Zodiac Sign: Cancer

I've always been fascinated with the zodiac signs personalities cuz they say, if not completely, who you are. It's better knowing that than horoscopes or predictions. But like the latter I don't depend much on what zodiac personalities have. They just serve as references (sometimes) in knowing myself and others. I don't know all the zodiac's personalities by heart but whenever I happened to be interested in reading them again, I always check them online. You know what, why don't you try at least checking your own sign you might be surprise how much it describes you.

Since I'm at it I'd like to share what my sign reveals about me. I've found a site that accurately stripped me on my real personality--- both the good and bad sides of me. Okay, now I'm afraid. But Let's get on with it.

My birthday falls on the first of July, that makes me a Cancer. Basically, my sign is governed by emotions, which makes us unpredictable, moody, sensitive, sympathetic and nurturing. I say I strongly have them all. Also, as you read further there are more things you'll learn about this zodiac (and me).

Cancer Astrology June 21 - July 22

Cancer Strength Keywords:

- Loyalty
- Dependable
- Caring
- Adaptable
- Responsive

Cancer Weakness Keywords:

- Moody
- Clingy
- Self-pitying
- Oversensitive
- Self-absorbed

Cancer and Independence:

Cancer is the astrology sign that is packed full of contradictions so when it comes to independence, they possibly can or can not be independent. On one side, they have the perseverance and drive to do what needs to be done, they are self-sufficient and do not need to depend on other people for the material and physical things in life. On the other hand, they depend on people for emotional support and encouragement. A Cancer that is not fully self-actualized will need the constant support of others and will not be very independent but the Cancer that is 'evolved' and has properly harnessed their emotional issues will be wildly successful as an independent human being. They crave attention and comfort from other people and they are happiest when they have a small, close knit group of friends or family.

Cancer and Friendship:

Cancer is extremely loyal to those who appreciate and support them, they are the nurturer of the zodiac and will protect and cherish the person for a long time. One of the greatest things about Cancer is their ability to make others feel good about themselves and loved. This is because instead of doing this for themselves, they project this onto other people. This is a positive cycle because in making others feel nurtured, wanted and loved, they in return feel good for making someone feel good. Other people can lean on and depend on cancer, they will listen to people's problems and help them however they will rarely express their own deep feelings to anyone. People who want to share deep emotional thoughts and opinions with a Cancer might feel that the scales are tipped on one side for cancer will rarely reveal it's true deep feelings. A friend of Cancer is usually a lifelong devoted friend that can be trusted.

Cancer and Business:

Once cancer resolved their emotional issues such as shyness and insecurity, the powerful character will shine though, there is practically nothing they can't do. They have incredible perseverance and will stand up for what they believe in. With their strong intuition, sensitivity, powers of observation and intelligence, they will have great success in anything they undertake. They are excellent business people and investors because of their intuitive and psychic ability and their creative forward thinking mind, they are able to predict future trends. They attract wealth very well and know where to invest. Money and financial well being is very important to Cancer and this can help their drive in business. They need financial security and if they allow themselves to properly focus their energy and do not allow their emotions to over take them, they are more then capable of obtaining their financial goals and being incredibly successful business people.

Cancer Temperament:

They are complex, fragile, unpredictable and temperamental and need constant support and encouragement, more then any other astrology signs, Cancer needs to be needed. Even when all needs are satisfied, they can be irritable and cranky. They have an uneasy, delicate temperament. The contradictory nature of Cancer gives their temperament the wild mood swings and possible temper tantrums. They are easily offended and will sulk and wallow in self pity for a long time when they get hurt.

Cancer Deep Inside:

It is difficult for cancer to open up and have a close emotionally fulfilled relationship with someone because they are so closed off emotionally and physically to the world. This is driven by their fear of trust, Cancer has a difficult time trusting people. This causes built up anger and resentment inside, the contradictory nature really takes a toll on them and they can have a negative outlook on life, thinking that life is just too hard and miserable. This is unfortunate because when good experiences are to be had, they are skeptical of people and their surroundings and they experience tunnel vision due to their depressed outlook and they miss the nice things and happy experiences in life that make it worth living. In addition to lack of trust for people, Cancer is deeply sensitive and easily hurt, this is other reason why they have their defense shell in place, to avoid being hurt by others. Cancer lives in the past. They hold past events close to them and often dwell on the past. They have to learn to let go and live in the present instead of spending their time being sick with nostalgia. Cancer has a lot of emotional issues to deal with but once they overcome this large hump of shyness and insecurity, there is practically nothing they can't do. With their strong intuition, sensitivity, powers of observation and intelligence, they will have great success in anything they undertake. Cancer is constantly feeling, feelings and emotions are hallmarks of this sign and this is the root of their problems, human beings are not as evolved in the emotional area and this is where cancer gets the brunt of their problems. They are the ones who have to cope with their strong feelings more so then any other sign. Once properly harnessed, there is nothing that is this powerful astrology sign can not accomplish. Harmony is very important to Cancer, it keeps them happy. Conflict of any kind causes great distress. Deep inside, Cancer is a very powerful sign, they have the ability to stand up for what they think is right and they have lots of perseverance and can be fine on their own provided they don't let their emotions get the better of them and have the stability they need. They are not fond of change but they have the ability to do what needs to be done, they are not pushovers or lazy people.

