Travel: Zamboanga del Sur Weekend

It was high time to grab that promo plane ticket to Pagadian City, besides I had to make up to a friend's wedding and a quick reunion might happen to another college friend who lives near the place. Promo tickets are usually usually booked really early than the actual flight schedule, but before I knew it, I was already on Zamboanga del Sur soil.

- Pagadian City

- Dinas

-Pitogo

Life: Another Year Down

Nothing can get any sweeter than the pre-birthday treats showered on me this year. Since it falls on a weekend, i got them early and another one came up as a surprise on my table today. Too lovely to open but I was excited because I think I knew what it is, and I guessed right!

Three special things from lovely friends made my coming birthday complete! Porcelain chopsticks, addition to my collection. One of my favorite cat characters, animob. Before these pouches hit the local stores I was already able to purchase one from an online seller. I find the design simple and adorable. And a pretty green notebook, someone knew I am eyeing those for a personal project. Can't thank them enough!

A week ago, though it was originally for a newlywed couple who was a former officemate, (and wasn't able to make it) our dearest dred was up for a fun shoot with the other girls. She is just so passionate about styling and photography. We had a great time and even though I am not really confident on stuff like that, the result came out great! I am only assuming its a pre-birthday thing for me, but she did a wonderful job!



It has been a great year with blessings high and low. That is somehow what life is all about. Everything is just good to be thankful for. Though the coming of age may be a little bit apalling, there may be ways to embrace it gracefully. There is one special person that I have to visit on my special day. I dreamt of him last night, maybe its his way of greeting me since he won't be able to anymore. Excited for tomorrow!

Thank you to all the lovely ladies and gents who has come their way to my blog. I appreciate it so much!

Have a great halloween weekend everyone!

♥♥♥♥♥

Johnson's Baby Milk Bath

For many years, if there is one skin care product that I kept coming back at the supermarket or department store shelf, it is the Johnson's Baby Milk Bath.

Who said it is only for babies? Most bar soaps doesn't give me the nourishing and pampering treat this milk bath can offer. The scent may not be as exciting, which is something I find rather better especially for delicate skin.

I like how it makes skin smooth, soft, moisturized and I don't feel the need to apply lotion after bath on regular lazy days. (its always better to apply lotion with high SPF when prolonged sun exposure is expected)

It's lactic acid content not only acts as a natural moisturizer, skin exfoliant, but also has antibacterial properties.  It's absolutely more than just a nourishing bath experience.

♥♥♥♥

Food Escapade: The French Baker

I wonder who haven't ever dreamed of experiencing the spectacle of Eiffel Tower. The idea of being in such a romantic city even without seeing the tower is more than enough for me to quench that lifelong wish. I was once trying to learn the language when I bought a book which claims to teach French the easy way. Well its a failure. haha!

Before I start daydreaming again, here's a sumptuous dinner experience at the French Baker SM City Cebu.

I am a sucker for green salads, whole wheat sandwiches and everything potato! Looks perfect and tastes more than perfect.

I was laughing on how literally tall their Raspberry flavored Iced Tea was, but I should have opted with the regular lemon. Turned out to be not much my glass of tea. 

My friend liked her chicken grilled in French Baker style, with hot & spicy mango side dish.

It may be far from the authentic French cuisine but we had a great time and enjoyed our meal. Who knows a trip to Paris is not far from reality in the future.

ont une belle journée!

♥♥♥♥

Peek: Dove Go Fresh Energizing Beauty Bar

I remember last summer when my good old bath milk and other liquid soaps just felt too icky on the skin and the scent became tad boring. Even though I'm not such a bar soap user, Dove's Go Fresh TV Ad seem to be too promising that I went to give it a try.

Straight to the point, it delivers! I love the smell, it is the exact grapefruit and lemon notes that give such a refreshing bath experience. It is moisturizing and hydrating without the sticky feel. I'm into scrubs so I like the invigorating beads, it indeed gives that awakening feel.

So I thought the energizing Dove Bar was only perfect for summer. But came the rainy season that has never been humid! Then I know I have to get another one of those bars again, plus I so miss its almost intoxicating and refreshing scent....

♥♥♥♥♥

Etude House 55 Kissful Tint Chou

It was my friend who got this the first time we went to Etude House. She had the #1 and I liked how it looked on her that got me grabbing the #4 myself.

Etude House US Website says:

Lip Plumping Chou Cream promotes pouty smooth lips.

