Kwala Love

Project Life Beginner

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Wed, 11 Nov 2015 18:19:00 +0000

I have always been a digital scrapper. I learned to scrapbook digitally when my daughter was born and I just felt the need to document our life through scrapbook layouts, but not being crafty at all, I just turned to Photoshop and ordered loads and loads of digital scrapbook kits. Then I would print the layouts in 8 x 11 size in the regular photo developer. But then life happened and I just lost my scrapping mojo.

Fast forward to today. I've been seeing Project Life for years now, and as always, I was interested in the digital aspect of it. I have an android smartphone so I couldn't do the Project Life App. So this year I decided to try my hand at it again. Being new immigrants in Canada, we were making memories and milestones everyday. I needed to document these moments again. This time I bought digital core kits from Project Life and used them to make layouts for my usual 8 x 11 size and printed on Matte paper at Shoppers. I just slipped them into regular plastic protectors from Staples.

It was also wonderful since they were having a sale in printing services. Just $1.99 instead of the usual $2.99. I was able to make several layouts this way, but then I thought preparing the digital layouts was still taking too much of my time. I needed something that will allow me to just print the photos, write the journaling and be done. Again, Project Life came to mind. I remember the video that Becky Higgins had when she was explaining the concept of Project Life, that it was meant to make the scrapbooker's life much easier, fuss-free and more importantly, guilt-free.

So last week, I dragged my husband to Michael's. Downloaded the 40% off coupon, and just went to town! Scrapbooking albums were 40% also, so I bought 2. I also bought the big pack of page protectors, the Blush Collection and Strawberry Collection Core Kits, a photo box, a roller adhesive and Recollection scrap cardstock. My husband and I divided this loot among ourselves and use a coupon each to get 40% off the most expensive item.

My husband bought me a new Canon Selphy CP910 WS the week before from the Mcbain camera store at Southgate, and I just knew this would make my Project Life project a lot easier. We actually have an old Selphy that we used for our photobooth business, but this new one had wifi so I can print from my phone, laptop, even from my camera!

So I was able to do my very first weekly layout. It was nothing special, no embellishments or layers, I was so proud of my work! I've decided this is something I would like to stick to.

And so I took the plunge. Being excited about a project often means shopping for more supplies for me. So I went back to Michael's, used the 50% off coupons from the printed receipt, and bought more "essential" supplies like a corner rounder, some punches, rubber stamps, and one more core kit, Heidi Swapp's Favorite Things.

I realize now that many are moving from traditional and paper scrapbooking to digital while I am moving from digital scrapbooking to the paper or hybrid one. Oh well. It makes me happy so I do it.

I was so excited about this project that I decided to make an album for my daughter too. We left her album in our home country when we left, and since we still have the digital files, I can make her an album again. After another trip to Michael's to buy another album, here is her title page.

I do hope to do this weekly. I am almost caught up now, just 3 more weeks to go, but I still have to got back from June to January 2015 and I intend to back-scrap 2014 too. Here's to a new scrappy adventure!

Olivia + Joy New York Phone Wristlet - Stephanie Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Sat, 24 Oct 2015 16:32:00 +0000

Recently, I have taken to walking every break time in the office. It may be good for my health, but not so for my budget. It just so happens that I see shops, having wonderful sales, during these daily walks. How can I resist? Haha. Seriously, it is through my daily walks that I realized I needed a big wallet or a small pouch that can accommodate my phone and carry my cards and some cash as well. I always grab a medium cup of Tim Horton's coffee on my way back to work, so I definitely need to bring some form of money with me. Carrying both my phone and my wallet can be a hassle as I brisk walk through malls and bridgewalks Downtown.

I decided to walk in Winners at City Centre Edmonton and browse through the wallet section. I saw several cuties like a gorgeous pink Kate Spade and a black Ralph Lauren but they were out of my budget, even if prices have already been brought down massively.

I settled on a cute Olivia + Joy New York phone wristlet in bright lipstick red. The color is so bright and brilliant, I know I won't have a hard time looking for it in my not-so-organized bag.

Olivia + Joy - Stephanie Collection in Lipstick Red

The accessory is described in the Olivia + Joy website as follows:

Our new multi-purpose phone wristlet is the Must Have accessory accessory this year! With a back zipper pocket, 6 card slots, one receipt pocket, and most importantly, a phone pocket; you can carry all your necessities in one fabulously chic wrislet! Chain wristlet strap is removable.

It retailed for USD $38 or around CAD $50 and I bought it at winners for the price of CAD $16.99. It is not available in their website anymore.

The card slots are enough for my basic cards. Good thing most store cards are now available as phone apps so I don't need to bring them with me all the time. It also has a plastic pocket where you can put a photo, or in my case, my ETS bus pass for easy access. The phone pocket fits my Samsung Galaxy S4.

