The Assumption Bazaar 2012

Before moving on to the next Bazaar, Zonta Club of Alabang Christmas Carnivale Bazaar 2012, here are some photos of last Sunday's The Assumption Bazaar.

This photo shared by Craftan served as our invite to family, friends, patrons, and everyone else.  I shared a stall with Craftan.  Craftan promotes locally made embroidered Kaftan dresses and blouses.  I spoke about it here.

Set-up began at 5:00AM.  It's been years since I joined a bazaar in Makati.  I gave up on city life due to stress. So joining bazaars in the city ceased as well. Instead, I pursued joining bazaars that were geographically convenient (read:  near my residence).  But in this case, I said yes upon  Craftan's invite to share a stall.  Assumption is my high school alma mater.  Explains why I wore red. 

Our set-up (and pull-out) crew.  Read:  Husband.  Like in previous bazaars, Craftan and I chose to man the stall ourselves.  This way, we are able to interact with patrons and hear both their good and constructive feedback.

Ribbon-cutting with Assumption nuns and members of the alumnae  to formally open the bazaar.  My life revolved around these nuns for four years.

Mother's Heart necklaces.    While packing for the Assumption bazaar, it took days to finish my packing for this collection. The cycle went something like...I packed, unpacked, packed, then unpacked. J. Bond eventually took over to speed things up.  I was too attached to each and every piece and packing surely meant letting go.  Crazy, I know!

Cloth necklaces for kids.  I call them "Little Miss Cloth Necklace".

 My Little Miss Cloth Necklace model.

My faded Teddy (since a baby) model.

 

                  

And my blue and white model.

 

Pretty embroidered Kaftan and a Mother's Heart necklace (Immaculate Heart of Mary).

 

By Beaded Story and Craftan together.  'Til the next Assumption Bazaar.

 

Autumn in Antipolo

I have a gazilion stories and photos to share.  Top of my list is my recent 5-day trip to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.  I returned home still longing to explore and discover more. However, Christmas bazaar duties need focus and attention.  But in a nutshell, Vietnamese cuisine is really good and healthy. My kind of taste.  Lots of veggie dishes.   Coffee was superb (certified coffee addict here!).  Meeting with local craftsmen was truly gratifying. Of course, (bargain) shopping was awesome.  And, the sights and famous historical war spots were  interesting (and emotional).  With that, I have more than a thousand photos to share which unfortunately are still awaiting for my undivided attention.  After the  busy Christmas bazaars, I'm sure I'll be able to share more.

 

For now, let me walk you through on the day I chanced upon Autumn.   Starting off with my niece's Confirmation at Antipolo Church.

I was in their shoes decades ago.  I remember the solemnity of the affair, but with silent giggles and secret eye signals lingering around.  This time, I stand as godparent.  The wheel has surely turned. Yikes!

A lunch celebration followed at Vieux Chalet.   This was where I chanced upon Autumn. Hidden and tucked amidst the hilly greens of Antipolo, J. Bond immediately knew that this was my kind of place.  True!  And, here are my whys...

Hand-picked as one of the "50 finest food in 2012".

Some of the many dishes we had ordered.  I am no food expert since I have long been careful with what I eat.  Health reason first, then weight control comes next.  But surely, I adored each and every dish served.  After the hearty meal and lemongrass tea, my niece says "I feel healthy".

 

Dining felt like home.

 

Great view of Ortigas from the dining area.

 

 

St. Moritz Cottage, their bed and breakfast nook, surrounded by lush greens that I absolutely love.

Of course, a lot of charms and surprises may be found in every nook and corner.

 Dancing couples.

Lovely art pieces amidst dainty teapots.

Christmas trinkets on display.

 Cozy and chill spots.

Strolling pigeons by the poolside.

 

And, their quaint store with so many delightful treasures. I spent quite some time here.

Functional and nature friendly handpainted eco-bags. I bought one with a painted fairy seated on a quarter moon.  I used it during the Assumption Bazaar and almost lost it.  Stolen was my first thought.  But then, carelessness was what really happened (nothing new).  I found my bag on the other side of the fence.

 

 Pretty, colorful dolls.

Then, I found some interesting jewelry works.

 Bracelets.

 

 Like in any other case, I viewed each piece slow.  Until I came across the lady behind the works.

Meet Autumn.  She's 12.  J. Bond says I sound like her.  I'd like to think we're "kindred spirits". But how I wish I was as young as her when I discovered my love for beads.   Amazing!

 

Travel for Beads Project: a beader from Vietnam

I was drawn to this beaded bag upon first sight.  But I was in awe with its story more.

 

Meet the beader and creator of the bag.

He is Vietnamese and I salute his gift, his skill and his craft despite his physical limitations.  Yes, nothing is impossible.

Bound by one love...beads.  Really special :)