irene carole

Are you Kidding me???

2010-07-20T06:46:00.000-07:00

I'm not trying to insinuate anything by sharing this, and sorry for my lack of post on this 'personal blog' of mine. Some how Ica Image's had turned into sometime more personal than I intended ... but such is life.

And as much as I want to blog this on my other blog, I'm sure there's a huge possibility posting it there can make me loose business ... because I'd fall head over heels for this photographer.

This is what I came across ... this real proposal something out of a magazine or staged photoshoot.

But it's real.

Real insanely beautiful. Sheeeesh!! Anyone getting married soon? Because if you are and can top this, please call me 'cause I just gotta be there to take pictures.. pretty please??

Here in your presence, I am not afraid of brokenness

2010-05-02T23:59:00.000-07:00

Love Me

2010-03-24T16:33:00.001-07:00

Make your own Hearts

2010-01-22T09:51:00.000-08:00

... and send something sweet!

Make yours here.

NY Tomorrow

2010-01-15T17:18:00.000-08:00

Sigh ... counting down the hours.

It's been almost a year since my last trip, I can't help but reminisce

I miss Brooklyn.

And I miss my brother.

And he's auditioning for Juilliard.

And no matter what the outcome is, I love him so much and I'm so unbelievably proud of him.

I can't wait for tomorrow.

Lady Gaga

2010-01-15T11:07:00.000-08:00

Before the gaga.

You Know You Are

2010-01-06T22:37:00.001-08:00

, originally uploaded by blood bank.

My Winter Song

2009-12-06T05:17:00.000-08:00

As I sit here typing I can see the snow gently falling outside my window. Everything is blanked in white, but still it's beauty pales in compassion to seeing my sister dressed in white, a bride to be. Stunning. Perfect. And happier than she's ever been.

Check back in a day or so and I'll have whole story of how my big sister found 'the dress', that's if I can manage to write it all out without stopping to cry ever 2 or three sentences.

Seeing white everywhere makes me soo sooo soo happy. I love winter and i looove my family too.

Yesterday was VA's Happy First Snow Day!

Happy Wintering to you.

Giving Thanks

2009-11-26T11:22:00.000-08:00

It's no secret Thanksgiving is pretty much my favorite holiday ever! Don't get me wrong, I loooove Christmas, who doesn't. I just love that Thanksgiving is simply about being grateful and giving thanks for all God's goodness and His blessings.

I feel like everyone complains way tooo much about what they don't have or what they want or what they hate, we so easily forget our manners and we forget to show any sign of gratitude. And it seems like we're never content. But if we take one step back, and take a look at all the love and blessings we have in our lives, it all makes up for what we lack.

I've got a million things to be thankful for, and a million people to give thanks for, here are just a few.

I'm so thankful for mi madre, 'Beauty is her name'. And the more I grow and the more I learn, the more I appreciate who she's been to me; a best friend, a confidant and a teacher. I hope I make her proud daily, and as cheesy as it sounds, I wouldn't be the person I am today if it weren't for her.

I'm thankful for my big sister who I'm sooooo grateful to see her happy and in love and blessed, because she deserves all of it. She's so self sacrificing, and hardworking, and so caring ... attributes I know she learned from my mama, and I'm sooooo proud of her.

This guy, I could not be more thankful for this guy ... who takes pictures like these:

Because he's just that awesome.

But seriously I'm soooo completely blessed and grateful to have Tim in my life. Besides being my boyfriend, Tim's been the greatest, no the BEST friend I could ever ask for. He's been my biggest fan, and my encouragement, he's my heart.

And he takes me on some awesomely amazzzing date!

"You'da best" babe!!!

I'm sooo thankful for mi familia. Allllll of them. Not everyone understands the dynamic of my family, or how crazy silly we are or how different we all are, but when we're together it's perfect and we complete each other. As my familia is continuing to grow and I looove it!

I'm also thankful for love. If it weren't for love, I won't have the job that I have. The love of a husband and wife, the love of a family, platonic love, the love or parents, it's the reason why I'm even needed to take pictures. And I love love, there's nothing grater than love.

I'm also thankful for pictures. Yeah go figure right? But really, not just because they give me a career, but because moments like these are sooo fleeting they should be charished for ever.

I can go on an on, but the last on my list for now is salvation. I am forever grateful for God's amazing grace, because when I look at my life and how many times I've messed up and how sinful I am, I'm awestruck that He could love me so.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and "give thanks in all circumstances".

Jimmy Choo, I love you!

2009-11-20T08:21:00.001-08:00

I'm a few days late in posting this ... but yup ... best combination ever!!!

Jimmy Choo for H&M

Let it in

2009-11-03T21:13:00.001-08:00

Though I do love my rainy days, and my chilly autumn air ... nothing can replace sunshine.

Good Music rocks my world

2009-10-28T20:39:00.001-07:00

Last night I went out with my big sister and her fiance {still a new word to all of us} and we watched one incredible show.

It was at Jammin Java, possibly the best venue around and the best show I've ever been to. It was soo good I think I had goosebumps the entire time. Ernie Halter and Melissa Polinar are simply genius and their use of lyrics and notes is soo amazing it could make you cry. It made want to never take my ability to hear forgranted, nor take my guitar or voice for granted though I'm not that great with either, music is music and it's wonderful.

Both their sets were amazing they honestly couldn't have picked better songs. Like this song, Lighthouse. It's one of my favorite Ernie Halter songs, and it's the last track his Starting Over album so sometimes I intentionally listen through the whole album just to get to this song. It was the perfect closer for their show and though I did take pictures, the music is way more important.

Enjoy the music.

Big Mistake

2009-10-19T18:48:00.001-07:00

My cousin is hilarious and amazing. Diongzons rocks!!!

Tis the season for frilly frocks

2009-10-14T21:27:00.000-07:00

I know I shouldn't even be window shopping right now, but I can't help but take a gander at some frilly frocks for this awesome season coming up. There will be parties galor in the coming weeks, birthday parties, anniversary parties, engagement parties, even a wedding right before the holidays, and I can't help but get excited. Here are a few frocks that totally stole my heart.

They have this 'look' about them that just grabs me and i love it.

If anything, sister is taking some awesome rock star sewing classes so maybe in a few weeks I'll be living with my very own seamstress, and she could hook me up! Wahooo! Kidding!!! Yeah right, sister's getting her wedding planning on ... maybe that's the reason why I have dresses on my mind. Happy fall and frill frocks to you!

Let us fall more in love with You

2009-10-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Week after week it's been a rollercoaster ride. I've practically been living out of my suitcase, packing and unpacking and repacking again, always on the move ... always on the go. I've been in serious need of some 'down time' and I finally got some. Instead of resting in bed and at home, I got to rest in the Lord and in His words, and fall more in love with Him as I went off to Fall Retreat with my Tim and Cru. I've never felt more rested and though there's tons more to share, I still have California adventures to blog about. PTL for awesome adventures and for rest.

These are my confessions ...

2009-10-08T08:20:00.000-07:00

I freaking love this show.

West Coast Bound!!!

2009-09-30T08:22:00.000-07:00

It's finally here! I'm soo excited, so really and so finished packing. It's been 2 years to long since I've seen the sunny shores of California and seen my dear dear friends. I know it will be an amazing week.

YAY!

Work it girl!!

2009-09-24T14:20:00.000-07:00

I love Gina yes I do!!!

