DIY Bookworm Set Up : Birthday For a Cause

Event Styling is always a good idea. And when a good friend asked if I'm willing to volunteer for a cause and style a specific theme for an event, I giddily said yes.

I am staunch supporter of rustic motif and minimalist with a hint of muted hues, Now,I know that's a lot to take in and you might think it's all over the place. But trust me, with the right location and elements, you can absolutely pull this off.

So when I was assigned the bookworm setup, I immediately created a Pinterest board and pinned every picnic style/reading corner pegs I could find. It was such a joy to plan every detail and scout for props. An ocular is obligatory to visualize the setup and ensure that everything will suit as planned.

It's my first ever outdoor themed set up and I had mixed feelings on how it will turn up. My head was rambling with a lot of ideas. I didn't want it too look too "overly adorned" and I didn't want it to be too bare either. A tepee and picnic mat were the core items of the set up. With the help of friends, we're able to make the pillars for the tepee. We bought the cloth at very reasonable price and even got scraps for free which we eventually used for buntings.

I wanted a relaxed look hence I figured a swing would be a good element to boost the reading corner look. The white/blue light bulbs added romance which complemented the swing. To inject rustic vibe and a hint of vintage feel, we added old wine boxes, weaved basket and pillows in hues of brown and beige. There were long stemmed flowers and piles of books in one corner along with the Polaroids scattered on the picnic blanket.
The mini bicycle added a bit of playful wit to the entire ensemble.

As soon as we're almost done with the setup and I was almost way too eager to see the final look, a roving team approached us and requested for a permit. We didn't have any as we thought we're allowed to hang things anywhere given it's a public park. We were so complacent at the thought that it's for public use and become oblivious that this is Singapore and they have strict laws and high respect for nature. We were asked to take down the Tepee, remove the buntings, light bulbs and yes, the swing. It broke my heart to see everything taken down. And as much I wanted to bawl and rant, we did the opposite. We were doing the set up for a Photo Marathon and for a good cause. We can't let a little mishap ruin everything we planned for. So instead of whining, we re-arranged everything as a picnic set up while maintaining the elements we initially thought of.


The buntings were used as a background for couples who would like to take their couple shots. The light bulbs were placed around the reading corner. We were done as soon as the guests start to come in. I smiled sheepishly as I gazed at the finished setup. It was a work of love rooted for a good cause.



There were 3 setups done for this marathon and everyone poured their heart and thoughts to ensure that the backdrop will be picture worthy. The event was indeed a success. A birthday celebration for our 2 year old Anika and surprisingly managed to raise an amount which exceeded our preset goal .

There is something poignant about the image of people coming together for a cause and this experience was an eye opener for me. I've come to an understanding that more than the monetary assistance, there are different ways by which we can bless others. We can be generous with our  skills, time, talent and resources. With the proper mindset, objective and heart; we are empowered to unselfishly give, with no serving motives. Giving is always better than receiving and though it's human nature to believe that when have more, we can give more; if you come from this mentality you never have enough of anything to give.You gain more when you give and it's something which cannot be quantified nor measured. It fills your heart and entire being. So be generous of whatever you have and be cheerful in doing it; because it is when we lose ourselves for others that we can truly find joy beyond any possessions.

Xo,
Jhesy 

Review : Luxe Singapore

Finding "a hole in the wall restaurant" and chancing upon instragrammable cafes have been my fancy as of late.

My friends say that I value aesthetics more than quality and quite frankly, that is somewhat true at times but not most often. I adore quaint set ups, minimalist interiors injected with rustic vibe that any cafes or restaurants with this theme would surely lure me in.

I've been in a couple of boutique cafes in Singapore and one thing they have in common - pricey. That shouldn't be surprising considering SG is one of the most expensive countries as per Yahoo. Yes, they would all cause a dent in your wallet hence dining frequently is highly discouraged. But food is a basic necessity and not really considered a luxury isn't it? So let me take you to this cozy cafe which I found just a few blocks from my workplace.

When I was sourcing for a place to catch up, chill and just pass time, I'd pen down these 3 things to consider.

1. Location

2. Reviews on Food and Price

3. Ambiance

I decided to meet up with a friend to go over my laptop dilemma ( my entire photo library has decided to quit on me ) and I panicked at the very least realizing years of memories now down the drain. ( be sure to BACK UP your photos  - note to self ). Was going over a list of several cafes in Tanjong ( I was bit biased as I didn't want to wander off from the city ) and found Luxe Cafe which is located at Keong Saik Rd at the Working Capitol Bldg. It's a 10-min leisurely walk from Cantonment Center.

