Monday, October 29, 2018

Starbucks 2019 Planner♥

Source: Starbucks Philippines

4 days to go, before the official "sticker" collecting starts... As I have said on my previous blog posts that I was really into planners.  As a kid I love collecting notebooks, stationery, pens and etc.  But I really started my Starbucks planner collection in 2007, when my brother gave me (as a Christmas gift) a SB planner. And the rest is history.  To be honest : I don't write on them... (hahaha)

This year Starbucks is offering 2 planners and 2 travel organizers. They launched it at SM Mall of Asia last October 25, but the promo officially starts on November 2, 2018 until January 7, 2019.

Here are my bets:

  • For the planner :  I am wanting the espresso (brown canvas planner)
  • For the travel organizer : Crushing on the teal 

I am really very excited!  Hope you're all excited as I am.

I wonder what are the Christmas drinks this year?  I hope they will still have the Peppermint.. because that is really my favorite.. (*wink)

xo, 
Chiq♥



Thursday, October 25, 2018

Hello Kitty at Watsons PH♥


Being a self-confessed Hello Kitty lover, I really drool every time I see HK items, stuff and etc.  A lot of collaborations came out lately...(bad on the pocket... hahaha)  Few weeks ago, when I was shopping for toiletries at Watsons, I saw a couple of cutie Hello Kitty merchandise... from travel bottle set, hair turban, bath sponges, toothbrush, face mask, hair brush and etc.  I really don't know what to purchase first (hihi) all of them are super nice!

Honestly, I don't really purchase things that I don't really use.. (as much as possible).  Yes in a way, I am quite a wise spender (now).  Before I admit - I'm not but as I grew older I became more matured in handling my finances.  Though sometimes I splurge, but not all the time. 

Back to Hello Kitty:  

Here are the things I got from Watsons... 

Travel bottle set♥

Face Sponge♥
Breath Spray♥
Hairbrush and Mirror compact♥
Hairbrush♥
How about you? Have you been to Watsons lately? What did you get?

xo,
Chiq♥

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Brooch Trend♥



Hiyee!  Recently, I have been so addicted with brooches.  Yes I know some of you think that brooches are for old people (very old fashion) - our grandma, lola, mamita, nonna... that's what I also thought before.  But I remember wearing one during my college days in UST (because of the neckline of my uniform).  

Brooches have a certain way of personalizing and accessorizing your outfit... Just like what a Fendi or Dior bag strap can do to your bag.  It gives your outfit a unique personality.  Actually there are more styling possibilities for brooches than other accessories.



Source: Google (ctto)
source: Google (ctto)

Ways in wearing brooches:
  • Wear a single brooch or in cluster.
  • Aside from wearing it on your blazer, jacket, coat, sweater or plain top : you can also wear it on your plain tee, beanie, shawl, bandana or scarf.
  • Create a choker with the brooch.
  • You can also wear it on your hair. (which i did before for my brother's wedding)
I realized brooches never really went out of trend.  They're just there... sometimes we just forget about them..

xo,
Chiq♥

Thursday, October 18, 2018

Marc Jacobs Snapshot Camera Bag: Authentic vs Fake♥

Hello bagaholics!  One of the most coveted bags today - Marc Jacobs Snapshot Camera bag... Before I proceed on how to distinguish genuine from fake bag, here is a short review.

The bag maybe small but it's really spacious.  It has two compartments: can fit a couple of things including a phone, car keys, a small wallet, compact powder and a lippy. Aside from wearing it as a shoulder or cross body bag you can also use it as a clutch. It's a versatile bag!♥

Authentic Marc Jacobs Logo strap Snapshot camera bag in Dust multi 

Nowadays, those who produce fake bags can really make a 1:1 copy.   But when you look deeper and examine the bags you can really spot the difference.  Purchased both bags to compare.  

