Weekend Food Tripping at: Rockwell Bazaar + AMW Gives Winner

Hi everyone!  Hope Saturday went well to a lot of you!  How did you brave the traffic over the weekend with sales here and there?  I, tried to stay away from those areas!  I actually had a nice chat after lunch by the way with the YT Guru Michelle Phan as I was told she will be collaborating with Close Up Philippines, she doesn't have all the details yet so I can't share any juicy information for now!  But it's nice to know she wanted to visit the country especially Boracay!  

I've decided to fill in the day for official Nikki Relaxation day!  I've booked myself a Facial (which my last was gazillion years) and I am so happy that the facial "steps" were similar and as relaxing from my previous facial experience when I was still working in China!  After facial, I skipped to the next relaxing location!  Hair Salon!  I've booked myself a Kerastase Hair Treatment because my hair is getting long and instead of getting a cut!  I have them specially treated so I can enjoy my long hair more before they decided to commit suicide and I have to chop them off!

I will definitely share you all about my experiences as the days come!  I know it should be relaxing but it's nice to report what happened and share to readers my experiences!  

After the relaxation day, I have to let Mr. AMW relax too right?  And everyone knows that good tasting food is close to his heart next to Mrs. AMW!  I'm no. 1 and food is no. 2 for sure! :P  

We went to Rockwell and we saw a couple of food stalls right outside!  It was a bit late and we don't want to eat too much so here's our simple weekend food experience! 

Swiss Gourmet Hotdog Sandwich

Php80.00 (approx $2.00)

We weren't able to take a photo of this but we ordered 2 Hotdog sandwiches!  Tastes really good!  The sausage is crunchy on the outside and seriously juicy on the inside.  Poured over some ketchup and mustard and its great tummy filling food!

Piri Piri Chicken

Php130.00 for the Chicken pieces  (approx $2.95)

Php70.00 for Jambalaya Rice (approx $1.60)

It's not the best place to eat chicken using paper plates and plastic spoon and fork!  But boy oh boy!  The chicken was cooked on a charcoal and the scent is just nose-tacular!  Poured over with mild or hot sauce (Chili mixed with Extra Virgin Olive Oil), combined with the very tasty Jambalaya Rice, we did not mind eating this while standing up!

Jambalaya Rice serving

We actually love to share food and we were a bit full!  Yogurt definitely is the best bet on dessert but we can't seem to find our favorite Red Mango at Rockwell.  We settled on Lulu Belle and ordered a large size of Plain Yogurt, no toppings!

Plain Yogurt Large

Php120.00 (approx $2.70)

Sad to say, I've been a plain yogurt eater for the longest time even way back before they got famous down here (one bragging rights I am proud of).  Anyways, I am quite disappointed as the yogurt taste wasn't there!  It's just too bland for my liking!  Just my opinion though!  I'm sure if you mixed it with your favorite toppings, it'll be ok!  Mr. AMW on the other hand mixed this with Oatmeal Crispies we purchased and he was fine with it!

As you can see, we've been food tripping again no matter how simple our dishes are!  So off we walk around the mall with full tummy!  And suddenly, we passed by Mc Donald's and we have to slap our forehead for not leaving a space in our tummy for our ultimate favorite junkfood that's available on certain months of the year....

Mc Donald's Twister Fries!!!We swallowed our gluttony instinct and walked away *sobs*

Someday...someday....later?!!? hahaha

Before I end this post, I will finally announce the winner for the AMW Gives: L'Oreal Wear Infinite Pressed Shadow thank you so much for joining the contest everyone!  I am really happy with the responses and I love how most of us have faith in the Lord, our family, friends to give us the strength to survive any trials that may come our way!  Don't we all have problems and issues in life?  We're obviously not alone! :)

Because it is a contest, only ONE winner will be chosen and I've pasted all the "User Names" that has correctly replied the query with the right requirements and used my trustee Fruit Machine to pick up one winner!  Congratulations to...

