tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45350776992884198992024-02-20T10:28:19.353-08:00Only the MarvelousJoanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.comBlogger1044125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-70791666095532516582015-01-24T06:55:00.000-08:002015-01-26T08:11:30.603-08:00We Never Go Out Of Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The older you get, the more you realize you need a handful of good, close, tight friends. It’s hard to tell you who has your back from who has it long enough just to stab you in it. You see, true friends are like diamonds – bright, beautiful, valuable, and always in style.</i></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> When I started out this blog, one thing that I made sure of was that it was to focus mainly on style. I have said it countless times in interviews and magazine features... but it never actually became as clear to me as it is now. Yves Saint Laurent once said, <i>"Fashion changes, style is eternal." </i>Rachel Zoe once said, "S<i>tyle is a way to say who you are without having to speak</i>." Anna Wintour was quoted saying, "<i>Create your own style… let it be unique for yourself and yet identifiable for others.</i>" Diane Von Furstenburg sa<i>id, "Style is something each of us already has. All we have to do is find it.</i>" Even Ralph Lauren had a few words to say about style: "<i>Style is very personal. It has nothing to do with fashion. Fashion is over quickly. Style is forever.</i>" Everywhere I turn, it seemed, a lot of the fashion industry's big leagues and well-known personalities had something to say about style that I could probably make a book containing my favorite all time quotes and anecdotes of various people regarding "<u><b>STYLE." </b></u></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">PS: Scroll down for my funny rendition of Style as it makes its debut... haha! </span></span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">(Self deprecation at its finest!)</span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now a common question I also get during interviews and fashion features is on how to define my personal style... Back then, I thought it was all about fashion and shopping and clothes so I would usually reply with something along the lines of, "<i>I can't quote define my personal style into one category or type. I am very bipolar, I can wear a studded leather rock star ensemble one day and then a feminine pastel tulle tutu the next day without having to think about it." </i>Of course, that was then and this is now and having spent a couple of years situated front and center of the industry and learning a few life lessons in and away from it, I must say I have a very different perception of style. See, I always associated the word "style" to fashion which was, to be honest, quite silly as it encompasses that and is actually a whole lot more than just that and while people ask me what I do for a living and I would respond that <b>"<i>I am actually Executive Director of an Educational Foundation..." </i></b>which of course always seems to make everyone pleased to hear that I am such... (I don't know why...) then I add, <b>"</b><i><b>Oh... and I'm a part-time fashion and lifestyle blogger."</b> </i>Their gasp of shock over the incongruous paradox that is my life is something I expect and so far, I've had a 99% chance of predicting the blank stares followed by the question, "<i>Oh, so how did you get into that?" </i>as if to save me from humiliation over their very obvious state of shock. I don't really mind it. I have this thing with doing things that I want to do just because I want to and totally ditching those that I don't want to do. I find that <i>it's a damned if you do and a damned if you don't kind</i> of world so I might as well go along with it laughing and strutting in my 6-inch heels. Despite my paragraphs of random musings, ramblings and having an opinion or a reflection or realization or a commentary on practically everything in the world... allow me to remind you, in case you forgot because I've talked too much to the point of no memory, that <b>THIS IS STILL A STYLE BLOG. </b>Seriously.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now I am having a lot of fun with colors in a lot of outfits I have been wearing and I especially love the combination of cobalt blue and yellow which is why I decided to pick out this pretty white coat over yellow hounds tooth dress with blue accessories ensemble. It is very unexpected as a color combination, but you know me, I'm always just winging it and if it works, well, "<i>Lucky me!" </i>and if it doesn't, at least I can always say I tried. Everyone always says I look more like a doll than I do a human being so, I have to say I am the most perfect doll that I have dressed with delight and admiration! It's practically play time for me! I always love the word <b>iconoclast </b>as it refers to a person who challenges the norm or cherished beliefs and institutions and I always hoped to be one as I am one to always shake thing up. I hate conforming and I always love to break the rules... e<i>ven if they are my own rules</i>... and I never say never. It's not very easy to grow up into a woman. We are always taught, almost
bombarded, with ideals of what we should be at every age in our lives:
"This is what you should wear at age twenty", "That is what you must act
like at age twenty-five", "This is what you should be doing when you
are seventeen." But amidst all the many voices that bark all these
orders and set all of these ideals for girls today, there lacks the
voice of assurance. There is no comfort and assurance. I want to be
able to say, that there are four things admirable for a woman to be, at
any age! Whether you are four or forty-four or nineteen! It's always
wonderful to be elegant, it's always fashionable to have grace, it's
always glamorous to be brave, and it's always fine to create your own rules at any age!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Cream Tweed Blazer with Gold Buttons: </b> Zara (also worn<a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/12/wrap-your-troubles-in-dreams.html"><b> HERE</b></a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Hounds Tooth Sleeveless Dress: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/Fab.ph">Fab.ph</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Cobalt Blue Sac de Jour Leather Tote: </b>Saint Laurent</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Cobalt Blue Suede Akle Strap Wedges: </b>DAS (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/07/fix-you.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>South Sea Pearl Earrings and Necklace: </b>Mikimoto</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Crystal Glass Watch: </b>Murano</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>Evil Eye Pave Beaded Gold and Blue Bangle: </b><a href="http://www.cwonder.com/Categories/Jewelry/Bracelets/shop-by-category/Bracelets.html">C.Wonder</a> (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/12/break-up-birkin.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />Now back to the topic of style, it took me quite a while to get to this point in my life where I've finally made some life altering realizations. If you've followed my blog from the time it started, back in 2007 at <a href="http://chictopia.com/joannaladrido">Chictopia</a> then you would have a documentary of my style and sense evolution. Ah, the perks of growing up. Well aside from the visual transformation, you will also have a chronological documentary of my belief systems, my values, the events that have shaped me, my relationships and my heart breaks and certain milestones that have made me the person that I am today. I did some back reading the past few days which explains my lack of updates and blog entries and I would like to say that I grew up a lot... and in a sense, since I've made my life quite public and almost like a spectator sport, I actually managed to do that with my readers, fans and followers watching...my life was practically for the world to see! And while as much as I reveal in my entries would only be scratching the surface of me (I have so many facets to me...<i>really...</i>*insert ditzy voice here*). I have so much of myself to share and so much more to learn. But as I visited the ghosts of outfit choices and blog posts from the past, aside from the very superficial "<i>What the hell am I wearing?" </i>question that plagued me especially in the year 2009, I also see how different I am from the person I used to be, how circumstance and time has made me realize how important it is to redefine the relationships I have in my life and how so many little things that used to bother me are actually really so petty and ridiculous when I look back at it. Despite the many changes, I am still the same person I used to be... but perhaps someone better. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> For one, I've witnessed how cut throat and absolutely competitive some people are in this industry and how I can't stand the back-biting, name-calling and back-stabbing. I am happy to have a group of people who I have met along the way who like me are bloggers but I am happier that I managed to filter out the fake and phony ones from my life. I am also thankful that I have a separate group of people who aren't from the industry who I can talk to on the deepest and most core-shaking things about life and who will actually get me. These people keep me grounded because contrary to popular belief, my life isn't all about blogging...it makes up about 7.5%-9% of it. I also consider myself blessed to have gotten to wean out certain people who I thought were genuine friends but somehow were either using me or seem to have status and money get to their heads. I find that it is a good thing that I was able to filter them out and that my values remained the same and that I refused to be influenced. The good thing about iron-willed, uncompromising and head strong (all euphemisms, I find for the word "stubborn," actually) is that I am not easily swayed and I don't always go along with the herd. I just march to the beat of my own drum. The bad thing about that is that people who don't get it would confuse my non-conformity to brazenness and rebellion. Unfortunately, speaking your mind rather than simply saying what everyone wants to hear automatically categorizes you as a "bitch." It's a sad but very true thing and it's happened to me one too many times. Since I can afford to not be a people pleaser, I can go along and do what I want to do and be who I want to be but then I got to thinking about other people who are shoved to the sidelines simply because they have no choice but to remain silent. I hope that somehow I can speak in their behalf.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> More than that, I also learned that looks can be deceiving... and the same applies to actions. There are some people you'll never see again. At least not in the same way. People will hate you, break you and berate you and no matter what you do, someone will always have someone negative to say about you. The best gift you can give to yourself is to learn to accept the apology you never got. The second best gift is the knowledge that you do not need to attend every argument you are invited to. Stop explaining yourself because some people are committed to misinterpreting everything you express just to get a rise out of you. For me, the strongest people are not those who show strength in front of us but those who win battles we know nothing about. I don't broadcast every high and I do not hide every low. I am trying to live. I am not trying to convince the world that I have a life. More so, insecure people have to make excuses and put others down (whether figuratively or literally) to feel confident. Confidence is not about walking into a room with your nose in the air and thinking you are better than everyone else. I learned that it's walking into a room and not having to compare yourself to anyone in the first place.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lastly, I learned that ultimately, people will forget what you wore, what your haircut was or what the color of your lipstick was. They won't remember what designer bag you have or wore and they will not keep in mind if you looked fat or thin or if you had abs in a photo. Heck, even I forget how I looked like or what my dress size was a year ago... what more others? The one thing people will never ever forget is how you treat them and how you made them feel. They will never forget how real and truthful you are to yourself and how you didn't sacrifice your values in exchange for compensation. No matter how good you look or how many people compliment you, if you aren't real and if you can't hold a conversation without having to pretend, there's really no success there. If you have to put up a face or play a character when you are in front of people but can't treat the people who you see, serve you and who your spend most of your time with, then it is all for nothing. It's okay to be angry or have outbursts but it is never ever okay to be cruel. If you have the power to make someone happy... what's stopping you from doing it? <b>After some time, I realized that the best portions of my life were the small, nameless moments that I got to do something that made random people smile and show them how much they matter to me. </b>I think above all else, at the end of the day, the character of a person matters the most: the deeds they have done, the person that they are, how they treat others, how they treat themselves, their intentions, honesty, the convictions that they stand by and the integrity they have that is unbreakable...that can't be bought nor paid for. <b>Integrity and being real, for me, is what never goes out of style. </b>If we live our lives with that thought in mind, we never go out of style. Everything else like looks, brands or success matter very little. <b><u> </u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>Style is being real enough to admit that it is better to be a diamond with flaws than a pebble without.</u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Photography by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn Jaravata</a></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL<b></b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10155116568375717">Post</a> by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/joannaladrido">Joanna Ladrido</a>.<br />
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-62980496750458358442015-01-18T17:48:00.002-08:002015-01-26T08:18:09.278-08:00I Know Places We Can Hide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtzurwcbAan5u-rm45ZRFaG6ka3hexUQIgg3a4i3gO8uB2Jr9d1IO7ym6Hl3VxdEvqnxWUSDUYsOq1vDj7CaLmEkDpupKWelez6nZ9KmSGWpnkAZEA5Yw7YvCLEBZ8BwFErXnWT4TSZw/s1600/Pricilla06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtzurwcbAan5u-rm45ZRFaG6ka3hexUQIgg3a4i3gO8uB2Jr9d1IO7ym6Hl3VxdEvqnxWUSDUYsOq1vDj7CaLmEkDpupKWelez6nZ9KmSGWpnkAZEA5Yw7YvCLEBZ8BwFErXnWT4TSZw/s1600/Pricilla06.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are some places in life where you can only go alone. Some steps that need to be taken alone. It’s the only way to really figure out where you need to go and who you need to be. Embrace the beauty of your solo journey.</span></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As much as I love my job with so much zeal and passion, I have to admit that I can't do it 24/7 and that being human and all... I also need to take a break. I've always lived with that mindset that when I start something, I need to finish it so I tend to fixate on things which makes me anxious and very neurotic. I am one of those people who sometimes forget to take a break until I burn out. Thankfully, I was able to find a way to have that much sought after work-life balance and I don't feel guilty or like a slacker when I take breaks. More so, the activities I engage in are more wholesome and enriching and I am happy to have matured...<i>finally</i>. I look back at my past self and can't believe that huge disparity between the person I used to be and the activities I used to do and the person that I am now and the activities I make time for. I've learned to prioritize, to keep a level head and to know there is a great big world out there. This necessary awakening was a result of taking much needed time off boys and dating. I guess I have to thank my ex-boyfriends and my break-ups for giving me the chance to be alone so I can grow on my own... and so far, I like the person that I am. I am more calm and stable. I am no longer impulsive and I've managed to understand the concept of applying myself despite a few setbacks I have. At some point, I also stopped feeling sorry for myself and actually carried on and did something with my life. I figured out what I want to be and where I belong and this level of transcendence and self-actualization would not have been in any way possible had I stayed in a relationship because I learned to stop defining my happiness and myself with the person I was with. Now I can say that the source of my happiness and contentment comes from myself and my advocacy. Suffice to say, I learned to depend on myself and I think I needed that a lot. I wouldn't be able to do all these things and realize all these unless I was all by myself. It's a funny thing when people say that when "God closes a door, he opens a window," because after spending sufficient time reflecting, I think the more appropriate thing to say is that when "God closes a door and shuts the window... it's because He is building an entirely new and better house for yourself..." And isn't that just a lovely thought?</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigMzPVZur-8cl3pSyFZWQ2snwRGlaiqNAIolY_P44Gu3-RIQXl56vRB77l5IZx62oNpubPQ9T89z4hdOErExBKlU-t8ExaCJb6uqSxy89f8Yk5Sh1RxONGVXPfov4cC3Ep8o4NNfqHZ2o/s1600/Pricilla07.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigMzPVZur-8cl3pSyFZWQ2snwRGlaiqNAIolY_P44Gu3-RIQXl56vRB77l5IZx62oNpubPQ9T89z4hdOErExBKlU-t8ExaCJb6uqSxy89f8Yk5Sh1RxONGVXPfov4cC3Ep8o4NNfqHZ2o/s1600/Pricilla07.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7xCEoR0hb4Y-w2-N-p1QGUm7Wv7wdygSXuADOh_q-UfvGdJfUETxA4Plh9NymyF4w1Qw-Zait8GrlXP_BXuQvKLFyeY2gLOwuUBFSRMLdF1JFnK4UICzC5wwmqhY_rAofHeUFEzjwi0/s1600/Pricilla08.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7xCEoR0hb4Y-w2-N-p1QGUm7Wv7wdygSXuADOh_q-UfvGdJfUETxA4Plh9NymyF4w1Qw-Zait8GrlXP_BXuQvKLFyeY2gLOwuUBFSRMLdF1JFnK4UICzC5wwmqhY_rAofHeUFEzjwi0/s1600/Pricilla08.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1ZdcXWNvMF_1wPdm1M4mjEbzzla9ca5HH0I7iIasBqP8K58aOyWJmbrlD7ryS6TGrBB5NG2hEfeTzuE_OLgZ-3aa6qdVVhbZA1BNwnIyymY83S8UxOcTbFLVsencecTicTgyEZfQhwI/s1600/Pricilla13.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1ZdcXWNvMF_1wPdm1M4mjEbzzla9ca5HH0I7iIasBqP8K58aOyWJmbrlD7ryS6TGrBB5NG2hEfeTzuE_OLgZ-3aa6qdVVhbZA1BNwnIyymY83S8UxOcTbFLVsencecTicTgyEZfQhwI/s1600/Pricilla13.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>Black Cropped Wool Pea Coat: </b>Zara (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/08/loose-ends.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Checkered White Silk Strapless Dress: </b>Zara</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Vintage Belt with Silver and Gold Steel Details:</b> Versace (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/04/miss-nothing.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Patent Leather Mary Jane Shoes: </b>Zara</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Caviar Leather 2.55 Bag: </b>Chanel (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/10/a-call-to-arms-i-got-soul-but-im-not.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>South Sea Pearl Earrings with Diamonds: </b>Mikimoto (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/08/loose-ends.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>Rose Gold and Silver Watch: </b>Charriol (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/12/wrap-your-troubles-in-dreams.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now that I am in this good place, I have also learned the importance of family and now, I am actually appreciating their presence and (believe it or not) truly spending time with my parents. I think they are amazing people and I treasure my family so much and have so much fun having those cute family dates and nights out. Yes, I do spend my Friday and/or Saturdays with my parents and my siblings and I actually love and enjoy it. It's a strange thing that I am only realizing this now that I am almost 28 years old... but, hey, better late than never right? My Friday nights used to consist of either going out and clubbing (when I was single) or having date night or DVD night (when I was in a relationship). Now, I enjoy getting to spend it bonding with my family and actually playing third wheel to my parents...and doing so is actually my own choice and preference... nobody forced me into it. I figured these things all by myself. The thing that I appreciate in spending time with my family is that our activities do not revolve around food and eating. We enjoy watching plays and concerts to avoid the risk of me getting exposed to something I might be allergic to. On the night I wore this outfit, I was actually with my parents and my FOSSIL Domz and we watched Priscilla: Queen of the Dessert over at *say it with me in a whisper* <i>Resorts World Manila</i>. The show was hilarious and the cast was amazing. I had quite the time of my life laughing a lot and enjoying the audio visual masterpiece before my eyes. Since I was young, I loved watching plays and was able to catch quite a lot so I am one of those people who actually apply the concept of situational dressing when it involves going to a theater to watch a play. For this night, my choice was a white grid dress in silk from Zara paired with a cropped pea coat (also from Zara) which I added on to my outfit to keep me warm as I know how ridiculously cold it can get when inside. The most interesting thing about this outfit is that I actually bought it from Zara Autumn/Winter collection... Circa 2006. (Yes, I was wearing pea coats and cute strapless dress even before it was cool! Haha!) I am glad to have these pieces in my closet as they are very good investment pieces because almost nine years after purchasing these two articles of clothing (bought on separate occasions by the way), I can still actually wear it and look cool in it. That's the power of investing in classic and timeless pieces versus trendy ones. After some time of confinement in your closet, when you find it again and decide to take it out for a night out, you discover that it has managed to live out through the years and all the trends that came along with it. This was quite a wake up call because it has reinforced me to invest in clothes that will never go out of style. Wardrobe Basics 101. I think I aced it!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Anyway, a lot of what I am writing along with my outfit posts involve me rambling endlessly about life and happiness and I apologize for that... You see, I usually write about how I feel and how I am and right now, I am in pure bliss and serenity. All along, I thought that happiness was all about being romantically involved with someone... I never thought that it was when I went on a solo journey that I would be able to realize so many things and also learn so much about myself and what would make me fulfilled and content. I have trained myself to find the blessing in everything and I think that's a big deal. John Lennon (a person I am glad to be sharing the same initials with- JL) once said, <i>"Life is what happens when you're too busy making other plans," </i>and I have to agree with him... hands down. Sometimes, a step towards a different direction leads you exactly where you need to be. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Here's the thing (and I hope you remember this...) <i>some day, you will find what you are looking for...or maybe you won't... maybe you will find something greater than that...</i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata"><i>Photos by: Celyn</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-20298444137517317222015-01-16T08:30:00.000-08:002015-01-26T08:25:23.659-08:00In This Moment Now. Capture It...Remember It.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSHcV9BP4PRQt3l7BWGaFUKSHEF7eP1Vy83kslNTAKkzDRUw0ALfFRu4IVPf78fWEf3FBty_eQabcF6juiw2L9PmQigcCsg_hH6_dEupkFt0n6hPJffzhbcGz0pMszsDCi4t5iwkLLs4c/s1600/Graffiti01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSHcV9BP4PRQt3l7BWGaFUKSHEF7eP1Vy83kslNTAKkzDRUw0ALfFRu4IVPf78fWEf3FBty_eQabcF6juiw2L9PmQigcCsg_hH6_dEupkFt0n6hPJffzhbcGz0pMszsDCi4t5iwkLLs4c/s1600/Graffiti01.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“And somewhere along the way, amidst all the loss, tears, triumph,
tragedy, joy, pain, laughter, transformation, restoration, lessons,
love, and life, you realize that the true meaning of it all isn’t to
settle for merely a Happy Ending, but to hold out for a Happy
Everything.” </i></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> I think it is a nice thing to begin the year and my blog posts for 2015 with a lot of color and from the balloon post from the last time to this very colorful Graffiti wall post, I am thinking I've got that whole thing covered. Seeing things in color is a really big deal...for someone who tends to see things in black and white (most of the time)...aka., me. Personally, I don't think that the things I go through are unusual. I have learned time and time again that we are all going through something... it just varies from person to person. I think the most important thing is how we handle the situations and how well we play the cards we have been dealt with... and that's why there are happy people, who go along life with so much optimism and hope that better things are yet to come and then there's unhappy people, who tend to prefer to regard life as chaotic and their situation dire and hopeless. I used to be the latter but then I decided that it was just so tiring and inevitably, unhealthy to always be so negative that I traded my jersey and joined the other team... and so far, I think I've made the right decision. I absolutely love the side I am in and finally, everything is more colorful, brighter and more interesting. I know that I have so much more to learn and discover. I am happy for the things I have gone through- both the good and the bad- as I think these experiences have shaped me to become the person that I am today. I consider myself blessed to have gone through storms because it proved how strong I was and when I look back at everything I have gone through (and managed to get out of alive), I am reminded that I've managed to survive so many things and that no matter what curve ball life wants to throw at me, I know I will survive it just the same. I think everything that happens to us happens for a reason and for me, I think that it has made me the person that I am today and now that I can finally see clearly, I refuse to stray away from what is good and right and real.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRvS2wh2x8tjt_hqRm-Y3HeFkXfa15dMhR8MyDJ9vQfy6BWaQMD9_6VHCZK6v0hT1qwgXDGgDRG_0jmODr5P7SKpDGjFM8aLgw57HbjupHkCZxhayV3f_fMdaJLyyfLHbbX6WeXBRZso/s1600/Graffiti05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRvS2wh2x8tjt_hqRm-Y3HeFkXfa15dMhR8MyDJ9vQfy6BWaQMD9_6VHCZK6v0hT1qwgXDGgDRG_0jmODr5P7SKpDGjFM8aLgw57HbjupHkCZxhayV3f_fMdaJLyyfLHbbX6WeXBRZso/s1600/Graffiti05.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>Black Knit Sweater: </b>Zara (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/10/war-of-roses.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Green Taffeta Ball Skirt: </b>Glitterati</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Beaded Turquoise Miniaudiere: </b>Emilio Pucci (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/08/of-betrayal-and-backstabbing-ebb-and.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Faux Emerald Earrings and Statement Gem Necklace: </b> <a href="http://gojane.com/">GoJane.com</a> (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/01/emerald-city.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeqDdI4k7dxwUs4KXKntg69BVspGiB__zN1lghQuBDlKnVXqoVcN65BRIH-2JXAGNOmW0xZaJIEyJuxLH9tR42Qot4ICgHD4WYM_Tbuoa1vwTHfIhz99ykUgb5xt7OYITvThMHIT6PGE/s1600/Graffiti07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeqDdI4k7dxwUs4KXKntg69BVspGiB__zN1lghQuBDlKnVXqoVcN65BRIH-2JXAGNOmW0xZaJIEyJuxLH9tR42Qot4ICgHD4WYM_Tbuoa1vwTHfIhz99ykUgb5xt7OYITvThMHIT6PGE/s1600/Graffiti07.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWeLhozyknnIethhHv6XeaMwmojGefB72La6esns-wI5iipfWakTR8O9zkzl1SFr17bSDzswbNlWeflVjCcyFtuBEx7Gtkqi2b7EGpnvwJxkMKuLG3y_bubevYT4AWiD5TJxsePoH1ICI/s1600/Graffiti04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWeLhozyknnIethhHv6XeaMwmojGefB72La6esns-wI5iipfWakTR8O9zkzl1SFr17bSDzswbNlWeflVjCcyFtuBEx7Gtkqi2b7EGpnvwJxkMKuLG3y_bubevYT4AWiD5TJxsePoH1ICI/s1600/Graffiti04.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg7YHG7xomBIM8SCRJdAmvRN32ue75VpNSh2uYb42klfSqVitaMW6xPSma_tkSr2ZJ6qgNOdMb0ylYvTEnCW6Qpu1CQiwX8LbRV7gZibN6-hg_uNLLRpyFmNjjNVFFHs_GT_Qfqx5BUIg/s1600/Graffiti03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg7YHG7xomBIM8SCRJdAmvRN32ue75VpNSh2uYb42klfSqVitaMW6xPSma_tkSr2ZJ6qgNOdMb0ylYvTEnCW6Qpu1CQiwX8LbRV7gZibN6-hg_uNLLRpyFmNjjNVFFHs_GT_Qfqx5BUIg/s1600/Graffiti03.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now I have had a major obsession with maxi ball skirts but I never seem to find any in stores that I can buy an while this outfit is so very reminiscent of a blog post a year ago that I entitled, <b><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/10/war-of-roses.html">Emerald City</a>, </b>one major difference is the length of the skirt which for me, being the very particular person that I am when it comes to what I wear, was everything. It is very very easy to find a midi skirt and I have a lot of skirts of that length. I think they are all so pretty, I have perhaps a dozen in different colors and designs and I love wearing them... however, for more formal occasions, I prefer to be in a long skirt which a ball skirt provides for me. I have searched endlessly for a skirt like this and to no avail. The plus side of owning your own clothing brand and employing your own sewers is that I can basically have everything that I want made for me... exactly the way I want it to be and for that reason alone, I consider myself blessed. Now this skirt is absolutely a dream to be in... the pleats are marvelous, the way it flares out the way ball skirts are supposed to and the length are all reasons that have got me hooked on the design. (I am actually quite obsessed with it that I ordered to have 5 more made for me in the same design but in different colors...because that's just how I am.) While my brand, which I co-own with my FOSSIL Dominique is specializing more on Made to Order items specifically dresses for brides, their entourage, as well as for the teens going to prom and to debuts, I would love to sell this skirt as a retail piece because personally, I think every girl should have at least one skirt like this in their closet because it makes things easier especially when you need to wear something to a formal event and just don't want to think about it too much...don't you think? As for me, I wore this for Christmas Eve which, as a tradition for the past ten years and after five boyfriends, is where we spend our Christmas Eve dinner...with a special degustation menu prepared for us. My family rents out the Magsaysay room and it's been an ongoing thing for a long time that I don't even have to ask anymore where we are going to for dinner as Old Manila for Christmas Eve is practically an institution already. We need to go there. Now I grew up with the people from that place. The servers, the managers and the chef all know me and of course, my list of allergies so I am always greeted so warmly by the lovely staff when I dash in. One major thing that they all noticed was how I was not in my traditional "White Christmas" gown which I always wore for the past 4 years now...and to prove my point, allow me to take you back in time and show you what I mean...