As I turned left at Keong Saik Rd, I immediately saw "Luxe" written on the white pillars of the Capitol Bldg. This Sydney based cafe is nothing short of spectacular. The door opens to a lounge with vibrant colored sofas adorned with a center table and candles. It looks so inviting that it could easily pass of a hotel lobby. I was greeted by the waiter and ushered me to my reserved seat. The photos from their website did justice to the minimalist interiors of the restaurant. It was  mix of sophistication, class and relaxed ambiance. Uncluttered and luxurious.

The menu is limited however they are very much willing to prepare the avocado toast even though it's  30 minutes past 7pm.  They're all friendly, warm and generous. I was looking for something light yet filling and within my price range. The Seared Salmon in Chilli Caramel Dressing (S$28) was my first bet. It was prepared with utmost gusto. A mix of flavors and textures which rolled perfectly on my tastebuds. I just wish the serving was a bit more considering the price.

My friend on the other hand ordered the Luxe Burger with Grass Fed Beef (S$28). He said it was good but forgettable. There's really nothing amazing or special with the taste.

To cap things off, we ordered the much hyped about dessert - Pandan Madeleines ( S$8 ). It was moist, soft and not too fluffy. But forget about the bread, the main show stealer was the "kaya". It was by far the best Kaya I ever had in my 4 years in Singapore. It tastes like vanilla with a hint of zest and a bit of pandan. It was oh so good!

Luxe exhibits an Aussie cafe vibe. The spaces are wide, clean and woody. We thought we're ready to head off when the waiter asked if we are keen to have a slice of cake. We're a bit reluctant but then he said it's from Sunday and they won't be selling it. It was Tuesday and who am I to say no to a FREE slice of delicious chocolate cake. Needless to say, I devoured it in a jiffy.

Luxe Sydney tops the list of the cafes I've been to in Singapore. The service is well executed and you can see the heart put into every dish. It's minimalistic interiors makes it the perfect place for a relaxed weekend brunch and after work drinks. It is well situated, smacked in the middle of Outram MRT and Tanjong Pagar making it a popular spot for yuppies so booking a reservation is highly advertised.

There are still a bit of things to improve on but overall, I'd give this cafe a 4-star rating for its overall ambiance, food and service. It's your ticket to experience that little piece of luxury right in CBD.

Xo,

Jhesy

Do You like You?

So you met this really cool guy or say charming girl and realized how awesome their personalities are, then light bulb comes on and you find the need to tailor fit yourself with their personalities for seamless talking points and eventually lead them to like you. Sure does hit close to home right? 

We all want to be liked. We live in this constant pursuit of gaining approval and validation. Obsessed into transforming ourselves in who we think we need to be in order for people to like us. We even go to great extent in copying what they like, how they dress up, what movies or series they been binging on or even the type of filters they use on Instagram- and for what? So it would be easier to connect and find common ground?

We're all guilty of this at one point or another. We create this version of ourselves and accord ourselves with their standards in order to fit in and be accepted. And why not? Of course we want people to like us. Case in point, life would be infinitely easier, first dates wouldn't be so awkward, a client meeting would exceedingly get a green light if you can get them to like your idea and small talks wouldn't be such a pain if you are all on the same boat. 

We live in an age where personality is measured by social metrics and it sure does put a lot of pressure to modify ourselves. Hence, people exert a whole lot of effort to be somebody they're not. But get this, if you were stripped off of all these fake ideas of who you thought you should be, if you bare yourself and be who you really are, would you even like you? If you met you, would you dare say, "Hey you're awesome and I genuinely like you"

Yes? No? And if not, why do you think so? I figured that if you let yourself have an open mind and accept the things you need to change for the better; rather than morphing yourself into someone you're not, people will genuinely like you. Wouldn't be great if people would come up to you  and you'll make a connection because of the real you? 

So, I have this #theory on how to get people to genuinely like you for the right reasons. Like and love yourself. No can ever be you. No one is you. So accept your flaws, celebrate your individuality and identify the things you need to work on for the better. Go about and do good. Let your inner light shine through by being confident in your beliefs and preferences. Lastly, be a positive force to influence others instead of pulling them down. 

So I leave you with these lines from "Try" :

Take your make up off

Let your hair down

Take a breath

Look into the mirror at yourself

Don’t you like you

Cause I like you

Xo,

Jhesy 

New Heights #2016LooksGood

Another year has ended and a new one begins. How did yours ring in? 2015 has turned out to be surprisingly good if not better than the previous one. What a year it has been! Truly, 2015 was a year of discoveries, overcoming fear and learning more about myself and the vast world around me.

I feel I have grown immensely in the most recent months, made several adult decisions, failed at some, yet stood right back up. I've met a lot of people who inspired me to discover more about my faith, passion and relationships. They say nothing happens by accident and I firmly believe that all of the events which occurred prior, no matter how challenging and at times hurtful they may be; they were tapestry of events that culminate in an exquisite, sublime plan, a life story authored by the Big Man up there. Everything seemed to have fallen into their rightful place and created a domino effect to lead me through each step towards happiness.

