Wednesday, May 31, 2017

What I Found at #SMWorldOfBeauty



I remembered preparing for my Engagement Day (which is almost like preparing for a Wedding day).  I've decided to cut down cost by doing my own makeup and with that in mind, I've decided to go to a Beauty Store to purchase my own set of makeup.  That was year 2007 (same year I started my Blog).  
There wasn't much brand choices back then.

Fast forward to a decade, I am so happy how SM Beauty changed the way we beauty enthusiasts shop!  I can finally say, I have STOPPED online shopping for more than a year now because there are so many holy grail products I can literally see, touch and try at SM Beauty!


Do you like Asian makeup?
Brands like K-Palette, 4U2, Shiseido, Tony Moly, Etude House, Kate Tokyo, Holika Holika, Canmake Tokyo made its' way to our shores!  Here are just some of my picks.



Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Sanicare Personal Care and Baby Care Line Review




Hey AMW Friends!
My Blog AskMeWhats has been around for a decade now!  It actually transitioned from just a Beauty Blog to a Lifestyle Blog especially when I turned into an "AskMeMom".  One feedback I get from people whenever I meet them in person?

"You don't look like a mom!"
or "How do you manage your career life and motherhood?


Well, I have a long list of answer for that, but one thing for sure,  I am very particular with Hygiene.  Not only for myself but for the whole family too!

With all the makeup and skincare products out there, it is so easy to "look fresh" or "look beautiful" on the outside, but AskMeWhats as a Blog and as a Person has always been about staying beautiful both IN and OUT.  That said, it is the best tip I could give to maintain that "youthful and fresh-feel", to keep that beauty shining both from the outside and inside --- that includes taking care of your hygiene too!

I recently tested a full range of products from the brand Sanicare.  I specifically tested their Personal Care and Baby Care line.  Who would've thought this brand goes beyond just making tissue paper and cotton buds?  I was amazed how the brand also offers wide range of products needed for hygiene.  The brand covers personal, kitchen bathroom and baby use too!

Monday, May 29, 2017

New! Pink Sugar Creamy Matte Lipsticks



I am extremely happy that the "Brown 90's lipstick shades" are back!  I remembered wanting to wear that trend but was a bit too young for that and my conservative family won't be able to handle a brown lipstick on their "bunso" (youngest).  Now that I'm definitely OLDER...I am so happy I can wear this brown lipstick trend again with a vengeance.  With a "vengeance" because I've been picking a brown lipstick shade almost everyday!

Thankfully, the new shades of Pink Sugar Creamy Matte Lipsticks consists mostly of browns.  2 browns to be exact and a bright colored lippie as the third.  Truth be told, I am definitely NOT picking the bright colored lippie because if you forgot.... let me repeat: "I am on the Brown lipstick phase until further notice."

a photo of Nikki Tiu wearing Pink Sugar Creamy Matte Lipsticks review in shades Heartbreaker, French Kiss and Breakfast in Bed.

With shade names more FUN than usual, I actually remember the names of the Pink Sugar lipsticks more than ever!

a photo of Pink Sugar Creamy Matte Lipsticks review in shades Heartbreaker, French Kiss and Breakfast in Bed.

L-R French Kiss, Heartbreaker and Breakfast In Bed

AMW Workshop Series VI Bridal Make Up - Registration Open!





Who would've thought March passed by so quickly I am literally breathless!
It's the 2nd quarter of the year and I promised myself I will be putting up another 2 workshops for the month of JUNE!

June, as we all know, is the Bridal Season!  Maybe, you aren't a bride but you are required to prettify yourself to attend someone's wedding!  Finally, the most requested make up look is now an AMW Workshop Series!


Saying I Do with AMW's Bridal Make Up Workshop!
Location: MAKATI
Php2,800.00 / head
Of course, you don't need to be a bride to join such workshop!  You could be a make up enthusiast who likes the "No-Makeup Makeup Look" or a budding Professional Make Up Artist who likes to concentrate make up artistry on wedding industry.  This is YOUR chance to learn several tricks I learned through years of training, practice and learning!  Yes, I will share everything I know!



