myturtleneck: documenting inspiration

giveaway on my new blog!

2010-06-21T11:46:00.000-04:00

Please check it out and enter to win: http://myturtleneck.com/blog/2010/6/21/i-lego-ny-a-fabulous-gselect-giveaway.html

my blog has moved!

2010-06-01T03:33:00.002-04:00

Please find my blog here going forward. All of my previous post have also been moved :) See you on the other side!

it's official : summer 2010

2010-05-28T13:40:00.005-04:00

I'm looking forward to a leisurely (official) start to the summer. Time to break out your summer whites. Just don't caught sans umbrella in a sudden rainstorm – wear pretty underpants just to be sure ;)

Happy long weekend!

you know sometimes...

2010-05-27T12:31:00.003-04:00

I saw this humourous painting at the AAF a couple of weeks ago. I love it. I have tried to remember the name of the artist and I have been unsuccessful. Do you recognize this piece? If so, do share :)

inspired at madame geneva

2010-05-26T11:04:00.005-04:00

I attended a good friend's going away party at Madame Geneva a couple of weeks ago. It was another instance where I thought: "How did I not know about this place?!?" It is a gorgeous bar. It's adjacent to and is by the people behind Double Crown next door. I believe both are designed and owned by AvroKo, the company behind Public. It's small, dark, cavernous and sexy. The kind of place you could imagine trysts would be happening at all hours of the night and any day of the week. The crowd did not look too young (a plus for me). I also love a bar with a good bar menu. This one is colonial Asian inspired and well done. I particularly liked the duck steamed buns (they are more like rolls). They were so delicious. As I sipped cocktails, devoured steamed buns and chatted with friends that night, I realized that I just found a new favourite spot.

Click on photos to see source

portrait at the barbershop

2010-05-24T11:53:00.004-04:00

I took a blog break last week to spend time with my dad. He was visiting New York, New Jersey and Toronto from Manila. I asked my sister Caroline to take some portraits of him. It had been a while since either one of us took proper portraits of him. I was excited about what she would come up with given all the recent family photo restorations that I've been working on as well as conversations about family history.

During his visit to Toronto, my sisters took my dad to Mankind – a spa and barbershop just for men. I must mention that my dad is no stranger to spa treatments. He's what we might refer to nowadays as "metrosexual." Only I remember him getting facials back in the late 70s and 80s – long before the term was coined and before I really understood what facials were all about. All I knew is it was a form of grooming for the face.

I really love this portrait Caroline took. It was shot exclusively with natural light (which is totally amazing to me). My dad looks like he's part of the mob here (yet again!). The photo looks very cinematic. He looks quite intimidating and sombre here. Ironically, he's usually more of a jokester but you'd never know it looking at this photo.

a break from my routine

2010-05-17T13:20:00.002-04:00

I'm taking a blog break this week to hang out with my dad who is visiting from Manila. The weather is so lovely in New York. We're heading out shortly to take it in. I hope you have a great week!

the last of the waterfall necklace : spring/summer 2010

2010-05-14T09:57:00.005-04:00

I have below, the final waterfall necklaces this spring/summer season. I can't guarantee that I'll be getting more of these in the future. The colors I have available are the only ones shown here (quantities also indicated below). I wasn't able to get other requested colors following my previous post, unfortunately.

8-layer necklace: $50

2 - red

1 - black

3-layer necklace: $35

1 - red

1 - orange

1 - gold

tribal necklace with bells: $35

(I have a few of these)

I accept cash or Paypal only and can ship anywhere. First come, first served.

porcelain promises : drew tal

2010-05-13T10:21:00.004-04:00

The first time I came across these photographs, I was walking somewhere in Manhattan a couple of weeks or so ago. I remembered having to literally stop and stare. They are stunning (and large) images by artist Drew Tal. Last week at the AAF, I came across them again in the Emmanuel Fremin Gallery booth. I have little information about the artist and the intent behind these photos. But to me they speak of history in terms of it's fragile and precious nature and a desire to hold on to it. I see them, of course, as someone of two cultures and viewing both in high regard – and an earnest desire to not lose one for the sake of another.

a reincarnation : limelight marketplace

2010-05-12T12:56:00.004-04:00

Opening day at the reincarnated Limelight Marketplace seemed quite successful. I must point out that this piece of architecture, formerly a church, has gone through many lifetimes and identities. It's been several nightclubs/performance spaces – which has had, at times, a very dark history. Overall, I like what they've done with the space. Some of the retailers beautiful and interesting, some not so much. It's a tight space which is also maze-like in some corners. There are three levels and no elevators. We helped one of our clients set up the store and design print and press material (that's for another blog for a different day). It'll be interesting to see how it fares. The opening of Grimaldi's Pizza will be a welcome addition to the neighbourhood (and to Manhattan).

inspired landscapes : mikael lafontan

2010-05-11T17:18:00.004-04:00

I was so taken by the work of French photographer, Mikael Lafontan at the Affordable Art Fair last week. His photos, primarily landscapes were large scale and possessed very high detail (using a large format camera). The mural like scale allows the viewer to appreciate all the tiny, sharp little details in the photographs. Breathtaking.

Check out his website to see more. Click on the photos to see enlarged versions.

a woman and the boss

2010-05-10T12:52:00.006-04:00

My sister Caroline sent me this photograph last night of my sister Christine walking in Toronto with my dad. it had to be posted. My dad is currently visiting both our cities and family visits typically involve lot of photography. This one is just timeless. I love how womanly my youngest sister looks (she's nine years younger than me). My dad looks mafioso-like here. Where are they going? Is my sister packing a gun in that clutch? Is she being held against her will with a gun pointed at her back? This photo could have been taken in the 60s — if it weren't for the parka my dad is wearing (as well as the parked car).

inspired landscapes and light : artist dan gualdoni

2010-05-10T10:54:00.004-04:00

These beautiful, monochromatic paintings are the work of artist Dan Gualdoni. I came across his work at this weekend's Affordable Art Fair (which as it turns out, isn't necessarily very affordable). Apparently, these paintings are done using printer's inks. I love these minimalist, sombre landscapes. I love the light quality and translucency in them. I'm drawn to the beautiful – almost urban – colour palettes. The paintings are all entitled "Fata Morgana" (and then numbered) which means 'mirage' in Italian. I appreciate seeing the loose, broad strokes. There's enough abstraction in each one which allows the viewer to create a personal interpretation. Nothing about these paintings feel overworked. I'm truly mesmerized.

mom style

2010-05-08T17:04:00.004-04:00

I recently took on the task of meticulously restoring old family photos, most of which have been damaged over the years. This portrait of my mother in the early 70s was no exception. It was drawn by my aunt Amelia (Mel) in pencil/charcoal. She definitely captured the likeness and essence of my mom here. I thought it would be a perfect homage to my mom for Mother's Day. I mean, how chic is her haircut? I must mention, too, that my mom ran a clothing company for women and children when I was young. She loved dressing us. My sister Caroline and I (before my youngest sister was born) were often her models (and fit models).

So for the woman who dressed me early in life, kicking off a lifelong love of clothes and fashion, Happy Mother's Day!

I don't see my mom too often since she lives in Manila. I love and miss her.

Happy Mother's Day to all moms out there :)

hot in red hook

2010-05-07T10:52:00.006-04:00

Last Saturday, I joined my friend Dave Pinter for opening day of the Red Hook Food Truck extravaganza. I had been hearing about the trucks for a few years but had yet to try. It was worth the wait (and the walk). So food trucks lined the street corner around Red Hook Park serving all manner of latin food. It cost $5 for this huge (and very tasty) beef huarache and $3 for fresh watermelon juice. There are picnic tables that line the edge of the park too, so you can enjoy the food like civilized human beings.

The day turned into an epic walk through Red Hook, Ikea and the waterfront. Lovely and quiet with a great view of, well, everything: Manhattan, Staten Island and New Jersey.

