Celebrate Life

Im Officially Registered

2011-07-27T21:55:00.002+08:00

Yey! I am officially registered for my first half marathon (21km) race in the upcoming RUNRIO Trilogy 2011 Leg 2: Run United 2 at the Global City on 21 August.

This race will be my early birthday gift, its 9 days before my big day. I am looking forward to the culmination of a 5 month training program which I adhered to the letter and with a lot of heart.
I will not expect anything spectacular from my end, just to finish with a smile, strong, and injury free and will be just fine.

I still have about a month to go and yet I am so excited. Finishing the race will be the end of a training program and a start of another wonderful chapter of my love for running. Wish me luck my friends. See you on the road!

I Must have done Something Right

2011-06-29T18:39:00.003+08:00

I am absolutely happy.

With so much as a private message, a facebook search and an sms exchange - I am now in contact with three important people in my life. Who would imagine that I would be given this chance to catch up with them and rekindle lost friendships. I am so thankful that I am given this wonderful opportunity to build friendship blocks with each of them again. Not everyone is given this favor and since we are not getting any younger, I hope all of us are "in" this together.

Each friend is different from each other. I am again learning how to adjust to each of them...though I know it wont post so much difficulty since I know we can all pick up where we all left off.

To sum up how I feel now, here is a friendship quote I got from the internet.

'I dont regret the things I have done or the things I have chosen not to do because whatever I've done, I must have done something right because I ended up with you.'

Psor Rocks

2011-06-23T21:38:00.003+08:00

PSOR ROCKS
Music. Equality. Belonging. Respect. Love

August 20, 2011
8PM
Bayparkview Service Road
Roxas Blvd

VIP P1000
GEN AD P100

You can also Donate through
SM TICKETS 470-2222

For the Benefit of
Psoriasis Philippines

Official Production/Event Organizer
Mentorque Productions
Mentorque Events Management

Officially Registered

2011-06-23T14:17:00.004+08:00

I am proud to share with everyone that I am now officially registered at the Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore 2011 , Half Marathon, 21.1km

For about 3 months now I have been training for my first half marathon event to be held on August 21 at the Global City. I have experienced different kinds of pain from minimal to worst - perceived and felt and have sacrificed a lot in terms of curbing my diet and thoughts on race day. I have become a better person, yes! I am now more determined, more focused more excited and more prepared to conquer those hills we runners call 'hells'.

Though I won't deny that I still have this doubt if I could really do and stretch myself to run for almost 3 hours. A bit of doubt won't hurt, I guess :)

So for the SCMS 2011 which will be held on December 4th, I will have the time of my life as I tread their beautiful country with so much vivacity and confidence that I will cross the finish line strong and clamoring for more.

BMW 2011

2011-04-15T19:10:00.004+08:00

Summertime means BMW time! Another great venue to be with our second family, the Psorphil family.

Have fun guys!

Music. Photography.Psoriasis

2011-04-14T10:57:00.002+08:00

Sharing with you a very inspiring story of a fellow Psoriasis patient and her love affair with music and photography and her very unique relationship with God.

Star Eloriaga-Tito

Flower Collection Now Available

2011-04-04T16:21:00.001+08:00

Flowers signify a lot of meaning, mostly it is always to convey what we feel. Each flower color has also a meaningful story behind its color. It is this reason why each individual is very particular with the flower and color they choose for a bouquet, for floral arrangements and for flower jewelries.

But whatever the color is, the real meaning still lies on what you feel towards the person who gave the flowers to you. The color may add to the beauty of the arrangement, but at the end of the day, only your heart will know what the true meaning of the color of flower you received is.

So come and browse the Collection and choose the best flower color that suits you or your love ones!

Summer Fair Art Fest 2011

2011-03-22T21:00:00.002+08:00

Carrie Cordero Jewelry Designs will be at the Summer Fair Art Fest this coming April 2, Saturday at Bahay ng Alumni, U.P. Diliman from 10am till 7pm.

Come and join us for a day full of fun, surprises and art, art, and more art!

My Hubby: Certified Marathoner

2011-03-21T13:13:00.005+08:00

My dear hubby is now a certified marathoner! He finished 42.195kms at Nuvali yesterday with an unofficial time of 4hrs53mino5secs. He event was organized by The Bull Runner .

WooHoo! Good job Hanebe!

Congratulations my dear! Sooo proud of you!

Congratulations too to all the TBRDM participants. Recover well guys!

Stay tuned for a more detailed account at The Running Duo.

Psoriasis Meet Ups

2011-03-19T14:17:00.002+08:00

This is a great way to meet and bond with members of Psoriasis Philippines. There will be meet ups every 3rd Saturday of the month starting this month at the PPRC office at 1pm.

For further info please call the office at 02-889.3596 or send an SMS at +63 922 829 7767 or you may send an email at info@psorphil.org

Have a fun filled weekend ahead!

2 Days to Go

2011-03-18T16:48:00.005+08:00

Two days to go. Two days before TBR Dream Marathon. Two more days of anticipation, preparation, excitement, doubt and drama. Yes, the TBRDM will make every first time marathoner feel all of these sensations. These sensations are just like what my hubby is experiencing right now. Let me share with you what he has to say here.

Good luck Hanebe! You can do it! You have trained so hard for this. You have sacrificed many sleeping hours so that you could be on the road to train. This is it! In two more days it will be your time to shine. Think about your plan of making a PR of -5H. Well, PR or no PR just bring home that beautiful medal for me, okay!

Good luck to all TBR Dream Marathoners! Finish strong and injury free guys!

See you all at the finish line.

Today like no other Day

2011-03-17T17:35:00.004+08:00

Today, my doctor told me that I passed all of my blood tests.
Today, my doctor told me to continue exercising.
Today, is a sunny/windy day.
Today, my multiply contact list grew to 100.
Today, I got a message from a new friend.
Today, someone appreciated my wire work designs.
Today, I am proud of my achievements.
Today is a good and blessed day.

So Thankful For

2011-03-16T13:23:00.004+08:00

Everyday we have a lot in mind to be thankful for. For one we are always always thankful that we are alive and is still making a difference in this world. No matter how big or small they are...still we are part of that difference.

I am so deeply thankful to two people I call friends. I have been touched by their generous heart and open mindedness. One I met a few years back through a friend who scrapbooks and the other I met only about two years ago through my husband. I do not see them often or communicate with them that much, but when we do correspond, we always feel love and understanding.

Maybe that is how true friendship is. I do not know much about it since I have very very few friends and more of acquaintances. But I am so glad that in this lifetime, I have felt love from these women.

So to Alby and Kate, may we continue to be friends and learn from each other until forever. May both of you be showered with love, happiness and joy throughout your lifetime. May both of you overcome the obstacles in your lives with flying colors. May both of you receive the desires of your heart always. God bless dear friends!

2011 Projects

2011-03-15T15:12:00.003+08:00

My newest beading project The Crystal Bead Series.

Enjoy!

Congratulations Finishers

2011-03-07T14:21:00.002+08:00

Last night our very good friend Atty. Julius Cervantes (Life is a Highway) finished one very memorable and historic race, the 3rd Bataan Death March Ulta Marathon. A 102km road race with very few participants (less than 200) and with only 112 of them finishing the 18H cut-off time. Firmly holding the spot of finisher #108, congratulations again Atty J!

The race is not for the faint of heart, only very few people dare to join in since it will definitely challenge not only the physical body but the mind as well. I guess for someone to decide to run that long stretch, he/she must definitely have a sound mind.

To those who finished the recently concluded BDM 102K Ultra Marathon and the BDM 160K the week before, hats off to you guys and gals! You are making history!

First 16KM

2011-02-18T16:39:00.002+08:00

Sharing my first 16km journey and the people who inspired me.

My "test of endurance run" was successful. I am now into my second week of the Jeff Galloway
half marathon training for runners and walkers. I have added a few minutes in the weekday runs and added a few kilometers during the long runs. So far so good. I will be celebrating my first 21km race on 12 June 2011.

Condura Run 2011

2011-02-04T14:42:00.004+08:00

This coming Sunday, February 6, I will be one of the many Pinoy runners who is given a chance to run and enjoy the Condura Skyway Marathon 2011 . Every runner joining this event will be donating to help the Dolphins of Baclayon, Bohol. How ironic is this since I had a one day trip to Bohol last month and was not able to see the magnificent dolphins. Bad timing, bad me. Any which way, I will have my chance to enjoy the sea beauties when I get back to Cebu and Bohol by next year. I will be running my first 16k which I consider my "test of endurance run" since I plan to graduate running 10k and start preparing for 21k. I hope to cross the finish line injury free and clamoring for more.