Cancer in a Nutshell:

Cancer is a mysterious sign, filled with contradictions. They want security and comfort yet seek new adventure. They are very helpful to others yet sometimes can be cranky and indifferent. Cancer has a driving, forceful personality that can be easily hidden beneath a calm, and cool exterior. The crab is Cancer's ruling animal and it suits them well, they can come out of their shell and fight but they can also hide in their shell of skitter away back into the depths of the ocean. They are very unpredictable. With cancer, there is always something more that meets the eye, for they are always partially hidden behind the shell. They are a have a deep psyche and intuitive mind that is hidden from the world. Cancer is deeply sensitive and easily hurt, this might be why they have their defense shell in place, to avoids being hurt by others. They are nurturers so they surround themselves with people, whom after a while can offend or hurt a cancer without even knowing they did so, therefore Cancer's protective shell keeps them safe from hurt. They are complex, fragile, unpredictable and temperamental and need constant support and encouragement, more then any other astrology signs, Cancer needs to be needed. When cancer gets the support it needs, it has a tremendous amount to offer in return. When cancer gets offended, they tend to sulk instead of confronting the persons face to face. This needlessly prolongs the pain and suffering. Cancer is very possessive, not just with material possessions but with people as well. Cancer will always want to stay in touch with old friends and anyone who has ever been close to them, because it is easier to maintain a friendship then attempt to learn to trust a new person. It is easier this way for them emotionally. If you befriend a Cancer, you will stay friends for a long time. Cancer makes the perfect mother, this is the sign that represents motherhood. They have unconditional love and caring more so then any other astrology sign. Cancer are very intuitive. Most of the psychics of the world are Cancer astrology signs. They have an excellent memory and are very observant and can read people very well. They can usually tell of other people's intentions are good or not. Never dupe a Cancer, they can see your motives. Cancer has a lot of emotional issues to deal with but once they overcome this large hump of shyness and insecurity, there is practically nothing they can't do. With their strong intuition, sensitivity, powers of observation and intelligence, they will have great success in anything they undertake.

Cancer Love and Relationships

What it's like to date a Cancer Woman:

The Cancer woman is a very sensual woman with deep emotions and passion brewing underneath the exterior. To reach these will require time, patience and tenderness. Do not expect to have her open up to you right away and jump into a relationship. She will not make the first move and will not be forward with you, you have to do all the work. Do not try to lead her on because Cancer woman is very in-tune with a persons motivations and she will see right through you. Trust is the single most important thing to Cancer. If you ever betray her trust, you might as well move on. She needs love and security. Cancer is the perfect woman for the man who loves to sweep a woman off her feet with romance. She is sensual, sweet and flirty and you two will engage in a gentle, flirtatious dance together while the relationship builds. Once there is a solid, secure foundation, the richness of the relationship will emerge. She is old fashioned, feminine and sensual and patient, if you are the man who can give her what she wants, a relationship with a Cancer woman is wholesome and rewarding and can last a lifetime.

What it's like to date a Cancer Man:

The Cancer man will not be direct with you. He will approach you cautiously and slowly. He will be very romantic and flirty and attempt to court you and win your heart with lavish gifts and attention. The reason he will never be direct with you is that he has a strong underlying fear of rejection. Of you are interested in a Cancer man, you will probably have to make the first move and ask him on a date. He falls in love easily and will make you his whole world. Once you "belong to him", he will hold on to you and can become quite jealous and possessive. This is because he is worried he will lose you to another man and that would crush his spirit. He needs you to be loyal and faithful for he is the same, in a strong and close relationship, Cancer men are the most loyal of the astrology signs. They make excellent lovers for the tender woman who loves romance and being swept off her feet. Cancer is very affectionate and thrives on holding hands all the time, and constant physical contact as he absorbs the situation and experiences with his feelings. The cancer man is all about feeling. He might not show it however and might portray a calm and cool exterior but underneath, he feels deeply and intensely. Cancer men are easily offended so do not jokingly make fun of them for they will take offense and get hurt, but once again, this will not be known to you. He will simply sulk on his own while he tries to figure out and dissect what you said. Cancer men are excellent male protectors, they are like the knight in shining armor. If you are the kind of woman that likes being looked after and cared for, and loves affection and devotion, this romantic, sensual man is perfect for you.

How To Attract Cancer:

You must be direct, Cancer will not. Let your feelings for them be known, this is the first step to initiating a relationship with a Cancer. This way, will not have to risk rejection, one of their biggest fears. If you are looking for a short fling, be straight with them. Do not lead them on to thinking there is long term commitment is there is none because you will hurt these emotionally delicate people. Trust is the most important. Build trust with them and they will gradually get closer to you. Give them approval and compliments but be careful because they will easily sense when you are complimenting them just for the sake of it. Be sincere. Ask Cancer for advice, share your problems (but don't burden them), they enjoy helping people and giving advice. They like culture and lavish experiences. Take them to a play or museum and a fancy, upscale restaurant. Do not force Cancer into a relationship or make them make a decision on the spot. They will shy away from you. Have patience, this is the key to attracting a Cancer. Be physical with them, they love genuine affection. They are very cautious and as time passes, they will slowly grow closer to you and you will have wonderful, fulfilling relationship.

By reading what I've quoted above at least you have more of an idea how to handle Cancer people, and of course, me. Oh! I've deleted the last two parts of it cuz it tells about the erogenous body part of Cancer and its sex life. I decided not to include them for wholesomeness sake. But if in case you still want to know or simply want to read other zodiacs you are free to go to this website: zodiac-signs-astrology. Enjoy!

The Rules of Love

Image taken from longevitymag.co.za

Oh this love month is contagious--- even I'm single. I wish me buying this book is a coincidence, and not cuz I'm lovesick.

Okay, so yesterday I went to Cash N Carry to buy few of my toiletries specifically my body wash, soap, and hair removal cream (I'm supposed to buy wax strips not the cream but I realized I read the packaging wrong which I learned later on). Those were my main purpose as to why I was there, actually.

I was about to leave the mall when I saw the drizzle. I couldn't go back to the office until it stops pouring since I don't have an umbrella for cover. So I decided to go back inside the mall to kill time. Then I had an idea to go to Booksale. I don't have any book in mind I just went there to try if there is something attractive I could find. Just when I thought there is none that I like I told myself it's time to go. That last seconds turned my gaze to this book, "The Rules of Love" by Richard Templar. I thought the title sounded interesting. I opened the pages to see if it might possibly feed my mind or get me enthusiastic when I buy it. So far so true, I say. Although I just started reading it, I'm all pumped up to read from cover to cover. I'm all nodding and saying, "Ah!" from realizing why my love life or someone elses love life turned that way. It's like the book is saying exactly what everybody is experiencing, in love. Not only the book discloses the wrong or right moves you're doing in love but also by the end of each rules you'll get some advice on how not to take the wrong steps so that if you usually, if not always, fall in failed relationships at least you won't have to make the same mistakes again. Or if you've been blessed with a good relationship with your partner you'll also see by reading the book how the both of you are hitting the right rules in your love life, so keep up the good work!

