MONEY MATTERS : 3 THINGS TO DO WHEN STOCK MARKET GOES DOWNWARD (PLUS SOME STOCK PICKS)

The more I stay invested, the more it's becoming clear to me: stock market (sometimes called 'equities') have a boom-bust cycle. It's more than 2 years ago when I published a post called 3 QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN STOCK MARKET GOES DOWN. I was a newbie then and even when I know that stock market has inherent upswings and downswings, the psychological part still got me thinking. However, let me tell you that you'll get past that.

It's interesting that articles, shows and media in general abound when PSE is on its tip top shape. But things get a bit eerie when the market hits rock bottom. Answer is pretty simple: Nobody wants to celebrate their portfolio losses, isn't it? Even if it's unrealised, the idea that my basket is on the red side sometimes irks me a bit. In times like these, it's best to ask realistic questions and get back on track. See my previous post for that.

Today, let me suggest 3 things to do when PSEi is diving like crazy! Here we go:

1. Self-talk and say this with me: "It's only temporary."
The chart below is lifted from Trading Economics website (SOURCE) and this is a graphical representation of PSE from 1986 to 2015. Notice that there is an upward trend when you take a step back over a prolonged period of time. The trickles in between (think: ECG waves) are what we are experiencing now. My point is: if you'll stay invested through these volatile times, you'll still get an awesome profit in a 5, maybe 10-year horizon.

2. Evaluate your stock position.
If you find yourself worried on bear market, it's a good time to ask your if your investment money is well taken thought of. Get this: investment money should not be a money that you borrowed or a money that you need to pay your rent for the next month. That's a very dangerous path to tread and yes, I won't begrudge you for worrying. Investment money ideally is a money that you will not need for the next 3, 5 maybe 10 years. That's why it's only a chunk (not all) of your monthly income.

If you're not comfortable with PSEi movement, it's more likely that you're investing more than you should. Pull out some of your money (wait it out till its green or at least breakeven) and get your sound sleep at night.

BEAUTY RAVES : MAC STUDIO FIX POWDER PLUS FOUNDATION (IN NC 35)

I am not sure if it's a change in temperature or what but I noticed a sudden oiliness on my T-zone area lately. With my current foundation favourites, I dab in a translucent powder from Rimmel with my Elf Complexion brush. However, count 3 hours after application, you can see some shine peeping through!

I was actually in two minds whether to buy a drug store brand or MAC for this little challenge. After all, you can't see the powder when applied so it should all be the same. However, I noticed this trend. I buy a drug store (DS) product for my skin-related (i.e. foundation, highlighters, powders) needs then I concluded that I've been shortchanged and buy another then another. Add these costs and it's costlier compared to HG brands like MAC. PS: That's just me.

This is not to say all DS brands are rubbish. Not at all! But then again, for products that cover majority (or your entire) of your face, it's best to invest in products you can use for the next 12 months. I bought Mac Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation for Php 1,900 (£27) from SM Makati.

CMK HAPPY THOUGHTS

Ahh, where shall I begin? I've been happy with their Studio Fix Liquid Foundation since 2013 (review HERE). It's just about right that I'm loving their powder coverage likewise. The coverage is not cakey at all. I use this as my setting powder for my under eye concealer as well as on my entire face. MAC's formula is hands down amazing, I don't know what magic they put in each product but when I have it on my face, I feel like a million bucks!

CMK WISHFUL THOUGHTS

Two things: a) I don't find their sponge helpful and hygienic and b) the packaging. Regulars can definitely relate to this. You know those silver letters on the lid? They disappear after months of use. As a workaround, I bought a pen brush (one that has a lid so you can carry it on your bag).

Final words.

BEAUTY RAVES : ALOE VERA SOOTHING GEL AND OTHER KOREAN GOODIES

It gives me such a throwback #feels knowing that I've blogged about the same product way back 2012 (click HERE). I got it when me and my friends went to Seoul Korea around February 2012. It's funny that my layout, pictures and even narratives are... let's admit it... novice. Having a blog really keeps your feet grounded. That's because you know that come 3 years from now, your post doesn't look as cool as you thought it was :D

In another news, this picture is a raw JPEG file from my new baby, Canon G7X (HERE's the unboxing!). What do you think, guys? I've been particularly impressed on how 'crisp' the raw images are. My favourite part? There's a built in WIFI. So you can sync your gadgets without all the USB thingies!

