Inang's 90th Birthday in the Philippines

Inang's (Grandmother's) birthday was the main reason of the trip in Philippines.
She was turning 90 years old and no matter what, we just had to visit and celebrate with her. As I've mentioned several times, she took care of Jhon during his childhood so they both have a soft spot for each other.

I've met her before and she is definitely one of the most loveliest grandma I've ever met. She exudes charm, tolerance (she's a devout Catholic and she accept me with no judgement), friendliness and love! There was so much love and sincerity from her that I felt welcomed immediately!

Our trip from Pasig to Bataan is 3 hours but since we left earlier than planned, the trip was cut shorter. We rented a van and the entire family, except Paul (1 person had to take care of the house) and Pa's sister and her son. The van was packed but cosy.

View to Bataan was beautiful as always with the beautiful landscape of mountains and fields. You will see more of it when I eventually edit the vlog.

We had a quick visit to the nearby market to buy some seafood for the party, pharmacy to buy Ma's medications and we crept into the house through the back to surprise Inang.

[Loi and Ma baked the cake and cupcakes. We didn't get to taste it because it disappeared in a blink of an eye]

Surprised she was.

I had all her reactions caught on my videos. She was so happy, shocked and had to sit down. It was only the first of many surprises for her because as the day passed, more and more people attended and for the first time, 98% of the family attended.









The party was actually entertaining with no dull moment especially for a newly added member like me. There was a karaoke machine which I obviously avoided like the plaque, plentiful of food (everyone kept us updated which food has pork etc), party decor, abundance of cakes and basically everyone was welcoming. Everyone would engage in conversation with me, share stories and such which honestly, I hardly get when I'm in Singapore. lol

Inang would do her rounds making sure everything was okay and of course chit-chatting. She would smile, grin and sat with me, telling me how truly happy she was and about her family.









This was the moment when majority of her grandchildren sang and cheered Happy Birthday to her. She was so overwhelmed that she fainted! I panicked but everyone got it under control. She is 90 after all. Her poor heart got a sensory overload. She recovered well and fast though.












I absolutely love the family vibe. Cousins had everything planned which includes a mini-dedication, speeches and party games. It was simple and well thought of with everyone crying overwhelmed with appreciation of Inang's love.





















Present opening time was a hoot too!



I had the entire party recorded and towards the end, I was totally tired and so was everyone else. Eventually, we all went home which took longer because of the peak period. One thing about Philippines is that once you are caught in the traffic, yeah, that's it. Time to camp. It was not THAT bad though because I ended up falling in and out of sleep on the ride home.

I am so grateful that I got to be part of the celebration and officially introduced to majority of Jhon's relatives on his paternal side. I wish Inang nothing but good health, happiness, long life and love.

   

Philippines 20th - 24th Jan 2017

I went to Philippines again but this time, as Jhon's wife.  It's Jhon's (and now mine) yearly visit to his family and this year is extra special because we are also celebrating his grandma's 90th birthday. The grandma who has been taking care of him during his childhood. They are so close that it would be shame if we missed it.

Our trip fell on 20th to 24th Jan 2017. It's considered as a 5 day trip because our flight there was at 12 midnight. Frankly speaking, the entire trip was mostly a family bonding trip in a sense there were no sight-seeing like the trip we had years ago.









It's more of a spending time at home with the entire family just like what Jhon would do when he visits by himself. I didn't complain because I was not in a mood to roam so much either (this will make sense eventually). We did go out everyday but in the late afternoons to the malls nearby though. We got our shopping mood on, mostly buying stuff for Jayden and the kids in Singapore besides a couple of snacks.



This is the family's mini shop. It looks squeez-y but if you are at an average size, it's actually just nice and comfortable. Their shop opens day 'till night selling random items from snacks to top-up cards to alcohol. Yes, it was tempting to just reach in and grab something for ourselves but Mr. Jayden seems to have no problem doing so without guilt. He is a kid after all.

Even now, the words "Pabili" still resounds in my ears because that's what everyone would say at the shop saying that they wanted to buy something.



Akira with cropped Coco because I don't like her. HMPH!



I love to see the kids playing old-skool. Things like these, you will only see in old Singapore. Not in the new Singapore with fancy gadget and indoor playgrounds.







It was really nice to spend time so simply with Jhon's family. Since day one, they have always been nice, lovely and accommodating. The family dynamic was amazing and it was almost like watching a commercial of a perfect family. I was constantly reminded where Jhon gets his amazing character daily. I truly hope when we make our little family, it would just like his.

I'm not going to blog so much about the trip since like I said, it's not a trip filled with sight-seeing adventures. We just have some pictures taken randomly.









