The Grace Catcher

Random Updates: Abhie Missing in Action, Bataan Getaway, Fansigns, and Mitsubishi Mirage Music Festival

2012-11-19T13:16:00.000+08:00

First of all I wanna say I'm sorry for going missing in action this past few weeks. I was busy and had to go places... Talk to people and enjoy my life. But seriously guys, I wanted to say that I'm sorry for not updating this blog for weeks. I would be back to regular blogging again. For this edition of random updates, let me show you a photo of me with my almost broken arm:

Look at that face. K, first of all I did a lot of biking when my father bought a bike. It was too tall for my height and still I manage to use it. One sunny day, I went out to bike and (suddenly) I accidentally went out of balance. Then BAM! Injured. Thanked God nothing serious, nothing broken, nothing was amputated. But it really did hurt. The accident happened almost more than a week, yet my hand is still not 100% ok. I cant drive! Sad Abhie is sad.

Anyway moving on... I know you guys heard what 9gag is right? Recently I joined a group that involves all 9gagger across the world. So far I have been enjoying socializing with them through the internet. They are really nice and really funny. I have met a lot of wonderful people who lives on different timezones through that group. I can now say I have friends on different parts of the world...

And I wanted to show you guys the fansigns they made for me.. The following are my favorites :)

Upper left is Niv, he lives in Israel (the only chest sign I got) and I have to persuade him just to have this one! Hahaha! (Well he asked for a weird fansign from me in return...) Upper right is Rodolfo, he is from Mexico, k he's cute right? Lower left is Sam Insanity (he is the founding member of the 9gag group), and that lady there is Kamilla Ri (sooo pretty right?).

The following are also my favorite because of the effort they made:

Upper left is a super cute train drawing from my very good friend Omer, he lives in Istanbul Turkey, while that guy on the Upper right is Florin (look at that amazing lettering he made, he told me it took an hour for him to finish that one! Sweet.) he lives in Romania, Lower left is Attila (nice lettering too) he is also from Romania, and lastly the Lower right one was a fansign made by Rafa (he's shy he doesnt want to show his face! Lol just kidding), he lives in Mexico and he's one of the coolest person that exist in this planet, look at that drawing. Brilliant...!

And lastly.. the hottest fansigns I got:

That sexxxyy laydeeh is Melanie, she is from the Netherlands, she my girl! Haha, k love that lady! And I got the abs treatment from Guiyom (what can you say ladies..?) hot right?!

And speaking of hot, hoping to the next update is me and friends on the shores of Morong, Bataan:

I did enjoyed the trip! I jumped out of the boat in the middle of the ocean (YOLO! hahaha) and it was super fun. I hope you try doing that too cause it's really fun and exciting. When you go to Morong never forget to drop by and eat Hu-tieu... It's a local delicacy that is really a must try!

And here is the beauty of Morong at sunset:

Lastly, I went to the Mitsubishi Mirage launching event and had a great time. I was able to witness the launching itself and the musical festival at night. A lot of great bands from the local music scene were there for the enthusiast. Urbandub and Updharmadown (my favorite bands) played and it was a blast!

Mitsubishi gave us a great night at that time... But seriously guys, if you are looking for a compact car then go see the Mirage. It definitely is a good option, I promise.

Here are some of the photos I captured during the music festival:

SO, it was quite a long post.. and those are the things that happened while I wasnt blogging.

See you again on the next edition of Random Updates

XOXO

Abhie

P.S.

Im back to my regular blogging schedules soon.

Makeup Challenge Day 22: Inspired By A Country or City

2012-10-27T20:02:00.001+08:00

Hello and Happy Halloween to everyone! For today's challenge, I decided to create a look based from my country, the Philippines. Mainly using the colors of our flag, which are blue, red, and yellow. Why the Philippines? Well, I love my own, my native land, and it's more fun in the Philippines.

I you can never go wrong with blue, red, and yellow combination since they are the primary colors of the color wheel. The eyes here are pretty heavy so the blush and lips are toned down.

So far I am loving the bangs, so I think I can't put it to rest now. Haha please forgive me.

Anyway, my black do' always make me look more made up than usual, I guess black hair makes that illusion compared to blonde or lighter colored hair. I like black because of the shinny effect. You can't seem to enjoy the shinny effect on a blonde hair. Black hair isssooo Asian lol.

So what do you think guys? Did I succeed today? Hope so!

Anyway, I would like to share a photo of my Halloween costume! So I followed my heart and decided to be Videl! It's super easy, since I'm Asian and I have bangs and black hair! My gloves here are sort of DIY, what I did was I used a pair of black socks and cut then in half. Then I cut horizontally an inch long on the sides so I could make a hole for my thumb.