Going back. Here's the big reveal. I got all those goodies for Php 188.00 (around £2.00) from Daiso Makati. Make no mistake as I've researched some posts on how to spot fake Nature Republic's Aloe Vera gel and I'm happy to report (after looking on the spot check list) - that this one's real.

When do I use this? Let us count the ways:

BEAUTY BUZZ : CURRENT FOUNDATION FAVOURITES (2015)

Hello Guys! Today, I'll be sharing with you a quick post about my current foundation loves. I love them so much that I realised I've made a review for each of them (except for one). If you're on the look out for some products to try, this might fancy you. I'll be listing them in the order I apply them on my face so here we go:

OLAY TOTAL EFFECTS 7-in-1 MOISTURISER

You know how I feel about Olay moisturisers even before I started blogging so no further introduction is needed. Anyways, I love their 7 in 1 product line. They have so many variations but I am such a huge fan for all things Olay. To check out my review (with before and after results), click HERE.

Tip: You can use their facial advanced cleansing system every other day for exfoliation. Before I start my foundation routine, I make sure I put in 1 or 2 pumps of this beauty in my face.

MAYBELLINE BABY SKIN INSTANT PORE ERASER

Heads up that I'm about to use up this baby. I reckon it would take me 1-2 weeks and it's finished! This has been my go-to primer since the start of the year. Like what I've mentioned on my review HERE, it's silicone based but it's generally okay. What I've noticed though - after months and months of usage - is that it doesn't really help me mattify my T-zone. After 4 hour or so, you'll see a bit of oily-ness peeping through.

L'OREAL TRUE MATCH SUPER-BLENDABLE MAKEUP (IN W4.5)

This product amazes me so much so that I've asked one of my best friends to buy one! She's been happy with it, I heard. After putting on my primer, I scooped in a 25-centavo size product and put it on using my pink beauty blender (BB) from BYS. The pink goddess has a Php 300 tag. It's true, when you use it, you'll see that airbrushed effect after. HERE's the complete dibs for L'oreal fonda.

Tip: L'oreal dries up fast in my opinion so I suggest put tiny dots on half of your face and dab your damp BB on it. Once done, do the other half. I typically clean my BB every after use (for hygienic purposes) and I use Johnson's baby shampoo as a cleaner. Most youtubers do that too so might as well!

 *

Last but not the least...

FIRST TIME OFWs : HOW TO GET AN OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATE (OEC)? | POEA REQUIREMENTS FOR NAME (DIRECT) HIRES

There's a sigh of relief in the air whilst I type this because... I finally got my OEC! I decided to write a post about my personal experience along with tips and tricks to give you an idea how it is to apply for an OEC as a first time Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW). The blue paper on top - yes people - that's the finished product! That's what you want to get at the end of this challenging process!

I've been to and fro the UK since last year however, my visa type is business so I wasn't required to obtain an OEC. It's hassle free but the longest that you can stay abroad is 6 months, which as you can tell, is counterproductive (as you need to apply a visa again etc.). This time around, I applied for a Tier 2 - General Migrant visa and by the grace of God - has been successful :)

Now, on to the plot. When you are under a working visa (naming convention depends on the country you are working for) - you are technically an OFW. This means you need to apply for an OEC unless you want a drama on the airport because the immigration officer won't allow you to go unless you are cleared.

Here are the documents I prepared (make sure you have the original and 2 extra photocopies):

• Passport
• Work visa
• Medical certificate
• Employment contract

Notes:

• Note that I applied under Skilled/Professional worker, Name (Direct) hire category.
• You are to process your OEC after you get your approved working visa.
• In my case, I completed my medical exam first before going to POEA (to save time and hassle).
• Required documents are country-specific,  for full details, you can visit POEA site HERE.