1. Stitching 



2. Brand leather stamping : The "Marc Jacobs New York" - notice the size, font and spacing of the letters.



3. Shape of exterior pocket 


4.  Hardware: Metal stamping/engraving on the zipper pull, ring and shade of the hardware   




5. Leather tassel 



Other information about the bag:

Dimension : 7.2" x 4.1" x 2.3"
Features:

  • Material : Saffiano leather
  • Removable and adjustable straps
  • Double zip compartment
  • Exterior back pocket
  • Lined interior with slip pocket
  • Double J hardware detail on the front
Price: $295.00 + tax

Rating: ♥♥♥♥ out of 5 stars

How about you? Are you also a fan of the Snapshot camera bag?

xo,
Chiq♥


Thursday, October 11, 2018

Review: Pantene Micellar Shampoo and Conditioner♥



Hello ladies!  Honestly, I am really not familiar with Micellar, until I watched from one of the webisodes of Ms. Kris Aquino during her Japan trip.  They were in a store and when she saw this Micellar Shampoo and Conditioner: she freaked out.  She said that even in the US it's not yet available (that time).  Being a fan of Pantene, I researched what "Micellar" is. (coz I wanted to try it)

"Micellar water is a skin care product that looks like a regular water but it contains tiny oil molecules, that has an ability to remove toughest waterproof make up, cleanse and tone."

So if it's good on skin... for sure it will be great for hair. :)

I have this friend that recently traveled from Japan and I asked her if she could buy me a set of Pantene Micellar because I really wanted to try it.  


Last week, got my 400 ml set : Pantene Micellar Shampoo & Treatment (Conditioner).  The Shampoo is transparent and the Conditioner/Treatment is white in color.  It has a sweet fruity scent which I love.  

First use:  On wet hair I used 1 pump of shampoo, working from my scalp to the strands.  Unlike the micellar cleanser where the cotton ball turns gray upon use.  When I rinsed my hair  it did not change it's color (it did not turn gray).  Then next is the conditioner/treatment: 2 pumps for this one to moisturize and hydrate my strands (especially on the ends).  Left it for a few minutes (3 minutes) then I rinsed it.

I recently had my hair rebonded (I don't have really curly hair, but it has natural frizz sometimes that needs to be tamed).  So I am quite nervous in using the product (the first time) because it might harm  my hair, luckily it was safe for chemically treated hair. It felt light and super soft... and I totally love it.

Verdict: I am impressed and I highly recommend Pantene Micellar Shampoo and Conditioner.  I hope S&R will carry this variant soon.... (*wink!)

xo, 
Chiq♥

Wednesday, October 10, 2018

St. Padre Pio of Pietrelcina ♥


source: Google

I was not able to go to the public veneration of the incorrupt heart relic of St. Padre Pio in Manila Cathedral yesterday.  The incorrupt heart relic of St. Padre Pio arrived here in the Philippines last October 5 will stay until the 26th.  Today is the last day at Manila Cathedral and it will be flown to Cebu and Davao.  Last stop will be at the National Shrine of Padre Pio in Batangas. 


I really feel bad.. but thanks to my good friend Mhai for getting me this handkerchief.♥

His presence, St Padre Pio (the miracle worker)

Few years ago, I had a wonderful and unforgettable experience with St. Padre Pio when my Lola was confined in Cardinal Santos.  I prayed to him in the chapel, I held his hands and asked for healing (for my Lola). While I was standing in front of his image praying, I felt a cool breeze and started to have goosebumps all over... I really felt his presence... So I hurriedly went back to my Lola's room and laid my hands on her head.  After 3 days she was discharged.  In my heart I believed that it was St Padre Pio who healed her.  That's why I can't help but be emotional every time I pray to St Padre Pio and reminisce that moment.