Chou cream texture supplies moisture to smooth rubbery lips. Natural tint color lasts for hours to liven dull lips. Lip plumping additive supplies glossy volume to thin lips without injections

Swatches: Top: #1 Bottom: #4

Top: #1 Bottom: #4

Residue after wiping of tissue not more than 5 mins after taking previous photo

My Personal Take:

I love the convenience of the applicator. Gives out enough product for use. The tint chous is available in 4 colors: 1-Red, 2-Pink, 3-Strawberry, 4-Tangerine. I haven't felt or observed any noticeable plumping effect. I have tried a Maybelline Lip Plumper and I can feel how spicy it was, it stings and that is how most Lip plumpers work. Notice the stains on the last photo? They are of similar shade, though #1 left a darker stain than #4. Even before wiping it off, it is obvious that #1 is more pigmented.

This baby lasts for up to 5 hours for me, only after lunch that I need to retouch. It's basically all I need to have for lip care as it doesn't dry out my lips, for color which is surprisingly lasting, and healthy sheen. Its a great buy at Php 278 (6$).

If there's anything I have missed, please do let me know...

Thank you for reading!

 

♥♥♥♥♥

Food Escapade: Red Kimono

This has been long overdue, but then I just realized that I've missed to post the food adventures I have been having lately.  I have a thing for sushi and it was quiet evident in a series of Jap resto visits that I had. Red Kimono's crispy California Maki was heavenly! Four of those yummies got me so full in no time.

Been to Red Kimono at Ayala Terraces twice. There's one thing that I wont be going back again though, the Chicken Teriyaki. It's not bad but it just didn't made me feel so well afterwards. But that one is their tempura bento. It's so good and affordable as well.

I loved this chicken dish, though I just can't remember the exact name. It was well seasoned and the sauce gives it more flavor. I find the serving more than enough for one person and it comes with rice too.

Mango and Watermelon shakes? Great combination to quench the thirst of the Japanese food craving! We also tried their fresh buko juice served right from the nut! :) The ambience is wonderful, friendly service crew, (though there was one creepy guy at the kitchen who seemed to stare a lot), I'll surely go try some more makis at Red Kimono some other time.

♥♥♥♥

Artsy Nails by Pink n Blue

I was dragged by my friend to this salon at APM mall right across SM City Cebu. She was dying to try out their nail art service, just in time for a special getaway. Hers was of glittery baby blue, dotted and flowery design.

As for myself, I got pedicure with a quick but really good foot massage. But what we really came for is the nail art. Yes, got my toes into an artsy beat because I have the ugliest hands and I just cannot stand long nails plus the job that feeds me will just ruin nail polish in no time. And taddaah!!! Sorry I didnt warn how ugly my toes are too. :D

Unfortunately it did not turn out the way it should be on their design references, they ran out of the maroon color so they used red instead. And the result? Reminds me of wonderwoman! Nevertheless it was cool trying it out. Kudos to them, for the first time, my pedicure did not cause me any bloody injuries. I usually do it at home by myself. You may want to check  Pink n Blue at APM all, manicure is at 49Php, Pedicure at 59Php and Nail art starts at 100Php.

♥♥♥

Revisiting Marian Monk's Monastery

It's been like more than 10 years ago when I first set foot at the place where it all started as a small chapel. It's been about 5 years since I last visited the then Church accomodating more people, pilgrims who flock in the vicinity every 13th of the month. And resently, lo and behold a magnificent castle in the making.

I may not be able to show photos of the transformation but those who were able to go there and explored the memorabilias have seen what the place was like a decade ago. It was good to reminisce the place's humble beginnings, when all seemed surreal seeing its magnificence now right before my eyes.

The monastery's history isn't something that I am going to share about. Miracles do happen, and it comes in so many ways. I believe, I have faith, and respects all things for the purpose of their existence. Same thing with understanding the reasons behind every circumstance, meant or by accident. It was through this Monastery  that many people was given a new perspective, and it is worth reflecting upon that it is an instrument of the Higher Being reaching out.

The Monastery now is a testament to the people's gratitude. Individuals from all walks of life share a part of what they have, of what they have earned. It never transformed on its own. It is a reflection of the people who was given hope, who was healed, who had another chance at life and so on. Yes, it was through prayer, but the realization of what seemed to be just a dream came with not just the labor of the hands but also of the heart and soul. Everyone deserves a retreat to see and experience a place of miracles, and bring that lessons of miracles with us wherever we go.

