♥...x.t.j.a.n...♥

:: mermaid-ish nails ::

2008-12-29T09:26:00.004+08:00

☺

supposed to look like mermaid nails...

turned out to be sorta-kinda indian nail art-ish..

hehehe

whatever... i still like it

☺

althea's watermelon toes

2008-12-29T09:20:00.004+08:00

been quite busy these days...
work.. work.. work...
pic taken last month

my baby althea's toes watermelon inspired...
♥
cuteness!!!!

nail art : polka black

2008-11-03T14:07:00.003+08:00

☺

I was kinda inspired by the nail art polka dots from my favorite bloggers...

so here's my version... hope u guys like it!!!

♥

○ HALLOWEEN ○

2008-11-03T13:53:00.002+08:00

I just wanna share this pretty picture of my hubby and my daughter, althea.

~ I ♥ U ~

UPDATE: OLAY total effects

2008-10-22T18:37:00.003+08:00

It is soooo sad that OLAY did not work well with me.....

Just after a few days of religiously using it (day and night)

My husband noticed a small white spot on my chin..

I looked at it closely in the mirror and I saw it....

it's like a big whitehead.

I thought it was just a coincidence..

but the following day,

I noticed a few bumps on my forehead

and a really big pimple on my right jaw...OMG!!!

since then .. I stopped putting on OLAY on my face.

Now, my skin is still in its recovery period..

hopefully next week..

it'll be better...

huhuhu :c

pre-work prep : SHOES part II

2008-10-16T16:33:00.005+08:00

a bit GLADIATOR-ish ... donchathink??

pre-work prep : SHOES

2008-10-16T11:51:00.004+08:00

before I actually start working.. I need to get a few stuff...

to start... a nice pair of black shoes to go with most of my outfits.

I think I need one or two more...

maybe flats or wedges to alternate with this.

☺• H • I • R • E • D •☺

2008-10-15T13:53:00.007+08:00

guess what...???

I GOT THE JOB!!!

wohooo!!!!!

Actually... here's what happened..

September 17 , wednesday

I went to their office very early like around 8am..

I handed my resume' to the receptionist and they asked me to wait a few minutes until they call my name.. few minutes after.. it was my turn to be interviewed.

The first interview was easy... just a little background of myself and stuff.

after that they asked me to take their exams.. it was like 5 sets of exams.

They asked me to answer the 1st 2 sets and if i pass.. i'll continue on with the rest of the exams.

Luckilly I passed all the tests.

After 5 exams..

An in-depth interview with one of the HRs

I was sooo nervous because the interviewer said that the

interview usually takes at least 30-45 minutes..

After that I was asked to wait again.. I thought they were gonna send me home already but few minutes later, they called my name.. and what d'u know..?? another interview...!!! haaaay!

It was almost lunch time when they called my name again..

They pointed me to the "negotiating room"

At first i was still clueless but when the HR (ms. kat) was discussing with me the things i need to do that i realized.. I GOT IN..

then she asked me to sign a "soft" Job Offer

it was not yet the final/formal contract because

i need to complete the pre-employment requirements and

undergo medical exams (they wanna know if i'm doing DRUGS.. *wink*wink*)

before they can finally say that i'm hired...

They gave me 10 days to complete all these pre-employment requirements.

September 26 , Friday

I have submitted everything..

they have to do a background check
to verify my employment records, my identity, and if ever i have any bad records or delinquent accounts with any bank.

They said...

They will call me after they have validated everything.

October 3, Friday..

I received a call from Ms. Kat..

I thought it was for the contract signing already

but she said I need to get an "affidavit of discrepancy" and update my NBI clearance.

First, the discrepancy..

the spelling of my name in my birth certificate

does not match the rest of the documents i have submitted.

Here's the thing...

my name is TONI... but on my birth cert it is spelled as TONIE.

I have been using T-O-N-I since as long as i can remember.

I have tried fixing this a few years back but the cityhall was asking for tooooo many documents and I just didn't have the time to complete it.

laz! lazy! lazy!

It will also cost me something like 3,000php ($64).

Next, the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) clearance.

I haven't updated my status with them..

the last time that I renewed my certificate I was not married yet..

so now, I have to go though the whole process (like applying for a new certificate) all over again.. long lines and all.

