Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.

Sunday

2012-01-29T15:07:00.000+08:00

Have a lovely lazy Sunday.

Here are some photos of the Pacific Ocean and the Bohol Sea that get me in a relaxed mood.

First Photo via Oracle Fox

Happy Little Things

2012-01-27T12:04:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, while running errands I passed by a flower shop and saw a guy buying a large bouquet of flowers. It just put a smile on my face knowing someone out there was about to be surprised.

Image via Weheartit

One Direction: Menswear Done Right

2012-01-26T00:20:00.001+08:00

I really would love to know who stylists One Direction work with because I LOVE the looks they're sporting! It's menswear the way I like it. I'd loved if more guys dressed like this, only problem being that I live in the tropics so perhaps only picture number 2 will apply and those suits if they were going to prom or some formal event with air conditioning. Ah well! I still love this style of menswear

Also my current favorite One Direction song which I have been playing over and over.

Images via Vid81, Muzu, My Bliss, The Coventry Telegraph, Metro and The Sun

Perspective

2012-01-24T11:35:00.000+08:00

Note: This a repost of an entry I wrote on my old blog in 2009 when I was still at University. I stumbled across it recently and thought it worth sharing here.

July 17th 2009

My Mom told me this last night.

After Andy Roddick lost to Roger Federer at Wimbledon he was interviewed by The Times (June 14, 2009) and asked How difficult has it been to have won one grand slam in 2003 (US Open) and not have won one since?

His response was "You know, I sometimes feel like I have too much perspective for my own good because my worst day is a lot of people’s dream, so to sit here and say I live this life of constant disappointment is ridiculous. And I know a lot better than that. I look at the body of work and I think I’m 10 matches away from 500 wins. But certainly I’m hungry. I still want that second slam.”

That little anecdote brought me some perspective in the middle of the deluge of work from school because it reminded me of this Article in Good Housekeeping. It's about the Central Asian Institute founder Greg Mortenson and his daughter Amira. Their mission is to build schools for children in Pakistan and Afghanistan particularly girls, who want to go to school but can't because their family, situation, religion or government does not believe in providing an equal education for women. These women sometimes risk their lives for an education, and dream of going to college. I should have nothing to complain about, my worst day is someone else's dream.

Another lighter moment of perspective came today during Western Lit Class.

My Professor Dr. Ruiz, is 70 years old. During today's quiz I mispelled the answer to the question, that asked: What plant did Hermes give Odysseus to ward of Circe's enchantment? The answer was Moly. The paper even mentioned that the answer was 4 letters. My dyslexic brain wrote "Molly." UGH! After class I stayed to ask him if wrong spelling would count. His response "Hija, hija, life is too short to worry about 1 "L" or two."

:) It really is.

Update: Time Magazine published an article on Mortenson that I think should also be read to get a fairer picture of the book he wrote and his management of CAI.

Photo of Andy Roddick

Children's Books

2012-01-24T11:04:00.000+08:00

I love children's books. I love the whimsy and possibility they have, how they shine with positivity and beautiful illustrations. Gabrielle Blair of Design Mom has a feature on her blog where she interviews children's book authors and I love the thoughtful answers they give. My favorite interview so far has been the author Dallas Clayton. I loved his answers and words of encouragement. Here are some below.

All images by Dallas Clayton

Beautiful Libraries

2012-01-20T14:21:00.001+08:00

I've always loved libraries. They're a great place to get work done, to chill, and when I was at University the lib (as it was called by the students) was a great place to sleep during long breaks. I remember taking a tour of the lib as an incoming freshman and being blown away. I had never seen an entire building or two devoted to just books. I remember walking down a long row of books simply thrilled at its length. Once I became a univeristy student it ceased to blow me away and I got quite used to the idea of buildings filled with books. But then I saw these photos from Knstrct and was once again reminded of the beauty of libraries and great architecture.

Stockholm Public Library/ Ollvier Charles

Livraria da Villa/ Isay Weinfeld.

Selexyz Dominicanen/ In Maastricht

The Law Library of Munich
Doesn't it remind you a little of the library in Beauty and the Beast?

See more photos of amazing libraries here.

All photos via Knstrct

Advice

2012-01-18T23:21:00.004+08:00

I think you can have anything that you want. Find someone who has a life that you want and figure out how they got it. Read books. Figure out what you’re passionate about. Pick your role models wisely. Find out what they did and do it.

Lana Del Rey (Vogue Weekend)

Source Rosie

A Tribute To Friends

2012-01-18T14:35:00.000+08:00

I found these statements from Kate Spade over at Tulips and Flight Suits. I loved them and started thinking of which of my friends they matched.

Katrina

Abbey

Tina

Annie

Chiara

Carla

Mariel

Rosie

All images via Tulips and Flight Suits

I think I link you

2012-01-17T23:10:00.000+08:00

I'm sure you know that feeling when you discover a new site that interests you and gets you all excited that you keep browsing through the older posts to see more good reads or lovely pictures. I would like to share a few good ones I've been going back to.

The online pinboard is your very nifty online inspiration wall.

Craft magazine has always given me a lot of DIY inspiration.

Oh Happy Day! makes me wanna decorate for all occasions.

Interesting reads through Pinoy Perspectives.

My Inspiration Pictures for the week

via Weheartit

2 Years to Cheer!

2012-01-16T10:41:00.000+08:00

Today is the 2 year anniversary of our blog. Two years of blogging about what we love, what inspires us and what makes us happy. We hope that you all are doing things you love too!

Photos via Little Miss Dress Up and Bouncytrouncyfun

Get Your Heart On!

2012-01-16T00:00:00.002+08:00

My friend Carla is one of the most talented people I know gifted with skills in photography, web design and on her way to becoming an architect. She designed our current header above and is my go to girl for all things html and design related.

She's also a very supportive of my small baking business and always willing to give me good PR, which I will always be grateful for. Recently she photographed some red velvet cupcakes I whipped up in preparation for Valentine's. I figure it's high time I return the favor of all her great publicity. Valentine's is less than a month away and Carla is selling some super cute Valentine's cards she designed. That would be great to write a special note on or to send together with a sweet gift to the people you love and cherish. They cost PHP 25.00 for one and PHP120.00. for a set of six. Click here to order.

