Latin Food Fest

Posted on September 13, 2013 by phjiao

Being Hispanic, it is always nice to hear of events that portray Mexico and Latin America in a positive way! The 2013 Latin Food Fest had it’s Opening Night on Thursday and I attended. It was nice to see the multiple exhibitor tables that highlighted a variety of Latin food and drinks! There were restaurants and wineries from the Southern California and Baja region, as well as Latin culinary celebrities (chefs). The food was exquisite, from gourmet tacos, to seafood dishes, delicious desserts, chocolate, coffee, & more! The Fest also includes 14 events, such as tasting parties, educational seminars, celebrity chef demonstrations, and a benefit dinner. If you have an opportunity stop by the Latin Food Fest this weekend, it runs until Sunday (9/15), your palate will thank you. For more details, visit: www.latinfoodfest.com Do you have a favorite latin dish? Do share!

Hugs,

Paola

I did an interview for City College TV with reporter Marco Puente.

Kaleidoscope

Posted on September 13, 2013 by phjiao

This dress reminds me of a kaleidoscope because of the beautiful variety of colors it has & the pattern! The skirt has flow to it, making it fun to wear, and of course, sticking with dresses that flatter my body type, it is v-neck and fitted at the waist 😉 I wore it to work with a business jacket and in the evening to attend the Opening Night of the Latin Food Fest in San Diego! I matched it with some nude color shoes, a light brown necklace, and simple silver tone bracelet because the dress has a busy pattern with multiple colors. I like this dress because it is fun to wear, has neutral colors with a touch of blue & acqua, and is easy to care for – I can wash it at home & lay it flat to dry, can’t beat that! Do you have any dresses that remind you of a kaleidoscope?

Hugs,

Paola

Dress: Forever 21; Shoes: Levity; Necklace & Earings: Lola’s Design’s, stones with silver; Bracelet: Macy’s

Blue Brightness

Posted on September 12, 2013 by phjiao

I rediscovered a store I had not been to in about five years…Marshalls! I’ve been seeing the commercials for their new campaign on television and really liked the clothes the women are wearing, so I stopped by the store. I found a number of items….and got them to add some new pieces to my late summer-fall wardrobe! This dress will be versatile and I can wear it into the winter with tights, maybe boots. I wore it this week to host an interview regarding the Autism Speaks Walk (bright colors are good for TV shoots, the color pops) and that evening to the Mexican Consulate’s Reception to Celebrate the Anniversary of Mexico’s Independence. The dress was a good find and it was on sale! This dress has a classic style to it, so I can keep it in my closet past this season, yet the black waistband and visible zipper detail in the back add a touch of this season’s fashion to it. Do you have any bright blue dresses? Share your pictures!

Hugs,

Paola

Español: Volvi a descubrir una tienda a la que no había ido en como 5 anos…Marshalls! He visto los anuncios de televisión que tienen para una nueva campana y me gustaron los atuendos que tenían puestos las muchachas que aparecen el los anuncios, así que fui a la tienda. Encontré varias cosas que me gustaron….y las compre para agregarlas a mis atuendos para el final de verano-otono! Este vestido también me lo podré poner en el invierno con mallas o quizás con notas. Me lo puse esta semana para conducir una entrevista sobre la Caminata de Autism Speaks (el color azul vivo se ve muy bien en televisión) y esa noche para la Recepción del Aniversario de la Independencia de Mexico del Consulado de Mexico. El vestido fue una buena compra y estaba en especial! Este vestido tiene un estilo clásico, así que lo podré usar pasando esta temporada, pero a la vez tiene detalles que están a la moda, como el cinto negro en la cintura y el zipper visible en la espalda. Tienes un vestido en tono azul vivo? Comparte tus fotos!

Un abrazo,

Paola

Dress/Vestido: Adrianna Papell; Shoes/Zapatos: Nine West; Purse/Bolsa: Coach; Necklace/Collar: Macy’s Fine Jewelry – Gold; Bracelet/Pulsera: Forever 21

Flight – Part 1 of 3

Posted on September 9, 2013 by phjiao

I want to get more creative with the Outfit of the Day pictures, so my hubby suggested we take pictures at the hangar. Here’s “Part One” of this Outfit of the Day photo session. I titled it “Flight” because this is really the type of outfit I wear for flights….and why we decided to take the pictures at the hangar. I usually add a cardigan sweater and jacket/coat, depending on the destination, and a pashmina that doubles as a scarf. I wear these heals for flights because they are comfortable for long wear – even to walk long distances and I can wear them out to dinner during our trip. I always take carry-on luggage, even for long trips, and travel experts say to wear the shoes that are bulkiest for the flight (if they are comfortable), in order to save space in your carry-on bag. I also take either sandals (flip-flops) or ballerina flats and take them in my purse. This way, if it is a long flight and my feet get swollen I can simply change into flats when we arrive. I try to be super practical when I pack for trips in order to only take a carry-on bag. I had a bag lost during a flight years ago and every since decided to only use a carry-on bag, even for over seas trips. Trust me, it is doable!

I’ll post the second and third parts of the photo shoot later this week. Hope you like this “Flight” photo shoot! One of my hubby’s hobbies years ago was photography, so he knows how to take pictures and direct a photo shoot. It was nice to work with him on this shoot! What do you think? Do you like this “more creative” photo shoot?

Hugs,

Paola

Español: Quiero ser mas creativa con las fotos de Atuendo del Dia, así que mi marido sugirió que fuéramos al hangar a tomar fotos. Aquí esta Parte 1 de 3 de esta sesión fotográfica. La titule “Vuelo” porque este es el estilo de atuendo que utilizo cuando viajo…y porque tomamos las fotos en el hangar. Por lo regular me pongo un suéter ligero y chamarra o saco dependiendo del destino, y una pashmina que tambien utilizo como bufanda. Estos tacones verdaderamente los utilizo para viajar ya que son cómodos, aun si tengo que caminar largas distancias. Por lo regular también llevo unas sandalias o zapatos de piso estilo balerina en mi bolsa, particularmente en viajes largos, por si necesito cambiarme de zapatos si se me hinchan los pies. Siempre utilizo una maleta chica, del tamaño que puedes subir al vuelo, aun para viajes largos. Los expertos de viaje sugieren que te pongas los zapatos mas bultosos para el vuelo, así no ocupan tanto lugar en la maleta. Y, estos tacones los utilizo para salir a cenar durante nuestro viaje. Trato de ser super practica cuando empaco mi maleta para viajes para poder llevar una maleta chica. Hace varios anos durante un vuelo la aerolínea perdió mi maleta y desde entonces solo uso maletas que puedo subir al avión conmigo, hasta para viajes a otros continentes. Créanme, si es posible!