I will be sharing full story and details of my 16km journey at The Running Duo the soonest.

To all runners, good luck, have fun and enjoy the Skyway!

Inspiration Feature

2011-02-03T11:33:00.007+08:00

An artist sharing his story, his art and how he himself was inspired to continue what he loves doing. Come and get to know the person who made my very special banner here

Conquering Multiply

2011-01-14T15:53:00.008+08:00

Aside from Flickr and Facebook, my jewelry designs can now be seen at Multiply.

Shopping is never boring at Multiply! Come and join the fun! But oops! There's one catch - you have to be a multiply user and a multiply friend! So go and get your own multiply account! Its easy as A B C. =)

Maraming Salamat

2010-12-11T16:59:00.005+08:00

I cant thank you enough Alby. Maraming salamat for the feature (for the 2nd time). This is the only way I know how to thank you.

This is Just My Way

2010-12-11T16:57:00.002+08:00

The best way I know.

My Christmas Gift

2010-11-26T20:24:00.001+08:00

More of my early Christmas gift here. I hope you got yours early too!

Expression of Gratitude

2010-11-24T09:56:00.004+08:00

Its the last week of November, a great week to say thank you to those people closest to my heart. More about it here.

IRRI Bazaar - Update

2010-11-18T19:36:00.002+08:00

Full story here.

See You At The IRRI Annual Bazaar

2010-11-12T18:00:00.002+08:00

Carrie Cordero Designs will be at IRRI in Los Banos Laguna on November 17, 2010, Wednesday for their annual bazaar.

See you there!

My 10KM Challenge

2010-11-03T19:41:00.001+08:00

Who says I can't finish a 10km race? Find out what happened here.

Copper Bracelets

2010-11-02T15:13:00.003+08:00

My 2010 Copper Bracelet Collection can now be viewed here. Full story here.

Enjoy!

World's Biggest Group Hug Happening Today

2010-10-30T07:40:00.002+08:00

Good luck to all participants. I hope you make it.

My Youngest Sister Turned a year Older

2010-10-14T20:17:00.002+08:00

Yey! My youngest sister turned a year wiser and (older) today. Happy Happy Birthday Joyce!

Our 15 year age gap doesn't seem to exist at all. We have grown together and have always renewed our bonding. Through thick and thin we always reminded ourselves that no matter what, we are family and will stay as family forever.

I wish you good health (start reducing LOL!), happiness all your life, more blessings and most of all the gift of nurturing your child to be the best she can be. Being a Mom is not an easy task but you showed us that you can handle every situation with grace and free from stress. Good job sister!

Aluminum Earrings Now Out

2010-10-14T19:47:00.005+08:00

You can view my aluminum earrings here and my earring inspirations here.

Enjoy!

Copper Earrings Displayed

2010-10-12T17:04:00.004+08:00

My copper earring collection is now displayed at flickr with full story here.

Enjoy!

Biggest Group Hug

2010-10-11T13:36:00.003+08:00

Repost from Psoriasis Philippines Mailing List.

Dear Friends,

On October 30, 2010, Psoriasis Philippines will aim to break the existing Guinness World Record for the Largest group hug that was established in Romania on May 29, 2009 with 9,758 people. We hope to break it with a new record of at least 10,000 people at Roxas Blvd, Manila.

In celebration of the World Psoriasis Day in the Philippines, we aim to break the existing record and to rally support from the general public for our Psoriasis advocacy. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that has no cure at this time and believe to affect 125million people worldwide. In the Philippines, 1-2million people are believed to be suffering in silence with this debilitating disease. It is not rare that people with Psoriasis suffer discrimination of all forms from people who think that it is contagious. The physical pain that this condition brings to the patient is nothing compared to the emotional and psychological pain that people may be causing psoriasis sufferers.

We appeal to you for help, that through this effort, we may be able to educate our community that psoriasis is not contagious, and that psoriasis sufferers need to be treated without prejudice and be given equal opportunity like everyone else.

To achieve our goal of a new world record, our needs may vary from logistics to human presence. If you think you may be able to help in any kind, we wish to hear your offer. Please email us at info@psorphil.com.

If you can sponsor any of the following, we will gladly welcome and thank you in advance.
• Photographers and videographers: who will document the event
• Shirt
• Balloon
• Signage, tarps and posters for the event
• Drinking water
• Snacks
• volunteers
• Artists: to design logos, shirts and posters

Please join us and invite your friends, classmates, officemates, families and let us set a new Guinness world record -- "The World's Biggest Group HUG" as we support psoriasis sufferers all over the world. Please feel free to circulate and forward this email.

With warmest regards.

Josef

 --  Josef De Guzman  President/CEO
Psorphil Chairman: World Psoriasis Day SC
Member: IFPA Executive Committee

*** Please spread the word. Thanks. -Carrie

Aluminum Bracelets Displayed

2010-10-06T22:20:00.004+08:00

At last my aluminum bracelets are now posted at flickr! Blog posting here. Enjoy!

Let me know if you want one!

Busy Weekends

2010-10-04T16:39:00.005+08:00

October 25 and 26 was a busy weekend for Din. Full story here. And this past weekend I was busy with this.

Check out the links. Im sure you'll be surprised!

My Big Leap

2010-09-26T20:11:00.005+08:00

I used to be part of Creative Outlet, but just recently I decided to move on a different direction and registered for my own business. Consecutively, I also decided to move my creative blog to another blog address. You can now catch site of my handcrafted jewelry here.

With the recent move, there are so many surprises in store for you. Expect for more intricate and unique pieces as I put an edge on my craft.

Today is a Blessed Day

2010-09-25T15:58:00.003+08:00

I didnt know that today will be a different and special day. At the start of my day, I was excited to meet with friends at Bonifacio Global City to test run the Adidas KOTR 10km route, except of course for the flyover marker which we opted to simulate it at Lawton Road. We started at 630am and ended past 8am. The route was challenging to say the least. There were enough hills to make me go slow and ponder on if I will really join the race and endure this route again. When we reached Lawton Road the part going to Mckinley, I thought I could never go back to where we came from but an unknown kind of strength and focus helped me go through the uphills again. I made it and my friend did too! We were dead tired, hunched but most of all injury free. What followed was a happy breakfast moment between my friend and our husbands.

Then when I got home and opened the computer, I got the biggest surprise - my business name was finally approved by the Department of Trade and Industry. Now its official, my creations will officially be under Carrie Cordero Handcrafted Jewelry Designs. I will still use my flickr account to showcase my collections and I can now be reached at carriecorderodesigns@gmail.com

As in all blessings, they come in 3s. My third blessing for today was an email from a friend informing me that she showed her writer friend my flickr account and her friend's reaction was - "cool. will forward it to my editor". Who wouldn't be happy with that news. =)

Yes, today is a good day. A blessed day indeed!

I Want to Be Official

2010-09-22T19:26:00.005+08:00

This morning I received an email from the Department of Trade and Industry informing me the business name that I applied for was rejected. The reason they gave was valid and they even gave me a guideline for re-submission of my application. I have listed 3 new names and the first name in my list was accepted. I opted for Carrie Lynn Designs Handcrafted Jewelry and the search that came out in their database was name still available. =) Now I just have to wait for their email of confirmation and instructions thereafter. Crossed fingers!

One of a Kind Pieces: From Me to You

2010-09-07T13:38:00.007+08:00

Since yesterday my brain is working overtime thinking about a company name. I wanted it to be reflecting how I express and love my art. So for the meantime that I havent come up with one yet, let me refresh your memory of my collection. You can view them at Carrie Cordero

Let me remind you too of the services I offer.

Recreate an item which is already sold, please check designs in my flickr account.
Customize a design for you and your friends for that very unique 'YOU' look.
Restring a pre-loved item which you cannot use anymore.
Reserve a private time for you and your friends for an exclusive 'All Girl Accessory Party' of the collection in my home or I could bring them over to your home at your most convenient time.

I hope to share inspiring stories about my handmade jewelries to you, your family and girlfriends. Drop me a line or two at carriemcordero@gmail.com. Hear from you soon!