Phase 1:

Me and mum headed on the POEA main office on a Friday. We were there at around 6:50 am. I am following a UK shift work hour even if I'm in Manila so you can imagine how groggy I was that time. We've asked our trusty driver (thanks Kuya!) to drive for us so the travel from south to Ortigas was bearable.

The security guard asked for my contract and ID (I gave him my CPA license). He then asked if I am under any agency and I told him I am under Name Hire category. He filled out a stub and signed it. I am #2! He then asked us to wait until 8 am.

At 8:05 am, they are allowing people to go in. I've been told that Name Hire Division is on the 2nd floor. Another guard inspected my documents and asked me to go in. I remember it's Window #5. So the POEA representative asked for my documents and we've had some few dialogues.

Rep: First time niyo pong aalis?

CMK: Hindi po. Actually pang 4th time ko na po to go to London. (Tip: Always be honest!)

Rep: So bakit ngayon lang kayo mag-aapply ng OEC?

CMK: I am not under a work visa on my last 3 trips. Those were just short trips (under 6 months) so di na kailangan ng OEC. You can revisit my passport if you wish. (By this time, nakapag english na talaga ang lola niyo dahil wala pa kong tulog and parang uma-aura si badet).

He then went back to check my papers and handed me some documents:

Rep: Ma'am ibabalik ko ang contract niyo. Paki edit dahil kulang ng repatriation, leaves and causes for dismissal. Ipa-authorize niyo yan then babalik kayo dito. Dapat DHL pero okay na rin ang PDF.

CMK: Okay, wait lang ha. Help me understand, Kuya. What do you want to see in my contract?

Rep: Eto po (whilst pointing on the 3 boxes on his sheet: repatriation, leaves and causes for dismissal).

CMK: Kuya, all of those are in my contract. You can revisit clauses 5, 7 and 12. I can't afford to go back and edit the whole thing kasi andiyan naman lahat ng requested stipulations in the first place. If there are differences... those are just naming conventions. ** Note that I am telling this to him firmly but my tone is still nice naman. (With this, one of his colleagues told him that this is good to go since he saw my point, luckily the rep agreed). 

After this, he handed me a document with stamp (like a tracking sheet). He also gave me my PDOS schedule which is on the following Monday at 9:00 am. I said thank you and off I went. I was instructed to go to OWWA and there, they told me to bring a copy of my passport and PDOS schedule on Monday. I finished the whole Phase 1 from 8:10 am to 8:45 am-ish.

Phase 2:

So Monday at around 8:45 am, I went upstairs and there's a couple of people in the room. Somebody from COMELEC (Commission on Elections) gave a small talk and handed a form about absentee voting. I filled out the form and after which, she asked me to go out for a while for the biometrics. Good thing that somebody gave her PDOS schedule and passport copy to the guard because I forgot to! I gave mine to Manong Guard and returned to the room.

I'd say that PDOS is a good seminar. I was a bit hesitant due to my experience in Phase 1 but that changed because the speaker is knowledgeable, accommodating and most of all, humble. I can sense his sincerity to help. He's been patient with everyone specially with this one guy who's so pa-bibo (alam mo yung hirit ng hirit? He's the typical reason bakit di matapos-tapos! - sorry, nacarried away lang). Seriously, I've learned so much from the seminar. I forgot the name of the facilitator but well done sir! :) 

I also made friends with Khristine (hello girl!). We're exchanging stories about our Phase 1 experiences. Hers was worse. They asked her to undergo a POLO (seminar generally for drivers, DH's, etc.) but she's not a house help. She's working for a well-known law firm. Note: This is with all due respect with our house help kababayans, however, there should be a way of distinguishing which is which since, obviously, this can be offensive.

There are some few small talks about SSS, Pag-ibig and PhilHealth. There's even a portion allotted for Landbank savings thingy which I don't have anything against. Except the bank officer said that stock market was not a good way to invest and it's like gambling! I was like, whoah! You know my advocacy and how I feel about empowering people on investment and somebody from the bank sector is discouraging soon-to-be OFW's to stay away from stock market without explaining things?! :( #Sad!

