COBBLER TO THE RESCUE

Before

After


What do you do with a pair of gorgeous shoes that don't fit just right? You take it to your local cobbler, otherwise known as, a shoe repair person.

I bought these sublime pumps online. They were raved about in reviews. Problem, when I initially got them I discovered they ran a half-size too big so I had to exchange them for a smaller size. Thankfully, a half-size smaller was available. Painfully, I had to go through the whole returning and waiting for the new size to come fiasco. When I received the new size I was unpleasantly surprised that they were STILL slightly big. The back heels would slip off when I walked in them. I thought perhaps that it was just a matter of "breaking in" the shoes and eventually they would conform to my foot shape. No. Wrong. I even tried adding cushions, heel pads, and tissue inside the shoes. Nope, still slipped off. Dreading the reality that I wasted my money on shoes I wasn't able to wear, I came up with an idea... take it to my cobbler! Solution, add-on straps that help keep the shoes on. The straps were even dyed to match the shoe color. I tell ya, these pumps are now one of my favs. Woo Hoo.

If you ever have an issue with your shoes, take it to your local shoe repair shop to see if you can do anything to fix them before giving them up. The costs are usually reasonable, too.

POWER PLAY DATES

Not even walking yet.
Wondering "are you capturing this moment in a photo?!"
Good times, WOW... enjoying some yummy "mashup" treats.
"Let me know if you have any questions. I'm happy to help you!"... were words from a colleague (now a dear friend) when I started my current job. Molly sincerely meant what she said to me during my first couple of weeks at work. I would have never thought that to this day I would be meeting up with her for power walks and power play dates. Every time we meet-up I'm always so happy to have hung out with her AND it amazes me each time we meet up just how much the kids have grown since the last time we saw one another. Amelia is a lucky gal to be one of Will's buddies. These days they're sharing their treats with each another and running around the playgrounds together. Amelia recognizes her buddy, Will, and often says his name when I show her a photo of them playing together. It's a wonderful feeling to have a good friend who relates to my current situation as a new mom and who ALWAYS gives positive advice. It's even more wonderful to see our children playing together. I'm so grateful for having such a thoughtful, optimistic, witty, and classy fellow nanay chic girlfriend. Good times, WOW.

THANKFUL TIME

I constantly want more, who doesn't? Let's be honest, WHO DOESN'T???!! Yet some unexpected turn of events usually happens during this time of the year that always reminds me I should be thankful for all that I have regardless of my damn wants and... I am. This is my second Thanksgiving being a mom. We're having TG brunch with my side of the family at our home for the first time. I'm excited to start some new traditions for Amelia like making delish dishes that my family will look forward to annually. I've been finding recipes for great dishes online. Why bother purchasing cookbooks when you have the internet or awesome friends to hook up recipes?! BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS!! Total party in my tummy... so yummy, so yummy...


bacon brussels sprouts: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/bacon-brussels-sprouts-recipe/index.html

NI'NONG CHIC

GTW with AMC

Great minds think alike. Ni'nong Marc and Mimi with the same Halloween costume!


This post is dedicated to my dear old (old meaning the length of our friendship and not his actual age-- I dare not mean that!) friend, Marcomedes. Oh how I LOVE that name and him! Marc is one of my best friends. We were college roommates. We were actually high school journalism classmates who worked together on that fabulous Cardinal Tribune newspaper before being Aztec roommates. Ha ha... I laugh. Inside thoughts. Anyhesobetterbelaughingatthatlastsentence... I admire him for many things-- some of which are his confidence, intelligence, creativity, and his style. He's a sassy one who pushes my buttons and makes me a better person every time he does so. Oh, and he's a great person to get fashion advice from, which I do... mmkoy. I credit a bit of my nanay chic-ness to him. We were supposed to move to NYC together after graduating college. He made the move, and I didn't. I often wonder what my life would be like had I made the move. I wouldn't change anything as I'm thankful that we're still good friends regardless of the fact that we live on the opposite sides of the country. And, OF COURSE he's also Amelia's ni'nong (that's godfather in Tagalog). Yeah, I know. She's a lucky lil' gal to have him as her gdaddy.

CUSHY PURPLE PILLOW CASE

Sewing the zipper on...
all done.