Going solo? Hell YES!!!

2010-09-06T18:26:00.006+08:00

Im still in awe that I was able to pull through a solo bazaar. I didnt imagine that I would be using two tables, my own beading table and the organizer's. Who would imagine that I filled up every space there was with items I did. I started creating since January but I didnt give as much passion as I gave when August 1 came. Since the first day of August I was like a machine - cutting, circling, twisting, match making and packing. I made a lot of everything I wanted to show, share and sell. Because of my early preparations, I was able to practically sit and relax the day before my big day. Yup, I went to the mall and bough two lights for my booth and had a wonderful dinner with Din, a first for me.

From the time I started joining bazaars with my cousins I was always, always still in a hurry to make something or to finishing something or to prepare for something. I always get tensed and restless the day before which affects my mood for the big day. As I was thinking of the many reasons why I was always like that, I could only think of one major reason and that is if I would be able to make a sale since my cousins and I make the same items. We only vary with the bead colors we choose and the materials we want to play with. And since doing the solo thing yesterday, I realized a lot of things.

Since January I have been playing with one material which my cousins do not usually play with and that is wire (aluminum and copper). From that time I fell in love with the things I was able to do, create and define. Now that I have concentrated on a medium and made the most of what I could think of given the time I have, I was so happy to say that the bazaar yesterday at Tahanan Village was a sort of a solo exhibit too for me. I showcased all of my creations! And my audience loved them! But don't get me wrong here, little did I know that my cousin wont join the recently concluded bazaar have I not asked her if she is already preparing for it. I was shocked to hear that she wont join and forego of this wonderful event. With that, well I couldn't do anything about it and just informed her that I will try my luck and go solo. Luckily, luck was on my side and the situation made me realize that I could pull through, relaxed and happier!

Tahanan Village Bazaar 2010-UPDATE

2010-09-06T14:06:00.011+08:00

My first bazaar for 2010 was a success in a lot of ways. It was my first solo bazaar since my cousins and I started in 2007. Sans the solo stint and the profit, I guess the one thing that made it a success was the presence of my dear Din. Yup, he was with me from the start till the last mass, through the hot weather and sticky air, through setting up my table until pack up time, through customer inquiries and orders, through a sale or a no sale, through being my assistant to his "kind" of selling. Its like a three in one promo for me. We got to spend quality bonding time together and at the same time I was able to market my goods and share a couple of quick chats with my clients. Now, who says that Sundays should be boring and only spent at home?! Also I was able to see and talk with friends I only see during bazaars--my bazfriends! It was really a good and memorable Sunday--and yes, we got our bases covered before 12nn!

Celebrating Milestones and Joys of Running

2010-08-24T13:03:00.009+08:00

Isn't it nice to celebrate a love one's birthday and a few milestones through running and being able to meet new friends?

Din and I had the opportunity to experience just that last August 15 at Run to Read at the Fort. August 15 was the 100+ birthday of our beloved grandmother Lola Josie. And since she is not with us anymore Din decided to give her his own birthday gift by running his first 15km. Since this was the case, I too decided to dedicate my last 5km too to my dear Lola Josie. Happy birthday Lola!

To top the celebration, we were greeted by Ms Nora (Life Begins at 50) and her family. Nora and I had agreed to meet in person at the Takbo.ph Runfest but unfortunately I had a severe bout of asthma and was not able to run and meet Nora. Then I found out that Nora and her family will be running at Run to Read, so I looked forward to our meeting. During the race I totally forgot that Nora will be there running with her children, I was surprised when she took the chance to greet me and Din. I was so happy to meet Nora and her kids. At last I had the chance to meet the person behind the very inspiring blog Life Begins at 50. with Ms Nora and daughter Eia

with Nora's family

Loving Our New Look

2010-08-09T19:32:00.003+08:00

The Running Duo got a new look! Super thanks to Jonas Diego! Hopefully this will inspire me more to reach my running goal for this year.

Tahanan Village Bazaar 2010

2010-07-28T19:13:00.004+08:00

Its official! Creative Outlet is registered at the upcoming Tahanan Village Bazaar to be held on September 5. This time my two dear cousins/partners will not be able to join due to work related activities but nevertheless I assure you my dear customers that I will be showcasing the best of what I do and will be able to do. If you have been a loyal customer, you will be able to guess the material/s I so very like to play with - aluminum wire! And yes, I added a new kind of wire to "compete" with my ever loyal aluminum. Yes, you read it correct, I said compete, why? with the versatility of the new wire that I am playing with right now, I think it will surpass the aluminum's popularity in terms of color, shine and design. But then again, who knows. Now its up to you to discover what I'm trying to say here :)

See you all at the bazaar on 5 September 2010 from 8am-8pm booth # 3. From the covered courts entrance just turn left. :)

3 Events: 2 Good, 1 Not so Good

2010-06-16T10:16:00.006+08:00

Here are the links to our recent runs.

Nature Valley Run

Philippine Independence Day Half Marathon

The Bottle School Project

New Creations for Creative Outlet UPDATE

2010-06-07T07:39:00.006+08:00

Remember my post last May 3 ? Well then, here they are - my newest creations for Creative Outlet. After almost a month of waiting, Din had the chance to get a picture of them.

These are made from copper wire which I got from the hardware store. I experiemented my hands on making jewelry chain specifically the Byzantine Chain from this Davidchain. David's site is awesome! His tutorials are very easy to follow, thus making the journey of discovery so enjoyable. The first picture from the top is my version of the Byzantine Chain. The second and third pictures were experiments using different kinds of medium to make circles most especially with my jig.

Since I love bracelets most especially chain and charm bracelets, I thought of trying to make my own from scratch using my favorite medium - wire. After much experimenting here they are, my own version of charm bracelets made from aluminum wire. Its so lightweight and goes with any outfit of my choice.

I really had fun making these and a lot more. So see you in our next bazaar sometime in September and surely I will surprise you with more new and exciting pieces.

Thank You CariDee English

2010-06-05T08:38:00.004+08:00

Here is the link of CariDee's interview at www.stylelist.com.

Thank you for bravely sharing your battles with psoriasis. You really inspire people around the world.

There is HOPE for our disease. There is LIFE beyond psoriasis.

The Most Important reason to join Running Events

2010-05-28T09:29:00.008+08:00

Upon reading the Bald Runner's blog, I pondered on some questions posted on his May 18 entry. Specifically about the most important factor/s we consider in joining races since there are a lot of running events going on this month. And yes, I do agree with the Bald Runner when he suggested that May be the Month of Running. Why not?!

Now, going back to the factors to consider in joining race events. I could only vouch for me and Din since the question we always ask is "if and is the race for a cause (for the environment, for the sick and needy, housing projects, etc)?"

If yes, then we would be sure to join the event and help in anyway we can. We close our eyes to registration fees, the route (no matter how difficult they may be, this is what happened to me when we joined Takbo para sa PGH- I had no practice for the event and just ran my heart out all along thinking that for every step I make I could be helping a sick child), to race organizers, the singlet (we can run using our own shirts anyway) and most especially to the loot bags. No amount of loot can surmount the joy and happiness we feel when we know we can help in our own little way.

I also cannot deny that when we first joined running events we were sucked up by the event's publicity and hype, celebrity endorser and sponsors but in the end we realized and felt that it was quite fulfilling to be part of something grand like helping others.

With this, I hope there will be more running events geared to helping others, to alleviate pain and suffering and more to education. To the Bald Runner, thank you Sir for posting those questions. I think every runner should think twice before joining events especially those super hyped up events. Well, to each his own, no matter our choice is I just hope its for a good cause.

Creative Outlet drives me crazy

2010-05-25T08:57:00.004+08:00

Im full of ideas for Creative Outlet - from experimenting on new designs to packaging to product stickers to new calling cards. So many little projects on hand and on mind, all of them half baked. Im still in vacation mode I guess :) From this time to mid August surely I hope to finish them all and have you take a peek :D

New Creations for Creative Outlet

2010-05-03T16:26:00.003+08:00

Our trip in Singapore inspired me a lot so ever since we came back I have been experimenting with working with wire. A lot of bending, wrapping, drawing and wire waste after, I have come up with two designs to add to my wire collection this year.

