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9.11.11

Depression Anxiety: Which Causes Which?

About Depression Anxiety


There are people who experience both primary Anxiety Disorder and primary depression. This psychological disorder can be referred to as depression anxiety. Basically, physicians distinguish the various types of depression anxiety based upon information extracted from the patient, the particular symptoms that are present, the medical history of the individual and his or her family, and sometimes the sequence of the symptoms (whether depression or anxiety happens first).


 The doctor’s professional decision on whether anxiety or depression or any other disorder is the primary cause of a patient’s difficulty is known as the differential diagnosis. At times, however, arriving at this differential diagnosis is complicated and may require constant evaluation by means of interviews, laboratory exams, and—sometimes—trials of various treatments appropriate for depression and Anxiety Disorders.


depression anxiety
Feeling anxious and depressed? Talk to someone.
Depression and Anxiety are two inter-related terms. It could either be that the former has precipitated the latter or vice versa. Consequently, depression – anxiety potentiate each other’s negative emotional effect on a person.


 Depression Anxiety View 1: Anxiety Influences Depression


Due to anxiety, plenty of people also develop depression, this particular phenomenon could then result in feelings of self-pity and make the person feel worthless. Feelings of depression arise if anxiety exists because anxiety has a tendency to crush one’s spirit and make one feel emotionally spent. Moreover, one begins to see no chance out from the way he/she thinks and he/she has absolutely nothing to anticipate. Nonetheless, anxiety itself is depressing, and it is usual to get somewhat depressed if anxiety persists too long. Usually, however, sad emotions in anxious people are less intense compared to those found in people whom depression is the major problem. Alleviating primary anxiety often helps mild associated depression as well.

 Depression Anxiety View 2: Depression Causes Anxiety

 Individuals who are depressed usually feel anxious too. In agitated depression, their anxiousness is extreme and may be presented as an inability to sit still, constant pacing, hand wringing, picking at clothing or fingers and nails, lip biting, and tormented facial expressions that convey their inner turmoil. Difficulty making up one’s mind and other indications of anxiety can also emerge with depression.

 Depression Anxiety: Basic Treatment

 The best thing one can do about feelings of depression due to anxiety (or the other way around) is usually to tell him/herself that the feeling is only temporary.
If you are caught in this turmoil, do practice inviting new things into your day, do not let depression rule over. Start taking walks and go for a swim to shake off the undesirable feeling, this can greatly help you divert your attention into another foci. Do not permit yourself to wallow too much in a pool of negative emotions.


Nature and a natural diet  are fantastic mood lifters and they can also relieve feelings of anxiety. Going out for a run or a walk, or taking some daily exercise is better than sitting at home brooding about how depressed you feel. Exercise in itself emits endorphins, which are great for elating the mood, and it can also burn off all those stress chemicals built up during the day.


More importantly, if what you are experiencing has been going on for quite some time - then do not hesitate to ask for help. Seek professional help to assess the current situation, and ask for support from family and friends. Although this situation is but normal, however, when depression anxiety is left untreated, it can result to a more serious detriment to the body.

7.11.11

One Year Free Web-hosting Giveaway!

Free...Free?Ahh, Free!

Does Gellie of the "So Gelleesh" blog possess ESP powers? How did she know I neeeeeed to have a web-hosting site for this (Chopstick Lady) blog I've just recently given birth to? Yeah, I know you're thinking the same thing too! Apparently, I think I'm not the one who needs such free service - that's why I'm sharing the scoop!

So Gelleesh = So Genuine

"So Gelleesh" is one of the blogs that I follow. I like the theme of the blog (beauty and fashion), the simple words that the author uses for her posts, and the fluent and non-exaggerated flow of her style ideas. In other words, I find So Gelleesh a blog that reflects everyday life - the typical events that occur in the life of a NORMAL individual fashionista. I find her blog so true to her personality because Gellie is so bold and straightforward when it comes to her fashion preference. You better check her out.

Free Web Hosting Giveaway

Okay, 'nuff for the praises. Gellie might think I'm giving praises to enhance my winning chances (duh, as if it'll help?Winners win by random). Anyway, I'll write more about So Gelleesh in my future BOTW (Blog of the Week) posts so you can wait for that. As of this time I want you all to focus on her blog giveaway - a free web-hosting for one whole year!




Yes, you read it right. That'll be a www.YOURSITEHERE.com for the next 365 days. Isn't that lovely, bloggers/blogger-wannabes (like me)??? If you're interested in joining this giveaway contest, then don't laze around! Free gifts don't just fall from the sky! Exercise your digits and find your way through So Gelleesh's blog.
 I joined too. Goodluck!

BOTW: Budget Fashionista

BOTW = Blog of the Week


Hello, friends! Meet The Budget Fashionista, a beauty and fashion site that can instantly become your bestfriend!

The Budget Fashionista





Owner: Kathryn Finney


I came across this site when I was scouting for resources for one of my cosmetic entries, the "Yes Girl, Make-ups Expire." Although the site's over-all appearance and format is simple (just a white background and sporadic pictures), my peepers instantly gave it attention because it looks very classy. I think that The Budget Fashionista is a rather gigantic girl-site already (it has a book, by the way) - and so I won't be surprised why this online space is so well-pulled together.