Anyways, going back. After the seminar we were handed our PDOS certificate. Remember to photocopy it in 3 or 4 to be sure. Tip: Make sure that you give your PDOS schedule and passport copy to Manong Guard, or else, you'll have that hassle of waiting for them to print your certificate or worse, they might ask you to attend another PDOS!

We then went back to another window for actual Phase 2. In here, your documents will once again be reviewed and you'll be asked to come back after 30-minutes since they need to encode your details. It's about lunch time when we did this so we took advantage of the waiting time to accomplish other things.

We went to ground floor, in the Balik Manggagawa (BM) center. It's a one-stop shop for everything contribution related. Here are what we've accomplished:

• PAG-IBIG. I paid Php 500 for MP2 (it's like a mutual fund with fixed 4.5% return. I know, 'fix' is a big word but remember that it's the PH government that's backing this up so it's safe, that's my take). I can top-up as I wish. I also asked for a complete list of my transactions (contributions). They are kind enough to print them for me. They also updated my status, etc.
• SSS. You have to fill out a form and give it to a specific window. When my name's been called the lovely lady gave me some documents and she also updated my details on their database.

It's 1:30 pm when I went back to 2nd floor. I was asked to go straight to the window and the lady returned my original documents and referred me to another window where I paid Php 5,656. After payment, they stamped some of my documents and they finally gave me the much awaited OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATE! Yehey! It's about 2:15 pm when I finished Phase 2.

Some more tips after the jump!

SALON BEAUVOIR : IN-DEMAND KERATHERAPY TREATMENT

If there's any part of my body that's most abused... that would be my hair, unfortunately. Whenever I'm busy, I'll just put them up in a bun. If I'm on my Pilates / Yoga class, I'll put on a headband and push them away from my face. If it's winter time, I'll carelessly swoosh  a blower to my tresses and I'm set. Add to the fact that I frequently have them treated :( Digiperming, colouring and all that jazz. Typing this make me want to say sorry to my hair!

I mentioned that I've tried some hot oil treatment from Tony & Jackey (full post HERE). Honestly, it didn't resolve much of my dilemma. Then I spotted this specific treatment from Deal Grocer! Okay - let's fast forward a bit. The right picture below is the finished product! I'm giggly when I saw this because it feels that my hair went back to life! Not entirely, but getting there.

SALON FIT FOR A QUEEN
The place is very Parisian! It screams French all over. From their mirrors to the signs, you'll love it here. I like that there's not much people even if it's a Saturday! (get this: even on weekends). That's not to say they have no main cult following but I guess since the price points are steep, that goes to show that their customer base has some moolah to burn! Seriously, they thought of everything. See that black bean bag below? That's your foot rest. Amazing, isn't it? And you can choose among red iced tea, hot tea or coffee. Wifi is also available. How comfy can you get? 

KERATHERAPY TREATMENT

On to the main event. If I remember the events chronologically, it goes like this: They shampoo my hair, pat it semi-dry and then apply a rich treatment (it's lotion-like). Ate (hairdresser) left it for 30 minutes while my hair was plastic-wrapped then without rinsing (yes, it's part of the process) straightened my tresses with their special steam pod. The entire process took about 2 hours since she carefully dealt with each section as intense as possible. You may wonder how come my hair becomes curly on the last picture and that's because Ate curled it upon my request :D

Final dibs?

AUGUST 2015 BDJ UNBOXING : REVLON LOVE IS ON

I once thought that Php 1,480 {about £21} is a bit too much for a monthly subscription, not until I looked into London's subscription boxes {of which you have to pay for tax and shipment, separately}. So when I headed to Manila last July, I made it a point to subscribe to BDJ Box, August Elite offer. Tip: It's really easy to pay. You have plethora of options! I paid via Paypal since that's the most convenient.

The past week is a full blast cray-cray for me because of visa application and other things to do but thank you LORD all is well as of this writing {insert loooong breath of relief here}. Going back, I've been so makulit with the BDJ Team lately. Okay, but this is with a legit reason: I'll be going back to the UK soon {God's willing} and I need to get my box! Why? Because I've been dreaming about it for weeks! :))

So when I got home earlier, I saw a pretty box and yazzz! Here it is! Now, this unboxing is not your usual item by item account. It's more of my thoughts about them.

