Hello Pout

Hashtag "Hello October", why can't time slow down a bit? I'm still trying to think what my Halloween makeup would be but definitely not Harley Quinn because every girl is going in that direction for sure so maybe something creepy enough to scare myself, lol. I guess I'm just terribly busy I noticed that I'm almost running out of makeup to use but no time to shop around so most likely I will end up shopping online again. Since I mentioned about makeup already I might as well do a quick review of this BYS lipstick I borrowed from my sister two days ago. 

I'm not a big fan of light colored lipsticks simply because I'm used to always accentuating my lips. Every time I wear a dark shade lipstick it makes my teeth look white, I just love contrast. I like liquid to matte lippies because it dries up easily and stays on longer. My sister bought this BYS Velvet lipstick called Mystical Rose from Watsons at SM Department store for almost Php400, which is not bad because other liquid lipstick costs a lot more so I decided to try this on for a day to see if it is long wearing just like La Splash or Dose of Colors. I thought the shade is a lot like mauve just by looking at the bottle so I was quite surprised that it is a pale shade of pink. The applicator is very easy to use which I like however, I'm not happy with the texture because it's not thick enough for me, I had to do multiple coats. Touch up is needed since it is not totally waterproof so, to be honest, I would rather go for a non-liquid lippie brands like Wet n Wild for this shade really. It's good to try something new but for now, I'll stick with brands that make me happy. 

So what do you have for me October? Bring it on.

My SSS UMID Application Experience

Hello September! Surprise me.

Hey, hey September! It's officially the start of "ber" months so before the year ends I decided to update all my membership records with Philhealth, Pag-Ibig (HDMF) and SSS (Social Security System). It's been over a decade since I got my SSS ID so I decided to keep my records up to date while I have some time to spare.

When I heard about the news five years ago that SSS will finally come up with a Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID) which can be used to conduct business with these agencies (mentioned above including GSIS) I was ecstatic because this will definitely make life easier. SSS is the first agency to utilize the UMID system. I've been thinking about getting a new ID card but was too busy (and lazy)  to do so until somebody from HR (Human Resources) for the company I worked for suggested that I get the SSS UMID instead of Pag-Ibig ID because I told her about my plan of getting one when I drop by at the Pag-Ibig Fund office. 

The SSS Unified Multi-Purpose ID

I went to SSS office earlier and had things done in less than an hour (I think) with some help from the Information desk. Rule of thumb, if you don't know what to do, just ask because that's what I always do but also do a little bit of research before going there so you know what requirements to bring to avoid wasting your precious time. 

I booked an appointment online simply by logging on to my SSS account. The earliest available date is highlighted then it will ask for the reason for your appointment as well as your preferred time. Make sure to print out a copy of your confirmed appointment so you can just show it to the person in charge at the Information desk where you will get your queue number. A photocopy of my passport and TIN ID came handy as well as the accomplished copy of UMID card application form that's why I got things done in no time.  The last name on my old ID doesn't have an "enye" but I've used it for so many years I was surprised when the lady at the e-Ticket department asked me to to fill out 2 copies of the E4 form  to request for a last name change. I also had my home address updated because that is where the new card will be delivered. After updating my information I was asked to get the R6 form from the Information desk again and accomplish all 5 copies before going to the teller and pay the Php300 replacement card fee. Yes, there is a charge! For those people saying that it is free and that you will only pay if you lose your old card, it is not true at all because I asked someone from there. I still have my old card but once you decided to have it replaced you will pay for it regardless if you have a name change or not. Once paid I had my information double checked then I went ahead and have my picture taken where I was asked to remove my earrings and nose stud (it's required, no questions asked). Last but not least, I had my biometrics taken and was shocked when told that I had to wait 3-6 months for my new ID card to be delivered. I guess to keep my hopes up I was advised to follow up on the third month. I was like, seriously? 3-6 months is just way too long I think and I didn't see it coming I guess I have no choice but to just wait for it anyway.

That wraps up my SSS UMID application and I hope that the information I provided will help others who are looking to get their SSS ID updated. Just a heads up though, don't rely everything on what you read on the Internet because the experience is still the best teacher so when in doubt, just visit any SSS office near you. 

So there.

Bento Lunchies

We're just counting the days of August and soon enough it's the start of the "ber" month... clock slays time, indeed. 

