Orly Gel FX Polish

One of my worst habit is that I tend to leave my nails untidy. I often don't have the patience to push my cuticles and wait for my polish to dry. Hhhhaaaaaarrrrrrrrr! That is why I often spend a lot of moolah on manicure and pedicure sessions, specially on dates with the boyfriend and other special occasion. What I often hate is that ordinary nail polish tends to chips after 4 to 5 days depending on one's activities. Sayang ang money. It's more like I coughed-out Php200.00 for a four day service. And when I do the laundry, well, I no longer need the power of a nail polish remover. Hahaha. That is why, I felt relieved when I discovered the magic of Gel Nail Polish. 

Gel Nail polish is said to be formulated to last longer than ordinary nail polishes and withstand scratches and extreme hand activities. Being a half-domestic goddess, I immediately felt the urge to test this product. So  last month, I went to Posh Nails at SM Megamall for an Orly Gel FX Polish session. Okay, I am really not happy with their service. First they are not really that accommodating, second is that I don't know where did the extra Php100.00 charge from my receipt came from. If that's for the tip or an additional service charge then they may at least want to inform me, diba?  Well enough with the service rants, I wanted to focus more on the product. 

Gel Polish application involves five product applications. Yes! From the dust cleaner, nail sealant, base coat, colored polish and gel top coat. Of source, I won't forget the UV light drying period in between applications. 

One realization: Sana nag-apply ako ng SPF100 lotion sa aking hands before I booked a session. The radiation from the UV Light Dryer is a bit too harsh for me. My hands feels wrinkled after the manicure session. Well at least I love the end product. 

Orly Gel FX Polish in Pink Chocolate

Wooowzaaa! My nails are so efffin shiny! Pretty di ba? But mind you, it doesn't end there. I can open a softdrinks in can without worrying of scratches and even do the laundry sans peeling. 

My nails a week after.

I was really amazed that my polish lasted 1 brutal week looking incredibly shiny as it was the day it is applied. The thing is that my cuticles and nails has already grown so I don't have a choice that to remove it after 2 week after since I am not used to having long nails. Furthermore, the cuticles on the side is not really a pleasant sight. Sinasapawan na niya ang aking Gel Nails. Haha! 

One disadvantage of this product is that I cannot be removed by the ordinary polish remover. You have to book another appointment to the salon and pay another service charge to remove it properly. It also leaves a white flake like residue which lasted a week in my nails that makes my nails feel and look brittle. It is good to leave your nails polish free at least a week after removing the Gel Polish to give it time to re-generate. I recommend using this polish during summer or yuletide season where you have a lot of socializing and hand torturing to do. :)

Buffalo's Wings n' Things

I love chicken. I grew up craving for tinola with lots of broth and malunggay leaves. Now, things has changed  (a bit). I may still have the intense love for those tasty chicks, it's just that I already have the "umay" factor for tinola. My current addiction are these tasty wings from Bufallo's Wings N' Things. When I first saw the construction of Buffalo's Wings N' Things at SM Megamall last year, I immediately suggested trying it to my boyfriend. Fortunately our first time at the said establishment does not disappoint, so does the second, third, fourth and on. . .

Bufallo's Wings N' Things

Menu Board

The interior resembles those of a university spot.

Menu List 1

Menu List 2

This restaurant now serves as a fuel zone for me and my boyfriend. There is no bad day at work that their menu cannot help us battle. Another thing is that their meals comes in very affordable prices. :) Oh, di ba? Sulit!

Meet our ultimate menu favorites:

1/2 Pound of Garlic Parmesan for Php144.00 then add Php29.00 for the F. Fries.

Garlic Parmesan: This is our ultimate pick from their non-spicy variety. It had just the right amount saltiness and oil to keep it juicy and interesting. Since it is non-spicy, we make sure to pair it with our favorite spicy variety.

1/2 Pound New York's Finest for Php144.00

Additional Php29.00 for the Bleu Cheese Dip.

New York's Finest: The best spicy wings I had ever tasted yet. I love dipping this variant to their Bleu Cheese side-on. The only consequence that I have to endure when consuming this is that I don't mind the amount of calories that I take. Sirang-sira ang calorie calculator!

