Weekly Inspiration

Proverbs 3:5 - Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

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Weekly inspiration

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Dressing up at your best

Hi, lovelies! How are you doing today? Smile, smile, smile... spread the good cheer everyday. ^_^

“Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman.” ― Coco Chanel

When I started this blog, the majority of my posts are not about fashion or styling tips. At first, my blog is intended for my vacation trips, some parts of my daily life and random rants. But I've decided last August 2013 to include fashion/outfit styling ideas. In this case, I get to document my style and look back to see how my style improve trough the years.

There are so many good things about writing especially about fashion. I must say that it's an outlet for creativity and an opportunity to share cool ideas or advice with a bigger audience which has also connected me to a lot of amazing people all over the world.

Once in a while I get an email telling me that my blog posts are nice and sometimes readers appreciate my writings. It's a nice feeling when other people appreciate what you do and those appreciation became an inspiration for me to do better.

Stephanie emailed me this great question yesterday, "I will go to college next school year and I still can't figure out my style or how to dress nicely because I'm chubby. I live in jeans and t-shirts, I'm afraid dresses or shorts will not look great on me. I really adore dresses but lacking some confidence. Please give some advice on how to look good and dress myself. Thanks!" -Stephanie

Here's my answer, Stephanie, I totally understand you and honestly during my college days; I also live in jeans, shirts and rubber shoes. I wore these type of clothes for 4 years, I seldom buy new one because I'm on a tight budget and the money I have is only for transportation and food allowances. Some people laugh at me and saying that I'm "baduy". [Baduy is a Filipino slang meaning unfashionable, conservative, poor taste] There's nothing wrong with these type of clothing, it's actually very comfortable to wear. It's just that, during those years when I'm still studying, I can't have a good pair of sandals, can't have nice shorts and skirt or dresses. Buying these stuff is not my priority and I DON'T CARE whether they call me "baduy". I know myself better than anyone else, I can be a regular lady in jeans+shirt or a gorgeous elegant lady that you can imagine. I have this attitude like Coco Chanel: “I don't care what you think about me. I don't think about you at all.” 

It's just a matter of purpose, motivation, self-confidence and finding your style. Some people that like fashion don't make an effort because it can take time, not a "great day" or simply not practical. You should give purpose to your fashion. Whether you're going to the mall or just working at home, say to yourself that "Today, I want to look pretty and go to my favorite coffee shop and do my work there." Anything can be your motivation that will bring you to dress better. 

If you're a regular chick that likes to wear jeans and shirt , it's okay. No one is forcing you to wear and walk in heels but if you're the type of lady who wants to try different styles then this is the time to experiment. Fashion is actually an excellent way to figure yourself out what looks good on you and what's not. Dressing well gives you self-confidence. When you look at yourself in the mirror and think you look awesome, you'll feel good all day. 

A well-dressed woman looks put together. People will like you if you have a great personality but with combined great style, they will not forget you. You're not dressing up because you want to stand out from the crowd or to get noticed. What you want is to make a good impression and draw the "right" kind of attention.

 If you walk with your head up, have an attitude in carrying your style, have some confidence, purpose and motivation then this mean you'll have a GREAT STYLE.

Thank you very much! I hope this help you in any way. :)

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The song stuck in my head - Wings By Birdy

I am so in love with this song right now. I like this girl because she is so talented and has an amazing voice. My favorite line/lyrics from this song is:

Oh lights go down
In the moment we're lost and found
I just want to be by your side
If these wings could fly
Oh damn these walls
In the moment we're ten feet tall
And how you told me after it all
We remember tonight

For the rest of our lives

"I just want to be by your side... If these wings could fly..." 

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My Vacation in Philippines: Summer Saya

I believe in the old saying – There’s no place like Home. I went outside and saw houses next door but it was never similar. I like going back to Philippines, where my heart truly belongs. I miss my family so much every time I travel so this time I get the most out of my summer vacation.

Before our families set out to attend festivals or load vehicles for summer vacation, make sure to begin all things with prayer. Before you leave your home give thanks to the Lord and pray for your plans and travel.

A Vacation Prayer (from “My Daily Orthodox Prayer Book”)

Dear Lord, how we've waited for this vacation, and now it’s finally here.  Thank You, Lord, for the opportunity to take a break from our daily routines and to replenish our minds, bodies and souls so they we may better serve You.  Sometimes our expectations for vacations are unrealistic, and we find ourselves disappointed when things don’t go our way.  Help us not to worry about having the ‘perfect’ vacation but to relax and enjoy every moment, whatever it may bring.  We are grateful for the joys that await us-whether they be the beauty of your creation, recreation with family or friends, or peace and solitude.  Watch over us and protect us as we travel, and brings us safely home again-refreshed and renewed.  Amen.