Sarah Curativo!

I will email you Sarah for your mailing address!
To the rest, hey!  Don't worry, as you know, there's always hope and there will be more contests coming up soon!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
Have a great weekend food tripping!

Nail Art Tutorial: Easiest Polka Dotted Nails!

Happy weekend everyone!  I am quite excited for this weekend because I've been really busy working my cute butt off!  *laughs* My weekend ended on a good note though, I've had wonderful dinner with highschool friends and it was a night spent with loads of stories and of course, laughter!

After my Korea trip, I removed my nail polish and left it "nude" for almost a week!  I wanted it to rest from polish application because that's how we should take care of our nails!  Give it a time off!  

I am not planning to do anything drastic and I wanted to spend only 10-15 minutes!  So here's the easiest nail art design (I think) I've ever done!  I find doing this takes shorter time than nail art stickers!  Inspired by the gorgeous polish shade I bought from Korea!  Very playful and reminded me of playful 60's dresses while dancing on the tune of "Great Balls of Fire!"

AMW Reviews: Sigma Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki Brush (F80)

I was sent Sigma brushes from Sigma USA for reviews in the past, and I have local readers asking me on how to purchase and I felt bad advising them to purchase online because I know how frustrating it is to wait, to pay extra for shipping and sometimes, getting the chance to lose your package on its way from West to East.  

I am super excited, when my previous Dollface Personal Makeup Seminar Batch 2 student Trisha messaged me telling me she brought down Sigma to our shores!  And it's not the pre-order type!  All brushes are actually on hand and I've seen them displayed during The Events Factory Bazaar at Eastwod Libis. 

I know I have enough brushes, yes, for professional use!  But I'm still alright for personal use and when it comes to my ultimate favorite K-brushes, it's all for me babey!!!!  She brought in individual brushes and it was wonderful to see a full size version of the Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki Brush for foundation users out there!  

I've used this for weeks, even brought this along on my Korea Trip, I told Trish I won't but it's just too cute to leave behind!  Here's what I have to say to the Sigma Flat Top Synthetic K-Brush...

Sigma Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki says ---
This exclusive flat top synthetic kabuki was designed to deliver a flawless makeup application. The Sigma Makeup F80 is a buffer brush that can be used to blend powder or liquid products. The short and dense bristles make it easy to buff your liquid foundation. The long handle adds comfort to your makeup application. The synthetic fibers are ideal to be used with liquid products and can be easily cleaned.

AMW says ---
Pros

• During shipment: packed really well by the seller and the brush is well protected.

• No bleeding, no shedding during wash. (first wash til the very moent)
• Bristles are super soft!  No scratchy feel even if you swirl all over your face even under the eye area.
• No weird scent as compare to other new brushes!
• Handle length is just right for both personal and professional use.
• Multi-functional: can be used on powder, liquid or cream foundation/concealer.
• If used with liquid foundation: no need to use a lot as this does not absorb the liquid foundation due to its density! 
• Can be used on mineral and traditional makeup.
• Works for both medium to heavy coverage, because of its shorter bristles' length, heavy coverage is easy to achieve!

• Ferrule is attached to bristles really well!  Very sturdy.
• Density: the most dense flat top k-brush I've owned to date!

• Not expensive for its durability and quality!  I've owned several Sigma brushes and they are still good as new (as long as you take care of it)

Cons

• Will stain if you did not clean this properly (please check tips on how to clean this brush especially if you use cream/liquid type foundation)
• Takes a bit longer to dry up again, due to its density!

Overall

Worth the investment!  I even use this on clients to buff additional "setting powder" under the eye area!  The length of the brush is just perfect to use professionallyl!