Go check it out. Tomorrow.

the (badass) juice truck

Dave's pork huarache and tamarind juice (so GOOD)

the incredible shrimp ceviche – I can still taste it, yum

heat supply

inspired (calamansi) cocktail : temptation island

2010-05-06T10:35:00.008-04:00

My aunt sent me home from New Jersey this weekend with calamansi fruits. I was thrilled just to get a whiff of it. I was so excited to bring some home with me. Calamansi is a small citrus fruit native to the Philppines and other south east Asian countries. It's the Philippine lemon, a citrus fruit. I'm more acquainted with the variety with the green skin but these smell and taste just like the green ones. If I were to describe the flavour and smell, it's as though honey was already mixed into the fruit. It is less acidic, milder than lemon. I love this stuff. I hope I can find more in Chinatown somewhere.

I was inspired to create a summery cocktail drink using calamansi – my first ever cocktail recipe. It's called Temptation Island. The name was suggested by my sister Caroline. She sent me a YouTube link for a 1980 cult Filipino film with the same name. Think LOST meets a telanovella – complete with catty girl fights on the beach, pretty boys and flamboyant gay men in tight pants . All spoken in taglish (tagalog and english hybrid) and shot on location on a "deserted" island. Hilarious. It was perfect. I kept the recipe simple to really allow the calamansi flavour to be the star. It's seriously delicious and refreshing. The perfect summer cocktail.

Temptation Island

1 oz. (or more) cold sake: try Otokoyama

fresh squeezed calamansi, about 3 fruits per cocktail glass, plus one more to garnish

1 teaspoon organic coconut sugar* (cane sugar as an alternative)

seltzer water

ice cubes

Shaken or stirred

*organic coconut sugar (photo below) is made from coconut toddy. My mom sent it to me. I'm finding out if it's available in the U.S/Canada

in a garden state

2010-05-05T12:14:00.006-04:00

It was great to spend time with my dad this weekend. He's visiting from Manila where he and my mom live. I came to stay at my uncle's house in New Jersey where my dad is staying. The charmless shopping mall and car culture of suburbia aside (not really my style), the "garden state" of New Jersey did have so much lush beauty to offer. Behind the cul-de-sac of monster homes was a small farm. I was enamored with the scenery and had to take photos. It was also heaven for Lexie to walk around without her leash and with her new best friend, sweet little Bella (my aunt and uncle's jack russell). The late afternoon sun broke through just after a whole day of rain and all the color came alive.

yanatiba in my 'hood

2010-04-30T13:12:00.003-04:00

I was pleased to discover this cute new vintage furniture, clothing and jewelry shop open in my neighbourhood. It's called Yanatiba. The store has 2 floors of endless little things to look at. I'm looking forward to exploring it some more. I'm all for small local businesses in Brooklyn. it's about time more shops like these crop up in my part of town. It's infinitely more interesting and charming than just another monster chain store.

Yanatiba

714 Washington Ave.

Brooklyn, NY 11238

All photos by myturtleneck

rewarding cuteness part 2

2010-04-29T11:17:00.003-04:00

This video illustrates why Lexie brings me smile (and laugh) everyday. She also brings out my high pitched "dog voice" (if you've ever had a dog, you will understand). She might be the custest dog on the face of this earth.

a fresh perspective

2010-04-28T10:08:00.004-04:00

During my juice and smoothie cleanse, I've been trying to focus on fruits and vegetables. It's been about getting back to fresh, simple and pure. While shopping at Whole Foods to supply my fridge this week, I was inspired to take these photos. Perhaps I took the photos to be inspired. Either way, I particularly love the lettuce looks. I got close enough to abstract the forms and allow it to take on a whole new kind of beauty.

I realize that by doing the cleanse, that it's really something I need to do regularly. It truly does make a difference and it's a great reminder that I don't need as much as I think I do. It's also not so extreme when you allow yourself to still have a healthy dinner.

rewarding cuteness : lexie

2010-04-27T09:42:00.005-04:00

Not a day goes by that Lexie doesn't make me laugh or smile. This photo in particular captures so much of what she's like. Not to mention those big brown eyes. She's so sweet, patient and obedient that she actually allowed me to take several tries at documenting this moment while holding perfectly still! Not unlike any other dog, she's dying to have that piece of chicken breast jerky (only her favourite treat). But she waited. She looked so incredibly adorable doing it. I had to share.

By the way, she was rewarded two-fold after this photo was taken (I'm not that cruel).

days for a cleanse

2010-04-26T12:06:00.004-04:00

I've been contemplating doing a juice cleanse since the holidays. I've somehow managed to find endless excuses to not start one. But this weekend, I finally stopped by my local juice/natural food store about it. So the plan is to have two green juices and a fruit-only smoothie a day and still have a healthy dinner. I'm keeping myself open to the number of days I will keep this going. I am now on day two and I feel fine. The caffeine withdrawal was pronounced yesterday (as I expected). But I got through it.

A few years ago, I was juicing at home everyday. It took dedication but I was committed to it. I was eating healthier than I ever had. I looked better than I ever had. What could be healthier than all those live enzymes, and unprocessed nutrients? Then my juicer broke, I eventually found excuses not to do it.

I feel as though the process of a juice cleanse clears up more than your digestive system. It's a chance to clear your mind and to be more conscious (once again) of what you're putting in your body. It's a chance to reboot, so to speak. We not only put our system through a lot of hard to digest food, but also stress and fatigue. There's no better time than the present to do flush out and be kind to your body. It's very doable. I'm so glad I finally got around to it.

Here's what I'm having:

Green Juice (morning and afternoon) – cucumbers, green apples and spinach (it's my fave!)

Fruit Smoothie – blueberries, banana and a little apple juice

the waterfall necklace for spring/summer 2010

2010-04-23T10:58:00.008-04:00

For those new to my blog, you may not be familiar with these tribal necklaces. I thought it would be a great time to (re)introduce them for spring. They are hand made by the T'boli tribal women in the Philippines – the longer ones take up to two weeks to complete. It's made of tiny beads and stitched together with thread. I'm loving the whole tribal chic trend that is still very hot this year. This is the real deal. Every time I wear mine (esp. the 8-layer version) I get stopped, I get comments. Both my sisters (my models below) will tell you the same thing.

Please let me know if you're interested! I take payments via Paypal and I can ship anywhere (shipping fees vary).

Pricing:

Long (8-layer) $50

Tribal pattern with bells $35

Short (3-layer) $35

The colors shown are what I have at the moment. I may be able to get more but not for at least a month. I also have a chocolate brown one in the long (8-layer) version available as well. I will sell at a first come, first serve basis. Note: since these are handmade, there are slight differences between each necklace. I am taking color requests for my next shipment ASAP. The tribal ladies make what they want to make – I have no say in the matter ;) So hopefully I can get it for you. View some of the colors that I've sold in the past here.

**UPDATE** I'm sold out of the yellow 8-layer necklaces and I have a red one coming. The other colors are still available. First come, first served.

Questions/orders? Email me here: myturtleneck [at] yahoo.com

inspired dining : zenkichi

2010-04-22T09:55:00.005-04:00

To continue my birthday week of decadence, my friends Melanie and Jacquelyn took me to Zenkichi Modern Japanese Brasserie in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It was my first time and I have to say that it has to be New York's best. First of all, the interior design reminded me immediately of one of my favourite films: In The Mood For Love. The space is very dark, cavernous and maze-like. The reception area looks and feels like a spa and definitely sets you up for the dining experience. Each table was very private, you don't really feel other diners. There is also a button to call the servers, otherwise, they really leave you alone. The service was superb, almost ceremonial. A shade separates your table from everything and it gets lifted and lowered as each course is delivered to your table. The lighting design of this very dark space is also well done. It all makes for one of the sexiest restaurant designs I've seen in New York. And the food? Well, I was very impressed. We had the 3-course pre fix and a sake flight. Everything from beginning to end was incredible. I loved my Saikyo black cod main course (above, marinated in Saikyo miso) – probably the best I've ever had. The desserts (I had the chance to try both) were: Frozen Black Sesame Mousse (chocolate-based silky frozen sesame mousse) and Matcha & Blueberry Rare Cheesecake (blueberry infused Japanese-style, non-baked cheesecake with bitter Matcha green tea powder from Kyoto). They were simply amazing. All of it made for a truly superb dining experience. A great way to end my birthday week (thanks to Jac and Mel!). I will definitely be back – next time I will bring a hot date ;)

New Yorkers, what are your favourite sexy dining spots?