She also has some lovely travel themed cards. My particular favorite is the set called Monochrome City, which consists of black and white shots of the city of Paris (the city of love). Don't they seem perfect for sticking on the wall above your desk or in your room to keep you in a wanderlusty mood, to inspire you or to pick you up when your feeling blue?

P.S. In the spirit of love check out this cute website What Makes Love True. It's filled with photos and stories of couples and how they fell in love.

All photos by Carla.

Mi famiglia

2012-01-07T21:28:00.001+08:00

This

is followed by this

Via Source & A Cup of Jo

Hugs.

2012-01-06T00:47:00.001+08:00

This video made me smile. The title says it all.

TV Shipping

2012-01-03T23:46:00.000+08:00

I have a confession. I can't wait for later this week with the return of some of my favorite shows. My current favorites are the CW's The Vampire Diaries, The Secret Circle and Hart of Dixie, alongside ABC's Once Upon A Time.

Apart from the engaging plots (The Vampire Diaries and The Secret Circle) and witty dialogue (Hart of Dixie) I love watching the couple dynamics that are going on. I also love the creative and sometimes funny couple nicknames. Who couples are you rooting for this season? These are mine.

The Vampire Diaries
I've previously written about how I love Caroline and Tyler from The Vampire Diaries who have been given the fan moniker, Forwood and I'm hoping they'll stay together. I'm pretty much a fence sitter regarding the Damon, Elena, Stefan triangle. I'd love for Delena (as fans have been calling it) to happen but I do love Stelena too and wish that whoever ends up without Elena ends up with some equally cool chick (please not Katherine) though Rebecca might be cool. Jeremy and Bonnie was cool, Jeremy and Anna was great. Jeremy cheating on Bonnie with Anna's ghost not so cool. A possible Bonnier and Matt could be great too.

The Secret Circle
Initially I was all about Cassie and Adam, but then Jake step onto the scene and Cake (this nickname makes me laugh) was born! Good-bye Adam, you'd be great with Diana anyway! I'm loving the Jake and Cassie dynamic and am excited that Chris Zylka who plays Jake has been promoted to a series regular. Can't wait to see how things will shake up and how that whole Cassie and Adam star-crossed prophecy Adam's Dad keeps yapping about is going to work out.

Hart of Dixie
Wade and Zoe, all the way! I find Wade's character more interesting than George who is engaged to Lemon (though Lemon and Lavonne as endgame is fine with me) and I just find Wade hotter and more appealing. He's got more spice. George is sorta boring and not as cute. I know George was introduced as Zoe's main love interest thereby creating a love triangle of sorts with Lemon Vreeland and thus more TV watching drama, but I'm not a big fan of George and Zoe and much prefer she end up with Wade, though I'm not keeping my hopes up.

Once Upon A Time
I'm loving the dynamic between David (Prince Charming/James) and Mary Margaret (Snow White) as well as Graham and Emma. I can't wait to see what other fairy-tale couples arise. Ella and Thomas were cute too!

Other shows I watch on and off include

(Source: s-hudson)

Gossip Girl
This is a show with a never ending roulette through the seasons of characters dating each other (the CW actually has a chart). The main draw is of course Chuck and Blair (nicknamed Chair) who fans overwhelmingly love but I have to confess to being a fan of Dan and Blair (Dair). I love the witty dialogue and balanced dyanmic between the two characters when they interact on the show. They're intellectual equals who bring out the best in each other. Dan telling Blair it wouldn't matter to him that she was pregnant with Louis child was "AWW inducing" as was his helping her get back with Chuck, as Blair remains somewhat oblivious to Dan's feelings. It's a one sided affair with Dan being in love with Blair who's in love with Chuck. I have pretty much resigned myself to the fact that in all likelihood Chair will be endgame but I do love Dair.

Possible Spoiler: I just read a report saying Dan ends up writing Louis vows for his wedding to Blair, telling her his feelings, though she thinks it's Louis. If that's true, that is seriously AWW inducing.

The Secret Life of the American Teenager
Ricky and Amy. FTW! I enjoyed seeing how they progressed from having nothing to do with each other, (apart from a one night stand that resulted in a pregnancy) in season 1 to the loving, mature relationship they have in season 4. Here's to hoping nothing gets messed up when the show comes back in March.

Sources Amy and Ricky, The Vampire Diaries,Hart of Dixie, The Secret Circle, Tyler and Caroline, Once Upon A Time, Gossip

Kate Forrester

2012-01-02T23:27:00.000+08:00

I love the calligraphy and design aesthetic of illustrator Kate Forrester. Her illustrations are dreamy and give off such a happy and whimsical vibe.

All images are property of Kate Forrester.

Sourced via her website (1, 2, 4) and blog (3)

What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?

2011-12-31T00:02:00.000+08:00

2011 was a wonderful year for me. I graduated from University, staffed a CISV village, made new friends, reconnected with old ones, spent three weeks in Europe with one of my best friends and started my own business, earning money doing what I love. Tonight I'm going out with my all my family for a nice New Year's Eve dinner, I'll probably dance a bit and watch the fireworks and cheer when we welcome 2012.

Here's to 2012, and to the joys it will bring.

When the clock strikes 12,

P.S. Here are two cute New Year's Eve videos. One is a song by Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon Levitt and the other is my favorite version of Aulde Lang Syne from the soundtrack of SATC.

Photos All from We heart it.

Things I Need To Remember

2011-12-29T23:56:00.000+08:00

Via Pin interest and We heart it.

Girls Who Read

2011-12-20T03:01:00.001+08:00

My brother sent me an article about Dating Girls Who Read. After reading it, I immediately forwarded it to my fellow female bookworm friends. One of them responded saying, "I love this. PROOF. proof that it isn't weird to smell books and talk about characters like they're real and laugh/cry hysterically by yourself while reading :)) We aren't alone!! :P" Another friend shared the article entitled You Should Date An Illiterate Girl.

Ahh, the polarizing power of books. Do you love to read? Do lines and events from books run through your head all day, connecting everyday events to things you've read? Do you like the smell of books?

Photos via Weheartit 1, 2 & Bouncytrouncyfun

Perfume

2011-12-13T17:41:00.000+08:00

I just love how adorable this Lanvin ad is. Such a cute perfume name too.

