Swiss National Day

Attended the Swiss National Day at the Mandarin Oriental.

My husband was the guest chef.

He used to be their Exec Chef

Was teasing them, you guys miss him so much

you make all sorts of events to have him back!

Good time

Being with the Swiss

I was telling the deputy head

how with only 7.5 M Swiss population

they can have such a huge impact and contribution to the world

I have not met a Swiss who's not precise and intellectual

Their country is the true model for

What intelligence, honesty and hardwork can achieve

Happy Swiss Day!

Waiting game

waiting for the contractor

And still waiting

Aside from all the things I'm involved in

Here I am

waiting for our contractor

I feel it's a good group

I assigned myself as the project manager

Who better to oversee things than the one who's gonna live there?

Love our architect

He's heaven-sent

I like our contractor

but how much will depend on the days to come (wink, wink)

I think our foreman's cool

He has a ponytail

Told our architect

Hey, he seems cool

Our architect goes, "artist"

Perfect, I said, that's the kind of foreman we need!

I'm middle-aged but my enthusiasm for life just keeps growing everyday

My interest in people has not waned a bit

The lessons I'm learning about life just keeps adding up

And I think that's one of the things that keep me going

I always thought, one just gives the excuse of being too busy

For things they don't really want to do

If you're passionate about something

You'll always find time to do it.

Life's good, live it well!

Happy birthday, Mom!

Today's my Mom's 71st bday

Not bad for 71

Since I have a lot on my plate

I had to celebrate her birthday with a breakfast date

We had a simple get together over omelettes

Nice, simple, quiet time

Though I'm 40 and my Mom's 71

I still call her up everyday

Our conversations are not always jovial

But she's still one of the biggest influences in my life

She's my biggest fan

It's embarrassing how proud she is of me

And I, in turn, still do things wanting her to be that

Before we parted ways today

I kissed her happy birthday

She looked at me like she was so proud of what she has accomplished

I wish someday

I could give that same look to my children.

Happy birthday, Mom!

God bless you always and more birthdays to come!

Manilart

Just sharing photos from Manilart.

Sorry about no blogs lately.

Attending 3 events today.

Promise to write this weekend or hopefully will still have the energy tonight.

Happy Friday!

Stylebible-Work Wear Diaries

Thank you to the Stylebible team for this lovely feature.

Please click http://www.stylebible.ph/fashion/steal-her-style/work-wear-diaries-rachelle-wenger

Enjoy....

Down time

top: Kamiseta

Yesterday was not such a busy day so decided to spend it alone shopping. Most stores are on sale and I mean major drop in prices!

Got some loot. For the record, I haven't shopped clothes in a while.

My architect won't appreciate this, haha.

When we were in the first stages of design, I kept telling our architect how I really need space for all my clothes.

He told me, okay, will give you this much.

For the record, our architect knows me as lector in Church as he's also one

So, when we see each other , I'm always in my cloak

Kept telling him, that won't be enough

He says, purge!

I say, I purge everyday, and that's true, I always organize my clothes and give away those I haven't worn

Last week, he sent me a text

Let's do this scientifically, he said

So he asked for the number of clothes, bags, shoes, etc I have

He texted a day after and said

Your clothes had a deluvian effect on the design

I go, uh-oh, my hubby won't like this!

Thing is, I do wear them since I attend a lot of events

I have no clutter in my closet as everything hanging there gets air time

Back home, had lunch with my son, still on summer break

Then proceeded to my meeting

Am joining another organization

And the challenge makes me palpitate

I love it when that happens

Am nervous and excited at the same time

I just hope I can do a good job

When kids were asleep, had my home massage

One of the things I enjoy about living in Manila

All these services one enjoys

Aside from my usual wife and mom duties

and that meeting I had

it was basically time to be with myself today

I always make sure that I don't also neglect this companion of mine

Sometimes, for anyone to be able to give more to others

One needs to be able to spend time with oneself

Though I love and enjoy being with people

Nothing beats being with someone who knows you inside and out

And being alone, gives you time to know yourself too

Listening to oneself

Enjoying one's company

Knowing whatever happens

You've got yourself to depend on

Happy weekend!