Why you must visit it:

  • Budget Fashionista will teach you how to become beautiful while keeping your wallet intact

  • It is a one-stop place for all things you need to know regarding beauty, fashion, shopping, steals, and deals

  • You'll get the latest scoop about celebrity fashion styles

  • It provides heavenly tips for clueless femmes about using make-up and creating a look

  • You'll be updated about fashion trends - what's hot, and what's not!

  • The page is clean, there aren't too many (or humongous) ads grazing the whole screen

  • It shouts girl power!

The Drawbacks:

  • Deals posted are only for US-based consumers (sigh)

  • It caters more to mature young/old adults - young teens can't relate to some posts that much



Most favorite category: Celebrity Look for Less



chopstick lady blog of the week


Least favorite category: Online Sample Sales



(because I can't avail of it)



chopstick lady blog of the week



Chopstick Lady's Rating: Subscription Magnet



How about you?


[polldaddy poll=5647406]

6.11.11

NaBloPoMo Prompt: When you are writing, do you prefer to use a pen or a computer?

I use both. I guess either a pen or a computer extends a helping hand to a writer. However, each one has its own bull's eye and misses too. For instance, a pen is much more readily available than a computer. It costs nothing to use, spending only the writer's own energy. On the other hand, a computer is a more advanced companion that can serve as your editor too. However, if I will have to choose just one, I'd go for the techie assistant. Yes, the humble pen is a lot mightier in many ways, but can it alert you of a wrong spelling? Let you browse resources? Make you delete without wasting ink? Help you submit a flawless work? I bet not.


Besides, we should all save paper!



How about you, what's your pick?




David Oscarson - Pierrot Pierrette



or



Computer Keyboard




Yes Girl, Make-ups Expire

“Unopened, well-formulated cosmetics can remain stable for a couple of years at room temperature, but the clock starts once you bring a product home and open it. When air hits the formula, certain ingredients start to oxidize and degrade."
-Ni’Kita Wilson, cosmetic chemist, Cosmetech Laboratories, Fairfield, NJ
Even if THAT make-up came with a hefty price tag, you can do nothing but toss it out once it hits the D-line and starts to look like - well, not the way you bought it. Yes, make-ups have expiration dates and you have to be on guard whether what you're using is way past its shelf life.

Lipstick and Lipgloss

Rows of lipstick
Image via Wikipedia

Shelf Life: 1-2 years

Lip talk: Lipsticks contain water, an element that promotes bacterial growth. After two years, you need to throw it out of your purse.

Lipliner



Lipstick used to make a symbolic kiss.
Image via Wikipedia

Shelf Life: 2 years or more

Shape your lips: Lipliners last a little longer because a new, clean surface comes out whenever you sharpen it. Just do take note that you have to sanitize your cosmetic sharpener too before using! 

Face Make-up



Face make


Shelf Life: 6 months (liquid), 2 years (powder)

Retouch: A liquid foundation is more likely to catch germs because of the way it is used. Frequent dipping of your brush or fingers to the foundation transfers bacteria. Aside from cleanliness issues, foundations also become uneven if applied when they're already expired. Powder foundations last longer because they have no water content. However, if the powder contains aloe or jojoba, it becomes hard and crumbles after a long time. Another piece of advice too - use a clean sponge for your powder or cake foundation. 

Eyeliner



2 woodless graphite pencils in plastic sheaths...

 Shelf Life: 3 months (liquid), 6 months (pencil)

Beautiful eyes: Liquid eyeliners are stored in bottles that are dark and wet - the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and multiply. On the other hand, pencil eyeliners (like pencil lipliners) have more shelf life than liquid ones because a new surface comes out whenever you sharpen it.

Eye Shadow

Eye shadow
Image by kurafire via Flickr

Shelf Life: 6 months (cream), 2 years (powder)

Add some color: A powder eye-shadow lasts longer because it contains no water as compared to the cream one. However, if you did wet a powder shadow, you need to toss it out post six months too. Plus, if its shade fades when applied, it's game over. 

Woman applying make-up. Canon 5D Mark II Sigma...
Image via Wikipedia

Mascara

Shelf Life: 3 months

Lengthen your lashes: Just like liquid eyeliners, mascara tubes serve as sanctuaries for bacteria. Cristina Bartolucci (make-up artist) says that to prevent drying-out your mascara fast, don't pump its wand. Instead, draw it out in a twisting motion.

Remind yourself:

With all the work to do and busy life to live, who would care much about remembering a make-up's demise? Keeping track of your make-up's shelf life can be difficult - yet you can always be resourceful. Keep a journal or put a small expiration date label on your cosmetic using a masking tape. If you want, you can be extra creative by printing girly stickers (with the expiration dates) - you're not just doing yourself a favor but you're also prettifying your beauty arsenal! 

If you're the techie kind of gal, you can use the help of technology by using a Cosmetic Calculator. It's a program that reveals the expiration date of a cosmetic using its batch code or lot number.


It's always heart-breaking to throw something you know is precious like your favorite make up. But life's like that. No matter how important a thing is to us, when it's time to let it go - let it go!


Good thing though, when it comes to cosmetics you can always buy a new one or find something better than the one you threw away. Save yourself from all infections, allergies, and skin diseases - know when to throw your make-up, girl!