Photo via

Holiday Link List

2011-12-06T23:13:00.001+08:00

How are your holiday plans going? Have you bought and sent all your gifts? (I haven't at all! Eeep!) Have you gotten yourself some lovely new clothes for all the holiday parties? (I'm still searching!) But I do have a list of some lovely holiday inspired links, that get me in the mood for Christmas, the gift wrapping and getting gussied up for the seasons parties.

Checkout Design Mom's list of Top 20 Christmas Books

Beautiful wrapping ideas by Creature Comforts

Ezee's amazing online Holiday magazine Gifted.

A great guide for pairing earrings and hairstyles this holiday season.

I'm planning on using these, Spin Pins by Goody to make chic holiday chignons. I'm thinking a bun would look great with a side braid, simple eye make up and red lips.

I want to try Ginny's list of favorite Red Lipsticks.

Riveting Choose Your Own Fashion Adventure Video. I keep watching it over and over, making new choices each time.

Fun and Funky DIY Nails Designs for the holidays.

I adore this Tiffany & Co. holiday campaign (its from 2010 but still lovely). The brand also has an accompanying video.

Photos of Tiffany and Co. Holiday Campaigns via We heart it and Echoadime

Christmas Decorations

2011-12-06T22:36:00.001+08:00

I love these Christmas decorating ideas from Interio, the amazing Swiss Home Shop. I particularly love the idea of decorating the space between the inner and outer windows and filling up a nice glass vase with ornaments and weaving a string of lights through it. The effect is modern, classy and still very Christmasy. All Photos by Interio.

Christmas Makeovers

2011-12-06T16:36:00.000+08:00

I love these before and after images from Interio's Catalogue. Sorry for the slightly blurry images. I scanned these myself from my own copy of the catalogue.

Interio is a lovely Swiss home store. Rosie and I wandered into one of their shops while in Lucerne this past October. I fell in love with their products and picked up one of their free store catalogues for inspiration this holiday season.

Photos from Interio

Fragonard: The Scents of Southern France

2011-12-02T00:15:00.001+08:00

I love perfume and dream of amassing different scents that I can pick and choose from depending on my mood. I like fruity, floral and citrusy scents.

While in Grasse, France last month, Rosie and I took a tour of the Fragonard perfume factory. We learned about the fruits, flowers, herbs and plants perfume scents are sourced from and how the scents are harvested to create perfumes and other scented products such as soaps and lotions. Our guide also let us smell different Fragonard scents and they even gave us small sample bottles to take home. Sweet!

After the tour we got a chance to explore the factory store. I was in olfactory heaven and in my opinion we didn't have enough time in there. Nonetheless, I ended up getting two eau de toilette bottles as presents for my sisters.

A bottle of Etoile, French for Star. This was the first perfume I smelled and the one I like best. This scent is described as a "woody, floral scent with citrus accents."

For my younger sister I asked the saleslady to recommend something appropriate for a young teenager and she led me to Mademoiselle Amour, "a mischievous eau de toilette brimming with tenderness, offering a tangerine, strawberry and apple top note, a rose, jasmine and sweet pea middle note and a raspberry back note." This sweet little scent came in a cute cosmetics pouch with a heart motif and was accompanied by a small pocket mirror.

For myself I ended up with a lovely free sample bottle of Marche aux Fleurs, described on the website as "a magnificent floral, fruity mixture of melon and black currant with a hint of sweet pea, lily of the valley, vineyard peach along with a lasting scent of jasmine, orange blossom and musk that lingers."

It's a lovely scent, bright but gentle and I find myself trying not to use up my little bottle so quickly so as to keep it lasting longer. Scents have such powerful memories attached to them and when I smell this one I'm transported back to that lovely day in Southern France.

What perfumes and scents do you guys love?

Photos from Fragonard perfume and Swiss Spring.

Never Regret Staying Home With A Good Book: Wonderstruck

2011-11-27T23:50:00.001+08:00

It's been awhile since my last book recommendation, over a year in fact. I tend to lean towards a lot of young adult literature in what I read, and today's pick is no different. It's Brian Selznick's Wonderstruck.

To quote the blurb on the book's website,

"A boy named Ben longs for the father he has never known. A girl named Rose dreams of a mysterious actress whose life she chronicles in a scrapbook. When Ben discovers a puzzling clue in his mother's room, and Rose reads an enticing headline in the newspaper, both children set out alone on desperate quests to find what they are missing.

Ben's story, set in 1977, is told entirely with words, while Rose's story, set fifty years earlier, is told entirely with pictures. The two stories weave back and forth before ultimately coming together. Rich, complex, affecting, and beautiful—with over 460 pages of original artwork—Wonderstruck is a stunning achievement from a uniquely gifted artist and visionary."

It's a wonderfully written and illustrated book (Selznick is a Caldecot medal awardee) and I really appreciate Selznick's ability to tell two different stories in such rich detail using two different mediums. I also love how Selznick pays homage to another great book, I adore.

Do check the Wondestruck out. Chacic posted some images in her reccomendation post Wonderstruck Friday

P.S. Selznick's other book, the award-winning, The Invention of Hugo Cabret has just been released as a film by Martin Scorsese called Hugo and its been getting good film reviews. I haven't read the book or seen the movie, but I plan to do both.

Book cover photo via Ringo the Cat

Giveaway! Hop on Over!

2011-11-27T23:41:00.001+08:00

My good friend Carla is having a giveaway to celebrate the 1st year anniversary of her online clothing store Carla's Closet. It's over at her wonderfully photographed blog Carla Reads the World! The giveaway is open until December 28, 2011 so hop on over there and get a chance to win some pretty neat clothes, bags, jewelry etc!

Advice I Need To Remember

2011-11-14T22:49:00.000+08:00

Sources:Unknown (Meaning I forgot where) YMC, YMC, Swiss Miss and another unknown except I know its from tumblr.

HEMA

2011-11-12T23:37:00.001+08:00

We took a three week sojourn to explore Europe together hence, the blog neglect. We left in late October and arrived home last Thursday. While exploring Amsterdam, one store in particular caught our eye, Hema, a homegrown Dutch brand that designs and manufactures a plethora of items ranging from clothing and cosmetics to food and dining items at reasonable prices.