You've got mail!

top: Maldita, pants : ZARA

My day was very productive.

All my things to do were done.

Had a photo shoot that will come out in a couple of days

Will post it once it's out

Got a gift and a card from a good friend/client

Very touching

Heartwarming

Makes you want to always be the best version of yourself

If I may share what was on the card

"With you

I feel as if God is spoiling me a little"

I don't know any other saying that could top that!

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

It's very humbling.

I've met people who think that saying something good about someone

would make the other person arrogant and big-headed

On the other hand, I feel good words make one feel more humble and humane

Whenever people say good things about me

All the more I have the desire to not disappoint

All the more I feel how human I am

And all the more I feel His presence and goodness in my life

Everyday of my life

I try to achieve that others would see a part of Him in me

And that I would see Him in others

Am not always successful

as people sometimes misunderstand

But the intention is always good

When I know I've touched someone

even in the most diminutive way

My day is made

And I go on believing that

My humanity is being served

Thank you again for the wonderful gift but most of all for the kind words

It's something I would always treasure and go back to again and again

Likewise, I feel the same.

Enjoy your week!

Girl Scout's Promise

What I anticipated as a busy day turned out to be light.

After my morning Friday routine of going to Mass

Did some organizing around the house

Went to my new gig but can't reveal til September

My fabric shopping with 2 clients got cancelled

Left me free the whole afternoon

Wanted to spend time and go out with the kids but they'd rather play with their friends

Can't beat football

Went out alone and purchased school supplies

School's starting soon

will have an empty nest for 9 hours everyday again

hence am so happy with all the things I'm involved in

The thing about this time in my life

I have planned it in a way that the first part

will really sacrifice my own career

and be a full time mom

though through it all

I've always been active and involved

I always volunteer

Now that the kids are bigger and more independent ( we raise them that way)

I have so much time to do things I want to do

Am just thankful for all the blessings that come my way

Am also blessed to do things I love and enjoy

without sacrificing my time with my family

Everything I'm involved in

I get to have the say when am available

And that I am so grateful for

Like what I always believe in

Life is about choices

and where you plan to head to

Would sometimes give you surprises

you never expect

both good and challenging

but isn't that what life's all about?

So, plan ahead

I was a girl scout

and, yes, a troop leader

I always carried that mantra

"always be prepared"

'Cause life is one big roller coaster

and you want to be on top when it finds you

Happy weekend!

Color of Royalty

pantsuit : Culte Femme

w/ Roland & Jackie Laudico

Wearing my dad's favorite color, purple.

Very regal, color of royalty.

Got this dress from Culte Femme years ago.

I altered the neckline to this assymetrical one sided

Something I do especially when I buy off the rack

Alter something so it looks different
Good exercise for your creativity too

Happy Friday!

Touching base

w/ Myra Pesquet

top and pants : ZARA

Location : Bonifacio Hi Street

Quickly met up with an old friend from college and a colleague from my first and only corporate job. Think I've posted already three of my friends from there, Joey( Here comes the bridesmaid), Lills (First Guest), Pat ( Hongkie in the City). Except for Lills, we all married foreigners. Hmm, what's wrong with Filipino men? Haha, just teasing.

Myra's going back to Paris so we decided to have a quick meet and greet.

I was so excited for her as Paris is one of my fave cities in the world. Also, it's one place that you can dress up and it's natural. No big deal since it's innate in them and they appreciate this.

Myra was my chaperone with my first ever date with my husband. I know, I know, those days, we still get chaperoned during the first few dates and Myra was just happy to oblige. She vaguely remembers though but I still do. Funny how everyone has selective memory.

Was good to see you, Myrs.

Hope to see you sometime soon in your chic neck of woods.

Here's to the best with your new life in that place called City of Light!

Staying slim & young-looking

Everytime, people would ask me how I maintain my body and stay slim. They also get surprised when I say my age. Last week, I met a friend, Isa's brother, and, we recognized each other from the blog, he said, you look even younger in person.

