Chic & Sassy Homemaker

Feeling Pretty in Yellow, Laneige, and Accessorize

2012-02-10T10:00:00.000+08:00

Hi! Please indulge me, I just can't really get enough of my turn out (hair, makeup, and dress) on my sister in law's wedding, I'm truly marveling at the results...so this post is mostly about, me, myself & I. ;-D Plus the fact, that it was dream come true for me... curls and uber lengthy eyelashes! ;-D Anyhow, I just really want to dwell on the details.

At the reception... a bit dewy after the church ceremonies, but still looking fab enough, methinks. ^_^

Fresh out of hair and makeup...Hair and Makeup was done by a pro, but I made him/her used some of my favorite makeups: SkinFood Black Egg Pore Foundation/ Skin Food Gold Caviar Moist Fitting Cake/ Majolica Majorca Lash Enamel Glamour On/ For my lips, he combined/layered (or what have you's) my two Laneige Lipsticks, which I had with me that time... Laneige LR 06 Fresh Pink and the R214 Shine Red. I'm truly loving these, so I'm hoping to get more of them. Plus, I'll do a the full review asap.

Just look at those lashes...call me trivial, but I'm now a fan of the false eyelashes. You just really have to get the right pair. I think these look so natural, and just rightly accentuates the eyes. By the way, I had my brows done too..threaded, tweezed, and even colored. ;-D

For my gown, I chose to accent it with a studded black makeshift belt, instead of going for an all yellow gown, just to complement the black suits the guys were wearing. On a more practical note, it also allowed me to use the same pair of Nine West shoes too from the rehearsal dinner, so I didn't have to pack for two pairs of shoes.

I just can't help admiring these necklaces, which the couple wore on their traditional wedding money dance, which is said for good fortune. These necklaces were made of paper dollar bills. ;-D

My accessories, which I'll do a separate post, were mostly with butterfly charms accented fashion jewelries from Accessorize, and SM Department Store.

Oh wow, this sure is some major cam whoring post. I guess this is just about right, since I might take a while to be back on shape, so I'm veering away from taking photos of myself for now since the food feasting still continues, and it's really taking a toll on my weight. :-( So I'm mostly lingering in the past. Haha! ;-D

Anyhow, I need recommendations on great false eyelashes just to get me started on d.i.y. applications. Please do share. ;-D Have a fab day! Happy Weekend! ;-D

Have you tried ORYSPA?

2012-02-09T16:20:00.003+08:00

If you haven't, I strongly recommend that you do! ^_^ If you have, I hope you're loving it as much as we do. First off, this is not a sponsored post. I just want to share my recent Oryspa loot. I first tried Oryspa's meditation balm because it was included in the media kit from the Blogapalooza. And I'm seriously inseparable from it since. So I brought it over last time, and it saved the day. My aunt was feeling dizzy and nauseated because of fatigue + heat, I massaged her pulse points etc. At the same time, my cousin had enormous mosquito bites, so I told her to use the balm too. Oh my, the news spread, and they all want their own meditation balms.

Oryspa Meditation Balm is a must have! ;-D Sells for Php 85 for the travel size. I bought 8 of them. I gave out the 2 already before I had the chance to snap. I'm keeping one for me. ;-D

Lucky for me, Oryspa has a stall in SM Clark. Fyi, it moved to a new location,

ORYSPA New SM Clark location

My new bedside BFF's... ORYSPA Firming Oil (the scent is guaranteed spa-ish ;-D) + ORYSPA Rejuvenating Oil (my son love this because of the scent and it's not greasy/sticky at all. I need to get one, because my sister in law tried it out, and she love it too, so I gifted it to her. ;-D My mother in law bought two of these.) + the good ol' ORYSPA Meditation Balm = Superb Home Spa Experience! ;-D

The oils sells for Php 235 each. So far, they're heaven sent for us who are in dire need of restful sleeps. We've been out and about, packing and unpacking, checking in and out of several hotels for the past couple of weeks. They're truly lightweight and non-greasy, while leaving lingering scents all night/day long. ;-D I'm doing my share of extra-raving because they're proudly Philippine Made. ;-D

For more details, please visit ORYSPA's official site. ;-D

Boracay ATV and Go Kart *Pix Heavy

2012-02-09T13:29:00.003+08:00

Hi! I might be going on another blogging hiatus since we will be spending the weekends in Manila, so I'll quickly post as much as I can. We actually had more visitors today, about 20 of us now cozying up in our humble abode. We treated them to my dad's famous sisig, and served them the same food we got last time from Toll House. They're outside playing XBox Kinect, while waiting for their hotel check-in. We got them a villa at The Enclave to stay overnight. So here I am, sneaking in my room to blog. Haha! ^_^ Anyhow, I had the pictures ready continuing from our Boracay Zipline adventure, so I'm off raving once again. ;-D

All geared up. Trying out Borcay ATV.

Chic & Sassy Tips: I recommend having a alcohol/sanitizer handy, so you can spray on the helmets, sanitize it of some sort, just before you wear them. ;-D

There will be a quick briefing for instructions, and waiver signing.

The ATV trail has two main stops, the Aviary Farm and the Ocean Tower. We got the Zipline + ATV tour for Php 820 per person, but you have to pay Php 100+ (will update) for the entrance to the 2 stops.

As aforementioned, the trail is not off-road, there's actually a cemented route for the ATV/Buggy. Anyhow, it was still exciting for me, since there were a couple of uphills, downhills, twists, and turns. But I guess, it could be a bit slow-paced for those who're used to the fast lane, since you have to follow a speed limit, no overtaking, and in a way you're in a line. But I'm fine with it, I like things slowly but surely. ;-D

Boracay Aviary Farm. I'm not sure if I'm breaking some animal protection campaigns by taking a photo with Mr. Bat, but I was half-hearted. So sorry. But yes, I don't have a picture with a snake yet, so why not with a bat. I braved taking a pose.