The Heat Indicator

I used to regret underestimating Bufallo Wings. I remember the over-the-top regret that I felt when I ordered the diablo variant at Charlie's Burger last year in Greenhills. Not even my boyfriend managed to finish the tip of the single wing serving! FAIL! At least now, we start from the mild variety then gradually adjust to the next level. We already learned our lesson. Haha!

New York Dirty Rice for Php34.00 per serving

New York Dirty Rice: This is my choice of rice whenever I decided to eat here for dinner. The rice is not so dry or oily. It is topped with what looks like a salsa topping which is composed mostly of tomato paste. This for me, compliments the wing servings and builds your appetite enticing you to eat more. Sira talaga ang diet, but I love it. :)

Here's a bit of reminder my dears:

Green Cross Sanitizing Gel for Php36.00

When eating in this establishment, expect yourself to do a lot of hand jobs. I mean, wings are finger foods. What would you expect? Though the place may have placed packs of sturdy paper towels per table for all the wiping dinners has to do when eating at their place. One must never eat with dirty hands! It is also a good gesture to clean thy hands after every meal.Well, thanks to the invention of sanitizing gels, there is no need to wash your hands (unless you handled extremely disgusting materials) every now and then which can dry the skin in our palms. Being a neat freak, I always arm myself with germ killers. I am currently loving the new Green Cross Hand Sanitizing Gel in Sparkling Berry. Aside from the fact that it is cheap, it also smells so fruity that I sometimes cannot stop smelling my hands everytime I applied it. 

Blo Dry Bar

There are some days where my hair has to take the toll of my emotional burden. During college, I used to have the habit of cutting my hair short (like above the neck short) after a break-up. I also tend to stress so much on my hair during occasions than I do on my make-up and outfit. Presently, I enjoy keeping my hair long for me to style it with ease or simply pull it up when i'm not in the mood. 

When I first heard that Blo Dry Bar is coming to our country, I jumped with joy like I do everytime I am to meet our balik-bayan relatives. Knowing that I am more stressed at work these days and everyday is another PAGOD-a Tragedy ika nga nang mga becky I am tempted to, well, simply go to any saloon then ask the hair dresser to cut my hair and if I am not satisfied with the results I might ask her to cut further. Good thing that Blo has no styling scissors at their bar. Instead they are equipped with different brushes and heating tools to style thy hair of women in different moods swings. Before the much awaited post Valentine's date with my boyfriend last Saturday, I took the advantage to try their services at Power Plant Mall in Rockwell Center Makati. There were only two attendants the time that I arrived, but they gladly assisted me on my inquiries and even offered me a drink while they work on my hair-do.

Blo Dry Bar Power Plant Mall is located near the Mercury Drug Store.

The Hair Menu offers different looks that will suit every mood and occasion.

If you can't decide between 2 separate looks, you can ask the hair expert to give you a customized look. Let's say a mixture between 2 hair menus or certain specifications that you like. Let's say a half-pony instead of a single bun, etc. Don't worry, it's free of charge.

My look!

Since I am on a date, I choose this simple hair-style. Effortless beauty lang ang peg! 

Service Description - umaasa for bf to take the bill? What the hallucination!

The Operating/Service Area

Oh, goodness! I love their interiors. Very neat. Very pink. Very Organized. And very Audrey Hepburn!!!!

High-end products for a high-end saloon. Yes!

Very organized equipments. 

Their products we're neatly displayed in their wall organizers.

Hair Expert Ms. Josie is working her magic on my hair. :)

Ta-daaaah! After my 45 minutes session.

Back View

Blo Dry Bar does not only offer the simple wash, blow and go service. Included in their service menu were other simple hair therapies like hair mask treatments to prep one's hair from the frying heat of curling barrels and flat hair iron. Their prices starts at Php500.00 which is already inclusive of VAT and service charge. The price depends on the type of service and treatment additions that you choose to avail. 