Im giving Din ample time to take some pictures of my new creations though. He is so busy with work and I dont want to pressure him so. Hope you understand. But dont worry it will be worth the loooong wait :)

Bangle Galore

2010-05-03T16:18:00.006+08:00

On our 3rd day in SG I insisted that we visit Little India. From my cousin Pia's flat we took the train and landed in Little India. We do not know anything about the place but we just explored and walked around. Below are two of the best stores that we went to. I had an awesome time trying all the bangles that I want. Different colors for every outfit that I have. Yipeee!!!!

This is every girls dream visit. Singapore's Little India is one jewelry haven. I need to go back there soon!

Singapore 2010

2010-05-03T15:49:00.006+08:00

There were a lot of things going on in my life for a few weeks now. Some of them I have already shared with you here. Like being a new Aunt to my sister's baby Audie. The little girl is 8 lbs now, she grew so much in just a month :). A few of my running stints with Din and what's new with the Psoriasis community. Today I will share with you my adventures in Singapore with Din, my cousin Pia and her best friend Griz.

Din and I visited my cousin in SG sometime in March. We stayed there for a couple of days. Visited the city's malls, ate a lot, rode all means of transportation available, saw Sentosa, took pictures of every animated character we saw, ate the biggest burger we could find and had a blast at their roller coaster. And oh we even had dinner at Din's long time friend Kate who also lives in SG.

Here are some of the pictures of our visit.

With my cousin Pia at Terminal 2.

With Pia and Griz at Sentosa.

Din and I really had a great time at Universal Studios. We were like kids roaming around the park. We hope to visit its LA version soon :)

Psoriasis: A Journey of Hope

2010-04-14T14:04:00.003+08:00

A joint project of Psorphil and PDS with GMA7 and Philippine Daily Inquirer as media partners.

Join the officers and members of Psorphil as they embark on a nationwide spread of news - PSORIASIS IS NOT CONTAGIOUS.

Mizuno Infinity Race

2010-04-12T14:51:00.005+08:00

Full review and pictures at The Running Duo

PIA - Pinay In Action

2010-03-31T17:00:00.006+08:00

Full story at The Running Duo

Hello World

2010-03-30T15:56:00.004+08:00

Just recently I became a new Aunt again. My youngest sister gave birth to a very beautiful baby girl last March 24 at 2440 gms. Friends meet Audie Leyre :)

Pastor with psoriasis delayed in boarding plane

2010-03-16T09:45:00.003+08:00

I will be boarding Cebu Pacific Airlines soon and I fervently wish that the incident that happened to one of my fellow Psoriasis sister will not happen to me. She was delayed in boarding a local Cebu Pacific flight. The airline's reason is that she has Psoriasis and they are asking for a medical certificate issued by her doctor. WHAT!!!! These people have to be educated before they open their mouths and ask for medical certificates.

The people behind Psoriasis Philippines are always in a crusade to alleviate the conditions of people with Psoriasis. This also include advocating to a greater community that Psoriasis is NOT CONTAGIOUS. Since I joined Psorphil last year I have always been in awe how the officers and moderators of the community move mountains to make a Psoriasis patient's life easy, livable, happy, and fruitful. They have been through different means to attract media to help with the spreading of the news. And this incident happens.

I am saddened to what happened to Pastor Magnolia. More distressed by Cebu Pacific's lame excuse. I hope Cebu Pacific management will look into this incident further and start including a formal education on the different communicable diseases that we have and the effects of airline travel on them. Im sure they will discover that Psoriasis is not on the list and that traveling by air wont do anything to a person with psoriasis.

runningduo

2010-03-08T17:44:00.005+08:00

Hubby and I decided to make a running blog together. Sharing with you therunningduo

The Web Behaviour Test

2010-03-03T22:15:00.004+08:00

Take the test and find out what web animal are you! I am a Web Elk - social, slow-moving and specialised. I know this because I took part in a real science experiment with BBC Lab UK.

Psoriasis Checklist

2010-03-02T08:22:00.004+08:00

Since I am in the process of a lifestyle change, I would like to share with you my fellow psoriasis patients a checklist I found at Everyday Health. We all know that lifestyle change affects the frequency and severity of our outbreaks. Are we doing something to alleviate our condition? Lets see.

keep stress levels in check
get exposure to sunlight
avoid sunburns
keep skin moisturized with fragrance-free lotions
take short lukewarm showers
limit exposure to people who have colds and flu
eat a healthy diet
exercise regularly
stay well hydrated
talk to your doctor about the benefits of fish oil supplements

Lets be aware and lessen our outbreaks. Lifestyle change live life to the fullest.

March Races

2010-03-01T13:06:00.008+08:00

Southwoods Fun Run
March 6 5:30AM
Juana Complex, Binan Laguna
Yacult 10miler
March 7
CCP, Pasay City
Unilab Run for Wellness
March 7
The Fort
Ready, Get SWEAT, Go!
March 13
Bonifacio Global City
Pinay In Action 2010
March 13 6AM
Mall of Asia
1st Manila 5000 Run 5K
March 14
CCP
Takbo Para sa Edukasyon
March 14
Amityville Subdivision, Rizal
BDO Race for Life
March 20 5AM
Mall of Asia
The Green Miles
March 21 5AM
Mall of Asia
GLOBE Run for Home
March 21 5AM
Makati CBD
Steak Run for a Cause Takbo Laban sa Cancer
March 27
Calamba Laguna
CitiRun : Run Around Town
March 28
Waterfront Cebu City Hotel, Lagoon Area
VSO Bahaginan Fundraising Run
March 28
Mall of Asia
Botak Paa-Bilisan
March 28
Baguio City

TAKBO.PH

2010-02-28T19:49:00.011+08:00

Two weeks ago I became one of the newest members of Takbo.ph a blog and discussion forum about running in the Philippines. As a newbie in running I went through most of the forum discussions, feeling the community's air and figuring out if I am cut to learn a lot and enjoy myself. Lucky for me this is not a first in terms of being involved in a community of people with the same interest, wants and dreams. I found the group very warm and very receptive. I even found the brother of an old high school friend. I hope to meet other members soon. I hope to get first hand advices from the group's pioneers and wish that I could run with them too.

2010 goals

2010-02-23T18:20:00.004+08:00

I owe this to myself and I decided to share it with you. Do remind me sometime if I tend to forget most items or all of it. :)

For Creative Outlet

Be more visible in bazaars, trade shows.
Be published in one of the leading fashion magazines. Or see our accessories worn by a model on a magazine's front cover.
Try other craft mediums.
Make more designs with fave materials. -- I love working with wire and I tend to do more projects! Yey!

For Family

Take vacations as often as our work permits us.
Find more common things to do. We run together, relieve our stress together and plan for our future while getting fit.

For Self

Pray more.
Remind self to eat healthy foods.
Make more friends. Cherish existing friends.
Support a cause.
Run Carrie Run.

I will do it. Yes I can!

Why Im MIA

2010-02-22T19:20:00.011+08:00

I know I have been MIA for a long time and I would like to share with you the reasons why.

My cousins and I decided to have our own version of The Biggest Loser. Our very own Biggest Loser: Compound Edition! Yes, we are overweight and yes we want to eat. Getting together and sharing a sumptuous meal is one of my family's past times. We always, always celebrate major and minor occasions with a hefty buffet table of all our favorite dishes. But this year we all decided to embrace life and all its beauty. 6 of us committed to change our lives for the better. 6 of us vowed to exercise, eat healthy foods and promised to never let our craving be the boss of us. 6 of us made a promise to each other - to spend more time being together healthy and celebrating each life's milestone not in sickness but with wellness. We all weighed in last January 2 and will weigh out by December 23. No specific exercise, no specific diet plans, no specific training. Each of us is entitled to do whatever form of exercise we want just as long as we dont take prohibited medications and no liposuction. To date I have lost 15 pounds and counting. :D

I have been into aerobic dancing, walking, and boxing. All of them gave me a sense of euphoria. I enjoy what I do. Im not stressed out. Im happy with these exercises and most of all I lost weight. Then Din encouraged me to do running. I first I was so not into it. I told him I couldn't run. My knees will hurt. My legs are still so heavy, my butt is heavy and my tummy is still heavy. But he insisted and one day I told myself...why not try it. I did and now Im hooked. Of course I had the help of a very good friend Russ. She directed me to an all Filipino running community takbo.ph The community is packed with a lot of information a newbie runner would want to know. In no time I registered and made some queries. Ever since that day in January I make it a point to run/walk 5x a week.

