaya vouchers) Haha Sana nga!

All photos taken with Instagram (@dianaplus)
#shamelessplug2012

DEAR +65....

2012-01-01T08:46:00.000-08:00

Dear +65,
Happy New Year!
Allow us to discover you more this year and the years to come.

P.S. The Marina Bay 2012 countdown was mint!

All photos taken with iphone & pudding cam app. Sweet!

A LOOK BACK AT 2011

2011-12-31T01:00:00.000-08:00

Once and for all, I'm allowing myself to remember the highlights and selected lowlights of my 2011. It was fun looking back, reminiscing and reflecting at how much I've grown and how many memories and lessons 2011 gave me. If you have time, you should do one too! :)

1. Jim's Surprise children's party at Mcdo (January 2011) - I started 2011 with love and lots of lover duties. Haha Yiiiiie. I think I reached my sweetness quota for the entire year when I did this. It was one of the best Sundays of my life. Deep deep deep deep inside, we are all sweet girls right? At ano kaya ang award-winning gesture ko this 2012? ~~*no pressure*~~

2. Chelsea Night a.k.a 1,949. (January 2011) - I had a mini reunion with Joses, Ritz and Jamie this year. We had dinner at Chelsea- Serendra and it was so much fun seeing them that night. I had salmongasm too! Hngggggg! @jopaydiets was there in "peaches" spirit. Haha!

4. Family bingo (January 2011 or Feb? haha) - A whole day with my family, food, games, prizes and Jim. - SO MUCH WIN!

5. Career talk at ICSM (February 2011) - Life became extra sweet when I met lovely girls from my high school and they actually paid attention to me while I talk. Haha! TV host dream - check! Haha! I just hope I influenced them in a good way at wag lang yun mga kalokohan ko. It was nice knowing that you were a good example even just for a day.

6. 22nd Birthday - No Boys allowed celebration (March 2011) - This year I opted for an all girls birthday "party". I invited my girlfriends for some Never been kissed, Cinderella story movie time! Yes, chick flicks! Mogwai closed this year (sucks!) but knowing I have this memory, not bad huh? *not bad obama meme*

7. Lomo the dog (---- 2011) - I grew up not really interacting with dogs because I have weak lungs (read: hikain). This year, Jim "gave" Lomo to me because he wanted Lomo to grew up in an environment where he can play and enjoy his dog years. HAHAHA! So I'm kind of the adopted mother. And no, he wasn't in a basket with a note outside our front door. In case you're wondering, Puiji is Tita Wiji's frenchie and Lomo's girlfriend. #true story.

8. Haciendera a.k.a Green thumb mode (June- July 2011) - The toughest time of the year was around May to July. I was sickly, unemployed, emotional and was a lost lamb. My parents went to visit our relatives in the US and they left me in charge of our Landscaping business. What the hell do I know about plants, right? I know santan and carabao grass, but NOT GOOD ENOUGH. haha! I was so scared that I was a misfit. With my mum's guidance 8,113 miles away, I think I did a pretty good job. Yay for skill upgrade!

9. Friends (Old and New, Stayed and Left) - From interns turned close friends, from officemates turned "kada" and food trip buddies, 2011 was a good year for friendship. Keep in mind those who were always there and never left. Cheers to friendship! (Real ones)

10. Pentel girl (August 2011) - I just want to thank "everything" for happening for a reason. Remember Lesson 10: Happiness is doing a job that you love. Always remember that His delays are never His denials. I'm back, how can I help you?

11. Singapore (July-Present-Future) - Words are just not enough to explain how this was the top highlight of my year. It wasn't easy but it was all worth it. Thank you +65 for embracing me back and tighter.

May you find the strength to let go of the things that makes you sad and weary and find strength to hold on to what's important and what feels good. Whatever you do, do it with enthusiasm!

Happy New Year everyone and stay in touch!

LESSON 10: HAPPINESS IS DOING A JOB THAT YOU LOVE.