Durante la semana pondre las partes dos y tres de esta sesión fotográfica. Ojalá les gusten las fotos de la sesión “Vuelo“! Uno de los pasatiempos (hobby) de mi marido hace anos era la fotografía, así que sabe como tomar buenas fotos y dirigir una sesión fotográfica. Me encanto trabajar con el en esta sesión fotográfica! Que te parece? Te gusta esta sesión fotográfica “mas creativa”?

Un abrazo,

Paola

I have been wearing black skinny jeans quite a bit lately, they are easy to mix and match, plus comfortable. The green top is a recent purchase from Banana Republic, it fits me a bit loose around the waist and doesn’t look very flattering from a peripheral, but hakuna matata, it is comfortable and I like the color. This top is good for warm weather because it is light and sleeveless, and I can easily add a cardigan or light jacket.

Ultimamente, he estado usando pantalones pegados negros seguido, son comodos y faciles de combinar. La blusa verde la compre recientemente en Banana Republic, me queda un poco suelta en la cintura y no favorece tanto de perfil, pero hakuna matata, esta comoda y me gusta el color. Esta blusa es practica para uso en clima calido ya que esta ligera y sin mangas, y facilmente me puedo poner un sueter o chamara ligera.

Top/Blusa: Banana Republic: Pants/Pantalones: Forever 21; Shoes/Zapatos: Coach; Belt/Cinto: Ann Taylor; Purse/Bolsa: Louise Vuitton; Necklaces/Collares: Tiffany & Co. and Ann Taylor; Bracelets/Pulseras: Coach and Tiffany & Co.; Earrings/Aretes: Tiffany & Co.; Sunglasses/Lentes de Sol: Prada

My Week in Photos

Posted on September 8, 2013 by phjiao

Happy Sunday everyone! This week was a bit different for me because of the Labor Day Holiday. It was a short work week and went by super fast! We started the week in Las Vegas and ended it with family on the soccer field at my nephew’s first soccer game. Somewhere in there, I managed to get in some exercise and even took a nap on Saturday! Best wishes for a great week…starting tomorrow! How was your week? Share your pics!

Hugs,

Paola

Feliz domingo a todos! Esta semana fue un poco diferente para mi debido al festejo del Día del Trabajo. Fue una semana corta de trabajo y se paso súper rápido! Comenzamos la semana en Las Vegas y la terminamos con familia en el primer partido de fútbol de mi sobrino. De alguna manera, entre todo eso, logre hacer un poco de ejercicio y hasta me tome una siesta el sábado! Les mando los mejores deseos para una semana excelente….comenzando mañana! Como estuvo tu semana? Comparte tus fotos!

Un abrazo,

Paola

We spent the holiday weekend & started our week in Las Vegas – we stayed at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Pasamos en fin de semana largo y comenzamos la semana en Las Vegas – nos quedamos en Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

I did some shopping in Las Vegas – at the Miracle Mile Shops – I may do a post on the items I got!

Hice algunas compras en Miracle Miles Shops durante nuestro tiempo el Las Vegas – quizas hare una note despues sobre los articulos que encontre!

It was nice to spend time with my friend Rosy & her husband Chris, while in Las Vegas! We had dinner on the first night….and did some more shopping at the Forum Shops at Caesar’s. The next day, they took us out on their boat for a day on Lake Mead. It was so relaxing and beautiful!

Me dio gusto ver a mi amiga Rosy y su marido Chris, durante nuestra visita a Las Vegas! La primera noche salimos a cenar….e hicimos mas compras en Forum Shops en el Caesar’s. El siguiente da nos llevaron a pasear y pasar el dia en su lancha en Lake Mead. Esta muy bonito el lago y fue relajante pasearnos en la lancha!

Back to work – attended A Day of Joy fundraising reception for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

De regreso al trabajo – fui a la recepcion Un Dia de Alegria, para recaudar fondos para Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Exercise choice for the day: Pool Time! With this warm weather, the pool was a good & fun choice for my workout with Lola!

Ejercicio para el dia: Alberca! Con este clima cálido, hacer ejercicio con Lola en la alberca fue una buena y divertida opcion!

From Casual Friday to Casual Dinner. I love sushi! We found a place that serves good sushi and has menu options my hubby likes, from teriyaki to steaks. We had dinner there with some of his work colleagues/friends.

De Viernes Casual en el Trabajo a una Cena Casual. Me encanta el sushi! Encontramos un restaurante que tiene buen sushi y tambien una variedad de opciones en el menu que le gustan a mi marido, desde teriyaki hasta carnes. Cenamos ahí con sus compañeros de trabajo/amigos.

Saturday morning, we went to see my nephew’s first soccer game & cheered the team on! At this age, all games end in ties, too cute.

El sábado tempranito fuimos ver el primer partido de futbol de mi sobrino, para hecharle porras al equipo. A esta edad, todos los partidos terminan en empate, que lindos.

Went out for Saturday brunch with my hubby. Since our weeks are so busy and I occasionally have work commitments on weekends, plus we travel quite a bit, I enjoy making breakfast for him at home on weekends, but this Saturday we went to brunch. I ate the muffin, it was large & delicious! Didn’t finish my salad, it is still in the fridge, may have it today.

El sabado salimos a desayunar. Como nuestras semanas están tan ocupadas y ocasionalmente tengo compromisos de trabajo en fin de semana, y viajamos seguido, los fines de semana que estamos en casa me gusta hacerle desayuno a mi maridito, pero este sabado salimos a desayunar. Me comi el panquecito, estaba grande y delicioso, no me termine la ensalada, todavía esta en el refigerador, quizas me la coma hoy.

Hoy domingo hemos estado en casa, me encantan los domingos relajados en casa. Le hice waffles para desayunar a mi maridito y disfrute de mi capuccino!

From Casual Friday to Casual Dinner

Posted on September 8, 2013 by phjiao

Hi friends! I am loving the bright pants fashion trend. I will be able to transition some of them into fall and winter with boots and sweaters or jackets. I got these pants recently and have matched them with flats, wedges, and heals (can you tell I love shoes?)…and with multiple tops, work jackets, and cardigans. These will be fun to wear into the winter…..plus they are comfortable, I may even wear them on a flight I have coming up. I wore this outfit to work on Friday, with black wedges, a white jacket, and did not have my pants rolled up at the bottom while at the station. I changed into heals and rolled up my pants for sushi dinner with my husband and his colleagues/friends. Since it was casual Friday, I wore my hair up in a bun, so easy to do and the look is stylized, perfect for a casual Friday at work!