This White Umbrella Cockatoo is so good! He/She happened to be the same kind as Nigel in Rio, but he's just the cutest! He's actually very talkative! I like to have him. ;-D

O.O.T.D. - I'm wearing a Diesel (obviously backless) top...and layers of sunblocks. Haha! ;-D

We had a quick stop...took some photos, and then, we're off to the ocean tower. I wish they can keep the place, and the cages cleaner though.

The stepsss to the Boracay Ocean Tower.

I was sweaty and flushed after the climb. Haha! Poor unhealthy me!

The climb was worth it. The Boracay Ocean Tower gives you a 360 degrees view of the island.

Enjoying Boracay Island's panoramic view.

On top was a food shop selling fruit shakes/Korean ramyuns (with Koreans owning/managing the tour), and more. But once we're done taking pictures to our hearts' content, we went down, and took the ride back. But we want more, so we negotiated to get a good rate for the Go-Kart. We ended up paying Php 500/each for 25 minutes around the track.

It was another exciting ride. We all feel like drifting at the twists and turns.

It was a bit hard to reach the pedals, and the fact that I was on flipflops didn't help too. But I got the hang of it. I just made sure to avoid my speeding hubby and cousins, not to get in their way, and avoid the pile-ups. We had to be reminded...ladies and gentlemen, this was not a bump car ride! ;-D

I'm victorious! ;-D I'm kidding, we took turns taking the first. Haha! ;-D

Overall, it was a very good day in Boracay. Now, I look forward doing some of the stuff over again... the Zipline definitely, the Buggy next time so Chase can join us, and another round of the go-kart too, even though the go-kart ride left me with sore muscles thereafter. ;-D

The Face Shop Shopping Spree

2012-02-08T10:44:00.001+08:00

Annyeonghaseyo! ^_^ My first order of business last Monday, after our week's vacation, was to visit The Face Shop. As some of you may know, a Php 3000 worth of Gift Certificates + KHJ's Breakdown album welcomed me. I won them from Mommy Frances of Topaz Horizon's giveaway, big thanks! ;-D

Kim Hyun Joong's Breakdown (with pictures overload of him) + The Face Shop GC = Happiness overload! ^_^

My The Face Shop loot...

Several Gifts with Purchase (Freebies overload too...as in! :-D)...Keratin Intensive Conditioner, Makeups from the Pastel Romance Collections, Herb Day Cleansing Wipes, Herb Day Lip and Eye Makeup removers. Total Php 3150. Yay! ;-D

Park Min Young is looking mighty pretty for The Face Shop's Pastel Romance Lines so I just had to steal her look. ^_^

The Face Shop's Herb Day Cleansing Wipes are few of my uber favorite things (and hubby's too...haha!) so I had to stock on them, and try the Herb Day Lip & Eye Make-up Remover, which Ms. Marge of Kikay Trekkie highly speaks of. ;-D

Last but not the least...Freebies! I haven't opened the pretty pouches with green ribbons just yet, but I've been told they're trial packs of various lines. Raspberry Roots Starter Kit for a minimum purchase of Php 2000 inclusive of BB Cream purchase. 1 White Tree Snow Mini-gift Set + mask for Php 1000.

I love that it starting to feel like Seoul Shopping with most of the Korean brands generously giving out freebies too, although not as much, but we're getting there. ^_^

So yes, being the #I-love-everything-Korean kind of mom that I am, this is joy overload for me! Thank you again. I'm off falling in love with Kim Hyun Joong's all over again, while lavishly pampering myself with these lovelies. Saranghaeyo! ^_^

Boracay Zipline...Must try!

2012-02-07T14:47:00.003+08:00

Before I go on posting about girly stuffs (I have a lot! my recent The Face Shop, and eBay Korean haul etc. ^_^) , I'm so excited to share the rest of our fun-filled Boracay getaway. Thankfully, Chase was feeling better came Day 3, it's also a good day to bond with his grandparents, so he stayed behind, while we're off exploring Boracay's land attractions. We love Boracay, I novelized my ravings here and here too. But it's the first time we ventured on the island's land activities. It's also a feat for me, it's like I took a big leap of faith...haha, theatrics aside, but I'm not really an adrenaline junkie, so doing the zipline was definitely something! I'm sure glad I did it, and I can't get enough of it!

Ready to take the line.

Gearing up. Getting ready for the jump.

Zipline Boracay begins above the tenth hole at Fairways & Bluewater and landing on the beach below, with an elevation of 80 feet above sea level combined with a cable length of 300 meters and a slope of 30 degrees, the Zipline Boracay guarantees a spectacular view on top of an adrenaline rush that will supposedly keep us wanting for more. It didn't disappoint! ;-D

View from the top of Boracay Fairways and Bluewater Zipline. The line will end before the ridge on the right, with the blue platform to go down thereafter. Hubby was waiting for us here to capture the moments.

I did it! It was so such a great experience. While I was having bouts of palpitations before my turn, seating on the edge with the winds blowing here and there, I could only marvel at the experience thereafter. I was actually left speechless, I only screamed when I was about to reach the ridge, and anticipating the force of the so-called brakes. The ride went by so fast. And after that, I want more!

This is definitely must try. We negotiated for a Zipline and ATV tour for Php 820 per person. It's great that we got a very nice and handy commissioner. They are usually the guys who offer tours. The tour included a ride back and forth the hotel. Our guide, Don, thankfully, was sort of adept on working around the DSLR to take turns in taking pictures. But hubby didn't take it, so he paid Php 500 lesser. Php 500 for this is totally worth it! I'm definitely going back for this!

Next up is the ATV. The ATV is not your off-road ride, there's a designated cemented route with couple of uphills and downhills, to two stops, the Aviary Farm and the Ocean Tower. I'll do the post next. :-D

View on the other side of beach fronting Boracay Fairways and Bluewater. :-D

Visit the FB Page of Zipline Boracay for more details.