2011-12-30T10:00:00.000-08:00

I'm currently reading Hector and the search for happiness and I find it very moving. Tita Wiji showed us (Lola L and me) this book during my mini despedida and I'd like to make a shoutout to her that I got those with different book covers! Aliw!

Lesson 10: Happiness is doing a job you love. -- is my favorite lesson that Hector learned from his journey. In an ideal world, our work is what we do because we can do it better than anyone else. *Awesome level: Asian if we are enjoying it so much that we can't believe we are getting paid to have fun.

I thank the universe for everything. Really, if not for everything that happened to me (good and bad), I wouldn't be happy now doing a ~~job~~ calling that I really really really really love. My commitment to Somewhere Unfamiliar has its ups and downs, as Jim would put it "bida ka kasi, natatalo muna sa umpisa" or something like that. Hahaha! #jimandhiswordsofwisdom This is my second chance and I'm not letting anyone screw it up.

If there's Colgate to call any brand of toothpaste or Pampers to any brand of diapers, there's Pentel to any brand of markers. Right? Please agree. Haha! Few months back I landed a job as an in-house graphic designer for Pentel Singapore. *pauses for contemplation*...... I was very discreet about this (well, about the whole trip) because I was too scared of jinx and I also realized that a *press release is not really necessary. *Coright? haha! Hiatus eh?

For a person who hyperventilates when in front of paper products and writing materials, this job is a dream come true! I still couldn't believe it that it was really Pentel, the brand I grew up with, Pentel Pen, "Pahiram ng Pentel pen" that actually shortlisted me for interview. Hnggggggggggg!!!! And now as the only Pinay (naks, foreigner) and the youngest among the group, I really try to exert more effort to fit in and work with them harmoniously. Going beyond "What's in it for me?" attitude and most important is to *DYSIGN my heart out. lol

Besides having the nicest (& best looking) Japanese bosses, I also have the nicest colleagues that I'll always be thankful for. They provide me english translations and introduced me to dishes that names I couldn't spell or pronunce. Haha #True story. There are a lot of bloopers and awkward moments syempre but they're all part of the journey. Like mixing up their names and mostly language barrier situations. Clearly, during lunch I am always O.P. If only they can read my mind that says...Subtitles please.

Looking back on my experiences, I am certain that I was only being prepared for a bigger and brighter future. (naks!) I always remind myself to never give up on my dreams and to live a life in gratitude. I encourage you to do the same. You may not have your dream job now but it can be just a different path to make it all happen. Remember, bloom where you are planted.

Happy New Year in less than 24 hours! 2011 recap later! Yay!

------
Terminologies a.k.a "*"
*Awesome level: Asian - Meme about how awesome Asians are
*Press release - my good friend / mare Mother Chef term for all out announce / over-sharing on social network sites
*Coright! - Singlish mash up of Correct and Alright (one of the few words I'm learning lah! )
*Dysign - another good friend Jopaydiets' word invention haha
------

SHOES AWWW: Vans sneakers

2011-12-30T09:52:00.000-08:00

Currently expressing my strong fondess and endearment a.k.a crush for these Vans sneakers.

Vans fandom on the last day of 2011.

* All images from vans.com *

DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE LIVE IN SINGAPORE 2012

2011-12-28T18:15:00.000-08:00

... Make that March 7, 2012! asdfghjkl!!! The excitement is times two million because it's my birthday on the 9th! More reasons I should go! Wait, I HAVE TO! So many concerts, so little money! Pfft. Last year, Paramore had a concert in Manila the same day as my birthday so it was pretty sick too ;) The selfish / feelingera version of me thinks these concerts are gifts from the universe. Haha how crazy! And oh, tickets will be on sale January 3, 2012.

Popspoken says:

"Come March 7 2012, American indie rockers Death Cab for Cutie will hit the shores of Singapore once more. This time not at Esplanade, but at Fort Canning Park.

Their seventh album, Codes and Keys was released early this May. "

Excited Dy is excited.

xx

STUFF AWWW: DIY Chalkboard mug

2011-12-27T16:53:00.000-08:00

Currently expressing my strong fondess and endearment a.k.a crush for these Chalkboard mugs.

