Time of the Month: Dealing with Dysmenorrhea

Tweet Im two days delayed, missing out my 28-day cycle. Probably it's my body's way of making up for the "lost" days last month when I had my period twice for the month of December. But im not worried, and troubled, and stressed out. Im just so glad I wont deal with paranoia this time. Im sure my "visitor" will come sometime this week, probably tonight when Im enjoying a good dream with my Romeo.. or maybe tommorrow.. and biggest possibility just on a day when you least expect it, and just when you hate to deal with it.. like when you have a date, a presentation or a good plan; which is always the case.

I should be eating fish and greens now to combat dysmenorrhea. Ive read that taking paracetamol on the first sign of cramps, and taking every two hours would relieve the possible pain. Then of course, there's the ever reliable hot compress, which works in numbing my abdomen.

They say there are two types of girls. There are the ones who are mad and hate the week whenever they got their periods. And there are those who are always happy, thankful and relieved whenever the spots came (despite the dysmenorrhea and a week of discomfort and pain).

I absolutely know which group I belong now.. but I terribly miss the guy who gives me the monthly paranoia..

Pearly Pearls

Tweet South Sea Pearls are a girl's new bestfriend. Name them Freshwater, Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea Pearls.

I just practically spent my afternoon with my student Jun researching for a perfect gift for his mom. The gesture is so sweet for a son, I soo much agree. But being a receiver of such a gift would be the sweetest moment I think.

We went to Zuniga Jewellery Store in Greenhills, which is owned by my friend's friend, and I practically fell inloved with their pieces. My student is eyeing the white gold pendant with diamonds and 11mm South Sea Pearl, with an omega necklace - the set practically is a steal for price.
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I'm not very fond of jewelry, and I'm so much content with my fresh water pearl sets (which i usually wear for that classic and polished look); but one thing is for sure, jewelry is a good investment. It's such a blessing to live in this country where pearls, and good quality pearls for this matter, are produced and marketed.

Here are some tips on buying and choosing a good pearl: Check the LUSTER which is the intense deep shine of the pearl. The larger the pearl, the more luster it exhibits. Then, there's SHAPE which can be round, off round, semi baroque, teardrop and oval. The SURFACE of the pearl should be checked as well. The quality of a good pearl, (South Sea Pearl for this matter), is smooth, without spots and bubbles. And of course, the SIZE. Smallest is Freshwater Pearls (max of 7mm), and the biggest South Sea Pearls which can go as big as 14mm.

I was surprised though that 1mm difference for South Sea Pearl can cost like $250!

Now, before I go buying a "new bestfriend", I think I have to scout around for a man who will be more than willing to introduce me to these new bestfriends..

Clair Naylor Book After a Night Out

Tweet I missed my room..

Such a hassle that my commitment this morning was postponed. I only had 4 hours of sleep last night, and I got up early and battled the traffic just to be informed that the meeting was postponed.

Last night I went out with my Korean student and explored Eastwood. I would like to think he had fun and enjoyed the view and crowd in Eastwood, since he said there's not such a place like that in Korea. Like an industrial sort of park. We had dinner in Pasto, and he was a gentleman to accommodate my cravings for Italian food. But of course, we had to wait for two hours for my friend to arrive before we were able to eat dinner and indulge. He told me it's impolite and not proper to start eating not unless all the "attendees" arrive. It's a Korean custom, that I just followed and respected last night - while I was cursing my friend through texts and blaming traffic in Metro for my stomach's misfortune. Anyway, after I've had 3 refills of raspberry iced tea and smoked dozen sticks of Marlboro lights, my friend finally arrive (with a swollen-i-havent-had-enough-sleep-yet-eyes).

We had dessert and coffee after in Jack's Loft, which I personally think is not the best place for me to relax, and defintly not a conducive place for my student to practice his conversational skills (and listening skills). But since my friend is so hyped up in the place, plus the Decadent Cake and Oreo Cheesecake are divine, who am I to complain? Was it just me and my age, that I feel that I've outgrown the whole thing now? Or should I just blame myself for being a certified bum for the longest time, and my new definition of fun is enjoying a good book in my pajamas?

Just the same, it was a great night. It's been a while since the last time my friend and I hang out, and it's cool that my student got to test his skills too. And when I hit the bed when I got home, I got the coffee working on my body til morning to enjoy the Clair Naylor book in my pajamas..

R.I.P Heath Ledger

Tweet Such a shocking news, Heath Ledger was found dead in his apartment.



Read the full story here, remember his good deeds here.



