DIY: Depotting Your Favorite Lipstick

Have you ever had that favorite lipstick that you just can't let go of even if it's all melted and the tube is broken already?  If you're answer is yes, don't fret. Depotting is the key!

It's actually very easy to do.  All you need is a spoon, candle, bbq stick, and a small container.  The one shown below is like a contact lens case bought from Beabi.

What you do is to scoop out the lipstick using the bbq stick.  Be sure to do it in small amounts to estimate if it will fit your container.  Place it on the spoon and melt it using your candle.  Do not leave out clumps.  Once melted, carefully place it in the container.  And voila, your lipstick is saved!  

Depotting is very useful especially when you can't leave your precious lipsticks at home.  This will help save a lot of space in your bag.  Make up artists do this as well to save space.

Hope this quick tutorial helps!

Gotta Love: Red Lipsticks

Finding the perfect lip color is like finding your bestfriend (hahaha!).  For me, it came in the color red.  I've been afraid to try bold lip colors so I always bought either pink or brown tones.  I find it ok for me but these shades do not provide the coverage I wanted.  I guess it's because my upper lip is a bit darker than my lower lip.  Gaaah!

So anyway, one afternoon, I find myself staring at Anne Curtis' Instagram account, and I said, hey why not try red?  With the help of my friends on Facebook, almost everybody recommended I get Russian Red from MAC.  After a bit of research and trusting their suggestion I bought one and yes, it was just perfect for me.  Instant love!  The shade provides the coverage I wanted.  And it's matte too, which I really like, so it looks like my natural lip color.

No make up other than Russian Red lipstick selfie at 8 AM.  Eyebags!

For this post, I'm featuring another red color but which I borrowed.  It's my sister's Ronnie Red shade, from the MAC Archie's Collection.  This color is brighter than Russian Red, more fun and flirty, just like it's namesake Veronica. Perfect for casual Fridays in the office.  Totally in love with it too!

Ronnie Red on TGIF!

Russian Red vs Ronnie Red

Russian Red vs Ronnie Red

Now I'm on a hunt for more.  I actually preordered another set from a different brand, but it will be arriving sometime June.  Can't wait but I promise to share it will y'all soon. 

PS: Apologies for the selfies.  Been too lazy to pick up my SLR lately.  Camera phone is much more accessible :P

Yummy for the Tummy: Famous Belgian Waffles

A new food cart franchise has been spurting out like mushrooms in different malls around the metro.  It's called Famous Belgian Waffles; soft, fluffy waffle sandwiches with different fillings to choose from.  I was so excited that we have this now in the country ever since I tried waffle sandwiches in Hong Kong.

What I super love about it is that the waffles are baked fresh, done right in front of you.  And they're very generous with the fillings as well.  Literally, a whole glob of cream cheese in one order!  Yey!

They offer a lot of flavors in different combinations.  Of course, I was psyched to learn they have a peanut butter (my ultimate favorite).  I got the Banana Peanut Butter combination.  Since the waffle is still hot from the waffle maker, the peanut butter will melt a bit, an ooze in every bite.  Yum!

It's also very affordable.  The plain is only 30 pesos each, the most expensive one is only 55 pesos.  It's the perfect partner for movies, or just when you need a quick bite to eat.  It will surely satisfy your comfort food craving.

Gotta Love: Sunflower Beauty Oil by Human Heart Nature

A miracle oil as described by Human Heart Nature, a company known for providing organic products here in the Philippines.  Why "miracle" you might ask?  According to their website, this product provides the following benefits:

1. Softens and lightens underarms
2. Lightens dark under eye circles 
3. Lightens dark spots and pimple marks 
4. Under eye moisturizer 
5. Prevents and diminishes the appearance of stretch marks 
6. Softens feet soles, knees and elbows 
7. Removes stubborn makeup 
8. Overall body moisturizer 
9. Moisturizes dry hair ends 
10. Softens the cuticles 
11. De-frizzes hair 
12. Adds shine to dull hair 
13. Relieves itching and inflammation caused by insect bites 
14. Nourishes and conditions eyelashes 
15. Lightens dark lips 
16. Soothes skin after shaving 
17. Relieves itchy scalp 
18. Soothes skin damaged by sunburn 
19. Smoothens skin from shaving 
20. Helps soothe rashes 
21. Helps heal skin infections 
22. Hydrates dry patches 
23. Helps lighten lesions and scars.

