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Adieu, 2021!

Friday, December 31, 2021

2021 has been a let-down of a year, but maybe that's just my negative self-talk I've been trying to overcome since the pandemic started.


The year brought about a lot of things in our household, not so good ones, situations we quietly decided to remain outside SNS. Sleepless nights, people got sick, plans and dreams that weren't fulfilled...


But there were also mighty good ones. Things we weren't able to do in 2020, stuff we missed from our "Past Life" were somehow attained this time.


With that, through struggles and unmentioned pains, highs and lows, we end the year again still feeling that maybe.. maybe next year it will be better. Never give up on that hope okay? We don't need fancy resolutions and achievements this time around, but deciding to live and get through all these alive and still together is enough for me to still call it a happy year.


HIGHLIGHTS:


1. Another round of curated Box Projects for #AnagonCupsleeves! 

-For all 7 BTS Members! 

-2 KDramas (True Beauty, Vincenzo)

-BTS 8th Anniversary

-Cha Eunwoo's Birthday, 

-Butter's Release. 

May I never runout of good idea, original gifts, creative boxes in the coming year. I have to break this curse where I get easily discouraged whenever I see other sprouting businesses selling similar stuff as mine. 


2. With everyone's support, we were able to put up a billboard in EDSA for Suga's Birthday. Never thought I'll be able to pull this off ever! It was fun and fulfilling to see it up in the skies, as my friends and I cheered "Happy Birthday Yoongi!" together.



3. Learned new things - Joined a Korean Language Class (Jan-Dec), 1-day Online Pottery Workshop. My form of escape now, since we can't travel, is learning and trying new things.


4. Finally... Hangouts! How I missed this! 3D Cafe, Flower Cafe, BTS Pop-Ups, Kko Kko Borahae, watched the BTS Online Concert together with my Chingus. This made not being able to fly to LA bearable. I really pray I'll see BTS live with them!



5. Day-trips with family - Costales Farm, Tagaytay Day-trip. Breath of fresh air for everyone, most especially my senior folks.


6. Ate's Wedding, Ate's Baby Gender Reveal - Happy new experiences for our family that happened this year!



7. Whole Family Got Fully Vaccinated!


8. First plane ride since the pandemic! Solo trip to Boracay, met up with Paxie and Nico



9. Talked in front of a live audience about something I am very passionate about (Korea Travel). I missed this!



10. First Travel Events in 2 years! Mindoro, Taal Vista Hotel. Scuba diving in Puerto Galera.





Happy New Year, everyone! 

INSPI Shirts + How Do You Style Your T-Shirts?

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

On the hunt for local, premium-quality, trendy shirts? Check out these cool graphic tees from INSPI at Shopee's 1.1 New Year Sale!


INSPI shirts are made of premium cotton, making it comfortable to wear in our weather. They are also available in Asian sizes, and often with oversized fit and crew neckline. I also like my shirts with straight hem than shaped. And lastly, INSPI tees have good quality silk screen graphic print that looks classy. Here are some of the new INSPI shirts added to my closet:


INSPI Oversized Shirt Collection


INSPI Tie Dye Oversized Tshirt


INSPI Kpop Korean Oversized Shirt Collection


Squid Game Oversized Shirt Collection


INSPI Bible Verse Oversized Shirt Collection




Make sure to avail your shirt this 1.1 for more discounts! Super sulit, asa Php 100+ nalang. Visit INSPI's Shopee page for more designs and updates!



How do you style your oversized tees? Here are some of my go-tos:

1. With coords button down polo and shorts / pants -- a no fail!
2. With a denim skirt for a casual-cool look
3. With a statement printed pants, like stripes or checkered pants
4. With a girly skirt for contrast (polka dots or pleated midi skirt)
5. With a blazer and jeans, don't forget the hat!


Feel free to add more on the comment box below so I can try your styling tips too!

What Is Your Message?

Monday, December 27, 2021

In Photo: Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE, Lenovo YOGA 


Last week’s homily struck me more than Sunday masses has ever made an impact on me for the longest time. Father Jerry Orbos had meaningful words that felt reassuring, provoking me to think, my go-signal to transfer to his online church.    


Father Jerry asked us “What is your message?” Our little actions, reactions, the things we say during a conversation with a new person, the things we bring up in our group chat, what we post on our SNS… These things may be rather in-passing photos and captions, but actually builds up to who we are as a person and what people surrounding us will absorb or perceive us to be. Are we positive influencers? Are we inspiring? Do we trigger past traumas? Are we warm, or just braggy? I know that we shouldn’t be motivated by other people’s opinions of us, but it is also important to be self-aware of what we put out in the world. In the end, being a good change or impactful social media person is a better goal than someone who just do not care.


So anyway, back to the big question:

WHAT IS MY MESSAGE?