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2010/12/dreaming-of-white-christmas.html">Christmas Eve 2010 Attire</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2011_12_01_archive.html">Christmas Eve 2011 Attire</a>: <i>Okay so I skipped this year because I wore white the day before which was originally supposed to be my Christmas dress and you can see it</i><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/search?updated-max=2011-12-29T22:46:00-08:00&max-results=6"> HERE</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/12/a-white-christmas.html">Christmas Eve 2012 Attire</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/12/oh-my-what-marvelous-tune.html">Christmas Eve 2013 Attire</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> I of coursed smiled sweetly at them and told them I was in a transitional stage this time and I had to change things up a bit and evergreen was a color I have never tried to wear before...ever and I thought it was high time I did. I think a lot of my fashion choices also revolve around whatever is going through with myself and since I am finding an all new side of me... one that I never even thought existed, it was high time that I change the tradition and make a new one. The moment you take control of your life is the moment you realize that you don't need to conform and that ultimately the power to make decisions is yours and yours alone. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">With that, allow me to move on to something related to having control. I am turning 28 on February 10 and that's less than a month from today and I think I grew up a lot this year and I think a lot of people are starting to notice. The thing I realized with people at my age is that we are scrambling to settle down and find the perfect story to our lives. Now I say <i>we </i>as I used to be part of that group. Most of the time, that involves riding off in the sunset with a Knight in Shining Armor or with Prince Charming in his white horse... which in the non-fairytale land translates to getting married and then when we do, we think we've finally found our<i> Happily Ever After.</i> The funny thing is, <i>Ever Afters,</i> usually have the "..." because it doesn't exist. Another life begins with another set of challenges and before you know it, you're back to "<i>Once Upon A Time..." </i>all over again. Life doesn't end after <i>"Happily Ever After," </i>and I realize that now... which is why I think that the journey and the story never ends. Granted that- I also finally realized that I am not a princess, this is not a fairytale and that <i><b>I am a <u>Queen,</u> I don't need saving, I've got it all handled. </b></i>And so the story goes, a queen on her throne is a woman who grows beyond boundaries, knowing that the power within her is sufficient to meet each and every obstacle that comes to her life. As such, you can be the queen of your own life... <b><i>So always wear your invisible crown. </i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMM6Ih8Z4oxLil0pDND-kIyvW6N8VIC9PZERhtg6A8WDt-1_MAseaj5PBTyecNdHqe2Gz7d33CMruKZW_vc_vF-mOyRyuxZHQAbJ8iAU9pkvpV8ITaIGCUhv0gQ5G52Tbae0Ja2CKpTIA/s1600/Graffiti13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMM6Ih8Z4oxLil0pDND-kIyvW6N8VIC9PZERhtg6A8WDt-1_MAseaj5PBTyecNdHqe2Gz7d33CMruKZW_vc_vF-mOyRyuxZHQAbJ8iAU9pkvpV8ITaIGCUhv0gQ5G52Tbae0Ja2CKpTIA/s1600/Graffiti13.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">And to end this very long entry, allow me to say: <i> </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>A queen is not impressed with being desired by others- she expects it, based on her respect and her love of herself. She knows she has a lot to offer and therefore sets a high standard for those who would prove worthy of her time and her company, not to mention access to her heart, assets and home. A queen does not need the attention of others to feel desirable and worthy of love. And she knows the difference between being desired and wanted for what she looks like, what she has or what she can do, and being loved and valued for who she is. A good woman with trust issues is a Queen who once invested her loyalty to a peasant and she takes pride in the fact that she can walk into any room with a king and no man can say they've ever even touched the queen. </i></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i> </i></b>More so, a queen knows how to build an empire with the same rocks that were thrown at her. She knows her true nature is luminous. As for me, I am also honest enough to admit that <b>before I can be anyone else's, I have to be mine</b>... and be strong enough to be there for other people who need my help (I have a Kingdom to rule, after all). <b>While I might not ever get my Happy Ending... I don't really care... because I refuse to settle for that... I am holding out for my Happy Everything. <i> </i> <i> </i></b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn Jaravata </a></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Special Thanks to: Michael Argonza</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-71279188050015535052015-01-13T06:08:00.000-08:002015-01-26T08:31:12.750-08:00We Found Wonderland <div style="text-align: center;">
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">You’ll learn, as you get older, that rules are made to be broken. Be
bold enough to live life on your terms, and never, ever apologize for
it. Go against the grain, refuse to conform, take the road less traveled
instead of the well-beaten path. Laugh in the face of adversity, and
leap before you look. Dance as though EVERYBODY is watching. March to
the beat of your own drum. And stubbornly refuse to fit in.</span></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's been a good 11 days since my last blog and I apologize for the lack of updates. The thing is- I wanted to make my blogs for this year extra special and amazing so I knew I had to actually make time for every outfit post. Until three days ago, I was actually quite distracted by other things (one of them, being video answers on <a href="http://ask.fm/joannaladrido">Ask.fm</a> which I found so much fun) and while my social media presence was actually quite very strong, unfortunately my blogging had to take a backseat. However, now that I am back, expect me to be back in full force... with guns blazing... I am excited to share with you my outfit and my thoughts for the year to come... so let's get started with this post...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Black Sweater: </b>H&M</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>White Neoprene Cheerleader Skirt: </b>Zara</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pink Rockstud Flat Shoes: </b>Valentino</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pink Nightingale Bag: </b>Givenchy</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pink Statement Necklace: </b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/prettylittleblings">Pretty Little Blings </a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Believe it or not, I am a big fan of bicycles...especially when I was young. My daily routine consisted of riding my bicycle around our village for hours (about 2-3 hours usually) and I loved it. Probably because I am an introvert so being alone, pedaling on my bike, getting lost in my thoughts with the wind grazing my face was always perfect. It provided for me a few hours of solitude... away from the maddening crowds and while the traffic situation and of course, the pollution and the many environmental hazards such as the numerous tall buildings being built near my village (PS: I live right next door to Century City Mall) oh and of course, the recently diagnosed heart problem...all prevent me from getting involved in cycling as part of the list of my daily activities (I do get to go spinning at the gym though, but not now... maybe when I am cleared to do it), I still crave for that experience. On the amazing day that I got to experience that again was a beautiful Saturday afternoon in a secret spot in Marikina and I was in such a happy mood that I knew I just had to do this playful outfit shot... complete with the bike, the flowers and the balloons. I had such a grand time that I actually wanted to buy the bicycle then and there and take it home with me. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now if you haven't already guessed it (if for some reason, you haven't seen a video clip of me singing and/or dancing to Taylor Swift songs or if you haven't seen any video answer on my <a href="http://ask.fm/joannaladrido">ask.fm page</a>), I am a seriously quirky girl. I know that I don't look it since most of my poses for my blog posts are always well calculated and thought of. Years of blogging has enabled me to master several "blogger poses" so I have the natural instinct to do these poses once a camera is aimed at me (another thing to add to my skills set, perhaps?) But that isn't really how I am 100% of the time--- since usually, I am my natural giggly, awkward and goofy self. I know that THAT would be hard to believe as I appear to always be prim and proper (as I was trained to be appropriate and observant of etiquette by my parents) but on default mode, I am actually more of a little child and the things that I do and come up with (especially when I am on a cafeine rush) are so ridiculous and of course, always video-worthy. Of course, only a select few are allowed to witness this happening live as I have to be really comfortable with you first. I have always thought that it would be a wonderful idea to see life and deal with life from a child-like point of view because that way, you never cease to be in awe and amazed. Christopher Meloni once said,<i> "You can be childlike without being childish."</i> and I think I tend to consider that saying in how I live my life. It's a rare thing especially since the world teaches us to be snobs and set out standards high that nothing tends to excite us anymore. While of course, the things I have decided to immerse myself in are more wholesome and more age-appropriate for me... that doesn't mean I have to also alter my usually comical disposition. <b><i>I guess I do have a childlike sense of
fun, and although I still have my dark days, I'm generally an optimistic
person. The way things have gone in my life, sure, I could have been a
bitter person. But I just find bitter people really un-fun, you know?
And who wants to be that person?</i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">So with that, I hope you learned a thing or two about me and while I am not prescribing the way I choose to regard and view things, I do hope that you would be encourage to call your own shots and live life on your own terms. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn Jaravata</a></i> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-47204052943439291272015-01-02T15:33:00.000-08:002015-01-26T08:35:57.471-08:00Stranger Than Fiction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have heard it time and again: <i>It's good to have an end to journey towards; but we must not forget that it is the journey that matters... in the end. </i>I've always been a person who operated on processes. There was something always so attractive and appealing to me about going through a definite and absolute step by step process. Perhaps it is the formula of being a control freak + obsessive compulsive + ISTJ (which in the world of Psychology is one of the 16 personality archetypes.) I have scored extremes in these different categories and to orient you, <i>I<b>STJs are responsible organizers, driven to create and enforce order
within systems and institutions. They are neat and orderly, inside and
out, and tend to have a procedure for everything they do. Reliable and
dutiful, ISTJs want to uphold tradition and follow regulations. ISTJs are steady, productive contributors. Although they are
Introverted, ISTJs are rarely isolated; typical ISTJs know just where
they belong in life, and want to understand how they can participate in
established organizations and systems. They concern themselves with mainlining the social order and making sure that standards are met.</b> </i>To get to know my personality archetype or perhaps to learn more about yours, click <a href="http://www.truity.com/personality-type/istj">HERE</a> and <a href="http://www.personalitypage.com/ISTJ.html">HERE</a>. <u>Ah, the joy of Psychometrics! </u>This is why I love this field so much. Those few sentences pretty much explained me as a person but slowly, I have been on a self-mandated purge and detoxification from being on the extremes. The Spice Girls did say, <i>too much of something is just as tough...</i>so I guess there must be some merit to that. (I apologize for the sarcasm. But I think that song actually makes so much sense)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Shift Little Black Dress with Side Pockets: </b>Bershka </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Bleu Electrique Birkin Bag: </b>Hermes (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/12/break-up-birkin.html">HERE</a>)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Statement Necklace with Green and Blue Gems: </b>Pretty Little Blings (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/12/swing-out-sister.html">HERE</a>)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Alligator Skin Pointed Toe Shoes: </b> Altuzarra </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Evil Eye Pave Beaded Gold and Blue Bangle: </b><a href="http://www.cwonder.com/Categories/Jewelry/Bracelets/shop-by-category/Bracelets.html">C.Wonder</a> (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/12/break-up-birkin.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Watch:</b> Rolex</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Pearls: </b>Mikimoto </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A year ago, on this very day, I do not envision myself doing what I am doing now. I was too stubborn, hard-headed and resigned to accepting my fate and the fact that nothing I planned on doing ever came through and in so many ways, that is probably my worst nightmare realized. I sulked, I hid away and I settled... I knew that "that place I was in last year" wasn't exactly where I wanted to be in so many ways but I guess as a coping mechanism, I just stopped thinking for myself and let things happen. Obviously, that was a mistake which is why I consider myself blessed to get to have (not a do-over because life doesn't grant that to anyone) something like time to get things right and in order. As productive as you may think I am (or as productive I used to appear to be, in general), in my standards, I was floating... it was like my routine followed a detrimental step by step process: Wake up- Survive - Sleep - Repeat. And so the dance continues. Looking back, it was really quite sad- to say the least- because I am a go-getter and I am a very resilient person. Probably I just rolled with the punches and stopped fighting back and when it comes to facing your struggles in life head on, that is not a good move. I would know. What makes me consider myself utterly thankful and blessed is the fact that there are a number of people who never gave up on me and who knew me well enough to know that there was so much more to me than being a human being on autopilot. Now, I find that I have so much clarity, stability and contentment and the cherry on top of that wonderful sundae is that I actually love what I am doing. I am maturing right before my (and of course, everyone else's...including your) eyes and that fulfills me. Things can change, after all... if you change your perceptions and priorities.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">So much has changed and the most obvious one is on the physical aspect (<i>Yes, I have not forgotten that this is a fashion and lifestyle blog</i>) and on the same time last year, this was my post: <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/01/finally-taking-over.html"><b>Finally Taking Over</b></a>, and it would be safe to assume that based on the entry, I wasn't really in such a happy place as I probably am today. Of course, even my fashion sense was so very different back then... I was more trendy and risque and the ever present studs that always made an appearance on my outfit for some odd reason back then is very apparent. Right now, I probably can't imagine wearing something like that and getting away with it (without being given a memo for inappropriate office attire) and I kind of like how it is now. Don't get me wrong, I seriously still love picking and purchasing my own items but I have been more discerning. So, this explains how on the same day of two very different years, I am still in my closet staple Little Black Dress... but in two completely different styles. The fun thing about fashion is that even if it almost the same type of clothing- the style, silhouette and accents and accessories you add on can change so many things and that it is in a part a very visual representation of a certain period we are going through in our life. It's all about structure and classic styles and I have traded in my studs and grommets for pearls... to be able to grow, one must be open to change and I am welcoming this one. I love the place I am in presently and I would very much like to stay here for a longer time... <i>thank you very much. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Of course, I wasn't as willing to change my routine back then as I got too comfortable to the mundane life but I think that stepping aside and allowing yourself to be open to change is vital. We may not like it at all and we could try to avoid the shift- kicking and screaming but it really is important to get out of your own head and see the big picture... (because there is one!) <i> </i>Actually, in all honesty, finding out that you have been looking at things all wrong can be sort of liberating. Then, you will suddenly see new potential, new possibilities where you had never seen them before. And that's amazing especially when a seemingly hopeless situation suddenly looks good. It's a risk though since sometimes, things tend to go the other way. As cliche and overused this line has probably been used, <i>sometimes, the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. </i>With that, I think it is vital to always focus on how far one has come rather than how far you have left to go.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have learned to leave some people back in 2014 and I also learned to bring in a few and as of now, let's see how it all goes. An interesting private message a reader had sent me on New Year went like this: <i>I think it's amazing how you can go through the motions of emotions that cause pain, Queen... and still, your crown remains unshaken. </i>That was the first best message I got for the year and to whoever sent this to me (I am sure you know who you are...), thank you for that. I always did things because I wanted to them regardless of whether people will notice or not... so as unexpected as this was, it meant so much to me. As I begin another year, I have to admit--- I know there is more so I refuse to settle for the <i>happily ever afters </i>just yet. Maybe it is not about the happy ending... maybe it really is all about the story.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a></i><a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata"> </a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now, I wore this classic and clean ensemble to a viewing party I was invited to at the Zuellig Building also known as H&M Philippines Headquarters. They displayed some major awesome items and I absolutely can't wait for these gorgeous pieces (I loved everything!!!) to hit the racks!!! Here's a sneak peek at what the brand has got in store for you...</span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-27039927829625159022015-01-01T04:21:00.004-08:002015-01-26T08:42:53.620-08:00The Rest Is Still Unwritten...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Today is the first blank page blog. </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I have decided that this time around, I am writing a good one.</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">My mom and I were talking earlier today at 2:30 am (yes, unlike everyone else, I decided to spend my New Year after the clock struck 12 midnight at home...) and she asked me about what it was about my never ending obsession for sunrises. Again, yes, I am one of those people who bask in the dawn and absolutely love witnessing the sun ascend on the horizon. I have never been a sunset kind of girl. Probably, I surmise, it's because I hate endings but am absolutely obsessed about new beginnings. Granted that, I guess that by now, you would know that I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE new years. I love the fact that I am closing the chapter of one whole year behind me... no matter how good, bad or average it has been... I like that kind of closure. There is something about it that I find so fascinating. I love the feeling of at least being able to be given the chance of starting over again (even if everyone says there is no such thing as do-overs) and I love having a fresh 365-days ahead of me... filled with (and I say that with so much hope)- new chances...new experiences. A new year comes in and with it... the possibilities are endless.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /> I once stumbled upon this quote that goes, "<i>An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in. A pessimist stays up until midnight to make sure the old one leaves..." </i>Right now, granted everything that has happened, I am not quote sure which side of the pole I belong to... perhaps (and probably) a combination of both. To explain myself more clearly- I am happy and thankful for everything that I have been through and at the same time, I am looking forward to see what life has in store for me. <i>"Cheers to a new year...another chance of getting things right..." </i>I think Oprah said that or something.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Now if you have been reading my blog since I first started posting, one common denominator in all my New Year's Eve outfits would be sparkles. I can't quite remember an NYE celebration without the metallic, shiny sequins. Honestly. Don't believe in me? Here's a run down...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/01/2012-paradise-circus.html">New Year's Ever 2010</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/01/2012-paradise-circus.html">New Year's Eve 2011</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/11/but-every-songs-like-gold-teeth-grey.html">New Year's Eve 2012</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/01/and-well-take-cup-of-kindness-yet-for.html">New Years Eve 2013</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So I think I've pretty much proven myself as the Queen of New Year's Shining Shimmery Splendid Dresses and I don't quote remember how exactly that tradition of mine started but ever since I started, it's been a style staple...another one of those traditions I privately have on my own. True to form, I decided to keep up with the tradition in a tamer and more mature way... this outfit is something I envision Carolina Herrera would wear on New Year's Eve...granted she is the queen of crisp button down shirts.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Button Down Black Blouse: </b>Zara</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Rose Gold Fully Sequined Long Skirt with Slit: </b>Glitterati</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Ankle Strap Platform Shoes in Nude: </b>Casadei</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Rose Gold Miniaudiere: </b>Vintage Italian</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Pearls: </b>Mikimoto</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Head Dress: </b>DIY by Celyn</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Bangle: </b>BVLGARI and My Collection</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Watch: </b>Patek Philippe</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">As sentimental as I consider myself to be about New Year... (Yes, complete with the waterworks and the ugly crying)... I know myself well enough to understand and live by the adage: New Year, SAME me... I know that is something difficult to say but it's the truth...as inconvenient as it may be. Allow me to present the facts... Here is the thing- it is not going to be all that simple. When the clock hits 12 midnight and it is officially the first of January 2015 (no matter what timezone you operate on...), you are NOT miraculously going to be a different person than you are back in the 31st of December. You are not going to suddenly be faster, smarter, prettier, stronger or better than you were on December 31. There won't be magical and miraculous developments or career opportunities or sudden luck thrown at you just waiting for you on the other side. Things will be the same. I know that may be disheartening considering it is the first day of 2015 and I am sure you all are wondering what I am going to be writing about. I am going to write about this moment. HERE. I am currently in my room in somewhat of a champagne-induced daze and my mind decided to think about mathematics and realize the statistics: A year. 12 months. 52 weeks. 365 days...well unless it's a leap year which it definite not... (I checked...)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The thing about New Year is that it isn't so much in the whole process of it (if you take it literally) but probably more on the symbolism it holds. Perhaps with the start of a new year, a popular thing to do is claim possession of it. My feed on social networks were all revolving around the theme about 2015 being their year, that they are grabbing it and that this is it. I am not in any way judgmental about that as I love it when people are motivated... it is such a lovely mindset. Unfortunately (and I hate to be the one to break it to you...) 2015 will not change anything... UNLESS YOU ACTUALLY DO. I do hope you make new year's goals because the new year stands before us like a chapter in a book- waiting to be written and we can help write that story by setting a new purpose and aspiration for ourselves.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This new year, much like all the previous ones, will have its share of opportunities and set backs. If there is someone, something or somewhere you want to be and perhaps, right now is a great time as any to make progressive moves. Sure, motivation is an easy thing to have on January 1st...it's a piece of cake. But before setting exaggerated goal for yourself- I do hope you realize that ABOVE ALL, a new year gives us hope- <b>Hope for happiness...hope for change... hope to be given the chance to chase our dreams.</b> This year can give you all these things...if you are willing to work for it. But hopelessly, the best thing we can hope for is that this new year could challenge us to face our fears. Perhaps this year, we ought to walk through the facets of our lives... not looking for flaws but for potential.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">A year ago, I was in a relationship that I thought was good. I thought has was the right one, my forever. A step back made me realize that this was not true. <b>Could I blame it on him? Perhaps for how it ended: YES but for how I purposefully I chose to allow it to drag on: No. </b>I was slowly questioning my life and my happiness and subtly and subconsciously finding ways to get out. Then one day it clicked. Life is too short to suffer. I was the keeper of my own happiness and I was the only one who could make a change. Now, I am single and happy. I no longer feel suffocated and begging to please. I am being selfish for the first time and I have learned to concentrate on so many important things. I have made amends and reconciled with people who I have fallen out with and now I have realized who my true friends are. I am happier than I have ever been. A year ago feels like a lifetime ago but I will never forget what being unhappy has taught me. It's okay to cry and take control of your sadness. It is okay to walk away from everything you have ever known. You will be okay. Although I have made quite a lot of changes in my life, I believe that there is always something to learn. This year, I am going to continue to grow and learn from my experiences and keep on changing. After the next 365 days, I plan to see new things, keep on working for my advocacy to grow, meet new people and make new acquaintances. I am slowly learning to be content with being alone so perhaps this year would be a good time to focus on myself and my mindfulness. Be more kind and patient to the people around me, be more kind to myself. This new year, like with every year that will follow it, will be a year to grow.</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I sincerely hope that you learn from me. Do not let time fly by. Take hold of the new 365 days before you and make the best of this time and decide what you really want in life. This can be about moving forward or staying right where you are. Don't make resolutions you know you won't be following. Don't make a list of things you want to change. Just do it. Live life each day striving for what you want. Make the most out of this year. And a year from now, in 2016, I hope that you won't look back with regret wishing that you had.</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">To end this very first entry of 2015, allow me to say that I really sincerely hope that this new year is life-changing, world-shaping, wonderful, purposeful, awe inspiring, incredible, fantastic, magnificent, extraordinary, blessed, thrilling, grace-filled, jubilant, delicious, unbelievable, marvelous, astonishing, mind-blowingly spectacular and ridiculously happy. And most of all, I do hope that it is YOUR choice to make it so. Leave nothing to chance. </span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">As for me, my very first realization for this year, is that in every decision, action or choice I make, I have nobody else to be accountable to but myself and that at the end of the day... when I am to re-evaluate, I just want to make sure I like the person I've become... the person I am supposed to be...the person I always was.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-85617023835497775402014-12-23T23:48:00.000-08:002015-01-26T08:50:35.466-08:00Today Was A Fairytale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>I wanted to find something of the beauty of myth that we’ve left behind,
carry its shreds before us all, so we could acknowledge it, somehow
bring it back to life. I wanted to delve back into that world that
cradled us when we were young enough to still touch it, when trolls
lived under creek bridges, faeries fluttered under mushroom caps, and
the Tooth Fairy only came once you were truly sleeping. I wanted to see
if enchantment was somehow still there, simply waiting to be reached.