The Amazing Sake Flight (they have over 50 varieties)

chinatown cake club

2010-04-21T11:24:00.004-04:00

After what was already a pretty decadent two days of birthday celebrations, I spent a couple of hours with my friend Jacquelyn on Sunday at the Chinatown Cake Club – a private club in an Chinatown apartment that holds monthly events featuring only cakes and desserts. Founder Victoria Howe, a pastry chef and hostess, describes it as a "secret bakery" for those in the know. Well, it's gaining popularity. I will say that it isn't for the unadventurous. Some of her desserts are very inventive and would challenge even an experienced palette. I was brave enough to try the durian pound cake, but kind of regret it. It actually tasted savoury. If you're not familiar with durian, it's a tropical fruit that is extremely odorous. The scent has been described as resembling rotting food, bad body odor, etc. It tastes very similar to the way it smells but is a delicacy — even an aphrodisiac — in many Asian countries.

I do love that she chooses an artist each month as inspiration for a cake. This time, she chose two: Notorious B.I.G. and Gerard Richter. Check out the Biggie Smalls (and the durian) cake below. (apologies for the unsharp photos – very difficult low light conditions)

Here was Sunday night's menu:

Dragon Fruit Trifle – small spheres of fresh dragon fruit layered between lightly sweetened palm sugar whipped cream and cake trimmings

Green and Black Cake – dark chocolate fudge cake, filled with avocado mousse & covered with bittersweet Valrhona ganache

Café Sua Da Torte – espresso chocolate layered with condensed milk (my favourite)

Banana Leaf Sticky Rice – caramelized bananas and black rice sweetened with

Coconut Cream Taro Cake – pale purple taro chiffon cake layered with coconut cream, seven minute frosting and trimmed with toasted coconut flakes

Almond Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches – Chinese toasted almond cookies layered between sesame oil ice cream

Durian Pound Cake – Pouncake flavoured with fresh durian, covered with durian buttercream

Home made Ice Creams – sugar cane, soy sauce, chrysanthemum, sesame oil (I wasn't brave enough to try the soy sauce one)

Artist Series Cake #5: Tribute to Notorious B.I.G. – golden buttermilk cake soaked in Hennessy simple syrup, layered with roasted plantains and covered in gilded vanilla frosting

Artist Series Cake #6: Tribute to Gerard Richter – fragrant black sesame seed cake frosted with vanilla swiss buttercream

I don't know that I would devour that much sugar again in one sitting but it was definitely an experience. Check the website for more info on how to sign up the monthly events.

brooklyn street seasons

2010-04-20T13:09:00.004-04:00

I realized last night that I photographed virtually the same spot on the street in my neighbourhood where I walk Lexie everyday – during two different seasons. Seeing these next to one another really emphasizes the contrast between them. We've come a long way since the snow days in January and February. I'm a much bigger fan of the spring. I now plan to take the same photo with my iPhone this summer, fall and once more next winter to complete the set.

banana, bourbon & butter : robicelli's cupcakes

2010-04-19T10:56:00.005-04:00

I met Allison of Robicelli's Cupcakes last week during the Brooklyn Bloggers Meetup at the Bellhouse last week when I tried their Southern Belle cupcake. I had to place an order the next day for my birthday party this past weekend. They're amazing. What are Southern Belle cupcakes? Banana bourbon cake with vanilla buttercream and brown butter-bourbon pecans. Allison delivered (on short notice) these heavenly cupcakes and they were a huge hit. Other people entering The Vanderbilt couldn't stop staring at them as they walked in.

before and after in the 70s

2010-04-16T11:29:00.003-04:00

Last week my Dad emailed me a bunch of old photos he found in storage for me to restore. It was so interesting to look at them again after so many years. Quite aptly timed since my birthday is this weekend (tomorrow). This photo is of me from the 70s. I won't mention what year. It's safe to say...I'm old.

I remember the moment these photos were taken (it was a series of 3 or 4). It was my grandmother's house (father's side). I was four years old and I loved this dress. It's amazing to truly realize that once I was this little person. Those were still my baby teeth.

The scratches on the photo were quite bad. I restored it the best I could, to what I remember it looking like before it was damaged and faded. The largest scratches on my face covered what should be dimples on my cheeks (which are still there, by the way). It just proved too difficult to try and recreate this.

I'm looking forward to celebrating (my old age) this weekend. Here's to not losing the ability to giggle and laugh uncontrollably and to appreciating how good it feels ;)

BEFORE

brooklyn blossoms part 2

2010-04-15T11:57:00.003-04:00

Here are more photos from my afternoon at the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens last weekend. These are mostly in and around the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden.

Check out the first batch from Monday here.

an inspired afternoon at strand bookstore

2010-04-14T10:38:00.004-04:00

One of the best things to do on a rainy Sunday afternoon is to lose track of time browsing through Strand Bookstore. It's a New York institution, it's where books live. There's something about how unpolished, worn-in and creaky that's so romantic about this place. It even smells old. New books are on the same shelf as old ones. There is beauty in the chaos of it's mismatched shelving units and narrow, meandering aisles. I personally always purchased the oldest copies of books available.

Although it was a gorgeous Sunday, I stopped into the Strand looking for Witold Rybcyzynski's Waiting for the Weekend. It's an extended essay on the two-day weekend, it's history and ideas behind leisure throughout history. It was recommended by a friend who knows I'm a big fan of Alain de Botton's books. This seems to be right up the same alley.

I hope you enjoy my little iPhone photo essay :)

All photos by myturtleneck – view more of Strand Bookstore here

brooklyn blossoms

2010-04-13T11:54:00.003-04:00

For the past couple of years, I've shied away from Brooklyn Botanic Gardens' Sakura Matsuri (cherry blossom festival) due to my usually debilitating spring time allergies. This year, the allergies are shockingly under control. So when I heard that the cherry blossoms were peaking last weekend, I had to come by. It was an explosion of gorgeous color. I played around with the macro setting on my camera. I'm pretty happy with the result. Close-up photos look so much more interesting – especially since the gardens were packed with people taking obligatory photos standing in front of cherry trees. I wish I could convey the scents in the air that day. I highly recommend going. The late afternoon sun was perfect for photos. I felt lucky to live only steps away from so much beauty.

View my Flickr site to see more from Brooklyn Botanic Gardens

inspired space for art and food : loading dock

2010-04-12T09:54:00.006-04:00

My friend Dave Pinter clued me into the existence of the coolest new Brooklyn spot: Loading Dock. The restaurant features Baja-style Mexican food formerly of Brooklyn Flea fame. It's very casual and inexpensive. I love the fact that the restaurant is built into a former garment factory and that the space is also an art gallery. Everything in the space is retains a warehouse feel, rough-hewn and spare. As my friend Dave referred to it: "60-grit" feel (as in sandpaper). The charm is it's unpolished restraint. They also didn't fill the dining area/gallery with too many pieces of furniture. They've mixed mid-century chairs with work tables. I adore the fake fireplace flanked by old Adirondak chairs and fur pelts. Staying true to it's taco truck roots is the kitchen – an actual taco truck built right onto the front of the building. We got in there JUST before people started streaming in and managed to get a couple of quick photos literally seconds before everyone sat down. I can't fail to mention that the food did not disappoint, we loved our dishes! The second this place gets a liquor license, it will quickly become the newest, hottest new bar in Brooklyn. It would make a great event space too. It's another Brooklyn favourite. I will definitely be back – and soon!

curated on open house new york

2010-04-09T09:57:00.004-04:00

We share the office space with an interior design studio called Curated. Co-founder Elena Frampton heads up their New York office and her partner, Delta Wright, runs their LA office. I featured Curated and their beautiful work on my blog last year. They were recently featured on the show Open House New York. Watch the video below to see the episode where they showcased one their projects, a beautiful Flatiron loft.

