A Breathe Of Fresh Air at Green Canyon Leisure Farms

I have always been on a lookout for a nice family "staycation".  Whether it could be just within Metro Manila or a few hours away from the city.  

Why?

Because I have extremely busy schedule traveling for long period of hours is considered a waste of precious time for me!  I'd rather travel 2-3  hours 1 way and spend the rest of the time enjoying some nice activities with the family.

That said, Green Canyon Leisure Farms located at Clark Pampanga fits the bill!  

It was also perfect timing since it is Kyle's SEM break and me and my husband's 12th year Anniversary!  I accepted the invite without much hesitation and preparation and just let our senses lead the way!

Green Canyon Leisure Farms is a nature getaway and a relaxing destination. The resort is a sustainable environment that offer its guests to explore and find themselves outside with nature. Conveniently located just north outside of Manila, guests can spend quality time with families and groups of friends — with the resort's facilities, beautiful landscape and amenities to help them de-stress and shed off the clutter of the busy week.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by a guard who got all our information and ID before letting us in.  Security is very strict in this resort which we appreciate a lot!  Upon parking the car near the gate, a golf car was there with Resort Staff willing to lend us a helping hand with our luggage!  I appreciate the hospitality of the staffs and Kyle enjoyed his first cart ride!

The Best Pencil for Tightlinging (ver. 2019)

If you've joined any of my makeup workshops and probably ended up talking about eyeliners, I've said it a couple of times I am quoting myself: "Do not tightline if you live in the Philippines, MOST or almost ALL eyeliner pencils will smudge!"

And I still stand by my statement until I tried the newest Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eyeliner Pencil in shade M-60.  I am talking about this particular color because in this particular shade I was able to test the product in all sorts of circumstances.  Other shades may use other pigments or ingredients (for colors) so I really can't vouch on all the colors as a whole  So let's stick to this gorgeous M-60 shade shall we?

M-60 is also known as a Matte Dark Brown Shade.  I got drawn to this shade immediately because it isn't the usual warm-tone brown that you get in most eyeliner pencils that has the name "Brown" to it.  Matte Dark Brown is a Rich cool-tone brown that looks so nice if used on the eye with or without makeup on!

As for ANY pencil, you have to make sure the tip is sharpen to be able to create a nice liner look.  Since the Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eye Pencil is highly pigmented and glides smoothly, resharpening is needed along the way!  So invest in a good eye pencil sharpener as well!

Why I Love Facial Care Centre's LaserLight Treatments

Remember when I shared to you AMW Friends my first Laserlight Underarms experience with Facial Care Centre? 

Well, I am hairfree on my underarms on my 7th treatment and I asked the therapist (randomly) if I can have my upperlip "Laserlight" too!  She said yes and guess what?  I booked myself a session immediately and here's what I have to say!

Just to refresh you ---

LaserLight Hair Removal painlessly, permanently, and safely reduces unwanted hair using the combination of the Gold Standard 810-nm diode and IN-Motion technology. Directly targets the hair follicles, preventing the growth of new hair, in a pain-free, comfortable treatment experience.

Firstly, you have to book yourself an appointment to have yourself checked if the treatment is right for you.  I showed my concern to the Professional before you dive into a treatment.  

I was told the LaserLight Upper Lip treatment would take longer than LaserLight Underarms (the latter would take approximately 6-8 treatments depending on your hair).  I am happy I was given a bit of expectation from the start so I signed up for it.

Although I have very good experience with LaserLight Underarms, I am still scared when any device is put on my face!  I was assured by the staff that it is very safe and comfortable and I can immediately go out with no down time.

True enough, if you check out my video, I did not flinch or move at all!  The staffs are super friendly and kept on checking with me if I am doing okay.  Best of all?  I don't feel any pain at all!  After the treatment, I do not see any skin redness, inflammation or allergic reactions!  The first treatment was great I booked my 2nd session a month after right away!