OK so she might kill me for posting this ... since this is only her dance team's practice ... but I gotta admit, I love my cousin Gina and ... boy can that girl work it!! It's no secret that I live vicariously through her when it comes to anything and everything dance. She's gotten sooo good and goodness now she's teaching her own team, what?? If you can't tell already shes the hottie front and center breaking it down and doing the counts. Sheesh ... makes me miss dancing that much more! Gin you make me so proud!!

Besides the crunch on the ground .. how does your Autumn sound?

2009-09-22T18:03:00.000-07:00

Here's how mine sounds.

Sing out to God, Sing hallelujah ...

2009-09-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

... with all we are. We will worship You

Holy is Your Name. Holy is Your Name

Oh God

I've been overwhelmed by the goodness and graciousness of God lately, that all I can do is sing out. Saying the words Thank You will not ever suffice, worship is the best way I know how to show my gratitude and forever I will sing out.

He's never fails to hear my heart's cry, my needs, my dreams and my desires ... even if they take time in being answered, still He listens. He listens, then goes an extra mile turning all that I hoped and dreamed of into a beautiful reality, always blessing me beyond my own imagination.

Some time early this year, in a short but powerful conversation me and one of my sisters {Ate Rachelle} proclaimed God's goodness and said "God's gonna do big things year. For you, for me, and for all of us."

And because God never lets me down, and heard our hearts cry that night ... He showed up, and has since been doing big things for all of us. There are not enough letters on this keyboard for me to use to explain just how good God has been, and it would be nearly impossible to share every "big" thing God has done for me, and for the people I love this year without writing an entry the length of an entire Harry Potter book, and still the year is not over.

If you want to see for yourself just how good God's been to me check here or here ... because all of it was not accomplished on my own, only with God am I able to any of these things. And to be frank, I honestly don't think I deserve such favor, but that's why they call it amazing grace right?

The wonder of Your love
Will break the chains that bind us
The power of Your touch
Releases us to worship

Sing out to God Sing hallelujah
With all we are. We will worship You
Holy is Your Name. Holy is Your Name
Oh God

Dahil Sa Iyo

2009-09-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

Romanced in tagalog by the best.

Love.

Vintage Beauties

2009-09-11T09:30:00.001-07:00

Just a thought. These would be absolutely lovely in a wedding.

yellow gown

40's Philadelpia gown

1940 wiggle gown

50's Aqua Dress

One.Year.

2009-09-09T10:14:00.000-07:00

Woot Woot!!

This month marks my one year at Lady Foot Locker, a whole year since my first sale.

I've gone through 3 different sets managers, about 6 pairs of new shoes for myself {heaven knows how many more shoe's I've bought for friends and the fam}, and a whole lot of sales.

Who knew I'd be good at retail? ... Surely not I.

Praise God for shoes, and for having a job {one of many}.

Now, how shall we celebrate?

Reminds me of my internship

2009-09-08T09:14:00.001-07:00

Coz I feel like dancing knowing I don't have work today!!! Woot!

2.5 You & I

2009-09-02T06:21:00.000-07:00

The last two & a half years has been nothing but amazing.

This guy is my heart.

The Keiko Lynn

2009-09-02T05:50:00.000-07:00

Mod Cloth + Keiko Lynn = The Perfect Dress

I haven't been blogging about inspiration, fashion, other blogs, or anything else for that matter but this definitely deserves it's own post. I've been following Keiko Lynn's blog since ... last year I think. And without fail I always leave her blog feeling inspired. Her outfits are just to tooo cute, and she really thinks outside of the box. Mod Cloth on the other hand, it's been about a 2 year infatuation for me. There is nothing but amazing products in their store and alot of my key winter pieces were inspired from their stuff. Now this dress ... mama mia .. it is divine! I've been wearing alot of blue dresses lately and how lovely would it be to add this to the collection? GORGE!

Best summer ever

2009-08-24T21:50:00.000-07:00

I.am.horrible.at.blogging.here. ... when it's been the best summer ever. It hasn't be a perfect summer, nor have I had enough down time to enjoy the sunrays and actually stay tan, but it's been the best fohsho! I'm gonna go ahead and actually not use pictures for the first time in a long time {I'm surrounded by pictures all the time now a days ... it's refreshing just to use text for once}.

I don't know where time has gone. Did someone put me in a time machine and set it for August 25? Not that this particular date has any importance to me {besides a senior portrait photoshoot}. I just don't know where the entire months of June, July and August have gone. It feels like August just arrived, but sooner than we know September will be taking it's place.

June seemed so long ago, but I faintly remember waiting with anticipation for my summer adventures to begin, my cousin & her bff's arrival from London, a dream internship with Kristen Leigh, summer dates with my Timothy dearest, and a VA Beach family vacation in our favorite little beach house. And now all of them are gone.

I've been stretched much further than I'm use to all summer long and have even missed out on things I now realized I've taken for granted. It's like there's been no such thing as comfort zone for me this summer, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Praise God for crazy busy summer, and for His grace so amazing.

Here are a few things that have made
this summer the Best Summer Ever!

-A wet & rainy June brought Perrrrfect weather for July
-Best Friend Emem graduated from college & Became a Cru. Intern
-my cousin Travis John graduated highschool
-Baby Adrianna's Birth Day!!!
-amazing photography internship with Kristen Leigh
-double dates that could kick your butt they were soo good
-UP!
-Lunch dates with my highschool girlfriends {after a few long years apart}
-Road trip/best wedding date ever with Tim
-Lychee & Peaches Frozen Yogurt
-Breakfast with The Makepeace brothers & Hope,
then an intimate evening show that knocked my socks off.
-Listography night in DC with my favorite group of girls in the world
-Random trip to Six Flags
-Random summer dates with Timothy dearest
-My cousin Cristi & 'honorary cousin' Mahatma's vacation in the States.
-Family Vacation with all the cousins at VA beach
-A broken camera = reason for a new camera. New camera.
-A magazine feature in the Philippines for September Issue of Gaget
{more info. laters}
-Filling up my 2010 wedding season with weddings

......... the list can go on ...........

OOhh summer how I love thee.

Read.Set.... WEEKEND!!!

2009-08-13T15:13:00.000-07:00

I won't lie, this song makes me giddy and all bubbly inside. Who doesn't love HSM3? Seriously!!! Thinking about the beach makes me feel the exact same way. I've been so overwhelmed lately, taking this vacation with mi familia is just what I need. Hello weekend & hello beach ... I've been waiting for you.

Praise the Lord for Family vacations!!!

Date with Elijah

2009-07-31T09:51:00.000-07:00

My life has been insanely busy, though looking at my blog there is nothing here to show for it. Awhile back I got to spend so much time with my Godson. Morning rides to work holding his hand, and coming home to play with him were my favorite parts of the day. He's getting so big fast and his dance moves keep getting better and better.

Did I mention his faces are THEE best!

I also got to spend tons of time with Mama Javee. I love her soo much.

And beautiful Auntie Lily!

After lunch we took a stroll and Elijah was soo elated to find fountains to play in.

And of course Elijah just had to dance!

Mama and Elijah were not the only ones who got wet.. hehe.

It was such a good day, it was hard to part ways with the awesome fountains, but Elijah had his fill we headed home.

Later that day took a little Thrift Store visit to a shop my best friend found, and knew I'd love.

And ... it was adorable.

I loved everything about it and the decor was just gorg!

Happy to say, I got myself a awesome pair of diamond studs for $5, though we don't know if they are real or fake .. but either way they are lovely and I never take them off!

