Sleeping/Dreaming « The Joyce of Living

Feb

WANT: A laptop backpack that is actually cute

Posted by: Joyce under Being Vain, Sleeping/Dreaming, Spending, Spending @ 10:14 pm

I bring my laptop everyday to work. I place it in a sleeve and just dump it in my Totoro bag or any tote big enough to fit it. Sadly, I sometimes walk home or commute around a bit, and I don’t think carrying that much weight is good for my shoulder. So I’m looking for a laptop backpack. I’m very particular with the “backpack” part because I need the weight evenly distributed.

Sadly, most laptop backpacks are either

Too masculine
Too bulky
Too casual-looking, like a highschooler’s daypack.

Of course, being the vain person that I am, I want a really stylish one. Imagine wearing a nice blouse and trousers and then carrying a super casual backpack (had to link, can’t help it. They have the pushiest, most annoying sales attendants. I’ll say “Thanks, but I want something more classic and feminine-looking” , “Ma’am we have it in red, pang babae… classic po yan pwedeng pang opisina”… STFU PLZ!)

Anyway, I’m obviously looking for a certain look. I scoured the internet and below are my choices.

1. Hasso Bags

Hasso

Hasso Vega

Hasso Casas

Hasso Casas

So I found out about this Columbian brand Hasso and all it’s awesomeness. It’s EXACTLY what I want. My boyfriend is biased towards the Vega (because it’s green and shares his last name), but I think the Casas might suit my needs more. Sadly, they don’t seem to have any stockist here in the Philippines. Also, they’re both over $100, which is too much to spend on a backpack, imo. Although I’ve read good reviews for this and apparently these bags are of superior quality.

2. Herschel

Herschel Little America

Even though this back is kinda big, I really like the vintage hiking bag look of Herschel’s Little America. We actually have Herschel here in the Philippines, but they only have limited colors. But then again, I guess that’s a good thing since I can’t choose the color I want myself. I narrowed it down to these three: drab green, denim, striped.

Again, these bags are super expensive, and I think the quality isn’t as good as the Hasso (based on reviews). Still, availability is a plus.

3. Eastpak

Eastpak Klosser Cottown in Beige

Now this bag, I’m sure is available here. I actually spotted it in Bratpack last time I checked. It’s also expensive (Php4,999), and somehow does not seem very sturdy. I like the size and the style, although the beige seems much lighter IRL and I’m afraid it’ll get dirty easily.

If all else fails, I’ll probably cop this one.

Why are laptop backpacks so expensive? I’m a bit hesitant to shell out this much on a bag. But then again, many other women buy LVs and Pradas and other designer bags. Name aside, if we’re paying for quality, then I guess that price is reasonable. I just have too much vanity in me to give in to my inner scrooge and buy that Hawk one. I don’t want bags like that huhuhu.

Do you know of any cute laptop backpacks? How much are you wiling to spend on a backpack? Post your comments.

Comments (0)

Dec

My Christmas Wishlist 2012

Posted by: Joyce under Sleeping/Dreaming, Spending @ 3:06 am

My Christmas Wishlist

Clockwise from top-left: Mods Coat/Parka, Watercolors, Chabudai, Vitamin C serum, wireless headphones.

First off, forgive me for neglecting this blog. Wouldn’t you know it, I’ve actually been busy. I was supposed to revamp the blog theme (was planning to go responsive) for November but other tasks were a priority. Nobody reads this anyway.

I had just finished a project and scored myself some free time. I first thought of playing DotA 2 but I realized it’s pretty late and I didn’t want to wait too long for a match (why is DotA2 matchmaking sooo slowwwww). I decided to spend three pomodoros writing this post instead.

I’m pretty content with my life right now, I’m really thankful how things turned out this year. I don’t really wis h for much, but there’s always that deep bucket wishlist of things I don’t really need but would like to play with from time to time. That’s what this wishlist consists of. So if you’re interested in getting me something for Christmas *coughcough* I have compiled a list for you.

1. Mod’s Coat/Parka – I don’t really need this in my life, but I must say I get this twinge of irrational envy whenever I see models in Jfashion mags wearing something similar. The one in the photo is by Aya Noguchi (of Balcony and Bed) for Uniqlo Designer’s Invitation Project. It’s bloody expensive though, and I don’t need that exact mods coat. Ukay is fine too.