The book has 100 rules about love. I'll share those rules later on. Right now, I'm lazy to list them all or even a few in this entry. So next time.

Smooth-365 Intensive Clarity + Smoothing Peptide Serum

Since I have naturally oily skin I mostly couldn't put any creams or moisturizers under my powder cuz I'll look nasty after a couple of hours when the oil on my skin starts to gradually secretes. I don't like that I look so shiny and obviously oily from putting on additional skin products other than powdered ones. I thought it'll always be the same morning routine that after the astringent or toner application it's finally powder time on my face then make-up if I wasn't lazy. Before, in-between the astringent and powder I would put BB cream but apart from my oily skin consequences, I find it hard to blend the color of those tinted BB creams same goes with any liquid foundation. It's like either I look tanner or fairer when my skin tone is just somewhere in the middle of both. Even if I choose the ones that says more suitable for my skin color it won't work. Whenever I photograph myself it still looks odd on my face that I decided to stop it. I eventually learned that sometimes there are skin tones that need to blend two or maybe more, for example, BB creams or liquid foundations to achieve the right tone, which I thought is very inconvenient and lavish. I couldn't live with it. Then when I met my recent Dermatologist she advised me to never forget to put on a sun-screen especially on my face for protection from UV Rays. I followed her advice but a week of use I started to drop the idea of protecting myself from any harmful rays. I stopped using sun-screen cuz it's worse than the case when I was still using BB creams or moisturizers that when I look in the mirror I feel ashamed of myself for I look oilier and shinier, that's so not normal. And so I just accepted the fact that creams or liquid skin products are not for me in the morning with or without make-up on. Oh well, I sometimes put moisturizer on my face if I'm at home and I remembered it.

Image taken from www.elle.com.hk

But things have changed when I started using this Smooth-365 Intensive Clarity + Smoothing Peptide Serum. From our last trip to Duty Free I bought this serum after reading what's indicated on its name. I tried it first one night to see how it will look like after awhile of wearing it on my face, then I saw that it doesn't get oily or shiny for long even on first application, which is great. That's when I decided to test if I wear it in the morning under my powder what will be the effect. I was thrilled that it complements well on my skin and choice of powder. Of course there is still oiliness cuz I have oily skin, which I've already mentioned, but not drastic as in you can fry food on it, nothing like that with this product. And since it's not tinted and the serum disappears when applied that it doesn't conflict on my nuetral colored face powder. The good thing about this product is that it can be an alternative to BB cream. The beauty benefits of BB cream can also be given by this serum. Like it smoothens and clears the skin to achieve an almost flawless look. Also, the serum won't add a greasy feel on your face and you won't have worries like when you use BB cream or liquid foundation you look like you've put too much powder on your face.

The serum is from GoodSkin Labs. Not only this serum is their available product. Actually, there are a lot to choose from. I remember back in Duty Free when I saw the shelf of this brand, I wondered how effective it could be or is it a known brand in the US or somewhere overseas. Although I have zero information about it I eventually got a hand of the serum to try on. I also have my eyes on their collagen serum but decided to just take one since the brand for me like I said is still unknown. I said that atleast if the product sucks then I won't have another tube to force myself of emptying it. But I regretted that I didn't take personal supplies for myself now that I've seen how great the product is. I can only wait until April after my tour to the US and Mexico to get supplies that will be good until someone will take me to Duty Free again. But if you ask me I wish there is this brand in our market so I could buy anytime. Unfortunately, and as far as I know, it's only available in Duty Free.

Revlon ColorStay

Image taken from amazon.com

I've been wearing lipstick lately. Although I'm not a fan of wearing it I thought maybe it won't hurt to try something new, and so I did. So for first-timers like me I tried this Revlon ColorStay lipstick. I have the Soft Cinnamon. It's like brownish-red in color. It's fine but I realized it's not my favorite hue. Anyway, I was supposedly looking for a shade of red, something that's like red in a darker tone, maybe something close to maroon I think but I couldn't find it in their colors. In the end I was left with no choice but to buy the color that is somewhat forgivable, plus since it says that it is long-lasting. But long-lasting is it, no. I was disappointed that its color doesn't stay all day when you eat food... yeah, so far whenever I finish eating and see my lips the color faded away. Most of the color that's left can only be seen around my lip line. It's like I have shaped my lips through a lip-liner, that's what it's like.  But you know what, when I read its reviews online one example is from this site, amazon.com I don't get why it has lots of good feedbacks. I thought it's weird, or is it me? So far that's my only problem about it but it's big deal right? cuz you wanna have the day away from embarrassment when you meet or mingle with people and realize that your lipstick isn't intact anymore. I just don't like that kind of trouble that's all.

Acne/pimple whatever!

Hi Maech! You see, I'm kinda hesitant to make this as I am not a pro in curing acne myself. I still frequently get pimples or acne especially whenever I'm stressed out or before I have my period. But I say I have a better way to treat them now than before and hopefully it may help you even a little bit with your problem.

Whenever I have some breakouts on my skin what I usually do is pop them. Yeah it's a bad thing, I know. I just try to remove the pus to stop the abscess from stinging, swelling and reddening. I don't scrape it with my fingernails or anything cause it's more prone to scarring than my other alternative. In my way what I do is I sandwich the abscess with my point fingers and push them to the center where the abscess was until the pus comes out and let some blood flow until the bump subsides. There are times it's very painful to do that it can even put you in tears but I don't stop in the middle of the process regardless cuz I bet if you do then you'll irritate more the pimple and will cause you big-time troubles ahead. So if you intend to do the same you have to be prepared. In the end if you put away the pus from the abscess you'll feel much better cuz the stinging, swelling and reddening will be gone. But note that it will not guarantee you that it will make you pimple-free, in fact if you didn't disinfect or make urgent treatment to the pimple you forcefully touched then the bacteria will only spread. To keep that from occurring what I do is I put isopropyl alcohol or mild cleanser to the affected area right away. Next I put Benzoyl cream. I don't just put the cream on the pimple that I pricked, I actually put it all over my face. And of course I don't let myself forget to drink an antibacterial capsule for acne cuz it will help you obviously fight the bacteria from spreading. In other words, it hinders the pimples from multiplying on your skin. Now I suggest that you don't wash it with water cuz it'll make the pimple darker after you just popped it. It happened to me, and it's ugly. It's alright to finally wash it with water after awhile, maybe after the popped pimple finally looked dry. And that's it. You just have to continue using mild cleanser, if possible choose a pimple fighting cleanser, and benzoyl, and the antibacterial capsule. Do them until your pimples are gone or you lose its severity that you think you finally have to pause for now until they breakout again, or if they have already served its purpose.