Did I nailed it? Do I look like Videl?

XOXO
Abhie

Halloween Idea: Videl of Dragon Ball Z

2012-10-24T22:55:00.001+08:00

Your childhood wouldn't be complete without Dragon Ball Z, right? Gouku and the Super Saiyans are one of our childhood heroes. And above all those yellow haired super powerful guys, there is Videl, a sweet yet strong girl. A boyish yet a sweetheart. Frankly speaking, she's one of my childhood hero. I remember when I was young I would always portray as Videl whenever me and my boy cousins would do a role playing game of Dragon Ball.

Since Halloween is near, and (if) you aren't sure of who you're gonna be, try this one:

Dressing like Videl is not that hard. All you need are the following:
1. A plain white shirt
2. A plain black shorts
3. A pair of black (or green since she wore green boots) boots
4. A pair of black leather biker hand gloves

PIGTAILS! Yes! It's the signature hair of Videl. Besides, the hair is the main point of this cosplay since the outfit is rather super simple... First, you have to curl your hair cause you would be needing volume. Then tease your hair to add more volume. Finally, tie your hair using yellow elastics.

You may opt to do some makeup, but I think it is best to just do the basics (eyeliner, blush, concealer, powder, lipstick, eyelash) since Videl doesn't wear any makeup at all.

Here is a very good example of a Videl cosplay:

Good luck and enjoy!
XOXO
Abhie

Makeup Challenge Day 21: Inspired from a Photo

2012-10-24T21:39:00.000+08:00

That very beautiful and elegant lady above is Vivien Leigh, who portrayed Scarlett O'Hara on the film adaptation of Margaret Mitchel's Gone With The Wind. It is one of my favorite books, and Scarlet O'Hara is one of my favorite fictional character.

Here,I tried to imitate Scarlet's makeup (colored version of course). She has a long and voluminous hair, high cheek bone, and a very sexy lips. Obviously I failed! haha. But at least I tried! Right, right? It's was quite a difficult challenge for me. Especially if all of her lovely features were opposite of mine! LOL.

But then again to give myself a consolation, I like my look here. It's pretty simple. The hair is simple, the eye shadow colors went well with the lip color.

I'll try to redeem myself on tomorrow's challenge!

XOXO
Abhie

Random Updates: New Pups, Bumblefoot, Philippine Fashion Week, and Sembreak

2012-10-23T20:15:00.000+08:00

Hi guys, this edition of Random Updates goes like this:

So my baby girl Summer gave birth to five lovely puppies last Tuesday night. Three of which are girls and the rest are boys. Summer gave birth on my bed! I can not just pull her out in the middle of baby pushing so I just let her give birth there. My sheets were not spared of course, so as the smell inside my room. But wow, five puppies again. My baby girl produces a lot of babies, as always. It's her second time to give birth, but still as a Mom I was (still) nervous and happy at the same time. It will always be one of the most amazing feeling ever.

So I decided to name the two boys DJ and Bumblefoot (both are names of the current lead guitarist of Guns N Roses) cause you know how big a Guns N Roses fan I am. I already have a dog named after Axl Rose (vocalist of GNR) and he's a lovely furry boy. So yeah, I know what you're thinking, I am creating my own Guns N Roses hahah! Aaand it's true. So I tweeted Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal that I will name a pup after him, and guess what, he asked me a photo of the pup cause he said he would like to tweet it. And he did! OMGGGG it definitely was one of the best day of my life. I can surely die in peace. (Super fan girl mode)

OK OK fine enough of my fan girl flailing, let's move on to the Philippine Fashion Week (Spring-Summer) which is happening this week at Mall Of Asia and SMX Convention Center. I got my first Fashion Week invite, courtesy of Lee Cooper Philippines. Their show would take place on October 25,2012 at MOA atrium (inside the mall) so I hope to see you all there. This PFW season will surely be an epic moment, as always. I am so excited to witness all the cat walking and fashion designs.

Aaand finally, since it is the Sembreak. It's time for some rocknroll I-just-wanna-be-on-the-beach mode. So I will hit the shores of Morong, Bataan this coming October 27-28 with my college friends. I hope you too guys will enjoy the vacation. Cause you know, once in a while we deserve some.

XOXO
Abhie

Makeup Challenge Day 20: Brights

2012-10-17T13:33:00.000+08:00

Sorry for the late post. My dog Summer gave birth to five lovely puppies so it made me busy. But then I have snatched some time to do this. The eyeshadow that I used here are all shimmer, since this is all about brights I used yellow and green. Lip was also super shimmery.

