there must be more than this

Drugstore haul 8 Jan 2012

2012-01-08T20:19:00.000+08:00

While waiting for carwash...i HAD TO kill time in both Guardian & Watsons. You know...the usual market research?

Very decent purchases...

L-R: Favorite shower foam, Barbie Toothbrush&paste for my niece of course, Maybelline Colorsensational lipstick, Maybelline Baby Lips)

So happy to see the new range of Maybelline Colorsensational in my area's Watsons! I had to limit myself to ONLY ONE for now and absolutely loved this colour: 235 Warm me up. It is very close to my own lip color; it just intensifies it and "polishes" it a bit more.

RM29.80

Actually doesn't appear that red...its more of a brown tone

RM10.50

Thought i saw this in From Head To Toe's Dec2011 Hits & Misses video but actually it is a different product altogether. Oh well, a lip balm will always be handy...

Some background story on the next product: i have been following this You Tube makeup guru Holly Ann-Aeree for the longest time and got all excited about her Favourite Drugstore Lipsticks! I think my skintone is quite close to hers so i kinda 'trust' the colour she picks. She is amazingly gorgeous! Her all time fav is Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Primrose but they don't carry this colour here in Malaysia. So...i had a colleague of mine get it for me all the way from US!!! After conversion its about RM32. Not that much different from the price of the range here.


L: Revlon - Primrose, R: Maybelline - Warm me up

Note: can you see the pigmentation on my hands??? this photo scared me...gotta SPF the whole body from now on!

And...when i looked back at the video...Maybelline Colorsensational Warm me up was actually listed as one of her favs too! i was too preoccupied with Primrose :) Personally tho i prefer Maybelline's Warm me up. They look so much better on me.

Warm me up FTW!

What an amazing view...

2012-01-07T23:35:00.000+08:00

...I could just sit/lay down, have picnic all day with a view like this. Sadly, this is somewhere in a housing area...picnic will look somewhat weird.

But its so pretty!

The trees...the arches they make...the lanterns like jewel giving contrast and colour...the shadows the leaves cast and the sun light peeking through...

Will you sing this to me?

2012-01-03T22:52:00.001+08:00

Jason Mraz - I won't give up

When I look into your eyes
It's like watching the night sky
Or a beautiful sunrise
there's so much they hold
And just like them old stars
I see that you've come so far
To be right where you are
How old is your soul?

I won't give up on us
Even if the skies get rough
I'm giving you all my love
I'm still looking up

And when you're needing your space
To do some navigating
I'll be here patiently waiting
To see what you find

'Cause even the stars they burn
Some even fall to the earth
We got a lot to learn
God knows we're worth it
No I won't give up

I don't wanna be someone who walks away so easily
I'm here to stay and make the difference that I can make
Our differences they do a lot to teach us how to use
The tools and gifts we've got yeah we got a lot at stake
And in the end, you're still my friend at least we did intend
For us to work we didn't break, we didn't burn
We had to learn how to bend without the world caving in
I had to learn what I got, and what I'm not
And who I am

I won't give up on us
Even if the skies get rough
I'm giving you all my love
I'm still looking up
I won't give up on us
God knows i'm tough, He knows
We got a lot to learn
God knows we're worth it

I won't give up on us
Even if the skies get rough
I'm giving you all my love
I'm still looking up

Small surprise in the mail today

2012-01-03T17:51:00.000+08:00

It was a surprise because I totally forgot about it but I did fill up a free sample request on Esmeria Organic's website(www.esmeria.com) two weeks ago.

I requested for Prickly Pear, the range for normal to combination skin. The facial trial set came with 3ml worth of the Balancing Cleansing Gel and Moisturiser. No toner :(

Don't think 3ml is enough to give a proper verdict - only can tell the physical part of it ie texture, smell, first impression...

Oh, and the trial set came with a RM5 off voucher - but valid only till 31Dec2011! And I just received it today :( Am not in a hurry anyways to start using their skincare although I am currently using the toner from the oily and acne prone skin range, Alpine Willowherb. I've just started so I can't give a definite review yet.

Sukin has got me on the organic band wagon and Esmeria Organics made me curious as its homegrown. Excited!

Have a blessed 2012!

2011-12-31T19:15:00.000+08:00

Whatever happened in 2011, let it be cherished, made into valuable experience, treasured and learned from.

As we usher in the new year, may each of you continue to be deeply loved, greatly blessed & highly favoured!

Jesus loves you!

Lots of love :)

Travel Hauls - Nov 2011

2011-12-23T17:12:00.000+08:00

Had the chance to be in Italy and UK again last November for two weeks. Thank God for both the trip and, shopping hauls were minimal this time round. Great achievement. A few reasons why...Because i always bring back tons of cosmetic/beauty products - and chances are end up really liking them - its hard to repurchase. honestly, i think people around me are quite tired of getting requests from me to buy this and that when they are outstation...and i am also tired of doing so. Well...unless the price difference is extremely huge...then perhaps i'll remain thick-faced. Secondly, i am in the effort of streamlining and finishing whatever products i have now.

So here are pics!

So proud everything actually fits into this!

Tresemme Heat Defense and Salon Sleek (Straightening Spray)! So excited to find these and got them at an absolutely good price - each bottle (the 300ml and 250ml) retails at about 4.99 pounds but they had a promo for 2 Tresemme products for 6 pounds. Steal! i forgot how much the travel size one cost... First impression, i prefer the Heat Defense to Salon Sleek because my hair is softer with Heat Defense. But i've not used them both long enough to judge fairly.

Well i had to pick up some cleansing wipes for those lazy days. Simple had so many choices, but i ended up with the Spotless Skin range. i also picked up a face scrub from this range and i absolutely love it! its the best face scrub i have ever tried both in terms of texture and result. But its not available here! (All the items in the picture above retail at 2-3 pounds)

Loreal's Gentle Make-up remover was an impulse purchase that i regret. Hardly removed any makeup off my eyes, let alone my face. too gentle? too light? bleh.

i also went on to purchase a second Sleek makeup palette, the Original one. I'm not so much an eye shadow person so having both the Original and Storm was more than enough. They both have very wearable, easy, simple colours just nice for everyday look and even good enough for night makeup. They are two repeats in both palette - can you guess which one?

Lastly, this was the only thing purchased in Italy, Rome to be exact.
(such discipline i tell ya!) and i actually purchased it out of necessity - my hair was all frizzy in the cold weather! I left them to air dry most of the time with just some light blow drying in the beginning - they turn out dry and frizzy. So this product was a saving grace some sort - i wouldn't say it straightens really well altogether...but to a certain extent they do tame the frizz a little. It smells good too. Downside tho, the texture might be too oily for our weather as it is pretty much an oil base.

Out of everything, the only product i didnt like was Loreal's Gentle Makeup remover for Eyes. Very happy with the rest and i'm glad drugstore haul was so well contained this time!

Till then, Blessed Christmas everyone! xx

Drugstore hauls 20 Dec 2011

2011-12-20T23:02:00.002+08:00

My love for Sukin is growing - I went on to restock their Foaming Facial Cleanser. This duo deal is really a bargain at two bottles for RM36.90; each bottle is only ~RM18.50! For an organic product, nothing beats this. I still have another unopen bottle in stock but...assuming that it'll take 1.5 months to use up a bottle, its some security to know I have some for the next 5 months! I hope to review this soon but as of now, this has helped my skin tremendously. I can't wait to switch to the whole Sukin skincare altogether!

Well except for their toner though. Sukin's toner is a spray/mist form that I'm not a big fan of. I like the more traditional or "tangible" idea of pouring toner out onto the cotton pad first :)

Speaking of which...I also did purchase a toner from an upcoming organic brand, Esmeria Organics. Briefly, they have products for three different skin types - dry&mature, normal&combination and oily&acne prone. I am somewhat combination with the nose particularly, very very oily. I chose to try the Alpine Willowherb Purifying Toner for Oily & Acne prone skin. What sold me of course was the "anti blemish action" claim. I just love that phrase. Let's hope its for real!

I am currently using Eucerin Dermo Purifyer which I will not repurchase (almost done with it thank God) and Loreal Derma Genesis Pore Minimising Smoother with half a bottle to go but definitely not repurchasing due to its alcohol content. Honestly I don't know what these toners have done for my skin...I just want to use them up asap!

Last interesting item is of course my new Loreal Colour Riche lipstick in British Red! This range is on sale now in Watson for only abt RM23-ish! (Watson card members only tho...) I read reviews that this red is a good mix for warm n cool tones - had to try. I must rock red lips more often! Fyi, its made in USA :) pics soon!

Looking at the products make me happy! I think they will work well too!

The happiest people don't have the best of everything...

2011-12-13T17:04:00.000+08:00

...they just make the best of everything they have.

No hair tie = A pen = hair bun = nice wavy hair = happy gal :)

New black pumps for work

2011-12-12T14:57:00.000+08:00

Found these black pumps for work at Bata (I love Bata I kid u not!). Originally priced at RM90, it is now 30% off = RM63.

Cutting wise it is absolutely what I look for in work pumps - not too pointy, sturdy and 3-inch height is just nice. Ribbons and studs are a bonus.

They come in 3 colours - black, grey and teal(blue-ish).

Hey, never underestimate Bata!

Let the light shine!

2011-12-08T18:19:00.001+08:00

Sunlight at sunset.

Very pretty from where I sit. In the office.

Simple, straightforward but beautiful.

Simplicity is beautiful.

Pastime aka hobby

2011-12-07T01:12:00.001+08:00

I enjoy coming across, stumbling upon or accidently finding clothing or jewellery pieces that are not off the beaten track.

Nothing mass produce. Just rare, vintage, retro finds.

They make my heart flutter!

Found this dress today :) ideas are still brewing on how do I get to share what other treasures I've found.

Thank God for hobbies :)

Auntie pumps?

2011-12-05T11:23:00.000+08:00

Or a cool mary-jane?
From Bata okay.

Has good feet base but overall is still hard and tough. Feels like walking in wood.

I generally like it, as with most quirky things.

2011-12-05T00:54:00.001+08:00

Unfortunately, there are believers today who do not call upon their Savior because they believe a lie that they have no right to do so. There are believers who think that their mistakes have disqualified them from calling out to God. Some may even believe that they are undeserving of the Lord's help because they have not attended church regularly, read the Bible sufficiently or prayed enough. My friend, when you are drowning, you don't need a teacher to teach you the right steps to take in order to swim and save yourself. You don't need a list of do's and don'ts. You need a savior who is willing to plunge fearlessly into the water to save you regardless of what you know or do not know, what you have done or not done! You cannot earn by your own works, His desire is to save you. It is by His grace!

Foreward excerpt from Destined to reign, Joseph Prince

Retail therapy...

2011-12-02T20:49:00.001+08:00

Stressed.

So I came home with the new BBMousse from Maybelline (RM48) and got the Long Extreme Stiletto mascara 50% off (RM16 ish) with any purchase from Maybelline. These were all purchased in Guardian.

