Welcoming the New Year at Cru Steakhouse, Manila Marriott

One evening while we were stuck in traffic, Mickey and I reminisced about how we went on dating at fine dining restaurants before.  Some of them already closed, we then laughed out loud after we realized that it was a long time since we went to one.  Don't you just love it when you coincidentally receive a text that gets your heart racing?  That's exactly what happened when I got a text from Michelle Garcia, Director for Marketing Communications at Manila Marriott Hotel, inviting me and Mickey for dinner at Cru Steakhouse!  Of course, you never say no to that kind of an invitation.

This photo was taken a right at the entrance of Cru Steakhouse.  Each time I look at it, it reminds me of our early days of dating.  It brings a very big smile to my face.   

The Bird House Cafe in Subic Bay

Last week, when the city was abuzz with all the Christmas parties and just when everyone was busy completing their Christmas lists, Mickey and I snuck away and left the city to celebrate my birthday out of town.  It was a no-brainer, there are a few places in the Philippines that is a favorite and the fastest to access for me is Subic Bay. Having gone here many times, we have seen most of what the city has to offer.  But for this birthday weekend, we were lucky enough to have met some fine feathered friends.

Visiting The Bird House Cafe for the first time was a unique experience.  It is hard to miss, the cafe is designed like a huge red birdhouse with tinted glass windows all around and is located just outside Magaul Bird Park.  When we arrived, we first peeped through the glass doors and saw these colorful budgies freely flying around the cafe.  Mickey and I absolutely love animals, and any chance to interact with them is always a delight.

The First Ever Sony Fair!

Sony Philippines hosts the first ever Sony Fair at Bonifacio High Street, BGC!  The fair brings together some of Sony's flagship products in different spaces dedicated to mobile, digital imaging, home entertainment, personal audio and gaming for everyone to enjoy.  I had a first hand experience of the fair during the media launch.  Let me take you through the Sony Fair through these photos:

Casa Villa gets ready for Christmas 2016

My favorite season is finally here!  Christmas sends joy and happiness to our hearts at Casa Villa.  Probably because, it is one great reminder that Jesus Christ was born.  There is no greater way to celebrate this special gift than to gather and celebrate that special day.

I guess you know by now that my favorite thing to do is dressing up our special table for two at Casa Villa.  I always change it up every year and this year, I wanted something very festive, colorful and something bright on the table.  This year, there are new pieces, heirlooms and current favorites.        

The New Tommy Hilfiger x Gigi Hadid Watch Collection

I am a fan of the Tommy Hilfiger brand way back when it wasn't available yet in the Philippines.  Each time we would travel abroad, I go online and search for the stores near the places we visit.  There was one Tommy Hilfiger store in Las Vegas where I literally spent half a day in the store, hoarding clothing, fashion accessories and their home items as well.  Yup, I'm that kind of a Tommy Hilfiger fan.

Can you just imagine my excitement when I got an invitation to the launch of the new Tommy Hilfiger x Gigi Hadid watch collection?  I let go of a short shriek when I got the invitation and had a smile on my face while I was reading the details of the event.  The theme was nautical and guests where asked to come in Nautical attire as well in signature Tommy Hilfiger colors of red, white and blue.  

In this photo: Chelle, Maxine, Nikki, Mr. Julian Addison, President of Movado Group Inc., Luxury Asia Pacific Ltd, Ruth, Me and Janeena with our new Tommy Hilfiger x Gigi Hadid watches!

Liese Creamy Bubble Hair Color, Japan's No.1 Hair Color Brand, now in selected Watsons and SM Beauty stores!

I have to admit there were many times when I had to have my hair color done sooner than later because of hair (over) re-growth.  My hair would sometimes look like I had a mini-ombre hair dye process (even if I didn't).  But sometimes, I also have to tide it out, until my schedule will allow me to book an appointment in a salon.  Simply because it would mean allotting at least 3 hours of sitting in a chair until I get the final result.  Let alone driving, parking and going to salon for my appointment.