October 9, Thursday

morning

I went to get an NBI clearance but since it was for a status change..

I wont be able to get it until tuesday, October 14

afternoon
I went to the manila city hall to get an affidavit
and have it notarized...
I was able to get it the same day.. only waited for 30 minutes.

NBI clearance 20 + 115 pesos = 135php (less than $3)

affidavit of discrepancy 20php (less than $0.50)

October 14, Tuesday

Releasing date of my NBI clearance

I went there yesterday morning...

waited in line...

got my certificate..

had lunch..

then went straight to "the office" to submit my documents.

Ms. Kat asked me to wait for the results

HR will validate the documents first..

after 2 few hours of waiting..

Ms. Kat asked me to go to her office for the

"official" contract signing.

i got home few minutes before 7pm

HAPPY Ü

I will start training on monday October 20.

for everyone who wished me luck...

THANK YOU!!

☺☻☺☻☺☻☺☻☺☻☺☻

:: OLAY total effects (7-in-1 anti ageing cream)

2008-10-13T13:29:00.008+08:00

I saw an ad on TV that they are giving away samples.
All you have to do is text 7DAYS
(sorry i forgot the number because the olay lady asked me to delete the txt message).
and then you will receive a text message that will serve as your "claim text."
Just drop by their designated WATSONS store and show the text message from olay.

So here's what the package says:

Discover the benefit of 7 anti-aging treatments in one bottle with New OLAY Total effects

Line Minimization
Pore Refinement
Subtle Lifting
Exfoliation
Nourishing Moisturization
With Antioxidants
Tone Enhancement

Power-packed with the multi-talented ingredient VitaNiacin and potent antioxidants, the New Olay Total Effects delivers the benefit of seven anti-aging treatments in one bottle to give you visibly younger looking skin.

WHY TOTAL EFFECTS WITH SPF15 CAN BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

For those concerned about sun exposure, main cause of premature visible ageing, this daily facial moisturizer provides 7 anti-aging benefits in 1 moisturizer to give visibly younger looking skin and helps prevent premature skin ageing.

PLUS protection against sun damage in one product.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Ut provides the anti-ageing power of moisture fused with vitamins and antioxidants. PLUS UVA/UVB (SPF 15) protection to help prevent sun damage.

DIRECTIONS:

Clean face and neck. Gently massage cream on skin. Apply at least twice daily.

I got an 8g (sample size) OLAY total effects 7-in-1 ANTI AGEING CREAM for normal skin with SPF 15 and a 100PHP coupon that I can use if ever i'd buy any OLAY total effects cream or serum at any Watsons store.

I'll update you guys on the results after i've finished the 8g sample.. I already used it last night and this morning... so far so good.

I am still searching for a good sunblock... because olay is still a bit creamy for me to use during the day. I might go to the mall this week and checkout alyssa and cherie's sunblock suggestions... thanx sista'z!!! wish me luck!!

By the way.. the copupon is valid up to December 30, 2008... so I still have time to decide Ü.

:: help : sunblock ::

2008-10-07T15:45:00.006+08:00

I am not a very good fan of sunblock..

my skin used to be oily.. but now i have combination skin (oily/dry) which is probably due to age. I sweat easily that's why creams really feel uncomfortable esp. during the day.

When I put sunblock under my makeup.. after a while it sort-of melts my makeup away and feels like i have tons of super creamy lotion on my face.

now i only rely on the SPF 15 from my MMU whick is very minimal... waaaaah!! i need more.

due to global warming and my fear of looking old... i know i have no choice... but first I have to get myself a good product. i tried a couple of sunblocks before... but i just wasn't lucky enough to find the sunblock that will work for me.

i want a sunblock that (is):
☺not creamy
☺not heavy on the face
☺not greasy
☺does not wash off my makeup
☺and of course..... affordable and available in the PH.

ANY SUGGESTIONS???
feel free to post anything!!

I NEED HELP...
thanks!!

