Weekend Food Tripping at: Mandarin Sky with Beauty Bloggers

Remember THIS post?  I couldn't believe my eyes, I posted this around April 2010 which means it has been almost 9 months since I last visited this restaurant!  Thanks to the Beauty Bloggers' Post Christmas and New Years Party, and thanks to Sophie for suggesting us to give Shabu Shabu a try!  

Shabu Shabu or "Hot Pot" is best eaten with friends because you take time ordering your favorite "Shabu Shabu ingredients", you wait for it to be cooked while you enjoy the hot soup, and let's not forget the fun part of creating your own sauce for the Shabu Shabu!  I call it the "Lesser Evil Drinking Session" *laughs*  

After enjoying Shabu Shabu meal, we go out with heavy bladder but we're not intoxicated!  

Here's what we had for the night, courtesy of Sophie!  Thanks Sophie for doing the ordering!  I hate making decisions as there are too many choices!

What's In Store for us?

Beef Strips, Eggs, Wanton, Sharksfin Dumpling, Fish Tofu, Tofu (Beancurd), Squid Balls, Noodles and vegetables.

Soup Base: Chicken Stock with chicken

First Round as we wait for the rest to arrive!

Happy New Year to everyone as we celebrate it with full tummy!

L-R Me, Sophie, Phoebe, H, Tara, Jamie and Shen

Missing Jheng and Mark

Though the Christmas and New Years celebration came in a bit late, it was a super fun evening and I am glad we just relaxed and talk about...life....and of course, makeup!

Thanks to Sophie for the lovely dinner, and thanks to the rest of the beauty bloggers for taking time for such intimate gathering and I am hoping for more gatherings like this!  I know it was a bit hard to do so because of conflicting schedules but I'm glad it finally happened.

On a random note, well, I'm sure most girls love accessories, for me, I am not into huge earrings, most of my earring collection are quite simple and girly!  I have a different jewelry box kept for safe keep for the jewelries gifted to me by people whom I love.

For the daily accessories, I've always put them inside a tiny tool box and looking for the "pair" is quite tedious every morning!  Thanks that fateful day when I was fixing the stuffs in our room, I saw a ring box!  I think I just pull it out of a bigger jewelry case.

And here's what I've done for me to see the earrings clearly!  I know they "earrings holder" but I can't find the one that I really like, so temporarily, I am using this and it's doing its job!

Keep in mind though not to put genuine earrings in here as the box does not have lock or latch, you may lose them!  

And just so you know....I am really childish this way....

Bought the cartoonish earrings in HongKong Disneyland!  Because I like it when my earrings are different on left and right ear! :)

Anyways, let me get my well-deserved rest, I had a very busy Saturday and today will be "ME" day!

How's your weekend?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Ban Clear Gel

There are only 2 types of deodorants/antiperspirants I've used --- Roll-On and the Stick.

Last year, I was sent a clear gel type of deodorant/antiperspirant which perks up my interest and I've given it a test on various situations and environment!

Ban Clear Gel says ---

Band Clear Gel provides all-day odor and wetness protection in two great scents for active women:

Cool Sport - with a hint of citrus that's great for athletic gals who are always on the  move.
Powder Fresh - a soft, gentle fragrance for those who want to flaunt a subtle girl-y charm.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Very cute and unique packaging, you can see it at once in your dresser!
• Has expiration date printed visibly.

• Has a protective "seal of freshness" upon purchase.

• Gel does not feel sticky or heavy.

• Dries up quickly once applied.
• Does not stain clothing.
• Works really well even under stressful situation, no wetness or perspiration.
• No allergic reactions.
• Pleasant scent, does not sting the nose.
• My underarm feels dry until the end of the day!
• Does not darken underarm as compared to other brands.

Cons

• The gel-type takes a bit of time to get used to.
• There are times I over twist and a lot of product came out which is a bit of product wastage as I cannot twist the product back to its packaging!
• A bit bulky to tote around during travel as compared to solid/stick deodorants!

Overall

Not bad, but whoever is reading this post must keep in mind that I do not perspire heavily!  I can actually  brisk walk for a good 30 minutes and still look fresh!  This product may work different to men or to those who perspire heavily.  Mr. AMW bought himself one to give this a test as well and he said this product is alright, nothing spectacular but not a bad product at all!

It's actually a good experience to try a different type of antiperspirant/deodorant. But if you let me choose, I am still a stick deodorant/antiperspirant user!  Personal choice!

Tips

• Do not apply on irritated skin or skin with open wound.
• Try to control the twist as you may have a lot of product wastage each time you twist!  

• After application, leave it for a couple of minutes before you start to dress up to prevent staining your clothes.
• Always store in cool, dry place.
• Do not share deodrant/anti-perspirant with other people, treat this as a toothbrush!

Will I repurchase?
Not this one, I'll probably try the stick version of the brand Ban.

