tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59016297124115995342024-03-12T17:32:19.538-07:00Mrs. Talia Basman's BlogTalia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-48331931037792597652013-04-08T00:04:00.001-07:002013-04-08T00:05:04.164-07:00WAHMderful Life Workshop: Real Ways to be a WAHM (The Rerun)It has been four months since I haven't had a full-time job (yes, I did count). Do I regret my decision? Not in the least. Am I bored at home? At times, I admit. Am I enjoying being a work-at-home mom? SUPER!<br />
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I cannot count the number of times that I have said that I am thankful for having been given an opportunity to work from my favorite space (no, it's not the mall, although who's stopping me from working there?). The first time I heard of the term WAHM (work-at-home mom) was through <a href="http://daintymom.com/">Martine's blog</a>. I was just doing my usual blog-hopping when I was pregnant when I landed on her blog. I have to say, her posts prompted me to look for other working options. So since I was pregnant, I have been working at the university in the morning and working online at night. You can just imagine the stress Laika and I were getting from that! Luckily, we're pass that stage and I have since resigned from my job. <br />
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I have to say, I had a difficult time looking for writing gigs at the beginning. And then I heard that the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/WAHMmanila/">Manila WAHM's group</a> is going to be holding a workshop for WAHMs and WAHMs-to-be that October. I wanted to join but then I thought I would have a one-month old by then. And then, they had another run that I was able to attend. I have to say I learned a lot and met women who have been inspiring me through my journey. And now, I want to invite YOU to attend the rerun of the WAHMderful Like Workshop.<br />
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From the <a href="http://wahmderfullife.com/workshops/">WAHMderful Life</a> website: <br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The WAHMderful Life Workshop is the ONLY
workshop for women who want to work from home while making a home. An
original Dainty Mom event, this workshop features a series
of interactive workshops geared towards the encouragement and
empowerment of women who are working from home or would like to do so.
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Our primary audience comprises stay at home
moms, moms who want to start a home-based business, moms interested in
working from home whether as freelance professionals, telecommuters, or
entrepreneurs. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
If you’re working, already a WAHM, or are thinking about becoming a
work-at-home parent, the WAHMderful Life Workshop is here to help you
make that possible.</blockquote>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bxTkVNdPaJ8/UWJrfgW2lJI/AAAAAAAAAks/aceyreycN9A/s1600/WAHMderful-life_2b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bxTkVNdPaJ8/UWJrfgW2lJI/AAAAAAAAAks/aceyreycN9A/s640/WAHMderful-life_2b.jpg" width="384" /></a></div>
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This rerun of the workshop that I attended will be this Saturday, <b>April 13, 2012</b>. Please click <a href="http://wahmderfullife.com/workshops/real-ways-to-be-a-wahm-april-13-2013-register-now/">this link</a> for more information and to register. Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-55614405892234670752013-02-28T00:09:00.002-08:002013-02-28T01:16:08.272-08:00Pinterest Challenge: How to Make a Decoupaged DecorWho here can remember the MTV Asia from way back with Mike Kasem as one of the VJs? If you do, high five to you because we're both old!<br />
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Now, if you're familiar with that, I want you to chant the following to the tune of <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Request of t<span style="font-size: xx-small;">he day. </span></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Request of t</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">he da</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">y</span>. </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Request of the day.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X8Lg-mdwrq8/US8BoQzMJ-I/AAAAAAAAAfc/hjVkN9tdBxs/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-02-28+at+3.04.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X8Lg-mdwrq8/US8BoQzMJ-I/AAAAAAAAAfc/hjVkN9tdBxs/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-02-28+at+3.04.39+PM.png" height="238" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: small;">I<span style="font-size: small;"> highly encourage you to sing with me. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pinterest Challenge.</span> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pinterest Challenge</span>. </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pinterest Challenge. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is the time when, if Laika <span style="font-size: small;">can already understand w<span style="font-size: small;">hat's going on around her, I am sure she will be beaming with pride. S<span style="font-size: small;">he has t<span style="font-size: small;">he funniest mother in the world! *waving SARCASM flag to Sheldon Cooper*</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Anyway, before we get anywhere else, I would like to say that I am a Pinner<span style="font-size: small;"> (Pin<span style="font-size: small;">terest-er?). </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">One of the images <span style="font-size: small;">I pinned is this d<span style="font-size: small;">ecoupaged letter from this <a href="http://blogs.babycenter.com/life_and_home/initial-impressions/">site</a> </span>made by the <span style="font-size: small;">Petersiks. </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-udMZQILv1v4/US8Crq0YO9I/AAAAAAAAAfo/kO9xACukMrE/s1600/YHL-hanging-after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-udMZQILv1v4/US8Crq0YO9I/AAAAAAAAAfo/kO9xACukMrE/s1600/YHL-hanging-after.jpg" height="640" width="428" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am here to <span style="font-size: small;">challenge myself to make my own decoupaged letter. I also challenged myself into doing this without spending a <span style="font-size: small;">di<span style="font-size: small;">me<span style="font-size: small;">. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tB1wBCFEoXU/US8KgoAX5rI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/yiI49N_W3Jg/s1600/P1010592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tB1wBCFEoXU/US8KgoAX5rI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/yiI49N_W3Jg/s1600/P1010592.jpg" height="448" width="640" /></a></div>
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First thing I did was to look for things I can use around the house. Good thing for me, somebody gave my daughter some puzzle mats, a magazine that is a freebie (a complete affront to my principle of refusing anything free if I can't find a use for it), and a glue stick (because I thought it's the least messy glue around).</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PyLYkHjTtlU/US8KiklVBYI/AAAAAAAAAhY/SkMK61bwbj4/s1600/P1010593.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PyLYkHjTtlU/US8KiklVBYI/AAAAAAAAAhY/SkMK61bwbj4/s1600/P1010593.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a> </div>
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This portion is brought to you by the letter B (I am such a couch potato 90's kid) which stands for Basman. I detached it from the puzzle and tear some pages from the magazine.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ET3HoGsc1Y/US8Ki-SqwyI/AAAAAAAAAhc/rmuMfEbc8C4/s1600/P1010594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ET3HoGsc1Y/US8Ki-SqwyI/AAAAAAAAAhc/rmuMfEbc8C4/s1600/P1010594.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here comes the fun part. Tear the pages up to the acceptable size. I learned as I went and realized that I should have cut some pieces smaller for the nooks and crannies. The bigger pieces where useful for when you are covering everything entirely. For detailing, use the small pieces. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wMQKW8mpYMA/US8KjbOnsiI/AAAAAAAAAhk/Ad1UxoQtEr4/s1600/P1010595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wMQKW8mpYMA/US8KjbOnsiI/AAAAAAAAAhk/Ad1UxoQtEr4/s1600/P1010595.jpg" height="578" width="640" /></a> </div>
I went on and put glue on top of the page to c<span style="font-family: inherit;">reate a protective seal. It's the poor man's Mod Podge (because I don't think Mod Podge is available here). </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2AtmeyVsnI/US8KkfKaq3I/AAAAAAAAAhw/OBDdNpvZLzo/s1600/P1010597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2AtmeyVsnI/US8KkfKaq3I/AAAAAAAAAhw/OBDdNpvZLzo/s1600/P1010597.jpg" height="640" width="602" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Wait for it to dry and cut the edges. Et voila! I now have my own version of decoupaged decor. Now to look for a place where I can hang this. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">This challenge is completely unofficial (Pinterest does not have anything to do about it) and is a product of imagination of a few people who wants to stop pinning and start doing. Feel free to go to the pages of the hosts to look at their own versions of this challenge: </span></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sherry of <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2013/02/winter-pinterest-challenge-board-batten-baby/">Young House Love</a> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Katie of <a href="http://www.bowerpowerblog.com/2013/02/pinterest-challenge-project-room-to-grow/">Bower Power Blog</a> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Megan of <a href="http://www.theremodeledlife.com/2013/02/winter-pinterest-challenge-fabric.html">The Remodeled Life</a>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Michelle of <a href="http://decorandthedog.blogspot.com/2013/02/pinterest-challege-button-wall-art-link.html">Decor and the Dog</a> </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></blockquote>