There were times when I wish there was a simpler, faster and easier way to apply hair dye (even if I have to do it myself), because this would mean I can spend more precious time with my husband, weekends are spent more for adventure and I would get more important things done.  

Marriott Manila's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2016

It was a magical evening of twinkling lights, Christmas carols in the air, as guests gathered around the Christmas tree sipping holiday drinks and feasting on gustatory delights to celebrate Marriott Manila's Annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony. 

These two are so cute, I couldn't help but take a photo with them!

A Special Dinner by Chef Billy King, Our Two-Bedroom Suite at The Manor at Camp John Hay and their Grand Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Last weekend would have to be one of the best vacations we've ever had.  We were invited by The Manor at Camp John Hay to stay for 3 days and 2 nights in one of their spacious two bedroom suites.  It was a good weekend to go up to Baguio, the weather was good, there was no storm coming and the best part is that we just passed a long holiday weekend which meant travelling would be a breeze.  

We were in awe at the extent of the preparations for Christmas.  It starts as you enter the driveway, to the lobby, until the garden and even into the hallways of the rooms.  It was evident that there was no scrimping on the Christmas decorations all over the hotel.  It's still November but you can feel the Christmas spirit all over the property.

The Sleep Revolution by Uratex: Discover the Future of Sleep

We live in an age where there are a million tasks to do in a day and for some reason, a lot of us have been able to adapt to this lifestyle because the need dictates that we need to adapt as fast as we can.  But with this change, there are also some things that are sacrificed, one of them is the chance of a good, adequate, uninterrupted sleep.

The importance of this cannot be emphasized enough with sleep loss having drastic effects on a healthy lifestyle, it can seriously have an effect on our health which can impact our heart, weight, mind and well-being.  It is a good thing that Uratex understands the fundamental need for better sleep.  Known as the "Sleep Specialist", Uratex continues to innovate and revolutionize the way it gives a superior sleeping experience through its latest collection, the Sleep Revolution.

Burger King Chicken Fries Cute Convention

Burger King has just launched their newest product, the Burger King Chicken Fries!  If you like chicken and fries then you'll definitely love this new product that is made of tender white chicken meat coated with a light breading and with the crispiness and form of fries. 

The launch of the new Burger King Chicken Fries was kicked off with a cute convention at the Burger King Connecticut Branch where we were able to try the Chicken Fries for ourselves.  We also got to choose from three different dips - Barbecue, Maple Syrup and Honey Mustard for this yummy snack.  Personally, my favorite is the Barbecue dip! 

A Pink Party to raise Breast Cancer Awareness with Health Cube + A 3D Tomosynthesis Mammogram Give-away!

Breast Cancer hits home to many of us.  I'm pretty sure there is a friend, a cousin, a sister, a mother, an aunt or a grandmother who had it or who are currently waging a war against breast cancer.  The statistics are high, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and unfortunately, the Philippines has the highest incidence of breast cancer in Asia.  While we can provide support in many ways to our loved ones, we also become witnesses to the battle that they have to go through and how they are all very strong-willed and courageous.  To me, this is very important when you're battling cancer.  I had my very own battle myself of a different type of cancer three years ago, and I thank God everyday that I survived that.  Now, I am cancer free. 

I had the privilege of listening to breast cancer survivors stories at Health Cube's recent Pink Party to raise breast cancer awareness.  They all have something in common, while they had breast cancer, they kept a positive attitude and the will power to fight it for themselves and their families, plus of course, full trust and faith in God.

Great Lakes Natural Fruit Juices

How do you start a great day?  I start mine with a hearty breakfast and a refreshing drink for an instant day booster.  It's a good thing that I was recently sent boxes of Great Lakes natural fruit juices to try.  Great Lakes is the latest line of natural fruit juices made from the finest fruits.  The best thing is that Great Lakes is all-natural, has no artificial coloring or flavors and has no sweeteners.  Originally they first released the Fruit and Vegetable Mix and Tropical Fruit Mix Flavors.  Now, they are introducing two new refreshing flavors:  Pure Pressed Apple and Just Right Red Grape.