Don't forget: You can be a Scrooge for items that expire easily, but do invest big in make-ups that last longer. Moreover, do not settle for "extremely cheap" make-ups just for the reason that you're gonna toss it out anyway. Remember, you put make-ups on your FACE - a beautiful one deserves nothing but the best.



Topic source: Good Housekeeping


NaBloPoMo Fever!

Just yesterday, I signed myself into BlogHer's NaBloPoMo (National Blog Posting Month) challenge. It's an event that encourages writers to make a post each day on their blog for one whole month! When I made my yes to this, a giant thought bubble automatically popped out: What the hell was I thinkin'? Posting everyday for one whole month? How the hell can I possibly do that?

Okay, 'nuff with the ranting. It's a voluntary choice actually. Besides, I was thinking that this challenge shall serve as my motivation to really keep my blog alive and poppin' for the whole month of November. And perhaps, if I get used to it I'd probably blog everyday until the following years!

What is NaBloPoMo?


As what I've said, this is an event sponsored by BlogHer where a particular blogger is forced challenged/encouraged to write something on his or her blog for one whole month (In this case, the whole month of November). In a way, it resembles Wordpress' Post a Day/Post a Week challenge.



Hundreds, and even thousands of bloggers join in this event. And what's even meatier about it is that the organizer (BlogHer) spruced the event up by having prizes at stake! Unfortunately, the prizes are for US residents only (sigh).

BlogHer chose the theme: Blogging for Blogging's Sake this November and I think it really suits the season well.

The Difficult Part of NaBloPoMo


As a new blogger (see my post about it), I'm still learning my way through the ins and outs of the whole "blogsphere" and I'm just in the process of testing out my wings, flapping it a little, secretly wishing that I can already fly - so I guess my biggest challenge for this event is the writing itself.

I'm afraid I'm not a consistent writer. I mean, I always do suffer from what they call the "writer's block." My brain and digits don't really synchronize well with each other unless a huge inspiration hits me - and when I say huge, I really mean something HUGE like a) when I've read a really good book and I wanted to make a review out of it, b) when good news knocked on my door, and c) whenever my sleeping creativity awakes.

Good thing though, BlogHer provides NoBloPoMo prompts each day for those writers who can't really think of something to blog about. The questions are really nice and it'll provoke your mind to write.

I'm really having my fingers crossed right now that I can live up to this situation I've gotten myself into. Nevertheless, I guess joining NaBloPoMo is actually a good idea, especially since I'm an aspiring writer.

The Plus Points of Joining NaBloPoMo


There are two good things NaBloPoMo grants to bloggers. One, each blogger will be able to practice his or her writing skills. Second, each blogger will be able to increase his or her site stats because of daily posting.

In many ways, I think NaBloPoMo is a great event for bloggers to showcase themselves, gain friends, read other blogs, improve, and just have fun writing!

If you're interested in joining NaBloPoMo for this December (Sorry, November signing ended up yesterday), you may visit BlogHer and subscribe to their newsletter for updates.

[caption id="attachment_223" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Click the image if you wanna know more about NaBloPoMo"]NaBloPoMo[/caption]

In addition, you can check out the blog entries of NaBloPoMo participants. I'm smiling right now because I just did my first post! One down. How many posts left?

By the way, I'm blogger number 2187 in NaBloPoMo!

2.11.11

How to Make a Lacy Black Top

Transform a plain, simple black spaghetti




into a lacy classic black top!




Today, I'm feeling a little crafty and so I've decided to re-invent my plain, black spaghetti into something elegant and classy - a lacy top! So, are you ready to get creative today? You can do the following invention in just thirty minutes to an hour (even less, if you're fast)!

Things you'll need:


Plain black spaghetti top
scissors
white thread
lace (about 1.5 to 2 inches wide)
basic sewing skills



Let's get started!



  • Make a small fold on the top end of the lace. You may iron it out if you want.


[caption id="attachment_186" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="small fold on top"][/caption]

  • Sew a loose running stitch over the folded area of the lace. Make a small fold on one end of the lace before you start stitching.

    [caption id="attachment_174" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="This is your anchor"][/caption]


[caption id="attachment_200" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Perform a loose (wide-spaced) running stitch"][/caption]

  • After making the running stitch, it's time to create "the waves" - you can simply push the lace to one end (the one where your anchor is).


[caption id="attachment_203" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Push the lace to one side and you create the waves"][/caption]

  • Once you already have your "wavy lace," it's time to transfer it to the top. You should pass the needle and thread from the back of the top to the front and pass it through the "wave" of the lace. See the diagram below.


[caption id="attachment_206" align="aligncenter" width="430" caption="Take note where the needle should insert"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_187" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="This is how your work should look like"][/caption]

  • You should make sure that you've sewn securely the lace to the top. If you're going to take a peek at the back side of the top, it will look like this:




You can hide the white patches (thread) by using a black marker.



Finished product:


Variations:


You may also make multiple lace layers! Just follow the same drill.




[caption id="attachment_189" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Adding a second layer"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_190" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Two-tiered top"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_192" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="If you want, you can go up to three layers! Just don't overdo the ruffles with a fourth one. ;)"][/caption]

Price:


Making this lacy top is quite simple and inexpensive too:


Black plain top - around 50 Php (Greenhills or outfit stores)


Lace - 29 Php per meter (department store)


thread, needle, scissors - just borrow your mother's


basic sewing skills - costs only your time of learning it



Strut your lacy top!