I will write an entire special post about Grandma's or Inang's birthday party because there are plenty of photos and she deserves it.

Oh, Jayden has been such a charmer. They way he calls out for everyone or even when he says "no". He is absolutely cute. Granted, he has his cranky moments but other than that, he's an angel. I can't even go upstairs to my room without him getting upset. He would randomly hug and kiss me and not to mention wants to sit and play with me as much as possible.





Saying goodbye to the family was sad, of course. Ma kept clinging on me as we walked to the airport from the carpark. She didn't want to let me go even though I felt was not very hands on but I've must've done something right. Hehe

   

Wedding Review: VideoSmith

    A'las, this is the last review and last wedding related blog post that I will write. They were many reasons for this delay but mostly has nothing to do with Videosmith's delivery in work. It's just me with my laziness or being busy or others.

The wedding package that we chose has no video highlights so we just got our full wedding video. Sorry, I am not sharing our wedding video because we felt it's very personal especially in certain crucial parts. I did consider editing and making my own wedding video highlights but I fear I could not do Videosmith's work justice by butchering it.

But I will make gifs of a few of my favorite clips in the video.

Overall, Fad has been stealthy with his videography recording. He is all about capturing the moments after all. He records angles and scenes we didn't get to experience which made us glad we hired a videographer for our wedding.

I was not kidding when I said we had an emotional wedding.

Since day one to the end, we have no major problems with Fad and Umi. They were great people to work with and we are happy with their work. Granted, we are probably biased because it IS our own wedding after all. With all that happened during the wedding, from the tears, laughter and impromptu dance party, Videosmith gave us our money's worth.

In our contract, it was stated it would take 3-6 months until we receive our wedding video which is really understandable with the amount of footage to edit on top of the amount of weddings they had to work with. Within 3 months, we received the unedited copy of our wedding for our perusal. Just in case there are scenes or edits that we are not happy about.

First few seconds in, we cried and continued crying and laughing while watching just like on our wedding day. hahaha It's definitely a good sign because it truly relived our memories to the max. Basically, we had no objections and asked Fad to proceed with the final touches.

[We gave them Pesos. haha]

Although it felt it took longer than it should, another 3 months later, I was contacted for the delivery of our CDs and thumb drive. I was pleasantly surprised with their presentation because to be honest, I didn't care if they gave us in a simple plastic cover because what was truly important was the content. With that said, they did made a boo-boo because they downloaded a wrong wedding in the thumb drive (CDs were okay). haha

Again, totally understandable mistake because I've had my fair share of mistakes during my school years when there's way too many files to deal with. I informed Umi about it and we talked about an exchange. Unfortunately, they ran out of the pretty thumb drives and had to wait longer which we can't because we would be heading to Philippines within that week (in hopes to share the video too). Long story short, Fad simply passed to us the file via GoogleDrive and we upload to the thumb drive ourselves. The End.

Yes, could use without the mini issue but like I said, understandable mistake and it was rectified smoothly and effectively.

I bet you wouldn't believe me my family/ relatives are not the sporting type when it comes to dancing or any form of public participation. Seeing everyone danced, especially my parents, brought a warm glow in my heart. They were so happy at our wedding until no holds barred.

We are very happy with the video and even to this day, we still smiled and teared up when we watch it and that's what matters.



VideoSmith
[website] [facebook] [instagram]

Finding The One with Bioderma Sensibio (+Free Giveaway!)

[sorry not sorry for the sponsored ads back to back but promise I will be back to my regular posts after this]

sponsored review

We are all familiar with the brand Bioderma Sensibio. Whether you had used it or simply saw their products on the shelves as you pass the face product isles. For myself, I've never tried their brands and only see the brand in passing. That is why, I am happy to have to opportunity to try it out.

First, introducing, the Bioderma Sensibio H2O. Do you know that it is the world’s first non-rinse
cleansing solution using Micelle Technology, this derma-cosmetic hit was launched in 1995, at a time
when women were using milks, oils, and soaps to cleanse the skin and remove their makeup?
Today, it is a backstage secret on fashion runways,the cult favorite of top makeup artists, supermodels, and celebrities from Kylie Minogue to Gisele Bundchen. If that still does not convince you, one bottle is sold every 3 seconds worldwide!



[S$15.90 for 100ml, S$28.90 for 250ml, S$41.90 for 500ml]

Bioderma Sensibio H2O contains unique bio-mimetic molecules that are biologically compatible with your skin, offering gentle yet powerful cleansing and makeup removing efficacy. This innovative non-rinse formula has unique restorative properties that ensures skin feels soft and comfortable post-cleansing. Bioderma Sensibio H2O be used as cleanser and/or makeup remover over face, eyes and lips.