This is the best summer vacation ever! Celebrating my birthday out of town with my family and friends is the greatest experience I will cherish forever. I'm glad I'm here in the Philippines to join and celebrate my Mom's 50th Birthday last July. My Mother is my best friend. I'm inspired a day before her birthday so I've created "Ways to bond with your Mother". <-Please click it!

I took lotsa lots of pictures during my vacation and I want to pick my favorite photo but I can’t decide because all of these pictures are wonderful memories.

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A little doze of confidence & courage

 Here are some quotes that inspired me this week:

Inspiration and Strength

Isaiah 41:10  fear not, for I am with you;  be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you,  I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Psalm 18:32-34  the God who equipped me with strength and made my way blameless. He made my feet like the feet of a deer  and set me secure on the heights. He trains my hands for war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.

1 Corinthians 10:13  No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

Psalm 27:1  The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life of whom shall I be afraid?


I really feel loved and I do believe that no matter what happens, God loves me so much. 
He knows what's the best for me and He ALWAYS have the best plan for me.

I Thank The Lord Almighty for giving me strength everyday, for giving me another life each morning I wake up and for having such wonderful family and friends. I thank Him with all my heart for all the blessings that me and my family have received. 

Last Saturday , July 27, I opened my online shop and I honor Our Almighty God above anything else and I thank Him for giving me courage to venture in this kind of business. It's never easy but I know I can make it possible because of Him. He will guide me all the way because He knows that I dedicate this to Him and to my family.

Here's the blog post related to my online shop : Southern Belle Fashion Shop

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My Online shop - Southern Belle

I’m so grateful and honored to share with you my small business – my very own online shop. I started to open it yesterday July 27, 2013 and I’m so happy that finally I took some risks to begin such business like this. I named my online shop SOUTHERN BELLE. Me and my husband are still doing the website. It is still under construction as of the moment. Right now, I put it up on Facebook.  I’m always a fan and fascinated of fashion of that era. Typically they wore hoop skirt, corset, pantalettes, a wide-brimmed hat and gloves. They also frequently carried umbrellas and hand fans to protect themselves from the sun.

Here are some of Southern Belle's items:

We have Maxi dresses, Bodycon dresses, Maxi skirts, Bandage skirts, Lace dresses, Floral dresses, Belts, Scarves and a lot more! Items price range from Php150-Php400 or US$3.46-US$9.24 excluding shipping fee.

Here are some style inspiration I come up with Southern Belle's items:

Blouses, Shorts, Pants, Skirts and Accessories are FOR SALE

 Be a modern Southern Belle!

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Ways to bond with your Mother

Have you asked yourself when was the last time you had bonded with your Mom?  Did you give enough time – time to date your mom or just have a little chitchat with her?

With My Beautiful Mother

They say that there is an eternal influence and power in motherhood. There are so many responsibilities of mothers today. Our moms taught us to pray, good values, be responsible and a lot more. In every step we make, she is there all the time to give support, give pieces of advice and teach us what’s right from wrong in order to become a better person.

I have 3 siblings (My Kuya Wilson, younger sister Queen and youngest bro Wessley). The unconditional love of my mother was exceptional.  In good times and in bad times, she loved us all equally without expecting anything in return.

My mom is my best buddy and my most trusted woman. I’m her sidekick and she’s my superhero. Hehe! Seriously, I’m always with her whenever she got an appointment or something like it. So there are many things that you can do with the most special lady in your life.

You have to know the value of bonding moment with your mom. In pondering the significance of our mothers, I’d like to suggest few ways to bond with her.

1.       Go to Nail salon and spa

Manicure, pedicure with foot spa is a great treat for her. Our mom need time to relax even for a day after a long work at home. Remember folks, it’s not easy to be a housewife.

2.       Surprise her

I’m sure you love to see the reaction of your mom when you prepared a simple get-together for her or surprise her with a gift - something that she loves, a perfume, dress, bag, maybe? How well do you know your mom? So I guess you probably know what she likes.

3.       Cook her favorite dish

Sad to say but some of us were not born chef but who says that you need to be a chef to cook delicious meals? Our mothers are very good cook therefore you have to be prepared. Recipes are all now in the internet and all you have to do is practice. Know your mom’s fave dish and check some video tutorial. Voila! I’m sure your mom will be very happy. Number 1 for your effort and number 2 for the love.

