Weekend Food Tripping at: Sumo Sam, Rockwell Branch

A wonderful reminder to people who may think blogging is all about competition, stress and loads of back-biting.  It's definitely not all that!  One of the many rewards I get from blogging is meeting new and true friends that are turning into a huge part of our lives!  

Lisa (one of the writer from So Loverly site) is one of the many few good and genuine friends I've found in cyberworld!  

Our first meet-up was a blast!  Lisa came to the Manila for a visit because her husband works here for a short-term assignment.  On the way to Sentro, I do have this "first date" jitters as I don't know what to expect, you can't blame me, it's a first for us to meet face to face!  But all the worries disappeared the moment we hugged each other.  A wonderful friendship, not only between Lisa and I, but with her husband Alex as well, blossomed! 

Thankfully, the first meeting wasn't the last, we were able to meet up the 2nd time in Manila, 3rd time in Kuala Lumpur and 4th time a week ago (back here in Manila!)  

Lisa and Alex, whether you guys like it or not, looks like God has plans for us --- "To remain couple friends!" :P

It was just a short weekend visit for Lisa, but I appreciate it that she and Alex would spend their quality time with Keith and I!  We met up at Sumo Sam Rockwell and I was a bit worried about the quality of food and service as it wasn't that pleasant on our last visit at the Shangri-La Branch.

Thankfully, the Rockwell branch didn't fail us!  

 California Maki, Miso Soup and Salad

Chicken Teriyaki and  Grilled Shrimps

Pork Katsudon

 

Salmon Nikkihanna

Beef Tepan

Overall, it was a better service and food quality at Sumo Sam Rockwell branch.  Servings could get bigger though but I'm glad the quality of food was great!  The restaurant is packed on weekends. The bill includes service charge.

Sumo Sam

2/F Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Dr 

cor Estrella St Poblacion, Makati  

Tel. no: (632) 895-7532

AMW and Lisa

She's like a sister to me!

Alex and Keith

They look great as a couple eh?  *just joking* 

I want to thank Alex and Lisa for the wonderful gift just in time as I was planning to purchase one!  Thank you so much!  I'm sure Li'l AMW will love this book!

Have you dined in at Sumo Sam?
Was it good or bad experience?
I'd love to hear from you and tell me the branch as well! :)

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AMW Reviews: Charm Travel Pro Limited Edition --- Sonia

Sophie has been a blogger friend of mine for years.  When she told me about the new travel pro brush set she's coming up with, I've never been more excited for her, the brand and her mom!

“Sonia is my mom’s name and I am dedicating this first ever limited edition set to her.” --- as proudly mentioned by Sophie of Beauty & Minerals.  I can still remember those days when she felt listless as she can't seem to find the perfect fabric for the limited edition pouch.  Until one day, Sophie recalls how her mom was able to find the perfect animal print fabric!  "There were a lot of challenges as it is in any business but my mom never failed to provide support every step of the way, I am just so lucky to have that,” she adds. 

 

With that history in mind, I couldn't imagine naming this gorgeous limited edition brush set otherwise!

Charm says ---

In celebration of Charm’s fifth year, Sonia’s brushes’ come in golden ferrules which triumphs the five successful years that the brand has been in the market. “Charm Brushes are more than just tools -- to me and my clients, it’s an accessory that we just don’t leave home without. Kind of like its name, charm,” Sophie says with a smile.

Charm Travel Pro, for the first time, is available in a limited edition design, in luxurious gold ferrules, sleek black handles, housed in animal print for that timeless, elegant take in fashion. Luxury. Elegance. Fashion statement. What more can you ask for ?

Length: Longest brush is approx. 5.75 inches.

AMW says ---
Pros

• Each set will be housed in a gorgeous box perfect for gift-giving.
• Each brush wrapped in a clear plastic for protection against scratch.
• Combination of natural and synthetic bristles perfect for specific makeup applications.
• The set includes everything you need for a light to heavy makeup application!
• No bleeding nor shedding.
• Gorgeous matte black handle and matte gold ferrule.  So far, the handle and ferrule of all the Charm brushes I own are still intact.  No chipping.
• As compared to the previous Travel Pro v.2 , this set is a tad better.  This set is similiar to v.3 (Please click v.2 and v.3 link for past reviews.)
• Price.  Affordable for quality.
  

Cons

• Limited edition!
• Can't seem to find one!  Maybe, the idea of wanting more Travel Pro brush sets even if you already own one?

Overall

A brush set perfect for travel at the same time, you get all the brushes you need for a full faced makeup application.  Combination of natural and synthetic hair.  