The other weekend we were at the fabric store and Jason came across some textiles that were exactly the same (well, varying in colors) as what Amelia's favorite crib bumper is made from. When she was a baby she would cuddle that bumper and gently pet it with her tiny hands. We assumed she did that because its just an extremely soft and comfy textile. To this day, she slides her hands under the bumper and hugs it or she'll pull the bumper under her face to lay on. So, Jason suggested we buy a small pillow and that I make a pillow case out of the cushy fabric so that Amelia would have her very own special pillow. Inexpensive, easy to do, and made with love just for Mimi... I thought that was a brilliant idea! And, that's what we did.

**More photos under "projects"

FASHION DISTRICT

Fashion District crosswalk

Just a few reels of fabrics

Wanting to bring this dress form back with me



I'm a full-time working mom. There are pros and cons to that. Con- I don't get to be with my daughter as much as I'd love to be. Pro- I get to go on some fun trips to various places including several trips to La La Land's fashion district. This past trip my colleagues and I had the chance to walk about the district and spotted a few of the gazzillion textile shops. I'd have loved to spend hours checking out the myriad reels of textiles but there just wasn't enough time. Next time na'lang.

LIKE MAMA, LIKE MIMI.

I was elated when I was at Target (or said with your best bougie accent, "Tarjay") to find the last pair of toddler boots that look exactly like my UGG boots. I wanted to buy Mimi (what Amelia calls herself) a pair of authentic UGG boots but just couldn't bring myself to spend that much money on a pair of boots that would last her a season. Thankfully, my favorite one-stop shop sold boots just as good, if not better, than a pair of UGGs. Here's why they're better-- at least for me-- there is zipper in the inner side of the boot making it effortless to put them on. UGG boots, not so effortless. Mimi LOVES to wear them, which is great considering it's the beginning of the rainy season. Ah yeah.

FUN DRESS

Prepping the pieces

Sewing it up

All done
I made another piece of clothing for Amelia this past weekend. I absolutely love the way it turned out. The choice of fabric really went well with the tunic style. These days I'm a fan of botanical prints. It's also super comfy for Amelia to run around in. Right now it fits her like a cute lil' "fun dress" but as she grows it can be worn as a top paired with her black leggings or jeggings.

**For more photos and what Amelia looks like wearing the "fun dress" check out the "Projects" page.

MY CHIC NANAY

me and mom // circa late 1970's

mom // circa early 1970's

I visited my mom and dad this past weekend and snagged some old photos from them. I've always thought my mom wore the coolest clothes back in the 70's and early 80's. I recall when I was in high school my mom would make comments about the fashion trends of that time. She would say, “I used to have clothes like that when I was younger. Now they are wearing those clothes, again?!” I’d look at her and think she was foolish. Of course I now know that fashion history repeats itself and that she really did "have clothes like that." I heart her comfy outfit of high waisted black bell-bottom pants and cap sleeve striped cotton top (pictured above)… such a classic outfit. She was, and still is, nanay chic.

BLOGGING or lack thereof

summer 2010

It's been a while since I've posted anything... about two and a half months. I'd like to say I'd been uber busy with this project and that project but the truth of the matter is that I just haven't posted anything because I've been neglecting my blog. After a long day at work, when I get home all I want to do is spend time with my family before Amelia heads to sleep. Then, my only desire is to relax whether it be by watching one of my favorites television shows, flipping through a magazine, having some late night snacks, or by laying around on the couch thinking about how I should probably be working on my blog-- or some other project on my list of a million projects I'd like to get done-- until it's bedtime. I'd like to think I've been a "funk" phase for the past 60-80 days perhaps due to summertime. Now that summer season is over, I'm hoping the tina-funk is turning back into tina-fab.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

Getting started...
Bottom Pleated Gauze Pants...
First fitting...