When I felt my loss, I realized that if I could do anything in this
life, I wanted to travel the world, searching for those who were still
awake in that old dream time, and listen to their stories – because I had
to know that there were grownups out there who still believed that life
could be magical.<br />And in that moment I decided: I am going to find the faeries</i>... <u>and write my own fairytales.</u></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Before the <i>noche buena</i> festivities commence, I would like to wish everyone: A Merry Christmas. Granted Christmas Eve is such a big deal in our country, I am sure everyone is excited to have a fun-filled night until morning with loved ones. I think the ability to reconnect is one of the best things about the Yuletide season and I do hope you spend this opportunity well. You see, once you get older, the holidays become more of a chore rather than a cause for celebration. I get it... we all have responsibilities now and we were already told Santa doesn't exist and that it really was our parents who are stuffing our Christmas socks after all. That's the thing about growing up--- we find out the reality of things that we used to marvel at and believe so intensely. This is the reason why I find people who manage to see the magic in everyday life and continues to be enchanted absolutely fascinating. It's a hard knock life but having hope is something to revel at. Not everyone is like that anymore... maybe except for a selected few. As jaded as I think I tend to be, one thing I still do believe in magical things and that's how I choose to be. Enchantment lies in everyday moments if you are observant and if you are willing to write down your own tales. It's quite simple really... for my case. for example, all I have to do is to find the beauty in the mundane things... and even simpler yet, all I have to do is wear an dreamy ensemble that spells "QUEEN" all over it... this gown is an example of that. A<b>fter all, an e<i>nchanted day is only enchanted if we ourselves believe that anything is possible.</i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b> </b><i> </i>Okay... now all of you might be wandering why I am wearing a gown (yet again), aside from the obvious reason that I absolutely love fancy gowns and ball skirts and won't ever outgrow them... the main reason is that it was our company's Christmas party and it is just tradition to dress up in extravagant and fancy clothes. This has been ongoing for the past years and every year, I try to outdo myself cause I'm competitive with past me. To prove it to you, allow me to give you evidence:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>2011 Christmas Party Theme:</b> Masquerade and Hats... <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2011/12/its-masquerade.html">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>2012 Christmas Party Theme: Royals </b>and I came as Ice Queen in one of my favorite gowns... </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/03/a-real-life-fairy-tale.html"><u><b>CLICK HERE</b></u></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>2013 Christmas Party Theme: Past and Present Icons</b>- and my dad mandated I dress up as Kim Kardashian (for reasons I don't quite understand) so I wore the most iconic Kim K. outfit back then (before she broke the internet and balanced champagne on her bum) which was her wedding dress for her 72-day marriage. I didn't want to resign myself to bodycon dresses since...where is the fun in that? <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/12/shes-silver-lining.html">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So now you have seen my past looks, I think you will have to agree with me when I say I try to outdo myself every year. Theme parties excite me and I dress up in full force and with commitment to the look. This year, the theme was Filipiniana: A Festival of Lights which highlighted various festivals from different parts of the country. Granted we were the board and the directors, it was automatic that we got the Sta. Cruzan/ Flores de Mayo designation and since I am all about the http://itsmealready.com, everyone automatically knew I had to be Reyna Elena and I appreciated the staff of our company for knowing me so well and thinking ahead that I didn't need to fight for the role. Now this dress, created by my favorite designer, Kristel Yulo was the perfect piece to wear as the material of the bodice was pina jusi and the layers of organza tiered skirt was just so extravagant. I love Kristel and she is my go to person for gowns because she is amazing in dressing up to flatter the female form and body. I have an obsession with her gowns and have a collection of them. That's how obsessed I am with her designs. Another reason I love this dress is that it was very reminiscent of the Katniss Everdeen gown from Hunger Games: Catching Fire... the one she twirled around in and literally lit herself up on fire... to remind you how it looked like, here's a <a href="http://static3.refinery29.com/bin/entry/1e1/x/1063275/hunger-games-catching-fire.jpg">PHOTO</a>. I felt very bridal that day in the dress even if the color was a nude and gold mix and so I shot the outfit appropriately and as I was looking at the pictures, I was in awe at how beautiful each shot was. It was absolute perfection.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I love that saying, "<i>Truly, there is magic in fairytales. For it takes but a simply-uttered 'Once upon a time...' to allure and spellbind an audience," </i>and while we now know better than to be damsels in distress and we realize that <i>Prince Charming is not as easy to find as you thought. You realize the
bad guy is not wearing a black cape and he's not easy to spot; he's
really funny, and he makes you laugh, and he has perfect hair," </i>one thing that has always given me hope is the fact that we must never lose hope...because whatever it </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">is we seek will be found eventually. On that afternoon that I was shooting my outfit in such a beautiful place, I looked around me and I felt enchantment on the fact that despite losing something I once thought was so valuable, I am glad that it happened because now found love in a different form... not just limited to romantic love. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> <i>Fairy tales begin with conflict because we all begin our lives with
conflict. We are all misfit for the world, and somehow we must fit in,
fit in with other people, and thus we must invent or find the means
through communication to satisfy as well as resolve conflicting desires
and instincts. The secret about storytelling is that Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty...
were not perfect in the beginning. It's only a happy ending on the last
page, right? If the princess had everything from the beginning, there
wouldn't be a story. Anyone who is imperfect or incomplete can become
the main character in the story. </i>All you have to do is write your own tale...The best things about stories is that they can be retold.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">On that note, since Christmas is also a time for recognizing the gifts you have, allow me to share this set of photos with you with the people I consider my fairy godmothers... but since they are my age or younger than me, I think the more appropriate term to use is that they are my ladies-in-waiting. Like most queens, I don't know what I would do without them and that is why I love them so much. They've kept me grounded and sane and hopeful despite everything. They allow me to say the most insanely funny things ever and still love me anyway. And suffice to say, they've seen me at my worst but only remember the good in me. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50ssLX4HrhtxkEsBpLlp3oFhpHOTLWM_d0vvIcE9vH1q6OvdV3ZOD0cyB9cwq2WY4kYx2eSs88n78hcfcQFOo9_mF82TdlJZe4CDT6TbB04FEq15lBfxBg-6DwUGIC4-qN5V4xSq4OpI/s1600/Gown23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50ssLX4HrhtxkEsBpLlp3oFhpHOTLWM_d0vvIcE9vH1q6OvdV3ZOD0cyB9cwq2WY4kYx2eSs88n78hcfcQFOo9_mF82TdlJZe4CDT6TbB04FEq15lBfxBg-6DwUGIC4-qN5V4xSq4OpI/s1600/Gown23.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">These four women (my other PDN, Angelica isn't on the photo though) are my inspirations, my lifeline and my constant companions anywhere I go and by anywhere, I MEAN ANYWHERE. They are my favorite people in the world and despite having swollen eyes and a very red face, they manage to tell me that I look beautiful still. These are once in a lifetime people and I think that an expression of my gratitude for them being in my life is long overdue... So, we decided to shoot some photos together and it looked like I was the bride and they were my bridesmaids... the series of photos is simply just too awesome not to share...<b>and YES, we are like this on a normal basis. </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>This is actually how we are by default.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">If people were ask me if I still believe in "happily ever afters," without batting an eyelash, I would say that I do. I<b> do believe in happily ever afters <i>even if the girl doesn't get the guy in the end. </i>You see, in most f<i>airy tales the evil characters disappear or die, in reality, evil
spreads while you wait for your hero on a horse, only to realize the
sword to save yourself was always in your hand... </i></b></span></span><b> </b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">xx, JL </span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-17684863234337771202014-12-22T20:56:00.000-08:002015-01-26T08:54:50.094-08:00Blank Space<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">I crave space. It charges my batteries. It helps
me breathe. Being around people can be so exhausting, because most of
them love to take and barely know how to give. Except for a rare few.</span></i></span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Sometimes, you just need to be alone and I have absolutely no problem with that. I actually love that... and I think that it's okay to be that way. Contrary to popular belief, it does not mean that something is wrong with you or in your life. You see, sometimes, you simply need to create the space to soul search, think, rest and just BE. I don't think you need to apologize for needing or taking this space. At the end of the day, it is part of what makes you a happy healthy person. The thing I realized is that you can't always keep on dealing with people every second... There are times that you have got to stand alone...if for anything- just to find out how damn strong you are...even if it is longer than expected. For an introvert like me, that comes easy... I thrive on this scenario. However, not everyone is like me and if you fall into the other category and are an extrovert, this is something that would be very hard to do. I have seen it all too often and I have to admit that I have been guilty as well of creating distractions just so I don't have to face my problem...and simply sweep it under the rug. I mean ultimately, isn't that the easiest route to go through? Denial?</span><i><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></i><span style="font-weight: normal;">After facing problems heads on, gun blazing... it came to a point that I just got really tired and burnt out. At some point, I wasn't even quite sure anymore what I was fighting for anymore and that was when I decided that what I needed was some time in a beautiful place to clear my head. I also believe that sometimes, the best way to appreciate something is to be without it for awhile. Clarity, peace, serenity are very important things to find...don't you think?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTw1oRK9wG9q2kOvm7w4U5LGY5vbUzAGoZIsyp14XFSzBYUHUvAS5Z9PEdsHK8PsbWOkRlmFW5sQSLqd2N4lXX2HOWDxLBdLse8_ZhvqKzSz03JublSrWcS961nHueY40jz-qO9UoWYwA/s1600/Red08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTw1oRK9wG9q2kOvm7w4U5LGY5vbUzAGoZIsyp14XFSzBYUHUvAS5Z9PEdsHK8PsbWOkRlmFW5sQSLqd2N4lXX2HOWDxLBdLse8_ZhvqKzSz03JublSrWcS961nHueY40jz-qO9UoWYwA/s1600/Red08.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vSQisw5ZIm2uFK160fZZmiMnjwnKCF_30bpL5KiPIVHBlK-0pswD9DsV2tq84vQIER3_Y4EHMy0g9eowSy1pyLRF6ez3a0NLV6M9aIRZglxvYh9ibKH-2l3dn8qn1jx7gpcrAck0JsE/s1600/Red11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vSQisw5ZIm2uFK160fZZmiMnjwnKCF_30bpL5KiPIVHBlK-0pswD9DsV2tq84vQIER3_Y4EHMy0g9eowSy1pyLRF6ez3a0NLV6M9aIRZglxvYh9ibKH-2l3dn8qn1jx7gpcrAck0JsE/s1600/Red11.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Cap Sleeved Red Silk Top: </b>K2</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Red Garter Midi Skirt: </b>H&M</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Gold 2.55 Bag: </b>Chanel</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Gold Metallic Ankle Strap Pointed Shoes: </b>Heels.com</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Midi Rings: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/prettylittleblings">Pretty Little Blings</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Watch:</b> Rolex<a href="http://www.cwonder.com/Categories/Jewelry/Bracelets/shop-by-category/Bracelets.html"></a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Necklace and Midi Rings:</b> <a href="http://instagram.com/prettylittleblings">Pretty Little Blings </a></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15M5Ge1aYgEhm9P8An6F88XJ0y1yuEXkiYzKqPZa6Qp6zlV3vk2QwHi1Pum4mFYXWUpLOwCpsxWImvdGmLXQRwyeMcDkJg8SsmNNWyfnRtkDeIRAJoOsOb2oZ5EqGOP4Hh4BhPHlX4-g/s1600/Red07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15M5Ge1aYgEhm9P8An6F88XJ0y1yuEXkiYzKqPZa6Qp6zlV3vk2QwHi1Pum4mFYXWUpLOwCpsxWImvdGmLXQRwyeMcDkJg8SsmNNWyfnRtkDeIRAJoOsOb2oZ5EqGOP4Hh4BhPHlX4-g/s1600/Red07.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Anyway, another concept of space (which is why the title to this post is Blank Space) is because I had the privilege of taking this photo in the newly constructed storage facility in one of our business' building and there was so much space... it was so strange. I say that because in this city, everything is always congested...especially now that the holidays are looming and everyone seems to want to always be out of the house to do some Christmas shopping. Being in a place with such vast emptiness was so different from what I am used to. Someone once asked me if I was claustrophobic (I think it was on <a href="http://ask.fm/joannaladrido">ask.fm</a>) and I replied that I was actually the opposite as I was afraid of big spaces so I hope you can appreciate the effort it took for me to take my outfit shots in this setting which made me a bit antsy. I find it funny actually- the lengths I would go (and I'm sure other bloggers can relate) just to take the perfect shot. My staff has a term for it- <i>"buwis buhay" </i>mode just to take the right photos. It was coined after they put me on top of a hill where I could've easily rolled off, when they placed me on cliff with torrential waves splashing while I was decked in a gown and all or that time they ask me to go up a tree trunk since the middle part of it was the perfect place to take my outfit shot. It's crazy...really... but you risk it to get the shot and I am glad I did. Doing these things take me out of my comfort zone and face my fears, which is, of course a good thing. Anyway, I wore this all red ensemble for Part One of our company's Christmas parties held in one of our offices in an Industrial Science Park. Since my dad has a thing for the color red, he mandated that everyone should come in the color red so I immediately scrambled around to look for a red outfit as I already had an outfit planned for the occasion but had to heed to his impromptu mandate. Everyone was in red that it almost felt like we were celebrating Chinese New Year and not Christmas... everyone except my dad... I find that it was a good strategy to stand out from the crowd and I am thinking I should take some pointers from him. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2NbiuBE1AWlDUNzRAyPBBOM1G8FjwRcxoto-nI4zCalYOPEmCqQicxr5-PfpAxdoY0bDM1DfMrU31bI6uioEshl7uE1ohmdxIVOkLL55aCgoRAKX9ipYf-ExNKqAvvD3GN4J5-zv9YqI/s1600/Red18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2NbiuBE1AWlDUNzRAyPBBOM1G8FjwRcxoto-nI4zCalYOPEmCqQicxr5-PfpAxdoY0bDM1DfMrU31bI6uioEshl7uE1ohmdxIVOkLL55aCgoRAKX9ipYf-ExNKqAvvD3GN4J5-zv9YqI/s1600/Red18.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Anyway, as you can see, the space is very blank. But it was too beautiful and new to ignore that I had to shoot my red on red on gold ensemble. My Personal Assistant, Celyn, also decided it was the perfect place to take the shot as the background was perfect for what I am wearing. Since I am a very dutiful and obedient subject for photos, I decided to go for it and pose like there was no tomorrow. Despite the risk of a panic attack, I am happy since the photos turned out beautiful and the fear on my face wasn't so obvious. As for my outfit, I already explained the "something red" theme... Domz, Celyn, Armi, Patricia and I looked like we were going to perform since we were all in the same shade of red. Now if you noticed, when it comes to separates, I usually don't go for the same color of both articles of clothing (top and bottom). My rational for that is that if you were going to do that, might as well wear a dress. I broke my own rules though (which I have a habit of doing) since the beautiful top which had an open back was the perfect match for my stretch midi skirt. It was just paired so perfectly that I had to wear it together. To break the red on red theme, I added gold to contrast the color while at the same time, maintaining the rather festive look to my outfit. I mean, nothing spells holidays more than shiny and metallic things right? It was a good thing that I decided to risk it and move out of my comfort zone in this aspect.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Now back to huge spaces, the psychologically-accepted term for my intense fear of wide open spaces is Agoraphobia and I think that his phobia has so much to do with the concept of having control. I love being in control most of the time. I find it comforting to call the shots and have the ability to regulate what goes and I think I was born that way. I've been used to mapping out things in my life and making plans of how things should be and when they don't go as planned (which always happens), I feel helpless and stressed out. Sometimes, I have to say, I am so busy making plans for my life that I actually don't get to live it. At some point, everything I had so carefully planned out for myself didn't happen as I wanted it to and that was when I ultimately realized that when it comes to life... you were never ever in control anyway... and that at the end of the day, we are all just winging it. Coincidentally, I put <i>Blank Space </i>as the title of this blog post because aside from the many videos of me singing that song which I am sure everyone is already so sick of watching (I exceeded the video quota), it also symbolizes the fact that as of now, when it comes to making plans and getting disappointed when they don't push through, I have resolved to leave the space blank and let things unfold as they should. After all, I've said multiple times I needed a breather and some space to do "me" first and to be consistent with my plan to do so, I might as well stop all the planning and let things be. While some changes may look negative on the surface... a realization that you will have is that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge and we must welcome that space if we want to see what is in store for us. A change is a good rest.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">At the end of the day, you need to be alone for a while and you need some space. You can't always keep on dealing with people every second. You should be done caring about people who don't care about you because if you do, you end up spending too much time everyone else is happy...except for yourself. Sometimes, you need to stand alone, if for anything...just to know how damn strong you are... even if it's longer than expected. So I would advice that you stand up on your own and show the world what you are truly made of.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">I've got a blank space baby...and I intend to keep it that way for now. I refuse to write a name just yet.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><i>Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a></i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">xx, JL</span></span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-47490204652609690842014-12-22T09:00:00.001-08:002014-12-22T21:53:29.104-08:00Break-Up Birkin<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>I had no idea it would be this much. </i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>I had no idea I could handle it.</i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>I had no idea how beautiful it all actually is.</i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A lot of people have been commenting on how my aura is radiating of positivity recently and though I hadn't really done anything drastic, I don't know why this has been the main compliment I have been getting from people...Not that I am complaining. I don't actually know how to describe it except for the fact that I have decided to be unapologetically myself and when I decided to be that, there was no further decision to make... everything fell into place. You see, a lot of us tend to take this for granted but <i>incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control
of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you
don't</i>. So where do I begin? To start off, I can't force people to love me or to even like me as I have no control over how people perceive things. However, I do have control on the fact that I can make space for those who matter and who appreciate me for who I am and for the mere fact that there are people who support me in the highs and the lows of my life mean so much to me. I considered myself blessed... and on that Sunday... I was truly enchanted to meet some of you. I never really expected that people would approach me and ask for my signature or a photo with me and be so happy with the mere fact they finally got to meet me. It wasn't exactly on my mind when I signed up on publicly sharing my thoughts and photos online but it fascinates me that there are people who read my ramblings and my stories and can relate and learn from it. It gives me so much satisfaction to know that. And it surprises me how much people actually know about me and can notice such minor things like how I changed my hair color or how I have a boo-boo on my left arm and how I feel and if I am handling the demise of a relationship well. The thing is, I always thought that whenever I type random things in this blog, I was just sending it out to the universe...it never actually really occurred to me that so many people read what I say and what I wear or what I am going through and actually remember it. It is such a big deal to me, seriously... you have no idea.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Criss Cross Cut Out Satin Cropped Bustier Top: </b>Suiteblanco</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Off White Midi Skirt: </b>Details</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bleu Electrique Birkin 35 Bag: </b>Hermes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Ankle Strap White and Black Pumps: </b><a href="http://www.upscalehype.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Ysl-saint-laurent-paris-women-paris-ankle-strap-escarpin-pointy-toe-shoe-in-black-and-white-leather-1.jpg">Saint Laurent</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Midi Rings: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/prettylittleblings">Pretty Little Blings</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Evil Eye Pave Beaded Gold and Blue Bangle: </b><a href="http://www.cwonder.com/Categories/Jewelry/Bracelets/shop-by-category/Bracelets.html">C.Wonder </a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Anyway, in my line of work (even if it is part-time), twice a year, I am given the chance, along with those who are in the same field as me, to gather in one venue and get to meet our readers and at the same time, showcase and auction off our pre-loved items that we've worn and experienced life events in to those who want to avail of them. This is called Bloggers United and I've been full force supportive of this event that when they told me we were doing it again, the 8th time around, I said "Yes" without having to think twice. The fact that I get to find my clothes a new home is an added bonus but the main focus of the event is that I get to interact with my readers and followers and meet them and at the same time, get surprised about how updated they actually are on my life. I have always been quite a transparent person, sometimes to my disadvantage, but after speaking to those who follow my style blog religiously, I have to admit it was all worth it. It was a magical day. The main topic everyone seemed to keep tabs with was that I was wearing my Bleu Electrique Hermes Birkin 35 which I dubbed and christened as my #breakupBirkin. Okay, so I didn't coin the term myself since it was first used by Dorothy Wang of Rich Kids of Beverly Hills (a series I watched due to the endless recommendation of my followers) and true to their predictions, I do have certain things in common with her and certain mannerisms which may make you go: "That's so JL!" It's cute really and I appreciate it. A major common thing is that as a reward for myself...basically to feel good and happy for managing to stay clean after my self-mandated detoxification from relationships and dating in general...it's been ten months and I've stayed clean and more than that, I am at my happiest! So I decided to get myself a Cobalt Blue Birkin which I have been pining for since forever... Of course, when I ordered it, I was corrected and was told the precise name was Bleu Electrique for which I apologized and said that I stand corrected. But anyway it has been a long time coming. I ordered mine after the demise of my most recent relationship which was over 10 months ago and when I finally got it, it was like I was a kid in a candy store. My happiness could not be contained and I decided that I had to wear it to this event since it has been a hot topic of conversation on my <a href="http://ask.fm/joannaladrido">ask.fm site</a> and since Bloggers United has always been an important event for me that I clear my schedule for it so I thought it was the perfect time to debut it since as you know, I love dressing up to show my appreciation and my respect for people especially those who came to meet and greet me and my faux twin Domz. I wanted the bright blue to stand up so I wore a black and white ensemble which was the main theme of mine in Domz' matching outfits: Black, Blanc (White) and Birkin. As my breakup was one which was very unpleasant and truly rotten experience for me, I decided I wanted to give myself time to love myself again and giving myself this gift solidified said self-love. Toting this Birkin on my hand will be a constant reminder not to let something or someone so stupid to affect my life and that I have survived much and will probably survive anything life throws at me. