Girlstuff 2016 Holiday Collection

You know how when Holiday season comes, we automatically think of RED, GREEN, GOLD and a whole lot of sparkles!

As much as I want those shades mentioned, I wanted something unique, different and still connected to the season!  Thankfully, my favorite Nail Polish Brand Girlstuff thought of that!

Inspired by our favorite Chocolates and wine perfect for the Holiday season, I'm glad we can finally INDULGE without adding an inch or two to our waistline!

Introducing, Girlstuff Holiday 2016 Collection....

The collection has the same Girlstuff promise ---

• Made in France.
• Formaldehyde resin-free.
• Formaldehyde-free.
• Camphor-free
• Toluene-free
• DBP-free

I can attest to the safety of these polishes because I have worn various Girlstuff polishes in almost a decade of my "blogging career" and my nails NEVER turned yellow, weak or dry --- even when I leave my polish for almost a month at times (which you shouldn't be doing by the way!)

Essence I Love Stage Eyeshadow Base Review

Who uses eyeshadow bases or primers?
I'm lucky to be one of those who have dry eyelid so I don't mind using eyeshadows alone and they lasts usually until removal!  Now, the negative side on having dry lids is the fact that it could be a bit difficult to blend eyeshadows at times, yes, hello dry lids!  I need a bit of oil to make my shadows blend smoothly you know!

So, I finally went for "Eyeshadow Bases", okay, I personally think consumers mistake eyeshadow base with primers!  In my humble opinion, I believe there could be a bit of difference between the two!

Eyeshadow primers at times are meant to be used not only to enhance to vibrancy of the eyeshadows, it also has oil-control properties to help prevent eyeshadow from creasing.  As for Eyeshadow bases, they have similar properties on helping eyeshadows appear more vibrant, more blendable but some of them lacks the ability to prevent creasing.

And that enough said, I would call the Essence I Love Stage Eyeshadow Base to be just the base minus the oil-control.  That's based from months of testing....

Essence I Love Stage Eyeshadow Base Says ---

The i love stage – eyeshadow base is the star of the show! it is multifunctional and can either be used as a base for concealer or eyeshadow. the creamy texture won’t settle in the crease of your eyelid - it makes every eyeshadow last longer and intensifies the color. for a smooth eye make-up that is just waiting for its grand appearance in the spotlight!

Ingredients: 

AQUA (WATER), CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, CYCLOHEXASILOXANE, GLYCERIN, ISODODECANE, CETYL PEG/PPG-10/1 DIMETHICONE, METHYL METHACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, POLYMETHYLSILSESQUIOXANE, MICA, DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER, POLYGLYCERYL-4 ISOSTEARATE, SODIUM CHLORIDE, STEAROYL INULIN, CERA ALBA (BEESWAX), DIMETHICONOL, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, TRIMETHOXYCAPRYLYLSILANE, TRIETHOXYCAPRYLYLSILANE, TIN OXIDE, PHENOXYETHANOL, CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 (IRON OXIDES), CI 77891 (TITANIUM DIOXIDE).

A Long-Lasting MLBB Shade in a Pencil!

You know how you love your "My Lips But Better" shade but you wish it could stay longer?  Well, my solution will always be using a lip liner all over your lips (like a regular lipstick).  BUT, this solution doesn't seem to be the best when you have dry and flaky lips like I do!  So today, I will share a quick review on a lip liner that can actually be used by anyone who has a similar dry-lipped situation like I do!

Are you ready?  Introducing... Etude House Soft Touch Auto Lipliner in shade 5 which is a Natural Berry shade.

That's me wearing ONLY the Auto Lipliner without lip balm underneath...not bad huh?

Now here's the best part, would you believe these are priced so affordably at Php98.00?  Yes, you aren't imagining things, it is indeed 98 pesos only and there are a total of 5 shades to choose from, feel free to head on to Etude House Philippines website for other shade choices.

Happy Holidays with Make Up For Ever at Barcino

So Make Up For Ever recently launched their Holiday 2016 Collection called Arty Collection.  A handful of Beauty Bloggers (and I'm lucky to be included) were invited to take a sneak peek!  It was held at Barcino and seeing the Holiday Collection in the flesh is not it!  We were even treated with a Beauty Bloggers' Bonding over Fun Home (starring Lea Salonga).

