Weekend Food Tripping at: The Old Spaghetti House

Good morning everyone! I will be off for a makeup session today and I know it'll be fun fun fun! :) Weekend food tripping post! :) Hmmm so many spaghetti restaurants out there. I have a question though, is there a spaghetti restaurant who serves "OH MY GOODNESS I FORGOT MY NAME" kind of yumminess? I find that most pastas tastes almost the same, not really the same but most pastas served are always delicious! Or it's just my weird taste buds?

The Old Spaghetti House

This restaurant reminded me of Figaro Coffee House as the interior looks almost similar! :) Though the name states the OLD Spaghetti House, the restaurant definitely doesn't come near to being old! I like the warm ambience and it's actually a great place to have a nice conversation, a date *winks*

Carbonara
Php140.00 (approx $2.90)

The creaminest is just right. I hate it when my carbonara lacks sauce! That's a big nono. I like my carbonara bathed in creaminess of their in house cream.

Roast Beef with Mushroom Sauce
Php160.00 (approx $3.30)

My hubby's ultimate favorite! Roast beef! I am seriously not a roast beef eater but I can't help but steal some food from him! :) Tip: Do ask for more gravy! Pour it on the rice and forget about your thighs! *winks*

Before I end my weekend food tripping post. I would like to share a photo that makes me smile everytime I look at it! These photos were taken last month when we celebrated our Basement Academy Graduation at the Starway KTV at Timog Area. I missed everyone!!! Too bad Shen wasn't able to make it, but we'll definitely see each other again!!!!

L-R Steph, Sir Jeaves, Blue, me and Kim

L-R me, Blue, Kim, Sir Jeaves, Steph and Teach Cheryl

There's a YMCA private joke! :)
Hint: You'll think I'm drunk if i sing and dance LOL
Have a wonderful day!
Do take a look some wonderful photos that can make you smile!
keep smilin'
stay happy!

Askmewhats Reviews: Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover

Darn! I have no more secrets! A lot of you guessed my favorite makeup remover right away! Now, where's that mysterious side of me???? *looks around*

You gals think I'll let you wait til next week to share to you my new find? Of course not! You don't think I'm that bad right?

**image taken from Clinique

Clinique's Take the Day Off has been going head on head with Lancome's Bifacil. I am glad I've tried both because I am going crazy wondering which one is better!!! Well before I start my review, I would like to tell everyone that this is based on my own experiences and opinion. I am always open for your thoughts so let me know through comment section :D I love reading comments, I crave for them! :D

On with the review!

Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover says ---

Makeup remover for lids, lashes & lips

• Dual-phase formulation quickly dissolves and lifts away makeup, including formulations that are water-resistant.
• Blend of volatile and non-volatile silicones aids in application, balances efficacy with mildness
• Non-stinging, non-iritating. Leaves no oily residue.

For all skin types

SHADES FOR YOUR SKIN TONE:

not sure of your undertone?

4.2 fl. oz.

Askmewhats says ---

Pros

• multi-purpose, good for eyes, lips, lids, brows and even for my cheeks!
• did not irritate my eyes AT ALL
• non-graesy, no oily after-feel
• a little goes a long way
• removes my hardheaded gel liner and mascara without tugging!
  
• non-drying
• no weird scent
  

Cons

• others could find the packaging boring, I don't mind as long as it delivers!
  
• NONE!
  

Overall

I remembered getting samples from my Aunt and I've always been leaving this behind or let it get lost on its own! WHAT AM I THINKING????

I've been looking here and there for the best makeup remover and it was just right in front of me! I maybe exagerrating to some but this works for me! It's CHECK CHECK CHECK to all my makeup removers requirement! I have very sensitives eyes and I do get eye allergies! So the fact that this is Ophthalmologist Tested is a BIG PLUS for me!