PS. I am contributing to this fabulous site about calendars and it would be great if you can visit through this <a href="http://calendartoprint.com/5-brilliant-kitchen-design-ideas-for-home/">link</a> on my post about kitchen office ideas. Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-62850743380240106602013-02-26T05:40:00.000-08:002013-02-26T05:41:37.566-08:00Pops of color on the frontOla!<br />
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I would like to share some inspirations to you through this blog and let me share my first post on this to you. <br />
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If you are like me who used to be so afraid of colors, I would like to suggest one fool-proof way to, little by little, introduce pops and bursts into your life.<br />
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Are you ready?<br />
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Here it is. <br />
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Bold-colored door.<br />
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Yes! Yummy, yummy facade :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://daphne.ph/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/About-Photos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="457" src="http://daphne.ph/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/About-Photos.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://daphne.ph/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/About-Photos.jpg"><i>photo source</i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I started my love affair with colored doors when I saw Daphne Osena-Paez' door through her <a href="http://daphne.ph/">blog</a>. Her red door attached to their vintage <i>bahay na bato</i> family home really brought tingles down my spine. Isn't it lovely?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://assets.curbly.com/photos/0000/0014/1322/tumblr_lh5wlutp2r1qab193o1_500.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://assets.curbly.com/photos/0000/0014/1322/tumblr_lh5wlutp2r1qab193o1_500.png" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://assets.curbly.com/photos/0000/0014/1322/tumblr_lh5wlutp2r1qab193o1_500.png"><i>photo source</i></a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I can think of <a href="http://pinkcessdyosa.tumblr.com/">one person</a> who would readily color her frontage pink. That, plus the whites make the otherwise boring bricks interesting, don't you think? <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lk9krn1f3t1qcq2kp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lk9krn1f3t1qcq2kp.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lk9krn1f3t1qcq2kp.jpg"><i>photo source</i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Yellow is the winner for me. I will definitely put this in my future home. Sunshine-y yellow brings sunshine-y disposition, don't you agree?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://theinspiredroom.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Red-Door.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="428" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://theinspiredroom.net/2012/04/25/colorful-front-doors/"><i>photo source</i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I'm sorry for the repetition of the color red but look at that shape! And the oil-rubbed bronze accessories seals the deal for me. Makes for one interesting door.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.themetapicture.com/media/cool-glass-door-colors-light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://static.themetapicture.com/media/cool-glass-door-colors-light.jpg" width="452" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.themetapicture.com/media/cool-glass-door-colors-light.jpg"><i>photo source</i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I know that this is not bold-colored but it is the great combination of different colors. It helps that it also lets light in. No other words for this. Perfect for any narrow doorway.<br />
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Now that you've seen some samples, are you ready to take the leap? What color can you think of? Bonus points if, aside from making your door colored, you can also add interesting details. Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-67864443478772782942013-02-25T06:47:00.001-08:002013-02-25T06:47:29.293-08:00Why "Pocket-Friendly"?You might have seen on my domain name that I have a little phrase there. Pocket-Friendly. <br />
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Well, let me tell you a little something about me. <br />
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I was raised by a frugal person. So much so that when his office made him choose what car to drive, he chose a simple Toyota.<br />
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Papa never raised us to love material things. Even if he was entitled to it, he never bought flashy things for himself. Credit cards? Unheard of. Mortgages? Never had them. He never bought a property, be that real estate or vehicular, unless he can pay for it in cash. I'm not saying we have much. It's just that Papa believes in delayed gratification. If you can't afford it, then maybe you don't need it. <br />
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Growing up, I only heard of Polly Pocket from classmates. Lisa Frank, who is she? Toys are not given to us. It was earned. I got a hundred pesos when I topped the honor roll. It's up to us how we will spend it. Same with buying school supplies. We are given a certain amount. If you want to splurge, so be it. But you must know the consequences of that. <br />
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Maybe that's why I am so in love with gadgets. I had none when I was young. I am not saying I was deprived. It made me realize that my parents worked so hard to get us where we are. My father is a simple man who made us shop in Tutuban at times and made us dine in Cafe Jeepney in Intercontinental Hotel during others. <br />
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Until his dying days, he chose his family. He was offered by his office to be sent to Netherlands for treatment but he opted to stay here and be with us. Family is numero uno to him. <br />
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All my frugal ways, I learned from him. I hated him for it before but I am so full of admiration for him now. <br />
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Makes me miss my Papa during times like these. He, to me, is the epitome of contentment. And I love him for it. Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-71512145545240170962013-02-24T04:18:00.003-08:002013-02-24T04:21:43.087-08:00Home Office EvolutionHi, I'm Talia. I'm a mother and I work from home.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://multiply.com/mu/taliabasman/image/9/photos/82/600x600/4/DSC03286.JPG?et=nxVkVimDAVo8R%2B612C00Pw&nmid=75359763" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://multiply.com/mu/taliabasman/image/9/photos/82/600x600/4/DSC03286.JPG?et=nxVkVimDAVo8R%2B612C00Pw&nmid=75359763" height="436" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family Picture 2008</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A little background for you: Being that I grew up with seven siblings, I have always craved for a place of my own. Eight kids means one room for boys and one room for girls. In our case, that means I had to share a room with four of my sisters. Eventually, my older sister had her own room and I then shared a room with three.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://multiply.com/mu/taliabasman/image/7/photos/10/500x500/91/DSC08442.JPG?et=SXN%2BJPFmcx6Rj0EOKwwRQg&nmid=10972745" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://multiply.com/mu/taliabasman/image/7/photos/10/500x500/91/DSC08442.JPG?et=SXN%2BJPFmcx6Rj0EOKwwRQg&nmid=10972745" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The
one on the left was my workspace when I was sharing room with three of
my sisters. I was a landscape architecture student then, so yes, a
drawing board is in order. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And then I got my own room (although my older brother will disagree
because that's his room. I just loved claiming it when he moved to the
room downstairs) which is colored aqua blue and is much too masculine in my opinion. Too long a story but the point is, I wanted to have my
own space that I can decorate. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/31387_415672687440_1031726_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/31387_415672687440_1031726_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Please ignore the face. Pretty please.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I got married and my husband and I rented our place, I asked him if it would be possible if each of us had our own workspace. One table for my things, another for his. It was a luxury given that space in the city where we live is precious. Think goldmine. That's how I would describe it.<br />
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There are times when I would bring my computer (no matter how heavy it is) to the bedroom temporarily just because that's where the air conditioner is. I would like to think this happened around summer time because there is no way I will lug the computer around unless it is scorching hot. But then again, I am known to push around humongous cabinets as a hobby so I guess, never say never, right? <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cHlxefO-Hrk/USn_9T6IziI/AAAAAAAAAek/3gylOqPlv-I/s1600/ho.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cHlxefO-Hrk/USn_9T6IziI/AAAAAAAAAek/3gylOqPlv-I/s1600/ho.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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And then me, the biggest-furniture-mover in the world, the one in charge of space layout in the house, I changed my mind. Not just once. More of a hundred times. We don't need a table for each. One is enough for both of us. <br />
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After giving birth, I was tired of sticking to a color palette. Motherhood made me crave for different bursts of color. Red is my favorite at present. It shows. Oh, yes, it does show. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dBXULcAsOPg/USn8g5x1JhI/AAAAAAAAAeI/yJQRiow07gw/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-02-24+at+7.41.07+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dBXULcAsOPg/USn8g5x1JhI/AAAAAAAAAeI/yJQRiow07gw/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-02-24+at+7.41.07+PM.png" height="634" width="640" /></a></div>
