On Purple Wings

If not now, When?

“By doing what you love, you inspire and awaken the hearts of others.” ~ Satsuki Shibuya

I came across this sort of quote from Steve Maraboli’s posts (I am an avid follower of this guy): “If not now, When?” And all those things I wanted to do came bursting in my mind. One of them is to really be able to surf, to stand in that board and really experience what’s it like. So getting an opportunity to be gone out of town, I chose going to Baler for my surfing experience.

I’ve always thought that surfing is so much fun. =) Even if I discovered some bruises when I get home. Lol!

There are actually several places in the country that can give you the best waves, when this is my choice due to other reasons (one of which is that, it isnt just a pleasure trip but a business trip too!)

Photo credits: http://siargao.surf/cloud-9-surfing/

Photo credits: http://www.kahunaresort.com/san-juan-la-union/surf-clinic-kahuna/

So come weekend, there I was catching the last trip bound to Baler with Jen, my foodie travel and all things in between buddy. Aside from the surfing experience, we definitely love the food in Baler.

FOOD

HOTEL

Jen was the one in-charge as to where we’re staying and I really love what she got for us. It is very affordable (via Agoda), very clean and the staff are so accommodating and helpful. I don’t mind staying there again when we go back.

Though, I found these equally great places to stay in Baler. So, we might try them too.

Photo credits: http://www.traveltrilogy.com/2019/03/cube-baler-aurora.html

And my original choice to stay: Balituk.

Photo credits: http://www.arapatria.com/balituk-resort-a-haven-place-to-stay-in-baler/

If you’re commuting, it is best to reserve your seats a few days prior your intended date to visit. There are only two trips bound to/ from Baler:

Photo credits: http://www.phbus.com/genesis-bus/

Photo credits: http://www.phbus.com/joy-bus/

While when you’re driving, it’ll take you four (more or less, because stop overs are really awesome right?) hours to get there if coming from Manila.

Aside from being able to stand in that surf board, we also get to see the biggest Balete tree in Asia. And a side trip to the Hanging bridge in Zabali. Said bridge connects two Barangays, Brgy. Tibang and Brgy Sabang. It is located at the endpoint of Zabali road. It isn’t just a spot for tourist but very useful to the residents too.

PLACES

Hanging Bridge

Balete Tree

Towering more than five stories high, this 600-year old Balete tree or is also known as Millennial tree is one of the reasons why I can’t wait to visit Baler. Weird to some as it may sound, It’s been years when I learned to get my energies from trees. So I took advantage staying with it for long and leave the place with a smile in my face. =)

Dogtown Collective

Oh, please also visit my niece’s cool place: @lilwarung.baler and @kokoanatural.ph located at Dogtown Collective. She’s got a lot of great stuff in store for you. =)

What’s travelling without buying local goods? =) When I shop, I really get to appreciate the artistic skills of my fellow Filipinos. Isn’t it great to earn while doing what you love?

PS

I definitely must go back, because I missed the Light house. =( And there are three. And some really great rock formations along the way. =)

November 17, 2019November 17, 2019

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My 1 dozen Most favorite pages at Instagram

Beautiful minds inspire others.

If you happen to visit my Instagram page, you wouldn’t believe (even myself), that I’ve already posted more than 9,000 photos (and/or videos) to date.

It has been a coping tool of mine. One of my many. I indirectly express my feelings through my posts, be it bliss, the blues, the triumphs and everyday struggle to live my mantra of loving what I’m doing and living for what I really love.

Along with this, I am awed and inspired by the following pages:

Martine Munro

When it comes to Interior Designing. Aside from what we’re pretending to be (me and hon as Chip and Joanna the second), Ms. Munro’s abode is literally a house of treasures. I love everything about it. The paints, the frills, the images and all. It’s like saying “It’s so me!” =)

Maggie Wilson

Photo source: https://www.instagram.com/wilsonmaggie/

I love to travel and Ms. Wilson’s page is such a great site to learn of new places. What more? She’s a fabulous and glamorous traveler. I am so amazed with her flair for fashion. And by the way, I love her tattoos! She reminds me of my soul sister without the tattoo. =) As she is a very private person, she might kill me if she finds out her page is included here. =p

By the way, I am following her Casa Consunji too.

Salut Maroc

This definitely occupies my first in my bucket list when it comes to satiating my lust for travel. Not only for being located in one of the most beautiful countries I’ve known. I fell in love with its’ interiors the first time I saw it, swooned by it, and the colors, yes, the colors, makes me happy all the time.