A DIY project I'd love to do! *drools* To find the instructions on how to make them, check out Wit and Whistle here :)

FRIENDLY REMINDER: Make it count.

2011-12-26T19:43:00.000-08:00

GIFTS

2011-12-25T21:33:00.000-08:00

I LOVE GIFTS! (both giving and receiving) This year Jim gave me one thing I've been wanting to get for a long time. Haha! This is the second time he's given me a one time, bigtime gift. He doesn't give me anything on my birthday or other special occasions, instead he gives it on November or December as a collective gift. Haha! "FINALLY!" is just the perfect word to describe the moment.

I spent my Christmas eve with Marianne and her family and we had a little gift giving. I wanted to give them something special because they were so nice to let me in. Haha! I got the kids tent with plastic balls (which is so awesome, I wanna get one for myself), I got Marianne a "satchel-ish" bag in her favorite color, a baseball shirt for Kuya Nino and make-up brush kit for Ate Mau (no photos, boo)

And special thanks to Skype for bringing me and my family together this Christmas. Above all, seeing my family is the best gift I ever got. This made my Christmas worth remembering. I hope you had a memorable one, too!

XxDY

CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-24T19:37:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all!

This Christmas is my first time to be away from my family, when we spent Christmas in Macau 3 years ago I was still with my parents so I think it's not counted. Hehe! Holiday sucks if you make it suck, really. I was waiting for my parents to go online in Skype and I couldn't help but cry. I get very emotional when I think about all the fun times they'll have and I'll miss it. Haha! Homesick, yes. Kainggit that most of my friends are posting stuff about "Family Noche Buena" or Presents time something. My good friend Marianne and her family adopted me last night and the food was gooooooood. I had lunch with Jim, Ange and Kuya Law, too and again... Food Coma :-)

Merry Christmas everyone, make it count :)

xx

VIDEO AWWW: Meme Proposal

2011-12-21T17:49:00.000-08:00

... you're doing it right! Yes a very lovely Meme Proposal and yes another wedding-related video! What is happening? This is just me being hormonal or something. Haha!

'

Sweetness Level: Asian

VIDEO AWWW: An England Wedding

2011-12-19T14:10:00.000-08:00

nick+maria • england wedding from Paperback Weddings on Vimeo.

I'm not sure why I'm watching a wedding video as early as now but this one's really touching. I mean really that chapel exists? And their vows............ :') So sweet and inspiring! They are such a lovely couple!

Please watch it and agree with me. Haha! Again, I'm not sure why wedding videos. #weirdstuffinthemorning

VIDEO AWWW: Fundamental Elements of Design

2011-12-16T01:01:00.000-08:00

The Fundamental Elements of Design from Erica Gorochow on Vimeo.

Learn the Fundamentals of Design in less than 3 minutes. Design kids and the like, this is a good refresher :)
+1 on this!

FRIENDLY REMINDER: Before you complain about your job, try unemployment.

2011-12-14T18:16:00.000-08:00

Our life is not always how we want it to be. It will be fulfilling to have your dream job, a salary that you deserve and the best office mates anyone could wish for. But life is not always like that. Every morning you might find it hard to look forward to the day and just wish you can call in "sick". I've been there before and I know how you feel. I guess times like that are just normal. Every day negative episodes of that? I suggest you submit your resignation letter ASAP. Heeee.

Despite the many good things, in this case being employed, it is so much easier for us to complain and continue to wish for something better. But I dare you now to just imagine yourself jobless or no source of monthly income at all? Not exactly a great feeling, yes? Here's an excerpt of one of my favorite articles in Lifescript.

"So to those of you who find yourselves not exactly where you planned or want to be at the moment, I suggest you adopt this simple and powerful advice as your mantra. Whatever situation you presently find yourself in, I say bloom where you’re planted! In other words, make the best out of the situation and be the best that you can be until you can manage to move on to greener pastures. "

This gets me through the day:

Makes sense, right? I am nursing a terrible migraine but I refuse to let it get the best out of me. Today is a special day! My probation period is over and I couldn't be happier! I am thankful everyday and this job, this ~~job~~ calling is amazing! (More on this soon) I am filled with so much hope and gratitude that despite the hiccups along the way, I managed to get pass through it. The universe has given me a second chance and I am making it count. Think of this message before you whine about your job, okay? :)

A friendly reminder: try not to complain and be more thankful for everything....and life is too short for a wrong job.