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But who am I kidding? I am a mother now and I enjoy being with my kid. So I was demoted to working on the floor with my daughter in front of me. Total joy. Except when she's crying her eyes out and I just don't know what to do. In that case, I whisper to myself, "you love your daughter, you love your daughter, you love your daughter". <br />
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How about you? How has your home office evolved? Is red your style? Do you love working on your bed?<br />
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PS. Take a look at my new domain name. Isn't it awesomesauce? (Name that TV show!) Gives you a clue on what to expect in the future, huh? The site is still on the works so stay tuned.<br />
<br />Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-80578398062069496702013-02-19T22:25:00.000-08:002013-02-19T22:25:00.242-08:00My "Me" TimeI have always valued my "me" time. When I was in college, whenever stress overwhelms me, I would jog around the university to take a breather. Or sometimes, I eat out alone and window shop by myself.<br />
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Now that I have a little family of my own, having quality time with myself has been difficult. It may be hard but I make a conscious effort to make it possible.Otherwise, I don't know if I would still be sane now.<br />
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My "me" time happens every night when my husband and my daughter have already fallen asleep. That's when I get to write or read blogs. Other times, when the husband is at work and the baby is in the dreamland, I get to have time for myself, too. Or there are times, I force myself to wake up early even if I'm the last one to sleep so that I can have my quiet time alone.<br />
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How about you? How do you spend your alone time? <br />
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<br />Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-76946866249653186822013-02-12T04:55:00.000-08:002013-02-19T22:09:20.797-08:00Renting sucks! (Or should it?)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-5XnxGcJEeo0/URo1b5omclI/AAAAAAAAAco/9sSfdEr8_bA/s640/blogger-image-1785080050.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-5XnxGcJEeo0/URo1b5omclI/AAAAAAAAAco/9sSfdEr8_bA/s640/blogger-image-1785080050.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The
master bedroom when we first moved in (March 2011). Yes, I thought it
was acceptable to curtain of just one side of the window.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We all know that renting is discouraged by many. You are paying for a property that will never be yours and more often than not, you allot the biggest chunk of your budget to rental fees.<br />
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But for some (read: us), it is the only possible way to live. Unless of course, you can think of a way where you can live by yourself without paying for rent and buying a property. In that case, please tell me how you do it.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-notwHVSkZzg/URo1Z7-a3oI/AAAAAAAAAcg/FY4RfuELncY/s640/blogger-image-2047387787.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-notwHVSkZzg/URo1Z7-a3oI/AAAAAAAAAcg/FY4RfuELncY/s640/blogger-image-2047387787.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Living
room circa March 2011. I put contact papers to an otherwise blank white
wall. I am in love with contact papers! I think it's the answer to
everything. Blank wall, dining table, computer table, world hunger.
Seriously. Except for the last part. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Cvk9Tm7TCtA/URo1dy7EjbI/AAAAAAAAAcw/IDHBJ_umSVs/s640/blogger-image-1702976500.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Cvk9Tm7TCtA/URo1dy7EjbI/AAAAAAAAAcw/IDHBJ_umSVs/s640/blogger-image-1702976500.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Husband studying in one part of the living room then.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My husband always believe in looking at the positive side (must be why he's been with me for so long. Good luck looking for my positive side! HAHA). We may be wasting our money but he told me to look at it this way. Renting allowed us to be experimental. Had we bought a property early on, I may not have had the courage to always, always, always (don't ever think I'm exaggerating) change the look of our house. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tFe5YTE_o1M/URo1fWO70yI/AAAAAAAAAc4/sQy-m3ovVZA/s640/blogger-image-1016005949.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tFe5YTE_o1M/URo1fWO70yI/AAAAAAAAAc4/sQy-m3ovVZA/s640/blogger-image-1016005949.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Because my solution to a leaking ceiling then was puzzle mats, garbage bags, and pails (June 2011)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Aside from being experimental, we, at least, have an idea how to manage a house if ever we bought one now. Leaking ceiling, dripping faucet, tangled extension cords--not foreign to us anymore. <br />
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<tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoz9Jf9miI0/URHQsRgLZSI/AAAAAAAAAZM/4k1q2Ie0kqU/s1600/MB.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoz9Jf9miI0/URHQsRgLZSI/AAAAAAAAAZM/4k1q2Ie0kqU/s1600/MB.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I know you're tired of this picture. It's what the master bedroom looks like now. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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<tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tMNJqOgCVY0/URHKgPtJYVI/AAAAAAAAAY0/-Y4fd3W46wQ/s1600/livingdining.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tMNJqOgCVY0/URHKgPtJYVI/AAAAAAAAAY0/-Y4fd3W46wQ/s320/livingdining.gif" width="231" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What our living/dining room looks like now</td></tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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Thanks to renting, we also know what our house style is. We used to think brown, black and white is our style. All neutral, no excitement. But now, pops of colors everywhere. Having a child really does make ones house an exciting place. <br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tFe5YTE_o1M/URo1fWO70yI/AAAAAAAAAc4/sQy-m3ovVZA/s640/blogger-image-1016005949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /> </a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XCfPbSKprsw/URo0DGf3OoI/AAAAAAAAAcE/5GRX-y4nPxQ/s640/blogger-image-1881328338.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XCfPbSKprsw/URo0DGf3OoI/AAAAAAAAAcE/5GRX-y4nPxQ/s640/blogger-image-1881328338.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Because every post looks cute with a Laika on it</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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How has your place evolved?</div>
Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-85639698988756138312013-02-10T22:53:00.000-08:002013-06-19T06:34:16.980-07:00Living Life to the MaximumPeople think that my decision to declutter is my way of converting into a minimalist. On the contrary, doing this have made me into a maximalist--I want to use the things I have to the maximum and exhaust its potential. I have just recently adopted this lifestyle and let me tell you, this is not an easy path to take. Here's why:<br />
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1. Dilemma: I am a first time mother. An excited one at that. That means I have the tendency to shower my daughter with material things just because I think she needs them. The moment the pregnancy test showed two lines, I was in a need-to-shop-badly mode. This was aggravated by the discovery that my first child is going to be a girl--my own little doll! Imagine the amount of baby clothes I accumulated. <br />
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Lesson learned: Babies are all different, and my child--a low-maintenance one. Out of all the gifts she received during her aqeeqah, she only plays with two toys. That's it. Two toys out of all the many. The other ones, she likes to believe they are all teethers. <br />
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My action: I have requested my family to minimize the urge to shower Laika with toys. I have also stopped buying things that is not in the "need" column. Bumper pads and teething guards? Need. Cute dresses that she will most likely not enjoy? Want. After all, at her age, what she needs are non-material things. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SDEii3T1MwY/URiJ1sQE6GI/AAAAAAAAAbs/ZcDfBc0z9H8/s640/blogger-image-2144859690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SDEii3T1MwY/URiJ1sQE6GI/AAAAAAAAAbs/ZcDfBc0z9H8/s640/blogger-image-2144859690.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who needs three chairs? No one, I tell you. Although we have been using all of them most of the time. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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2. Dilemma: I am a girl. I was pre-programmed to like all things sparkling and beautiful especially if it starts with a <i>sh-</i> and ends with a -<i>oes</i>. I. Can't. Stop. Buying.<br />
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Solution: I bought a rack that can house just a dozen pairs of shoes. When I buy one pair, I have to give another pair up. This way, shoes are kept to a minimum. And I mostly stay at home now. No use owning too many when I am usually in a shirt-pants-slippers getup. <br />
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3. I love magazines. I also can't bear the thought of throwing one (as if I need to read it again or browse through one when I need inspiration. Hello, internet!).<br />
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Solution: E-subscription. This is one of the things I love about having an iPad mini. I can still enjoy magazines and books without worrying about clutter. I am no book purist. I am for reading a book even if I cannot touch book pages physically.<br />