The fee includes : A Big HUG and Kiss !  (But seriously....)
  • Free makeup/skincare items from sponsors (Mix of full size and deluxe size) worth more than what you paid for!  
  • Snacks and Drinks.
  • Free Nail Polish/ Simple Nail Art Service c/o Girlstuff/Solique.  
  • Unlimited Q&A with yours truly within the provided period of time.
  • Will be part of the AMW Workshop Series FB Group so you can continue to ask questions online.
  • Personalized Ecobag plus special prizes awaits.
  • Pro tips on how to apply makeup flawlessly and easily!  There will be a demo and you also get to do your own makeup on spot while I roam around the guide you.
  • Best of all, the lessons are easy-to-follow, informative and extremely FUN!

For registration, kindly click LINK below ---
AMW Workshop Series VI: Bridal Make Up - Saying I Do!

To those who are looking forward for the ORTIGAS version, the next workshop will be happening on June 24, 2017 at B Spot Ortigas.  Topic is Photography Make Up.  Registration details will be up a week or so as I wanted to concentrate on this workshop first!  

Super thanks for your understanding and thank YOU again to all the sponsors for the love and trust!  The workshops won't be possible without your help!  

Please make sure to register ONLY if you are seriously joining!
I am accepting max of 20 participants only.


Thanks in advance for understanding!  Love you all!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
 

Sunday, May 28, 2017

Weekend Food Trip at: OEDO Japanese Restaurant



I live in downtown Manila so you'll definitely find me and my family in areas such as Banawe, Retiro and Ongpin.

One of the things I love to do before we head out is to search online for Restaurants to try!  Mr. AMW and I love to food trip on various restaurants because we are Foodies-at-heart!  One restaurant that we've always been wanting to try is Oedo Japanese Restaurant located at Banawe.  The thing is, the place is always packed and we cannot even book for reservations.

Because of that, my interest with the restaurant grew more!  So finally, one FATEFUL Sunday + Good Mood Toddler, we waited in line (30minutes to be exact) and we finally got a seat!  If you want a quick and honest review?  The WAIT is Totally Worth It!

Takoyaki
Octopus Balls
Php100.00
The taste is almost there (comparing to the ones I had in Japan) but, there are more cabbage inside than octopus bits!  Still, the sauce and flavors are really like that from the ones I had in Japan!



Aspara Bacon
Php50.00/stick
Bacon-wrapped asparagus tastes really good! 
 The asparagus are fresh and the bacon has a bit of the crunchy texture.


Saturday, May 27, 2017

JUMPU Products Made Me The Happiest Social Media Girl!




Whether you are a Blogger, an employee or just a regular person, you definitely own a cellphone and would need the help of some "extra accessories".

In my case as a Blogger who constantly gets online, "accessories" aren't even considered just an accessories --- I am in dire NEED of them badly!

And it doesn't hurt that I have certain specifications on my electronic gadget accessories --- size, color, affordability and of course quality!  And I got them all in one brand --- JUMPU.

a photo of JUMPU products

"JUMPU is a gadget accessory brand that embodies the best of Japanese design and manufacturing.  JUMPU's line-up reflects the electric vibe of Osaka's Nipponbashi DenDen Town, an otaku tourist destination and a mecca for amazing electronic products."
All I knew was Tokyo's Akihabara, reading JUMPU's description made me want to go to Nipponbashi DenDen Town.  But for now, all I can do is to appreciate the new accessories I got to use since the day I received them.  Mind you, both Mr. AMW and I gave them a seal of approval!  And you know how my husband is when it comes to gadget and accessories!

Friday, May 26, 2017

Deborah Milano DD Daily Dream Anti Age Foundation Review




So I was told the Deborah Milano DD Daily Dream Anti Age Foundation is one of the bestselling base makeup from the brand!  Who am I to agree or disagree without trying it first right?