Giveaway: Fab Bags

2012-02-06T08:27:00.002+08:00

Happy Monday! Bringing you more good tidings...here's a sponsored giveaway from the DFabShop. Ms. Dona is happy to gift two fabulous bags, and I'm delighted and grateful to host if for her. Please do check out her online site for more fabulous items. Joining is as always very easy, and will end before the Valentine's Day.

1 winner for a one Multi-way Chain Bag, and 1 winner for the Denise All Around Bag from the designs choices above... just Fabulous! :-D

This giveaway is open to those who have shipping address in the Philippines.

Entry submission will end February 13, 2012, Local Time (Philippines).

Complete the requirements (I verify!), and earn bonus entries if you like.

I will be drawing 2 (two) winners...one winner for each items. :-D

I will be using Rafflecopter as it makes validation easier. Plus having the name of winner on the widget is a great plus. ;-D

P.S. Please don't forget to leave a comment on this post.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Belated Holidays' Gifts and More Giveaway Wins

2012-02-06T00:00:00.001+08:00

Hi! As some of you may know, we just came back from our Visayas trip. Except for a major mishap on our Day 2 on Boracay (my son's tummy ache progressed to stomach flu, which kept both of us in our room...thankfully, he was feeling better on Day 3) hence for my blogging hiatus...we had so much fun! Rewind to Day 1 of our vacation...I actually stayed for half a day in our room because I had to pack up. Our room was full of gifts. It's such a happy problem to be faced with. We actually got more since hubby's sister and aunts all from the US arrived and gave us more keepsakes (I love them!). I just didn't had the time to take photos since we had to leave for the hotel a day before the wedding. Anyhow, here are the manna I can't keep myself from raving, I just had to share. ^_^

Mine... Coach Tote Hand Bag, Bath & Body Works Carried Away (I chose this, because I have a matching lotion, and I love the scent)...and finally my Urban Decay's finds from the sale last year.

Urban Decay Vegan Palette, loose pigments, and more. I might actually sell some of these for a bargain, and use some for giveaway prizes too, since I already got the Urban Decay 15 Year Anniversary Palette (which is so nice!) as a prize from a giveaway.

More Samsung 3D Glasses + more 3D Blu Ray movies for us. iTunes Gift Card and XBox Live 4000 Microsoft points for Chase...Happiness! :-D

Old Navy Character Shirts for Chase and more...Optimus Prime, Iron Man etc., and Nike Shirts for hubby.

Disney Cars Lightning McQueen and Crayola Stationary Sets and Activity Workbooks + Spongebob Talking Cookie Jar

Chase got more Disney Cars shirts, toys, and more. Our gratefulness is overflowing. We had to ship a big boxful of goodies via Cebu Pacific Cargo the night before our flight. We maxed out our 15 kg. baggage allowance from the promo fares we had. We had to leave a luggage for my in-laws to bring today in our behalf. And guess what? I was even more delighted and grateful, since I had three more packages that welcomed me...making my homecoming extra sweeter than it already is, my giveaway and contests wins from Topaz Horizon, French Macaroons Online Boutique, and from Phiten Philippines (photo to follow...was too excited, I gave the matching bracelet to hubby right away ^_^). Thank You! 2012 Aja! Aja! Fighting! Bring on the luck! ;-D

I'll be back asap to announce the giveaway winner, which ends soon. ;-D

Day 1 Boracay Regency

2012-02-01T06:29:00.001+08:00

Hi! Good morning, I'm surprisingly up way earlier in spite of the long day yesterday. Chase has a bad tummy, hopefully it's nothing serious that a dose or several doses of Yakult won't fix.

Anyhow, a drive to Boracay took about 4 hours plus a couple of stops, a flat tire, and some dinner mishaps afterwards. But all is well, hopefully, we are in paradise...fun, sun, and sand overload! :-D

Not to be missed mentioning were the pump boat ride from Caticlan to the jetty port. We had first time visitors so we had to go for the classic ride, instead of the fast craft. Albeit, we took the multi-cab jeep afterwards, instead of the tricycle.

Just have to say, Boracay Regency is huge! The new wing behind the main hotel is just so captivating with the grand pool and all. Although, we're staying at the main building. It's actually even more a treat to be on the first floor with few steps off the beach front plus another cozy pool just outside our room too. A dip was so inviting, we couldn't resist.

Dinner was very eventful at the Red Coconut. But, all is well now, I won't dwell on it.

After tucking Chase to sleep, we're off to getting our dose of Boracay massage. Although we're saving the by-the-beach treat for later. We went to the spa with the most reasonable price... Php 950 for an hour treat of Thai Herbal ball massage at this place near Regency. Overall, it was worth it... Thankfully! :-D

Boracay Regency is the place to be! :-D

Our Room with a great view...swimming pool and few steps away from the beach! :-D

On our way to Boracay Station 2 Hotel via the Multi-cab.

Boracay Regency Family Room

The New Wing of Boracay Regency...a welcoming site indeed! ;-D

Boracay Thai Herbal Ball Massage

Just outside our room...I liked this side of Boracay Regency, albeit the room furnishings are a bit out dated, but at least you get a private pool unlike the pool overlooking the lobby. And it's just few steps off the walkway and the beach. ;-D

Boracay Regency Lobby

To the beach...off we go! ^_^

Sunscreen Protected with Skin Food Platinum Grape Cell Essential BB Cream. ;-D

The Wedding

2012-01-31T08:31:00.001+08:00

Hi! We're getting ready for our drive to Boracay...excited! ;) But I just want to quickly rave about the wedding yesterday. It was an affair to remember...lovely! ^_^

I have to tell you that I'm now officially a fan of fake eyelashes, you just really have to know what to get and then how to put them. ;)

It was also a dream come true...curls and waves! Yay! :)

I had my hair and makeup done, but I used few of my fave makeups... Skin Food, Majolica Majorca, and Laneige for my lippies.