Do you have an bright pants? Share your pics!

Hugs,

Paola

Español: Hola amigos! Me encantan los pantalones de colores vivos que están de moda. Voy a poder continuar usando algunos de los pantalones durante el otoño e invierno, con botas y suéteres o sacos. Compre estos pantalones recientemente y los he combinado con zapatos de piso, de tacón corrido, y zapatillas (se nota que me encanta los zapatos?)….y con blusas casuales, de botones, suéteres estilo cardigan, y sacos para el trabajo. Será divertido usar estos pantalones en el invierno…..y son cómodos, quizás hasta me los ponga para un vuelo que tomare pronto. Me puse este atuendo para el trabajo el viernes, con zapatos negros de tacón corrido, un saco blanco, y no me enrolle los pantalones en la bastilla mientras estuve en la televisora. Me puse zapatillas y enrolle la bastilla para una cena de sushi con mi marido y algunos de sus compañeros de trabajo/amigos. Como era viernes casual en el trabajo, me peine con un chongo, sencillo y fácil de hacer, y el cabello se ve estilizado, perfecto para un viernes casual en el trabajo!

Tienes pantalones en colores vivos? Comparte tus fotos!

Un abrazo,

Paola

Top/blusa: Ann Taylor; Pants/pantalones: Arden (got them at Arden -Horton Plaza); Shoes/zapatos: Marc Fisher; Belt/cinto: Ann Taylor; Bracelet/pulseras: Coach, Gold & black onyx -gift from mom, gold-gift from sis; Earrings/aretes: gold-gift from friend; Necklace/collar: gold-Macy’s, long necklace-costume jewelry Target

How to Cut 300 Calories from Your Day

Posted on September 6, 2013 by phjiao

Have you seen the two liter bottles of soda? They are huge! Growing up, my mom would often make us fresh lemonade or “aguas frescas” (natural fruit drinks), like agua de sandia or melon (watermelon or cantaloupe drinks). On occasions, we would buy the one liter or two liter bottles of soda for dinner. I can picture the giant bottle sitting on the dinner table and can still feel the fizz in my throat. As you know, I have to work at maintaining my weight (yes, I gain weight easily), so years ago I decided to stop drinking sodas. It was probably around my early twenties. Little by little, I just stopped drinking them. Mostly, because I started to read about the ingredients and realized they were adding to my daily caloric intake. I still missed the fizz, so I started drinking sparkling water instead. Just like that, with this one simple change, I cut between 200 – 400 calories from my day.

Sparkling water has zero calories and fat, no sugar or ingredients that sound like chemicals. It is basically natural spring water with carbonation. It gives me my fizz fix and refreshes me. It is also hydrating for the body. Some sparkling waters are healthier than others, some contain more sodium than others, and some are from natural springs. But, they don’t have calories, and overall are much healthier for you than soft drinks.

I buy mine at Trader Joe’s because I like the “natural lemon flavor” sparkling water they sell – and because it is the main store I shop at for groceries. The 18 oz. bottles come in four-packs and they also sell a 42 oz bottle. I always have multiple bottles in stock at home and keep about five bottles in the fridge, to ensure they are chilled and easy to reach for. The Trader’s Joe’s brand tastes the same as the Crystal Geyser brand which can be found at most grocery stores and the bottle even looks the same (I’ve often wondered if they are bottled by the same company). I also drink Perrier and Pellegrino. I have been encouraging my husband to stop drinking sodas and even though he still orders a Diet Coke (or lemonade) when we are eating out, at home he drinks the sparkling waters instead of soda. We no longer buy soft drinks to have at home. Even little changes like this one can add up to a big difference in your daily calorie intake, and overall health throughout the years.

An average serving ( 8oz – 18 oz) of a soft drink has between 182 – 364 calories, of which 27g are carbs, and 12g are sugar (most of the calories in soft drinks come from the sugar). It is ok to have a soft drink every once in a while, kind of like a special treat, but if you have one or two sodas every day you are adding quite a bit of calories to your day with just a serving. Also, diet soft drinks may list zero calories, but they may contain caramel color, citric acid, potassium citrate, aspartame, caffeine, phosphoric acid, and natural flavors (which may be made of chemicals to mimic natural tastes).

So, if you want to cut between 200 – 300 calories from your day, try replacing a soft drink with a sparkling water. Just try it – you’ve got nothing to lose, but calories! It may not happen overnight, but eventually, like me, you may no longer crave sodas. Plus, you’ll still get your fizz fix! I haven’t ordered or bought a soft drink for myself in years.

Do you drink sparkling water? Do you have a favorite sparkling water brand?

Hugs,

Paola

My Weekend in Photos: Labor Day in Las Vegas

Posted on September 4, 2013 by phjiao

Happy Labor Day everyone! Hope you had a good holiday & long weekend! My hubby & I make it out to Las Vegas a couple of times every year. It makes for an easy & fun weekend getaway. We don’t really gamble & I did the club thing when I was younger. We try new restaurants or the classics for dinner, do some shopping, he golfs, we walk around the casinos, go see a show, or he takes us on an aerial tour of the surrounding areas. I have a good friend, Rosy (and her husband) that lives out there and it is always nice to visit her while we are there! Thankfully, this time she was in town, we missed her the last two times we visited because she was also traveling.

My hubby had purchased a Planet Hollywood hotel package for Las Vegas at a silent auction at a charity fundraiser we attended last year. He realized recently that the package was about to expire, so we booked the reservation. It was kind of a last minute trip.

Our room had a Christopher Reeve theme with a few Superman & movie frames:

We arrived Sunday. To my pleasant surprise, the Miracle Mile Shops mall is located within the hotel! My sister had mentioned it, so I asked about it when we checked-in! In the afternoon, my hubby took a nap and I went shopping! With my schedule, I rarely have time to go to the mall. I buy a few things on-line, but prefer to try clothes & shoes on before purchasing them. There was a modern bar called Halo in the mall, so Vegas!

We met Rosy for an early dinner at Trevi’s Restaurant at the Ceasar’s. We’d been there before, it is a nice restaurant with cafe style seating next to the large Fountain of the Gods, and we know the food is good. For dessert, which we shared, my hubby ordered Spaghetti Ice, too cute, the spaghetti and meatballs are gelato, the sauce was strawberry syrup, and the shredded cheese was white chocolate! After dinner, we did a little more shopping at the Forum Shops at Caesar’s – they close at 11pm!!! Wow, only in Vegas! We’ve been to this shopping center many times before, it is beautiful – and I like the stores, it’s a must see when in Vegas, love it!!! It was nice to spend some time with Rosy and get a friend’s perspective when shopping!