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone who likes using deodorant/antiperspirant!  Anyone on the go and wanted to remain fresh and odor free the whole day!

Where to purchase and how much?
Ban deodorants are available in selected department stores, health & beauty stores and supermarkets for Php230.00 (approx $5.25).  For US readers, available at Walgreens, Drugstore.com etc..

A closer look on Ban Clear Gel, 

on how big the packaging is against my hands

So, spill the beans, are you a ---
Roll-on rocker?
Stick gal?
or Gel baby-yo?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Product sent by company for review.  The author is not affiliated with the company or paid to review this product. All reviews are done base on author's personal experiences.  Please purchase at your own discretion!)

Eureka Moment: 2011 Organizer

Early last year, I Wondered: "If You Use A Daily Planner" and I got a good idea on how a lot of you still use the handwritten type amidst us being on the digital age! I love!!!  Can we all get a *high five*?  

As you can see, I purchased my 2010 Just A Moment Daily Planner straight from Korea via Ebay for $17.99 + $4.99 = $23.00 (approx Php1,057)!  Still, I beg you not to raise those eyebrows on me!  It's all worth it as it traveled together with me each and everyday, it never left my side!  So when December came, aside from panicking on gift giving, I was panicking on what my next daily planner would be!

A sample on how "abused" the 2010 daily planner is!  

Notes I've written for my Seoul Travel

"Why don't you just purchase another one online?" - the Hubby Says.

"I was too busy I lost track of time!  If I order now, it'll be too late and I would probably start using the organizer around February!  You know me, I don't want to skip a whole month!" - AMW said.

Anyways, it was a long discussion as I browse through stuffs at Landmark, Makati.  This was a EUREKA MOMENT, I literally said "EUREKA!!!" when I found this....

Come on, don't you agree?  It's as cute as my previous one!  *ahem*, more childish but that's how I am with my stuffs!  Side by side with my 2010 "so last year!" organizer!  *laughs*

A bit smaller and longer in size and shape but let me tell you why I chose this over the rest of the organizers I've scoured for inside the mall.

The much needed Monthly Overview page which I usually note down important birthdays, anniversaries and what-nots!  

Monday- Sunday space for important meetings, schedules, things-to-do, etc...  The space could be tad small but I have the whole right page to doodle or to write down more information needed. 

OC tip:  I put a tiny drawing (asterisk, hearts, etc..) next to the sentence that I have more notes written on the right hand side! 

I literally stood there and counted to pages of the daily planner to make sure it fits ONE WHOLE YEAR!  I am not being paranoid, I saw another organizer which has a lot of pages for "random thoughts or doodles" but does not have enough pages for "daily notes".

After a whole year worth of daily planning, there are a couple of pages with lines for whatever you would want to write!  I prefer writing important notes, names of people who owe me money *just joking*  :P  

I survived using a Korean Planner, there were maps of Seoul Subway Train, etc.. and I did quite well using it.  This one, is actually Made In China which isn't an issue for anyone.  Although it would be a plus if you can read Chinese, like I do!  

A few pages on "Important Dates to Remember",  you can write here some important dates like birthdays, anniversaries, meetings or even the date of your first kiss *blushes*  <-- if you're super young reading this, go for temporary amnesia ok?  Thanks!

Here's a page for important telephone numbers, address and email address of people you usually call.  I know, this is too old school but would you believe this is very useful for me?  I write down the contact details of Doctors, important home or office addresses of people I usually deal with, etc..!

And a cute page which I like even though a lot won't find this useful, I like this because it reminded me of my love for travel!  Some random words and their equivalent in Chinese and French!

Because I would like to go further with me, being ME!  I used the remaining stickers left form my 2010 planner and I divided my new planner with stickers for easy usage.

Now this is turning into my "baby"

Personalize it more by adding up a sticker with my name on it!

Ok, brace yourself, the best part of all why this deserves a huge "EUREKA MOMENT" scream on top of your lungs?  This cutie costs approximately Php200.00 ($4.45).  I'm a winner right?  I saved a lot this year!  This must be a good year!

Best of all, I can tote this around ANYWHERE I go as it's lightweight and size is just right to fit in any bag!
And last, again!  Promise, this will be the last "gushing" portion, let me remind you again why this puts a huge smile on my face...

No words can explain the cuteness! :) *sigh*

So, what's YOUR organizer this year?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

I Wonder: Bag Hanger...Useful or Not?

I've seen Bag Hangers around for the longest time, I've purchased a couple as gifts several times but never thought of purchasing one for myself, until closing to 2011, I told myself I will fix the stuffs inside my room and that includes my bags!  I actually had this hunch that I won't be using this Bag Hanger much but Mr. AMW told me to go ahead because it isn't that expensive anyways! 