I love my soft curls yesterday. Another thing is that my hair was so shiny the entire time, I can't help but feel like the most beautiful lady with my date (pagbigyan). Hahaha! After I rinse my hair this morning, I forgot to apply my hair conditioner since I was rushing to attend the 9:45am worship service in our church. To my surprise, my hair still feels soft and manageable sans the conditioner knowing the fact that it was tortured with hot hair iron the day before. Very nice! Another ganda points to Blo for having such hair friendly equipments. 

I just can't wait for the next occasion for be to book another mind Blo-wing hair session with Blo Dry Bar! Thank you for the very warm and accommodating service yesterday. 

Valentine's Day!

Oh, that day of the year when all people, both single or in a relationship are fussing and stressing about - St. Valentine's day! And since I am one of the semi-single ladies around, of course expect a little cheesy-ness in this entry.

If you are single on a Valentine's day, it is a good idea to put up a part-time business of flowers and chocolates to keep yourself busy and for you to appreciate sweet couples roaming around. Hahaha! Most guys asks (including my bf), why majority of us girls loves flowers and chocolates. Okay, it's not about these material stuffs actually. It is the fact that you tried to make an effort to make us happy in whatever occasion there is. It is always the thought that counts. Take it from us, we won't be as happy accepting fair gifts from our loved-ones than those in extravagant forms but from someone we barely know.

What is Valentine's day without these insulin spiking sweets?!

If your tastebuds are not into pure sweetness, you can always resort into pastries! :)))

Cupcake Lab: I discovered this newly opened cupcake shop at The Podium Mall after a failed attempt to pay my bills at Globe Telecom. They have cute to regular sized cupcakes to fit one's budget and cravings. This half-dozen cute-sized cupcakes costs me Php160.00. I choose their almond, Ferrero and banana flavored cupcakes for me to taste test.

The V-day Look

Since I am not really into designing my face during dates (with the bf), I opted to have my hair done instead. I got this "Holly Would" look at Blo Dry Bar at Power Plant Mall in Makati.

The V-day Lunch Date

My bf and I were not into buffet course for the love season since we've just suffered from upset stomach in the past few days. But we just cannot excuse ourselves from trying this classy and much raved about restaurant, Mamou. I'm glad I made a table reservation a week before our date since the place was jam-packed the moment our menu was served. It's my treat, btw! :)

What is V-day without a little bit of shopping!?

Few weeks before the V-day, I reminded my bf to save his money instead of buying me flowers or chocolates. But we have also agreed for him to accompany me for the M.A.C. Archie's Girls Launching Event dated February 16, 2013 at the M.A.C. FB account which will be held at the Power Plant Mall. Unfortunately, when we came at the M.A.C. outlet yesterday, there was no launching event. Instead, I was informed by the store assistant to come back by March 16, 2013 for that is the official date release of the said collection. Imagine my dismay! Hmmmmmp! So tagal pa pala! Noticing how disappointed I was, my bf lured me on a little shopping spree to uplift my lonesome spirit. His treat daw. Thank heavens for the extended sale promos of Parfois and Mango, I was revived from my make-up damnation. Hahahaha! Guess what? I got these 3 cuties for less than Php1k.

Here's the breakdown:\

• Mango Bangle Bracelet - Php345.00
• Parfois Horse Brooch - Php195.00
• Parfois Pomelo Pink Scarf - Php325.00

       All for a total of Php865.00! Divuh?! 

TRESemme Shampoo and Conditioner

To top my shopping purchases, I also got free samples of my present hair care brand TRESemme in Smooth and Shine variant. Haha! Now, I have my extra stash when I plan to visit Mom and Pops in Pangasinan. :)

Avon Mascara

I am not really a fan of eye make-up. In the morning I only have time to properly apply an under-eye tone corrector, while at night I usually don't have the patience to thoroughly remove my eye make-up. 

This is one of the main reason why I love Avon Mascara. Majority of their mascara formulas has almost the same effect as the other but still unique to suit our individual preferences. Their mascaras also has different types of wand for easier application. The best part is that Avon usually held monthly sale promos so you don't have to worry about sabotaging your budget.

What I am currently using right now is the Avon Super Extend Mascara.

Avon Super Extend Mascara for a regular price of Php420.00 only.