VIDEO AWWW: No Hand Bike Moves

2011-12-10T20:50:00.001-08:00

I never learned how to bike and I know that sucks. Jim says I can do it, so I'll give it a try :)
Here's a fun video to watch of 50 No handed bike moves I found in Vimeo. +1 on the Typography, too!

"Golden Tree" by Martin Brooks from Ninian Doff on Vimeo.

Do you know how to bike? Be careful okay!

VIDEO AWWW: Beet cake recipe

2011-12-10T20:28:00.001-08:00

If recipes were made like this, I'll surely learn how to cook! Haha I wish!

beet cake from tiger in a jar on Vimeo.

Happy Baking!

FICTION AWWW: ALWAYS (a.k.a LUCAS AND PEYTON)

2011-12-10T09:26:00.001-08:00

I have always loved One tree hill since season 1 and I hate myself for being too "busy" that I missed Season 4-8. I love the fact that we have come to the time where we can get to watch our favorite shows and re-watch it again whenever we want to. You just have to patiently wait if you know what I mean.

My favorite fictional couple in the world is Lucas and Peyton. Yes, LEYTON FOREVER. (Sorry Jops, Brucas is just so so. haha) I have been watching Season 4 of One Tree Hill since Friday night. I stopped watching around 6am of Saturday, woke up around 3pm and continued watching again until midnight. Where did my Saturday go? It feels like I'm a teenager again. Whenever I watch One Tree Hill I get very emotional, I get very affected. Hahaha! 2 words: SOB FEST. I just love watching Lucas, Peyton, Brooke and of course the undying love of Nathan and Haley. What I always love about the story is that they always say things like "Just breathe, everything is going to be okay" or words like "I'm here" and "I got your back!". Isn't nice to know that the people who love you will always have your back? I told you, OTH makes me emotional.

Lucas and Peyton (and NALEY) make the word "always" less scary. They meant every "I love you always and forever" and I think that's beautiful. #cheesyalert

My favorite moment was when my dear Lucas Scott realized that it was Peyton all along. His exact words were:

"Suddenly it was as if the roar of the crowd, the echo of the final buzzers, the cheers of my teammates were all sounding from 1,000 miles away, and what remained in that bizarre, muffled silence was only Peyton. The girl whose art, passion, and beauty had changed my life. In that moment, my triumph was not a state championship, but simple clarity. The realization that we had always been meant for each other and every instinct to the contrary had simply been a denial of the following truth - I was now and would always be in love with Peyton Sawyer."

*give me moments to wipe my tears away*

I will try focus on getting things done while at the same time finish Season 6-8 just in time for the final season on January 2012. I don't know how to feel about this but I'm excited to see Lucas again. Haha yay! I'm excited to see my three named crush, Chad Michael Murray and his charming squinty eyes. (Dibs!)

The story of One Tree Hill makes you believe. Believe in something whether it's love, in friendship, family and the goodness of others and life in general.

Go believe in something, everything is going to be okay :)

FANDOM: Luke Beard

2011-12-08T18:46:00.001-08:00

I am always in high spirits whenever I see any sorts of beautiful typography. From book covers, album art, posters, websites, branding, packaging, street signs and so on. I have tons of links filed under: Mind = Blown which I'd like to share with the world. So you or someone reading ohhellody will never be uninspired again.

I was in instant fan girl mode when I stumbled upon Luke Beard's work in tumblr. He is young, creative and a type nerd. I wonder how many fonts are there in his Font Book. Heee :) He combined music and typography with his everyday project "A Lryic A Day" and they are truly worth reblogging! Recently, Four year strong (one of Jim's favorite bands, check them out!) asked him to make an artwork for each track of their new album "In Some Way, Shape or Form" and they're all awesome!!!!