I've always been an avid fan of make-up remover wipes because it is convenient and fast but after trying the Sensibio H2O, I've converted. I am NOT joking. One thing is, we all can agree that cotton pads will always be softer than the softest make-up wipes right? So just the method itself improves your skin. Sensibio H2O is made of highly purified water which is the highest grade of pharmaceutical water that is completely free of impurities and irritants, making it a clear choice for sensitive skin like mine. I only used 2 cotton pads (front and back) to remove my everyday make-up and I just love how my skin feels afterwards. It felt not only clean but also moisturized. I understand now the hype. Plus points to the fact that it is gentle on the eyes and lips too.

Now, introducing Bioderma Sensibio's new products.
The Bioderma Sensibio Gel Moussant and Bioderma Sensibio Dermatological Water.


[S$33.90 for 200ml]

The Sensibio Gel Moussant gently cleanses while hydrating and soothes sensitive skin. Enriched
with skin conditioning ingredients such as coco-glucoside and glyceryloleate, it also has lipid-restoring and moisturizing properties. It is suitable for day and night use on both face and
eyes.





It can be used alone or part of a double cleansing routine after Sensibio H2O just in case your waterproof make-up is too efficient. Face has to be wet before applying the gel and I love it that a little goes a long way. Simply massage until it starts to foam. The results were immediate. I never thought I could achieve such baby smooth skin especially at this age. haha

As for the Bioderma Sensibio Dermatological Water, it uses highly purified water that is
enhanced by a perfect balance of mineral salts and oligo-elements, It soothes skin while maintaining healthy skin cells. A remarkable ally for sensitive skin, it combats various skin reactive signs. Soothing agents such as mannitol, rhamnose and zinc also provide quick and lasting relief to sensitive skin.


[S$19.90 for 150ml]

We are free to use it as often as desired to freshen up ourselves or to remove the balance of mask left behind on face. No need to pat dry. This is perfect after a long trip in the bus/car/aeroplane or on a hot afternoon day. I can't say much about it's effectiveness on my skin with just a few sprays but I definitely feel refreshed immediately after.

You can get your hands on these products and more at Watsons, Guardian, Unity, Robinsons, Tan  Tock Seng Hospital and National Skin Centre. For more info, especially on more of Bioderma Sensibio's products from masks, eye gels, suncreens to body products, check out their Bioderma Singapore website at http://www.bioderma.sg



By the way. all Bioderma products are:
• Paraben-free
• Fragrance-free*
• Soap-free
• Alcohol-free
• Hypoallergenic
• Non-comedogenic
• Well-tolerated
*Except for Atoderm Gel douche and Atoderm Creme de
douche.

AND GUESS WHAT?

My fellow readers have a chance to redeem a 3-day free trial set by clicking to this link! http://bit.ly/samplestoreh2o


   

Floral Garage - Valentine's Day Flowers

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Honest to God, never once in my entire life had I celebrated Valentine's Day. Yes, I am one of THOSE people. I am not anti-Valentine's Day, it's just that my trust issues has lead me to believe the lack of sincerity of the expression of love on the specific day.

I enjoy random acts of love (corny or not) at any random time or day. I love those "There's no reason but I was just thinking of you and wanted to give or treat you this". It can be the simplest thing like taking me out to eat a particular dish because I talked about it before or got me replacement earphones because one side was broken. This goes both ways by the way.

Buying gifts or treating me special on a specific day like Valentine's Day wouldn't make me feel special at all because I know majority of the couples are getting it too; just because of a date on a calendar. But if that's your thing, do your thing, boo.

On that note,

I AM STILL A SUCKER FOR FLOWERS!
I would willingly accept even on Valentine's days because they are FLOWERS!

So when Floral Garage wanted to sponsor me again for their pretty flowers, how can I say no?

As much as I love all types of pretty flowers, I do have a soft spot for the classic red roses. I would be happy just to receive a stalk of it. There's something about it that makes me smile. But a'las, classic red bouquet roses can be boring sometimes and I told Jia Hui the PR that I would be impressed if they can made it different.

Different it was.





Firstly, I love the size of the bouquet. It was not too big and over the top but not so small either. It was just nice as fits perfectly in my hands. The flower arrangements were simple with every flower properly displayed. I just simply love the two-toned carnations and with the roses, the baby breaths, eurylliums and eucalyptus leaves brings everything together with unison and uniqueness. Wrapped in a brown paper and ribbon, it also adds a rustic feel to the bouquet.



