Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD!
-Psalm 150:6 NASB
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Friday, October 10, 2014
Simple Joys!
One thing I ask of the LORD,
this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD
and to seek him in his temple.
Psalm 27:4 NIV
***
Anyone up for Taho ? :)
 |
| Taho w/ arnibal & sago <3 (soybean curd w/ sweet syrup & chewy pearls similar to tapioca) |
 |
| Our BBW Leaves candle, pretty flower vase & taho! |
 |
| Mother of pearl everything. We have a lot of these in the Philippines :) (this is the exterior of the flower vase) |
Hot sun in October!
It means da hubby is right,
we don't really need a clothes dryer
 |
| I <3 shining my hubby's shoes |
 |
| Secret afternoon snack: Goji juice Sky Flakes soda crackers Blue cheese <3 |
HAVE A BLESSED DAY!
Disclaimer:
I am not affiliated with and do not own the labels mentioned above!
Not sponsored in any way! :)
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Rotate n' Resurrect !!! October 2014
Hi everyone! It's time to introduce my new segment:
ROTATE N' RESURRECT
What i do at the beginning of each month is run through my existing stuff from previous seasons or collections and choose which can be ROTATED during the new month (or season); hence RESURRECTING my (lately acquired, non-expired) trusty goodies.
Benefits of RNR:
1. I get to use & eventually finish my purchased products = avoid waste.
2. I can see what shades I lack, have too many of, & haven't explored.
3. It helps me stay true to my preferences more instead of just jumping on the bandwagon.
4. I can plan my future shopping trip more efficiently = avoid redundancy.
5. It prevents me from hoarding!
6. It promotes renewed appreciation for my stuff, just like when I first liked & bought them.
7. I get to save &/or appropriate money.
8. I can also evaluate & learn from my past purchase pitfalls.
9. It promotes regular cleaning of items & organisation according to rotation.
Last but not the least:
10. It reminds me of how i myself, had been made alive & useful by my Lord Jesus Christ through His Spirit, for His glory. <3
TIME FOR THINGS ETERNAL :)
*******
JOHN 11: 25-27 NASB
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives
and believes
in Me will never die.
Do you believe this?"
She said to Him, "Yes, Lord; I have believed that You are the Christ, the Son of God, even He who comes into the world."
*******
HERE WE GO! TO THINGS TEMPORARY :)
Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with and do not own the labels mentioned here. All products were purchased by me, i'm not sponsored in any way! All reviews are my personal opinions and feelings about the products mentioned. You may have a different experience with them. Test all products in small amounts on a small hidden area of your skin when trying a product; consulting your physician is best!
Presenting my picks for the 1st RNR post :D
We don't really have fall season here in the Philippines (recent months have been sunny-rainy... more like RAIN-FALL season hahahahaha!), but it's just nice to call it fall and gear toward shades usually released in fall/autumn collections.
Above; Clockwise from the left:
Chanel eyeliner. Fashion 21 eyeshadow palette. Chanel blush. Annick Goutal EDT. Dior perfume. Chanel nail polishes. Assorted lipsticks.
I. EYES
5" x 2", so it easily fits into a small case or purse.
These come in individual cases before they were placed in the pan. Swatches below:
Left to Right:
Shade #4 -a deep fray with fine shimmer
Shade #6 -a burnished gold, high shimmer
Shade #7 -a basic matte brown
Shade #8 -a matte maroonish brown
Lower pair: Shade #7 -a basic matte brown
Upper pair: Shade #8 -a matte maroonish brown
These shadows are good quality; they are not as creamy and blendable like the ones from Dior, but they get the job done at such a friendly price. Worth a try ;) Minimal fallout too!
0.30g. P1,350 at Rustan's. Self-sharpening, retractable. Swatches below:
II. FACE
Comes in compact with mirror, brush and black velvet pouch (not shown).
If you zoom in. you'll see it's not too shimmery, though Chanel has super micro shimmer in this blush. It makes your skin look so fresh, not oily.
If you will see Frivole in the store, it can look orangey-peach at first, but this is how flattering it is when swatched!
III. LIPS
Left to Right: Dior ("holographic" case!), Fashion 21, Chanel, Fashion21, Chanel, Fashion 21. Foreground: Chanel glossimer.
Left: Dior Addict lipstick shade #260 Rose Deshabille. 3,5g.