View my previous blog post on Curated. here.

a light experience : vaga lume

2010-04-08T11:08:00.004-04:00

My newest (and most excellent) iPhone app, NY ArtBeat lead me to this gorgeous art installation last week while strolling through the Lower East Side. It's entitled "Vaga Lume" by artist Valeska Soares. It's a large grid of thousands of light bulbs installed onto the ceiling, each one with it's own chain switch that can be turned on and off by the viewer. In Portuguese, the title means light that is subtle/vague or transient. Visually, it's quite stunning (even during the day) and the thousands of chains hanging down look like a waterfall or even rain. It's an art piece that begs to be experienced in person. The viewer is forced to walk through the veil of chains very slowly and carefully. I could have stayed there for hours. The interactive element of the piece makes the viewer as much a part of the work as the work itself. Beautiful and brilliant. :)

Hurry, the show closes in 3 days.

all photos by myturtleneck

the brooklyn flea at one hanson place

2010-04-07T11:53:00.004-04:00

I finally made it to the One Hanson Place location of the Brooklyn Flea last weekend. I was accompanied by my friend Sparrow Hall (seen shopping for vintage shirts below) following the great brunch In Fort Greene. I went into it with the thought of not spending money (I can't afford to at the moment) but more so to finally check out the space. Well, it was even more captivating than I expected. I loved the appropriation of an old bank into a place for local commerce. And it was packed with excellent goods (old and new) and loaded with good stuff to eat. Almost very inch of the space was utilized. My visit ended up on the weekend my good friends at Whimsy & Spice were away. The ceilings are very dramatic, catherdral-like and gorgeous. I never run out of reasons to love Brooklyn, and this just got added to the list.

at home in ditmas park : purple yam restaurant

2010-04-06T09:00:00.005-04:00

I had the rare treat of dining out on Filipino food this weekend. Unlike Korean or Malaysian food, for instance, Filipino food hasn't become mainstream (though it's only a matter of time). So when I have it, it's usually at home or with family.

I've been dying to try Purple Yam, a reincarnation of the now closed Cendrillion restaurant in SoHo. They opened in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn — out of the way, but I knew it would be worth it. I read about their tocino sliders a couple of weeks ago and could not get it out of my head. So our menu for the evening was as follows:

1) Tocino sliders (sugar-achuete cured pork) in purple yam pan de sal bread, served with pickled persimmon

2) The special dumplings – with shrimp and water chestnuts

3) Pomelo, green mango and jicama salad

4) Chicken adobo (braised in vinegar, garlic, soy sauce and coconut milk)

5) Pancit bihon (Philippine rice noodles with chicken, pork and veggies)

Dessert:

1) Halo halo (Philippine iced dessert with sweet beans, palm seed, cocogel, coconut sport [macapuno], jackfruit, topped with flan and purple yam ice cream)

2) Champorrado with coffee ice cream (sweet rice in chocolate and cream)

My friends and I LOVED it – even more than the original. It was such a treat for me and the best meal I've had in a while. It's as tasty as home cooked meals but with an occasional innovative twist utilizing all the authentic ingredients. The staff was sweet, as was the owner and gracious host, Amy Besa. My favourites had to be the sliders (we had three orders of it), the adobo and the desserts. Their house made ice cream is to die for, especially the coffee one. Purple Yam is so worth the trip out. Think of it as a mini-field trip, it's only a few stops past Park Slope on the Q train. Their back patio area surrounded by bamboo looks really lovely too. I'll definitely be back.

Loved the lighting sculpture at the front of the restaurant

source

fort greene blooms

2010-04-05T10:22:00.007-04:00

This weekend, I spent a good part of Saturday afternoon in Fort Greene, one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Brooklyn. The gorgeous weather called for a very lovely outdoor brunch at Madiba. My brunch mate and good friend, Sparrow Hall was donning his dapper Brooklyn spring duds and hat. I was dressed hoping to get some sun on my face and shoulders.

A stroll through the area and the Brooklyn Flea (photos to come) and a dachshund meetup at Fort Greene Park was a perfect way to spend the day. It was great to see the first spring blooms — and the neighbourhood come alive. I loved this (Easter) egg garden installation (bottom photo) in front of a brownstone building. I figured it must belong to someone who has access to stage/movie props. Each giant egg was sitting in it's own nest. Funny!

all photos by myturtleneck

once upon a time in brooklyn

2010-04-01T12:09:00.006-04:00

I recently stumbled upon this old photo of me (circa 1999-2000) that was taken by my sister Caroline using her medium format FILM Hasselblad camera. Among her endless list of talents, she is also a trained photographer.

Remember the days when we still used film?

Anyway, it was kind of amazing to realize that this would be the only photo I have of the towers with me in the frame. There's something timeless about this photo – it's more than the fact that it's in black and white. It's not the most flattering photos of my face, but it's a classic photo of me. It was taken on a rooftop in Park Slope. So much has happened since this photo was taken. I've been here in New York a long time and I still love it.

inspired collage : juliana neufeld

2010-03-31T11:11:00.003-04:00

One of my super talented sisters, Christine, shared with me this great illustration she commissioned of Eryka Badu by artist Julianna Neufeld. Christine is the art director and designer of Exclaim! (Canada's music magazine). I looked up Juliana Neufeld and fell in love with all of her work. Below are a few examples of her mixed media illustrations. I love the great mix of painting, collage and hand done typography. I love seeing evidence of someone's hand, the gestures and intention on paper. It really inspires me create collages again.

Check out more of her work on her beautiful website. She has great photography work too.

imelda by steve tirona

2010-03-30T10:31:00.006-04:00

In light of yesterday's post, I had to feature these photographs of Imelda by a cousin in Manila, Steve Tirona. I first discovered these images at Pulse Contemporary Art Fair NYC last year. They caught my eye because they were such curious portraits of Imelda. Then I realized a cousin was the photographer. The photos became even more interesting when I found out Imelda Marcos herself commissioned them (in 2006). It says a lot about the way she sees herself. A kind of larger than life character, definitely treading onto absurd territory –high heels et al – which she's clearly comfortable in.

Steve Tirona is represented by Silverlens Gallery.

here lies love : david byrne and imelda marcos

2010-03-29T09:29:00.006-04:00

David Byrne (formerly of the 80s band Talking Heads) is releasing an album this April of 22 songs that are all about the life of Imelda Marcos. He's collaborated with Fat boy Slim to produce this album and upcoming musical theater concept. He has this curious fascination with Imelda – the wife and infamous former first lady to Ferdinand Marcos, former dictator of the Philippines. It isn't so much an album in her honor but more so a look at her rise to power and what she did with her own brand of power. There's only one mention of shoes, which is what she's most known for: the (roughly) 3,000 pairs she owned at the time she and the former dictator were thrown out of the country. Apparently, the idea was born out of the Marcos's love for disco music during the 70s. Imelda apparently frequented Studio 54 in New York, installed a disco ball in her NY townhouse and lived lavishly (while the people of the Philippines plunged deeper and deeper into poverty). The title of the album is based on what Imelda Marcos herself wishes for her gravestone to read upon her death: Here Lies Love. I'm still not completely clear on why David Byrne was so inspired to create this project. But I'm interested to find out more.

I haven't yet listened to the album in it's entirety but I'm fascinated with this video of the track performed by Santigold entitled "Please Don't." It's about Imelda's way of working with world leaders into helping Philippine interests by charming them into seeing things her way. She dubbed it "Handbag Diplomacy" because she would bypass former President Marcos, grab her handbag and fly off to meet these world leaders. I love all this vintage footage of her. Outside of her corrupt ways, she was fabulous looking and the woman knew how to *work it.*

little dragon : machine dreams

2010-03-26T12:55:00.007-04:00

I've been a big fan of Swedish band, Little Dragon, for a couple of years. Last night's show at the Music Hall of Williamsburg was my first live show and it was so much fun! Their second album, Machine Dreams, is in keeping with the unique, innovative, multi-genre electro soul sound of their first (self-titled) album. But this time maybe more danceable, infused with electronica and every bit as sexy. Their sound is difficult to categorize and it's what makes them so fascinating. Hearing them for the first time was really a breath of fresh air. I was impressed to learn that the lead singer, Yukumi Nagano's voice was as multi-dimensional, dynamic and haunting as it does on the albums. It was one of the sexier shows I've been to in quite a while (more than I would have expected). Do yourself a favor and buy their albums. It will easily become your upcoming summer soundtrack. Below are my favourite tracks from both albums...

building on bond

2010-03-25T11:44:00.004-04:00

Last weekend, I took a break from a photo shoot to have a late brunch with a friend at Building on Bond. There was something about this place that I just really loved. It had the look and feel of the wood shop classroom I took drawing classes in back in high school. It had the kind of laid-back neighbourhood charm only Brooklyn (former bodega space) can offer. They have everything from the flat file drawers, wood shop tools, salvaged fixtures and school chairs. The space is founded by design and construction company, Hecho, Inc. – the restaurant/bar space also houses their offices and workshop. Apparently, the place became so popular, they had to dedicate more space to the restaurant area than originally planned. My favourite part of the space were the tables that had the rolls of paper built in and held in place (as place mats, of course) by metal clamps. This place made me wish I lived on this same little corner of Brooklyn too.

source

learning legacies

2010-03-24T14:38:00.006-04:00

Throughout my childhood, I was told various stories about my ancestors by my Lola (Tagalog for grandmother), my mom and other family members. I remember bits and pieces about this legacy I had from the generations that preceded me – specifically my maternal grandmother's side. Having moved to N. America has taken me further away from this history. A recent invite to a clan group on Facebook by an uncle of mine sparked renewed interest. I was fascinated by the photos and stories from my mom and my sister (who looked into this deeper while on a trip to the Philippines last year). And to give you an idea of the size of this clan in actuality (not on FB), the reunion that is held every four years is attended by about 400-500 people.