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Since it was a way to also give thanks to my readers and followers, we both decided to put up our very own cotton candy and popcorn machines which we have away for free... for no other reason that I simply wanted to give people a treat for supporting me and for being there through the years. Most of you who were there and who I met and took a few selfies and photos with thanked me for being such an inspiration to them and their lives. Of course, I couldn't voice it out at that time as I was in shock over the support, it was a good idea to have a cotton candy and popcorn stand and hand them out for free... as my way to say that I love you, thank you for supporting me and more importantly, thank you for being an inspiration to my life as well. You all have no idea about it but your continued support and the mere fact that you send me such lovely messages and emails especially when I am going through something tough actually lifts my spirits up. Believe it or not, my followers and readers have been a source of strength and motivation for me to keep marching on and it's time to give back. Trust me though, this will be a staple four Blogger's United bazaars in our booth in the future. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have never set our for fame and popularity when I started blogging back in 2007. Sometimes, it bothers me when people ask me why I am not as famous as *INSERT SOME RANDOM NAME HERE* when I have been in the industry longer. I've said this before but allow me to reiterate that I blog because I am passionate about fashion and dressing up. I love doing it. It takes so much of my time. I get excited doing this. It was never part of my goal or my plan to start a career in the entertainment industry, to earn money, to run elbows with the society's cream of the crop or to be popular. I have a career, my own business and I am currently in too deep with my philanthropic work and the cause I am advocating. I am also an introvert...dealing with so many people on a constant basis drains me. I know how to earn my keep without having to sacrifice my self worth. I do not want to make enemies and I am happy for other people who have used this avenue to get to other fields. I applaud these people and respect them and what they have achieved because those things deserve praise and applause. As for my case, whatever I wear or put on myself is something I am proud to be donning and something I believe in. You can't force me to wear and support something I do not believe in and I will not sell out just like that. I was raised to believe integrity as a measure of a person's character versus popularity so it's okay that I am as I am. I am loving my life and I am living it the way I want to... and there is nothing more I could ask for. I am just someone sharing myself to whoever is interested as I go along. I have learned that: <i>A meaningful life is not about being rich, being popular, being well-traveled or cultured or being perfect. It is about being real, being humble, being able to share oneself and touch the lives of others. It is only then that we could have a full, happy and content life. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i> </i>And as much as I love my "break-up Birkin" (and trust me, I love it a lot... as in a lot... as in it probably replaced the love I would otherwise give another man) having it is nothing compared with realizing that my life has a deeper and more meaningful purpose. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i> </i>xx, JL</span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-20432239520551314712014-12-20T09:55:00.000-08:002014-12-20T09:55:53.455-08:00The Happiness In Her Eyes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>My only goal in life right now is to be happy. Genuinely, intensely and consistently happy, regardless of what that looks like to others...</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's Christmas time! I love everything about this season...probably because everyone seems to be jolly and happy and generous...and also because people are at that point where they are settling old scores and trying to close cycles in preparation for the New Year. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year! Aside from the festivities, one of my most favorite things about the Christmas season is the gifts. I love the gifts. Now, not to sound materialistic or something, because the gifts I mean are those that you can't purchase in a store or those that have monetary value. I've been raised in a loving family where the most fascinating and most important gifts are those that you don't have to buy and I think that personally, I prefer it that way. I am not one of those people who appreciate something expensive or costly to be given to me to make me happy... I think I am a more simple and practical person where effort is more appreciated over the cost. After all, if you are the kind of person who can have anything you want, what you want are the things that money can't buy and this actually requires more energy than having to go to a mall and buying something and paying for it at a counter. Now what gifts am I referring to? It can be anything from a simple smile, an apology from someone you had animosity towards (and a reconciliation), having good and unforgettable memories with people that will last a lifetime or perhaps being given another chance to make things right. I find those gifts more fascinating... don't you think?<a name='more'></a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SnGfwY-BKot-s-jEXlTdBKPG3pBNX7J__faISnIagdWn9xRLZhlQbhyYqSPh0MsOgkphzCtnNR4qx4xeMSTHJQMRCvZ27qRVPrPfurYBtMNb7kZpc5tiqwfbi_HRRza9McCwK-MsNjg/s1600/Gold12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SnGfwY-BKot-s-jEXlTdBKPG3pBNX7J__faISnIagdWn9xRLZhlQbhyYqSPh0MsOgkphzCtnNR4qx4xeMSTHJQMRCvZ27qRVPrPfurYBtMNb7kZpc5tiqwfbi_HRRza9McCwK-MsNjg/s1600/Gold12.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Tweed and Tulle Gold and Cream Dress: </b>Romwe (Similar to <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/173740498097372741/">THIS</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Metallic Gold Ankle Strap Shoes:</b> Zara (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/01/life-for-rent.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rose Gold Clutch:</b> Vintage (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2011/12/spun-sugar.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Gold South Sea Pearl Earrings:</b> Mikimoto</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bangle: </b>Louis Vuitton</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Metallic Tattoos:</b> <a href="http://instagram.com/breakmycloset"><b>Break My Closet </b></a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZ59Gx2wFJWMl_JZrJV47ZniD6sX5hItoh3H5x9_g2t10x6Q58049KN8S3KAG51wA62hvjJJqSK4QniIi0n49sMeUUIVWszKMm2MwTwvV1Nyv3pqpaPe8Z7KkXj_yLWlviVCD_lJxrqM/s1600/Gold02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZ59Gx2wFJWMl_JZrJV47ZniD6sX5hItoh3H5x9_g2t10x6Q58049KN8S3KAG51wA62hvjJJqSK4QniIi0n49sMeUUIVWszKMm2MwTwvV1Nyv3pqpaPe8Z7KkXj_yLWlviVCD_lJxrqM/s1600/Gold02.jpg" height="640" width="402" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLubSGksXqDeogARW0-QFdTwKGTxl1Tx-8ppDeBtxYruYiRcRn4DrGA8-Ygp9z13pjqrj2nf-bKXsB7KT7gBWrht1dETOGUfrGmi80pCeaUX0_mtOwC74wnrfSLMJS44zl4NIUk9O26Hk/s1600/Gold10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiLhErVqllexbMFDzA4N2MMAjMHEVUXyz7bY_Yzydgn9e7KEI9zwg0kD1JlRrHLmi6ajieYY4kA7bGvgfvQJurLHSRBqmWLCllNdTOmJIcOpHF3eH4tF5LjmovhmzflqU-CehnxK92kIQ/s1600/Gold06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Every year, we have our annual Christmas party at home around two weeks before Christmas... right before everyone gets crazy busy from holiday party-hopping. It has been a traditional night filled with food, fun, festivities and of course, family. It is something very important to me because I finally get to see my family and loved ones who I don't get to spend time with since my allergies usually limit me from joining them for dinners out or for most occasions. Of course, while this is the highlight of my night... for others, it is the BINGO game...which has been quite a competitive recreational activity for me and my relatives (we play up to 13 variations and patterns!) and probably because we all want to test our luck. I don't know what it is about this specific party but it basically jump starts the Yuletide season for me. Now for this occasion, even if I was just at home, I decided to still dress up and be the perfect party host in a sparkling and glittery sleeveless tulle baby doll dress. I love picking out outfits for this very festive season since you can take out your shiniest and sparkliest outfits and wear them to a party. Exhibit A: this outfit. I would usually wear red but this year, I changed it up a bit and wore a cream shade with golden undertones. It was a fresh change and I loved it. The bonus was that I had so much fun in this outfit since my faux twin Domz and I decided to gift everyone with our very own program which is, if you don't already know, all over Facebook. It was probably liquid courage from the bubbly we had but we both did quite controversial and convincing renditions of Taylor Swift's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10154932595880717&set=vb.627595716&type=3"><b>Blank Space</b></a> and<b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10154936872035717">Shake It Off</a>. </b>Now to those of you who are afraid to say hi or approach us because you think we are intimidating, I think these two videos are sufficient proof on how silly and goofy we could be. (Trust me, we don't bite!)</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Back to the spirit of Christmas and to the tradition of gift-giving... I know everyone is making their list and checking it twice (I understand the rush of Christmas shopping, seriously)... and while you are buying gifts for your loved ones, friends and significant others, I do hope that you also don't forget to give yourself a gift. When I decided what I wanted to give myself... it was as simple as saying and deciding that "<i>I think it's time to be happy again." </i>As self-indulging as that may sound, I think that for everyone, as we are near the end of the year, it actually is the best gift to give yourself. There is absolutely something so marvelous whenever you see a happy person... it's like they radiate a glow and an inner peace from within. Suffice to say that this year has been quite a rocky and eventful one for me... I think that I deserved happiness at the very least. You see, what we often forget is that happiness is a choice- you are the only one who can make yourself happy and you are as happy as you choose to be. As cliche as that sounds, I get that now. I fought for my happiness and it was a very proactive choice... one of the most important decisions I have ever made, actually. In my case, I resolved to finally respect myself enough to walk away from anything and anyone that no longer serves me, makes me grow as a person or makes me happy. I finished chapters, closed cycles and to be safe, I've dotted my i's and crossed my t's to resolve issues from the past and basically... just moved on. There is nothing like a fresh start for a brand new year. I think happy people are the most beautiful people in the world. <i> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Consider the fact that maybe…just maybe…beauty and worth aren’t found in
a makeup bottle, or a salon-fresh hairstyle, or a fabulous outfit.
Maybe our sparkle comes from somewhere deeper inside, somewhere so pure
and authentic and REAL, it doesn’t need gloss or polish or glitter to
shine. Maybe it's not Maybelline. Maybe you were just born with it. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Photos by</b>: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a></i><b><a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata"> </a></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL<i> </i></span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-15810429692053992962014-12-18T08:19:00.000-08:002014-12-20T07:17:26.103-08:00Anchor Yourself To Something Special<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4bGGpjkfwwYeRDIIzeSmJBbayjUP3G6viIjJeVq2c0zi042AHWbYcWcOlYwQYrvGzyuwZIl6mq2xMCUWItDgxSdssQPIDut69XUTRMJIIYMUoeSmh-N_N_VGuk26aGPXGFutnx0vLSog/s1600/Preppy16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4bGGpjkfwwYeRDIIzeSmJBbayjUP3G6viIjJeVq2c0zi042AHWbYcWcOlYwQYrvGzyuwZIl6mq2xMCUWItDgxSdssQPIDut69XUTRMJIIYMUoeSmh-N_N_VGuk26aGPXGFutnx0vLSog/s1600/Preppy16.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>Everything changed the day she figured out that there was exactly enough time for the important things in her life.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I have been on this one woman mission of reinvention ever since the middle of the year, when I woke up and realized that somehow... my life didn't make sense to me the way I needed it to. I had matching tattoos done on the left side of my ribcage with my sister <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH95wdTJCczTWazzZiKEzQ-cFU66CDb98s7oIC6ADikYukKT0eGD5GuK87pIJBOGMOg2-ujb-p-FGxkGJQgOj6opXjE8Hk4Jdda2oUce7CCx4ILFzWwj3fcVH2V1MmJkYhEieF9Y3i4oE/s1600/April+30,2013-May+6+Boracay+2013+188.JPG"><u><b>Katie</b></u></a> with the word <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGPLbzi6knpc1As5aHLzCY6t2a1_Gz_843a-r6jcPQM1XChqWyOId6Vh3DTOoxngySHhcLxyXnKC2gdPIjeLY7hgbqjWj9FOL5p9Ld16Rxl-MmPtn9iSGc2el1bUoJed8xuOBHQhriznk/s1600/April+30,2013-May+6+Boracay+2013+101.JPG"><u><b>'evolve' </b></u></a>and it is the single one tattoo I don't think I will ever regret because I consider myself forever changing and evolving into more of me. It is very easy to get brainwashed by the standard set for me by the society but somehow I managed to break free... (Cue in this year's very <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/11/this-is-part-where-i-break-free.html"><u><b>meaningful Halloween costume</b></u></a>) There are exactly 17 days left in this year's calendar. I am thankful. I found myself this year... not realizing how lost I was. Currently, I find myself so free that even if someone put me in cuffs, I'd still feel my freedom. I find comfort in being comforting. I think at one point, I got lost in the trend of keeping up with the trends until one day, I decided that I was the trend and that I should only be keeping up with was myself. The past years, I think I have been laying my foundation on something weak and shaky... like relationships and other people but I think I have somehow transitioned. Another meaningful tattoo that I got was behind my left ear and it is an <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0EPfPMTYg2RBZpnmqAsyPL0EDFQRY7uODotdcBxGBce9gJPxIiyKSqYoVSPOScKPLmrZMFDAd10G4jEpiQRfJhfsT9pcpWXQtHRIz7p16YX_nRDRRdGggOSzLSo0UCDrmbkq6rjEvTJX/s1600/IMG_3154.jpg"><u><b>anchor</b></u></a> which is of significance for two reasons: (1) since my initials "JL" put together resemble an anchor so much, it might as well be my own sigil and (2) because despite how many reasons are thrown at me, I refuse to sink. Life's toughest storms the strength of our anchors... and I think mine has proven to be tough enough as it has been put to the test so many times. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Maroon Suede Floppy Hat: </b>Stradivarius</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Maroon Statement Long-sleeved Shirt</b>: Stradivarius</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Navy Blue Linen Skirt: </b>Stradivarius</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Maroon Medium Chloe Marcie Satchel: </b>Chloe</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Auburn Snakeskin Wedges: </b>H&M</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>White Crystal and Pearl Collar: </b>Gold Dot Couture</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzWhydZZN5xuAjFngmwC5wuUA_7L024H23fm_MS3CHZuTNSgxuQ6Huk4JnKoROj7UFddcGDB5ar0inIwqT67c8HyBe_RXap3nu8QPmPYGzKeXxqhei2XgRNFCa5KIxWhF5jWMAHXg25UY/s1600/Preppy13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzWhydZZN5xuAjFngmwC5wuUA_7L024H23fm_MS3CHZuTNSgxuQ6Huk4JnKoROj7UFddcGDB5ar0inIwqT67c8HyBe_RXap3nu8QPmPYGzKeXxqhei2XgRNFCa5KIxWhF5jWMAHXg25UY/s1600/Preppy13.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I wore this ensemble for a day in the office which was a positive thing to don and it instantly lifted my spirits up as the statement is pretty clear. <i><b>Anchor yourself in something special: </b></i>I think that this<i> </i>one statement says a lot. I bought this shirt when I saw it because I have a thing for anchors and also because the message was of significance to me. I decided to play up autumn colors of maroon and navy blue (I never expected the two colors would go so well together) for this rather preppy work wear attire which was perfect to lift my spirits up despite the rather cloudy day and also to keep me warm since my room in the office also known as Antartica tends to freeze me to hypothermia. I added a hat since I love floppy hats (have you noticed?) and because I find that protecting my head against the wintery elements of the office would probably keep it warm enough to function. I find it funny how I find such creative reasons for my accessories... this time, involving the blood flow to my brain, when I can just say that I wore this since it looks good in my outfit and so deal with it. Unfortunately, I think everything in my ensemble needs to make sense. That's just the way I am. </span></span></div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Someone
recently told me they had been feeling "anchorless". All in the matter
of weeks, he broke up with his girlfriend of many years, left his job
and started hanging with a whole new social group. Anchorless was the
perfect word to describe the way he was feeling - as though he were
floating, with no real connection to his former life (and who he is) to
keep him from drifting off to sea. In fact, you could say he was having a
hard time keeping his head above water; the overwhelming waves of
change were rocking him back and forth and he had no idea where he was
headed. Most of us have been in that tumultuous place a few times before
- usually after major life changes, when everything we could count on
before, everything that had given us a solid sense of identity, was
suddenly turned upside down. How can we weather these storms and keep
afloat - or, better yet, how can we prevent this wave from hitting us in
the first place? - See more at:
http://www.queendom.com/articles/tips/tip.htm?tip=18#sthash.Rh3fthOc.dpuf</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnbd2NVwMyiNfRtQEAIKG54wJDr6ySMLNAgeyhmxTkDAj_wrOZZAMENjdBvmA6V1vSc41KVm1ZEBUBP9KGT-3-RX72EOQio_xDHMZOQzU9YLpj8Z2hCRxEk13Q1Va8hwXauxB-l0ZWCXU/s1600/Preppy09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnbd2NVwMyiNfRtQEAIKG54wJDr6ySMLNAgeyhmxTkDAj_wrOZZAMENjdBvmA6V1vSc41KVm1ZEBUBP9KGT-3-RX72EOQio_xDHMZOQzU9YLpj8Z2hCRxEk13Q1Va8hwXauxB-l0ZWCXU/s1600/Preppy09.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinaWt3UvOT55Ml7w-_UwImxii-ExyBdj_VwMcSYhgXIsIvco5ly8BaYt9U3F5jpZr1f0ZPLz1bVLDXndYn_2HJI0mD3GleSj32X3AqwVPVG03NoDJoXFzhnq7YBAIV16r_BpMTYB_VXyo/s1600/Preppy01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinaWt3UvOT55Ml7w-_UwImxii-ExyBdj_VwMcSYhgXIsIvco5ly8BaYt9U3F5jpZr1f0ZPLz1bVLDXndYn_2HJI0mD3GleSj32X3AqwVPVG03NoDJoXFzhnq7YBAIV16r_BpMTYB_VXyo/s1600/Preppy01.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGwUPbDPjhVLzGRQwQUUcFDRkpVWh8eCXEU58qJ5H6DCzpyN7nY-nQb99bwRvYgYuCHWUxCSq-0Wg1wVAcuFRz80LUMIsRAEd2WPp2oRVjXhpDExue-9iw90D29aMDPzKXnN_tfwTWZd0/s1600/Preppy02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGwUPbDPjhVLzGRQwQUUcFDRkpVWh8eCXEU58qJ5H6DCzpyN7nY-nQb99bwRvYgYuCHWUxCSq-0Wg1wVAcuFRz80LUMIsRAEd2WPp2oRVjXhpDExue-9iw90D29aMDPzKXnN_tfwTWZd0/s1600/Preppy02.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Since I find that the next series of posts will be dedicated to looking back on the year that was, allow me to say that sometime in the middle of this year, I felt anchorless. I know that would be hard to imagine since I seem to always be on my two feet but yet it happened. All in the matter of a few days back in May, I broke up with my boyfriend, decided I wanted to go on a different career path, had a major fight with the most important people in my life, and started hanging out with a completely different social group than I was used to. I think "anchorless" is the perfect word to describe it as I felt like I was floating- with no real connection to my former life (and who I was) to keep me from drifting off to sea. Actually, you could say that I had a rather difficult time of keeping my head above water as the overwhelming waves of change were rocking me back and forth and I no longer had any idea where I was going. I am sure that like me, most of you have gone through tumultuous times before... usually when major life changes happen...when everything that you could count on before, everything that had given you a solid sense of identity was suddenly turned upside down or robbed right under you. While we cannot avoid the inevitable fact that such a wave will come crashing down our lives more than once, there is a away for us to weather the storms and keep afloat<i>. <i>I am sure that everyone has a sense
of what defines them as a person; it might be their job, relationships,
hobbies, home, or a million other things. (Think about what makes you who you
are. It could even be a love for cats, or their fashion sense.) When we rely
too heavily on certain parts of our lives to form our identity (like a romantic
relationship, our looks or our job), we run the risk of crashing hard if we
lose that thing. If, however, we work on being as well rounded as possible and
pay attention to building many "anchors", we will have something to
grasp onto when another piece of our identity gets swept away. Put in the time
to build quality relationships, take up meaningful hobbies, explore the
different sides of your personality. And when you find yourself drifting away,
reach out for those anchors. They'll remind you who you are and help you keep
your eyes on the horizon.</i></i> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Society taught me to look for happiness in others but then I woke up and realized that I am what I have been searching for all along. I thought I needed to look for love or a relationship to be happy when I realized that all this time, I was searching for myself. I had to take time, stop and actually listen and I found myself where I least expected. As the year comes to an end, I find that I am finally centered, my soul aligned with my purpose. I was once a prisoner to the limitations placed upon me by a society that remained indifferent to who I was...especially when it mattered. I learned to stop caring for things that only waste my time and now, my peace of mind is heavily guarded in a place in which only a privileged few are allowed to touch it. I am so happy in terms of life now and I think my dedication to what I do becomes enhanced because of that. It may be that I only had a few hours of sleep or that I am feeling sick... but I manage to still be smiling and at peace. This new feeling... I love it.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpaBJZbpaoHp9Sxfnly_tlt-R2635ofSSoYvYi5WUsmbrHOQ_QRd26hTn5PZTgVfaz1tuAbDQHUIId59AXDpx-NVBD_RFs1vS6qT1DHANpzYeD3_oQvhod1uV87g9kAIyXHoEjNLjHf0Y/s1600/Preppy04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpaBJZbpaoHp9Sxfnly_tlt-R2635ofSSoYvYi5WUsmbrHOQ_QRd26hTn5PZTgVfaz1tuAbDQHUIId59AXDpx-NVBD_RFs1vS6qT1DHANpzYeD3_oQvhod1uV87g9kAIyXHoEjNLjHf0Y/s1600/Preppy04.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3tr0hQk_gUj1L1UjlLK6iIM6szTThtUVicnWsWJ4bD4J1FRatSyJZT7KroP0v5P_Dsfv_IG0VNc299vkfEznreCoKycNh7OIu6loC5NqqQIj2LG9v8X9VwkJeuRgK3WU6YCcfpc_2n1M/s1600/Preppy05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3tr0hQk_gUj1L1UjlLK6iIM6szTThtUVicnWsWJ4bD4J1FRatSyJZT7KroP0v5P_Dsfv_IG0VNc299vkfEznreCoKycNh7OIu6loC5NqqQIj2LG9v8X9VwkJeuRgK3WU6YCcfpc_2n1M/s1600/Preppy05.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> <i>Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">xx, JL </span></span><style>
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<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Someone
recently told me they had been feeling "anchorless". All in the matter
of weeks, he broke up with his girlfriend of many years, left his job
and started hanging with a whole new social group. Anchorless was the
perfect word to describe the way he was feeling - as though he were
floating, with no real connection to his former life (and who he is) to
keep him from drifting off to sea. In fact, you could say he was having a
hard time keeping his head above water; the overwhelming waves of
change were rocking him back and forth and he had no idea where he was
headed. Most of us have been in that tumultuous place a few times before
- usually after major life changes, when everything we could count on
before, everything that had given us a solid sense of identity, was
suddenly turned upside down. How can we weather these storms and keep
afloat - or, better yet, how can we prevent this wave from hitting us in
the first place?
Everyone has a sense of what defines them as a person; it might be their
job, relationships, hobbies, home, or a million other things. (Think
about what makes you who you are. It could even be a love for cats, or
their fashion sense.) When we rely too heavily on certain parts of our
lives to form our identity (like a romantic relationship, our looks or
our job), we run the risk of crashing hard if we lose that thing. If,
however, we work on being as well rounded as possible and pay attention
to building many "anchors", we will have something to grasp onto when
another piece of our identity gets swept away. Put in the time to build
quality relationships, take up meaningful hobbies, explore the different
sides of your personality. And when you find yourself drifting away,
reach out for those anchors. They'll remind you who you are and help you
keep your eyes on the horizon. - See more at:
http://www.queendom.com/articles/tips/tip.htm?tip=18#sthash.Rh3fthOc.dpuf</span></span></div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Someone
recently told me they had been feeling "anchorless". All in the matter
of weeks, he broke up with his girlfriend of many years, left his job
and started hanging with a whole new social group. Anchorless was the
perfect word to describe the way he was feeling - as though he were
floating, with no real connection to his former life (and who he is) to
keep him from drifting off to sea. In fact, you could say he was having a
hard time keeping his head above water; the overwhelming waves of
change were rocking him back and forth and he had no idea where he was
headed. Most of us have been in that tumultuous place a few times before
- usually after major life changes, when everything we could count on
before, everything that had given us a solid sense of identity, was
suddenly turned upside down. How can we weather these storms and keep
afloat - or, better yet, how can we prevent this wave from hitting us in
the first place?