This was a gift from my aunt, it's so see through, i use it mainly as a topper or gloss. Best for days when i don't want my lips to look all made up. I wish they didn't have to call it "addict". Boo! But it's comfortable and the case is a joy in my makeup bag! Thanks tita!
Right: Fashion 21 Moisturific lipstick shade Poppy Pepper. 4g. On sale at P199, at SM Department Store.
It looks light when still in bullet form, but check the pigment :) I call it a spiced pink :) Not a fan of the packaging but i luv the product: really moisturising with lovely colour. Heavy and light swatches below:
Upper pair: Fashion 21 Moisturific lipstick shade: Poppy Pepper.
(It's generally warm in the Philippines: lately, daytime can feel like bikini weather and nights can be cooler or rainy. Hence the "need" for these :)
Left: Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet matte lipstick shade #43 La Favorite. 3,5g.
P1,650 from Rustan's.
This was released on one of their previous spring collections, but it easily found its way into my summer and hot-weather months. At first i didn't like it, i favoured its sister (#42 L'eclatante, not shown) but this one suited my undertones better. A creamy matte bright coral is welcome this time of the year :)
Right: Fashion 21 Moisturific lipstick shade Deep Crimson. 4g. On sale at P199,
SM Department Store.
I describe this as a cool red with a hint of magenta. Cream finish. Again, very pigmented and moisturising. Love it!
Heavy and light swatches below:
Upper pair: Fashion 21 Moisturific lipstick shade Deep Crimson.
Left: Chanel Rouge Allure luminous intense lipstick shade #119 Captivante. 3,5g.
P1,550 from Beloved7 online shop at OLX Sulit.
This, for me, is the perfect low-key fall lip shade. It reminds me of cozy mocha cups, spiced pastries and cinnamon. It has super fine gold shimmer that adds a lovely gleam to your lips.
Right: Fashion 21 Moisturific lipstick shade Ruby Rouge. 4g. On sale at P199, at SM Department Store. This is like a "mauve-y" cinnamon.
Heavy and light swatches below:
Upper pair: Fashion 21 Moisturific lipstick shade Ruby Rouge.
Hmmm...i just had to swatch these two side by side :)
Left: Chanel Captivante. Right: Fashion 21 Poppy Pepper.
IV. NAILS
Do you remember when these shades came out? :)
Closeups below:
V. SCENT
For day/ casual: Annick Goutal Eau d'Hadrien Eau de Toilette- one of the house's most favoured scents. It's clean and citrus; crisp and no-nonsense :). Available in Eau de Parfum version.
For night/ dressy: Dior Miss Dior Cherie EDP. It has patchouli and citrus notes with a base of Jasmine. Very elegant yet youthful, one spritz goes a long way <3.
See?! If you rummage through your stuff, you will find something you can
rotate n' resurrect
and FALL in love with your "old, forgotten" things all over again,
and save for a rainy day :)
and save for a rainy day :)
Whether it's leaves or rain...
a blessed FALL season to you!
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Good morning remembrance
My Lord and my God, thank you for another day, your graces are new every morning and i receive them from you. Forgive me for the many times i forget to thank you for the "big and little" things, the "good and seemingly bad" things. You work all things for my good, for your glory.
You gave me beauty for ashes, you made me alive and set me free. You are the real beauty in my life and i worship you. My soul finds rest and joy in the God of my eternal salvation. Father, in Jesus' name i thank you today. Amen.
 |
| Cyprina natural peach apple juice (and Mr. Water!), Nestle yogurt w/ mango bits, Dusit pastry, and Mr. Coffee not shown! :D |
 |
| The humble but luxuriously bright "Santan" |
 |
| Ylang-ylang plant. I used to pluck all yellowing leaves but sometimes they are pretty to look at with the green ones. Reminds me of the Lord's unchanging faithfulness to His word, though seasons may change. |
 |
| Mango chocolate pastry from Dusit Gourmet. Yum! <3 |
 |
| How painful to have similar things piercing your skin & scalp! |
 |
| Unending thanks to The One. |
Credits and style/ pattern referenes:
Goblet: Cristal d'Arques France. Style: Salzburg Gold. ---lovely facets.
Glass, small Japanese design bowl and Asian-inspired coasters: brands unrecalled.
Placemat: Rustan's. Brand unrecalled. ---washable and durable woven PVC? design.