TIP:Do not wash your face or wear makeup within 24 hours after treatment.  The friction may cause allergic reaction on the sensitive area.

So now, as of writing, I've done 2 sessions and can't wait to go for my 3rd.  And here's the best news of all --- I haven't seen a single "thick" upper lip hair for 2 months now!  I say THICK as there could still be light strands of upper lip hair that I can't seem to see, but overall, I feel more confident and happy I don't need to have to worry about my "woman beard!" 

For more information, visit https://www.facialcarecentre.com.ph.

Feel free to book yourself an appointment 8892-7546 (SKIN)

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

 

Why You Should Book A Family Staycation at Novotel Manila Araneta Center

If you browse my blog, you'll find that I have quite a number of hotel stays in the past!  Due to my extremely busy schedule, instead of traveling outside the Metro for a local trip, I'd rather book a weekend staycation at hotels because I find it the easiest way to relax without the hassle of long drive.  

Families with active kids, I'm sure you understand why I dislike the long drive!  *winks*

After Kyle's 2nd quarter examination week, it was perfect timing for my family to be invited by Novotel Manila Araneta Center to spend a weekend there!  

My husband used to live at the area and told me loads of stories on how busy the area gets!  From Araneta Center BusPort to Gateway Mall, SM Mall, Ali Mall, Farmers' Plaza to Araneta Coliseum.  No wonder this area is nicknamed the "City of the Stars".  As much as Makati and BGC is the "it" place for hotel staycations, I find myself loving the vibe Novotel Manila Araneta Center offers and let me share to you the reasons why!

BEDROOM
There are a total of 401 rooms divided into 5 categories - Superior Room, Deluxe Room and Executive Room, Executive Suite, Presidential Suite with 1 Premier Lounge (which is the highlight of this Staycation as well!  Will talk about it soon!)

We were booked at the Executive Room and upon entering, we were greeted with such warm welcome!  

Personal note from the hotel staff.  Thank you!

Full Face Avon Makeup Look #AMWIGtv

So I got invited to judge Avon's Great Glam Race early this month, one of the challenge I've seem the brand gave to the contenders is to create All Avon Makeup Look on IG TV!

The Glam Racers get the chance to grab products from Mark, Avon True and Simply Pretty for 1 minute.  Because of that, I was inspired to do a similar challenge....create an ALL AVON FACE and I came up with this!

Simple....fresh....and glowing.

I hope you like this video!

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Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

 

Midweek Food Trip at: La Vita

I love a good pasta and a good pizza. 

And when I travel 2 hours one way to a restaurant, I pray to the food Gods it must be worth it!

Thankfully, La Vita restaurant located at Podium Mall did not fail!  

I was lucky enough to be invited for a small gathering with fellow Blogging friends.  Our schedules were all different but I am glad we made it to this gathering and we are even more fortunate enough to meet Chef Maurizio Gibillini - Chef of La Vita Restaurant.  This man is a character, full of stories to tell and ingredients to share!  I love how he was able to establish authentic and modern Italian cuisine on every single plate that was served that night.

We were told by Chef Bibillini that all the main ingredients such as tomatoes, mushrooms, mozzarella cheese and pasta are imported from Italy while other food components such as vegetables, fish and clams are sourced locally to guarantee freshness.

My #LittleDapitan Finds Located at Ayala Cloverleaf

Who would've thought a busy mom like me were able to shop for Christmas gift giving as early as October?

FIRST TIME IN HISTORY (I would say!)  Because I am a huge crammer when it comes to Christmas Gifts Shopping.  Thankful with the grand opening of Little Dapitan located at Balintawak (a few steps away from Ayala Cloverleaf Mall), with over 20 stalls that offers unique Christmas gifts from home decors, furniture, bags, wallets, etc... at a bargain price - who can say no to that?

I know I mentioned I will write about my "finds" but guess what?  I actually rounded up everything I see that caught my attention and I think will also spark your interest because each booth offers something unique and you'll definitely find something for EVERYONE!