Sugar Factory at Shangri-La Fort

Sugar Factory, America's favorite eatery and confectionery has just opened their first branch in the Philippines at Shangri-La Fort.  They first debuted in Las Vegas, USA in 2009 and we are all too happy they found a sweet space in Manila!  Sugar Factory can also be found in other cosmopolitan cities such as New York, Chicago, Miami and Bahrain. 

Sugar Factory Manila opens to shiny chandeliers and furniture you'd most likely find in a club.  Probably because the restaurant also offer an area for dancing at the loft area at night. 

You'll also find loads and loads of candies and chocolates in a special corner.  But aside from sweets, Sugar Factory also serves appetizers, pancakes and waffles, soups and salads, burgers and entrees.  Do not miss trying their insane milkshakes, drinks in huge goblets you can share with friends, martinis and other Sugar Factory signature drinks.  Sugar Factory's menu is created by a team of world-class chefs and is available all throughout the day.

How to have a truly relaxing vacation

We plan a vacation to relax and to get away from it all.  But have you ever felt that nagging feeling?  Just as you have finished going on a glorious vacation, you suddenly feel that you need to go on another short vacation just to recover from your last vacation?  It is quite funny, but I'm pretty sure most us have felt this.  Here are some tips that Mickey and I would do when we're on a relaxing vacation.

Beauty MNL

Hi ladies!  How would you like to shop for beauty products in the comforts of your own home and avail of freebies with every purchase?  It sounds like a great idea, right?  Think about it, you don't have to look for parking, pay for parking or spend time going around looking for what you need when you can be at home and spend precious time with family instead.  Well, if you haven't tried shopping at Beauty MNL yet, you are really missing out.  Recently, I had the privilege of shopping on their site, and only a day after I checked out my virtual shopping cart, the receptionist called for me to pick-up the box at the lobby because it wouldn't fit the mail box.  I knew it was going to be a good day for opening a big box of beauty goodies.

Annam Noodle Bar in Eastwood City

I recently asked my interior designer friend Gerard, where can I go in Asia (not to shop) to experience a new culture and some good food.  He quickly replied, "Go to Vietnam Tina, the cuisine is healthy and it tastes really good, plus you don't have to travel too far".  Little did I know that I would be able to experience a slice of Vietnam in Manila when I received an invitation to the opening of Annam Noodle Bar in Eastwood City last week.   

As I stepped inside Annam Noodle Bar, it felt like I was somewhere exotic but with a modern touch.  I couldn't help but gaze at the colorful Vietnamese lanterns, the colorful neon signs of hot pho and bahn mi, the Vietnamese ca phe (coffee) bar by the entrance, a black and white film on Vietnamese culture is projected to a wall, ingredients that are undeniably part of Vietnamese cuisine such as bun rice vermicelli, hoisin and chili sauce are spread around the restaurant to form part of the décor and can be purchased as well.  The tables are tightly arranged as if to evoke a nostalgic street setting.

Cafe Enye's New Weekend Brunch Menu + Unlimited Mimosas and Bloody Marys for just Php 199.00

The weekend is almost here and here's one thing that's worth checking out. 

Café Enye in Eastwood City will be having their "Bros Who Brunch" brunch selection on the menu every weekend from 9:00 am to 2:00 p.m..  Apart from the yummy selection of brunch dishes, you can also order bottomless mimosas and bloody marys by just adding Php 199.00 to any dish.  Happy hour definitely starts early on weekends at Café Enye!

