My New YouTube Channel

Hi Lovelies!

I have a new YouTube Channel where I put the artsy part of me to work. I just started out making videos with currently 4 uploads. And oh boy--- it's hard to film! You have to make sure about a lot of stuff or else your clips will be incomplete and you'll have to start out again.

The things you'll need to film...

- Of course a camera, you can use a simple point & shoot cam or the complicated dslr's

- LIGHTING! This one makes me crazy, it's so difficult to get the proper lighting but natural daylight is the best!

- Your ideas of what to film

- Laptop or PC to edit and to use as a monitor for live view shooting

- YouTube Account

Some mini pointers for those who want to film...

- Make sure you have enough battery to finish filming

- Gather your thoughts before letting the camera roll or you'll have an issue with your battery! haha

- Experiment with the different angles you can place your lighting stands

- A checklist helps with getting through all the ideas you want to film especially if you're a newbie like me

If you have time to spare, here are my uploaded vids...

Current Favorites

SM Haul

Simple & Easy Makeup Routine

My Life with Dogs

There you go, Lovelies! Having my own beauty & lifestyle channel has been loooong dream of mine since I started out watching makeup tutorials, cooking shows on YT around 8 years ago. As of today I have as little as 43 but loving subbies and 700+ views. It took me all my courage to film and post these vids. And if my channel will make it and inspire ordinary gals out there, I'd be happy to look back to this day and see my hardwork. It will take me more work and patience but I'm willing to do ALL that. And if not, at least I have done something for my little dreamy channel. 

If you want to do something, DO IT NOW. You will have to go out of your comfort zone but like diamonds pressured deep under the Earth, you will hopefully come out with the precious version of you. May God bless you all and grant your greatest desires in life!

XOXO,

Anna

My Dogs, My Lifetime Commitment

I really don't know how to start this random blog post...

But I have to say... I LOVE MY DOGS! (I think that's an understatement >.< )

Our first Christmas photoshoot and I look so washed out here >.<

As of the moment, I have deux chiennes adorables! Both are of the same breed, Dixie & Leigh. I can say that Dixie is the typical Pomeranian with the tiniest bark and ever changing temperament. She can't stay on a spot for long for she HAS to move her cheeky butt. You have to put her on a leash for walks. HAHA And Leigh is the total opposite! I am confused if she's really a dog or a cat furrreals. I mean it! She has the personality of a cat and I'm not exaggerating the least. She loves to lounge and follow me wherever I go. Whenever I bring her out, I don't need to put her on a leash because she literally follows me wherever I go. I didn't train her for that though!

Leigh

Dixie

Dogs are the cutest creatures during their puppy stages but the real deal kicks in when they get older. They are a lifetime commitment. You have to be prepared emotionally and financially to be able to give them what they deserve. Such as...

FOOD. Selecting the best dog food is something we should do for our dogs since they can't read the labels themselves. I go to Bow & Wow Eastwood to buy their dog food. I prefer giving them organic, grain-free and high-quality protein kibbles. They shouldn't contain preservatives, artificial coloring, by-products and bulk fillers. I alternate Merrick, Halo and Science Diet. By the way, Merrick and Halo can be bought at Bow&Wow but Science Diet in any dog supplies store.

BATH. My dogs bathe twice a week. I prefer the brand Bearing both for their shampoo and conditioner plus some pet cologne. They also get their professional grooming every 2-3months to avoid their fur tangling. 

My favorite brand of pet Pawfume! 

HELP!  - Dixie

BED. At night after feeding and poop time, they get a 'sponge bath'. Snouts are wiped, bodies cleaned with a towel and paws are washed. They sleep inside my bedroom so to avoid developing 'dogs in the house' kind of  smell, we have to make sure they're always clean. 

This is one of my dog's crib that I custom designed for her.

This chubby one sleeps with me on my bed while I design her future crib.

CLOTHES. Of course this is optional, but how can you resist those doggy OOTD's. I occasionally  check Arf Arf Love on Instagram for some cute outfits. And you can find cute ones from the counters of Dogs And The City and Pet Express. Check out this collage of my dogs' OOTDs. 