Kenz

I am not much a fan of neutral colors, we all know that my hungry eyes crave for bright and bold ones. However, I can’t help but fell in love with her page. How she intricately (or is it spontaneous like her eyes were trained to see one if she sees one) chooses a photo of a place or an object and if you look at her page from afar, they’re all in the same shade. It is truly magnificent to me. A friend of mine commented that she might be just using a single filter provided by Instagram though I think they’re originals. =)

PS – She is my niece. =) And I am so proud of her.

Hulma Bespoke

This one is another Filipino Entrepreneur who makes beautiful shoes according to its’ clients’ wishes. I think I’m going to ask them to do me a pair soon. =) Hulma is a Filipino word for a mold to fit.

Nico Bolzico

Oh, when I’m super sad, I just have to go to his page, watch him being himself with his pretty wife. I actually love them and is my favorite celebrity couple. =)

The Gentleman Wolf

When I’m so in love? I go here. I cry. I smile. I laugh. I sigh. Just by reading everything about love, it’s here.

I was able to personally talk to him through exchanging messages and this is what Mr. Joel Clemons, a Therapist, had to say: “We are here to experience love, we deserve to share real love.” And I just had to agree. He offers coaching and counselling too for those who needs help.

Naughty Teas (and Mangelka) A Lifestyle Photographer/ Content Creator

Photo source: https://www.instagram.com/naughtyteas/

I once dreamt of myself (me from another time), in another place, with a milieu being very vintage and very light. When I saw this page, It has transformed me to that old dream. Exactly the things I saw in that dream, except for two things: that magenta 17th century clothing. And that I do not like tea that much. (–,)

Soidog Foundation

Being one of their many followers and an advocate of animals safety, I show my support by following all of their great works. I encouraged other friends too to follow them and donate if possible.

M&Ms Chocolates

Photo source: https://www.instagram.com/mmschocolate/

MnMs has one the best Advertising campaigns in the F&B/ Confectionery Industry. It lights me up watching them especially their videos. The M&Ms characters are the cutest for me. =)

Blossom and Dill

Oh how I love flowers. Who doesn’t? And this page perfectly translated all its’ wonder and beauty. Sophie Witham has one of the greatest eye for this delicate subject. As Christian Dior said: “After women, flowers are the most divine creations.” Check this page, and you’ll see why.

And last but not the least:

Trois Petites Filles

I do not know that much about this woman named “Victoria”. And this is why I am enthralled by her page. I am mesmerized by her mystery, her sensuality, motherhood, her love for Art and her scrupulous eye for it. For me, She is the epitome of a beautiful soul.

Not a day will pass without me visiting them. They’re all inspiring and sprinkles me good vibes every minute I spend looking at them with an immeasurable admiration. It literally makes my day. =) And inspires me to do more, be a better person, push myself more, exert more effort, and become the best version of me. I think this is my way of expressing that I am grateful for them, and all those inspiring pages out there. #onlineinspirations

Do you have your own top favorites too? Please tell me! (–,)

Love,

Beaut

August 22, 2019August 22, 2019

beautsantua3 Comments

Tips on creating a breathtaking console table for your home

“Some people look for a beautiful place, others make a place beautiful.”

― Hazrat Inayat Khan

Hi guys! When I saw this console/ foyer table below, my mind wandered and randomly thought of some of my favorite things, it is so beautiful, and as a Designer, it buoyed me to take advantage of my blog site and share with you some tips how I came up with my own version of a dressed-up console table.

Photo source: https://www.domino.com/content/lacquered-furniture/

So here’s my formula for creating an eye-catching foyer or console table for your home. It is very simple yet dreamy.

During college days, the term “eclectic” refers to a collection of several items (in different themes) collated into just one design. Nowadays, it is referred to as Bohemian.

Photo source: https://www.ibizabohogirl.com

Since Bohos are innately travelers by nature. They mix and match varying elements that they’ve acquired from their travels and come up with a very unique and beautiful outcome.

Photo source: https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/house-interiors/a9044/christian-siriano-house-tour/

And this is how I am going to do it in my own eclectic way. It is very relaxed and carefree.

I must not forget to mention that during my college days (early 1990s). Design principles at that time was a little stricter. You can’t mix something printed with another printed. Or not follow the color wheel in color scheming. While Color blocking since the past years have been widely used already, be it in Interior Designing and/ or Fashion industry.

