A good vibrations ambassador, cute little things collector, and sometimes an emotional wreck.
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GNO is too mainstream, what else to do on a Saturday? Hmm...
FALL INSPIRED MAKEUP LOOK - Even we don’t have fall season, it’s time to wear dark vampy lipsticks and bold brows! Visit my youtube account for more makeup tutorials at http://youtube.com/SydneyCrespo
Spontaneous 9pm indoor shoot with my sister. I was kinda feeling the Lara Jean and Ariana Grande vibes right here.
I remembered about 6 years ago, I was inspired to blog because of my favorite bloggers. I started with posting fashion inspirations, outfit shots (before it was called #ootd), and everything in between. I was 12 years old back then and even I wasn’t sure of what I was doing.
My #ootd during my first ever talk as a blogger in my Alma Mater.
Fast forward to this day, I still couldn’t believe how many people I was able to inspire through blogging. I think I am still that 12-year old who just wanted to take good outfits shots wearing a floral bandage skirt and a 4-inch color blocking heels.
I was invited to be one of the guest speakers at the PharmaWeek of Faculty of Pharmacy in UST. The event was entitled, How To’s 101: Status Update: A Guide To Having Your Own E-diary”. It was really exciting and a humbling experience to see so many young women like me who inspire to become a blogger. It made me appreciate everything I’ve been through.
Beyond the Instagram-worthy shots, amazing food, and the beautiful sceneries I’ve seen in my first travel experience –– I learned quite a few things about travelling and myself, too. In this post, I will share with all of you some of the things that make my heart say “awe”. Singapore has a special place in my heart and I am happy to see the beauty with my own eyes.
I flew to Singapore last May and stayed there for 2 months. I had difficulties with getting my passport for about 3 years or so which is why I’ve never been with my family when they go out of the country. It’s been my insecurity and depression for the longest time, honestly. I’ve been wanting to see things and experience them on my own, but I couldn’t––that lasted for years. It was horrible, really.
This year is very special to me. I know a lot of people would think of it as a joke, but to me it’s a huge deal to explore a different country for the first time. It taught me how to be independent despite being with unfamiliar people. Below I listed some of my realizations during my whole stay, maybe you’ve had this thoughts too!
1. SOMETIMES IT’S GOOD TO BE ALONE - I was a bit scared to be alone in an unfamiliar place. After a few days, I loved the idea of being alone. The freedom to do what you want and where you want to go without asking for someone else’s thoughts––if they would agree to go or not. It was a bliss. I didn’t have to think about time and I can be as slow as I can while I’m walking in the streets or eating in a restaurant.
2. DON’T BE AFRAID TO MEET NEW PEOPLE, IT’S NORMAL - My friends who know me personally would say I am an extrovert type of person and that I like being with groups and going to hangouts, social gatherings, stuff like that. This year I had been in a “sort of” identity crisis, I’m not really sure what it is called. But, I started to hate the fact that we have to meet new people. It felt very stressful to me when I think about it. The idea of introducing yourself again, knowing the person’s interests, and trying to make him/her like your personality. It’s like when you’re dating and you /need/ to impress that person. It was really weird but yes, I’d been in that situation. I made new friends and met a lot of people during my stay in Singapore. After few more weeks, I got more comfortable with having conversations and sharing insights. I realized that I shouldn’t shut the world out just because I think they wouldn’t like me.
3. WHEN YOU’RE LOST, EXPLORE - I’m really really bad with directions. It’s a whole different level of failure, no kidding. If you’d ask me how I go home everyday from school, I wouldn’t be able to explain it to you clearly. So, a different country + 94839841 train stations (my numbers are exaggerated, I really don’t know how many train stations they have) + locals who are always in a hurry + ME = Chaos. I remembered doing a full Snapchat story when I missed my bus stop. The funny thing is I only had to count 4 bus stations. Yes, four. But still, I got lost. Despite that, I still enjoyed every single moment of being lost. I felt independent after exploring and helping myself out.
4. EXPERIENCE OVER MATERIAL THINGS - Money cannot buy happiness. Sounds familiar, right? I proved that it is true.
5. LEAVE THE NEGATIVITY BEHIND - Before I left for Singapore, I was experiencing a really bad depression. My vacation was also my way to get out of the toxic air I’ve been having. Words couldn’t articulate how this vacation helped me so much. I focused on all positive things as much as possible. We must leave all the negativity behind.