I FINALLY finished a project! It took me a good long month but at least I did it. In my defense I’d like to say that the reason it took me so long to complete this project is mainly due to being SUPER tired (and laaaazy, I ain’t gonna lie) at the end of my work days. By the time Amelia goes down for the night, I’ve got about an hour and half or so to straighten up the house (amen for Jason doing most of this), prep for the next day, get myself ready for bed, and relax and spend time with Jason. Mix in a sewing project and I probably have .05 seconds to myself. Mind you, it takes me about 5-10 minutes to set up my “work station” and another 5-10 minutes to break it down. I really only get to work on any projects for about 30 minutes, that includes interruptions. Forget working on projects on the weekends right now. I’d much rather spend my time with my family doing anything but that. I know I’d be more productive if I managed my time better but we all have things to improve upon. Moral of the story: It doesn't matter how long it takes to finish a project as long as it gets done. Although, that might only apply to projects not funded by other people. Regardless, I’m all done and ready for another project. I'm uber happy to have made chic lounge pants for Amelia.

WHERE'S BLABLA?!

Amelia & "bwaahbwaah"

Amelia just can't brush her teeth without the help of her blabla doll, Prudence the Owl, or as Amelia calls her, "bwaahbwaah." I actually can't thank Prudence enough. She's made brushing Amelia's teeth so much easier night after night! Right before bed we ask her, "Where's blabla?" and Amelia jumps on her feet, points to her bedroom and replies, "bwaahbwaah?!" That question is her cue to find "bwaahbwaah"-- who happens to still be "sleeping" in her crib-- and brush their teeth. She just LOVES taking turns brushing her teeth with Prudence. Before we introduced the blabla doll to Amelia it was such a challenge trying to get her to brush those little pearly whites of hers. And to think, poor little Prudence the Owl sat around in Amelia's playpen for over three months collecting dust before we realized this soft and cuddly doll needs to befriend our daughter! Now, "bwaahbwaah" sleeps with Amelia after they brush their teeth. Of course, "bwaahbwaah" doesn't have any teeth but as for now, what she doesn't know...


**The blabla doll was a gift from Amelia's hip Auntie Lily. We can't thank her enough for giving Prudence the Owl to Amelia. If you're interested in owning a blabla doll, check out their website at: www.blablakids.com.

MY MOUTH WATERS FOR FINE FOOD

Waters Fine Food To Go

Mmm... Waters Fine Foods. This company actually specializes in catering yet, thankfully, has a "To Go" spot just outside of their catering location. A friend of mine at work, Lisa, asked me to go to lunch one day with her to this place. I did, and WOW. They have the most delectable sandwiches, roasted veggies, tossed salads, scrumptious baked goodies and much more. The food is all freshly made the day of and while they have a set menu, they have daily specials as well. If that isn't enough, they "support local farmers, fishermen and artisans wherever possible, and encourage sustainability, organic foods and hand-crafted techniques." Good food, good people, and GOOD JOB Waters Catering! For me, what sets them apart from other places is that the food is so tasty. No really, it's T.A.S.T.Y.! So far, everything I’ve had from this joint burst with flavor with each bite! I actually will start to crave the Tuna Salad Sandwich with Fresh Albacore, Wild Arugula, Tapenade, Lemon Aïoli, on Waters’ Focaccia bread if I start thinking about it...Um, like right now. My mouth is water-ing (no pun intended, well, maybe a little) as I type this. I just might have to get this tomorrow for lunch. Fortunately for me, this place is a mere 10 minutes away from work. OH. YES.

By the way, for mommies out there who are watching the calorie intake like I am, Waters Fine Foods To Go portions are small and everything is reasonably priced as well. Your taste buds, tummy, figure, and wallet will all be pleased.

http://www.waterscatering.com/

MOMMY & HOBBY?!

Singer Featherweight 221 Sewing Machine


These are some photos of my Singer Featherweight 221 sewing machine. It's a totally old school sewing machine and I L.O.V.E. it. It replaced my cheap ass Costco sewing machine from long ago (no offense to Costco sewing machine purchases). An instructor of mine recommended I purchase this machine and THANK GAWD she did because it's one of THE BEST purchases. Jason actually won it off of eBay for me for Christmas. He's the bestest friend and husband EVER but that's beside the point. The sewing machine is pretty old but it's damn sturdy and quiet compared to the sewing machines sold these days. That's my hobby-- SEWING. I'm dedicating a posting to my sewing machine in hopes to light a fire under my bum to get these damn sewing projects underway. No really, I sew. I swear I sew. I've made dresses for myself and cute garments for others. I've made sewing projects for Xmas gifts. I honestly thought I would be Martha Stewart once I had children. You know, making homemade meals and doing arts and crafts. Things didn't turn out the way I'd planned it in my head right before Amelia was born. That's okay. I'm guessing many mommies can relate that being a mommy and having a hobby isn't as easy as Ms. Stewart makes it out to be. One day I'll make Amelia something, one day...