Over all I love shimmer eye shadows, they add glow and sparkle to the eyes and to the face, but then too much glimmer is not beautiful right? Balance as always, is the key.

I love my hair and the bangs here! Try experimenting on your hair, since a little makes a difference. You know, sometimes getting out of your comfort zone makes you explore more about yourself.

Enjoy!

XOXO

Abhie

3 Easy Ways On How You Can Give Your Plain Mani An Edge

2012-10-13T18:42:00.000+08:00

Enjoy :)

XOXO

Abhie

Makeup Challenge Day 19: Sunset

2012-10-12T21:35:00.001+08:00

Hi guys! Few days from now I would be concluding this Makeup Challenge. So far it's super enjoyable and exciting. I get to experiment on makeup looks, it also made me do greater on my makeup skills. I am no expert on this field and I would not claim that I am. All I know is that like most of the girls out there, I love makeup. I love how it can transform you from a certain look to another.

I am sorry for such inconsistencies and delays btw. The days have been so swift and there are times that I can not find the time to photograph and blog. Nevertheless, I would like to thank those who are following and visiting my blog to check back the day's makeup. I hope you are enjoying this challenge as much as I do. It had encourage me to blog more and to share my craft to my readers.

Even my Facebook friends noticed how much my makeup skills have improved. From the transformation to becoming a Barbie, to the dramatic Colorful eyes, and being a Blue Fairy. Oh, the power of makeup!

This look is inspired by the sunset, the dominant colors are red, yellow, and gold. The sunset is a very powerful symbol. For me it symbolizes the conclusion, the end, the omega. Everything has its end. Though end may sound so sad, it can also symbolizes that another beginning can start again. Just like my dark brown hair, it has to end so I started to dye my hair black (what a lame logic) hahaha

OK stop with the drama Abhie.

You should stick with me up until the last okaaaay

Love yah guys

XOXO

Abhie

Halloween Idea: Statue Of Liberty

2012-10-12T13:51:00.002+08:00

Hi there! This Halloween look gives a classic look a twist of sexiness, modern and glam. Yes my dear, we are gonna be the Modern Statue of Liberty. If you haven't decided who or what to be this Halloween, then take this as an inspiration. Here I will try my best to make you a beautiful and sexy version of the Statue of Liberty.

Since the statue's color is ashy blue then we will use it as the key color.

Find a flowy blue dress. Now, it doesn't matter how long it is, as long as you are comfortable with the length. I think you should go for flowy dress since the statue wears a rather long and flowy greek inspired gown. The shoes should match the color of the dress just for you know, consistency. I know this is sort of matchy matchy, but then it's a Halloween costume right? Let's break some rules here for a while. I suggest to go for sky high heels (that you can walk on properly of course) if you you want a slender and sexier appearance. Heels makes you look taller, sexier, and makes your legs look longer. To break the blueness you can accessorize with a gold stud earrings. I think you shouldn't use a lot of accessories here since it may look unnecessary.

Now to the head wear:

This is a DIY version that I created. If you really cannot look for a spiked blue head wear, then why not make one? Super duper easy baby, all you need is a plain blue headband, glue, and blue spikes (you can purchase them at craft stores). Following the photo above, all you need to do it to stick those spikes on the headband. Make sure that the spikes are properly and strongly glued on the headband to avoid any inconvenience.

Now, the look wouldn't be complete without the torch. Here is again a DIY version.

You have to go find and print printable flames, I suggest that you print them on a paper board or anything harder than the usual bond paper. Cut and glue them on the rim of the flashlight (which has a relatively longer handle). You can always go and be more creative on improvising materials...

Now to the Makeup:

My suggestion for the eyes is to stick to the neutrals or earth tones. If you want a glamoured up look, then go dramatic with the eyes, if you want to look more chic then go with bronzed, if you want to look edgy and sexy then go exaggerate a little on that cat eye. Remember to balance the eye with the lips. You do not want to look too made up right? If the lips are bold, then don't go heavy on the eyes. Simple.

AAAAND FINALLY the hair!

My suggestion is to either sport big curls or tucked in hair. If you ought to choose big curls then aim for volume. This would be a more comfortable hair style since you have a headband to wear. Now, if you really wanted to tucked your hair then make sure to make a space for your headband. The photo above suggest four styles that are headband ready.

That's it. It's quite a long post. Like it?

Stay tuned for the next Halloween Ideas :) (three more)

More halloween ideas click here.

XOXO

Abhie

Halloween Idea: Mavis Dracula

2012-10-11T21:47:00.002+08:00

Are you the type of person who do not want to be the always sexy get up? Youre looking for an easy halloween costume? Fret no more cause I have something for you... Tadah! It's the modern Tuesday Adams, presenting Mavis Dracula from the movie Hotel Transylvania. Did you know that Selena Gomez was the voice behind this character?