It also has a detailed back zipper pocket for coins. How convenient! It has a glamorous gold chain that you can wrap around your wrist, however I find it a bit heavy for my taste. Good thing it is removable.

I'm so happy with this shopping find. It really is very pretty. I ended up saving money, because simple phone cases sold in kiosks around the mall retails for $35-45. I was able for buy a brand name phone case / wallet for a fraction of that price!

Now, back to brisk walking!

My Dollar Store Beauty Haul

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Thu, 21 May 2015 17:35:00 +0000

Last Monday, after our Victoria Day outing, I asked hubby to drop by the Dollaroma at the South Common branch. I needed to pick some things up for the house, like dish brushes and spray bottles. I really didn't expect to buy any beauty supplies. They I saw the Clairol Blow Dry Prep Mist and I remembered I needed a heat protection for my hair. Daily shampooing and blow drying has left my hair so dry.

Clairol Blow Dry Prep Mist

This spray comes with a light green tea scent that makes my hair smell so fresh.

Pantene Dry Shampoo

In the same hair products aisle, I also saw a small bottle of the Pantene Dry Shampoo. I saw some girls use this in YouTube videos. I also saw the powder variety. I've always been intrigued. Maybe if I use a dry shampoo a couple of times a week, my hair can get some break from heat.

Pretty Polishes

I also picked up two nail polishes. Even back in the Philippines, I've been a fan of Sally Hansen and Wet N Wild nail polishes. I found them easy to apply and quick to dry. I picked up Hard Bitten by Sally Hansen, which is this nice glittery powderblue, and Grape Minds Think Alike by Wet N Wild, a vivid berry shade.

Lastly, I picked up a large bottle of liquid hand soap for only $2! We use this to refill our hand soap dispensers in the kitchen and the washroom. A small bottle of hand soap costs $1.25 already, so buying this big bottle is definitely a better idea.

My family had so much fun in that shopping spree. Everybody came out of the store with something to make him/her happy. Hubby bought camping accessories like tent pegs and tarpaulins, Bea bought sand, similar to the Kinetic Sand she has been begging me to buy her. (a steal at $3 compared to the $25 Kinetic Sand)

We had 2 big bags filled with various knickknacks, all for $21! I love dollar store shopping!

Love my Blog Through Bloglovin

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Thu, 21 May 2015 15:15:00 +0000

Follow my blog with Bloglovin. I am trying to update this blog more often. I find that I enjoy sharing my finds and experiences with different products. I may not shop that often, but I will share the stuff I do buy. :)

I just linked my blog to Bloglovin. Follow me there! Thanks!

Etude House Eyebrow Liner

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Thu, 21 May 2015 04:10:00 +0000

Just before we left for Canada, I had to let go of a lot of my kikay goodies: perfumes, nail polishes, make up. Good thing I had girly cousins to give them go, so I know my things went to good hands.

However, there were a few items I didn't let go of, in fact I stocked with the intention to bring them with me to Edmonton. I reasoned, when we get here, i didn't have the budget to try and find makeup supplies I'd be comfortable with. At least I had something to use until I'm comfortable enough to try different brands here.

The Etude House Eyebrow Liner is one of those make up supplies. I loved the colour and the pigment. I loved how the liner was shaped so that I can just swipe it on my brow giving it instant shape. It' s unique shape is very helpful to me and my shakey hand. :) I also like the brush at the other end of the liner. It's not the usual brush that tends to be misshapen after long use.

Now, my liner is almost done. I really have start shopping around for a new eyebrow liner... Any suggestions?

Michael's and Washi Tapes

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Tue, 19 May 2015 17:43:00 +0000

When my family and I first came to Canada, one of the things I wanted to do first was visit Michaels and Staples. Whe I was still in the Philippines, I heard so much about these stores in YouTube videos about planners. I imagined them to be filled with aisles and aisles of planners and planner supplies. I was so excited! However, when I was able to visit the branches here in South Common, Edmonton, I was a bit disappointed. They didn't have many planners, in fact I didn't see any at all. Maybe it was just the branch I visited, or the time, maybe they just had a major sale and still needed to stock up. I had better luck finding planners in Walmart, not that many choices though.

Michaels is basically a craft store that caters to all kinds of crafty inclinations : painting, knitting, crocheting, jewelry making, scrapbooking and more. They also sell pretty ornamental plants and other knickknacks to beautify the home.

I did see a lot of washi tapes, and they were really pretty! Too bad my budget was really limited. The sight of those colourful tapes reminded me of the lot I had to give up when we migrated to Canada. *sigh* Moving on, I decide to go and buy two sets of these thin washi tapes. I never had them before, plus I loved their simplicity. I got the pastel and vivid variety.

I am trying to limit my planner-related purchasing, especially on the decorating front, since I realized I still like my planners just clean and simple. Those trips to Michaels ans Staples were really fun though, I would like to go back again soon. Are you into arts and crafts? Check out arts and crafts from Amazon here.