I love spending time with Elijah and my girlfriends. PTL for great company.

Love love love

2009-07-24T15:50:00.000-07:00

Sooo good.

My Friends

2009-07-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

Besides building my photography business and portfolio, my internship introduced me to 2 upcoming and amazing photographers, and gave me 3 new friends. Read more about them here.

Julia Mary from Minnesota.

Jessica Shae from Texas.

Kristen - super amazing - Leigh

These girls are all soo beautiful, hilarious and amazing photographers.
PTL for new friends.

Dancing with Elijah

2009-07-23T10:19:00.000-07:00

I love my godson to pieces! Me and him played almost every day last week and every night danced our butts off! He's the one who held my hand on the way to my first day of my internship, and he's the one I got to celebrate with after my awesome week was over. Ok so Mama Jv and Auntie Lily were even more amazing for taking care of me all week {they even packing me lunches}, so thank you thank you thank you again girls! You are the best!

Amazing internship!!

2009-07-21T09:46:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe my internship is now over and done. But I could not have been more blessed by the group of girls I got to work with and of course the awesome Kristen Leigh who took us under her wings for a week. There's so much to share but most of that will be posted up on my new blog: Ica Images go check it out, and leave some love what you're at it. Hope this silly little dance brighten's your day, and it was only a sliver of the fun that we had all week!

Please go check out the other interns, they are
amazing, beautiful and super super talented!
Jessica Shae
Julia Mary

Big News!!!

2009-07-18T00:41:00.000-07:00

It's already Saturday and my week of interning with the fabulous Kristen Leigh has already ended. But I'm sure this is only the beginning to a amazing journey.

My new blog is official up, and I'll be updated about my internship and all my photography stuff on there. And no, don't worry .. I don't plan on closing off this blog any time soon, it'll just contain more personal stuff and inspiration {as originally intended}. So stick around, or head on over to my new blog, which ever you do thanks for stopping by and I heart you!!!

Amazing internship ... and only half way through.

2009-07-15T06:07:00.000-07:00

This week is only half way over and

I feel like I've learned so so much already.

Not only have I learned sooo much about the business aspect of photography, my photography is definitely looking better too {I took this shot on our first night while on a shoot, this couple was too adorable}. Watching Kristen at work & and picking at her oh so wonderful brain has been nothing but amazing. As for the other interns, they are just super sweet and super super talented. I can't wait to start another wonderful day with them, and even spend the night at Kristen's. {Plus, her family rocks!} There's soo much more to be shared but that my dear friend is on its way! Happy Wednesday to you!

-The Filippino Intern .. hehe

The Count Down

2009-07-11T08:19:00.000-07:00

Just one more day.

My pulse gets faster every time I think about it, and it's nearly here. Just one more day till Monday. Just one more day till my internship with Kristen Leigh. Where just a few months ago I was admiring Kristen Leigh's work from a distance, and now I'll be learning from her and working with an amazing group of girls who'll be flying in from all over. I don't know if I'm more excited than I am nervous or vise versa. Which ever it is I can hardly wait for Monday to get here.

Elephant Shoe.

2009-07-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

Elephant shoe alot. <3

We are His {poiema}

2009-07-10T10:19:00.000-07:00

{poiema} - the Greek word meaning "poem" or work of art.

"We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus

for good works, which God prepared beforehand

that we should walk in them." —Ephesians 2:10

I woke up this morning and the first thing God reminded me was that I am His workmanship. I am His "poem". I am His work of art. I was well in need of an artistic revelation ... putting into perspective what I think is beautiful art. I'm always on the search for beautiful and inspiring art work, yet still there is nothing more beautiful than His masterpieces, His people.

We are not to be the kind of muesum pieces that sit silent on display, for the world to marvel at or admire. We were created to do good. We were created to move and move people. To show God's beauty, not our own, through acts of kindness and of love. We are His poiema, His poem, His work of art.

Happy Weekend to you!

I heart Shannon Curtis.

2009-07-10T07:58:00.001-07:00

A little less than a year ago at a Ernie Halter show I made a new friend and fell love with her amazing songs and lyrics. Shannon Curtis is not only super talented but she is such a super sweetheart as well. It's not wonder her songs are so lovely, because Shannon Curtis is simply just that, lovely.

In less than a week's time, July 14th to be exact, Shannan's new EP "Why Don't You Stay?" will be released on Shannon's own Saint Cloud Records label ... and I could not be more excited for her. Her new EP, "Why Don't You Stay?," was produced by Charlie Peacock {Switchfoot, Sixpence None the Richer, Amy Grant}, and mixed by Joe Zook {One Republic, Modest Mouse, Katy Perry}. But that's not all the exciting news that's going on with Shannon this Summer.

Shannon is again packing up her little Jetta and touring this summer. So you ... YES YOU ... you better go out and catch one of her shows!!! She's even more lovely live, and if you see her give her a hug for me and tell her its from Ica!

I'm sad to say I'll be missing her one and only VA show this summer, but I'm spreading the news and hope some of you come out to see her. I'm certain you too will fall in love with her awesome music. Her songs are as sweet and gentle as forehead kisses, and who doesn't love a forehead kiss? Hehe.

Shannon, you are awesome!

Best wishes this summer!

-Ica: Rini & Faith

Buy, listen, read or watch

more Shannon Curtis

Sweetest Tweet

2009-07-08T20:32:00.000-07:00

I'm not so keen about Twitter. But I will say
this song is toooooo stinkin' cute.

Topi

2009-07-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

Early this morning my favorite green eyed Mexican in the whole world hopped on a plane to make her big move to Mexico. A lot of the last two weeks have been spend saying our goodbyes and reminiscing about both high school and middle school memories. I'm going to miss her like crazy.

I took this shot of her the other day, in her beautiful back yard, and in her own beautiful handmade creation. She is a fashion graduate and man ooh man is she good. She puts my dress making skills, or lack there of, to shame.

This Silk gown is only one of many of a fabulous creations. Here entire senior collection is to die for. I know exactly who is making my wedding gown :) hehehe.. anyways .. I'm serious gonna miss this girl.

Her and her freaking beautiful smile!

Hugs and kisses my dear! {Ps. Your dresses are amazing ..

I was about to steal it and bring it home with me!}

I'm going to miss my Topi!

Till I either visit Mexico City, or till she comes home to visit ..

I'll miss her terribly.

He Did it!

2009-07-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

So, remember this guy, my awesome brother in Brooklyn?

Well, not only has he finished and graduated from his acting program from The NY Film Academy {a huge accomplishment itself}. Enrique also recently got accepted into a theater company there in NY!!! I could not be more proud of him and all that he's done. I'm so blessed call him my brother and friend and pray that the Lord continues to grow him and bless him richly.

To be frank, all Enrique's accomplishments are really my doing. Bwahaha. NOT! I'm totally kidding!!! But I do like to think I did helped him in a few little ways, being his sister and all. Besides prayer, encouragment and lots of love, one of the ways were taking his headshots for him. I'm pretty sure I didn't share to many shots of just him because I went crazy documenting my visit instead, but here was the winning shot. This picture above is the shot was what he used for his audition, and I'm thrilled and honored that along with his amazing acting skills and my photo of him .. Enrique got the job!

I miss you Enrique! And I could not be more happy for you and proud. Thank you for letting me apart of all of this, and for your awesome phone call just to say thanks for being there for you. You are truly awesome. And when you get big and famous one day .. you better NOT for about me k! Love you brother!