Having our happy drinks (read: mimosas) at brunch

with foodie friends Chessika Chua and Vannah Santiago at Café Enye's "Bros Who Brunch" launch

Singapore Airlines x MasterCard Launch the Largest Nationwide Mid-Year Travel Fair

You've hustled all year, and by now, I'm pretty sure you're dreaming of your next travel destination where you can unwind, recharge, discover new cultures, learn something new, breathe fresh air somewhere amazing.  Well, what better time it is than now to start planning that much needed escape.

Singapore Airlines (together with sister carrier, SilkAir) and MasterCard just launched their largest mid-year travel fair from July 8 to 31, 2016.  Throughout this period, MasterCard holders and Krisflyer members will have the exclusive privilege of availing special promotional deals plus get a chance to win a trip to Germany or South Africa.

To avail of the exclusive promo rates, there are three things to remember:

Dunlopillo launches the Talasilver Wave Mattresses

There are a lot of people who go through sleepless nights, and they don't feel well-rested the following morning.  Mood and alertness suffers, memory and concentration takes a dive, and performance at work falters.  What they don't know is that the mattress they sleep on plays a vital role on their sleeping patterns. 

Dunlopillo is one of the few companies that are committed to provide quality sleep care mattresses.  Recently Dunlopillo launched a revolutionary latex technology called the Talasilver Wave that sets it apart from the current mattresses in the market. 

It's unique design allows you to move freely without compromising body support and comfort.  It also aligns the spine for optimal blood circulation and reduces one's tendency to toss and turn in sleep.  It keeps the body's temperature at a comfortable level by allowing excellent ventilation and air circulation.  Furthermore, Talasilver Wave boasts of the Nano-Silver Technology that eliminates and prevents growth of 99.9% of harmful bacteria.

I am SM Woman

SM Woman recently held a 3-night fashion event entitled "I am SM Woman" from June 14 to 16, 2016.  For each night, they had creative styling activities, a theme-based fashion show and a time-based sale on selected fashion finds in the evening.  To pump up the shopping experience, they have featured DJ's every night. 

On the first night, it was all about honoring exceptional women with their "I am Exceptional" theme, on the 2nd night, they showcased trendy, work wear perfect clothes for women who are fashionable and career driven with their "I am Driven" theme.  On the 3rd and last night, they featured a collection that compliments a woman's curves and key fashion pieced that will leave a great impression with their "I am Strong and Confident" theme.  It was three fun nights of celebrating women.  

I had the privilege of attending the 2nd night, "I am Driven" fashion event with my fun blogger friends.  There are several common denominators here:  a love for fashion, career-driven women who also know how to have fun as well.

From left to right: Jeanne Khe, Chessika Chua, Tina Villa, Phya Pineda and Charlene Ajose

For the "I am Driven" collection of SM woman, there were a lot of on-point fashionable pieces.  They featured pieces in black, white and navy, also muted colors, and a slight punch of color in orange.  My favorite key pieces are the ones in white and muted colors.

7107 Culture + Cuisine

I was recently watching Beat Bobby Flay on the Food Network.  One challenger chef proudly showcased Filipino cuisine, and Iron Chef Michael Symon commented that "it's one of the most underrated cuisine in the world".  Let's face it, we Filipinos love our rich culinary cuisine, there really is nothing like homegrown dishes that also serve as the ultimate comfort food.  In recent years, Filipino cuisine has gone global as well as we see our local dishes find its way in menus of restaurants abroad. 

There's a new restaurant that had just opened in Bonifacio Global City called 7107 Culture + Cuisine, it showcases the best of what our country has to offer - the beauty, richness, and uniqueness of our culture and cuisine through four different sections: 

• Kanto - Order merienda treats like Sisig Nachos, Malunggay Pestocino and Chori Burger Sliders.
• Dampa - Go on a seafood adventure through dishes such as Bangus Caesar Salad, Vitamin Sea Chowder and Bangus Sisig Flipside.
• Talyasi - Is reminiscent of food that is served in many Filipino gatherings and brings forth Filipino favorites such as Krispy Kare Kare and Bulalo v2.0
• Himagas - Indulge in local sweet treats such as the Molten Pastillas Lava Cake, Buko Pie ala mode and Epic 7107.

