Weekend Food Trip at: Lucky Rainbow Restaurant, Ongpin

So, let's put AMW Cooks to rest for today and let's bring back the Weekend Food Trip in a restaurant!

The week was crazy!  Aside from no yaya, which is supposed to be okay, Kyle got really sick and he has full blown cough and cold!  So after making sure he's asleep, I'm finally back to share what we had last week!  It was my dad-in-law's birthday so we've decided to celebrate at Lucky Rainbow!  As you probably heard, Lucky Rainbow first branch is at Downtown Ongpin, then they ventured out to Makati and Banawe area.  The first time we dined there, I wasn't that impressed and I'm glad I gave this restaurant a second try.  This time, it is WAY better and definitely worth to go back again!  P.S. I have my list of dishes to order again!!!

If you are a fan of Tim Ho Wan's pork bun and you just don't have the time and energy to line up at SM Megamall, Lucky Rainbow's Special Egg Yolk Pao may be a good alternative.  I'm not saying this is a dupe but it is something you can taste and you'll definitely forget other pork buns for the moment..in my case, I forgot my name!  Even Kyle LOVES this!

P.S. this is only available at Banawe and Makati branch, since Keith's uncle work there, we get this as special order!

Lucky Rainbow Special Egg Yolk Pao

3pcs for Php88.00

Xiao Long Bao

4pcs for Php98.00

Another must-try!  I find this Xiao Long Bao is comparable to Crystal Jade's and I love how the "soup" was intact upon serve! 

AMW Reports: This is what you call a Benefit BeauTEA Party!

Happy Friday!
I had a tough week!  Well, for the first time, our house was flooded when it rained last Monday, our househelp left because she has to take care her husband who got into an accident so it was just me, Keith and Kyle when the water was starting to rush in our first floor!  Thank God for "Jumperoo", I had to put Kyle at a Jumperoo and help Keith save all his toys and play mat!!!  

And mid-week, Kyle got sick, his temperature shot to 39+ and he was shivering during sleep!  We rushed him to his Pedia and found nothing so he is on medication and we're making sure he's taking a lot of rest!

Yeah, I'm glad it's Friday, though being a mommy, we technically do not have weekends but it is nice to know we survived the whole week with a happy disposition still.

And speaking about weekends, I kinda missed my Benefit Workshops so it was an opportunity for me to take a "Grou-fie" with these gorgeous Benebabes during an intimate Blogger meet up at TWG, BGC Central Square.

Photo taken from Samsung NXmini

What's the buzz on Benefit's BeaTEA party?

 

New products to look forward to!  Let me tell you, some of them could be small but the effect is HUMONGOUS!

www.GreatValuePlus.ph Online Shopping Review

When I was asked to do a review on my shopping experience at GreatValuePlus.ph, I immediately went to their website and searched for items that catches my attention.  For someone who has been online shopping for more than 8 years, I call myself an online-shopping expert!  :P  

Now I have the title "mommy" added to my "job title", online shopping is definitely my best friend!  I shop online not only for myself but also for gifts to my loved ones!

Upon checking the site, I love the clean, easy to maneuver interface of the website.  I'll share more online shopping tips and tricks below.  For now, I'll share my review on my first online shopping expeirence at greatvalueplus!

GreatValuePlus.ph says ---
We are an online shopping website. We have been selling online since 2008 and are one of the top sellers on ebay.

AMW Reports: Pixy is Finally Here!

I learned about Pixy when I received a BDJ Pixy Truly Asian Beauty Box last April.  I knew this brand will be a hit to fellow beauty-enthusiasts like me because this is a drugstore brand that offers good quality makeup products that is affordable and easy-to-reach.

Just so not to confuse you, PIXY is a Japanese-formulated and Indonesian-manufactured make-up line which flatters skin tones, while infusing the same light-reflecting, skin perfecting properties.  I agree with how flattering it is on our skin tone because I was able to try some of their products from the BDJ box and even shared some to my sister who loves the brand dearly.

During the launch of Pixy here in Manila at White Space early this month, I got to learn that Pixy does not only offer basic makeup products, instead, they have way more products to share that even professional makeup artists can use to create Tokyo Kawaii and Tokyo Glam (a.k.a. Day time and Night time) looks.

Sherry's Maxi-Peel Testimonial

"You never have skin problems like I do."

"You probably never knew how it feels like to have acne or pimple marks!" 