The Arty Collection at a glance

Before I showcase each makeup from the collection, let me show you what we had for early dinner!  Imagine, makeup testing, good food and wonderful company!  What's more to ask?

I Go To Such Events Because I Love to Cook...

If you follow my IG Stories or previously, Snapchat, you'll see how much of a Kitchen-nerd I am!  Don't get me wrong, I'm not super good at cooking but I have the passion to create feel-good, easy-to-prepare, homecooked meals for Mr. AMW and Kyle Nash!  

I can probably say, I'm doing a pretty good job because my parents-in-law, sister-in-law (at times) would join us for dinner!  They won't if they don't enjoy the food di ba?  *self-pats my back* 

So when I got an invite from our friends from Electrolux Philippines to learn how to keep food fresh and healthy for the family, I knew I had to be there!

The event was held last Wednesday at The Green Sun Makati, it was a huge event and I love how they emphasized on "Happiness Homemade" because I believe homemade food will always be the best!

Leaders Coconut Bio Mask with Broccoli Review

So I've tried so many Leaders Insolution masks I can actually get in store and pick the particular variant I need without the help of the SA!  *laughs*  Well, I still like talking to their SA so I do ask them what's new but I actually understood what my skin needs I don't have to rummage through mask after masks just to pick the right one!

The Leaders Insolution Coconut Bio Mask line, I would call an "Unsung Hero".  As much as I'm a fan of "what's available in the kitchen", my skin tends to be sensitive in that department so I shy away from these for the longest time!

Because I am Ms. AMW and I tend to be adventurous (at times), I finally cave in and went for "Green Energy" which is the Brocolli Variant.  For someone with dry skin, I would normally go for the "Violet Energy" (with Blueberry) as this is meant for dry skin.  Because my skin was really acting up for several weeks now (Hello Teenage Pimples!) I picked Coconut Bio Mask with Broccoli because this is meant to leave skin calm, clean, and glowing.

3CE Stylenanda Waterful Concealer Review

I got the 3CE Stylenanda Waterful Concealer on my 2nd Althea order.  As you guys know, I heavily rely on "online shopping" because I almost never have chances to go out just to chill or shop!  Whenever I'm in a mall, I'm always chasing time so I am extremely thankful to have online shopping partners like Althea!  Through Althea, I also get to know Korean brands that I've never heard off!  Just like 3CE.

3CE is also known as 3 Concept Eyes.  And Stylenanda is actually a leading online website in Korea that leads on women's fashion trends!

So I finally have my hands on my second 3CE Product called the Waterful Concealer.   Second because my first 3CE product reviewed on the blog is the 3CE lip pigment.

Housed in a very simple black box with Korean Description, I don't need much research to understand what this tiny tube can do!  I just hope and prayed I picked the right shade but I guess I did!

Cargo Swimmables Water Resistant Blush Los Cabos Review

The Canadian brand Cargo has been around for years, even the time I was just starting out blogging!  One of the most coveted Cargo product (for me) are their Water Resistant Bronzer.   So after years of waiting and stalking online stores, I'm glad the brand has finally decided to reach our shores with the help of Beauty Bar! 

Cargo Swimmables Water Resistant Blush are available in 3 lovely shades ---

• Los Cabos: Soft tangerine
• Ibiza: Shimmering hot pink
• Bali: Medium rose pink

And I got myself the Soft Tangerine shade which I originally wanted because this is called a Nars Orgasm Dupe.

(Side story: If you are a long time beauty blogger, you'll understand why we have this crazy "need" to look for Nars Orgasm Dupe!)

Housed in a very simple tin can, you get a huge C and the brand name embossed.  As simple as it looks, I actually like this!

Cargo says ---

CARGO Swimmables Blush delivers an effortless summer glow that stays put rain or shine – perfect while lying poolside, spending the day at the beach or just being outdoors on a hot day. This longwearing formula withstands perspiration so you don’t have to fuss with reapplication while micronized light diffusers work to ensure a gorgeously natural, non-shiny glow. The silky smooth texture layers easily for added intensity as desired. Paraben-Free.

Inspired by our award winning Swimmables Bronzer and packaged in the brand’s signature oversized silver tin, the CARGO Swimmables Blush offers a beautiful array of wearable, pretty and professional quality shades for a variety of skin tones.