Some quick notes on the BBMousse:

First impression was what, only one colour?
But the colour seem fine when swatched at the back of my hand albeit on the lighter side
Feels quite thick; it didnt blend or sink in immediately at the back of my hand. looking forward to what sort of coverage it gives
It is made in Japan. a list of the ingredients in English is pasted over the plastic package - when i removed the plastic package the whole thing came off too. so the whole bottle now is kinda Japanese all over.
has this ball thing inside - can hear it when u shake the bottle. very similar to those spray paints!
has SPF30 PA+++
65g

Also purchased some eyebrow trimmer (3 for RM10.32) and fringe stabiliser (RM3.12). Those tape that will keep your fringe aside thing? Yeah. i have it on right now. feel like getting one for all the girls in the house!

By the way, Carefree panty liners (my absolute favorites!) at 100pcs are on promo for RM9.88 at Watsons. Good time to stock up.

Sigh. Not cheap lah always like this. :(

GULP

2011-12-01T08:22:00.001+08:00

Oh no...MUFE powder showing signs of hitting pan! I don't remember using it that much and and...its not cheap to restock.
There is so many other things to worry about now like world hunger,war,famine,flood...
...Instead of this!

I wish...

2011-11-30T19:07:00.001+08:00

That I can streamline my beauty products!
Too many assortments right now it actually drives me mad.

But its so fun to try new products and I haven't exactly found that one right product that works.

Bimbotic dilemma.

Drugstore hauls 29 Nov 2011

2011-11-29T22:32:00.000+08:00

Some good deals I came across today:

1. Darlie Toothpaste - RM14.80 Free 100g

If u're not picky with brands :) personally I think toothpastes are really expensive! Is it just me?

2. Sukin foaming facial cleanser - 2 bottles for RM36.90

This is not new, the deal has been around for quite some time. Read some good reviews on it and why not since its organic and I am also currently (in fact, always) on the hunt for a new cleanser anyways.

I also sneaky-ly purchased Rimmel's Stay Matte foundation in colour 103, True Ivory. For the record I'm an NC20 I believe. I do love my daily morning regime with Etude Magic BB cream despite it falling short on a lot of criterias actually but kinda needed an in between coverage, lighter than medium. Hopefully its somewhere there, between light and medium coverage!

Nicole if you're still waiting I truly apologize for not getting back on the Avon Ideal White pre makeup base yet! It is an additional step from my current routine because I've basically just use BB cream for the past 3 months or so. One thing I do remember though it has shimmer in it (possibly due to the SPF) and for tht I chose to not use on a daily basis for work.

I have tons and tons of stories to write - just a matter of time. I love it that I can post directly via Blackberry! Then again the question comes up on how do I sync both blogspot and twitter...hmmm

Till then have a great day everyone! Lots of love. Xx

I totally agree!

2011-11-29T17:27:00.000+08:00

But whether I practice it or not is a different question altogether...

Oh well.

Testing blogpost from Blackberry

2011-11-29T10:35:00.001+08:00

123

Thanks for your comments!

2011-10-27T19:25:00.000+08:00

Dear Jessica & Nicole,
Sorry i just got to read your comments today! thanks for dropping by :-)
Nicole, i'll get back to you on those Avon products soon.

I miss blogging! since i got my BB i have been tweeting like crazy and neglected this good 'ol blog. I was also contemplating to move to tumblr but i have yet to decide. i dont have a 'strategy' or cohesiveness for my social media involvement yet.

anyways, real steel tonight and perhaps an orange tights for fall vacation next week! So excited!

Lots of love. xx

if you are considering to try Avon products...

2011-08-24T00:11:00.000+08:00

...now is a good time! they are having 35% off on all cosmetic items and 20% off on non cosmetic items. (this info is solely on a sharing-is-caring basis pls...)

but the catch is, you've got to buy through a member. am not too sure if you can become member together with the discounted purchase...normally, just buy more than RM30 then membership is free for life. otherwise, just hop along with an Avon member to enjoy the discounts! their makeup products are already relatively cheaper compared to drugtores...and now more discounts on top of that!

have to apologise for pictures below - low lighting...but couldn't wait for morning light to show what was hauled! promise to show them in better colours soon!!! xx

This powder is perfect to 'neutralise' white cast effect from Etude House Magic Cream. Bought this for backup- RM11.

Couldn't resist trying some blushes! Right: Rose Lustre, Left: Peach. ~RM14 each

Mineral Blush in Blushing Mauve. RM11


Completed the collection of Mineral Blushes!

in honour of my Sarawakian roots

2011-08-19T13:29:00.000+08:00

hi all! am back in my hometown for a bit. short R&R, hanging out with family - what's cooler than that?

anyways, in view of my love for prints, tribal prints are not excused. and what better way to promote tribal prints from where i come from? Sarawakian tribal prints! Extra emphasis, of course, on Orang Ulu prints (i'm a kelabit yo!)

i was really really impressed with the selection of tribal prints available now and they come in all sorts of fabric; from cotton to silk. i'm so sorry that i have no pictures to show at the moment. i promise i will capture some before i leave for KL again.

When looking at those fabrics, i am truly convinced that Sarawak has only tapped a minute amount if its potential. if only! we have so much to celebrate and share (bearing in mind proper preservation of course). if i could, i would love to make our Sarawak tribal prints world known.

in that spirit, i purchased two different fabrics with different designs and tailored them into a pencil skirt and a shift dress respectively. the choice of a pencil skirt and shift dress besides for work can be worn on a casual basis or formal occasion. i can't wait! due to Raya season, it will take the tailor more than 3 weeks to complete it. excited :-)


(Left: Softer material for pencil skirt. Right: Sarong-like, sturdier material for knee length shift dress)

Can't wait to see the outcome. We'll figure out what next from there! xx

Delights: 30 July 2011

2011-07-31T00:17:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone! Went shopping today and came across some really good bargain on two beauty products!

Firstly, dropped by EtudeHouse on a look-see mission as they're on sale. Got sold for this BB magic balm - only RM20! and it comes with a mini foundation brush. Besides the obvious ridiculously cheap price, what sold me was the salesperson herself - her skin was flawless and claims that she is using exactly the same product. Oh and she did mention that this BB Balm adjusts to one's skin tone based on their body temperature. hence "magic" Purchased! Just read a review and they do claim this product is a winner on color matching but is horrible at oil control. oh dear. that can be my biggest nightmare. nevertheless, very excited to try this tomorrow morning - if i really like it trust me i am going to get some more!!!

i love EtudeHouse brushes - super excited that this came with a free brush too!

Secondly, i've been using Loreal's UV Perfect Mat Sunscreen for the past two months - almost every single day - and gladly i'm due for a new bottle! yeay! For the price, i think one bottle/tube for 2 - 2.5 months is alright. i got the Mat for about RM32++ and found Caring Pharmacy selling the newer version of it for only RM29! Hurry!!! well actually Caring is selling all of the different versions at RM29!!! (The SPF 50+++ to even out complexion and anti dullness or the Mat or the new Icy one). sorry i can be hopeless at trying to be specific at times. Here, picture will help! New one on the left.

Had this after dinner - pretty decent and cheap, RM30 - but i think the end taste is not...complete? just my opinion. very easy & light tho.

Love this colour - a gift.

Have a great week ahead everyone! God bless xx.

can i do the whole of europe in one month??? and during winter???

2011-07-12T22:56:00.000+08:00

i love prints, i'm a budget hunter and i just got back from Bali!

2011-07-06T22:31:00.001+08:00

title sums it all, chronologically of what i'm about to write too!

i absolutely love prints.

especially animal prints! its my key branding - my friends remember me whenever they come across animal prints. i'm just going to show off some stuffs i recently purchase - totally happy with everything i got.

Top three dresses are all from LadiesFash. Most left is an ankle length maxi dress. Super comfy material. its not cotton, but prolly a mix of cotton and lycra. Next two dresses hav slight circle skirt, below the knee, great for work and looks polished under blazers. they're all priced at RM37 or RM38!

Now next three dresses rock my socks! they're all in the same cutting, just in diff colour and design. totally in love with them - impressed with the material and i just had to get more than one cause its not easy to find something that you like and looks good on you. plus, i can wear them to work so its justifiable to purchase more than one right?! Guess where i bought them? Jusco! From the brand Creme. RM59 each. skirt is more of a pencil cut and are all well above the knee. sometimes i have to keep pulling them down when i walk or when i stand up after sitting. not that cool but the love of the cutting overwrites that. :-)

Close up look at the patterns for dresses above. Houndstooth pattern is back in trend yo! (Left picture, mid pattern).

I also stumbled upon this bag at 70% off from the brand Marie Claire (available in Bata) = RM24!!! Perfect for my beach holiday!

Ah...next few pics are snapshots of what i wore in Bali. lol! Show off!!!

This is what i wore on the plane - just a loose long top over leggings and a handy scarf. p/s: its in a purple leopard print! and btw i like to think that i travel light - just a duffle bag and the RM24 bag lah!!!

On the second day, a jumpsuit with green and red beads accessories.

Third day, maxi dress (from FOS, also RM24!) + a stack of light gold bangles (pasar malam, smthg like RM10?) Visited Tanah Lot..knew would take gazillion pictures, had to be dressier! and i love love love maxi dresses. if i could wear them everyday i would!

lol. i'm proud of my RM24 bag!

Final day: flying back to KUL - had to wear something more decent as i was travelling back on concessional travel. bought this top in Sukawati Market - RM5 @ 15,000 Rupiahs. i love the colour. and oh, the previous day saw some angmoh guys also wearing the same top but in diff colour. then again, this top is sold almost everywhere in Bali! Trusty old leggings. i just prefer them over shorts. find it more comfy!

dropped by Empire Subang after work to order something and found out that Tangs was having some Vior sale. there i found this really cute shoes!

I was really contemplating if i should get it coz its somewhat similar to what i already have below...

But they both look different and the top one is definitely dressier than the bottom one. how much? RM40 :-) not too bad.

I'm a happy gal but thats it! no more shopping for this month!!!

lots of love and God bless xxx.

Delights: 18 June 2011

2011-06-18T16:42:00.001+08:00

What is better to do then update your rusty blog on a Saturday afternoon when you cant nap?!

I'm not sure this will make up for the long absence but i hope all of you are doing great out there :-)

Recently added two items from Loreal into my cleansing and makeup routine - Gentle Cleansing Milk (GCM) and UV Perfect Mat SPF30 (for normal to oily skin). With GCM, i just lather it directly over my makeup and lightly massage. I found making my face wet prior does not allow the cleansing milk to work properly - it works better when applied directly to the face without water. After that, then i rinse it off with water and apply a gentle cleansing gel (Eucerin), rinse off then a final cleansing step with a foaming cleanser (Loreal Hydrafresh). Ahh...this whole cleansing step can be a whole blogpost altogther - next one perhaps?

Although i am entirely happy with the SPF50 i apply every morning - i do find it a little too much for daily usage - unless i have to commute for meetings in the afternoon which then exposes me to afternoon sun. otherwise, SPF50 is quite high since my cute butt is almost always rested in a super cold office. I decided to give Loreal's UV Perfect Mat SPF30 a try; two convincing statement on the bottle won me -1. SPF30 +++, 2. For normal to oily skin. A little over two weeks of usage - i will definitely repurchase again! there is no running away from the oily effect albeit a little less compared to SPF50 - but not a biggie thanks to foundation + powder.