Those statements are probably inside the head of some of my readers. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for thinking that I have good skin all through my 35 years of existence.  But of course, that thinking has to be changed!  I've had my share of skincare issues back then.  My skin may probably look better than before but keep in mind that I'm in my mid 30s, I do not have raging teen hormones and of course,  I am more knowledgeable now on what particular products that works for my skin.
 
 Backtrack to Sweet 16 Nikki :P I was really looking forward to be 16 and it turned out to be the "worst skin" year. I started breaking out with no reason at all and it all started at the forehead then it went as bad as covering both my cheeks!  I get the: "Naka-blush ka ba?" from afar then once you take a closer look at my skin, I have small and big pimples scattered all over my face!  *sigh*  Diyahe talaga!  And I have a huge crush on this higher batch guy who actually takes time and effort to talk to me but I remembered not looking straight to his eyes because I know he's seeing all my pimple marks instead of ME!

 So when I saw Sherry's Maxi-Peel testimonial , I felt her pain and I know how easily skin issues can tamper our confidence!

This post is written because I have a lot of readers with skin woes who would email me to ask about "peeling" products available in the market and wanted my opinion on them.  Truthfully, I never tried any of those products because I'm a "sissy" when it comes to my face.  I always advise my readers to visit a professional dermatologist for consultation.  But of course, there are always the type of readers who are adventurous in trying out skincare and Maxi-Peel actually came up on my email so many times and I am finally setting my foot on the ground and say: "Maxi-Peel is actually one of the most effective local brands available in the market and I believe in Sherry's Bagong Ganda, Bagong Pag-Asa story."
To back up my statement, I used to work in a company where 80% of the women use Maxi-Peel!  I literally saw the 3 stages in action!

Nail Art Tutorial: Using GirlStuff Sophisticate's Newest Members

Happy Tuesday AMW friends!

Are you excited for a mini-nail art tutorial?  I said mini because it is very quick and easy to do (yes, even for first-timers) and guess what?  I've finally done a tutorial via video!  YAY!  I did the shoot only once so please bear with the super amateur video!  I just had a time to do a quick nail art while Baby AMW was napping (and it was less than 2 hours) so I had to create something fast and easy PLUS Mr. AMW was at work so  had to do the filming using a tripod so sorry if I wasn't able to focus on the nail! 

My nail art design was inspired by GirlStuff Polish newest polishes from the Sophisticate collection.  This collection has a gel-type formula which gave me the idea to create something that works even on a "formal setting".

The Marilyn and Sophia Swirl

L-R Marilyn, Diana and Sophia

Marilyn is a brownish red shade (aka Maroon)

Diana is a matte blue nail color 

Sophia on the other hand is a perfect shade if you want to wear white but white looks too weird and fake on you!  This shade has a hint of creamy pink tone making this perfect to work with any other shades if you plan to do nail art!

Initial Thoughts: Dove Daily Hair Vitamin

Happy Monday AMW Friends!
I am so excited to share my recent discovery for our crowning glory!  That is why I love attending events, aside from meeting fellow Bloggers who turned into real-life friends, I get to know what's new in the market and I get to test the products before I buy!

One brand that I look up to is Dove, why?  Because Dove has a mission that I totally believe in, that is, to enable women to love and embrace their real beauty through products that provide real care.  I knew about Dove haircare products way back before they were available in the market locally.  AMW Brother is so nice to supply me with Dove Shampoo and Conditioner and my favorite hair treatment at least twice a year when he visits.  I didn't bother writing a review on that because I know how hard it is to want something yet it isn't available locally.

Thankfully, today, I can freely "blab" about one of my favorite hair care and skincare brand --- Dove.

During the launch of Dove Daily Hair Vitamin at Blo Dry Bar in Powerplant Mall, Rockwell, I learned that following a daily regimen with the use of Dove Intense Repair range is key to achieving damage-free hair.

AMW Cooks: Crunchy Chicken Wrap

Happy Sunday AMW friends!
I hope you don't mind me posting more about recipes rather than restaurants!  Like I said over the past blog posts, I haven't been dining out much since Baby AMW turned into a Toddler AMW!  Fellow moms out there would totally understand right?  I mean seriously, how can you decently take photos of your food when you have a toddler walking around waiting for accidents to happen?  I'm singing "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" at the moment, dedicated to Kyle!

So back to this week's recipe!  Mr. AMW loves wraps!  Anything you put inside a wrap...hotdogs (eeww), corned beef (eeew), socks (double ewww! Just joking!)  Just to prove a point that he loves wrap, I chanced upon a wrap called Mission Wrap at Robinsons Supermarket and I immediately called his attention and he said YES right away without blinking!  Truth be told, I'm really lazy to do wraps as I think they aren't "full meal" and yet, you take a whole lot of effort to make it!  Think about Bibimbap!  