And now to the DIY version:

Find a sleeve little black dress. It doesn't have to be super fancy or super fashionable, as long as it is sleeved then it's good to go. The hard part probably here are the red tights. However if you can not find a red and black stripes type then you can go red all the way. Now if you have red chucks on your shoe collection then your look is finished! Red ankle boots are also good.

Makeup: The makeup part is super easy! Mavis have a pale complexion, so you have to use a lighter foundation or pile up on powder. Next are false lashes and heavy black eye liner. Lips are also black so you have to find a black lipstick. But if you can not find one, then used black eyeshadow mixed with petroleum jelly to create a black lip stain.

There you have it!

Check back for the next halloween ideas.

XOXO

Abhie

Makeup Challenge Day 18: Extreme

2012-10-10T19:48:00.000+08:00

Hello there! Once again I have transformed into another person! Today's Challenge is about extreme makeup, but then I wanted to make it wearable and useful for Halloween. I call this look as the Blue Fairy Makeup. It is super pretty and cute, if you are planning to be a fairy this Halloween, then why not become a blue/water fairy? Take this look as an inspiration.

Hair requires a lot of volume!

But you can always tie your hair if you want a sleeker updo. The eyes were painted using blue, green, and gold. Blue eyeshadow was used as an exaggerated cat liner. The lips was barely painted in pink. The brows were pretty dark and longer, the nose was obviously sculpted to look thinner. And do not forget to use false lashes so that you can give this look a dramatic finish.

So, what do you think?

XOXO

Abhie

Nail Of The Week: Polka Dot

2012-10-09T21:23:00.002+08:00

There was no NOTW last week because my nails weren't painted last week! Why? I kept them natural looking for a job interview. You know, gotta look more professional right? Haha

Do not fret. Here is this week's nail. Yeah right, good 'ol polka dots. It's actually my first time to create a polka dot nail. Using a nail dot pen I dotted diagonally those white dots. You can always find an alternative if you do not have a dotting tool. why not try using the tip of your slender makeup brushes, they work just the same.

Have you tried this nail art? You should.

XOXO

Abhie

Makeup Challenge Day 16: Colorful

2012-10-06T18:20:00.000+08:00

Hello! This day have been super, while I was doing this makeup, I am simultaneously watching the first game of the UAAP Men's Basketball Championship. Of course, without a doubt I am rooting for UST my dear Alma Matter. I am wearing my UST AB Senior shirt here, can't seem to find my yellow shirts! haha Blue. Oh the irony! UST is Black and Yellow.

Unfortunately we lost, but then I know this Championship is destined for us. Go TIGERS!

Moving on to the makeup... As you can see, I have again transformed today! I love my hair here. I call it my Adele hair, ya know... The curly bob. My inspiration for the eyes are the rainbow colors! Super lovely. Another Halloween makeup huh?

Hope you like it!

XOXO

Abhie

Makeup Challenge Day 14: Barbie

2012-10-04T09:39:00.000+08:00

I have to say I really transformed for today's Makeup Challenge, (and sorry for the low resolution photos, my DSLR is having a problem) I posted this on my instagram and people love it! It's super girly and flattering.

I can never be like Barbie, but I can imitate her makeup (atleast), my inspiration for this look is the MAC Barbie Makeup editions. Using Virginia Olsen Minerals in Chartreuse and Donnarence for my lids, pink lipstick, blush, and false lashes.

Methinks Barbie look is also in for this year's Halloween. Should I do a tutorial? Hmmm...

XOXO

Abhie

Makeup Challenge Day 11: Smokey

2012-09-29T11:37:00.000+08:00

Smokey eye never go wrong, it's always in. It's a classic makeup look that suits everyone. One thing is for sure, I would love to sport this look for formal events such as prom, debut, weddings, formal parties etc. I used plum colors for this look and a nude lip color. Balance, remember?

Celebrities like Kim Kardashian love to sport this look, in fact smokey eyes are Kim's default look. It is already her signature makeup (not to mention her super long lashes).

Have you ever tried sporting a smokey eye looks?

XOXO

Abhie

Random Updates: Marikina Drag Race, Car Crash, Epal, Random Weirdness, and My Rock Gods

2012-09-25T10:41:00.000+08:00

I was able to attend the 1st Marikina Drag Race (whatev..) and it was quite a show. The track itself was a portion of a highway near Marquinton roughly a little over a quarter mile. Most of the participants were Honda's and frankly I didnt enjoy it, no variety at all. I have expected a lot of Honda and Mitsubishi's and probably some STI's, but then it was plainly Honda's show.