:: my bag ::

2008-10-02T15:24:00.004+08:00

i just got this one...
(please excuse the bad lighting.. m not a very good photog... hehe)

btw.. i haven't told you guys that i am currently looking for a job... so u might probably have bumped into me around the makati business district... ☺

i was looking for a bag that can fit all my things including envelopes and other stuff..
getting a job is not very easy.. i have to bring lotsa stuff along with me.

it's really really very cute... just wanna share this to everyOne... hehehe Ü

::: I ♥ MMU :::

2008-09-25T14:00:00.014+08:00

I was a late bloomer when it comes to MINERAL MAKEUP.. i discovered them around the end of 2006.. i was excited to try them all.

My first MMU was luminare.. i went to the bazaar at the Fort. I was a little disappointed on how small the jars were and that the samples came in ziplock bags...i thought it wasn't reasonably priced.... or maybe just because i was used to the regular makeup packagings.

All my negative thoughts disappeared after experiencing the difference between a regular makeup and a mineral makeup. I was glowing, my skin (even w/o enough sleep) looked very fresh, it wasn't heavy on the face, it's waterproof, it doesn't come off when you wipe sweat off your face and it looks natural.

still, the price was a to be considered.. if i'm gonna be a MMU convert i have to have the funds to support my kikayness (you know being unemployed and all... hehehe Ü). I don't want to spend all my hubby's money on makeup... he might strangle me to death.. hehe joke!! ;p

with the help of the INTERNET... i did my research on mmu's and it was kinda hard at first because most of them are not available in the Philippines.. so even if they are cheaper, the shipping cost is very expensive. Then i came across babydoll, the ingredients are imported but made in the PH. Babydoll offers mmu that is less pricey and bigger sized than that of luminare. Although I ordered online, the shipping is only 50bucks w/in metro manila. I was using babydoll for as long as i can remember... unfortunately all good things do come to an end.. and they stopped making babydoll... huhuhu :c

Then my lola (grandma) from the U.S. said that she will be coming home for a visit... i asked her if she can buy me some mineral makeups for pasalubong.. (kapal!!) Regardless of the brand, i want one! (and of course because it's FREE hehehehe Ü)

My very pretty and generous lola bought me JANE and L'OREAL and a kabuki brush (from sephora) along with other stuff.
♥ eye shadow
♥ blush
♥ bronzer
♥ foundation

JANE complete make-up set .. see how cool and stackable they are??? .. fits right in my kikaybag

another JANE foundie.. it has a built-in sponge applicator at the top

L'OREAL bare naturale w/ spf 19. pretty cool idea w/ the brush...can be disposed once you're done w/ the jar (brush is not very soft compared to sephora's kabuki brush).

I was very extatic when i got all these.. a foundie as little as 5grams can last me 2months or so.. can you imagine how long it will take me to finish all these??? hahaha!!

But that's not all... my friend visited her mom in the states so she asked us what we want for pasalubong... i had this brilliant idea to order online and have it delivered to her mom's address (in the U.S.) so she can bring it over when she comes home... nice!!!

I ordered stuff from ELF, their makeups and tools are only $1 each (being retailed in the Phils. for almost $3). I got free shipping in the US (and free shipping to the PH ☺). A full jar of ELF Mineral foundation costs only $5 so i bought 4, some makeup tools ,and a whole lota lipglosses.

But as they say.. you just can't have enough..

A brilliant lady named CONEY came up with her new local MMU brand ellana..

of course.. who am i to resist???? hehehehe Ü

you get more grams of mmu, nice packaging, and the price is just right.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

for me, all these MMU brands give exceptional results.. it's just about finding your perfect shade.

I ♥ MMU I KNOW I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE!!!

:: update on MY PERFECT MASCARA ::

2008-09-25T11:39:00.009+08:00

i've narrowed down my choices to 2 mascaras, and they are: FASIO and COVER GIRL... the bristles on the applicator is different from the usual brush (sorry i don't know what they are called Ü).

So I went to makati to get myself a mascara.. I was really eyeing on FASIO because i've read a lot of good reviews about it and it is also cheaper than coverGirl (fasio 395pHp and coverGirl 545pHp) but unfortunately they don't have it (fasio) in black so I ended up buying CG instead.

COVERGIRL Lash Exact waterproof mascara

(definition + length)

here's what the package says:

LashExact WATERPROOF mascara

No Clumps on the Brush means No Clumps on the lashes, for a DEFINED and LONG lash look! Waterproof formula lasts all day.