Napkin: Filipiniana style, brand unrecalled.
Flatware: Oneida Fine Stainless. Style: Journey. ---nice weight and well-balanced, easy care :)
Plate: Noritake Fine Bone China. With gold, style unrecalled. ---Simply elegant and "lightweight".
I don't save my nice tableware just for guests :)
My husband is the most important person at home
(and in my life!), so i use my nice china and crystal
to serve him (and our family).
My husband is the most important person at home
(and in my life!), so i use my nice china and crystal
to serve him (and our family).
I just take extra care when washing and drying them;
worth the effort! :D
DISCLAIMER:
I AM NOT AFFILIATED WITH, NOT SPONSORED;
I DO NOT OWN THE LABELS MENTIONED!
worth the effort! :D
DISCLAIMER:
I AM NOT AFFILIATED WITH, NOT SPONSORED;
I DO NOT OWN THE LABELS MENTIONED!
<3
September Favorites 2014 -- Osis+, Fashion 21, Chanel, Dior, swatches & reviews!
Time to share my
September 2014 favorites!
Hi everyone! I hope i'm giving helpful info by sharing my recent faves. :) Remember, you can always find something similar that answers your need and is within budget. Enjoy!
P.S.
All products were purchased by me, i'm not sponsored in any way! All reviews here are my personal opinions and feelings about the products mentioned. You may have a different experience with them. Test all products in small amounts on a small hidden area of your skin when trying a new product, consulting your physician is best!
150ml press-fliptop bottle; in select professional salons.
Pros: Defines my curls, natural bounce, not heavy, with medium control hold; smells so good!
Cons: The price! about P1,300+/-.
Right: EVIAN natural mineral water facial spray
300ml spray can; available in mini size; in most groceries, department stores, drugstores.
Pros: Skin care water, hydrates externally, gives me a fresh feeling, i use it to fix makeup. Has balanced mineral components; and the label says the mineral water is natural and from the French Alps <3 Reminds me to drink water too.
Cons: I feel that it is pricey for water.
Left: NIVEA Sun immediate sun protection collagen protect
125ml fliptop bottle; in most groceries, department stores, drugstores.
Pros: SPF 50 PA++ UVA UVB protection, non-sticky, intensive moisturization, water resistant. Label says "protects immediately upon application, no need to wait for 20 minutes". I still like to apply this in advance before stepping out, but when i'm in a hurry, i just remember what the label says. :) Has a mild, tolerable sunscreen scent. Affordable.
It's really sunny almost year-round in the Philippines so this is a must-have! No joke to have DNA damaged by harmful rays, at any age! For me, protection is a better focus than whitening.
Cons: As with most sunscreens, it gives a whitish cast on my skin so i have to rub it until it "vanishes".
Right: SOAP & GLORY Girligo spray-on body moisturising mist
100ml spray bottle; came in a "Soaper Heroes" set from Sephora
Pros: Spray moisturisers are so eeeeee-z to apply especially when i'm tired and just want to sleep. I have dry skin so i'm big on moisture and comfort, especially in air-conditioned rooms. Small handy size, super lovely-mild-clean scent. Shea butter!!!
Cons: i'm not sure if this is still available, but Sephora has a range of Soap & Glory products you can try. My set was a gift from a dear friend when we were in Sephora Singapore few moths back, was saving it, got quite busy and i opened it just recently, hence this favourites ranking only now :)
Clockwise from leftmost lippy:
DIOR DIORIFIC shade: #009 Award.
FASHION 21 MOISTURIFIC shade: Ruby Rouge
CHANEL ROUGE ALLURE shade: #119 Captivante
LAURA MERCIER Lip Silk
DIOR Lipliner Pencil shade: #532 Jungle Brown
1.Dior Diorific long-wearing true colour lipstick. Shade 009 Award
3,5g. P2,000 from Dior counters.
Pros: This is nude on me (NC30/ fair-medium skin)-- it's quite hard to find a flattering nude, smells luxuriously good, lasting, comfortable, super elegant gold packaging! Nice click and with some weight to it. A joy holding it in my hand :)
Cons: a bit more dry than their other lines, but the lady said it has a more matte-satin formulation, not creamy/glossy Painfully pricey.