Here are some of the photos I took while struggling under the heat of the sun.

Here is a short sample video for your viewing pleasure:

You noticed that red car from the video? An old men apparently between 50-60 years old was driving it, he lost during his turn to race to his opponent a Starlet. After the conclusion, he went back to the track for a rerun (which is totally forbidden during races) nobody from the organizers stopped him. He positioned his car on the starting line, this time his hood was removed (which I can safely say that he wanted to show off) and ran in full speed, a little halfway from the starting line he lost control, went zigzag then BAM! Crashed on a Meralco Post. It could have been avoided if the organizers forbidden reruns, or perhaps if the old guy did not attempt to save his grace. My judgement is, it is a human error; apparently being a show-off holds no place in the discipline of car racing.

Moving on, while I'm on my way back to Pampanga, I can not help but notice a lot of tarpaulins at Visayas-Mindanao Avenue Qc. Super annoying! Epal alert! These are tarpaulins of the politicians who are obviously running for office next year. First of all they need not to pollute the surrounding (and our eyes) with their faces printed on a non-biodegradable material just to advertise. Second it's pretty pointless, people have been vigilant of who they are going to vote (I strongly believe that Filipinos are gradually learning how to vote wisely) and printed tarpaulins doesn't make any sense. There are a lot of them, unfortunately I was only able to capture the following:

Say hello to District 6, Quezon City. This tarpaulin catches more attention than the direction signs above it. Quezon City is full of advertisements, mostly from politicians. Quite sad I know.

--Off the topic, have you watched the iHeart Radio festival? Greenday went full blast and Billy Joe Armstrong just lost it all and went guitar banging. Apparently, Greenday's time was cut from 45 minutes to 25 minutes just to give way for Rhianna and Usher to perform. They weren't told earlier--so the guitar smashing happened.

Pure rock and roll. If what the news says was true, then I cannot blame him for the act. But then I am not saying it was right, it's just that he (Billy Joe) had a reason why he ended up being super pissed. I am officially adding Billie Joe Armstrong as one of my Rock God (along side with Axl Rose). I am a fan of Greenday eversince the world begun and so as Guns N Roses.

My twitter account is full of GNR and I just cannot hide it. Guns N Roses is my hero, I cannot express how big a fan I am. Though a lot of people have been ranting over the previous line up in comparison to the present one, for me there is no difference. The original line up will always be history, it can never ever be equaled. The good old days will always be remembered; the long red hair of Axl Rose, his snake dance, his leather biker pants, the bandana, his rantings on stage, all the drama, and his unequaled voice. The riffs of Slash, his long damn massive curly hair, and his magician's hat. Duff's head bang, Izzy's "shyness", and the endless sweet smile of Steven. GOOD OLD DAYS. I guess GNR will always be remembered during those times. They were so massive that they practically owned the late 80's and early 90's. I wish I was born earlier! Back when music was pure and people play real instruments. Time machine please? I hope these guys would reunite even just for one night... Even for just one night... Please? Knock knock knocking on heaven's door.

---Another random thought; I AM SCARED OF BALLOONS, yes yes, balloons. Those air-filled things that pops. OMG super scared, I do not know when this started, it just happened that one day I hated balloons and I abhor the popping. I know this is super weird but it's true.

The fear of balloons is known as globophobia and is defined as "a persistent, abnormal, and unwarranted fear of balloons, despite the understanding by the phobic individual and reassurance by others that there is no danger; a strong fear of, dislike of, or aversion to balloons". (source)

I have a lot of weird addictions and phobias I'm sure you too have a thing or two, right? Or am I all alone with my weirdness...?

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That's a long long edition of random update, till the next one!

XOXO
Abhie

Weekly Nail: Fuchsia and Blue

2012-09-24T10:50:00.001+08:00

Hello there, this week's Weekly Nail is a combination of frosted blue and Fuchsia. I was thinking of this combination as a foolproof easy nailart. Blue and pink can never ever go wrong, it is in fact a classic combination.

If you want to know how this nail art is made, please click HERE.

I used nail polish from Caronia and The Face Shop, I use the clear polish of Etude House as top coat. Remember to use base coat before painting your nails!

XOXO

Abhie

Makeup Challenge Day 1: Nude Colors

2012-09-19T08:59:00.000+08:00

So for the first day of the Makeup Challenge, it's all about nude colors. I tried using nude colors on my lids and a little contouring on my outer V, but I think it is not too obvious on the photo. Yet I believe, nude means sticking to the basics, which is more of a natural looking fresh makeup look.