*Marian Monk's Monastery
Lindogon Sibonga, Cebu
August 2010


♥♥♥

St. Dalfour, Beauty Girl, Others Declared Unsafe by FDA



It's only noteworthy to share an information recently posted on the FDA(Phils) website, identifying the following products, unsafe, injurious or dangerous:

*St. Dalfour Beauty Whitening Cream

*Beauty Girl Papaya and Hawthorn Essence Cream

*Beauty Girl Ginseng and Green Cucumber Cream

*Beauty Girl Essence Aloe Pearl Cream

*Beauty Girl Olive and Sheep Essence Cream


Through laboratory testing, these products have been found to contain more than the allowable limits of Mercury. I have heard of St. Dalfour Cream though I never tried it, I know there were a lot who seemed to be using this particular whitening product. FDA did not provide photos of the actual samples they tested but it is good to be safe than sorry. For the complete info and other previously listed harmful products, kindly refer to the links below:

Issued August 2010     http://www.bfad.gov.ph/cfc/pdf.cfm?pdfid=1473
Issued June 2010        http://www.bfad.gov.ph/cfc/pdf.cfm?pdfid=1379
Issued February 2010 http://www.bfad.gov.ph/cfc/pdf.cfm?pdfid=1311
Issued January 2010   http://www.bfad.gov.ph/cfc/pdf.cfm?pdfid=1279
                                  http://www.bfad.gov.ph/cfc/pdf.cfm?pdfid=1278

Movie Rave: Salt (2010)

*** movie player snapshots

Main Characters:   Evelyn Salt         - Angelina Jolie
                             Ted Winter        -Liev Schreiber

Director:                Phillip Noyce

Genre:                   Action, Thriller


Okay so I am not that updated with the latest  flicks but I had this rambling a month ago and was simply overlooked as a draft. Without any inkling as to what the flow of the movie might be, aside from a brief trailer, watching Salt has been enjoyable to say the least. Angelina Jolie definitely still has what it takes to beat goons to the ground. Breathtaking stunts appeared to have been effortlessly made. It should also be worth the mention her about five different looks in this movie. The twists and turns of the story is remarkable though a bit predictable. It then comes down to the tale of loyalty to accomplish a life-long goal, while having the choice to do what is right. But the ending suggests for something to look forward to, its not suppose to end just like that. I just hope so...

♥♥♥♥

Black Charcoal Chin Pack by Etude House

It Says
Black Charcoal Chin Pack is formulated with black charcoal additives to remove oil and pore deep sebum. Patch lightens pores and contains Aloe Vera to improve skin complexion.

Active Ingredient: Charcoal Powder 0.1%

Directions: Wet chin with water. Remove clear film from pack and fasten adhesive side to chin for 10-15 minutes. Remove strip when dry.

My Personal Take:

Packaging: So I found the design so cute that I had to try one just out of curiosity. Ive tried pore strips before but never heard of a chin pack. Particularly for this one, its the patch that matters not the pouch.

Scent: No trace of anything on the patch.

Feature/Application: It took me 10 minutes with the adhesive on. I already knew the strip is dry since it felt tight on the skin. Some adhesive with charcoal debris are left on my chin upon removal of the strip. But it was easily removed by cotton moistened with water. I used it after taking a bath and my chin isn't as oily as my nose so there is not much difference aside from the feeling (or thought) that my chin felt a little softer.

Availability: Php 38 ($0.85) per pack at Etude House

Value for Money: ♥♥♥

Overall Rating: ♥♥♥

Unless really needed for a problematic chin area perhaps, this product is worth investing on more than just one pack. It was very affordable and I had fun trying it but one strip is already enough.

♥

Can Paper Flowers Charm Someones Heart?

You may doubt it alright. Paper means its fake. Who would want to receive a fake flower nowadays? I'm not speaking for myself but most would consider it more romantic if it's pretty and valuable. So what do you think of these flower bouquets? 

Yes they're paper and I am actually serious for you to tell me about it. For over a year now, R2S Origami has been occasionally making these buoquets to dear gentlemen and ladies as gifts to special people in their lives. Well I guess they find them pretty then. Yours truly is one of the members of R2S and I am happy to say that we've served for over 50 requests since June of last year. Not bad for a part-time stint. It only started as a gift idea by our dear miss R and from then on 2 others have teamed up to test the online market and through word of mouth for these paper flowers.

How are these made? Trade secret! Well, it was learned of course, and with the help ingenuity, creativity and lots of hard work. While many fresh flowers come from a single plant, watered, fertilized, cared and picked when it blooms, each paper flower is measured, cut, folded, formed, taped and perfumed, same thing with the leaves and stem. A fresh flower may last for a week, but for the paper flower? Only the bearer will know how long it will last. Each buoquet comes with a different story as to how the client wants its flowers and colors would be like, even requesting for a kind of paper we have to hunt for days just to satisfy what he wants. One buoquet was ordered from someone in the US and was sent to Pagadian City. Another has to travel to Singapore as a special birthday present for a girlfriend. A bunch was also made for a wedding, and that was such a challenge. And for some, we have made more than just one order and it means a lot.