I fell in love with their party materials. Including

these cute floral and plaid print containers

these sunny printed napkins in floral and nature themes

the pirate paper plates

festively packaged apple and strawberry drinks

and their festive party streamers.

And for cleaning up lovely 4 packs of dishtowels for 5 Euro and in a variety of colors.

All images via Hema

Remember

2011-10-16T10:18:00.002+08:00

Steve Jobs 1955-2011

2011-10-06T17:29:00.002+08:00

“Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask a creative person how they did something, they may feel a little guilty because they didn’t really do it, they just saw something. It seemed obvious to them after awhile. That’s because they were able to connect experiences they’ve had and synthesize new things. And the reason they were able to do that was that they’ve had more experiences or have thought more about their experiences than other people have.” - Steve Jobs

One of the most innovative men of the 20th century.

Steve's inspiring 2005 Stanford Commencement Speech, gave this blog a name. Read the text of the speech here.

Photos via: Apple and Last of the Independents

Hooked!

2011-10-05T18:58:00.000+08:00

Have you guys played the card game Monopoly Deal?

It's a modernized and much faster adaptation of the classic Monopoly board game (which can go on for ages).

My brother received a pack from my Aunt as a late birthday present. I learned to play earlier this week and am hooked. My younger brothers say its all the rage in both university and high school. People skip lunch playing it during breaks between classes.

Photo via UK Pogo

Manila

2011-10-03T20:31:00.000+08:00

I heard this song today and the 2nd and 3rd verses describe how I feel about my city.
This city is my cityAnd I love it, yeah I love it
I was born and raised here
I got it made here
And if I have my way, I'm gonna stay

From every corner
To every block yeah
And whether it's warm or storming or downright stupid hot, hot
From the problems all the way to the solutions yeah
Forget all the drugs and gangs, corruption and pollution no

Cause this city is my city
And I love it, yeah I love it
I was born and raised here
I got it made here
And if I have my way, I'm gonna stay here
For life, uh huh
For life, uh huh
For life, uh huh
For life, uh huh
For life, uh huh
For life, uh huh
For life, uh huh
For life, uh huh

Photo of Manila Bay via Travel Philippines Now

Miss Representation

2011-10-03T20:14:00.000+08:00

Miss Representation 8 min. Trailer 8/23/11 from Miss Representation on Vimeo. Here's an interesting documentary on media and the power of women.Via Shiny Happy People

Missed Connections

2011-09-30T13:08:00.000+08:00

In the missed connections section on Craigslist, people write about the fleeting connections they had with strangers, hoping they meet again.

Sunday, May 9, 2010
-m4w -19 (2 or 5 train)
You were the gorgeous brunette sleeping on the train. I was the guy sitting next to you. I just wanted to apologize for my repeated lack of consciousness onto your shoulder, we both got off at flatbush. Hit me back up if you think this is you.

The artist Sophie Blackall illustrated some of the connections (like the one above) and they became a book.
While this Lady Antebellum video reminds me of the missed connections above. It makes me smile.

And if you live in Manila, there's Missed Connections Manila.
Photo via: Sophie Blackall

Carved Out Trees

2011-09-21T23:01:00.000+08:00

Toilet paper rolls, always remind me of Neil Buchanan and his amazing Art Attack creations. These images are a further example of what can be done with these simple, ubiquitous cardboard rolls.

Images via Katrina originally from Where the heart is...

The Beauty of Brick Walls

2011-09-07T19:19:00.000+08:00

Today, I experienced a setback in some plans I've been making for a very long time. It was a big blow, but then the words of Randy Pausch popped into my head:

"The brick walls are not there to keep us out; the brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something."
I want this. Image: Spis Castle

Blooming Bride

2011-09-05T19:49:00.004+08:00

I really like Glamour Fashion Editor Susan Cernek's wedding dress and hair. I think her dress would look lovely in other colors as well.

More pictures from her wedding in this feature at Martha Stewart Weddings.

Agree or Disagree?

2011-09-05T19:42:00.004+08:00

I'd really love to know people's thoughts about this?
Me? I agree with some but not with all of what he says.

Image source: Wide Open Spaces

100 Years of East London Style

2011-09-02T11:50:00.000+08:00

Double Chic

2011-08-25T16:18:00.004+08:00

Derek Lam

Moschino

be polite, interested, and always in a good mood.
pretension is the worst. and never look bored.
it can be boring sometimes in the world of fashion

Karl Lagerfeld in The Teen Vogue Handbook

Source Eva Chen's tumblr

Paris

2011-08-17T23:08:00.004+08:00

We hope to be here soon. Keeping our fingers crossed.

Via: A Cup of Jo

Wreathes of Fragrance

2011-07-25T10:47:00.005+08:00

Sources:The Stylish Wanderer, Oracle Fox

It's All About Choices

2011-07-21T14:06:00.001+08:00

Via: A Pair and a Spare

Sick and Sly

2011-07-05T19:59:00.003+08:00

I love the hair and styling= TOMBOY

via: Madewell

ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE!!!

2011-06-20T22:34:00.003+08:00

My closet is looking limp since a chunk of my clothes are packed for my month long sojourn. I'm nervous and excited for the adventure. I'll be living out in the country near a lake where the weather is cool and foggy.
The camp I'll be staffing is called a Village, where delegations from all over the world come to participate in a four week camp of "educational, cultural and sporting activities that emphasize cooperative global and cultural living." A delegation is composed, of four, 11 year olds (2 boys, 2 girls) and their adult leader. The village also has a staff that helps assist and facilitate activities (what I'll be doing) and junior counselors who help run the activities and look after the kids. I went as a delegate when I was 11 and had a ton of fun! I'm excited to be going to another one.
See you on the flipside!
Click on the link to learn more about CISV and its activities.

Image Source: LMDU

Just Some Inspiration

2011-06-20T14:12:00.006+08:00

These are just some images I found and liked.
I'll be leaving this week for a month to staff a CISV Village so updates from me will be minimal to non-existent for next month or so. But of course Rosie will still be here.
See you all on the flipside!

Sources: We heart It, We heart it, We heart it

At Your Table

2011-06-07T00:06:00.002+08:00

I'd love to dine on a summer evening.

Photo originally from Pottery Barn via Young Married Chic

If It's Summer Where You Are ... or if you feel the Spirit!