So, I figured, better share some tips I follow on staying slim and youthful looking even after giving birth to 2 and even at 40.

Of course, body size and weight would always be genetics but we all can change habits to stay slim and healthy.

One of the benefits is that you just have a lot of energy and you feel light.

Here goes...

1. For the moms out there, breastfeed! I don't know any surefire way to lose pregnancy weight as fast as breastfeeding. It contracts the uterus hence your tummy will stay flat.

It is the best milk for babies. Be patient, it's about supply and demand. I enjoyed breastfeeding tremendously, best for babies, best for you, best even for the budget.

2. I don't drink softdrinks, as in I don't. I haven't touched soda since I was in sophomore high school. That was 26 years ago. It started as a Lenten season sacrifice and after 40 days when I tried it again, it just got too strong for me. I don't like the sweet, carbonated taste. Anyone can do it, just don't get used to drinking sweet and carbonated stuff, more than looks, it's not good for the health.

3. I don't eat after 6 p.m. You've probably heard this but it's so true. Normally, we eat dinner at 5:30 p.m. After that, it's all just water for me. Unless, I have an event, I would eat but very minimal, not because I want to stay slim , I never diet, it's because my body is not used to eating after 6 p.m.

One event last week, a lady kept on telling me to eat, I said, I'm okay, I'm not hungry, she said, that's unfair, that's why you're thin!

4. Exercise and be active! I am a very active person. I don't like wasting time. Exercise is not only for your physical health but mental and emotional. Am not asking you to be a gym rat but just do your cardios and stretching and don't just laze around.

5. Water, water, water. I only drink water and room temperature not cold. Learned this when we were living in Hong Kong. I would only drink iced tea at times and never even tried drinking coffee. I remember my son was being interviewed in the British School in Bangkok and I was , of course, not around. He asked for me and teacher said, I went to get coffee. He said, My Mom doesn't drink coffee. Teacher : Tea? My son: Only when she's sick Teacher: What does she drink? My son: Water

Yeah, may be boring but it's the best way to quench my thirst and good for the skin and circulation too.

6. I sleep before 10 p.m. , around 9 p.m. normally. Even when I go to events, I'm home by 9 or 10 p.m. Nothing beats beauty sleep and I read before that the growth/beauty hormone is maximized between 10 p.m to 2 a.m. (if memory serves me right) so the cells regenerating are at its peak at these times. Hence the term beauty sleep is for real.

7. Sweets. Okay, a lot of people won't like this but I am just not into sweets. I only crave for this when it's that time of the month.

Even worse when I was living in Bangkok. My friends/neighbors were French, Japanese , they don't eat! Whenever we have our afternoon teas they have 2 bites of finger sandwiches. It was only when I got back to Manila that afternoon tea had rice & pasta, haha.

8. Don't cause air pollution. I have NEVER smoked in my life. Have not even tried. I don't succumb to peer pressure. It's bad for your health, others' health, the environment and waste of money. Causes wrinkles too. So stay away from it.

9. Clean living. I guess, what goes inside shows on the outside.

10. This one is a personal one that I do, then again, these are my tips. I don't eat pork. I just don't. I don't like the taste.

11. Eat fruits and veggies: for better complexion, better everything, it helps, if everything was organic. Hard to do but would be ideal.

12. Lastly, have a clean soul. Nothing beats having no clutter in your life, it's the best way to feel light!

You might have an impression that I don't eat, I do!!! Friends of mine and my husband can attest to how much I am capable of eating. But I guess, I still use it up so no extras are shown.

Hope you get a thing or two. As in anything else, to each his own, just some tips that hopefully might be of help!

Dizon anniversary

w/ Tita Annie

with Tita Annie, our godmother

w/ Carol Ip & Grace Bagatsing

Yesterday was the 32nd anniversary of the Dizon Jewelers held at Shangri-la Edsa Plaza.

It's like a tradition going to their annual event.

Always nice to bump into familiar faces.

Congratulations on your 32nd!!!