Next two items are shower related - Olay Body Wash plus body butter ribbons (jojoba butter) and Dove intense repair hair mask. I have no idea what body butter ribbons are but my first impression of this was - a shower gel + lotion? just exactly what i needed because i'm not a lotion religious. it will only last the first week of a new lotion purchase...then i'll get lazy. hehe. so shower gel + lotion is the greatest solution!

my verdict? i think it does work a little that way...smells nice and does leave a slight residue on the skin after shower. havent notice any big difference but i like it. Retails at RM16.90 and so far only saw them at Jaya Grocer instead of Guardian and Watsons.

Dove intense repair mask? Definitely the best drugstore hair mask i've ever tried. i dont have to use any leave-in hair conditioner or serum - this mask leaves my hair really soft..and fluffy. (i have clouds in my mind. fluffy!)

The other two mask i currently have...and trying to use up as much as possible...i like Dove much better! They're not bad, just...normal?

This is my favourite sunscreen - used this in Redang last year and this new one would be for Bali in two weeks!

Had to try this new product from Maybelline - Hyper Sharp Eyeliner. Watsons having promo for this, RM23.80 + 400 bonus points!

Tip is super fine - picture below compares it to Revlon which looks more like a marker.

Performance wise, i think its somewhat similar to Revlon; although i find Revlon's a little easier to control.

I am super looking forward to the upcoming short break in Bali in two weeks time - not so much of wanting to be in Bali but same time last year, i've already had two short breaks! Mount KK and Redang. So a break is really really in need!

to compensate that i have the next half year to plan for perhaps two more holiday breaks. cant wait! God bless xxx

Sunday Delights

2011-05-22T17:19:00.000+08:00

Lock your bag - with your seatbelt! Make sure to loop it inside the handles so its tightly fasten.

Couldn't stop laughing when i saw this in the church loo. Smart!

The amount of oil in two chicken burger - no oil needed prior! Just chuck the patties into a medium-low heat non-stick pan and see all the fat ooze out...ewwwww.

Have a blessed week ahead! xx

Itching for...a Clarisonic Mia!

2011-05-21T19:45:00.000+08:00

Should i should i should i splurge on this???

Read all about it here.
Yes or no?

Online fashion blogshops: the good and the not-so-good

2011-05-21T19:23:00.000+08:00

Hi! I am still very much alive, Hallelujah! As usual - caught up with work; hunting for a new place to stay, hunting for new options & oppurtunities...etc etc.

I love online shopping. Items are cheaper and the experience is all within the comfort of my own home, it is quick, easy and not to mention - thrilling; when the post arrives that is. I purchase cosmetics, makeup brushes and clothes online. Books, shoes are yet to be added to the list.

As many of you may be aware of, there are a lot of blogshops selling pre-ordered Korean/Japanese clothes - heavily promoted especially on FB. Prices can go as low as RM20 for anything - top, dresses, cardigan etc. i am pretty much loyal to LadiesFash - for the price, quality & cut - very worth it but those pre-ordered items are just so tempting! Thanks to all the models - all the clothes look so good - even up to the list of must haves. I generally ignore those blogshops at first...because i have a perception that the clothes will only fit skinny girls and are ahlien in nature - and i cant carry harajuku at all;also, i saw some purchases of my friend that looks really different in real compared to the pictures - i should have known better then; but once i start to browse one album...its safe to say some items may change your mind. Being curious of course i had to pick up some items. For trial. Price is not bad at all...so yeah. So lets see the choices:

And the real deal...

I was speechless when i saw the items. even after telling myself not to put high expectations on them based on looking at what my friends got from their purchase...i was still greatly shocked. Not only is the colour off - the length and cut...speechless. Anyhows, gotta work with what we have regardless. Thats $$$ yo!

Second and third top from the left had horrible workmanship:

:-(

There is absolutely nothing wrong with purchasing these items...but conclusion from my experience:

Do not have high expectations - 50% less than what the pictures tell
Be ready to improvise where necessary!
Always, always be mindful of the measurements. To get the dress just well above my knee cap or slightly longer it will be about 90cm? and most of the dresses sold in these type of blogshops are about 80-ish cm. they look like dresses on the models but will be just a long top on me!
Always have a few ways in mind on how to wear/style the clothing item before purchasing. This will give a better success rate of each item ie if Style 1 does not work...hopefully Style 2 may work!

Have fun shopping and i hope there are no dissapointments! xx

Delights: 4 May 2011 - Avon & Loreal Haul

2011-05-04T23:14:00.001+08:00

I'm stressed out =( A lot of blabbling to follow.

But i have some interesting hauls =) yeay!

So i dropped by Avon today hoping to get the blush 'Mauved' under the Smooth Minerals collection - too bad there is still no stock. Now Avon has different promos every two weeks, and each promo will last for a month. so you will always have two overlapping promos at one time. I'm no Avon seller, but i've been exposed to this brand since young and I think their products are not bad at all. they are hits and misses; but IMHO they have less misses than Cosway! I support Cosway only for their supplements and household products =)

Picked up three items:

1. Ideal White premakeup base SPF27+++ in purple

2. Ideal oil control pressed powder in Oriental

3. Simply pretty concealer stick in Almond

It comes in both green and purple tone. i dont really have much redness so green won't be contributing at all hence the option to buy purple. Am not too yellow either; will find out if it helps. What attracts me also is the makeup base function and its SPF. Pretty decent stuff if it works!

Light purple - light texture, easy to blend, absorbs fast and no shimmer!

This is not a great picture but it was meant to show there is no shimmer...

Again, the name of the product totally caught me. Anything with the word 'oil control' will get me.

This picture does no justice to the actual product - it ain't that orange/red! its more yellow...dark yellow?

Left: MUFE Velvet powder in #1 i think...much lighter then the Avon on the right. But i find the yellow tone very interesting!

I have a weak spot for concealers..(that said, so is everything beauty related lah!!!) Decided to just give this a shot in case it mightily works! I've tried the Avon line concealer - it was drying. (this is under Simply Pretty line)

Okay. I need a disclaimer for this! I myself am constantly amaze at the amount of beauty products I have but i actually do utilise them, really. In actual fact it is this year that i actually have a proper routine every morning and night. i have never taken my skin as serious as this. I was a junkie before still, but i never stick to a proper routine. i buy products and use them a few times and get lazy and stash them. This year there is not a day that goes by without applying anything on my face. Amazinggg.

So i've had two facials for the past two months - different locations, products and technique - but one common thing that both beautician mentioned is that my skin is dehydrated. Including the BA in Lancome who did some short skin analysis - 3 beauty advisors told me my skin is dehydrated. it puzzled me initially because i grew up with a mindset that my skin is oily - how can it be dehydrated? Thanks to Uncle Google and the wealth of information out there - Oily skin is my skin type but dehydrated is my skin condition. This could be due to a lot of factors ie internally - but i drink more than 2L of water a day...so i'm convince its due to external reasons. i do double cleansing at night as i wear makeup everyday (some days lighter makeup of course) and probably the Simple Light Hydrating Lotion i use everynight is perhaps too light (precisely why i like it in the first place!) All the 3 BA's adviced to get hydrating masks (surprisingly none of them promoted their own product!) I've never had good experience with Loreal skin care products actually but the Hydrafresh Water Plumping Mask was too attractive. Guardian is also currently having sale...hence the two other products on the left and right!

This purchase is totally justifiable - facewash and night lotion going to finish alrdy! All three products purchased during this sale RM60+ only...not too bad!!!
Some may question what about Neutrogena Hydro Boost? As much as it is a WOW product for me, i dont quite like to use it at night because in the morning when i wash my face, there is this film like residue on my face. I dont have this problem when i use Simple Light Hydrating Lotion. I apply Hydro Boost in the morning and Simple at night. When Simple is done, i'll switch to this Loreal and let you know how it goes.

I feel much better - but still stressed! =(
Lots of love and God bless.

In your spare time...Vote for your favourites!

2011-05-04T00:06:00.000+08:00


Start Voting Here!

Have fun girls! xx

I need a holiday

2011-05-03T01:01:00.000+08:00

Badly!

Sabbatical is sooooo tempting.

Or...3-4 weeks off backpacking!

Hooollliiiiidayyyyyyyy

How important is SPF in your daily routine?

2011-05-02T15:38:00.007+08:00

To answer my own question - i think SPF on a daily basis is a must. I wouldn't say i practice the best routine but whenever i consciously can i would apply SPF before leaving the house. With that said, i try to have SPF in most of the products i use especially makeups - as little as SPF 15 and above. i like to know i'm always protected.

Honestly, it was only recently that i started to use a separate SPF under makeups in the morning. Otherwise i would only depend on whatever SPF the foundation has. As some may be aware i purchased and started using Clinique Derma White City Block SPF40+++ sometime mid March. Sadly this foundation broke me out and i 'think' further caused skin tags. not a good thing! There is probably just no chemistry between Clinique and I =(

As Clinique Derma White City Block SPF40+++ wasn't satisfying, the search for a good SPF went on and i stumbled upon ZA's Power Block UV Sunscreen and True White Instant Brightener (Truth is, they were cheap at less than RM30 each - why not?). Power Block can be used for both face and body hence a rather thick consistency so i'm still hesitant to apply it on my face - dont want any pores to get clogged! But this is what i apply on my arms and neck instead. So far its been okay; not oily and absorbs rather fast. it does leave a white residue initially too but no biggie. True White Instant Brightener on the other hand is very light BUT has shimmers in it which...is not too favourable for my everyday use. i think its ok but psychologically i need something clear - not shimmers! They are both SPF 40+++ PA, at less than RM30 each - very good deal indeed.

As the search goes on, i decided to give some high end brands a try. Firstly, drugstore moisturiser with SPF that i'm sort of confident in is only Loreal - but Loreal is always oily on my skin - even if its stated for oily skin. Olay is no better either. Too oily for my skin.So, i mentally listed these in my head; and depending on which i would stumble across first, that will be my pick:

Dior Snow BB Creme White reveal UV protection SPF 50 - PA+++ Source

Shiseido Urban Environment UV Protection Cream Source

Lancome UV Expert GN Shield Source

Two weekends ago, Lancome was having their thing in Midvalley. Initially, i was most skeptical about Lancome because their ingredients may/may not differ much from Loreal - they are under the same group. Thats my opinion only and of course, not necessarily true. I decided to try this:

I told the Beauty Advisor that i am very skeptical about buying a big pack without trying a sample first because it may not fit my oily skin. She was smart enough to lock my credit by asking me to purchase this first and give me a sample to try and return the full unopened package with receipt to purchase something else should i find it unsuitable. Very good marketing. As a customer, i'm ever so happy to work with samples first! They also had some skin analysis going (i have dehydrated skin and large dilated pores - second person to tell me my skin is thirsty!) and some games to play - and i got home with a few samples that i'm very happy with!