Monday Melody - 2

2009-07-07T00:16:00.000-07:00

Monday has said her goodnight, but if you're still up like me here's a little melody for you.

My coworkers hate me

2009-07-06T22:12:00.000-07:00

They really don't ... but they play around like they do, because they know I'll laugh along with their sick little jokes.

Every day I enter our stock room only to see this taped to the wall. I was sick one day and they thought it was funny to warn the rest of our team. Still no one cares to take it down. Haha, real funny guys, real funny. LOL.

Ps. Do not be fooled. No, I did not have the swine flu.

Fun for the mamas & papa too!

2009-07-06T21:51:00.000-07:00

Our day at the Carnival was great fun for not only the little kiddies, but for their parents too. Here's a blog just for pregos and one of the sweetest mama & papa duos we know.

One sweet love.

I was far to young to appreciate nor remember the kind of love and relationship my mom and dad had because I was only 4, but seeing this mama and papa team every week brings me pure joy because seeing their love feels like I'm always seeing a familiar kind of bond, the kind I imagine my parents had in their youth, marriage and love. I pray that the Lord continues to bless this family so richly because I see alot of my family in theirs if that makes any sense, and I hope and pray for nothing but the very best for them. I love the Floreliz family sooo mucho.

They are also super cool all around. They get it from their papa, he has the rock star tattoos to show for it. LOL. {Before being a family man, Kuya Mark was a man at sea ... where tattoos were the perfect accesory for his profession }.

Now his perfect accesories are his wife and kiddies.

This family is too awesome.

The pregos mama and Little Miss Mariah
were a duo too cute for their own good.

Number Dos is on her way, about to make little

Mariah a big sister, and Noimie a proud mama of 2.

Don't you think Noimie is just one hot mama? I think so.

This mama is due any day now, and I'm sure mama Noimie is ready to meet her newest baby love. She's endure so much to get here and I want nothing but happiness and joy for her, from here on out.

Kisses from big sis.

And as expected, little Mariah is just as excited to meet her new baby sister. Praise the Lord for family, and for mamas and papas who rock.

Day at the Carnival

2009-07-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

Soo much has gone down in a week's time, More parties, and BBQ's and memories it will be awhile till I get caught up in sharing about all of the memories, but here's a recollection of last week's amazing Monday. Hope you all enjoyed your 4th of July weekend and happy Monday to you!!!!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - -

The best way to start the week is to go to the carnival.

Monday morning came around, and I worked on orders as usual. Then a knock at the door came a little bit after lunch. It was one of our favorite families, ready to have an adventure of a monday.

From a distance you could see the ferris wheel,

.. and the pretty lights

Then we finally entered.

For the day we had Gabby, Tim-Tim and little Ms. Mariah {+ pregos} to have fun and run around with. It was quite a fun and silly day.

We watched rides go up and down.

And met giants.

And even touched the sky. Well, almost.

We rode lots of rides ...

We rode them more than once.

{click on image to enlarge}

Sister dearest took a ride on the ferris wheel with fearless and ever sooo adorable Mariah.

As I took a ride with the not so fearless "kuya" Tim-tim.

The higher we got, the harder Tim-Tim squeezed my hand. But even at the top of the big ole wheel we were both all smiles!!! I love this boy.

Twas a lovely day to just hang with the people who make me smile.

Why so serious sister?

Kidding!

After a great time riding rides, it was time to eat.

Funnel cake, and cotton candy ... and deep fried oreos.

Of course you can't go out a drink while snacking on sweets so we all shared the greatest cup of homemade lemonade ever!!! No lie. They loved it as much as I did.

After a plethora of sugary goods the kids were unstoppable. hehe

Mama pregos over there had to do a little yelling

to get Mariah to calm down a little. LOL.

To much sugar could not be good for a bunch of kiddies, but totally appropriate for a day at the Carnival. We wore them down with a quick visit to the playground on the way back to the car so that the parents would have sleeping children all night. What a day with the kiddies, possibly my favorite day at any carnival thus far. I love summer days like this. PTL for carnivals.

Collection of the week {76}

2009-07-06T12:59:00.001-07:00

Neena Creates' Shop is simply adorable.
So are her 365 days of love prints.

*This is tooo cute! Kain Na!!!!

Neena's blog is super cute to. Go check it out.

Girls' Day

2009-07-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

There are already too many summer adventures to keep track of. One thing I don't get to do alot is hang out with my girls from high school. So we set up a date, and had ourselves a ball.

Marsha & Ana are my loves.

And as you can see, they are some crazy tall girls. Both with the longest legs ever! I don't even know how I got through high school hanging out with some of the tallest girls in my class. LOL

After our Potbelly lunch we walked on over to Yogen Fruz and had ourselves,

Lychee & Peaches frozen yogurt! SOOO GOOD!

We then played by the fountain as

we watched the farmer's market go on.

"the little engine that could"

"the iron giant"

YES!

After a few failed attempts, even took some jumping shots

Success.

The reason for our little get together was because of this face right here. This face is leaving us for Mexico and we don't know when we'll see this face again! Ana finished her fashion program at Marymount Univ. and now is off to make her mark on the world. She's going back to her second home {She's half Mexican, and TOTALLY amazing!} and will live on her own out there.

Take a look at what she made, only one of the many

dresses that was part of her senior collection.

She's amazing!

I love this girl forever and I'm sure in a few years from now she'll be going big things in the fashion industry. I can't wait to see what she does.

I'm no Ana Sofia with the sewing machine, but i did happen to make the skirt I wore that day. An acheivement for little silly me. I'm bound to make more of these soon.

She weighs like 2 ounces. And her legs are like the length of my entire body. But I still love her. LOL.

Our day ended with a little sweets .. hehe

I always manage to find cake.

Then we talked and talked under the shade of

the pretty trees till it was time to go home.

I love my girls, and the time we get to catch up and reminisce.

Day Trip Wedding

2009-07-02T11:46:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago me and Tim went on a little day trip to the East Shore of Maryland for my friend's wedding. It was a long and silly trip, but great fun.

The bay bridge was not nice to us, and made us a little late for the ceremony. But we got there, we missed Kelsie walk down the aisle, but we got there.

We didn't miss to much of the ceremony, we were there long enough to get me crying.

Kelsie and Barton are the cutest things ever. And I'm so blessed and so grateful to have been there to see them get married. It's not every day you get to see one of your girlfriends from camp get married. Most summers were spent as campers together, then "Act-teen" campers together then Camp Counselors together, all the while being pen pals during the school year. It's been a pleasure and joy to continue to be part of each other's lives.

Here are some more of our girls from camp.

And of course, our beloved Mrs. June. Camp was the BEST with Mrs. June.

Me and my date.

For the reception we had to live it up, and party down.

Center pieces were adorable

They went perfect with our give-a-ways.

Our table comprised of the girls from camp, and "the filippinos"

Still a silly bunch of ladies. Also the "second tier" of girlfriends Timothy had to get approval from. I love these girls to pieces.

I'm proud of Tim for putting up will all our silliness all night.

He was a great wedding date.

Mr. & Mrs. Bowser were so darling.

Kelsie was absolutely gorgeous.

So was their first dance.

As for her and her sister .. bwahaha. There are no two sisters like the Britts. Kelsie and Kirbie are quite a duo, you can't help but loves these two forever!

Tim made some new friends that day.

So did Barton. Hehe.

Kels is all grown up. I'm soooo extremely happy
for her and love her so much.