Laces and ruffles always create an impression of girly-ness, elegance, and class in any piece of wardrobe. If you feel like you wanna turn something drab to fab, just get your creative juices flowing!

[caption id="attachment_207" align="aligncenter" width="181" caption="Lady-like!"][/caption]

*Yehay! It's my first tutorial! Sorry for the blurry snaps, I just used an iphone.

Depression and Alcohol - How are They Related?



[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="240" caption="Image by Lynda Giddens via Flickr"]Alcohol![/caption]


Depression and alcohola mood disorder and an addictive substance – these two things are always linked together. There are many accounts and statements, which point to the idea that alcohol leads to depression and depression, on the other hand, also intensifies alcoholism. However, the big question is, how did these two things really get related? The following statements briefly discuss the connections between the two.


 

Depression and Alcohol – a Dangerous Combination


One of the principal reasons why depression and alcohol are closely associated with each other is that the two complement one another in creating one vicious scenario – suicide.

Alcohol causes a person to lose his or her inhibitions. A person under alcoholic influence becomes aggressive and is capable of doing violent acts. If, by any chance, that person has depression and is contemplating of committing suicide, alcohol might just be the “push” that he or she needs before the plan is transformed into an action.

Suicide is a fatal decision, and depressed and alcoholic individuals who are at their wit’s end do not recognize that what they are about to do is against moral and societal virtues. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, an organization committed to the prevention of suicide, more than 60% of individuals who died by suicide have suffered from major depression. In addition, 30% of all completed suicides have alcohol as one of the factors that influenced the successful performance of the brutal act. Evidently, alcoholism and depression increases the risk for suicide of an individual suffering from depression.

Depression and Alcohol Lead to Bigger Problems


Depression and Alcohol produce an additive effect; both greatly increase each other’s negative outcome. For instance, a depressed person who takes alcohol becomes more depressed because alcohol is a depressant if taken in large amounts. The same is true with alcoholics; the more they depend on alcohol, the more chances that they’ll end up being depressed.

Considering this additive effect, depression and alcohol then can also lead to several other serious problems such as physical health problems, decrease in work performance, social isolation, relationship issues, family problems, anxiety, emotional instabilities, and sleep disturbances.

Depression and Alcohol Treatment: A Call to Action


The treatment for Depression and Alcohol problems is a combination of different treatment modalities, which all require some degree of cooperation and support to become successful. Depression symptoms can be addressed properly by using therapeutic drugs (primarily antidepressants) and psychological assistance such as counseling, behavioral, and cognitive therapies.

On the other hand, alcoholism or alcohol dependence can be managed through physical detoxification and by using invaluable human resources such as asking the help of a counselor, a good friend, or a trusted family member. Joining Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is also a very promising option.

Depressed alcoholics should bear in mind that treating their abnormal mood state and excessive compulsion to drink alcohol would need a great deal of sacrifice. Nevertheless, the first and foremost step in achieving freedom from Depression and Alcohol is actually acknowledging that a problem in relation to this actually exists.

The moment that the afflicted person acknowledges his or her vulnerability - it makes the treatment process of eradicating depression and alcohol a lot easier.

Related articles

Why Depression?



[caption id="" align="alignright" width="180" caption="Image via Wikipedia"]Depression[/caption]


As a nurse, I feel like I have a strong commitment to inform the public about this thing called depression. Although my blog is mostly about girly stuffs and the like, I figured it wouldn't hurt if I butt-in a couple or so articles about "serious health matter"s from time to time.

Today, I feel like writing something about depression.


Depression is not just something that you can shrug off. Whether you are aware of it or not, this condition is actually prevalent in your surroundings. You never know, perhaps your family member, friend, or neighbor is already experiencing this (and if they really are, then you must be on your guard since depression can lead to suicide).

So, what's depression?

Being down and feeling blue at times (especially when something bad just happened) is just normal throughout the life of an individual. Normally, you will just get past that feeling after a week or so. However, if you have depression, your feelings of loneliness and abandonment can extend for up to two weeks or more.

Psychologists diagnose depression according to the symptoms the patient displays which are already manifesting for more than two weeks. These symptoms may be either of the following:

  • disturbed sleep pattern (either you sleep more or sleep less)

  • disturbed eating (either you eat more or eat less)

  • feeling sad

  • anhedonia (you don't find your usual hobbies or activities pleasurable anymore)

  • Anergia (loss of energy)

  • Physical symptoms like hyperacidity

  • loss of libido


There are a lot more symptoms related to depression, but these things I've mentioned are the most common ones.

There are several factors believed to be the causes of depression - it can be severe life changes or experiences, genetics, biological factors (the play of hormones in your body) and sometimes even your lifestyle.

Help someone with depression


If you know someone with this kind of dilemma, don't hesitate to offer your presence. You don't have to necessarily give solution to that person's problems if he or she has one, neither make fun of yourself just to make him or her smile. All you need to do is to be his or her friend during that difficult time. And also, be alert for signs of suicide. If you can, then you may refer your friend to a psychologist - this is perhaps the best way you can be of help.