I joined in the Runrio Trilogy: Leg 1: Century Tuna Superbod 2010 5km run. Din, my nephew and I prepared for about 3 weeks for this event. Though we all know that we are newbies in this field (well...except for Din...he used to run in college...but that was ages ago :D) but we want to have fun and experience being a runner. And so we joined and had the best time yesterday!!!! Yes, we finished the race. Hats off to my nephew who ranked 453 out of 2050 participants for the men's 5km run, to Din who placed 1134! I ranked 761 out of 1179 female 5km runners. Not bad....not bad at all. Im still overweight by 50lbs and nearing 40 in a few months but boy that race was an accomplishment! We were together the first 5 mins of the race but we all lost each other during and came together after with a big smile on our faces. Yes we did it!!!!! Yes I was there and I finished!

Din and I after the race. We did it. We finished our first ever 5km run. Woohoo!!! We hope to influence some of our relatives to join us in this wonderful sport. Join us in our next race on March 13, 2010 Pinay In Action a project of Senator Pia Cayetano. See you there :)

Thank You Letter to our Valued Clients

2009-12-18T14:28:00.004+08:00

Dear Creative Outlet Clients,

The Holiday Season is here and there are a lot of things to attend to and take care of. So much so that it is very easy to forget to thank our valued clients like you, for your orders and continued appreciation of our art work.

So, before we forget, thank you very much and may this Holiday Season bring you and your loved ones much blessings of hope, love and happiness.

Yours,

Creative Outlet Team

Shekinah and BF Homes Shop Till You Drop Bazaar 2009-UPDATE

2009-12-16T15:14:00.007+08:00

I always try to keep my promise so here is what I can share with you.

Shekinah Christian Training School-Paranaque

Since Shekinah is a school who would be the contact person other than the school's directress Ms. Hedy Bautista. It was the school's second year to hold bazaars. Parents are informed and are invited to join the event. Since my cousin Lia is a parent, Creative Outlet was again visible. There were no problems encountered with the school and its organizers. We were happy to talk to the kids and let them try on our creations. Its always nice to be appreciated by kids, they really give honest to goodness review. A repeat next year will be definite.

Shop Till You Drop Christmas Bazaar 2009-BF Homes Paranaque

We were one of the first concessionaires who reserved and paid early for this bazaar. The event was hosted by Pinoy Events Management. Contact person is Ms Pam Codera. It was our first bazaar inside our village. We were excited and hopeful that the event will turn our to be great. Though we did good at our sales, there were a lot of things that can be improved. I wanted to tell Pam about it but I never got a glimpse of her during the bazaar's 2 day sale. I dont know why but I got this feeling that there were a lot of concessionaires who would do the same thing as I have in mind. Now for the big question, would Creative Outlet be there next year? Well.... lets wait and see.

Shekinah and BF Homes Shop Till You Drop Bazaar 2009

2009-12-07T16:44:00.005+08:00

The 4 day long bazaar paid off! We at Creative Outlet would like to thank everyone who supported us in these events. To those who unconditionally appreciated our works of art, to those who believed in us, and to those who ordered more, maraming salamat po!

More about the bazaars organizers in the next post :)

Crunch Time Again

2009-12-01T23:15:00.005+08:00

After all of the family events last weekend, I barely have two days to prepare for an upcoming 4 day bazaar. But I can and will do my best to create a little of everything I do best.

Crunch time = adrenaline rush = more creative juices flowing = colorful creations

See you all at the Shekinah Christian School grounds on December 3 and 4. Bazaar opens at 8am till 5pm. Then at BF Homes Paranaque Park on the 5th and 6th from 9am till your feet aches or till your wallet frowns on you :D

Happy Birthday

2009-11-26T10:32:00.003+08:00

Today would have been my Papa's 65th birthday. Happy Birthday Papa! I know that you are most happy celebrating your special day with the Lord. I will see you when the time comes. In the meantime, I hope that you are glad of the person I had become now. Happy birthday Papa! I love and miss you.

2 Wins for November

2009-11-23T17:12:00.005+08:00

Together with the legend Manny Pacquiao is a teacher in the person of Efren Penaflorida. Both gave our country prestige and honor. Both made every Filipino proud.

Manny Pacquiao recently gained his 7th belt, WBO welterweight title last November 15. He gave every Filipino an early Christmas gift. Manny at the forefront of success, each of us had been inspired to make good in our craft, we now dream big and we make all things possible to get our dream. From there we try new things to further perfect our crafts and make good in all the things we dip our fingers in. Manny not only touch our lives but also the lives of so many people around the world. Panalo ka Manny! Saludo ako syo!

Now here comes a very inspiring story of a person whose dreams of serving others became a reality. Teacher Efren Penaflorida started his dream early on in his teens. He established the Dynamic Teen Company an organization who provides free tutorials for underserved Filipino youths via the "pushcart classroom". Kuya Ef as he is fondly called by his students recently received a CNN Heroes Award. What a selfless dream he had. What a selfless person is he. What a selfless organization he has. Panalo ka Kuya Ef! Saludo ako syo!

Valle Verde 5 Mega Christmas Bazaar 2009

2009-11-23T14:56:00.008+08:00

It had been three years since Creative Outlet joined the bazaars held at Valle Verde 5, Pasig City Philippines. Three fruitful years of selling, meeting new friends, new clients and having new things to learn. The last two bazaars was with Red Golden Events managed by friends JR and Malou Tiu and Rishi and Jovan Lee.

Let me share with you some of the things I learned/observed from last weekend's event.

The management of Red Golden Events are very visible during bazaar days. I often see them taking photos of booths and talking with sellers. ---As a seller I feel very much at ease when organizers are always ready/visible to assist us in our questions/needs. Open communication is always fostered.
As always the booths are properly named and numbered.---It was not a difficult job for us to locate our booth. Though before hand we always review the floor plan and layout and remember our booth number, still this gesture from the organizers is a great help for sellers like me who becomes a bit crazy before a bazaar. Haha!
Be ready to have ample change.---Maybe it had become a routine but it helps a lot when I go to the bank a day before the bazaar and have them change my bills into smaller denominations. This way I do not bother anyone if a client hands in a large bill.
Have a mini tool kit with you.---This will make life really easy in a bazaar. Things like scissors, paper, ballpens, pins, extra packaging, pentel pens, and other paraphernalia needed to help you make a sale.
Always bring a big smile and a positive attitude with you.---This simple gesture of smiling and greeting your clients will make a huge difference on sales. A positive attitude will exude from within and be felt by clients. Clients will feel comfortable and will most often give you some of their precious time and money as well.
Make friends with other sellers.---You will never know if you will be meeting them again or if you will become one of their client one day. Having contacts is not bad...increase your network- they are there for us to explore and discover.

I hope you will are able to pick some tips which you can apply. Please do share some of your bazaar tips with me too :D

I have been holding on to this words of Ken Tan of Entrebuff.com- "It is about having the enterprising character to DREAM, CREATE and make great things happen for yourself and others". From these words I have formulated my entrepreneural strategy for the next year. I hope that I will continue dreaming and most especially continue on creating something for all of you.

New Moon: Opens Today

2009-11-20T09:50:00.003+08:00

New Moon the second book of the Twilight series is opening its doors at Philippine cinemas today! I cant help wonder how the movie will fair with its book content. How will Bella, Edward and Jacob make their audiences feel the "love triangle" involved. And how will Dakota Fanning portray the vampire we dread to be with. Well, lets watch and decide for ourselves. :D

Enjoy the weekend. Watch New Moon!

Valle Verde Christmas Bazaar

2009-11-17T23:02:00.003+08:00

See you all this coming weekend at the Valle Verde 5 Christmas Bazaar. It will be a fun filled weekend for all of us. Bazaar starts at 9am till 9pm. Wear you most comfortable shopping attire and go shop for your Christmas give aways. :D

Aluminum wire vs Copper wire

2009-11-09T14:33:00.008+08:00

Will I be playing with aluminum wire or copper wire today?

This question have always been a big dilemma for me every time I decide to work on a project. Like any beading material, copper wire and aluminum wire have its ups and downs. Let me share with you some of the things I have encountered so far.