Another one of my other girlfriend along side Kels
was Ashley. This girl rocks too!

As for the other sister, hehe. She's still the Kirbie Britt we know and love, but quite grown up as well. And out of the many pictures taken that day. This has got to be one of my favorites. Another girlfriend from camp left a comment on this picture on FB and simply put, "i feel like this is a familiar scene...it's just that everyone is a bit more dressed up than usual."

We filled our glasses with tea,

Then toasts were made and then began a night of dancing.

After one last picture with the Bartons we had to
call it a night, and make the long journey home.

It was a beautiful night, it could have not be more fun.

Me and Tim had some left over dance moves for the car ride home ...

The end. Hehe.

Congrats again to Kelsie and Barton!

Happy marriage!! YAY!

Collection of the week {75}

2009-06-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

This guy is sooo good.

Carnival Day

2009-06-30T13:49:00.000-07:00

The carnival was too much fun last night.

Can't wait to share more about it.
I <3 summer.

TONY LUCCA!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-06-27T20:43:00.000-07:00

AHHH!!! I won't lie, My heart skipped a beat while listening to this. Melissa Polinar and Tony Lucca, together = perfection.

I want you back

2009-06-26T21:23:00.000-07:00

{Ica & Hope}

This video has been along time coming, but sadly there is no time more appropriate than this to finally share it. This has got to be one of my favorite songs to play on the geetar {though I thoroughly suck} and almost a month ago me and my girlfriend Hopie finally sat down and jammed to it. It's only now, we've gotten a chance to get it up. Awesome song, awesome artist, there won't be another MJ. Sad day.

Check out more Hopie !!!

This goes out to my favorite guy ...

2009-06-25T22:43:00.000-07:00

Fact: You're awesome.

Gimme Thai Tea!!

2009-06-25T22:38:00.000-07:00

I have cravings for Thai Tea at the most random times. I'm so blessed to have a family who'll entertain my cravings and join in on the fun too. A few Sundays ago me and my fam headed home from church in search of some Thai and decided to go to 4912. Amazing choice!!! It was my first time there, and let me tell you ... it was so romantic {even if it was just me and my family} and soo delicious.

I love our romantic little dates, just the 3 Diongzon girls.

My mom and my big sister are my heart, and my best friends.

Finally the THAI TEA arrived!

It was so good. SOO GOOD! Definitely hit the spot!!

Then the appetizers came out. Calamari and Fried Tofu. Both were incredible, especially the Tofu. The Tofu is probably the only thing I miss from working at our Chinese Restaurant. That and perfecting the art of dumpling making everyday ... but that I can practice at home if and when i wanted.

When the main course came out, my stomach was to hungry for my eyes to care to take pictures. I don't even remember exactly what we ordered but it was delicious like the rest of our meal. I love my family and our yummy, romantic dinners.

Paper Heart

2009-06-24T12:33:00.001-07:00

Wanna watch this with Tim.

None but Jesus

2009-06-24T09:36:00.000-07:00

In the chaos in confusion
I know You're sovereign still
In the moment of my weakness
You give me grace to do Your will
When You call I won't delay
This my song through all my days

Pleasant Words

2009-06-23T22:46:00.000-07:00

Pleasant words are a honeycomb,

sweet to the soul & healing to the bones - Prov 16:24

There are never enough pleasant words these days, but still so much talking. I feel like we don't listen enough, when silence can be a wonderful teacher. I'm sure God had a reason to allowed a way for us to close our mouths, but never our ears. Yet so often we do the opposite. Stick and stones, and words break bones, but may the Lord always keep you.

Put A Ring On It

2009-06-23T15:36:00.000-07:00

I have a growing infatuation with rings. I love love love rings. I feel naked without them. The one thing most of my rings currently have in common is that they are all gold. "I LIKE GOLD!" like in Austin Powers Gold Member. Ask anyone of my best friends and they'll tell you I'm a "gold" girl. Don't know how that came to be, I loved silver one upon a time, but gold just fits me.

In fairness, I do still have a few silver pieces, but they are all pieces given to me. The last silver piece of jewelry I bought for myself was a ring with two intertwined hearts I got on a trip to NY in high school. Pretty lame, a two heart ring for myself, I know. But that was highschool and I was lonely. LOL. Here are a few rings I was window shopping for on Etsy, not that I deserve to give myself any presents. But a girl can dream.

Out of all the rings I laid my eyes on, this Skinny Ring is by far my favorite. I feel like it's the one piece missing from all my jewelry, the one piece I'd never take off if I had it. It's understated presence is it's beauty. {Note to self: Don't forget about this ring. It will be yours}

Stacked rings are always fun. My sister and my mom both have lovely sets that are actually all attached to each other {like they are tangled}, but I couldn't find any I liked online so stacked rings were my next option. I even asked my mom for her ring one day, it's so pretty and yes it is gold.

When I want to go with something loud I'd go for this Wrap Ring. I have one similar to it, but this is much more lovely. Big rings are so much fun.

There is something about rare or raw diamonds that always intrigues me. What can I say? I'm a girl's girl sometimes and diamonds are always a girl's best friend right {though I own not one}. This Black Diamond is simply amazing.

Call me bias with gold, yes. But I did look around for other types of rings that are not gold. This Wood ring was my fav. How beautiful is that? Ok yes it's lined in gold but that's the part that isn't seen.

Rings = fun, fun, fun!

The Good Life

2009-06-23T14:33:00.000-07:00

Tim Myers' music makes me happy.

Art-o-matic 2009

2009-06-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

Finally, a whole year has past and Artomatic is once again open.

I've been ever so excited since last year's visit and knew I'd be in

for a real treat this year.

This time around, I ventured into South East DC {as the location changes every year} with my broder Glenn. Mind you South East DC = L.A.'s Compton ... Not the safest part of town but we got out alive. PTL.

Once we arrived we had about 9 stories of art ahead of us.

So much to do, see and explore.a

Art Whino artist rock.

From the gallery you could see the National's Baseball park a block over. If you got high enough you could even watch the game. I've yet to experience a baseball game. Another must, on my to-do list.

I'm sure this look just like scribbles, technically it is, but if you get up close you'll see how amazing this ink illustration is. I can only imagine how long it took to make.

After walking around for a few moments we finally met up with little Miss. Aimee who was one of the few to join us on this spontaneous art adventure of ours. This girl is truly amazing, another artist with amazing talent and I'm so excited that she's going into the graphic design field too.

There was so much art, all made by local talent {DC-MD-VA artists}.

There was again, a live tattoo artist. Pretty sick.

Out of all the pieces I saw that day, this piece struck up my favorite conversation of the day with Aimee. There's so much about it to analyze. Can you guess the name of the piece?

"Wasteland 2.0" Such an awesome piece.

I was sad that I was pretty disappointed by the photography through out the gallery. There were only a handful of photography installations that wowed me. I've actually been more moved and inspired by photography I've seen on blogs and online portfolios. Well anywhos, this one photography themed your installation around Greece. And man ... I dream of going to greece one day, this just made me want to go even more.

Before our day ended, we got a quick visit from Mobin & Andrew.

So sad that they didn't get to see alot of the gallery, but hopefully we can all go back again before it closes. {July 5th is the closing date so if you're in the area make sure you go out and see it!}

DC DC DC

2009-06-15T20:52:00.000-07:00

Much is happening in this town...

Both The Real World & The Real House Wives

are moving into DC very soon.