Here are some of the dishes at 7107 Culture + Cuisine:

Chick Chick Bang Bang

Tamarind Salad with Adobo Flakes

Hannah Kong unveils Collection

On the 24th of May 2016, I witnessed Hannah Kong's debut collection at Aruga by Rockwell.  Her collection features a 15-piece broderie d'art occasion wear, with meticulous stitching and embroidery known as the Lunéville or Tambour technique (a couture embellishment technique).  Hannah studied the techniques of embroidery art at the prestigious Ecole Lesage Paris, which is inextricably linked to the greatest names in fashion such as Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Lacroix, Louis Vuitton, Valentino Garavani, Christian Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier and Chanel under Karl Lagerfeld.

Hannah created such romantic and timeless pieces for her debut collection and the dresses were aptly named after her teachers, roommate, clients and favorite French names.  "My show is very French, the feel of an afternoon stroll in the gardens of Versailles", she says. "It's an ode to my stay in Paris."

Breaking the Norm: Globe myStarter Plan

In my line of work, I always rely on my trustee mobile phone for fast communication and accurate coordination.  From top management to frequent contacts in the organization, my mobile phone is always ringing.  Thanks to my power bank, I don't have to run out of battery while on the go.

 

A Review of Lux Soft Touch Body Wash Plus, an Instagram Contest from LUX!

Hello LUX fans!  Recently, I was sent a beauty care set by LUX to try.  This time, it contains their Soft Touch variant Body Wash and Bar Soap.  I got curious and excited with this variant that I tried the body wash as soon as I can. 

Orbik, The Light Experts

Have you ever walked into a space and felt a surge of emotion, just because the over-all design is good?  This is called Emotional Design, and this kind of design makes you linger longer in a space, oftentimes longer than you usually would.  If a space evokes emotion in the design alone, it means that the Interior Designer and the Architect has successfully done their job.  I have visited many spaces that evokes this kind of emotion and when I zoom in on what makes me feel this way when other spaces do not, it comprises many different things: design, flow, colors, cohesion and most importantly, the proper lighting.

Most of the time, most people start decorating with furniture, appliances and then lighting is considered as an afterthought, which should not be.  In traditional design, there is usually just one central light that will illuminate the entire space.  In modern design, lighting is used for many different purposes, it can be used to highlight a focal area (such as a home entertainment system, a bookshelf, a piece of furniture or perhaps an artwork),  and installed in different heights for a more sophisticated look. 

During Orbik's recent launch at Cafe Naya at The Palace, a visual display is shown of how lighting can change the look and the mood of a space.  Come take a look!

Row 101 Summer Pop-Up at Whitespace: A sneak peek and shopping party!

Summer is here!  It's the perfect season to travel with friends and family, perhaps go to the beach or go on outdoor adventures.  It is also a good time to update the look of your home to complement this extremely fun and sunny season. 

Here's a summer pop-up event that is perfect for that much-awaited summer getaway or interior update.  Row 101 recently gave us a sneak peek of their upcoming Summer Pop-up on April 16 & 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Whitespace, Pasong Tamo, Makati City.  They have gathered together a cool line-up of brands so you can start shopping for that summer wardrobe (from swimsuits, apparel, accessories and bags), look good while getting in shape with some work-out apparel, for the home there are throw pillows and home scents, there are also some safety products that are in pastel colors such as fire extinguishers and pepper spray, and much more.

                         Come and take a sneak peek at Row 101's upcoming Summer Pop-up!

Benefit Cosmetics make-up minis perfect for that beauty travel kit - The Porefessional, They're Real beyond mascara and Air Patrol BB Cream eyelid primer

Perfect that summer look with make-up from Japanese beauty brands BCL Philippines and Dolly Wink.