KEY INGREDIENTS

L-Lysine – Increases formula’s long wearing and water-resistant properties

Micronized light diffusers – Produces a non-shiny, natural glow 

L'Oreal Infallible 16HR Pro-Matte Powder Review

By now, everyone should know the difference between a regular Powder and a Powder Foundation.  Powder foundation usually gives coverage and dual powder foundation can actually be used Wet/Dry.  As for powder or setting powders or finishing powders, they are there to "set" your makeup without much coverage!  This is a perfect "retouch" powder that I highly recommend for all my clients so as not to "move" their makeup or change the shade of their base makeup!  

And what makes it even more wonderful is when companies are creating additional benefits for setting powders, just like L'Oreal Infallible Powder, this product does not only "set" your makeup, it is set to control oil and gives out a matte finish up to 16 hours.

L'Oreal Infallible 16HR Pro-Matte Powder Says ---
Absorbs excess oil and reduces shine on the skin’s surface for up to 16 hours. The lightweight pressed powder can be used alone, to set foundation after application, and/or throughout the day for quick touch-ups.

Up to 16hr shine-defying power. Creates the perfect matte finish. The pro look of long-wear.

Available in 6 shades

Laneige X Lucky Chouette Serum Drop Tints

So a pair of "Lucky Owls" landed on my desk one day and it was from Laneige.  This is a trendy and innovative collection from the leading K-Beauty brand and this time, it goes with the new trend called "Fashionable Beauty".  They collaborated with Korea's hottest fashion designers and that's when Laneige x Lucky Chouette comes to life!

"Chouette, which means “owl” in French, is a symbol of good fortune.  An encounter between Laneige and Lucky Chouette gave birth to a lovely pair of owls that promise to bring good luck to all – Bella Chouette and Vely Chouette.  This adorable duo can be found on the collection which is made up of the brand’s bestselling BB Cushion for incomparable radiance, the new Serum Drop Tint for glossy and lively lips, and the limited edition Multi Face Palette that works as a highlighter and eye shadow in one."

Today, I will be sharing all 9 shades of the Laneige X Lucky Chouette Serum Drop Tints for you to have an idea how each shade looks!

Laneige says ---

Lasting moisture

Ingredients such as oil serum and berry mix complex ™ rich in anti-oxidant substance make the lips feel smooth and elastic
Upgraded tinting effect! The optimized pigment for oil tint provides vivid color and voluminous shine
Moisturizing granulesThe moisture granules containing oil serum provide moisture and vitality to the lips as they closely adhere to dry lips

Pork Salpicao Recipe (Version 2)

Last year, I shared my Pork Salpicao recipe and who would've thought there will always be another version?  After more than a year of trial and error, well, it's not like I was concentrating on improving the taste!  But after trial and error, I finally created a better Pork Salpicao Recipe and I'm sharing it to you!

Pork Salpicao with marinade

Tommy Hilfiger Launches New Watch Collection: Tommy x Gigi Hadid

How does it feel to wear a piece of Supermodel Gigi Hadid?

I felt like I'm the most pretty person in the entire world!  (Pagbigyan niyo na!)  

I am a watch collector, it doesn't have to be top of the line luxurious watches but I like all brands and all types of watches nevertheless!  I have a drawer-ful of watches and I like changing them depending on my personality.

So the launch of Tommy Hilfiger New Watch Collection is a perfect timing for me to "shop" for more watch brands out there.

The launch in the Philippines happened last November 16 at Cafe Naya at the Palace and the whole place was transformed to Nautical look!  As we all know, Tommy Hilfiger has been around for quite some time, known as the leading designer lifestyle brand, known for their classic American Cool Style that's preppy with a twist, I am not surprised a collaboration with world's Supermodel Gigi Hadid was in tow!  

And during the event, local Brand Ambassadors for the Watch Brand were present!  Influencers like Chie Filomeno, Janina Manipol and Jessie Yang were there to celebrate the launch with our friends from MGI Luxury Asia Pacific Ltd. and The Watch Store PH.

Why I'm Still Coming Back To You All Through These Years...

I'm referring to the Clinique 3-Step Skincare system.

If you are a SUPER LONG TIME reader of AMW, you would know that the first skincare regimen I really stick to is the brand called Clinique!  I know there are so many skincare brands out there that is starting to work for me now, but going back to my "skincare roots", I have the brand Clinique to be thankful to! 