I got another extra UV Expert sample from playing the game =) Thats 10ml each and mind you, 30ml costs RM165. Those two samples are equivalent to RM100! I'm blessed!

BA told me this is high in Vit C so do no rub off the excess but use the toner to further rub onto the skin for it to penetrate into the skin.

UV Expert (For the long name, lets just call it UV Expert for now) is rather thick but fast absorption. it does have that oily feeling, feels ok under foundation and thank God - no breakouts! Btw, there was no sample for BB Base which is slightly tinted. Well i'm just happy there are samples to try. So far i really like it. Then again, I'm itching to try other brands too!

Some other trial sizes i have - Clarins broke me out too while Avene was way too gentle!

Put on your SPFs please! xx

Avon Smooth Minerals Makeup & In2It eyeshadows

2011-05-01T22:45:00.000+08:00

Avon Malaysia recently brought in their mineral makeup line, Smooth Minerals and i just had to give it a try. I'm not a big fan of mineral makeup for one simple reason - i find it very difficult to handle. The shaking, the pouring, the swirling, and all the pigments flying - not to mention such a waste! lol. Avon's line is inexpensive - a good excuse to experiment. Here i purchased the foundation in Light Ochre, two blushes in Radiance and Blushed and mascara in Black. I wanted to get all 3 of their blushes but the other one in Mauved was out of stock.

My verdict? The foundation is pretty decent - light to medium coverage and concealer is needed. It gives a glowy finish - has some glitters in it. I wear this if i am indoors most of the time at work or on weekends. Sadly tho, this product might have broke me out - or just the combination of this on top of Clinique's Derma White City Block didnt work - i have skin tags now =(((( I'll write about my SPFs in another post.

The mascara is not impressive at all to me, although the wand is quite unique. formula wise it does nothing to my lashes.

The blushers on the other hand are really nice! My favourite would be Radiance - light peach tone - gives a really nice, healthy glow. Absolute love. Mauved will be on my next purchase list!

I really hope the colour is visible and distint!

When purchasing more than RM30 from this line - you get two brushes for free. A kabuki and dual end brush. The kabuki...sucks! the dual end brush is much better!

I use the Sigmax F80 Flat top kabuki to apply the mineral foundation - works heavenly and Sigma F05 Small contour brush for the blushes. Perfect combination.

I also came across these eyeshadows one fine Guardian-just-for-fun-strolls. The Green eyeshadow in Marine is the one that caught my eye the most. i love love love that colour! they are all shimmery, quite pigmented and RM16 each. have i told you, i REALLY like the green! i bought Dream as well cause the blue is pretty cool too.

Hope the swatches can tell. The green in Marine and blue in Dream looks almost similar.

Nope, no chance to wear them yet. hopefully soon!

Lots of love. xx.

Are you a supplement freak?

2011-05-01T22:08:00.001+08:00

This would be an avalanche of posts!!! nolah, just a small landslide.

So do you take food/nutrition supplement? For ease of both you and me, i'm just going to be refering it as supplement.

I am not a supplement freak - i am a believer of true wholesome food - eat the real thing! i believe nutrients are most stable in their natural form and not when extracted out. So eating the real deal, the whole fruit, the original vegetable should always be the deal.

That said however, i do not despise supplements at all.i think if its good for you then take it. I have been exposed to supplements since young starting with the famous Vitamin C Chewies and Scott's cod liver oil. i know you remember this too!

And then, mum did make me take Appeton - she said i was toooo skinny. when i was still young lah.

Then mum made me take Evening Primrose Oil - this i have been taking as long as i can remember - never fail to restock. I always go back to EPO from Cosway. Honestly i've never ventured out to try other brands. i just keep going back to Cosway for this. they are relatively cheap if you buy in bulk because your get more discounts on each consecutive bottle u get ie 2nd bottle 10%, 3rd bottle 20% etc...I will normally purchase 3 bottles every one time which makes each bottle about RM22 - for 50 1000mg softgels~ one capsule everyday~2 bottles for 3 months.

Then last week in Watsons i saw Kordel's EPO on promo - 3 bottles of 100 1000mg capsules only for RM92 - thats approx RM30 per bottle ~ RM15 for 50 softgels - much cheaper than Cosway. As my stock is running low and i heard good things about Kordel's, this is a great bargain! And it came with a complimentary Eco bad designed by Beatrice Looi

Moving on, what do i currently take are:

The Chlorella is pretty given, something like Spirulina and the last bottle of Multivites is pretty normal. i decided not to take it everyday because i wanted to space it out and...it makes my mind at ease that at least i aint overdosing, i hope!

I just added the Pearl Complex lately, purchased in Cosway also. i took this sometime ago - 30 capsules but didnt see any significant changes - well its only 30 caps. Since they were having promo on it this month, i decided to give it a try again. Look at what catches my eye, you prolly know why:

Yupe, REDUCES PIMPLES & MAINTAINS HEALTHY SKIN! 7 bottles for RM112 - as i'm taking 2 capsules a day essentially 7 bottles will only last 3 and a half months. Lets see if what it claims is true!

From Cosway website:

"The Key To Clear, Healthy Complexion

Pearl powder has been used for centuries as a beauty and health tonic. It provides amino acids, mucopolysaccharides, B-vitamins and an array of minerals which include calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, strontium, copper, selenium, silicon and titanium. It has been proven that pearl powder regulates melanin production and helps clear dark patches and lighten uneven skin tone. Chinese herbal masters regard pearl powder as an elite, premium Shen tonic, calming and soothing on the body and mind. It cools the liver, lifting well-being and energy.

Oriyen Pearl Complex uses pure, high quality hydrolysed pearl powder which is easily absorbed, acts gently to adjust Shen, the energy of vitality and awareness. It effectively reduces pimples and improves the quality of the skin.

Combines the synergistic effects of hydrolysed perarl powder with Dong Quai, Lycii, Chrysanthemum, Astragalus and Ginkgo Bibola to promote healthy, fair, clear complexion."

So what supplements are you currently hooked on? xx.

I got a new hairdryer!

2011-05-01T21:21:00.000+08:00

Sometimes - well most of the time i envy bloggers who are very systematic with their content - i guess most are very specialise - they talk about things they are passionate about etc...I've been telling myself i should get myself organised...start thinking of a system if i'm serious about blogging etc...well until then i'll be naming each post whatever i wantttt. this is freedom!!!

So there was a Makeover Beauty Expo recently, 22-24 April 2011 held in Midvally Exhibition Hall - i was reallly really excited - but dissapointed - nothing like a beauty expo i expected - no makeups to play with etc - lots of banks trying to get you to sign up their credit card! But, if you are searching for hair products, this is a good time to buy! They have all sorts of hair products on promo; they actually have more hair products on promo than beauty products! A friend of mine got a hair salon equivalent hair dryer last year during this expo as well - 3 units for RM100! Crazy huh! i wanted one myself - the current one i have is for travel and has only one heat setting - takes quite a long time to dry my hair and immediate hot heat can dry up my hair, badly. They had similar promo this year - but my friends and i decided to purchase from a booth that was giving out the hairdryers for 'free' when you purchase a hair mask for RM34 (i forgot the brand - so sorry!) or a Schwarzkopf Bonacure hairtherapy shampoo for RM48. A cheapo like me of course would have gone with the hair mask but - i have 3 tubs at home! So i opted for the shampoo instead =)

I am satisfied with the hairdryer - brandless but good job - though it still has that new electrical smell everytime i use it. annoying sometimes. it has two fan speed - and cool or hot air control. But the shampoo however makes my hair itch! so sad! it does contain SLS - but probably no mercury cause its a clean cream - no visible glitters or shine in it - but unfortunately does not fit my hair =( oh well, the hairdryer was still worth it!

Delights: 20 April 2011

2011-04-20T22:55:00.000+08:00

Show off time!!! Good to have friends who travel abroad once a while - that's how i get these items =)This is supposedly 1st batch (update from previous post)

Have only tried the Colossal Volume express (yellow) and Define-A-Lash; which comes with an eye liner + smudge sponge at the tip. As the name states - Colossal Volume is for lash volume while the Define-A-Lash is well, for definition. Sadly, both does not WOW my lashes at all - my lashes does need volume rather than definition...i think the Sasa mascara works much better. Yet to try Covergirl and Falsies.

Also purchased a few items from Sonia Kashuk: Hidden Agenda Concealer palette, lip brush, smudge brush and retractable foundation brush. The brushes are alright; lets concentrate on the concealer.

This quad is interesting - combines 4 different concealer "elements" - two concealer shades, a neutraliser and a powder. Honestly - this was bought without reading reviews - i just found them interesting and among the best seller in Sonia Kashuk's line (thats how i decide; whatever that is best seller - jump on the bandwagon!) Upon receiving it i really had no idea how to use it - only used the lighter concealer + powder = light coverage. then i thought maybe should apply neutraliser, then concealer then powder = much better coverage but i wasn't too happy though. Even thought this palette dissapointed me much and went on to buy MORE concealers outside. Then...became a little smarter and READ REVIEWS (i just dont understand why i never did that for this palette earlier on!) ahhhh eureka! not such rocket science but - the second concealer shade; top right - which i thought was really dark hence never tried is actually salmon concealer - and the bottom neutraliser is green tint/base so it covers redness ie pimples for me. Ahhh!!! Second chance! Salmon + concealer + powder = just the right coverage. i wouldn't say its very good coverage - but its enough to keep me look naturally awake. Will i repurchase - Yes!

Next, famous British makeup cult - Sleek eye shadow palettes and Bourjois blushes. Very conservative number of items - but good choices. it was a good thing i didnt go crazy.

It was a tough decision between Storm and Original - decided on Storm in the end because the colours were more wearable for me. Overall, i think the hype is all worth it - they are pigmented as expected although quite serious fallouts.

This is my go-to blush every morning. i'm sorry the colours and quality of my pics really suck - its pinkish - not red or mauve like below. i just googled for swatches and decide from there. lucky pick? yeah!

Lastly, am a sucker for free goodies - look what came with Marie Claire's Apr issue?

But...its expiring in Sept 2011! Cheh! On another note - my fav would still be the Acai berry one!

Was away for a seminar two days ago - confined in a room for talks - two days straight - has that weird after feeling like i've been away in a different country. hmm.

time to work. lots of love. xx

WOW: Neutrogena Hydro Boost water gel

2011-04-13T22:06:00.001+08:00

I've found another WOW product!!! Don't ask why the next picture is upside down...i just cant get it to load properly!!! urrgh!!! Anyway they came in a packaged box retailing at RM65.90 - but i recycled the box even before getting home - earth friendly yo!

It all started when i went for a facial last weekend (Bought this facial for RM36 - worth at RM180 from Groupsmore.com - that's a whole story of its own but i will not be talking much about it). I understood and always believed that my skin is oily - from they way it behaved, the occasional blemishes - it never fitted the dry or normal skin description. so i was caught by surprised when the beautician told me my skin was dehydrated. i recalled reading a really good article about dry skin vs dehydration in the Mar'11 edition of Style magazine but clearly i can't remember the gist of the article - such bimbo - i just knew it was good and knew i should try to source for it but yeah never did. Anyways, so the beautician not a single time mentioned about my oily skin - but she kept blabbering about how my skin is soooo dehydrated and soooo unhealthy. Gee, thanks for making my day so much better! on another note - i seriously think all facials are overpriced!!! well maybe cause i get about the same outcome all the time no matter how much i pay. then again gotta becareful with the choices. i just love the after effects of extraction - but not the process of course - so darn painful!