Tips

from website ---

• Shake well before using.
• Saturate cotton ball with remover.
• Cleanse one eye area at a time. Apply to eye area and hold for several seconds, then wipe with downward strokes.
• Repeat using fresh cotton ball if necessary.
• Use a new saturated cotton ball or tissue for lipstick removal.
• Rinse with cool water.

from me ---

• using a square pad to remove eye makeup is better than cotton balls
• wiping downwards is definitely better than going left and right
• use both sides of the cotton squares, saves the environment
• always rinse and proceed with facial cleansing
• not sure if this will work for you? Try this from a friend who uses this! :D
  

Will I repurchase?

YES!

Where can you purchase and how much?

At Rustan's, Clinique counters for Php1,300 (approx $27.00)

Here's a visual on how you remove
your eye makeup using
Clinique's Take the Day Off

A bit wet
clean lashes and upper lash line
have to use cotton buds
to gently wipe the waterline

I do alternate this with my L'oreal Eyes and Lip Makeup remover!
On days that I have heavier eye make up on, I use Clinique
Thank goodness, now I am not that lazy to remove mascara :D
Have a wonderful weekend!
Keep smilin'
Stay Happy!

I Wonder: "What's Your Ultimate Makeup Remover?"

**image from Girlishh.com

Ahhh makeup removers! I am obsessed with trying to find the one I'm sticking to, just like what the PussyCat dolls say...

Nobody gonna love me better
I must stick with you forever.
Nobody gonna take me higher
I must stick with you.
You know how to appreciate me
I must stick with you, my baby.
Nobody ever made me feel this way
I must stick with you.

Yes, this song must be dedicated to makeup removers! LOL Anyways, your Askmewhats have gone through roads of challenges for makeup removers. I know I've missed out a lot out there but when I see HG (Holy Grail) material to others, I told myself I MUST, I MUST increase my Bust! <--- now where did that came from?

My requirements for a good makeup remover:

• affordable
• non-oily
• removes waterproof makeup (eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, brow powder/pencil, etc..)
• doesn't require a lot of rubbing or pulling of the skin
  
• doesn't hurt the eyes... AT ALL!

Here are some related posts I've done in the past
you may like to trackback:

Maybelline Eyes & Lip Makeup Remover
Mandom Cleansing Age Care
L'oreal Dermo Expertise vs. Mandom Cleansing Age Care
L'oreal Dermo Expertise vs. Lancome Bifacil

As you all know, the winner in my dictionary for the moment is drugstore brand L'oreal Dermo Expertise Gentle Lip & Eye makeup remover. Yes, it's the one but silly me still wants to check out what's out there for you all! I've finally FOUND THE ONE!!! My present favorite! You want to know???

Let's give it a bit of suspense for now! :)
Before I spill my favorite
I Wonder: "What's your ultimate makeup remover?"
Maybe we have the same!!!
I'll let you know mine soon!!!!
(hint: I love their skincare line! Now, that's too easy!)

Keep smilin
Stay Happy!

Askmewhats Version: "Shiny, Shimmery, Splendid" Look

I have done many FOTD's in the past and most of them consists of matte and a bit of frost, seldom have I tried using dominant shimmery shadows as I find it quite hard to do it nice enough for photos. Well there's always time to practice and there's always a first time! Here's my version of a Shiny, Shimmery and Splendid eye look, a whole new world of difference when I changed my regular black or brown eyeliner to a colored one! Yes, it's Barney Eyeliner color! :D

Final eye look

A diagram

Prior to eyeshadow application:
Prime my lids with MAC's Shadestick in Beige-ing.

Step 1:

Using a flat shader brush (Mac's 242), pat on Inuovi Dust in Moonstone. Add if needed til you reach desired result.

Step 2:

Using a blending brush, apply MAC's Falling star on the outer v, blending harsh lines. Add more color if needed

Step 3:

Using the same blending brush, deepen the outer v by applying a matte brown e/s, I am using Milani's Chocolate Brown, making sure to blend in harsh lines again.

Step 4:
Apply highlighting powder on the browbone area going straigth to the inner corner of the eyes.