After coming back from an almost 4 years gig at China with the crazy 4 seasons, my skin was extremely crazy when I came back to Manila!  It was dry, itchy, scaly, red and just plain "blah"!  It took me awhile to really get it into my system to spend a bit of effort (and money) to invest on a good skincare regimen!  After testing out the Clinique 3-Step System that is meant for my skin type --- DRY, my skin has never been better!  Yes, even better than the time I was in my teenage years!

I may be a Beauty Blogger who tests so many skin care products, just so you know, I always have this "set" from Clinique because whenever my skin is acting up, I will comfortably go back to this and my skin will get right back on track!  

If you ask me years ago, the main reason Clinique works is because of their Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion which upgraded to a (+) several years after, now, if you ask me again!  You would be surprised with my answer.....

Aside from the iconic Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+™, there is actually a "difference maker" in this set!  I used to call this the "extra step that I think I can get away without", but now, I call this the CO-Star that made the star shine brighter!

Maybelline V-Face Duo Powder by FaceStudio Review

Hi AMW Friends!  How's the contour-thing going on by your side?

I have been a master-contour and highlight girl for the year 2016!  I am claiming 2016 to make myself look slim --- not through exercise of course :P

I recently tested Maybelline V-Face Duo Powder, I love to contour using powder because that's the easiest!  And here's a funny story --- Kyle's school guard went up to me and said: "You look different, there's something different with your face"  And he's pointing out to "surgery" and I just laughed and said: "Natural beauty!"  Then I realized, it was the Maybelline V-Face Duo Powder that I have been using for the past month!  I hope he's not reading this, and he shouldn't! :P

Maybelline V-Face Duo Powder Says ---

Achieve gorgeous definition easily with this Face Studio V-Face Duo Powder from Maybelline. Create and emphasize the dimensions of your bone structure with this two-tone powder. 

Shades: Light Medium, Medium Dark

My Kanebo Selection Colors Eyeshadow + Moisture Rouge Look

I know when it comes to makeup, there's no rules!  But at times, I actually like to use just ONE brand on major areas on my face --- like for Kanebo's case, I went for eyeshadows and lipstick from the same brand because, why not?

I recently got the Kanebo Selection Colors Eyeshadow Palette in 01 Cool Monotone and Kanebo Moisture Rouge in shade 05 Core Red.  These 2 are perfect to create a simple daytime look and can even work for night time!  

I can create so many looks in just one palette but this is the easiest and simplest way using most of the shadows in the palette too!  

Kanebo Selection Colors Eyeshadow

Php3,300.00

There are a total of 3 palettes in the newly launched collection (01 Cool Monotone, 02 Stylish Brown and 03 Gently Pink).  I got the perfect palette because this shade gives me the "oomph" without looking too made up.

Happy Skin x Disney Limited Edition Makeup Launch

Even in my 30s, I have to admit, I still watch Disney Movies because I feel so good deep inside.  Especially Disney's Iconic Princesses like Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and who could forget Frozen?

The list could go on because deep inside, I believe all women are Princesses!  We deserve to be treated as one too!

Beauty Bloggers during the Happy Skin x Disney Limited Edition Makeup Launch
L-R Tara, Phoebe, Me, Sophie, Earth, Angela and Jackie

Just as Disney plays a significant part of everyone's childhood, it is even more exciting to see these Princesses in our favorite makeups!

Happy Skin made our dreams come true!

Photo taken from Happy Skin FB Page

 The collaboration between the two brands Happy Skin x Disney equates to a limited edition makeup collection that girls are going crazy about!

Dearberry Lip Service and Flirt Lipsticks Review

Start of the week once again and I am claiming Monday to be a Lipstick-choice day!  I enjoy sharing my lipstick find on a Monday because this is my ultimate "I'm so lazy to get up day and I want more sleep!"  So the best way to look presentable is whip out the best-looking shade of lipstick that matches your complexion!

Your friendly AMW is here to let you know other lipstick brands out there!  Such as Dearberry!

Dearberry has 2 new lipsticks called Lip Service and Flirt.

Judging by the look on packaging, Lip Service is housed in a black box and black packaging which translates to a more mature side.  As for Flirt, the name says it all, this line is more playful, girly and just plain....flirty!  The packaging is also housed in a pink tube similar as the box!