2.Fashion 21 Moisturific moisture-rich lipstick. Shade Ruby Rouge
4g. P199 on sale at SM Department Store
Pros: This is muted berry on me, i love mixing it with Chanel Captivante to create a "fall" colour...just look at that beautiful, rich pigment! Comfortable, seems unscented, more product in the tube. Soooo affordable!
Cons: I personally dislike the metallic blue packaging with the manufacture, expiry dates printed directly on the packaging. Though, i believe the intention is to show the user how fresh their product is, so i still appreciate that. I hope they'll print it on the box instead or place a removable sticker on the barrel or the box.
3.Chanel Rouge Allure luminous intense lip color. Shade 119 Captivante
3,5g. P1,550 on promo at Beloved7 online shop at OLX.
Pros: This is a bit "cinnamon/ brownie" on me; reminds me of fall and spices. With micro gold shimmer. So lovely and comfortable <3 Chanel packaging is so elegant -- cool to touch, nice push tube with high- end click, with beautiful gold bottom showing CC logo.
Cons: pricey :p
Left to Right:
1. Dior lipliner pencil shade Jungle Brown --multiple, layered swatch
2. Dior lipliner pencil shade Jungle Brown --single swatch
1,2g. P1,300 from the Dior counter.
Pros: So luxurious, comfortable and matches all my nude lippies! Comes with lip brush on the other end of the pencil and its own tiny Dior sharpener!
Cons: The price. I have to see how long before i finish this.
3.Dior Award lipstick --just to show how the pencil's single swatch really matches this lipstick shade!
4.Laura Mercier lip silk
11.3G. Around P1,000+-, from Rustan's department store.
Pros: Love it daytime & bedtime, as lip prep before lipstick application. It really cares for my lips and i feel it is more healing and pampering than plain balms. Colorless. No thick feeling, unscented. A lil goes a super long way! I'm actually having trouble finishing it! Yay for mileage :)
Cons: Pricey.
13ml. P1,250 ea., Rustan's Dept. Store
Above is close up of #629 Atmosphere.
A collector's item in my opinion !
Pros: Super nice colour, easy application, super fast-drying. Finish is lovely! Most times i don't even need topcoat. All Chanel polishes do not have: Formaldehyde, toluene and DBP! Yay!!!
Cons: pricceeey.
Left to Right:
#629 Atmosphere "holographic" shade, so fun yet simply neutral.
#18 Rouge Noir my super all-time fave! Especially toward Christmas season.
#521 Rose Cache i used this as base coat, so nice by itself for weddings or the workplace.
NOTE:
For my pricier items, i find that they are still value for money cuz:
1. Less reapplications due to great pigments of lipsticks = more product mileage
2. Long lasting, no allergies!
3. The polishes dry really fast, they save me time!
******
Disclaimer: i am not affiliated with/ sponsored by the brands mentioned;
everything was purchased by me!
everything was purchased by me!
Leave questions and comments below!
Monday, September 29, 2014
Easy Shower Products! -- Pantene, Harnn, Moroccan Oil and more!
After a busy weekend, i just wanted to slow down a bit. No long fussy routines, just be fresh and clean!
So here's what i used in the shower for a quick, simple cleanse. These products have been in my rotation for quite some time, so i hope i'm giving ample info for those who want to try 'em! Enjoy! <3
P.S. All products were purchased by me, i'm not sponsored in any way! All reviews here are my personal opinions and feelings about the products mentioned. You may have a different experience with them. Test all products in small amounts on a small hidden area of your skin when trying a new product, consulting your physician is best!
Clockwise from the Left:
1. Pantene Pro-V Brunette Expressions shampoo. 384mL fliptop bottle.
-especially for color-treated hair; gentle on permed hair.
-affordable, in most groceries and department stores.
This is a daily colour enhancing shampoo with liquid crystals that claims to "bring out depth and richness in brunette hair". My hair is naturally fine, somewhat straight and dark brown; though recently, i had it color-treated and permed professionally. I bought this a long while ago, just wanted to try the crystals thing.
This is quite a lot of product in a regular-sized bottle, shampoo itself is a hot toffee-colored liquid with micro shimmer stuff. Smells clean and fresh; just a tad floral. Consistency is not too thick nor runny; an no it doesn't stain towels :). I sincerely believe it livens up my hair colour, or at least protects it from turning prematurely dull. This is my 3rd bottle and i would buy it again, but at the same time still be open to trying other shampoos with similar purposes and benefits.