So after hearing raves about this foundation on how it perfectly matches your skin like you're not wearing any makeup at all, I had to grab a bottle and test this out for months! (Months because I use this on and off and I don't wear foundation on a daily basis)

a photo of Deborah Milano DD Daily Dream Anti Age Foundation Review

The shade I got for review is in Beige, the shade Beige from Deborah Milano Foundation has more "orange tint" to it than other brands, most Beige color in other brands appear more yellow while Deobrah Milano DD Foundation is warmer so you definitely have to try out testers to get the right shade.

a photo of Deborah Milano DD Daily Dream Anti Age Foundation Review


Deborah Milano DD Daily Dream Anti Age Foundation Says ---

"DD Daily Dream is an ALL IN ONE foundation of technological excellence.
Recommended by 30 years, it covers and corrects imperfections intensely moisturizes and protects, prevents and reduces blemishes and discolorations, enlightens and enlivens the complexion for skin that looks younger, even and luminous. The DD Daily Dream formula is enriched with powerful active ingredients and effective to ensure the skin a perfect make-up and performance of essential treatment for its beauty. Its texture, soft and creamy, lightly fragranced with green notes, blends perfectly with the skin is immediately more homogeneous, smooth, uniform and full of light. With SPF 15."

Thursday, May 25, 2017

AskMeMom: Back to School with National Book Store



I seldom go to the mall for "leisure".  Whenever I get to be there for meetings or events, you will always find me roaming around just ONE particular store --- National Book Store. 

It is my favorite place for so many reasons!  
1. I am a book lover. (Kyle too!)
2. I love collecting art materials for Kyle Nash.
3. I buy school materials for Kyle because I homeschool him.
4. I also buy educational toys there.
5. The place just puts me at ease.  I am smiling ear-to-ear browsing from one section to another because I always find something worthy to spend my money on whenever I go there.  I can just stay there for hours!

So imagine how Back To School Season is exciting for me?  It may be stressful to some but let me tell you one thing, I am looking forward to it because it is the time where I have more reasons to visit National Book Store.  



So when I was invited by National Book Store with fellow mommies to share our favorite National Book Store finds, I had to clear out my schedule and be there!  Because it is definitely an ultimate #metime for me to be in the store and shop for my favorite boy!  It is also great to compare notes with fellow super moms who enjoy the store as much as I do.  I realized, there are just so many things and must-buy items to check out for!  All we need to do is to compare notes, tips and ideas.



When asked about my favorite section at National Book Store, I immediately exclaimed "Grab & Go".  

Wednesday, May 24, 2017

Belo Talc-Free Powder Review


I am definitely that "First time Mom" who gets paranoid in everything she reads.  I always say: "It's better to be safe than sorry, wala naman mawawala!"  




One thing really struck me is the "Paranoia of using Baby Powders".  My son got his dad's "perspiration genes" and perspires a lot!   For 4 years, we heavily rely on putting towels at his back or change his clothes several times a day.  It is an ultimate "eye sore" on all his photos from baby until today.

That's me wiping his neck with soft towel when Kyle was still a baby.  

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Revlon Colorstay Eyebrow Liner Review (Light Brown)



I always get a "kick" looking at my half-faced brow photos!  That's when I always tell myself: "Kilay is really LIFE".  Especially with my colored hair, I pretty much enjoy the fact that I can easily match my brow color with my hair color with just brow products!

Today, I am sharing not multiple but only ONE brow product that can change the look of my brows in no time.

Revlon Colorstay Eyebrow Liner in Light Brown

a photo of askmewhats wearing Revlon Colorstay Eyebrow Liner Review (Light Brown)



"Revlon ColorStay Brow Pencil has an angled tip to precisely fill and a brush to tame for a sculpted brow. This brow pencil has soft, blendable color to fill and define brows. Waterproof formula."

2 years ago, I reviewed Revlon's brow product called Brow Fantasy by Colorstay , I like the result but I find it will be intriguing for first timer brow product users!  Revlon finally came up with a simple brow liner pencil that is so easy to use I highly recommend those who never dared touch their brows to give this product a try.

a photo of Revlon Colorstay Eyebrow Liner Review (Light Brown)

With a spoolie on one side and an "angled brow liner" on the other side.  It is retractable so you don't have to worry about sharpening this pencil like others.

Monday, May 22, 2017

Colour Collection All Day Wear Lipstick (Suede Collection) Review





Dear AMW Friends!  
My week was extremely CRAZY and it will remain the same for the coming weeks!

