How to use custom fonts in blogger

Out of whim, I decided to change the font type of my entry titles, as well as my sidebar and footer headings tonight, and thought of creating a post on how I did it to share to those who want to do the same for their blogs. Years of blogging have taught me that fonts play a role in creating an impression for your blog and making it stand out. They help bring out your personality in your blog and may either help attract or turn off readers.

Now, you can actually control what fonts to use on your blog, and you can do this with the following easy to follow steps:

1. Decide which typeface and font you want to use. When I first started, I didn’t know that typeface and fonts are actually 2 different things. The typeface (sometimes also referred to as a font family) is like a collection of related fonts, while fonts refer to the digital file that has the specific weight, width, style of a typeface. The most common types of typefaces are as follows: 
   • Serif- a typeface whose main feature is a small line added to the beginning and end of the main strokes of a character. 
   • Sans-Serif- a typeface without serifs (‘sans’ is a french word meaning ‘without)
   • Script/Cursive Fonts- a typeface characterized by fluid strokes similar to a hand writing.
   • Display/ Decorative Fonts- a typeface that can be artistic and eye-catching, they are made to stand out on a page and are perfect for headers and titles.
   • Monospace- a typeface that has fixed character width and pitch, making them occupy the same horizontal space.
   
   
   In my case, I wanted a font that resembles a handwriting so I chose a script/cursive font.
   
   Once you’ve made up your mind on the specific typeface to use, you can now choose a specific font. There are lots of sites on the internet to choose and get custom fonts, and not all of them are for free. A good place to start for free custom fonts is Google Fonts, with a catalog of over 800 fonts. 
   
   
   
   
   
2. Add a custom font. Now, adding a custom font from Google Fonts is easy. Here's what I did:

• First, use the filter on the side bar to make your search easier. You can set the typeface, number of styles, thickness, and other font characteristic that you want to see in your custom font. You can also sort them alphabetically, by popularity, etc. If you’re looking for a particular font to add, you can also type its name on the search bar. Once, you’ve set your filters, browse through the gallery, and if you want, you can even type on the text box if you want to see how a particular letter will look like in a certain font type.

• Once you’ve decided which font to use, click on the ‘+’ button at the top of each font type to add it to your selection.

• A small rectangular box will appear at the bottom of your screen and it will reflect how many font families you’ve added. 

• Once you’re done, you can click on the rectangular box to expand it and you’ll see this: 

          a. Your Selection: Shows the names of all the fonts you’ve added
          b. Clear All:An option to clear the selection & start over again
          c. Load Time: Indicates how fast the fonts will load on your page
          d. Embed tab: Contains the code for embedding the font in your HTML document, as well as
              the CSS style to apply to your CSS stylesheet
          e. Custom tab: Gives you the option to choose want font style you want to include per font
             family, as well as what language to use.

When you click on the rectangular tab, you will see this. 

This is what you'll see when you click on the 'Customize' tab 

• If you’re all set with your font of choice, open Blogger and go to ‘TEMPLATE’ and click on ‘BACK UP & RESTORE’. Download a full back up of your template before customizing anything to make sure you can revert the changes back to your original layout in case anything goes wrong.

•  Now that you’re ready to edit your template, click on ‘EDIT HTML’. Click on CTRL + F (PC) or COMMAND+F (MAC) to open the search box and look for the <b:skin> tag, which will be highlighted in yellow. Then, copy the embed code from google fonts and paste it directly above the <b:skin> tag. Add a forward slash (/) right before the closing bracket (>) to prevent any errors. 



This is how your template will look like and the <b:skin> tag is usually easy to find at the top of the template. 

This is the embed code that you need to copy from google fonts

This is how it should look like when the embed code is pasted above the <b:skin> tag. Make sure to click the black triangle beside it to expand its contents, where you'll see the CSS styles. 

• To apply the font on specific parts of your blog, you’ll need to find the CSS selector and add the CSS style to it. Here’s an example:

This is what you'll need to copy in Google Fonts and apply in your CSS stylesheet 

This is where it should be applied. 

