Earn as you talk

I was invited to be a part of a group discussion for one of Manila's high-end retail store which cater ladies casual dresses and formal wears. Due to my commitment to treat the event with utmost confidentiality, I will not mention the brand name but let me just share my experiences as one of the participants.

It was an impromptu invitation and I went there really unprepared. Good thing my friend and I were discussing it yesterday morning and it really caught my interest so when they need to fill in one more slot, my name sort of flashed on the screen. I've thought of giving it a try as I know I can very much relate to the topic. I logged off from work at exactly 3pm and dragged myself to Ortigas Centre in my four-inch stilettos.

Being one of the newbies, it is my instinct to silently observe the venue and maintain a friendly smile to the ladies coming in and out. I thought, is this really it? Ha ha! I was kinda expecting of a fashionable place. I was looking for my friend but my name was then called. I wrote my details in the log sheet and was interviewed by a petite woman in her late 40's. Boy, she have a taste in accessories! The interview lasted for about 15 minutes and I thought we're done but she walked me through the dining area where of course food is served for the participants.

The pasta looks cold but to be polite, I picked my fork and tried a few. There were ladies beside me who's also eating and so I glanced and smiled. Another lady in white entered in the scene and said hi to me.

Convo:

Her: What's your name?

Me: Hi, I'm Renz, and you are?

Her: I'm Rose. So what do you do for a living, Renz?

At this point, I was thinking, oh are we starting? Is she my second interviewer? Yeah, she has that arrive.

Me: I work as a Billing Analyst for an IT Telco company. I deal with numbers.

Her: Oh, I love Math but that must be a stressful work, dealing with numbers everyday.

Me: Yeah, sort of, but I got used to it. Excel has been my best bud for years.

Then finally my friend showed up, but as instructed to me, I should act like I don't know anyone in the room. I can't help but give her a look and a slight nod as if asking if this girl is the next interviewer but she said no with a crease on her forehead. Ha ha! Ok, good times for a first timer!

My interviewer then called our attention and we proceeded to a big room which was arranged like the ones on talk shows. The set up is admirable, warm feeling, colorful prints and huge pillows on the couch. THIS is IT! There were 6 participants including me and my friend and we introduced ourselves to the panel.

The hosts work for a market research and they would like to hear our interests, opinions and ideas about shopping for clothes. Perfect, I thought. The discussion lasted for two hours and we were randomly called to share our point of views. I'm not sure if you'd also agree but in one of my answers, I told them that when I shop for a particular outfit to wear, say office clothes, there's this store or boutique which leads my feet to check out their latest designs because I know that this brand is known for this line. I also said that visual presentation plays an important role - those catchy clothes on the mannequins paired with trendy shoes and bags, behind those windows, with a good lighting effect inside the store. It represents the brand and the type of market which they cater for.

The host also had Powerpoint presentations to determine deciding factors when shopping for their competing brands, and when asked about their plan to changing their store into a variety of ladies clothes, I said that it's a challenging step, however, being a known brand for this line, I still wish to see their core products displayed and have this feel of wearing their clothes on this new line without sacrificing my self-respect if I choose to wear them at work or after office. I want a trendy, fashionable yet guilt-free clothes that will not incorporate me in this or that age group.

Honestly, this research study was executed very well. They know how to trigger the inner fashionista attitude inside every woman. I'm really happy to be a part of this  productive discussion, and guess what, we were given $$ gift checks for this event. Now, isn't that rewarding?

Freaky Monday

Undeniably a freaky Monday to start my week. Daphne's temperature went up to 37.7 degree celsius. I know it's just a low-fever yet for a first time Mom like me, that could still lead to panic. She woke up before 5am, symptoms like irritable and listlessness showed up. It's difficult to take my arms away from her before I left for work. I really wished I own my time.

I am thankful that my Mom is always there to take care of Daphne, and of course, to guide me on my years of motherhood. Her first-hand knowledge 30 years ago were never obsolete and it's a plus that we can now "google" helpful topics or forums to learn from others experience. Scenarios may be different but tips can be applied either way. I just wish the internet becomes a useful tool for everyone. One click and knowledge is laid upfront. I kept texting Mom and finally received an SMS from her around noon that baby is ok now and that she finished her solids. No bath time for today though. Can't wait to go home!

A friendly reminder for Moms and soon-to-be Moms, always have that medicine or children paracetamol ready to hand. You don't wanna drive at midnight when fever has already worsen. And by all means, do not panic. I am no expert but under any circumstances, that is not applicable.

Before I forget, today's post is also to share that Daphne has turned 8 months old. Though we already had an earlier celebration at home, I still want to get her even just a small cake. If she only knew how much joy she brings to us, these simple gestures couldn't be enough, and for that, I thank the Lord for giving me such an angel. Life really makes sense since we had her.

I'm almost off for work but the hours seemed to be very long. A few more minutes and I'll see the cutest smile on Earth. Patience is a virtue - check!

Last night's dream was hilarious. Of all animals in this planet, why am I being chased with two muddy and healthy pigs? I was even laughing right before I opened my eyes and my heartbeat was so fast, trying to get away from them. I've never been afraid of "porky" but thinking of rabies once they sank in their teeth on my poor legs.. that's just one big OH NO!!!! Silly dream! It felt so real, like I did a minute of sprint around the oval. Ha ha!

Curiosity led me to Google search the meaning of it and here's what I got:


"Pigs are generally smart animals associated with indulgence. Dreaming about pigs is an indication or reinforcement your current success in business life and opportunities. Go pamper yourself with a night out in the town for the overall positive dream of pigs."

Well, should that leave a big smile on me? Let's see in the coming days? *giggles*

Anyway, I'm really still not over with that dream. At least I was able to run there, if not, that could probably turn into a possible nightmare. Big teeth on my legs..I can imagine "Jaws" and its soundtrack. Yikes!

My crown is in my heart, not on my head, nor decked with diamonds andIndian stones, nor to be seen. My crown is called content: A crown it is, that seldom kings enjoy.

 William Shakespeare

And I’m back!!! Gosh, I almost forgot to visit my blog these past weeks! Or had I forgotten that it’s still existing? He he!

Moving to our new place last October 1st took most of my time including weekends. You cannot imagine how our new home looks like. Everything is scattered! From books to clothes to everything! Ha ha! Few more stuff to buy to get them all in proper places. It’s a bit difficult starting from scratch again but I’m really really thankful that we finally took our first leap. I prayed for this and I felt that God has been more than willing to grant it. I guess my eagerness to face total responsibilities paved the way. He felt that I am ready.

I couldn’t contain my excitement whenever I think of home accents and arrangements. Should work overtime to buy them all! Ha ha! But for me, this is an improvement. I’ve finally passed that stage where latest gadgets, and nothing else but gadgets, could only make my eyes flicker! It’s crazy looking back at myself! :)

I’m happy to see that Daphne never had issues adjusting to her new environment. She’s now used to taking the elevator and spending her mornings and afternoons at the clubhouse. I really chose the place because of the amenities - you could sum everything in one package.

So there, I still look forward to extended busy weekends which I will take advantage for our longer family time. Thank you Lord for supporting my plans. I wouldn’t have the courage if I never had faith in you.

There’s another “one big thing” that I’m into at the moment. Still a long way to go but no pressure.

Happy Wednesday everyone!