So we will never know who gets charmed or who doesn't right? Beauty still depends on whose eye is looking and whose heart can see.


Kindly check the sites below for more photos and info:
http://www.greenchococatnip.multiply.com/
R2S Origami Creations Facebook Page

♥♥♥

Amazing Grace Amazing Birthday Contest

So the blogosphere has perks to offer then. As a new netizen, this is the first contest that I'll be joining, yay! . Through BC Blogger's Ms Paula, I am thankful to have this opportunity to be a part of Miss Grace Fancubit's Birthday Contest. I thought I already missed the deadline but with these prizes, I am already lucky to still have the chance! To all those who are interested to join, September 8th is the deadline so read on and submit your entry here: Amazing Grace Amazing Birthday Contest

PRIZES :
1st Prize :
$50 Cash thru Paypal
5,000 EC Credits
2 Domains with Webhosting

2nd Prize :
$ 30 Cash thru Paypal
2,000 EC Credits
1 Domain with Webhosting

3rd Prize :
$ 20 Cash thru Paypal
2,ooo EC Credits
1 Domain with Webshosting

4th Prize :
2,000 EC Credits
1 Domain with Webhosting

5th Prize :
1,000 EC Credits
1 Domain with Webhosting

Special Prize for US Bloggers only : 5 pcs Lip gloss Collection


How to Join
1. Blog about the contest with the title Amazing Grace Amazing Birthday Contest!
2. Copy the Prizes , Mechanics and the the list of Sponsors below.
3. Place the link of my other blogs in your blog list: A Walk to Remember, GraciaFashioista, kids turf and A Bucket of Wisdom.
4. Shout the Contest on Facebook.
5. Return to the contest page and leave the URL of your entry.

Sponsors
For Cash & EC Credits
Josie's Files
What's Inside Johanna's Heart
My Life & My Journey Online
CDo Extreme
Just the Tip of an Ice Berg
In Pursuit of Happiness
Mom Write for a Cause
From Asia and Beyond
Sassy Chick's World
Anna's Alabama
Mix N' Match
Embracing my Past, Present and Future
Cups and Lower Case
Foreignpinay.com
Mix and Match Online
The 3 Chies
Home Decors & Gift
Fe's Journey of Life
Made to Worship
Moms Wish list
VivaPinay
Table for Five
Grampys World
Topics on Earth
Moms Up and Downs
Gagay
Pinoy MD
Cacai M's Place
Thoughts Ideas Resources
Cacai's Steps and Journey
Sher
kissmi.info
loveandthoughts.com
Hearts Content
Seasons and Seasoning
Mommy Diary
My Journey to Life
A Journey to Life
Pop Up of my Mind
Peach and Things
Yobib's Tales
A Perfect World
My 3 o'clock Prayer

For 6 Blog Domain and Webhosting
Caffeinated Muse
Pinay SAHM
Crayons and Pencils
Blogger's Nook
Life's Digital Moment
Easy Task Online

For Beauty products
Me and My Passion

How to Join
1. Blog about the contest with the title Amazing Grace Amazing Birthday Contest!
2. Copy the Prizes , Mechanics and the the list of Sponsors below.
3. Place the link of my other blogs in your blog list: A Walk to Remember, GraciaFashioista, kids turf and A Bucket of Wisdom.
4. Shout the Contest on Facebook.
5. Return to the contest page and leave the URL of your entry.

Sponsors
For Cash & EC Credits
Josie's Files
What's Inside Johanna's Heart
My Life & My Journey Online
CDo Extreme
Just the Tip of an Ice Berg
In Pursuit of Happiness
Mom Write for a Cause
From Asia and Beyond
Sassy Chick's World
Anna's Alabama
Mix N' Match
Embracing my Past, Present and Future
Cups and Lower Case
Foreignpinay.com
Mix and Match Online
The 3 Chies
Home Decors & Gift
Fe's Journey of Life
Made to Worship
Moms Wish list
VivaPinay
Table for Five
Grampys World
Topics on Earth
Moms Up and Downs
Gagay
Pinoy MD
Cacai M's Place
Thoughts Ideas Resources
Cacai's Steps and Journey
Sher
kissmi.info
loveandthoughts.com
Hearts Content
Seasons and Seasoning
Mommy Diary
My Journey to Life
A Journey to Life
Pop Up of my Mind
Peach and Things
Yobib's Tales
A Perfect World
My 3 o'clock Prayer

For 6 Blog Domain and Webhosting
Caffeinated Muse
Pinay SAHM
Crayons and Pencils
Blogger's Nook
Life's Digital Moment
Easy Task Online

For Beauty products
Me and My Passion

♥♥♥