Year after year, the new year excites me because of one nostalgic and rather shallow reason: turning over planners. I’m a big fan of going green and digitizing everything but I can’t seem to let go of the fun and passion of jotting down itineraries, crossing out completed items, doodling goals, and whatnot on paper using my favourite Stabilo Galaxy 818 XF ball point pen in purple, pink, and blue. :)

my 2010 best friends: ragged and ratty by late October

I must always have two planners. I say must because I don’t want my (too) personal ish lying around at work. It’s nothing that will kick my b*** out of the office but I’m talking about insurance policies, bank account inserts, and the like. Last year, my planners were published by the same company. I got the BDJ as a gift while I guzzled on so much caffeine for my work planner aka. the Coffee Bean Giving Journal.

For 2012, I supported Coffee Bean’s campaign again because part of their proceeds will benefit my Church’s foundation, Real Life Foundation (ok and the journal itself’s too pretty to resist). It’s quite a task to go to the branch closest to my office building though so I got to bag its competitor’s version a tad faster (like I have a planner in 2 weeks hahaha):

Hello 2012 must haves!

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Just for fun I thought, can I slim my current must-haves into a say list of 10? Let’s see… :)

Last month, the unthinkable just happened. I thought it was purely out of my training (running) that I’ve been feeling sharp pangs on my right ankle. H, being quite an expert when it comes to sports related injuries (as he’s accumulated a handful overtime), suggested that I get myself checked ASAP. At 28, I was diagnosed with mild arthritis on my right foot. Wait, let me say that again — mild arthritis (!!!). Turns out, because of being overweight once upon a time (170 lbs. max) and pushing myself to my limits every time I run, I’ve worn out my ankles and my right foot just got the first blow. I’ve had my first of many PT sessions (with the currents and all) and one of my prescriptions include taking a break from wearing my beloved Havaianas flip flops and Anthology flats. *dies*

I can’t wear flat shoes and slippers and stilettos. *dies again* In fact, even if I could, they really make my ankle hurt SO BAD. I naturally asked the doctor what I should wear since I can’t wear rubber shoes to work. He asked if I’ve heard of FitFlops. I said yes and he said I should give it a try because most patients with the same condition found relief in it (in between PT sessions and medication).

I’ve been long lemming for the FitFlop Electra Strata in Tiger Eye but 1) I find them hella expensive at Php 3490 and 2) they’re always (no exag) out of stock everywhere. I guess some things really have to wait for the perfect timing because apart from having a legit reason to grab a pair  (hrrhrr), the pair I’ve been lemming for was finally in stock, anddddd I got it as a gift (you read about this in Twitter right?). *cartwheels*

Did it live up to its promise of tension relief? Oh my goodness. I can’t believe I waited this long to get a pair! It’s true what they say — it’s so hard to go back to other shoes or sandals once you’ve tried these. I’m lemming for another pair (same style but in black for versatility) and this trio I spotted in TriNoma:

The gripe about these boots called Dash? They’re Php 6990 a pop! OUCH!

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Stoked that I had a super awesome birthday, I am sharing the elation with three (yes, 3) lucky readers. How’s elation spelled? How about giving away some of my HG products and more? :) :) :)

STASH #1

Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Body Scrub 20g sample tub
Avon Advance Techniques Straight & Sleek Conditioner
Avon Advance Techniques Straight & Sleek Shampoo
Avon Advance Techniques Straight & Sleek Smoothing Creme
Binaca AEROblast in Peppermint
DKNY Be Delicious EDT 15ml
Dream Girl Faith BB Cream
Eyliplex-2, Filextra, Smooth-365 2ml sample packs
Listerine Total Care 80ml
Majolica Majorca Blush in OR211
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Eyes in BL711
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Pencil in BR633
Majolica Majorca Lash Gorgeous Wing Neo in BK999
Majolica Majorca Rouge Majex in 21
Neutrogena Fine Fairness Deep Whitening Mask
Nivea Express Hydration Body Lotion
Nivea Pure & Natural Action Deodorant
Pure Beauty Perfect Cleansing Liquid
Tri-Aktiline Face 50ml
Watsons H Bella Protect & Nourish Body Lotion in Pomegranate & Ginger
Watsons H Bella Protect & Renew Body Polish in Pomegranate & Ginger
Watsons H Bella Protect & Repair Body Butter in Pomegranate & Ginger

STASH #2

Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Body Scrub 20g sample tub
Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair Conditioner
Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair Shampoo
Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair Reconstructive Treatment Mask
Binaca AEROblast in Spearmint
DKNY Be Delicious EDT 15ml
Eyliplex-2, Filextra, Smooth-365 2ml sample packs
Gluta & Placenta BB Cream by Glorious Skin
Listerine Total Care 80ml
Majolica Majorca Blush in OR211
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Eyes in BL711
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Pencil in BR633
Majolica Majorca Lash Gorgeous Wing Neo in BK999
Majolica Majorca Rouge Majex in 21
Neutrogena Fine Fairness Deep Whitening Mask
Nivea Express Hydration Body Lotion
Nivea Pure & Natural Action Deodorant
Pure Beauty Perfect Cleansing Water
Tri-Aktiline Face 50ml
Watsons H Bella Protect & Nourish Body Lotion in Rose & Mixed Berries
Watsons H Bella Protect & Renew Body Polish in Rose & Mixed Berries
Watsons H Bella Protect & Repair Body Butter in Rose & Mixed Berries

make up from stashes #1 & #2

Majolica Majorca Blush in OR211
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Eyes in BL711
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Pencil in BR633
Majolica Majorca Lash Gorgeous Wing Neo in BK999
Majolica Majorca Rouge Majex in 21