For my accessories...butterflies et al, from Accessorize and SM Dept Store. ;)
The wedding was a cozy family affair at Hotel del Rio, Iloilo. Chase being the one and only nephew is the ring bearer. He has his first tailor fitted suit. He loves it so much. He really did make a handsome ring bearer, he played his role very well too. ^_^

I'll try to do a Boracay Post. Thank you for all the likes and comments. I love all of them...please keep them coming. Have a Great Day. ;)

Wedding Cake with Yellow Flowers and a Lladro Wedding Cake Topper

Corsage in yellow for the entourage

Wedding Reception at the Hotel del Rio Hall

Ring Bearer ;-D

The Wedding

Us...with Love! ;-D

Accessorize Charm Necklace...butterfly, faux pearl, leaves, and more.

Accessorize Tassel Earrings are love! ^_^

Rehearsal Dinner

2012-01-28T18:52:00.001+08:00

Hi! Yay! Finally got a good enough wifi connection to allow me to post. Since my sis in law and hubby are based in the US and 80% of the guests are from there as well, a rehearsal dinner was in order.

Chase being the unico grandchild is the ring bearer.

A sumptuous intimate dinner is held at the Day's Hotel.

Naturally, this celebrated night allowed me to dress up a bit. ^_^

O.O.T.D... LBD: Dorothy Perkins/ Shoes: Nine West

Sushi! ;-D

Thai Beef Salad

Halo-Halo Delight

Private Function at Days Hotel Iloilo

Food Galore!

Baked Oysters...cheese overload! I'm not a fan of oysters, but the cheese was just so tempting. It's okay, I guess... ;-D

Desserts... chocolate and blueberry cheesecake! ;-D

Sale Finds at Rockwell Power Plant Mall

2012-01-26T14:33:00.002+08:00

Every so often, my Manila trips would always allow me to have unlimited access to the Power Plant Mall in Rockwell, more than I need even. I applaud the fact that it provides open access to the mall to/from the basement parking lots even before and after the mall hours. I'm usually there before it opens since hubby's work is just across.Thank goodness for several coffee shops nearby. Anyhow, Power Plant is a very cozy mall. I like it. Except that it few of my favorite stops are not there (e.g. Accessorize, and perhaps more spa choices). Yesterday and usually January is a very good time to shop. I'm actually doing a sort of belated holiday shopping, since I didn't really go Manila at the latter part of 2011. And my, the SALE signs are everywhere. Expect more further reductions by end January. ^_^

Trucco, La Senza, Zara, Dorothy Perkins...Mostly mine! Yay! ;-D

Just in case you missed it, I've been talking about it a while, we're going on a trip. It's for tomorrow. Unlike the usual vacations we have with my in-laws in Iloilo, we usually have the luxury of having our clothes laundered, so we usually pack light. But not on this trip, since we will be staying mostly at the hotel. So naturally, I indulged...wardrobe refill is in order! ;-D

After my trip to Lay Bare Waxing Salon, prettier things are in order, methinks. Ribbons, Hearts, Laces, Pink...what's not to love?! ^_^ They're on Sale. I want more! ;-D Total Bill: Php 3500.

La Senza's fitting room... all pretty and girly things overload! ;-D

Poor Picture, so sorry...but it's my new LBD ++ (Little Black Dress) with floral prints from Dorothy Perkins, and my, I got in in Small. Yay! Truth was, it's the last piece so I can't really gain any more pounds, or else. I'm wearing this for the rehearsal dinner on Monday. Sale Price at Php 750+.

From Trucco. It's a Spanish Brand. I'm not really a connoisseur with this brand, but these are pretty good finds. Naturally, I got most of the colors of the style. Blue, White, Red. And a blue printed skirt. Total Bill: Php 2000

From Zara. I got two sweat pants for Chase with a "JOCK'' embroidered prints. Nice. And then this uber cute top for me... Meeoow. Love the Pink Ribbon! Php Total Bill: Php 2000

Great day indeed for me...sale shopping at its finest. ;-D I'm just in need of some more accessories and I'm all set for tomorrow. I have more errands today, and then packing time tonight. I have more ravings from yesterday's field trip. I'll try to do another post later tonight. Have a great day! ;-D

Lay Bare and Waxing

2012-01-26T09:42:00.001+08:00

Hi! Yesterday was another Manila Field trip. It was super productive day. As always, I had an early start since I went with hubby. The malls were still close. I'm also suppose to attend an event, but I had to miss it, since the schedule conflicted with the home owners' of the unit we were supposed to view. Anyhow, since I had time, before hubby's lunch hour, I braved going for my first ever waxing (at least in the you know where ^_^). Call me naive or even trivial, but I'm sharing this feat anyway. ;-D

Lay Bare Waxing Salon in SM Megamall.

All giddy before my turn.

Lay Bare Waxing Salon is one of the Blogapalooza partner. I held on to the Free Bikini Wax gift certificate since it had a longer expiration date, and I saved it for our upcoming Boracay Trip. I'm not new to waxing per se, I do my upper and lower lips. While for my brows, I go for threading and tweezing. As for the rest, I go fo shaving. I was there as soon as the mall opened, but to my surprise, there were already two girls who beat me, I had to wait. And there were a couple more after me. And my, going for brazilian seems to be the in thing. Being the late bloomer that I am, I'm going only for the Bikini Wax. I was too timid to even note it.

Friendly Reminders and Waxing Facts. I was a bit bothered because I was wearing Tight Clothing (jeans), and I just had a cup of coffee. Hmmm...for a moment I almost backed out. Haha! ;-D And then I saw this lady coming out, who I presumed had the Brazilian, and she was in jeans too, and she was okay!