Monday was Lake Mead day. Rosy and her husband have a boat, so they took us out for the day – it was beautiful and very relaxing! So relaxing that I took a nap in the middle of the afternoon on the boat! I’ll make a separate post of Lake Mead, I took lots of pics and it deserves its own post. Rosy has taken some photography classes and it is her hobby, so she gave me some tips! Even though I had packed a red summer dress for the day on the lake, I showed my hubby a little black & white dress I had purchased the night before at H&M (at the Miracle Mile Shops) and asked him which one I should wear – he chose the H&M dress. It was perfect for the day since it is very light & comfortable.

Tuesday was check-out day. I had set my alarm for early, to try to perhaps go for a walk in the other casinos or do some shopping, but my body was tired and we both decided to rest instead. We are not big fans of buffets, but the package included a buffet at the hotel’s Spice Market, so we ate lunch there. I had a little bit of sushi, a few bites of lasagna, some blue cheese, hummus, and dessert. I am a sucker for dessert, so I saved my calories for dessert! The array of desserts was beautiful! I had a few spoonfuls of ice-cream with strawberries, a little creme brulee, and the apple filled crepe, just tasting a bit of each was enough for me! Yummy! I was satisfied, but not stuffed, a concern of mine with buffets.

Our flight home was in the early afternoon….and it always makes me chuckle to see all the slot machines at the airport! This airport is unique! Even though my hubby and I aren’t gamblers, he played for a little while at the slots machines on Saturday night. While I stopped to take the pictures at the airport, he sat a machine and played a few minutes, too funny!

Have you been to Las Vegas? Share your most memorable Vegas story….PG story that is, just kidding! Remember, as they say, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!

Hugs,

Paola

PS – Our visit to the Aulani Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii.

Santo Day Celebration

Posted on September 1, 2013 by phjiao

Today is my grandmother’s “santo” day. A “santo” day is the day commemorating the saint you are named after. She is still enjoying the summer by the beach, so my aunts organized a family gathering over here to celebrate her “santo” day! My grandmother, which I affectionately call Mamita (means mommy), is a very special person in my life. She has given me good advice my entire life. Her wise words have stayed with me and she has influenced me in many positive ways. Her words helped me be aware and appreciative of how fortunate and blessed I am, and to never take things or people for granted. That family is precious and important, to be a strong woman, but also to be humble….and so many more lessons. Most importantly, she has taught me that you reap what you sow (like in a karma way), and what unconditional love and acceptance feels like. She has been an excellent daughter, wife, mom and grandmother…and sister, mother-in-law, aunt, and friend. This is why, she is always surrounded by those of us that love her. She is never alone. We are always visiting her and enjoy spending time with her. She is still very independent, and we try to help her as much as she lets us…..to take care of her, like she has taken care of all of us in her family! Even though she has many grandchildren, she has the gift of making you feel like you are the only person in the world when she speaks with you, to focus on you in that moment and make you feel like the most important and loved person. That is a unique and rare ability I have only seen in some high level elected officials, CEOs, priests, and a few people that are very charismatic. She has formed a loving and caring family, and that is a beautiful thing! My life would not be what it is today, if it wasn’t for her. My Mamita has been a wonderful and positive role model in my life, I can only hope to be that wise some day! I thank God for the blessing and good fortune of being her granddaughter! Happy Santo Mamita – I love you!

So, next time you see or speak to your grandmother, remember to tell her how important she is to you!

Are you close to your grandmother and do you have a special story you’d like to share?

Hugs,

Paola

We took a spontaneous pic of just the girls: Mamita, surrounded by some of my aunts, cousins, mom, sis & me (this is only about 1/4 of the family members that were there today).

My Week In Photos

Posted on August 31, 2013 by phjiao

Hi friends,

Hope you had a wonderful week! For me, this week definitely felt like summertime, not only because it’s been warm, but also because I did some fun outdoor activities and even went to a pool! The weather has been warmer than usual, past pleasantly warm to just hot, in the 90’s, which is very high for San Diego! Thankfully, there is air conditioning! Work-wise, it was a busy week with many shoots, but this is what I call the fun part of my job, mostly because I get to work with a great production team! I always enjoy interacting with the external folks we work with, in my case mostly the representatives from the events we sponsor. Best wishes for a wonderful long holiday weekend – happy Labor Day everyone!

Do you have any thing fun planned for the holiday weekend?

Hugs,

Paola

Shooting the Miramar Air Show promotional spots! I love working with the team at MCAS Miramar! The funds raised through the Air Show benefit programs for military families! Another reason why I love my job, we are making a difference!

Brought my sister some coffee & her favorite coffee cake – stopped by for a quick visit to wish her well on her last day of vacation before she returned to work – her summer break is over.

Gave welcome at theater for Latino Film Festival’s Cine en tu Idioma – film series!

Enjoyed a warm summer afternoon at the Farmer’s Market with my sis & nephews! They are so cute!!

Went to the Charger’s vs 49ers game at Qualcomm Stadium – thanks to my hubby for inviting me! This was the view from our seats at the 50 yard line.

Mixed up our exercise routine – had fun at the pool with Lola, while we got a workout and caught up on our week. My amiguita Lola is as close as sister for me! Her friendship brings joy to my life!

Shot a commercial for an Azteca client. Shooting promo spots and commercials is what I call the fun part of my job! Thanks to my colleagues in production – they did a great job directing the commercial shoot and the spot looks wonderful!! I look forward to seeing the commercial on-air (it’s for a shampoo).

Mixing It Up

Posted on August 31, 2013 by phjiao

Lola (bff) and I have been exercising together for more than seven years now, mostly speed walks. This week, we decided to mix it up a bit and go to the pool. She lives in one of the nicest buildings downtown and they have a great lap pool! We have only gone to the pool area once, years ago, and that was to use the jacuzzi, haha. Yesterday we went into the pool, for the first time! We were the only one’s there, so we had the pool all to ourselves. The weather was very warm and the water was just the right temperature. She jumped in, it took me a few minutes to first wet my feet, then get into the pool. We had a good workout threading through water, doing kicks on the edge, acqua jogging around the pool, and doing our version of water aerobics. Most importantly, we had fun – and we were still able to catch up while we exercised! We kept saying, “this was a great idea, we need to do this again!” We felt like kids in the pool! We exercised for about an hour, then spent the last ten minutes in the jacuzzi and left super relaxed! I think I worked different leg muscles because I felt the workout on my legs when I was getting ready to go to sleep. We will definitely be doing this workout again….soon!