There are still times where you get dark spots from your previous acne, and I think it's harder to treat than when it scarred. Like even now I still have those dark spots although it's not as dark as way back. There are skin products that promise to even your skin tone and remove dark spots but most them would do no good. But when it comes to that I just exfoliate two times a week. Exfoliating not only removes dead skin cells, it can also brighten your skin especially if you pick the one that has whitening ingredient like Peeling Day (White Jewel) from The Faceshop and the one I'm using right now is a L'Occitane brand. When you exfoliate, the dark spots will gradually lighten up and if you get scarred from acne it may also aid in smoothing the scar to kinda conceal those so-called, "potholes" on your face. You may also like to put a whitening moisturizer to remove those dark spots, as for me, I stopped trying and only use an emulsion with ginseng such as the one from Missha. On the other hand, another option in treating those potholes is to use scar removal gel or cream. I use Contractubex gel, it worked but not absolutely. There are also other brands you may wanna try for yourself. Another is the use of collagen products. Any products that has collagen in it will do for that ingredient says that it rejuvenates the skin. Not only it's use to fight wrinkles but also plumps the skin which is also good for treating scars, or might just work as an aid I'm not sure though. Actually the collagen thing I said where some information I read from all types of sources. I haven't tried using collagenic products yet since I have tons of facial products at hand, maybe soon after I empty one or two of them. Ah! I have a reminder that never ever exfoliate with a broken skin, you'll just make your case worse. If possible if you feel like exfoliating yourself and you think you're still prone to pimples I think you should ready your antibacterial capsule just in case you need immediate treatment.

Now if you're the type who wants to make your skin be back to how it was when you haven't encountered acne before then you should see a Dermatologist for fast treatment.

By the way, the measures I use to treat my pimples were applicable to me and can't guarantee you have the same effect. But from my Dermatologist's prescription she told me to use Benzoyl, antibacterial medicine for acne (Tetralysal), sunscreen, and skin care products that is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. She in fact suggested brands such as Neutrogena and VMV Hypoallegenics to name a few. I haven't tried the latter cuz their products are expensive, but the previous is alright so I went for that brand instead. My favorite and tested Neutrogena product is their Deep Clean Foaming Cleanser. I haven't used it for awhile but it's really something.

There. Good luck! : )

Vanillary @ Lush

Took so long to make an entry about my new love--- scent. These days I have to say that I'm addicted to one of Lush's solid perfumes that is Vanillary. The smell of vanilla and caramel were so right for me, and it's what I'm looking for in a scent that I believe is appropriate for my age. I read that the scent of vanilla--- I'm not sure about caramel--- has a sexy appeal to guys. Not that I intend to seduce or flirt with them, but for me it would at least may signal that I'm passed the in-between stage of maturity. I wanna feel like I'm a lady and be treated as is, I should be at my age now, yes.  It's not that I forced myself to love vanilla cuz of their appeal to opposite sex it's actually easy to fall in love with it. With the combination of caramel, the perfume smells so sweet like you wanna lick it or taste it. No kidding. If it's only a candy or any sweet food  I would have devoured it into my mouth right on the spot. Unfortunately, it's inedible and I don't have plans in killing myself so I gotta be aware that it's not food. Actually as a girl, and whenever I smell the perfume it's almost always that I wanna stick my nose to the skin where the scent was concentrated. You wanna smell it like crazy cuz it's sweet like you have your sweet-tooth activated again. Girls, if ever you got curious about this solid perfume and eventually went nuts about the scent as well,  I suggest that you put some behind your ears and nape so the scent will linger almost every minute of the day, and especially when the wind blows it's as if the smell would spread around where you are and people will have a second look at you with smiles on their faces. The back of my ears and nape are my fave places too cuz it has lots of purpose, the two things I've already mentioned. Another is that the smell of the perfume sticks to your hair so your shafts would somewhat smell the same, it's better cuz it supplements your early morning shower when you put shampoo and conditioner for the whole day. In fact I could usually smell it even the next morning so waking up or taking a bath later makes me not think much of stinking. Lastly, since the back of the ears and nape are close to your cheek and shoulder therefore when people kiss you or embrace you the other person will get an immediate impression to its scent. I very much like that part the most to say the least. But of course, girls have their own places on their body which they prefer their perfume to apply so definitely they have the freedom to do so. But don't forget the pulse areas of the body, just saying.

Image from www.punmiris.com

The perfume I have I bought in Lush Glorietta.  It costs over P500, and the tube in size is not even half in height of a standard pen. It's small in other words. You may have a second thought on buying it thinking if it's worth its price. But, as for me, despite deliberating it in my head I came to purchase the perfume for myself since I must be already under its spell. So far, I never regretted buying it. I might get another one when I have it empty.

Gave me a break

Summer Palace, Beijing, China

It's just today that I got to update my blog especially about the recent vacation I had with my mom in China, specifically, in Macau and Beijing. If you ask me how was it, I'll tell you that it was the most stressful journey I've experienced in my life. Truly, language barrier gave us a bit of hell especially when we were in Beijing. I never wished to be Chinese but when we were there I wished that I knew their language before I sat foot in their land. Lots of them even in the city don't know English, as well as the staffs from our checked-in hotel hardly speak the universal language we know best. It was tough almost everyday as communication is vital to our lives. It was such an effort to let them know what we wanna say. But no matter how difficult it was in speaking to them, I could say that, still, we managed to have a good time by going to the itineraries as planned. Not everything on my list we had a chance to see, but what we saw were enough to let China have a mark in our memories. It was a beautiful and interesting country to see. With that being said, I have the urge to go back there again as I haven't had enough of exploring what that country can offer. I mean, this is actually the first time I complemented a country this much, so believe what I said was true. Going there is highly recommendable for everyone--- but don't forget to learn a little bit of Mandarin for your convenience.