Hypoallergenic and opthalmologically tested
Suitable for contact lens wearers
Remove easily with CG Clean Makeup remover

Cover Girl mascaras are quality tested for purity. To safeguard purity:

Handle and apply in a careful, sanitary manner;
Don't share mascara, add anything to mascara, rest applicator on any surface, or use old applicator in a new case;
Cap tightly. If change in odor or appearance occurs, discontinue use.

WARNING: Eye cosmetics in a scratched, infected or irritated eye and scratches from eye cosmetic applicators can lead to eye damage and in extreme cases even blindness. If your eye is scratched, infected or irritated, stop using all eye cosmetics and go to an eye doctor immediately.

my say :

As i've mentioned earlier... the bristles on the applicator is not the usual kind.. I think it really makes a big diff with regards to clumping.

I love that it lengthens my eyelashes but still looks natural (as if i was born with them ☺) coz if i'm just going to the mall or my in-laws' house.. i don't wanna look very MADE-UP like it was for a party or a nightout.

Another thing i like about CG mascara is that it doesn't really give you that heavy feeling on your eyes like there's an umbrella above your lids (hehehe)..

I still wanna try FASIO bcoz it's cheaper, i hope it's as great as CG or even better....

oh, well.. maybe 3 months from now.... hehehe Ü

:: nAiL aRt ::

2008-09-10T16:41:00.005+08:00

i love doing designs on my nails... here are some samples.

~ BUGS LIFE ~

the butterfly effect... ☺

close-up ;p

lady bug

bug combo on toes... hehe Ü

for those who are wondering what kind of tools i used to create the designs...

1. nail polish

(black/red/white/colorless)

2. toothpicks

this is also my official entry to ahleessa's nail art contest...

hope you like it!!!

♥ the search for my perfect mascara Ü

2008-09-02T23:04:00.012+08:00

i have very short, thin and straight lashes.. so i really need a good mascara to help me make them at least visible to the human eye... hehehe ( uber exaggerated!!!).

anyways, after doing some research and reading through blogs and reviews about mascara.. i've come down with the list of the mascara(s) that i'm going to try.

1. Great Lash® Washable Mascara

maybelline said:

Why You'll Love It

The mascara that conditions as it thickens.
Lash-doubling formula glides on smooth to build great-looking lashes
Lash building brush makes it easy to get a full lash look without clumps or globs
Contact lens safe and hypoallergenic
Washable; also available in waterproof formula and with curved brush.

2. Intense XXL™ Volume & Length Waterproof Microfiber Mascara

maybelline said:

Why You'll Love It

This mascara creates up to 60% longer lashes and 7X the volume.

No clumps

Ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact users

Waterproof; also available in washable formula

For Best Results
Step 1: Sweep microfiber basecoat through your lashes to visibly lengthen.
Step 2: Follow with microfiber topcoat to lock on intense color and volume. Removes easily with Maybelline Expert Eyes Moisturizing Eye Makeup Remover.

3. POWER-STAY MASCARA 3D+ Air Tech(Curl Volume)

fasio said:

Volume and long-lasting curl in a single light-as-air mascara.Brand new! Meet the sparkling color mascara!

Three new curl volume mascaras in sparkly pearl shades.

Features advanced comb brush for easier application and coverage.

Lifts and separates lashes for extra volume curl.

Contains air powder.Hollow powder particles mean mascara goes on light as air and curl lasts much longer.

Also contains volumizing polymers for thicker lashes with real presence.

Curl setting polymers and micro screen polymers hold the curl longer,while the water proof formula ensures the look lasts and lasts.

Contains rosemary extract, a plant based moisturizer, and apricot oil,a plant based protectant.