These are just few of the scattered thoughts I have. One thing I am very sure of is that this isn’t going to be my last. Try to get out of your comfort zone, experience something new, aim for the unfamiliar. You don’t know, it might change your way of thinking and perspective in life.
#MissBlissDolledUp | How I Clean My Makeup Brushes
I’m back with a new blog series called #MissBlissDolledUp. Here I will share with you my techniques in makeup, skincare, and beauty tools, my favorite makeup products, my tutorials, and other stuff related to beauty. I am so excited to finally launch a blog series like this which is very close to my heart. To start this blog series, I will talk about 1 easy way of how I clean my makeup brushes––called “Spot Cleaning” and I will provide a step-by-step process for you.
THE PRODUCT I’M USING:
I’m using this Puff & Brush cleaning mist from Etude House that my friend got me last year. I don’t know how much it costs, but you can always check out at the nearest Etude House branch. Sometimes I deep clean my brushes using baby shampoo or hair conditioner (for brushes that are too dense or stiff), but I’ll be purchasing the brush cleaner from Daiso Japan so I can also do a review here on the blog.
WHAT IS SPOT CLEANING?
Spot cleaning is basically just cleaning some parts / spots instead of cleaning and washing the whole thing––same with shoes, clothes, etc. Thus, you won’t need water in this process, just the cleaning mist.
THINGS THAT YOU’LL NEED:
- a clean cloth OR paper towel that you can use for removing all the dirt from your brushes.
- all the brushes that you will clean
- cleaning mist or brush cleaner liquid
STEP 1:
SPRAY 2-3 times onto the brush depending on its dirt. Don’t be too harsh because 1-2 sprays can go a long way. Plus, remember, you’re not doing a deep cleaning.
STEP 2:
AFTER SPRAYING, face your brush onto the clean cloth / paper towel and do a subtle circular motion. Be careful in doing this step and try not to hurt your brushes because the bristles might deform if you’re not doing it right.
PHOTO ABOVE; The dirt I got from my flat top brush
STEP 3:
LET IT DRY, after cleaning your makeup brushes; Do let them dry by placing them downwards, bristles facing down. By this technique, you will prevent the liquid to transfer down to its handle causing the glue to come off.
That is how easy to spot clean your makeup brushes. Do this maybe every other day depending on how often you use your brushes. Also, do deep clean them once a week. I will also do a separate post about deep cleaning soon.
When you randomly want to take photos at past 1am because why not? It’s my first time to take indoor photos with a real camera, and not just with my phone. More photos down below.
I had a hard time post processing these photos because it became blurred when I imported it on my laptop. Hence, it took me a while to post them. These are just randomly taken photos while we were practicing how to do an “indoor shot”.
Have you heard the gossip? There’s a new cool place located around town that offers various selection of burgers, fries, chicken wings, and so much more! It’s not your typical merienda place––it’s a London themed diner! Are you ready to be amazed, or rather your tastebuds?
A RED telephone box is a familiar sight on the streets of United Kingdom, but not in General Avenue, Quezon City. This cute little diner will take you to the heart of London with their freshly (and humbly-made) wide-range of burgers. I’ve seen this place a couple of times when passing by Gen. Ave. and when it was still under construction––I initially thought the idea’s so witty.
Dining here on a Friday night was totally unplanned, yet it’s true that you witness great things at the most unexpected times. The interior is amazing (Well, you all know how sucker I am for cute little home decors). The coolest part about it especially for Instagrammers? THEY HAVE THE BEST LIGHTING, YOU GUYS. PERFECT FOR PICTURES. #FOODGASM
By the way, I’m using a keychain from London that a friend gave to me last summer. *wink*
I ordered their Chicken fillet sandwich. I wasn’t really hungry that time so I only wanted something light. Their service was fast and I already got my order after more or less 5 minutes. After which, the magic happened––I am declaring that it is the best one I’ve tasted in my whole life yet. I repeatedly said it’s so delicious maybe a few times until I finished the whole thing. The chicken was so crunchy on the outside, but soft and tasty on the inside. Finally, I found a place that both has an interior that’s pleasing to my eyes and also serves great food! It really lives up to its name––humbly amazing!
I’m looking forward to try other dishes in their menu real soon.