2. Watercolor – I hate drawing but I love coloring. It’s therapeutic seeing colors blend together. I like Prang watercolors (available at NBS, although the 16-pcs set is out of stock at the SM Calamba branch huhu) because the pigments are really strong and it’s slightly moist already. I’ve been using this since I was 9 years old, sadly my old set developed molds. I prefer cake colors over tube ones (for tubes I use Sakura). I’ll go all out with the wishing and throw some brushes in – namely a zero brush, a round brush, a flat wash brush and a chinese paintbrush. Those are the ones I use.

3. Foldable Chabudai – I work a home, usually in bed with my laptop on my actual lap. And my room (which I share with my sister) is a mess. I don’t really use a desk, the one we have is being used as ~~a dump~~ storage. But sometimes I would like a wider area to work on. Especially now that I’m considering watercolors again, I would need the space. We used to have an amazing foldable chabudai when we lived in Japan but sadly we didn’t bring it to the Philippines. This one from Muji looks cool, but perhaps I would want it a bit lower and wider.

4. Vitamin C Serum – I believe this is the one thing missing from my skincare regimen. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is known to reverse skin aging/photodamage and promote collaged production/skin building. Apparently it also whitens since kpop idols use vitamin C iontophoresis to get milky white complexion. I found what seems to be a good formula from Ciracle Philippines.

5. Wireless Headphones - As I have mentioned, I work while lying down in bed. This poses a problem for when I want to use headphones – the cord always get tangled, pulled and eventually gets ruined. It’s really inevitable when used lying down (at this point you’re probably questioning my habits. But I’m sorry, that’s the hikikomori way). The sound doesn’t have to be spectacular, just enough for me to enjoy my V6. The one in the photo is a wireless gaming headset by Logitech, but I welcome alternatives.

Aaaand that’s it. These are the things I’d like to find under my tree this Christmas. Simple enough, as I didn’t include really ridiculous big ticket items like laser die-cutter, industrial juicer, induction stove and deep fryer. Of course, you can always go of the wish and surprise me. Now if only my boyfriend would post a wishlist so I’ll know what to get him without asking him hihihihi

Comments (0)

Jun

Way of Life

Posted by: Joyce under Being Vain, Feeling, Sleeping/Dreaming @ 7:20 pm

Way of Life Mullet Skirt

Black v-neck shirt from Sexy White Shirt, Grey mullet skirt from Divisoria, Black Envelope Clutch from Little Emily, Waist cincher from Divisoria, Thrifted Black brogued boots.

Hype this look on Lookbook.nu

A couple of male friends told me on separate occasions that they read my blog. I have male readers! That’s really surprising as my blog is full of pink. I sure hope I don’t alienate them when posting girly vain stuff.

Anyway, wore this the other day. There was a storm signal up in other parts of the country then, but our place was clear. A bit windy though. I realized that I like wearing high-low skirts on windy days. It feels so nice to feel the fabric moving and brushing against my legs.

envelope clutch

I bought the clutch and shirt online just a few weeks ago. And the skirt a month earlier. While I got them all for cheap, I really wonder why I bother shopping for clothes and makeup and stuff. I rarely ever leave the house. It’s not like I have somewhere to go. I often end up overdressed for the bank or the mall. #fashionistahikikomoriproblems.

Also, unemployed people should really refrain from doing any sort of shopping.

Sigh, I guess it’s obvious by now I’m pretty worked up by my employment situation. I actually applied to a random job on a whim, only to find out that it’s night shift. Night shift is like, poor hygiene or a criminal record — they’re dealbreakers. For me at least. I value my health, I only have one body. So yeah, my rather whimsical attempt at finding something to do actually backfired.

It’s not much the lack of money but more that I’m kind of getting bored. I know some people are side-eyeing me by now, thinking I’m some rich kid who can afford NOT to work. But hey, I’m not bothering anyone. I don’t ask my parents for money. Sure, I live at home but then again even if I did start working they prefer I live with them anyway. There’s no difference. Also, if you had the chance to hold out for something you won’t hate, wouldn’t you? I bet you would.