For the love of my hubby, well..actually, Hubby made this for me and I just assisted! hahahah  

Here's our version of Crunchy Chicken Wrap and it is easy to make!

Ingredients ---

• Chicken breasts
• Lettuce
• Tomatoes
• Pepper
• Salt
• Garlic
• Bread crumbs
• Egg
• Wraps

I Wonder: Which Cover Girl Mascara Do You Like Most?

Okay, I maybe an Energizer Bunny but when it comes to mascaras, I'm one hell of a "cute" turtle!  :P

Blame me for watching too much BabyTV!  I have nothing more to watch but Elephants, Monkeys, Rabbits, Turtles, etc...!

So yeah, I'm such a turtle so I need help!  I was sent 4 wonderful Cover Girl Mascaras a month ago and I can't decide which one to use first!

In case you wonder, here are the 4 variants ---

L-R LashBlast Volume, Clump Crusher, LashBlast Fusion and LashBlast Length

Obviously LashBlast Volume is meant to be used if you prefer to create more volume for your thin and sparse lashes (me!)  I realized I used this mascara so many times in my old FOTDs and Makeup tutorials I didn't even create a decent review!  

AMW Wears: EZRA by Zalora

Happy Monday AMW Friends!
When I wrote about the Vitress Catwalk even I attended, I got emails from readers asking about the dress, I got a text message from my sister reacting to how "mahangin" (cool) my outfit looks and fellow bloggers were joking on that night on how a very simple Nikki Tiu would wear a cut-out dress.

I actually can't believe I wore one myself!  But after sharing my pregnancy photos before giving birth to Baby AMW, why not? :)  I mean seriously, you've seen the whole tummy right?  And as I'm on my mid-30s, I guess when will I wear such clothes?  So yeah, I've decided to seize the day!  hahahaha  Thanks to fellow beauties for being so kind to me (di naman ako napintasan in person! hahaha)

With Liz Lanuzo of Projectvanity.com

One reader wanted me to post a review on the EZRA Dress and Shoes that I wore!  So here are some details that may be useful for you if you are not a professional online shopper like I am! :P

Purchased both from Zalora website.

EZRA by Zalora V-neck cut-out fit & flare dress Php1, 295.00

EZRA by Zalora Ankle Strap Heel Sandals Php995.00

AMW Reviews: Absynthe Happy Girls are the Prettiest Banana Powder + Giveaway

Hi everyone!  Today, I will be sharing a review on a Ben Nye "look-a-like".  Though this may be compared to Ben Nye Banana Powder a lot of times, the Absynthe Happy Girls are the Prettiest Banana powder has unique qualities that I want to share!  

Of course, the best part about this post?  10 lucky AMW readers get to try this powder as well!  Thanks Absynthe for this as I like my readers to try out the products I tested and see for themselves how it would work for their skin type!

The product is housed in regular loose mineral powder packaging, sealed upon purchase and has manufacturing date printed for your reference.

Absynthe says ---This silky fine formula feels weightless, natural and smooth on skin. Controls unwanted shine all day. Softens the appearance of imperfections, fine lines and pores. Makes you instantly, the Prettiest Happy Girl. It has Ultra Cooling Sensation, A remarkable loose powder that gives ultra cooling effect, keeps skin feel fresh and sweat free. Perfect for Philippines humid weather.


Net Weight: 10g

Salon Report: Hairshaft Salon, Podium

First things first, Happy Belated Birthday to my dearest blogger friend Lush Angel and to Mr. Fred Penales of Hairshaft Salon!

2 years ago, I had a hair treatment that took me hours (story HERE) and good friend Angela visited me as she lives close by and a quick chat turned into hours of fun memories! (with Mr. AMW sleeping at the background).  From then on, we knew we are best salon buddies!  And I got pregnant, gave birth and the rest was history!

Because Angela enjoyed my company so much!  *laughs*  (This is my blog, walang hihirit hahaha)  She invited me to have another "salon date" with her at Hairshaft salon (her favorite salon) at Podium.  Because of the location, the long-overdue salon date didn't happen until that fateful day when we both attended Burt's Bees 30th Birthday event and both of our cars are coding and we'd rather spend hours pampering inside a salon! 