No time to back out, I was already ushered inside the room. I told her, it's my first time. And even braved asking, "should I get a brazilian too?" She told me to try going for the bikini first. Haha. It was no frills. She was so professional. I was embarrassed, I might had babbled or something, but she went on doing the preparation nonchalantly. I felt relieved, sort of. It seemed no big deal at all.

This is the cold sugar jelly wax, it's suppose to be all natural. I had to say, all-powerful even to deliver! Haha! ;-D

So here is the deal...if you had threading done in your eyebrows regularly and some tweezing, multiply the suspense and breath-holding (at least I do that) by 3 or 5. I did not scream! But I was sweating from hyperventilating a bit, haha. But it was all fleeting. It took less than 30minutes, I think. I tell you, it was pretty! Haha! ^_^ So I'm a bit ready for Boracay, except I'm not sure if I'll be brave to don a 2-piece swimsuit, my flabs are killing me! Haha! So I'll keep this post sticky, I might update you on how is it for the coming weeks, and if I will be brave to go back again after 6 weeks.

Go for it! Lay Bare waxing services rates. ;-D

Oh! The things we do for... But more than that, Lay Bare waxing offers more benefits vs. other hair removal procedures, visit Lay Bare Philippines official site to learn more.

Giveaway Wins: The Face Shop Shopping Spree

2012-01-24T17:56:00.002+08:00

Annyeonghaseyo! ;-D I hope you had a great CNY weekend! ;-D So sorry, I almost didn't do a post today. I'm so OC with having the right pictures...and I don't feel like showing much of myself just yet, so I'm saving some of the girly/Korean cosmetics for later. I just want to quickly let you know that I'm overwhelmed with the great number of entries in my first ever Rafflecopter-run giveaway. Big thanks! I'm actually looking forward on how it picks the winner, I'll do a video of it. Of course, after verifying the entries, I'll announce it asap. Anyhow, just want to let you everyone know that I did win another giveaway, and the prizes are Php 3000 shopping spree at The Face Shop and Kim Hyun Joong's CD...love! Thanks to Mommy Frances of Topaz Horizon.

Kim Hyun Joong's CD + The Face Shop = Hallyu Fangirl Happiness Overload! :-D Photo Credit: TFS Phils FB Account

Yay! Saranghaeyo! Any heads up on what to get at The Face Shop? ;-D

Passport Renewal

2012-01-24T17:48:00.000+08:00

We had an early day today. We went to DFA San Fernando for my son's passport renewal. Time flies... We had it via travel agency for Php 2500 vs. the DIY for Php 950+250 (for rush). We were scheduled for 8am. But there were a lot of people already, except, there was a separate line for the travel agency applicants per se on the documents validation step. After the payment, which we skipped with ours being paid for ahead of time by the travel agency, there will be a common queue for everyone for the data encoding and verifying. No need to get photos beforehand, because they do it inside. It's the final step in the passport processing, prior to releasing. Overall, it took us 1.5 hours to complete everything, and one visit to DFA. So I'm thinking if paying twice that much was worth it, I guess it is! Since my son was Donkey (of Shrek's) incarnate..."are we there yet?" ;-D

Please visit here fore more details on Passport Requirement, Appointment Setting and more.

Here's the DFA Philippines link on Passport Application. Will I recommend having it travel-agency assisted? I'm not sure if they have the appointment-setting implemented in the regional offices, but if it is, I think, if you're really on time or if you come in really early if without an appointment, and your documents are ready (I recommend reading through the DFA/Passport Application Sites), it'll take half a day or lesser. Also, with the soon-to-open DFA Consular Office in Marquee Mall, it makes everything more accesible. ;-D

Anyway, we had to do this asap, because the travel deals every now and then are just so tempting. I'll be going into vacation mode next week, but I'll try to do several posts before then. Have a great day! ;-D

Majolica Majorca + Korean Cosmetics Giveaway 2012

2012-01-21T21:20:00.001+08:00

Annyonghaseyo! :-D Or better yet, since it's the Chinese New Year Long Weekend...Ni Hao! ^_^ I'm in need of +1 GFC follower, and I'm off to celebrating another blogging milestone, 600 GFC Followers! Yay! It's very much appreciated by yours truly! Although, I know that Google +1 and G Circles are now the In Thing, but since I'm still staying with Blogger, my GFC widget is still here to stay. For the prizes, I'm sharing some of my Korean Cosmetics. These are mostly freebies I got because I bought A LOT. ^_^ And of course, this pretty Majolica Majorca Clear Tote Bag I got as gift with purchase, just so I met the qualifier amount. Others are some of my eBay buys. Hope you'll love them as much as I do.

Nature Republic, Skin Food, Baviphat, and Laneige. About 16 items in all. All unused.

Clear Majolica Majorca Tote Bag. This is still unused. I love it, but I have a beach bag that my mom-in-law gifted me, and I'm going to Boracay with her, so you know what I mean. *_^

Joining is very easy... :-D I'm using the Rafflecopter for the first time. Let's see...

This giveaway is open to those who have shipping address in the Philippines.

Entry submission will end February 5, 2012, Local Time (Philippines).

Complete the requirements and bonus entries if you like. Earn entries via the Rafflecopter.
One winner for both items. :-D

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Korean Baked Goodies from Tous les Jours

2012-01-20T21:34:00.001+08:00

Annyonghaseyo! ^_^ I finally made it back to Tous les Jours SM North Edsa Branch. I made sure to get more of the cream cheese Asian buns, and also to try other items.

Asian Buns a la Sweet Black Rice with Cream Cheese, Sweet Black Rice with Sesame Seeds and Cream Cheese, Soboro, Sweet Red Bean (Php 38/piece...is also good!), Let's Twist Butter creams are love. ^_^

The Sweet Black Rice Bun has cream cheese and black sesame seeds for fillings each for Php 48/piece. We tried this last time, and we love it. :-D It's a good option to get my son to enjoy some of the goodness of sesame seeds since he can only relish on the cream cheese.