This should be very interesting. This city isn't all about politics and history ... there is much to love and always so much going on, maybe these shows will shed a little bit of light on what's going on in our little corner of the world. We shall see...

Spontaneous Strawberries

2009-06-13T21:24:00.000-07:00

I've hardly been in the mood to blog lately, but this little adventure is a must.

Early Wednesday morning my mom, who usually let's me wake up on my own because she knows I work at night, woke me up asking if I wanted to go pick some strawberries. Because of the sound of her voice and look on her face I knew she was excited and ready to, so I got ready in a jiffy ... then we were off.

I'm always up for spontaneous adventures, and I'm glad my mom took me on one she's been wanting to take. I'm usually the brains behind spontaneous adventures, though now I see I might have gotten that from her. Once we got there we took out our big ole summer hats and headed down to the patch.

First we were assigned a row to help guide us to some yummy berries. But apparently we had the whole patch to ourselves so really it was an "all you could pick" buffet.

The whole field smelt of sweet berries, it was so delightful.

At the end of our adventure me and mom took home a bucket
of strawberries, each ... and a few more pictures for the road.

I have this secret talent of breaking into places ... hehe
so I thought I would try my luck with this barn.

My mom just thought it'd be cute to pose.. hehe

I love mi madre, and our spontaneous strawberry adventure.

Last thing ...

I've not had the luxury of time to sit and sew, but I did manage to whip up a little skirt for myself last week and finally took her out for our little trip. I didn't have a pattern on me, which is always the case so I just played around and TADA! I really wanna make more.. hopefully I can soon.

I'm glad this week is coming to an end,
it's nice to finally have both feet back on solid ground.

The Sweetest Gig

2009-06-09T22:09:00.000-07:00

As if I'm not already busy enough with my part time job, my online job, and various other tasks to juggle around, the last few months I've been working as a freelance photographer for a contracting firm, conducting photo shoots of the company's previously contracted spaces in use (mainly offices and businesses). I've definitely enjoyed working for them, and it's been a blessing that they keep coming back to do work with me. I'll be honest, I didn't expect them to keep me around as long as they have because I know very little about corporate photography. But I'm glad they have, it's been a great experience.

My latest job for them was two weeks ago and it was the SWEETEST gig ever, literally.

I got to do a shoot in the National Confectioners Association office, the only place where candy means business. And boy did I have a good time.

It was pretty dangerous that they left me unsupervised in their "candy shop" ... but I managed.

Later on in the shoot I slipped into the President's office to take a few

pictures of his office space, and guess what I spied with my little eye?

Photos of Lauren Graham a.k.a. Lorelai chillin on a side table.

I talked with the President for a bit and he told me Lauren Graham is his daughter, and that she's currently on Broadway as Adelaide in Guys and Dolls. He also said that if I was ever in NY to go see her perform. Sigh ... there's so much I still haven't seen on Broadway. Guys and Dolls is another must.

This office by far was the most colorful and most playful I've seen the company design, I'm glad I got assigned to shoot it. Also at the end of my visit the office sent me home with a bag full of sweets, a lovely little perk for an already super awesome gig. I love this job.

Take a Bow

2009-06-08T11:07:00.001-07:00

Loving this ring.

June Fouth

2009-06-04T10:18:00.000-07:00

Today is a very special day.

Today is my sister's 25th birthday,
and 26 years ago my parents became husband & wife.

It's always a bittersweet occasion, but a day to always celebrate and be thankful for. My dad loved my mom, they got married and started a family ... the way most love stories go. But as it turns out God had a different plan for our family than the fairy tale ending everyone hoped for, but still love endures.

My parents were only married for eight beautiful years, four of which I got to bear witness of, then my dad was called to take his place up in Heaven to be with the Lord. The last eighteen years have not been the easiest without him, but my parent's love for each other and the Lord is still the love that keeps our family strong today.

The Lord has funny ways for planning things out, because my big sis was born on my mom and dad's first wedding anniversary, giving us another occasion for our family to celebrate today.

Me and sister both can't believe she's turning twenty five. It feels unreal, like I'm still only 17 and she 20. My mom was married and already had both of us at twenty five, so factoring that in makes 25 sound crazy. But 25 is still young, and I know the Lord has sooo much planned for my sister's life. I know very well my sister has still so many dreams and aspirations that I am sure will one day come true.

I love my sister so much. Through the good times and the hard times she still always helps me get through the day just knowing we're in everything together. Her beauty {YES SISTER! YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL, STOP LYING TO YOURSELF YOU KNOW YOU ARE!!!} and her love bless me everyday and I could not be more proud to call her my big sister.

... Ok, that's as sappy as it gets. My sister hates when I get sappy & lovey dovey with her. So instead I'm going to end with a picture for my sister. Not of us, but of someone she doesn't mind getting sappy & lovey dovey with.

I love seeing you happy Ate, so on this birthday of yours I wish you all the happiness in the world!!! Your favorite "fish in the sea" may not be here on your birthday because he's somewhere in an Army uniform on the beaches of Cuba, but I know that guy wishes you all the happiness too!! Hope this picture makes you happy, it kindda makes me happy too.

I love you sister and Happy Birthday!

-baby sis

Treat her Right

2009-05-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

I spend the day with a girlfriend of mine this week after a photoshoot at a candy company {that I will soon update about} ... and she happens to be good friends with The Makepeace Brothers ... these guys are AMAZING. They just toured with Jason Mraz and Justin Kredible for the Music, Magic and Makepeace tour. Take a listen. {though this is only Finian, one of the brothers}

These guys are something else. Another great track is El Pastel. LOVE IT!

Glee

2009-05-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to big sis, I am certain I know what our

favorite show in the fall will be. It'll be Glee.

The pilot was fun, witty, and the singing .. AMAZING!

I'm such a sucker for musicals. And let me just say

this is my favorite Journey song ... and now

this is my favorite cover of it! ... sooo gooood!

I can't wait for more Glee.

Charmed life

2009-05-21T12:28:00.000-07:00

I finally watched the Grey's season finale, which was awesome .... and seconds into the episode I was tapping along to the opening song {or at least what i thought was the opening .. i missed a bit in the beginning that I didn't know I missed}. It sounded familiar then when the chorus kicked in I knew who it was. The awesomely talented Joy Williams. I simply adore her album.

Bantu by Yodit in ELLE magazine!!!

2009-05-20T22:36:00.000-07:00

I was screaming when I heard this news from my big sis.

A family friend of ours, Yodit Eklund has her own swimsuit line {Bantu} and was featured as part of the fashion spotlight article in Elle Magazine this month!!!

Last summer she had mentioned to me that she started her own swimsuit line, I just didn't realize how big her line has gotten. Her line has been picked up by .. ahem ... ANTHROPOLOGIE, Barneys NY, and Fred Segal to name a few, and I'm sure with this article her name will be even more sought after. Also Bantu made an appearance in The New York Times “Sunday Style” feature on Memorial Day beach clothes ... how awesome is that?

I'm sooo excited for her, I texted her baby brother asap to give her my love and congrats! As for her company Bantu ... “It is Bantu’s mission to support and grow the African economy while providing high-quality working standards, opportunities for growth, and a living wage to its workers,” says Yodit Eklund, Bantu’s founder. “Hopefully consumers will begin demanding finished products from Africa, a place typically only considered for raw materials.” Great stuff. I'll be wearing my African pants her mom gave me last summer in celebration! hehe! YAY!

Buy Bantu !!!