Ok, back to the story - the word dehydrated kept lingering in my mind - and i was thinking about the current moisturisers i have at home and also my face care routine. none of them specifically stresses on hydration - and it also came to my mind that what if the lack of hydration causes my skin to be more oily - i know there must be a science behind this - just havent come across it!

So...i stopped by Watsons; the next best thing to home lol, and just started browsing around when i came across Neutrogena. now i've read about it here and there but never paid attention because i always thought this was for people with dry skin - not me. so when i saw it, those reviews did not really ring in my head - but for some reason i decided to give it a try anyways - plus they're on promo for the gel + mousse face wash = RM65.90. Decent buy - although considered quite expensive for such impulsive, unintended, trial and error purchase! Ahh but never regretted it!

i tried this for the first time under makeup the next morning simply because i wanted to protect my 'just had facial' face both from the Clinique SPF and makeups. Sadly, i think the Clinique City Block does break me out - it is a shame if i actually needed something to protect my skin from it when it is suppose to protect my skin for that matter - seems like i'm only using it for the SPF!

So after cleansing and toning - i dab acne lotion on affected areas, apply eye cream - wait - then apply Neutrogena water gel - wait - then apply clinique city block - wait - apply undereye concealer - foundation - powder - blush, mascara, lip balm. Thats the whole morning ritual.

This water gel seriously made a lot of difference!

1. Despite the LAYERS of products - my face do not feel heavy at all after all the makeups on

2. Surprisingly, foundation was easier to blend even with Clinique City block on top - a whole tad of difference compared with if on Clinique City block alone.

3. my face was shine free all day!!! well, accept the nose. still the nose!

4. i only had to blot away shines...no powder reapplication needed.

5. make up removal is a breeze! (i know...am i overeacting?)

6. no breakouts

7.skin looks healthy!

For now, water gel makes me happy - hopefully, my skin will be happy long time too!

Let me know your opinion if you have tried it too! xx

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate 10-Day Trial

2011-04-08T21:17:00.000+08:00

Fabulous Friday it is! I visited a Kiehl's branch close to my office and requested for a sample of their Midnight Recovery Concentrate. I read a lot of good stuff about it and decided to give it a shot. They have this in 2ml samples - which is enough for 10 days, nightly usage. Am going to put this to a test. i've had very good experience with Kiehl's except for their shampoos and it really excites me that i might just have a full range of products that actually really work on my skin! yeay!

excited! xx

Delights: 7 April 2011

2011-04-07T22:59:00.001+08:00

Good news for brush and fake eyelashes lovers: Etude House is having sales!

Happen to drop by unintentionally - was looking at their concealer and picked up one when only then the salesperson told me "Everthing is 30% off". Nothing in the shop signifies that its having sales - but only tiny stickers that appear in some locations which also not necessarily say its 30% - but 50%. I'm not complaining, but i just wasn't aware of it! Anyways upon hearing that everything is 30% off (was on loud speaker in my head) i simply rushed over to the brush corner because i've been wanting to try their brushes since i read about them on My Makeup Reviews. (Dang, what a reason to break my brush-fast! 30% off got me). Also their lashes are 50% off!

So i picked up two brushes - Dual Fibre Cheek Brush (Glow) and Multi Eye Shadow Brush. i absolutely love both of them! They are sturdy, does not shed after washing, small enough for travelling and performs really well, especially the dual fibre brush. i'd say, even better than the Sigma version i own. I tried using it with liquid foundation - very good; i'd assume it'll work well for blushes but i'm going to use it for foundation. It is prickly though; but bearable. the eye shadow brush is soft, dense but does not pick up a lot. not a biggie. i also picked up a set of false lashes - half of RM15.90? and a concealer which looked really yellow...but didnt appear yellow on me. my concealer hunt is still on =(

Decent purchases right...didnt go crazy lah.

My first falsies! Name: Secret lol.

i flew home couple of weeks ago and while in KLIA found out that The Body Shop (TBS) relocated to a new location - closer to domestic departure gate. It boasts a bigger space, brighter outlook, very inviting and neat visual merchandising. What else, i couldn't resist a short visit =)

Didn't leave empty handed and purchased 3 items:

1. Facial brush - RM12.90?

When i saw this, i envisioned a manual version of Clarisonic. Whether i was drunk or utopia-ing, the vision and hope stayed even after i tried the tester which was really prickly! somehow, i still thought that once i buy it and use it at home it will turn into a Clarisonic dupe. it didn't of course - really rough on my skin; TBS should do something to those bristles. We're not scrubing any clam shells lah.

2. Rainforest hair care range. Somewhere around RM12.90 each? They came in 60ml travel size - i'm a sucker for travel/sample size items - bought shampoo for oily hair and conditioner for coloured hair. two things close to my hair's heart =)

And then...after going through customs, came the Fragrance&Cosmetics section. sigh. Always puts a smile on my face. immediately transform into a super bimbo. Very good discipline i tell you, only picked up ONE item:

Saw this in a magazine ad; immediately caught my attention because i dont apply a specific product with SPF every morning. i do apply foundation and powder that contains SPF; but as reported everywhere and i truly believe as well - a separate application is better. Description on the box tells me all that i want to hear =)

Applied after toner as moisturiser underneath foundation. Texture is creamy and is slightly tinted. So how is it so far? I'm not 100% liking or feeling it yet - it appears greasy on my skin, does have that sunblock feeling (it doesn't bother me tho), does have a bit of white cast and might have broke me out a bit on the first week. might, because i was not drinking my usual 2L a day, slept late, peanuts...all other blemishes contributing factor. can't pin-point although the spots appeared and the end of the day after removing make-up. maybe it is the cause right? hmm. i'll find out. it retails at RM135 in stores, RM130 duty free - but...show off sikit...at a more discounted rate for me. ada lah tu. =))) it is worth the price as not much is needed everytime - i'd say about 2 months if on a daily basis. RM2.00++ to protect your face everyday! (It sounds expensive that way but you get my point).

Ok...lastly...fyi...this cafe provides the coffee bean and machine in my office =)

lots of love. xxx

Delights: 5 April 2011

2011-04-05T22:14:00.000+08:00

First of all, sorry for the lack of updates! i have been busy at work...and busy hauling...i'm just going to show off most of the stuffs purchased recently. Enjoy pictures!

Apologies too for some really bad pictures - bad lightings and all =(

as promised from previous post, i went on ahead to purchase a full size product of Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque with Amazonian White Clay (5oz/149g).i absolutely love this product and i personally think it is well worth the price of RM95 as it will last the whole year! well the calculative side of me (ahem!) figured that from the 5ml sample given earlier, it was actually enough for two applications - meaning about 2.5ml needed per application. this tub is in 5oz or 142g or 142 ml means ~57 applications = once a week for the whole year! and every application will cost about ~ RM1.67!!! Very well worth it and i'm really happy with the results of this mask!

Moving on...as promised too...US hauls! apologies again as these are actually from batch no.2. i initially wanted to post both hauls but i recently reformated my laptop - and i dont remember where i saved them pictures - and the only ones left are in my phone - and i cant find my cable - and i normally could bluetooth them over but i just cant now =( so many excuses in one sentence! anyways i got altogether 8 items and they were all from Target.com (drugstore junkie to the max!) Btw tried rotating some pictures but they're still showing up loopsided? haiyah. mafan!!!

This is my 4th Revlon Photoready Foundation - in 004 Nude - because the other 3 is too dark! then again...004 might not be the right match either - appears too red - i'm yellow!

008 Golden Beige, 006 Medium Beige and 005 Natural Beige. I gave 005 away and hopefully 006 too but 008 somehow looks fine sometimes so i might keep that.

Initially only wanted the blush (USD6.99) but both of this came in a package together at USD10. why not?!

Tub is quite small actually; but will definitely last long.

Mousse tub is rather huge - i love the consistency; creamy, more suitable for dry skin actually (and i believe cold weather too!) but this colour is prolly almost 2-3 shades darker than my current skintone. i'll share with you how i selected the foundation colour at the end of the post =).

Highlights from Boots No7 (USD12.99) Believe it or not, much cheaper than in the UK! i bought this as its been raved as a dupe for Benefit High Beam. i'm actually not very much a fan of highlights because my skin is oily, plus i dont really know how to use also lah, but...for the sake of trying!

Now...Neutrogena was the most exciting product that i was really looking forward to receive - as healthy skin liquid makeup in the makeupworld is sort of a dupe for Nars Sheer glow foundation (hopefully i got the name right!) unfortunately...the colour was 1-2 shades darker then my current skin tone! wat a boo boo. i havent really tried the loose powder foundation yet...but gutfeel prolly same problem but more controllable as its powder and not liquid. anyhows, i do think it has good coverage altho quite runny and it does not come with a pump so the chances of (me) pouring out too much is extremely high. However, this foundation is not matte, somewhat dewy, but IMHO is not suitable for my oily skin. i've had good experience with Neutrogena foundation in the past (forgot the name, but one for blemish prone skin) but its just a matter of finding the right colour for my skin tone (the problem, as always!)

no pump! =( it would still be okay with a slightly smaller opening!

also grabbed the new lipstick range from Covergirl (USD5.99) - packaging is really nice and sleek!

together with that also Loreal Colour Riche in Fairest Nude (USD4.99)

Top: Covergirl, Bottom: Fairest Nude

Sadly, the covergirl colour does not look good on me =(((

Happiest purchase!!! Sigmax brushes!!! and F05 (MAC 109 equivalent) and E25 for free.

Note: Sigmax brushes are really worth it!

i use Sonia Kashuk's synthetic flat blusher brush with this blush. fits perfectly!

Okay, so how did i select the foundation colour without seeing them in person? i came across this tool from Loreal.com: Let us match your foundation. The only foundation i had to compare within the list available was Clinique's Perfectly Real in No.12. This yielded my match for Loreal foundation to be True Match Roller in W4 Natural Beige. Clinique foundation fits my skin tone okay; not perfectly but okay so i kinda trusted it to be the right shade for me. What i did next was to try all sort of combination from the other types of foundation listed to also yield W4 Natural Beige; this was the constant i used to select my colour from the foundations purchased! Unfortunately...most of them are darker then my current skin tone =(. then again, most of them are not that suitable for my oily skin...so...its okay. (i sold Neutrogena Healthy Skin Liquid btw - it fit her to a T and really made her skin look good!)

Okay, hopefully no one is drowned yet. this is only the first part of many many hauls from the past month!

lots of love. xx. please feel free to comment!

WOW: Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque

2011-03-23T00:21:00.000+08:00

WOW is all i have to say for this product!!! I've been vegitating for the last two weeks - so many updates actually but just plain lazy or rather too many other things occupying my head - but i just had to shout out about this product from Kiehls - Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque.