I have a "Projects" category on my blog site. I'm planning to post photos of my sewing projects once I actually get to them, and now that I've posted this, I know myself and I know I'll have something done within a few weeks to share with you. Keep an eye, or two, out.

A LONG TIME MOMMY

Karen and I // 2006

Thank gawd for childhood friends who are more experienced at motherhood than I am! Karen, a friend of mine for over 20 years is one chic mom I turn to for advice about everything, and recently I've been turning to her for something she's known about for years-- MOMMYHOOD. She's a mom of a very tall teenage boy, a quiet artsy beauty, and my girlie girl god-daughter. I admire and adore her for her brilliance and strength, not to mention, her out-of-this-world organizational skills. And, even though she lives 500 miles north of where I reside she's just a call, text, or email away. Yay for technology! I recently asked her to contribute to NanayChic by answering some of my questions. Here's what she had to say:

What is your advice to new moms out there who are trying to adjust to the new mommy lifestyle? “Savor each moment with your child. The laundry and dishes can wait a few more minutes, but your child may not. Your child may not remember how clean (or messy) of a house you kept, but he or she will remember the time you took to a story or to play hide-n-seek.”

Do you have a nanaychic “uniform” and if so, what is it? Or, do you have any wardrobe staples that are a must for moms? “I’m still developing my nanaychic “uniform” so I can roll out of bed looking more stylish, but I’ve identified some must-haves for moms:
- Two pairs of jeans (at least one dark wash). One pair should be hemmed for heels and the other for flats, flip-flops, sneakers. I like the hem to practically touch the floor.
- A comfy shoe alternative to sneakers so you can chase the kiddies around while looking nanaychic.
- Diamond studs. Every mom should have a pair—real or fake. They’re my go-to earrings. Whether paired with a little black dress or a sweat suit, they make me feel sophisticated.
- Cotton blazer. I have recently eliminated my zip-up hoodies and fleece pullovers from my daily wear and purchased a black cotton blazer to keep me warm when I walk my first grader to school. (This was per the advice of my favorite chic mom.) It’s comfy but even makes jeans, a tank and flip flops look stylish.
- Earrings – all kinds (hoops, dangling, chandelier, etc.) When I’m not in my studs, I put on dangling earrings with some color to dress up my outfit. I usually have my hair back and don’t always put on a full face of makeup (just powder, brows, gloss) but wearing interesting earrings adds flair to my look.”

How would you describe your own style? “I’m still working on my personal style, but I’m probably a mix of preppy-sporty-laid-back-casual. I try to merge comfort with looking “put together.” Dressing comfortably doesn’t mean living in sweats.”

What’s the hardest part about staying a chic mommy? “Keeping up with what’s “in.” I have to refer to my InStyle mag or ask my niece (or the nanaychic founder) on what’s the latest trend. I don’t have the time to base my wardrobe on the season’s new look, so I just add a couple trendy pieces or accessories to my basic wardrobe.”

Do you have any nanaychic tips you’d like to share? “Take time out for yourself. You need some “me” time every day, whether it‘s 5 minutes of peace to do your makeup, a 30-minute jog or a girls night out. You need some down time to de-stress and reflect.”

Favorite song to “get ready” for the day to? “I don’t have a favorite “getting ready” song but listening to 90’s hip-hop/rap throwbacks gets me pumped for the day.”

BIG BROTHER BEAR

A and B

A fav photo of Bear and me

Jason reminded me recently that I’d been a “mommy” long before Amelia arrived. It’s true and I feel bad for not acknowledging my first “child,” Bear. It’s funny because he’s not really a child or a bear. He’s our chocolate Labrador retriever, also known as Amelia’s canine older brother. Bear was merely 8 weeks old when we picked him up from Oregon. I remember Jason and me doubting our abilities to raise him after our first night home. I’m so glad we didn’t give him up and made it through the rough times. He’s such a tremendous part of our lives. I truly believe it’s so great that Amelia gets to grow up with Bear. In fact, her first word was “beehr”-- not “mama” or “dada” but “beehr”.