Tips

• Wash upon purchase.
• Best to invest on a brush cleaner and clean it on EVERY use.  Deep cleansing is done at least once a week!
• Personalize your brushes by putting a sticker or painting it with a nail polish at the tip of your handle.
• Make sure ALL brushes are COMPLETELY dry before you start using them again.
• Always dry the brushes flat on top of a dry towel.
•  When in doubt, check out the brushes in stores or bazaars rather than just via online.

Will I repurchase?

Based on all my Charm brushes experiences, I do not need to repurchase any of the brushes as they're all working properly and still in good condition until this very moment.  Will highly recommend!

To whom do I recommend this to?

Makeup enthusiasts (who also loves animal print) who wants a COMPLETE brush set of their own that works!  Makeup professionals can even use this on clients!  

Where to purchase and how much?

Priced at Php2,750.00 (approx $65.50) available online or visit PurBeauty, Serendra and The Ramp, Crossings at Shangri-La Plaza Branch Ground Floor.

Photos

Fresh out of the box.

Each brushes were individually wrapped with a clear plastic.  All the brushes on the left hand side (facing you) have extra plastic sleeves to prevent fly-away.

Each brush has its own space inside the pouch, brushes fit snugly inside the case and you won't have them messed up during travel.  Eye brushes have smaller handles which fits the right hand side of the pouch (facing you) perfectly.  Face brushes have bigger handles which fits the left hand side of the pouch.

 14 pcs. Charm Travel Pro Limited Edition Brush Set Sonia

In terms of color and the texture of the handle, it is very similar to the Charm Travel Pro v. 3, similar matte black handle, instead of the matte pink handle on v.3, this one is in classy gold.  The combination is perfect and unique! 

 Same brushes as v. 3

 Let me break down to you each of the brushes and their usage

(Click THIS LINK to see brush hairs up close)

 (Functions are not limited to what I've written here.  Feel free to experiment and use them as you please.)

1. Lip Brush - for lipstick application or spot concealing.
2. Brow Spoolie - perfect for eyebrow grooming, brow gel application and separate mascara that clumps on your lashes.
3. Eyebrow shading brush - the stiffness is great for brow powder application.  It grabs eyebrow powders so well I can't live without this!
4. Bent Eyeliner Brush - perfect for gel liner application, Avant Garde makeup (for those special drawing tricks you need to do on your face) or spot concealing.
5. Flat Liner brush - eyeliner application using powders on both upper and lower lash lines.
6. Pencil Point Brush - eyeshadow application on outer-v for monlids or people with small eyes.  This brush is also my to-go-to brush in applying eyeshadow on the lower lashline for a smoky eye makeup look.
7. Blending Brush - works just like MAC224, a blending brush for people with medium to large lid space.  This brush is also a favorite of mine to apply concealer and powders on the eye area.
8. Angled Eyeshadow Brush - blending of eyeshadow and eyeshadow application.
9. Wet/Dry Eyeshadow Brush - can be used to apply eyeshadow.  Foiling of mineral eyeshadow will also look good with this brush.
10. Concealer Brush - for spot concealing and also a nice brush to apply/spread eyeshadow base.
11. Foundation Brush - moisturizer, primer and liquid/cream foundation application is a breeze with this brush.
12. Angled Blush Brush - for face contouring and blush application.
13. Powder Brush - powder foundation/setting powder application.  This brush can also be used to apply body glitters.
14. Stippling Brush - perfect for an "airbrushed" makeup look.  Stippling liquid/cream foundation with this brush may take longer time but the effect is a dream!

 Once brushes are completely dry, you can store them back and protect the brush hairs with a clear plastic cover that goes with the pouch.

Do you own any travel pro brush sets?
If not, do you have at least ONE Charm Brush item?  Which one and do you like it?

My first ever brush from Beauty & Minerals was a Kabuki Brush.  It was my first good brush that I purchased locally and as years passed, I'm proud to say, Charm listens to feedback and suggestions and I am so proud of my dear friend as her brand grows bigger and better!  This Limited Edition brush set called Sonia is such a wonderful way to celebrate Charm's 5th year anniversary and this brush set is close to my heart as both Sophie and I are close to our moms!

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(Product gifted to me because I'm a wonderful friend *lol*  Opinions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

I Wonder: 'Unavailable' Products You Love

You've found your Holy Grail product and have been happily using it for quite some time.  Then... BOOM!!! Upon trying for a repurchase, you can't seem to find them anywhere!  You searched high and low and asked around, nobody seems to know the answer. Cold sweat is starting to appear on your forehead, the product you love and swore by disappeared right in front of you.

Sounds familiar?

Whether these products are discontinued or aren't locally available, I have a few products on top of my head (all powder foundations) and you, my dear friends can help add up the list (skincare, makeup, hair care, etc...) by commenting below after this post!  