Step 5:
Line your eyes with Coastal Scents Gel Liner in Deep Purple. You can use any colored gel liner/pencil liner or liquid liner.

Do not forget to apply falsies
or 2 coats of mascara
I used Lancome Oscillation Mascara


Now you're ready to party!



And let's not forget
to fill in those brows!



For the Face:

Buff on Mineraux Green Corrector all over face to reduce redness
Buff Mineraux Premium Foundation in Neutral Medium

For the Cheeks:

Apply Inuovi Colours D36 blush in Lollipop
on the apples of the cheeks

For the Lips:

NYX Round Lipstick in Georgia
topped with Shawill gloss no. 11


And did I say you're ready to party?
What are you waiting for? GO! :D

And you're wondering what this look is for?
Dedicated for my mom! Today is her 62nd birthday!!!
Happy Birthday mommy! Thanks for fighting and thanks for all the lessons you've taught me.
I am who I am now because of you!!!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Askmewhats on Top Fifty Stylish Beauty and Makeup Blogs

Thanks to Sasha Orman for letting me know about this. I appreciate the inclusion of my blog as part of the Top Fifty Stylish Beauty and Makeup Blogs in Cosmetology School Guys website.

I am so proud to be included together with wonderful bloggers around the world!

**you can click photo to enlarge or click HERE to go to the article.

Mention of this blog
Encircled

Congratulations to my dear friend B of Clumps of Mascara !
I am really overwhelmed to be part of the list with you dearie!

Thank you!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Reader's Corner: Paul & Joe brows

Good happy Wednesday everyone! I've got a reader request last week regarding brow drawing using pencil. As everyone know, I am in love with my P&J Eyebrow Pencil. On days I am not using my MAC Coquette e/s to fill my brows, I am using the short cut version, pencil! It'll be done in less than 5 minutes! :D

Eyebrow pencil used: Paul & Joe Eyebrow Pencil no. 2

Step 1:

Tip: Using a light pencil, you can mark where you want your brows to start and end. Make sure not to over tweeze or shave your brows, you can do this professionally the first type.

Using a pencil, place it vertically against your right nostril, making sure that the pencil is in a straight line from your right eyebrow to your nose. This is a good place to start. (But take note, this is still subject to your preference as most Asian's have wider nose as compared to our Caucasian sisters)

With the same pencil, place it diagonally with one end touching your right nostril and the other end touching the outermost corner of your eye. This is the finish line to your brows.

Step 2:

Tip: Make sure your eyebrow pencil color matches the shade of your hair

Draw short, quick strokes starting from the inner brows going outwards

Make sure to follow the natural shade of your brows

Fill in lines as you go on
Hand goes lighter as you move outwards
to the tip of the brows
for a more natural effect

Step 3:

Fluff your eyebrows with a spoolie to clean extras and to make sure the hair are all going to the same place :)

This step also lighten up a darkly drawn brows!

Before and After shot
of Filling your brows using only
1 eyebrow pencil!

I hope you're not too tired with my eyes and brows! lol
Hope my simple tips help and again,
you know how you like your brows to look like!
Be confident to draw your brows and don't forget to
PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE! :)
Time to draw your brows and give me a holler how it looks like!

Keep smilin' Stay Happy!

Askmewhats Reviews: ModelCo Lash Wand Heated Eyelash Curler

Of all the people who complain about "invisible" lashes, I for one, am the laziest person when it comes to lash products! I am not consistent in using mascara and let's not even get to lash curling!

That's why I'm surprised why I'm even interested to purchase any lash products!!! I thought Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler is enough for me, but when I saw the big SALE sign, the "Queen of Good Buys" have to take a second look!

Gadget Beauty!

Back of the box (please click photo to enlarge)

A pen-like lash wand
with cap
Battery operated
Comes with free brush

ModelCo Lash Wand says ---

A sure way to deliver the latest ‘look’, now you can bat your lashes with the best of them with new LASH WAND. LASH WAND'S improved superior heating mechanism will transform even the shortest of lashes into perfectly curled, wide-eyed wonders in a matter of seconds.