But first, the full list:

1. Revlon Brow Fantasy in Dark Brown
2. Revlon Photoready Eye Art in Burnished Bling
3. Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer in HD Carnelian
4. Revlon Super Lustruous Lipstick in Love That Red
5. Revlon ColorSilk in Medium Rich Brown
6. Revlon Powder Blush in Mauvelous
7. Revlon Eyelash Curler (with replacement pad)
8. Revlon Nail Enamel in Valentine

CMK HAPPY THOUGHTS

Let me put it this way: I love the blush and lipstick because it is autumn-appropriate. It has that oxblood tone on it and I find this really handy. I'm 50/50 on the nail polish because I already have one in red {remember my Maybelline super stay polish}? I'd rather get a nude one but that's one classic risk when availing beauty boxes. I've been meaning to buy another lash curler and thank goodness I didn't because there's one {included}! I like the eye art, am indifferent with the brow thingy but I hate the colorsilk, sorry.

UPDATE: I tried Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer in HD Carnelian this morning. I thought the lippie was brilliant until I smiled. The formula transfers like crazy! To think it's Php 500+, seriously?

Another yay is that they have little cheat sheets for each product. It includes your specific colour and how to use them. I appreciate the pound for pound savings. Total tag for the products is ~Php 3,500 and everything comes in full size!

CMK WISHFUL THOUGHTS

REVLON is such a well-known brand and these products are not new releases. I think BDJ Box is veering away from one of the main reasons why bellas subscribe to beauty boxes, and that's to try something new. While these products are more than welcome to our make up stash, it's better to receive new products that are mostly unheard of. Another thing is: I am looking for that circle stickers! I've been wanting to decorate my MacBook with some but oh well.

A good pivotal question would be: Had I known the products in advance... would I still subscribe?

UNBOXING CANON POWERSHOT G7X (2015)

It's been 3 years since I last bought a camera, and for like 2 months or so I've been contemplating on what model should I buy. The brand's decided upon, hands down. It's always been Canon as they undoubtedly produce the best quality pictures {for me, personally}. Thanks to the power of online reviews that I came up with a unanimous decision, G7X, people! This is da bomb! Disclaimer: I took these pictures using iPhone 5S, FYI.

I bought mine at Glorietta, Makati for Php 31,000 (about £450). The model's not easy to find as most of the shops either ran out of stock or is not carrying the model. Most youtubers swear by this product and I'll rave more on that later. You know what? I've been thinking of transitioning to youtube but I'm mortified by haters. I just don't think I can handle it :D Anyways, I feel that's still a long time coming. We'll see.

CMK HAPPY THOUGHTS

I think this one is worth every penny because of the following reasons: 

Super portable. That's my deal breaker when I was thinking about getting a DSLR, it's not sustainable. I don't want to carry it around if it's bulky. Think of airplane rides, travel or even food blogs - I couldn't be bothered having another bag just for that. #LazyBunny, IKR. With this - it can fit to my tiny Zara bag. I love it! 

Flip-flop screen. Common, now! How cool is that?! You can now do videos and selfies without mirrors! This comes super handy when you're going to new places. It's just so exciting! PS: Did you notice a sudden surge of my #BEAUTYRAVES series? Yes, this is the culprit ;)

Wifi Enabled. No more waiting for you to get home and attach your USB to transfer files! You can transfer your goodies from the cam to your iPad or iPhone. If I may add, the packaging doesn't include CD installer which I appreciate so much (since, well, I don't use them) Convenience at its finest.

Picture and video quality. I am always low maintenance when it comes to resolution. However, the difference is so stark compared to Canon Digital IXUS 300 HS. Again, pictures here are not a good example since these were taken using my trusty iPhone 5S :D

Some downsides and final verdict...