At least these shoes are thrifted. I love those brogues.

Aaahhh, I’m sorry. I got a bit worked up. It’s just something that not a lot of people would understand, and I’m sick of being judged for it. I’ve turned down offers I know won’t work in the long run, even if it’s marginally better than the nothing I’m in right now. I know what I want and don’t want. I’d rather not settle for something when I know I deserve better. It’s not entitlement, it’s knowing honestly who you are and what you’re capable of, and being true to the future you want for yourself.

I’m very very grateful that I am given a chance to choose and wait. I really am. Please don’t take it against me if I actually take this chance.

It’s a way of life
I walked without looking back
for the sake of getting away from these gray days
Even hesitations, even doubts, come what may I will face it

I stand still on this street I once ran through
Over and over I think of yesterday
I held on to my trembling heart
running away and running after
I have a future I want to protect
I keep walking, believing in today.
-V6, Way of Life

Tagged: outfit post| Comments (0)

Apr

Life as a Voyager

Posted by: Joyce under Being Vain, Sleeping/Dreaming, Studying, The Joyce @ 11:46 pm

Hi, I’m back! I don’t really owe anyone an explanation for my sudden hiatus. As if I have an actual following LOL. I just got busy with stuff, not to mention I didn’t have enough ~~feelings~~ energy to actually blog. But I’ll try to makeup for that in the next few days.

Blazer from Alexandre. Shirt from Sexy White Shirt. Skirt is thrifted, Plum tights from LuckyDoll.

Hype this Look on Lookbook.nu

Requisite outfit photo. Sorry if it looks sloppy (bad exposure, wrinkled clothing). I wore this outfit to my masters project presentation. I always overdress during presentations, and I always wear skirts during exams. It’s a superstition I’ve had since undergrad. I just wanted to immortalize this outfit, as that day was a pretty memorable day for me.

It was the day I was told that I’m gonna graduate! Yey! Finally got my Masters degree after a couple of years of procrastination and meaninglessness. I can’t say I’m not glad about this achievement. But I have to say, even though it might not seem to be a big deal, it was very transitional for me. Something has changed, like I took it as a signal to head towards a new world.

Ever since then, my mind has been on spring cleaning mode. I’m slowly getting rid of things I do not need, and being more open to letting go. I used to be such a packrat, both with physical things and memories. I save almost all my chat conversations and my phone inbox is always full from random text messages. But now, I’m getting rid of baggage and reclaiming my life, sort of. Not that I have enough resentment and I spring clean to forget. I’m not that kind of person. It’s more like, I no longer mind if they’re gone.

Same with feelings. I used to have a lot, well, actually I still do. But I’m continuously learning to disregard them. I’m telling myself that they don’t really matter. Perhaps because I’m tired of feeling too much. It would’ve been okay if they were all good and happy feelings, but when you have a lot of feelings you have a lot of sadness and pain as well, and that just gets so so so tiring.

So I’ll stop babbling now about things no1currs about and give you a photo of our kittens.

kittens

Cute kittens!

If you remember Litol, the kitty here, she was their mother. Sadly, she died a few weeks ago. Sad, coz she was my favorite. She was a black cat, with black paws. And unlike the average cat, lithe and graceful, litol was plump and clumsy. And lazier than other cats, if that’s even possible. She always misses her jump and lands heavily on her feet. She was a ghetto cat. She was my favorite, because I’m just like her. Unlike the average graceful, feminine woman, I’m clumsy and awkward too. We got along really well.

Now that she’s gone, I have these three little kitties to play with. They’re boys, so they’re really lively and excitable most of the time. We might give them away soon though. I hope we can keep my favorite one.

Sometimes when I hug my pets, I almost feel like everything is going to be okay. There’s a certain feeling of comfort. They say when you rub or pet cats, they release a pheromone that has a relaxing effect on them. That’s why they calm down. Perhaps it also affects humans.

I’ll try posting more often from now on, just so I don’t have to type incoherent and wordy posts like this one just to make up for the lack of content here.

Tagged: kittens, outfit post| Comments (0)

Sep