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4. My husband is a doctor. Every time he has a convention, you can just imagine the amount of freebies he gets! I get a headache every single time I see him with ball pens, USBs and markers he doesn't even use!<br />
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Solution: I asked him to refrain from hoarding things just because it's free. One ball pen is enough. USBs are useful but who needs a lot of them? Markers? We will just buy when he needs one. I am not a snob. I just think there is no need getting things just for the sake of having one especially if it's free.<br />
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Those are just some of the things I can think of at present. What pushed me to declutter is now, I think of any space as a real estate property. When I need to throw something, I have to think of the last time I used it. There are times when I feel like I am wasting something but I am now choosing to think of it this way: The storage space that an object occupies can very well be used for something that is more useful. I can live in a smaller space but I can't because of the amount of stuff we have. Now, we have reduced the amount of our things and I can't wait to reduce it again in the future. I also disagree with the notion that you need to have a big storage space. Big storage space means more things you accumulate. At the end of the day, these things don't even get to be used. I say no to more storage, yes to proper place for everything.<br />
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Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-81942647730544237562013-02-08T07:24:00.001-08:002013-02-08T07:24:44.324-08:00Ch-ch-ch-changesHey ya! <br />
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This blog will be undergoing changes in a matter of weeks. <br />
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I started this blog June of last year to chronicle my pregnancy. To act as an online diary of sorts. I was six months pregnant then with a serious bout of insomnia and I needed an outlet. That was when this blog was born. <br />
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Eventually, it evolved into something else. I now write on many things and then I thought, there's not much written on design and DIY in the local setting. So, yes. I might delve on that here. <br />
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Although, of course, this being my journal, you will still read about my family life, my WAHM adventures, and my blog hopping. I need to figure things out but you will definitely still have something to read here. <br />
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What do you want to read about on my blog? Family life, saving tips, decor ideas? I need your opinions please. <br />
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Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-49680415436693629502013-02-07T22:14:00.002-08:002013-02-19T22:10:44.739-08:00Yey to plan reductionWho wants to do a happy dance with me? In a completely permissible, halal way, of course! That means only with my girl friends with the door shut tight without any men in sight. Unless you are my husband, in that case, no other girls allowed to dance in front of him.<br />
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Just kidding!<br />
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But, seriously. <br />
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Anyway, the happy dance is for the e-mail I got last night from the telecom I am subscribed to. My cellphone bill decreased dramatically. As in, divide-last-month's-bill-by-three, that's how much! Woot, woot! <br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J41pLEt3zLI/URSYAjU0k-I/AAAAAAAAAa8/YHrPWacyDJ8/s640/blogger-image--2105817356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J41pLEt3zLI/URSYAjU0k-I/AAAAAAAAAa8/YHrPWacyDJ8/s640/blogger-image--2105817356.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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How did I do it?</div>
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Simple. I called customer service to have my plan reduced. I don't even remember to which plan I am subscribed to. I just know that I chose the lowest possible option without me having to pay for the phone that came with the subscription. Mind you, I have the simplest phone. I just didn't want to pay for it. I'm cheap like that! :P</div>
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By the way, since choosing to stay at home, I realized that I don't get to use my phone that much. Good thing there's Viber and Facebook and Twitter and Yahoo! Mail. So, yes, that's my way of saying I will most likely be able to read your messages to me through those than if you text me. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">PS: I have big plans for this blog. Stay tuned for that. </span></div>
Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-8897749057026180142013-02-05T19:56:00.002-08:002013-02-19T22:11:41.033-08:00Decluttering, anyone?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I was pregnant, I was struck hard by the nesting syndrome. I felt the need to purge, purge, purge! </div>
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My thinking was, if something does not have its own proper place, it does not belong to this house. I was so much struck that I was able to declutter and live with less than 15 pairs of shoes (that's modest, ask every girl you know) and four bags. <br />
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On a good day, meaning Sharon or I had to urge to clean up, our rented apartment looks like this.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tMNJqOgCVY0/URHKgPtJYVI/AAAAAAAAAY0/-Y4fd3W46wQ/s1600/livingdining.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tMNJqOgCVY0/URHKgPtJYVI/AAAAAAAAAY0/-Y4fd3W46wQ/s640/livingdining.gif" width="462" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The bamboo mat does not belong to the living room anymore</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoz9Jf9miI0/URHQsRgLZSI/AAAAAAAAAZM/4k1q2Ie0kqU/s1600/MB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoz9Jf9miI0/URHQsRgLZSI/AAAAAAAAAZM/4k1q2Ie0kqU/s1600/MB.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><i>The master bedroom is divided into different areas as we live in a small place</i></span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
However, if Monica Geller of FRIENDS has a Secret Closet, I have my Secret Room. Whenever I entertain guests in the house, the door to this room is shut very tightly. <br />
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It looks like this right now. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qU92MIO3bPo/URHTh_wFU1I/AAAAAAAAAZs/iVRYFD1EOq0/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qU92MIO3bPo/URHTh_wFU1I/AAAAAAAAAZs/iVRYFD1EOq0/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I KNOW!!!<br />
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Good thing when I accepted a certain <a href="http://mrstaliabasman.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-young-house-love-macklemore-thrift.html">thrift shop challenge</a>, I was able to discover this beautiful place. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M4iVeTqXi5Q/URHUMQgNkvI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/pLIyf7JvnIc/s1600/thrift+shop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M4iVeTqXi5Q/URHUMQgNkvI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/pLIyf7JvnIc/s640/thrift+shop.jpg" width="418" /></a></div>
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In time (I wonder when?), I want to be able to tackle my Secret Room and sell stuff at that Thrift Shop. I read somewhere that the philosophy when decluttering should be, if you were to move to a different place, what will you be bringing with you? And since we will really be moving before the year ends (in shaa Allah), all the more we need to do this. <br />
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Repeat after me: No more clutter. No more clutter. No more clutter. <br />
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<br />Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-38423596665630833562013-02-04T20:30:00.001-08:002013-02-19T22:12:21.305-08:00House Hunting <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I promised that I will be <a href="http://mrstaliabasman.blogspot.com/2013/02/revisiting-our-future-homes-model-unit.html">walking you through our future house adventures</a>. I also mentioned there that we had to consider many things when we were deciding if we are to buy a unit. After all, we didn't want to end up without a home if and when the husband's residency training is over.</div>
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The question lies on whether we will be renting, buying a house (if only...) or buying a condominium unit.<br />
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Renting is a big possibility. We have already decided on where we will be settling down but we did not have a house on that place that time. We did not want to live in our parents' place. It just not one of our choices.<br />
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Buying a property is also good. Whether it is going to be a house or a townhouse or a condominium unit, that, we don't know.<br />
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Luckily, an opportunity presented itself. We were just minding our own business, strolling along the mall to take a look at the showroom of our friend's company, and that's it, we saw that buying a unit can be done.<br />
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This is to be our first big purchase so we had to consider a lot of things.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EomRjlh87cM/URCGrLKop2I/AAAAAAAAAW8/Feuu2MMFqd0/s1600/Screen-shot-2013-02-05-at-12.05.38-PM.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="472" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EomRjlh87cM/URCGrLKop2I/AAAAAAAAAW8/Feuu2MMFqd0/s640/Screen-shot-2013-02-05-at-12.05.38-PM.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.mapsofworld.com/">photo source</a></i></td></tr>