And I believe that when my Lola passed away... He welcomed her with open arms..♥


Monday, September 10, 2018

Grandparents Love♥


All my life I will be grateful to these two special people... They are my second parents. Aside from my parents, they are my rock!  I have a lot of fond memories of them.  My Lolo usually walk me to school whenever I stay with them, he is the one who taught me to become an entrepreneur. I am his stock clerk and sometimes his store assistant.  Lola is my strength, she was a strong woman.  Raising 9 children, juggling her role as a wife and mother.  She was really the "Ilaw ng tahanan" which really fits her name Iluminada... She taught me a lot of things: from buying in the palengke (market), cooking.. being prayerful and loving my family.  I am lucky that I was able to spend more time with them.  And until now I still miss them...But I know they are watching over me/us in heaven.  I will never get tired of honoring them... Happy Grandparents day in heaven! I love you both!♥

To the millennials, love your grandparents...try to spend your time with them.  you don't know what you're missing.  (haha) 


Saturday, September 08, 2018

Happy Birthday, Mama Mary!♥



I won't miss posting this today...  

Happy birthday Dear Mother!♥♥♥

Thank you for always keeping us in the cradle of  your love.

I love you Mama Mary!

Friday, August 31, 2018

Crazy Rich Asians: My thoughts♥


I totally love the movie!♥  Now I want to read the next book China Rich Girlfriend. I am not a bookie.. I'd rather watch than read, but after watching the movie I'm completely drawn into it.  It was a nice story... "Love really conquers all"...  At first I thought it was just a hype and they are just overrating the movie, but when I watched it last night - it was really a great film.  Now I can't wait for the sequel which I read somewhere online that it's on the planning stage.

Favorite scene/s:

I have a couple of favorite scenes: 
  • Entrance of Princess Intan - Ms. Kris Aquino on the film (which I am really proud of because I am a Pinay).. Mr. Kevin Kwan is right, she's one of the highlights of the movie.  I really waited for it... It was short but with impact to us Filipinos.  I just wish that the Michael Cinco gown was show 
  • Mahjong scene of Rachel and Eleanor - tissue moment
  • My ultimate favorite - I love the wedding scene... When Nick and Rachel were staring at each other during the wedding march with "Can't help falling in love" by Kina Grannis was playing at the background. You can't really help falling in love.. it was like you wanted to fall in love all over again. I so love Nick!♥ hahaha...  
Congratulations to Mr. Kevin Kwan, Director Jon Chu and the whole cast of the movie!

Overall rating: I give it ♥♥♥♥♥

It's really worth watching!

xo,
Chiq♥

Thursday, August 30, 2018


.
Open letter to a friend:

Dear friend,

Hello!  I know it has been a while since we last talked.  A lot of things have transpired lately and these started to build a thin wall between us. There's no denying: from long conversations, chats - to simple hi and hellos - to nothing.  I cannot say that distance is a hindrance because we also have friends from other parts of the world but communication lines are open.  Well, I guess we have outgrown each other.  Yes, we have different views but this should not hinder if we are truly friends.  But I guess that's life people change...

At our age... we are more sensitive now (than when we were younger) but I'd rather not stress myself on anything... I want no dramas anymore.  And I know you feel the same way too.     

I may not be a perfect friend.. but who is?  Sorry for not liking and commenting on your social media posts... But for me the true measure friendship is not with likes and positive comments on social media and being affirmative on everything.  It is what is in our hearts and how we value each other.  I am not perfect, but I'm true and real:  that sometimes I am misunderstood for being too straight forward, but I am proud to say I'm not judgmental. That is why it really broke my heart when I learned - I was judged by someone.. who did not know the real story and who did not know me personally.  The worse part is : you believed her (yes I know you're friends and you are close before we really clicked). I was meaning to talk to you about this to get this out of my head and clear the air but I just decided to make this open letter for the protection of someone close to me. 

Is she really your friend?  then blah.. blah...  ("Kaibigan mo ba talaga sya?")  That's the intriguing question of that person to you... Funny! Because what she told you was about, what happened few years ago... and as far as I can remember it was already resolved... Honestly, I don't know her motive... but she succeeded.  And you have kept this inside you too...