Aluminum wire

In the beading store I frequent they have aluminum wire gauges 16-20, their wire gauge availability may be enough for some people like me who works with G-16-18 but it may not be for some serious wire workers.
Sometimes the wires are marred though I always wipe my wires with a terry cloth and follow it up with a kitchen scrub then again with my terry cloth.
You can get your wires per kilo basis. 1/4 kilo will go a long way.
Not all beads could fit in a G 16 wire which is my wire of choice when making beaded home accessories.
In time (about 2 years or so) aluminum wire looses its luster especially when the wire is subjected to frequent washing and scrubbing.
Wires are easy to twist and turn, very ideal for free form designs.

Copper wire

In the store I frequent there are lots of wire gauges to choose from and a lot of copper shades too.
Copper wires, in my opinion has more aesthetic appeal in terms of material to use when making jewelry.
You can also get your copper wires per kilo basis. I could make approximately 30-40 pieces of rings in a 1/4 kilo wire.
My first copper wire ring was in late 2007 and until now its still looks the way I got it.
I havent used copper wire to make free form designs though but I have been using it as base for my bead weaving ring projects. They turn out to be perfect with the help of my wigjig and my hilarious ideas and color matches.

Well I guess I didn't make enough comparison of both wires. I think it might be best if you could try them out and share your experiences with me instead. :D

Here are some of the projects I made using both wires.

Now, will I be playing with both wires today? Yes I am!

PsorPhil- Psoriasis Philippines

2009-11-02T22:43:00.009+08:00

Congratulations to the members and participants of the WPD (World Psoriasis Day) this year - Fun Walk and the recently concluded Hug Me Campaign 2009. Both activities were a HUGE success. With the many movie celebrities and some political figures gracing both events, it were really bound to be a big hit. It was a great honor that one of Manila's prime actors in the person of Robin Padilla supported the Hug Me Campaign together with other celebrities like Jake Cuenca, Robi Domingo and Nancy Castilione. The Imperial Palace Suites in Manila was jam-packed with psoriasis patients, their relatives and friends. Though I was not there to be with my "brothers and sisters", I am so happy for them and the team's success.

Thank you to the people behind both events, those who selflessly contributed - without your love of the community, both events will not be able to reach out and help people to be aware of what psoriasis is and that this disease is NOT CONTAGIOUS.

I have psoriasis and I'm not contagious.

Saludo ako sa inyong lahat mga kapatid!

Thank You MZ

2009-10-23T13:16:00.005+08:00

I am so honored to receive a blog comment from the author of Prophecy of the Sisters, Michelle Zink. These things doesn't happen to me everyday or better yet it doesn't happen to me at all (big smile).

Many many thanks Michelle. Your comment made my day too. Wait! on the contrary, it was a pick me up to my sad and restless week. :D

Happy weekend everyone!

Prophecy of the Sisters

2009-10-22T17:29:00.004+08:00

I had been down and out of the beading mojo since the Apex Event thing came into life. Until now we at Creative Outlet haven't had the chance to talk to the real organizers. Nor we had time to surprise them with a visit. Then again we wouldn't know what to say at their Village's security guards- we dont event know who really lives at the address we got from DTI. It was and is a sad thing. So sad that last weekend Din and I decided to give ourselves a break and reward.

Powerbooks is so near our place and what better way to reward oneself with - of course a book will do the trick. Yup, most of the time a good book is all it takes to make us smile and not ponder on the negative things that went our way.

Din got himself a techie book which I wound even try to understand. LOL! I on the other hand was not that too excited to get one but on the last minute as we were walking to the exit doors, a book, Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink, caught my eye. The book's cover made an impact of sorts, immediately I read the summary at the back. Though its a simple summary, at that moment I didn't hesitate one bit and just bought the book.

When we arrived home, I started reading and reading and reading. I couldn't take my eyes off the book. Though there are other things I have to do, most of the time I just stare at the book's cover and read the lines as though I am eating my favorite chocolate.

I didnt sleep last night, my agenda was to really finish the book but and I did at 5am this morning but I was surprised that this book is a first of a three or five part series! I couldnt believe my eyes as I read the last page, then I realized this is another series, another saga, another set of books! When when when will be the next book be released??????? I am relieving the feeling of having to acquire and read all of the books that came after The Woman of Substance by Barbara Taylor Bradford or the feelings I had with all the books of the Twilight Series. I even asked a cousin to get New Moon and Eclipse in Singapore.

But it is the waiting time that makes me more intense, more curious. Waiting gives me the pleasure of re-reading over and over again how sisters Lia and Alice became friends to enemies. The excitement is burning until the next book comes along.

My review: This book is amazing not only for young readers but with old timers like me. It is dark, goth like, mysterious, and really a page turner. I have cried, felt frustrated, been happy, been annoyed and hopeful with this book. Feelings that get me through the waiting time :D

Apex Events Bazaar Scam (update)

2009-10-19T22:48:00.004+08:00

As per Department of Trade and Industry the owner/s of Apex Events lives at

# 4 Cucumber Street, Valle Verde 5 Pasig, NCR

Apex Events Bazaar Scam

2009-10-16T21:29:00.007+08:00

Yes, you read it right, Creative Outlet have been a victim of a bazaar scam from Apex Events.

Apex Events is the organizer behind the would be bazaar at the Makati Sports Club on November 28-29. There were no notices informing us that the bazaar will no longer push through. Had my cousin Lia not call and confirm at the Makati Sports Club last Wednesday, we wont even know about it. What happened? Where are the organizers? How could this happen to us? How about our joining fee, how can we be able to claim our hard earned money back?

Apex Events had been a good host and organizer when we had our first bazaar at Valle Verder 5 December of 2007. To say the least the bazaar was a huge success and we promised to join other events to be hosted by Apex. Though in 2008, we were not able to encounter them in any of the bazaars we joined. Still they made a good mark on us and we wanted to work with them again. And now this???!!!!!!!!

I was really pissed off when Lia was telling me about it. I had so many questions that I tried calling their landline number found at their multiply site. Luckily I was able to get through their fax number. Let me share with you what transpired between me and the girl who answered.

carrie: hello, apex events office?
girl: sorry, hindi ito ang office ng apex events.
carrie: sino ang pwede kong kausapin regarding sa apex events?
girl: wala na ang apex events at wala na silang secretary.
carrie: ibig mo bang sabihin eh hindi na nag o-operate ang apex?
girl: tama
carrie: miss, ito kasi ang number na nakalagay sa multiply site nila, baka dito nakatira ang isa sa mga may ari ng apex?
girl: ah si justine go
carrie: nasaan si justine go, pwede ko ba sya makausap?
girl: wala si justine dito, nasa opisina
carrie: anong time uuwi si justine?
girl: madaling araw na
carrie: sige tatawag na lang ako ng madaling araw
girl: hindi sasagot ng phone si justine
carrie: bakit naman? nagtatago na ba sya?
girl: yan ang sinasabi ng maraming tao, pero hindi naman sya nagtatago at late lang umuuwi at maagang pumapasok sa opisina.
carrie: so ibig sabihin nga eh nagtatago sya
girl: isipin nyo na ang gusto nyong isipin
carrie: residential ba ito? anong address?
girl: # 42 riverside village pasig
carrie: ahh sa pasig pala ito, binaha kayo?
girl: oo
carrie: dapat lang kung ganyang ang ginagawa nyo sa kapwa nyo! sino ka? anong name mo?
girl: rina

After she said her name I slammed the phone down. I was so angry but I coundnt do anything about it. The people behind Apex are unreachable. I dont even know if that Justine Go really exists or that home number still exists. I just have this on mind...... let it be a learning experience for me and my cousin. Though we know that we could not possibly have our money back, we just hope that it was put to a good use.

We also found out that this had been happening as early as May 2009. To all the vendors who have been scammed like us, please share your story. Let us unite so that organizers such as Apex will no longer hurt others.

For your perusal.

Apex Events
c/o Justine Go
#42 Riverside Village
Pasig City
Landline : 480-5667
Fax: 655-9981

Four Seasons Bazaar at The Vue

2009-10-16T21:26:00.004+08:00

Repost from my cousin Lia.

Please be advised that this event has been cancelled.

Here is the letter from the organizer:

To All Exhibitors,

Due to the devastation caused by Typhoon Ondoy last September 26, we from Four Seasons Creative Ventures have decided to forego of the October bazaar at the Bellevue. This is to give time to honor and help with the relief efforts being offered to the typhoon victims .