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I told you that we already had a location in mind. I am a South kid through and through. Even if I live in the northern part of Manila now, I know I will always go back. Husband is on board as long as he is assured of good medical practice, good internet connection, and good air conditioning unit (don't ask me!). Good thing there are two projects on that place. Are we lucky or what?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2afDM0t_FSU/URCH4ejx0EI/AAAAAAAAAXU/AnjUa88iiJ0/s1600/AMENITIES.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="473" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2afDM0t_FSU/URCH4ejx0EI/AAAAAAAAAXU/AnjUa88iiJ0/s640/AMENITIES.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://dmcihomes.com/">photo source</a></i></td></tr>
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Having kids in the future is definitely part of the plan that time and I am getting worried that kids nowadays don't get to play outside like we did when we were young. So, yes, I need a big running space for our kids if and when we purchase a place.<br />
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What made us say yes to this place? The many, many amenities! I can practically work for DMCI as I have always been singing praises to all their projects. I love that they never took the amenities for granted. Good thing they have a Landscape Architecture Department (plugging!) which means every space is well thought of!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34Ft7WTpRVQ/URCJB8xVhcI/AAAAAAAAAXg/15d3PzvJPOo/s1600/AFFORDABLE.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="473" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34Ft7WTpRVQ/URCJB8xVhcI/AAAAAAAAAXg/15d3PzvJPOo/s640/AFFORDABLE.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.mtnlegal.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/affordable.jpg">photo source</a></i></td></tr>
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There is this one company that has it all for you, but unfortunately, when I took a look at the properties they are selling, it was very expensive! That or I simply cannot afford them. I'm thinking it's more of the latter. Haha... Anyway, this unit we are buying has really friendly payment terms.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dUla4a6bpso/URCJwoyUNpI/AAAAAAAAAX0/aMR8_SecUww/s1600/REP.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="473" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dUla4a6bpso/URCJwoyUNpI/AAAAAAAAAX0/aMR8_SecUww/s640/REP.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://dmcihomes.com/">photo source</a></i></td></tr>
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When I researched (yes, I stalked them!) the company, I learned that they have a good track record. They are also continually improving their projects which means, they learn from their past mistakes. I trust this company so much that I am thinking of investing on their stocks in the future (another "if only'').<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lG-I-bDqsyE/URCKi6cefMI/AAAAAAAAAX8/1_fzB_f845g/s1600/LAYOUT.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="473" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lG-I-bDqsyE/URCKi6cefMI/AAAAAAAAAX8/1_fzB_f845g/s640/LAYOUT.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://dmcihomes.com/">photo source</a></i></td></tr>
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Do not, and I mean it, do not be lured by a good showroom. I am quite saddened whenever I know that somebody purchased a unit without even taking a look at the blank floor plan, or even imagining what the unit will look like if there are no furniture and appliances in the room.<br />
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I also learned this one trick from years of house-hunting and showroom-looking: showrooms should not be trusted. More often than not, they add a couple of inches here and there. What my agent did was she toured us to a finished unit about to be turned over to the owner, made sure that it was a blank room, and had us take a feel of the place. I also took advantage of this opportunity to look at the natural lighting that the room gets and the amount of ventilation it receives.<br />
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And that's, it. We were pretty much sold to the idea. That afternoon, we signed the papers. Now, we are just waiting for the building to be done and we will be moving in! :) <br />
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<br />Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-86099630541451540032013-02-03T22:42:00.000-08:002014-07-20T08:39:13.005-07:00Playtime with the baby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When I first started working from home, I only did sideline writing and designing jobs. I was still pregnant then with a full-time day job. It was difficult but, with the help of my husband, I was able to do it. Nights were stretched and I did work even during the weekends.<br>
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And then, I had to stop working online when Laika was born. By December 2012, I resigned from my job with the plans of working again on January. I was very eager to work that I eventually forgot my reason for adopting this lifestyle--the work-at-home mommy lifestyle.<br>
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One day, I saw Laika smiling more when she is with her Ate Sharon (the nanny). Being a happy baby that she is, of course, she still adores me but when I saw how she looks at her Ate, I had to reassess. This is what I have been avoiding and which led me to resign from my work before. Mommy is jealous and she has to do something about it. <br>
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Right then, I had to stop getting projects from people. Quality over quantity this time. I wanted to still be able to play with my daughter in the morning and be there for the husband when he needs me.<br>
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I devised a way for this to be possible. Sharon was reassigned to do household chores in the morning while mommy and Laika play in the room. By afternoon, when it is Laika's nap time, I get to face my jobs and be more productive. I also do work when Laika sleeps at night.<br>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5DC0cMz4qIk/UQ9XlYWtS5I/AAAAAAAAAWg/HDlF57j5jO8/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-02-04+at+2.38.34+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="578" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5DC0cMz4qIk/UQ9XlYWtS5I/AAAAAAAAAWg/HDlF57j5jO8/s640/Screen+shot+2013-02-04+at+2.38.34+PM.png" width="640"></a> </div>
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Now, Laika has a playschool time with mommy as the teacher. <br>
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What do you do to make working at home possible? Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-430050703780180142013-02-03T04:50:00.001-08:002014-07-20T08:39:05.578-07:00Revisiting our future home's model unitWho here is tired of hearing me say that I am a frustrated interior designer? Show of hands? None? Good.<br>
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Let's get it on with this post then :)<br>
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We will be transferring to our future house late this year and I can't wait to design our unit. Yawning now? No? Cool!<br>
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I want to walk you through my design process and the first order of business is to let you in the model unit by showing pictures.<br>
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But a side story first. How did we decide on getting this condominium unit? It was August 19, 2011, the Quezon City day (think of me as Ted Mosby ala-How-I-Met-Your-Mother), both the husband and I did not have work as it was a holiday. I had to process my visa for China that morning and he accompanied me. We did not have anything to do that afternoon and then I remembered my very good friend April's constant reminder to please, please visit their showroom in Megamall as she was one of the people to design the room. We decided to go there from Makati.<br>
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When we got there, we were amazed by the showroom. It was tastefully done and, our agent, convinced that we were buying, entertained all our questions. I want to clarify that we did not have any intention of getting a unit that day. It's just one of our hobbies as a couple to dream and look at model units, hoping that one day, we will have the ability to afford one.<br>
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That night, I was not able to sleep. I really, badly, wanted to buy a unit just because I loved the location, the price, and the design (please note that I am not carried away by showrooms. I know how to block out the furniture as I know when the unit is turned over, it will be as blank as a coupon bond).<br>
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A week later, the agent we talked to told us that the project we were considering to buy had a promo that month. We can pay for a measly 10% for 23 months. That's it! Now we can afford to buy one.<br>
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Still, we had to consider many things. And in the end, we bought one.<br>
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Phew! That's too long a story, isn't it? On with the rooms now! <br>
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Can you tell I'm super excited? Anything you're looking forward to this year? Are you just like us who will move from one side of the region to the other? </div>
Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-34890782272157255612013-02-02T07:19:00.001-08:002014-07-20T08:39:16.770-07:00A Story on a Hijabi's DreamsIf you are expecting a story on when, how, and why I decided to be a hijabi, I'm afraid now is not the time for that long story. I just knew that one day, I will have to be one. When, I had no idea. Then one time, I got out of the shower and knew I wanted to wear a hijab that day. No plans before that. I wanted to do it spontaneously. The good thing about that was I also had no chance to back out. And now, I wear a hijab whenever I go out.<br>
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There. Not a long story after all.<br>
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Anyway, that is not the subject of this post. My dreams are.<br>