So, if you are looking for a way to mix up your exercise routine try a pool! It is also a much softer workout on your knees, hips, back, and arms than other aerobic workouts. You don’t need equipment, just a bathing suit and the desire to stay active!

Do you do water aerobics?

Hugs,

Paola

Lola y yo hemos hecho ejercicio juntas por mas de siete anos, por lo regular son caminatas rápidas. Esta semana, decidimos cambiare un poco a la rutina y fuimos a la alberca. Ella vive en uno de los edificios mas bonitos en el centro de San Diego y tienen una alberca muy padre! Solo habíamos ido al área de la alberca una vez en el pasado, y eso fue hace anos y para entrar al jacuzzi, jaja! Ayer, nos metimos a la alberca. Eramos las únicas en el área de la alberca, así que tuvimos toda la alberca para solo nosotras dos. Estaba haciendo bastante calor y el agua estaba a una temperatura agradable. Lola se metió de un tiro, yo primero me moje los pies, luego me fui metiendo poco a poco. Tuvimos una buena sesión de ejercicio, trotando alrededor de la alberca, pataleando de la orilla, y haciendo nuestra propia versión de aqua aerobics. Lo mas importante es que nos divertimos – y pudimos platicar para ponernos al tanto de nuestras vidas mientras hacíamos ejercicio! Varias veces dijimos, “que buena idea, tenemos que hacer esto mas seguido!” Nos sentíamos como niñas en la alberca! Hicimos como una hora de ejercicio y de ahí nos pasamos al jacuzzi por diez minutos, salimos sintiéndonos super relajadas! Creo que trabaje diferentes músculos en las piernas porque pude sentir el ejerció en la noche cuando me estaba recostando para dormir. Definitivamente vamos a hacer esta sesión de ejercicio de nuevo….pronto!

Así que si estas buscando una opción para variar tu rutina de ejercicio, ve a una alberca! Hacer ejercicio en una alberca tambien es mas suave en tus rodillas, piernas, brazos, y espalda que otros tipos de ejercicios aerobicos. No necesitas equipo especial, solo un traje de bano y las ganas de mantenerte activo!

Tu practicas aqua aerobics?

Un abrazo,

Paola

Spontaneous Summer Afternoon

Posted on August 29, 2013 by phjiao

I know farmer’s markets are very popular right now. For years my sister had been telling me about their outings on Tuesday’s to the Farmer’s Market at the Otay Ranch Center in Chula Vista. Even though I lived in Eastlake for years, just a few blocks from the Center, I had never been to the Farmer’s Market. My sis and I try to see each other often and speak on the phone almost daily. Yesterday, during our call, she invited me to the Farmer’s Market and I accepted. Her husband was going to meet us there. After work, I changed out of my suit and into casual clothes. We headed to the Center and had a nice, relaxing afternoon. I was amazed by the multiple options of food. My sis bought an ice-cream for the boys and that just painted the perfect picture of summer, children enjoying an ice-cream! We started to reminisce about our grandfather and how he would buy us ice-cream and the fond memories we have of him. There was also a jumper for kids and some booths with fruits and vegetables. The Center itself is beautiful and designed to be walkable! When my brother-in-law arrived, we had some dinner from the Farmer’s Market booths and sat in the open area by the food court. It was so relaxing and the weather had gotten to the perfect summer warmth! After dinner, we did a little shopping. Before I headed home, I stopped by The Cheesecake Factory at the Center to get a cheesecake for my hubby.

If you are like me, your weeknights are usually a bit structured and you follow a routine during the work week, but it is nice to every once in a while break the routine and enjoy an outing, making for a spontaneous summer afternoon of fun!

Have you been to a Farmer’s Market?

Hugs,

Paola

The Joy of Cinema

Posted on August 28, 2013 by phjiao

As a fan of movies, I am a supporter of film festivals. I have seen hundreds of movies, many for pure entertainment (i.e.: blockbusters, comedies, chick flicks), some for their message about society, and I enjoy documentaries to learn about an infinite number of subjects, such as history, nature, biographies, travel, and more. Over the years, I have been to a number of film festivals. The San Diego Latino Film Festival is presenting Exitos de Cine Latino (Successes in Latino Cinema) through August 29th at two local theaters. I have enjoyed seeing a few of the movies. If time permitted, I’d see more of the movies! This festival showcases movies from Latin America, Spain, and Mexico, meet and greets with movie directors and actors, and nightly musical performances at the movie theatre. The proceeds benefit the San Diego Media Arts Center’s programs. The television stations (where I work) are sponsoring the festival and we had the opportunity to give a welcome before one of the movies. It was nice to see a good turn out, run into contacts from radio stations and the festival organizers, as well as support a good cause. If you have an opportunity, stop by and catch a movie! For more details, visit: www.sdlatinofilm.com. Have fun at the movies!

Have you been to a film festival before? Have you been to the San Diego Latino Film Festival?

Hugs,

Paola

Espanol: Como fan de peliculas, apoyo a festivales de cine. He visto cientas de peliculas, muchas por entretenimiento (comedias, éxitos de cartelera, y comedias románticas), algunas por su mensaje social, y disfruto documentales para aprender sobre un gran numero de temas, como historia, la naturaleza, biografías, viajes, y mas. Al paso de los anos, he ido a varios festivales de cine. El Festival de Cine Latino de San Diego esta presentando Exitos de Cine Latino hasta el 29 de agosto en dos cines en San Diego. He disfrutado de ver algunas de las películas. Si tuviese mas tiempo disponible, viera mas de las películas! Este festival presenta películas de Mexico, Latino America, y España, oportunidades de conocer a directores y actores, y entretenimiento cada noche en el cine. Los fondos recaudados benefician a los programas del Media Arts Center de San Diego (Centro de Medios). Las televisoras (donde trabajo) son patrocinadoras del festival y tuvimos la oportunidad de dar la bienvenida antes del comienzo de una de las películas. Me dio gusto ver que habia bastante gente en el festival, encontrarme a compañeros de radiofusoras y los organizadores del festival, y poder apoyar esta buena causa. Si tienes la oportunidad, ve a ver una o varias películas! Para mas detalles sobre el festival, visita: www.sdlatinofilm.com. Que se diviertan en el cine!

Has ido a un festival de cine? Has ido al Festival de Cine Latino de San Diego?