Cuenca Bazaar

2009-10-07T00:33:00.004+08:00

I am fervently wishing that this coming weekend will be a different weekend - hoping for a bright and sunny two days. These days will be Creative Outlet's first stint at the Cuenca Bazaar. Bazaars held at Cuenca St in AAV is always always a great venue to showcase one's talent. Though Creative Outlet had been joining bazaars for the past 3 years now, we have been avoiding anything that has to do with Cuenca. Why? We felt that we still have a lot to hone with regards to our projects, techniques used, our table display and on how we mingle with our customers. Three years made a big difference. And now, we feel that we have grown, our projects are continuously evolving, we have learned and executed different beading techniques - we are ready and this coming weekend will be one "stormy" bazaar weekend sans the rain.

Wish us luck and hope to see you all this weekend!

Prayers for my Country

2009-09-29T13:36:00.003+08:00

Last Saturday's rainfall was not an ordinary one. Typhoon Ondoy made a big impact. Many areas were flooded up to the roofs of their houses. Cars washed away by raging water. Lives taken. Typhoon Ondoy made its mark in our lives, one that we will never forget.

Im asking for prayers for my relatives, friends, for those people who lost their lives, for those people who have lost family members, for those people who are going back to their muddy homes-trying to rebuild their lives, for those people who unselfishly offered their self, their time, their savings. Please please pray for them.

Filipinos are resilient. We will recover. We will endure. We will rebuild. We will rejoice once more.

Hug Me Campaign 2009

2009-09-25T11:03:00.005+08:00

It had almost been a year since my first Hug me Campaign. What would be in store for us for this year's Hug Me? Who will be the people I will have the chance to talk and mingle with? Will there be more psoriasis patients coming out? I hope so, since this is one perfect venue to be together to celebrate life and its complexities. :D

Here is a video made by co-Psorphil members Mark and Star.

Tree of Life

2009-09-15T23:57:00.012+08:00

Since I started researching and learning to do simple wire work, I have been enticed by how people do their own version of the famous tree. When you search the net, you would see countless interpretations in color, size and wire to use. I tried my hands with the materials I have on hand and came up with these results. Below are my translations.

Luckily all of these pendants were sold at our recently concluded bazaar last September 6 at the Tahanan Village. I even had pending orders to make and deliver. I think these made a statement all on its own. The Tree of Life made a debut at our booth and hopefully in every Filipina wardrobe.

My cousin reserved this piece before the bazaar. She got it the day before the show and brought it to Singapore and Bali as part of her wardrobe. Thanks again Meg!

Bazaar Caravan 2009

2009-09-14T23:34:00.006+08:00

It had been almost 3 years since I joined a bazaar. My first was at Tahanan Village Bazaar in 2007 with my cousins Lia and Irene as partners of Creative Outlet. Though cousin Irene opted to pursue a different endeavor, Lia and I continued on with the biz, maintaining the fire so to speak. From our first show of 2007 we have been to our first Bazaar Caravan in 2008. And now we our on our way to our second Bazaar Caravan. Who would imagine that we could sustain the fire and the passion with what we do. Though we may not be able to create all the things that our imaginations can dream of, we are happy with what we can do and will be able to do in the future. That said, I would like to invite all of you to join me and Lia to a never ending world of color, shapes, beads, laughter and happines as we look forward yet again for another fun-filled Bazaar Caravan for 2009.

1st---was at the recently concluded Tahanan Village Bazaar and Foodfest
2nd--- will be at Gawad Kalinga CFC Best Buy Bazaar at Cuenca Ayala Alabang Village on October 10-11 from 9am-7pm
3rd--- will be at the Bellevue Hotel Bazaar on October 24-25
4th--- is on November 21-22 at the Valle Verde 5 Christmas Bazaar from 9am-1030pm
5th--- will be on November 28-29 at the Christmas Wish Bazaar, Makati Sports Club from 9am-7pm
6th---will be at the Shop Till You Drop at UBFHAI on December 5-6

Our schedule dates are quite hectic but we are all set, projects completed, new items on hand, with a lot of surprises awaiting every modern girl!

Come and see us at these shows and Im sure you will have the best Christmas gifts for that special someone, family and friends.

Tahanan Village Bazaar Pictures

2009-09-08T23:01:00.007+08:00

Here are pictures from last Sunday's Tahanan Village Bazaar.

Lia and me with Tita Nini behind our booth set up. Yes we know there are a lot of things we can improve. Dont worry we are working on it ASAP. =)

Our friend Kathy's booth (she's the one in red together with her sister and husband). She sold organic products. Im so proud of you Kathy! You showed me how to be the best sales person I can be. You're a terrific example my dear! Good job! Go Green! Go organics!

Cousins and friends behind the food booth. Keep on believing in yourselves kids. I know you can do good next time. Do your share and believe that you can...blessings will come a hundred fold.

Bazaar Lessons

2009-09-08T21:16:00.009+08:00

Everyday we learn something new and improve the things we know. It had been 3 years now that my cousin Lia and I have joined bazaars, still there were so many things that had to be learned. I would like to share with you some of those.

SMILE! - Though we sometimes feel uncomfortable, say the weather is too hot or its raining, we have to smile for our customers. This gesture never failed me and my cousin. Sometimes a customer is just passing by but a very warm smile can make her/him stop by the booth and most often than not she/he brings home a bag or two.
An organized set up.- a messy booth will never make an impression. We must be creative not only with what we sell but with our booth set up as well. . We can showcase our items by color scheme or by make.
Make sure you have a SALE corner. - There are people who are bargain suckers. They dont get tired rummaging around the sale area like there is no tomorrow. I myself is a lover of bargains! Grab them while their there or be sorry!
Dont get the negativity of other vendors pull you down.- Well, there are really people who find fault in others. Im my opinion these kinds of people should not be permitted to join bazaars or any show for that matter. Sometimes they take my groove out of me. I just remind myself over and over the reasons why Im doing this and that they are not included in those reasons.
Never look bored or not interested in what's going on even when we are (sometimes or most of the time). - Some customers like to be attended to and some dont. Either way, we should be very approachable and attentive to them. Let us not be a regular sales person, let us be the best sales person we can.
Dress the part of an artist.- Yup, I know I am my best model. I tried my best and I succeeded...me wearing dangling earrings and a statement ring is such a huge success!
Most of all - have FUN.- I did and I hope my cousins did too.

Many many thanks to my cousin Lia for forever supporting me in this events. We are the team behind Creative Outlet.

To my other cousins who tried their luck selling food. Andy, your homemade sauces are great! Just believe that you can, I know you can do it. One step at a time kiddo! To my Aunt Julia, your banana cakes sold like ice cream! Yey! To James and Pao, I loved your Tacos so much. And Abby, it was the first time I tasted quesadillas and I love it. Let us keep on trying to be our best all the time. Though sometimes we loose and sometimes we win, there are still a lot of winning when we learn from our mistakes.

And of course, our compound family and compound friends - Im so happy to see you there supporting our booth and the food booth too. It is very rare to see family and friends during these kinds of events but you were all there for us...forgetting about the rain, humidity and the wet feeling. Thank you so much!

See you all again at Bellevue Hotel Bazaar on October 24 and 25.

Bazaar Surprises

2009-08-26T21:57:00.012+08:00

Here are some of the things that people will see in my upcoming bazaar. I hope they will like them. Each piece is done with a lot of love, time and inspiration. Of course with milk and music too. Oh and a little bit of dancing as well. :D

Enjoy!

I will still showcase my bestsellers- serving and dining spoon and forks, those colorful bag jewels and cute mobile twinkies.

Bazaar Preparations

2009-08-26T00:47:00.008+08:00

I am currently preparing for my upcoming bazaar to be held on the first Sunday of September. I have been beading seriously since the start of August though I don't think I have enough for the event. A little bit of everything worked for quite sometime but then again I had to work and make something new, and when I do that, I feel like starting all over again. Aarrgghh!

Bazaars makes me crazy. I tend to do all my projects at the same time. Monday-Tuesday=bracelets, Wednesday-Thursday=earrings, Friday= rings, Saturday=bag jewels and Sunday=beaded utensils. The thing is.....can I be strict and follow? If only I will be able to follow my self imposed schedule, bazaar life will be so much easier. But what the heck! I'll be in the bazaar come first Sunday of September, prepared or not I think the bottom line here is to have FUN. And I will definitely have one!