‘H1, H2, H3 and so on refers to header. In my case, H1 & H2 pertain to post titles and sidebar and footer headers. It may be different with your template so to cross check which part of your blog they stand for, you can click on preview and see to which parts the custom font has been applied to. Once you’re sure of the changes you’ve made, you can click on ‘SAVE TEMPLATE’ and you’re all set!

Aside from the font type, you can also change the font size by changing the number values as shown above.

Hope I was able to share something useful to you (If I did, a link back would be a great way to say thanks ^^). Do you know other ways to add custom fonts? Please do share them with me in the comments section :)

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My Happiest Memory in Seoul

There's nothing quite like the excitement of winning a trip to your most favorite place, and meeting new friends for the first time. Both of these happened to me during autumn of last year, an experience which I consider my happiest memory in Seoul^^.

It was November last year when I was fortunate enough to be one of the participants of the Visit Korea VIP Members Invitation Tour. There were 13 other winners from other countries like Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, and I was excited to meet all of them. I was part of the English team, and was the only one from the Philippines. Coming from different countries with different languages, it was amazing how we all easily got along so well, and remain really good friends till now.

me and the rest of the participants of the tour at Trickeye Museum

I love all the yellow leaves scattered around Deoksugung Palace <3

Autumn is my favorite season, and I was so ecstatic to be back and see the familiar shades of fall. We visited a lot of tourist attractions in Seoul like the Trick Eye Museum, Kondae Common Ground, Deoksugung Palace, Samcheongdong, Yeouido Park and Grevin Museum Seoul, where I ‘met’ a lot of famous people and handsome oppa. We also dropped by some famous cafes like the Hello Kitty Café in Hongdae, Dore Dore Café in Kondae, and Wiki Café, which is owned by Super Junior member, Lee Sung Min (Being a Super Junior fan, that is one item off my bucketlist!). We even met his brother, Lee Sung Jin, and we took a lot of photos with him.

Our group photo at Kondae Common Ground

Photo op with the guard at Deoksugung Palace

My selfie with Lee Sung Jin, who is so nice and adorable^^

Ironically, my second visit to Seoul is a trip of many ‘firsts’ for me. For one, it allowed me to visit Myeongdong Cathedral for the first time. I regretted not being able to visit it before especially when I learned it’s the birthplace for the Roman Catholic Church community in Korea. That’s why I was happy to finally be able to see it on this 2nd trip. I really loved its unique architecture, serene ambience and the grotto of Mother Mary at the back. I said a short prayer and lighted a candle too.

My visit to Myeongdong Cathedral

Other first time experiences for me include learning how to make candles at Holly Go Studio, as well as playing the Janggu drum at Jeongdong Theater. Being a newbie in playing a Korean musical instrument, I was surprised at how easy it was. At the end of the workshop, each of us were given certificates and our guide even teased us that now we can teach others how to play the Janggu drum at our respective countries. After that, I was able to watch a Korean traditional musical performance for the first time too. It was titled ‘Miso’ ('The Story of Secretary Bae' 배비장전), a traditional performance showcasing Korean dance and music like Pansori (traditional vocal performance with drum), and Samulnori (traditional percussion quartet). I really like the dance routines, colorful costumes, and interesting plot. We even had the chance to take pictures with the main cast after the performance.

Hanging out with Marilyn Monroe at Grevin Museum Seoul

My Janggu Drum experience at Jeongdong Theatre

Our visit to Jeongdong Theatre and photo op with the casts of Miso

This trip also allowed me to try out a lot of Korean food like Dakgalbi (Grilled Chicken) and Makguksu (Korean buckwheat noodle dish), Bingsu, Ramyeon, Hameul Pajeon, and Grilled Mackerel. I was also able to drink Makgeolli for the first time in Seoul. The food is really great, and I like that they’re also healthy.

Eating ramyun at 55 Beonji Ramen

My new favorite, Dakgalbi!!!

With good food, life-changing experiences, and captivating tourist attractions, a guest just couldn’t ask for anything more. I really appreciate the hospitality and generosity shown to us by our host, Korea Tourism Organization during this 2nd trip, and for all that I’ve experienced, I will forever be grateful to them, and the city of Seoul.