Un abrazo,

Paola

Day at the Museum

Posted on August 26, 2013 by phjiao

This weekend, we visited the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center (science museum) at Balboa Park in San Diego. We had a wonderful time! Time I spend with family is always fun and cherished! My nephews had a fun time playing and trying out the interactive exhibits…..and we adults, also participated in the games and activities. We had many laughs! Our visit included seeing the exhibit halls in the museum and a movie at their IMAX theatre. We saw Flight of the Butterflies, which is beautiful and educational, it made me have a better appreciation for the Monarch butterfly and it’s incredible ability to migrate. We spent about four hours at the Museum and the time flew by because we had so much fun. Afterwards, we got bought some snacks and ice-cream, which we enjoyed while sitting next to the Bea Evenson Fountain just outside the museum. This is a wonderful museum for families! Here are some pictures from our visit.

Have you been to the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center? Have you been to Balboa Park? If yes, which is your favorite museum?

Hugs,

Paola

Español: Este fin de semana visitamos en Reuben H. Fleet Science Center (museo de ciencia) en Parque Balboa, en San Diego. ¡La pasamos muy bien! ¡Aprecio el tiempo que paso con mi familia y siempre es divertido! Mis sobrinos se divirtieron mucho jugando y participando en las exhibiciones interactivas….y nosotros, los adultos, tambien participamos en los juegos y actividades. Nos reimos bastante! Nuestra visita incluyo ver las varias salas de exhibicion y una pelicula en su cine IMAX. Vimos Flight of the Butterflies (El Vuelo de las Mariposas), esta muy linda e interesante, me hizo tener un mejor conocimiento sobre la mariposa Monarca y su increíble habilidad de migrar (desde Canada y Texas hasta Mexico). Pasamos como cuatro horas en el museo y el tiempo se paso volando porque nos divertimos mucho. Despues, compramos unas botanas y nieve, y nos sentamos a disfrutarlas junto a la Fuente Bea Evenson que esta afuera del museo. ¡Este es un excelente museo para familias! Aqui les comparto unas fotos de nuestra visita al museo.

¿Has ido a este museo de ciencia? ¿Cuál es tu museo favorito en Parque Balboa?

Un abrazo,

Paola

Find of the Week: Black Wedges

Posted on August 24, 2013 by phjiao

I am a big fan of wedges…and must confess, I have lots of shoes! Some wedge soles are too hard or the heal is too high, so I have become more selective in buying this style of shoe. Also, because I have about 130 pairs of shoes and am running out of closet space, I am trying to only buy shoes that I know I will definitely wear or what I call “shoes I love!” I usually leave the house with two pairs of shoes every weekday, the one’s on my feet, which I know will be comfortable to wear for the entire day – usually wedges or comfortable heals – and the pair of heals I call “dinner shoes” which are only comfortable to wear for a few hours. I wear these “dinner heals” for interview or promo shoots, if I am attending a Luncheon, or to attend events after work. I try to take care of my feet, knees, and back – and have learned over the years that wearing heals all day can be hard on the body….plus painful on the feet.

Nine West is a brand I like and have several pairs of these shoes. The quality is good, they have stylish shoes, and they are durable. I usually only buy leather shoes (in various brands). My Steve Madden black leather wedges, which are similar, are starting to look a bit worn – I have used them lots, so they have given me my money’s worth, so I was in search of some new black wedges. I found these Nine West one’s a few weeks ago at their store at Las Americas Premium Outlets (stopped by on my way back from a day trip to Tijuana) , but they were about $80 which I thought was a bit much. So, I decided to wait and come back later, a risk that has come back to bite me in the past because sometimes they sell out of certain shoes fairly quickly. For a few weeks, when I would wear my Steve Madden wedges, I would think of the Nine West one’s and knew I wanted to go back to buy them…and soon! So, I made it to the Carlsbad Premium Outlets (after visiting a car dealer in the area), and immediately went to the Nine West store. To my great joy, they still had them in stock and they were discounted to $34.99. I also wanted them in tan color, but am trying to only buy one pair of shoe, per style. In the past, occasionally when I would find a shoe I really liked and it was comfortable (particularly for work), I’d buy it in two colors. In this case, I could kick myself because the shoe is very comfortable. I can wear it all day for work and then to an event in the evening – and they are still comfortable. Plus, because they are wedges, they are versatile to wear with pants, particularly some long straight leg pants I wear for work, and with dresses or skirts.

Just for you, to make sure I provided accurate information, I called the store in Carlsbad, and they still have these shoes in stock and multiple sizes. The model name is Charlottao and the price has been further discounted to $29.99! If I lived closer to Carlsbad, I’d go buy them…I may just have to go! They come in multiple colors: in leather the options are black, cudio (tan), cognac; in patent the options are black, white, cognac, tortorra (nude), pink.

Beautiful shoes bring joy to my life…and when a pair is not only beautiful, but also versatile, good quality, and comfortable, I know I’ll enjoy wearing it for years to come!

Happy shoe shopping!

Do you like wearing wedges? What is your favorite shoe find? Share your good shoe deals with me!

Hugs,

Paola

My Week in Photos

Posted on August 24, 2013 by phjiao

Hi friends,

What a week- it flew by! I was looking forward to this week because I had a number of fun plans: a shoot with the March of Dimes, lunch meeting with “business friends,” set date to exercise with Lola, and the Francis Ford Coppola Winery Dinner! The weather was warm and more humid than usual for San Diego, so I wore lighter & more casual clothes….it definitely felt like a summer week! How was your weekend? Good I hope!

Que semana – se paso volando! Estaba anticipando esta semana con gusto porque tenia varios planes divertidos: una grabacion con el March of Dimes, una comida com amistades, una fecha reservada para hacer ejercicio con Lola, y la cena del vinedo Francis Ford Coppola. El clima estuvo calido y mas humedo de lo normal para San Diego, asi que me puse ropa mas ligera y casual….definitivamente se sintio como una semana de verano! Como estuvo tu semana? Ojala y muy buena!

Hugs / Un Abrazo,

Paola

Interviewing Danitza Villanueva, volunteer, March of Dimes and editor, Giving Back Magazine, regarding the March of Dimes’ Golf for Babies Tournament, which the stations sponsor.

Right after the interview, pictured with: Justino Castillo, our wonderful studio floor director; Danitza Villanueva, and Lowry Champion, executive director, March of Dimes.

It was a treat to attend the Francis Ford Coppola Winery Dinner since they makes some of my favorite red wines! Had a nice time with my hubby at this dinner – we learned a great deal about the winery, other resorts they have, and the various wines! A truly delightful night…with good people…and delicious food paired perfectly with Coppola wines!

A part of my weeks that is always fun! Exercise day with my bff Lola! We walked by the bay and got to catch up….always fun and time I look forward to! (this pic was taken a few weeks ago, but we look the same, promise :))

I am trying to eat healthier….so I keep fresh & nutritious food around, so it is easily available and I can stay on track. Bought these delicious and super large grapefruits this week! I’ve been pretty good about alternating between a grapefruit, papaya, and oatmeal for breakfast – all healthy options and simple to prepare! Tip: I keep fruit in my fridge at work and buy the papaya already chopped up.

