Worth the Wait

A year ago, I met someone who I never thought would change my life for the better. Ben proved to me that not all guys are created equal in terms of personality and character. It was actually so easy for me to fall in love with someone like him.

This blog post is a Valentines Special. Last February 14, 2020 was our first Valentines together.  As early as 8:30 am, he sent a bouquet of flowers to my house to ensure that it's one of the first things I lay my eyes on. He wanted me to receive it before going to work just so I have a beautiful day ahead of me. Sweet and thoughtful gestures like that make me appreciate him even more.

Back when I was single, I would still dress up for Valentines, which makes everyone presume that I have a date. LoL.  If I remember right, I would always wear Red during this Season of Love. Up until today, it's still my go-to color. Why this color? It's bold, confident and alluring. I chose a Cape Dress for a more sophisticated look , and simply paired it with nude heels to maintain focus on the dress.

Valentines should be seen as a celebration of love not only between couples, but moreso with thy self. It was not easy being single, but when you find the right kind of love, it is definitely worth the wait. Mine arrived when I was actually about to give up on finding love.

For dinner, Ben took me to 22 Prime, located in the 22nd floor of Discovery Suites. He reserved seats for us to get a picturesque view of the Ortigas Skyline. We were also fortunate enough to have a great pianist perform love songs that night. What made it a night to remember is that Ben sang to me, to which I joined him even though my voice was no good compared to his. I just love it when he sings. There's so much passion to it.

Being hardcore meatlovers, our main course was Prime's Tomahawk USDA Prime Angus Bone-In Rib Eye, served with signature sauces and side dishes. He wanted to let me try their Specialty. It did not disappoint, but it was too much for us to finish. 

My heart is filled with so much joy and gratitude. From the start of his courtship to this very day, Ben has been consistent in his words and actions. I thank God for sending me someone that I have fervently prayed for. Truth is, He blessed me with so much more.

It took me 30 years to find him. It was worth the wait. To all my readers, have faith in love. Love yourself and let love beget love. 

All the best,

Follow me via IG: twiniekaye | twitter @twiniekaye

For collaborations, email me via twinie_ng@yahoo.com

Trends for 2020

Sheer Fashion and Puff Sleeves made a comeback this 2019. For 2020 and beyond, my fearless forecast is that Corset Tops and Dresses would start trending worldwide. Personally, I find corsets very flattering as it accentuates your curves. However, it's a style that may not appeal to the majority as some may find it either revealing or uncomfortable to wear. For those of you who are adventurous or rather a style hunter, then these looks from Lover-Beauty can be something you fancy for your upcoming themed parties.

Lace and ruffles are perfect details for a sensual look. 

(More about this look )

Go burlesque with this sophisticated yet playful corset

(More about this look )

Corsets give your body shape and support. My personal choice from this online shop is this Vintage top. This black and gold corset can easily be worn with jeans or skirt, making you look extra stylish. If you find this too bare, then adding a vest, blazer or cardigan over it, will still make you look chic. There are so many fashionable yet cheap corsets available online , you just have to shop patiently.

Black Corset by Lover-Beauty

If you're on the Plus Size and feel that Corsets are too tight, then there are still ways to look fabulous without revealing too much skin. One easy trick is to wear Maxi Dresses. These dresses may cover almost the entirety of your body, but with the right design and cut, it will effectively make your torso proportional and make you look voluptuously sexy.

Maxi Dress by Lover- Beauty

When shopping for cheap plus size women's clothing , always choose darker colors so that you'll automatically look one size smaller. It is advisable to wear lines that go vertical rather than horizontal to help frame your body. So whether you're getting ready for an epic summer look or just in dire need of a wardrobe makeover,  there's always something for every shape and size, you just need to know where to find it. I hope this online find is a useful fashion inspiration for you. If you're looking for more affordable fashion finds, then dropby women mini dress 

Love,

Follow me via IG: twiniekaye | twitter @twiniekaye

For collaborations, email me via twinie_ng@yahoo.com

Gastronomic Finds in Antipolo

A weekend drive to Antipolo is a brilliant idea for those who need a quick break.  If you're into Arts then Pinto Art Museum should be part of your itinerary. For those who are in search of gastronomic places to satisfy your hungry palate, here are 2 places that you can consider for your next Antipolo Adventure:

We had our lunch at Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant located at 456 Taktak Rd, Antipolo, Rizal. This restaurant is said to be Antipolo's pride, serving good food since 1984. For Starters, we had mushroom soup (with a hint of truffle oil) and some sausages.

For our main course, we had Lamb Shoulder and Pink Salmon, for sharing. For those who love pasta, Fettuccine Padilla is a must order, but due to the generous servings, we had to defer. Seems like there is a reason to come back.

For our dessert, we tried their famous Swiss Chocolate Cake Ala Mode , Cheesecake and Ice Cream. If you ask me, I'd recommend that you have your dessert and coffee fix at Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant. For me, their dessert platter like so is way better than their Entrees. Worth all the calories. 