Food: 9.5/10
Ambiance: 9.5/10
Service: 9.5/10
UPDATE:
So prior to posting this entry, I went back to Humbleger few days after my first visit. Kent asked me if I want to eat there again so I can try the other dishes and of course, I didn’t hesitate.
On the left side is the Humbleger.
Chicken fillet burger tower up. This one has grilled chicken breast, hash brown, cheese, and so much more.
Photo above shows HUMBLEGER’S Shakespear fries. Those who know me are pretty much aware how insane I am for french fries. Trust me, this is not just instagram-worthy, but also mouth-watering!
HUMBLEGER is located at General Avenue, Bahay Toro, Project 8, Quezon City.
Thank you to the owners of Humbleger for being so friendly and accomodating! More power to all of you!
In this section of the blog, #MissBlissEats, please do expect honest opinions from me––sponsored or not. I will hand out my real experiences and thoughts about everything including the food, ambiance, service, and whatnot.
Eighteenth birthdays are usually ravishing, epic, and of course, royal-like. Surprisingly, I didn’t opt for such on my special day. After months of my indecisiveness despite the fact that we were already planning for a party (and made a venue reservation)––I ended up choosing going down South and embrace what I knew I’d be really happy about.
Simplicity is what I would choose to call my celebration… Simply satisfying. I did all the things I want and other shenanigans––minus the stress, pressure, and preparations for a one-night party that I’m pretty sure people will immediately forget after a week or two. I’m trying not to start blabbing about the realisations before legality because it would probably take me heck of a long time to finish this entry.
I felt a certain contentment for finally updating my baby blog. I was bumming around in front of my computer when I thought––I miss blogging!
My secret talent of neglecting my social media accounts has reached its optimum state after realising that I no longer tweet and post pictures. It was definitely worrying and scary at first, honestly, thinking I could lose interest to what I love doing. However, I learned that there’s more to social media––it’s important to keep some parts of my life just to myself.
I used to be boyish and simple before I became the girly girl that I am today. I often wear a pair of baggy pants and a loose shirt. My old self is so different from who I found myself today. I’m into basketball because my dad taught me to love the sport. I was just starting in gradeschool when me and my dad used to hangout during PBA games. I play outdoor games and even computer games that are usually played by boys in my generation. Just like everyone else, of course I experienced puberty. I became more feminine and I explored myself more in girly clothing— and later finding myself wearing flowy tops, mini skirts, and doll shoes.
My changes were overwhelming, but I loved it. I found my strengths within myself. I believe that women should be who they want to be. Women should be free to flaunt themselves the way they imagine without waiting for an approval from the society. Our society usually stereotypes women that all should do this, wear this, and be that. Never do the work of men, women are weak, etc etc. But all of us are gifted to change constantly; Some women may be strong enough to do the same work by other men, and some are not— but that doesn’t mean they are weak in everything. Some women may be good in math, some are not— but that doesn’t mean they do not excel in other academics. I have so many thoughts in my head that I couldn’t gather them and put into one idea. So I think I have to stop there. In short, women are free to be themselves, love their physique and talents, and dream as big as they want to be.
In my recent shoot last month with my photographer friend, Paole Dee, I have proved something to myself. Despite being a blogger, I used to have my insecurities with my looks and how I present myself in front of the camera. I usually get e-mails offering me for a modeling but sadly, I declined most of them. I let myself believe that I am busy with my schedule and stuff, but deep down I know that I am uncomfortable. I don’t see myself as beautiful as what other people think I am causing me to lose a few collaborations and opportunities. After my shoot with Paolo, I realized that I could just be myself in front of the camera. I am not expected to be perfect rather I am supposed to have fun and be me. In these photos, I am happy to tell my readers that I showed what I have, I enjoyed and that’s all.
Hence, it was really a fun shoot! It didn’t feel any pressure at all. From now on, I’d be more comfortable with my looks and physique. I promise!
Photos by Paolo Dee
Marsala top | Forever 21 skirt | Forever 21 black slip-on sneakers
I am launching a new section on the blog which features my love for discovering new restaurants and cafés —#MissBlissEats. Here I will share my experiences and thoughts on my new-found place to dine. Hence, I hope it can also help you where to eat next!