Neutrogena Fine Fairness UV Compact

I posted a review on this product 2 years ago and I remembered calling this: "Not the BEST powder foundation out there but this baby has a lot to say for a drugstore brand!"  

True enough, this product indeed has a lot to say as once it was discontinued, emails were pouring in by readers who swore by this product asking me why they can't find this anymore!   True enough, I can't find these too and it made me and my mom sad!  My mom loved this powder foundation so much and we've both hit and pan and are willing to repurchase!

Paul & Joe Protective Dual Powder Foundation

What more can I say?  When Paul & Joe products were readily available at Rustans Makati, I was one of the few "victims" (in a very good way) who loves to stay inside the store for makeovers and what else?   Shopping!  A long time reader would know how much I love the Paul & Joe Protective Dual Powder Foundation and I've purchased and repurchased so many times I have my own VIP card!  *laughs*  

Because I believe in the quality of this product, I purchased all the shades and have backups on each shade for my clients!  Who would've thought the day when Paul & Joe left the Philippines finally arrived?  I call it Dooms Day! 

Revue Still Keep Pact UV by Kanebo

Because Paul & Joe products aren't available locally, I've decided to hunt for a similar powder foundation that I can use for clients!  After several tests, I've finally found the one! 

Since the product is a bit pricey, I've decided to go for refills and put them on my Z-Palette!  So far, I'm happy with these and I'm glad I bought several shades too!  

But of course, there's a reason why this product is included in this post!  These are also discontinued and they're not available anymore!  *sniff*  

I Wonder:
"Have you found a product you want to hold on forever but found it to be unavailable or even discontinued?"

Share your thoughts and who knows?  The products you love could be available at areas you don't frequently go to.

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AMW Reviews: Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base SPF25 PA++

"You look blooming even with morning sickness!" 

"Pregnancy seems to be treating you well."

These are some of the compliments I got when I met up with fellow blogger friends.  As I smiled sheepishly and blurted: "It's just makeup!"  In my head, I was keeping tab which makeup products I used (and trust me, there wasn't much!)  I used the same concealer, same powder foundation and didn't do any highlighting and contouring.

Keywords: Blooming, Glowing

Okay, I got it, it must be the newest Bobbi Brown product that I road-tested.  If not because of that, well, I guess, I have to accept the fact that I'm really gorgeous!  *winks*  (BLECH!!!)

 

Bobbi Brown says ---

Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base SPF 25 PA++ blends micronized pearl particles that quickly adapt to natural skin tones, while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and boosting skin's natural radiance. The formula is created for Asian-type skin tones.

Size: 30ml

Packaging details

AMW says ---
Pros

• Instead of just a regular makeup base, the product contains Green Tea, Artichoke Leaf Extracts and Vitamin E to protect our skin from free radicals.
• Has light scent that doesn't bother even a pregnant lady. *ahem me!*
• Lightweight.
• Moisturizing.
• Doesn't cause skin to look greasy.
• Gives good moisture to dry areas and controls oil on areas that tend to oil up.
• Works for all skin types.
• Gives an "inner, illuminating" glow that people can't seem to pinpoint.
• The light reflecting property doesn't enhance the flaws around my skin.
• Has high enough SPF for daily use.
• Makeup looks fresh without retouch for at least 5 hours for oily skin and 8 hours for dry skin.

Cons

• Price.
• Though packaging looks gorgeous on my makeup area, needs an extra spatula to scoop out product.

Overall
A good primer with moisturizing, oil-control and illuminating properties minus the heavy feel! 

Tips

• Use spatulas to pick up product.  If you're on a budget, please keep gelatin spatulas (you can get on groceries) and use these to pick up product for hygienic purpose.
• Do a patch test if you have super sensitive skin.
• Use clean fingers or sponge in application or in my case, I prefer the foundation brush.
• Start application at the center of your face and blend product outwards.
• A little goes a long way.  You do not need to pile up a lot.
• If you get to be under the sun for long, use a separate face sunblock prior to face base application.
• The Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base is applied after skincare before foundation application.
• Apply a very tiny amount near the eye area for an instant "boost".  Do not attempt this if you have super sensitive eyes.
• For a more defined glow, pat a bit more of the product directly on your cheekbones.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!  I'm addicted to illuminating and brightening products remember? :)

To whom do I recommend this to?
People who wanted the inner "Korean Glow" minus the heavy, greasy feel.  Normal, combination, oily, dry and sensitive skin can give this a try!

Where to purchase and how much?

At local Bobbi Brown counters for Php2,650.00 (approx $63.00).  Please LIKE Bobbi Brown Philippines on Facebook for more product updates.


Photos

Packaging of Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base SPF25 PA++

Comes with a white lid.