My biggest takeaway from last year is that you have control of over your life. Your happiness is always a personal choice and should not be dependent on anyone else. When you find your niche, even that little piece of joy, hold on to it. It all starts with attitude and keeping a positive perspective, doing things out of love and going through life in a constant forward movement.

So here we are, three days into the new year. I am grateful for the year that was. For days spent traversing on unknown paths and foreign lands. Embracing the culture and learning a thing or two from the people I met from each trip. For every shoreline, sunsets and sunrise sessions I've witnessed from the several beach escapades I have gone through. For opportunities given which helped me  to grow by tenfold. I was given a chance to discover a different side of me, to blossom in my own right ( starting this blog ) and led me closer to God. For the priceless time spent with my family and friends, though miles apart; the distance ironically pulled us closer together.

I am casting my eyes further and looking ahead, praying fervently that 2016 will take me to new heights. I am excited to see  how this year will turn out. First of is to take care of myself more by taking the time to eat healthy and try to at least exercise. I would like to be able to travel to places I've never been before. To finally learn that 3rd language with I failed to take on last year. I promised myself to brave on other things I long dreamed of and commit to writing more out of passion and heart. Do volunteer work and use whatever talent I have to participate in a ministry and serve. And lastly, if I'm brave enough, open myself to the possibility of allowing my heart to fall in love again.

Then again, life is all about taking risks, growing to be better, sowing seeds of love and kindness and taking the leap of faith. We should let go of our fears, aim/soar high and follow our bliss. Let us allow ourselves to fail, to be hurt, to face and overcome trials with a determined spirit, grace , strength and perseverance. Let's take on new adventures, fall more in love with life. Stay inspired and do more of what makes you happy.

Cheers to 2016 and don't quit that daydream.

Travel Diary : Kwebang Lampas

I know the title may seem odd to some but don't let it put you off because once you get to experience this unspoiled paradise, I can assure you that you will also find that little piece of heaven somewhere not far from home.



I grew up in the province of Quezon and spent almost every summer at the beach. I remember the black, coarse sands and salty wind. The pungent smell of the sea as fishermen brought their haul to the shores with the awaiting buyers and sellers. I didn't mind that salt water turned my hair into a dry mess nor that my skin is burnt because there's something about the vast waters that feels like a safe place, a solace.


Kwebang Lampas has been gaining rave reviews on social media and I was surprised to learn that this majestic beauty is only an hour from where I live. I've lived in Quezon most of my life and it felt like this paradise is right under my nose yet I failed to recognize it. So when I finally got the chance to go home last June, I've requested my family to join me on this adventure. I've looked up the photos and I still couldn't believe my eyes that somewhere so close to my hometown is a paradise patiently waiting to be discovered.




We hired a jeepney to take us to the Capascapas near the power station, this is the jump off to Kwebang Lampas. At the jump off, there's a lake clad by mangrove. You can hire a boat for 25php to take you to the other side. If you're into trekking then you can hike your way to Kwebang Lampas. Flex those legs and walk for a good 10-15 minutes. The road is a bit tricky, though safe. There were lot of scattered branches and it can be slippery during off season.
You can opt to take the shorter route with a price of course. With 250php you can reach the pristine beach by boat in about 3-5 minutes.







It was mid June and contrary to the rainy weather forecast, it felt like summer. We literally had the entire island to ourselves. I took a deep breath and decided to float in the water for a few minutes. I felt a sense of freedom.I spent the entire morning basking under the scorching heat of the sun while bumming around with my siblings and their children. My parents watched us patiently under the nipa hut.





The island is a stretch of white, fine sand with a mix of scuba blue and lucite green clear waters. It is surrounded by tall, coconut trees and nipa huts.. The bermuda grass under the shade of the coconut trees was indeed a surprise. I lay there for a couple of hours, eyes closed while listening to the sound of the waves, disconnected from the digital world.







At the far end of the island is a small cave surrounded by rocks. It is easily accessible via a short swim or trek among the rocks. The cave which spans through under a cliff protruding out from the mountain ranges.It’s a relatively small cave that has an opening out to sea. The water inside the cave is shallow and noticeably warmer than the waters of the cove . The openings on both ends of the cave serve to illuminate its interior.






Kwebang Lampas is certainly a quick beach escapade whether you're residing in the Metro or somewhere in Quezon Province. By 5pm, we found ourselves in an outrigger ready to head back to the city. With smile on our lips, we bid goodbye to Kwebang Lampas. It was a whole day of laughter, family bonding and tons of photographs.Being there with my loved ones was an added bonus to this new found gem.With its unspoiled beach and pristine waters, it felt like it's a secret you wish you could keep in the hope of preserving its true nature. Truly a paradise worth visiting over and over again.