*Photos taken from A Lyric A Day

This also reminded me of my attempt to do a 365 days project and this time I should really commit to it. Resume Project Well Said? Yes?

Drool more over his amazing talent in A Lyric A Day and tweet nice things to him on Twitter.

Let's make beautiful typography! Because we KERN! ;)

P.S. Hello Luke, I'm a fan :)

LOMOGRAPHY SINGAPORE

2011-12-07T17:53:00.001-08:00

HELLO GOOD NEWS!!!!!!!!

"Finally, Singapore! Sorry to keep you waiting, here it is! A Lomography Gallery Store is finally opening in Singapore and we got the lowdown on the big crazy opening party right here!"

Now more reasons to save, yes?

FRIENDLY REMINDER: Ask for a sign.

2011-12-06T18:11:00.001-08:00

I'm a sucker for signs from the universe! I remember the time when we were just planning to go to Singapore and there were many things holding me back so bad I couldn't focus. Whenever I see people wearing I Love SG shirt (I Love NY trademark), I say "It's a sign!" and it gives me an assuring feeling that everything will work out. And fortunately it did. I will buy myself that shirt and wear it like a boss! Haha!

And if you happen to be waiting for a sign... here it is! Do it! Go for it! Get it! Say it!

Drop every fear, take every chance.

FRIENDLY REMINDER: Be the winner and not the whiner.

2011-12-04T19:32:00.001-08:00

Before: What's good about Monday?Answer: NOTHING!
Now: What's good about Monday?Answer: EVERYTHING!

I am now a morning person and my likeness for Monday keeps on improving. Yay! We all have this Garfield thing towards Monday at some point in our lives. I had mine when I was in college, I even referred to it as the Early Tuesday. I dread going to school or work on a Monday. I hate everything about it. I cannot stand the long queues, traffic and the ever crowded MRT. If I could skip Monday, I would. But not anymore! Monday = a new beginning.

Top 5 things I look forward to every Monday morning (and every morning):

1) Morning newspaper

2) Bus SBS8771G or SBS1967 *wink wink*
3) Office morning assembly (yes we do that in the office #japan style)
4) Newsletter subscriptions via email

5) A new day :)

I woke up late today and everything happened so fast that I wore my cardigan inside out. Hey! I was showing everyone where I bought it! HAHA! I didn't notice it until I arrived the bus station and "deadmadella" fixed it in the corner. #Storyofmylife. I told Jim about it and he says he wants to "fondness-affectionate-hit" me in the head. Read: Batok! Haha how sweet!

No matter how difficult waking up early on a Monday morning is, I still find reasons to dance my heart out.

WINTER GLOVES - Dancing My Heart Out from Mitch Fillion (southernsouls.ca) on Vimeo.

I'm annoyingly happy, I know :) Have a great week ahead!

***

fonts used: Futura (osx font) and Marketing Script

FRIENDLY REMINDERS

2011-12-03T03:30:00.001-08:00

"Quotations help us remember the simple yet profound truths that glue life perspective and meaning. When it comes to life's most important lessons, we can all use gentel reminders" - Chris Freeman

3 things I remind myself everyday:

1) Stop being afraid and get more freedom
2) Win the world via friendsoftype
3) Stay young via ilovedust

Share yours here :)

SEMI-HOARDER DISORDER.

2011-11-30T22:57:00.001-08:00

Impulsive buyer, I am. (truth hurts). I have acknowledged this fact and I am working on it. I once bought these bunch of sticky notes not because I need them but because they're too cute!

Some of the questions I ask myself when I want to buy something:

"is it cute?" *dense i know*

"is it the last piece? the last pair?"
"does it come with another color? another issue? another style?"
"is it comfortable?"
"do you imagine wearing it with the other stuff you have?"
"is it reasonable priced?"

"how about SALE?"
"will you have the money for other things if you buy this?"
"will someone buy it for you?" read: family sponsors
"will Jim like it?"

They were mostly about how want it not about if I need it.