It's the start of the school year for my eight-year-old niece Gabby and so far so good. I think she's loving her new school she can't stop talking about it every day, she's ecstatic that she already met new friends. I don't think she misses her old school at all, she's excited to come to school every day. To make things get more exciting for her I started making her "Bento" lunch box. I'm a newbie at this Bento making stuff but I'm enjoying it very much because it's really fun to make. It's quite an effort to wake up as early as four in the morning so I can prepare for Gabby's Bento lunch box but at the end of the day it's all worth it especially when she tells me that her classmates envy her "Bento baon" every day they look forward to seeing what she will have the next day.  

Piggy

Cookie Monster

White Rabbit 

My interest in Bento making started when I saw pictures of Bento lunch boxes on Pinterest. I started checking out bento makers on Instagram too so I can collect ideas on how it's done. I bought a few of my Bento making kit from Japan Home Centre like deco cutters, silicone cups, and food picks. I always enjoy shopping at Japan Home because I can't get enough of Kawaii stuff and they're pretty much everywhere. Of course, bento making would not be complete if it's not colorful and enticing enough for kids so I also bought this UFC Color Crazee Banana Ketchup pack which comes in four colors: Bubbly Blue, Goofy Green, Yummy Yellow, and Radiant Red. I love the crayon tube packaging it's so cool it's really made for kids to enjoy mealtime.  

I guess I still have a lot to learn but when it comes to being creative, I'm never too old to try something new because mealtime is fun time!

Heya August

Just sharing

Gimbap Love Affair

Gimbap is love

When a Korean classmate back in high school introduced me to Gimbap (also known as Kimbap) I fell in love with the dish instantly. 

I'm no fan of authentic Asian dishes or anything with raw ingredients in it simply because I have allergies to certain seafood so I make sure that it's not something that will be harmful to me. My first attempt in making this yummy Korean dish turned out pretty okay, my siblings and 8-year-old niece loved it I didn't realize that it's actually one of her favorite Asian dishes. It's really easy to make and the main ingredients are readily available from any Korean or Japanese store. Gimbap is made from dried seaweed sheets (Kim or Gim in Korean and Nori in Japanese) steamed white rice (Bap, hence the name Gimbap) and other various ingredients rolled in and served in bite sizes. Korean stores are everywhere so don't be surprised when you find seaweed sheets and a rolling mat easily.

Gim (Seaweed sheets)

I learned to make Gimbap just by watching the Youtube tutorial here. I didn't have pickled radish (called Danmuji) during my first try, I had to use white radish but it's no big deal since it's radish family anyway. I blanched radish, carrots, and pechay (I didn't have spinach handy but this is a good substitute) separately then cooked the ground chicken I seasoned with garlic, pepper, salt and let it cool. I already have steamed rice, egg and apple strips prepared so I just put all the ingredients together and started rolling using the bamboo mat. I think I made about 50 rolls out of 5 seaweed sheets which is a lot. The only problem I had was some of the rolls didn't stick together that good because I didn't know that I need to use a little water to hold each side together I just found out after a few more research. 

Bamboo Mat

Danmuji (Pickled radish)

My second attempt is a Tuna Gimbap as per my niece's request, it came out really good this time because I didn't use substitute ingredients. I had spinach and pickled radish instead of pechay and white radish. I'm excited to try other ingredients, I promised my niece to make her Gimbap packed lunch for school one of these days. 

Movie Review: Imagine You and Me + Nestle Matcha Tea

Already?

Imagine You & Me 

Starring Maine Mendoza and Alden Richards

Rated G

It's been a while since I've been in a movie theatre because I didn't have time to do so as much as I would like to and I pretty much watch or download movies online but when my 8-year-old niece asked me to go on a movie date with her, I just couldn't say no. My niece and I happened to be fans of Maine Mendoza and Alden Richards, the phenomenal couple popularly known as ALDUB from Eat Bulaga's Kalyeserye so we decided to watch their first starring movie entitled Imagine You & Me. I've been reading a lot of good stuff about the movie on Twitter, it tickled my fancy plus I really am one proud fan I help their hashtag trend every day I also follow some of their fan pages on Facebook for updates believe or not. Every AlDub fan is talking about IYAM of course, rumor has it that they finally had a real onscreen kiss at the end of the movie so I told myself I better see it.