Chaplin Café at Century City Mall

It must be coincidence, but a few weeks back, my husband Mickey and I have been talking about the fact that we haven't been to Century City Mall yet.  It has piqued our curiosity quite a bit and we were actually thinking of dropping by when our schedule permits.  When suddenly, an invitation to come and try out the dishes at the newly opened Chaplin Café fell on our laps!  Chaplin is located at the rooftop of the Century City Mall and is described as a "contemporary restaurant with middle eastern flair" and they also offer vegan and healthy dishes on their menu. 

The interiors receives a generous amount of natural light, with black and white leather armchairs that remind me of the era when Charlie Chaplin became famous, not to mention the quirky floor lamps that are reminiscent of the top hat that was part of his wardrobe.  They also had several tufted sofas around the restaurant, which is perfect for long conversations with family and friends.

Come and take a peek inside Chaplin Café!

Burt's Bees Intense Hydration Nourishing Facial Water

It's always exciting to receive an invitation from one of my favorite beauty brands, Burt's Bees!  The invitation for their Nourishing Facial Water launch arrived with a bunch of fresh flowers, and I thought, how thoughtful of them to send flowers to all invitees, I'm pretty sure it brightened everybody's day.  

The venue for the launch was at the Sky Lounge, W Building, Bonifacio Global City.  I just loved how they transformed the space into a garden!  Burt's Bees products are after all, synonymous to using natural ingredients and it is always refreshing attending their well-executed events that match their company's beliefs.

My favorite Burt's Bees skin care line - Intense Hydration

Hello Stan Smith!

Six years ago when Stan Smith's were always found on racks of shoe stores and not as in demand as they are now, I remember my husband Mickey would always pick up a pair of Stan Smith's and he would tell me that "these are classics".  I would look at the pair, and would think to myself, "it is very simple, with just the green heel patch with the adidas logo as an accent".  Little did I know that Stan Smith's would be taken off the shelves for a brief hiatus in 2012.  It came back in 2014, to kick start its own re-launch with an aggressive social-media campaign targeting celebrities that it suddenly became a cool thing to wear.  It is also worn by major fashion influencers on the ramp and stylized in many different ways by online influencers that it literally blurs the lines between a shoe that is worn for sports, street style and even high fashion.

It had taken me a while to have my own pair of Stan Smith's, simply because they are almost always off the shelves hours after they have been displayed.  Sometimes, if you do find them online, they are either too expensive or there is a risk that you might get duped by a seller who sells knock-offs.  So, I waited, and just when we were on a weekend holiday and didn't have Stan Smith's on my mind, this pair was on the shelves. 

Dove Go Shave

Living in a tropical country, I love the fact that women can wear fashionable yet comfortable clothes that are perfect for sunny weather.  Don't you just love wearing sleeveless tops and breezy dresses on most days of the year?  When the weekend hits, most of us are often off to the beach ready to plunge into the water in our bathing suits, or for some of us engage in outdoor sports and activities.

But what stops most women from confidently wearing sleeveless clothing or confidently engaging in sports or activities that might catch a glimpse of their underarms?  It must be the sight of bumpy, dry and dark underarms caused by shaving.  

Since shaving is the quickest and most convenient way to get rid of unwanted hair, 70% of Filipinas shave as a method of underarm hair removal.  But, what causes underarm darkening?  Whenever we shave, 1/3 of what we actually remove is skin, which causes irritation, and with continued shaving, our skin is unable to heal on its own.  It then becomes bumpy, dry and dark.     

In the recent Dove Go Shave event held at The Greens in Greenbelt 5, we wrote messages to our razors on a gold Dove logo and attached it on the hanging blue and white ribbons.  Most of the messages that were written was something all of us can relate to.  What did my message say?  Mine read "Dear Razor, Please be gentle.  Tina Villa". 

Here are some scenes during the Dove Go Shave event.