St. Paul Ruins, Macau, SAR China

And how can I not mention about Macau. Of course, it's a place to be for shopping and casino... shoot! that's cliche already. Well, I haven't been in Hong Kong but I believe that going there and in Macau look almost the same. You can even go back and forth to those countries if you please--- for there are available ferries to take you there. Although we lack of time to experience the latter I have known of that privileged and thought of sharing it with you. Anyway, there was also difficulty in communicating with the local people but it was incomparable when we were in Beijing. I think it shouldn't be a surprise since there are hotels and casinos everywhere so it's expected that staffs are able to speak English. It was to our advantage. Because of the people there are able to speak English and Macau is a small city we had gone to all the tourist spots of our priority. But I should say that our mode of transportation was pretty much not budget-friendly for we only used Taxis to go around the city--- in Beijing too--- and it was costly. I say if you have enough pocket money to pay cabs in a country where people and the road signs are all alien to you then it's somewhat an acceptable option than let yourself go nuts in talking to people you can't properly speak with and read maps that's painful to understand. It was the soft option we know to lessen the burden and be able to enjoy the trip. In the end, our stay can still be considered worthwhile.

Investing on interesting novels

I think last week while I accompanied my mom to get her NBI Clearance at Rob Manila I also got to look for interesting books to read at National Bookstore. I bought two interesting novels that defied my frugality. Seriously I wished to buy 'The Night Circus' by Erin Morgenstern but it's a big book that costs almost P800, I chickened out. But come to think of it, if I buy that then I wouldn't have the two books I have now. I'm thinking after I finished those two next up will be that. Anyway I bought "Bel Canto" by Ann Patchett, and "One Day" by David Nichols. I'm still reading the previous, and I can't find dull moments in it. It's a wonder why i don't feel sleepy reading when there's still no endearing scenes going on in my chapter so far. It's simply a page-turner. I still haven't started on  David Nichol's cuz I don't want to mixed up the stories like I'm warped about what had been going on, I often get that so I'll just stick to one. But I already can't wait to read that cuz I'm somewhat getting the idea that it must be like "Love in the Time of Cholera" in the sense that the (potential) budding romance between a guy and a girl was cut-short cuz of some circumstances then after a long time of not seeing each other in the end they will be reunited by fate and will finally be forever in each others embrace. I find that kind of setup very romantic, makes my heart all giddy. But it has to wait.

I don't like it, but I need it

There's a new tea in town. It's called Noyu from Taiwan. As it says in the product's website that it's an "exotic" drink. Right, exotic for it's not easy to like its taste. It's so much different from any kind of bottled tea drinks in the market. It's not made sweet but healthy.

courtesy of breakpointbrands.com

Ever since I started becoming conscious about calorie in-take I usually if not always checking the Nutrition Facts of the food and drink that I'm about to purchase. I learned from reading online and watching The Biggest Loser TV program that calorie is the source of people getting weight if not burned. So its advisable for those weight-watchers to drink less calorie beverage, which means banning yourself from soda, that's with exaggeration. But here's a breakthough about tea drinks which are packed with nutrients and health benefits in each bottle. With its low calorie content, it's perfect to be part of your diet. The downside is getting used to the taste, apart from that it's nothing else. But mind you, a 500 mL bottle costs around P40, it's double the price of other tea drinks in the market. Shoot! of course it'll be since it's imported, the P20+++ I'm referring to are local brands. Anyway I'm only starting to appreciate the drink especially after realizing how it curbed my appetite unknowingly. I'm not sure though if all of the bottles contain something that can curb appetite, but in the flavor Honey Lemon Chamomile Green Tea it can. I wonder if it was the taste that's sour with  something unexplainable in it that makes me not want to eat  or not feel eating at all, but the fact that I can go on with my life smoothly without the constant food temptation in my head is what I've hoped for for a long time. That benefit is my favorite, but thinking about going through the pain of drinking something you're not accustomed to was a challenge that makes me want to say enough of it. I wish I'll continue drinking it for a long time as long as it can still help me with my weight problem.

I've got my requests from Korea

MISA Cho Bo Yang Emulsion courtesy of Misshaus.com

And so Jay (Mom's Korean client/friend) came back to Manila last week, which meant that we finally received all of our requests. Thank goodness we have her cuz the things we couldn't usually buy in the country will never be a problem to us anymore. Like me, I'm totally in love with their ginseng, and mixed nuts teas.  I also love their pumpkin tea but I didn't request for a pack last time cuz I thought of having a break on that for now. But I'll comeback for it next time. Not only the teas she brought to us, our ordered skin care products as well. Like products from Missha and The Face Shop she bought all the way from Korea. Actually I wasn't really requesting for the emulsion that she got for me, anyway when I told mom what I like I only said that for as long as there is something like Korean ginseng in it, I wasn't specific since even if I would want to the name of my previous moisturizer was written in, was it Chinese or Japanese? Yeah, the writings wasn't even in Korean, and absolutely not in English. It sucked though. And so that's how it goes, I only said the content that it should have, and that's it. Until now whenever I check for that product in The Face Shop's website I still couldn't find it there. Eventually I've decided to move on without knowing its name, at least I'm sure that it exists cuz the facial wash that she bought for us was in the same name in which my new found favorite was under--- the same skin care collection. The emulsion I've mentioned previously  was MISA Cho Bo Yang Emulsion. My gosh! it's nice that the Missha website has the information and picture of that product. Apparently I knew the name through their website since the bottle was written in either Chinese or Japanese characters. But that wasn't a problem, what's important is how it can deliver well. It didn't disappoint. Right now I paused from using my night cream and serum, just that, and I am totally fine. I like the product cuz it's not too oily nor dry on your face, and your face looks healthier to look at. Maybe it's the ginseng, oh how I love their ginseng. However, going to the opposite end, I find the bottle heavy and I'm thinking how many was its content inside that thick and covered body of it? I'm kinda doubting it wasn't full or just less than enough of the cream since the bottle already occupied the space. I'm thinking it's not a very practical skin care product to buy, but if you are really satisfied with its effect then there's no regret in investing. Me, I like it, but if without mom buying me that product, I can't have it not until she changed her mind. Now regarding the facial wash of the same name as my previous moisturizer from The Face Shop, I say that... um... I don't know, it was alright, I didn't get an allergy or anything... I  didn't see anything new to touch nor feel. I think their moisturizer is better.