2011-06-02T23:46:00.003+08:00

Credits: We Heart It, We Heart It, The Alternative Wife

They'll Never Take The Summer From Me

2011-05-29T13:31:00.003+08:00

It's pouring rain outside. A stark contrast from the weather of three weeks ago when I was at the beach.

White Island, Camiguin. (Click to enlarge the image above)

Well, they can take, take, take the kids from the summer
But they'll never, never, never take the summer from me
It was the very first time that I lost my mind for a week
They can make, make, make me forget the weather
If we'll never, never, never wash the sand from my feet
It was the very last time that we said goodbye to the beach

(The Beach, by All Time Low)

And, while I love the coziness of a rainy day indoors, it's still summer and in my mind's eye that is vision is more about sunny days, breezy dresses and cool drinks. So here are a couple of more sunny summer images from around the web.

Credits: 1- Personal photo, 2- Lakbay Diva, 3-5 The Alternative Wife

Link Love: Beauty Edition

2011-05-08T18:14:00.003+08:00

Here are a couple of beauty oriented sites I've been into lately:

Cult of Pretty - Ann Colville Somma works in the beauty industry as an innovation consultant. She loves sharing her advice, insider information and the cult products you might not have heard of. Her website has a section where reader's can ask her anything and get her advice on their beauty concerns. She also runs the amazing fashion site Holier Than Now

Lisa Eldridge Makeup - Lisa has AMAZING tutorials and sound makeup advice. A professional make-up artist with years of experience, she's now the Creative Director for British cosmetics brand No. 7.

The Beauty Department -Lauren Conrad's new beauty oriented site has some fun tidbits.

Into the Gloss I've mentioned this in a previous link love post but Emily's unique and wide ranging peek into the beauty routines and looks of people in the fashion industry is always worth a visit.

Image via Weheartit

Tie On

2011-05-01T20:59:00.004+08:00

I've been currently inspired by colorful and intricate patterns of scarves. They are my current summer obsession and go-to accessory lately. Scarftastic!

via: weheartit and bippityboppityboo

The Royal Wedding

2011-04-30T17:22:00.005+08:00

via: weheartit

Positivity Posters

2011-04-16T14:51:00.004+08:00

Source: etsy.com via Abby on Pinterest

Source: abbysharp.tumblr.com via Abby on Pinterest

Source: maryruffle.tumblr.com via Abby on Pinterest

Source: abbysharp.tumblr.com via Abby on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Abby on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Abby on Pinterest

Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com via Abby on Pinterest

I found these all on this site and just had to repost and share.

Beach Bound!

2011-04-14T15:27:00.006+08:00

I've got two beach trips planned for this summer. One is in three days with some of my favorite people on this earth.

We're going to soak up some sun, sand, drinks and maybe do some cliff diving, an activity I love but which still makes me freeze up. No matter how many times and how many summers I've jumped of the cliff, there's still that fear as you peer over the edge and get ready to leap and hope to not hit the rocks on the way down.

But once you've cleared the rocks, the plunge into the water is just wonderful. You torpedo through the water, sometimes hitting the sand on the ocean floor before swimming back up, adrenalin coursing through your body.

The other trip is still in May and might actually include a visit to the sandbar pictured in that last photo. *fingers crossed*

Source: Scorpio Travel, Lakbay Diva, We heart it, We heart it

String Up Your Sunglasses Summer Is HERE!!!

2011-04-14T14:46:00.004+08:00

I love this creative and simple summer banner.

Source The Glamourai,

The Century of Summer

2011-04-07T13:50:00.008+08:00

More photos that just seem to be in psych with the season (it's summer here) and the sunny day that is today. Looking up from typing this, I see the sun shining off my neighbor's red roof and the mango tree with fruit that sits across the road.

Also this the 100th post on this blog CHEERS!

Source: Fashion Squad

Mint

2011-04-04T13:39:00.000+08:00

Anyone else into clothing in mint green shades of late?

SourcePepper and Chips

In my mind ....

2011-04-03T13:19:00.001+08:00

... this just says SUMMER!!!

Source: Shala's Rabbit Hole

SHALA!!!!

2011-04-02T12:15:00.006+08:00

Shala Monroque. Classic with a twist of quirky injected. She's unafraid of colors, prints and just having fun with it.

Sources: Jak & Jil, Harper's Bazaar, Vogue, Garance Dore

Off the cuff!

2011-04-01T11:34:00.003+08:00

I think these photos are from the same editorial as the photo of Liu Wen, I posted recently. I like the idea of the detachable cuffs and collars, they look pretty chic.

Source: Pepper and Chips

Pink Summer Shades

2011-03-31T23:57:00.005+08:00

From ASOS via Knightcat

Was looking at pink sunglasses while out shopping today and then I saw these when I got home and now I want a pair in my life. Pale, pale pink and grey make a great combination.

Two Looks

2011-03-30T20:53:00.000+08:00

Liu Wen

From the Mango Lookbook

Just two looks I'm inspired by for this coming summer. I like the idea of an all white or mainly white ensemble with pops of color coming from your accessories. Also loving pastels.

Source Holy Relics 1, 2.

Come What May

2011-03-29T17:02:00.002+08:00

If the shoe fits

2011-03-22T11:44:00.003+08:00

Source: Flickr

I am Shabby Chic

2011-03-16T20:41:00.003+08:00

source: Weheartit

White Hot Summer

2011-03-14T11:37:00.004+08:00

I liked so many looks from Dolce and Gabbana's Spring Summer 2011 collection, the photos above are just a sampling.The collection has great attention to detail which lets you distinguish the clothing which is mostly done in white.
Personally, I love wearing white and think summer dresses in cotton, eyelet and lace are lovely.
Photos courtesy of Style.com Click to the view the rest of the collection.

Gucci Spring Summer 2011

2011-03-13T13:39:00.005+08:00

Summer's approaching in my area of the world and I've already got a beach trip planned and have been looking at summer clothing. I love the colors of these pieces from Gucci's Spring 2011. Rich jewel tones look lovely on both tall and petite figures.