My eyes were fixed to all these Christmas Decors - these can be used on Christmas Trees or you can even find decors to be displayed on living room or dining area!

AMW Wears: Anina Lady

As much as I am very particular with my skincare and makeup products, I've said it a couple of times here on my blog that I am also very particular with the shoes I wear.

It has to be ---

• Extremely comfortable.
• Aesthetically pretty.
• Inexpensive.
• Did I mention, VERY COMFORTABLE?

I recently chanced upon a shoe brand called Anina Lady, thanks to my good friend Laira for telling me about this brand.  When I browsed online at Lazada website, I had a hard time picking my top 3 choices because their designs and color combination are spot on! 

Here's my top 3 Anina Lady shoes/flats and just so you know, if you want to experience how to be an #AninaLady head on to my Instagram account as I have a giveaway there!

Ysa Closed Toe Heels 

Php1,299.00

There is a blush version of this which I have been contemplating on choosing but because a lot of my outfit consists of reds and blacks, I've decided this pair to be an ultimate "red and black" combo shoes!  Here's how I would wear the Ysa pair!  And a whole lot more red and black OOTDs to come!

Baby Bright Plankton Matte Cushion Lip and Moist Tint Review

After the year 2010, my choice of lipstick shades have changed drastically!  I've been leaning on to warmer hues and saying bye bye to all the cool tone lipstick shades!

It just doesn't do justice on my skintone.  Aside from being the "warmest person by nature" *laughs*, I have the warmest skintone and wearing something like a cool tone baby pink shade would lead me looking like a "walking dead disaster".  

No seriously, I do!  And I haven't been wearing that shade ever since MAC Pink Nouveau!

Recently, things might have changed a bit with the difference of lipstick textures.  I chanced upon a brand called Baby Bright.  Although the packaging and name screams "TEENAGER!  Steer clear from this product!"  I gave it a go and hey, I think I can handle this shade...right?

Baby Bright Plankton 

Matte Cushion Lip and Moist Tint

Shade: 02: Beach Pink

around Php399.00

• ORIGINAL FROM KARMART THAILAND 
• 2IN1 Matte cushion lipsticks and moistTint .
• The textures can help you to be in your natural look , its ultra matte and lucscious gradient lookFrom the combination of Plankton which is moiturizing ingredients.  Its glide easily while matte cushion comes with long wearing and color rich formula.
• Achieve pigmented and long lasting matte and luminous finish.  
• The matte side can be used as Blush for the flushed look to achieved all in one perfection

The Body Shop's Happy Go Lash Mascara Review

I haven't used mascara for a long time I am honest to say - I am forced to wear one just because I am reviewing them.

I have given up on mascaras overall because of my super thin, sparse lashes.  I mean, it is easier for me to just use falsies than pile up on mascara.

I am not complaining, I just have no lashes my friends!

Recently, I tried The Body Shop's Happy Go Lash mascara and I am honestly interested to try it because of the very cute packaging!  

Baby pink and Green leaves, COME ON!  If that does not call your attention, I don't know what would!  This has a super happy vibe so I don't mind picking this up on a daily basis applying 2-3 layers after curling my lashes as I sway my hips to the song of "Kokomo".  Google it my dear friends, I'm an old soul --- and old girl in general! :P

The Body Shop Happy Go Lash Mascara

Php795.00

Available in all The Body Shop Boutiques nationwide

Love your lashes! This everyday mascara thickens and defines while feeling gentle on lashes. The formula is easy to apply and remove and lasts all day without flaking. Enriched with 99% ingredients of natural origin, including Community Trade beeswax and Community Trade organic virgin coconut oil, Happy Go Lash feels gentle on application and helps to protect and enrich your lashes for a fuller-looking flutter.