Let's talk about Hairshaft Salon, I heard about Hairshaft way back when I used to work at Ortigas area.  My colleague always have good hair day and when asked about where she usually have her hair cut, the answer is always Hairshaft Salon, Podium!  So can you imagine the excitement of me finally meeting the "GODFATHER" Fred?  Owner of Hairshaft Salon?

With all the gorgeous "after" photos of Angela with her gorgeous locks, I knew I had to pry myself away from Baby AMW and finally have my much-needed haircut!  Sorry baby, you may appreciate a nice-looking mommy when you go to school in the future! :P

A group shot prior to our hair-makeover!

"groufie c/o Samsung NX Mini"

Now let's talk about the salon itself!  Upon entering the salon, on a weekday, you would be surprised to see the salon almost full!  Angela told me this is the first time she saw the salon not that crowded.  I mean seriously?  On a weekday?

AMW Reports: Watsons Bath to Basics

For someone who juggles various jobs from being an employee, a makeup artist, a wife and a mom, a lot of my friends would ask me: "Do you even have time for yourself?"  Honestly speaking, not much!  But of course, out of the 24 hours, I try to give myself at least a couple of minutes of "me" time!  And would you believe it when I say, the only "Me" time that I can get is my shower time?  And I take 2 of them! (Excuse to have more me time!)

That's why when I got an invite to Watsons Bath to Basics event held at Neo Ki Spa, BGC, I told myself I have to be there as I get my bath essentials from where else?  Watsons!  Feel free to tell me if you do too!

For someone who frequents at Watsons, I can't believe I'm seeing a lot of new products I probably didn't take notice of!  Lots of the Watsons labeled products I used to salivate when I travel to other countries, fortunately, now, I don't have to!  We definitely have broader range (especially on bath products) available locally!

 

On the day of the event, Watsons Philippines launched the Bath to Basics campaign not only to educate us about the importance of maintaining and boosting their bathing habits to achieve better health and skin, but also for us to learn the different body care products available to help complete our bath regimen --- from bar soap to body wash, body scrubs to bath salts!  Yes, there are so much more to choose from to fit your body needs!

Eureka Moment: Mini Wedge Sponges

Do you still remember my first Eureka Moment post on "My Pick, Nippon Pack"?
If not, let me refresh your memory, this is a checklist that's perfect even for non-make-up artists out there!  All you have to do is tick on the "My Nippon Checklist", or shall I say, customize your own Nippon box ...

And voila!  You'll receive a box of goodies where you can be sure each item is what you need!

AMW Bulletin: Breeze ActiveBleach Calls on Moms to Join 1Laba Day

Breeze ActivBleach is treating mommies across the country to a day off from their laundry chores with the simultaneous nationwide event 1Laba Day happening on August 28.

Wow!  That's a wonderful idea!

I may not be doing our laundry today but I used to when I worked in China for almost 4 years!  I know how hard it is to take care of stained clothes so I actually look up to my mom for doing our laundry for so many years!

So this bulletin is to share to all hardworking moms out there!  Breeze aims to wash 1 million tains using Breeze ActivBleach.  Participating moms can enjoy their ultimate laundry-off as Breeze treats them to various entertainment activities, while the Breeze Laba Ladies and Laba Machines, sponosored by campaign partners Electrolux, White Westinghouse, Whirlpool and LG, will take care of washing their clothes. 

Simultaneous 1Laba Day events will happen in Metro Manila (Pasig, Marikina, Quezon City, Pasay), North Luzon (Tarlac, Pangasinan), South Luzon (Laguna, Cavite), Visayas (Cebu), and Mindanao (Davao).

Be a part of the Breeze 1 Laba Day event and see for yourself how Breeze with ActivBleach removes 1 million stains in just one wash. Like the official Breeze Facebook page (@BreezePhilippines) and join the online promos to get the chance to win washing machines from partner brands. Consumers can also get free Breeze gift packs for every purchase of an Electrolux, Whirlpool and LG washing machine.  

Goodluck and thanks Breeze for this wonderful event!

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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
 

 

AMW Cooks: Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Happy Sunday!
The reason why I've been posting recipes nowadays instead of food reviews is because, well..my life has really been very busy with baby AMW around and going out to eat is almost non-existent!  I can probably dine out (peacefully) during events but when I'm out with my little one, my focus is on him, not food!  So you have to bear with me if you don't like to cook and you see all these recipes!

On the other hand, if you don't know how to cook and you feel like cooking is a whole new "alien nation" for you, this may help as my recipes are straightforward and you can find most of the ingredients in regular supermarket or even inside your fridge!

Here's my simple, easy-to-cook Sweet & Sork Pork recipe!  You use the same sauce for fish and chicken!