Beautiful, Colourful Flowers for Me

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Sun, 10 May 2015 00:28:00 +0000

My husband and I just celebrated our 14th anniversary and he surprised me by picking me up at school with the most beautiful bouquet of flowers. I'm sure there are more beautiful bouquets out there but this is the most beautiful I got from him so far! Women who married men not so fond of giving flowers will relate. Haha. In the Philippines, I was lucky if I got a stem of rose from him, and for the longest time I resented that. Then, after years of being happy with him, I just accepted that he's not that kind of guy. I'd rather be a good husband and father, than receiving beautiful flowers because he's trying to win me back or because he's trying to hide a misdeed. Of course, I have to mention that flowers in the Philippines were so expensive! I guess he'd rather spend the money on dates or other gifts than on flowers that would wither and die after a few days.

With My Bouquet

Colourful!

Anyway, I was so happy when I got these flowers because I know he exerted effort to get me the kinds I've always wanted. They really smell nice too. Here in Canada, bouquets come with plant/flower food that you'd mix with the water in the vase. That, plus the cool climate makes the flowers live longer. I get to appreciate hubby's gift longer!

Although, beautiful flowers are also a perfect mother's day gift, I told hubby not to get me anymore flowers. We have to be practical here, my bouquet still sits in a vase in the middle of the living room, still thriving! Of course, he can still get me other gifts for mother's day... Hint, hint, hint. Haha!

Our First Shopping Trip in Edmonton, Alberta

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Sat, 02 May 2015 20:32:00 +0000

Hello! It has been a while! The last time I posted in this blog, we were still selling our stuff because we were moving to Canada permanently. It's been almost a year since. Currently, I am a student and shopping has been very limited (not that I loved to shop anyway) but I just wanted to share our very first shopping trip in Edmonton. Ok... So it wasn't really a shopping trip but actually a necessary trip to the drug store for the bare essentials. We packed so much stuff, that we forgot the very basics like deodorant. Too much information, I know, but that's the truth.

Shopper's Drug Mart loot

So, we went to the nearby Shopper's Drug Mart at the Millwoods Town Centre. We bought deodorants for me and hubby, a pack of Ivory soaps (on sale), feminine pads, floss, cottoballs and petroleum jelly (for my daughter's rashes). Our digestion seemed to be adjusting so I bought fibre supplements. Although we arrived in summer, we immediately felt the dryness of the air. Our lips chapped easily and our skin got really dry. So I also bought EOS lip balm and extra strength body lotion (oops! Actually I bought the lotion at a Rexall Drug Store on a separate trip)

It was so hard to pay for the items because in my mind, I was converting the dollar amount to Philippine peso, and I just found everything too expensive. And they even add 5% tax on top of everything! Waaaah!

It was quite an experience. It was confusing actually. Although, I saw familiar brands, I was not familiar with the others. So I just grabbed whatever was on sale and bought that. :)

We're Moving. Perfect Time For Garage Sales and Shopping Sprees

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Thu, 02 Oct 2014 16:46:00 +0000

I have been on a blogging break for month now, just when I promised myself I'd update this blog more, I just stopped. Why? Because around March of this year, we got wonderful news from the Canadian Embassy. Read about it here. And after that, everything was just a flurry of activities. We held garage sales, an actual on right on our garage, and a virtual one where I set up a facebook page and sold our pre-loved items. We also posted in OLX.ph. We had to get rid of everything we can't bring with us.

I sold most of my books, planners and planner supplies, along with other stationery goodies like stickers, washi tapes and punches. It was heartbreaking.

While we sold stuff, we also bought things in preparation for our trip. We took advantage of mallwide sales. We particularly jumped on the chance to shop while SM Megamall held its sale last May 2014. We bought underwear, socks, rubber shoes and bags! We bought our urban bags luggages at 50% off! what a steal! We bought some bags with TSA locks and some with regular ones. We planned on just putting clothes in the ones with regular locks so nothing suspicious would appear on the xrays, at least nothing airport authorities would want to inspect. Then we intended to place all our excess photography equipment plus other miscellaneous knick-knacks in the bags with TSA lock should they want to peek inside.

It was really hard to decide which of our things we'd take with us and which we'd leave behind. I brought basic make up essentials and nail care supplies. That way, I didn't have to buy supplies there for a while, at least while we're looking for a job.

I Finally Got A Fossil Leather Wallet

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 09:30:00 +0000

I have always been a fan of the Fossil brand. The hubby and I particularly like their watches, we own a couple of Fossil watches each. I've been wanting to get a leather item from them, maybe a bag or a wallet, but they're a bit on the expensive side. Their wallets and bags are made of pure leather and so supple to the touch.