So because of the hectic week, I am making sure I don't look like how I feel --- tired, sleepy and....did I say the word TIRED?  

My best bet to look fresh is by using various shades of lipsticks depending on my mood.  And the BDJ Elite Box that I received recently as a Mother's Day Gift contains all Colour Collection products and I immediately picked their newest lipsticks called All Day Wear Suede Collection.


"The Sude Collection features long wearing lipsticks in velvety soft texture that provide even application upon swipe.  Formulated with Shea butter and Aloe that gives instant moisture to the lips keeping them hydrated, conditioned and vibrant all day."

Sunday, May 21, 2017

Roy & Biv Glorietta Is As Colorful as A Rainbow!



Let me take a breather on FOOD on just this Sunday.  I feel the need to share this wonderful and happy post because my week was extremely crazy!  So crazy my "this week's planner page" doesn't have a space to write even a single letter anymore!

So let me share something happy and cheery!

I love colors.
That's why I got into Nail Art, I got into make up artistry.  Because colors make me happy!
The first time I chanced upon a store called Roy & Biv located at Glorietta, the store "pulled me in" with all the various hues that I see.

I am definitely humming the song: "I Can Sing A Rainbow" on top of my head as me and my son held hands and stared each color-coordinated "spot" with excitement.


Roy and Biv are a guy and a girl obsessed with color. This imaginary duo share their love for color by searching the world over for things that are colored and presenting them in their store in a most interesting and irresistible manner. They realize that many share their love for color andidentify with a particular color, and their mantra is “We Love Hue.”


Saturday, May 20, 2017

CK ALL



In the 90's, almost EVERYONE owns at least a bottle of CK ONE.  CK One took everyone (the world) by storm and I remembered saving every single penny of my allowances to purchase a small bottle of it just because it is a refreshing scent that works for EVERYONE (Male and Female alike).

Fast forward to 2017 --- CK finally came up with a predecessor called CK ALL!  

Can these familiar bottles bring you back to good 'ol memories?


The new CK ALL is a perfect scent for the energetic youth of today.  Why?  Because you get the same old CK ONE "feel" with a bolder scent.  I like how it reminds me so much of CK ONE but more...modern.

Created by iconic perfumer duo behind ck one, Alberto Morillas and Harry Fremont, ck all features the following fragrance families ---

Top notes: a bright and stimulating blend of bergamot, mandarin and grapefruit flower

Middle notes: taking it in a refreshing and clean direction is paradisone, coronal, lilyflore and rhubarb
Bottom notes: amber, musk and vetiver offer an expressive warmth



Thursday, May 18, 2017

Esfolio Aloe Vera Moisture Soothing Gel Mist Review




You want to see how my "just woke up face looks like?"  No judging, this is my look because I need to show you how Esfolio Aloe Vera Moisture Soothing Gel Mist can make me feel --- a bit confident with my own skin.


Because I have always been a facial mist girl - on both personal and professional level.  I welcome different brands of facial mist because I believe there will always be something new and wonderful to try and test!  And Esfolio is no exception!  Truthfully, it actually surpasses my expectations.


Esfolio Aloe Vera  Moisture Soothing Gel Mist Says ---
"Esfolio Moisture Soothing Gel Mist 100% Aloe Vera is an enriched aloe vera gel which helps your sensitive skin smoothly and calmly.  Aloe vera gel contains two hormones: Auxin and Gibberellins.  These two hormones provide wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin inflammation.  Giberellin in aloe vera acts as a growth hormone stimulating the growth of new cells.  It allows the skin to heal quickly and naturally with minimal scarring.
Aloe is soothing and can reduce skin inflammations, blistering and itchiness, while helping the skin to heal more rapidly. Additionally, in Ayurvedic medicine, Aloe is used to effectively heal chronic skin problems, such as psoriasis, acne and eczema."

Make Up For Ever Brow Show Event --- Introducing New Brow Products!




I was invited to an exclusive event called "Brow Show".  Who can say no to that especially for someone who does her brows EVERY SINGLE DAY?

I am sure YOU wouldn't miss this in a lifetime too!

Make Up For Ever recently launched The Brow Show --- a TRIO of innovative products that define brows with professional results.