Avon Super Extend Mascara

It has a straight rubberized wand to help you remove any residue with ease.

Claims: A unique blend of micro-fine interlocking fibers stack up smooth for a clean-coat finish and sleek, shiny lashes.

Use: It has no special instructions. Just swipe it over your lashes then keep on coating until desired thickness is achieved. The product is easily removed with soap and water.

Price: Php420.00 for the regular 7g product.

Hits: 

• As mentioned above, the product looks natural on my lashes.
• Having a rubber wand, I can simply wash and wipe-dry the tip in case of any product build-up.
• I can easily remove it with soap and water or with 3-swipes of my facial cleansing cloths sans tugging the delicate skin in the eye area.
• VERY - AFFORDABLE! :)))

Miss:

• If you are into super luscious, thick, mega-dramatic and falsies type of lashes then this is not the product for you. As mentioned above (again), it only gives thy lashes a natural enhanced look.
• The product's formula cannot withstand sweat and water. It is also not advisable to use this on a date or in occasions where you are expected to shed a tear. 

Moringa Malunggay Herbal Moisturizing Lotion

How do I love thy lotion? Let me count the ways... - Mauwee

I love lotion. Yes, I may live in a tropical country with a such humid climate which causes these skin vitamins to build-up into a sticky skin residue which we locally call as -libag! Gross! Hahaha! But at least I get to report in an air conditioned office 9 hours a day, 5 days a week. To deal with my case, apply a light skin moisturizer on my way to work then apply a thicker formula once the office room temperature gets chilly. I also make sure to keep with me a bottle of lotion in my kikay stash on my office file drawer.

My third purchase from the sampleroom is Moringa-O2 Malunggay Herbal Moisturizing Lotion. What caught my eye on the product is that the sample is not just in small size but a full-sized one!  

Meet my 125ml Moringa-O2 Lotion Sample.

Back

Claims: Natural oils, vitamins and minerals rejuvenate, nourish and protect skin in a gentle process. Moringa (Malunggay), Omega (Sunflower Oil) and Olives are nature's super anti-oxidant and anti-aging secrets. 

Benefits:

-Deeply nourishes and moisturizes dry skin

-Smoothens and softens dry, scaly skin

-Stimulates cell regeneration and skin renewal

-Improves skin elasticity, suppleness

-Helps slow down signs of aging

-May help relieve itch

-Skin lightening

Other benefits:

-UVA/UVB Protection

-Quick absorption and non-greasy

Use: Massage into skin. For best results, use with Hype Ardent Naturals Moringa-O2 Herbal Soap.

Price: Php129.75 for a 125ml bottle.

Hits: 

• Very moisturizing. I love how it lessens the appearance of dry skin in my arms.
• It relieves the dry and itchy skin on my bf's elbow.

Miss: 

• The product can end-up greasy when used on a hot weather. It is best applied when you are in an air-conditioned room to keep your skin hydrated and to keep it from drying.

AHAVA Purifying Mud Mask

I was quite sad when the first batch of AHAVA Purifying Mud Mask ran out of stock at the sampleroom. Imagine my joy when they re-stocked the product 2 weeks after, that I immediately ordered a sample. 

My AHAVA Package from Sample Room.

Can you imagine having a facial detox in just 2 minutes. Yes or no? YES!!!

Front

Back

Claims: Delightful beauty mask that performs both deep cleansing and purifying action for newborn freshness, even complexion and radiance. Unique blend of Dead Sea Mud and energizing Dead Sea Minerals for silky smooth skin appearance. Approved for sensitive skin.

Use: Apply generously, avoiding the eye area. After 2 minutes, rinse thoroughly.

Price: Php 1,150.00 for a 100ml full size.

Hits:

• With the 2 minute stand-by time, I can already feel it's magic working on my skin. 
• My skin feels revitalized after rinsing.
• I noticed that my pores are less visible after a week of use (2 applications).
• It somewhat minimizes the oil production in my face.