Simply apply a coat of your favorite mascara, turn LASH WAND on and gently fold you lashes back. Hold in place for 15 seconds and then remove to reveal the ultimate eyelash curl. LASH WAND won’t overheat even on the highest temperature setting and its battery powered so you can use it anywhere, anytime, to ensure you always look eye-catching!

So say goodbye to your outdated manual eyelash curlers! LASH WAND'S advanced technology and superior heating mechanism ensures your eyes will never by fry. Light and compact in size, no bigger than a mascara in fact, LASH WAND is a must-have for every beauty pinched or burnt again by blow-dry junkie’s handbag.

Askmewhats says ---

Pros

• does curl my lashes
• the heat is just right, does not hurt my eyes or the skin around my eyes
• to those who likes to blowdry their eyelash curler, saves time and overheating accidents!
  

Cons

• pricey if discount is not considered
• good at curling but it tends to clump my lashes all together
• battery operated: Not environmental friendly
• the curl on traditional lash curlers last longer than this
  

Overall

If you can curl your lashes with eyelash curler, you don't NEED to get this product. This is a nice product to have but it's not required. Blowdrying your eyelash curler for a couple of seconds works just as fine as using a heated lash curler!

Tips (from site)

• Requires 1 x AAA 1.5V alkaline battery, I suggest you purchase rechargeable batteries, cheaper in the long run
• apply mascara first before heating the lashes
• turn on the lash wand, wait for a minute, wait for the dark blue sensor coil to turn whitish, indicating the optimum temperature
• place lash wand at the root of lashes and press gently, holding for approximately 10 seconds
• may need to repeat steps as it depends on the thickness of your lashes
• clean the lash wand with the brush provided to prevent mascara build up, and nothing can be more turn off than dirty tools!

• if you don't plan to use this daily, I suggest not to leave the battery inside
  

Will I repurchase?

No, I am lazy to use an eyelash curler, and now a heated eyelash curler???? What am I thinking???? lol Oh yeah, it was the 45% off!

Where can you purchase and how much?

At Beauty Bar for PHp1,650 (approx $35.00)
got it on sale for Php907.50 <--- 45% off!!!! (approx $19.00)

A closer look to the Lash Wand

How to insert AAA Battery

Click photo to enlarge and look closely
The Dark Blue strip will lighten up
If heated at maximum capacity

Curled lashes using only
ModelCo Lash Wand
Mascara applied first
Before heating the lashes

Gadget beauty? or Traditional Beauty? Do you think my lashes are curled nicely or a regular eyelash curler can do the trick? I think I know the answer, but it's always nice to read your thoughts! I don't feel that bad because like I said, I bought it on SALE! :)

Keep smilin'
Stay Happy!

Askmewhats Reviews: I Nuovi Litebase Foundation

Gorgeous friends!

Happy start of the week! I am not on my usual Monday Blues because I am glad to be back to work! Meaning, I don't need to take a leave from work to be in the hospital! I am happy to be hospital free! I am happy I don't see nurses and doctors for now!!!!
THANK YOU again for all the well wishes, I can't thank everyone enough for the love and concern!!!!

Now, Manic Monday seems like a thing in the past! ....for now :P

Let's get down to business! As seen on my previous "Askmewhats Version: My I nuovi Face" post, a lot of you emailed me and asked me about the foundation. A lot of you complimented about the glow of my skin and I wasn't even aware of it til I saw the photos!

This is the reason

I Nuovi Litebase
Light Diffusing Liquid Foundation
shade: 3Y

Inuovi Litebase Light Diffusing Liquid Foundation says ---

A lightweight foundation with light diffusing action that blends magically from liquid to powder finish. Multi reflecting pigments minimizes facial imperfections to give soft, dewy skin that glows from within. Long-wearing, sweat resistant and enriched with silk amino acides to provide skin conditioning treatment.