4. CoverGirl LashExact Waterproof Mascara

coverGirl said:

Get long-lasting, no clump, no glob, beautifully-defined lashes.
The LashExact brush is a patented technology with bristles that are aligned and flexible, so you get the Exact look you want.
Great definition and length
Superb separation
Opthalmologically tested

so girls... wish me luck in my quest for finding my perfect mascara... Ü

8 Foods to Keep Your Brain Young and Healthy (Dr. Mao's Secrets of Longevity)

2008-08-28T14:56:00.003+08:00

♥ this is one useful article i've come accross with.. i'm posting it to my blog page so i will not forget and that others can read it as well. ♥

Senility, Alzheimer's, and age-related memory loss: these conditions of mental decline that come with aging can be delayed or even prevented. Besides engaging in daily activities that work out your brain, a regular and balanced diet rich with essential amino acids, omega oils, minerals and vitamins will ensure a vibrant and sharp memory. Eat these foods to give your brain the nutrition it needs.

1. Fish.

Protein, an important component in the making of neurotransmitters, is essential to improve mental performance. Aside from being an excellent source of high quality protein, fish are packed with essential oils, such as Omega-3, which protect the brain and supports its development and functioning. Deep sea fish have the highest amounts of fatty acids, and they include salmon, sea bass, halibut, mackerel, and sardines.

2. Blueberries.

These delicious berries are full of powerful antioxidants, which eliminate free-radical damage that causes aging, and they also possess neuroprotective properties that can delay the onset of age-related memory loss by guarding brain cells from damage caused by chemicals, plaque, or trauma. And they combat inflammation, the other factor in aging.

3. Nuts and Seeds.

Nuts and seeds are wonder foods for your brain. Packed with protein and essential fatty acids, nuts and seeds are also chock full of the amino arginine, which stimulates the pituitary gland at the base of the brain to release growth hormone, a substance that declines quickly after age 35; this is a real anti-aging boon to your brain!

Whip up a batch of my "Anti-aging brain mix" to bring with you anywhere and eat a small handful in between meals as a daily snack. It will nourish and support your brain. Pack in sealed container or zip-lock bag to preserve freshness.

1 cup walnut
1/2 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1/3 cup of dried goji berries (also known as lycium berry, and easily found in health food stores)
1/2 cup dried apricots

4. Cruciferous Vegetables.

Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are all rich in choline, an essential nutrient for memory and brain health. Choline is a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which contributes to healthy and efficient brain processes. As we age, our body's natural choline output declines, and its neurochemical action weakens. You can eat choline-rich foods to increase your production of acetylcholine, which will improve your brain power. Other sources of choline include: eggs, soybeans, peanuts, cabbage, black beans, and kidney beans.

5. Oil: Monounsaturated Fats.

Monounsaturated fats contain essential fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which are crucial for brain development and function, among many other excellent benefits for your health. Olive oil, sesame oil, canola oil, almond oil, flaxseed oil, and fish oil are rich in monounsaturated fats and are good choices for brain health. Population studies show that people with a diet that is high in unsaturated, unhydrogenated fats may have a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease, whereas those with a diet that is higher in saturated fats and trans fats have an increased risk.

6. L-carnitine Foods.

Age-related memory problems are many times caused by plaque buildup and diminished blood supply to the brain, compromising the delivery of nutrients and oxygen. L-carnitine, an amino acid manufactured in your liver, increases circulation in the brain — among a myriad of powerful benefits for your health. Also, because it prevents fat oxidation in the brain, L-carnitine shows some promise in preventing Alzheimer's disease. Good sources of L-carnitine include: meats, fish, poultry, wheat, avocado, milk, and fermented soybeans.

7. Microalgae.

Microalgaes from the ocean and uncontaminated lakes, including blue-green algae, spirulina, chlorella, seaweed, and kelp are easy-to-digest, high protein and high-energy supplements-and contain over a hundred trace minerals! Available in your health food store, microalgae are simple to incorporate into your diet to ensure a good, strong brain function. Look for powders you dissolve in juice or flakes you can sprinkle on your food.

8. Green tea.

Green tea prevents an enzyme found in Alzheimer's disease and is also rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that help prevent premature brain aging. Drink two cups a day to get the brain benefits. To decaf tea, steep for 45 seconds and pour out the water, add fresh hot water to the leaves or tea bag — 95% of caffeine will be eliminated.

Herbal Boost

There are many Chinese herbs that support healthy brain functions, including ginkgo biloba and gotu kola. For support of healthy brain function I recommend our family formula called Enduring Youth, which contains Chinese herbs such as Chinese yam, goji berry, schisandra berry, Asian cornelian, China root, Cistanches, sweet flag, Chinese senega, dipsacus, anise, and Chinese foxglove.