I used EB Matte Lipstick in Mauvey as a lip color, my brows on the other hand are more of a brown shade. I needed to dye them brown cause I just dyed my hair in dark brown. I guess no makeup makeup look is my favorite and will always be my signature look. Looking natural makes me feel youthful.

XOXO
Abhie

Share: How to Determine Your Skin Type

2012-09-18T18:15:00.000+08:00

Hi guys, this is just a quick post; I was browing on FB and saw this informative post which I think is worth sharing. Credits to the Official FB Page of Watsons Philippines!

Sharing is caring!

XOXO
Abhie

Challenge Accepted! 30-Days Makeup Challenge

2012-09-18T09:06:00.004+08:00

Hi guys just a little announcement to make, I am going to pursue a 30-Day Makeup Challenge that consists of the following:

Day 1 will start tomorrow September 19, 2012, I'm inviting all other bloggers or enthusiast to participate on this challenge! This will be fun I'm sure, so stay tuned for my entries! :)

Also, I've started contributing to Lucky Mag (a fashion and shopping magazine in the US) not much of course something big time, it's like a community of Lucky dedicated for bloggers. Now, one of my post was publish today, it would make me really happy if you would UPVOTE it and by commenting something below. You may also browse other contributors articles there, or you can be a contributor also! CLICK HERE.

Thank you so much!

XOXO

Abhie

Product Review: Maybelline Clear Smooth Aqua Gel Foundation

2012-09-18T08:55:00.000+08:00

Are you the type of person who's looking for a foundation that is good to use everyday, doesn't cost too much, and relatively looks like your natural skin? Let me introduce you to this drugstore find!

The packaging of the product seems cheap and very drugstore looking, but in reality I find it very handy and convenient. Unlike other foundation which are bottled in glass, I do not have to worry about breaking or space efficiency since this product can slide to any purse.

Application:

As you can see from the photo above, I have blemishes that needs concealing. Upon using the product it was able to lightly conceal my pimple marks, dark under eye area, and the redness of my nose.

The coverage of this foundation is light to medium, it's water base, oil-free, and doesn't clog your pores. It dries pretty fast so you need to apply it on a faster pace (though at first you may find the application a little difficult but it's easy to master the technique later on). Moreover the finish is matte, perfect for my skin type which is oily to combination. It's lightweight and I love it more because it looks so natural and it stays practically the whole day! This actually is my everyday foundation.

If you are a makeup beginner this is a great foundation to start to. But if you are looking for a foundation that conceals your imperfections totally, this product is not for you; as it can only conceal minor redness and blemishes no matter how much you build it (which is not advisable). Also, the shades are rather few (only 5 shades available) so finding the accurate shade for you may be difficult.

If your skin type is dry, this foundation may not work for you since it can add on to the dryness of your skin. Nevertheless for a price a not more than P300, you are getting more than what you pay for. You can purchase this at SM Department Stores, Watsons, and all leading Department Store nationwide.

XOXO

Abhie

Surviving A Fatal Bus Accident

2012-09-17T08:05:00.000+08:00

It has been exactly a year since a horrifying accident took place in North Luzon Express Way that took the lives of three people and left twenty others injured. It was an ordinary Saturday, like an ordinary September day, rainy and cold. I remember that I was on a hurry to go home in Pampanga that day because I do not want to spend a rainy day in Manila. I had enough of being stranded every rain pours it was difficult more than you can think of.

I was still a graduating student back then, finishing my degree in Economics at University of Santo Tomas. I have a love-hate relationship with my class schedule, there were times that it’s convenient, but most of the time I hate it. Imagine a Saturday class left spared for one subject? I abhorred that situation, but then later on I grew to like it since my professor was worth our Saturdays.

Then came another Saturday, September 17, 2011, a date that I will forever remember; we were dismissed early from class. My bf and I, who also is my classmate, skipped lunch because I kept insisting that I wanted to arrive home early. So he drove me to the bus station in Cubao minutes later. I usually board a Genesis bus, but then the bus that I chose wasn’t filled yet; in fact there were less than ten passengers. I would have to wait at least half of the seats to be occupied and it would take another thirty minutes of waiting before the bus would set off.

There came this Saulog bus which was already on the go, without hesitation I decided to transfer from my current bus to Saulog, after all I cannot wait any longer, thirty minutes is too long for me. A decision I will forever regret doing. There were only few people inside the bus, and I like it that way. I feel more comfortable when there are less people. I counted five seats away from the driver’s seat and sat beside this lady on her forties or fifties, who was then asking the conductor to drop her off at Dinalupihan. She said it was her first time to board a bus going North so she have no idea where Dinalupihan is, her relatives will have to pick her up from there.