One weekend, Berto and I met with a potential client somewhere in the south area. We dropped by Festival Mall. We had no idea they were having a big sale. We didn't really plan on shopping. We weren't looking for something particular to buy, we just had time to spare. We passed by the Fossil store and went in. They were clearing out their old stocks and some items were on sale for as much as 50% off! A leather wallet instantly caught my eye. It was a long wallet, actually they called it a clutch, in chestnut. I wanted it! It was originally priced at 5,000++ pesos but the sale price was for only 2,300 pesos. I got Berto's approval and got it!

I love it's authentic leather smell! I finally have something from Fossil other than watches, will a bag come next? Hahaha, we'll see. As of now, I am so happy with my Fossil chestnut clutch. =)

Planner Week 1

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 12:59:00 +0000

Fino Leatherware Planner Week on 2 Pages

Maroon 2014 Starbucks Planner

Last year, when I got into Filofax and other planners, I really drooled over planner addicts' weekly posts of their decorations. I've always wanted to try my hand at decorating my own pages but I got so intimidated.

I'm not as artistic as the others are.

This year, I decided to try it anyway. I can just do simple designs, just something that will make me smile whenever I open my pages. :)

So here goes, my planner week 1. I have two active planners right now. My Fino leather planner, with some Filofax inserts and a maroon 2014 Starbucks planner. I decided to keep them matchy matchy with this week's theme : blue and green.

I use my Fino planner as a personal, business and blogging planner while I use my Starbucks planner as a daily journal of the day's highlights. I also use the monthly pages as my food and exercise journal.

I hope I can keep this us! Haha. :)

2014 Goals

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 22:29:00 +0000

Hey let's start the year right! I've been trying to narrow down my goals for 2014 and I've come up with three items. Organization. Home. Fitness.

Organization. Home. Fitness.

First, I will try to be more organized. Make use of my planners to help me plan and record our finances, schedules and goals, both for our personal life and for our business.

Second, focus on our home and my duties as a wife, mom and homemaker. I've already got my laundry skills down pat. Folding and ironing duties not so much. I also need to declutter our room and other spaces. Of course meal planning ang cooking and efficient grocery shopping is something I need to work on too.

Third, fitness. Spiritual fitness. I need to pray and read the bible more. I need to praise and thank my Lord more regularly and sincerely. Next, physical fitness. I need to work on my body and actually do something about losing those excess pounds other than gripe about it. At least 30 minutes of cardiovascular daily, weights, less carbs (rice and bread!), more water, more veggies. I need to lose weight and actually keep 'em off!

OK, I think I'm making progress. I've actually written my goals down. I'm claiming that 2014 is the best year yet, for me, my family and our business. Yes!

It's all about persistence and consistency. I'm grabbing 2014 by the horns and claiming it's mine! Let's do this!

The Face Shop Lovely ME:EX Nail Remover in Pink

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 18:12:00 +0000

As I promised myself in my previous post about nail polish, I would buy another bottle from another brand because the one I was using didn't work as I expected it to. So when I got the chance, I went to the nearby mall and got myself a bottle of The Face Shop Lovely ME:Ex Nail Remover. Okay, so I noticed that Koreans have a penchant for removing their "nails". I don't know....

The important thing is I like this product so much. Although it is acetone-based, I didn't find it drying for my nails at all. A big plus is its price. It's only P95 for a 100ml bottle. It's so affordable! This is actually my second bottle. I don't often like a product that much to actually empty it and this is one of those very rare cases that I did finish a whole bottle.

I also like it's cute pink color. I'm not sure if it's available in any other color, I've always seen the pink one. It doesn't have an overly strong odor. It has mild strawberry scent. It actually smells like Sally Hansen nail polish remover.

I'm glad I got myself another bottle of this product. :)

My Personal Filofax Aston in Purple

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 16:01:00 +0000

Late last year, I really got into paper planners... again. I first started my love for paper planners when I was in grade school, although back then I used them more like a journal, writing down highlights of the day. When I was in college, I got a Tickles planner that is very similar to today's personal Filofax. Too bad Tickles discontinued their planner line. Anyway, in the advent of gadgets and technology, my paper planners were slowly overshadowed by digital planners, PDAs and eventually cell phones.

Then while blog hopping, I came across a lady who had a paper planner and it was exactly what I wanted. I found out that the brand was Filofax. I really wanted a planner that wasn't limited as to number and arrangement of pages. That is just what Filofax brings to the table, flexibility.

Too bad, I couldn't find anybody in the Philippines who's selling Filofax Planners. Good thing I had a friend who is an online seller (Gmet Trading) and I ordered through her. Good thing also that when I went to the Filofax USA site, they were having a huge sale, I got my planner at 70% off because I later found out that they were discontinuing the Aston line. Too bad because it is actually made of good quality, supple leather. I got my planner (along with other Filofax accessories) after 3 weeks, in perfect condition.