In the receipt, it says Let's Twist sells for Php 28/piece. It's sweet, creamy, and buttery. I think there's a chewy and sweet glutinous rice as fillings. Yum! ;-D This one is our new favorite. My son finish a whole piece, and I had to share the other piece with hubby. :-D

Soboro for Php 28/piece, it's a Classic, Crumbly Peanut Infused Korean Snack Originated from the German Streussel Bread. But this one, I'm not so fond of. It's so bread-y. The sweet toppings are barely there. :-(

We're hoping to try more freshly baked goodies from Tous les Jours, especially the cakes! It's a big plus that it's by the entrance of SM The Block, right infront of the Valet Parking drop off. ;-D For more details on Tous les Jours visit my previous visit here or the official FB page.

So DES is it...my ravings for personalized gifts. ;-D

2012-01-20T10:30:00.000+08:00

Ego trip aside (haha! ;-D), I'm elated to receive gifts with my names on them...not just on the gift tags, I mean with my name engraved/embossed or what have you's in them. ;-) Don't get me wrong I love receiving gifts/tokens in whatever form they come, promise! I love giving gifts too! But every so often, it's flattering to receive personalized gifts such as these lovelies.

I love!... Notepad with an uber chic & sassy lady in the name of Des! ^_^ Big Thanks! ;-D It's high time I have this! Next, I'm off to get a business card. Yes, lifestyle bloggers need name cards too! ;-D

It's from iPrints...so sorry not sure how much.

Love these! ;-D ... Couple's travel utility case. So sweet! Thanks! ;-D

I'm using this for our next week's out of town vacay. And I'll make sure my hubby uses his too! :-D

It's a gift so I'm not sure how much. But soon I will, since I'll get one for Chase's too. But just in case...it's from Pink Label. ^_^

They're so pretty, and functional. Love them. In our small family of three, we can't help being proprietary, so these are pretty great ideas to reinforce that. Haha! ;-D I'm off to start getting Chase's labeled things. Hmmm, what to get first?... :-D

P.S. These were gifts from friends not affiliated (at least not that I'm aware of) with the companies. :-D

My Human Heart Nature Gifts + Review (Updated)

2012-01-19T13:00:00.000+08:00

I could get used to being a blogger ...for life! ;-D Blogging brought me so much blessings, and one of the best so far is being able to reconnect with friends that I haven't seen in yearssss. A friend who haven't seen in yearsss (10 years++), after reading through my previous HHN post, decided to try the brand, and fell in love with it too. She's now my go-to dealer. Anyhow, she sweetly gifted me more HHN lovelies to try out, that is after reading through my post that I'm in search of a hair strengthening a la anti-hair fall haircare lovelies.

More Human Heart Nature for us! ;-D

HHN Hair Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner... The powerful embrace of gugo bark & calamansi helps fortify hair to dramatically reduce breakage and hair loss! Organic VCO leaves your locks shiny, soft and healthy looking. Beauty & Strength! In olive & aloe scent. 100% natural.

As of posting, I'm out of conditioner! Truly, leaves my hair soft and silky, albeit I haven't realized yet the 'strengthening' reinforced benefit.

I have to say that I love almost everything (the natural goodness, the nourishing and moisturizing instant effects, no breakouts, no itch/flakes, and more) except for a trivial I'm-not-too-fond of the scent (can't really point it out, but it's a citrusy + herbal after scent). As always the case with me, the scent quickly dissipates, so it's no big deal! Will I order? Definitely! I just ordered the full size...earnestly waiting for it! ;-D

Human Heart Nature Hand and Foot Salve in Banana, Carrot, & Bee Propolis... It’s moisturizing magic at your fingertips for dry, cracked skin! Infused with bee power to bring back even the driest skin to a healthier state.

We love this...my son included! ;-D So sorry for the finger-dip marks...proves how much we love dipping in! ^_^ It's lightweight, nourishing, and love the banana scent. My only drawback is it comes in a tub, so it feels unhygienic to re-dip somehow, so OCness in effect, I bought myself a mini-spatula/spoon from Beabi. Oh well...as if it changes a lot. ;-D Will I repurchase? Definitely. But for the mean time, I ordered the Eucalyptus scent. I just really have a lot of body lotions, but once I'm halfway done (I wish!), I'll try HHN's lotions too.

Human Heart Nature Kids Natural Shampoo and Body Wash in Tangerine Tarsier... Our kid-friendly formula contains our unique Protein Care System with Coco Nectar, a rich source of amino acids and vitamins to nourish the hair and skin while effectively washing away dirt and grime. Avocado Oil and Aloe Vera also makes sure your child gets a moisturizing clean and none of the dryness. And because it's a 2-in-1 shampoo, it's mom-friendly too!

We love this! My son adores this! I'm using this to wash my eye areas, it's an advise from my sisters's eye doctor, to wash your eye area with a baby shampoo to avoid sty etc. I noticed that her eye area is milia-free, flawless even (methinks vs. mine), she told me to wash and gently massage the eye area with a baby shampoo, and voila! The scent is so good, my son loves bathing with it. Although, he's also using it along with another baby shampoo with McQueen characters that he made us buy because of the magical draw of Disney Cars, we gave in! ;-D But after reading the labels, which Human Heart Nature espouses, I'm starting to shy away to other commercial brands. So, I guess we just had to keep these Natural Shampoos in our inventories, and we're good to go!

I'll do a separate post for the other items, plus I'm waiting for my orders...and they're quite a handful! Yay! ;-D My friend is a dealer in Angeles City area. Please leave me a message just in case you're interested to order. I'll happily pass it on to her. Or visit Human Heart Nature to shop online.