We just approached the NLEX exit when the movie in the bus started playing, I will never forget the title of the movie it was “Reaper”, it was my habit to watch movies that is played inside the bus (provided that I find the film interesting), but this one is not, it’s so boring. It was all blah blah and absurd so I decided to just take a nap. Little did I know that the movie’s title was probably a sign that something will happen. Imagine the word “Reaper” it still gives me the chills whenever I recall that title.

It was a rainy afternoon, an ordinary rainy day of September. A bus was speeding really fast along the streets of North Luzon Express way, while I was on my sleep. I woke up due to the screaming of my fellow passengers, apparently we were running in zig zag, fast, really fast and about to collide with a trailer truck. God knows how strong the force was the moment we collided on a trailer truck. I was a hard collision, I hit my head on the back handle of the seat in front of me, it did not end there; seconds later the bus started to roll, while all of us screaming and scared, we were overturned. I can vividly remember the pain on my head due to another impact, this time my head hit on the ceiling of the bus. The rolling finally stopped. I opened my eyes and crawled my way out of the nearest broken window. I stared at the bus and I cannot believe what my eyes saw. The roof of the bus was on the ground, literally turn turtle. The bus landed on the side of the highway, a downward sloping canal with a wall barrier that helped the turning to end. I was covered with mud, my hair smelling gasoline and my knees were bleeding. First thing I did was to wave at running cars, hoping someone would notice and stop and call for help. Thankfully there was a kind hearted couple who stopped by and told me they called for help.

I was crying, still haven’t completely got my composure, as I stared my fellow passengers coming out of the bus one by one, some sustained head injuries, one was yelling out of pain seemingly from bone dislocation on her hips. There were people who were still trapped inside the bus, one passenger was crying and screaming, it was a guy, holding to the arm of his fellow seatmate who was still trapped inside. It was her wife. Imagine the agony, seeing your wife live then moments later die next to you in a very tragic way. Rescue came minutes later; they took the seriously wounded survivors first. I insisted to stay, my phone was on my bag and it was still inside the bus. I do not know who or where to call, I do not memorize the number of my father or anyone in my family not even my boyfriend’s number. No one in my family knew what mishap I have been thru. (video and news report here)

There was this truck containing members of the military who volunteered to help, they tried pushing the bus but it was no use, it would require a crane to uplift the bus. There was this military guy who approached me and gave his scarf so I can protect myself from the rain. I kept the scarf and it is still with me until now. There came another rescue, now the NLEX constable and the rescuers were insisting that I should go and have myself checked for serious injuries. I held no choice but to go, but before going another passenger approached me, he said he was a pastor, told me that it’s going to be okay, everything will be fine and God will not abandon us.

We ended up on a Hospital in Guiguinto Bulacan, I was probably the luckiest, I was the first one who got out of the bus and sustained minor injuries on my head and knees. My family came to know what happened through the help of a concerned person. He had friends who are near our address which he instructed to find our house and tell to anyone who’s at home of what I have been through. An hour passed by and finally I saw my father and my brother, I finally felt safe and calm. Dad asked me what happened, so I narrated what I saw. It was a long long day… My last memory of the hospital was when I was about to left; there came three bodies being alight from the ambulance. Those were my fellow passengers who were trapped inside the bus, unfortunately they did not make it. God knows how miserable I felt when I saw them.

We were summoned at the police station for some investigations and testimonies. I lost my phone during the accident, my laptop was broken (until now Saulog haven’t paid for it), and so are my glasses. Those were materials things that were forever lost yet replaceable, but what I have been through will forever stay in my head. From that day forward boarding a bus was never easy, I have got no choice but to do it. It is like a self-inflicted torture, a traumatic experience that never will be exhausted. From that day on I cannot sleep again every time I travel. I hated U-turns because it makes me recall the turning motion that I experienced during the accidents. There were times that I would recall what happened and my head would hurt, and I would feel unsecure. Every time I would board a bus I would do a quick prayer “Lord kayo na po bahala sa akin, kung ano man pong mangyari sa akin ngayon, kayo na po ang bahala sa mga taong mahal ko”.

Three hundred sixty five days later, all of my fears have not subsided fully.

Three of my fellow passengers died. Remember the old lady I sat with during that time? She was one of them. One was a lady of my age from Mexico, Pampanga she was the companion of the pastor. She have a loving and kind parents, I was able to talk to them for a while and they told me that maybe it was really her time to go and that she had already fulfilled her mission. The last one was the wife of the other passenger.