Before I leave I wanna tell you something more convenient when you buy stuff from abroad. That it's cheaper to buy almost anything at the airport of whatever country you're in because they don't have tax. They don't tax the item that you  purchase at the airport stores but as far as I know you are not allowed to open the things that are prohibited if you don't have them checked-in, like liquids. I've learned that, should I say 'trick', since Jay only buys our skin care products at their airport before going back to the Philippines to cost us less than the price we get if we buy them in the country or theres.

Yes, I'm not overweight!

Since we're not busy here in the office I had all the time to browse the net. One thing I had in mind is to check if I'm overweight, I found a site in which I think is quite reliable for me to believe it.  It's not that I just believed it after realizing I wasn't overweight, no, I checked other sites that's about this BMI thing, they speak the same regarding the matter so I'm sharing it on my blog.

I've highlighted the result of my BMI and the category where I belong. See that? I say it's not much to be happy about, I see there that I'm still healthy, but look at it, I'm almost at the end margin of that category. It's worrying me that I'm closer to being overweight. Wish my weight will drop down... I wish.

Now you wanna know your BMI? You can check it here. Enjoy!

I am 128 lbs.

I felt like an anvil flopped on my head realizing my current weight. I couldn't accept that after all the trying to reduce my weight in the past, still, they're not enough. I know it's also my fault that it happened. I tried to put down my weight but in the end--- after some days or weeks--- I'd go back eating garbage. Such a disappointment. I remember back in High School I was only weighing 100-110 lbs. I don't have flabby stomach back then, I wasn't even fat ever. But now, things have changed as you grow older, I believe. If you weren't looking after yourself, you'll fall apart after seeing what you see in yourself is someone you kinda don't like. I hate it. Man, I wanna lose weight so badly that it's killing me. It's disheartening that I feel so down right now. Writing this makes me sick.

Since yesterday, I bought this weighing scale to finally keep track of my weight loss or gain anytime I please. I've decided I should by my own cuz I can't go to the hospital or clinic just to check my weight, if I did I couldn't do it often. At least this way, whenever I thought of checking I could unpack my weighing scale from its box, and that's it.

Next is my ab exercise machine. I just ordered Ab Swing II, actually. I did it the moment I woke up from sleep this afternoon. It cost a little much, but I've kept an amount of money for this day to come, so I'm ready. It'll arrive this Wednesday, so, probably I could start exercising the day after or this weekend. I hope in two weeks time I could see best results on my tummy and weight.

I know discipline is the key to success, I don't wanna keep promising myself that I should do this and shouldn't do that raa raa, all I wanna do is take care of myself from now on.

Novels to read.

Please Lord give me the strength to read all the books on my list. Amen.

You might think I'm a slow reader if I say I'm just about to finish reading the novel I've mentioned in my previous entry... was it last week? Sorry. Anyway, I'm not rushing myself to finish a novel then move to another like in one sitting per day you know. It's not like some reading homework I remember back in college in which I gotta speed read the whole thick with almost tiny font size of a book or photocopied materials, not for this. Reading novels supposedly done while you unwind, chill. When my mood's like that I read without care of time, I just read. Ah! maybe depending on the scenes of the chapters, when they're not dull and has too satiating drama going on, I could finish the earliest. If the scenes are otherwise, I tend to get sleepy or lazy to turn the pages, so I usually pause until my strength has recovered.

In terms of books, I usually go for the romance genre, doesn't matter if it's drama, psychological, history or what not, for as long as there's a love story involve, I'm very much into it.  Must be a girl thing why I have wide appreciation for such.

While browsing the net, I yahoo-ed some sites where they could recommend good books to read. Luckily, I found one, I thought it's reliable so I depended on it, it's here. In reference to the list of recommended books from that site I've decided to read the following: Speak by Laurie Anderson, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, and Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides. I choose them cuz they involve crimes, social and psychological issues, something that might sound scandalous, I guess. I think the books I'm picking nowadays are continuation of the genre of the book I'm currently reading, does it make sense?

All the way from Korea---- instant drinks.

I'm back working on an entry cuz something noteworthy happened today. I've mentioned before my mom's Korean client/friend, you remember? She brought all the goodies we've asked of her when she was about to leave the country to go back to her homeland, to rest, to simply have a break from stress. I think she just arrived today and then had to come over to our office to give all our requested items from her. She bought everything as expected. Actually most of the items are from my request cuz I enjoyed their instant stuff. Like of course their Korean Red Ginseng tea. I like drinking that tea cuz I can sleep well all night long after drink, and whenever I wake up the next morning, I don't have anxieties. Also, this I'm not very sure but I think it's somewhat helping me with my diet, like I don't feel bloated and heavy in my stomach. For the instant Pumpkin soup/tea, I like the taste of it the moment I had a sip from a free-tasting kiosk at a grocery store back in Korea. The mom of my mom's Korean client/friend even gave us a couple of sachets of that pumpkin soup/tea, I had a worthwhile eating time with that soup/tea which I truly enjoyed. Now I have a small box all for myself, I'll savor it more. There's another instant soup/tea that was given to us, this assorted nuts soup/tea was not my request but she bought a box for her 'pasalubong'. I've used a sachet to try and see if I'll like it which I did. But I think the pumpkin soup/tea is what I like more. Lastly, it's my mom's request this time, she asked for a BB Cream from Missha. As we all know Missha is very known for BB Creams. Mom's just newly introduced to BB Creams, I hope she'll like it.

Love it!

Yesterday I had a run to Waltermart to buy something I've been wanting to try lately. They're not something big but it's just lip gloss and lotion.