I got this product as a sample - had no idea what to expect, just decided to use it since i was masking my hair too and wow - my face was immediately brighter and the amazing thing is my pores, especially on the nose... shrank!!! i was honestly, honestly blown away. suddenly so excited! i'm just sharing for the sake of sharing - wish you could see how excited i am still. I quickly went to the website to read reviews and actually everyone who tried it commented on it mainly decreasing pore size. so exciting!!! its at USD23...i'm not hesitating to get it! yeay!

Good stuff: What can you do at 4am? & LadiesFash shoutout

2011-03-07T04:24:00.002+08:00

its a miserable feeling when you cant sleep. its not helping when my hair itches like crazy - The Himalayas shampoo has definitely got to go! its also not helping when my hormones are testing me. hate is a strong word; but i really hate it when PMS has got so much control over me!!! God, please help me...

So much so...i accidently did some unintended shopping. sigh. and really proud to show it off. items from LadiesFashion. Service is terrific - owner Kate Low is super efficient - i believe everyone's feedback will be mainly praising her efficiency and how fast she replies to inquiries and orders. This is no marketing whatsoever; i'm just sharing (and caring!). this is good stuff!

(its coded differently in the webpage, am just generally refering to the design/colour here yeah...)

1. Leopard print - RM37 --> great for work and casual. I'm curious abt material tho.

2. Low back dress - RM29 --> 1st the exciting price & 2nd the low back. nuff said!

3. Black dress - RM49 --> a lil more expensive (i'm a cheapo really- if RM50 and above must be maxi dress price) but design and ease of wearing this is high. hopefully it'll somehow work as a workwear too!

i recently purchased this kimono style dress in white. i was really impressed with the quality of the material! its not the normal lycra - something like a mix of cotton+lycra - soft, comfortable, easy to wash and easy to wear. definitely one of my happiest purchase!

Do drop by and get yourself affordable + reasonable quality dresses! especially her maxi dresses!!!

p/s: i'm so tired, but excited at the same time. pelik tapi benar.i need to sleep! xx

Delights: 5 March 2011

2011-03-05T20:28:00.000+08:00

i cant believe its March alrdy. trust me i will always be lamenting abt how fast time flies! i've been busy this week; slept like a pig today and decided i should ramble something to keep the momentum going. (lousy blogger, what momentum you talking about?!) Anyways...some pics from the last two weeks.

Promo in Tesco! Cheapest by far. I have stocks at home so i passed this.

Curious about the claim: low absorption - i just had to try. Initial view is...nothing impressive yet. Will have to try with diff type of foundations.

It is quite durable as a pouch; not filmsy.

Been wanting to try this for the longest time and only finally got to purchase them last week. its two for RM27.70 in Watsons (that was on display!); but only realised i paid RM29.90 for it when i got home; so its the normal promo price. i tried this with Biore make-up wipes in mind to compare - both has got its own pros. Biore make-up wipes is really meant to remove makeup; and for me especially heavy make-up. and thats it. it leaves my skin feeling oily and double cleansing after that is a must. Simple Facial wipes on the other hand will not remove heavy make up; only works on light makeup (light coverage foundation, tinted moisturiser - light stuff; you get the point). BUT; this is a plus plus point for me - it also cleanses my skin - or rather, exfoliates due to the texture of the wipes which is rougher than Biore. i dont know if its good for my skin because my imagination tells me that i'm exfoliating with a layer of light makeup on top - rather than if i actually remove the layer of makeup first then exfoliate properly. get what i mean? so far its been okay and i really like this cleansing wipes. I will keep both handy from now on.

I am still in search for the perfect shampoo - something for my oily, dandruff prone and coloured hair. what shampoo will give me the antidote/treatment for all the problems mentioned above?! i am inclined to try a professional product but the drugstore goddess in me screams waittttt give drugstore a chance. oh well this is last attempt; i will try a professional product if this doesn't work kays!

Finally - super excited about this because i finally found tank tops that work on me! its either too long at the bottom or too low in the front and between S/M is too fitting or too loose! This is from FOS - Damsel brand? and its two for RM19 - real bargain. i know this brand has been there for the longest time, and i did try a couple before but i didnt like it. This is probably new- as the material quality is much better and it fits really well. MNG tank tops are a staple in my wardrobe but they dont fit as well as these! yeay for new, better options!

Heads up: i will be showing off goodies from US soon!!! So excited!!!

Have a great week ahead everyone. Be blessed! xx

Delights: 23 Feb 2011

2011-02-23T22:25:00.000+08:00

Hello everyone!!! How are you??? i've been having bad headaches past few days - could be largely due to the lack of sleep - cant sleep well. and my face hurts! around eye socket...cheeks...so i had a teory that the contacts restricted bloodflow to my face. =( and at some point i thought i saw the white part of my eyes, around the iris turned yellow! =( went to see the dr, all is right - "you just need rest and eat right, your BP is too low too!" she said. ok doc.

and then...there was a sudden urge to go to curve. very sudden i tell you. lo and behold there was hush puppies sale!!! and its funny - cause i just prayed for new shoes! God, you're humorous; and thank you! it was a quick scan - lulling heavy laptop around for shopping just kills the spirit by three quarters! (thats a good thing, wont know how many pair of shoes i might end up with otherwise~) they were all decent shoes, must be old stocks but still decent and classic cuts, even better. i got two pairs - one for work and a 4-inch heel. classic cuts, not trendy but absolute love! i love bargains =) and pictures dont do justice...so much better in real life!

RM60 only!!!

RM80!!!

Got this purse concentrate from Avon; just something handy and light. RM9.90. Smell is pretty decent, wont repurchase the same one tho!

Not a good thing...but i;ve been having 100plus for lunch for the past two days =( no appetite to eat and headache.

i might just end up getting more hush puppies shoes 2mrw!!! xx.

Delights: 20 Feb 2011

2011-02-20T22:05:00.000+08:00

Fav mascara on sale!!! Available in Sasa only at RM34!

Everyone is using this: I <3. Even foodmarket!

Gym + sauna + TURBO SHOWER!!! Absolute LOVE! Makes me wanna shower all day long!!!

Havent been downtown KL for a long, long, long time - simple but impresive building, Intermark.

I dont really do this thing - but i just had to show how good the concealer from Sonia Kashuk is!

Have a great week ahead! xx

Delights: 19 Feb 2011

2011-02-19T19:58:00.000+08:00

Found this on promo in Watsons at RM78!!! Its the price for 2 bottles of 150ml and you get two bottles of 50ml for free!

Avene, followed by Dalacin-T on blemishes and lastly Simple Moisturiser.

Also bought what i thought is a smudge brush - but its actually a nose shaper brush. Hmm.

Works better as a smudger for me but its pricky! =(

Dry eyes no more - its RM5.50 only...cheapest lens drops =)

This is really delicious!!! the soup has similar rich taste as if freshly boiled!

Favourite smoothie: banana + milk and/or yogurt!

What's your favourite smoothie? xx.

i'm hauling...

2011-02-19T00:07:00.002+08:00

...crazily. at a crazy rate. my mum would say "you only got one face, buy so much product for what???!!!"

Delights: 16 Feb 2011

2011-02-16T20:23:00.003+08:00

Nuba laya, you are always on my mind...

From Female Mag (Late 2010 forgot which edition) - LOVE!!!

New shampoo...for new hair! But i'm having oily hair days. not cool.

I love this stuff! why was it only discovered last week?! After cleansing, before moisturiser. btw, i skip toner.

Best thing for sore throat actually - totally forgot about getting this last week.

Going thru this book for the second time - worth your read!

See, cant tell - yellow orange or brown???

Summoned last weekend! @#%^&%^&^

From People.com - funny!

Bought this aeons ago especially for the stencil; but still dont know how to shape eyebrow pun!!! anyways am currently using the brown for my eyebrows to suit hair colour. hmm. eyebrows still too dark tho.

Have a good week ahead! xx.

Cookies: I am a drugstore beauty product junkie

2011-02-13T04:23:00.000+08:00

I should really have a system in writing, putting them all in some order of title, topics etc.guess i'll just figure that out later along the way. the internet at home was not working the whole day till now - and i just watched The Social Network, one movie checked off the Grammy's list. was okay. 6/10.

have not been on optimum health level since wed - went to see the dr again this afternoon to get some antibiotics and something for the headache. Thank God fever was mild and on-off, but the headache is...irritating. its like half way - slows down work but not too bad/serious either. just, irritating headache.

ok, just wanted to post up some pics of stuff i recently purchased - normal stuff, just for blogging sake =)

Good ol' Nivea Creme. gotta admit i bought it for the packaging! its very thin and light, easier to lul around. also found it better as a hand cream; absorbs quite fast (to my surprise being rather thick in consistency) and i dont get that oily feeling when i wash my hands. i get that from lotions but not this cream.

Recently had my hair coloured as well; much cheaper back in my hometown compared to KL! the same time last year i had it permed so this year is to colour it in an outrageous colour!!! really, i cant tell if its brown or orange or yellow. a combination of all of that! also, i've started to iron my hair on a daily basis - not really a pro in blow drying yet so the flat iron helps. Due to that i've been searching for a heat protector (if only i can get the ever so famous Tresemme one!!!) and came across the new product from Cosway: Phyto Natural Hair Essence Water. It smells nice...yet to know if it works well! Retails about RM24. Then to add up to RM30 to get one coupon i just simply purchased this soap: Black Mud Soap ~ RM9. have seen this in Cosway since ages...must be something to still be on sale for a long time. we'll see.

Has a lock; good for travel.

Mandatory Guardian stop made me purchased these: Carefree 80's (thick) are on promo now at RM10.88 so i stocked up 2 sets. A day does not go by without one! they came with this cute little tin container - enough to store about 3-4 pieces. easy storage to take with you everywhere!

One for pantyliners, the other for sanitary pad.

Yes, i love tin packaging!

Guardian also had promo for Biore Make up remover range, buy more than RM20 get a small pouch for free. with or without the promo i will purchase these anyway: the 10's Biore Cleansing oil in cotton wipes. they work well, packaging is great for travel - good product. i went ahead to buy 4, got the free pouch. each retails at RM5.88 - almost equivalent to buying the 48's but i find the 10's more convinient.

Okay, thats about it for now. till the next junk update! take care. have a great week ahead. xx

Where is my camera cable???

2011-02-09T19:51:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone! happy lunar new year! i had a blast - of food and friends and family! so much so that i wish i could be back in miri for good. perhaps.

staying true to being a beauty junkie, more so a drugstore beauty junkie i have a lot of things to show off. nothing spectacular...i just want to show off things i purchased!!!

but i cant find my camera cable!!!

so this post will be delayed =(

anyways, Guardian is having promo on their Carefree panty liners (80 for RM10.88) and Biore make-up remover range (actually in diff name but there's only one so wont get it wrong). I prefer the makeup wipes in 10s, smaller packet easier for travelling and it wont dry out as fast as the 48's in a container. by the time u get to the 30th piece it will probably dry out a lot (since you've opened it 30 times!) thats my sense and opinion, feel free to disagree.