Artsy Café is located at the famous Maginhawa St. in UP Village. I knew about it through my favourite and most-used app which is Zomato app. It is perfect for all the foodies out there like me and I suggest you download it right now! (No, this is not a sponsored post). It has the menu, schedules, pictures, and even reviews about the restaurant! I’ve been bugging Kent to take me to Artsy because I simply told him it’s so “instagrammable!”. The ambiance of the place is so chill that we actually opted to sit outside (and of course considering the natural light for my photos!). Walls were filled with quotes and art which made it more instagrammble than you could ever imagine. Three words to describe Artsy—Pastel, flowers, and woods. A lot of new cafés are offering almost the same thing such as drinks in mason jars, chopping board instead of plates, or any quotes related to the food being offered. But what makes Artsy Café different from these hipster places is it didn’t looked too trying hard and it was so natural. When you get there and sit, you will really feel that you’re somewhere far from the city life. It gives you just the right amount of I-am-sitting-outside-my-garden-sipping iced-tea-in-mason-jar kind of feeling.
We ordered Puttanesca (P120.00), Grilled Cheese served with fries (P120.00) —shown above L-R respectively. We also got Bangus Sisig (P220.00) because it is Kent’s favourite and is not shown in the picture.
The grilled cheese was okay despite the fact that it was obviously not grilled…. WHAT. But it sufficed because it has I think about 5 different kind of cheese inside. CHEESE IS LIFE. Fries were perfect, I suggest you order it!
There are still some factors that can be put to the place to make it better. Just like what Kent said to me whilst we were eating, it would’ve been better if they have a playlist that is perfect with the ambiance. It was too quiet and it can be boring if you don’t have a good company.
If I would rate it from 1-10, 10 being the highest. I would say
Food: 7.5/10
Ambiance: 8/10
Service: 8.5/10
In this new section of the blog, #MissBlissEats, always expect an honest opinion about my experiences––sponsored or not, I will hand out my honest ratings on the food, place, staff and its services. I will share some of my cooking adventures too so keep in touch!
Send me your questions, messages, or even your own experience at Artsy Café at the contact tab above! Happy eating!
As I’m typing this, I’m lying in bed at 12:34 am contemplating about life and the certain feeling of contentment. I have neither fashion-related nor something artsy in my mind to talk about today. I’ve been MIA on Twitter and Instagram—It is primarily I have found plenty of things to do besides constantly scrolling through my phone despite the numbness of my thumb. I used to make myself believe that I have nothing else to shower my time to that’s why I’m always on social media (which I know is really stupid). Well let’s just say that these past few months, I have found the comfort that I thought I needed through social media thus my eyes are always on the screen.
Honestly, there are times which I felt that my days are so different from the others. While everyone is travelling, here I am at home either watching the same old tv shows or just sleeping. I go to malls and meet up with my friends in between those times but that was it. I badly want to go to provinces and smell the fresh air—but sadly, I am one of those people with families who aren’t so adventurous and just basically do not have a province.
And so days had gone by, I barely touched my phone and clicked on my social media apps. It feels unusual but satisfying—the feeling you get when you know to yourself that you could get through a day without reading people’s rants on twitter or double tapping their selfies on Instagram. It’s weird. If you’re wondering where I’m trying to go to with this post, I just wanted to blab about what’s happening with my life lately:
I’ve been watching a lot of movies these past few weeks like seriously, A LOT. No, I’m not complaining. I missed these films in cinemas and it feels great to finally watch them while I tuck myself in bed.
My family had a vacation in a hotel last weekend which I thought is a breath of fresh air. It was a great opportunity for me to reconnect with my cousins and other people who are close to my heart. We barely hung out even when they’re just around. “Relax and let the good times roll”, well—heck, it is true.
I’ve been experimenting and cooking lately. Mostly, western. I have found the certain bliss in cooking and plating. I never knew I’d be enjoying it, I tell you. I used to hate preparing food for myself. I’m happy to say that I’m now loving it and I’ve been searching easy-to-prepare breakfast and pastries on the web. I’m thinking about making a blog post next time!
If you are following me on Instagram, I bet you would know that I’m often in my swimsuit lately. Nothing else is more satisfying than spending half of my day dipping in the pool. Few more weeks until the summer ends and I’m just making the most out of it!
You see, these things I wrote might be ordinary to some and they can easily judge me by saying, “how boring your life is”. But, the point is this is what makes me happy. Most especially that I am lucky to do these things with the people who truly matters to me.