Photos courtesy of Style.com

Hey Daydreamer

2011-02-25T02:47:00.003+08:00

Source: Lovebot, Wehearit Click on the photos for more details

For As Long As We Both Shall Live

2011-02-14T23:58:00.004+08:00

Such a sweet video. I do like the first part where they feature couples talking about how they met.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S EVERYONE

Hearts All Over the World

2011-02-13T03:02:00.001+08:00

I love Valentine's Day! I don't think it's a holiday for couples at all for me its all about celebrating love in your life. In high school my friend Tina and I would team up to give all our other friends Valentine's. It's always fun! :D

Here are a couple of Valentine's themed things you might like.

Peonies are such pretty flowers. I'd prefer them to roses who's scent I'm not fond of.

Bake up some love themed cookies with these handy Wilton cookie cutters.

Take the time to see the world through rose colored lenses.

Glasses are by Chole Sevigny for Opening Cermony

Wear your heart on your feet with these cute shoe clips.

Their transferrable to other surfaces as well.

Clips by Ban.do

Smell like a sweetheart.

It's hearts all over the world with these holographic glasses that turn all point of light to hearts! I own a similar pair and they're great fun. Try wearing a pair in the car at night. Trippy!

Check them out here!

Bingo Valentine anyone?

You also might what to check this post on Fun Date ideas.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S EVERYONE!

Other images sourced from Weheartit.com 1, 2

Paint the Town with Love

2011-02-13T02:08:00.003+08:00

I love this neat idea of turning these color gradient cards (the kind you get in the hardware store for free) into Valentines with stamps and ink or a nice font and printer.

This post is for Rosie my favorite crafter. I think she'd totally do something like this. After all she did teach about getting those free paint cards from the hardware and turning them into cute placecards for a birthday dinner.

Source

Hot Lips.

2011-02-05T10:36:00.001+08:00

Via: Nowness

Chic is in the details

2011-02-04T23:38:00.002+08:00

I really enjoyed these styling videos from H&M and Hanneli. I love her attention to detail in styling because that's what I look at too.

My Funny Valentine

2011-02-04T11:07:00.000+08:00

I LOVE this Valentine's themed editorial from Teen Vogue Editorial. Shot by Arthur Elgort, it's from the February 2008. Check it out here Some of the clothes are from the now defunct label Luella. *sigh*That male model is actor, Steven Straight. *swoon* Have you seen The Covenant? Or its cast? *

Amor

2011-02-03T20:51:00.008+08:00

Clicking on each image will give you details regarding it's original source.

Still into braids!

2011-02-03T20:49:00.000+08:00

Source

Crew Love

2011-02-02T19:48:00.002+08:00

More J Crew Love.

Courtesy of J. Crewing.

Crew You

2011-02-01T21:55:00.002+08:00

I LOVE J. CREW!

and J. Crewing too!

If You Could Read My Mind and other songs... the hidden tracks of a 90s kid

2011-01-31T21:59:00.005+08:00

Yes, there was the Spice Girls, Pearl Jam, the Backstreet Boys, Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, Oasis, Nsync, Brandy and Monica but there were also other songs, one hit wonders or songs of the moment that I now long to hear on the radio and when I do they just send me back.

I have been trying to find this song for ages and ages. I had a memory of the video and the beat but not the words or the title which made it really hard to describe to people. But then I remembered someone who attaches memory to this song too and with the wonders of facebook, in 24 hours I had an answer.

It use to play a lot on the radio in the 1990s. I loved it.

Please tell me you know this song! :D

Also another great 1990's song, which I just recently discovered, such a happy tune, great for gloomy days.

The beat reminds me of Accidentally In Love by the Counting Crows

ANNNDDDD

There's this song! C'mon 1990s kids out in the Internet world, you must know this one. :D

Other great 90s songs in my head now, Two Princes by the Spin Doctors, most good copies of the song on youtube can't be embedded, hence the link.

Somedays Are Superpower Days

2011-01-26T19:49:00.004+08:00

I love Calvin and Hobbes.

Happy Thoughts

Spent the day visiting the burger joints near my university. I'm working on a feature for my video and TV production class, we're reviewing burger restaurants on camera. I've visited five in the past three days. It's been a lot of fun. We're a a team of seven, five boys and two girls. The guys are funny and easygoing, with appetites to match. Me, I was more into my milkshake. Chocolate-Peanut butter served with a generous helping of whipped cream. I told my friend M, that I'd come back just for it.
Helping my sister plan her birthday party. I bought balloons today and will start working on banners and centerpieces in the next couple of days.
I've been working on a creative project which I might blog about soon. Suffice to say, its inspired by the Art Deco Movement.
These vintage engagement rings are lovely. They made me smile. I love antiques.

Link Love

2011-01-25T23:32:00.004+08:00

It's about time Bill Cunningham was celebrated like this.

Other Sites I'm loving right now:

Into the Gloss, Emily Weiss, former Teen Vogue super intern and current assistant to stylist Elissa Santissi interviews (mainly) people in the fashion industry on their beauty routines and obsessions. I particularly like her interview with Amy Astley, EIC of Teen Vogue

The Coveted, a peak inside the closest of fashionistas.

Kissssing, Porter Hovey's cute blog about love.

Sweet Fine Day, a blog from a Brooklyn based couple who run a pastry business and have two adorable little girls

Underaged and Engaged, a sweet blog on the family life of 22 year old photographers and married couple Stacie and Geoffrey Lang. :)

Not So Humble Pie, the food blog of Mrs. Humble, a biological anthropologist turned stay at home mom. Her posts are intelligent and detailed which I really appreciate when it comes to food preparation.

Things I Have Remember

2011-01-22T01:08:00.000+08:00

Source tumblr, we heart it? Kinda annoyed I didn't keep track of this

Stars In the Universe

2011-01-21T23:20:00.005+08:00

Don't forget your dreams.

There are enough stars in the universe to wish upon.

Sources: We Hear It, Fine Art America

Style, Easy

2011-01-18T00:09:00.003+08:00

Happy 1 to us! :D

There's something about tomboy inspired outfits that I absolutely love. It's chic and easy. Loose shirts, soft polos with pockets, sneakers, shorts, coats and top it off with a hat and you're out the door.

sources: The Sartorialist, Wren Spring Collection

Thank You for the Year of Magical Thinking

2011-01-16T05:30:00.002+08:00

Today is Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.'s one year anniversary.