Updated: My orders are here... my Human Heart Nature Haul! ;-D

I used the Baby Oil last night with Chase, it's so good, smells so good too! ;-D The Hand Foot Salve in Eucalyptus is so refreshingly good too! ;-D Chase also loves the Bubbly Gum Scented Kid's Spray. ^_^

What's your Human Heart Nature story? Please do share. ;-D

Cravings and Lemon Squares

2012-01-19T11:06:00.000+08:00

Hello! Yesterday was another Manila day. I went with my mom, brother, and sister for some impromptu mall hopping time. We had a late lunch a Eastwood Mall, the salad/soup-all-you-can with any order of main course, got us lunching at Cravings. ;-D

Salad Bar at Cravings

Soup Counter

Yay! Healthy Options...Malunggay Bread!

My first taste of Malunggay Bread with herbed butter...I can't really tell that there's malunggay or strong herbed after-taste, so it's good. I wish I brought Chase with us. I'll definitely want him to try this. ;-D

My Main Course...Chicken Parmigiana Php 290+... the chicken is so tender and the cheese is love. ;-D This comes in a hefty serving portions. It is good for sharing for two or three even.

My sister's...Barbecue Pork Spareribs Php 345+. I had a piece. This is so tasty! I'm sure my hubby and son would love to have this. :-D

My mom's...Parmesan Crusted Fish Fillet Php 365+...your usual cream-Dory fillet meal.

My brother's... Chicken a la Chef Jonathan Php 335+. I tried it too. The chicken is so tender, plus the mushroom sauce is love. :-D

The other dish that I love getting is the Chicken Cordon Bleu. Cheese and gravy... I just can't get enough of them, wherever, whenever available...actually. ;-P It was a great lunch! I actually thought I was stuffed, but I just can't say no to Mary Grace's lemon squares. ;-D

Apple & Cinnamon Honey Iced Tea and lemon squares...we love Mary Grace. The Cheese Rolls (not in photo) and Lemon Squares are just love. It's something we proudly love giving to our balik-bayan (Filipino that is based/living out of the country, and is returning home for a visit etc.) relatives and friends as travel keepsakes.

More than a day of malling, it was a day of gastronomic adventures. We went off getting more Chinese New Year goodies and more breads to bring home. ;-D That's about it for me today...it's almost lunch time, Bon Appétit! :-D

Got any cravings? Please check out more of Cravings' offerings on FB or on Cravings official site.

December/January Chic & Sassy (C.S.M.) ;-D

2012-01-17T16:43:00.000+08:00

My simple token of appreciation to my commenter/reader of the month... Hope you'll love SkinFood as much as I do.^_^

Big Thanks to Clair! ;-D

December was pretty exciting for my site, but the extra-high energy just mellowed down a bit after the giveaway was over. I just want to show my appreciation to Clair who endlessly and consistently keeps in touch be it in my blog, FB, Twitter, and even G+. My heartfelt thanks. ;-D

I will be pretty much busy the last week of January and the whole of February, but I feel like celebrating my soon to be 600 GFC followers. Please stay tuned for another giveaway. ;-D Please continue cheering and supporting. ;-D

My Wishbox from Seoul *Pix Heavy

2012-01-17T12:51:00.001+08:00

Annyong haseyo! ^_^ Mail is here, it's a boxful of Korean Cosmetics and an uber pretty purse from Wishtrend Korea. I hold a special tendre for it because it's my first giveaway win for 2012. It's a good buena mano, so they say, because after it, I had two more wins from online contests and giveaways. Joining is free anyhow, and I'm feeling extra lucky for 2012....positive vibes only, please indulge me! ;-D

WISHTREND...delivering the Trendy Goods and Culture from Korea. ;-D What's in a box? ^_^

Voila! ;-D Giveaway Prizes are the Rainbow Zipper Purse and LiZK Color Veil, plus freebies (The Face Shop, SKinFood, Etude, Missha, Shiseido, Sulwhasoo and more)...Love them! :-D

Rainbow Zipper Pouch Designed by Namzia Market

It's such a pretty! The functionality is superb! It holds all those Korean goodies. Being a zipper purse, you literally can open it wherever. ^_^

LiZK Color Veil is the Step 3 in the LiZ secret therapy by Make-Up Artist Kim Chung Kyung. It features achieving UV protection(SPF 50+) with foundation effect that evens your skin complexion. I got mine in Shade 20 Natural Shade. The SPF 50+, PA+++ is just love! I'm so looking forward to trying it out. ;-D

Dear Wishtrend, I'm delighted! I love everything! ;-D Kamsahamnida! ^_^

To start shopping for your own wish box, visit Wish Company on Facebook.

Debenhams Sale

2012-01-17T09:33:00.000+08:00

Debenhams is my must-go to shop when in Shangri-La Plaza mall. Seriously, I always visit! More than for my outfits, it's our foremost choice for my son's. I'm such a fan of their Designer's Labels (John Rocha, Jasper Conran, and more), such that back on my corporate days, I indulged on Php 2000+ tops and jeans...oh those were the days! ;-D But more often than not, I always chance upon good deals, that's why I always make sure to drop by. Last time was a great shopping day for my son, it was a very good day to splurge on sale items! ;-D

More shopping bags...Yay! ;-D Mine was the Laneige. Rustan's and Debenhams were for Chase. ;-D

4 pants for Chase, each were over a Php 1000 each but already half the price and truly worth it. John Rocha, and J by Jasper Conrans are the usual brands we get for him. This time, we also got a Bluezoo. Most of his pants (jeans and khakis) over the years were mostly from Debenhams. It's truly a compelling brand to love. :-D

We didn't get him any shirts, since most items on sale are layered long-sleeves shirts. In as much as I love them because they're uber fashionable, Chase is not so fond of them anymore. Naturally, it's sunny most of the times. ;-D We're just getting a piece or two for out-of-the country trips or formal a/c events. But they're truly the cutest.