Actually it was Chapstick I had in mind for my lips because I sort of can't live without painting my lips lately. Finally, I learned the importance of wearing lip gloss or lip balm, and sometimes lipstick. I like to see and feel my lips soft and smooth, of course not chappy. Unfortunately, it wasn't the brand I'm supposedly going to buy, it's another. I purchased Lip Ice Sheer Color (Strawberry flavor) from Watson's. I had a change of mind cuz I was caught interested in the word 'sheer' in that lip gloss. Said to myself, "Sheer? Will it make my lips a little glittery or something?" It's not the glitters that I'm after, I just thought of that cuz sometimes sheer and glitter are interchangeable, but actually the effect is different from each other. I hoped that there will be no glitters stuck on my lips but sheerness that radiates for supple lips. Found out, yeah, the sheer color of the lip gloss is exactly what I'm requiring for. I'm thinking it will be my favorite lip gloss from now on. I'm so happy!

As for the lotion, I've been carefully scrutinizing this Dove Cream Oil Shea Butter Body Lotion for a couple of months now. Several times I pass this lotion in the supermarket but I'm always doubting if the lotion will really do good on my skin. First of all, I'm not a fan of Dove except for their deodorant which I'm using ever since, but in terms of their soap and body wash, I hate them. I'm thinking that maybe this lotion will not be worth my spending. It was until I don't know what twist of fate that was, that made me saw the product online while browsing for some drugstore stuff reviews online. And so I scanned the reviews for this specific lotion, carefully. I'm surprised that almost everybody loves it. It indicates that the lotion is a best buy. Actually to even make sure that they are accurate I even browsed to another website so to be sure about it. It has amazing reviews again. There, I give up on being unfair for the brand. To give Dove another chance to prove that another of their products is for my liking, yesterday I grab a hand for the lotion I'm talking about.

image courtesy of c4.soap.com

I tried it after I wash up that night. Seriously, I'm not so thrilled about the scent of shea butter but after learning its goodness to our skin, that fascinated me. I wasn't aware that it can make your skin so soft and smooth. I didn't notice when I used Palmer's lotion, also with shea butter. But I know the latter wasn't a bad product at all, it's me who's stupid for not observing what it does on my skin. Anyway, at that time the sale's lady promoted to me so well this lotion, said it will help me get rid of my stretchmarks, so that's where I focused and that is where the product suck cuz nothing happened to my stretchmarks, still there. But then eventually I realize that maybe it's true, no cream nor lotion or anything that will eliminate your stretchmarks unless you undergo laser surgery.  I already given up on that long ago. Going back, since I am all into shea butter now cuz I'm crazy for a baby soft skin, that, I'm a bit forcing myself to live with the product from now on. The scent isn't detestable it's me who's fastidious. But you know what, I'd love to recommend maybe any lotion with shea butter in it like this Dove lotion I'm using, I guarantee that it will really softens your skin. Like me, you might also want to touch your skin everytime, you just gotta see it for yourself.

A little blog updating to do

Well I've decided to add few gadgets on this blog, the links for my recommended novels and mangas, also the gadget for my popular posts--- which I don't get why they became my popular posts mind you. Anyway it's my lists of novels and mangas that are important as I've--- hopefully--- made up my mind to seriously go back from reading from now on. On the lists are not everything I've read before but as of the moment were all that I can remember. It's so easy to update them anytime so I'm not bothered if the lists are short.

Seriously, maybe what's making me lazy finishing the books I read are the e-books. Maybe tangible books are more appealing to me, but I'm wishing that if I motivate myself e-books won't be difficult to love in time. I see convenience in e-books, not only you could get most of the books you're looking for for free, you can also download all that you want to your heart's content. But reading in front of a monitor screen with all the writings without graphics is a bit tedious to me, especially when the scene gets boring, slow phased, and really no development in the story after some minutes or even hours of reading. I know you'll feel the same in books but... it's hard to explain. I find that books are more interesting than e-books, unless when we speak of manga. Manga, I guess will read it online cuz there's no way for me to buy expensive serialized books regardless--- maybe when I get rich and decided to make a collection of manga I might change my mind though. Besides, it's on the screen where I started to read my first manga, and I don't feel tediousness cuz it's a graphic book. I like reading manga on screen, period---- but I wish e-books will too.

image courtesy of www.mangagate.com

This is the title that started it all, my interest in reading manga. Ever since then I'm not sure now how many titles which I have good and bad reviews I've finished reading at present. They're so many I even forget every details in the story already, all I'm sure about is if the title is one of my favorites, or just ok or worse or simply not my type. For sure, the manga above is one of the bests so far.

Before I leave I wanna share with you the book of my interest right now. It's entitled, The Pact: A Love Story by Jodi Picoult.

image courtesy of www.harpercollins.com

I choose this book cuz the summary intrigued me. If you know me then you should know that the way to make we want a certain title is to make me curious about it, yes. Also, for a change I'm reading a genre that's kinda new to me, like there's a suicide thing going on in the story, how do you categorize that, is it thriller? Maybe it's also under psychological. I haven't read anything like it before, in a novel that is, but in watching movies with themes like that I'm so immune for a long time. I say I like anything with suspense I just hope I'll find it in the story, don't let me down.

Do bundle wrapping for your suitcase

I went to Female Network website while waiting for my turn to go to the bathroom. When I'm there I immediately choose to start my browsing in the Travel and Leisure tab. From there I saw one article entitled, "How To Pack a Suitcase." It's a very interesting article especially for me who enjoys traveling--- I know you are too--- that's why the information that the writer inputted are just right for a stress-free packing of things you wanna take with you when you jet-set to your destination.

The article is so informative that the writer even put a link  to where you can learn bundle wrapping. And you don't have to sweat to learn how--- if you feel lazy reading--- since the site provided a step by step image on how to do that. You can take a look down below:

How to Bundle Wrap

 How I wish the next time I go on a break I would be a pro in packing my suitcase.