My great great grandmother, Maria 'Angoy' Limjap (pictured below in a corset) was married to a prominent business tycoon, Mariano Limjap. This makes her my grandmother's grandmother. Apparently she was a very strict, regal woman and socialite who became a well-known philantropist. Mariano, is a descendant of a prominent Chinese immigrant who married a Spanish (mestiza) or someone of mixed heritage in Manila named Lim Cong Jap. Like some Chinese immigrants of the time, they combined Chinese names with Spanish names. Hence the new last name Limjap (pronounced Lim-hap – which is the Spanish pronounciation of the letter 'j').

I also heard that apart from being a very successful industrialist, Mariano Limjap was apparently a patron of the Philippine Revolution that would eventually free the Philippines of 400 years of Spanish colonial rule. In 1896, he was apparently arrested and imprisoned for his revolutionary efforts. He was eventually released when Spain surrendered to the Americans. There's a photo below of the couple's busts (in marble?) at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.

My great grandmother Leonarda 'Nena' Limjap at one point also turned down a beauty queen crown in favor of traveling abroad. She would eventually marry Dr. Ariston Ubaldo who was the nephew of Dr. Jose Rizal (son of Jose Rizal's sister, Olympia), the renowned national hero of the Philippines (also played a major role during the Philippine Revolution). Meaning my great grandfather was a descendant of the country's most honored hero and was inspired by him to also pursue EENT (eye, ear, nose and throat) medicine. AMAZING.

Needless to say, learning (and being reminded of) all this was quite incredible. The research continues. I love finding out about my amazing family history. More than accomplished industrialists, they were also philanthropists and revolutionaries! It's completely awe-inspiring and humbling.

My captions below provide more information.

Maria 'Angoy' Limjap in a corseted (Victorian?) dress

Mariano and Maria Limjap in traditional Philippine dress

Maria 'Angoy' Limjap as a teenager

Mariano and Maria Limjap

The (marble?) busts Mariano and Maria Limjap at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila in 2006 photo by Ria Limjap

Maria 'Angoy' Limjap (center) with three of her daughters: my great grandmother Leonarda 'Nena' Limjap is the one on the far left

One of many lavish parties thrown by my great great grandparents. Apparently, the grandchildren (like my grandmother) would be sequestered upstairs under the supervision of nannies during these soirees.

A postcard (?) of the Limjap ancestral home in Manila

This is a photo of my great great aunt Esperanza Limjap and her husband, Sergio Osmeña who was the second President of the Philippine Commonwealth in 1944 and was one of the founding members of the Nacionalista Party. Pretty amazing!

All photos (unless otherwise noted) from La Familia Limjap

inspired minimalism : the spencer apartment

2010-03-23T09:31:00.004-04:00

This past weekend, I had a chance to photograph the Brooklyn apartment of my friend and interior designer, Juliette Spencer. This is the apartment she shares with her husband, Cass – both are originally from the UK. I fell in love with the impeccably designed space after attending her birthday dinner party last month.

They bought the two-bedroom apartment and gut renovated it in 2009. Juliette kept the palette monochromatic, staying true to her own sensibility. The idea was to keep it simple and minimal – which was key to making the space very comfortable for them. All of the furniture was chosen with this in mind. She opened up the closets and installed full height doors with pivot hinges to maximize storage space. The British couple installed European style appliances to give the kitchen more space. The black cabinetry was chosen to emphasize the ceiling height. The idea behind the black kitchen and entrance was that once the lights were off, these spaces would disappear when you're relaxing in the living room area. I loved this idea of "invisible" architecture.

Aside from the gorgeous Hans Wegner wishbone chairs for the dining room, I adored their gorgeous, modern De La Espada bed! The building also has a lovely roof deck space with a 360° view of Brooklyn.

Thanks to Juliette for allowing me to document their beautiful apartment.

All photos by myturtleneck

central park on the eve of spring

2010-03-22T10:39:00.004-04:00

My afternoon off last Friday included, among a few other stops, a late afternoon stroll through Central Park (my first in quite a while). On the eve of the official first day of spring, it really felt like it had arrived. The scene at the beach volleyball courts looked more like summer than March. People were having impromptu picnics on the rock formations. It was as though the city finally woke up from their winter sleep. The late day sun painted everything in this beautiful, warm light. It was my last stop before heading to dance class. Such a great end to my day.

a score and a dream

2010-03-18T12:54:00.005-04:00

The arrival of spring brings me endless inspiration. It's sunny outside and New York is looking oh so stylish again after the desire for style took a nap following multiple grey, snowy episodes. For the first time in many months, I'm wearing one of my safari shirt dresses (with worn-in boots –sans tights)! I couldn't be happier. Below are two things to start me off:

How great is this Twosome ring by Erica Anenberg? I scored it via the waitlist on Gilt Groupe on a barely legal discount. It's my new badass-meets-lady ring. I love contradictions.

In other news, these gorgeous Ipswich Brogues by Rachel Comey (via Le Train Bleu) are too expensive for me to buy. But a girl can dream...

salty barricades : artist siyeon kim

2010-03-17T17:46:00.004-04:00

Another artist at the Satori Gallery that caught my attention on Sunday was Siyeon Kim. This up and coming Korean artist's work is about conveying a sense of anxiety (I can relate) as well as humor as it pertains to psychological conflicts within the home environment. There's tension in the precarious placement of household objects. I loved the sharp forms (made of salt, apparently). I enjoy these as visual compositions too — monochromatic interior landscapes.

Go see it, including the window installation (bottom photo) at the Gallery Satori in the LES.

back in the day

2010-03-16T16:04:00.002-04:00

My dad found an old, damaged photo of my sister Caroline and me in their attic recently. He asked me to restore it. This is the result :) I love finding old photographs.

inspired headwear : casa de rodriguez

2010-03-16T08:16:00.005-04:00

I stumbled into this little bespoke hat shop called Casa de Rodriguez in the LES this weekend and learned a couple of new things. I spoke with the owner, David Rodriguez, who has been designing hats for 18 years. He started out making hats out of burlap marijuana sacks – which I thought was great. Nowadays he makes custom and ready-to-wear hats in many, many styles. I loved the shop and even got a quick tour of the large workroom/studio in the back where all of the beautiful creations are made.

He and I talked hats for a while. Apparently, a good rule of thumb when it comes to choosing hats is that the top of a hat should match the shape of your face. Who knew? I told him that I do love fedoras in the spring and summer months (and do own a linen one) but found it tough to find one I look good in. He, of course, knew not only exactly which hat would fit me, but which shape would work on the very first go. I tried this beauty on (directly below) and it was perfect on me! It actually suited me. It also reminds me of long, lazy summer days. I assured him I would be back for it asap. I cannot stop thinking about it now.

Anyone else out there into hats? If you're in New York, go check out this shop.

eric blum's no.590 painting up close

2010-03-15T10:54:00.006-04:00

I didn't make it to Eric Blum's art opening last weekend, thanks to asthma. But I made my way to the gallery this weekend. I wish my photos of this one, entitled No. 590, could give a sense of the depth of it's layers. It's something that's really worth going to see up close. I also didn't mind the faint scent of beeswax in the air from the paintings. I just love his work. One day, I would love to own one.