Imagine You & Me is a romantic comedy directed by Mike Tuviera which was shot in the scenic Como, Italy. The movie is about how Gara, a young, hardworking OFW and Andrew, a medical student crossed paths and eventually fell in love. Gara, who's never been in a relationship believes in destiny and true love while Andrew is trying to mend a broken heart when they met in Italy. Watching the movie feels like a virtual tour of Como, Italy it was so beautiful and refreshing to look at especially for travelers like myself, I wish I could go there someday. There's a lot of funny scenes as well as tearful moments but the movie ended blissfully so there's some sort of balance I think. I was really impressed with Maine's acting considering this was only her second movie following the MMFF entry My Bebe Love. There's a real good supporting cast line up especially if you put together theater actors like Irma Adlawan, Cacai Bautista and Cai Cortez, you can't go wrong. Jasmine Curtis-Smith is the best fit to portray Clarissa because of her subtle smile and you will know why when you watch the movie. Marian Rivera and Ken Chan's special appearance added icing on the cake, it was rather short but memorable so to speak.

I must say I did enjoy the movie but I didn't want to spill the beans since it's still showing so better see for yourself. Imagine You and Me is a must see, it radiates good vibes and a good way to depart from all your troubles. 

Nestle Matcha Tea Latte is Love

I love drinking coffee in the morning unfortunately, I can't enjoy it because it gives me heartburn so I decided to switch to green tea. Drinking tea is such a bore to me, thank goodness fusion teas became popular it gave me a reason to enjoy tea again. Matcha tea became my favorite may it be hot or cold because I find drinking it very relaxing.

A few weeks ago my dad bought a pack of Easy Pha-Max Wheatgrass powder for my morning drink instead of coffee or green tea but it quickly ran out so I asked my sister a favor to find me a matcha powder because it tastes like wheatgrass and she came home with a box of Nestle matcha tea latte she said she bought it from a store that sells all kinds of tea and other herbal stuff. At first, I find it too bland for my taste but when I added some more sugar it tastes just like a cup of matcha tea latte you can order from a tea shop. A box contains 9 sachets and costs Php150 which is quite expensive but it's a good alternative to coffee especially for someone with heartburn issues like me. Everything is written in Japanese except for the brand name that's why I had to Google what the exact product name is and later found out that it's called the Matcha Tea Latte from Nestle.


If you're a matcha tea fan this is something you don't want to miss. 

Yummy

Don't bother reading it

June Be Good

'Tis the season of June brides and non-stop rain.  Oh well, the rainy season is officially up and It's two more weeks to go before I bid the month of June adieu.

The June-March academic calendar is getting started for most schools in the country but not for my 8-year-old niece, thank God because she's not over with her vacation yet. Some schools adopted the new academic calendar to begin in August instead of June to avoid the height of the rainy season. Things are gonna change around here a little because my siblings and I agreed that our niece will stay with us from now on to keep her grades up and help with her studies. I hope that she'll get comfortable with her new school and have nice friends too.

I hope the month of June is gonna be a promising month for me. This whole freelance online English teaching is not working too well for me but it's worth a try so I know how it works. I've been teaching English to Japanese students for quite some time now. At the moment I only have one regular student would you believe it? I get paid Php120 per 50 minutes so imagine how little I'm earning in a month if my student will book a 25-minute class once a week, not even enough to pay my Internet bill. What I like about doing freelance work is that I have the freedom to choose when I'd like to work. It's good to have it on the side that's why I'm keeping it.

I'm really thankful for having a house that's accessible to work and everything. I've rented for a long time and it's never practical, you only make the tenant richer but at the end of the day, it's never gonna be yours unless it's a rent to own kinda thing. 

My mom's 3rd year death anniversary is coming up that's why June is also one of the most important months for me. It's been 3 years since she passed and she's turning 70 next month if she was alive. she's looking after us, I know for sure.

Time flies. 

Wake Up Call

The recently concluded CloseUp Forever Summer held at the Mall of Arena concert grounds last May 21st still sends chills down my spine.


The annual party ended tragically with 5 casualties Bianca Fontejon 18; Ariel Leal 22; Lance Garcia 36; Ken Migawa 18 and American national Eric Anthony Miller 33, all death caused by a massive heart attack. Two of the victims, Fontejon and Garcia have blackened hearts and bleeding internal organs which is highly unusual according to NBI medico-legal officer Dr. Wilfredo Tierra who conducted autopsies on their bodies. Reports say that victims ingested a designer drug that is a mixture of ecstasy and shabu called Green Amore pill.

Apparently, the concert organizer security measures were not followed that led to usage and illegal selling of party drugs in the venue. Authorities say that according to witnesses, the party drugs have been mixed with alcoholic drinks and was passed on to different partygoers. Some of the witnesses also said that the security and bouncers at the event were fully aware that there were a group of youngsters on drugs but no one kicked them out of the venue or stop them. 

