Elie-ment of Surprise

Sneaky, sneaky, H&M.

I've been wondering and researching if H&M will have another designer collaboration, and it usually comes out blank.

But this weekend, they surprised us with this:

Elie Saab x H&M!

I've been a fan of this Lebanese designer for years now. I'm drawn to his very elegant and feminine point of view. He does a lot of red carpet gowns and bridal dresses, and they're always very luxe and fashionable.

And judging by the images that are being provided so far, he's bringing this high glam to H&M.

Can't wait for October!

FMM: Lightning strikes

Today is Kidlat day!

It's that time of the year where Philippine creatives gather to learn, network, and recognize the work that ad people work tirelessly on.

This year is more fun because of the judging duties that was assigned to me. And it's interesting to see how that shortlisting judging will pan out in the finals.

While waiting for that, let's put another kidlat on the spotlight for Friday Magic Madness. 

"Grease Lightnin'" is a 1978 song by John Travolta from the film "Grease." It's one of the fun and upbeat songs, and it still is one of the most memorable and popular ones, alongside "You're the one that I want," and "Hopelessly devoted to you."

They really struck gold with this song.

Mith Universe

Thanks to Mark, I've got a fresh stash of Mith Bangkok perfume!

The best of the best when it comes to this brand is definitely "Nude." Scent Takes isn't exaggerating when she says that this is one of - or maybe the - best skin scent ever. It really embodies the "your skin but better" philosophy.

It's so popular that it's also difficult to get. 

Mark told me that when he went to the Mith stall in Central World, the staff said that Nude was out of stock. But she advised him to try to come back in a few hours since they might have a restock. Thankfully, Mark did, and he was able to get 2 bottles of Nude, plus 2 other scents.

Now, my universe of perfumes is complete.

Cool clock

Every time we have a 4As meeting at Nokal, this clock catches my eye.

Wonder where they bought this?

'Tis the season for defrosting

It's September 1!

Aside from JMC, it's her time to make her grand entrance.

After all, all we want for Christmas is Mariah!

Cat Condos

The cat caretakers in Ortigas Center are really serious at good at doing their jobs.

They even made this home for the kittens in Ortigas Park.

After all, there are a lot of condos in the area. Why shouldn't the cats have one of their own?

Family Affair

No, this isn't a Mary J. Blige post.

Then again, why. not?

"Family Affair" is one of those songs that fall under the "What?! This song is 25 years old now?!"

But I digress.

This post is actually about Toni's bazaar in Gateway this weekend. Mom, Dad and I went there today. As expected, the lines were long and there was a clamor for Toni's yummy cakes and Dubai chewy cookie. 

Because the lines were consistently long, we did our little parts to help out. Suddenly, Dad became a line manager, directing people in line and calling the next customer.

My duty was to buy food for the group, and pitched in with the packing.

Another successful bazaar for Sweet Tones! 

The family is so proud of her!

Who am I to judge?

But apparently, I can!

Honored to be part of the shortlisting jury for this year's Kidlat Awards. 

Watching and judging all the entries reminds me of my days of a young creative. And seeing the work showed me that creativity can really come from anywhere.

Sometimes, being judgmental can be fun.

Hello. Farewell.

To have a Friday Magic Madness song featuring Dolly Parton is apt, considering that she just passed away a few days ago.

But let's give her another kind of tribute.

The type that goes back to 1969, and features the unforgettable voices of Louis Armstrong and Barbra Streisand.

"Hello Dolly," was originally sung by Louis Armstrong in 1964, for the musical of the same name. It was one of his biggest hit songs, and even won awards in 1965. Then, in 1969, the musical had a film adaptation, and this is where his duet with Barbra came about.

If you listen to the lyrics, it could very well been talking about Dolly Parton. 

"I feel the room swayin' while the band's playin'
One of your old favourite songs from way back when
So golly, gee, fellas have a little faith in me, fellas
Dolly'll, never go away, promise you never go away
Dolly'll, never go away again"

She might have gone ahead, but considering the legacy she left, "Dolly, you'll never go away again."

SoMeone's excited

They say that Christmas in the Philippines officially begins on September 1. 

Or does it.

It's August 27 and you can already see this at SM.

Even n August, they've got it all - including Christmas - for you!