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Funny how, before, I have always had dreams of myself going out in public naked. As in, In my dream, I will go to school and suddenly discover that I am naked. I would find myself running so that I can cover myself up. I read that in psychology, it means I have low self-esteem. <br>
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Now that I am a hijabi, I no longer find myself dreaming that I am naked. This time, I always see myself forgetting to put on a hijab and really looking for one in my bag!<br>
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Am I really just bound to forget an item of clothing in my dreams? If that's the case, I am plenty grateful that at least now, I have clothes on.<br>
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Just a random musing on a weekend. <br>
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Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-67319220539545995952013-01-31T01:20:00.001-08:002013-02-19T22:14:06.940-08:00The Young House Love Macklemore Thrift Shop ChallengeBefore I begin, I just want to apologize for not having the chance to update this blog for over two weeks except for the occasional posts here and there. Life happened and <a href="http://instagram.com/taliabasman">Instagram</a> came. Dub me the Latecomer as I have just discovered the beauty of this social network.<br />
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Because of that, I installed a good plug-in so you can still be updated with my life. Yes, I'm talking to you, my three loyal readers. <br />
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I have also just devised a way to organize my schedule without compromising time with family, work deadlines, personal enrichment and blog-writing (in that particular order). Allow me to explain: My day starts at 5:00 am after Laika's crying for milk, then I start pumping milk, praying, sleeping a little until husband wakes me up for breakfast. The whole morning is dedicated to Laika until she takes her morning nap and in the afternoon, I enjoy lunch with the husband (who conveniently works in the hospital right in front of our apartment), take Laika for a bath, and play with her until her afternoon nap. That's when I get some work done. Evening is for dinner, exercise time (because I really, badly need to get back to my pre-preggy weight), and then that's when another round of work is done until I sleep by 12 midnight, if I'm lucky, or 2 am, if insomnia strikes. <br />
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Phew! That's a whole lot of explaining for an I'm-sorry-I-don't-post-as-frequently-now post. That is to say I hope to be a better blogger next time. I'll be lucky to get a post done a week now but I will try.<br />
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Now that we've gotten that out of the way, where was I? Right, the Macklemore Thrift Shop Challenge. Remember my favorite bloggers, <a href="http://mrstaliabasman.blogspot.com/2012/10/laikas-4th-week.html">John and Sherry Petersik</a>? Well, they are the bloggers behind Young House Love and they are the awesomest dork bloggers ever! <br />
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John and Sherry posted a <span id="goog_742844925"></span><a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2013/01/our-completely-unofficial-macklemore-thrift-shop-challenge/">Macklemore Thrift Shop Challeng</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5901629712411599534"></a><a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2013/01/our-completely-unofficial-macklemore-thrift-shop-challenge/">e</a><span id="goog_742844926"></span> in their blog and I heard myself thinking, "challenge accepted!" So I dragged my sweet husband to the nearest Thrift Shop. As in five-blocks-away-from-the-house near.<br />
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The challenge says to bring $20 and because in the Philippines, that means P814.30, I prepared myself to bring in stuff for the house.<br />
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See, I have never, for the life of me, thrifted for things for the house. Clothes, sure I have. Other than that, nada. Zero. Zilch.<br />
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On the drive there (yes, five blocks and we still brought the car. What? I don't know if we were going to buy something massive), we heard, for the first time might I say, the Thrift Shop by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, on the car radio. True story. <br />
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When we got there, as it was after office hours, we were clearly losing natural lighting. That is to say, "sorry for the crappy photos, I did not think to set my camera to the correct settings".<br />
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As soon as we got there, the first thing that caught my attention was this<b> </b>beautiful cabinet made of rattan. I would marry it if I could. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sorry, Saud</span>. <span style="font-size: small;">Good thing for him, it costs </span>P4000 (about $100) and that's about 5 times more expensive than what I brought. So, goodbye, gorgeous cabinet. I wonder what could have been?<br />
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I continued browsing, not even knowing what my P815 can buy. Saw a lot of things with potential. And then it happened. My husband's jaw-dropped.<br />
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Yes,<b> </b>that's genuine and pure awe. I stole this shot and I heard him say, "if I see a Gameboy and a Pokemon here, I am going home with them." Gotta love that despite having our own, he is still a child at heart.<br />
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Unfortunately, he found none.<br />
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I was also in dreamland as I found a place with lots and lots of furniture. I always had to remind myself that we had barely a 50-square-meter apartment.<br />
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To make the Macklemore Thrift Shop Challenge turn into a genuine Young House Love Macklemore Thrift Shop Challenge,<b> </b>I photographed two things in the list. Two, because I cannot bear to do silly things in front of the camera (bonus points for that?)<br />
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But! Unlike my husband, I did not go home empty-handed. <br />
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Two wonderfully-patterned vases for P300 each and a nice oriental tray for P200 (I haggled from P250). Oh yes! Challenge done!<br />
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And here they are in our dining table.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-BHFQ9NJYUZ0/UQom_Gf_V0I/AAAAAAAAASI/bqNqo9JHg30/s640/blogger-image--361045118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-BHFQ9NJYUZ0/UQom_Gf_V0I/AAAAAAAAASI/bqNqo9JHg30/s640/blogger-image--361045118.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo from my Instagram. Yes, I'm an addict. Get me to the rehab.Fast!</td></tr>
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And to prettify our new kitchen stuff, we bought flowers from the nearby Dangwa. I love our neighborhood! <br />
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How was my Thrift Shopping? I had fun! Too much fun that I swore I will come back. This time, I want to sell stuff. Goodbye, clutter-in-our-house!<br />
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Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-88693376201794108902013-01-27T18:40:00.001-08:002013-02-19T22:14:27.703-08:00Things I Learned from the It's A WAHMderful Life Workshop akaYou-are-not-a-good-writer-unless-you-know-Strunk-and-White"No more introduction. Let's make this short and to the point.<br />
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1. Invest. Now is the right time to set aside money for retirement. Income minus savings must be for expenses. Whatever is left off when you subtract your savings from the income, that's only how much you spend. In our case, my husband takes care of the bills; I am in charge of the savings. At least we know the limit of our expenditure. <br />
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2. Refine your skills. I wanted to be a writer and I thought having content is enough. Writing is a craft as what Martine de Luna would say. If going back to high school English is what it takes to improve, do it. I am contemplating enrolling at a writing school. I will keep you posted on this. <br />
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By the way, always self-edit! <br />
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3. Organize. Freelance writing is difficult as you always need to discipline yourself into focusing on the job. From now on, no more procrastinating. Do things now!<br />
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4. Working at home does not mean being a freelancer forever. You can always make a career out of writing-at-home. Impress your clients, they might just hire you for the long haul.<br />
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5. Build your resume. Market yourself. Submit portfolio to companies. But never, ever give them a document containing your work. Screen cap is good enough. Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-88471558781882443512013-01-16T06:25:00.001-08:002013-02-19T22:15:04.578-08:00My Papa's Version of a Fairy TaleI grew up with seven siblings in our humble abode in Taguig City. As such is the case, I am used to a simple lifestyle. <br />
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Living in a two-bedroom bungalow, us five older ones had to share one room while my parents and the younger ones co-sleep in the other room. Every night, while Mama tends to the bunsos, Papa goes in our room and talks to us about our day. Having to take care of eight kids is no joke. How they managed us, I would not know. You can just imagine the riot even during sleeping time. Add to that that there are five girls who love to talk! Because of that, Papa had to think of ways to get us to sleep. <br />
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One of his ways is through story-telling. Some kids know Snow White, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty. I got to know them in school. Who I am familiar with is Prophet Adam (as), Prophet Moses (as), Propher Muhammad (saw), and others. Papa introduced them to us at a young age. Now that we have a little Laika, I hope we get to talk to her and to her future siblings about the prophets in the future, too, in shaa Allah (God willing).<br />