URTH CAFFE

My Spanish Latté at Urth Caffe

Coffee is yum. I gave it up when I found out that I was pregnant but I surely did have a cup, or two, or three of coffee once I was given the green light to. These days I truly want to cut back on my intake, albeit I'm struggling. What can I say?! I enjoy the sudden burst of energy from the caffeine and coffee tastes so yummy to me. Ideally, I'd love for coffee to be a treat rather than a necessity. Speaking of treat, I had one of THE best lattés EVER a few weeks ago. It was a Spanish Latté from Urth Caffe. It reminded me of the delicious café con leche beverage in Madrid-- so rich, creamy, perfectly sweetened and full of flavor. Thinking about it makes me crave it!! I wish we had an Urth Caffe in my neck of the woods but we don't. If you're in LA, try to check out Urth Caffe and have a tasty Spanish Latté. You won't regret it.

http://www.urthcaffe.com/

SAN DIEGO ZOO

San Diego Zoo Peacock Greeting


Went to the zoo today and got together for the first time with a "mommy" meet-up group! Daddies were there, too! It was a blast! First of all, it was a blast because we were with a bunch of great people. Second of all, Amelia met new friends (her folks made friends as well!)! Lastly, we were at the famous San Diego Zoo! I love this meet-up group mainly because Amelia is able to hangout with kids in the same age range and build great friendships at a young age. I also love that I get to hang out with some very nanay chic ladies and Jason joins in the fun by hanging with the other dads. Can't wait to get together again! I certainly promote joining a meet-up group if you can!

The photo posted is one taken when we first arrived at the zoo. We were greeted by a very welcoming peacock and a bunch of flamingos. One of the best greetings EVER.

A GIFT FOR THE DAY I WAS BORN

Note: Photo does not have the best detail for the necklace. Amelia is also tired, hence, the sour face.

I was born today about 30 years ago, circa 1970's. No one needs exact details, right?! Just know that I'm a typical childish Aries. So, I bought myself a gift this past weekend while I was in LA. I'd been yearning for this peacock necklace for a while now. Before actually taking the plunge and purchasing it, I'd admire it on various online boutiques. I honestly wasn't going to buy it because I couldn't handle the feeling of "buyer's remorse" and/or knowing the money spent on a fashion accessory would have purchased a month's worth of diapers and food for Amelia. Then the best justification for purchasing the necklace dawned on me—Amelia would be the proud owner of this (what would later be vintage) piece of jewelry. SOLD.

UNINTENTIONAL STEALING

Call me a thief because I got a steal— that is, a great deal on a dress from Anthropologie! I love unexpected finds and cheap purchases! Who doesn’t, yo?! If you’ve visited the store or their website then you know their clothing isn’t cheap, even after markdowns. Although I’m sure we’ve all had that lucky moment, as did I recently, when you notice something stuffed on a sale rack in between oodles of clothing and say to yourself, “Eh, may as well check it out. No loss in that. It’s not like I can afford it or they have my size.” Then you examine the piece that was looking back at you, you check the price tag and it’s actually unbelievably affordable. Your heart starts to race as you shuffle through the rack wondering whether or not they still have your size and BAM, they have two sizes to try on just in case one doesn’t fit! I LOVE those moments.

Not only does this dress have a flattering shape, vibrant flamenco pink base color, cool geometric print and a length that hits me perfectly at the knee (preserving the illusion of being taller than I actually am)… it’s easy to throw on and pair it with a ¾ sleeve black blazer. No hassle and I'm ready for the morning routine with Amelia before work. Saving money and time yet still feeling chic... YAY!

WAIT... I forgot to mention that the dress has pockets!

NANAY CHIC- Milla Jovovich

Milla and Ever

An ultimately chic mom, and one of my favorite models, is Milla Jovovich. I love, love, love her and her style. She’s not just a pretty face and a mega model but she’s also a fashion designer, singer, and actor. I remember the first time I saw her. She made a guest appearance on “Married with Children” as a foreign exchange student living with the Bundies. HELLO, that was ages ago! Now, she’s a mommy and more stylish than ever.