We started this blog a year ago, as 20 year olds longing to do something more interesting, meaningful and happy. We'd been reading and blogging separately but wanted to do something together and this "project" popped into our heads one evening as we sat on swings in the park, talking. It was a new year and we wanted to do something different and have more variety in our lives. One year later it is again the start of a new year and so we just want to say to everyone out there.

and

Our most heartfelt THANK YOU to all our dear readers who've been encouraging and made posting on this blog more fun and exciting. We look forward to what you say and hope you continue to come back and visit.

Sources: 1- Ponyhunter, 2- personal artwork, 3-Grey Goose Vodka Advertisement
*the quote by Neil Gaiman featured in the second photo should read "... or draw, or build, or sing" Caddy copied it wrong, Whoops

White Dresses and Black Tops

2011-01-15T21:48:00.000+08:00

Clemence Poesy

Tracy Reese

Dolce and Gabbana

Dolce and Gabbana

Dolce and Gabbana

I like Clemence Poesy's make up in the first photo. Also likeing White Dresses from Tracy Reese (ph 2) and the Dolce and Gabbana collection as shot by The Sartorialist.
Image sources: Knight Cat for images 1, 2, The Sartorialist for 3, 4, 5. All from September 28, 2010 entry.

Love Me Tender

2011-01-15T20:00:00.001+08:00

Saw this video on VH1 Hits less than an hour ago. Immediately searched for it online so I could share it.

It makes me smile.
I love love.

Tyler and Caroline.

2011-01-12T21:06:00.004+08:00

I'd be lying if I told you that first photo doesn't make me smile.

It does.

Every time I see it.

I can't wait for more Tyler and Caroline on The Vampire Diaires.

Caroline helping Tyler through his first transformation! The ending of that was : x !!!!

Stefan, Elena, Damon, Katherine and whatever was going on there, was interesting but this possible new couple is totally stealing the scene.

A newly turned vampire girl and an even newer werewolf boy.

Plus there's Matt, poor human Matt. Caroline's ex-boyfriend and Tyler's best friend.
Can you say love triangle?!

January 27th!! Can't wait!!!

Image sources 1, 2 and 3
What TV shows are you guys watching?

Bringing Back the Beehive

2011-01-12T16:19:00.003+08:00

I liked the collapsed beehive look of her hair when I first saw this editorial.

Source Pepper and Chips

Karlie Kloss for Hermes

2011-01-12T16:15:00.002+08:00

source

Chic Girls

2011-01-10T20:43:00.004+08:00

Photos of some really chic girls. I really loved the style and vibes exuded in the first three photos. Posted the last one since I loved the way she wore that denim skirt, hiking it to be a couple of inches above the knee and pairing it with that bright scarf and heels

Sources: Pepper and chips, The Sartorialist (Sept 24, 2010), NAST, The Sartorialist (September 16, 2010).

One for the road

2011-01-09T02:13:00.005+08:00

Gratitudes

When a song you love and attach memory to comes on the radio at the most unexpected moment and transports you. For me it was I Woke Up In A Car by Something Corporate. I had completely forgotten about this song, when my friend Gabby plugged his ipod into T's car and it came on and I freaked out. Hearing it just made my day!
Fun conversations about great romantic comedies from Casablanca and Sabrina to 80s John Hughes films, 90s films with Freddie Prinze Jr. and Julia Roberts (Notting Hill!) and more contemporary stuff like The Holiday and Letters to Juliet.
Spaghetti!!! I am a spaghetti fiend. I've loved it since childhood and can't eat plates of it in successive meals. I love it with tomato sauce whether its savory or sweet and I won't say know to alfredo either. *dreamy smile of contentment*
Watching Shining Through
It's the WEEKEND!

Image sources: 1, 2

Hope I make you smile.

2011-01-05T00:18:00.004+08:00

Love her hair and her smile.

Just some random photos. I had on file and liked so I thought I'd share.

All photos from here

Cheers 2011

2011-01-01T19:06:00.003+08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!
Here's to 2011!
MAY IT BE AWESOME!

Image Sources : 1, 2, 3

Travel Romance

2010-12-27T22:50:00.006+08:00

Such happy, sunshiny interiors. I'd love to attend this event and get myself on that dancefloor.

Subtle and romantic. Looking at this photo makes me smile.

London

Young Love

Old Romance

"Biologists make it seem so simple. The same heart whoever you are, hamster or human and no references in the whole book to the effects and consequences of falling in love."

-Caddy Casson in Saffy's Angel by Hilary McKay

Just a couple of photos I love (what happens when you mix wanderlust with a romantic) and a quote from one of my favorite books. Caddy Casson was the original owner of my nickname.

Image source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T18:44:00.001+08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

HAVE A GOOD ONE!

The Rundown

2010-12-22T11:16:00.005+08:00

The To-do List:
Today will be spent shopping for gifts. Three days till Christmas and I have bought nothing at all, too caught up in schoolwork.

Today I'm trawling the mall in search of a birthday present for my good friend Spencer (her first name is Maria but I call her Spencer/Spence). I've known Spence for over a decade and have been going to her birthday parties for almost as long. We've moved from all-girl elementary school parties that ended in the early evening to more grown up mixed celebrations where we actually closed the place down (we moved to the place across the street and carried on with the celebration).

Spencer is a wonderful gift giver and has the distinction of being the only person who tells me what she wants for her birthday. I do the same with her. She's recently gotten more into fashion and dressing up. This year she told me quote "I want to test your fashion skills and see if you can pick out a shirt/blouse for me." In the words of Barney Stintson, CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!!! Hence I'm going on a mall trawl. Wish me luck!

Also on the to-do list

gifts for family, friends
I'm hoping to find a great pair of heels
Fingers crossed I find a dress too. I have 4 parties to go to in the next 4 days. They're annual parties so outfit planning must be done with care to insure I don't repeat outfits from last year at the same event.
Maybe a haircut, my locks need some love
But first THE GIFTS!

Happy Thoughts

Wrapping presents
Eating ice cream and talking with my grandmother who loves ice cream too. She told me in her youth she and her sister once ordered a tub each and the waiter looked at them in shock.
Dancing around to fun music.
McD's for dinner last night with my younger brother and his friend Mica (who's also our Aunt)! Yes, my Aunt is younger than me. I can relate to Joe (Tom Hanks) from You've got Mail! Hee, Hee! Incidentally I love that movie.
The Holiday Season: the decorations, the music, people exchanging greetings, the buzz. LOVE!!!!