When the news about fatalities from the CloseUp Forever Summer event broke out it got me really concerned. I thought what if this happens to a loved one? I'm not against youngsters partying or having fun as long as they are responsible enough and know their limits. It is a given that they are curious but they must be taught how to be vigilant.

Illegal selling of drugs victimizing the youth has been going on for ages. It is becoming more rampant, a worldwide concern actually. I hope that the government will focus on raising awareness about harmful drugs and closely monitor events that may be a target for drug syndicates to smuggle drugs.


No more precious lives wasting away.

Gone Viral

First, there was Carrot Man then comes Badjao Girl, Gasoline Boy, Jeepney Man, Good looking security guard and so on. I think anything can pretty much go viral these days. Social media is indeed a phenomenon that has taken the world by storm.

Carrot Man, before and after

DriBae from Tagaytay

Badjao Girl

From food, OOTD, makeup, places, events, etc. anyone can just post anything. I, for instance, manage my own Twitter, Facebook and Instagram accounts. I post/repost something I like but for the most part, I log on to check what's in the news instead of watching TV. I think a lot of people are getting bored with the usual stuff they see that's why whenever there is anything they find interesting, it's all over the Internet the next day.


Is this good or bad?

Good if it will be purposeful. Who would've thought that Carrot Man will become a Boardwalk endorser or Badjao Girl will get a scholarship someday? A simple photo that's gone viral started it all or was it divine intervention? Helping someone unintentionally happens for a reason, it must be God's plan just like what happened a few weeks ago when a video of a student who was verbally abused by a man inside an fx has gone viral and with the help of another passenger who took the video he was put to jail.

What a monster

Bad if it's abused and misused. I don't understand why there are some who use social media just to spread hate or rumors with no basis. I am not in favor of cyberbullying or bashing just to get attention, that's just way too immature and barbaric. 

Social media is here to stay. Let's use it for social good. 

Happy 74th

Today is dad's 74th birthday. He's not around to celebrate because he's in Antipolo but he told us (my siblings and niece) to treat ourselves so we bought pansit and cake that left me stuffed until dinner.

 

Earlier today we heard mass then had breakfast at Don Henrico's. They only have breakfast meals available so I ordered something light and healthy. I had "Smoked chicken with white cheese on wheat bread" paired with coffee. There's really nothing special with the chicken sandwich to be honest. It's something I can make at home. It took them so long to make our sandwich I thought maybe it's a big one but to my dismay the serving is rather small. The staff is a little cold to all customers, they're not smiling at all. I'm also not happy that they don't have any fruit juice available so my 8 year old niece had no choice but to drink hot tea and she did not enjoy it. I'm not a happy camper and I may not come there anymore. 

I bought my cat Atari a laser pointer from National Bookstore so we can play later. I also got myself a cute neck pillow from Blue Magic. I think I need therapy again my neck, down to my shoulder blades is starting to get stiff again. 

Misery No More with Squiggles

It's movie day weekend and I still can't get over one of my best movies of all time. It's been ages since I last saw this movie but I can still watch it over and over again. 

Misery is a 1990 American psychological horror film based on Stephen King's 1987 novel of the same name and starring James Caan, Kathy Bates, Lauren Bacall, Richard Farnsworth, and Frances Sternhagen about a psychotic fan who holds an author captive and forces him to write her stories (Wikipedia). 

Misery, 1990

I've always been a fan of psychological horror films because I like looking through a movie character's behavior. Also, psycho horror films doesn't have predictable endings that's why I find it rather challenging for me. There are no dull moments, every scene is way too intense. My favorite is when Annie started freaking out about Paul's explanation why there's a lot of "swearing" from the characters of his untitled and unreleased new book. Kathy Bates' acting prowess was impeccable she had me believe how a psycho she can be. It's no surprise she won Best Actress in the Academy Awards (now Oscars) and started a cult following after. Annie Wilkes is just hell of a looney and one movie character I will never forget. 

*****

Squiggle gummy worms is LOVE

I've been sneaking on my niece's Squiggle gummy worms that my sister and I bought her as prize for our fish bowl game to practice what she learned in school for English and Math only. Our game mechanics is to pick one question from the fish bowl and for every correct answer she gets 1 Squiggle for English and 2 for Math. She gets to answer 3 questions per day but whenever she's not around, we take some of her Squiggle's since she wouldn't notice it anyway. You can't blame me, it's so yummy I can't help it.