But really, what's more tragic is the fact that I havent even watched Brokeback Mountain yet.. Im pretty sure the new Batman movie, The Dark Knight would be a hit, as Heath Ledger had been casted as The Joker.

ATM Fraud and Theft

Tweet Be careful the next time you slide your ATM card in the machine. Criminals are using their talents and technology for a big time crime.

Just like faking credit cards, these people copy ATM information by inserting a device in a card slot right after their next victim uses the machine. They even position cameras to record the victim key-ing the PIN number, usually situated in the "pick one"s stands next to the ATM machine (I wonder if they are aiming for an ATM machine sex scandal as well?)

So be choosy in using ATM machines. Use the ones guarded by security personnel, and those situated in crowded areas.

Hot + Cold = Fever

Tweet I hate the weather today! It was freezing cold in the morning, and when I went out around lunch time, extremely hot! That I practically felt like I was being grilled!

And so now, Im nursing a fever. Glad there's paracetamol and a Claire Naylor book to keep me company.. *sniff*

Exposing Pinay Scandals

Tweet PINAY SCANDALS FREE SEX VIDEO CLIPS HOT PINAYS CELEBRITY SCANDALS DOWNLOAD SCANDALS

Why do people love pinay scandal?

It hurts my Pinay side to see adult sites advertising women, and posting hot blondes' pictures stating they are from Manila, Makati, Cebu or any other part of the Philippines. Who are the people behind these sites? I hate to think Pinays are that desperate for sex and money; and fame to get themselves well-known in the cyberspace through sex scandals. And there comes the romeos and rodeos entertaining themselves and their "little friends" while watching these videos on a couch in their wide-screen LCD monitors with their headsets to really "feel" the moment. I cannot deny that some of these "victims" and pinay scandals stars would make a good career if they would go professional but others are just so lame and untalented and ungifted that I dont understand why my friends bother to keep those sex scandal files on their NSeries Phones, and Ipods. Isnt that a waste of mb?

But one thing is for sure, this brilliant netizen is out in the cyberspace "to clean" Google's top searches free from porn sites, or any sites with PINAY SCANDALS, COLLEGE or UNIVERSITY SCANDALS, SEX VIDEOS, or any CELEBRITY SEX SCANDAL content.

And Im taking part on this little experiment, and so are the other bloggers. And Im thinking like a guy now, im loving PINAY SCANDALS! and I love being PINAY. ;)

TV Show: Identity "Judging the Book by It's Cover"

Tweet I looove the new TV Game Show Identity aired here in the Philippines tru QTV11.



There are like 12 people standing still on numbered pedestals, staring emotionlessly on space, they dont speak and move, and the contestant must match their identities. There's a son of a preacher, Russian immigrant, Preschool teacher, Black Jack Dealer etc. What's so exciting about the show is the suspense whenever the question is asked - "is that your identity?", then comes the long wait of hearing the answer.. and they don't just answer YES, but say a witty line like "Yes, I do cards.."  (Black Jack Dealer) or "Amen to that" (son of a preacher).

The best way to get them right is through elimination, which what the contestant did! He was sooo good, and he happens to be a Filipino!

When asked by the host, Penn Jilette what he would do with $150,000 dollars, contestant said - .. my parents are from Philippines, and I want to go back there.. build an institution for street kids.. clothe them.. educate them.. Now that's some noble act! He got to match all the identities and bagged $500,000!

Thanks to the panel who the contestant can consult, which consists of former FBI agents, Psychologists; and relatives-friends-family members who the contest can bring along with him (just like in the Deal or No Deal) and help him decide or console him when there comes a mistaken identity.

Now let's just wait some more months who would ask the question "Is that your identity?" here in the Philippines, would it be Edu Manzano or Kris Aquino?

The Tshirt Project

Tweet I know my gift for a friend in US is already on its way to him through his mom. I just hope "the mommy" had a safe trip to US. I hope he will like my gift as much as I like it! I'm loving the concept of The Tshirt Project, and I know their products, tshirts for this matter, would make a perfect gift for Filipinos who live in US, and for Balikbayans.

People would agree with me, statement shirts are so overated and overused! Im sick of seeing those "born to shop".. "im with a stupid person".. "my boyfriend thinks im an ATM machine.." prints on shirts, that even China mass produced these shirts and are now being sold in the strip of Divisoria.