Images via Weheartit 1,2, 3, 4

Donations to Magic

2010-12-18T11:34:00.005+08:00

Images via Holy Relics, Lovebot, The Sartorialist (October 21, 2009 On the Street....Friends, Paris), We Heart It, Holy Relics, Mary's Blog, We Heart It

Sunshiny Thoughts

Christmas break draws nearer. That top photo just seems so festive to me.
Visiting and playing with some really cute sick kids. The children's ward was all decked out for Christmas, so that was nice since some might be there on Christmas day.
Helping my high school senior younger sister and her friend get ready for a party.
She and I laughing about the fun times of high school parties when she came home at the end of the night.
Staying up even later and helping prepare a meal for and talk with my older brother about random stuff.
Ian Somerhalder is awesome as Damon Salvatore.
The Big Bang Theory makes me laugh.
Getting to SLEEP!!

The Violin Tango

2010-12-15T17:32:00.005+08:00

Images Via: Bouncytrouncyfun (Image 1,4,6), Knightcat, WeHeartit
Happy Thoughts

The video my friend T and I have been working on since last week got a great reaction when we screened it during TV/film production class today. Our professor said she got goosebumps. Awesome since we stayed up till 3:30 this morning editing it.
The class being interrupted by my prof's male friend who came in with a rose, a present and a violinist who played the most GORGEOUS tango. It was from the film Scent of a Woman and it was beautiful. I thought it was going to be a proposal, but it was his way of apologizing to her for missing her birthday two weeks ago. AWW!!! Things like this do happen.
The music of THE BEATLES!!! I love The Beatles and The Beach Boys.
The constant flow of food gifts that arrives during Christmas. T and I stayed awake fueled by cupcakes, cookies and Lindt Chocolate! YUM!!!
The two families who let me go ahead of them at the grocery store since I was only buying a chocolate bar.
Reading the December issue of Good Housekeeping and getting ideas for Christmas wrapping. I love wrapping gifts. :)
My 3 new for me (but old issues) of Elle Decor. I love looking at beautiful spaces. My interest in interior design predates my interest in fashion by years. It's my mother's passion so I grew up around it.

The Positive Image Stream of Consciousness

2010-12-14T00:16:00.006+08:00

Images: Venice by The Sartorialist (July 1, 2009)/Hand it over/We heart it/Snazzy Fashion or Silverwings/Cupcakes and Cashmere/We heart it/
Just some images I like, saved and wanted to share.
Around two years back at this time of year I got tagged on my other blog to list something that made me happy everyday. I titled the lists gratitudes after Miss Ginny Branch Stelling who's blog was and continues to be an inspiration. I decided to revive it on this blog because it's fun.
Gratitudes:

Laughing in the car on the way home from school.
Helping my friend pick out a good pair of pants for his 21st birthday.
Drinking strawberry iced tea.
Eating Russian tea cookies
Running into an old friend from childhood. When we were kids we were at the Eww boys/girls stage and didn't have many conversations that didn't include one of us being annoyed by the other. Now he and I now attend the same university and talk like civilized adults which is nice.

Here are the tags instructions if you want to join in. Tell me if you do so I can read your lists. I love reading lists like these.Rules:
1. Post about something that made you happy today even if it's just a small thing.
2. Do this everyday for 8 days without fail.
3. Tag 8 of your friends to do the same (because 8 is the magic number XD)

Cascades, Casuals and Pink Higlights

2010-12-09T00:23:00.006+08:00

Casual Twin braids.

Pink Highlights, perfect for summer and days by the beach.

A dainty cascade of hair at the front and a chic pony at the back.

I really like the way Blair's (Leighton Meester) hair looks in this episode (Season 2 It's a Wonderful Lie).

I think this new fascination with hairstyling is overdue after being, a girl who hated combing her hair (still get lazy about this), wore the same headband for seven years (kindergarten till 6th grade) and only knew how to put her hair up into half or whole ponytails (I'm now into braids).

Hope you guys like the blog's holiday decorations. I'm in the midst of typing my thesis but am already thinking about dressing up for Christmas parties. I'm feeling the buzz of the season and LOVE IT!!!

Images via Knight cat & Pepper and Chips and Polyvore

Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.

Sunday

Happy Little Things

One Direction: Menswear Done Right

Perspective

Children's Books

Beautiful Libraries

Advice

A Tribute To Friends

I think I link you

2 Years to Cheer!

Get Your Heart On!

Mi famiglia

Hugs.

TV Shipping

Kate Forrester

What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?

Things I Need To Remember

Girls Who Read

Perfume

Holiday Link List

Christmas Decorations

Christmas Makeovers

Fragonard: The Scents of Southern France

Never Regret Staying Home With A Good Book: Wonderstruck

Giveaway! Hop on Over!

Advice I Need To Remember

HEMA

Remember

Steve Jobs 1955-2011

Hooked!

Manila

Miss Representation

Missed Connections

Carved Out Trees

The Beauty of Brick Walls

Blooming Bride

Agree or Disagree?

100 Years of East London Style

Double Chic

be polite, interested, and always in a good mood. pretension is the worst. and never look bored. it can be boring sometimes in the world of fashion

Paris

Wreathes of Fragrance

It's All About Choices

Sick and Sly

ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE!!!

Just Some Inspiration

At Your Table

If It's Summer Where You Are ... or if you feel the Spirit!

They'll Never Take The Summer From Me

Link Love: Beauty Edition

Tie On

The Royal Wedding

Positivity Posters

Beach Bound!

String Up Your Sunglasses Summer Is HERE!!!

The Century of Summer

Mint

In my mind ....

SHALA!!!!

Off the cuff!

Pink Summer Shades

Two Looks

Come What May

If the shoe fits

I am Shabby Chic

White Hot Summer

Gucci Spring Summer 2011

Hey Daydreamer

For As Long As We Both Shall Live

Hearts All Over the World

Paint the Town with Love

Hot Lips.

Chic is in the details

My Funny Valentine

Amor

Still into braids!

Crew Love

Crew You

If You Could Read My Mind and other songs... the hidden tracks of a 90s kid

be polite, interested, and always in a good mood.
pretension is the worst. and never look bored.
it can be boring sometimes in the world of fashion