Can't wait to post up pics! Take care. How was your week? xx.

Cookies: January is coming to an end already!

2011-01-28T23:16:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone! i can finally claim that apart from the fact that i'm pretty lazy to blog, work actually takes away the time for me to blog. or so it seems for the past few years that i've started working. hence i aint blaming myself anymore for not blogging more often before and now too. thanks to work that is.

And january is coming to an end already!!! too fast!!!

anyways, i'm in a show off mood today. =) nothing special really, but i just really really like this blogshop: LadiesFash! The owner Kate, brings in the most affordable maxi dresses and dresses ever!!! And the quality for the price is excellent - does not look too cheap [well for the price can't expect expensive quality also lar], no laundry issues - great for casual wear, work...above all, very affordable. For me, her choice of maxi dresses are the best so far. Shops outside will always be more expensive, up to a double more than Kate's (even after including postage). Some choices from her shop so far...

i've still got a few more hidden somewhere...in my closet...i know...i gotta stop buying already! too tempting sometimes. they are a few pieces that are quite hard to work with, so far only able to pull it off with one type of look - i'll work that out. at least something to call a hobby =)

Another two blogshops that i frequent are DoubleWoot and Cocktails. Their collection is impressive, at affordable prices too, and the quality of material looks expensive. BUT, their models are skinny lar...and that scares me. i always browse through thinking 'so pretty...but sure cant masuk one!". i'm not promoting for them or anything but i hope you find something nice in those blogshops!

Lastly, since i saw this for real, live - its now safely, secretly in my wish list!!! i dont wish to be materialistic, but it really is a gorgeous bag!!! its a pretty move from the usual monograms, classy and simple at the same time. love!

Ok enough showing off. what have u got to show off to me too???! i'm glad to read and be happy for you too, hehe! :-)

Lots of love

Good stuff: Beauty management

2011-01-20T12:09:00.001+08:00

Can't figure something better as title...this post is just about some things i pick up and eventually became a habit. It might be a habit for you too actually!

(in no necessary order)

1.Product labeling.

No idea why i chose green - pick white lah!

I came across this idea some time ago in 2009 while browsing Vivawoman and immediately followed suit till today.

I will mark the date or month (if i cant remember exact date) of when i start using that particular product. this helps a lot for a person like me who can't seem to stop buying beauty products! It helps me to:

Keep watch on product validity from date opened
Monitor usage - too fast, too slow, also i would know if i'm moisturizing enough or not...
Product inventory - like when i'm labeling the 5th bottle of lotion, the guilt comes easily =)
Speed-meter reminder for "USE ME UP PRONTO"
Save money in some ways from things mentioned above

2. Silica gel from vitamin bottles into brush box.

This idea is not new definitely, can't remember where i read about it and it can be applied in a lot of ways ie: my bro has these same silica gel in his camera bag etc.

Due to the nature of how i keep my brushes, silica gel would be something important. There was no issue before, but it soothes as a precautionary measure.

Got this box from Ikea. Amount of compartments needed can be customized. i kept it at three; one for clean brushes, dirty brushes and misc on top. from the picture yes its a mess now :-)))

3. Vaseline feet and elbow treatment

This is nothing new either but prolly stemmed out from a totally diff reason from everyone else. when sleeping, no matter in a air-conditioned room or fan, my feet gets really cold! i have to put on socks. On a different occasion i saw my cousin putting on vaseline on her hands before sleeping then put on hand gloves. i thought hmm i should do that on my feet since i'm using socks everynight anyway! Eventually that habit started and moved on to the elbows and sometimes for my knees too. am more religious for the feet tho, elbow and knees will often get left out (i'm just lazy actually!)

Use a clean spatula to scoop out product. Tub is deep!

I'm using cotton socks - aircraft socks more accurately which is loose and airy, so i'm imagining the product will stick more to my feet than the socks.

i have no pictures to show how 'pretty' my feet are; i dont think its that pretty too but this treatment definitely helped a lot in smoothing out my skin. wearing cover up footwear and heels does nasty things to my feet like cuts, bumps, patches of uneven skin tone...so this does help a lot. so far no cracked heel too (forbid!)

4. Lip balm attack before sleeping

This is something really common but it amazes me on how good it really works! it has become a must ritual before sleeping for me to apply lots of lip balm before sleeping and it the morning wallaaaa wake up to beautiful smooth lips! love love love!!! I will use the Vaseline Lip Essence Advanced for this and sometimes just switch to Nivea Essential Care. Both are thick in consistency, suitable as night treatment.

Talking about lip balms...i really wish i could just stick to three at max - one for night, day time and one with spf. then again having 5 is not too bad right.

My fav of all would be Burt's Bees Acai Berry Lip Balm(middle with purple cap).The normal one is not too bad, but the Acai Berry lipbalm is amazing stuff - i seriously think this product is the one that helped the most and perhaps made the night treatment work better.i havent had dry lips for a long long time! Also, i prefer to put this on as psychologically i think its more natural, and its safe to be eaten - cause i will definitely ingest some while drinking/eating right!!! Next i would like to explore how i can carry EVOO around as lip balm, i'm serious! (again, credits to Vivawoman for the idea =))))

Least fav would be Carmex - i know how some ppl swear by this product...but the only reason its not my fav is due to the smell and chemical taste! plus it stains my cup too. sorry carmex!

5. Tissue container

Next habit is just due to how anal i can be but i'm sure you know how carrying pocket tissue in your bag can be a mess! plus, its unhygienic as the fastener will not work as well after opened so the tissue is just swaying by all the other stuff in my bag!!! yucks. so my pocket tissue has its own little box/home - just a simple container from Ikea again. There must be other prettier, swankier boxes out there...but i'm happy with mine.

Basically thats about it...i'm back to work although its a public holiday today. Have a great weekend everyone. whats your favourite one habit? xx

Good stuff: Baby napkins as face cloths

2011-01-15T16:44:00.000+08:00

on one of my virtual rounds in Boots, i came across this product: Soap and glory the fab pore hot cloth cleanser due do its high ratings. now this is not going to be about this product at all, but what comes with the product, a muslin cloth!

i found this really interesting because muslin cloth is exactly what is used as baby napkins aka lampin. then again silly me found out a lot of things are made out of muslin-lah...

anyways, i thought hey, this simple lampin can be used to wash face - as an exfoliator and a sub for face towels. in no time i went out and purchased some - from Pureen and Ikea.

12 pieces can last more than a week without washing - i took out only 6 pieces tho - just enough to rotate for a week.

Ikea's muslin cloth are just lovely! Patterns are exciting!

What i found really great about muslin cloths are that its 100% cotton, no big issue for laundry and it dries really fast. As my towel rack is in my bathroom (its airy) somehow my hand towels to wipe my face after washing does not dry fast enough - and muslin cloths dries really fast.

When compared between Pureen's and Ikea's muslin cloth, Ikea's is about 2-3 times thicker. For exfoliating purpose, i use Pureen. Its lighter and less harsh on the skin. As of now, i use Ikea's to dry my hair! Muslin cloth absorbs water so well, as fast as it dries up too!

Muslin cloth texture - hence good for exfoliation =)

Ikea's a bit thicker and compact.

Normally, i would divide the napkin into two like this and use one side to exfoliation (wet) and keep the other half dry to wipe my face after. then i'll rinse the whole napkin, ready for use in the morning! This is good stuff! What have you found out lately? xx

Tea story

2011-01-13T00:15:00.001+08:00

Would you like a cup of tea?

Apple tea from Turkey

Taste of apple and tea tho not so much of the apple...perhaps more of the fragrance only.

Fav green tea =))) i like how its really GREEN when you just poured hot water!

Powder green tea, purchased from Cosway. this is quite okay, a little hard to dilute tho it can be mixed with both hot or cold water, made me run to pee more often tho!

Not a fav...but i'll still finish it up. dont fancy the thistle taste.

This is my current fav!!! 2-3 cups a day =))) it has that distinct taste of green...and an end taste like grass! haha thats really weird taste but i really like it!

I love coffee a bit too much. and i've always been fine with tea but decided to incorporate it into my diet on a daily basis in the hope of reducing my coffee intake. i alternate it between green tea and black tea, or having both a day without sugar. sometimes i cheat with brown sugar =) so far i'm still at a cup of coffee a day, maybe two on weekends - hope to reduce to none on weekends...or 4-5 times a week. article below was a good motivation (i think it was from an old copy of Cleo maybe?). So what's your tea story? xx

Great Finds: Sam Fong Powder and Papaya Soap

2011-01-11T22:15:00.004+08:00

Disclaimer: i choose to believe i am somewhat intellectual (hehe!), then again being bimbotic (thats what i call myself!) is...therapeutic. its stress-free and what better reason to apply both the art and science of beauty. that said tho, i do not do chick-lit.

so before going back to miri for the holidays i came across www.makeupgeek.com and found out about Palladio Rice Powder.

When i saw the graphic on the cover, i was so so so sure i've seen it somewhere long time ago, when i was still a kid! i was really determined to find out the version i remembered it in and yes I did manage to find it! But, i dont think it is the same product though - still, not afraid to try =)

its the Sam Fong Powder used by women aeooons agooo. my baby sitter used this to pluck her white hair; yeah i dont know why and how this powder helps either. anyway out of curiosity i bought a box to experiment with. super cheap at RM1.70 - dont have to feel any sense of regret - then again i was really surprised i didnt feel skeptical about trying it on my face! what if i broke out really bad? and guess what i've been using it everyday!

the white powder like of it can be intimidating, but it settles well even on my light foundation and my skin still remains the same colour. just a few sweep will do and thats enough to keep my skin matte all day long. i really like this little cheap find!

The box packaging however nostalgic/old skool it may be is not very convenient so i transferred it to a baby's powder container (the one that comes with a fluff!). it will do fine in any container actually - but i got caught in the fluff, hence. i dust it lightly over my foundation in the morning with a blush brush/powder brush - as seen in the pictures are the EcoTools brushes that i use for this purpose. ready to go!

On another note, i came across this papaya soap that i tried years ago after a senior of mine recommended it - at that time she got really fair suddenly, well maybe not sudden suddenly but her fairness and the smoothness of her skin was noticeable. even my mum was curious to know what she was using. so she bought a bar of this soap for us. i dont remember getting any results back then - but i'm willing to try it again just for fun! i've been using it for a week now...and so far The pros: doesn't feel like soap. u know how using soap leaves that film like feeling on the skin? this soap doesn't. i wouldn't say my skin is much smoother after a week but then its not drying either. so thats good! the only downside of it would be the smell, not entirely pleasant. it doesn't linger tho so i have no complains.

overall, i'm happy with my good inexpensive finds over the hols! i hope u found smthg cool to share too!

Lots of love.

Quarter century old!