4.       Weekend getaway

Plan a short vacation out of town where you and your mom can relax. Enjoy nature’s view or if you have more time, plan a vacation overseas.

5.       Dine out

Make a reservation in a fancy restaurant. If your mom have a favorite restaurant then this     will be perfect to reserve a table for the whole family. You may also want to try a restaurant that is new to both of you.

If you have any ideas or ways to bond with your Mom , feel free to share it and comment below. <3

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Birthday Girl

With my very loving family

Happy birthday to a very ‘kikay’ me. I’m 27 and it's funny because I don’t feel 27. I still think and feel I’m 16 and I assume I’m still gonna feel 16 even when I’m 40 years old. Age is just a number. I hope everyone has a wonderful day today like me. :)

Thank you for all the warm greetings and love.

Please see my blog post about me Turning 27! Click here!

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Turning 27

Ever since I was a kid, I've always wanted a small and simple birthday party wherein my close friends and relatives are there to show some love on my very special day. Even if I only have spaghetti and ice cream to offer my guests is all right though. Despite the fact that my family seldom gives me a lavish party (I never ask them anyway), I’m very happy because we’re complete and that would be the best birthday gift!

Today I turn 27. I started to feel an adult when I turned 20. This will be the first time I’m going to write about my birthday and few happenings, wishes, attaining some sort of goals and overcoming all conflicts in my life since I considered myself as a very private person. I usually hold back these things and typically share it with my Mom because she is my most trusted woman and best friend.

I am happy looking back in the year when I was in my twenty-fifth and twenty-sixth birthdays. In those years, I have faced demanding situations which I need to give out quick decisions and it's very crucial because once I made my choice that would be final.

I quit my job (I had planned to do that anyway long time ago), get married, planning our dream home, leave my comfort zone, my friends and go to a foreign country where I felt a total stranger. On the other hand, I’m very grateful for the opportunity as my husband is working there and we’ll have the best moment together.

When making decision gets tough, I pray so hard. I pray to Almighty God to give me strength and wisdom in order to give me the right one. I will always go after what He plans for me. It is not easy what I experienced between those years but as I look back, I see myself as a very strong and optimistic young lady.

This what I call ‘foreign country’ is my training ground for a much larger field before I set off to a much bigger and better state. I met people every day with different races whose opinion, outlook in terms of work and life even in small things increasingly motivated me to attain my goals. I must admit that these people play a part in making me as if I’m bulletproof. I knew my weaknesses so I considered that I could outwit, outplay and outlast (SURVIVOR) anything in way because I am stronger.

Yes, just like last year I have small and big desires. I knew that as my goals became greater and larger, the obstacles in the way would also intensify.

I believed that God is constantly watching over me when challenging circumstances set upon. He assured me that everything had a purpose. Every so often, I want to run away from this cruel world and look for a safe haven to keep my balance. I found myself inside of a church in Singapore. I have established myself once again and now I’m in a good shape.

There were people who extended their hands who helped me toward hope and a better perspective. I had incredible set of new friends, housemates – Charity, Jam, France, Mavis, Myra and Rhea whom I treat equally like sisters and second family in Singapore. I love my parents so much and I know they are sending their prayers as well. I’m truly blessed to have such great friends and family.

There were so many blessings than holes so I have reasons to be grateful. Somehow changes need to be made after I weathered the storm. I know that I’m developing a good relationship with God and now I fully understand that I need to focus on the things I want to achieve and make an effort to stand firm on it.

Do you know the feeling of being lost? For the past 3 years, I couldn't think of the right profession. I'm very vague of what I want. I became an application/software developer, IT engineer, System admin et al. Yes, I do job hopping too often which turn out to be a trend! Haha! Seriously, I begun to doubt what I want in a job. I initiated to find the right employment, niche to stop this crazy job hop.

                                                                                                                   

First, I did a self assessment and  then I realized I easily get bored with these work assignments that became more of a daily routine. I wanted a more challenging and brain stimulation which I found in web and software development. Please don't get me wrong, I'm just being honest. I never find any satisfaction or  should I say never found happiness in my other previous jobs.

It was so lame having the same old stuff but then the next day surprisingly your boss will give you new tasks which after you'll notice it was NEVER actually NEW TASKS.. I felt trapped in a world that was never made. There's one thing I'm happy about, it's Friendship. My true happiness in my previous jobs are only my friends.

 My mind begins to wander and think of new stuff and open myself in learning. I grabbed the chance to do self study with the help of my husband since he knows a lot of things when it comes to IT. Over the years, I've developed concentration in web site designing and development. 