I also downloaded the free month on two pages from Limetree Fruits. I also bought the Leonie Dawson Printable Amazing Biz and Life Workbooks and Calendars. I also watched loads of youtube videos and made my own laminated dividers. (yes, I bugged hubby into buying me a personal laminating machine just for this purpose) I was addicted for a while... a long while. Ok, I'm addicted until now! haha! I have since bought expensive leather planners and inexpensive cutesie ones and I love them all!

I must admit, my planners has helped me be more organized. Especially during times when I feel so overwhelmed with so many tasks to be done. Writing them down makes all the difference! Seeing them on paper gives me power over them, I get to label these tasks, I get to schedule them and the best part is that I get to cross them off once their done. It really helps unburden my mind!

So now just as the new year begins, I say thank you for paper planners! I will definitely continue using them in 2014!

Revlon ColorStay Nail Polish, Orly Quick Dry Top Coat and Etude House Nail Remover

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 09:22:00 +0000

Yes you read right, it is not a typo. Etude House, actually calls their nail polish remover "Nail Remover". I was actually scared when I first saw it. Do they actually make sure that your polish is removed to the point that even the nail is almost removed? Rest assured that is not the case, I guess this is just their version of the Nail Polish Remover. (go figure)

First things first, while my hubby and I were doing our Christmas shopping, we saw that Revlon was having a 30% off sale. Too bad, I just replenished my make up kit a while ago and didn't really need anything, I bought a brown-black Revlon ColorStay eyeliner a couple of weeks ago. Too bad I missed the sale =(

Anyway, even though I didn't really need anything, that didn't stop me from checking out the counter. I was browsing through the different products when I saw their line of ColorStay nail polishes. Nail polish has always been my weakness. I love 'em but I just don't know how to apply them on my nails and I just don't know how to keep them on for a long time. So, after I justified my need for a ColorStay nail polish to myself, I decided to buy one while it's on sale. I chose the French Roast shade which is a reddish brown shade. It costs P300++.

Revlon ColorStay Nail Polish in French Roast and Orly Quick-Dry Top Coat

I also got an Orly Quick Dry Top Coat. As mentioned many times, I have a hard time apply polish and when I do finally finish applying them, I have a tendency to ruin them almost immediately. So I thought a good quality quick dry top coat would be a good investment. I actually got a Sally Hansen one a while ago but even though it promised to dry my nails within 30 seconds it didn't happen. So when I finished that bottle, I decided to try another brand. The Orly brand is slightly more expensive at P449 but it was easier to apply and it did dry within seconds. I love it!

I applied this French Roast Revlon ColorStay nail polish for our holiday celebrations. It wasn't perfect but I thought it was ok. In fairness, the nail polish did last for a week despite numerous encounters with the rogue sticky tape during the marathon gift wrapping and heavy manual dish washing duties during reunions. I am very satisfied. =)

Today though, I decided to remove my nail polish. It was already starting to chip off on the edges but generally it still looked fine. I just wanted a red nail polish for another reunion this weekend. To remove the nail polish, I used my Etude House Acetone Free Moisturizing Nail Remover. The product promises to take care of your nails by moisturizing them instead of drying them whenever you use them. Hmm.. I was intrigued. I decided to try it. I already forgot how much it costs because I bought it a while back, but it was the most expensive among their line of nail polish removers.

Etude House Nail Polish Remover, as is (aloe vera oil seperates) and when shaken

The moisturizing part is due to the aloe vera oil that is incorporated into the product. If you let it stand for a while, they actually separate, so whenever you put some product on the cotton ball you have to shake it to mix the oil and the nail polish remover. Otherwise you'll just get the oil and you're basically just moisturizing your nails.

I am a bit disappointed with this product. It took longer for me to remove the nail polish. I think it was both partly because of the ColorStay factor and because the remover was too gentle and moisturizing. I also found it irritating to have to shake the bottle whenever I dab my cotton ball, but that's just me. I don't think I'll wait to empty that bottle. It will be a waste but using it is so time consuming!

So there, I just wanted to share my experiences with my new nail products.

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Wed, 25 Dec 2013 01:55:00 +0000

Thank you Lord for the greatest gift of all!

Merry Christmas every body!

America's Next Top Model Cycle 20: Boys and Girls

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Thu, 19 Sep 2013 01:45:00 +0000

ANTM's Jourdan

This is my current guilty pleasure, watching America's Next Top Model on cable's ETC channel. When I first found out that cycle 20 will feature both girls and boys, I thought it was a bad idea. After only a few episodes, I saw the models matching up and flirting and I found it irritating! I just knew it!

I don't really follow ANTM episodes but somehow I catch them when I turn on the TV. Note to self: you're watching ttoo much TV! haha. Plus I get really kilig whenever I see Bryan Boy on the panel. Wow! A fellow Pinoy on Tyra's inner circle!