BEAUTY RAVES : ELF HD BLUSH IN HEADLINER

Hello guys! I've been loving some chill sounds lately. You know, music without lyrics. It's very helpful especially when you're writing or analysing stuff. I recently followed CMA on Spotify. Go check them out! :) Two weeks ago, I've had a bonding with Heather. She's one of my best-est friends! We've known each other since we were 15 and we're BFF ever since. It's a blessing to have someone to laugh with! We sometimes reminisce our prom gowns, teenage mishaps and me being crazy when I have an ultimate crush on someone (and I'm doing a facepalm right now!).

We were on a beauty counter and I had her buy a L'oreal True Match liquid foundation. She loved it! I'm starting to believe that this is one of the greatest liquid foundations ever! As I was scouring other brands, it dawned on me that I'm looking for an alternative to my NYX Baked Blush. Plus, I miss having a liquid blush. Good thing I spotted ELF HD Blush in Headliner (Php 350).

CMK HAPPY THOUGHTS

I almost forgot the feeling of having a long lasting flush on my cheeks! This product is heavily pigmented! It's def long lasting compared to powdered blushes. Also - the price point (which is common on ELF products). Another thing is, I can almost guarantee you that one bottle is enough to last you a lifetime!

Here's how it looks like on my face.

MONEY MATTERS : SBS PH (INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING)

By the time you are reading this, the bell may have already rung for SBS Philippines Corporation. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved their official listing date, which is 10th of August 2015. After so long, another initial public offering (IPO) went live. I have to be honest, most of the quick-buck gains I have realised come as a result of riding the IPO wave. It's not the safest - true, but that's where materiality (how much money are you willing to put in the line) and calculated risk comes into play.

As per usual, I won't do the academic approach because, well - my brain cells can't accommodate it :D Seriously, you can read the whole prospectus over the web. Better yet, drop SBS a visit on their website. *Photo above was taken from their website.

Why did I decide to invest?

1. Their client base. They have Jollibee, San Miguel, Alaska and NutriAsia as their customers. They also provide chemicals to Semirara Mining Company. In a nutshell, they have a pretty strong market share so income will inevitably follow {specially now that they are backed up with public funding}.

2. Their products are sustainable. The Philippines is a highly consumer-based market. With this landscape, good bottom line figures are believable.

3. The initial price. Php 2.75 per share for 1,000 share (as a minimum). Seriously, your Php 2,750 can balloon into something humongous over time. 

There would always be weaker points, of course. One of the obvious is that it is apparent that most of the decision making rests on the shoulders of Mr. Sytengco. It actually surprised me that their website is http://www.sytengco.com/. I mean, this clearly spells FAMILY OWNED CORPORATION, which is... well, normal among the brood of blue chip companies in the PSE. 

So, what's my personal strategy?

BEAUTY RAVES : SLEEK MATTE ME (BIRTHDAY SUIT)

This is one lip product that I can say I've spent days finding one! I've looked around so many Boots and Superdrug stores imagineable but I can't seem to get hold of a tube. I'm not a fan of online buying so I kept looking. Then, as I was doing my usual grocery after work, I chanced upon Boots Kingston and lo and behold... my jaw dropped as I saw 5 tubes of BIRTHDAY SUIT sitting nicely on the rack.

Matte Me product line by Sleek has 6 shades. They have red, pink, orange, nude and violet (forgot their specific names). Obviously, BIRTHDAY SUIT (nude) is the best seller among the brood. And why not? It's super pretty! Note though that it depends on your complexion. It might look ashy on warmer shades but if you're more on the pale / fair side, THIS THIS THIS is the BOMB!

CMK HAPPY THOUGHTS
Pigmentation is long lasting! It reminds me of NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream line. I got two shades, one of which is Amsterdam (blue-based red). I am happy that I find my kind of nude. I searched high and low to find my match but it's either the product appears too washed out or dark on me. Very pleased that the colour is kind to my complexion. Price is alright (about £7.49 or Php 560).

If I'm sporting a chiseled, contoured cheekbones or heavy brow application, this is my default lip product. I usually apply a coat (which lasts all day), however for a more nude lip statement, I let the first coat dry for a bit then apply a second helping. 