Leigh doesn't mind being dressed up but tomboyish Dixie hates putting on clothes

PLAYTIME. I give them toys and treats during playtime. I use a particular 'Treat Time' chime to get there attention and oh boy do they jump for joy. On some days, we play inside my room or inside the house. But on nicer days, we play by our front yard. When I've got free time, I bring them to doggie parks. Eastwood Libis is the nearest pet-friendly place I bring them to. They even got personal ID's so they can enter the mall. All you need is to present your dog's Vaccination Record with valid Anti-Rabies shot to date.

Last year just when Eastwood started their Pet Pass Policy

Renewed Pet Passes for this year. 

I use EZY Dog Harness and a Flexi Retractable Leash on Dixie because she tends to stray when distracted. While for Leigh, I don't find any need to use one. She just follows me wherever I go! haha I also let them wear shoes but I just get the generic ones from pet stores because its very difficult to find a trusty one here in the Philippines.

EZYDOG Harness and Flexi Retractable

When giving them toys, beware of the kinds that easily break. It may present a hazard to your dogs when ingested. I prefer rubber toys that also serves as teeth cleaners. I tried giving one of them a stuffed toy dog but it was 'murdered' in months. I still keep it as a memorabilia though. 

And when giving treats, give sparingly. Try to alternate different doggie treats. I use Beggin' Strips (there are variants for small and big breeds), Royal Canin Energy Treats and Jerhigh Dog Chews. Never buy from an unknown brand especially those generic ones repacked and mostly imported from China. 

HEALTH. I personally recommend Vets In Practice Animal Hospital. As of now, they have six branches and one soon to open in Pampanga. I can't stress enough how particular I am with my dogs' health. I bring them in every vaccination appointment and some untoward incidents. And with VIP Katipunan & Mandaluyong, you will have nothing to worry about. They have complete laboratory equipments so they can do an on-the-spot examination of your beloved pets. Although Katipunan branch is only open Mondays-Sundays 9AM to 7PM, Mandaluyong branch accepts emergency cases 10PM onwards (but of course they will charge you accordingly). 

I remembered bringing my 4year old Pomeranian past 11PM because she jumped out of my sister's arms and fell head first on the floor. I didn't see what exactly happened but based from my sister's story, she had a mild seizure (common with head trauma). Leigh, my dog was walking fine and nothing's really unusual after the fall but I rushed her to VIP Mandaluyong for thorough checking. I was afraid that there might be some brain swelling or something. She was given steroids for the inflammation. All's fine and back to normal now.

Two doctors who frequently attends to my dogs are Doc Dexter and Doc Siday.  

Lovelies, as I've said dogs are a lifetime commitment. Before you get one, make sure you'll have time for them. Not only being able to provide their basic needs but giving them the tender loving care they deserve. I lost two Labrador Retrievers (Sandy and Sander) to Heartworm Disease and Pyometra. I learned to care for my dogs the hard way. And let me tell you, it was never easy to let go of them.

See I got them their 'forever' places in the my room as there is a place for them in the Rainbow Bridge. I dedicate this post to them!

Sander & Sandy, we miss you SOOOO much! Gone but never forgotten. 

LOVE,

Anna

PS Here are some useful links to all you lovely dog owners...

Bow & Wow The All Natural Pet Store

http://www.bowandwow.com.ph/index

Vets In Practice Animal Hospital

http://site.vetsinpractice.com.ph/main/3165/index.asp?pageid=127154&t=branches

Nail Extensions + RANT

I have been a nail biter since I was a kid. I never had long feminine nails just by growing them out on their own. So whenever I feel like so, I go to a salon for some nail extensions. Having tried both Acrylic and Gel Nail Extensions, I personally prefer the Gel ones. They look very shiny and sleek but the con about it is that if you have very short nails to put them on, they can chip easily. So if you want longer lasting ones, go for the Acrylics. Top off with gel polishes and no one's gonna notice the difference. Just make sure to have them removed after a month to give your nails a rest. Leaving them on for longer periods may cause something as bad as a nail rot in some cases (gross I know).

I have tried different nail salons and a few only offer nail extensions. From what I can remember, my first ever extensions were done in Tips n' Toes Greenbelt way, way back. I have also tried Beauty Bar's Dashing Diva. But recently I had my nails done in newlocation for me. These are my newly placed extensions...