Everyone has a sense of what defines them as a person; it might be their
job, relationships, hobbies, home, or a million other things. (Think
about what makes you who you are. It could even be a love for cats, or
their fashion sense.) When we rely too heavily on certain parts of our
lives to form our identity (like a romantic relationship, our looks or
our job), we run the risk of crashing hard if we lose that thing. If,
however, we work on being as well rounded as possible and pay attention
to building many "anchors", we will have something to grasp onto when
another piece of our identity gets swept away. Put in the time to build
quality relationships, take up meaningful hobbies, explore the different
sides of your personality. And when you find yourself drifting away,
reach out for those anchors. They'll remind you who you are and help you
keep your eyes on the horizon. - See more at:
http://www.queendom.com/articles/tips/tip.htm?tip=18#sthash.Rh3fthOc.dpuf</span></span></div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Someone
recently told me they had been feeling "anchorless". All in the matter
of weeks, he broke up with his girlfriend of many years, left his job
and started hanging with a whole new social group. Anchorless was the
perfect word to describe the way he was feeling - as though he were
floating, with no real connection to his former life (and who he is) to
keep him from drifting off to sea. In fact, you could say he was having a
hard time keeping his head above water; the overwhelming waves of
change were rocking him back and forth and he had no idea where he was
headed. Most of us have been in that tumultuous place a few times before
- usually after major life changes, when everything we could count on
before, everything that had given us a solid sense of identity, was
suddenly turned upside down. How can we weather these storms and keep
afloat - or, better yet, how can we prevent this wave from hitting us in
the first place?
Everyone has a sense of what defines them as a person; it might be their
job, relationships, hobbies, home, or a million other things. (Think
about what makes you who you are. It could even be a love for cats, or
their fashion sense.) When we rely too heavily on certain parts of our
lives to form our identity (like a romantic relationship, our looks or
our job), we run the risk of crashing hard if we lose that thing. If,
however, we work on being as well rounded as possible and pay attention
to building many "anchors", we will have something to grasp onto when
another piece of our identity gets swept away. Put in the time to build
quality relationships, take up meaningful hobbies, explore the different
sides of your personality. And when you find yourself drifting away,
reach out for those anchors. They'll remind you who you are and help you
keep your eyes on the horizon. - See more at:
http://www.queendom.com/articles/tips/tip.htm?tip=18#sthash.Rh3fthOc.dpuf</span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-87971035381703890792014-12-17T04:36:00.000-08:002014-12-20T07:18:22.869-08:00What Boyfriend?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqB5TklHms1gXtcDLAJiSTmNBQxcSWiXcD9VnB41jxDpLPdPvouwgGlvOUqWxspVHCOW4A08sfz-oLTC-rDwwD3CoxJqwj7n_Si3hPAC2LiOUMYjxwSK5RGqIboewkRd5mGQIaKj6pl4/s1600/Demin08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqB5TklHms1gXtcDLAJiSTmNBQxcSWiXcD9VnB41jxDpLPdPvouwgGlvOUqWxspVHCOW4A08sfz-oLTC-rDwwD3CoxJqwj7n_Si3hPAC2LiOUMYjxwSK5RGqIboewkRd5mGQIaKj6pl4/s1600/Demin08.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">No boyfriend? No problems.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
was walking around some bazaars and saw a number of statement shirts
with that caption and laughed. While I am happy for all my friends who
are blissfully in relationships, personally, I don't think that would
work out for me... For now. As I have said multiple times, I am
currently happily single and I don't think I want to change that as of
the moment. It's refreshing actually to not even be dating right now
because there is just no pressure, no drama, no tiffs... And I love it
that way. At some point, I think I got tired of all the effort it
required and all the issues involved- the main one would be my
independence and refusal to inform my significant other of everything I
do. I find that prerequisite taxing, actually. Probably because I am not
techie or that I forget that I have to and that I seriously forget that I even have a
phone in the first place...but that's always how I've been and it's so
hard to change that. Trust me when I say I've tried and failed many
times. </span></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Boyfriend Denim Button Down Shirt: </b>Topman</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Acid Wash Denim Shorts: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/vanillabreezeclothing">Vanilla Breeze Clothing</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Ankle Strap Brown Shoes: </b><a href="http://www.hauteandrebellious.com/products/yulia-ankle-strap-high-heel-sandal-brown">Haute and Rebellious</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Belt: </b>Vintage Italian</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Brown Birkin Bag: </b>Hermes</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rings and Necklace:</b> <a href="http://instagram.com/prettylittleblings">Pretty Little Blings</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bangles and Cuffs: </b>Cartier, Tiffany, Charriol</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Gold Engraved "I Refuse To Sink" Cuff: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/pulserasbykim">Pulseras By Kim</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
don't think the amount of time I am lavishing in being single and
staying that way is alarming... so I think everyone should keep calm and carry on and I'm
staying single and focusing on me... For a change. That's my current
status in life right now and I don't have plans of changing it yet and probably as long as I am blissfully unaware of the bad things that go with being
alone. But, hey, isn't it also true that being alone is better than
being in bad company? Anyway, while I don't have a boyfriend, it is
refreshing to know that I can still wear boyfriend-ish outfits... This
oversized men's denim shirt I used for casual Fridays in the office is
an example of that. I always loved wearing men's clothing as they aren't
too binding and they are always very comfortable. While most people who
saw me the day I wore this told me that my outfit theme was very <b><i>"the morning after" </i></b>and
"what you wear when you do the walk of shame," I couldn't help but laugh, roll my eyes as I do
and respond that "<i>the best part of being single was being able to sleep
around." </i>Their eyes all widened and there was a deafening silence (add
to the fact my current choice of outfit and that was just serious word vomit there)... It was like I just said that
unicorns exists or something. Of course it was all a jest...as I
followed it up with <i>"I mean I
can sleep all over my own bed- left, right, middle,
horizontally...Gotcha" </i>Sighs of relief became very apparent and I just
laughed along. Even I don't take my brazen statements like that seriously. Hey, single girls can joke around too... </span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The disclaimer is that I must admit that being single is difficult especially when everyone
excepts you to be with somebody... Especially now, as the Christmas
season and with it the Christmas parties come along. You can't imagine
the number of "why don't you have a boyfriend?" questions that I get.
Staying single is not about having no choice... But rather, it's about
making intelligent choices for myself... For the first time after 10
years of bouncing around relationships. I'm going along and making
decisions for "me" for a change and it is very liberating and I think I
want to enjoy this time off right now. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm
at that point where I'm not sure of anything like where I want to go or
who I want to be so being alone and getting things figured out is the
perfect option. But I do know that this choice is perfect for now
because I do know that a few years from now, all I want to be is happy.
Besides, as I was scrolling down my feed, I saw this message and it
basically captures how I feel: <i><b>"I know what I bring to the table. So
trust me when I say that I am not afraid to eat alone."</b></i> Never settle,
dolls! </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a></i></span></span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-53692168592089325642014-12-15T05:49:00.000-08:002014-12-15T08:49:00.341-08:00Made To Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>You haven't seen strength until you witness a woman who continues on after being hurt, smiles after being hurt and still remains hopeful even though at times it hurts. You almost can't tell that she's in pain because the way she wears her smile from day to day is symbolic of the strength that only lives within a Queen. You have not seen real strength until you've seen her.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I don't know what it is but I somehow find it odd that I love being decked out in gowns and long dresses... almost like I was born in the wrong era. To be quite frank, I love wearing fancy formal dresses more than I love wearing normal "everyday" clothes which somehow gives me validation that I was indeed probably born in the wrong time period. Now, as I have high respect for situational dressing, as much as I love gowns... it would be quite inappropriate to wear them while running errands, going to work and on a daily basis. That would just be off. However, there are formal occasions that beg for long dresses, pomp and circumstance... one of said occasions include a wedding... which hopefully by now, you are well oriented enough to know how much I love attending them. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If
it's love and if it's commitment- I think that deserves celebration and
I am one of those people who actually love celebrating those things.
So, I decided to dress up to the nines and also, look fabulous...
(Thanks to my Glam Squad for this one!) Every wedding I attend is
important to me since I have a very high respect for two people
declaring to love each other and to remain loyal to each other through
the best and worst of times... that's not exactly something I see
frequently anymore (based on personal experience) and I think most of
you would agree. So on a beautiful Sunday, I attended the wonderful
wedding of my good friends, Edu and Krystel as a witness to the bond
they were entering. It was beautiful.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have a knack for dressing in theme because I don't want to be that one wedding guest in a bright and loud color when the theme was neutral and muted tones. That automatically puts me in the spot as "Best Wedding Guest Ever," since I always inquire what the theme is so I can be appropriate... a way to show my respect to the bride and groom. Now that has been something that worked out for me <i>most of the time </i>and I say that because on one wedding of my friend, I asked her regarding the theme of the wedding...to which she responded was about fall/autumn colors. I immediately made a run through of fall colors and I narrowed the colors down to: midnight blue, purple, forest green, gray and burgundy. You see, I have- believe it or not- one closet strictly allocated for gowns and formal wear...and my collection of gowns no longer fit in them as I have so much that I also dedicated one rack in my walk in closet (room) strictly for formal wear. So it was safe to say I have a lot of choices but on that particular wedding, I was feeling burgundy red (just because) and as it was a fall color I found that it was fitting to wear. To my disbelief, upon arriving the church a few minutes late, people were looking at me and signaling for me to go inside the church and in front... I declined and didn't understand why that was necessary until I saw the wedding entourage in their procession out of the church and apparently <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/08/crimson-day.html">my design for my gown,</a> the color, the lace fabric used and even the mesh fabric for the skirt area... was actually the exact same for the bridesmaids and maid of honor and then it kind of clicked that people were assuming I was a part of the wedding entourage who came in late. It was of course, hilarious now that I look back at it but I was quite appalled at first. Later, when I saw the bride, my friend, and offered my best wishes...she laughed and asked me if I got my fabric from this certain fabric store as it was the exact place she apparently sourced her materials...and as it turns out, I actually did. Since that incident, I have become more specific when it came to my inquiries that I actually had to send a photo to one of my friends who was actually part of the entourage to ask if my gown was "safe" to wear to the wedding... she said yes and that was a relief as I really have been wanting this fully beaded lace gown which I discovered in my closet with no recollection of how it got there.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Most of the people I know are getting married, having babies or coupling up while I am too concerned in finding the piece of jewelry that would match my outfit perfectly. My mom jokingly told me one time that granted my serial monogamous ways, she was quite shocked I was taking so much time being single. She told me that it was as if everyone played musical chairs and I was the one girl who didn't run fast enough to get a chair and had to be disqualified from the game. I found the metaphor funny but also sad.. I did at some point question the decisions I was making at this age but eventually, I realized that I am just really tired and as of the moment, I can't afford another heartbreak just because I settled with the wrong person and because I wanted to settle down and be one with the herd. To be quite frank, I don't think I've met anyone who compliments my life in a way that it makes it better to not be single. I know from the get go if it isn't worth it and right now, I am in such a good place that I don't find a reason to change anything. I have come to realize that I love myself more and enough to know what I deserve and I deserve a companion who mirrors my own feelings for myself. Also, I find that I am way too valuable to be chasing after people who don't value me. After all, I am not a princess who needs her knight in shining armor for saving. I am a Queen and I have it handled. To be frank, I want something unfamiliar because I am simply so tired of what I've had. I think I deserve that...at the very least. It is amazing... that way I was able to rise after the fall and how I was able to piece myself together after feeling broken. I think back to all the the time that I had invested in a dream sold to me by a long list of people who made me fall without any intention of catching me. It broke me, true. But somehow I managed to find peace in the pieces left behind. I felt superhuman as I was somehow able to find a way to put myself back together to form something stronger...and a bit more beautiful than before.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />When I was putting myself back together again, I realized that one small crack didn't mean I was broken completely... the crack is simply evidence of that fact that I was put to the test and I didn't fall apart. After all, <i>a Queen (which I do hope you aspire to be) is wise as she has earned her serenity not by having had it bestowed on her but by having passed her tests. She has suffered and grown more beautiful because of it. She has seen a vision not just for herself but for the things around her. She cares deeply about something bigger that herself and that us why she rules with authentic power. </i>I find that so on point to describe where I am right now.<i> </i>It was when I was drowning that I found that I was able to breathe and I find it marvelous since while there may be a trace of pain in my eyes...there is strength in my smile and love in my heart...and that makes me someone who cannot be defeated. The bad things, those experiences and problems...the sticks and stones can't break you if you don't let it. I learned that by being alone. A Queen knows how to build her empire with the same stones that were thrown at her. If you are like me, you are probably at the point where you are struggling with the fact that it's time to let go... but you should also know that you are strong enough to walk away. I know it's difficult as I've been there but you have to believe in yourself and your ability to do what is needed. I know that it is easier said than done...trust me... but I held on the fact that I was created with the strength to survive anything... and that was when I realized, <i>I got this.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-16874334118580080842014-12-12T00:02:00.000-08:002014-12-12T00:06:10.571-08:00Nude Awakening<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSjJTccO3nzK6GaklMdXKoCro12Ro2e8XeIrLdepcOQI3W6Vo66i7cT6YYP9GquhT3EYRj371G0Ab9wGn6_Zeqm4rZS_kdmijQWU_fkaeUDLl1aRyKE_dXV9dzcFzImSv7E-deY21ujE/s1600/Nude13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSjJTccO3nzK6GaklMdXKoCro12Ro2e8XeIrLdepcOQI3W6Vo66i7cT6YYP9GquhT3EYRj371G0Ab9wGn6_Zeqm4rZS_kdmijQWU_fkaeUDLl1aRyKE_dXV9dzcFzImSv7E-deY21ujE/s1600/Nude13.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some
poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning,
middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the
moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to
happen next.<br />Delicious Ambiguity.”
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I used to be such a control freak that every step was carefully planned, every outfit was thought of in advance and I refused to be caught off guard. The thing with being that way is that the sad but unavoidable reality that in life, you are never in control and to assume you are, simply opens you up for major disappointment. I came, I controlled (or tried) and I failed and got a harsh lesson and now I am just going with the flow and taking life as it is. I still crave for control (that's just me and I can't control it---okay for lack of a better term to use...) but now I know when to sit back and relax and let things unfold before me without having to intervene. I simply trust the vibes I get... because at the end of the day, energy doesn't lie. As for being on top of everything, the rude awakening that one never can be and the sooner you accept that, the better as you strip yourself off the pretense (as comforting as the illusion of having control is) and then you're left to deal with yourself in rawest and purest form possible... that kind of explains my title on nude awakenings...because believe it or not... being stripped off all the false pretenses that somehow reassure you or lull you into a false sense of security is what one needs.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>Chiffon Tank Top: </b>Asos (Similar to <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Backless-Cami-with-Plunge-Neck/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=4445660&utm_source=Affiliate&utm_medium=LinkShare&utm_content=UKNetwork.1&utm_campaign=Hy3bqNL2jtQ&cvosrc=Affiliate.LinkShare.Hy3bqNL2jtQ&link=10&promo=325180&source=linkshare&MID=35718&affid=2134&WT.tsrc=Affiliate&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-ahBtaUqkP1SjqlQM5Plk9Q&r=2">THIS</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Distressed Boyfriend Jeans: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/vetus_shop">Vetus Shop </a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Nude Colored Medium Antigona Bag: </b><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/givenchy_antigona_medium_patent_leather/thing?id=125915225">Givenchy</a> (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/09/on-neutrality-nuances-and-nuisances.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Nude Patent Strappy Court Shoes: </b>Call it Spring (Similar to <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/call_it_spring_susor_womens/thing?id=119450675">THIS</a>) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rose Gold and Silver St. Tropez Watch: </b><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/charriol_womens_028pd1.540.552_st_tropez/thing?id=114817283">Charriol</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Accessories:</b> Forever 21</span></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Photos by: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn </a></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Even on casual days, I love neutrals and this outfit is so fitting as it incorporates nude shades with my distressed boyfriend jeans which I am absolutely obsessed with. I never thought that I would be able to pull a casual outfit in nude tones as I feel they have the tendency to make me look (and therefore feel) naked so I have been avoiding wearing those shades as much as possible. But on the day I wore this outfit, I wanted to take a risk and here you are bearing witness to that and I do hope it panned out well. I love this top and begged my sister for the full array of color selections as it is very flattering and somehow, the fabric, the fit, the cut is so well made that it just enhances all the right features (for my body type anyway). Now I decided to wear this color as it was very calming and as it perfectly matched my new baby aka. my nude Medium Givenchy Antigona and my equally same colored shoes from Call It Spring which I got for a very good price. As for the jeans, I am a convert and will forever be a fan of this style... boyfriend-less or not. The bright side when it comes to fashion now is that we can wear clothes that would usually be made for boyfriends without having to have one and aren't we just all so lucky?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxaaEsvoEvYmqbguA4ODkMmEVumNAJj8WChbkl_GsKilVPOZx-RTX29Vjcf4g4Zgve9P2ww3UKGBvEoJ8xcWFc8I8FfEvhyJl0ZT7nzBLfkYNd1dmvxvpak_h4HCSqFtxSwip5w4Y0_gA/s1600/Nude09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxaaEsvoEvYmqbguA4ODkMmEVumNAJj8WChbkl_GsKilVPOZx-RTX29Vjcf4g4Zgve9P2ww3UKGBvEoJ8xcWFc8I8FfEvhyJl0ZT7nzBLfkYNd1dmvxvpak_h4HCSqFtxSwip5w4Y0_gA/s1600/Nude09.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> I find that my outfits revolve around such understated (fine, for me aka. in my terms) looks (with the exception of a few va-va-voom ones aka. the gowns I so love as I feel I was born in the wrong era as I love gowns, petticoats, fancy court shoes and coiffed hair and all that jazz) and it has a lot to do with the fact that I am at a good place and I feel like I am in such a stable and secure place in my life and of course, with myself.. that all the theatrics, the drama and the turmoil and spectacle of being "in the scene" is such a far away and distant place. It simply isn't for me anymore and as soon as I realized that... I finally got to build and pave the way for a better and calmer life for me. I am glad for this change. While other people may not exactly understand this very new take I have on how I choose to live my life, I think that giving an explanation is moot as they won't understand especially if they are still in "that scene" and in "that mindset." I respect their choices as I do hope they respect mine. Personally, at this point, I think we are all too old to be building attractions over who is "fly," who is cute, who has a pumped up ride or who has money and all that superficial things. I think it is time for us to think about and evaluate the more important things- like who comes from a decent and loving family, who has a good head on their shoulders, who has ambition, goals, a future and most of all... who can build a future with you and who you can build a future with. So there... it's pretty much basic and simple casual looks or professional looking outfit for me. Hope you like this casual one for a change...</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqc8jPNRIB-74-lBUwkFQccdUvBlZQQwFGCXQEz_ToFW8dFyy4-KfoTt4Xy1RUCLbUB0fFkFRyHY4_77zv22-0en-t6171m1Ua4JPGKKksonAcb9YJ-6NYuthTIyhlNplHv5JHUUeg3E8/s1600/Nude05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqc8jPNRIB-74-lBUwkFQccdUvBlZQQwFGCXQEz_ToFW8dFyy4-KfoTt4Xy1RUCLbUB0fFkFRyHY4_77zv22-0en-t6171m1Ua4JPGKKksonAcb9YJ-6NYuthTIyhlNplHv5JHUUeg3E8/s1600/Nude05.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWaD810gbb1oaBKUTOsaAtsl0gzfH3a0jQBdluMor9kh-tij1uu5L-6o1RNE5kBsUY45iSZExVNbIFLHTmacekVF2QGILdgt7vLRipxCTELRWoK9aSbeFRzp7NuvpoWYEDON5mxvLzhD8/s1600/Nude08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWaD810gbb1oaBKUTOsaAtsl0gzfH3a0jQBdluMor9kh-tij1uu5L-6o1RNE5kBsUY45iSZExVNbIFLHTmacekVF2QGILdgt7vLRipxCTELRWoK9aSbeFRzp7NuvpoWYEDON5mxvLzhD8/s1600/Nude08.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-77507576844237809432014-12-11T02:35:00.001-08:002014-12-11T07:47:27.690-08:00Lucky Strike<div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yyKP683lXCLlQVlbTIHxnKt-ETHmik28_Jpv-U6Aw92biw6OYuwYygXib9vPV3gwpICrCKCK81Cgpa56T9mPB_oPf3I1KTTWcL-vbz3lsvb3cKhwf9KVl8SFZneXevWUpyXoxc9qrPM/s1600/Super+Sale12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yyKP683lXCLlQVlbTIHxnKt-ETHmik28_Jpv-U6Aw92biw6OYuwYygXib9vPV3gwpICrCKCK81Cgpa56T9mPB_oPf3I1KTTWcL-vbz3lsvb3cKhwf9KVl8SFZneXevWUpyXoxc9qrPM/s1600/Super+Sale12.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Today
I wondered why my eyelashes aren't thick enough and why my feet aren't
small enough. Then it hit me. Why do we take these insignificant things
like millimeters on lashes and shoe boxes and then try to fit ourselves
into those stupid molds? Why do I take the beauty that is me, and
measure it up to a shoe size? A length of hair on my eyes? Am I not the
more wonderful creation, far more great than those stupid things? Why do
we take ourselves and desecrate ourselves daily? Pushing ourselves into
cubicles because we think we are supposed to fit into them? Are we ice
cubes? And suddenly I just don't understand the inadequacies anymore! </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Because they're not even inadequacies, at all! I will laugh and be beautiful.</span></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4k-FaRrzgnlYiWzBtLp099hkvo9m0fAzkG8tlb4RMemgyfh1T2T8fZCgUhOwR50DriSTQDvhaEtpXPmotsFb35L9ZNlVSnl5yjQ5P1oxQDb1i0U9z9gaOdTp4zwo1EScLnMjAuNvbyI/s1600/Super+Sale04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4k-FaRrzgnlYiWzBtLp099hkvo9m0fAzkG8tlb4RMemgyfh1T2T8fZCgUhOwR50DriSTQDvhaEtpXPmotsFb35L9ZNlVSnl5yjQ5P1oxQDb1i0U9z9gaOdTp4zwo1EScLnMjAuNvbyI/s1600/Super+Sale04.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></span></i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt20_aLvE7uz0LR-57xqnf1dpLaSS2jdAoDxtuhFPQLHnQxjXTFH96Ng7AOaFCcNtLar4mlZjT-qAzBvabr2Hjaz2Pqlw4oqoz_W6qaT4K1Pav14VFc0BVAn_iDgq_9CplMBJ3UmLazcI/s1600/Super+Sale05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt20_aLvE7uz0LR-57xqnf1dpLaSS2jdAoDxtuhFPQLHnQxjXTFH96Ng7AOaFCcNtLar4mlZjT-qAzBvabr2Hjaz2Pqlw4oqoz_W6qaT4K1Pav14VFc0BVAn_iDgq_9CplMBJ3UmLazcI/s1600/Super+Sale05.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADQWuwybIgCXbNWh-Sr82QphdygodgHfvGE2eLtl5HVP2i_tDZFkn6CzLQCCLXtKxEKLRC4dFXM0h2qwV5UVuiDI8r7s1IPttRc3vMjkD6SJwLfv0NSLt6jhhb2JNwOCoDY0ov9s4cfY/s1600/Super+Sale06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADQWuwybIgCXbNWh-Sr82QphdygodgHfvGE2eLtl5HVP2i_tDZFkn6CzLQCCLXtKxEKLRC4dFXM0h2qwV5UVuiDI8r7s1IPttRc3vMjkD6SJwLfv0NSLt6jhhb2JNwOCoDY0ov9s4cfY/s1600/Super+Sale06.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Red, White and Blue Printed Cropped Top: </b>Zara</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Denim Pencil Skirt: </b>Zara (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/09/and-youre-gonna-hear-me-roar.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Crocodile Skin Midnight Blue Lucrezia: </b>Givenchy (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/06/midnight-blue.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Tri-color Ankle Strap Heels: </b>Charles and Keith (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/09/and-youre-gonna-hear-me-roar.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Accessories: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/therapybags">Therapy </a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Last