BTS RM said in his UN Speech years ago, SPEAK YOURSELF. But what do we talk about?


This got me thinking how I was in the past years as a blogger and social media person. Ive always wanted to be seen as a friend, someone that you can feel comfortable with or relate to. I also want to become a source of inspiration to young women, who is just threading life the best way she can at the moment. I want to project PASSION, HARD WORK, and living her life (and not just making a living).


My MESSAGE isn’t clear yet, so maybe this is something I can look into in the coming year. To search for that message, maybe even discover an ultimate PURPOSE for doing what I do. It will be great to find my personal ADVOCACY that’s really close to my heart. Are you also evoked to look for your life's meaning again? Did it changed since the pandemic happened?


As the world is slowly recovering, which I’d like to believe will bring back opportunities again, I want to walk out our doors more motivating, more whole, with more specific driving forces by being true to the MESSAGE I believe I carry.     

On My Shopee Beauty Cart: Seoul White Anti Acne Sets

Saturday, December 18, 2021

I've known Seoul White since around 2017, and I really enjoyed using the Seoul White Korea WHIP IT! Whip Soap on my body for it's really nice strawberry scent. Their soap is also packed in a convenient and functional net bag, making it lather nicely on the skin.


I just discovered their official Shopee page and found out how Seoul White has grown as a brand featuring more fun and innovative products. From hair care to makeup, Shopee Beauty truly has all our makeup and skincare needs including Seoul White's new Anti Acne line. Sharing some of them on this post:



Seoul White Korea WHIP IT! Whip Soap 120g FREE 5 x INSTANT WHITE Tone Up Cream Sachet 3g - PHP 199


With an ultra soft net that whips a soft and airy form, this whip soap deeply cleanses the skin and brightens and evens out the skintone for a glowing, K-Bright skin.  







Anti-Acne Self Care At-Home! Score clear, blemish-free skin at home with this face-saving set that deeply cleans skin, removes dirt & oil, and while leaving skin healthy and glowing.




Seoul White also has pimple patches too! Excited to try these.





The best Korean moisturiser in the local market, Seoul White Korea’s Instant White, Tone-Up Whitening Milky Cream packs all three potent ingredients (bearberry arbutin, white strawberry, and donkey milk) in a lightweight, instant whitening/lightening cream that brightens as its moisturises skin.







A complete skincare lineup, it features a powerhouse blend of cica extract, tea tree oil, and salicylic acid to gently soothe, nourish, and refresh oily, sensitive and acne-prone skin—for bright and clear beauty like no other. 




Seoul White is proud of their formulas that are clinically-proven, technology-driven and designed to nurture (not strip) the skin. I am most excited to try their pimple patches and the new Bye Bye Acne Bright and Clear soap. 


Curious about these new Seoul White products too? Enjoy the most exclusive deals up to 90% off, new launches, and exciting offers fit from various brands for every makeup & skincare haul--only from Shopee Beauty! 

Landers Superstore Opens in Uptown Mall, BGC

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

The newest lifestyle shopping haven in BGC, the Landers Superstore features sleek and contemporary interiors that rivals upscale stores abroad plus an amazing selection of merchandise specially curated to suit the preference of shoppers in the metro.





Membership shopping has just been elevated a notch higher with the opening of the new Landers Superstore in Uptown BGC. The fifth Landers branch to open in Metro Manila and the sixth in the country, this new Landers Superstore truly celebrates the premium shopping experience its members truly deserve.



The first mall-based Landers branch, it is located at the Uptown Mall right in the center of the busy Bonifacio Global City. Much like the previous superstore formats, the BGC store hosts a massive retail area and a relaxing dining space, ensuring enough space for its vast array of imported and local merchandise, while making sure social distancing is easily possible. It also features a fresh and modern interior design that sets it apart from other Landers branches and all other stores in the country.


The new Landers Uptown BGC branch also takes pride in having a specially curated selection imported and local merchandise that caters to the diversity of people living and visiting Bonifacio Global City.  A  must-visit Landers branch especially for those who are in the thick of their Holiday shopping, it offers a wide array of food and grocery producs, household items, fresh produce, appliances, and even furniture pieces. Moreover, its impressive deli section presents an exciting selection of cheeses, meats, cold cuts, wines and other items that will make one’s Holiday spread truly magnificent.





Of course, exploring the two-story establishment, with its spacious aisles and expansive shelves can whet one’s appetite. No worries -- just like other Landers branches, the new store has its own in-house diner and coffee shop. Members can order mouth-watering pizza, chicken and pasta dishes from the New York-inspired diner, Landers Central. For a more relaxing and laid back treat, including a nice cup of coffee, shoppers may head off to Doppio, the superstore’s in-house coffee shop.


Members can also indulge in freshly baked cookies and pastries at Dough & Co., with this new branch offering more premium baked goods.  