A lot of things had happened, but I just want to move on and let go of this for good... If you think what I said (which she told you) hurt you... I'm sorry.. I hope this will close that issue forever... and open a new chapter...


Learning: "I believe the first test to a great man is in his humility." - John Ruskin

xo,
Chiq♥





Thursday, August 16, 2018

Another Purrfect Collaboration: Converse x Hello Kitty♥

source: Google

Another exciting collaboration is here!  After Sanrio's recent Hello Kitty collab with Puma, Penshoppe, now Converse came out with theirs today August 16. The collection includes sneakers (of course), apparel and accessories. Cuteness overload!♥  I cannot wait to visit the nearest Converse shop (here in Manila) this weekend.

Source: Converse
The shoes consists of 6 designs: Chuck Taylor All-Star, Chuck 70 and One star styles. White, Pink, Red and Black hues with iconic Hello Kitty bow and head.

source: Refinery29.com

source: Converse

The apparel consists of shirts, hoodies/pullover, while the accessories includes duffel, sling bags or pouches.♥ 

Source: Refinery29.com
Source: Converse

Are you Kitty girls just as excited like me? Which one is your favorite?

xo, 
Chiq♥

Remembering a hero: The birth of our Democracy♥


I am not a "Dilawan" or "Dutertard", but I always stand on what is right.  I was 11 years old when Senator Benigno Aquino was assassinated in Manila International Airport, naive that time I really don't understand.   Born in 1972, I'm a Martial law baby, so I don't get to experience what really happened during the Marcos' regime.  But my parents and grand parents that time were so afraid that I heard them saying "Magkakagulo na".  They immediately went to the grocery to buy canned foods and other necessities.  I only learned about it when we studied it in school and through the news and documentaries on TV.  I remember when I watched his funeral with thousands of people with yellow ribbons and his casket on top of a 10 wheeler truck with a sea of yellow flowers. That's it!  

But I know (that time) his death was an eye-opener to all the Filipinos.

That lead to the ouster of Marcos and the birth of democracy, our democracy.  

So whatever they say, for me... his death is worth remembering... Because NO modern Ninoy Aquino (will have the guts) in this lifetime would fight for what is happening to our country today.


Monday, August 06, 2018

Can't miss the MARK: Plains and Prints x Mark Bumgarner Collaboration♥

Source: Plains and Prints

I was so excited when I learned about this collaboration.  On my previous posts I have already mentioned that Plains and Prints was one of my favorite local brand.  Plains and Prints is known for collaborating with our country's top designers: Rajo Laurel, Rhett Eala, Vania Romoff to name a few.  And I know every girl wishes to own at least one of couture or RTW made by these designers, of course that includes me.

Mark Bumgarner is known for classic silhouettes and for dressing Ms. Heart Evangelista-Escudero.  

The P&P x Mark Bumgarner is a 13 piece collection that includes dresses, blouses/tops, one piece suit/jumpsuit, skirts and culottes.  Price ranges from P1,698.00 to P2,998.00

Source: Google
Of course I cannot miss this one... when it was made available in the market (August 3) after it's grand reveal last July 25th at the Manila House Private Members Club..  I went right away to the nearest boutique.♥

Here are my top picks:

Andreia S/L Top and Skirt
Source: Plains and Prints
Thaliya Pantsuit
Source: Plains and Prints
Franceska Maxi Dress
Source: Plains and Prints


What did I get?



I totally love the bows on this top!♥ And I just want to share that when I uploaded this photo on my Instagram, Sir Mark Bumgarner liked my post... I'm totally "Kilig"!

How about you? What's you favorite on this recent collab of Plains and Prints?..

xo,
Chiq♥

Friday, July 27, 2018

CBCian 1988 at 30♥

Colegio Del Buen Consejo Batch 1988 with our dear teachers

It's been almost two weeks, but I can still feel the excitement in my nerves.  Last July 14 our Batch celebrated our 30th year.  I really consider this a once in a lifetime event, maybe my other batch mates feel the same way also.  Some of my classmates even flew to the Philippines just to attend our reunion.