<br />Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-48733108933472226622013-01-16T00:00:00.001-08:002013-02-19T22:15:30.748-08:00What am I doing now and the It's a WAHMderful Life WorkshopNow that I have quit my full time job in the university, what am I doing at present? <br />
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I am officially a WAHM. A work-at-home mom. So, what am I working on aside from being a mother to Laika and a wife to Saud?<br />
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As I have said <a href="http://mrstaliabasman.blogspot.com/p/about_8.html">before</a>, I am now doing writing gigs for my clients' different needs. I am also helping out on the marketing aspect of my family's little business. And, of course, being a professional, I am doing landscape architectural projects again.<br />
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Now that I think about it, juggling different jobs, I am busier than when I had an 8-to-5 work. Allow me to say that I am enjoying where I am at present. <br />
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Being new to this territory, the working at home one where I get to do my job even on my pajamas, I still have a lot to learn and a ton of things to look forward to. At times like this, I know I need a support group. Good thing my friend, Lique, owner of Honeybaby, introduced me to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/WAHMmanila/">Manila WAHMs Group</a> in facebook. There, I get to see how fellow WAHMs like me balance their family life and work life. I am looking forward to meeting some of them face to face. <br />
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On that facebook group, I got to know about It's a WAHMderful Life Workshop. I was looking forward to attending the first one last October but then, I have just given birth and I have not resigned from my job then. <br />
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Fortunately, another workshop is being organized by Manila Workshops and this time, I was given the opportunity to sign up. <br />
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My only dilemma at first was figuring out if I should attend the Virtual Assistant session or the Freelance Writing session. But now that I know my goal for the future, I have decided on attending the writing group. <br />
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Have you signed up for this workshop? Hope to see you there! Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-35375223670968742352013-01-15T01:36:00.003-08:002013-02-19T22:15:52.621-08:00Thankful Tuesdays: Technology and more<i>Thankful Tuesdays will feature things that I am grateful for at the moment. It is a reminder that every week, every day, every minute, every second, there is something we can be thankful for. It can be something as big as having my daughter (yes, Laika was born on a Tuesday) or as shallow as a cheap find in the mall. Click this <a href="http://mrstaliabasman.blogspot.com/search/label/Thankful%20Tuesdays">link</a> to read on the other Thankful Tuesday posts.</i><br />
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iPad mini. It has made blogging-on -the-go possible. And the apps! I especially love Newsstand and Zinio apps. Discounted magazine subscriptions without the clutter? I am in! What's more, you can delete the magazines and it gets saved on the Archive and you can download your purchased magazine again for free. I do not regret selling my iPod Touch for this. And it has saved my marriage being that I have stopped stealing my husband's iPad3 (I especially love that the Mini is so much lighter). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee497/koikoiplatinum/Robinsons-Maxilom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee497/koikoiplatinum/Robinsons-Maxilom.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee497/koikoiplatinum/Robinsons-Maxilom.jpg">photo source</a></i></td></tr>
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Robinsons Magnolia. This is my favorite mall at the moment. It replaced Trinoma Mall in my heart. I know, I know, very melodramatic. But you have to understand, <a href="http://mrstaliabasman.blogspot.com/2012/09/dear-laika.html">I spent most of my pre-labor days in a mall</a>. I have not stopped being thankful yet (I kid, I kid). What is it I love the most about Robinsons Magnolia? Aside from the fact that it is the former Magnolia Ice Cream House, there are very few people even on weekends! Plus they have wide hallways perfect for the stroller. Yes, I've found my sanctuary. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://heykidscomics.com/1437web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="566" src="http://heykidscomics.com/1437web.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://heykidscomics.com/1437web.jpg"><i>photo source</i></a></td></tr>
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Simple dates with the husband everyday. Breakfast and jogging date. Even if we have not had any sleep the night before, we make a conscious effort to wake up and eat together in the house while Ate Sharon takes care of Laika in the other room. These are the things that we do so that, even if there is a baby in the equation now, we still get to talk, one on one. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/57436756" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="500"></iframe> <br />
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<a href="http://vimeo.com/57436756">Laika's hearty laugh</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user14112825">Anna Talia Basman</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div>
I get to hear my baby's hearty laughs.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/57436220" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="500"></iframe> <br />
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<a href="http://vimeo.com/57436220">Laika dancing with daddy at 17 weeks</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user14112825">Anna Talia Basman</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div>
Seeing my husband dance with our daughter. It makes my sappy mommy heart go awwww... <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Sam dela Cruz' 1st birthday</td></tr>
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Friends who make us feel as if we are family. Thanks to the dela Cruzes, Medinas and Mangalindans :D </div>
Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-73708039971367503532013-01-10T18:49:00.001-08:002013-01-11T05:53:56.880-08:00My four-month love affairRemember when I told you about <a href="http://mrstaliabasman.blogspot.com/2012/09/gadget-itch.html">my wanting a new gadget</a>? How about when I said <a href="http://mrstaliabasman.blogspot.com/2012/09/an-update-to-gadget-itch-post.html">my husband already got me a better one</a>?<br />
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Well, last month, I sold my Nikon D50 and I could not be any happier as I see the one who bought it deserves it much better than me.<br />
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I could not photograph well to save my life. I tried. Oh yes, I did. I even attended classes from a renowned photographer. But sadly, no, I cannot do it. Though it was no fault of his. <br />
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And besides, I am too lazy to whip up my camera when there's a Kodak moment.<br />
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So how is my love affair with my Lumix LX5 camera going so far?<br />
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<b>Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5: The camera for the lazy people</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.indiapricebuzz.in/digicam/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/LX5k_slant_PopUp.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="468" src="http://www.indiapricebuzz.in/digicam/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/LX5k_slant_PopUp.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.indiapricebuzz.in/digicam/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/LX5k_slant_PopUp.jpg">photo source</a></i></td></tr>
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The Lumix LX5 is a compact camera that can produce up to 10.1 megapixel photo quality. It also has an ultra wide 24mm Leica DC lens comparable to Leica cameras and a 3.8x optical zoom. As an added bonus, it comes with a hot shoe to make accessorizing easier; and has an internal memory of 40 MB plus an SD<span class="st">/SDHC/SDXC</span> memory card slot for expanded memory allocation. <br />
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This gadget is the perfect camera for lazy people who cannot be bothered to adjust their camera settings. Most cameras normally come with an Automatic setting for this function but what makes the Lumix LX5 different is it produces high-quality, DSLR-like photographs without the bulk associated with this kind of camera. Aside from all these magnificent features, the camera can shoot up to 720p high-definition movies which makes it the perfect gadget for a new mommy like me. Although it performs well on low-light environment, it comes with a built-in pop-up flash to provide for more options.<br />
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A light-weight, great function camera, the Lumix LX5 is a great camera for non-pros. And even though Panasonic already came up with a Lumix LX7, this camera, along with its many superb functions, is still a great gadget for first-time mommies and non-camera pro like me. Mommy approved!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://default.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/11134/0000018eb/751a/Panasonic-Lumix-DMC-TZ10.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://default.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/11134/0000018eb/751a/Panasonic-Lumix-DMC-TZ10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://default.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/11134/0000018eb/751a/Panasonic-Lumix-DMC-TZ10.jpg">photo source</a></i></td></tr>