But a big BUT - The Tshirt Project makes sense of statement shirts. I love their designs and "statements" depicting Filipino values, culture and just everything about Filipinos. I was surprised that they actually categorized their shirts now.. there's Branded of course, which prints include entertainment icons like Juan dela Cruz Band, Tito, Vic and Joey (I love my TVJ shirt!) and the likes of other oldies musicians and bands. Of course, the ever popular is SPOOFS, carrying popular company names and logos and adding Filipino culture twist. My favorites: "Horny Potter and the Stoned Sorcerer" (for Harry Potter), and "Fatness First" (for Fitness First).

The bomb is their MaliS'ya (English for Malice, but can mean, "she/he is wrong" = mali siya) Collection. I actually picked a shirt from MaliS'ya. The messages are so funny and just real and only for Pinoys!



Here's the shirt I bought for a friend, just a little something to remind him of Philippines. The color was forgiven since the print is just too cute.



Plus their packaging is not at all a disappointment. Again, spoofing another trend, inspired by Anya Bag, Im-not-a-plastic-bag; they created this:






Just brilliant! Ive seen that they also released SPOOF canvass bags for LV, Salvatore Ferragamo, and the likes. I would definetly buy one. I'd rather have it than buy a knockoff bag!

Two thumbs up for the people behind the The Tshirt Project! One more reason to be proud of being a Filipino. Now that is using talents for good use. Way to go!

Thoughts While Having Sex by Stephanie Lehmann

Tweet Recently finished Thoughts While Having Sex by Stephanie Lehmann. And yes, the title is catchy, that's true, but the story doesn't literally evolve on sex and the heroine's thoughts while doing the deed.

Don't expect alot of hot scenes here (do I sound disappointed now?), it is not a typical fluffy go-girl chiclit. Jeniffer is a struggling playwright, and has inhibitions on that act, and plainly expresses her feelings through her work. She wrote a cathartic play about two sisters (which actually reflected her true feelings about her dead sister) - pretty scary part and plain weird.. I never like the idea, especially in a chiclit, it was supposed to be a feel-good book right? (so many sad parts in this book) Anyway, so she met a director who's willing to produce her play, and willing to be her partner. Series of auditions, and they met the perfect actress in the name of Kelly, whose character is a real biatch I guess, and a true seductress. I was kinda expecting the ending of the story. Kelly got discovered and became a big star after her performance (sad, sad part - the goal is for Jeniffer's play to hit the Brodway), but before that she gets to bed the director Peter (whata heartbreaker), because the guy really thought Jeniffer was really not into-him after she somehow rejected his "moves" (ouch! how can she be so stupid?!).



Kelly's character was quite contradicting, the reason why she didnt mention Jeniffer's play on her credits now that she is a big star was not explained, although agreeing to do the play again somehow compensated on that. And yes, Jeniffer and Peter ended together.. (and ended in bed during the ending!), and yet again she used her play to express her feelings.

I was impressed how the author describes the production, casting process and drama behind the curtain. Reading the book reminds me of Ibong Adarna, and Noli Me Tangere plays we were obliged to watch in High School. And yes, I give so much respect on stage actresses and actors. They have talents and discipline. Enough said.

And the most important lesson in this book - If you want something, go get it! Never be afraid to express your feelings. Just enjoy the ride! And about the thoughts while having sex.. it should be filled only with the man you're with.

White Bikini Panties and Underwear Talk

Tweet I just finished reading White Bikini Panties, and it's a typical feel good read. It's a story about a successful eligible business writer who dumped her cheating boyfriend and tried the dating scene again.. there came STD, sudden brush with a younger man, and some guy encounters. Then there's a work dilemna involving her friend Bobby and gossip-queen Elaine, her sister's request for her "eggs", and fun tarot card reading with her bestfriend Jane. Like any typical chiclit, the story ends with her prince charming back in her arms. Although I personally think the title should be changed to Tarot Cards.. or named after any kitchen gadget.

I was expecting a whole new transformation about Trina's character but the realization is still there, that the heroine is a real girl, she's not obssessed about her looks, she's a risk taker but careful about her decisions and she doesnt care what underwear she's wearing. Which surprises me, I thought every girl is aware what underwear she's wearing at the moment.



Speaking of underwear, I ordered new sets of bra and yes, it's confirmed, my new measurement is 36A. Quite surprising for my body type, I know. But it's a pain to wear wrong bra size.

I just love underwear! I invest so much on these pieces. And they have to match (undies and bra) and they should go well with the clothes I am wearing for the day. Not just for fashion sake but to give you that attitude! Everyone knows the basics: Tshirt bras for plain tess, seamless undies for tight fitting pants and skirts, and dresses. But knowing you have nice stuff hugging you inside gives you an instant confidence.