You just lost one

2009-05-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends sent me this and I was definitely moved.

Tuesday's Bitter Heart

2009-05-19T21:56:00.000-07:00

I'm absolutely in love with Zee Avi.

I just bought her album. :)

SUMMER INTERNSHIP FUN!!!

2009-05-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

It's been along time coming, but it's finally starting to sink in ...

I've got myself a photography internship this summer!!!!!!!!!!!

And remember that I had some exciting news about

Kristen Leigh that I wanted to share very soon???

Well, the news is that I've been blessed with the opportunity to intern for Kristen Leigh this summer! YAY!!! There are 3 other gals who'll be with me, learning, growing, and having fun ... all with a pro to guide us and just have a good time with. I am beyond excited, and beyond blessed because the slots for interns were few, but God definitely made a way. Ekkkkssss!!! Praise God!!!

{I can't wait for July to get here!}

Best Pop-up books ever!!!

2009-05-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

Another Lisa Hannigan tune, Lille. LOVE IT!

Another Crafty tune

2009-05-18T10:32:00.001-07:00

Awesome Video.
How do you craft?

I miss you, Likes it's tomorrow

2009-05-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

By Kate Neckel

Wendy Straps

2009-05-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

My guitar still lacks a guitar strap after two years. I still haven't found the perfect one, though I've been in no rush to find one ... but how great are these? Built by Wendy always has great stuff.

My Best Friend's Graduation

2009-05-13T21:03:00.000-07:00

One of my very best friend's graduates college tomorrow.

Though we are practically like sisters.

We've been through it all together, I graduated kindergarten with her by my side {though she upstaged me with all of her awards ... lol ... and she was in 1st grade already}, she was there by my side when my dad past away, I was there when she got her first car, and when she graduated high school ... then I followed the year after, and now we are here. At her college graduation.

The years have gone by so quickly,

but I've been so blessed to have Em-em by my side through it all.

Tomorrow will be another milestone to add to our collection of memories we've shared together, and I am beyond proud of you Emem! Since we were little kids you've always been one of the hardest workers I know, always so creative, so smart, and so talented to top it of. But that's simple what you can do, who you are is what I love most about you. You are my kind and caring dear best friend and I love you soo much.

I'll be cheering so loud and so proud tomorrow.

I can't wait to see what God takes you next.

Buy TOMS, give some

2009-05-13T12:21:00.000-07:00

Shoes, shoes, shoes. I'm surrounded by shoes everyday. It becomes a little monotonous job at times but now and again you learn or discover something new, and or your coworkers keep you entertained. It was actually a customer who had this shoes one, ones I've never seen before but they looked so cute and comfty so I had to ask.

"They are TOMS." She told me. Like I'm suppose to know what TOMS are? I sell shoes, but I don't know about alot of shoes outside of what we sell. So as I said I would I looked them up, and I love them.

When you buy a pair of TOMS, TOMS gives a pair of shoes to a child in need. I see people buying shoes everyday, it's nice to know that somewhere people who are buying shoes are giving them out as well.

I have alot of shoes, so it's not like I need another one. But I want to buy me some TOMS. I've seen first hand what a simple pair of shoes means to children in need. Maybe not now, but soon ... I'll get me some TOMS just in time for some summer fun. And plus they are so cute.

Buy TOMS, give some.

Collection of the week {73} - Kristen Leigh

2009-05-12T22:19:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite photographers from last year is this super talented, fun and young photographer named Kristen Leigh. She's a local gal and some one I truly admire in the industry. Her story is inspiring, along with her work, her amazing resume and the amount of experience she has under her belt ... and the biggest wow factor is that ..... she's younger than me, {Note I'm only 22}. My admiration for her continues to grow as her work and talent grow too.

{Groom = Drummer for My Favorite Highway}

What I truly love about Kristen's work is the subdued, romantic quality her photos always take on. I heart Kristen Leigh.

{***WATCH OUT for I'll be posting some
exciting news about Kristen Leigh very very very soon***}

Mama's Day

2009-05-11T21:02:00.000-07:00

In this little family of ours, Mother's day is like celebrating my mom's birthday a month early, its a very important day. Though I think 24 hours is hardly enough to dedicate to and celebrate my mom and how complete and wonderful her love has made our lives ... most especially through all the hard times.

Big sister and I had pretty special plans for the day, so we both got up really early to prepare our surprises, got all dolled up then dolled up mother dearest for our Sunday Brunch at Cheesecake Factory to start the day.

Mother dearest looked so beautiful,

But even then, on a beautiful Sunday morning all dolled up, my mom's outward beauty pails in comparison to how beautiful of a woman she is on the inside. My mom has faith that could "move mountains" and if ever I need a definition of strength, I simply look at my mom and know the answer.

When we arrived for brunch we had to wait for our two special guests to arrive but looked through the super yummy brunch menu and did a little gift opening while it was just the three of us. For starters mother opened up sister's present, because we both knew that emotions would run high and it would be a special moment the three of us.

The note attached to her present read:

Happy Mother's Day Mom!
Now you carry us near your heart.

I love you.

Her initial reaction to opening her present was this:

But a second after reading what was stamped into the silver,

all we saw were tears.

Then the tears turned into weeping,

Followed by tears of our own.

The first three letters stamped into my mother's necklace

are the three letter's that we miss the most in this world.

My dad.

Seeing those three letters written down, right next to my sister's name and my own brought the three of us to tears instantaniously. Never have I seen my mom brought to tear so quickly, because usually she's to strong for her own good.

After the cry fest, we had a few silly moments

to ourselves and then our guests arrived.

Then .. SURPRISE!!!

Our two other "seestars" arrived and so did even more laughter.

The food was SOOO good.

And so pretty.

Then I gave my mom my present for her, a camera she can call her own! She's addicted to our DS Lite, so I got her a touch screen camera she can play with. Also, I figured my big ole DSLR is to heavy for her when she does take pictures. And just like me and my sister, my mom loves pictures .. I'm sure we got it from her.

On a total side note, it was nice having Rio home this weekend, we've missed her around here. And though her visit and her mom's visit earlier in the week were not under the best of circumstances, I'm grateful that our families have each other to lean on in good times, bad times, sad times or in celebration.

I love my mom.

She's not only my mom, but my homie, and one of my best friends.

And she's also "mommy 2" to two of my best friends.

How we love our mother dearest .. lol

Homies for life!!! hehe

The rest of our day was packed with lots of love and celebrating, even a party. Great times with the fambam and what a wonderful mother's day.

Prom Night at the Gatti's

2009-05-08T11:07:00.000-07:00

I still can not believe it is already May, nor can I believe how grown up my cousins are.

Last Saturday was Prom night at the Gatti's.

Yes both Travis & Gina went to prom.

Our little "pizza boy" is little no more, but a handsome young man

with really amazing Kenneth Cole shoes and a pretty amazing tux.

He looked so good for his Senior Prom,

I can't wait to see him graduate.

As a good big brother would, Travis

waited for Gina's boyfriend to arrive outside.

Here is Mitch, Gina's boyfriend.

Who is a Junior, as Gina is a Sophomore.

This is how Gina is everything she's with him. Heheh.

She's growing up far to fast as well. :)

Loving Siblings.

Also awkward in every way... bwahaha

Mitch simply stood by and watched the Gatti's in their silliness.

Soon after a plethora of pictures were taken Gina & Mitch were off to a pre-prom rendezvous at a friend's house. And sure enough sister and I took the opportunity to embarrass our little Gina right before leaving. Her face tells it all. Then they were off.