Brow Liners 
Php1,350.00
Brow Liner comes with fine tip to enable highly precise application.  It comes with varied degrees of intesnity for the most subtle to the most pronounced result.  You can actually fill in small sparse areas of the brows with small brow-like strokes and you get a true brow transformation.

Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Tony Moly Dual Stamp Liner Review





So there is such thing as a "Stamp Liner".  I actually wasn't in need of any "liquid liner" as I have so many back ups to date but upon seeing this new "fad" from Tony Moly store, I had to grab one!  Just because AskMeWhats is definitely a venue for something new (especially on skincare and makeup) so I had to share my find!

Well, it isn't that new because I got this December of last year, I'm not even sure if this product is still available in store!  Blame the OC-ness in me to finish my makeup before I open a new one.

Housed in a very simple black packaging, you wouldn't call this "boring" when you see what this pen can do!


a photo of Tony Moly Dual Stamp Liner

A felt tip liner on one side a a "star tattoo stamp" on the other side.  You know you want a K-Pop look!

a photo of Tony Moly Dual Stamp Liner

Product description in English and Korean
01 Chic Star

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

A: Concept Shape Of My Face Triple Contour Review




I've already "hit the pan" on my favorite daily contour powder Pony Effect Nice Shading in Crony and I'm slightly panicking.  Aside from fixing my brows, contouring is a make up step I actually DO NOT SKIP since the year 2017!  Don't ask me why but I'm quite liking the subtle "shade" that I have on a daily basis and I get compliments saying my face looks slimmer *hehehe* 

One of my most recent Althea order includes the A: Concept Shape of my Face Triple Contour.  I actually like to try out various brands of contour powders especially those made in Korea because I find the contour shades to be perfect for girls like me who has fair skin.

a photo of A: Concept Shape Of My Face Triple Contour Review

A: Shape of My Face Triple Contour
Php530.00 (from original price Php1,070.00)
Comes in one shade only.  The packaging is a simple round compact in matte plastic black packaging.  A: Concept logo is an overlapping triple triangle as shown on photo below.a photo of A: Concept Shape Of My Face Triple Contour Review

Monday, May 15, 2017

NYX Intense Butter Lipgloss in Napoleon Review



Today is the start of an EXTREMELY crazy week!  My days has always be BUSY but this week is exceptionally crazy!  If you don't believe me, (shameless plug starting now....) follow me on @AskMeWhats on Instagram and watch my IG stories!  You'll understand why I drink at least 3 cups of coffee a day!

Aside from coffee, I rely heavily on lip products to help myself look presentable on a daily basis!  Aside from making sure my brows are looking good (which I tend to hide under my bangs nowadays), I can't seem to hide my lips so a good lip color will always make or break my look!  Either: "Pagod ka ata" or "Ang blooming mo naman"  I would definitely choose the latter so I'm definitely more adventurous in trying out various lip colors...even the bright ones...like this one from NYX called the NYX Intense Butter Lipgloss (Php790.00).

Intense talaga siya!

a photo of askmewhats wearing NYX Intense Butter Lipgloss in Napoleon Review


The shade I get to wear is the name of my brother!  Definitely not his personality to be THIS LOUD and colorful but I'm actually loving the name!  Just because it's the name of my brother.... :P  Not as an alcoholic beverage :P

a photo of Askmewhats wearing NYX Intense Butter Lipgloss in Napoleon Review

I personally do not own a lot of NYX Intense Butter Lipgloss.  But technically, if I read the term lipgloss, I would think of a lip product that is high shine, less pigmented and purely hydrating.  

It isn't the case for NYX, this one is just like that of a Liquid Lipstick BUT with higher shine.

Sunday, May 14, 2017

Chicken Fajitas Recipe


The best way to show your mom how much you love and appreciate her is to cook for her (if you are into cooking).  One thing I didn't do so much for my mom is to cook for her!  Because I grew up having her or my sister cook for us #luckyme

But after turning into a mom myself, I realized I need to use my knowledge in cooking and share it to my own family!  (May talent din pala ako sa cooking guys!)