Just this week, I had a horrible time finding a salon that would cater to my very short nails. I went to SM Megamall but apparently, my nail tech in Tips n' Toes was absent for the day. And I was refused extensions at Nail Spa Lounge within the same mall. I transferred to Mich Mich & Myl Nail Salon Ortigas, same thing happened. The nail techs there told me my nails were "too short" for the procedure. Imagine I had to get out of Megamall after being refused at Nail Spa Lounge just to go to Mich & Myl Ortigas branch (which isn't that far but...)! It was raining that night and I had a hard time finding a parking slot nearby only to be refused again. Story of my life!!!

I even told them that I have had them done in different salons so why the refusal. I was too tired to argue so I walked away. To cut the long story short, I was so PO-ed and I got back to my car, drove home and slept the night. 

The next day, I was able to book a session at Extraordinail Greenhills. Talking on the phone, I made sure they can do my nails and the receptionist told me, "there will be no problem with that because we use a nail form". I booked Acrylic Nail Extensions and XO Footspa with Gel Pedi for me. Then XO Footspa for my boyfriend.

We arrived and the nail tech checked my nails, "Ay oo nga maikli pero bakit daw di nila kayang gawin?" She was skeptical as to why I was refused because yes my nails are very short but its not the shortest she have encountered. They use a nail form which is a sticker they place at your nail tips to lay the building material on so my short nails are welcome. Baka daw tinatamad kasi gabi na ko pumunta! WHAT A REASON! Because she couldn't think of any other reason there should be other than 'tinatamad' and late booking. I mean they could've told me right away if I was too late! For sure in Nail Spa Lounge I am not late. I peeked inside and there were a few customers they're attending to.  The employees were even chatting at the reception area for customers. And at Mich & Myl, I arrived 8PM. They close at 10PM. I even called before going there. Just the look on their faces when I entered and told them I want some extensions. Its as if I blew their chance of an early out. HAHA Enough of the rants. This is a long shot, but if ever the owners of those salons can read this please check on your employees. You may be losing customers because of those 'reasons'.

You know Lovelies, I rarely complain and post such customer service. Most of the time, I know how to keep my mouth shut if I don't have nice things to say. But I want to commend Extraordinail. Their place is tiny but cozy. Great customer service too! I got to watch a move, The Age of Adaline while they do my mani and pedi. Here's a snap of my faux nails and feet.

Acryilic Extensions topped with Gelique Nail Color Coat and
my regular accessories, Goody Hair Tie and Watch

Gelique Nail Color Coat for my toes and
I'm wearing my Stuart Weitman Teezer Jelly Sandals

Vist them at Swire Elan Sites LG02 Annapolis Greenhills, San Juan. Or call (02)621-5249 to book. Please also check their Instagram Account, @extraordinail. IG spot some celebrities who loves Extraordinail too!

Snapping a photo while waiting in line for my coffee >.<

That's it Lovelies! I'm sorry for the long rant but I felt that I needed to post them. Customer Service should be given emphasis on!

Lovelies, have you had a bad experience at a nail salon? 

LOVE,

Anna

PS  I can only speak for the Nail Extensions service that Nail Spa Lounge and Mich & Myl Salon offer.

BLOG and LIFE Update

Hi Lovelies!

Its been two years since my last blog post. I have almost forgotten about this blog. haha

Allow me to give you some updates...

(1) SKIN UPDATE

Do you still remember my posts regarding how I battled my acne with so much products and treatments? I had an acne flare right out of college on places where I never get them (let me tell you, they came in troops). Well, turns out the problem is inside me. Specifically inside my ovaries! Yes I have traced where the horrible acne situation is coming from (after 3 years of frustration). I have PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. And one of the most seen symptoms is the facial acne. I will be posting how I got rid of my pimples because I truly believe most girls will be able to relate. Less than a month after taking my medication, they were all gone, gone, gone. MAGIC! I know how difficult it is to pinpoint the cause and treat the nasty zits so I will share. As of the moment, I am enjoying my skin. Buh-bye Zit World! ;)

After taking my medication, I tried Fractional CO2 Laser to reduce my acne scars.

(2) LESS MAKEUP

I have already lessened my makeup addiction since being able to visit the gym and try Boxing. I felt so unhealthy and lethargic because I have not been treating my body right. I eat what I want to without regards to my health and weight which is a NO-NO if you want to live longer and have a better lifestyle. Since going into the gym, I have not been putting on makeup like I used to. And let me tell you, my skin is loving it! Since being pimple-free, I trained myself to put lesser makeup therefore lessening my expenses from hoarding. haha 

(3) HAIR COLOR

I cellophaned my rusty colored hair with a black tint and cared for it with regular at home hair treatments. I switched to Kerastase Bain Reinforce Shampoo and Conditioner again then treated my hair once a month with L'Oreal Power Dose. It's not broomstick straight anymore if you know what I mean. haha It feels healthy and easier to manage as well. I intend to keep my hair black and healthy! 