For Php199.75 (approx $4.00), I bought myself a navy blue Bag Hanger just because I am intrigued with the concept and how it would help me turn from OC to Super OC!  <--- Sounds like a cartoon hero eh?  :P

Sad to say, I am intrigued with the idea and it could have worked wonders to a lot of people but not for me!  First things first, I have to look for the "right" area to hook the bag hanger (and I thought it was a very simple task to start with, but it's the hardest part!)  I want my room to look good and organized and having this hanged in a location that isn't meant for "bags" is a huge eyesore for me!  *sniff*

One bag hanger can hold up to 6 bags!  I would recommend to store 6 bags that are almost similarly sized and bags that you regularly use on a daily basis!  Just in case, if the bags are to display are light in shade or a bag that is close to your heart, I suggest to hang them with their respective dust bags (if they have any) .  In my case, the other bags are stored inside my "bag cabinet". 

Oh yeah, if you look closely at the photo above, I have the tendency to maximize the function of anything available out there!  I do put my favorite headbands as well for that "easy access" when I'm in a hurry in the morning!  Smart eh?  <--- Please say yes? *flutters eyelashes*

In fairness to the product though, it was obviously well thought off!  The hanger is small but quite sturdy, all the edges of the Bag Hanger are sewn pretty well! 

The snap lock used is also made of good quality, not sure though if it will rust after prolong usage!

I Wonder:
Bag Hangers, are they useful to you or not?

Do you even own one?

Keep smilin"
Stay Happy!

AMW Reviews: LAB Works Oil Control Film

I've told you way back that one product I don't find myself purchasing are Oil Control films right?  Well, guess I talked too soon!  I found myself hauling for oil control sheets and films like crazy for the past months!  It's not important for me but it's life saver for everyone else --- I know, I get the point! 

I remember during a long day make-up gig, I only have 2 models to look out for, one guy and one girl and I was close to fainting when I'm almost done with the Oil Control Sheets I have on hand and I still have a couple more hours left and the male model was oiling up under the harsh lighting like crazy!  Seriously, I've never seen anyone produce that much oil in my entire life!  (Sorry male model, I have to say it and I want you to know you are still gorgeous and I love you still!) 

Anyways, it was a "faint and die" moment but even at 1:00am, my brain was working and I remembered purchasing a Toilet Cover Seat Sheets and I have a couple of sheets inside my bag and I had to cut them in smaller pieces (I promise you, they are super clean and it's a secret I learn from Hollywood Celebrities Makeup Artists)!  Voila!  Problem solved for the night and I learned my lesson hard!

HOARD!  Especially when they are on sale!  I got 2 packs of LAB Works Oil Control Film for only Php99.00 (approx $2.00)  Buy-one-take-one sale at Watson's!

LAB Works Oil Control Film says ---
Face oil remover patches absorb unwanted oil from your nose and forehead to reduce that undesirable shine.  You can see the oil you remove on the patch so you know it is doing its job.  Its soft, quiet nature allows you to use the patches anywhere without drawing attention to yourself.


Made in Japan

Contents: 60 sheets, 5.5 x 8.5cm

AMW says ---
Pros

• Packed in a very simple yet effective packaging.
• The simple "push" design at the back portion of the packaging is a smart idea!

• The sticky adhesive makes perfect sense to be able to grab a sheet or two.

• Does it job absorbing as much oil on your face!
• Instantly removes oil and shine without messing up the make-up.
• Can be used by both male and female!
• Inexpensive.  
• One sheet is enough for the whole face!
• Does not tear up easily!  Actually, it does not tear up at all!

Cons

• Not sure if this is friendly to the environment :(
• Not widely available!

Overall
Worth every single cent!

Tips

• Use one sheet for the whole face and try to use up all the spaces before you use a second sheet.
• Use with soft, blotting motion, do not rub this hard against your skin!
• Put this in your purse on your special day like weddings, graduations or anytime of the day you know picture-taking is around.  
• Throw this at a rightful trash bin, do not throw this anywhere!  Be responsible!
• There are discounts or sales once in awhile, grab the chance by purchasing more on times like Buy-One-Take-One! 
• If skin irritations occur, STOP usage immediately.
• If you are a makeup artist: Share a couple of sheets to your client to put it inside their pocket or purse!  Quick and mess-free retouching!

Will I repurchase?
Yes!  I will hoard more!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Men or women who have problems with oil!  This is the best "retouch" for anyone who's ready to face the camera or even on regular days!

Where to purchase and how much?
Locally at Watson's for Php99.00 (approx $2.00) per pack.  Again, I got mine buy-one-take-one!

LAB Works Oil Control Film's texture is almost the same as the Clean & Clear Oil Control Film, same color too!

Thanks to Mr. AMW's face!  He actually just washed his face and I asked him to help me share to the readers the "effectiveness" of one sheet!  Even after face washing, he can still produce oil for AMW readers!  I love it!  *laughs*

I've actually used these sheets a couple of times especially on male clients and they all love it!  It works!  AMW proven and tested!

What's your favorite Oil Control Film or Sheets brand?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!