 

Texture wise:  Feels and looks like a light-peach colored whipped cream!

 

  A little amount applied on my hand

After a bit of blending.

As shown on photos, the face base looks too pale against my skin.

Blending a bit more, the product gets settled without enhancing lines.

Giving a bit more massage, 

the product gets settled into the skin giving a moisturized yet non-greasy feel.

Application AMW style

I used my Estee Lauder Foundation Brush and 

gently apply starting at the center of my face with light hand strokes.

Blend the rest of the product on my skin until the product disappears.

In this stage, you can also opt to use your clean fingers and massage the product.

Clean face with Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base,

 no moisturizer was used in this photo.

My bare skin with Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base applied all over face.

(note: since I don't want to scare you guys, I cheated and filled in my brows and applied a colored lip balm. *lol*)

My face in person has a nice "glow" but not too obvious!  This product is meant to be applied prior to foundation (liquid, cream, powder) application.

To my dear readers who have oily skin, would you give Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base a try?

The Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base reminds me so much of my favorite RMK Make Up Base which I didn't get to review as I only tried tester size!    Since RMK isn't available locallyl and its equally or even pricier than Bobbi Brown, I am quite happy with the Bobbi Brown version and wouldn't mind purchasing again!

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(Product received for review.  Opinions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Bulletin: Spend Happy-Together Time with BPI

Spending quality time with friends and family is very important to me.  No matter how busy my schedule gets, I make sure to squeeze in some time for my family and loved ones as they are such a wonderful breathing ground for my super busy life!

Let me share to you the people who means the world to me....

AMW spends time with Family

My family has always been my greatest support system!  They believed in my talent way more than I do!  The random "bonding nights" where I stand in front of them and tell them how my day went gave me the confidence to be a public speaker!  *laughs*

AMW spends time with Extended Family

Though I haven't really gotten to spend time with my extended family (as some of them are living in Canada), a short "balikbayan trip" recently completed the missing puzzle.  We caught up in no time and it never felt like we're miles apart.

AMW spends time with School Friends

My grade school and high school friends have seen me in my best and worst!  We grew up seeing each other go through awkward stage from having crushes to first love then getting hitched and creating our own family!  These are the types of friends whom you can lose touch for so many years yet once you get to meet up, there won't be any dull moments!

 

AMW spends time with College Friends

Though I've only spent 4 years with them, meeting up with them on special occasions can bring us to tears!  Tears of Laughter!  Those moments we reminisce and laugh about our petty fights, our college professors, our thesis, etc...  I'm glad to have them back me up on whatever decisions I make and have them root for me for all the success I have!

AMW spends time with Blogger Friends

With blogging, I never thought I'll get to have my own set of friends!  Blogging could get competitive and crazy but I'm glad I don't need to deal on that with a good set of friends who share the same passion and love for blogging!  We started out sharing product raves and rants then, on the latter part, we started sharing personal information about our life in general which makes them not only blogger friends but real-life friends!

 

**photo taken from Iambrigitte.com

AMW spends time with Colleagues

In a work environment, finding real friends could be as rare as a gem.  Lucky for me, it wasn't the case as I have good set of colleagues whom I lean on not only on work issues but personal problems!  I am so lucky to have them listen to my never-ending life problems and instead of letting me deal with it alone, they are always there to give me a shoulder to cry on!

I can go on and on and on with Happy-Together Time memories and this post may go on forever!  I am glad my family and friends have the same idea as I do on the importance of spending quality time with each other. 

Speaking of quality time, it's nice to know how companies give the same importance of spending time with friends and family the way I do like BPI.  BPI has a fun app on Facebook that allows us to creatively invite the people we want to spend meaningful time with!  That, I'm sure will catch the attention of my friends whenever there's a plan for get-together!

Because I've been suffering from morning sickness for the past months and Mr. AMW did nothing but take care of me at home, now that I'm feeling a wee bit better, I have decided to use this fun app from BPI to create a cute invite to my darling Keith!  It brightened his day and he's glad I turn into the "man-in-charge" for a change! :P

Check out the simple steps on creating a fun invite using the BPI Facebook App

You can view my Spend Happy-Together Time videoke to Keith HERE.

AMW and Mr. AMW

Need I say more?  My strongest support system came from my dearest better half!  Spending time with Mr. AMW makes me feel like a teenager on a first date!  There won't be any dull moments with my husband as we get to share our favorite dishes, shop our favorite items and even spend half a day inside the coffee shop sharing dreams with each other.  Though I was super tired and exhausted after a long day, it was all worth it!

Spending Happy Time together is made possible by BPI Express Credit. 

Who would you create this special videoke invite to?

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(this is a sponsored post.)