Check it out in person (along with a few other pieces) at the Gallery Satori in the Lower East Side. Or see one of my numerous posts about his work.

relational abstraction : megan prince

2010-03-12T11:14:00.002-05:00

I came across Megan Prince's work at the EFA Studios last weekend. This wall installation was quite stunning in person (made of string and nails). Her work seems to mostly be about personal relationships – she specifically refers to it as "relational abstraction." I'm fascinated by the use of materials like fiber and thread and her soft sculptures. I love all the weaving and interlocking. It reminds me of numerous woven materials I grew up around in the Philippines (though those are typically made of plant materials). These soft sculptures really beg to be touched and beautiful to look at.

new photorealism : yigal ozeri

2010-03-11T10:48:00.004-05:00

Another artist's work that caught my attention at Scope last weekend was Yigal Ozeri. I'm fascinated by the skill it must take to paint this kind of photorealism. It's stunning. I do love the quality of light in these oil paintings. I wish I could have larger versions of these images to show more of the detail in them.

Images are from Galerie Andreas Binder and Mike Weiss Gallery

inspired manuscripts : artist cui fei

2010-03-10T09:44:00.004-05:00

Another amazing artist from EFA Studios that I had a chance to meet briefly this past weekend is Cui Fei. She's of Chinese descent, living here in the US. Her work explores the interconnectedness of all beings in nature and the unique perspective of being of two cultural points of view (which is something I really relate to). Her pieces are a kind of a "manuscript symbolizing voiceless messages in nature that are waiting to be discovered and heard." They function almost like journals, marking the passing of time.

I think her work is so incredibly beautiful. I am totally in awe.

All images from CuiFei.net

inspired light : EVOL

2010-03-09T07:55:00.005-05:00

The work I found most exciting at Scope Art in New York this year was by a German artist called EVOL. I don't know much about him/her except an incredible skill of utilizing the material (in this case cardboard) to it's fullest, making these paintings so much about the surface they are painted on. There's clearly an interest in both architecture and graffiti. I am so impressed with the quality of light, the realism that simultaneously celebrates the texture of the cardboard. Incredible.

Check out more of EVOL's work on the Wilde Gallery website. The first three images were taken with my iPhone.

All photos below from the Wilde Gallery

inspired cuts : jaq belcher

2010-03-08T11:22:00.004-05:00

This past weekend in New York was all about art. I made it to Scope New York, an open house at the EFA Studios and (part of) an art walk through a few Williamsburg galleries. I will feature some of my favourites this week here on my blog.

First up is this gorgeous paper art by Jaq Belcher. There's so much for me, as a graphic designer, to appreciate about her work. I was amazed at the precision and beauty of it. The work really speaks for itself.

Check out her website.

All images from JaqBelcher.com

water and light : the shaw house

2010-03-03T11:08:00.006-05:00

The Shaw House in Vancouver (built 1995-2000) by Patkau Architects is totally amazing. The best part of the house is the outdoor lap pool that doubles as a skylight. It's genius. How beautiful is the reflection of the pool water? This helps fuel more daydreaming of summer (and of gorgeous spaces).

All images from Patkau Architects

eric blum art opening in NYC

2010-03-02T18:50:00.003-05:00

Eric Blum is showing new work this week in New York City. I absolutely love his work. See my recent post about it.

lovely journelle

2010-03-02T09:22:00.007-05:00

I've known about Journelle for a while and have looked around but hadn't really had a chance to shop. If you saw my previous post on intimate apparel, you know of my affinity for beautiful lingerie. I'm not a big Victoria's Secret fan. I thought the front window display at Journelle was a funny dig on VS. This weekend I decided I needed a replacement for my favorite bra that met it's demise at the hands (more accurately, teeth) of my sister's dog over the holidays. It was chewed up beyond repair. I was great to be reminded of how much more elegant and tasteful the selection was at Journelle compared to VS.

I have to say too, that I really enjoyed shopping at Journelle. It's a lovely shop with really well-curated selection of lingerie. The staff was so sweet – not pushy or totally inattentive – which is rare in New York. It's a local New York shop so all the more reason to support it. And contrary to what you may think, not everything is expensive! The change rooms were spacious, the chocolates and bottles of water were a nice touch and I adore their kraft paper gift wrap. They also gave me a $20 off card for my next purchase. Twenty bucks! If you decide to stop by, ask for Susannah (photo of her at the bottom). She was so helpful and lovely. I have a new favorite lingerie shop and I will definitely be back. I will make sure my beautiful new purchase doesn't end up becoming a chew toy this time ;)

inspired room for cocktails : weather up

2010-03-01T10:25:00.009-05:00

Saturday night was all about a couple of my neighborhood favorite spots: No.7 restaurant and Weather Up bar. They never disappoint. Weather Up truly offers artfully prepared cocktails. They really take their cocktails very seriously. Having a drink made by one of their dapper bartenders could be considered a production. They move carefully, deliberately and prepare your cocktail with love – similar to they way a chef would a treasured dish. I've always loved the interior design of this tiny space. The white ceiling tiles highlight the length and shape of the room – giving it an old subway station feel. The lighting design compliments all of this and gives the space a beautiful warm glow. In addition to all this, I like that the bar attracts a variety of people which always makes things more interesting. I'm looking forward to summer months when they have their lovely back patio space open.

This bartender laughed at the photo I took because I caught him taking a quick break. I liked the contrast of the warmth of the space to the blue light glowing from his iPhone.

all photos by myturtleneck

dreaming of summer and pool houses part 2

2010-02-26T09:51:00.004-05:00

While Brooklyn is, yet again, covered in snow, I'm dreaming of owning this pool house. My long-standing affinity for swimming pools started early in life. I can only think of my aunt's kidney shaped pool with the cantilevered wrap-around veranda around it. I wanted to live there. I would do anything to escape the wintery weather right now...

Check out my previous pool house post too.

Photos and Winton Pool House Design by Hariri and Hariri on Flickr

inspired beats : quadron

2010-02-25T16:48:00.006-05:00

My sister turned me on to this new Danish band called Quadron. I cannot get enough of their fresh and sexy new sound. They describe it as electronic soul. There's definitely an influence of jazz and electronica in there. It's somewhat in the same vein as bands like Little Dragon (also love them). However it's best described, I love it.

Here are three great tracks. Check them out on myspace.

how to find the new york panorama in queens

2010-02-25T13:40:00.005-05:00

My first visit to the Queens Museum sometime last year. I was flipping through some (blurry) images I took of the New York Panorama Exhibit recently and decided to find better images of it to share. The Panorama of The City of New York was originally built for the 1964 World's Fair. I was pretty amazed at this massive architectural model of virtually every detail of the city. Additions have been added over the years (including a model of Citifield in 2009). It's an exhibit that's easily forgotten when living here in New York. But it really is a sight to se if you haven't already.

Photos from the Queens Museum website.

the secret of division street : bacaro

2010-02-24T10:45:00.003-05:00

Last weekend a friend suggested dinner at Bacaro. It is tucked away on Division St. where the Lower East Side meets Chinatown. In a part of town you would never expect it to be. I became instantly in love with the decor – especially the chandelier. I loved the dark woods with marble table tops and old world charm. It felt as though everyone there was in on the big secret about this hidden gem. It's very intimate and very romantic. The downstairs was even more intriguing. Instead of a wide open space, it was a maze of smaller nooks, semi-private rooms, some with a different chandelier hanging in it surrounded by all brick walls. I managed to snoop around and snap these photos without being noticed.

We dined on small plates of very thoughtfully prepared Italian food. Everything was delicious. It was a lovely evening. I definitely want to go back.

fashion goes 3D : burberry prorsum womenswear live from london

2010-02-22T22:40:00.002-05:00

I am very excited to be invited to the live 3D screening here in New York of Burberry Prorsum Womenswear show from London Fashion Week. It's happening today at 11am. I hear James Cameron is attending the actual London show. The show will also be streaming live online (in normal 2D, of course) if you'd like to watch. I can't wait! Here's a video of the Chief Creative Officer talking about the event.

**UPDATE**

I'm back from the show and it went off without a hitch. The screening took place at the Skylight SoHo which was spacious, everything was white except for the attractive staff working the event who were wearing all black. The packaged 3D glasses were handed out upon arrival along with mimosas and hors d'oeurves. Everything was very organized and in it's place. The screening started on schedule. The glasses took a few minutes to get used to and we found the 3D effect most apparent when looking at footage of the crowd before and after the runway show. It wasn't so apparent when looking at the models themselves.