Ingredients:

• Ground Pork
• Egg
• Soy Sauce
• Chopped carrots
• Del Monte Tomato paste
• Del Monte Pineapple tidbits
• Red Bell Pepper
• Corn Starch
• Pepper
• Salt
• Vinegar
• Sugar
• Garlic and Onion

Now let's start with the fried meatballs!

Unboxing: Glamourbox's Beauties and Babies

Hi friends! :)
How are you today?
Well, I'm doing okay!  Really tired yet extremely happy to have such a wonderful bundle of joy!  And you know what I realized?  Receiving gifts will never be the same if the gifts are for your baby!  

No matter how many times I received gifts for Baby AMW, the happiness I feel is immeasurable!  That includes July 2014 Glamourbox called Beauties & Babies!  Though I am extremely happy with all the boxes I get from Glamourbox, this box is different because I knew the box contain goodies not only for me but for my baby!

Thank you Glamourbox for this lovely box and for creating such a wonderful box meant for mommies or soon-to-be-mommies who still want to stay beautiful for herself!

Beauties & Babies Box

Join Benefit's Style, Selfie & Share Promo and win a Samsung NX Mini!

If you passed by certain Benefit branches (Greenbelt, Trinoma, SM MOA), you probably saw this poster of a beautiful girl going on a mall tour!  *laughs*

Jokes aside, it was actually the mall tour of none other than my favorite liner of all time --- the Benefit They're Real Push Up Liner!

I was one of the lucky few who first tested this product when this was launched in San Francisco last March!  I have to admit, this product may be a bit tricky to use at first few tries but once you get the hang of its' unique AccuFlex tip, you'll never look back!

And to celebrate this unique invention, Benefit Cosmetics Philippines invited me to do a series of workshops to help consumers understand how to use the liner to create different liner looks that suits each individuals' eye shapes.

Who can say no to that?  Thank you Benefit Cosmetics Philippines for the trust!

Okay, there are 9 workshops scheduled and I have done 8! Yes!  8 workshops and I enjoyed meeting a lot of Benebabes!  Thank you so much for taking the time off to learn makeup tricks from me!

BGC Central Square schedule will be moved to a later date, around September!  Please follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for updates!

Tech Review: Digital Walker Gear4 Expresso Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

I love coffee!  I don't know how many times I have to say this for you to understand...I REALLY LOVE COFFEE!

I was "On a Break" with my beloved coffee for 2 years when I got pregnant, gave birth and breastfed baby AMW and now, I'm back!!!

And what to give for coffee-loving people like me?  THIS!

Isn't this the cutest thing?  This is no ordinary cup!  As you know, I love music, music is part of my life, I have theme songs for every special moments of my  life and I'm sure you wouldn't want to hear the end of it! :P

Digital Walker came up with a cute Expresso Wireless Bluetooth Speaker, what made this even cuter is the fact that the size is just right!  Not too big and not too small!  Check out size difference against a real mug!

Askmewhats Reports: The Vitress Catwalk Event

It was surreal to meet the endorsers of Vitress in the flesh!

Especially Solenn Heussaff, the ultimate "It" girl.

Something New: Happy Skin ZZ Cream and New Shut Up & Kiss Me Lippies!

If you follow me on Instagram, you'll know that I'm one of the lucky bloggers who attended the intimate blogger gathering for Happy Skin.  What's the reason for such get-together?  New products of course!

As you all know, Happy Skin is around for just almost a year but they have been creating quite a buzz!  I see celebrities, fellow Beauty Bloggers, Media friends raving about their products and I totally understand why! 

And so far, the brand ain't stopping!  They are definitely here to stay and will continue to create skin-loving makeup products for users like us, who are constantly in search for makeup that does not only prettify on the outside but love our skin even on the inside!

AMW Reports: Bensimon DIY Event

Not too long ago, Keith and I used to bond inside a coffee shop just to "chill", but most of the time, we talk about our dreams.  We have been going out for 11 years (before we said "I Do") so that's a lot of talking over coffee!  So many topics to talk about and I actually raised up a topic of creating my own shoes/sandals!  

I want sandals  where I can choose my own straps and designs...it happened with Make Your Own Havaianas.  I want shoes that I can freely paint on...my wish came true with last week's Bensimon DIY event at Rockwell Powerplant.

Okay, the dream became a reality but upon seeing all the "art supplies", me and my blogger friends (Hello Angela and Jackie!) got nervous we actually planned on an escape route leaving our Bensimon pair unscathed! 