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<br />Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-37038330305251557902013-01-09T21:28:00.001-08:002013-02-19T22:16:39.195-08:00Moodboard: Living-on-a-High Living/Dining Room<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was awarded Ms. Moodboard by my students last Teachers' Day as I always require them to have one. I am a believer of putting all your ideas in one place. It doesn't matter if you will create a hodgepodge of an image. That's how you know if the design will work.</div>
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Someone very close to me asked me to design his one-bedroom condominium unit. As the space is small, we had to plan the space strategically. His unit is in one of the topmost floors. I have already made my schemes and I would like to show you my favorite among the two. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>P.S: I am not an interior designer. I only do this for people who are very close to me. I believe in professional courtesy. If you have a place you want done and we are in no way close to each other, please contact a licensed interior designer. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>The Space</b></span><i> </i></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3cCg_V6aMr8/T-CCyfvqpsI/AAAAAAAAABg/nlyeAriNhKg/s1600/25.5sqm%252B1BR-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3cCg_V6aMr8/T-CCyfvqpsI/AAAAAAAAABg/nlyeAriNhKg/s640/25.5sqm%252B1BR-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span><span id="goog_949783139"></span><span id="goog_949783140"></span>The space is a one-bedroom condominium unit located in one of the topmost floors of the building. The site is at the busiest city in the metro.<br />
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Strengths<br />
<ul>
<li>The bedroom has a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the city. </li>
<li>The unit comes fully-finished once it is turned over.</li>
<li>It has high ceilings.</li>
</ul>
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Weaknesses</div>
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<ul>
<li>There is no window in the living/dining/kitchen area.</li>
<li>The space is small. </li>
<li>The bedroom has space for one occupant only. </li>
</ul>
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<b>The Solution</b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5aZ5ZHiZxfk/UO5DSogWmjI/AAAAAAAAAOY/12c3x9ebzXA/s1600/2nd-scheme-plan.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5aZ5ZHiZxfk/UO5DSogWmjI/AAAAAAAAAOY/12c3x9ebzXA/s640/2nd-scheme-plan.gif" width="640" /></a><br />
<ul>
<li>I reconfigured the bedroom to make it bigger and to accommodate a bigger bed and a bigger closet. </li>
<li>I designed a customized bedroom door to avoid a space-consuming standard one.</li>
<li>I rearranged the recommended furniture for the living/dining area.</li>
</ul>
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<b>The Moodboard</b></div>
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This is what I envision the living/dining room area to look like. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SsyLltVtgkw/UO54Df43NaI/AAAAAAAAAPU/fAFPwUimrvE/s1600/2photos.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SsyLltVtgkw/UO54Df43NaI/AAAAAAAAAPU/fAFPwUimrvE/s640/2photos.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cc0d_UPMUKg/UO5O6SVqTQI/AAAAAAAAAOs/Y55Y4dZaHvk/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cc0d_UPMUKg/UO5O6SVqTQI/AAAAAAAAAOs/Y55Y4dZaHvk/s640/Slide1.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<ul>
<li>Light grellow (green+yellow) walls all over to make for a sunny room. This is essential to compensate for the lack of natural lighting.</li>
<li>A wall-mounted table to act as a dining table for two. The TV will be mounted on the wall as well to save space.</li>
<li>Three tall mirrors will be put on the walls to emphasize the height and to give an illusion of space.</li>
<li>A two-seater sofa bed for emergency sleepovers. </li>
<li>A teal (or any striking color) pouf to give a pop of color to an otherwise very neutral room. It can also be a coffee table if you put tray on top of it or it can also be an additional seat. </li>
<li>A sunburst mirror to bounce off more lights.</li>
<li>A bamboo rug to differentiate the living from the dining area. Bamboo is essential as the owner is asthmatic and may be allergic to other kinds of rug.</li>
</ul>
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There's my vision for the living/dining area. I will be posting more on the bedroom soon. </div>
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Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-45399737659536122013-01-09T07:36:00.001-08:002013-02-19T22:16:58.139-08:00Why I decided to be a stay-at-home motherMany people find it hard to believe that I have chosen to quit my work to be a stay-at-home mother. "Sayang pinag-aralan mo". "Malolosyang ka sa bahay". "Ano na gagawin mo?"<br />
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I can't seem to answer them. Not because I don't have an answer. It's because I have so much to say that I don't know where to begin. This poster summed up what I wanted to say perfectly. <br />
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Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-72909256130013365962013-01-08T08:07:00.001-08:002013-01-08T19:19:36.633-08:00Mocktails<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hgig4TpKimU/UOxCcxY7iSI/AAAAAAAAAMw/YF2iVFuNYsQ/s640/blogger-image--1791721173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hgig4TpKimU/UOxCcxY7iSI/AAAAAAAAAMw/YF2iVFuNYsQ/s640/blogger-image--1791721173.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>from Cathe Nadal's Facebook page. Photo taken during my college friends' get together in our house</i></td></tr>
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As a Muslim, I don't drink alcohol. I don't know why my friends find that hard to believe. We are known not to eat pork but the no-drinking-alcohol part always comes as a surprise to some. <br />
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Every last day of the year, my family stays up together to wait for the midnight. We used to do that to celebrate the New Year and Papa's birthday. But since Papa is gone and we learned that celebrating New Year is <a href="http://islamnewsroom.com/news-we-need/1421-new-year-haram-or-halal">haram</a>, we started scrapping the idea of a New Year. This year, we just took advantage of the season to dress up, display our cooking skills, and take pictures as a family. I have to admit, it was so much fun not having to stay up late. By 10:30pm, we were all in bed. <br />
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(I have to remind everyone that this no-celebration-thing is my family's choice. Nobody is forcing it down anybody's throat)<br />
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Anyway, back to the original intent of this post, the mocktails. Mocktails is a coined term. Mock cocktails. A fake cocktail drink if you will. The practice of serving this every family get together was my older sister's idea. All the fun without the hang over. <br />
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Must haves: soda, sparkling juice, grenadine juice, lime juice, coconut cream<br />
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Directions: The fun thing about this is there are no instructions! Just mix whatever you want to mix. Experiment. Drink. Be merry :)<br />
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WARNING: This is very addicting and fattening. <br />
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ANOTHER WARNING: No need being defensive. Or judgmental. The first time we had this, people were becoming concerned as to why we were drinking alcohol. Us, defensive. Them, judgmental.<br />
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Have fun with your drink! <br />
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Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5901629712411599534.post-6397643986534930442013-01-07T15:56:00.000-08:002014-07-20T08:39:30.888-07:00Thankful TuesdaysI hate being a lazy blogger but there are times when planning for an entry is too time-consuming that just thinking of what to write is becoming a zzz-fest for me. However, I know that I have a lot of story to tell. Enter a new segment on this blog, Thankful Tuesdays :)<br>
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I have written before how I am so contented and happy where my life is now. So much so that I find it unbelievable how somebody who used to take things for granted can be receiving much at present. Thankful Tuesdays will feature things that I am grateful for at the moment. It can be something as big as having my daughter (yes, Laika was born on a Tuesday) or as shallow as a cheap find in the mall. <div><span style="text-align: center; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I</span><span style="text-align: center; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> am thankful for my wonderful family and in-laws. I may not be one to celebrate Christmas or New Year (yes, I have stopped celebrating New Year this year), but the season gave us a reason to get together with the people who matter the most.</span><br>
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My daughter who just turned 16 weeks last week. I am thankful that she is the jolliest baby that I know (although she has been fussy this morning because of colic). As early as 15 weeks, she has been showing progress and I feel like I cannot catch up with her. She can now pull herself to a sitting position when you offer her a hand. She also wants, nay, insists on standing up every chance she gets. Strong bones, baby. All milk coming from momma.<br>
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The smile on my daughter's face whenever she gets to sit on her Tiny Tots Baby Dock Seat. Words cannot explain how happy she gets when she is seated. Although there are times when she needs a break and being confined on the seat is too much for her, I am thankful for the few minutes of bliss that I see.<br>
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My cheap finds from Dapitan Arcade. Of all the things I bought, I am most in love with this P100-cake stand and the three-pieces-for-a-hundred-peso porcelain plates. <br>
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How about you? What are the things you are grateful for?<br>
<br></div>Talia Basmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11624688571663175243noreply@blogger.com0