And yes, you should always wear nice underwear, because you wouldn't know what will happen to you at the end of the day.. ;)

No Place Like Home

Tweet I had such a long day.. I missed home, and I missed my room. I missed being lazy in my pajamas and enjoying a good book. I cant believe I would let go of this lifestyle in just a few weeks..

Thinking Like a Kiddo Again..

Tweet My social calendar is so busy this weekend. Im meeting alot of balikbayan friends. And a call for reunion, means a call for gift giving.. My biggest dilemna - what to give a five year old kid? For a daughter of a good friend. Im thinking what always made me happy when I was that age.. Hmm.. a kitchen play set? Chocolates and sweets? Clothes and accessories! And yes, hair accessories too! And beating my aunt and cousion in a chess game..

But this girl is different. Hmm.. I guess I have to leave early today and head to the mall and look for the best gift. Im thinking of giving a bag of mixed items.. for school, for hygiene and beauty, and for fun. And I heard giving a cash is not a good idea. I know it would end in the parents' wallet. Tsk. Tsk.

My 2008 Wardrobe

Tweet Im just so lucky that I have my mom who knows how to make clothes, (and absolutely good at that!), that I need not worry about bumping into someone wearing the same clothes and style I am wearing.

I know I have a gift and eye in fashion! (well I would like to think that way..) Before the year ends, I was thinking which new styles would be in for this year. And my guesses are right! Hah! Don't you think I would make a great career for writing for a fashion mag..? or be a model..? Isn't it nice to be like the Olsen twins? or those fashion models? Whose style is always being monitored by those flashing cameras, and be everyone's fashion icon..? Hmm.. But that would take out my license of privacy and bad hair days. So I guess I shouldn't be having this conversation in my head. Maybe I would just pursue my career in accessory making..

Ok, for the record, I don't want to be tagged as fashionista (although my friends, esp College friends like to use such adjective in their testimonials in my friendster account). I would like to think I am more of stylish. I dont follow trends, and never wear trends all the same time! I just love mixing and matching! And I personally love to invest on classics, but I do keep a collection of nice accessories which I can use to update my wardrobe.

Here are the items and style I think would be in this year, or should I say I would want to add on my wardrobe:

* MULTIPLE PENDANT NECKLACE (CHOKER TYPE) Ditch the long necklaces! Or update them with multiple pendants. Classic, vintage look. Think of cameo, crucifix (if i can wear one!), precious stones, pearl, lockets hanging in your neck, with a plain top or dresses.

* PLAIDS or CHECKERED I love the cowboy look! and the plaid print tube dress.. that would be my mom's next assignment.

* MINI DRESSES Just shift dresses, and straight cut. Say bu-bye to baby dresses! I love the senepa type cloth. But we cant find one in Tutuban and Divisoria.

* RED DRESS So sexy and pair it up with black pumps. Reverse the Little Black Dress and Red Shoes combo. But now, I am convincing my mom to make me a plain dress in Royal Blue.

Well.. that's all I am thinking right now.. I guess I need to do closet cleaning to make room for my new stuff.

Certified Bookworm

Tweet In just 7 days I finished reading 2 books.. (hmm.. the first four words I used sound like a Pond's commercial..)

Anyway, I finished the It's a Thin Line. I regret ignoring the book and only picking it up just when I thought I've ran out of good books to read in my shelf, but the story is a good read. The story involves the lives of three siblings and their mom. It talks about so many issues, such as domestic violence, adult care giving, child molestation and men's fear of commitment. The author was able to convey true reactions and feelings from each characters (esp that of Rick's and his fear of marriage). The story tackles serious issues but each chapter is never a bore. I guess this would make a good book recommendation for book reviews for High School students, and ditch To Kill a Mocking Bird.




And then there's The Tesseract. This book is quite heavy for me.. far different from the books I read. Yet I am so impressed because the story and plot is so brilliant. What makes it more special, the story happened in Philippines.. not just in the busy Manila, but the author also transported readers to one of the exotic provinces we have. Very impressive. I should read more of these books.



Now I have new 6 books to read. And yes, all chiclits.

My Bladder is Controlling My Life!

Tweet Don't you just sometimes wish you were a man? I want to be a man today and let the world be my urinal! Not that I dont care about Mother Nature anymore.. But when you are in my situation and you're nursing a UTI, and oversensitive bladder, even for a day you would wish you were a man. How simple it is to just look for the right spot, stand in the corner and let it flow and drip.. It's so hard for me to go out with this condition. My management and planning skills is being tested because everytime I commute, I have to plan which restroom I would use (be it the fastfoods', gas stations' or any establishment with restrooms!)