So, I don’t just admire Milla for her natural gorgeousness but I admire her for being a real woman who discussed gaining over 60lbs during her pregnancy and the challenges of losing that weight the healthy way-- through diet and exercise. Unlike most celebrity moms these days, Milla admitted that it took her about a year to EARN back her pre-prego figure. She seems to be more relatable knowing this about her, and, all the more reason I respect her. I’d love to say it’s taken me a year to lose my weight but it’s taking me a little longer than a year. I’m still working on getting the “healthy diet and exercise” part into my daily regimen. And, by the way, what makes her even cooler is that she was a guest designer for the best one-stop shop in the universe—TARGET—making her style accessible and affordable. I. LOVE. IT.

JOCELYN

Circa 1970's

Yesterday was my sister's birthday. She's 8 years older than me. She's a mommy of three-- one teenager and two young boys. I often turn to her for mommy advice. She IS the one with three offsprings and more experience, although, sometimes she gets bossy about things but I suppose that's to be expected from my older sibling. HA!

A fond memory I have of my sister is her brushing my hair into two pigtails before walking down to the local Thrifty's drugstore. You see, my sister was obligated to take care of me while the parents were at work or just plain out and about. I detested brushing my hair, showering, or changing out of my pj's when I was a kid and since my sister had to take me wherever she desired to go during her watch, she'd make sure to make me look presentable for the public. These days she reminds me every so often how much she hated me for that. Happy Birthday Jo! I love you.

AMELIA'S BIRTHDAY

This past weekend we celebrated Amelia's birthday. First, Friday evening we had an intimate mini celebration with an ice cream cake and Amelia blowing out her first birthday candle. Then the following day, a huge birthday celebration with family and friends. Fun. Fun. Fun. Amelia looked adorable with her hair tied in a little pony "nub." As usual, I wore my functional mommy "uniform"-- consisting of razorback printed tank, black boyfriend blazer, dark gray skinny jeans, and knee-high black boots with jeans tucked in them-- to keep me feeling chic and comfy while attending to Amelia and guests. Accessorizing is a must with the "uniform." DO NOT forget the earrings! Makes a mom feel pretty. The photo doesn't do either of our outfits justice but it's really the only one I had of her (smiling) and I. Amelia's sporting her Coldplay bib... VIVA!

THE FIRSTS...

Today is Amelia’s 1st birthday and just so happens to be my one year anniversary being a mommy as well. YAY!

Alright, I’ve been planning on starting a blog for a while that has to do with either fashion or anything having to do with a stylish lifestyle. I just didn’t know what my take on that would be. I also figured I’d use a blog to express my creativity and assist me in maintaining my sanity. But then, I thought, “Who am I to blog about style and why bother adding on to the myriad of ‘style’ blogs out there?” I’m not a writer, just ask my good friend Marc-- who just so happens to write for a living-- he’ll tell ya. I’d like to think I’m stylish, and bless my husband, Jason, who reassures me day to day that I actually am quite chic. Then it dawned on me, just blog about the person I am now and everything will work itself out. So I thought to write about tips, tricks, and the trials and tribulations of being a chic mommy. My partner in all things creative, Karen, liked this idea, which further convinced me to start a blog.

I thought it fitting to “launch” my blog exactly a year after I became a mommy as I supposed a year’s worth of experience being a mommy making efforts to stay chic would give me some credibility, right?! Besides, that’s a year’s worth of creative build up and ideas for the blog! Being an Aries with delusions of grandeur, I started to think, “I’ll do this and I’ll do that with this blog and blah blah blah blah.” Yet, those anxious feelings one gets right before being judged started creeping up on me as I began to write up my first posting. I’ve been typing and deleting sentence after sentence trying to be witty and perfect in my first blog posting for whoever would read it, but all that really resonates in my head right now is Tiffany saying to me, “It’s a blog. The purpose of it is to write whatever you want. Who cares what people think?!” So, that’s what I’m going to do from this posting on out.

Here’s a blog, for my daughter to look back on one day, and, for your entertainment...