I was living the life of Max and Caroline (2 Broke Girls) six months ago. Everything suddenly became expensive. Once again, I was the little girl in Sunday's best asking her dad for money to buy cotton candy. Low self-esteem alert!

What was happening? I worked for 2 years and I had no savings. HOW FREAKING AMAZING. Looking back, I wanted to punch my past self. My mum would always tell me that I should save up and stop buying things I don't need, you know mother's wisdom. *face palm*

For years, I have lived up to this motto: "If it fits you well, buy the colors". There was always an urge to buy something in all colors available just to please my inner hoarder. When I was planning the Singapore trip, my sister made it clear that I'm not allowed to bring everything. Excess baggage? No, Thanks.

Exhibit A: ( things I got in Manila )

Exhibit B: (things I recently bought)

Instead of hoarding regrets, I learned two wonderful lessons:

1) Differentiate a want from a need.

2) It starts with making smart choices that lead to long-term gratification.

PS. This is also the main reason why I don't make eye contact with credit card agents. Sorry guys, it's not you, it's me.

* deco tapes from Puglypixel

FAVORITE THINGS: NO. 1

2011-11-30T22:49:00.001-08:00

(cutiepie pens I gave to ~~our~~ interns early this year. I think.)

I love Oprah! She's my role model and her generosity and faith is just moving. I also love how people open up to her spot on! Remember how crazy Tom Cruise was on her show? It was wild! In a business-related subject in college, our professor Mr. A asked us to write on a piece of paper who inspire us the most. The reason for this was whatever name we wrote would be our nickname. And so, I was called Oprah for the entire semester.

Oprah is the media's most generous boss. She gave ipad to her staff and $10,000 cheque regardless of how long the person worked there. She had this segment called "Oprah's Favorite Things" where she shared things that she felt noteworthy or that would make a great gift. It was dubbed as the "The O List" in her magazine and was usually during holiday season. How Oprah made everyone feel loved and appreciated inspired me to try to be more thoughtful and grateful. I WANT TO BE THE NEXT OPRAH! Hahaha! Just watch how her audience got very emotional when she shared her favorite things. I imagine myself dancing around tossing gifts telling them *Everybodehhhhh gets a lapppppptopppppp! You get a laptop! You get a laptop! You! You!* #oprahstyle

I may not be super rich like Oprah but I try to give away my favorite things as much as possible. We can now call this "Dy's-favorite-things-meager-people-style" hahaha! My lovely Tita Wiji blogged about the Goodie bag I gave her and Lola L before I left for Singapore. You can read about it here. My heart melt reading it. Thank you, Tita!

For my first #hellofavoritethings, allow me to share with you things I just can't get enough of! I promise that if I become Oprah-rich I'll give away Diana cameras and more! For now I can treat you to Gong cha or share with you my ultimate favorite snack: Hello Panda. Top things I have given away so far are pens or markers, notebooks, rings and chocolates! I even brought extra notepads with me to give to my future new friends here. Out of 5, I have given only 1. Boo.

There is so much love and good things to share, it's the thought that counts remember?

Happy Friday! Happy Weekend!

SOMEWHERE UNFAMILIAR.

2011-11-30T21:43:00.001-08:00

(photo by JRA)

If you remain in your comfort zone you will not go any further. - Catherine Pulsifer

There was a time in my life when I enjoyed being in my comfort zone, a place where I know I wouldn't fail. Same work, same place, same tasks, same everything. Heck! Even lunch was on repeat. I knew a part of me wanted to change and I always wondered how it is to be somewhere unfamiliar. I stayed inside my comfort zone, making up reasons why I should stay and just paced the same old way. I claimed to be so occupied with the things inside the zone even though deep in my heart I longed for something better, something different.

I was a coward. I was too scared to even try and was too attached to even let go. But then, the universe has its own way and decided to slap me bigtime. It was like a chapter from the book of series of unfortunate events. I got sick, I lost my job, I was broke, I lost friends and I got very bitter with life. I started to entertain hate and negative things in my life and I was scared of everything. I was either sad, tired or neutral. That was a hard thing for my loved ones to see. The cheerful and excited Dy suddenly became sickly and hateful. (Ulk!) The universe had to do it only to make me realize I deserve something better. It was a tough time, my life's lowest point.