I am definitely not a "Chef-kind-of-girl" but I am definitely a cook that can whip up easy-yet-warm-to-the-tummy dishes!  Everything I cook takes less than 45 minutes because I'm always in a rush!  I recently shared my Chicken Fajitas recipe on Instagram Stories and I was overwhelmed with the request I get to share this simple recipe!

Pardon the photos because I only use cellphone camera, who in the world can hold a DSLR camera while cooking?  (If you can --- I salute you!)

Chicken Fajitas ala AMW

Ingredients:

  • Boneless Chicken Thighs or breasts
  • Old El Paso Fajitas (bought at Robinsons Supermarket)
  • Large Onion
  • 1 Large Green or Red Bell Pepper (both are better so your dish is more colorful)
  • Salt, pepper 
  • Mushrooms (optional
For sauce:
  • Cream Cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Milk
  • Powder Garlic
  • Broth from the Chicken

Saturday, May 13, 2017

Mother's Day Gift Ideas


So tomorrow is Mother's Day!  I know "time" is definitely one of the best gifts you can give to your mommy but if there's a little bit of budget to go along with time, here are just some of the items I would LOVE to give to my own mom.

A simple act of love with Sweets.
Toblerone's Limted Edition Mother's Day packaging is available to show your mom how much you appreciate and love her.  This is a perfect gift idea for those who can't seem to say: "I love you mom" in person!  

Toblerone Mother's Day Art Packs and Sleevers are available at The SM Store North EDSA, The SM Store Mall of Asia, The SM Store Megamall, The SM Store Makati, The SM Store Cubao, The SM Store San Lazaro, Robinson's Ermita, Landmark Trinoma and Landmark Makati until tomorrow May 14!  

A simple act of love with Accessory
When mommy friend Jackie and I had a chance to visit Nomination Italy store at 2nd level Glorietta 4 to "gift" each other Composable Bracelets from Nomination Italy, I realized how wonderful it is to gift your mom something this personal and meaningful for the special occasion.  When you pick or compose a bracelet, you look back into wonderful memories you share together with your mom, whether it could be as simple as a shopping trip, travels and a whole lot more, you can materialize your bonding activities and memories by composing your very own bracelet and have your mom wear it to be reminded of the good times you share together.


My Nomination Italy Composable Bracelet (mixed with rose gold locket), the word "LOVE", a cross and a husband and wife imprinted on it.

Friday, May 12, 2017

Max FactorX Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation Review



So I seldom use foundation but when it comes to going out for the whole day to attend several meetings facing clients and colleagues, I make sure to look as fresh as ever with a foundation that has medium to heavy coverage BUT must feel weightless!

I was able to try Max Factor's Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation last February and have been using this on and off for several occasions.  

Thankfully, for a "solid foundation", this transitioned into liquid formula that easily melts into my skin!  Just perfect for the hot season.

a photo of Nikki Tiu Askmewhats wearing Max FactorX Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation

Max Factor Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation 
Shade: Sand 060

a photo of Max FactorX Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation Review


Max FactorX Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation says ---

  • The product includes an invisible wax suspension system, which allows the silky liquid formulation to remain hidden under the solid foundation exterior.
  • Upon skin contact with the foundation, the invisible wax suspension melts, allowing a light liquid to easily glide across the skin.
  • Following application, the clever formula regains its original shape, allowing the fluid to evaporate and the wax to reshape and hold the ultrafine colour and coverage particles in a fine, lightweight layer.

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Happy 30th Birthday Dear Kipling!



To those who are reaching the big 3-0 are probably getting nervous and cranky.  Not with me!  I was actually extremely excited about turning 30 and even had a super unforgettable celebration at the office with my colleagues surprising me with a party and even invited my mom!  I remembered shedding happy tears!

I know, just visiting Kipling's Newest store at Uptown Mall BGC brought me back to so much memories as I went into the store checking out their new items!  I was told that they are celebrating Kipling's 30th Anniversary and have some ongoing promotions for shoppers.



Introducing, Spring 2017 Collection.  
This season is more about pastels and prints.  I love how Kipling kept their signature bag designs and yet, mixed it with more fashion and style.