2011-01-07T00:29:00.000+08:00

Dont get me started on new year resolutions; i always have one, indeed i'm really good in dreaming and planning one out but completely fail in implementing it. sigh. i cant even remember what my resolutions were for 2010. this year is going to be extra special for a lot of reasons (i'm saying that full of faith for good things to come, amen!) also, i finally feel its time to grow 'old'. in a good mature way. its no joke, i drive to work in the morning thinking wow i'm going to be 25 this year! its scary ~ whoever can identify that owh u know wht i mean!

this year i would like to keep things sweet and simple - not too ambitious, not too hectic, not too monotonous either - somewhat well balanced. i've been going through a lot emotionally lately; it really took a toll out of me and its affecting my thoughts and plans this year to want to quiet down more often and let God restore my soul a little bit more than usual. with that said, i'd like to concentrate more on chillaxing, lounging type of activity. i was thinking of structuring my plans into big buckets for easier implementation...but i'm really sleepy now and i still wanna make sure i post this up tonight so its just going to be in point forms. even better for the eyes!

1. Learn how to pluck & shape eyebrows
Yes! I frequent Bangsar's RM8-10 eyebrow threading; but driving all the way there and searching for parking is a sore. Close friends would know i've mentioned this many many times about wanting to learn how to shape em so now is the time. this is the year to pick up the skill and perfect them!

2. Read, read, read!
this is a sad true story; but i'm so ashamed of myself - i've read less that 5 books for 2010! i'm pretty sure thats the figure! nuff said. even the english is getting worse.

3. Finish using all beauty products
This is an ongoing issue since land before time. a beauty junkie since young (who/where did i pick it up from is a mystery cause mum wasn't much herself). 2010 was not too bad, i was more controlled (sort of!) then again i would love to improve greatly in this area - to have high consumption rate of all my beauty products. currently, items that i've ever finish using are my facewash and mascaras. like seriously. well apart from the usual shampoos, conditioners, body scrubs etc. i love trying out new products...but when it doesn't work i hoard them. should be giving them away. how i wish i could have my own little circle of friends who are as crazy as i am abt beauty junks - then we'll just share/swap around beauty products! save cost and environment!!!

4. Blog more often
Yeah...a revamp soonish? =)

5. Buy classic, lasting stuff instead of just 'trendy' stuff.
I am a sucker for all kinds of trends. i see mags too much, visit people.com/instyle.com too often - i get influenced too easily.i always end up buying stuff i hardly wear; buying just for the sake of having such trend at hand. by the time i actually finally wear em, its out of trend. padan muka! this i got to work a little bit more, in understanding what clothes fit me...colour...material...to build a proper style/look that works for me regardless of current trend. i will allow myself to buy trendy stuff only if they're on sale! i will be ready to invest in better quality items, yes - i am still very cheap, stingy, budget hunter - but buy wisely according to need & durability.

6. cook at home more often
dietician wannabe...should be cooking own meals!

7. take more pictures
looking at my nieces and nephews recently reminded me again of how fast time flies. cant rewind time but thank God for memories, so i must take more pictures and if possible videos too!

8. bible reading plan
i've signed up for a one-year bible reading plan. =)

9. spend wisely, save money, tithe faithfully

10. moisturise face and body religiously
hehe. yes, not so discipline in this area yet!

okay, thats about it. simple it is. thanks for reading and pls stay tune for more ramblings! God bless. xx

3 Jan 2011

2011-01-03T23:10:00.000+08:00

i miss you already.
but its something i have to do.
love is a miracle.
love is also a sacrifice.
you have yet to understand;
it is no more a battle of the flesh;
it is a spiritual battle.
good things happen at the right place, at the right time.
time is not on your side.
this is not the right time either.
please forgive me.

7 Dec 2010: Its December already???

2010-12-07T23:44:00.001+08:00

A friend asked during dinner tonight, "So, what's your plan for 2011?"

Just as i am about to sit down and ponder and think about life now, its another new year already. i've been on this job for two years! so much for wanting to go back to school...will i actually ever do that? i dont know. anyway, as part of a reminiscence exercise for today, these are the highlights for this year.

Jan - snow for the first time in London!

Feb - visit to air traffic control tower KLIA.
I dont have a better pic to show that i was there!

April - Mount Kinabalu and White water rafting

May - wonderful Redang break

Aug - UK hols!

Oxford

Aberdeen

Balmoral, Edinburgh

Fife, Scotland

Sept - Perth

Oct - Alor Setar, Kedah

Nov - 24th!

Was it a wonderful year? it sure is. i have to be grateful. none of this could have happen. God's amazing grace. how's next year going to be? definitely better!

7 Dec 2010: Why i've not been blogging

2010-12-07T22:30:00.001+08:00

Hello...if there is actually still anyone reading this miserable blog. there are a lot of excuses for not updating; and i should really share this:

i blog-hop everyday; and i definitely love blogs with loads of picturesss. a picture does tell a thousand words. what intimidates me is that those pictures are always tagged with the blogsite address. for example:

and as nooby as i am, i dont know how to do that; yes, i dont know how to tag a picture with the blogsite address. what i did for the picture above is tedious, not funny - something like going all the way into power point and inserting the text box, and saving and...
you get the picture. is this the only way??? it takes such a long time! and that is only one picture! so due to that i've been making excuses, hence not blogging cause all i want to do is share pictures!!! but everyone is tagging and i dont know how to tag and if i dont tag and upload then how??? what will happen to me? exactly, on top of all that fear of uncertainty, i still am not sure what will happen to me if i dont tag the pictures. the moral of the story is, i will not tag my pictures from now on. because, i think its ok not to tag. :-) what a relief! LOL.

26 October 2010

2010-10-26T11:32:00.001+08:00

The mistakes I've made

That caused pain

I could have done without

All my selfish thought

All my pride

The things I hide

You have forgot about

They're all behind you

They'll never find you

They're on the ocean floor

Your sins are forgotten

They're on the bottom

Of the ocean floor

My misdeeds

All my greed

All the things that haunt me now

They're not a pretty sight to see

But they're wiped away

By a mighty, mighty wave

A mighty, mighty wave

Your sins are erased

And they are no more

They're out on the ocean floor

Take them away

To return no more

Take them away

To the ocean floor

Audio Adrenaline - Ocean Floor

2010-05-28T20:39:00.000+08:00

thats not what i meant.
if only i could tell you how much God loves you.
if only you could understand how much God loves you.
if only you could fathom the love God has for you
how much He wants you back into His arms
how much He wants to have a relationship with you
how much He wants to be with you forever
that He sent His only Son to die for you
to redeem you from the curse
to redeem you from sickness and pain
to redeem you from this world
to bring you life.
to bring you abundant life.
to bring you purpose and meaning.
to give you a meaning of worship
to give you real joy and love
to satisfy your longing
God gives your mind, body and soul nothing in this world can.
He gave us Jesus.

2010-05-10T20:39:00.002+08:00

take, take 'til there's nothing
nothing to turn to
nothing when you get through
won't you break
scatter pieces of all i've been
bowing to all i've been
running to
where are you?

where are you?

did you leave me unbreakable?
leave me frozen?
i've never felt so cold
i thought you were silent
i thought you left me
for the wreckage and the waste
on an empty beach of faith
was it true?

yes, i, i got a question
i got a question
where are you?

scream
deeper, i wanta scream
i want you to hear me
i want you to find me
i, i want to believe
but all i pray is wrong
and all i claim is gone

well, i, i got a question
i got a question
where are you?

yeah, yeah

well, i, i got a question
i got a question
where are you?

where are you?
where are you?
where are you?

jars of clay - silence

2010-05-03T23:12:00.000+08:00

i'm on my knees Lord
been making stupid, selfish decisions again
played with fire
knowing so well how it will burn me
still moving forward anyway
this world cannot understand Lord
but its a journey i'll take with You regardless
there's pain, turmoil, confusion within which
can be avoided
but humanly asked for
to satisfy desires that should be solely for You

Spirit, fix my eyes on Him and Him alone

Desert Song - Hillsong

2010-04-27T10:31:00.001+08:00

This is my prayer in the desert
When all that’s within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
My God is the God who provides
And this is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flames
And I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here
And this is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on its way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I’ll stand
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship
This is my prayer in the harvest
When favor and providence flow
I know I’m filled to be emptied again
The seed I’ve received I will sow

30 March 2010

2010-03-30T15:56:00.000+08:00

the queen of all rantings.

for a person with quite a high level of endurance / tolerance - i feel jaded.

how can i add value without a proper direction? without a proper framework?

i need solid work.

someone said " you are willing to learn; but no one is willing to teach".

ain't it sad.

22 Mar 10

2010-03-22T23:45:00.000+08:00

i'm hungry - but the only choice is between maggi and cereal. if i have cereal, its my third cereal meal of the day. if its maggi, i will be fat. and i dont want to be fat.

but i'm hungry.

this is called pre depression.

sigh.

Keloid saga II

2010-03-17T21:18:00.001+08:00

Update!

Appointment with dr after 5 days to remove stitches. He didnt remove all, left it oddly/evenly cause the wounds were not properly closed up yet. Gotta return next tues to take it all off and follow up every two weeks of...cortisone? will get name right next week!

Size definitely reduced and frontal view, both lobes look normal. Praise God! Even the dr was admiring his work. Funny!

Next, recommend places to find nice, cheap clip ons please!

Lots of love

there must be more than this

Drugstore haul 8 Jan 2012

What an amazing view...

Will you sing this to me?

Small surprise in the mail today

Have a blessed 2012!

Travel Hauls - Nov 2011

Drugstore hauls 20 Dec 2011

The happiest people don't have the best of everything...

New black pumps for work

Let the light shine!

Pastime aka hobby

Auntie pumps?

Retail therapy...

*GULP*

I wish...

Drugstore hauls 29 Nov 2011

I totally agree!

Testing blogpost from Blackberry

Thanks for your comments!

if you are considering to try Avon products...

in honour of my Sarawakian roots

Delights: 30 July 2011

can i do the whole of europe in one month??? and during winter???

i love prints, i'm a budget hunter and i just got back from Bali!

Delights: 18 June 2011

Sunday Delights

Itching for...a Clarisonic Mia!

Online fashion blogshops: the good and the not-so-good

Delights: 4 May 2011 - Avon & Loreal Haul

In your spare time...Vote for your favourites!

I need a holiday

How important is SPF in your daily routine?

Avon Smooth Minerals Makeup & In2It eyeshadows

Are you a supplement freak?

I got a new hairdryer!

Delights: 20 April 2011

WOW: Neutrogena Hydro Boost water gel

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate 10-Day Trial

Delights: 7 April 2011

Delights: 5 April 2011

WOW: Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque

Good stuff: What can you do at 4am? & LadiesFash shoutout

Delights: 5 March 2011

Delights: 23 Feb 2011

Delights: 20 Feb 2011

Delights: 19 Feb 2011

i'm hauling...

Delights: 16 Feb 2011

Cookies: I am a drugstore beauty product junkie

Where is my camera cable???

Cookies: January is coming to an end already!

Good stuff: Beauty management

Good stuff: Baby napkins as face cloths

Tea story

Great Finds: Sam Fong Powder and Papaya Soap

Quarter century old!

3 Jan 2011

7 Dec 2010: Its December already???

7 Dec 2010: Why i've not been blogging

26 October 2010

Desert Song - Hillsong

30 March 2010

22 Mar 10

Keloid saga II

GULP