Shades: Lip Service's Berry Scarlet (Php280.00)

and Flirt's Italian Rose (Php400.00)

Swatch:

 Lip Service's Berry Scarlet - brownish red shade.

Flirt's Italian Rose - a medium rose pink shade.

AMW Cooks: Stuffed Tofu

I've always been wanting to try Stuffed Tofu dish because I love ordering them in Chinese restaurants!  It was just recently that I've decided to give it a go because I was extremely craving for it!  

Here's my version, far from the usual Stuffed Tofu you see in Chinese restaurants but hey, it won my family's heart...and stomach!

Ingredients:
For stuffing

• Ground Pork
• Onion and Garlic
• Carrots
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Cornstarch
• Egg
• Knorr Seasoning (1 teaspoon)
• Chopped shrimps (optional)

Tofu

• Firm Tofu
• Cornstarch to "dry up"
• Breadcrumbs (optional)

Johnson's Milk + Oats Review

When Kyle was still a Baby, I am very particular with the bath product he uses.  But now that he's almost 4 years old, I told myself I will use whatever's available because I don't want his skin to be too sensitive like *ahem* his mom so I want him to get used to different brands!

And just when I thought I was being a cool mom for not being "OC" about his skin, it backfires on me because Kyle is suffering from Dry, Itchy and worst, skin irritations!  We literally had to bring him to his Doctor to have his skin checked!  True enough, he is suffering from Clinically-visible Dry Skin!  

I honestly felt bad!  But what's a mom to do?  Instead of moping around blaming myself, I have to thank my SampleRoom family because they recently sent me a Johnson's Milk + Oats package so I gave it a test right away!

L-R Johnson's Baby Bath, Baby Lotion and Active Kids Shiny Drops Shampoo

Finally, I'm ready to share my thoughts on the power of 2!

Tony Moly Spoiler Mini Cushion Blusher Review (Pink Fantasy and Rose Coral)

After almost 1 decade of Beauty Blogging, going in a makeup store and look for "what's new" in the makeup and skincare world still excites me.  That proves just how much of a "beauty addict" I am and I can imagine myself in my 60's still having this same feeling of excitement like I was only 18!  

And I want to share to you the exact feeling I had when I first laid my eyes on Tony Moly's Spoiler line!  As I thought my heart was still recovering from the cute Panda's Dream Collection, who would've thought a simple black and pink packaging with a heart would give me so much joy?  Seriously, can anyone out there connect with what I'm trying to express here?  

And what excites me the most from the Spoiler line is their new Sweet Cushion Blusher which is meant to be used to create a "natural glow" --- again, "natural glow" not to add extra color on your cheeks but to give your face that natural inner glow!  Who likes that?  I know I do!

There are a total of 3 shades to choose from I picked 2!  After using both for more than 2 weeks, I wanted to go back and grab the 3rd shade!

Packaging

The Spoiler Cushion Blusher is housed in a similar Cushion Foundation packaging 

with the same flip top cap, a cushion sponge but smaller in size.

NYX Born To Glow Liquid Illuminator Review (Sunbeam)

How does it sound if you are "Born To Glow"? I believe each of us has an inner glow we just need to let out!  It could be that inner happiness that translates to an external glow!  From being in love, being contented, and just being plain grateful everyday!  

But there are days it is too difficult to find that inner glow we may need help from makeup!  Ang superficial lang #hahaha  but seriously, seeing yourself glow on the outside sometimes could help you feel the glow from within too!  (Vice versa lang yan!)

I own this tube of NYX Born To Glow Liquid Illuminator for months now and it took me time to really appreciate the glow it gives!  

Oily-skinned readers may probably find themselves clicking the "x" button now, I don't blame you, but could you at least finish this article just for the fact that you love me?  *lol* Seriously, Pretty please?  :P

Shade: Sunbeam

NYX Born To Glow Liquid Illuminator  Says ---

Enjoy a luminous, lit-from-within glow all year long with our luxuriously lightweight Liquid Illuminator. Now available in four light-catching shades, this multifunctional formula can be used as a foundation base or over cheekbones, décolletage, and cupids bow for a natural-looking radiance that’ll have everyone talking.

Ingredients:

Water/Aqua/Eau, Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Butylene Glycol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Polyacrylamide, Polysorbate 60, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, C13-14 Isoparaffin, C9-11 Pareth-6, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Benzophenone-3, BHT, Phenoxyethanol. MAY CONTAIN / PEUT CONTENIR (+/-): Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499).