The clothing was incredible. My jaws were on the floor. It was my ultimate color palettes: khakis, neutrals and blacks with splashes of jewel tones. The outerwear (which is available for pre-order already) was the best part. Gorgeous funnel neck shearlings with lots of beautiful leather detailing and buckles... all very classic aviator. The boots were either lined with shearling with buckles along the outside or sky high thigh highs. All very sexy and all very beautiful.

What a treat it was to see this show!

Bottom three images from Burberry.com

chinatown brasserie

2010-02-22T09:53:00.010-05:00

The craving for good Chinese food started last week, the Lunar New Year. I had not been to Chinatown Brasserie in a little while and my cousin's birthday became another excellent excuse to go. Our lunch menu consisted of: Shanghai Soup Dumplings, Shrimp and Snow Pea Leaf Dumplings, Szechuan Chicken and Shrimp with Spicy Hoisin Sauce and half Peking Duck to top it all off. What a great meal. Even the chocolate fortune cookies were good. It was the best Peking Duck I believe I've ever had. Highly recommend it.

Then we walked down to Tai Pan Bakery for some Taro Milk Tea and cakes. Perfect ending.

The interiors of Chinatown Brasserie are also gorgeous. It's the other reason I dine there. It reminds me of one of my favourite films, In the Mood for Love. No surprises that their website uses it's famous soundtrack. Below is a little iPhone photo essay to give you a little taste of everything.

All photos taken by myturtleneck

inspired to spa : verana

2010-02-19T12:11:00.004-05:00

This promotional video for the Verana Spa in Yelapa, Mexico speaks for itself. It reminds me SO much of the Philippines. It is so gorgeous on so many levels. My ideal living space — airy, tropical modern that is still earthy and rustic on a similar geographical location. If only...I wish I could get away this weekend. Watch the Day Spa video too.

the ever enduring shirt dress

2010-02-18T09:57:00.006-05:00

I wake up each morning hoping for more spring-like weather. I couldn't help but prematurely look around for my spring staple, the enduring shirt dress. I've blogged about my love for the shirt dress before. For years it's been an integral part of my wardrobe – worn with flats or high-heeled sandals – depending on the occasion. They are very versatile and always looks put-together. Below are a few of my favourites. I cannot wait!

1) Alexander Wang Safari Double Breasted Dress with wrap belt – *TOP PICK*: LOVE the unique, flattering, modern cut! ( Shopbop or La Garconne

2) Day Birger Et Mikkelsen Sunshine shirt dress: it's all about the ruffles (Net-A-Porter)

3) Lucky Jeans Denim Shirt Dress: defines effortless. Love it. (Lucky Brand)

4) Vivienne Westwood Striped Shirt Dress: I love the collar on this sexy, uniform-like dress (Zappos Couture)

5) Boden Cotton Shirt Dress: Beautiful fabric and looks just so effortless. (Boden USA)

missing vancouver

2010-02-17T10:11:00.007-05:00

Since the start of the Winter Olympics, Vancouver has been all over the media. It's actually made me miss it a lot. It's been nice being reminded, once again, of what a beautiful place it is. I lived there for 10 years prior to my (now) 11 years in New York. My family moved there from California before I went to college. It was a beautiful place to go to school. I'm far from being a snow sport type of person, but living in a city that was flanked by both the ocean and the mountains was pretty sweet. What the Winter Olympic opening ceremonies completely failed to highlight is the very rich Asian culture that exists in Vancouver. Virtually half of the population is Asian. Needless to say, the food in Vancouver is incredible. I've told people on many occasions that when I lived in Vancouver, I ate sushi two to three times a week (as did everyone else). It's amazing and could be considered a staple. I've been lucky to have lived in cities with such amazing food!

Oh, that's right, I am Canadian :)

Dubbed as the "City of Glass", Vancouver is a city with very modern architecture on very picturesque landscape. Not visible in the first photo (behind the clouds) are the mountains where most of the Olympic events are being held – just behind downtown.

I was in Vancouver in August of 2008 for a friend's wedding and wanted to share my own images of Vancouver with you. I wish I had taken more photos.

A partial view of downtown Vancouver and Granville Street Bridge from Granville Island and Burrard Inlet.

This is English Bay, the west side neighbourhood of downtown Vancouver (city beaches are nice!)

Stone art from the (12 mile) seawall walk around Stanley Park (located near downtown Vancouver)

More of English Bay

The Aqua Bus takes you from downtown Vancouver across the inlet to Granville Island.

My alma mater: Emily Carr University of Art & Design (located on Granville Island under the Granville Street Bridge – the Vancouver equivalent to New York's Dumbo neighbourhood)

The ECUAD design building – where I spent my college days

A view of the adorable house boats that line Granville Island

Interior of the ECUAD design building. That's me with my friend Kevin who I graduated with. He has lived in London for more than 12 years and we met on Granville Island one day to reminisce about our college days. I hadn't been in the building since I graduated!

A view of downtown buildings from a rooftop garden of The Fairmont Hotel.

The Olympic Pavilion (still under construction in 2008 when I took this photo)

Stanley Park cedar trees... so beautiful.

This driftwood looked like a fish to me (taken along the Stanley Park seawall walk)

inspired light : eric blum

2010-02-16T10:16:00.002-05:00

I wanted to share some of the recent work of artist Eric Blum. His work remains to be one of my absolute favorites. If you missed my original post about his work, his abstract watercolors are typically done on silk with multiple translucent layers of beeswax on top. They are gorgeous, sensuous and all about light. I love them.

new to myturtleneck on etsy : paris photos

2010-02-15T11:30:00.005-05:00

I have two new photos in my Etsy shop. They are a couple of my favorites from my trip to Paris. Every time I look at them, I want to go back. I hope you like them :)

how to date in a post-dating world : a thank you

2010-02-13T11:23:00.006-05:00

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Diane Mapes for writing this book. Not only was it full of hilarious dating accounts (some of which I can absolutely relate to), it was also full of great advice. She touches on my biggest complaints about today's dating scene like the general lack of manners and common decency and the emotional saboteurs... (all are unbelievably, sadly, commonplace). It a very relevant field guide-of-sorts to dating. I particularly loved the "Red Flag Department" list of archetypes. So funny (and true).

Living in New York — and my life in general — is pretty damn sweet. Not to mention so much fun. It is. Some have even said, enviable. So falling madly in love would just be the icing on that cake. But the reality is, dating here is as tough as it is fun. It was so refreshing to read a book that sees the humor in it all. Not only that, it was a good reality check. I think every single, dating person out there, regardless of your orientation, should read this book – particularly men.

With that, I wish all the lovers out there a Happy Valentine's Day.

brooklyn snowmageddon by night

2010-02-11T13:10:00.008-05:00

I ventured to Prospect Park with a friend last night mid-snowstorm around 8pm. It was amazing. I spotted snowboarders and cross-country skiers, grown-ups, kids and canines alike having fun. It was unbelievably bright (keep in mind, I have tweaked these images to appear slightly brighter than reality). I didn't grow up around snow, but I must admit, it was fun to play in it ;) By the way, pardon the slight blurriness in the photos – it was night and I was sans tripod.

all photos by myturtleneck

my etsy shop opens + time for a giveaway

2010-02-10T11:34:00.007-05:00

I am very pleased to announce the opening of myturtleneck etsy shop! To celebrate this (as well as my recent one year blog anniversary) I am giving away one of my photos. Just stop by my shop, then leave a comment and email address here on my blog telling me which one your favorite is. The photo is an 8 x 10" print on archival Epson Fine Art (matte) paper. I will chose a winner on Friday, February 10th. You'll have until Thursday at midnight.

I can't wait to hear what you think! :)

**Giveaway UPDATE** The winner of the giveaway is Elena of Tickled Pink Knits! Congratulations! Thanks so much for everyone who participated! I hope you stop by my shop again soon :)

rare find : philippine cigarette labels (1800-1900)

2010-02-09T11:13:00.007-05:00

It is so rare to find vintage packaging design from the Philippines so I was thrilled to stumble on these. This extensive collection of cigarette pack labels are from the late 1800s to the mid 1900s. For those who are not aware, Spain colonized the Philippines for about 400 years (until towards the end of the 1900s). So most of the packaging text is in Spanish. I love this collection :) I wish I knew the story of who collected and documented these. There are more here if you're curious.