November, I joined the SuperSale Bazaar and my FOSSIL, Dominique and I
had a booth so we decided to drop by and to go for support. (After all,
my really good friends are the organizers and I just really love the
brands that joined...) But anyway, it was a weekend and I could dress
whatever way I wanted to so I decided to dress up in red, white and
blue. I must say that I was feeling a tad patriotic that day which
explains the red, white and blue ensemble. I decided to go for the
cropped top and pencil skirt route even if I don't have the presence of
"curves" in my body because well, I love breaking rules and I don't care
really as I don't change myself to fit in to the clothes but the
clothes have to adapt to fit to me. So I decided that since it has been a
long time that I've been wanting to wear this outfit, I might as well
go ahead and go for it and I did.</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYXQ2KoCmtGqyx5qRchEdbrp17XhY9IZKbcXddpKXGrmVY7Drc43JS86KzCBUAO23KIXtRRRUTg-ectIHtLza2Pc5t80CG3OhYQN6-MlucEb2OEmo6vlJeXeemDUEZbvimv34CnbKZiU/s1600/Super+Sale01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYXQ2KoCmtGqyx5qRchEdbrp17XhY9IZKbcXddpKXGrmVY7Drc43JS86KzCBUAO23KIXtRRRUTg-ectIHtLza2Pc5t80CG3OhYQN6-MlucEb2OEmo6vlJeXeemDUEZbvimv34CnbKZiU/s1600/Super+Sale01.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqOLSjHhyF_dbvRJS1l_RLU4f0ZdLRrgM7gjELwTZpJVisjwVTlvvpbq8xBGChBoqvEpnAEyHk3Im0xfzHIcTUIgkLsvjxnHMAKsBl225fyU_FC_66iv6Jj1t3rgQcdyyjHW0uA0nVvRc/s1600/Super+Sale11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqOLSjHhyF_dbvRJS1l_RLU4f0ZdLRrgM7gjELwTZpJVisjwVTlvvpbq8xBGChBoqvEpnAEyHk3Im0xfzHIcTUIgkLsvjxnHMAKsBl225fyU_FC_66iv6Jj1t3rgQcdyyjHW0uA0nVvRc/s1600/Super+Sale11.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVRtbOgwpFlBkyWhuZ4ZjHBRup5ZmNHDzhkhmrJ2XYJpvgknBpqYLlbN1VYkBpwK8gn45sVcbRvvNINwWY3acTCxANTrmg3DeW6KqPgS1njbJgCVKPUp-7SNPIul143w0gB2wAS5xWrjo/s1600/Super+Sale02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVRtbOgwpFlBkyWhuZ4ZjHBRup5ZmNHDzhkhmrJ2XYJpvgknBpqYLlbN1VYkBpwK8gn45sVcbRvvNINwWY3acTCxANTrmg3DeW6KqPgS1njbJgCVKPUp-7SNPIul143w0gB2wAS5xWrjo/s1600/Super+Sale02.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_MqMrlopuccZrBCN1PmMHA-aQtn3ntHsPoETt6N4BQ5w_ZKWZk3H8zonO7l0vAcjpooIYZvEhyphenhyphenNYTGqcrWabhkofq_sijLpKzcNIlzG-zNLRcZtaQD0uyf-Cowd2hxMD0hbnkVeOcqo/s1600/Super+Sale09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_MqMrlopuccZrBCN1PmMHA-aQtn3ntHsPoETt6N4BQ5w_ZKWZk3H8zonO7l0vAcjpooIYZvEhyphenhyphenNYTGqcrWabhkofq_sijLpKzcNIlzG-zNLRcZtaQD0uyf-Cowd2hxMD0hbnkVeOcqo/s1600/Super+Sale09.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I
used to base my life on numbers and measurements. Of course, that would
be a plus if you want worked in Finance or in a Medical-related field
but for the day to day basis... Not so much of a good thing. I think
it's important to love oneself as is. Happiness is not about what shows
on the scale, or what size you wear for your clothes. It's all about
finding beauty in yourself and believing yourself to know that you are
more than enough... You're beautiful. Don't let anyone tell you
otherwise!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-85493146594021804812014-12-08T21:37:00.000-08:002014-12-08T21:37:08.783-08:00Swing Out Sister<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLq6exrl69rEl2vwp97yN54q93ruh_Q1SbNC6Antw4upVFzlzqjzDeMlaB4nGuyoAe6xpEKWeNYKj-2FLv6Y8OvYBLIskdrOERHVGld7oYuC4ozaJV0Lz_K3y8SyrK-oP3N77-u82_HCU/s1600/Swing08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLq6exrl69rEl2vwp97yN54q93ruh_Q1SbNC6Antw4upVFzlzqjzDeMlaB4nGuyoAe6xpEKWeNYKj-2FLv6Y8OvYBLIskdrOERHVGld7oYuC4ozaJV0Lz_K3y8SyrK-oP3N77-u82_HCU/s1600/Swing08.jpg" height="524" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's
been a week long absence from posting because 1.) schedule has been
off the hook and 2.) there was no internet at home, my mom managed to
survive through <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">my</span> ordeal
by getting my postpaid tattoo and I consumed too much data and as per
the Fair Usage Policy, I was using up too much bandwidth that my
internet had to be slower to give a chance to others. For the Internet
thing- I have to say that Dominique's cute but menacing cat, Kenzo was
to blame as he chewed off the wire which took forever to fix and
restore. Now as much as I love blogging, you see, I love living beings
more so I spared Kenzo the rage blackout (not that he would understand
why I was mad) and decided to just be. I was way too busy with work
anyway and in my down time, I was actually able to do other things that I
probably would unot have been able to had there been Internet as I
would probably be too busy glued to the computer screen and browsing
through sites and meandering. I thought I would not have survived all
those days but it was actually refreshing as I got to read books, goof
up with people (well, that I do with or without Internet so it doesn't
really count actually) and of course actually bond and get to talk to
people without having to multitask. I have a really difficult time
compartmentalizing which is a debilitating side effect of my OCD so now
that I had all the time not using the Internet, I got to concentrate on
other things. A lot of freak accidents have happened the past days that I
had to check if Mercury was in retrograde but apparently, it wasn't and
there are just times that bad things happen all at the same time. The
difference between letting it get to you or not depends solely on how
you react to the things happening to you and rather than sulk, scowl and
complain endlessly, I decided to go the road less traveled and used the
time to be productive and it was good. I used the time to get to think
up ideas and things (the one where I decided to have a cotton candy and
popcorn in my booth in BU8 being one of them...but let's save that for
another blog post!). It was all about your reaction to things that
dictate how it will affect you and I am happy with how I was able to
turn a dire situation into something positive. My, my. Is it just me or
have I seriously changed so much? I like how I am responding to things
in such a zen-like manner so let all the good juju flow. I need that a
lot this December!</span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now
on to this look, allow me to share with you that as a child one of my
favorite play things in the village park were the swings. I used to like
the monkey bar until I was sitting on top and slipped down and landed
on my behind on the ground and the seesaw was always problematic as I
was always the lighter person on the other end so it was me being
terrorized by the sudden crash from when the other side lets go off
their weight resulting to a fast descent. I felt really bullied because
of that by the way. But the swing was always so much fun. As a child, it
gave me one heck of an adrenaline rush and the moving and feeling the
breeze against your hair and all the wonderful things associated with
being in a swing was something that really calmed me down and when I saw
this cute wooden swing in Hole In The Wall restaurant in Century
City... I knew I just had to go back to the gold old days and swing
out...(my first visit was when the place was on dry run and I fell in
love with the place so much!) </span></span></div>
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</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Mandarin Print Jacquard Shift Dress: </b><a href="http://instagramc.om/theurbanhour">The Urban Hour</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Blue Blazer Style Coat:</b> <a href="http://romwe.com/">Romwe.com</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pearl Statement Necklace: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/prettylittleblings">Pretty Little Blings</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Low Heeled Court Shoes: </b>Zara (Also worn<a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/11/songs-of-innocence.html#more"> HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Cabas Chyc Blue Bag: </b>Yves Saint Laurent (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/12/sometimes-in-fall.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This
look is a cross between "not a girl, not quite yet a full developed
woman" (hello, Britney Spears!) but this seems to be my usual outfit
choice because it is very easy to transition. I have a new found love
and obsession with shit dresses in jacquard as it is dainty enough for
my doll like look, elegant enough to wear to the office where I have to
look very respectable and also, chic enough to wear it out to attend
engagements after work--- which I did as I went to meet up my mom for a
date to Megamall Fashion Hall and did a bit of shipping and had then had
tea after all the retail therapy bonding. Over it, to make the look
more professional, I added a blue coat blazer which made it perfect to
wear in a more business setting. However, I decided to wear it still
after work as it was chilly and well, because it added the much needed
oomph and glamour factor to my look. I was still waiting for my Break Up
Birkin to come so I just styled my outfit with my blue YSL Cabas Chyc
and some pretty shoes. The print of the dress was a cute mandarin and
cobalt blue combination and also, probably the closest I would be when
it comes to having oranges in my body (allergies!) I love how this dress
for me so well that I got it in various colors, styles and designs...
What can I say? If the dress fits... But it in every colors. I have been
looking through 5 of my closets which contained my color coded dresses
months ago and realized how almost all of my outfits were all about
bodycon, cutout and clubbing party girl pieces that I knew it was time
to reshuffle and reinvent things and that's when I started to collect
prim and proper conservative dresses like this. I let go of all my party
girl looks away as easily as I discarded my party girl self aside and
boxed it up... Knowing they needed a new home and new experiences with
people who would use them if they were still at that stage of their
life. That's the reason why the Blogger's United Bazaar was coming
because I was quite happy to have them belong to people who won't simply
just hoard them and hide them in their closet... The person in this
situation doing all the hoarding and hiding being me. It was true that
parting is such sweet sorrow especially since I had such wonderful
memories wearing these pieces (most I wore once and some, I never even
got to wear) and I had a lot of good memories with them... Hopefully,
the people owning them now will have good experiences in them too!!!
That's the circle of life... Or to be more correct, the cycle of a
really good dress... I have to say. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As
I was picking them all out and taking them out of my closet and
transferring them to my "I'm totally selling these clothes" rack,
everyone was getting shocked at how I was so easily purging my closet
from all these things which were in mint condition (OCD remember?). The
answer to why it came so easy is due to two reasons: the first being I
don't know where to put all these things anymore unless I decide to
occupy the entire floor of my house to accommodate all my clothes (I
have a completely full room transformed to a walk in closet as is and
still, things don't fit.) Drastic measures were necessary. The next one
being that I decided that while I wanted to keep some items due to
sentimental reasons, the memories I had with these dresses exist even if
I no longer have them... So might as well let go of the material object
but not the memories. Life is simpler that way. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Since
I am all about reinvention as evidenced by my new outfit choices and
style aesthetic, this dress proved to be a great investment because I
got to style it perfectly on the day I wore it. My mom was all gushing
on how absolute stylish I was and how much she loved my ensemble until I
revealed to her that the shift dress only cost me P350 from a bazaar I
went to. She was in all levels shocked. At one point, she checked my
temperature on my forehead and wanted an explanation as to why I would
wear a dress that was P350... Because I think she got worried I was
scrimping and saving up on my shopping budget. I laughed at her. But at
the same time she was very proud that my styling powers made the dress
look much more than it actually cost. This brings me back to the point I
wanted to make by wearing the look... I think that if you posses
refinement and grace, you could wear a brand less something that cost
you P150 from a garage sale and make it look like it's worth more than
that. It's all about how you carry yourself, really. Now this goes two
ways of course. I have seen many people wear branded everything and
still look tacky and (for lack of a better term) cheap. Now while I am
obsessed with designer bags (have you noticed?), I also don't mind
wearing anything local made and unbranded because I have no qualms about
it. I don't think the amount of designer and luxury bags define me as a
person nor is it an indicator of my personal style... Collecting them
just makes me happy. Ultimately, style is all about how you carry and
present yourself well... Even if you were wearing a rice sack over your
body, if you managed to make it look put together and very much like
YOU, then you must be doing right. That is what I call style. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
can't wait for everyone to show me how they rocked the pieces they got
from my and Domz' booth so do tag me and let me know when you've worn
them! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-65159597393969969522014-11-28T21:11:00.001-08:002014-11-28T21:11:44.296-08:00How You Get The Girl<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i> “Diamonds are held under tons and tons of pressure, extremely high
temperatures of fire and shuffled under shifting of tectonic plates, for
a long, long time! Yet when they come out from there and are put on
display for their beauty; does anybody stop to evaluate the diamond
based upon all the shit it's been through and say "Remember that
disgusting hole it used to be in? I bet it was hell in there!" No,
people don't remember where a diamond has come from; they just see the
beauty of it now. But it wouldn't have become so beautiful, you know, if
not for all of that! So why should we look at other people, or at
ourselves and evaluate them/ourselves based upon their/our pasts?
Shouldn't we forget that? And only see the beauty that is in front of
our eyes? Whatever it was, it made you beautiful! And that is what
matters!”
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- C Joybell C</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I mentioned a few posts back that I had quite a busy week since despite feeling sick, I had certain commitments that I have already confirmed my attendance for and one of them was on a Friday night where I was chosen to judge the Mr. and Ms. College of Home Economics at U.P. Diliman. Along with my fellow judges who are, I have to say, talented and respectable in the industry were Alma Concepcion, Arnold Galang, Albert Andrade and the Dean of the College of Home Economics Dr. Aurorita T. Roldan. I was quite honored to be part of a panel of such big name and revered personalities and I was more than happy to represent the social media and blogging world and made sure to try my best to objective as possible. Personally, I used to be invited to judge pageants in universities but rarely accepted. However, since I wanted to show my support for the college, I went for it and I was glad I did. The pageant wasn't all about who looked better or who had the most incredible gown but a large percentage of the rating system was on their ability to communicate and answer questions impromptu (which we asked them) and also in their talent and portion area. It was such an amazing experience and I got a bit nostalgic about my college days. In this day and age we live in and in the industry I belong to, there is so much emphasis put on how you look that it is almost the one main facet our lives must revolve around. I find it silly. On the get go, this is also why I hate meeting people randomly like in a bar setting or in a club because everything is so objectified. First impressions revolve around your exterior appearance and while I may seem fashionable and cute, I think my personality is more of what makes me... <i><b>me</b></i>. To relate that to my outfit, I try to incorporate how I feel as much as possible to my outfit and well, this dainty ensemble seemed perfect for that day.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>White Jacquard U-Neck Dress:</b> Ever New (similar <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/563161128377490704/">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Beige Sling Leather Box Shaped Bag:</b> Bally</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pearl Accessories:</b> Mikimoto</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satin Pumps with Rhinestones and Silver Heel: </b>Aldo (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/12/adore-you.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Photos by: <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Aside from the "Little Black Dress", I think that one other closet staple everyone must own is the "LWD" or the "Little White Dress. Of course, I would then argue that everyone also needs a "Little Red Dress" and so and so but that's just because I need an excuse for keeping an item in my closet. But in all honesty, one can never go wrong with a black and a white dress ready in their arsenal. While the Little Black Dress is traditionally vampy, more versatile and something you can wear especially at work or on a night out, the Little White Dress is more exquisite and delicate and would be the perfect dress to thrown on for a fancy day out- be it a brunch, afternoon tea or simply a beautiful day out and it has proven to be very handy since (unless you were it at a wedding), it is appropriate for semi-formal and cocktail dress code events happening during the day. I have disposed of my old party girl clothes and hopefully, the people who got them would give them a great new place... and I did have <i>a lot </i>of such dresses...case in point: <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2010/11/pink-is-my-favorite-crayon.html">Outfit 1</a>, <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2010/12/sink-pink.html">Outfit 2</a>, <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/09/lady-in-red.html">Outfit 3</a>, <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2010/08/virtual-insanity.html">Outfit 4</a>, <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2010/07/burned-out-stars-they-shine-so-bright.html">Outfit 5</a>... and then so much more. But anyway, I have a sense of relief knowing the were purchased to be worn out and taken for a ride around the city for those who were like me back then. Now, I go for more classic silhouettes when buying clothes and I think this white dress pretty much shows that since it is so different to the dresses I used to wear. (A side effect of getting older, I reckon.) But anyway, it fit me perfectly, I love the cut and the shape and most of all, I loved the delicate jacquard print which made it more intricate and elegant. I thought it was the perfect outfit for attending the pageant I was judging as it was very classic and conservative and at the same time, very neutral and subtle, ensuring that I wasn't stealing the thunder from the lovely contestants. I stuck with the neutral color palette with pearls, a jeweled pair of nude pumps and a matching leather Bally bag in a neutral tone. I also went to style my hair in a very understated, toned down and polished manner to add drama and some consistency to the entire ensemble. Suffice to say, I felt like a princess in this dress in my personal fairytale. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I find that since I love looking well and dressing myself up that I am misconstrued as a shallow and superficial and I hate that this stigma exists- no matter how advanced and modern we claim our world to be. Stereotypes like these, as annoying and baseless they are, are unfortunately still prevalent and all I can do is yearn for the day when people stop objectifying other people based on looks. It is incongruous that I am saying this when my blog is all about fashion and most of the time, I present my best foot forward when I post photos of myself. But photos, as much as real we'd like to believe them to be, are two dimensional and can easily be altered (Hello, Photoshop!). I think everyone must trust the vibes and gut feel that they get... because energy doesn't lie. True happiness and contentment shows from within and I think people who see me have been sensing a much better aura from me as I am radiating nothing but good vibes. I have to say that it took quite some time to get to this place of alignment. “I've learned, that not all worth is measured by price. I've found so many gems that didn't cost me much!” and I have to agree with this saying since in terms of monetary value, you can't buy experiences and you can't pay for life lessons. I have always said that when it comes to giving me presents and gifts, I prefer things that don't require a great deal of expense but rather took some effort to make. I know myself well enough that anything another person can give that is in material form is something I can I know I can give myself. This is why my definition of spoiling is giving me your time. Give me experiences and memories... anything I can learn from.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> We have made all made mistakes and we all encounter hardships and difficulties but I think that having gone through these is ultimately what makes us or breaks us as people. I think we all have the same beginnings and we have faced the same amount of struggles in our life. However, the reality is that <i>diamonds are only lumps of coal that stuck at it no matter how much heat or pressure they faced. </i>It is the capacity to realize that we were not built to break and that most of the time, the most beautiful, exquisite and precious things in the world come from worst case scenarios and these will make us or break us. There will be times that things hurt so bad that we might not ever get over it. There will be times that bad things happen that we have absolutely no control over and are helpless about and nothing quite makes sense as to why it is happening to us. And there will be times we might feel broken that we can't anything get anything tight and we were probably doomed for failure from the start and we feel alone. I am not immune to these feelings and I have personally gone through them. I also see people experience these setbacks on a day to day basis in my work so I know for a fact every person has their own battle...just in different forms. No one is exempted from going through these feelings...that is what makes us human: going through highs and lows and trying your best to persevere. We need to stick it out no matter what happens- no matter how heat, flack and external and internal pressures we get. Do realize that when you've surpassed these challenges, more will come because after all, <b><i>it's hard to be a diamond in a rhinestone world</i></b>. As for me, I'm still a diamond in the rough... but I am getting there.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">...And that's how it works...that's how you get this girl</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFiobEwgP3Z7spotw1eFrpYQ9J0bWg_9VLAZQwNuRPYKQmanNiRGCaS80xGLYxjbMJjcphZ2OlVDUBEL5804xVzdLEFWkqZnFHsRRSZlrWTUgyXZfx6XiajEa8xwJtWWIKI1D7Tbkxeik/s1600/HE01.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFiobEwgP3Z7spotw1eFrpYQ9J0bWg_9VLAZQwNuRPYKQmanNiRGCaS80xGLYxjbMJjcphZ2OlVDUBEL5804xVzdLEFWkqZnFHsRRSZlrWTUgyXZfx6XiajEa8xwJtWWIKI1D7Tbkxeik/s1600/HE01.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a><br />
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-14979111565180343802014-11-27T06:34:00.000-08:002014-11-27T06:40:35.176-08:00The Girls Get Talking: An Intimate Afternoon with naFlora<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">“It's not very easy to grow up into a woman. We are always taught,
almost bombarded, with ideals of what we should be at every age in our
lives: "This is what you should wear at age twenty", "That is what you
must act like at age twenty-five", "This is what you should be doing
when you are seventeen." But amidst all the many voices that bark all
these orders and set all of these ideals for girls today, there lacks
the voice of assurance. There is no comfort and assurance. I want to be
able to say, that there are four things admirable for a woman to be, at
any age! Whether you are four or forty-four or nineteen! It's always
wonderful to be elegant, it's always fashionable to have grace, it's
always glamorous to be brave, and it's always important to own a
delectable perfume! Yes, wearing a beautiful fragrance is in style at
any age!” </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-PH" style="color: #222222;">The past week, I had the privilege to
be invited to a great and very educational event at Posh Nails in BGC which was
hosted by naFlora. From the get go, I wasn't quite aware of what was going to
happen but after the program... can I just say that I learned so much vital
information that I, as a woman, didn't know but how to. We had a lovely
speaker who was a specialist in OB-Gyn and granted that THAT was her area of
expertise, she was definitely the best person to consult and learn insight
from. Her presentation and talk was entertaining and was not the usual
"lecture" type as she was able to explain the importance of knowing
that at certain ages, we need different kinds of feminine wash concentrations
to maintain a healthy pH</span><span lang="EN-PH" style="color: #222222;"> balance in every girl's private part. Well aside
from that, she also explained some tips on how to take care of your body and on
how certain lifestyles (ie., drinking, stress, smoking, medications) can have an
effect on your reproductive system. She also debunked certain tips that we,
being a very superstitious race, tend to believe in because that was what their
grandmother's grandmother who said so. I am shocked how little people knew and
how they have certain beliefs which are not only unhealthy but potentially
dangerous. At my age (I am 27 years old), I am knowledgeable in human anatomy
specifically the reproductive organ of a woman... however, I also realized that
there was so much more I needed to learn which is why I am thankful that I was
able to get some expert advice from a specialist. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-PH" style="color: #222222;">Of course, the emphasis of the
exchange of information revolved around one major theme and it is that: <b>Every
woman is unique. Her feminine wash should be too. </b>I never quite knew
that, to be honest... but thankfully, naFlora was able to make me realize that
and go against thinking a feminine was a feminine wash and can be used by women
of every age. It certainly wasn't true. In line with that, we were presented
the naFlora variants that were created each to suit a particular woman's
feminine hygiene needs. I liked that the brand put an emphasis on specific care
for women with specific needs and this was addressed through the three
variants:<b> naFlora Protect, naFlora Restore and naFlora Moisture.</b> Now
before I get carried away, allow me to introduce and explain the purpose of
each product line...</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"><b>Here are the 3
different naFlora Feminine Wash Variants:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>naFlora protect
–</b> for monthly periods and everyday use.