Then the other models I didn't like got eliminated, and I realized that I have been following the competition closely. I have actually a favorite! Jourdan! Her face is so pretty, and she has so much character at such a young age! I mean, divorced at 19, wow! Plus I think she has a good work ethic, she does her best every shoot (best photo almost every week!), she has no qualms about delivering whatever the shoot requires no matter how out-of-this-world and she stands up for what she believes in.

I really hope Jourdan wins this cycle, she really deserves it!

Photo Credit: Pottle Productions Inc

Look young...longer!

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Tue, 17 Sep 2013 14:38:00 +0000

What a catchy title huh? Who doesn't want to look and feel young forever? When I was in my early 20's, I used to read a lot of articles about taking good care of the skin, as prevention for wrinkles, crow’s feet, dark spots etc. that will surely come with age… I never really took them to heart, after all I was still young. My skin was still taut and wrinkle free. Now I’m in my 30’s, and I’m forcing myself to come to terms with the fact that we are all aging by the minute, by the second. It is a fact of life. It is also evidenced by the dull face that peers back at me in the bathroom mirror every morning. There is no procrastinating with age. We’ll get old as sure as the sun rises and sets. We can’t do anything about it really except to try to age as gracefully as possible. Here’s how:

Start a skincare routine. Regular washing of the face before going to bed is not considered as a routine! It involves a process, a series of steps. If you haven’t been cleansing, toning and moisturizing, better start now.
Use a sun block. Yeah-yeah, I know you’ve heard it all before, ultraviolet rays and stuff right? It is often said because it is true. Our ozone layer is getting thinner at a rapid pace, it is not capable of protecting us from the harsh rays of the sun anymore, we need help. When going out, apply sun block on your face and other exposed parts of your body.
Be conscious of what you eat. Garbage in, pimply and dull skin out. Try to stay away from fatty foods and alcohol. Load up on leaf veggies and fresh fruits. Foods rich in B complex vitamins will help give you a youthful glow.
Quit smoking. Not only is smoking bad for your health, it is bad for your skin as well. It causes skin to dry up, not to mention the pucker marks that can worsen with age.
Have enough sleep. Take in at least 8 hours of snooze so that skins cells can regenerate and undergo repair. Also, night sleep is irreplaceable.
Smile. No amount of make up can beautify a frowning face. A frown not only uses up more muscles, It also causes ugly frown lines. So smile, even if you feel like there is nothing to smile about… if you look hard enough, I’m sure you’ll find something.

It is a mistake to regard old age as a downhill grade toward dissolution. The reverse is true. As one grows older, one climbs with surprising strides - Sands

* photo from (http://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com)

The Body Shop's Member's Exclusive

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 02:28:00 +0000

Oops! Found out about this sale only now, on its LAST DAY!! Go ahead and grab this chance!

Start the week by pampering yourself from head to toe! Just present your SM Advantage card or BDO rewards card in-store and get 40% off bath & body, hair products and accessories until TODAY ONLY!

Hurry and see you at any The Body Shop stores in SM Malls nationwide.

Members' Exclusive!

Celeteque Brightening Multi-benefit BB Cream

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Wed, 14 Aug 2013 16:25:00 +0000

Being a woman with large pores, I read somewhere that BB creams are better to cover up my pores. I've tried Maybelline BB stick and I love its effects on my face, the coverage is great but it does clog my pores and quite difficult to remove.

I decided to try Celeteque's Brightening Multi-benefit BB Cream. I figured that Celeteque is known for being gentle and caring for one's skin. Actually, I was quite surprised to know that the brand offered a BB cream. Not only does it claim to cover up one's blemishes, with the help of the Biowhite technology, it has other benefits as well as whitening and moisturizing. You can apply it liberally on your face and neck before make up and it will act as your moisturizer, primer and make-up base. It will help the make-up last a bit longer.

I bought a tube and immediately tried it. Here's my review. I put a small amount on my hand. It felt smooth and light on the skin. Here are some swatches.

Smell was ok, it didn't smell like old make-up. =) Coverage was light to medium. It was really easy to apply. Too bad the Celeteque BB Cream is available in one shade only. Some might find this limiting as it might be too light for some skin tones. Luckily, it fit well with my skin tone. Having a combination skin though, I found that I had to put on some powder on top of it because the finish is a bit shiny and after a few hours, my T zone was already oily. It is best to have blotting paper ready and to touch up every few hours to maintain matte finish. It was easy to remove too.

My Verdict:

Good:

Affordable at less than P300.

Easily available, can be bought at Watson's and beauty counters at SM Department stores.

Easy to apply.

Gentle on the skin, doesn't clog pores

Has SPF 15 and acts as moisturizer and make-up base

Easy to remove

Not So Good:

Has only one shade

Not a matte finish

Pores still visible after application

Combination/oily skin is oily again after a few hours.

I like how it is gentle on my skin and that it has SPF but it doesn't really work that well for me as a BB cream. I think I'd just finish my tube but I won't repurchase anymore. I would definitely recommend it for people with dry or sensitive skin beause they won't need heavy coverage and won't be as oily after a while.