We took our Milanos and Parisian Shoes out for a spin

Yup, you read it right, we took our new Milanos and Parisian shoes out for a spin on Valentine's day weekend and instantly fell in love!  Be still our beating hearts.  Here are some scenes over the weekend that was:

Café Enye

For me and Mickey, living in Eastwood City is convenient, everything is accessible including choices in dining establishments.  However, restaurants in the malls are also subjected to the mall hours.  Oftentimes, we also look for restaurants that are open before mall hours, and yes, even after mall hours. 

We walk around Eastwood a lot and we've been seeing this new restaurant over at Eastwood Excelsior called Café Enye.  I recently received an invitation from them for their official launch but missed it because we had to leave for Boracay.  It was a good thing that they invited us over to dine in the restaurant when we got back from our trip.

Estacio Uno Boracay, Dinners and Daily Walks

After our 3-day stay at Alta Vista de Boracay, we transferred to Estacio Uno Boracay located on the famous 4 kilometer beach line at Station one, where we booked a Standard room.  We really intended to switch hotels for this trip, a first in our many Boracay travels, so that we can feel experience how it is like to be on different sides of the island and be able to make a comparison for ourselves.

Alta Vista de Boracay and a visit to Puka Beach

It has been three long years since we've been back to our favorite place in the world, the beautiful island of Boracay.  I knew we needed to go back soon.  Last August 2015, I was fortunate to win a 3 days/2 nights hotel accommodation with daily breakfast at Alta Vista de Boracay during the Pine-Sol event.  So, when I had a clearer view of my schedule, we booked plane tickets from Philippine Airlines via Kalibo, which we got at an inexpensive rate of Php 3,500.00 per person (round trip).

Mickey and I have never been to Alta Vista de Boracay, so this is definitely a first for us.  The hotel is located in Barangay Yapak and is near Puka Beach and Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa.  Though it may not be located in the famous 4 kilometer beach line.  There are many reasons why we love it here.

Cream Silk Transformations: Spotlight on the Modern Filipina

The Modern Filipina has many positive traits, but one specific trait I like is that they strive to become the best versions of themselves while making a positive impact not only in the lives of others but in the world as well.  

When I received an invitation from Cream Silk to join them as they launch their newest campaign "Cream Silk Transformations: Spotlight on the Modern Filipina", I knew I couldn't miss this.  It was held last Saturday, January 23 and it was a day that was dedicated solely to celebrate women who constantly challenged themselves to transform from good to great.  

Cream Silk collaborated with top magazines - Cosmopolitan, Meg, MEGA, Metro, Preview and Yes! to empower and inspire women as they kick off their own transformations this year.  Each top glossy hosted different talks and workshops, where experts in the fields of fashion, beauty and entertainment shared their knowledge in their fields of expertise:

• Cosmopolitan: Modern Filipinas conquering new frontiers
• Meg: Ready-Set-Work.  Unlocking the Girl Boss in you
• MEGA: Tea with Peewee Isidro and Mega's most stylish and beautiful Filipinas
• Metro: How to look your best in any photo with Sara Black
• Preview: The evolution of Philippine Fashion and the Modern Filipina by Pauline Juan and Isha Andaya
• Yes!: Starmakers of the Modern Filipina featuring Jonas Gaffud

Moleskine Limited Edition Planners and Notebooks 2016

Even in this digital age, I am still one of those who likes to write things down on a planner or notebook.  But there is one brand that I like to use, Moleskine.  My earlier Moleskines were hardbound and were just either black or red.  But now, Moleskine has released special edition planners and notebooks in collaboration with pop culture icons which makes them more interesting and inspiring.

Before 2015 ended, Mickey and I were able to get our own limited edition planners and notebooks at Powerbooks and National Bookstore.  Plus, we also chanced upon the free personalization at Powerbooks Greenbelt last December 29.   

I was drawn to the white rabbit on the cover of this Moleskine notebook from Alice in Wonderland, and of course, we all know that somehow, "we are all mad here" (but in a good, creative way).