Net volume 35ml

Shades available in 7 shades (Light to Dark: 2C, 3C, 3Y, 4Y, 4N, 5N, 6N)

Ingredients

Purified Water, Cyclomethicone, Isohexadecane, Neopentylglycoldiheptanoate, PPG 27Glyceryl Ether, Nylon-12, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, PPG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, PVP/Eicosene Copolymer, Mica, Candelilla Cera, Magnesium Sulphate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Aluminium Hydroxide, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Magnesium Stearate, Silk Powder, Preservative, BHT, Colourant.

How to apply

Squeeze adequate amount onto the palm of your hand. Dot foundation on t-zone, under the eye and blend well onto the skin. Apply foundation on the remaining parts of the face. Blend well. Set with powder if desired.

Askmewhats says ---

Pros

• super lightweight
• easy to blend
• non-drying
• very pretty on photos
• no weird smell, imagine the scent of MAC's Studio Fix liquid foundation but 5x lighter
• packaging: because it's made of plastic, you can carry this around anywhere
• absorbs to the skin within matter of 5-10 seconds
• gives out a nice healthy glow
• at first glance on the price, it looks expensive but there's actually more product compared to other liquid foundation, 35ml for I Nuovi compared to most brands 30ml
  

Cons

• light coverage, needs concealing
• they could do better with the look of their packaging
  
• not easily available locally
  

Overall

Because of my dry skin, I was to use Litebase as it moisturizes my skin and gave me the soft dewy look. If you are on the oily side, I believe I Nuovi has a different formulated foundation callled Gel Base Sheer Finish Gel Foundation that can control oily skin.

I believe a lot of us are too lazy to use liquid foundation daily due to it's messiness and heavy feel. With this foundation, it finishes up like a press powder, it feels like a tinted moisturizer with a bit more coverage.

I really like this for daily use!

Tips

• correct or conceal spots before using this foundation due to it's very light coverage
• use a sponge or in my case, I use a stippling brush to apply
• for very dry skin: No need to pat on face powder as it finishes up non-oily and has a nice glow
• if you are afraid to oil up at the end of the day: pat on loose powder or blot your face with oil film

Will I repurchase?

YES!!!

Where can you purchase and how much?

At Sasa Stores in other countries.
On Inuovi Professional E-shop for $39.00 (approx Php1,800) Shipping not included.

Let me take you for a closer look
on the pump
Plastic pump

One Squirt
Please click photo to enlarge



Nothing but I Nuovi
Litebase foundation

My face with only
I Nuovi Litebase Foundation
As seen, it looks like i had nothing on
eyebags still there, but I like that it exudes
a very natural, "no makeup" look

To my readers who asked for this review!
hope this is helpful! :)
I Nuovi ships internationally $8.00 flat rate for orders below $50
Free shipping for $50.00 above
Hope this is helpful!
Have a wonderful day!

Keep smilin'
Stay Happy

Weekend Food Tripping at: National Sports Grill

Father's Day, several weeks ago. We've decided to take my dad-in-law someplace relaxing and not too formal. We were walking around Greenbelt 3 trying to choose for a nice restaurant, we've finally decided to dine in National Sports Grill!!! Just by it's name, you'll know it's something for the dad! :) The last time my hubby and I dined in here..well..we're still boyfriends and girlfriends! So it's nice to go back!!!

My request
Home Run Sampler
Php 685.00 (approx $14.50)

A perfect combination of wings, taquitos, sluggers, fries, onion rings,
tri-colored tortilla chips and guacamole and pico de gallo

Served with marinara, salsa
queso and ranch



Strike and Spare Major
Php415.00 (approx $8.90)

Two strips, grilled spareribs marinated
in their own signature sauce.
Served with garlic rice, coleslaw and watermelon



Chicken Caesar Sandwhich
Php335.00 (approx $7.10)

Breaded chicken breast on a bed of salad greens
and sliced tomatoes tossed in
Caesar dressing on French Roll



Tuna Steak Pasta
Php285.00 (approx $6.00)

Linguini pasta served with Tuna Steak
with yummy garlic bread!