Formulated to help maintain and protect the natural flora. It has lactic acid
and tea tree extract that prevent vaginal irritations and infections. It
has a pH level of 3.5 to 4.5. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOt7lw3a__vimgapr2aw0kIE63E7J7ZSTkpR_57BoP-yuhmkXdyhSoYMfnRrfcys5UbcnY5xc7fxZeZkoyCJm-anjCG4FSmDsJu1N-HY4ZLuIa38rmbAH_6NkG_2j98mHR8ZH3vcneRu0/s1600/know-the-proper-feminine-hygiene-with-naflora-L-uDplyU.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOt7lw3a__vimgapr2aw0kIE63E7J7ZSTkpR_57BoP-yuhmkXdyhSoYMfnRrfcys5UbcnY5xc7fxZeZkoyCJm-anjCG4FSmDsJu1N-HY4ZLuIa38rmbAH_6NkG_2j98mHR8ZH3vcneRu0/s1600/know-the-proper-feminine-hygiene-with-naflora-L-uDplyU.jpeg" height="635" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>naFlora restore
–</b> for post partum care and as an adjunct therapy to
vaginal infection. Specially formulated to help bring back a natural
acidic environment and help relieve irritation usually experienced during
vaginal infections. </span></span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>naFlora
moisture –</b> the only feminine wash specially formulated for
mature women. It has lactic acid, chamomile extract and additional
moisturizers that help soothe and protect the feminine area against dryness and
irritation. It has a pH level of 6.o to 7.5 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-PH" style="color: #222222;">Now that we have gained knowledge and
a wealth of experience from this event, it was time to indulge in every woman's
favorite thing to do: pamper. We were each given the chance for a
mani-pedi-foot spa treatment at the venue where the event took place</span><span class="MsoCommentReference"><span lang="EN-PH"><a class="msocomanchor" href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4535077699288419899#_msocom_3" id="_anchor_3" name="_msoanchor_3"></a> </span></span><span lang="EN-PH" style="color: #222222;">while being served some food and drinks as well. I
love the place as it was very homey and girly...definitely the perfect
place to introduce naFlora to us. At the end of the day, I feel like I was able
to hit two birds with one stone (to put it figuratively) as not only did I get
pretty nails and a relaxing spa experience but at the same time (and more
importantly) I was able to go home with a new found appreciation for being a
woman and of course gaining wealth through the knowledge that the naFlora team
made us a part of</span><span class="MsoCommentReference"><span lang="EN-PH">.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="MsoCommentReference"><span lang="EN-PH"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="MsoCommentReference"><span lang="EN-PH"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTEqz0a9H3iz5v9P5sercIzoQYQoP2Sy5l33cWhxLZDw1TwGkcRKyrIxEPyHtS76HXeBpq3DXNyhhyUEJ7DxQnmWao6HtAkKop-Ob5aAWMvsZg0tnlIQ80WHidnAzbzmAEu-cQXZdLUwA/s1600/15051605601_584f35c5ee_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTEqz0a9H3iz5v9P5sercIzoQYQoP2Sy5l33cWhxLZDw1TwGkcRKyrIxEPyHtS76HXeBpq3DXNyhhyUEJ7DxQnmWao6HtAkKop-Ob5aAWMvsZg0tnlIQ80WHidnAzbzmAEu-cQXZdLUwA/s1600/15051605601_584f35c5ee_o.jpg" height="548" width="640" /></a></span> </span></span></span></span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-PH" style="color: #222222;">For more information, contact naFlora
at </span><span lang="EN-PH">naflorafemwash@yahoo.com<span class="MsoHyperlink"> or </span><a href="mailto:naflorafemwash@gmail.com">naflorafemwash@gmail.com</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-76787830193381129142014-11-25T22:44:00.002-08:002014-11-26T00:28:41.300-08:00My Best Beautiful Self<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As you all know, I am a very busy girl. Aside from blogging (which I do part-time,) I actually do have a job which requires me to be on the go on Weekdays and a slew of other activities combined with that. A lot of my work revolves around philanthropy and my own personal advocacy which is education. Doing this makes me really happy and fulfilled. However, after some time of juggling all my many different projects, I realized the importance of taking time off for oneself to de-stress and to relax. From the get go, I understood the importance of helping myself first before I can help out and be of service to other people. Mandy Hale once said that "It is not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself and to make your happiness a priority. It's necessary." This saying brings me back to my main point because I don't think it is possible or feasible for a person who can not help themselves to help other people. As they say, charity begins from oneself at some point, I think that we all need to realize that we need inner strength and peace before being able to give that to others. This is the reason why I make sure I take some time to refresh and of course, to take good care of myself, first and foremost.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Blockbuster Mesh Backless Ruched Swimsuit: </b><a href="http://facebook.com/shopglitterati">Glitterati</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Gold and Blue Necklace: </b>Cultus ChiChi </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Photos by: </i></b><a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata"><i>Celyn Jaravata</i></a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As you know, living in the city makes getaways a bit hard. But I don't think that should be an excuse to slack off giving oneself some down time. This is why I am glad that despite living in such a saturated city, I am able to have this place to retreat and get away from it all. If you have been reading my blog for some time, you must already know that water means instant relaxation to me and it helps to own my 2-bedroom condominium unit that gives me instant access to various amenities... one of them being a swimming pool...where I can just hang out, chill out and not think of anything else. While I don't really live in my condominium and prefer to live in my own house that I am moving away from soon as possible since I am building my personal home in another private village in Makati (construction is ongoing), I think it is nice to have a halfway condo unit that I can use <i>just in case. </i>I tried the entire condominium life a few years back but I find having the privacy of my own lot space more appealing. I think the maximum I've been able to hold out living here was about two months until I threw in the towel and moved back to the house and while my house does have a pool, I have always associated being in the condo to checking in a hotel, because I have solitude, the place all to myself and I can retreat completely to my own space without having to worry about anyone else. Also, the amenities are much better so I might as well take advantage of that right? While relaxing at one of our beach homes in Batangas seem like the best option, the weather and season isn't as cooperative. Also, my schedule can not currently afford the travel time and the days off so while I cannot bring myself to the beach... I can still definitely bring a semblance of the beach to myself. Being underwater, drifting and being afloat has such a relaxing effect on me that even the pool helps greatly. It clears my head and I completely zone out all the noise and the things that are causing me stress. An hour or two by the pool (if the beach is not even close to being an option) does wonders for me and it is simply amazing. I end up becoming revitalized, energized and recharged and all it takes is some hydration to somehow hit a reset and restart button. Now doesn't that spell out "water baby" for you?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">In line with that, if you must know, one of the most important things I take care of and invest in is my skin. I have done the entire facial treatments, the weekly visit to the dermatologist, laser and UV-light because I think that it is vital to have healthy and close to flawless skin. Of course, that was all back then when I was in high school and college when I had all the time in the world to pamper myself to spa treatments etc. However, given I am older and have more responsibilities, I have less time to spare for that which is why I find that it is such a blessing that I have some products that are available to me that give my skin the boost and extra help it needs. Just like water revitalizing my psyche, a product that I am using to give my skin a boost is Olay's AQUACTION™which works wonders for the water baby in me. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">You see, like the magical effects being around a body of water does to soothe myself, so too does this product as it provides long lasting hydration, intense nourishment and intense treatment to my skin after being exposed to so many things that can make my complexion dull and dehydrated. Like myself, I find that my skin ultimately needs instant hydration which is given by this line of products which I am ultimately obsessed with and cannot get enough of. I am happy that I was able to discover this new line from Olay because it has been a long time that I have been searching for something that is hydrating and at the same time, a perfect fit for my oily skin. Most moisturizers and creams that I have tested are usually oil-based which result to a build up of sebum on my skin and I end up looking oily rather than dewy...which is the overall look I am definitely trying to achieve. By trying out Olay AQUACTION™, I am able to experience excellent hydration that retains a dewy refreshed glow on my skin. Now since I do wear make up everyday, my favorite products are the Softening Sleeping Mask + Long Lasting Hydration gel which provides intensive hydration, locks in moisture and keeps the oiliness of my skin at bay that lasts day and night. I've never tried any product that has been able to provide that kind of hydration on my skin without causing clogged pores or an oily texture which is kind of a big deal for me. The plus side is that I can use it daily too. For times when I need intense nourishment, I am lucky enough that much like the much needed time off I take to sit by the pool, I can use the Olay AQUACTION™Intense Treatment Nourishing Hydration Mask which provides instant hydration, moisture and nutrients that I am in need of especially when my skin gets too dry or too dehydrated due to the many things I am exposed to that drain my skin off its vitality. The result? A healthy and refreshed glow. Like treating myself to a day off to the beach or the pool to relieve myself of stress, Olay AQUACTION™'s products manage to do the same to my skin and I end up looking refreshed and re-energized (almost like a take a vacation all the time). Now isn't that just perfect? With Olay AQUACTION™, not only do I feel reinvigorated and revitalized from within (after my days off)... it also shows on my skin and my face as it definitely gives me that boost of moisture and hydration that I need. Now when I go and do my work, I am my best beautiful self...from the outside and within. Perfect for someone who always needs to have their best face forward at all times!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-29682812323072553782014-11-24T19:14:00.001-08:002014-11-26T00:29:56.396-08:00Neon Autumn<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>We are entering the Dark Ages, my friend, but this time there were will be lots of neon, and screen savers, and street lighting.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Edward St. Aubyn, <i>Lost For Words</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I wore this stabilo themed ensemble <i> </i>to a lovely dinner to celebrate my grandfather's birthday over at <b>One Way, </b>which is, I have to say- one of the best restaurants I have been to for so long. I was quite happy to have given the chance to attend this family affair because I am usually not invited due to the fact I might get exposed to some allergens from the food and that is a very problematic situation to be in. However, due to my insistent appeal to my mom, she finally gave in and invited me...and even if I did not necessarily get to stay in the private dining area and had to sit outside since there were a lot of things I wasn't allowed to be around... I was still happy to have been there. I guess my life is all about that lately... I prefer spending my time with my family and maintaining a close bond with them. Even if I wasn't entirely part of the entire night, I think it was nice to still grace my lolo with my presence to celebrate his birthday with love and endearment for him. After all, life's too short. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Chartreuse Lace Sleeveless Cocktail Dress: </b>J. Crew<b> </b><a href="http://dwmyb86fhbk4v.cloudfront.net/media/catalog/product/cache/3/image/425x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/d/r/drc3851_chartreuse.jpg">(similar here)</a><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Lady Dior Bag in Cobalt Blue: </b>Christian Dior</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Swarovski Crusted Platform Pumps: </b>So! Fab</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Neon and Rhinestone Statement Necklace: </b><a href="http://instagram.com/prettylittleblings">Pretty Little Blings<b> </b> </a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Silver Bracelet with Diamonds: </b><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/michael_kors_bracelet_silver_tone/thing?id=51902619">Michael Kors</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Gold with Blue Topaz Bangle: </b>A Gift from my Brother-in-law <a href="http://ligia-fiedler.blogspot.com/2012/02/top-10-jean-schlumberger-bracelets_08.html">(Also love these designs)</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i><b>Photos by:</b> <a href="http://instagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn</a></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> Since I am into the entire dress phase, I wanted to wear something pretty and striking without being too garish and gaudy. Naturally, I wanted to to wear a dress- as I do on important dinners and this provided the perfect balance of the look I wanted to achieve. The dress was very tastefully done- the silhouette was classic and the embroidered lace added a elegance. Now for the fun part...as you can see... I wore a very bright color version of this dress... in one of my favorite colors (that and Cobalt/ Electric Blue) as you can see in: <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/04/neon-heart-day-glow-eyes.html">Outfit 1</a>, <a href="http://www.chictopia.com/photo/show/893231-Weight+of+the+World-chartreuse-furla-bag-navy-forever-21-dress-chartreuse-poise-heels">Outfit 2</a>, <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/08/tea-and-sympathy.html">Outfit 3</a>, <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/08/tea-and-sympathy.html">Outfit 4</a>, and, <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2013/07/blurry-lines.html">Outfit </a>5 from the past. My lolo always loved bright colors, you see. (If you don't want to believe me, you should see him in his pink Lacoste shirt!!!) So in honor of him, Dominique, Katie and I all wore chartreuse because we are the terrific trio and wanted to match. To accessorize, I integrated electric blue as accents and as my accessories. I don't know what it is... but oddly, this color combination makes so much sense to me. I wore my cobalt blue Dior bag paired with crystal encrusted platform pumps to complete my entire outfit. (I am trying to wear my <a href="http://cdn3.bigcommerce.com/s-0zude7/products/2407/images/9315/image__26008.1407299909.1280.1280.jpg?c=2">cobalt Lady Dior</a> so many times since I don't want to ignore it when the <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/51580358207104799/">electric blue Hermes Birkin</a> which I had to order and will receive on the 1st week of December. Break-up Birkin? You might be thinking... that. But I prefer to call it my "I am glad to be still standing after everything that's happened to me" Birkin...which or course, makes all the more important. I am sure excited to get the bag and have been dreaming about it and I can't wait for it to arrive as I will be the happiest person as it is a gift I am giving to me for all the tough times I have gone through (this year alone) and to get to come back... Harder, Better, Faster...STRONGER. There are so much things to celebrate! This dress, in itself, is a party since I could be probably be spotted a 100 meters away because it was <b>that bright. </b>But I love it. When it comes to dressing up: Go Big or Go Home. Thankfully, because of all the components of the dress put together, I ended up not looking tasteless, too neon or over bright.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> That's it so far.. forgive me if this is a short post but I do hope you liked it.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">If you're wondering what Katie and Domz wore, here's a lovely photo of us decked in Chartreuse. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">What do you think? Who wore the color better? Haha Just kidding... I am not competitive in that wat So hope you enjoyed the post and I hope I was able to inspire you that you can still work neon during the Fall season! Cheers!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJ5KfkNpJPnk3Slqjr6NuOSFFXIgoxGQSn5pzxUWZus2mWhfyFGXYnD3jqKrNS5mOLPfX2J3GS39fqspaxPzEjSItIFNS8f0joZ0bPTD5V4agWFLSbSOEP_wb4cQFNnMGva9s2vD3RtA/s1600/1901289_10154741421545717_8361863725818108295_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJ5KfkNpJPnk3Slqjr6NuOSFFXIgoxGQSn5pzxUWZus2mWhfyFGXYnD3jqKrNS5mOLPfX2J3GS39fqspaxPzEjSItIFNS8f0joZ0bPTD5V4agWFLSbSOEP_wb4cQFNnMGva9s2vD3RtA/s1600/1901289_10154741421545717_8361863725818108295_n.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
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Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-32625273519693425442014-11-21T03:45:00.001-08:002014-11-21T03:45:48.181-08:00Songs of Innocence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaxQ5hynNBpxUHNgeMM-HaI2xxr9-sTI90GTA5b1RqqKy4j5IOyoHul5cgD6rKUFtqejLLGFml33VTUaZqDfqront6XRiaGVup2Vz-ZhRivs6Qz4oKO1nfML-YOHcDd48c5m270-smAE/s1600/Keys04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaxQ5hynNBpxUHNgeMM-HaI2xxr9-sTI90GTA5b1RqqKy4j5IOyoHul5cgD6rKUFtqejLLGFml33VTUaZqDfqront6XRiaGVup2Vz-ZhRivs6Qz4oKO1nfML-YOHcDd48c5m270-smAE/s1600/Keys04.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">C. Joybell C. once said: <i>“I think that the best thing we can do for our children is to allow them
to do things for themselves, allow them to be strong, allow them to
experience life on their own terms, allow them to take the subway... let
them be better people, let them believe more in themselves.” </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Last week, fresh from the hospital, I was granted a wonderful chance to visit Keys School Manila where I was invited by the lovely faculty and staff especially Teacher Joyce to be a resource speaker to talk about Journalism and Blogging, a new topic that they are introducing into their curriculum as a special project. After my talk, the kids are going to come up with their own web blog wherein they can talk about their interests, hobbies, feelings, emotions etc. I was thrilled when I received the invite. Usually, I don't agree to give talks as much because I go to work on weekdays however since I was given the week off (from my recent confinement) and because I just simply cannot say "<i>No</i>" when it involves kids, I instantly responded that I was more than willing to go and give a short talk. You see, I love children. I really do. I find it refreshing to be with the young ones because there is something so magical in seeing the world through a child's eyes: with so much innocence, enthusiasm and spirit. If anything, I would love to be around that kind of energy more often because it is so pure and untainted by the world's ways. It was a beautiful day when I went to the school and the experience was absolutely unforgettable and one for the books. I am so glad to have been there since this was a day I definitely would not have missed out on the world.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRhTaVevRLkbyS89C7_Q-kxVcZn-pFGV5Ja8hywUmvhl6YOFWTZgH9sFkSykw9sjHXXpPxuc5LY_GqwoPNsjhTsOL5ykuJCgdmA3PYdl_eC4QQCqaKBfxfL8nZCnL3RYcn3nA3MryfYv8/s1600/Keys02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRhTaVevRLkbyS89C7_Q-kxVcZn-pFGV5Ja8hywUmvhl6YOFWTZgH9sFkSykw9sjHXXpPxuc5LY_GqwoPNsjhTsOL5ykuJCgdmA3PYdl_eC4QQCqaKBfxfL8nZCnL3RYcn3nA3MryfYv8/s1600/Keys02.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Button Down Blue and Red Checkered Shirt: </b>Zara</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>White Tutu Skirt: </b>Glitterati</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Navy Blue Ribbon Belt: </b>Salvatore Ferragamo</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Kitten Heel Ankle Strap Pumps: </b>Zara</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Crocodile Skin Blue Antigona: </b>Givenchy</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pearl Necklace with Gold Cross: </b>Forever 21</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Photos by: <a href="http://intsagram.com/celynjaravata">Celyn </a></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Since the day was all about the kids, I decided to dress up in a respectable yet approachable manner. I didn't want to seem to be too stiff and rigid but I also wanted to look credible enough that they would listen to my insights, experiences and basically what I wanted to say. After giving much thought to it, I finally decided on this outfit which is both playful and quirky combined with functional, elegant and conservative... and definitely something child-friendly (because seriously, who does not love tulle and tutus?). I am an advocate of situational dressing when it comes to fashion so as much as possible I want to be creative enough to show the people I am meeting or the event I am going to that I actually took time to think and plan my outfit in advance. I think that doing so is one of the sincerest forms you can show respect to someone. I believe that sometimes, even the smallest and most mundane gestures such as these are the ones that people tend to remember more often. So I headed on to my talk in this playful plaid top (I chose red as I think it is a color that retains attention as it is striking) and kept the playhouse-themed look I wanted to go for consistent via my white long tutu skirt which is something that personally, I never grew out of since I was a child and up to adulthood. I used to dance ballet so my love affair with tulle has been something that has been going on for so long and I don't think I have plans of letting it go any time soon. This ensemble was a mixture of quirky eccentricity and tasteful sophistication which was the look I was going for on that day. More so, it allowed me to be comfortable to move around and to have fun with the kids as it was very easy to wear. The verdict: I could not have picked out any better or suitable outfit for this occasion and I am so happy I decided on this look.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Granted that education is such a big deal for me, I don't think I can bring myself to decline an offer to share what I know to the young minds of Keys School Manila. They were an amazing bunch- very eager to learn, marveling at the simple joys of life and having such a different perspective of the world- one that is full of wonder and awe. For a minute there, I actually missed seeing the world from a child's eyes. I think Roald Dahl said it best when he was quoted saying, "Grown ups are complicated creatures, full of quirks and secrets." and with this, I have to agree. Being in such a fresh, youthful and unblemished environment and setting made me crave for the optimism and hopefulness that every child there had. It was simply such a wonderful experience and I have nothing but good things to say about the lovely children, the school and the faculty and staff who were all so accommodating and nice. I think it is indeed true that <i>children are the greatest gift God will give to and their
souls the heaviest responsibility He will place in our hands. Take
time with them, teach them to have faith in God. Be a person in whom
they can have faith. When you are old, nothing else you've done will
have mattered as much.</i> I went to Keys School Manila to give a talk to the children and to teach them a thing or two about Fashion, Blogging and Journalism- most of them things that I have learned over the years through experience and practice. What I never expected that I too would learn so much from them that day and for that I consider myself blessed. Because while we try to teach children all about life, the reality is that children teach us what life is all about.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.ksm.ph/keys-school-manila/#">About Keys School Manila</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We advocate that all learners are capable of excellence if their
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Didi Manahan<br />