At long last, it's clear now. I wish my efforts would turn out well because I’m just giving myself a chance and what my heart desires.

Thank you God for blessing me much more than I deserve.

I’m very very grateful for this wonderful year. :)

Cheers!

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Inner beauty

Does anyone of you can measure beauty, strength, love, purpose in life or talent?

I cannot measure any items mentioned above. These days, it seems so hard to define the real meaning of beauty. It looks like the society, country and media has a strong influence to people. The classification and standard of beauty among others have been lift from having a fair skin, being thin and young. Some countries have affected their beliefs in being beautiful, young women are getting obsess with thin body, fair skin but in some other countries they like tanned skin, curvy body and that’s how they define beauty. So in every country and culture it varies the meaning of 'beautiful'.

Young women nowadays are pressured to conform to a certain ideal beauty and body standards. Tons of people go overseas to get plastic surgery just to make them look more attractive, thinner and young.

Physical beauty is really good but if you get obsessed being too beautiful, thin and young; try to change your looks just too “fit in” to the society you want to get somewhere is too much to handle.

I stand 5 feet and 4 inches tall but honestly, I kept on concealing my insecurities regarding my height. I really want to get taller like 5’9” so what I did is I drink herbal teas, supplements but as I get older, I've learned to accept the fact that there’s no way I could get taller than 5’4”. Since my Mother only stands 5 feet and my Father is at 5’7”, so the better solution is acceptance. J

One more thing, there came a time that I felt so unattractive because of my weight, I look too thin. To the point I don’t want to look in the mirror. I've realized that my insecurity hit again then I taught myself the word acceptance – AGAIN. J It’s just a cycle you know, felt sad and insecure then learn to accept because the truth is WE ARE BEAUTIFUL in our own ways. As they say, Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Stop searching validation of beauty and social acceptance.

Your appearance is not a reflection of who you are. Live your life because you are beautiful!

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My Vision Board

I am by no means perfect and there are so many things I desire in this life and one of those desires is to have a good and happy relationship/love life. I was so young when I fall in love, the relationship never flourished. I did not expect that my heart will be broken at a very young age. I never give up waiting for true love however the long days, weeks, months and years had passed yet I felt sad about it. God knows I wanted to have a fulfilling and happy relationship then a beautiful and successful marriage. I am so anxious why my past relationships didn't work out. Somehow I can’t find the real answer to my question. I’m confused and scared. I've realized that the love I have for myself is becoming less and less. I suffer from depression not just because of failed relationships I had but also for some frustrations and obstacles I need to go through to succeed. Succeeding seems so hard for me but still my mom is always there to give advice and I speak to God to have a peace of mind.

I realized I just want and see shiny things in life and forget about God’s plan for me. I am becoming very selfish and thinking only for myself. Being humans, we automatically become materialistic and desire more and more. My mom helped me to get this through by praying. She showed me love, care and understanding that lighten my perspective in life.

I toss out all the negativity and welcome positive thoughts to come inside my door. I hone the faith I have for God which I overlook because of my selfish desires before. We have been blessed to enjoy what God has placed on this Earth but it can become a double edged sword. I remember the Bible tells us that if we, “Take delight in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our heart” -Psalm 37:4. God knows what I wish for and He never failed to give me blessings. I’m really happy that He gave me a very loving family, friends and husband. Before, having a loving boyfriend is one of my wish but God gave me more than what I asked for. He gave me a very good man. I believed that my husband is a heaven sent. I also believed that God has the best plan for me – for all of us. We just need to wait for the perfect time.

I understand that we should put God first above anything else and everything will fall into the right place. We should place Him above our vision board. A vision board full of faith, hope, love, peace and kindness. He is the Almighty. I am allowing Him to run my life. I will not let negatives take over and will never worry even though wanting to succeed seems very tough because I have a BIG GOD.

Today, I pray that God will be first on my vision board and I will trust on Him alone. Allow Him to know what’s on your heart and mind. Speak to Him. Let’s see how our life changes as we place God as number one on our vision board.

IMAGINE. CREATE. DREAM.
You may want to create your vision board by clicking this link : BettyVision

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Computer Animated Film: Finding Nemo

This animated film is very dear to me because my nephew Gabriel Dominic and I always watch the film every night. This is one of our bonding moments and only few of my friends know that I treat Gabriel like my own son. He’s very close to me and he calls me “Mom”. I've introduced other films to Gabriel but he doesn't like it and it's so irritating when he scream “Fish” We always go back to finding nemo as per request. Hehe

Anyway, I’m sick and tired of watching the aforementioned film but I’m starting to love it because of Marlin and Dory. A shark tried to eat them while trying to save nemo, they've encountered an anglerfish in the trench, they run into a bloom of jellyfish that nearly sting them to death and engulfed by a blue whale. They've come across a lot of hardship but they never give up. That’s the spirit and I love it! I love this film.