Photo source: https://www.refinery29.com

Photo source: https://hiddeninfrance.typepad.com

Photo source: https://www.livingathome.de

People are no longer scared to explore and go beyond what is norm.

Now, or few years ago, designing has become more liberating. I can’t help but be soo glad that I can combine a specific print or pattern with another. Whereas, during my younger years, my attention will be called. Now mixing and matching is just so much fun.

Photo source: http://www.dimplesandtangles.com

Different pattern of wallpaper, different pattern of carpet, different pattern of sofa upholstery and that load of printed throw pillows.
Photo source: https://www.paulamills.com/

You see, how we appreciate varieties nowadays. =) It’s so festive and perky. =)

Working on several Designs lately. I thought of translating them here. And I would have to start into creating a really pretty console table. That first thing guests would see, welcome them and where vibe will be extended to all areas of the house. Just like a good introduction when you’re reading a famous book.

Please note that the same principle can also be used on other areas of the house, as long as there is a blank wall. It’ll automatically serve as one of your focal points, catching everyone’s attention. =)

I’ll be limiting my list of requirements to just 10:

The console table itself

A painting, a clock or a mirror
(I’d choose two – a mirror and a clock in one)

wall sconce or a table lamp
(I’d choose wall sconce)

Photo source: https://dazzlingspaces.com/

A flower vase

Look what I’ve found from Anthropologie. =)
Photo source: https://www.anthropologie.com

A scented candle in glass

This is one of my favorite scents from Voluspa.
Photo source: https://www.voluspa.com/

Something useful to be lined with the vase and bust, I’m choosing a catch all tray

And 3 native boxes under the table

Berber baskets. =) Photo source: http://mydecorblog.com/category/room-decor/

Please remember that above doesn’t need to be brand new, try to check some of your old stuff at home, and I’m sure you’ll find some items to fill them in.

I’ve created below so you can visualize the finished product.

So what are you waiting for? Be your own Designer now and create an awesome console table for your home. =) You may want to visit my blog from time to time for more Interior design tips! =)

August 16, 2019August 16, 2019

beautsantua2 Comments

Southbound Cafe

“It’s not just about seeing beautiful places, it’s about seeing the beauty in every place…”

I have been blogging about Interiors lately. And this blog I must say is more about Interiors more than their food offerings.

We spotted this new cafe in our home town, in San Pedro City, Laguna. You will find it on your right if you’re coming from Manila. Upon reaching the city it is just across the huge sculpture of the rooster. The landmark of my hometown. Which I think is a very strategic location indeed.

The car plates are kinda masculine for me.

I love it when there are paintings on the wall. =)

The ropes, gave the entrance a rustic feel.

So it is a fusion of rustic and industrial and a dab of little quirkiness. I think I have loaded my mobile phone with more than 50 photos in all angles, the place has a charm of entertaining you in an amazing way and now I had this dilemma of choosing what photos to include here. Whew!

So, please take a look.

I think this coffee mural is the focal point of the place.

Be that as it may, not until upon looking upwards, I saw this striking chandelier.

I thought this shade of orange might be too bright for a place, though they were able to balance it with a teal. =)

If you want it quieter, there is an enclosed area, providing you privacy.

There is actually a certain masculine feel on it. Due to the different symbols of cars: mags, plates, wheels, car logos, depicting the owners’ “could be” hobby.

Did I miss Toyota? I think this one will do and he will really love this! =)

So let’s check their food. =)

Aww, look at those Chefs! =) And that Sto. Nino…=)

Allegro is the exclusive distributor of the finest espresso machines, brewers, coffee beans, syrups, sauces and teas from Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Ceylon, the Netherlands, and the United States. Our products cater to hotels, casinos, culinary and educational institutions, restaurants, cafes, and franchise chains.

It is the result of someone’s passion with coffee and brought with him over 30 years of entrepreneurial and financial experience managing 7 Italian Cafes and a coffee equipment wholesale distribution company in Dallas and Houston, Texas, USA.

Info source: http://www.allegrobeverage.com

Honestly, I loved their coffee. =) Nothing spectacular with our pasta, though it met our expectations, and the nachos is okay, however, I rather see fresh tomatoes than ketchup like a real salsa. =(

You need not worry if the cake you choose will fill the bill. As they’re carrying a popular branded one. That famous maker of “Mango bravo” which is Conti’s.