Team E Choice Award Stash

Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Body Scrub 20g sample tub
Avon Advance Techniques Daily Shine Conditioner
Avon Advance Techniques Daily Shine Shampoo
Avon Advance Techniques Frizz Control Lotus Shield
Binaca Breath Spray in Peppermint
Bobbi Brown Blush in 9 Pale Pink
Bobbi Brown Lash Glamour Extreme Lengthening Mascara in Black
DKNY Delicious EDT 15ml (this is from my personal backup stash)
Estee Lauder Cyber White EX Advanced Brightening GelCreme Makeup in Warm Creme
Estee Lauder Signature Eyeshadow Quad in M08 Blue Smoke
Estee Lauder Signature Lipstick in Venetian Rose
Eyliplex-2, Filextra, Smooth-365 2ml sample packs
Listerine Total Care 80ml
Majolica Majorca Blush in 88
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Eyes in BL711
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Pencil in BR633
Majolica Majorca Lash Gorgeous Wing Neo in BK999
Majolica Majorca Rouge Majex in 21
Nanny Rose’s Sticks & Pulls All Natural Hair Remover 200g
Neutrogena Fine Fairness Deep Whitening Mask
Nivea Express Hydration Body Lotion
Nivea Pure & Natural Action Deodorant
Purederm 3 in 1 Magic BB Cream
Pure Beauty Perfect Cleansing Oil
Tri-Aktiline Face 50ml
Watsons H Bella Protect & Nourish Body Lotion in Strawberry & Cinnamon
Watsons H Bella Protect & Renew Body Polish in Strawberry & Cinnamon
Watsons H Bella Protect & Repair Body Butter in Strawberry & Cinnamon

make up from the Team E Choice Award Stash

Bobbi Brown Blush in 9 Pale Pink
Bobbi Brown Lash Glamour Extreme Lengthening Mascara in Black
DKNY Delicious EDT 15ml
Estee Lauder Cyber White EX Advanced Brightening GelCreme Makeup in Warm Creme
Estee Lauder Signature Eyeshadow Quad in M08 Blue Smoke
Estee Lauder Signature Lipstick in Venetian Rose
Majolica Majorca Blush in 88
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Eyes in BL711
Majolica Majorca Jeweling Pencil in BR633
Majolica Majorca Lash Gorgeous Wing Neo in BK999
Majolica Majorca Rouge Majex in 21

I slightly panicked in Twitter some 48 hours ago because I just realized that 1) I’ll be working the rest of the week and 2) I’ve yet to pack my bags for my upcoming beach trip this weekend. While I can live in just two tanks, a pair of shorts, bikinis and a coupl’a undies, I can’t quite afford to leave the same beauty junk I brought to La Union at home. Is there anything I’m missing? Or do you see anything I should ditch? HALPZ!

Can’t live without that ginger rub at the moment! :)

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What happens when amazing skin marries with equally showstopping fashion?

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Even before I started blogging, my biggest challenge has always been sticking up and consuming toiletries down to the last drop or swipe. Apart from clear dissatisfaction or irritation, I just get tired of products easily. The products below met (some even exceeded) my expectations and today, by the power vested in me by Junkie Poo, I order all of you to applaud as I’ve consumed everything in this photo set down to the last guzzle! #goldenmoment

left to right

NU SKIN Celltrex Ultra Recovery Fluid
Obagi Nu-Derm Eye Cream
Pure Beauty Super Brightening Eye Gel
Obagi ELASTIderm Eye Treatment Gel
Obagi Nu-Derm Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35
Neutrogena Fine Fairness Cleanser
NU SKIN Exfoliant Scrub
Clinelle Soothing Skin Toner
Leyende Lift Off Natural Peel-Off Face Masque

Kerastase Masque Nutri Thermique
L’Oreal Professional Nature Serie Oiliss Masque
Johnson’s Baby Milk Bath
Myra Vita Quench Lotion

Nivea Sparkling White Whitening Scrub
Nivea Sparkling White Whitening Foam
Nivea Sparkling White Whitening Day Care
Nivea Extra Whitening Inner Cell Repair Body Milk
Nivea UV Protection Body Lotion
(I didn’t brighten up with this range but my skin’s left smooth and glowing)

I have a fresh and massive roster of products to road test and share with you and I can’t wait to feature them! :) What product category and price range would you like me to review first?  Make-up, hair care, or skin care? Low (below Php 300), medium (between Php 301-Php 1000), or high (above Php 1000)? HELP!

Your guess was as good as mine! Nivea Body does it again with another body care breakthrough deemed to provide fast yet long-lasting (contradicting, I know!) moisture for over 24 hours:

The new ultra-light body lotion with sea minerals contains the innovative Hydra IQ active ingredient that has been developed specifically for the needs of normal to dry skin. It keeps the skin soft and supple, envelops it in the subtle scent of blue lotus and leaves a refreshed feeling.

NIVEA Express Hydration Body Lotion has been developed with dermatologists and skin compatibility is clinically and dermatologically proven.

Available in 75ml (Php 36.00), 125ml (Php65.00), 250ml (Php120.00) and 400ml (Php224.00) pack sizes. This product is now available in all leading department stores, supermarkets and drugstores nationwide.

Have you tried this yourself? If so, would you recommend it? I’ve yet to grab a bottle for myself but if this delivers everything it promises above then I might have found my much awaited HG body lotion!