You can request for this specific bouquet by informing the Floral Garage theme but the bouquet was actually under Freestyle bouquet. You can fill up the form online on your general preference and they will whip one just for you. If you wish to go big and want a bigger one, there is also a Premium Freestyle bouquet. Freestyle bouquet is one of the best because no flower bouquets will be the same.

Don't mind me as I 'feeling-feeling' with my flowers. haha

It's the first time I received paper wrapped flowers so I was a little 'sua ku' even though I've seen it many times before. Note that the water inside might leak a little because paper mah so make sure you hold the bouquet properly. Even if it leaks, it won't ruin the paper too much and eventually, the water will dissolve.

There are 3 types of delivery. A self-pick up for free at their shop at Upper Serangoon Shopping Centre, a charged standard delivery at specific time slots or specific timed delivery at an extra charge. What I like is they always call or SMS beforehand delivering just to ensure the delivery will go smoothly.

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and if you do celebrate, make a quick trip their website and order now! If you like to gift your partner something simpler and smaller (you know, for the newly blossoming relationships or for your crush), you can check out Fluffy Three.

It's 3 well bloomed pink roses with purple fillers with a fluffy Harrod’s brown bear. It's very cute!

I also have another great news!

Floral Garage has given me a promotion code: zuraxfg15 for ALL my readers, entitling all of you a 15% discount off their online shop and it's a lifetime discount.

Not applicable for seasonal occasions like Vday or Mother's Day etc. Just make sure you click on their main page https://floralgaragesg.com not on their seasonal (Vday) page to able to use the promotion code.

This means, get discounted prices all year round at any time. WOHOO!

Thank you to Floral Garage for the beautiful flowers it definitely made my day.

   

Beauty Keeper - CONTIN & Mdmmd from Taiwan

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I had no idea I would be expecting when I agreed to receive a box from Beauty Keeper. To be honest, I've never even heard of this company but then again, I am hardly ever up to date with current beauty and/or fashion products so what do I know?

Beauty Keeper is company to bring innovative, novel an award winning Taiwanese beauty products to you. so if you a fan or interested in using Taiwanese products, Beauty Keeper is the place to go.



The first bottle that caught my eyes was the CONTIN plant extract shampoo.



What caught my attention even more was that it uses GARLIC enzyme as one of it's main ingredients. I know right? Apparently, the founders noticed that the grandmas who worked in the garlic factory hands were really soft, thus began to discover garlic's energy based on their chemical background and inherited enzyme brewing method.

This shampoo not only cleans and makes your hair silky smooth but also helps fix oily scalp, dandruff, inflammation, hair damage and hair loss.

But the main question is, does it smell like garlic??

NOPE. It does not have a flowery scent either but more of a slightly tonic scent. The shampoo lathers well and cleans my hair. As for whether it helps treat oily scalp and such, I can't speak for it since I don't have such problems. But if you do, you may give it a try.

The next 2 bottles came from Mdmmd which is apparently, an award winning online cosmetics brand. I got my hands on their Upra Age-Delay Revive Toner and Water Drop Cream.

Enriched in high concentration of compound natural ferment extract, Mdmmd Upra Age-Delay Revive Toner prevents and slows down skin aging. It also improves appearance of dryness of the skin, helps skin cell metabolism, whitens skin while providing abundant nutrition and giving a ultimate repair.



The toner is actually odorless and the consistency is not watery like any other toners. It's slightly thicker in consistency but definitely not sticky at all. After gently massaging on skin, the products seems to seep into the skin and that was that. My skin felt almost immediately soft and moisturised.

Now, if you are the kind who dislikes having too many bottles for 1 every type of product, you may like Mdmmd's Water-drop Cream because it is a 3-in-1 skin care product combining toner, serum and lotion.



With the innovated Hydrogel transfer technology, Mdmmd locks the multi-bio sin care elements and plant essence extract in the cream. Combining toner, serum and lotion, the Water-drop cream hydrates and moisturises the skin and repairs dry skin, tightens skin, improves appearance of fine lines, repairs  and keeps skin healthy.

I love the smell of the cream as it as a sweet flowery scent and a little of it goes a long way which is always a plus. After a few seconds, the cream leaves no residue at all except a soft, supple and moisturised skin. This means, it is perfect to use before wearing make up (or not) and going out. I got to admit, this is my favourite product out of the 3 I received.

It's no surprise since it is one of their exclusive products among others.

To find out more info on the products above and much, much more, check out Beauty Keepers's website at http://www.beauty-keeper.com/

You can directly buy award winning products from Taiwan only from their website and don't forget to peek in their instagram page @BeautyKeeperTW