So I instantly know what to get. =) The Choco overload cake. =)

I can’t ignore the fact that they’ve chosen a good color scheme. ❤

This fab bouquet administered a soft and feminine feel when masculinity is found everywhere. Nice move. =)

Nowadays, the loos are no longer left-out. Like there’s a match as to where is the prettiest loo. =)

I love the pebbles on the wall and that modern spatial lamp.

So I am agreeing to this quote. =)

There are other tempting dishes from their menu. So, definitely, we will be back. =) As for the Interiors. All the elements were finely doled-out in all corners. =) Good job!

Their address is at #87 Mabini street, San Antonio, San Pedro City, Laguna, Philippines.

August 11, 2019August 11, 2019

beautsantua1 Comment

LGBT Community – What if it is us?

My growing years specifically my College days, I am exposed to same-sex relationships. I spent more than 4 years in an all-girls school, so I’ve seen this kind of relationships. It was unaccepted then so usually they are kept secrets. However, friendships meant accepting each other for who we really are and trying our best not to judge, because at the end of the day, we do not want to be judged too.

Even the Pope, being the leader of the Catholic church had to say something about it. And of course, it created too many discussions.

The Pope Francis Statement That Changed the Church on LGBT Issues

“If someone is gay and searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?” Two years ago Tuesday, Pope Francis uttered these words, sending shock-waves throughout the Catholic Church and the world. His position stood in contrast to that of his predecessors: Months earlier, Pope Benedict XVI suggested that gay marriage was a threat to global peace.

Source: https://time.com/3975630/pope-francis-lgbt-issues/

Back in college days, I’ve had female suitors who were even prettier than me, sending me sweet cards and flowers and chocolates just like a male suitor would do. I’ve learned my way to say no gently. I say prettier, because cross-dressing isn’t not that prevalent at that time.

Info Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGBT_rights_by_country_or_territory

I may not be very vocal about it, however, through the years, I really support and understand them. Same thing goes with being rich or poor, my love for others weren’t conditional.

I’ve had many friends of different kinds. And I love them all equally without any conditions. I post on my Social media from time to time my admiration to some gays or lesbians I found in movies or in the internet. Though, I am not an advocate.

I have more gay friends than lesbians. Though, I love them all.

My travel, foodie, everything in between buddy

Recently, pondering upon this concern. I think It’ll now become my advocacy, since I witness too much judgement.

What if it is us? How would we feel if we’re judged as if we no longer deserve to live a life that’s happy and fulfilling?

Isn’t it the same way when Social media dictated that only the thin ones are pretty? Thanks to personalities and influences of people who will make everyone feel that there’s no need to save a room for hate (and bashing and judging and being harsh to others is something that is just normal to most people).

I’ve had qualms writing about this. Yet, I had to take advantage of this blog to express that they are human beings like everyone else is too. Like you. Like me.

It is more of what we feel right? Much more than we think. Love is an emotion, yes, and a mindset and a decision all in one.

If we feel that love and felt it is wrong because it is felt to the same gender, and since it is a universal law, or we were oriented that a man is only for a woman, and vice versa, what is the exact feeling that we would feel if we follow that orientation? I think it can only be sadness, and being hard on ourselves because in the dark, we might ask, why am I feeling this way?

It is sometimes, or most of the time confusing to me, because it is said that “No man is an island” and that all our actions, we need to take into consideration all the people who will be affected with our decisions.

But are we to spend our whole life pleasing others? Or it’s okay to please others, it makes us feel good being okay with almost everyone, or we should be revising the question like: Can we just let them be?

Photo source: https://news.abs-cbn.com/life/08/24/16/how-joey-mead-discovered-angelina-mead-king
If this isn’t love? What else can it be?

You just don’t know how much I’ve learned from these 5 gorgeous and fabulous men?! Tan, Bobby, Jonathan, Karamo and Antoni of Queer Eye. #netlfix They have such big hearts, almost immeasurable. #fab5

My conviction isn’t that strong on this topic, so I’m rerouting it into something like equality. That we all have that right to love and be loved. It’s the greatest feeling. It’s the purpose of life. To love. And be loved. Even my faith didn’t’ encourage me in any way to judge or hate! It’s an old teaching too right?

And love means acceptance. How I accepted my gay friends for who they are. And how thankful are they for people like us who didn’t judge them.