About Postpartum Depression

 

 


[caption id="" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Image via Wikipedia"]Breastfeeding offers benefits for both mother ...[/caption]


Postpartum Depression (PPD, Postpartum psychosis) is a type of depressive disorder that affects a number of mothers after giving birth. The intensity of this depression ranges from moderate to severe. It can occur very soon after the delivery, most likely within the first three months, or it can develop after some time, say, after a year.

What Causes Postpartum Depression?

Normally, pregnant women do experience mood changes during pregnancy, a situation closely related to hormonal level changes in response to the needs of the growing fetus. Shortly after delivery, approximately one of two weeks, women may experience certain feelings of irritation, anxiety, restlessness, tearfulness, and the feeling of being abandoned. This kind of emotional shift, in itself, is also considered normal and is even termed as postpartum blues or baby blues.

This normal “baby blues” may deteriorate into postpartum depression if these down and sad feelings do not go away or when the mother starts to exhibit early manifestations of depression.

The exact cause of postpartum depression then may not be solely attributed to hormonal changes or the sudden addition of a new role (parenthood), the cause of postpartum depression may be attributed to several factors that present the risks for this type of condition to develop.

The following can increase the chances of developing postpartum depression:

- Maternal age of below 20

- Alcohol and other illegal substances abuse

- Presence of certain mental disorders before the actual pregnancy (bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder)

- Family history of depression

- Single motherhood due to divorce or separation

- Financial problems

- Lack of support system

- Stressful events prior of during the delivery (death of a loved one, illness in the family, premature delivery, birth defects and death of the baby)

What are the Symptoms of Postpartum Depression?

The symptoms of Postpartum Depression are the same as with the general symptoms exhibited by depression, but with additional manifestations. The following are the symptoms of Postpartum Depression:

The symptoms of Postpartum Depression are the same as with the general symptoms exhibited by depression, but with additional manifestations. The following are the symptoms of Postpartum Depression:

- Feelings of worthlessness, helplessness or hopelessness

- Change in appetite, either eating more or eating less than the usual

- Isolation

- Irritability or agitation

- Anhedonia (lack of interest or pleasure in doing most or all kinds of activities)

- Anergia (loss of energy)

- Loss of concentration

- Poor work performance

- Feeling of being abandoned by family members and significant other

- Negative feelings directed to the baby (thoughts of harming the baby)

- Anxiety

- Sleeping problems

- Thinking of suicide

- Neglect of the baby

- Being afraid to be alone with the baby

- Have little interest in the baby

Postpartum Depression is diagnosed using a series of tests and observation. The doctor may use a Postnatal Depression Scale questionnaire to signs and potential risks of depression in the patient. Results of medical tests such as a blood test may rule out depression and give the impression that the unfavorable feelings were due to an underlying disease process and not entirely a symptom of depression.

How is Postpartum Depression treated?

The treatment of Postpartum Depression involves the use of pharmacotherapy (medications) or psychotherapy (counseling, behavioral and cognitive therapies). In other cases, the two methods are used together.

A woman diagnosed of Postpartum depression is placed under security observation for at least six months. Aside from the standard treatment modalities, managing depression also needs the support of family members and significant others.

If Postpartum Depression is screened early and the proper management is promptly applied, its symptoms are highly manageable and treatable. On the other hand, although the prognosis of postpartum depression is good, the best option is still prevention of this condition through establishing a strong support system.

30.10.11

Fashion Blog Finds

Today, I did some blog-searching over the net to find inspiration from other bloggers and to just sneak around in their world. I've found blogs that are REALLY so fabulous and adorable I couldn't help but get jealous! If my blog is compared to theirs, mine will be like a tiny seed and theirs will be like a tall, sturdy, tree already!

I'm not really into fashion, but  I really adore these blogs that I came across with.

Camille Tries to Blog


I don't know if it's just me or Camille is just one hot Siren blogger!

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="169" caption="Camille, owner of Camille Tries to Blog"][/caption]

Her blog is really "high-fashion." She posts about her latest fash activities and ultra-feminine looks. I'm not really a trend guru but if I can rate her style I'd label it as classy and glamorous. Check out her blog giveaways too - super expensive items! I just sooooo wish my blog can be like hers someday!






Female Network


[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="226" caption="Female Network, the site for online Filipinas"][/caption]

Actually, Female Network is not just a blog - it is a site sponsored by Summit Media (the leading publisher of popular Philippine magazines). I definitely love this site. It's very informative, girly, and fun to read! It has categories of almost all things that interest girls like fashion, beauty, relationships, etc. It offers tips from simply taking care of your body to repairing a broken relationship. And what I really adore about this site are the freebies and contests! Seriously, I can spend the whole day reading posts in this online network. If you are a smart gal, then you'd really love this!

I ultimately like one of the site's posts about single women. You can check out the link and read the post about songs that reveal the power of being single.

Bookmarked


Don't give me that look - I know this one is not a fashion blog, but I just think it deserves to be in my list here today. This blog is all about books. It is owned and managed solely by Blooey Singson , a self-confessed book addict who claims to hoard tons of books wherein she can almost make a house out of it.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="960" caption="Click image to visit the site"][/caption]


I know there are gazillions more blogs out there which are just sitting pretty in the nooks and crannies of the Internet (like what Chopstick Lady is doing). I know I wouldn't be able to explore everything - but taking a peak from time to time of what bloggers before me are doing with their blog gives me the inspiration to just continue my writing interest.