All of these benefits in a single product?  Too good to be true right?  But as I've come to see after weeks of using it almost everyday, I can testify the good effects of this product on me.  I'm a total convert!  I love it!

I stumbled upon this product while looking for a good beauty product to lighten my pimple marks.  A lot of blogs have been talking about it, with high ratings at that so I gave it a try.  Indeed, it helped lighten my dark spots faster!  And  the best part of all, I didn't experience any break out after (except right before my period starts, a regular thing for me) unlike the other commercial beauty products I've tried available in the market.  Even though it's oil, it didn't clog my pores. I use it after my toner at night and I must say, my face looks more radiant in the morning when I wake up.

I also started to use it on my hair to tame and shape my digitally permed hair.  It's non-greasy unlike the previous product I was using.  I also use it as my body moisturizer which is better than lotion as it's more light.  I also had this dry patch of skin at the back of my neck (which I didn't know where I got) and this oil helped a lot to diminish this rough patch.  I will try to use it religiously on my underarms and let's see if it will lighten up.  My first bottle is almost empty and I plan to buy the bigger one, just in time because Human Heart Nature has a promo to celebrate their most successful product.

I'm on a "chemical detox" now and I bought their strengthening shampoo and conditioner recently.  You'll hear from me in a few weeks if this works as well.

Have a nice day everybody! :)

PS: All photos from Human Heart Nature website and Facebook Fan Page

Yummy for the Tummy: Mary Grace Cafe

I may have found a new favorite.  Mary Grace has been known for its cakes and bread, especially the cheese rolls.  But when I decided to try their other food offerings in their cafe, I wasn't disappointed.

Before I dive into the food, let me talk about the place.  I love it's homey ambiance.  The place is full of little trinkets and hand written notes by the customers themselves.  And it smells of freshly baked bread.  It does make you feel like eating at home.

Ok, I cheated a little.  I already ate here twice before posting my blog review.  Thus, the two appetizers I'm featuring here.  I love good bread and both of these come with it.  I can't say which I liked better as both were satisfying and really delicious.

Grilled Kesong Puti

Cheddar Cheese with Tomatoes and Capers

For the main course, I tried their bestseller pasta which is called Smoked Salmon and Cream.  It may be a bit pricey for pasta but you can't put a price on the quality.  The smoky flavor of the fish complemented well with the cream.  I finished my whole bowl by myself.  The second time we ate, we ordered the Classic Carbonara but sorry I was not able to take a picture of it.  Just like the first, it's delicious as well and has this distinct home made feel.

Smoked Salmon and Cream (again, that buttered bread, yummy!)

For the other main course, and which also I ordered the second time around, is from the breakfast menu, Pork Tocino.  It comes with egg, garlic rosemary fried rice, tomato wansoy salsa, green mangoes, and spicy vinegar.  Just thinking about it makes my mouth water.  I know it looks different from the typical tocino but it sure tastes superb and has become my instant favorite.

Pork Tocino

My friends know that I do not drink milk tea.  But I took a chance with their Wild Raspberry Fruit tea.  And oh my, it's just so refreshing! 

Wild Raspberry Homemade Iced Tea

Of course, no meal is complete without dessert.  I got a slice of their famous Black Velvet cake, very moist chocolate cake layered with cream cheese.  You can't get heaven anywhere else.

I think I have overused the word delicious in this post.  But it's just what I was blurting out the whole time we were eating.  Everything we got, was so satisfying and is worth every penny spent.  This is a good place to bring your family or friends.  I'm sure everybody will have a good time.

Dress Up 46 -- Kourtney

Yes, I am a big Kardashian fan.  More than the clothes, bags, and travels, I totally adore the relationship they have with each other.  But yeah, it's the clothes.  Hahaha!

I tend to gravitate more to Kourtney's fashion sense.  A boho chic, or sometimes, cool-mommy fashion.  Because she is already a mom of two, she always wears comfy clothes like leggings and loose blouses but still looking fab at the same time.