How to: Soft Curly Hair #AMWIGtv

This is my most favorite curly hair of all time!  When I started to learn about hairstyling, this is the first curl-style I've been mastering for so many years!  This is the easiest yet most chic and "any occasion" worthy hairstyle! 

This also enhances the color of my hair making my hair look healthy and shiny.

Enjoy this quick video tutorial.  Let me know if you have other hairstyle requests!

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Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

 

Asvel Launches Young Endorser Andrea Brillantes #IbangLevelSiAsvel

Asvel has been a huge part in our home after I attended the Grand Launch of Asvel at The Podium with Kris Aquino as their endorser.

I use their clear water jug (so nice to see them neatly inside the fridge), Kyle's lunch box is the Asvel Luntus Cafedon which indeed retain the warmth of the food.  Our rice dispenser which does not only look cute at home but keeps my grains fresh for months.

And my recent favorite water jug which can store hot or cold drinks!  I used it in my recent hike and it didn't fail me - no water leaks and it isn't heavy to lug all the way up to the mountains!

Backtrack to last Friday October 11, I was there at SM The Block for the launch of Andrea Brillantes, as the newest endorser for Asvel.

A little bit of tidbit about the Kadnang Ginto actress -

• Her favorite color is yellow.
• Because of Kadenang Ginto and her endorsements, she was able to purchase a home for the family!
• She loves to use Asvel lunchboxes and tumbler in her shoots.  She also gifts her directors and co-workers with Asvel products.

Make Up For Ever's Artist Lip Blush Review

When I hosted an event, I wore this lipstick applied to me by a Make Up For Ever artist at SM Mall Of Asia Branch.  I didn't realize how beautiful this was until I took a look at my reflection in the mirror several hours after talking and it looks just as good as freshly applied.

It is the newest lip product from Make Up For Ever called Artist Lip Blush and it does give that gorgeous "Blush" like you would want it on your cheeks this time - on lips!

Make Up For Ever's Artist Lip Blush

Shade on review: 100 Soft Tan

Php1,200.00

Inspired by blush’s ability to re-awaken every look, MAKE UP FOR EVER introduces a new addition to its ARTIST range for 2018: ARTIST LIP BLUSH, the softness of blush captured in a lipstick. Based on how pros use powdery textures to mattify lipstick textures, ARTIST LIP BLUSH gives your lips a velvety flush of color with a matte finish. Available in ten lively shades, all inspired by blush hues, this jumbo crayon is very comfortable, light and powdery. It takes just one coat to instantly make your lips blush! The precise jumbo tip of ARTIST LIP BLUSH eases its application for quick and easy touch ups in seconds. You can carry this go-to lipstick everywhere, every day.

BLUEAIR Blue Pure 411 Review

I started having allergies by the time I turned 26, it was a late event I wished I didn't have to go through.  I've done Skin Allergy Test (Skin Prick Test) resulted me in knowing that I'm allergic to dust, pollens, dust mites and a whole lot air born stuff I can't seem to stay away from!   One way for me to "lessen" my allergies is to invest in an Room Air Purifier which I did for the past decade and so far some works at a certain extent and some failed to live longer than my allergies!

I recently got to try a brand called BlueAir Philippines.  Blueair offers high performance indoor air purifiers with focus on quality, energy and environmental care.  I did a couple of research and finally decided to give Blue Pure 411 a try!

Note from Author: There's only 3 of us in the family and all 3 of us have allergies!  So yes, this is definitely a MUST in our household.  

Blue Pure 411 says ---

I love the fact that this is visually beautiful to look at and out of all the Air Purifier brand I've searched for, this has the simplest yet most classy design.  It doesn't hurt that the Blue Pure 411 comes in 3 choice of color and design for the fabric pre-filter.

Nail Art Tutorial: Purple Dainty Nails

My love for nail art never fades.  It has been more than 10 years ago when I started "trying" to do nail art using random tools as there wasn't a lot of options back then!  