If you've got blogs to share, do give me a quick message!

That's it - till next blog-spotting!

Note: All pictures used in this post belong to the blog owners. A direct link to their site is available upon clicking the photo.

The BIG Move

 


[caption id="" align="alignright" width="221" caption="Image via Wikipedia"]Blogs on JoopeA[/caption]


Chopstick Lady is perhaps my nth attempt to really maintain an online space where I can share my interests and rant about anything in my life. Since the great volcano of blogging erupted, I found myself attracted to the lava and ashes that having a blog grants to an aspiring writer. However, I'm always having a hard time maintaining a blog, especially since I have a lot of interests and I'm a slacker sometimes. Good thing, I decided to put up Chopstick Lady and declared to myself that from now on I'm going to place all the things I want to write about in this small space. Well, goodluck to me and I hope this blog is for good!

Moved items: these posts are from my previous blogs

First and Final WP Blog (Or so I thought)

The Story Behind “My-Then” Blog

Fighting for Literature Amidst A Sea of Trash

Book Review: The Broker by John Grisham

 

 

Do check out my related links below. If you are experiencing the same blogging issue as mine, perhaps you can get some inspiration from these posts about seriously keeping an online journal or blog.

Please share!



 

8.10.11

First and Final WP Blog (Or so I thought)



[caption id="" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Image via Wikipedia"]The logo of the blogging software WordPress.[/caption]


Note: C'mon, yet another forgotten blog? This is another of my past blogs that I'm now moving in here. Read my words, I just ate them all up! lol
This is it. Yes, precisely the last and final blog that I swore to myself I will ever make – at least until Worpress lasts.

I’ve created two other blogs in WordPress already, and two more from other sites but they were all shaken into nothing because I’m just so downright “slob-ish” to update any of them.

My first blog was supposed to be a guide about “freelance writing” as this happens to be my work. But I was too busy with my freelance work that I couldn’t even give a second of my time to update the poor little, deserted, spacious site.

Secondly, I created another blog entitled “I love Classic Books” dedicated to my love for – I’ve named it – classic books. I promised to myself that I will update it weekly and that I’ll never let it wither unlike the sad predicament that my previous site embraced. Unfortunately, I am one freakish liar to myself and so again my little I-love-classic-books site turned into where’s-your-classic-book site drama.

But then, let bygones be over. Right now, I am quite positive (fingers crossed) that I will stick to my words and dare live up to my promises that this “My Favorites” BLOG will survive – at least even for a year!

So what’s the catch with this site then? I’m planning to make this a bit of a drop box of all my favorite pieces in the world. Perhaps largely about classic books and what I have on my bedside table, a little about the products I use, and a fair amount of what’s on my mind.

I hope this works – because I really love to blog about things but time is one arrogant master, it’s so frugal to me . . . But it seems like I am on the guilty side of things, actually.

1.10.11

The Story Behind "My-Then" Blog

Note: This post is from my old blog - iloveclassicbooks. I'm making a move here in my new blog though but I do wish to share this story about why I came up with that blog before.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="311" caption="Photo source: www.artsjournal.com"][/caption]

"Books. . . What for?"

Never will I forget this line from one of our recited poems back in fifth grade - back from the time when the Internet was still flourishing, when our minds are swept by words bound on books and not on mere computer screens, when our eyes get so excited to read another installment of Sweet Valley High and not from some cheap teen-age shows that don't even add up to one's vocabulary and back when books have been more essential than reading fashion magazines. Where were those days?

Indeed, my time is through - but the passion that I have for books will always haunt me till this very day.

Confessions

I am not an avid reader. I must say, that though I love books - I have read roughly just quite a few. But I am a self-confessed classic books fan. I love to read books that lived years before me, thrived centuries ago, and were known to men for ages. I don't know what mystique lies within these kinds of books - but I must say, that I am clearly smitten.

Favorite Book

Among the classics that I will really love is a book I've read in high school written by Harper Lee, and which, by the way, is the only book she's written; "To Kill A Mocking Bird". I remember reading it for the sake of passing my book report. But eventually, I've realized, that I loved the whole story and writing something about my experience upon reading it was magical. I never really did a book report for the sake of passing my requirements, I made the report because I want to write in words the feelings that I felt after reading the piece - and until now, the report is still with me, and all the preserved feelings are still there kept in each word I've written.


[caption id="" align="alignright" width="271" caption="Image via Wikipedia"]To Kill a Mockingbird[/caption]


Neglected Passion

Though I love classic books, there came a time when I was too busy --- and I never read any book for how many years. . . . Until one day, I came across a book sale.

Revived

I searched through piles of books in one of the book sales of a prestigious bookstore here in our country. I found one that caught my attention. I didn't really paid enough credit for the title, as it says "Don't Know Much About Literature". For me it was like, "Yeah, no big deal." But when I opened the contents, I was automatically caught by it - it's all about classic books. I checked the price and saw that it costs only P50, maybe roughly 1.19 USD. I bought the book. And started reading it.... Then I realized, I miss reading. And so I kind of made a resolution to myself that I will change my long-forgotten wordpress blog into something useful. . . Something that will make me constantly thrilled to pursue my passion, and here it is. Here I am, determined to write about classic books!