Chase (and I) through the years. If it's a long sleeves top, it must be from Debenhams...mostly. :-D

It's a great plus that hubby loves shopping for us in here too. It's one of the few shops that he doesn't mind lingering a while longer than the usual. ;-D He also availed of the Debenhams' Loyalty Card, it's usually under my name, but this one he kept...must be because of the cool transparent card design, and plus the added perks too, of course! ^_^

To check out Debenhams' wide range of in-house and designer brands for the whole family, visit Debenhams at the following branches around Metro Manila. Also located in Abreeza Mall in Davao.

Level 3, Shangri-La Plaza Mall
Level 3, Rustan's Makati Glorietta 4
Level 2, TriNoma

Also check out Debanhams Ph FB Page for more details and seasonal promotions. ;-D

Missha got me Organizing

2012-01-16T19:56:00.001+08:00

Hello everyone! Happy Monday! :-D I'm overwhelmed with several good stories to share, but I'll do a shopping + Korean finds post first, my cup of tea! ^_^ After my first shopping bag for the year 2012, to some happy turn of events I find myself having more of them. Of course, not to be missed is my eBay shopping to my favorite seller, Bhappywithme. I got some new things, some refills, and some wins from the auction. Here's a great buy indeed...

Missha Cotton Puff Case won at Php 89 bid price...for the win! ;-D

The picture on eBay won't do justice to this both pretty and functional item. It's an acrylic with embossed Missha's logo and signature flower artworks. Truth be told, I'm not yet an adept connoisseur of the brand. But a friend has only praises for the brand, and now with this, I'm willing to indulge very soon.

The pretty cotton puff case would nicely adorn any vanity table,methinks, but here's the bump, I don't have one! Moving from one place to another didn't give me the luxury of getting my own dresser. The previous places we stayed were either furnished with one, or too bulky to move every time. But I do have my desk, so I set out to start organizing. ;-D

I bought 3 sets of this 4-Drawer Jewelry Organizer from True Value. They're at 30% off, about Php 700 each sale price.

For my necklace and bracelets, I got a acrylic jewelry stand, also on sale at Php 315.

I only got one yesterday, but had to go back earlier today to get more. Yay! ;-D They're pretty pricey for me, but hubby bought a Php 4000+ shoe rack, so why not?!

Voila! ^_^ So far, so good...I'm seriously keeping my self from buying more of everything (more drawers, more makeups, and more accessories). I still don't have that much space to keep everything in one desk, and they don't have organizers in 3 or 2-drawer to house bigger items. So I'm still keeping my BB Creams alike in a separate nook.

Call me trivial, but I'm so elated just by looking at them. ;-D Here's to more pretty things to come...Cheers! ;-D

P.S. I'm so excited to start right away, I didn't take photo of the empty drawers. I instead got them from Google and here.

Laneige SALE and House Hunting (Updated)

2012-01-14T22:32:00.001+08:00

Hello everyone! I truly didn't mean to go an a brief hiatus, I've committed myself to try to be more diligent in my posting, but between this and that, I suddenly find myself so busy. I've been out and about shopping (mostly for my son and some for me...yay!), eBaying, (children's) partying ;-D, house and school hunting, dining out, and more. ;-D Anyhow, I hope not to bore you, but I'll be back for more girly stuffs asap...expect more Korean Cosmetics including Laneige Yay! ;-D But for now, just want to quickly tell you how it feels so good to be back in Manila, nothing permanent yet, it's just for a day. Oh well...feeling mixed emotions.

East Raya Gardens by DMCI. This is by far our most favored clubhouse/condo facilities and amenities yet...except it's too far out from our comfort zone, which is Ortigas Center.

We're expecting a big move to the metro just right after Chase's finish this school year. So we had to look for a place to move into, we went to a couple of condos, townhouses, villages from all over yesterday. It was quite tiring, but exciting. We haven't decided yet, but we're seriously considering two places. Nothing final, but we're hoping for the best...to be back (Home Sweet) Home! ;-D

Oui madame/madamoiselle, I made it to Laneige Shangri-la branch, and did my very first shopping. Je t'aime! :-D

Laneige (snow in French) is another Korean Brand. It's endorser is the uber pretty Song Hye Kyo. You'd probably know her because of Autumn in my Heart a.k.a. Endless Love, and Full House (with Rain). I have to say, she's one of the prettiest! ;-D Truth be told, this is the brand that I'm truly trying myself not to be hooked. You ought to know that I tend to be over to things that I love...like my deep fondness of this, and that too. Laneige is overall on the pricey side for me, meaning minimal online/e-bay alternative shopping options, so I'm keeping it off limits then, but not for long. To my delight, a friend gave me a box of the Hydra Solution Mask. Oh my, not to preempt the review, it's love at first try. And some more happy turn of events, while looking around the shop, the sales attendant, who happens to be my cabalen (more yays to that ;-D), told me that these pretty Snow Crystal Moisture Lipsticks are on Buy 1, Take 1, that's Php 950 for two. I got 4, I gave the other one to a friend. And a couple of trial packs. So yes, I'm so excited to indulge! I'm seriously considering getting more of the lipsticks. Oh my...good luck to my wallet! ^_^

I got three shades SYR 04 Tea Beige, LR 06 Fresh Pink, R214 Shine Red. I gave the 4th piece to a friend. I'll do a review asap. ;-D

That's it for me today...it's meant to be a quick post, but I got carried away. Happy Weekend! ;-D

P.S. I've been mall hopping for the past days, it's all SALE signs everywhere! ^_^

Wordless Wednesday: Chase, The Preschoolviller

2012-01-11T13:24:00.000+08:00

This is Chase's last school year in Preschoolville Learning Center as a preschooler. He'll be advancing to grade school level this coming school year. We'll definitely miss everything and everyone in PLC. But we have overflowing happy memories to cherish to last us a lifetime. ;-D

Chase on PLC's Kindergarten Brochure...being the stage mom that I am, I couldn't help but be extra proud! :-D

I'm linking up with Wednesday Wordless Blog Hops. ;-D