Pic credits: www.onebag.com

No more bad hair day

I rarely use conditioner before cuz I was lazy to put another routine to do on my hair every bath time. It was just recently when I started to value it. Like shampoo I put a dollop of conditioner unto my hair everyday. I feel that if I miss the shampooing part I'd feel uncomfortable the whole day, like I worried that my hair would stink or I'd get an awful oily hair which apparently signifies that this person didn't take a bath today. That sucks! That's why I always make sure I step outside with a clean-shampooed hair. But that's not the only case now, conditioner has become one of my essentials cuz I have frizzy, tangled and rough hair with just a shampoo. I realize that everytime I forget to use a conditioner my hair wouldn't be normal, that's free from all hair damages I mean. As I observed what a conditioner can do to my hair, I eventually make use of that together with my shampoo without miss, especially when I'm going out.

Yes, I know it's a bad habit of mine to always wash my hair clean, I read that it could lose the natural oil generating factor in your hair dadada... sorry about that, I only read by heart one of the few reasons why washing your hair everyday is not a good idea.
 

Anyway, right now my fave is Cream Silk Volume Up Conditioner, I've never liked a conditioner like this before. For me, every problem I have with my hair are solved cuz of it. I can't help to not comment about the awesomeness of this conditioner that I decided to share it with you.

This conditioner is for soft and smooth hair, sure thing works. Plus, I've mentioned that I usually have frizzy, tangled and rough hair, right? I don't worry about those problems anymore. All I can enjoy is the softness and smoothness of my hair. I feel that... it's like every treatment that a bottle of Cream Silk Conditioner has you'll find it all in just one bottle of this Volume Up Conditioner. I'm thrilled that ever since I use it I'm not having, literally, a bad hair day.

Real androgynous beauty

I don't know to you but to me I've got no issue about the gay invasion in the society. I mean, let's face it, gays are everywhere only that it's just 'now' that they became more open to express themselves for who they are. Oftentimes, there's still gender inequality for those narrow-minded ones but I guess these are the people who are oldies you know what I mean? They are the people who live in the past and that they probably find it hard to accept the fast changing world most of the time. I say to just give them our full-understanding anyway everybody's entitled for their own opinion.

Moving on, while I was browsing the net not long ago, I bumped into an article about a magazine cover that's banned for its racy topless model. I've provided the picture of the cover of that magazine, Dossier. If you wanna know where I read the article go check it here. So what do you think? Should this be ban or not? Seriously at first look my absolute answer would be yes to ban the cover cuz it's unacceptable to let models flaunt their boobies without them censored. That was my initial reaction since I thought that on the cover was a female posing with her bare naked chest out. Unfortunately I was fooled by the look of that male model. Yes, he's a guy but let's just say gay. I wanna put bi but I'm not sure about the use of that word so I went for the most common term instead. I agree that it's fine if male models would pose half naked on the cover of a magazine or on billboards or whichever print-outs you could think of but that doesn't apply to females. So if you see the model, Andrej Pejic, as a girl in the picture, it's gotta be a total ban but since he's born male then there's no universal law that could prevent him from posing that way on the cover of a magazine. But still no matter how many times I look at it the picture is so decieving that I always see a female model there. Since his chest area wasn't toned up to give them a little bit of beefiness, I immediately thought that his breasts are like that of a female that maybe lack the gift on that body part. Not to focus on his chest alone, but as you look at him you could see a feminine face and expression, don't you think so? It's not a wonder why I sided the prohibition for the publishing of that magazine issue. The picture is like I'm trying an optical illusion game or something that could usually make me flip.

I think this is prior to his magazine cover controversy, but if you remember what Rihanna is wearing during the recent Grammy Awards you should know that it was an off the runway wedding gown modeled by this gender-bending Andrej Pejic. I watched his video on youtube while he walked the dress on the catwalk, he was more beautiful than a female bride. He's even more beautiful wearing the gown than Rihanna, yes.

 To make sure you know what I'm talking about here are the pics for reference.

You know, I'm thinking he is 100% taking estrogen pills or something to make his body become more womanly. I heard male who wants to look female can somehow achieve what they desire, that's apart from surgery I'm talking about. With his body as slender as a female model I wasn't amazed for getting that even though he said he stopped going to the gym to keep his built the way it is. Sure it's true he may not be holding weights, dumbbells, or barbels, but it's also with the help of some form of estrogen medication that gave his body femininity. His body's form is not an absolute gift cuz I know he had to do some working out there but with his face prettier than a flower that's his gift I'm jealous about.

If you're that curious about this dude, or this 'femiman' as what the industry would categorize him, the video is there for you to see. So how do you find him?

Pics from yahoo.shine + yahoo images

Beauty in gold

I think I'm in love with this collection. Though I've only tried two out of five, I'm still saying that I guarantee you'll love it too. So far since completing to buy the collection costs a hefty amount--- they don't come cheap--- I only buy one item per one go to the supermarket. Not that I intend to buy everything anyway, I think I'll stick with the day cream cuz I like that it puts a glow on my face all-day. In addition to that, as far as I notice it, my face won't get oily, the product sticks well on my face, matte finish... with a little dab of face powder that is. The moment I spread the day cream I see that it's like an illuminating cream or lotion where the angles on your face when hit by light would shine in a lovely way. I guess putting this day cream on on a weekend while doing some errands is just fine even without you having to put on a foundation or whatsoever. Anyway, I still use it before I dab my face powder cuz I like the matte-look. How ever you wanna put the day cream on your face depends on you cuz I think both ways, as they promise, will give you radiant-looking facial skin.

I've consumed the whole bottle of the serum, I told myself I'm not going to buy that anymore. If you ask me, I love how it works but it's so hard to pump the cap to get the serum inside the bottle, plus, after that you'll see the tube that you only got a pea size of it after that hard pressing you made, I see that it's ridiculous. I don't wanna put pressure on my fingertips every night just to get less of what's enough of what I should get. Moving on to the bright side, I said I like it cuz I always wake up in the morning having a fresh and radiant-looking facial skin, if I compare it when I'm not using that but just my cleanser. It doesn't make my face oily in the morning as well. Another thing, what's also nice about the serum is that, even without putting on the day cream the next morning, your face will still radiates, although your facial skin will produce oil if (maybe) you have oily skin.

I've decided that the Pond's Gold Radiance Day Cream will be part of my make-up essentials for a long time--- for these reasons:  that it's easy to pump, doesn't make my face oily than usual, and exudes healthy glowing facial skin.