Aside from the premium shopping experience, members shopping at the new Landers Uptown BGC enjoy the awesome benefits exclusive only to members, such as free haircuts at Federal Barbers, lowest priced branded medicines at Capital Care.


If you’re not yet a Landers Superstore member, this is your time to sign-up! Landers is offering a 50% discount on new memberships on the opening day of Landers Uptown BGC, which means you can save as much as P400.00 when you sign up for regular  membership fee and P500.00 for a business membership. Just head to the membership counter on your visit or go to www.landers.ph to get your very own Landers membership.



Because Landers values the safety of its members, the superstore assures members that all of its staff members are fully vaccinated and proper protocols are strictly implemented within the premises in BGC and all of its branches located in Balintawak, Otis, Pasig, Alabang, and in Cebu. 


Landers Uptown BGC is located at 36th Street corner 9th Avenue, The Uptown Palazzo, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. To know more about Landers Superstore, visit www.landers.ph and follow www.facebook.com/LandersPH.  

On My Shopee Beauty Cart: Elizabeth Arden

Still on the look out for sophisticated gifts to give to your family and closest friends? Checkout Elizabeth Arden official page on Shopee. Elizabeth Arden is a popular luxury brand for fragrances and skincare well-loved by celebrities all over the world such as Catherine Zeta-Jones. Guaranteed authentic products are now readily available online via Shopee, and best part is, they are having a holiday sale of up to 50% OFF!


Here are some of the products on my Shopee Cart:


Elizabeth Arden Green Tea Scent EDT Perfume Spray 30ml - PHP 1400 (from PHP 2000) 


A classic Elizabeth Arden product, Elizabeth Arden Green Tea is well-known for its fresh scent that energizes and uplifts the mood. This is the perfect gift to your favorite Titas.





Same scent as their classic EDT, but at a more budget-friend price. This is the perfect gift for your girl friends! 




Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Eye Cream (15ml) - PHP 2695 (From PHP 3850)

This award-winning cream protects sensitive eye skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen while deeply hydrating and strengthening its natural moisture barrier. This is the perfect gift for my sister who just turned 30, and is looking for a good eye cream.





Have you thought of gifting yourself? This skincare product from Elizabeth Arden brightens the skin and improves radiance, and travel-friendly too! Stay fresh and glowing even during the holiday rush, because you deserve it!




Since we haven't seen them for almost 2 years, it's high-time to gift your loved ones with products that will make them feel extra special. Elizabeth Arden is currently having a storewide holiday sale, plus exclusive holiday gifting bundles and free gifts till today only! 


Visit the Elizabeth Arden Official Shopee Page for more.


Tomorrow x Together (TXT) at Shopee's 12.12 TV Special

Saturday, December 11, 2021

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, invites everyone to enjoy a festive night of big giveaways and exciting performances at the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale TV Special this December 12, 10:30 PM-12:30 AM on GMA-7 and Shopee Live. Viewers can win over ₱12 million worth of prizes, including motorcycles and a brand-new car, and enjoy special numbers from rising K-Pop act Tomorrow X Together (TXT)


Meanwhile, shoppers can save on their holiday purchases with free shipping with no minimum spend, ₱1 Deals, and 10% off daily at the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale.




Here are the highlights of the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale TV Special:


Over ₱12 million worth of prizes to win


● Two Shopee Shake players get to win ₱300,000 and three Honda Click 150i motorcycles each, while two more get ₱300,000 and three Honda Supra GTR150 motorcycles each. During the fifth Shopee Shake session, several players get to share a ₱1 million coin pool, and one player also gets a brand-new MG 5 Core from Morris Garages Philippines.


● One lucky Shopee Milyonaryo winner gets to take home ₱1 million in cash.



The hottest local and international celebrities


K-Pop fans should stay tuned to enjoy performances from South Korean boyband Tomorrow X Together. Viewers can also catch local celebrities and performers such as Jessy Mendiola, Ysabel Ortega, Kate Valdez, Rayver Cruz, Julie Anne San Jose, Bianca Umali, Michael V, Ben & Ben, Ariella Arida, Max Collins, Arra San Agustin, Derrick Monasterio, Bugoy Drilon, Kris Lawrence, and Michael Pangilinan. Up-and-coming local artist geiko will also perform her new single, “Oh no I’m on Shopee again.” Shopee brand ambassadors Dingdong Dantes and Jose Mari Chan, together with TV Special host and fellow ambassador Willie Revillame, will join the fun as well.


Limited-time flash deals


During the show, shoppers can enjoy exclusive deals and discounts, available in few quantities for a limited time only, from trusted telco, electronics, and food brands such as Dito Telecommunity, Abbott, McDonald's, Enfagrow, Garnier, Huawei, Potato Corner, Bonchon, Candy Corner, Wendy's, and Gong Cha.