I have been adjusting my schedule to get into work earlier…which means I am having to go to sleep earlier! On this night, it was past 11:00pm and I had not removed my make-up yet….ahh, I had to get out of bed just to remove my make-up. I am pretty good about removing my make-up ,and adding my moisturizer and eye cream almost 99% of the time – and I notice the difference in my skin. It looks healthier when I sleep enough hours and remove my make-up, keeping it well moisturized.

For the past few weeks, I have been working on the stations sponsorship of the Exitos de Cine Latino – Film Series/Festival. The Festival is finally here! We set-up our exhibitor table at the movie theatre and I am looking forward to attending!

Part of my work is collaborating with local organizations and supporting non-profits. This is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. I had a lunch meeting with Suzi Woodruff from the Salvation Army and Javier Tirado from Westfield Plaza Bonita. They have both become friends and it was a pleasure to see them both, as we discussed projects and enjoyed a tasty meal at El Torito at Plaza Bonita. They made the guacamole fresh and prepared the chicken fajita salad I ordered, right there next to our table. Suzi caught a picture of me taking a picture of the moment the guacamole was being prepared (notice the note on the back of my phone, a Post-it reminded me to buy milk for our kitty, haha, but hey, this post-it on the cell phone reminder works for me). I hadn’t been to an El Torito in years, but after this fresh and delicious meal, I’ll be back! I must confess, I ate way too many tortilla chips…but, it all balances out since I had a salad. Even though I am trying not to eat tortilla chips at home, I do eat them when I eat out.

PS – Celebrating my birthday with a visit to the Francis Ford Coppola Winery. And, Opening Night at the San Diego Latino Film Festival.

Flowing Bronze

Posted on August 24, 2013 by phjiao

This dress makes me want to sit in front of the beach sipping a fruity drink! The material flows easily, with a front criss-cross and high-low skirt. The bronze color makes my skin look tan, which is wonderful during summertime! Due to the color of the dress, I changed up my make-up to use bronze, gold, and earth tones. It must have been noticeable because I received compliments at work, which is always appreciated and makes us feel good! I bought it recently and have worn it twice – to a birthday party and this week to the Francis Ford Coppola Winery Dinner. Since the dinner was on a weeknight, I wore the dress to work with a fitted suit jacket and bone color wedge shoes. I like that it has stretchy material under the skirt in the same color (similar to a slip), this made it more comfortable to wear for work, particularly when I sat down due to the criss-cross skirt. It doesn’t come with a belt, for the Dinner I added a bronze color belt and for the birthday party I wore a dark brown leather belt (with a large red and dark brown necklace). For the Dinner, I changed into strappy heals and exchanged my jacket for a pashmina (which I didn’t wear after all). I will definitely be wearing the dress again! I can match it with white, brown, red, or gold shoes….and wear it into the fall with a cardigan sweater or leather jacket.

Do you have any bronze colored dresses? What do you think about these high-low skirts that are in style right now?

Hugs,

Paola

Tip: I have many belts that I use for pants that fall lower on the waist/hip and also use them with skirts and dresses, so I wrap the belt and use small clear hair bands to hold the belt in place. It works like a charm. Since the hair bands are very small, thin and clear, they aren’t really visible….but, in this pic you can see a bit of the hair band, so you get the idea. I usually add two bands, one close to the end of the belt and one in the middle between the buckle and the back of the belt. These head bands are easy to find at Target, Wal-Mart, or CVS. These bands last me through multiple wears – of a belt – and don’t damage it.

At the Francis Ford Coppola Winery Dinner.

Dress: Forever21; Shoes: Audrey Brooke, Nordstrom; Belt: Gift from my sister (it used to be hers, so it is a hand-me down ;)); Necklace: Lolita’s Creations (hand-made, natural stones, it was a gift from my bff Lola, her hobby is jewelry making); Bracelet: Forever21

How I Stopped Eating Chips

Posted on August 20, 2013 by phjiao

Tortilla chips are one of my favorite snacks! Not potato chips, but tortilla chips. It is funny because, even though I am Mexican, I don’t eat tortillas often, nor do I crave them. I’ll take a good handmade tortilla any day, but don’t really buy them for home, nor do I cook with them. Over the years, I have eaten a lots of bags of tortilla chips. I started to compare chips and found that the lowest calorie, fat, & sodium tortilla chips, that I still find tasty, are the one’s from Trader Joe’s. I used to buy them often and because when I was single I lived alone, guess who would eat all the tortilla chips? That’s right – ME! My husband likes potato chips more than tortilla chips, so even after I got married, if I bought a bag of tortilla chips, I would eat the entire bag by myself. I wouldn’t eat it all in one sitting, I would eat a few one day, then a small bowl the next day and the next, until the bag was gone. Sometimes I would prepare a bowl of tortilla chips with lime and chamoy or chile, it was delicious! Some nights, instead of dinner, I’d have a bowl of tortilla chips. I wouldn’t do it every day or every week, but when I did buy a bag, I would eat chips almost every night. I really like pita chips too and for a while was buying these in place of tortilla chips, but these also have lots of calories, fat, & sodium – plus it was hard to only eat a few.

I noticed this was becoming a bad habit and would make me feel bloated from the sodium the next day. So, I decided to break the bad habit and stopped buying both of them. I haven’t bought a bag of tortilla or pita chips in months. I still eat these tasty snacks at parties or restaurants, but just a few.

I am not saying I will never buy a bag of tortilla or pita chips, but for now, I am trying to eat healthier and unprocessed food. So, I have replaced chips with fresh carrot chips and mushrooms. Both these veggies are very low on calories and have zero fat. I also eat plantain chips if I want the crunchiness. So, if I am craving tortilla chips or pita chips, I’ll eat mushrooms or carrot chips. Before I know it, my craving is gone and I have eaten healthy snacks that nourish me.

Last week, we were in San Francisco and I wanted to stay on my healthy diet – it’s more of a lifestyle. So, we went to the grocery store. Instead of buying the bag of tortilla chips I would usually buy for the weekend in San Fran, I bought fresh veggies, hummus, salad, and fruit. This healthy food kept me feeling full and avoided me eating unhealthy food. It worked! Plus, I do find these veggies to be tasty.

I love, love hummus, but don’t eat it often because it has lots of calories, fat, and sodium. Yes, yes, I know it is natural, has the healthy type of fat and oils, but still calories are calories. So, I snacked on hummus with mushrooms, carrot chips, and tomatoes. Delicious! At home, I also eat the mushrooms and carrots alone or with a small amount of low fat sour cream. Some friends eat carrots with chili and lime, I may try that.