I like the personality of Dory (a regal blue tang with short-term memory loss) because Dory is very optimistic. I don’t want to boast but I’m like Dory very optimistic even there are many hindrances in my way I don’t get discourage. I see those as challenges in life that you need to overcome. I always think positively and I’m trained that every problems has its solutions and I will not stop until I find the way.

I just love this movie and I complain no more when my nephew-son requested to watch this.

Just keep swimming... You know what you gotta do when life gets you down? Just keep swimming...Just keep swimming...Just keep swimming... swimming swimming

What do we do we swim, swim, swim

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Bohemian dreamer

Hi Lovelies! I'm Ice and this is my little place to stroll about fashion, beauty, share very random rants, loves and parts of my daily life. I was born and raised in the Philippines but living in Singapore. I'm a casual writer, love music, fashion and shoes. My style is modern boho, bumps into gypsy, country, and mix of downtown and uptown style. I'm a certified fashion and an art lover. I’m an IT professional and a freelance model. I've started modeling at 22. I’m currently working as an IT Executive. I always say yes to wine, hats, jewelries, black/pattern tights, the sound of a guitar, travels and great albums.

Every now and then, I’ll review beauty or fashion items, here’s a few facts about me that may be helpful in reading my review:

Hair: Dark brown, straight and thin. I go to salon to retouch my color every 5-6 months. I had my hair re-bonded when I'm 25 years old. From then on I do this once a year and seldom do a haircut and I'm not a fan of new hairstyles

Skin: Fair, very sensitive

Eyes: Dark brown

*CELEB STYLE INSPIRATION*
Miranda Kerr, Nicole Richie and Olivia Palermo

*FAVE DESIGNER*
Chanel, Alexander McQueen and Dior

*FAVE BRAND*
American Eagle, Mango, Topshop and F21

*MUST-HAVE BEAUTY ITEM*

lip balm

*MUST-HAVE FASHION ITEM*
Comfortable shoes

*SHOE SIZE*
US size - 6

*VITAL STATS*
33-24-34

*HEIGHT*
165 cm / 5'4"

* WEIGHT*
43 kg / 97 lbs

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Time is gold

Time is really important to heal wounds or damages someone brought you and time can do damages as well. It is no surprise that people also change through time. At some point you will learn to forgive through time. Time really changed me without noticing it. I just realized that there’s a huge transition happened to me. 

My husband and I went to City harvest church (Singapore) and we met a good person that shows excellent leadership and have strong faith and love for God. I encouraged my husband to go in a Sunday service to CHC. I’d be honest, out of my curiosity and also I want to get closer to God are some reasons why I want to see their Sunday service. It is actually my second time hearing a pastor with his preaches from the bible. I’d be honest again, when I enter through CHC door; I feel different… something send chills and shivers to my spine when I heard the people singing the praise song “Sovereign”.

The service took 2hrs 30mins and I never felt boredom. I have to be honest, I can't help myself to get teary eyed that moment, I’m happy and I realized I am fortunate  because I have a BIG GOD who never leaves me, always protects and loves me truly.

I’m happy because knowing that you have great people who offer you their both hands when you’re down is enough to understand that I’m blessed.

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FunkyBabyIce's Subject matter

It’s time to enhance my skills in painting. One of my friend said “you should follow what your heart really desire, if you love to paint then why not enhance it, enroll in an Art class; I can recommend you a good Master”.

It really excites me when I heard that. Before, I only draw animé characters. I sometimes imagine myself in a random animé character. I love their costumes especially their eyes and funky hairstyles. 

This time I’m interested in Idealism and Realism Style. There’s so much in my mind I would love to paint and show my talent. I think I will focus on my daily encounters to get an inspiration.

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Holidays

Giant Christmas Tree in Orchard Central

Me and my sweet hubby

Well, tomorrow is Monday...how to begin the perfect Weekdays? For me, spending time with my hubby.. our weekend"gala". 

Walking along Orchard road we've seen Christmas decors as early as August  :) I really feel the spirit of Christmas. I remember during my childhood we have a small Christmas tree at home and we put decorations and to make it more beautiful we put different lights on it. 

I really miss my family. But I'm still happy because I'm with my husband. This will be our first Christmas together. 

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