Shopee 12.12 Big Christmas Sale


Filipinos can end the year with the biggest discounts and promotions such as free shipping with no minimum spend, ₱1 Deals, and 10% off daily at the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, Shopee’s biggest sale of the year.


For a chance to win ₱10,000 in cash, users can join Shopee’s #PaskongShopeeFam raffle. Until December 12, participants should save the #PaskongShopeeFam template from Shopee’s official Facebook page, add their family photo and last name, and upload their entry to this link: https://woobox.com/fq28ih. They can also post their entry on their Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Tiktok accounts with the hashtag #PaskongShopeeFam.


For more information, visit https://shopee.ph/m/christmas-sale.

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.  

Christmas Is In The Air In Taal Vista Hotel

Friday, December 10, 2021

Since I live in the south all my life, Tagaytay has always been a go-to destination for my family for special occasions or quick getaways and food cravings. I love that in an hour, we already have a relaxing view of nature and delicious meals to enjoy. Plus, iba din talaga ang simoy ng hangin dito!


A few weeks ago, I found myself with some of my long-time blogger friends heading back to Tagaytay for Taal Vista Hotel's holiday festivities! Weee! I was so excited to attend my first Christmas Tree Lighting event of the year (or in 2 years!?), and best of all spend it with friends! It was a short weekend, but one filled with beautiful sights, delicious meals, and loads of Christmas spirit. 




A Walk Through Time Exhibit Launch


It's my second stay in this landmark hotel of Tagaytay City, but my first time to really learn about Tagaytay, Taal Volcano, and Taal Vista Hotel's rich history and heritage through their new "A Walk Through Time Exhibit". I am glad that they already offer this guided tour for all their guests for Php 800 (inclusive of snacks). Something fun and educational that you can avail on your next visit!





The exhibit was opened by distinguished guests Miss Aniela Tolentino, an international entrepreneur, environment advocate, and the eldest daughter of Congressman Bambol and Mayor Agnes Tolentino; Director Marites Castro, Regional OIC of Department of Tourism; Miss Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Mr. Ramon Makilan, General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel; and Mr. Nestor Jardin, Consultant of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.


The exhibit was spearheaded by Mr Nestor Jardin along with Mr Dennis Maristany of Mabuhay Guides. After months of training, 16 team members are now officially Taal Vista Hotel tour guides. 


Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Mid-Gardens


As if a sign of hope, I am so happy to witness a tree lighting ceremony this year! Taal Vista Hotel's huge outdoor tree reminds me of our traditional parol especially when lighted up! During the lighting event, I felt the cool Christmas air while sipping on my white wine. Add to that, they played classic Filipino carols as we watched the parol-tree light up the night sky, the beautiful Tagaytay sunset as its backdrop. Grandeur that cannot be captured by my camera!





The annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony was led by Director Marites Castro, Regional OIC of Department of Tourism, Miss Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions and Mr Ramon Makilan, General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel. The event culminated with a ceremonial gift giving for the children of Augustinian Sisters Servants of Jesus and Mary, the beneficiaries of the celebration.


In The Mood Wine Dinner in Partnership with Happy Living Philippines Corporation


To cap the night, guests were treated to an extensive and very creative seven-course dinner. It has been a while! Every dish is inspired by the era of the 1930’s and 1940’s, created by the culinary team headed by Executive Chef Jayme Natividad and paired with wines from Happy Living Philippines Corporation. I love that they even prepared a special vegetarian menu for me. Looking at these photos on my camera roll made me drool miss that night!











The covered terrace was elaborately designed by Julius Villamante of Amante Fleurs using fresh, local flowers with touches of black accent pieces. Everything's beautiful and dreamy! Classic pieces from the 1930’s and 1940’s including some Christmas songs was performed by musical artists singer Innah Chico and pianist Lloyd Nicolas.


The event happily ended with Mr Ramon Makilan, General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel inviting all guests to spend the holiday season at Taal Vista Hotel. Guests brought home a specially curated holiday box of freshly baked goodies from Taal Vista Hotel’s Cakeshop to share with their families. Everything's delicious!






With hopeful and joyful hearts, may this Christmas be merrier as families reunite and celebrate with the eventual resolution of this pandemic. Then and now, Taal Vista Hotel remains to be there, witnessing and sharing memories worthy to be cherished and remembered.



Taal Vista Hotel 

Kilometer 60, Aguinaldo Highway, 

Tagaytay City 4120, Philippines

For inquiries and reservations, please call +63 (2) 7917 8225, 

+63 (46) 413 1000 or +63 917 809 1254. 

www.taalvistahotel.com 

Facebook (facebook.com/taalvistahotel

Twitter/Instagram (@taalvistahotel).