This is how it looks on me in broad daylight!

OOTD : WHITE ROMPER

I am currently obsessed with anything white this season! It's just so classy, fresh and picturesque. This post is nothing fancy, it's just to document what I wore when I had some quality time with my family one Sunday afternoon.

• White romper from Primark
• Bag from Zara
• Watch from Veloci
• Sandals from Primark

Makeup used:

• L'oreal true match foundation (W4.5)
• Sleek contour and highlighter set
• Sleek Matte Me in Birthday Suite (lips)

* Makeup products are not all-inclusive as I don't want to bore you with details :)

Who's my style peg, this time?

TONY & JACKEY : HAIR TREATMENT AND HAIR CUT EXPERIENCE

I kind of explained my whole hair situation over HERE so I won't ramble as much. Anyways, it's all about hair TLC over the past few weeks and as always, I want you to be with me as I sample one of the treatments by Tony and Jackey. I've tried their digiperm and hair colouring before (detailed review HERE) and I'd say they are one of my go-to salons for my hair dilemmas.

This happened one Tuesday whilst I was in the mall doing some important errands. I looked at my hair and they are super dry beyond words! It occurred to me that the last treatment I got was digiperm (bad, I know) and packing up hair treatment products won't be enough to bring back life to my dull hair.

That's it. I'm going to the nearest salon and have it treated. Timing that Tony & Jackey has a branch at my nearest SM mall so off I went. Hair treatment and hair cut costs Php 1,000 (this is not a sponsored post).

CMK HAPPY THOUGHTS

I love how relaxing the place can be. Tip: As much as possible, schedule you hair appointments during weekday mornings (again, if possible). This is because a) the place is less-crowded and b) your hairdresser has her attention all on you, more likely! I know salons can be rowdy on weekends and I hate that! I am usually availing hair treatments as part of my de-stress therapy and being in a 'market-like place' is simply counterproductive. So yeah, remember - avoid weekend hair bookings, if at all possible.

Moving on, here's a gist of the hair treatment: I got a nice shampoo and they lathered my hair with a treatment product. It was quite a nice experience After such, they put me under a hot oil machine (don't know the exact name) for like 30 minutes or so. While at it, they offered me a hot green tea or hot coffee. I opted for the former.  After such, I was guided by one of their assistants for another round of shampoo slash rinse.

The haircut is more like usual. Karen (I just hope that I remember her name right!) gave me a simple layered cut and trimmed my side bangs as well. Karen also supervised the whole hair treatment as I gather she's one of the senior stylists on this branch.

BEAUTY RAVES : NICHIDO TRUE COLORS COLLECTION EYE SHADOW (GOLD FOIL AND BRONZE ECLAIR)

I am digging champagne and nude colors lately! Truth be told, I'm not using eye shadows 24/7. In fact, that's the least product I have on my makeup stash. These days, though, defined and structured eyes tickled my fancy. I bought a couple of palettes just recently and all of them are within the nude range. However, I got our products for today because of one tiny story:

I was walking through SM Beauty Department store one Wednesday afternoon when a familiar face caught my attention! It's Miss Elsa! She was the one who trimmed (shaved) my brows way back 2009! It was so surreal! She asked how come she sees me quite rarely and I shared that I just came back from London. I just feel that I want to buy any product from her booth and voila! These 2 colours sealed the deal!

CMK HAPPY THOUGHTS
These are exactly the colours I am looking for! You know sometimes you're looking for a specific colour but it's not available so you have to settle with the closest representation? This is not the case! One look and I was like, YES! YES! YES! You're mine :D

Obviously the price point! Woot. Who can go wrong for Php 68 (less than £1.00) a pot? Product is buildable and can be used on its own or with other colours.

TIP: Best to apply an eyeshadow primer because a) it will make the colour much vivid and b) it will prolong the pigment on your lids. I usually use MAC Prep + Prime 24-Hour Extend Eye Base. It costs quite a lot for a primer but I tend to be forgiving on price issues when it comes to foundation and primers, so there! On my swatch and picture below though, I didn't use any primer (FYI).