I stopped doing nail art after getting pregnant, giving birth, breastfeeding then my schedule goes extremely busy from looking after each milestones of my son I almost never wear polish anymore!

Today, even with a little time on hand before I go to bed, that's the best time for me to schedule a quick nail art with the help of my ever supportive hubby who helps me grab things or open up polish bottles as you all know --- Girls are weakest with wet polish on! :D

I am getting back to my MOJO so here you go!  Another installment of my Nail Art Tutorial!  I hope you enjoyed watching the quick #AMWIGtv as well!



Products used ---

• Girlstuff Nail Hardener
• Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Polish in Boho-a-go-go
• Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Polish in Plush Blush
• Sally Hansen Top Coat
• Girlstuff French Tip
• Girlstuff Mircale Top Coat

Continue to watch full video!

dear Klairs Creamy & Natural Fit Concealer Review

I have been wanting to try this concealer for quite some time and I got this from Althea a couple of months ago and realized I can find this cheaper at BeautyMNL!  Too late for me but not for you!  Yes, this is priced affordably at Php584.00 at BeautyMNL (good while supplies last) while I got this for Php920.00 at Althea!  So yes, that's a huge tip for you if you wanted to purchase one yourself.

Now let me get down to business.  Is this worth the price I paid for?  Is this different from other affordable concealers I've tried in the past?

A comforting concealer that nourishes skin as it perfects your look
Formulated with natural ingredients; hydrates and soothes while effectively camouflaging imperfections; perfectly covers large pores, blemishes, redness, and dark circles; creamy formula smoothly blends onto skin; irritation-free formula leaves a natural finish
All-around excellent coverage for sensitive skin

I was drawn to the packaging, yes, I've always been a fan of concealers housed in a liquid lipstick type of packaging with a doe foot applicator, in my opinion, this is the best packaging for concealers.  I like it that I don't have to dip my fingers in a pot or have the need to use a separate brush to blend out the product.  

So dear Klairs came up with a Creamy & Natural Fit Concealer and I got myself a shade Natural from checking out online swatches and so far, it was a good decision.

Cathy Doll One Draw Semi Matte Lip Review #AMWIGtv

Dear AMW Friends.
I've raved about the One Draw Semi Matte Lipstick in shade 09 Chu Chu several times in my IG stories last year.  I gave up talking about it online because: "What the heck?  It's not even available locally!"

Then a little walk around my favorite Watsons store made me do a double take!  Yes, this is not a drill!  The One Draw Lipstick line from Cathy Doll is OFFICIALLY in the Philippines!

Watch this video to believe !

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Yay! I got this one last year when I visited a @karmartsclub store in Bangkok Thailand and wondered if I need to fly back there just to get other shades! Happy to announce - these @cathydollphils One Draw Semi Matte Lips are here to stay! What’s your favorite shade out of the 4 I wore? #cathydollphils #askmewhats #cathydollonedrawsemimattelip #cathydollonedraw

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Another Moment of Serenitea

I've shared my first moment with Serenitea when they launched their newest Cake-inspired beverages and I never looked back.

I love their drinks so much I find myself driving myself after lunch to Banawe branch for a nice quiet place to work as I sip my favorite drink.

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Holiday mood. Salamat Lord may pa-Holiday at mid-week break. ⠀⠀ What are you up to? #askmewhats

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I also take my brother who came from China to have the newest Sweet Potato Line!

Generation Happy Skin Holiday Collection Thoughts

Kathryn Bernardo came out with her 2nd Generation Happy Skin collection.  The first one was easy to love and I can't imagine not loving the Holiday Collection.

On initial thoughts, I love the shades!  Happy Skin has always been earning my thumbs up when it comes to colors/shades that works for us Filipinas (even non-Filipinas!).  The perfect pinkish browns, reddish browns, well, watch and see for yourself!

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The whole collection will be available in ALL Happy Skin boutiques starting October 4, 2019!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!