I hear Garnier has a BB cream for Oily and Combination Skin. I'd have to try this once it is available here.

Watson's Nose Pore Strips

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Mon, 12 Aug 2013 08:21:00 +0000

Years ago, my mom brought me to the dermatologist for the very first time. I was still in my early twenties and she wanted to get me started on a good skin regimen. The dermatologist said that genetics granted me with big (huge) pores, and there’s nothing I can do about it, except to make sure that I keep them clean so that there will be no blockage that can cause pimples and breakouts. Then she gave me a facial. The facial itself was ok, what I found really traumatic was the pricking. My huge pores gives me huge blackheads, especially on the nose area. Unlike others who get itsy bitsy white and blackheads, I get really numerous and big blackheads. So the doctor had a field day taking them off. My face was literally red and swollen by the time she finished. My eyes were swollen too by all the tears I shed. It was really PAINFUL! They were all involuntary tears, the kind you automatically get when you get really hurt. My doctor told me that it was painful because it was my first visit, I should make my visits monthly so that my pores will get used to the attack (my words) and it will not hurt as much. As I said, I found that visit really traumatic. My mom had the best intentions but my face hated her for it.

I didn’t return the next month.

It was until I found my blackheads too distracting whenever I look in the mirror that I gathered enough courage to go back to the dermatologist. Same scenario. Same trauma. I even tried to make it monthly just to test if my skin will get used to the pain. I went for four months straight. Still too painful.

Thankfully, I discovered nose pore strips. The first one I tried before was a Chinese brand. It was initially liquid, but as you apply it on your face, it turns gooey solid. After a few minutes, you peel it off your nose, pulling the stuck blackheads with it. It’s not as thorough as a dermatologist, but it’s not as painful too.

Then I discovered Watson’s sold boxed nose pore strips of various kinds. The brand is Glam Works. There’s the classic, charcoal and green tea. They usually cost P99 for a box containing 12 strips, but when I bought my supply, they were having a sale 2 boxes for the price of one! I’ve already tried the charcoal variety so I decided to try the classic and green tea variants. I really liked the charcoal nose strips. It really grabbed on the blackheads, but it left a black residue on my skin that I found yucky. When I tried the classic pore strip, I didn’t leave any residue, but it wasn’t as effective at pulling out the blackheads. I found that it pulled only the big ones, leaving the little ones still on my skin. I’ve still yet to try the green tea one. I hope this is better. Will post my thoughts on this when I get the chance to test it.

I Finally Found a Solution For My Cuticles!

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Sun, 14 Jul 2013 08:40:00 +0000

I don't like going to the parlor. I feel that paying for a manicure and pedicure is just too much. I can buy a whole bottle of branded nail polish with the amount they're charging. So the cheapo in me just refuses to avail of professional services. The problem is that I'm not really good in doing my own mani and pedi.

That's why I was so happy when I watched a YouTube video sharing tips about cleaning and conditioning the cuticles so that they'll be easy to clean and maintain.

She (I forgot her YT name and channel, sorry) talked about a cuticle remover that you'd just drop on your cuticles, wait for 30 seconds as the cuticles soften and melt, and then you can go and wipe off the gunk away. Voila, clean nail beds in seconds! No more pushing and scraping!

After watching the video, I went off and looked for this dropper. I initially found the Sally Hansen Problem Cuticle Remover Aloe Formula. It costs P300++.

It already contains 2 bamboo manicure sticks. I couldn't find a liquid solution so I figured a lotion type cuticle remover is the closest thing I can get. Off I went to the cashier, which had a long line, and paid for my purchase. Just as I was heading for the door, guess what I saw: a liquid cuticle remover!

I found the American brand Kiss No More Cuticles Cuticle Remover, exactly what I was looking for! I decided to get it too, plus a cuticle and nail balm from the same brand so I can condition my cuticles. This way, the next time they grow, they won't be as hard and easier to remove. Both are also P300++ each. I also got a 4-way nail shaper (P70++) since they didn't carry a glass file. I heard somewhere that glass nail files are gentler on the nails than emery boards or metal files. All of them are available at Landmark Department Store in Trinoma.

I tried it and it was so easy to use! Just put a drop on each cuticle, wait for a few seconds and wipe off with a tissue. Don't leave it on for too long because the solution can harm your nail beds.

At night I also apply the cuticle and nail balm on my finger and toe nails, so I can keep them soft and conditioned. Dry cuticles are the hardest to remove, so better to maintain them with this balm so that they will be easier to clean.

I am so happy I discovered this solution to my cuticles! Now I have better looking nails! =)

ELF Eyelid Primer

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Wed, 26 Jun 2013 05:00:00 +0000

I have really oily eyelids. This is why whenever I try to put on eye make-up, it doesn't last that long. That's why I was so happy when I discovered that other people actually have this problem too. And that there are actually products out there that addresses this problem. I discovered this very affordable eyelid primer from Eyes Lips Face or E.l.f. It comes in this little tube and contains 5 ml of product. It comes with a wand with a spongy thing at the tip which makes application really easy.