As for Travis boy, he stuck around to make a fashionably late entrance to prom and waited to get dropped of by his pops. While he waited we goofed off. I love this boy to pieces and it brings tears to my eyes to see him all grown up.

I love my cousins.

Collection of the week {72}

2009-05-07T22:13:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon this next collection via Style Me Pretty, {yes both my sister and I adore weddings} and I'm so delighted to have found Steep Street's photography while browsing around.

Simply put, Kelty's images are so vivid with personality and color, yet each image is still so honest and so real. I've not perfectly mastered the art of translating such honesty but seeing her work makes me want to work for just that. All of her images look like they could have been cut out from editorial spreads from some of the biggest fashion magazines.

Fall in love with Steep Street yourself.

Oldtown, new memories

2009-05-05T23:16:00.000-07:00

{A long over due post}

Saturday with the Fambam roaming around some of our favorite places is always a treat. A few Saturdays ago me and my little family went to Oldtown for an early evening stroll. An outing that rarely if ever, happens. Twas an amazing Saturday with the Fam.

We roamed the streets and found some amazing shops.

And as we roamed, beautiful music filled the streets.

Ice cream was a must.

So we ate some down by the water,

as we made shadow puppets on the ground.

We all tried working on our tans ... and we're getting there
{Though this picture really doesn't look like it .. but really we're getting there}

It was quite a romantic night, but clearly big sister wasn't feeling it.

As we began our journey back to our car it was evident that we weren't the only ones out on the town, soaking up the sun, celebrating a beauty Saturday ... everyone was.

Oldtown, oh how we love you.

Block Party

2009-05-05T21:32:00.000-07:00

Colorblock frocks that rock!

Senior Skip Dress at Modcloth

Colorblock dress by Victoria Secret

Theory dress

Both & dresses at Urban Outfitters

Fab Colorblock Pleats

Pralines & Creme dress from Modcloth

How far do I have to go to get to you?

2009-05-02T18:00:00.001-07:00

Many the miles.
Happy weekend.

Love me, Sing songs

2009-05-01T21:46:00.001-07:00

Just another beautiful and encouraging tee by Jesus Branded.

Impromptu Picnic

2009-04-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

Saturday was to warm and to beautiful to pass up and stay indoors. So as a church we put together an impromptu picnic and met by the water's edge.

Across the way we could see the National Harbor in clear view.

What's a picnic if you don't lay in the shade and relax?

While we were eating we laid our eyes on a bride and groom that were taking a stroll through the park in their wedding frocks. What a beautiful sight to see.

There was much to eat and drink.

And me for me and sister Organic Lemonade

was the perfect way to end the day.

I can't wait for more picnics.

Painted Eggs

2009-04-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

This is way back from Easter, but I found them on my computer today.

Painting eggs = family fun.

Play day with Mariah Ray-Ray

2009-04-28T10:59:00.001-07:00

The craziest and cutest little monster came to play the other day,

and boy was I so joyfully surprised!

I opened the door and found my little play date ready
for a fun filled day.How I miss our time together!

For our play day we went to the pond and fed the duckies.

And picked some flowers from the yard.

And then played with the computer a little.

She is cute as a button.

We love her sooo mucho.

Kisses!!

Hot hot hot

2009-04-28T10:54:00.001-07:00

It's been freakishly hot the past couple of days. It's been higher than 90 degrees since Saturday, crazy talk for April. So I've been spending lots of these days on a hammock soaking up the sun as if it were a hot July day. Hello Tan!!

Collection of the week {71}

2009-04-28T10:36:00.000-07:00

Missouri illustrator and graphic designer Frank Chimero = Brilliant!

I saw this print amongst the many beautiful and quirky prints on Red Velvet Art then again on Frank Chimero's, who's work I stumbled upon today. I love finding connections in the art that I stumble upon to art I already love.

See more Frank from his Shop and work

1st of Many

2009-04-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

My darling godson turned 1 this month.

And boy did we have a mighty good time celebrating!

With Easter close by we painted eggs to celebrate early.

He was sleepy for most of his party but he fought through it.

Lots of people came to party down.

We partied with a pinata head.

Candles and cake helped us celebrate.

Games were also quite a joy as well.

I love this little family of three and I love that little boy to pieces!

I know

2009-04-27T13:55:00.001-07:00

I simply adore Meaghan Smith

Sounds like summer

2009-04-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

I know exactly what my summer is going to sound like,
it's going to sound like THIS.

My summer love = Anjulie's sweet music.

My summer nights will be filled with her music too.
Anjulie = my newest music crush.

My Grandma

2009-04-23T11:18:00.000-07:00

Words can not explain how much I miss her.

This is my super cute grandma, whom I love and adore. I haven't seen her face to face in 20 years because she's back "home" in the Philippines, and we haven't been back "home" since we first left. But because my grandma is pretty internet savy, and is crazy at texting we find ways to keep in touch like chatting with web cams.

Last night when I came home from work my grandma and one of her sisters were waiting for me so we could chat. I was super excited and stayed in my work uniform to showed her that too. We talked about everything from pictures, to boyfriends and laughed up a good ole' storm. Me and my aunt made my grandma laugh so hard it was the cutest thing in the world!! I love my Grandma's laugh, there is no sweeter sound.

Even if we were video chatting I wrote my grandma a little note to tell her how much I love her as she watched American Idol via webcam {with my Aunt out in St. Mary's County, MD} and she loved the note!! I love writting letters and notes to my grandma, as her letters are some of my most valuable possesions.

Before ending our conversation I told my Grandma to smile for me so I could keep a picture of her on my phone to carry with me where ever I go and even show my boyfriend how beautiful she is. {I totally made her blush.} Then I said I wanted to give her a BIG HUG so I stretched out my arms and she did do and we "hugged" and I send my flying kisses her way and told her I love her and miss her terribly. I can not wait to finally be able to give her the BIGGEST hugs and sweetest kisses in the world!

I love my Grandma.

Etsy love

2009-04-22T11:12:00.001-07:00

Faye & Faye Co. is now open!! YAY! I've been waiting for their shop and their blog to go live, because I know these two girls are very creative! {And super cute!} Best wishes Hazel and Faye you two rock!!

Gravity

2009-04-21T20:57:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't been playing the guitar regularly I decided to learn some new songs today. Gravity was at the top of my list because I think it's one of the most beautiful and sensitive ballads ever. {My favorite sad song to date .. As Charlie Brown would put it: "Love is a sad song"}.

And though I know I can never do enough justice to this song, I love it and while searching for the tabs I found the music video for it. So beautiful and incredibly creative. I've never seen a more stunning yet fun interpretation of the solar system with the use of a few lights. Love it.

Spring time Saturdays

2009-04-20T16:01:00.000-07:00

I love this weather. Saturday I frolicked in the sun all day long before going to work, even got myself a little tan.

After eating bunch on the back porch, the rest of my morning was spent on a hammock swinging in the sunshine, with my cousin and her guitar.

We also had a visit from a handsome young boy who kept us company

Then we took out the bikes for a Saturday adventure.

First Stop: Coldstone

Second stop: The Thrift Store

Sadly enough that was the end of the fun part of my day, I had to then go in to work after having spent most of my day out in the sun. I can't wait for more Saturdays like this.

Monday Melody

2009-04-20T15:32:00.001-07:00

.... don't be blue. I got a melody just for you!!!