But that was only at the back of our heads, we actually had no choice but to muster our courage and pray for divine intervention....well...I was praying for someone to do it for me! :P

L'Oreal Gather's the World's Most Beautiful Collection Star 2014 (Barely Lipsticks)

Everybody who is into makeup has probably been on a search for "the perfect nude lippie" at least once in their lifetime!  I have been in search for that "My Lips But Better" (MLBB) lippie so many times I can't keep track!

Out of the number of times I've searched, I went through several hits and misses and thankfully, there is one brand that gave this a serious thought and came up with Barely there lipsticks that suits ALL skin tones!  And the best part?  They have models to give us the "rough idea" on how the effect would be!

Introducing, L'Oreal Star Collection by Color Riche.  

Truth be told, the Color Riche line from L'Oreal deserves a standing ovation in terms of pigmentation, quality and price!  I've reviewed and mentioned this line so many times on my blog I won't give you the boring review anymore but instead, I'm sharing what the Star Collection has to offer!

Related links ---

Valentines Day Look with L'Oreal Color Riche

L'Oreal Color Riche Intense Color Nourishing Care Lip Colors Review

L'Oreal Color Riche Lipstick in Coral

Eureka Moment: Almost Nude

First things first, the book-like media kit isn't sold but this was packaged for bloggers and media.

Tadah!  5 shades of "Barely" lippies with 5 gorgeous models!  I got super excited when I saw Jennifer Lopez Lippie as I am always a fan of her nude lips!

AMW Cooks: Asparagus in Mushrooms and Ground Beef

Asparagus, what are other ways for me to cook them without the usual ground pork in soy sauce or oyster sauce?  Well, I've decided to change it into beef and added my favorite Enoki mushrooms for texture.

The recipe is very simple, here are the ingredients you need ---

AMW Reviews: Asus Zenfone 4 and 5

Seldom can you find a person NOT using smartphones nowadays!  We are definitely living in a world were we rely so much on technology!  Look at me for example!  The moment I wake up (before the little one does), I check my mail, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page.  On days, I want to cook something exciting, I have my phone right beside me and I'll search on recipes!  If I need to go somewhere, I go online on WAZE to make sure I get traffic updates and of course, directions just in case I get lost due to reroutes!

The list could go on and on! 

No wonder mobile phone companies are coming with better (and more inexpensive) versions of the SmartPhones we love to depend on!  The brand I recently got to know is Asus and they are called ZenFones.

I was lucky enough to get 2 Zenfones to test!  Zenfone 4 and 5!

I originally call this a "His and Her" phone but after trying out both, I want to call these "HER AND HER" phone!  I want these 2!  Hahaha

Both ZenFones are powered by Intel Processor.  I may not be a "Tech Blogger" but I know a thing or 2 about phones and let me share to you how I find both phones.

AMW Reviews: Virginia Olsen Pure Organics Lip Creme (Kiss the Girl)

Lipsticks, who can honestly say they have enough?
I can't!  I always want more! 

As a makeup artist, I want to make sure I have a wide range of lipstick shades available for my clients to choose from!  That's my best reason to purchase more lipsticks! 

Recently, I got a lipstick from Virginia Olsen under their "Lip Creme" line.  The name lip creme sounds ultra moisturizing and perfect for dry-lips users like moi!  After using it for a week, here's my honest-to-goodness review on how I find this said product!

The shade I got to try is called: "Kiss the Girl".  Tell me if the song from Little Mermaid suddenly pops in your head after reading this shade name!  It does to me...ALL THE TIME!  EVERY USE!  

Virginia Olsen says ---

Virginia Olsen Pure Organics Lip Crème is formulated with all-natural ingredients which provide long lasting color and natural moisture that are safe to use even for those with delicate lips. It delivers natural pigments in a traditional lipstick shape, yet maintains its organic integrity.

Unboxing: BDJ Box (July 2014)

Hello!  If you have a "Blog" roll that you follow on a daily basis, you've probably seen a lot of Beauty Bloggers unboxing their July BDJ Box!  You may think "hohum" not another BDJ Box unboxing but hey!  This is seriously exciting for me, and I'm sure at some point in your life, you have received a gift and you get so excited to unbox or unwrap them as well!  