Days before the accident happened, I am on a self-debate about the existence of God. In short, I was questioning His existence. There are a lot of things that I do not understand, but that’s how we usually are; we criticize what we do not understand. After the accident I never questioned Him, he gave me answers and another chance to live, this time for His glory. I am not the religious type of person; I guess most of us are. My relationship with God was never measured by attendance during Sunday mass, but it was personal, solemn and intimate. I have never felt that there was something phenomenal, invisible, yet animated. I have learned to live a life worth living and will continue to do so.

If you are a driver please do not over speed, there are speed limits and they are there for a reason. If you have passengers with you always remember that those people entrusts their lives on your driving, hence you should be extra careful. If it is raining and you have nothing important to go to just stay at home and do something worth the time rather than travelling. Roads are extra slippery when wet. Always pray. Prayer helps one to be calm and feel protected, praying had help me get through a bus ride, it’s effective I swear. Lastly, live a life worth living, ask yourself; if you are about to leave this life, have you lived enough to call it worthy? Have you lived a life worth sharing to God that you did well and have not wasted it? Can you face God with head held high that you are happy with what you have accomplished and how you have helped others to be better? No? Now go and start living! We will never know how long can we stay or what will happen next…

Abhie

Weekly Nail: Random

2012-09-17T07:49:00.004+08:00

Ok, just a quick post for weekly nail; I don't know what to name this one, it's just so random. I am supposedly posting a tutorial on how I made it, but then I lost all the photos! I do not know what happened. I guess I have to redo it sometime #bloggerproblems lol! Anyway you can browse more nailart ideas here.

Hope you like it!

XOXO
Abhie

My Updated Nail Polish Collection

2012-09-15T14:17:00.000+08:00

I already shared my nail polish collection last April, and since then my collection grew and grew. I love collecting nail polishes, I always change my nail color and having a lot of choices makes me happy! Most of my collections are Philippine brands, some are Korean brands and few are American brands. I do not purchase nail polishes above P200 cause I find that extremely expensive. Call me kuripot or whatever, but these brands gained my trust and through personal testing have proven their quality. Don't get me wrong though, I would love to try the expensive polishes, maybe when I have a lot of money to spare, or perhaps when I stopped debating with my brain when it comes to reasonable spending.

Moving on, may I present first my HG tools and essentials; like my polishes, I also do not spend too much on these simply because they satisfy me given their prices and quality.

Most of these products are found at Watsons and leading department stores nationwide. I swear with Caronia's Nail Hardener and Base Coat, I use this before applying nail polish, it does wonders in keeping my nails white and unstained. I apply two coats of this and let it dry completely before applying polish.

I only have one nail dot pen and it's from The Face Shop, it costs a little over P100 and it last forever. I have it in white cause white is the universal color for me. As for that red donut, it is actually a Magic Tape from Scotch. I prefer using this than any brand because it does magic! Scotch tape is a staple piece for nail art, believe me it's my nail art bestf riend.

My HG nail coat is a little bottle of clear polish from Etude House, it cost P48 and it's better from any nail coat from Bobbie or Caronia. It's quick drying and it last really long.

Moving on, may I now present my updated nail polish collection: they are grouped according to their respective shades. Hope you enjoy!

I actually own sixty four nail polish, and only one of them is matte (i don't like matte finish polish because at the end of the week it doesn't stay matte) and the rest are frosted, glossy, and shimmery finishes. I do not have a single favorite color cause I have a lot of favorites! I love mix and matching shades and when I am not lazy I change my nail color twice to thrice a week. I shop at SM department stores, Etude House, and the Face Shop. I know this nail polish collection will still grow... So see you on the next edition!

XOXO

Abhie

Product Review: Ever Bilena Advance Studio Finish Foundation Stick in Miel

2012-09-15T13:07:00.000+08:00

I was originally planning to buy a concealer and stumbled upon the Ever Bilena Counter. Im trying out their traditional concealers, but then the SA told me to try their Foundation stick because it can also act as a concealer. Well upon all her blah blahs I was convince to try this one, after all a foundation + concealer performance for just P165 wouldn't hurt right?

Application:

I am quite surprised about this product! The coverage is good, it's medium by the way, application and blending is excellent! No weird scent whatsoever, conceals my blemishes, nose redness, and dark under eyes. It has this matte finish, but if you are like me who's skin type is oily to combination, it gives you that dewy finish. I prefer dewy finish because it make you look healthy and naturally flawless. The big surprise is the staying power! It stays on your skin the whole day without obvious creasing. Problem is, it only offers three shades, that's quite few because it's a foundation line after all.

If you want to try this one, go ahead and try it. The only problem is the shade, I hope that they will release another shades so that those who can't find their match among the three shades can try this out. Over all this is a great foundation. Do not underestimate the makeup by its price, testing is the key.

XOXO

Abhie