Flickr Bug Bit Me

2009-08-24T18:55:00.003+08:00

I know its a tad late but.....Flickr ROCKS! Finally I succumb to having my Flickr account. Not the techie person that I am, I bugged Din the whole night just to teach me how to use Flickr's awesome features. Now I can upload my own photos and arrange them in sets- what an accomplishment! Its still a work in progress though but I bet before the week ends I'll be able to upload all of my work's photos.

Lovin' My New Look

2009-08-18T00:26:00.004+08:00

I have been searching and searching for my blog's look for the longest time, and now Im lovin' what I have done. I ditched my old template and opted for the simpler and free template found at blogger.com My main reason for searching for that "perfect look" is not to compete with the wonderful pictures Din does for my creations. I wanted the pictures to speak for themselves, to be the focus of the entry. Thus I have been tweaking with the different colors and fonts available at blogger.com and have finally settled for "this look".

Though I still have to add a few details, I know that this look will definitely be the ONE for a long, long time.

I hope you enjoy my new look as I have been enjoying it!

Happy Birthday and Welcome Home

2009-08-14T19:07:00.009+08:00

Happy Birthday Hanebe!!! Isn't it nice that for 16 days every year we get to be the same age?! I cant think of any other reason not to celebrate. That said...where would you treat me for lunch and dinner tomorrow? Haha! We eat...you pay :)

Welcome home too. After a hectic 1.5 weeks away, I'm sure you need a lot of resting and pampering. Oh, that begins at dinner tonight! Surprise!!!!!

Projects from the Heart

2009-08-05T23:10:00.015+08:00

My version of the Tree of Life. I used aluminum wire for the basic frame of the necklace. Copperwire as the trunk and branches. Amber colored chips as leaves. This project was a hit and miss for a few minutes then I settled for the look that I wanted.

When my cousin Meg saw the pictures, she had it reserved right away. Glad that she liked it. Give me a picture Meg once you wear it. :)

This piece is my version of the Bird's Nest. I had a difficult time making this baby but when it was done, I had a big smile on my face! It was small (circumference of a 1 peso coin) and I had to manually make my coils. I used fresh water pearls as eggs. The earrings though really made the work a tedious task. But hey...it wouldn't yield a satisfying result if it weren't for the nitty gritty things. :)

Ah this piece...is my first freehand piece. I call it Morning Glory. I had fun twisting and making curves of the aluminum wire. When I got "the look" it was time to "sew" the beads on it. It took me about an hour to finish this. Not bad for a freehand piece. :)

Enjoy!

Worth the Wait

2009-07-30T18:41:00.015+08:00

At long last Din had sometime to take pictures of my creations. It took a while since he came from Malaysia. He came back exhausted, sickly and stressed out. To top it all, the first Monday when he got back he had to be at the office to entertain a visitor from the project he was into. That first week back was hell for both of us. Luckily the second week was a bit slow both in the home front and at the office. Yesterday, I was so happy when he told me that he will be taking pictures of my work as soon as he gets up. Yay!

And so here they are:This was the first ever wirework I did. After burying myself at Donna Spadafore's site and at Jewelry Lessons by Eni Oken and friends, here is the finished product. I used a murano glass like centerpiece, copper coated wire for the base wire and copper wire for weaving. Thanks Donna for your inspiration and tutorials. Thanks too at JL.com for the tips, techniques, tutorials and the gallery. Cheers!

My second attempt. I think it turned out to be just fine. It took me the whole evening to make this. I used murano glass like for the center bead, aluminum wire as base wire and copper wire for weaving. I really had a superb time coiling manually. It took my breath away! Maybe I should try coiling with a drill sometime or better yet get myself a coiling gizmo! Saves time but would strip me off the happiness I feel for every coil I make. Haha!

It was really worth the wait. Thanks Honey for the great pictures. I owe you one!

Jewelry Lessons

2009-07-18T11:45:00.012+08:00

About 3 days ago I stumbled upon a site that teaches people how to make jewelries. Jewelry Lessons by Eni Oken and Friends. I thought I would find a lot of tutorials on how to help me spice up the projects I am into now. But lo and behold! jewelry lessons is a site for wire lovers! And what a coincidence that I am bored with my free hand wire designs and wanted to put on more.

JewelryLessons.com opened my eyes to a new world with wire. A world where the saying "the possibilities are endless" is so TRUE. I have been up burning the midnight oil browsing through the site's many tutorials (downloaded the free ones *wink*), reading the articles and tips section, giving out comments and familiarizing myself with their more than a hundred teachers' work of art. Still I couldn't get my eyes off the site, the excitement keeps on mounting with every page I read. :)

Because of JL.com my craft table is in chaos now with everything I have that could help me with my first serious wirework. I just have to decide on what to do and how to execute my plan. :) For that.....stay tuned!

Back to Work

2009-07-15T16:43:00.005+08:00

I had a blast spending time with my sister, her family and our big family in the province and here in Manila, most especially in Hong Kong. We had the chance to travel together and visit HK again. It was the best bonding time ever. :) Vacation time though was over when my sister flew back to Abu Dhabi first week of this month.

I on the other hand started working in preparation for an upcoming bazaar sometime in August. I started my luck with making jewelry using wire. I spent a week working with making earrings--new projects that I want to showcase for the upcoming bazaar. I also tried my hand with bracelets using half hard wires. Yes, I had those frustrated out of the world moments! LOL! But I did get it right (as per my standards) :) Now Im into making wire pendants. Easy to make, free hand one of a kind wirework designs. I havent decided yet if I will put beads on them though. Maybe I will, just to give more dimension and weight.

I'll share some of my work with you when Din takes photos of them. Soooon!!!!

Family Time

2009-06-12T15:41:00.012+08:00

10 people.
5 mini families.
4 couples.
3 daughters.
3 son in laws.
1 son.
1 daughter in law.
1 niece.
1 grandmother.
1 photographer.
1 special day.
1 photo opportunity.
1 BIG HAPPY FAMILY.

seated: My Mom Peach and niece Nicole
standing from left: Din, me, bro in law Derrick, sister Jetty, sister Joyce, bro in law Eric, sister in law Lyn and brother Patok

1 family. 1 love. 1 heart.

After 2 Years

2009-06-04T21:50:00.006+08:00

By 4pm tomorrow my sister and her family will be arriving at the airport for a month long vacation. It had been two years since we saw each other. Two years since the Marcelo family were complete. I have thought of many things for girl bonding, this time we will be including our youngest sister. She got married last year and is now officially included in the "bonding time".

Photo was taken....yes that was 2 years ago! We have to have our picture taken again this year. It might take another two years for us to be "together" again.

Cant wait for bonding time to begin. Yay!

Saw You Yesterday

2009-05-31T17:31:00.004+08:00

I didnt imagine I will be able to see you yesterday but I did and I felt happy. We didnt have the chance to hug or even chat but its enough to see you even just for a short time. You look good and slimmer, healthier too. Exercise really does make wonders. keep it up.

I hope to see you and spend time with you longer dear Russ. Btw, when are you and D coming over the compound?

Goodbye Summer...welcome rainy season

2009-05-31T17:08:00.005+08:00

I think summer just said its goodbye yesterday, vacation over. Rainy season almost immediately took over and made the weather cold, wet and dark. I cant possibly enjoy going out enjoy the wet and not feel gloomy. But just as always when the rainy season is here and I cant do anything about it, I always always sit down and start planning for new designs for my beading, wire working and dream about making a scrapbook layout.

With the radio on, my favorite music playing...a hot cup of coffee on hand- I immerse myself with experimenting with all of the possible designs I could think of making. The months of June and July marks the start of the most busiest months of my year. Experimenting with different designs, wire gauges, beads and planning how many will I make consumes all of my time within these months.

During the sunny months I have surfed the net on different jewelry designs to try and have compiled a lot of things to experiment. Here the two sites I visit most- Beading Daily and Wire Jewelry. These sites make me awake until the wee hours of the night. Sometimes I even get up and go to my craft area to work on some projects I cant seem to get out of my mind.

I hope to post some finished projects at Creative Outlet soon.

Go Go Go Manny!

2009-05-04T22:33:00.005+08:00

Congratulations Pacman!!!!

Watch him here