The Backstory:

The reunion was supposed to be in April of 2018, but since we all wanted to accommodate the requests of some of our batch mates now based abroad (who wanted to attend the event) : it was moved to July.

Initial talks about the reunion began last February (2018) during the Grand Alumni Homecoming of our school - Colegio Del Buen Consejo.

The first committee meeting was held in May 2018.

The Committee:

The reunion committee was headed by Gretel Garcia-Yadao, our Overall Batch Director and Alumni Coordinator and Liza Paulino - President, Batch 1988 Pearl Anniversary Reunion.

The Core committee is consist of  the following hardworking people:
  • May Prado-Caliwag - Head, Logistics and Finance Committee;
  • Arlyn Trinidad - Social Coordinator (Internal), Logistics and Finance Committee / Member, Logistics and Finance / Member, Visual Arts and Physical Arrangement;
  • Abei Garcia - Social Coordinator (External), Logistics and Finance Committee / Apparel production head, Artistic Committee;
  • Anna Bautista - Activity and Program head / Political Coordinator;
  • Rita Olabre-Lamzon - Head, Visual Arts and Physical Arrangement, Artistic Committee;
  • Chiq Santos - Head, Souvenir Giveaway Production, Artistic Committee / Visual Artist;
  • Fatima Veloso - Head, Souvenir Program Production, Artistic Committee;
  • Joan Perez - Head, Social Connections Committee;
  • Carla Madridejo-Conquilla - Member, Social Connections;
  • Menchie German - Member, Social Coordinator (Internal & External);
  • Nenita Villanueva -  Member, Social Connections
Consultants : Ira Cruz-Rojo and Judith Advincula-Montefalcon.

It was privilege to be chosen and to be a part of the committee. :)


The Plan:

Planning the event was fun!  We started reminiscing our high school days.. The Cobra / Tidal wave bangs, Aqua net hair spray, Lace headbands, Menudo, Madonna, Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran and etc...  But most of all, our goal is to have more attendees (as possible) than the homecoming.  

Reunion theme: Bagets - because of the movie Bagets and we are 80's people!  

Venue :  Sorrento Oasis Clubhouse in Pasig City; 

Catering : MYC Catering

Love bags : For our teachers and mentors:  just like the bags we gave them during the Grand Alumni homecoming... bags with goodies, medicines and etc.;

Loot bags : For the attendees : the bag was sponsored by Silvia Sanchez-Yamada and goodies from anonymous sponsors;

Souvenir Program book : This was supposed to be given on the day of the event, but the committee decided to include photos from the Pearl reunion so it will be released weeks after.

Souvenir Giveaway : This was my assignment.  A framed photo : 1988 and current/recent photo of all batch mates. The photos became viral when I posted all of them on our group page.  Even our teachers requested me to do theirs also.

Photo and Video Coverage : Sponsored by Maribel Co-Barangan - Pixieblooms Events

Yearbook reproduction : Some of us have lost our yearbook (including me coz of Typhoon Ondoy), I suggested if it's possible to reproduce it...and Whoala! I am not the only one - most of us signed in for it's reproduction. 

The Pearl Event:

Sorrento Oasis Clubhouse, Pasig City 


Early call time for committee members, but  because of  the excitement of some... they came early also..

At the Registration
The Gwapings of the Batch




The Love bags for teachers/mentors
Our teachers
Our teachers

Our teachers

Our teachers

St. Augustine with Ms. Lolita Estacio (Adviser)
St.Dominic with Ms. Mariann Perez-Rentasida
St.Luke with Ms. Amparo Evora-Miguel (adviser)
St.Mark with Ms. Bernadeth Dionisio-Bautista
St.John with Ms. Eufemia Garcia

It was a wonderful, fun event... It was something beyond our expectation! 100+ attendees... (Honestly I lost track already)... 
And now we wanted to do this again on our 35th... ♥ 

xo,
Chiq♥


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