For dinner, Ben took me to Tahanan Bistro located at 22 Loresville Drive, Lores Farm Subdivision, Antipolo, home to artist Benji Reyes. This place is simply perfect for more intimate and private gatherings, very homey and refreshing to the eye because of the design artistry from the house to the furniture to the food.

If you're planning to come here, do wear or bring socks as you are required to remove your shoes once already inside the house. I was caught offguard, but I include it in the experience.

There were 3 Set Menus to choose from. We chose the Iraya and Mayon Menu. The other set was called Halcon. Interesting to note that all the menus are named after volcanoes.

GISING - GISING 
prawns & winged bean dumplings / leeks / coconut cream / herb oil / chili oil / house-made crispy pork floss

RELLENONG PUSIT 

aligue-battered calamari / moringa aioli / pesto / arugula / white wine vinaigrette

BISTEK TAGALOG 

braised beef shank / adlai / onion puree / charred white onions / parsley oil / fried enoki

BINAGOONGAN 

crispy pork belly / tomato & shrimp paste puree / greek yoghurt / baba ghanoush / house-made crispy flat bread

BIBINGKA 

french toast corn bread / barquillos / muscovado & fish sauce caramel / carabao's milk vanilla ice cream

UBE

purple yam & white chocolate lava cake / cheese ice cream / edam crisp

I would say that the dishes served that night were a fusion of flavors. So much art and distinctness was incorporated in each of the dishes. The Ube Lava Cake (above) is exceptionally delicious. This dessert is actually part of the Halcon Menu, but the waiter was kind enough to accommodate our special request for a little dessert switch. Trust me, this is a Must Try. I wish we had something this good in Manila. Perfect for all Ube Lovers out there.

Once you're done eating (or while waiting for your order), do roam around and appreciate various paintings and artifacts in the house. Take lots of photos as it's not everyday that you get to relax in an artist's house. 

Special thanks to Ben for making me the happiest <3

You are loved by me, every single day.

These 2 restaurants prove that Antipolo can make Delectable Desserts. Either I'm just biased for having a sweet tooth, but the finale for both restaurants are what caught my attention and tastebuds. Hope you enjoyed this post. 

Follow me via IG: twiniekaye | twitter @twiniekaye

For collaborations, email me via twinie_ng@yahoo.com

6 Hangout Places for Good Coffee

Cheers to the Weekend! If you're looking for Instagrammable places to get your Cup of Joe, here are 6 cozy places explore:

BLACK SHEEP COFFEE

Lvl 1 S'Maison, Conrad Hotel, Seaside Blvd, 1300 Pasay City or

O Square , Greenhills

A must try for Coffee Addicts :  Black Sheep's BLACK HOOF Bulletproof Coffee. Imagine Coconut Oil with Coffee, simply interesting to try for an Afternoon delight. Their first branch located in Conrad Hotel. is exceptionally chic. Just recently, they expanded to O Square Greenhills, a smaller branch, yet still a good place to get your coffee fix.

THE WHOLESOME TABLE

Second Floor, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City

various branches available

After a long stroll around the mall or while waiting for your movie screen time, this is a good place to unwind, with artificial trees and warm soothing decorative lights that help you relax. Iced Latte with a view like this.

Coffee dates with my favorite person. So grateful that he always treats me like a Princess. By far the Sweetest Guy I know. Blessed to have met someone who has a big heart for other people.

CAFFEINED BY ARTESANIA

910 Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City

A homey place not yet frequented by many. The place is spacious, well lit, and surrounded with custom handcrafted furniture. A good place to conduct group meetings as well as a hangout place for coffee dates.

MELT GRILLED CHEESERY

6/F Shangri-la Mall,East Wing, Mandaluyong City

various branches available

If you're a busy bee who enjoys working in places where delicious snacks are served, then give yourself a well-deserved break that involves Lots of Cheese. Pair it with coffee for some extra boost.

SINGLE ORIGIN

Greenbelt, Makati City

various branches available

Brunch is always a good idea especially for late risers. Add some caffeine pump and you're ready for a long day ahead of you. This place easily gets full so reserve a slot when you can. I have yet to try Single Origin Osteria for their Italian Comfort Food and their Cappuccino Lava Cake. Something to look forward to.

ELEPHANT GROUNDS

LG/F One Bonifacio High Street, BGC

Indulge your palate with interesting flavors from Hongkong's Elephant Grounds. Their heavy snacks and coffee roastings are a must try especially when you're in BGC. The mood is also perfect for a quick catchup between friends, or lovers. lol

So if your favorite Starbucks is full, then maybe one of these places can be your next caffeine refuge. Your Starbucks just got an upgrade. 

Love

Follow me via IG: twiniekaye | twitter @twiniekaye

For collaborations, email me via twinie_ng@yahoo.com