Here's my interpretation of Kourt's fashion.  Hope you like it! :)

PS: Stalker photos taken by my sister :P

Top: Mango Jeans
Leggings: Cotton On
Sandals: Forever 21
Bag: Bagfull Manila
Sunglasses: Fab Kikay

Gotta Love: EOS

Photo grabbed from EOS Facebook Fan Page

 You know those round, egg-shaped, cuteness overload?  No, these are not easter eggs but lip balms!  Introducing EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balms.  And true to it's name, Evolution of Smooth, these little babies will keep your lips smooth and soft all day long.  A lot of Hollywood celebrities are joining the "cult" like expectant mom Kim Kardashian.  

Photo grabbed from EOS Facebook Fan Page

These lip balms will not affect her baby in anyway because it's 95% organic and 100% natural.  It also contains shea butter and vitamin E.

And did I mention these are very yummy and sweet-smelling too?  These come in a variety of flavors:  Pomegranate Raspberry, Strawberry Sorbet, Summer Fruit, Honeysuckle Honeydew, Medicated Tangerine, Lemon Drop, and my favorite, Sweet Mint.  It literally leaves a cooling sensation on my lips after applying.

But what sets this product apart from other lip balms is the shape.  The sphere shape takes applying lip balms to a whole different experience.  I swear I can apply these all day long.  I always keep one within reach just in case my lips feel dry or if I just want to taste something sweet.  Ginawang dessert :P

Aside from those mentioned above, they also have limited edition collection.  This particular one is from Alice in Wonderland.  It comes in a very cute pack, with hidden Mickeys to delight any Disney fan.  It has three flavors not available in their regular line:  Watermelon Wonderland, Sweet Vanilla Nonsense, and Blueberry Potion.  Just perfect for summer!

For more information on EOS products, visit their website http://evolutionofsmooth.com/.

Happy lippies everyone!  Mwah!

Gotta Love: Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder

I have oily skin and it doesn't help that it is very humid here in the Philippines.  Stepping out even for just a few minutes will definitely result to shine in my face.  Just imagine how I look like after walk - fx ride - walk - mrt - walk - fx ride - overpass - office, my almost daily routine.  Good thing I found the perfect face powder for me!

True to it's name, this face powder helps me stay oil free after my daily commute routine.  I do not have to touch up immediately upon arriving.  Just a quick pat with tissue and I'm good to go.  I also love using it to set my foundation whenever I attend formal gatherings.  The matte finish makes me photo-ready anytime. 

What I also love about this is that I don't have to use so much.  My first tub lasted for more than 6 months.  This does not come with a sponge applicator so a face brush should be handy.  But the brush is better though in spreading the product.

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder comes in 6 colors: Transparent, Pink Blossom, Peach Glow, Silky Beige, Nude Beige, and Sandstorm (the one I use).  Sadly, it's not available yet it malls.  Thank God for online shops who imports these products!  Feel free to contact me if you would like to know where I got mine :)

Dress Up 45 -- Go For Gold

I'm baaaaaaack!!! I super missed blogging as I have been in hiding for the past couple of months.  Super busy with other stuff but I finally told myself I have to do some posts.  Anyway, what better way to kick things off with an outfit post.

I've mentioned before that I super love online shopping with all the convenience it brings.  Not to mention, super fabulous finds you won't find in malls.  

Fashion Galore is one of my favorite online shops I buy from.  They offer great variety of clothes, from blouses to dresses, at very affordable prices.  Not to mention very stylish and made with quality.  I've featured some of them already before and I feel I'll keep coming back for more.

I'm into gold right now so this shirt is perfect.  I also love the spike details on the sleeves which makes my outfit girly and edgy at the same time.  My Mia Casa Love bracelet is making it's first post appearance as well (also bought online from Zalora) :)

Shirt: Fashion Galore
Shorts: Kamiseta
Sandals: Forever 21

And, thanks to my sister, I found some cool sunnies online as well.  I really, really love big sunnies so this one is perfect!  Visit @fabkikay on Instagram for more styles at affordable prices.

Online Shopping @ Zalora

Online shopping has taken new heights in the Philippines.  Lots of online shops boomed from nowhere, offering different and even more affordable products in the market.  Some even offer customized ones to make yours unique and one of a kind.  More and more people are enjoying hassle free, always on shopping, a convenience very much appreciated especially of employees like me who are working on European or North American shifts and malls are already closed after work. 