Included in the collection are the Defea S and City Pack S.  Both bags are in line with the current mini bag trend.  Available in fetching Dream Garden print in duffle and shoulder straps making it easy for you to pick the right back depending on your lifestyle.

A Reminder To Always Make #TimeForMom


I grew up under strict supervision from mom.  She is a housewife, who does EVERYTHING for us!  From taking care of our grandparents, "palengke" duties, cook us breakfast/lunch/snacks/dinner and even drove us to and from school for more than 15 years!

Aside from that, she does the laundry (hand wash lahat) and iron all our clothes.  (Note: There are 4 of us siblings + grandparents + parents = you do the Math)

It was an extremely difficult task (almost impossible if I may add!), I see how she perspires as she run around doing errands without a single complaint!  That's why our relationship is strictly "I-listen-to-my-mom-or-else...."  There's no time for us to really talk or bond because she's too busy to even have a breather.  I remembered wishing we could have a closer relationship, like my classmates and their moms!  I used to wish she could be cooler like my friends' moms.

When I started working and when Mom was finally having more time on her hands,  I realized, our relationship shouldn't stay that way forever.  I make it a point to bond with her by taking her out for a quick facial or massage over weekend.  Our relationship definitely changed from just plain "mother-daughter relationshiop" to a "closer mother-daughter relationship".  It didn't happen overnight, it was a conscious effort for me to MAKE time and prioritize her.

WHY?

Because this lady has done so much for me and my siblings and giving her just a couple of minutes or hours in a day will never be enough to show her how much I appreciate her.  But at least, we can always start somewhere.



And to those who wonder how I get to be THIS cheerful and how I get the energy to do multiple tasks like a Super Girl?  

Well, here's my tiny little secret that I'm finally sharing.  Behind this "Wonder Woman" that you think I am, .I have an even better SUPER WOMAN behind me who backs me up, supports me without limit and sends me love like no other --- She is my very own mom!  With her, I can be like that little kid who runs to her when I'm in trouble, when I'm tired or when I get hurt.  Of course, I also run to her when I'm happy, when I'm in my best mood.  I just run to her because she is my HOME.  The very person who loves me for who I am without expectations or limits.

That's my secret and it really works!

Wednesday, May 10, 2017

How I Take Care of My Color-Treated Hair




I started coloring my hair even way before I started Blogging, that said, it is more than a decade that my hair has been exposed with harsh chemicals!  

I have been asked so many times by readers and friends on how I maintain the "healthy look" of my hair.  I said "Look" because I am sure my hair isn't as healthy as it was when I was in highschool but I can still say, I can run my fingers through my hair without causing me to tear-up from hair pulling and tangles.


That said, I will be sharing just some of the many secret (or not-so-secret secret) products that I use.

Way before I got an invite to attend an Yves Rocher hair event last year, I already mentioned to the brand how much of an Yves Rocher Hair Products Fan I am!  I have tried and used almost ALL their shampoo and conditioner variants (and please don't let me get started with my love for the Radiance Rinsing Vinegar, I spoke so highly of it my friends where joking me: "Ikaw may ari?")


A photo on how to care for color-treated hair

If you ask me, all their Shampoo and Conditioners work for me but my favorite for my hair type is the Nutri-Silky Treatment Shampoo and Conditioner.  I repurchased so many times I deserve an award :P

a photo of Yves Rocher Nutri-Silky treatment SHampoo and conditioner review


Now back to my color-treated hair topic, I currently discovered another "favorite" hair care product from the brand called Yves Rocher Low Shampoo - a new way to wash your hair.

Tuesday, May 9, 2017

A Very Subtle Highlighting Powder


Strobing is super "in" since last year!  But as much as we love the "strobing effect" on photos, it looks really unnatural (and to some...oily) in person!  So the Queen of Natural-looking makeup (Yes, I hailed myself that! #walangkokontra) is on the lookout for the most natural highlighting product.  And I may have found one!

Catrice Cosmetics Limited Edition Strobing Duo Highlighter 
Php499.00


a photo of Catrice Cosmetics Limited Edition Strobing Duo Highlighter review in shade C01 Strobing Supreme.