Directress</span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-45435135440956356192014-11-18T22:15:00.000-08:002014-11-26T00:36:53.443-08:00'Cause Darling I'm a Nightmare Dressed Like A Daydream<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WqbJoWeKsK_DmRmUmTz9D6zrIiJefsM97IZKrbTlzsN0cpYhVIE_tTrnlprNTzDIEnQPuR7kfdcB4rdYXDp_feqEkWwdgcZ2bB8kVGcl7YuEKlyx0fCtsRoNwkSVH3ABHmBVLxvKDyw/s1600/Pink+Dress08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WqbJoWeKsK_DmRmUmTz9D6zrIiJefsM97IZKrbTlzsN0cpYhVIE_tTrnlprNTzDIEnQPuR7kfdcB4rdYXDp_feqEkWwdgcZ2bB8kVGcl7YuEKlyx0fCtsRoNwkSVH3ABHmBVLxvKDyw/s1600/Pink+Dress08.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Okay, so I don't quite know how accurate this title is but granted that I am self-deprecating, I wanted to post this as it was one of my favorite lyrics to that new very self-deprecating Taylor Swift song, <i>Blank Space, </i>which is what almost everyone is talking about... along with THAT photo that broke the internet that just had this weird effect on me because I felt like there was too much oil involved. Okay, not to veer off from topic, I always liked Taylor Swift as an artist and love her songs (even her unreleased ones) but before, as a person... not so much. I always felt there was something she was hiding with her squeaky clean image and since I am one of those people who love to admit my faults before anyone else could point them out, I felt like she was hiding something. With her new look, sound and image with her 1989 album though, I've begun to see a more human side to her and I liked it that she went over and beyond that and exaggerated how she is portrayed and showed off her flaws in such a self-deprecating way that made me really really like her. I think as humans, we are all flawed. But it is up to how we accept them, react to them and use them (sometimes to our advantage) that matters. So right now that she is showing a more fun and <i>"hey, I'm also human"</i> side... I like her as a person too. I have to admit I haven't quite given myself enough time to recover after the fuss of last week since the minute I was released from the hospital, I found my schedule full of appearances and commitments that I have signed off to even before I got sick. Granted that these commitments involve an advocacy that is very important to me, I couldn't live with myself if I were to just cancel last minute so after I checked out from being admitted... I found myself planning my wardrobe for the days to come which involved me in very demure, dainty and classic pieces since these engagements I booked all involved education, which as you know is a very important cause to me and something that I will fight for no matter what. I decided to postpone the time needed to recuperate so I may attend to these functions because I am professional and I will go above what is expected especially if it involves this particular cause. I'm human, I am flawed but here I am trying my best to represent... and in this ensemble, it would be hard to go wrong with the entire representation thing as it was in every way elegant. This is my usual outfit for daily life as I want to represent myself in a very put-together and classic way especially as I represent one of the most rapidly growing scholarship and educational foundations as I am its Executive Director. As I am an advocate of situational dressing, I try to be respectful of the environment I am in and the cause I am representing and that involves dressing up in a manner that is graceful, dignified and refined. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Shift dresses, pea-coats and a lot of muted tones are a staple in my wardrobe and I love it. It signifies growing up and my personal metamorphosis into being a young adult trying to find myself into an established and sure-footed woman who knows what she wants and takes it. Now of course, this very calculated and polished way of dressing myself up may seem too posh or too lavish or showy but that isn't really the look I am going for. If anything, all it involves is choosing the right pieces (branded or not), mixing and matching them and coming up with something consistent and put-together as this even if the pieces in the look are not exactly as expensive as you might think... Like for example, can you believe that this pink Jacquard Dress cost me P350 at The Manila Sundance Bazaar? It sure doesn't look like it did... now does it? This is why I put emphasis on being a smart dresser versus being a style savvy one. If you mastered the art of exuding elegance, you don't need to be in donned in a head to toe fancy shmancy designer everything to exude sophistication and style. All it takes is carrying yourself well and presenting yourself well. You can be donned in upscale brands all you want and still look sloppy. The same applies with being put-together.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Single Breasted White Zippered Pea-Coat: </b>Stradivarius (also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2014/09/on-standards-taking-stand-and-standing.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Jacquard Pink Sleeveless Shift Dress: </b>The Urban Hour</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>South Sea Pearls: </b>Mikimoto</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Piggy Pink Nightingale Bag: </b>Givenchy</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>T-strap Baby Pink Patent Shoes: </b>Zara</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Now one of the things I was still able to catch up on (before the full schedule I was to embark on) was this song in particular and I quickly linked it to everyone I know and trusted because it was just too funny not to share...especially the video. The most common reaction I got from people I shared this to when it hit the airwaves was how the song could almost be like my "personal anthem" since I am often joked about and poked fun at by my friends and relatives on my serial monogamist ways and my propensity to always introduce a new boyfriend to the family in gatherings that there is almost a set time table and people can pool in bets on how long <i>this one is going to last</i>. It was generally a "<i>ha-ha" </i>moment but then I looked back and got to thinking that I probably did introduce more potential "to-be" guys to my entire family than anyone else has. Add that to the fact that Celyn is so keen on the <i>"bored and pampered queen"</i> stereotype I seem to fit into that is a common presumption of people of me on the get-go and the music video pretty much nailed all the proclivities that involved me...even despite being as exaggerated as it was. Of course, I won't wash my hands clean off every mess since I made some mistakes which I am still paying for literally until now but I just think that some things were overly exaggerated and in a sense, took a life on its own and since I am not exactly enthusiastic in denying to death to preserve my so called and non-existent <i>"Little Miss Perfect"</i> image...it was bound to. If anything, my shrewd demeanor and headstrong and impulsive ways have actually added further fuel to the fire and it almost seemed like I was recklessly fanning the flames. So much like the exaggerated video, I found that it was better to own it rather than downplay it so as exaggerated and embellished the stories got, it was much better to poke fun at myself and how I am depicted (all the stereotypes and over-dramatized traits included) and live with it. That's always been my stance on things. As I grow older, I reckon, that the important people know the truth and those who choose to believe the aggrandizement, don't deserve my time of day. I think it takes an intense time: knowing yourself and loving yourself as you are that makes trying to explain yourself to the whole world irrelevant. <b><i><u>I say that with great pride.</u></i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There's nothing wrong with trying to find love. I just guess some people are blessed to get it right the first try. Others (present company included)... not so. After having done the whole merry-go-round, a good half dozen times or more, I am getting tried of the circus and taking a quiet retreat, trading in my tickets and coins for time cards and medals (for our future graduates!) It's not that I've given up and am throwing up the towel... I just think I need to concentrate on other things that don't involve dating, set-ups and meeting someone new. Even the best of us need time out to recharge our batteries. I am taking this much needed break for downtime and breathing space. There are so many things I have yet to accomplish on my own and I just do not need the distraction right now. <u><b>And while I am 100% sure that all my ex-lovers would probably tell you I'm insane... I do not exactly have a blank space to write anyone's name.</b></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHnnTIO8bCBIgMf-hNnmySeQdRcLuCBxXQiP_HToWkJHGVbpeVzwfUc1VixVASWQsm91QxGESV2XL0xeE94TwP7AE1Rvraoq7jh-w0tptUPZk1EOPbE-hYYqS9f5OJToIyKjEfYJxn7g/s1600/Pink+Dress09.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHnnTIO8bCBIgMf-hNnmySeQdRcLuCBxXQiP_HToWkJHGVbpeVzwfUc1VixVASWQsm91QxGESV2XL0xeE94TwP7AE1Rvraoq7jh-w0tptUPZk1EOPbE-hYYqS9f5OJToIyKjEfYJxn7g/s1600/Pink+Dress09.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL </span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-19643251867738467752014-11-17T04:12:00.000-08:002014-11-17T04:13:24.237-08:00I Know Places<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I apologize for the lack of updates since as you know... I've been taking my sweet time recuperating and I am glad to be back at full swing. A common misconception about bloggers is that we are always made up and dressed to the nines. I know for a fact that I take more time for what I wear than the average person but there are some days when you just want to wear a simple outfit and have it as it is. This was one of those days. This is probably as laid back as it will get for me... Plan white tee, boyfriend jeans and a blazer. Oh, and my new favorite flat shoes: my leopard Jessica Simpson ballet flats. Yes, I know, I am in flats and I find myself being in flats a lot since years of donning platforms, 6 inch (or more) heels or even heel-less "how can she even walk in those shoes" pairs, my back is having to pay for it. Upon the advisement of my doctors and my very strict parents: the lower the heels, the better. Now, I have to admit that I do not exactly follow that but rather considered it as a suggestion, tried it for a few days and went back to my high heel wearing ways. What can I say? Life's too short to wear boring shoes... (well granted these shoes are quite a statement but you get what I'm saying...)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>V-Neck White Shirt: </b>Perfect White Shirt</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Boyfriend Jeans: </b>Mango<br /><b>Black Blazer: </b>Zara</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Brown Birkin Bag: </b>Hermes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Leopard Print Ballerina Flats: </b>Jessica Simpson</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This was a very easy outfit to wear and since I had quite an early day when I wore it, I decided to just keep it simple and clean and as fuss-free as possible. It was a bit stressful as I hate not getting enough sleep but I am glad I still managed to color coordinate... at the very least. The good thing about my day was that I was able to find a place to de-stress and unwind. There is something about seeing the sea that calms me down. I am just really a water baby so I am glad that I know places (a lot of places here in Manila actually) where I can just drive by (well, at least have my driver drive me) and then have full view of the sea. I don't know what the reason is but seeing at the vastness before me calms me down significantly. Before the very stressful week that I was to face, it was a blessing that these places exist so near me because I am always practically a hop, skip and a week from clarity. And sometimes, in the face of everything happening, that's probably the best you can hope for.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-35869218945206756042014-11-13T22:20:00.000-08:002014-11-13T22:20:52.743-08:00'Cause I remember every sunset...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">“Never waste any amount of time doing anything important when there is a sunset outside that you should be sitting under!” </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- C. Joybell C. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I know that it is often something taken for granted especially by urban dwellers like me but the sun setting and the sun rising are two of the most wonderful sights to behold. I used to always love the sun rise since it signified a new day and I am all about new beginnings but now, I am also able to appreciate the sun as it sets and see it as a time to give thanks for the wonderful day that has gone by. As I get to experience full days and early nights, I find that my days are marked by when the sun comes up and when it comes down...each day culminating with a promise and ending with relief and satisfaction for being able to have survived the day. I know what other people would say: "that the sun rises and sets every single day and its absolutely free..." but just because it is something you know will happen for sure doesn't make it any less beautiful, important or worth watching. I rarely get to see the sun set in the open air because I usually leave the office far too late and a long time has probably elapsed by the time I get out and this is probably the reason why on days like these, when I can afford the opportunity to actually see it as it unfolds, I don't take it for granted. I watch in awe and wonder and it is very therapeutic. I've needed a lot of therapeutic things lately and there is nothing better to provide that than what is natural occurring in the world as we know it. It's nice to remember to be present in the now and also to me reminded that there are some things that don't require a hefty price tag that can take your breath away.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DRkugrVRzBNymndOs1yIrNAOVSZOk2TbdDrsdH0A_LEhyJc_0MCYfvPC8lGrca24tK5rvuRIMhSys497eZYYuI3npbX1RGVaMr7N1WtaGfLH5Vo6DY1Q_aok_Gewmk30VHZthcBitRw/s1600/Sunset+Session04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DRkugrVRzBNymndOs1yIrNAOVSZOk2TbdDrsdH0A_LEhyJc_0MCYfvPC8lGrca24tK5rvuRIMhSys497eZYYuI3npbX1RGVaMr7N1WtaGfLH5Vo6DY1Q_aok_Gewmk30VHZthcBitRw/s640/Sunset+Session04.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcwRm-0ArNfqKFT26JCAWDeh8v-teHdFgO1WUh_IWqb0IBHNbXk3q9gEAcT5rpznS7gRAoO_S-Dgapg0F0BS7I9_DqUD2JBGdC0Qn5AN7CXliycFmPndeqTyeWUFynSUjN_OkQAwemcM/s1600/Sunset+Session09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcwRm-0ArNfqKFT26JCAWDeh8v-teHdFgO1WUh_IWqb0IBHNbXk3q9gEAcT5rpznS7gRAoO_S-Dgapg0F0BS7I9_DqUD2JBGdC0Qn5AN7CXliycFmPndeqTyeWUFynSUjN_OkQAwemcM/s640/Sunset+Session09.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioYWzfB1G86sMeck3mV_8tSSboNF1so8HpGTf466RzNW1hWRtY4WtTtYjK8xNfF4aXP4A7sMtF0HrJNQgRfzZu0QzK2dWKbyaSzVDglo0KUBvVzOUUG0QoZKZP7SZqlqp5LmWdNNzsVCY/s1600/Sunset+Session07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioYWzfB1G86sMeck3mV_8tSSboNF1so8HpGTf466RzNW1hWRtY4WtTtYjK8xNfF4aXP4A7sMtF0HrJNQgRfzZu0QzK2dWKbyaSzVDglo0KUBvVzOUUG0QoZKZP7SZqlqp5LmWdNNzsVCY/s640/Sunset+Session07.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdguRs1-CSbXLGWCrRhyDXE0yodSo9Td2Hb7yfAj5so6dOB3MZNoaZuXFpCHkWX3V-hfhXYMXfzAluEpyFSglbYXGP3RVI1Lb-3_ht8rQb4p3y1apl4TE0epBxFCO1msbTsX2iiohyphenhyphenKos/s1600/Sunset+Session06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdguRs1-CSbXLGWCrRhyDXE0yodSo9Td2Hb7yfAj5so6dOB3MZNoaZuXFpCHkWX3V-hfhXYMXfzAluEpyFSglbYXGP3RVI1Lb-3_ht8rQb4p3y1apl4TE0epBxFCO1msbTsX2iiohyphenhyphenKos/s640/Sunset+Session06.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPuwNEnm35Aw3x4LxZMnU5Usysx7bulC1eS9_dBRRFr8LH4lJXYb7R0IiU99Yc0DIL_kq0GuT1wUyRF_w0QBCmjxlROh_VS9ZGR44kGalmVGuHn4k7jiy2CsJf25ujdp7RwDDfPo0uk94/s1600/Sunset+Session08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPuwNEnm35Aw3x4LxZMnU5Usysx7bulC1eS9_dBRRFr8LH4lJXYb7R0IiU99Yc0DIL_kq0GuT1wUyRF_w0QBCmjxlROh_VS9ZGR44kGalmVGuHn4k7jiy2CsJf25ujdp7RwDDfPo0uk94/s640/Sunset+Session08.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Embroidered Lace Navy Blue Blazer: </b>Jessica (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2010/12/through-queue.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Oversized Cream Button Down Shirt: </b>Glitterati <br /><b>Beige and White Ankle Strap Shoes: </b>Zara</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Navy Blue Studded Shorts: </b>Zara (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/11/welcome-to-my-life.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Brown Birkin Bag: </b>Hermes (Also worn <a href="http://www.joannaladrido.com/2012/04/not-you-again.html">HERE</a>)</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoPjSc7Y9HGnxs25C33Y1gz9CTjiOeKxmJsZTWSHsPO-3q7z8IXRyRI5e8zP2eqJOkzkp1EDjyapYJ91fiEGh8wG1M2vflxH2JpEg_ei3MjqCuuSZ609vPMdKvV33fmP0QKHen0ApK6tE/s1600/Sunset+Session11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoPjSc7Y9HGnxs25C33Y1gz9CTjiOeKxmJsZTWSHsPO-3q7z8IXRyRI5e8zP2eqJOkzkp1EDjyapYJ91fiEGh8wG1M2vflxH2JpEg_ei3MjqCuuSZ609vPMdKvV33fmP0QKHen0ApK6tE/s640/Sunset+Session11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgug4HKZ3SWnyDTakdhPgWcIbOwoKCyo_SfQhFLxoIHQ1YuYKjYRCkj_-9uA3LNV_p5AUdsjQmtPkPT_y3SchNVm2wVaJ9BOeOhcq9HpDl0bXiqoZhTGR2FSRCwMxAb0dUzEX44DEQuc/s1600/Sunset+Session13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgug4HKZ3SWnyDTakdhPgWcIbOwoKCyo_SfQhFLxoIHQ1YuYKjYRCkj_-9uA3LNV_p5AUdsjQmtPkPT_y3SchNVm2wVaJ9BOeOhcq9HpDl0bXiqoZhTGR2FSRCwMxAb0dUzEX44DEQuc/s640/Sunset+Session13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGGr5znf9PRh3P22k_kWnwyK9H_ZhYAtXrlvQV_XhvZwm8zywl7LEus2TVamkP6x5r3F_TzZgEcxnUCY9Pv3mWJAke7lg_TZDSrU3N63qtKFau5OKiKtLmSLRu4vPbtR2kD3JYDSlWrDM/s1600/Sunset+Session10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGGr5znf9PRh3P22k_kWnwyK9H_ZhYAtXrlvQV_XhvZwm8zywl7LEus2TVamkP6x5r3F_TzZgEcxnUCY9Pv3mWJAke7lg_TZDSrU3N63qtKFau5OKiKtLmSLRu4vPbtR2kD3JYDSlWrDM/s640/Sunset+Session10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now you might be wondering what the reason is for the navy blue and cream casual get-up- in shorts at that...Everyone who has read my blog long enough would know that these color are my favorite color combinations when I dress up. What is perplexing about this look is it is very laid back and (for lack of a better word for it) "chill." It was a weekday when I wore this outfit and I had taken the day off from work for a series of visits to my doctors (it is a monthly thing) and for that particular day I was dashing from appointment to the next- spending almost my whole day walking the aisle of the hospitals and waiting in line. Now, allow me to enlighten you that no matter how many years of the same old routine, one can never get used to having multiple check-ups in one day. It is tiring and dreary and it is also very taxing. Also, being in such a sterile and sanitized environment of white walls and fluorescent lighting isn't exactly my idea of a good day so given everything I went through that day, boy, was I exhausted. I needed a breath of fresh air. Luckily, it was part of my itinerary to participate in a short shoot which I had to sneak into my already busy day. I was ready to retire and call it a day but I am glad I didn't because even if it did take me five flights of stairs to go up to the studio where the shoot (which is for a very good cause by the way) was taking place, I was able to look around and enjoy the magnificent view in front of me. I actually paused and took my sweet time basking in the moment- watching the colors turn orange and purple and pink and as an effect, I felt all the burden of the hectic day that has gone by fade away. All because of that moment...that view that was before me. It is sometimes funny how life works out in that way. We try to plan vacations, sweet escapes and all things that translate to relaxation, decompression and de-stress-ing when really, all it takes is one short moment of clarity that can take your breath away. Magic can be found in stolen moments. I am glad I was able to find mine when I wore this ensemble and I do hope you find yours. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL </span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4535077699288419899.post-13418341282198536252014-11-13T02:57:00.000-08:002014-11-13T02:57:29.344-08:00Sweet Fantasy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSuC5KzWylMSIjiiWaTceVclUG1Z1holFZwAZtJwpLgWC08iUrixIkEKA2m8pDzZPyUKkyzxGwX90I1qgeJi7k0jZ9M7eeiD1JsO5NCQOdvbFI9DRk8BY-Cr3Db94VkOn-r_rIeXYYZbs/s1600/Mariah06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSuC5KzWylMSIjiiWaTceVclUG1Z1holFZwAZtJwpLgWC08iUrixIkEKA2m8pDzZPyUKkyzxGwX90I1qgeJi7k0jZ9M7eeiD1JsO5NCQOdvbFI9DRk8BY-Cr3Db94VkOn-r_rIeXYYZbs/s640/Mariah06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I was fortunate enough to have been able to watch the Mariah Carey concert a week or so back and I was immensely happy that I didn't skip it as I was highly entertained and it was, of course, such a privilege to have been able to watch her belt out to her songs live. She truly was an extraordinary and talented performer and her voice range is simply out of this world. I spent the night watching it with my mom, dad and my FOSSIL Dominique and we were all so busy dancing and singing to the songs and of course taking over a thousand photos and videos so we can relive the moment over and over again. Since we were able to score seats in the best location of the arena, I decided I wanted to style it up a bit and veer away from my usual concert wear of graphic top, skinny jeans and heeled boots and instead wear a classic and clean crisp button down shirt with a black tulle maxi skirt. I was channeling <a href="http://www.stasiareport.com/sites/straitstimes.com/files/ST_20130405_MCCH7_8_3593220e.jpg">Carolina Herrera</a>, subconsciously, I think and that was not at all a bad thing since I think she is grace, elegance and class personified when it comes to personal style. I always have been a fan of how she is able to make the classic white shirt EVERYTHING and how she can simply style it up for different occasions- with my favorite look being for when she styles it with a skirt and beautiful accessories like in this photo <a href="http://www.itslavida.com/files/2014/09/carolina-herrera.jpg">here</a>. I do hope I was able to give justice to my style inspiration with this ensemble.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbAleZDGjgmsHYUkVrkK7NkyORCTdp_PWrUpnHUzWLijNj0ZkQB0Q5e2Uppiz0Nx9h4X3Ff9ZuNM5dJcF3_QafjWWt28l105c0fnz_RUi00_4BQ9XHVOywJvgG4-IMmmgAKMSNm7lZFrY/s1600/Mariah10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbAleZDGjgmsHYUkVrkK7NkyORCTdp_PWrUpnHUzWLijNj0ZkQB0Q5e2Uppiz0Nx9h4X3Ff9ZuNM5dJcF3_QafjWWt28l105c0fnz_RUi00_4BQ9XHVOywJvgG4-IMmmgAKMSNm7lZFrY/s640/Mariah10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7O9jieiacvnLQTqm2Sgmrx6m5JfXemU8zHYFqhvKGCObpWr9fMXyouEgAtWGPDcquWbcmIm1Fe-zWFnVntHGpPL6LqQpir8oZfXXKw6ToOBghYUd0nhuyqLdMOdIUBVNmNOgiEJVXUqs/s1600/Mariah11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7O9jieiacvnLQTqm2Sgmrx6m5JfXemU8zHYFqhvKGCObpWr9fMXyouEgAtWGPDcquWbcmIm1Fe-zWFnVntHGpPL6LqQpir8oZfXXKw6ToOBghYUd0nhuyqLdMOdIUBVNmNOgiEJVXUqs/s640/Mariah11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPw8VLtaBO4CXLw4kMrfjlnlFdEljNBT5p5laRAE6W9ZYO9E1zd4DWrZ7rhyphenhyphenSGWRWmy7RDQPZnL3LUUtzbR6fQLWrBO53gpfGOwij5O6sNhm329pwnBv2N-L2YryELjl8RNfMPYO4gmGc/s1600/Mariah12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPw8VLtaBO4CXLw4kMrfjlnlFdEljNBT5p5laRAE6W9ZYO9E1zd4DWrZ7rhyphenhyphenSGWRWmy7RDQPZnL3LUUtzbR6fQLWrBO53gpfGOwij5O6sNhm329pwnBv2N-L2YryELjl8RNfMPYO4gmGc/s640/Mariah12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Crisp White Button Down Shirt: </b>Zara</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Black Tulle Maxi Skirt: </b>The Urban Hour</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Brown Birkin Bag: </b>Hermes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Animal Print Ballerina Flats: </b>Jessica Simpson</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Accessories: </b>My Collection</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IXOz9UKWnuKWzgQppbaDfppFMQHJB3KQXbQF_P6mREl1pPdiGels1Qc857pckUZrVk-klmnh6jCFXwSTmlF4M5zSZWxahvAUZRiB1je-j6VveY7WkDcfwy-2EAGS1-ZQkqYfanWy_mM/s1600/Mariah07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IXOz9UKWnuKWzgQppbaDfppFMQHJB3KQXbQF_P6mREl1pPdiGels1Qc857pckUZrVk-klmnh6jCFXwSTmlF4M5zSZWxahvAUZRiB1je-j6VveY7WkDcfwy-2EAGS1-ZQkqYfanWy_mM/s640/Mariah07.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />So, as you can see with this outfit- it's back to tulle for me! I have always considered myself the Queen of All Things Tulle and Tutu and I think that holds true. My obsession with the fabric is endless and my flair to style it is absolutely limitless. Now, the title of Mariah Carey's Tour was <i>The Elusive Chanteuse, </i>chanteuse being the operative and most important word as it signifies someone who is very talented in singing. I may not exactly have the same talent and do not even come close to having her musical genius- even if sometimes, I do hold my own concerts which are captured by video by my beloved staff or sometimes by yours truly- because I think life is too short to be taken too seriously so I love poking fun at myself because that is just me... in reality and it is actually quite funny when I give my 110% in committing to singing a song. If you need an example, click this link <a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10154699574635717&set=vb.627595716&type=3">HERE</a>. Now wasn't that just absolutely self-deprecating? Granted, we have now established I can't sing and therefore am far from being a chanteuse... or elusive... (taking public video above into consideration). My lack of musical talent was evident since I was a kid and while my sister and cousins were having voice lessons since they had quite heavenly voices, I was enrolled in piano. Eventually, I decided to hang my hopes of having a musical career up and instead focused on one of the things I was very good at which was dancing. I was so deeply invested in dancing ballet when I was young and I loved everything about it- it taught me how to move with grace, poise and finesse and I am now actually happy that I was able to take up something I was really good at and was able to achieve in. This explains my love for anything ballet-related and why it has continued to be of great influence to me now that I am in my twenties. I still love tulle skirts and have quite a lot stocked up. I based by brand, Glitterati, with tulles and tutu skirts in mind which was what our brand was very much known for. So, as you can see, the ballerina thing never got out of my system even if I was no longer dancing... it still played a major role in my life and you can see it in this outfit where I took the commitment to pirouettes to another level and wore not just a tulle skirt but also a pair of animal print shoes that have almost all aspects of real ballet shoes incorporated in the design... including the toe-shoe flat edge and the garterized straps. Elusive Chanteuse? Probably not. Dedicated Danseuse? <i>Definitely. Definitely En Pointe!</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtL94OaDWCH9b_vVAHrbS8vlfP0_iriqfnxRnN9fvLthEovgaMUHfiWhnLnpZ1Oyepf4rRNJeyf-RyZgH4dcztv6UOXEncGZsZlVxvhHNNR2nrcdhDWdcMivt1v-0YdjQZpLcFWYMPUk/s1600/Mariah02.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtL94OaDWCH9b_vVAHrbS8vlfP0_iriqfnxRnN9fvLthEovgaMUHfiWhnLnpZ1Oyepf4rRNJeyf-RyZgH4dcztv6UOXEncGZsZlVxvhHNNR2nrcdhDWdcMivt1v-0YdjQZpLcFWYMPUk/s640/Mariah02.jpg" width="480" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i> </i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFUkRBF3mk7W2CmRSKc-rdjNnCb39X9QflYZQYLQNf578BOZ4ksR8Cfs3vXXudM52q6vgzuDwX4utRDRx6l4iPEcKI3l2plmKszfVmxJnX8RF8WNqIGTaQA-JQMAf7u8zPKfPM0m2kow/s1600/Mariah01.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFUkRBF3mk7W2CmRSKc-rdjNnCb39X9QflYZQYLQNf578BOZ4ksR8Cfs3vXXudM52q6vgzuDwX4utRDRx6l4iPEcKI3l2plmKszfVmxJnX8RF8WNqIGTaQA-JQMAf7u8zPKfPM0m2kow/s640/Mariah01.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I do hope you enjoyed reading and looking at my outfit as much as I definitely enjoyed wearing it. I am happy to have been able to wear a tutu after such a long time but I find that when you really want to, you will find a way to make it appropriate for any situation like I was able to do for when I wore this one and now that I have woken up my inner danseuse: expect more tulle and tutu posts in the future...that's for sure. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">xx, JL</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
Joanna Ladridohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17458539815599377196noreply@blogger.com0