Tips

• For that airbrush use, apply using stippling motion with a liquid foundation.
• For that super nice coverage, apply with powder or liquid foundation using buffing motion!  
• Do not forget to add additional coverage with stippling motion under the eye area, sides of the nose, corners of the mouth for that "bright/awake" look!
• Deep cleansing: swirl this brush with Olive Oil to remove liquid or even powder makeup!  Proceed with using baby shampoo + mild dish washing detergent to remove excess oil! 
• After washing, gently squeeze off excess and swirl the brush on a clean towel, leave it laying flat on the towel for air drying.  
• Never blowdry or add heat for quick drying!
• If you are a type who like to carry this along during travel, purchase a Brush Guard to protect the bristles, or better?  Purchase this cutie!!!

 

**photo from Sigma

Will I repurchase?
No need, this one is enough for me and it looks like it going to last!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes medium to heavy coverage!  Great if you want to hide those pimple marks!  Works best on Mineral Makeup Foundation!

Where to purchase and how much?
International readers can purchase at Sigma Beauty Website.

Locally at Pink Slippers Boutique for Php1,100 (approx $25.00) plus shipping.
To save up on shipping and if you want to checkout products in person, they are at Moonlit Bazaar this October 15, 16 and 17 at Rockwell.
Add them up on Facebook: PinkSlippersboutique Ph/ Pink Slippers Boutique

Just because, I want to show you the Sigma FT Synthetic K-brush against my first Flat Top K-brush love EDM Flat Top Brush !  Length comparison as shown on photo below!

The reason why Sigma FT K-brush gives a nice heavy coverage aside from its density is its brush lenth!  Shorter than EDM.. (aaaww, they look so sweet..teehee)

Well, I rest my case!  I am impressed and will remain so unless something happens to it!  Will revisit if there's any changes (whether good or bad). 

Do you even use Flat Top K-Brushes?  
I do, especially on days my skin is acting up!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Bulletin: What's Up In the Metro

Dear Philippine Readers:

Happy Friday!  Yet another AMW Bulletin to give you information on "What's Hot and Happenin'" in the Metro!  Friday --- Payday!  A lot of sales and bazaars coming up just like the Moonlit Bazaar at the Rockwell Tent over the weekend where you can see brands like Beauty & Minerals, Dollface and Sigma!  Sale of Forever 21 and a whole lot more!  

Aside from that, there's a couple more information I got over my email box that I think some of you maybe interested in partey!!!  I may not be a party animal but I'm one dancing and health freak!  If you are too....Click HERE for more information

(Please click photos to enlarge)

Giordano Philippines has released a new line of graphic shirts which I saw in store designed by us Filipinos!  The 5 graphic tees were available which was chosen from hundreds of entries sent to the Giordano Design-A-Graphic-Tee Contest.  A li'l birdie told me they are limited as only 500 pieces were produced per design!  Just to show you how cool the designs are, I've included a photo of the shirt from the Grand Prize Winner Mr. Lheo Dayumat!  Cute!  I want!

Made-to-order dresses would be cool right?  And what's even better?  They are of course homegrown talent --- Kaye Olfindo!

Kaye's ready-to-wear line, kstyled, was launched August of 2005.  She's been around!  And she does not only connect with clients from the Philippines but also from other countries!  So another thumbs up for Filipina designer!  Click HERE to go to her site.

Last but not the least, there are several makeup schools popping out around and there's going to be another new one coming in!  Make-Up Designory (MUD), is the largest make-up school in the U.S. With the emergence of MUD in our Philippine shores, students will be able to study (as I was advised) the state of the art techniques in beauty make-up artistry, hairstyling, character and special effects make-up!

Be in the know!
Do check back every now and then for more AMW bulletin!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Purederm Callus Reducer Jojoba Heel Patches

Walking is a good form of exercise!  Walking my dogs, walking within the house compound after dinner, walking with my mom while chatting with her does not only makes my leg muscles stronger, it also relaxes me!  At the same time, I was able to build good relationship with my "walking buddies".

Unfortunately, my feet has suffered so much from all the walking, I need to take care of my feet before it find its way up on my head and gives me a good kicking!  (Imagining that made me laugh! hahaha)

But man oh man!  Why is it difficult to take care of my feet?  Probably because the feet are part of the "Unsung Heroes", since it's not as exposed as our faces, it is easier to spend a lot on facial products than the latter!  Shame on us! 