National Sports Grill
3rd Level
Greenbelt 3
Ayala Center
Makati, Metro Manila
Tel. no.: (63 2) 728-4126

Keep Smilin'
Stay Happy

Reader's Corner: Q&A

Hi everyone!
It's been awhile since my last episode of Q&A. I hope my answers are not too late! :)

Question:

"Which one is better? Ecotools Brush set or Charm Travel Set?"

Askmewhats Answers:

If given the sufficient funds, both are useful! Both brush sets are different from each other. The Ecotools Brush set is perfect for natural loving makeup person while the Charm Travel Set is great for someone who really wants to fill in the brows, put on eye makeup, blush, eyeliner, etc! In short Charm travel set is more complete. I love both! :)

Question:

"How do you feel about studying at Basement Academy (BA)? Is it worth it? How's the experience? I really wanted to study makeup in beauty school"

Askmewhats Answers:


Studying at the Basement Academy (BA) is the best decision I've made. I chose the school not because of the schedule, I chose the school because of their friendliness, their passion for producing wonderful talents after the course. I will list down advantages and disadvantage...

Advantages

• school provides you models, you don't have to worry!
• you have chances to practice on different looks with different features, skin color, etc..
• the staffs are super friendly
• the school looks warm and cozy, very nice work place and great lighting
• you can go back anytime to "practice" or "review", you just have to pay for the models
• the teacher Ms. Cheryl is the best teacher I've met! She teaches you everything she knows and she is honest with feedbacks
• your class is not time pressured, classes can go on and on as long as the students get the lesson. My class starts at 6pm and supposed to end at 10pm but there are many days we left the school at 12midnight!!!
• definitely not focused on lectures, mostly a bit of teaching then straight to application!
• maximum number of students - 9, so you know you're not crowded and teacher can really focused on your improvement

Disadvantages

• location, not everybody is near Ortigas area
• finals, you don't have the chance to do 3-4 looks for finals due to time constraint! But again, you can always go back and request for a portfolio shot! (so this ain't a problem at all)
  

Question:

"How much cheaper is Shu Uemura in Hong Kong?"

Askmewhats Answers:

It really depends on the product, but they are cheaper Php50-100, the Cleansing Oils area definitely a couple of hundred bucks cheaper.

Question:

"Where can I find Cinema Secrets products?"

Askmewhats Answers:

There's Cinema Secret products available at selected SM Department stores, Landmark, etc..

Question:

"Is it ok to apply nail polish on top of rhinestones?"

Askmewhats Answers:


Yes, it is actually better to apply CLEAR polish on top of rhinestones to make the rhinestones stay put! :D My rhinestones lasts for weeks!!! Or even months (if I don't remove them)


Question:

"Do we have NYX Cosmetics in the Philippines?"

Askmewhats Answers:

We don't have NYX cosmetics available like Maybelline, L'oreal, Revlon booths. What we have are online resellers from Multiply who sells NYX best selling products.

Question:

"Can you recommend online sites for makeup who ships to the Philippines?"

Askmewhats Answers:

You can check out the list on the lower right hand side of my blog called ASKMEWHATS SHOPPING. Those are some of the online sites I've shopped and had great experience with them. You have to keep in mind though that shopping online takes a lot of patience, most of the shipped items arrive really late due to our slow local post office, you also have to pick up the products yourself on most times and pay Php35.00 for it. There are moments where packages are lost or stolen. I am not stopping you from shopping online but I am giving you some hard facts so you won't feel disappointed with this whole online shopping experience :)

-----------------------------------------

So sorry for the super late responses!
Thanks for the queries! :) I do appreciate receiving them
as I'll know how much you trust me! :)
Have a wonderful weekend!

Keep smilin'
Stay Happy!