Miss:

• It literally smells like mud/soil. Others may find that weird or disgusting for a facial product. But my nose is not really complaining about it. Not to mention that I have a very choosy nasal organ. :)

Sophie Paris Handbag Polish

Reviving a stored PVC or leather handbag is not a bad idea any more. Same with maintaining the luster of your white or pastel colored handbags.  Great things is that the solution is only worth Php150.00! I supposed a lot of us is familiar with Sophie Martin Paris. A direct selling company which sells quality, stylish and affordable bags. Their products also includes shoes, apparel and cosmetics.

I came upon their catalog last year for I was searching for a wallet. Unfortunately, I didn't find what I was looking for. But at least I came upon this wonderful product.

Sophie Handbag Polish

Product Description: Keeps your bag clean. Removes stain intensively. Unique formulation enriched with anti-static agent which virtually eliminate all dust on your handbag.

Ingredients: Water, Isopropyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Mineral Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Beeswax, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Glyceryl Stearate, Triethanolamine, Carbomer, Methyl Paraben, Propyl Paraben, Disodium 

EDTA, Butylated Hydroxy Toluene, Perfume.

How to use it: Apply evenly throughout your handbag, wait for 5 minutes to allow cream to dry and use a dry soft cloth to wipe it out.

Note: Never use the handbag polish on canvas, suede or cotton bags. 

Caution: Never put this product in your vanity or dresser. It's color, size, texture and scent resembles those of facial creams. You might have mistaken it for a facial moisturizer and apply is to your face. Seriously!

Lovely moisturizer - for the bag! 

I apply this to my bags to maintain it's suppleness and to remove stubborn dusts. I don't own any signature bags, but I don't buy fake either. Mind you. But of course, I wanted to extend the life of my semi-precious babies. One thing that I love about this product is it's scent, unlike other polishing creams that has strong and overpowering smell. I was like applying a facial cream for my bags everytime I use it. 

Seoul Tonkatsu at SM Megamall

Hungry for tonkatsu, but your wallet is currently on poverty mode. Oh well, I know that feeling during mid cut-off and your cravings don't seem to cooperate well with your budget. Be not afraid for I have good news to tell you my dear, especially when you are working around Ortigas Center area in Pasig City. Seoul Tonkatsu is now open at SM Megamall Food Court!

Okay, a lot of people are afraid to try cheap tonkatsu menu since majority of those "trying-hard" restaurants often serve soggy or dry dishes.

That is what I have in mind when we saw the newly opened Seoul Tonkatsu at SM Megamall. Sighting that it's price starts at Php89.00 for an ala carte, I have been thinking twice of getting it. But since the urge is stronger for me and my boyfriend to at least fuel up before going home, we took the risk at this newly opened stall.

The signage is so Korean.

Fish Tonkatsu.

Pork Tonkatsu

Menu: Most of their prices depends on your rice and  tonkatsu size choices. I find the regular meal already filling to my tummy. It is composed of 1 cup regular jasmine rice, medium serving of tonkatsu, a scoop of mashed squash and shredded papaya (i guess, not really sure) dressed in mayo. My order is a fish tonkatsu with tartar sauce while my bf had the pork tonkatsu with original tonkatsu sauce.

In all fairness, the taste is a far cry from its price! I love the tonkatsu together with its respective sauces. The side dish were also delish, though I am not really into the mashed squash. Sana naging mashed potatoes nalang siya. Overall, I am happy that we tried Seoul Tonkatsu. I will definitely go back to try their other dishes and rice flavors.

Japan Home De-Humidifier

Moisture is very essential for one's skin but never inside your wardrobe. Doesn't it disappoint you to find mould or mildew build-up on your favorite suede shoes or leather jacket? Well, thanks to these booming Japan Super Saver Centers who offers different home organizers and other essentials at a very low price. 

Kitchen ware, accessory organizers, filling labels, cleaning tools, gadget cases, personal care - name it, they have it. The best part? All items are below Php100.00! 

Now let me share to you one on my favorite finds from these Japan Super Centers.

Japan Home De-Humidifier

For Php88.00, you can already get 4 pieces of these 280ml de-humidifier which perfectly fits an Orocan Royale Dresser or a mini shoe-rack. 

Japan De-Humidifier in my Orocan Royale Drawer.

There you are, sneaking between my shoes.