The shade says C01 Strobing Surpreme but I am reading it as Strobing SUPREME.  Could be a spelling mistake but it doesn't matter to me.

a photo of Catrice Cosmetics Limited Edition Strobing Duo Highlighter review in shade C01 Strobing Supreme.

This is a LIMITED Edition product so if you can still find them at SM Beauty Stores, grab them before it's too late!

Monday, May 8, 2017

When A Lip Liner is Enough




Seldom do I use lipliner and leave the house and it happened when I tried the new L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail 6H Lip Liner in Red Wine.

As promised, L'Oreal said it'll give me that defined lips like a pro and I easily got that in just a few swipes!

a photo of askmewhats Nikki tiu wearing L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail Lipliner in Red/Wine Review

L'Oreal INfallible 6H Lip Liner 
Shade: Red/Wine
Php400.00

a photo of L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail Lipliner in Red/Wine Review

Sunday, May 7, 2017

Weekend Food Trip at: Sunnies Cafe



It is indeed weekend but I'm still at Row 101 Summer Pop Up bazaar manning a booth.  I deserve the best milkshake in town and so far, I found it at Sunnies Cafe.

The first time I tried Sunnies Cafe was at their first branch at SM Megamall with good friend Benebabe Kriska.  It was a positive experience that's why when I saw their branch at HighStreet, I've decided to bring my whole family there for a quick dinner date.

Salted CaramelSutra
Php190.00
Salted caramel ice cream, crushed graham,
 whipped cream, malted milk

One of the smoothest and silkiest milkshake I've tried to date.  I will definitely go back for MORE!

Crispy Tacos
Php270.00
Asada steak, fried quail eggs, homemade crispy parmesan taco shells
cilantro cream sauce.

A MUST order if you visit Sunnies Cafe.  One repeat order I did when I visit this restaurant and I won't mind ordering this all over again!  What made this super unique?  The steak, the crispy parmesan taco shells!



Saturday, May 6, 2017

Thomas Sabo - A Perfect Mother's Day Gift



After Labor Holiday comes my favorite celebration --- Mother's Day and Father's Day.
I remembered how us "siblings" would pitch in to surprise my mom and dad Cake and Ice Cream.  "Surprise" is just a term because it was a bit expected every year!  It goes on and on like that for many years because that's all we can give from our allowances.

Fast forward to today, celebrating Mother's Day is definitely different with us being adults (with a job!)  But it never goes without "bonding" over simple lunch or dinner.

Because for us...the best gift you can give to someone doesn't come with a price tag, it just simply says: "I remembered you, I thought of you when I picked this gift."


And recently, I got invited by my good friends from Spark It! to visit the Thomas Sabo store at SM Megamall for a mini get-together with fellow mommies, and with just simple invite made me the giddy over being "recognized" as a Mom because we were told the event was all about Thomas Sabo believing the power of a "mom", or shall I quote them - "Supermom".  

*Supermom (dictionary) - "An Exemplary Mother".
"With that belief, Thomas Sabo is one with all the women in the world in making a mark by owning their own Bold Statements.  Highlightingn wins and celebrating victories are not made more precious when shared with loved ones and eternalized with a fine, timeless keepsake."

Friday, May 5, 2017

Sleek MakeUP Brow Intensity Review + How to Use



Another brow product!  And this time, it is from Sleek MakeUP!
The newest all-nighter product called Brow Intensity is set to be long-wearing and it has a multi-purpose brow tool that I find it quite unique and a breeze to use!

Okay, if you have sparse brows and wanted them to appear fuller and natural?  You may want to check out photos after the jump!

a photo of Sleek MakeUP Brow Intensity Review in shades Light, Medium and Dark.

Housed in a pen-type packaging, you get a Brow Sculptor (in 3 shades Light, medium and dark) and a Brow Highlighter pencil on the other side.

a photo of Sleek MakeUP Brow Intensity Review in shades Light, Medium and Dark.

Sleek MakeUP Brow Intensity says ---
"Get brows that will stay up later than you do!  Shape, sculpt and define your brows your way with our innovative multipurpose brow tool  Use the tapered sponge tip to define and sculpt the brush-on fibre gel to add depth and volume, then finish with the creamy highlighter to define your arches."