This box is no exception, any packages I get still give me the "high" and I guess that's how it is in life, we have to find the "balance" to keep us moving.  We have to find something that will excite us no matter how superficial it is!  :) And for me, the superficial side is receiving beauty-related stuff!  Because I like them, that's the reason why this Blog still exists after all these years :)

Just in case you're not updated, here's what's inside the BDJ July box!  What I like about BDJ Box is that they are environmental-friendly!  They've used their small boxes for quite sometime and I like it that they don't waste a single space inside!  And just when I thought: "How do they deal with big products/samples?"  In a blink of an eye, my queries were answered!  They created bigger boxes this month to house bigger samples and still didn't fail to put a smile on my face!

What to take a closer look on the brands included?

FLY Mid-Year Collection 2014

Humpy Day! How's your Wednesday so far?
Sunglasses!  I love them to death!  I remembered not leaving the house without at least 1 pair of sunglass!  And mind you, there are times I bring 2 or 3 just because I want to make sure it works with my outfit! (arte ba?) 

And Fly Shades isn't new to me as I have been using their sunglasses for quite some time, aside from the fact that they are partly owned by my really good friend, I really like the designs they came up with and for a sunglass that is inexpensive, as long as you take good care of them, I have them for years!

And thankfully, I'm not out-of-the-loop when it comes to sunglasses fashion!  Here's 2014 mid-year collection!  And mind you, after this post, these glasses went straight to the people who loves to wear sunglasses too!  My family!  1 goes to my sister-in-law, aunt and dad-in-law!  Sharing is really caring and I don't mind giving these to people who can use them dearly!

AMW Reports: K-Palette 1 Day Magic event and 1Day Magic Products

How do you feel when you enter in a room with cute pink dresser loaded with cute Japanese products and magazines?

No matter how much make-up I currently own and use, I still shriek deep inside!  But on the exterior, I kept my cool!

That's what happened to me during the K-Palette 1 Day Magic event that happened last week at R Space, Makati.  How could a product like K-palette gets any better?  When they are housed in very cute packaging and obviously, they are still the wonderful K-palette products that deliver!  One of my favorite Asian Cosmetics brand!

K-Palette 1Day Magic Dessert Bar

I have to admit, I got a bit sidetracked with their desserts table and went back to what's new and what's a 1Day Magic!

Here are the 4 products that's causing all the "magic"

AMW Reviews: Burt's Bees Coconut Foot Creme

My feet have always been the most ignored part of my body!  But thanks to Beauty Blogging, I need to test as much "beauty-related" products as possible because not everyone is as lazy as I am right?

Ah huh, a bit!  I've been Blogging for more than 8 years now but as you browse through the "Product Reviews" segment, I have less than 10 foot care products mentioned in this blog.

And I need to do something about it!  Actually, it was a wake-up call when our house help exclaimed: "Ma'am, kahit mayayaman pala ma dry at may kalyo ang paa!" (Madam, I just realized even rich people have dry, calloused feet!)   

NOTE FROM AUTHOR:  I am definitely not mayaman (rich) but it was funny how BRUTALLY Honest (and tactless) our house help was! *laughs* But seriously, it was an "OUCHY" statement!  (Sagad to the bones ha!)

Can I just protect my image?  *laughs*  I used to have pretty nice feet but ever since Baby AMW turned into a "walking and running monster", I tend to stay barefoot at his play area thus the "legit" excuse of having dry and calloused feet!  

Legit reasoning or not, I need to do something Fast before it's too late!  Every night I put Baby AMW to sleep, I take the extra time to apply Burt's Bees Coconut Foot Creme and wear socks for the past month!  So far, here are my thoughts if this extra "beauty" step is worth it or not!

Burt's Bees says ---

Your feet support you each and every day. How about a little love? Made with Coconut Oil and other natural ingredients, our foot creme revives and rejuvenates your dry, oh-so neglected feet while Rosemary and Peppermint Extracts refresh your weary soles. You’ll go nuts for it.

Revives and rejuvenates dry feet with Coconut Oil
Refreshes with Rosemary and Peppermint Extracts

#SplashofSummer with my Sampleroom Family!

I'm holding a "SampleRoom Rocks" card because I totally believe THEY ROCK!
They rock my world as a beauty blogger when I joined them as they never fail to surprise me on very important events in my life!

My birthday

My pregnancy

Giving Birth

Kyle's First Birthday

Mother's Day

and a whole lot more!

I'm not referring to the gift-giving but the fact that they never fail to forget every milestones that happened in my life!  They showered me with love and attention to let me know how important I am to them. 

That's why when I got a whole day out of town invite on a weekend, mind you, it is very difficult to pry me away from Kyle, I told myself I had to be there, to show them how much I love and appreciate them too!