Seoul is my happy place, a city that warms my soul, and every time I think of it, I am only reminded of wonderful memories that never fail to inspire me. Of course, there’s a lot more to explore so I will definitely keep on coming back to my home away from home.

another group photo at Jeongdong Theatre...say kimchiiii!

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Beast 1st Fan Meeting is a dream come true for Philippine fans

Published in Inquirer.net :)

For Philippine fans of multi-awarded Korean boy band Beast, their 1^st Fan Meeting in the country which is organized by Cube Entertainment, Butterfly and All Access Productions, is worth the wait, because after almost 6 years, their idols came back to Manila and gave them a night they’ll never forget at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 19, 2016. Thousands of ‘B2uties’ (collective name for Beast fans; pronounced as ‘Beauties’) flocked the Big Dome to see the boys showcase their talents, and flaunt their charisma in a night of musical madness, fan interaction, and entertainment.

Media photo op with Beast! ^^ Thank you All Access Productions and Inquirer.net for this :) If you will see all media photos, Dongwoon and Yoseob has the same pose all throughout. So cute!

Unfortunately, vocalist Jang Hyunseung was unable to attend the event because of some personal reasons. But even with one member missing, the remaining Beast members, which consists of leader, vocalist and sub-rapper Yoon Doojoon, main vocalist Yang Yoseob, main rapper Yong Junhyung, visual and vocalist Lee Gikwang, and rapper and maknae (Korean word meaning ‘youngest member’) Son Dongwoon did their best to return the love of their fans through their powerful performances, high energy level and heartfelt sincerity.

The boys warmed up the night with hits like “Good Luck”, “Yey”, and “I Think I Love You”. The fans were all ecstatic and screamed their hearts out as the boys performed one song after the other. After that, they all bowed and introduced themselves to the audience. Gikwang was all smiles when he addressed the fans and said “Hello to all Philippine B2uties! It’s been a while since the last time we’ve been here, so it’s nice meeting you guys.”

Member Dongwoon, who previously studied English in Laguna, amusingly introduced himself and said, “Hello Philippines! Mabuhay! I’m Dongwoon from Sta. Rosa.” Yoseob went along with him and responded “Hello! Nice to meet you! My name is (Yoseob). I’m from Korea.”

Junhyung assured the fans that they prepared a lot for that night and won’t let them down. Gikwang thrilled the fans even more by saying “Hello! What’s up Philippines? I missed everyone. Long time no see. I love you!” Leader Doojoon followed him by saying “Mabuhay! Enjoy tonight!”

Since a fan meet offers more fan interaction than the usual concerts, some lucky fans were selected via raffle to play games with Beast members. The 1st game was the cup stacking game where each Beast member was paired with a fan. While choosing the players, Beast learned that one of them was celebrating her birthday so they immediately sung a cute rendition of Happy Birthday for her in acapella, and even hugged her.

For the 2^nd game called ‘Kick for Gifts, Beast prepared presents for some lucky fans, which include a Starbucks tumbler, a teddy bear called ‘Yoseob Edition Teddy Bear’, their 2016 Seasons Greetings Calendar and a signed album. Selfies with the members were also included as prizes. The game required Beast members to kick a mini soccer ball into a numbered board that contains the names of the prizes. Since not all the numbers have prizes in them, the members had to try again a few more times, and after several futile attempts, the members started playfully rigging the game to make sure all their gifts are won by the fans.

All the fans enjoyed seeing their idols’ fun and competitive side. They were screaming and laughing at the boys’ crazy antics, and playfulness. The members also impressed the audience with their excellent fan service, enthusiasm, and charm. They interacted with the fans without reservations, hugging fans onstage, singing ‘Congratulations’ songs to winners, and taking their selfies using fans’ cameras while they roam around.

After the games, Beast continued to fill the night with musical frenzy as they performed hits like  “Gonna Go To Work,” “Midnight,” “On Rainy Days,” “Suite Room,” “12:30,” “Beautiful Night,” and “How to Love” for encore. Check out the boys' photos in action (and guess who my favorite member is):

The fans also returned the love they got from Beast by singing and dancing, and waving their rose-shaped light sticks all throughout the night, creating a wonderful sea of dark grey among the audience. They also surprised Gikwang with a special cake as an advanced present for his birthday in March 30, and came up with various banner projects and a special video presentation for the boys.