Product Description: Simply and safely absorbs moisture preventing the formulation of damaging moulds, mildew and odour.

Ingredients: Calcium Chloride

How to use it: Simply put the opened container into your drawer, shoe racks or below the sink for it to absorb moisture. As moisture is absorbed by the product, it will start to liquify and will rise until all granules turned into liquid form. To dispose the said product, open the container and drain the liquid into the toilet bowl and flush. Avoid throwing the liquid where it can be drained into land, reached by your pets or played by children. 

The product claims to last for 2-3 months, but knowing the kind of humid contained in our tropical air, the 280ml size lasted for only a month in my mini-cabinet and shoe rack. Beyond the shortened period of its liquidating process, I am happy with the results. My clothes (especially the black ones) has noticeably no mould build-up in it, same as with my shoes despite the hot-cold weather that we are presently experiencing. It is also odorless which makes it even more awesome. 

With it's price and effectivity, I will absolutely stock up with these to make sure that my stored clothes, shoes and bags won't be attacked by ugly molds and mildew. When using it in the kitchen, make sure that you wash your hands before handling any food. 

Take note that this product is intended to be used in absorbing moisture for non-food materials. It should not be used as food additive or as moisture absorber for perishables. 

The Body Shop (TBS) Lip and Cheek Stain

I am a big fan of The Body Shop. My first personally owned cosmetics when I was 7 y.o. were TBS Clear Lipgloss, Born Lippy Lip Balm in strawberry flavor and Johnson's Baby Powder. I also have TBS Oceanus Body Mist in my kikay kit which were all sponsored by my mom, hihi!

Now that i'm 23, of course I am already in-charge of my cosmetic choices. Still, I can never leave the brand that I've grown-up with. During college, I use the TBS All-in-One Face Base and TBS Shimmer Cubes. Though there are a lot of options around every corner of every mall within the Metro, I still cannot leave a season without TBS in my routine. And since I've been busier these days, I am madly in-love with all these double duty products. Okay, I mentioned that a lot of time already like a pirated cd.

What I love about TBS Philippines is that it held a lot of sale promos almost every end of the month. Not to mention that I also have my "Love your body" card which entitles me to earn points for every purchase! And as if the previously mentioned qualifications were not enough, let me remind you that their products are ethically produced by purchasing their ingredients from independent farmers in rural areas and the company strictly implements its campaign against animal cruelty which assures it's customers that the products they are about to purchase does not involve abuse or murder to those cute little rabbits and guinea pigs.

I know everyone is already familiar with TBS Lip and Cheek Stain, but who cares? I wanted to add this post on it's stats! Haha!

The Body Shop Lip and Cheek Stain

The product comes in a doe-foot applicator for easy use.

What I hate about face tints is that it usually dries so fast or easily stains the skin which usually leaves an unpleasant heavy colored marks when not blended immediately. Since the TBS Lip and Cheek Stain is in gel like consistency, it makes it easy for me to spread it evenly on my cheeks without worrying that the color will settle immediately and leave a line mark upon application.

Swatches:

See it's gel-like consistency when applied.

Bare Lips

Lips with TBS Lip and Cheek Stain

Claims: This dual purpose liquid stain gives lips and cheeks a hint of natural looking colour. Can be used under gloss for added intensity. Dermatologically tested.

Use: Simply apply the product using the doe-foot like applicator to your lips and cheeks. Make sure to blend the product gently into your cheeks to avoid ruining your fonda.

Price: Php795.00 for a regular priced 8ml tube. I got mine for only Php395.00 during their December sale last year. :)))

Hits:

• Oil-free.
• Super natural looking. Okay, i'm exaggerating. What i'm trying to say is that when applied, it leaves you that healthy, natural looking, after-glow like blush on your face. Very,very nice!
• Easy to apply and does not leave you that "you might have missed to spread your tint immediately" trace in your cheeks.
• It perfectly compliments pale, peach-like and bronzed skin complexions.
• The tube container and doe-foot like applicator makes the product sanitary to use and lessens the spread of germs. 

Miss:

• The product tends to leak when pressing the applicator back to the tube. 
• You have to wash your hands everytime you re-apply the product.