With my true friends and my family being more than supportive and loving, I gathered strength. I couldn't let my life go by just watching others win and me being stuck in the depressed mode. I held my breathe, I prayed and I took a step. That's the amazing thing about kissing the comfort zone goodbye, you can take it #onedayatatime.

It takes so much courage and superhuman strength to let go of the familiar. Trust me. Reality is complex and that's why we have to be more resilient. The best thing to do is to be who you are and to stop doubting yourself. Acknowledge your fears and take emotional risks. Some people will love you for what you've done and other will be threatened or will just be a hater. I say, "Pffffft." Who cares?

Remember that life only improves when we take chances. Come to the fun side! *cartwheels and eggrolls*

DECEMBER 1 KICK OFF

2011-11-30T17:23:00.001-08:00

It's December already! How time flies! Just 6 months ago I found myself broke, unemployed and lost. Fast forward to today: I'm employed, semi-broke, just a bit lost but better. I have more reasons to be happy, Google stats says so. Haha feeling celebrity? Thank you for the hits guys!

Things I'm looking forward to:

First Christmas in Singapore ( downside: away from my family :( )
End of probation period in a few days. Hooray!
Design projects and personal stuff
Year- end recap
Christmas Shopping
Gifts and Love Letters to give away
Christmas bonus (?) *wishful thinking*

Don't you love ones and firsts? They are reminders of a fresh start, a new beginning! Happy firsts and more beautiful daze for us!

Here's a video to kick off our December!

going to the store. from dlew on Vimeo.

Loop it guys, it's so fun to watch! Haha!

NOTE TO SELF: Take it all in.

2011-11-30T07:45:00.001-08:00

...And if there's a soundtrack for every life experience, for every moment and for every blog entry. Here is for the first one.

Atlas Genius - Trojans by Pretty Much Amazing
Take it off
Take it in
Take off all the thoughts of what we've been
Take a look
Hesitate
Take a picture you could never recreate
Write a song
make a note
for the lump that sits inside your throat
Change the locks, change the scene
Change it all but can't change what we've been
Your trojan's in my head
It's ok if it's gone
The thoughts that you had that it was the one
And oh what is left?
For all those times is that what you get?
Oh regardless
The walls get painted anyway
Oh you're guarding
The gates, but it all got away
Your trojan's in my head
Take it off
Take it in
Take off all the thoughts of what we've been
Take a look
Hesitate
Take a picture you could never recreate
Write a song
make a note
for the lump that sits inside your throat
Change the locks, change the scene
Change it all but can't change what we've been

DEAR UNIVERSE, I'M READY.

2011-11-29T18:16:00.001-08:00

"Dear Universe, I'm ready. "
My exact words when I decided to register ohhellody to blogger and when I decided to just go and try my luck in Singapore. (more on that soon)

I dub thee, Year 2011 as the the most interesting year of my life. After many attempts of "serious" blogging, I feel that this is the right time. Why? You'll see.

I know that there are so many catching up to do, my hard drive says so. I have more than 1,000 photos unshared, few films for developing, tons of snippets of daily experiences both hits and misses. I knew I had to start somewhere so I wrote a list of goals / reasons for this blog. Here we go:

To share the lessons from my Life's little detours.
To pass around good vibes and positivity.
To occasionally rant and vent out.
To practice my Design skills (that killz).
To inspire.
To meet more nice and lovely people.
To pay tribute a.k.a fan girl mode.
To share my favorite things and lists.
To #humblebrag (haha!)
To have an excuse to talk about my life in general. (read: online diary)
To take more photos.
To take chances and make more mistakes.
To challenge myself. (outfit post, yes? *lol*)
To commit to something.

Soooooo what do you think? In the meantime, join me in Twitter, Tumblr and Pinterest.
Expect lots of commas, "" and (). Please consider them as my "side comments" (as usual).

Let's do this!