Perhaps

Perhaps one day I might get too busy again that I will fall short of the resolution I've made now. Maybe I'll even find other book "genres" that I will like. . . . But one thing's for sure - once a classic, will always be a classic. Wink.

Fighting for Literature Amidst A Sea of Trash



[caption id="" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Image via Wikipedia"]Steacie Science and Engineering Library at Yor...[/caption]


Just a simple piece of what's inside my mind right now - "If I ask a sixth grade about who Carlos P. Romulo is, will he/she give out a sensible answer?"

During these days it seems as if children, or should I say - the younger generation, is quite so much amused with the liberal flow of information that hugs them in this new age of the great Internet.

I noticed that my fifth-grade niece would answer her assignments using 'Google" instead of the encyclopedia. Well, basically, I can't blame her. The .001216567 seconds that it would take for her to get an answer from the big G is of a large difference as compared to the perhaps 2-3 hours (of searching through piles of pages) that using the encyclopedia snatches off from her time.

Perhaps Google is indeed, the universal encyclopedia now. . . And I'm guilty of using this tool too. But I am quite alarmed at how children nowadays deliberately depend on everything regarding their research and school-works to the Internet.

I mean, yeah, the web is much faster as typing and clicking will take just about a fraction of a second to accomplish while scanning and eye-searching will take about an hour or so - BUT - there is actually more danger in using the Internet as a source for academic projects than using books.

Information in the Internet can just go in and out. Whatever info that's glued on a web-page is not actually screened by ANY particular body or organization. Using the Internet as a source of information is solely upon the discretion of the user. The user is the one responsible to "filter" any information that he/she may snatch up from the Internet as either true or not, reliable or just downright fabricated. The thing is, children are also USERS of the Internet, but they don't have the proper skills yet to decipher whether something is indeed significant or trash.

In this particular sense, parents really do have to perform a very important role. I really do suggest that parents should supervise their children in terms of using the Internet.

And as much as possible, children, in their primary stages of education should USE published books. Books are really reliable as these printed papers have gone through a lot of editing before being published.

In addition to this, I think that children should be introduced more to classic books rather than to vampire stories and adult novels.

Gosh, do these kids even know how to locate books in the library? Use the Dewey Decimal System? Use library cards? Or do they even have one?

Just a final note: What will happen to the future of literature, if the world's REAL hope for the future don't even appreciate it?

Book Review: The Broker by John Grisham

The Broker

Author: John Grisham

Released: January 11, 2005

I am not particularly a John Grisham fan. In fact, out of all his books, I have read only his "The Client" and "The Broker".

One thing that's very familiar with John Grisham's books is that all of them almost have the same first word in the title - "The". Example: The Summons, The Rainmaker, The Street Lawyer, The Brethren, The Firm, etc.

I don't know if it is one of his creative writing styles but I find it really redundant. Anyway, as far as I know John Grisham is a lawyer.

Now, so much for that short intro about the author. Let's get down to the main scoop of this post - a review of his work entitled - The Broker.

First Impressions

I never really intended to read this book. But, out of boredom, I simply managed to sneak through my aspiring-lawyer-brother's room and searched for a good read. My brother has lots of books, and I could tell that he reads those. But this one, a soft-bound, green-colored book stole my attention. He didn't read it! Well, I haven't really noticed it enough and I thought that he had read it, but the cover seems to be so "new". I got intrigued and I simply grabbed it and walked out of his room, now holding a "The Broker" book.

Plot

Note: Seriously, I hate laying out any plot. This is one part of a book review that I really dislike. I hate naming characters, sequencing what happens next, etc. etc. . . .

So, to make the story short, I will be very brief about the plot. Besides, what's the use of revealing everything out? I'd be killing the suspense. Go read the book and find out the whole story.

Truth be told, at first read - I never could understand the plot. The story starts in the oval office of a US President who is about to leave his position as a new one was recently elected. Then this President, along with his adviser and a CIA officer, decided to pardon Joel Backman. Joel is the principal character.

So how did the story go?

In a nutshell, the whole plot goes like this - - - (And this will be very, very, very brief..)

Joel Backman was pardoned by the president after being imprisoned for being involved in an issue which compromises the country's security. Joel Backman tried to sell an espionage software which is so much powerful and dangerous.

After being pardoned, he was deported to Italy where he struggled to adapt with the culture and learn the language. What Joel didn't know was that the CIA chief influenced the President to pardon him to see who kills him. In short, the CIA used Joel as a bait to find out who built the powerful espionage software involved.

To cut the long story short, Joel managed to survive and go back to his hometown and - of course, fix everything.

(Yeah, I know the way I presented the plot sucks - but I'm really not into summarizing everything, so please bear with me.) See wikipedia for the plot.

My Review:

Personally, I didn't like the book so much. The story was quite dragging for me. Almost half of the whole story only talked about how Joel managed to survive living in a foreign country (Italy) as a normal person whereas back home (US), he is someone powerful.

The love story part was not even highlighted that much. Perhaps Atty. Grisham isn't really into these kind of stuffs.