At the end of the show, Beast thanked their fans for the wonderful night and their heartfelt support. “Thank you for coming tonight…I love you. We will come back. Please wait for us and our songs. Until we meet again,” said Junhyung.

This is the cake that Beast Philippines prepared for Gikwang.  Credit: Beast Philippines

“…I am really happy to meet my Philippine fans after a long time… Thank you guys for being here today. To be honest, we really missed you too. We don’t know when the next time would be, but we’ll try to make that as soon as possible. This time, not just a fan meeting but an official concert. Thank you!” said Gikwang.

Dongwoon also followed and said “Did you guys have fun today? For us also, this will be an unforgettable memory.” He then recalled his experience while studying in Sta. Rosa, Laguna and said, “I’m hoping to see you guys again at a concert and enjoy taho (Pinoy street food made of soft tofu) with you. During my study at Sta. Rosa, I really enjoyed taho… Thank you everybody. Mahal kita!”

The fan interaction did not end there though as selected fans were able to take advantage of meet and greet perks that include a high-touch session, group photo ops, and signed photos which were given by the members themselves.

A day after the concert, Doojoon posted in his instagram account, “Seeing a placard saying that seeing us is a dream come true kind of touched my heart. Thank you so much! Thank you, thank you Philippines. Bye. See you again.”

Note: Photo has been translated already :)

Truly, good things come to those who wait, and in the case of Philippine B2uties, all the years of anticipation only made their reunion with Beast even more special.

Beast first visited Manila in 2010, when they were still rookies, for a charity concert. Despite being considered underrated, the group has proven their exceptional talent and resilience by winning several awards, which includes the Bonsang Awards at Seoul Music Awards, as well as Artist of the Year at the Melon Music Awards in 2011 and 2012.#

~~~

Thank you very much for All Access Productions and inquirer.net for giving me the chance to cover this event and to get to know Beast! I arrived as a mere spectator but came out a fan :)
Please don't forget to credit me when using my photos. Thanks!

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KTO Manila begins search for next batch of Wow Korea Supporters

Wow, how time flies so fast! I can't believe that it's been a year already since I first applied as Wow Korea Supporter 2015. It's been an awesome year filled with a lot of discoveries about Korea's tourism and culture, and I can say being one of last year's 50 supporters was a remarkable experience that made my fondness for Korea more profound.

Just recently, Korea Tourism Organization Manila once again launched their search for the most avid Koreanophiles in Metro Manila, and this time, they will be choosing only 20 Wow Korea Supporters for 2016 (instead of 50 supporters like last year).

Do you have what it takes to be a Wow Korea Supporter? Apply now to find out and you might even get the chance to win a roundtrip ticket to Korea. The qualifications needed are as follows:

1. 1. Must be a Filipino citizen aged 18 and above, residing in Metro Manila
2. 2. Must be an active SNS user
3. 3. Must be a member of an affiliated PKCI (Philippine Kpop Convention) fan club.               Check out the list of PKCI Affiliated fan clubs HERE
4. 4. Like KTO Manila's Facebook page (www.facebook.com/koreatourismmanila), follow them on Twitter (@KTOManila) and  KakatoTalk (@ktomanila)

To apply, just fill out and submit the application form found in this link:  http://goo.gl/forms/soISULzuCd

Once you've passed the form, walk the talk and start being an active Korea tourism supporter (if you aren't already one) by promoting and sharing the announcements, activities, posts and events of KTO Manila on your respective SNS accounts (Facebook, Twitter, blog, etc.)

KTO Manila will be monitoring the accounts of qualified applicants and choose the most active ones from there. Please make sure all your accounts and posts are set to "public" so they can access and track them as well.

The application period as 2016 KTO Manila Wow Korea Supporter is from February 26 to March 25, 2016. The announcement of winners is on March 29, 2016.

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Credits to Korea Tourism Organization Manila for the details in this post. Check out their original announcement post HERE. 

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