After all the skincare ritual (clean, tone, moisturize), apply this on the lids. It glides on the lids smoothly and leaves a powdery, matte feel to make the eyeshadow and eye liners stick on better and last longer. Even if you plan on just putting on gel liner, it is good to put primer first to avoid smudging.

I can't remember how much it really costs but I think it was only about P129 or thereabouts. It is easily available at SM Department Stores at the Elf Make-up counters.

When I did try this, I was so happy because it worked! Haha! My eyeshadow lasted longer. If you want it to last even longer, I guess you should put on more shadow. I put just enough to color my lids and it lasted up to after lunch, which is an improvement in my experience.

Go ahead and try the elf eyelid primer. It is affordable, readily available, and really easy to apply. =)

Cutie Mickey Mouse Ecobags

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Mon, 24 Jun 2013 16:29:00 +0000

While Berto and I were shopping in the Robinson's Department Store in Festival Mall, shopping for last minute items we thought Berto would need for his outing with other photographer friends in Baler, we saw this cute ecobag near the counter. We all know that ecobags are so in nowadays since there are so many places that ban plastic bags. I am one of those people who own a lot of reusable bags, some received as gifts while some were bought out of necessity, but I always forget to bring them with me whenever I go out. So frustrating. I try to resisit buying these ecobags as much as I can because I already have a lot, but I just couldn't resist this mickey mouse bag! Berto loved it as well!

Mickey Mouse Reusable Eco Bag

View from the side

So affordable!

For only P39.75 it is so affordable. Now if I could only remember to bring it with me the next time I go out to shop!

Basic Personal Makeup Workshop held at Glambox Studio

noreply@blogger.com (Berto and Kwala) — Sun, 23 Jun 2013 04:42:00 +0000

A few days ago, I chanced upon Say Tioco Artillero's instagram account saying that she will be having a basic makeup workshop. I immediately texted her number to inquire if there were available slots. She replied in just a few minutes confirming that yes she still has a couple of slots l left. I decided I wanted to attend. I have been watching Say's YouTube beauty videos and vlogs and I find her funny and thorough in her reviews. Her videos are so amusing that I keep coming back for more!

I worked in corporate for years and when I first set foot in Makati, my makeup kit contained only my face powder and one shade of lipstick. Over the years, my kikay kit grew but I never really learned how to use makeup well. I would just make sure I powdered my face, lined my brows, curled my lashes (without mascara) and put on some lipstick then I'm good to go. I never learned the fine art of eyeshadow and blushes. I had no idea how to blend or contour or highlight.

Now that I work from home, have more time and opportunity to experiment with colors and makeup. So I decided to learn the basics thru YouTube videos, and that's where I got to "know" Say and other makeup gurus.

Yesterday hubby dropped me off at the Glambox Studio located at the corner of Gamboa and Salcedo streets in Legaspi Village Makati City. When I arrived Say was filming one of her videos which was a collaboration with her fellow YouTuber , a 12 year old girl who also gives make up tutorials for young girls. (I will have to check her channel out) it was fun watching the actual filming.. It gave me ideas on how I would film hubby in this project we're cooking up..

My first impression, this girl was taller than I expected. =) She looked smaller in her videos. And she's so bubbly, and perky, and nice.

Anyway, we only had 2 hours for the workshop. It started well enough with Say telling us tips about basic skin care, answering our questions . I have oily/combination skin and apparently I still needed to moisturize everyday. I just have to choose a water-based product so I won't be greasy.

She went on to explain the merits of putting on primer before applying makeup to make it last longer. She then took our "before" photo. She also taught us how to find out what the right shade of foundation for our skin tones. She proceeded to apply foundation on the model as she encouraged us to do the same ourselves. After the foundation came the powder, blush, eyebrows, eyeshadow, lashes and lipstick. She also taught us how to switch from day makeup to nighttime makeup.

Say let us use her products and brushes. She also had lots of tips and stories as she went along with the workshop. She would hop over from one participant to another checking our progress, answering our questions, demonstrating the correct technique. She then took our "after" picture.

In the end, 2 hours are just not enough! Haha... She gave us our certificates, recorded our comments for her vlog and even offered to trim the other girls' eyebrows. Too bad hubby and I had a photo coverage to go to or I would have stayed longer.

I do admire this young lady who has identified what she wanted to do with her life early on and is now pursuing her dreams. I really enjoyed Say's makeup workshop. I would recommend it to girls and professionals who'd want to learn the basics of putting on makeup. This July she will again be having a series of makeup workshops. For more info follow her on instagram @saytioco and subscribe to her YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/saytiocoartillero