Neighborly love

blurry but I like it

old knit dress from ZARA

Burmese setting

Just got back from a wonderful lunch at our old neighbor's home

They're part Burmese so they served home-cooked, authentic Burmese food

Was very good

One of my hubby's favorite dishes

Kids had huge appetite too, not so much on the laksa but on the pasta

It is very heartwarming when after 6 years, we're still in touch with our old neighbors

We still give each other Christmas gifts and greet each other happy birthdays

It was interesting that their new neighbor is also a good friend of mine

Was a pleasant get together

Conversing and catching up over delectable food
Visiting our old home

Seeing the kids grow up

Was a good time

And though I told you yesterday, I would rather stay home and rest

My whole weekend though not that restful was very relaxing and gratifying
Besides life is about the number of hours lived

Not the number of hours rested

Enjoy your Sunday!

Bells ringing, a new life starting

w/ Mandarin Oriental's Director of Public Relations, Charisse Chuidian

the Presidential table set-up

beautiful set-up though my camera setting didn't give justice

my hubby giving his speech as the chosen Principal Sponsor to give it

I've always loved weddings.

Even before the time I did my first flower girl gig

Even more so as I got older

There's just something really magical and inspiring and enchanting about the whole event

I guess I'm just such a romantic at heart

And no, it doesn't get less as I get older

My husband was again asked (for the nth time) to be a principal sponsor at a wedding.

Never met the couple before though

My husband has mentored a lot of chefs

He's given so many opportunities to so many chefs that I feel so proud of him.

One thing I respect about our marriage is the common belief of sharing what talents we have to others.

I was in awe of how, even after he left the hotel industry more than 2 years ago,

there's so much respect for him

He's like a rockstar, they all want a picture with him

I was so touched with the speech he gave

Like always, there's a hint of me

His parting words to the bride?

"I will give you my wife's number,

She sure knows how to tame chefs"

And I was thrilled all over again.

Don't you just love weddings and new beginnings?

To all the married couples out there

Always remember your wedding day

And why you're with your partner

And choose to see what's good

Happiness is a choice

And it's yours to make

Best wishes!

Trenching it

I love this trench dress I got from years ago.
I would always wear it come rainy season time.

It's sexy, classic, conservative, edgy all rolled into one.

People always manage to appreciate it.

Weekend's here!

No rest though.

Have socials even on weekends, personal ones though.

Those that might not be obligatory but you just can't say no to.

I may prefer to just stay home.

But on second thought, am glad that we always get invited.

That means we are blessed with friends.

Thank heavens for that!

A little bit of shine

top: from Paris, skirt: Mango

So this was me after the Bayo-nic outfit.

Attended 2 events.

Fun, interesting.

Fascinating to meet different kinds of people.

Interesting to socialize.

Comforting when one gets home.
Good night!

Bayo-nic

dress: Bayo, shoes: Enzo Angiolini

the bend

Had a Board Meeting the whole morning.

I always enjoy that and I enjoy the company of the team.

Afterwhich, I had to go choose paint with a client.

Our kids are friends so our sons can tag along.

I love designing spaces.

Not only is it an excuse to shop, you shop while others spend, haha.

You see the space come to life and you help build a home.

You get compensated doing something you love,

while you would do it even for free!

Ssshhh, hope my clients aren't reading this post, wink, wink.

Wore this orange embroidered dress from Bayo with shoes to match since it's my client's fave color.

I guess, like actors, I really imbibe the project.

All in all, was a very productive and fruitful day.

It doesn't stop there though.

Still have to go out tonight.

But then again, you know , that's for the next post!

C'est si bon

Bastille Day

I know, I know, I haven't been blogging lately.

Been so busy that yesterday was the first time I saw my skin dry and like getting an allergy.

Thing is, I enjoy all the things I'm doing but still I just won't let a ball I try to juggle fall down.
We're also building a new place so that entails a lot of time and work.

This event was also work, went in quarter to 7 p.m., home by 8:15 p.m. All's done, everyone happy.

Hence, when I get home, I don't even open the computer and just spend time with my husband and kids.

When people ask me how I do it, aside from being organized, I don't let my schedule interfere with my priorities. I'm lucky that I get to do things I love and at my own time.