My Inglot Freedom System Palette Look

So finally, I've decided to create a simple makeup look using my newest Inglot Freedom System Palette with the eyeshadows, face powder, cheek powder and lipsticks that I own in this palette!  And don't judge me AMW friends, andun na ako eh, ubusan na to ng headshot poses!  Well, it just proves that the shades made me feel comfortable enough to pose in front of the camera, even in person, I can do all those in seconds :P  Just for you my friends (konting pilit lang hahahaha)

Nikki wears Air Optix contact lens in Green

I am aiming to put the rest of my Inglot products in this palette, this is what I LOVE about the Freedom System, I get to put whatever Inglot makeup I need especially when I'm out on staycation.  As a professional make up artist, this is the answer to my "lugging so much makeup during retouch" because I only need to carry ONE palette!  Trust me when I say, it is a total ease!

For this particular tutorial, I used ALL the products included in my Freedom System Palette.  The look can change depending on how you apply your shadows and what type of lipstick shade you would choose.  In my case, (malakas kayo sa akin), I wore all 5 lipstick shades for you to pick your favorite!  Because I'm the queen of changing lipstick between meetings, this is definitely my "trademark" for now!

Dearberry Magic Oil Control Primer Review

So you first heard about Dearberry on my blog when I posted about their Toc Toc Blusher.  Obviously, that doesn't end my relationship with the brand!  I read good reviews on their Magic Oil Control Primer so I had to try it out!  I actually took a lot of time testing this product since my skin is on to the combination side now (Normal/Oily on T-zone) especially on humid days I had to wait outside my son's school for 3 full hours!  

The primer is housed in a pot packaging and it comes with mousse-like textured primer.  Will show more photos below!

Dearberry Magic Oil Control Primer Says ---

• Getting rid of oils and dirt while rejuvenating your skin.

Etude House Dear My Wish Lips-Talk in BE101 Review

I have always been honest about how "sickly" I look whenever I wear light-colored lipsticks, especially nudes and cool-toned pinks!  But whenever I browse through lipstick area in makeup stores, I am always drawn to those shades!  I guess at the back of my head, I want to look "sick", no!  Just joking, seriously, at the back of my head, I am in love with this shade and I love seeing other girls where such shades so I want to make it work on me!  

Etude House Dear My Wish Lips-Talk in BE101 was love at first look!  I'm not joking, I literally just twisted the lipstick up from the tube and grabbed one right away!  No swatching, no testing, no nothing!  It was spur of the moment and I trusted my heart.

Ang dami kong drama for a lipstick no?  Sorry na, Monday eh!

I have tried Dear My Wish Lips-Talk lipsticks from Etude House and BE101 have the similar creamy, lightweight, very comfortable when applied on lips texture.  Thankfully, the color is highly pigmented and I get the exact shade from tube applied on lips in just a single swipe!

It doesn't hurt that it's housed in a cute pink tube with a nice silver pink ribbon!  So dainty and girly I don't mind bringing this out and do some retouch inside the ladies' room.

Weekend Food Trip at: Boon Tong Kee, SM Mall of Asia

Boon Tong Kee, just the name of the restaurant automatically transported me to my Singapore trip a couple of years ago!  

Singapore is known for their Hainanese chicken but would you believe I'm not a fan of it?  *hahaha  So please don't judge me if you don't see a Hainanese chicken post here!  I guess I grew up in a family where we "almost" always have Hainanese chicken on the table (whole one) whenever we have special gatherings!  So I'm not being snob, I'm just maximizing what I don't get to eat when I was younger  *laughs*

Located at SM Mall of Asia (there are several branches opened), we were hungry after Kyle's school so we went for what's fast and available.

Roast Pork Rice Topping

A great dish!  I would go back to order this crunchy Roast Pork (similar to Pork Liempo).  

Charsiu Rice 

Honey glazed pork but found mostly fats which are okay to some but not to us!  I wish they serve this with more sauce and flavor!

Kanebo Skincare and Makeup Launch

Kanebo has always been around for quite some time, way back before I started Blogging.  I knew maybe a snippet of their skincare product/s or maybe some bestselling makeup.  It was only last week, I really get up and close not only with Kanebo as the Company but also Kanebo as the brand.  Best part, we also get to play with various skincare and makeup products and get to know the people behind Kanebo Philippines.