But remember, we must be careful (with my heart.  Hahaha!  Sorry, watching the show while blogging) when choosing which shops to buy from.  I abide by these rules when buying online: read first past testimonials of other customers regarding their service and make sure they offer bank payment options.  Or better yet, choose online shops that are big and popular like Zalora.  

I have been seeing their ads everywhere; from Facebook, other blogs, even TV.  Their tote bags have been calling me, and since I need a laptop bag, decided to check out their website.  And I can say, navigation is easy.  There are lots of categories to filter out what you are really looking for.  Product details and descriptions are also available.  There was one product I was looking at that did not have enough info so I decided to call their hotline.  The agent was very helpful and friendly, and was able to get the info I needed.  Zalora also offers different payment terms like credit card, online banking, over the counter, even cash on delivery.  Free delivery for total purchases amounting to 1000 pesos and above.  And if after delivery, you are not satisfied with your product, they offer return policy within 30 days.  What more can you ask for? :)

Sooooooo, I was really excited to get my package last Saturday (fast service as well since I ordered last Wednesday).  Here are the pics.  Enjoy and take advantage of their ongoing sale!

CLN Reversible Tote Bag (ok, not really gonna be used as the laptop bag I originally intended to buy, but this one is so pretty!)

Mia Casa LOVE bracelet

Yummy for the Tummy: The Burger Project

Hello everyone! Happy 2013!  I hope the new year has been treating you good.  The past month has just been crazy for me.  We had close a lot of work before our service shutdown for the holidays.  And boy, was I glad for the holidays.  I just couldn't wait to stay inside the house and just do nothing.  Weird thing though.  When I was in the house, I was so bored and would like to just get out!  And so I asked my bf, sister, and her bf if we could go out and eat somewhere (coz that's what the holidays are for, right).  I was in the mood to try something new so when my sister mentioned Maginhawa St. in Quezon City, it hit me.  I said we have to go the The Burger Project.  I've heard about this from my team mate and since bf is a big burger fan, I insisted we go.

The Burger Project is a quaint little shop along Maginhawa, a place well known for the different restaurants that line up the street.  At this restaurant, you will be able to choose how you like your burger and what toppings you would like on it.  Exciting, right?

First thing to do when entering is to get your order form at the counter.  After filing up the form, proceed to the counter to pay and wait for your name to be called.  And then, enjoy your burger :) 

They not only have a variety of toppings, but have different choices for burger patty as well.  You can choose from 100% Angus, 100% beef, chori, chicken, or tofu.  They also have different types of bun (sesame seed, potato, oatmeal, or brioche).  Next comes the cheese, premium toppings like bacon and onion rings, basic toppings like lettuce and tomatoes.  You can even choose to have different sauces on your burger.  If you don't feel like choosing for your own, you can try their different predesigned burgers.

For my order, I got the following: 100% beef in sesame seed bun, topped with egg, lettuce, bacon, and cheese sauce, with a side order of onion rings.  I named my burger "First Time" since it was my first time to go there.  We had heaps of laughter when the server called out the name of our burgers!  Totally unexpected!

"First Time"

I super loved the burger I created.  The patty was juicy, grilled just right.  The toppings that I choose also complemented each other.  The saltiness of the cheese sauce provided enough kick to get my taste buds going.  Really, really, delicious. And the onion rings are just divine as well as the fries.

"Burjer": Potato bun, 100% Beef, Chili, Lettuce, Caramelized Onions, Jalapeno, Garlic Cream Cheese

"Libre": Sesame seed bun, 100% Beef, Onions, Lettuce, Cheese, Egg, BBQ sauce

"Try Try Lang": Sesame seed bun, 100% beef, Garlic cream cheese, Pesto, Jalapeno, Egg, Bacon

One burger would cost about 200 pesos on average but the price is dependent on the number of toppings you will choose but I guarantee, it's so worth it.  I highly recommend this place, not only for burger lovers, but for everyone.  The experience was such a treat!  Definitely going back to whip up something new and maybe I'll call it "Second Time", "Third Time", "Fourth Time"...