I hope you are also enjoying your vacation as much as I do.
Sitting in the passenger seat makes me feel cushy—but relevant and powerful. Being situated next to you in a moving vehicle makes me wonder if we are always sure of where we are going or where we would like to go or where we want this moving vehicle to take us. The passenger seat somewhat gives me the authority to decide which road we should take based on my phone’s gps or which Ed Sheeran song to play. But, do I really have an authority on you?
Our love is like a moving vehicle that moves rapidly to wherever the wheel can take us. Unsure, uncertain, but always prepared to whatever. Probably for some bumps along the way—my left hand holding yours too tightly. The quick turns and swerves—but don’t worry, I’ll be okay because I know you never want to hurt me.
I am always right—jokingly—but literally and figuratively. Everytime you’d feel lost, I’m just always in your right. You can ask me just like what you do sometimes—if you can take this road instead of the other because just like what you say it might be the easier way.
I wish I could always be in your passenger seat just laughing at your facial expressions, listening to your rants about how stupid is the driver in front you, and just us fighting over which song to play first. Amid all these, I wish the road wouldn’t end soon. No matter how many bumps and swerves and quick turns—I surely wouldn’t mind at all—as long as I’m experiencing all of these with you.
Forever 21 Top / H&M Shorts
Photos by: Kent Yacat and Marc Baltazar
Post-processing by: Neil Tiongson (www.extremelyneil.com)
“She was unconventional girl: Unnatural and unexplained.”
When you’re not the type of student who gets an A on all the tests nor the one who sleeps at 3am after reading a Science book—I bet we’re on the same district. It is for a fact that it is easier for those who are good in Math and Sciences to identify which work field they want to go than those who aren't—and the latter includes me.
People often say they see me more in the art field. And I don’t blame them. I am (obviously) into writing and photography, video-making and designing, and everything in between.
From my own experiences, I insist that you always have to follow your heart—what you love to do and what you would like to do for the rest of your life. Don’t focus on the money, but think more about the journey—Imagine doing your passion everyday! Earning is one thing and loving what you do is another.
Regardless of the hardships waiting along the road, look straight ahead to the main reason why you’re taking that road anyway—and that is to be successful yet in your own unique way.
Ever since I started blogging again, I’ve always felt so happy and appreciated. I had few doubts before that people might not like the way I dress, the way I write, and express myself. I’m just a simple girl who loves sharing random thoughts and messy ideas inside my head. I’m not perfect, I will never be one. I make mistakes like I become forgetful about my dad’s reminders or get typos and wrong grammar, too. But that’s just the way it is. The time you accept your flaws and make them as your strength could be your turning point.
(candymag.com)
Forget about the nay-sayers for they will always be contradicting to everything and anything you do. Just do what you gotta do because no one else has a say to your life but you.
@Conclase_ (instagram) shirt | White Mandals available on @BaconRollsClothing soon
My thoughts are such a mess lately. I was preoccupied with a lot stuff mostly about school and the necessary decisions that I have to make. I still feel so lucky to have my friends and family (and my followers, too!) with me to help and lead me along the way.
On the brighter side of life, August has been such a great month. I never thought that I would get so many good feedbacks about my new blog. It is very overwhelming! I couldn’t contain my happiness and thank you enough for finding time checking it out. This month is probably the best yet this year! Kisses to all of you!
"You’ve gone from here
And soon you will disappear
Fading into beautiful light
‘Cause everybody’s changing
And I don’t feel right.”
They say that only mature and strong people are the ones that can fully accept and understand change. Your friends who used to be your 911 suddenly became just a group of people that you once knew. We can’t help but accept that change is constant and it happens to everyone, in thousands or even millions of ways. But it’s in our hearts whether we accept their alternations or not. Nevertheless, sometimes change is good and it helps us to push ourselves to become better than who were yesterday.
Here is the song that I’ve been listening to for about a week now. It was my dad’s favorite when I was around 8 years old. Perfect for a gloomy day like this. :)
Dreams are not made overnight. It is part in the process of finding yourself, what you truly love, and the things that you believe in life. As you grow older, there would be changes in your priorities or even in your goals. Amid all these changes are the people who remained to be supportive as you make all your dreams come true.
You need to make one step back to have two steps forward. Today, I am making one of my dreams into a reality — to continue what I’ve started and to inspire other people through blogging.
annaxmalina
titsay