Are you ready to be indulged with photos and some swatches?

Little did you and me know, Kanebo is actually a COMPREHENSIVE cosmetics brand with a core skincare line based on Chrono beauty.

Kanebo provides treatment at the optimal time for Skincare while their makeup line surpasses trends and time to create beauty for each individual.  

During the launch, I was exposed with Kanebo's new package designs.  For the Skincare, the design focus on FLOW.  Meaning, the line is meant to bring us continuously moisturized skin each day, month year and your entire life.

As for makeup, the package design focuses on "GLOW".  So you'll definitely see a lot of products enhancing our skin's natural glow.

Guerlain is Now Available at Sephora!

My life is on a fast lane.  As much as I would love to spend time inside makeup stores like I used to "swatching" on my favorite lipstick shade  (try online swatch instead with the Sephora Virtual Artist), blush or choosing the right foundation shade for me, I can't seem to do so.  So makeup shopping is almost non-existent in my vocabulary.

I can't even try out clothes in department stores because my son would knock heavily at the door and goes in just to play with me!  And with that adorable face?  I always end up playing with him and forgot about trying out clothes.

Cathy Doll C'est Bon Bon Cushion Blusher in Sugar Pink Review

Cushion Foundation has been a huge hit for this year!  But would you believe there is a Cushion Blusher too?

To see is to believe and I found it through Cathy Doll C'est Bon Bon Cushion Blusher!  Based from research, there are a total of 4 shades (01 Chewy Berry, 02 Sugar Pink, 03 Lolli Peach and 04 Jolly Orange).  But locally (correct me if I'm wrong), I believe I saw 3 shades (2, 3 and 4) and I got my hands on 02 Sugar Pink.

I may not be a fan of pink blush because most of the time, they look unnatural on my sallow skin, but for this particular one from Cathy Doll, I am giving this an exception.  It could be the fact that it's not the usual blush powder but it's in cushion form making application a breeze and the effect very natural!

You'll find them at Cathy Doll stalls Watsons Branches looking so cute and cuddly.

Cathy Doll Cushion Blusher Says ---

Cathy Doll C’est Bon Bon Cushion Blusher uses an ultra-moisturize formula to leave your skin feeling fresh and healthy.

Ingredients:

My #MaryKayBeautyOnTheGo Looks

As a busy individual (Note: I'm not talking about just being a busy mom so this tutorial is for EVERYONE!)  I know on most days, I only have less than 5 minutes to do my makeup so if you can see my photo collage below, you can see the key products I use.. can you spot them?

Brows - check!

Eyeliner - check!

Mascara - check!

and various lipstick shades --- Check! Check! Check!

That's why when I was challenged by Mary Kay Philippines to create my own version of #MaryKayBeautyOnTheGo looks using these....

...it doesn't feel like a challenge at all, because this is how I usually wear my makeup!

To start with, I usually spot conceal areas around my face that needed coverage, that's the undereye area and red spots on the sides of my nose.

I like to use a lightweight press powder and for this tutorial, I used Mary Kay On-The-Go Mineral Pressed Powder in Ivory 2 (Php699.00).  There isn't much coverage on this but it sets my concealer pretty well and I like the fact that this is mineral-based so it's safe even around kids.

How I Instantly Change the Way I Feel and Look!

I am one of those girls you would call "boring", "conventional", "very simple".  That's why if you follow me on IG stories, you'll see that most makeup looks I do are on the low-key version, easy-to-do, wearable for everyday and most importantly, apt for my age.

But there are days really that changing a regular MLBB shade of lipstick to something dark and vampy won't do the cut, there are days I just want to feel and look different, on days I want my photo to stand out even if I have minimal makeup on, just like the photo below.

Can you spot anything different?

(Timer starts now)

Did it take long for you to see the difference?  I'm sure a lot of you already spotted it, I'm wearing colored contacts and it made a HUGE difference right?  For the particular photo, I wore AIR OPTIX^® Colors in Green.

All thanks to my Beauty Blogger friend Marj Sia for pushing me to try out other shades!  I've always been the "boring" girl even with contacts!  I've used FreshLook^® Illuminate Dailies in Rich Brown for several of my close-up shots because it enhances my eye shape yet it doesn't give a drastic change for you to notice!