But my real comfort is, no matter how I run around the whole day,

I always try to find time to visit Him.

Even for a few minutes.

It just grounds me, revives me, inspires me and puts everything back into perspective.

While I make gazillion decisions a day, I must admit, from the most mundane to the more cerebral ones, discernment and the right judgment is what I always pray for.

May not please everyone but I know I'm doing what's right.

So, you may see this photo like I just relaxed and partied, truth is, I've already worn so many hats during the day and this is just one of them.

Good part is, I still get home to a happy family.

C'est si bon!

Black out

top : U2, shorts: Culte Femme

Spent my morning on the phone and answering e-mails, all business, believe me.
Then accompanied my friend to have a look at a new school for her son which I highly recommend.

Am not usually in black, too hot in Manila
though used to wear it a lot in Hong Kong
My top has been with me for more than a decade
I didn't gain much weight
How to stay slim tips potentially for another post.

It's almost Friday.
Hope the week went well for you.
I can smell the weekend!

Going green

w/ one of my fave artists, Gus Albor

Happy Wednesday!

So long, partner

Watched Toy Story 3 with my children at Powerplant last week.
Funny, entertaining, full of lessons.
Was crying so hard at the end of the film.
My eyes were swollen after the movie.

Lots of things to take with you considering the characters are moving paper.
Friendship, teamwork, hope, loyalty.
Sticking it out through hard times and good times.
Helping even those who don't deserve it.

Letting go, in so many different levels.
As a mom, I can relate to the Mom's anxiety.
After all, your baby will leave one day , and, hopefully, you've raised him well to be able to face the world.

Being selfless on the part of Andy.
He wanted to take Woody to college but thought Woody would be better off being played and with his friends,
Also to make the little girl happy.

Great movie, so many lessons in life in such a simple, at times, prosaic plot.

Life, most of the time, can be like the movies.
Lots of challenges but more often than not
Despite all the mishaps and atrocious events
Viewer is assured of a happy ending.

And that is why, despite the swollen eyes,
One comes out content and happy.

Happy mid-week!

Preview's Best Dressed

Mc Queen theme

w/Anne & Town & Country's new editor-in-chief, Yvette Fernandez

location: Republiq

w/ Lisa & Anne

w/ jewelry designer, Tara Soriano

my date for the night, Anne Gonzalez

Last night was Preview's annual Best dressed event.
Theme was Mc Queen.

Went there with Anne Gonzalez, thanks, Anne, for the lovely time, as always.

Mingled with the cool and accommodating Summit team.

Fun night, good to see and meet new , interesting people.

Went home early as World Cup is still on.

Congratulations to Preview, esp Pauline Juan for a great job!

Til next year!

Hongkie in the city

lovely time w/ Pat Tam


Had afternoon tea with my friend, Patricia ,last Thursday.
Pat was also one of my colleagues at my first and only corporate job together with Lills and my bridesmaid, Joey.

As fate would have it, Patricia married a Hongkie the same year I got married and moved to Hong Kong.

And the story goes of my wonderful Hong Kong experience and the solid friendships created.

Pat is also the godmother of my youngest.

We got so close in Hong Kong since we're both starting our married lives in a foreign land.

She saw how our flat evolved and was one of the first to be my fan in interior design.

She's now a stay-at-home Mom but was a successful career woman in HK.

She was working for Businessweek!

I was so proud of her. A Filipina making it.
I remember how she was the one who taught me where to shop wisely in HK.

At first, I would shop at the known and establised places til she said, let me take you to where real Hongkies shop.

And from that day on, shopping wise, I was a true blue Hongkie, thanks, Pat!

One thing I like about this world, no matter how often people move, people change

It's up to people to nurture relationships and friendships.

And through that whole expat experience of living overseas, we have managed to keep in touch and nurture our friendships.

Thanks, Pat for coming out and seeing me.

We may not be in our twenties anymore and are both in our 40's

but nothing has changed about our understanding of each other.

Now you know why I love Hong Kong,

It gave me most of my best souvenirs in life!