I hope you get the brain benefits of these foods. I invite you to visit often and share your own personal health and longevity tips with me.

-Dr. Mao

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

By Dr. Maoshing Ni

Posted Mon, Aug 11, 2008, 1:42 pm PDT

☺To learn more about Dr. Mao and other natural health tips, go to askdrmao.com.

(http://health.yahoo.com/experts/drmao/15524/8-foods-to-keep-your-brain-young-and-healthy/)

my latest UK finds

2008-08-27T01:05:00.011+08:00

we always go to manila (to visit my in-laws) every weekend..

and this last weekend i was able to go to my favorite ukay-ukay place near d area....

it was a ding! ding! ding! when i saw the "SALE" sign outside the store.

I immediately went to check it out...

the "on-sale" items are placed outside the shop

and inside are the "new arrivals."

i just wanna share my latest finds

i'm just very happy everytime i do my UK shopping

how much do you think this is??

~ a black lacey bolero ~

120 php.

and this one????

~ gray knitted top with 3/4 sleeves ~

80php.

but wait...! there's more... Ü

bet u'll never guess this one...

~a black kntted jacket w/ string ~

10 freakin' bucks! heheheÜ

***one man's trash is another's treasure***

were u able to guess d prices?? wtd'yathink??

my NIVEA

2008-08-15T15:23:00.013+08:00

NIVEA CREME (d small one i carry everywhere)

☻my moisturizer
☻my make-up remover
☻my eye-cream
☻my instant petroleum jelly (for my toes and elbows... during emergency only.. hehe)

NIVEA LIP CARE

☻ for my über dry and chapped lips
☻ very baby friendly
☻ my lipgloss @ home

for guys/girls on their late 20's who:
~ is still not doing anything to preserve their youth.. (naks!);
~ is exposed to pollution, smoking (including 2nd-hand smoke);
~ stays up very late; and
~ hates putting a lot of stuff on their face.

friends... after washing your face before u go to bed.. just get a small amount of cream and spred it all over your face.. u can do this even while lying down and eyes closed (so don't give me that i'm too sleepy excuse).

♦benefits u asked???

ur skin will :
~ be moisturized
~ look fresh when you wake-up (even if u didn't get enough sleep)
~ less wrinkles (w/ regular use)

hope this helps!!
♥

I ♥ ALTHEA

2008-08-14T12:03:00.000+08:00

this is my daughter... her name is ALTHEA
she's turning 3 this October.. time really flies.

ALTHEA - from the baby name dictionary, means "healer"
so i guess.. it's either she becomes a doctor.. or an "albularyo" nyahahaha!

Seriously, it's from d greek mythology.

Our friends thought that her name was a combination of me & my hubby's name.. but actually it was Courtney Love's name in the movie people vs. larry flint... her name just kinda got stucked in my head.

ALTHEA loves to watch PLAYHOUSE DISNEY..
her favorite color is PINK,
she likes vegetables.. she calls brocolli a "small tree."
Her bath buddies are just d basic Lactacyd bubbles (blue) and johnson's baby shampoo (no more tears).

WELCOME to my very 1st blog

2008-08-13T17:07:00.000+08:00

hi peeps..!

after being just a blog reader for a few years now.. I've decided to start my own blog as well. I enjoy sharing beauty finds, beauty tips and a whole lot of kikay stuff with my friends.. then i thought.. why not blog about it??? and "tada!" here i am now.

I don't intend my site to be a magazine-like blog page... just somewhere I can post my thoughts about anything and everything under the sun.. but, mostly about MOI...(haaayyy..! vanity) ☺

I'm not "sosyal" or anything close to that.. in fact.. I'm super kuripot!!! I'd die for bargains and ukay-ukay stuff. I love trying out stuff I read in magazines i ♥ make-ups and beauty products.. ( i get convinced easily..hehe ü) .. take note: ONLY THOSE I CAN AFFORD.

because I'm a girl.., I also get days where I wanna pamper myself and feel special and splurge a little...hehe ü can't help it.

.. hope u enjoy reading this and my future posts..
wish me luck!

xoxo

♥xtjan♥