I’ve been in the fashion blogging business since 2005 and that’s around the same time that I started reading Karen Cheng’s Snippets of Life. It was my sister, Shai Coggins, who introduced me to the virtual Karen Cheng. Having heard stories of their online friendship and eventual meeting at Perth, my curiosity about this lady had peaked.

Checking out her blog, I was immediately drawn to her easy writing style. She made living a life look so fun and exciting even when it’s just about kids starting to talk and walk, or taking a mirror photo of an outfit (which is now known as “Doing the Karen Cheng“, mind you).

I also have to admit that I’ve also come across a few great online shops through her blog. I’m actually glad that she had begun to focus on the fashion niche since I’ve noticed that she does have the knack for finding great places to shop, both online and off.

Anyway, when my sister mentioned that Karen will be in town to interview Lance Armstrong and had asked if they could meet and catch up before she heads back to Perth, I didn’t so much as hesitate and invited myself to it! Shameless, I know. Eeep. But can you really blame me? Wouldn’t you think it’s sillier NOT to grab the opportunity esp when it means you’d get to meet someone you’ve “known” online for quite sometime? So, yea. There I was feeling all psyched, hoping that Friday will come ’round sooner than it should. LOL.

I’m glad that her blog greatly reflects who she is in person. Warm and fun. No fuss and very genuine, at least, from where I was sitting. I certainly enjoyed “talking shop” with her esp since I’m here in Australia — exploring local fashion through shopping — a place she’s more familiar with than I’d ever would be (Hinting at Shai! Hehe).

Perhaps she and I both can lure my sister into the world of fashion blogging. Hehe.

Karen Cheng, Shai Coggins, and Sasha Manuel

An afternoon of coffee, chocolates, and gelati spent with two of Australia’s top bloggers. I reckon I’m in good company.

It was lovely meeting you, Karen! AND thanks, Ate for letting your little sis tag along! Hehe.

P.S. Don’t you agree that Karen looks more like my sister than I do? Oddly enough, it seems like they’d pass as sisters more than she and I ever would! LOL.

Photo © 2009 Sasha Manuel