AMW wearing Soak Swimwear Resortwear Margherita Maxi Dress and Fly Shades in SARI

*International readers may find wearing sarongs to be comfortable especially if you don't want to show off your body! :) Try the online seller site that I chanced upon that sells really cute sarongs called Fair Winds Sarongs at FairWindsSarongs.com.

Last Saturday we met up at Makati 6750 Starbucks for a quick breakfast and get together.  We arrived Pico De Loro, Nasugbu Batangas at 10:00am with a huge welcome sign!

AMW Cooks: Talong Burger (Eggplant Burger)

Happy Sunday!
It's about food once again and this is the second most requested recipe!  *yay*  Firstly, I want to thank everyone for taking interest in my simple cooking!  I appreciate all the love and vote of confidence over Instagram!  

Back when I was a teenager, I dislike Eggplant so much I literally ran away from it!  My mom loves to cook "Tortang talong" but, because I would never touch Eggplant to save my dire life, instead of just mixture of egg and talong, she would include Pork and egg and I would scrape the meat off and leave the eggplant behind!

Now that I'm older, and wiser!  I love eggplant so much I don't mind cooking 2 dishes just because Mr. AMW doesn't like this vegetable!  And because I wanted to make it look more presentable, I created "Talong Burger" (eggplant burger) instead!

Just so you know, this tactic can fool your kids into eating vegetables!  :)  Baby AMW, you'll have your turn soon! :P

Ingredients:

Myra Holistic Skin Care

Yesterday, I've written in this post how I take care of my skin.
But of course, no matter how much we physically take care of our skin, if we don't do something from within, our efforts will be wasted.

And to get that effortless "lit form within" glow, Myra came up with the Holistic Skin Care approach which I totally believe in!  (The reason why I'm Blogging about this so passionately!)

First things first, I got this care package and totally get what message Myra is trying to send out.

To care of our skin from within, here's a simple checklist for you to keep in mind ---

• Sleep - as much as I wanted to say sleeping 4 hours a day is enough, it isn't!  And it showed when I gave birth to Baby AMW!  My skin turned sallow and pimples are spurting out here and there.  True as they say that the entire body goes into a repair mode when we snooze, if we don't have enough sleep, well I guess it shows why my skin isn't as healthy as it used to be!
  Tip from Myra: to make mornings less of a drag, try setting a wake-up time that's a multiple of 90 minutes.  This is the length of the average sleep cycle so you will wake up with beautiful morning!
• Exercise - regular exercise DOES help score healthy skin!  I've been to the stage of being really active with both cardio workout and strength training and I remembered how my skin looked back then!  Exercise can definitely cleanse your skin from the inside!  So yes, I must not make an excuse on how busy my schedule is, I should squeeze in at least 15-30 minutes of exercise a day!
• Hydrate - this has always been a "tested" secret in keeping skin healthy and glowing.  I sometimes finish a full work day without drinking a drop of water, I know that's bad so I'm definitely using the KOR bottle to remind me wherever I go to drink my needed amount of water!
• Eat Well - Thankfully, this, I've been doing well!  If you follow me on Instagram, I cook our meals most of the time and I make sure to use fresh ingredients so we don't always settle for take-aways!
• Take Vitamin E -  Vitamin E as it is rich in anti-oxidants which help boost my skin from within and it helps stop skin-damaging, free radicals from stealing life from my sales and best of all?  It helps repair damaged cells and works hard to protect the healthy ones!

How to Get Good Skin (Shower Edition)

You probably have an idea on what I use on my face, body, hands and feet based on the products I review each day.  But what do I really use when I take a shower?  What do I do to protect my skin keeping it (as much as possible) healthy and smooth?

Okay, I've thought about this post so many times and I get a bit overwhelmed because I just have so many bath products!  Blame the "Beauty Blogger" in me.  To keep this post simple and straightforward, I will divide this post into Hair Care, Body Care and so on so that ...you won't think I'm using too many products!  *laughs* 

No judging okay? 

To start off, it helps to make your "shower room", "bathing area", "comfort room" (depends on how you call it) as comfortable as possible.  Why?  Because it is actually a place where you get the ULTIMATE ME time!  Not unless you always take shower with another person *winks winks*  Okay, back to R-rating!  Shower time is like the ultimate "rest" for me especially now that I'm a mommy!  So make each shower experience worth it and your skin will also thank you for it!

To give you an idea on the products I use for my body, here's an "overview".  By the way, I have a total of 3 racks and this one, I call my "Body Rack" (Body rock!)

To start off, keep in mind that I change products every now and then but the "basics" will always be there.  What are my basics?