There are many pluses to eating healthier, more importantly, I am nourishing my body. These veggies have vitamins, protein, and fiber. The minuses are that natural veggies don’t keep fresh as long as processed foods do. So, I have to eat them within a few days of buying them. Also, they do cost a bit more than buying a simple bag of chips, but it is worth it because in the long run, it is better for me.

So, next time you are craving chips….try these snacks, they are yummy, low-cal, and more importantly healthy for you! Maybe someday, you’ll actually crave these instead of chips. I am still working on that!

Do you snack on veggies? What is your favorite snack?

Hugs,

Paola

My Week in Photos

Posted on August 19, 2013 by phjiao

Hi friends,

This week was full – busy as usual, but I wouldn’t have it any other way, it was also fun & productive! I had the opportunity to produce an interview for the March of Dimes’ upcoming Golf for Babies, had a meeting with our Ad Council rep, and attended a reception in honor of Ed Lopez, in recognition of his new position. On a personal basis, I was looking forward to Friday because we took my nephew to see the animated movie Planes. My hubby went for a flight (his hobby) Saturday morning and has been working on project, so my plans for the weekend were to catch up on sleep! Which I was able to do yesterday morning. Even though they say you can’t really catch up on sleep, I feel like I did and feel rested today.

I produced an interview for the March of Dimes’ Golf for Babies Tournament. It is always nice to see their staff and catch up on how their projects are coming along. The stations sponsor the Golf for Babies event, so I have been working with the March of Dimes for a few years now. I am looking forward to the Tournament in September.

One of my responsibilities at the stations is to select the PSAs we air, which is based on a list of criteria. About once a year, I meet with our Ad Council rep and he brings me up to speed on the latest PSAs and campaigns. The PSAs are all for non-profits and to help get their message out. Helping non-profit organizations is one of the favorite parts of my job! I feel…actually, I know, we are making a difference in the community we serve!

Here’s a group picture taken at Ed Lopez’s reception. The reception made me think about networking and how people you meet at work related events can become contacts, then lead to what I call “business friends” and even personal friends. I posted about it earlier this week.

Friday was probably my favorite day of the week. I felt giddy all day because my hubby and I had made plans to take my nephew to see the movie Planes. It was so much fun to see him, he is adorable and a true joy in our lives! After the movie, we met my sister, other nephew, and brother-in-law for dinner. It was nice to see her and my nephews, to play with them and catch up with my sis. It warmed my heart that as we were leaving the restaurant, my younger nephew (who is starting to speak) asked me if we were coming over to his house to play further, so cute!

This weekend, I got to catch up on sleep, relax, watch a movie, and read. I know it may seem silly, but I really enjoy cooking breakfast for my hubby on weekends. And for me, just being able to sit and enjoy my fresh cup of coffee is a treat reserved for weekends when we are at home!

Now, time to prepare for my workweek!

How was your weekend? Did you do anything fun, catch up on sleep….or relax?

Hugs….and best wishes for a great week,

Paola

Networking: Making “Business Friends”

Posted on August 16, 2013 by phjiao

I receive invitations to many events, most held in the evening after regular work hours. My schedule is quite busy (just like many of you), and I try to be as efficient and productive as I can in my workday. I still work long hours, but don’t mind because I enjoy my career, it is part of my life and it blends together. Each event I attend after work takes time from my personal time. I have to decide which events to go to and balance attending these with exercise, my hobbies (lately with my blog posts), and my favorite thing to do…spend time with my hubby and family…oh, and getting some rest after work. In my twenties, I attended lots of work related events because of the position I had and because I was also increasing my network of business contacts. I have a few binders full of business cards. At this point of my career, I still attend events, but a lot less, my max is about one per week (that includes super fun events, like gallery openings or food/wine/cultural related receptions). At these events, I still network and see if there is a connection related to an opportunity for the TV stations where I work, but if I run into someone I am fond of, I will likely stay there and catch up with them.

Over the years, I have met lots of people, thousands, and some have become what I call “business friends.” They are more than a business contact or acquaintance, but not as close as a personal friend that you call often or would go for a walk with. These are people that I am fond of and genuinely care about. Some of these people I’ve known for more than ten years, some for less than one. These business friends have seen me grow and advance in my career, and I have seen them advance into different positions as well. Over the years, I have gotten to know them better and learned about their families, travels, and hobbies. In some cases, we’ve called each other for career advice.

There are occasions when the events I get invited to are to celebrate the success of a business friend. I automatically know that will be the event I choose to attend that week because it is to celebrate a friend! Today, I attended one of those events. A good business friend became the Executive Director of a non-profit organization and there was a reception held in his honor. I had a wonderful time, of course my guest was Lola (bff), which added to the fun! It was a small and intimate event, with about forty people. As soon as I walked into the reception I saw three people I have known for years and got to catch up with them. As I moved through the room I kept seeing more people I know and an fond of. In just a few minutes, we were laughing and sharing stories, tips on traveling, and even recipes! It was also nice to hear that they follow my blog and even mentioned some of the posts, and gave me suggestions for topics for future blog posts. It warmed my heart! It was nice to see the friend that was being honored and be there to show my support in this new stage of his career.

I have met two of my closest friends through my career and networking, they are as close as sisters for me (one of them introduced me to my husband…so this business friend, turned personal friend, introduced me to the man that is the love of my life). In another post, I will share about those stories and these wonderful ladies. So, when you attend networking events, don’t just think about how the people you are meeting can help you advance your career or become a client for your company. Don’t take me wrong, still network and build your contact database, continue connecting with more business people, but also try to enjoy the event. Be selective of the events you attend and have fun! For all you know, you could make some “business friends”….some of which may become personal friends….and have an impact in not only your professional life, but also your personal life!

Hugs,

Paola

Paola's Lifestyle

Life Experiences, Entertainment, Travel, Motherhood, Beauty, Fashion & More

Author Archives: phjiao

Latin Food Fest

Kaleidoscope

Blue Brightness

Flight – Part 1 of 3

My Week in Photos

From Casual Friday to Casual Dinner

How to Cut 300 Calories from Your Day

My Weekend in Photos: Labor Day in Las Vegas

Santo Day Celebration

My Week In Photos

Mixing It Up

Spontaneous Summer Afternoon

The Joy of Cinema

Day at the Museum

Find of the Week: Black Wedges

My Week in Photos

Flowing Bronze

How I Stopped Eating Chips

My Week in Photos

Networking: Making “Business Friends”