I read the pages as fast as I could because there was no excitement or whatsoever. Everyday in Joel Backman's life in Italy seemed to be so monotonous and boring.

However, upon reaching the last few chapters of the book - probably about one-fourth of the whole story - everything twisted. I loved the chase and disguise. Joel struggled to flee from his "handlers" and he was able to come back home in one piece.

Towards the end of the story, I got a little bit of an adrenaline rush - thinking of whether Joel will die or not. Did he die? It's for you to find out.

Unfortunately, the end of the story didn't really make me so much happy, but at the same time it also didn't make me so sad. In short, it was a so-so.

Perhaps a 3.5 out of 5 stars will do.

Moral:

One thing I've noticed; the moral of the story wasn't really evident. But upon reflecting about what happened to the life of Joel Backman, I've realized the subtle clues behind the story - that fame, money, and fortune aren't worth the price of family and freedom.

I want to hear your thoughts too. Answer my poll and leave some comments.

[polldaddy poll=5089315]

Oh, by the way, this title landed on the number one spot in the New York Times Bestseller list. At least, it topped the charts.

Books Aren't Just for Nerds

Have a craving for words?


Not everyone may be a bookworm, yet it will definitely not hurt if once in a while you drown yourself over literature's treasures rather than advancing another level on a video game.

Books are very important. Education never existed if it weren't for the written accounts of great men before us. Civilizations never flourished. Histories would have been forgotten. (Okay, I know you get the point, I don't have to push it.)

So if it happens that you don't LIKE books or even reading, it's about time to think twice. Although you don't have to make a major major change from who you are to a major major book nerd - you can at least read even just a couple of good books out there.

Printed or not? 


Although technology  has more or less substituted books with kindles and laptops, published contents are classics that couldn't be replaced no matter what. The advent of kindles nowadays has again revolutionized how people read and appreciate literary works and written contents. Well I don't have any problem with kindles, it's just that - I like reading more when I'm holding a book. For me, published materials are still better finds than contents flashed on a screen - plus, I hate getting dry eyes!

Book me up!


Truth be told, I'm not really a book-eater, bookworm, or whatever you call a person who reads a lot he can't even take a shower; I'm just a person who appreciates reading literary works and books about personality development. If you're like me, then perhaps you'll love to browse through my Books Category.

We read to learn. . . So learn to read!




30.9.11

My Whole Life in Sentences

Right now, I was inspired by Wordpress to answer these three questions:


I am actually sleepy already after having finished my previous entry of a thousand words and above. But then, something in these questions really perked me up and gave me an instant boost to make another post.

Hmmmmmm. . . . . Miss Universe-type of questions?


Let's pretend I am a Miss Universe candidate who should answer the question:

Would you rather have one free trip to space or free international travel for life? . . .


What would my answer be?

Here it goes. . .
I'd rather have  the free international travel for life than the one free trip to space because I believe that the Earth, our home, is such a wonderful, beautiful, and amazing place - and not even a whole lifetime is enough for me to explore it.

(Then. . . . . . . .  I ranked fourth!) - Just kidding! wink

Now here's the second question:

Cake or Pie?


Cake. There are more cake varieties than pie. Plus, I think it's more "high-class" to eat cake in a restaurant rather than swallow a big chunk of pie in a picnic.

- And for the one I really like -


Write one sentence that summarizes each year of your life so far.


Okay, this one's very exciting, but very hard to do. I mean, I'm not even aware what my life was when I was 2 years old! But since this is some sort of a challenge, I'd gladly take it.

Year:

  1. My infancy period began on the 21st of November, 1988 and all I did was eat, sleep, poop, and grow up!

  2. I'm not sure of I really know how to distinguish myself from the world during this year.

  3. Fringster starts to say her first word - "Momma, big!"

  4. I started nursery!

  5. Kinder days with my best friend - Conrad were so memorable!

  6. School, play, eat, sleep - I don't care what happens to the world!

  7. A year where I've found an enemy (I got bullied) but then I also found a bestfriend (Alexis)!

  8. All my days sort-of revolved with school and my crush.

  9.  I was a teacher's pet, I guess?

  10. Finally, I started being serious with my studies!

  11. Those were 12 months of fun, laughter, acting, and craziness with my Grade 5 classmates!

  12. Being a grade 6 wisdom student, life was a blast.

  13. Saw my first love and became a flirt (lol).

  14. Sophomore days: A mixture of fun and heartaches! =(

  15. It's the time I've handled a lot of LOVE issues.

  16. This year was where my life as a high school student in all aspects was at its fullest ('Guess highschool never ends!)

  17. I've just realized that college is a jungle and even your one true love can leave you.

  18. The year of rest and changes!

  19. I was culture-shocked after transferring to another school but I've handled it well as a LADY.

  20. My last year of being a teen (twen-teen...duh!) was spent always daydreaming about my crush (who ignored my existence) while trying to direct my attention to the Nursing topic of my teacher at the same time.

  21. SNA and Nursing are the only two words I know of during this year.

  22. This was the sickest, toughest, most painful year of my life where everything and everyone and every decision I've made just never fitted well on the picture - this was when my whole life crumbled but thankfully, was also brought back to life with the grace of Jesus.

  23. ... Still coming up this November 21, 2011 - so far, everything seems to be in place again.