I've tried using the lotion and socks method but there are days where I give myself a good excuse because I'm just too lazy to consistently do the steps!  Lotion, socks... *yawns* Too sleepy....*zzzzz*

If there are facial masks for that "quick boost" I am glad more and more products for the feet are here!  After my fun experience with Purederm Intensive Foot Mask (you can click link for the review), something for our poor heels are here and I'm oh-so-excited to give it a test as my heels are the driest part of my feet!  Embarrassing to admit, but hey!  It's true!

Purederm Callus Reducer Heel Patches say ---

The Callus Reducer Heel Patch "Jojoba" is an intensive herbal conditioning therapy product specially formulated to moisturize, soothe and protect dry, cracked and callused heels.  A nurturing blend of Jojoba Oil, Eucalyptus Oil and Tea Tree Oil penetrates deeply to soften hard and callused skin.  The Cocoa Butter forms a moisture shield to protect the heels from every day wear and tear.  The thick and rich consistency of this soothing balm will pamper and comfort the heel on contact.

Use for: Dry Skin

Content: 4 pcs per pack

AMW says ---

Pros

• Conveniently packed, can easily take along during travel

• Easy open packaging and sealed for freshness! <--- sounds like a fruit or vegetable commercial!

•  Each "sticky"side are protected with easy-to-remove stickers

• Very easy to use!
• Soothe the heels
• Moisturize the heels instantly
• Non-messy
• Heel feels soft and smooth the next day
• Pad is flexible enough for any foot or heel size
• Scent is light and quite good!

Cons

• Only 2 pairs per box, it would be great if they have more per box!
• Not for the lazy bums, for further heeling, must be consistent with usage! 

Overall

I like this!  This is the quickest method to soothe and moisturize my heel without the slippery feel of heel creams!  The effect can be seen after first usage but the moisture-feel fades off after 2-3 days!  So consistency is the key to better heels!

Tips 

• Prior to usage, make sure to wash your feet with warm water to "soften" the heels before you moisturize.
• Leave it overnight, best during sleep
• On days that you won't be doing this treatment, try to apply petroleum jelly, heel cream or regular lotion on the heels of your feet for further moisturization.
• While using this heel pad, I suggest using foot lotion as well for better protection and care.
• Be consistent with your usage, do this at least once or twice a week.
• Do not use if you have opened wound!  Have it checked with a doctor.
• If irritations occur, stop usage immediately!

Will I repurchase?

Yes!  I will repurchase more for my mom too!

To whom do I recommend this to?

This is best used for someone who has dry, "almost" cracked heels.  Not for the severe heel problems!

Where to purchase and how much?

Available on some online shops (can check on Google) approximately $3.00-5.00.  Available locally at Watson's for Php239.75 (approx $5.40) per box.

Before sticking the pad onto your heel, remove the middle sticker first, be careful as that portion contains the Jojoba Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Tea Tree Oil and other "softening" agent. 

Here's how I apply the Heel Patches

Relax and go to sleep, you can wear socks at this point

To be honest, the skin under my feet are overall dry!  They are exposed most of the time because I love to wear sandals!  This is how my feet looks after I took a shower with Purederm Callus Reducer Jojoba Heel Patches left overnight!  

You can still see a bit of dryness and crack, but hey!  I've only used the patches once...

So off I sleep again with my 2nd set of heel patches!  Will revisit this if my feet are shiny, shimmery, splendidly moisturized!  Cross your fingers for me ok?

Looks like smiley head is in love with my feet! 
Now you, on the other hand, do something for your poor feet too ok?
Toe swear? I mean, Pinkie swear?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Note from Author: Product was sent for review purposes.  All information written are based on the writer's personal experience.  Author did not and will never receive payment for positive reviews.  Please purchase at your own discretion)