2. St. Ives Naturally Clear Apricot Scrub. 6oz fliptop bottle.
- blemish & acne control, dermatologist tested, 100% natural extracts.
- affordable, in most department stores, groceries and drugstores.
Now who hasn't tried this old timer?! Why am i blogging about it? Well, i just want to share that i found a new use for it. When i was a teen, i used this on my face cuz i liked the scrubby feeling of it. But about 3 years ago i decided, i don't want to scrub my skin like that anymore, nope, no more physical exfoliants. So now i still keep this product in my shower...for my body! I don't know what it is about this relatively plain scrub that keeps me reaching for it. Maybe cuz over the years i've come to trust the walnut shell powder ingredient :)
I love using it to buff my bod especially in places where dirt or product tends to accumulate like the pits, elbows, knees and feet. Oh it also has 2% Salicylic Acid which is usually for treating acne, but i don't have acne and it's okay. It's a good size product, with creamy-sandy consistency and rinses clean. Doesn't seem to clog drains but i'm really not a fan of the scent--smells like medicated nuts to me! But still a welcome shower staple :).
3. Lactoserum Lactic Acid Lactacyd vaginal antiseptic solution. 250ml fliptop bottle.
- daily feminine wash, for external use, dermatologically-tested mild formula.
- affordable, in most groceries and department stores.
This would probably be this first and last time i'll write about this product. Pretty much basic stuff and just in case you're really curious, it has 900 mg Lactoserum and 1 g Lactic Acid per 100 ml. These are natural stuff which cleanse the intimate area and protect against discomfort. This never caused me any alleIn most groceries and department stores.
4. Harnn Lavender & Geranium soap. 100g bar soap.
- luxury Asian-inspired soap.
- high-end, at G/F Glorietta 5, Ayala Center, Makati.
Sadly, i already threw the packaging of this soap; but may i say it's quite a good quality soap that has a mild scent and is easy to rinse off. I use this on my body! If you like mega-bubbles, this isn't the one for you. Also, i noticed it has a glycerin-ey residue when it's left wet underneath so it's best placed on a soap dish that drains water efficiently. Quite mild.
This was given to me as a gift and i have another one i haven't opened. :) Harnn is from Thailand, their local shop is in Makati. They have a wide range of bath and spa products there <3 A must-visit-and-conquer shop for bathing beauties!
5. Moroccanoil hair treatment, Light. 100ml pump bottle.
- alcohol-free moroccan oil.
- around P2,400, in pro salons.
I tend to neglect my hair most times, and this product was suggested by my stylist. And boy was he right! It really nourished my hair and ends with daily use, and a little goes such a long way. It's ultra-light formula suits my fine hair, there's another formula for thicker hair. I love applying this after a shower or to smoothen out any flyaways; I still have a lot and i conclude it's worth the price.
I apply this on dry or damp hair, as a nighttime hair treat, and i also use this on my skin sometimes; and one time i used it on my hubby's face when he wanted a soothing massage-- cuz i had it bedside :) It starts out as light oil but absorbs quickly, leaves no oily residue, it just "vanishes" :) Has a very faint pleasant scent. Will repurchase! Note: bottle is made of glass.
6. Skintimate lotionized shave creme. 177ml squeeze bottle.
- luxurious, moisturizing, non-foaming formula, for dry skin.
- around P300, in select groceries.
This is such a basic but fun product, it protects my skin from nicks and cuts when i shave <3. It's fun cuz the tip of the nozzle/ dispenser is shaped like a flower!!! Cheers me up in the shower :)
It's mildly-scented, infused with olive butter and soy, and only a thin layer is needed. Try it!!!
7. Schick Silk Effects Plus razor.
-double blades with moisturizing strip, 2 extra blade cartridges.
- around P300, at Rustan's grocery.
Used properly, this never cut my skin :) It's just a lot of fun in the shower cuz it's pretty and efficient. I shave my legs in the direction of hair growth, never against. This lessens the trauma on the follicle and so far my leg hair grows flat and not wayward, smoother too.
Nice easy-to grip size and design, and you can attach the accompanying hanger on the wall or just place it onto something.
*******
Disclaimer: i'm not affiliated with and don't own these brands!
Hope you liked my simple reviews!
Let me know what you think or suggest :)
Leave your questions or comments below!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)