All images from Firma.com.ph

a gem in cobble hill : henry public

2010-02-08T10:04:00.005-05:00

Henry Public in Cobble Hill was where I spent my Saturday night this past weekend. I had been wanting to try it since they opened in the fall. Great little bar and the staff was incredibly sweet. It felt very much like an authentic nineteenth century speakeasy – which is what they were going for. Nothing about this place was pretentious. A friend in the film world tells me the producer of Fantastic Mr. Fox, Jeremy Dawson, is part owner. I can actually see this place as Wes Anderson set. Interior design aside, I also loved their well-considered (and very small) menu of comfort food. The grilled cheese sandwich with apples was so worth braving the cold for!

Photos from nymag.com

the ace inspires spring

2010-02-05T09:52:00.006-05:00

I was (once again) at the Ace Hotel for a drink the other night, my new favourite spot in the city. There was a combination of the vibe of the crowd and the look and feel of the place that I just really loved. So much so that I had to put together an outfit inspired by it. I hope you like :)

See my previous post on the Ace Hotel here. Thanks to Melanie for her fashion site tips.

How cute is this stripey dress?

I had to balance off the sweetness of the dress with a touch of grit with with this jacket

This necklace was perfect homage to the Ace ;)

Another dash of tough with this boot.

1) Indigo Striped Dress by Wikstenmade

2) Hunting Jacket by Superdry

3) Gold Antler necklace by Miss Mouse on Etsy

4) Maxine Trapunto Shortie Boot by Frye

5) Le Mini Sac by Clare Vivier

paul nolan : type is sexy

2010-02-04T11:39:00.002-05:00

I adore the work of Australian designer/typographer, Paul Nolan. I love the innovative way he plays with typography. It is type-as-image taken to another gorgeous level. Check out his website for more examples.

All images from nolangallery.com

spring : raise your hand if you're ready

2010-02-03T10:07:00.005-05:00

As I look out my window and see the snow on the ground, I feel as though spring is never going to get here. It is way too early for this but I couldn't help but daydream about what I'd like to wear when the weather gets warmer. I start with the shoes this time. These are just insanely cute. Besides, I often start with what shoes I want to wear on any given day and build the outfit accordingly (doesn't everyone?).

uploaded by myturtleneck

1) Boots from Anthropologie

2) Jacket from Rugby

3) Henley Shirt from ShopBop

4) Scarf from Martin & Osa

5) Shorts from Revolve Clothing

6) Bag from JCrew

15 things that make me happy

2010-02-02T10:42:00.015-05:00

I was inspired by a recent article in New York magazine on 50 Steps to Simple Happiness and decided to create my own list. When I am happy, I'm inspired. It's as simple as that.

Here's my list (in no particular order):

1) Receiving and writing handwritten postcards and letters. It's increasingly rare these gadget-obsessed days.

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2) Chlorine-free (saline) swimming pools. Really. If you've never had the pleasure of swimming in one, you haven't lived ;) This one at the Standard Hotel in Miami was extra lovely.

3) My dog Lexie. She brings me more joy everyday than she will ever know.

4) Paris. Even if I can't be there at the moment and I'm not sure when I will be back. I just like knowing that it's there.

5) Kissing. Lots of it. You can never have enough of a great kiss.

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6) Dance class. I feel like a broken record about this. But going to dance class always makes my day.

7) Brunch. Particularly my current favorite places like Hundred Acres (below)

8) Living in Brooklyn. What can I say, I love living here.

9) The beach. I was born in the tropics, it's in my blood. It's heaven to me, especially tranquil ones with warm water. But being near a beach is always nice.

10) Laughing and the people that make it happen. More, please.

11) Momofuku (David Chang's) restaurants. Ask me to join you any day of the week, I'm there.

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12) New York in the summer. Sure it's hot and disgusting in more ways than one. But I love the endless list of activities, events and places to visit when it's not freezing outside – when just walking around all day can be "the best day ever."

13) Cake! How I love cake. Especially red velvet. There's something about the cream cheese icing. My favorite is Cakeman Raven's. Hands down, the BEST.

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14) Scalp massages. Yes. More than any other kind of massage (though you won't find me turning down any kind of massage). Its almost better than sex. Almost.

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15) Dinner with friends and/or family. I had to list this one separately. Food with people I love is sacred. Nothing makes me happier.

Blogging at Amala today

2010-02-02T10:06:00.001-05:00

I'm blogging at Amala today: Brooklyn Tailors, bespoke handmade clothing for men. Go check it out!

tropical architecture : colors

2010-02-01T09:50:00.007-05:00

It's been a while since I shared images from my Flickr pool, Tropical Architecture. I think I was inspired in part by my friend Nichole's recent blog post, Metro Rainbow. It also doesn't help that I am aching for warmer weather and can't help but daydream of visiting some tropical locale, wear summer dresses and sandals. I thought this selection of images would be nice to look at on a chilly Monday morning.

If you're on Flickr and have some images of warmer places, please do join and share. Learn more about the group here.

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one of my own from Hawaii

transported ancestral architecture

2010-01-29T10:06:00.016-05:00

My Aunt Rose moved back to the Manila from San Francisco after she married and had a couple of kids (back in the 90s). During a visit to her father's ancestral town of Vigan, she had an idea – a monstrous undertaking only possible in places like the Philippines. Vigan is a town well-known for it's Spanish colonial architecture. In fact, since the 18th and 19th century, it has retained the most of the colonial architecture of any city in the Philippines. It is gorgeous and quaint. And yes, people still use horse-drawn carriages in the Philippines (called kalesa).

During my Tita Rose's visit to Vigan (tita means aunt in Tagalog), she heard about a house and land up for sale there. She heard the house was to be demolished. After going to see the house, she decided to purchase just the house and get this: took the house apart – every bit – and transported it back to Manila (I believe by truck, then boat) and rebuilt it next to a river outside of the city! It was a five plus year undertaking. One that that would have cost ridiculous amounts of money in any other country. You have to take into consideration that the Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands. Transporting anything is an undertaking. The house was rebuilt on a plot of land overlooking a river. Various parts of the original house were repurposed as pieces of furniture (i.e. solid wood wall panels as the new dining table and front door, banisters as new bed posts, etc.). It's incredible.

So a few years ago, my sister Caroline (among numerous other talents, is a photographer) photographed the house for a local magazine. The house is often rented out for film, television commercials and photo shoots. The other images below are ones I took during my last visit a couple of years ago. Please click to enlarge the images (they are huge).

My Tita Rose's house was an amazing feat. It was a project of a lifetime, an amazing contribution to cultural preservation. Her creativity and ingenuity are an inspiration. She's not even a trained designer – she is a social worker, counselor and unlike 95% of Filipinos, a devout Buddhist who often goes on silent meditation retreats for up to 60 days. That's right. Sixty. She has this tranquil intelligence about her and she's incredibly kind. I love that she had a rooster, dogs and a cat running around the house the day we were there for a visit!

These are some examples of Vigan architecture.

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I love the hammocks-turned-chairs

Capiz shell dividers and antique furniture

the nature of beauty : kate mcguire

2010-01-28T10:55:00.003-05:00

I've been following the work of UK artist Kate McGuire for some time. I love the direction she's going in her most recent work. I love the use of organic materials (like pigeon feathers) to create other – and unexpected – organic forms. Her work elicits a visceral response, it challenges and redefines your perception and personal definition of beauty. I also expect her pieces to start to move or flow. Interesting that the titles of some of the pieces reference those human, visceral reactions. I find her work so incredibly fascinating.

mankind grooming

2010-01-27T09:57:00.004-05:00

If you're gentleman who is in need of a little manscaping and you happen to be in Toronto, Mankind is your spot. It's a barbershop, salon and spa all rolled up in one – and just for guys. I kind of love it. Who doesn't love a well-groomed man? (...with toes that don't look horrific in flip-flops during the summer months. Tell me.)

Photos from Mankindgrooming.com

whimsy & spice's mark sopchak today at amala

2010-01-26T11:37:00.001-05:00

I'm blogging at Amala today. Go check it out :)