What was I thinking???

   

Black & Healthy! Woohoo!

(3) BOOK READ

I am currently reading this book written by a Japanese Author Marie Kondo, "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up". It was translated to English by Cathy Hirano so it can be available to all readers worldwide and true enough 2 million copies has been sold thereafter reaching the status of #1 New York Times Best Seller. 

"The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo
Available at FullyBooked for 680php only

This is a book featuring the Japanese art of decluttering and organizing of which I am in dire need of.  I got curious if it can really help me declutter my room and walk-in closet. Not that I have no idea how to declutter/organize but I have my rebound times after tidying. I always find myself messing everything that I have organized in a very short span of time. It gets all tiring, tidying the same space all over again.

I will update you with how I find the book. With fingers and legs crossed, I can declutter/organize my room and let it stay as it is, FOREVER??? Oh well, that's too much of a dream.

(4) And of course, my lovely ROOM MATES

I got two lovely dogs named Dixie and Leigh. Both are Pomeranian! Dixie (right) is 1 year and 6months old while Leigh (left) just turned 4years old. 

Leigh (left) and Dixie (right) during our Christmas photo shoot.

It was my first time to let my dog have a Paw Party. Dixie celebrated her first barkday with human and furry friends in an Italian Restaurant. It was fun! Then we celebrated Leigh's 4th Birthday at home. 

Barkday Cake & Pup Cakes from Whole Pet Kitchen and the loots bag I prepared.

Dixie's 1st Barkday Party at the veranda of Ristorante Bigoli Eastwood.

That's it! I will not bombard you with so much stuff that is happening in my life right now. I just feel I had to share so much stuff after being MIA for too long. haha Looking forward to more blog posts this year. 

Thank you for taking your time to drop by my blog. It is my pleasure writing for you lovely girls!

LOVE,

Anna

PS Thank you Instagram for letting me remember what happened in the past 2years! haha

Urban Decay All Nighter Long-lasting Makeup Setting Spray

I can't stress how I HATE it when my makeup melts! Whether its because of my oily combination skin or our hot & humid Philippine weather. I have tried different products that promised to make my makeup stay longer but only one stood out. (you might have guessed that from my title! haha)

Presenting the...

Urban Decay All Nighter Long-lasting Makeup Setting Spray

First off before proceeding, let me enumerate some of the stuff that I have tried:

• Model in a Bottle, 18USD for 2 fl oz. Got the original formula so your face looks super shiny after spraying this on. Does its job but this was the stickiest that I have tried so far. Feels heavy on the face almost like hairspray on the face. And to add to that, smells like hairspray. I thought I can use to to set my hair in place! haha Even if it does the job, I don't want to put something sticky on my face.
• Skindinavia Bridal Makeup Finish, 29USD for 4 fl oz. Attained a luminous finish with this one but is still feels there, a bit sticky too. Though not as sticky as Model in a Bottle. Will  feel lighter after drying. Claims to make your makeup last for up to 16hrs, true that but hello to my shiny face. haha
• MAC Fix +, 21USD for 3.4 fl oz. This was the first one I tried. Well it doesn't claim to be a setting spray but it does somehow make my makeup stay for a little longer. Love this spray for making the makeup look natural and not too powdery.

After trying those ones, I thought I'm going to stay with the Skindinavia Bridal Spray. Not until my sister tried it and told me her makeup spray is better than mine! How dare you! hahahaha

Well I gave it a try and HEEEEEYYY...... So sad to admit its true! haha You did a good job sister! After several times of borrowing her bottle, I gave in and bought mine because there was a good deal for an XL size from Carefreeshopper. Woot! Woot!

HOW I USE IT?

After I'm done with everything for my makeup except the brow set, I spray this on about 4 times on my face (horizontally on my forehead, vertically from forehead to chin and one circular motion for the whole face) and one spray for my neck too. I find this a better way because I am concentrating on my oily T-Zone and lesser on my dry cheek areas. Afterwhich, I dust on a bit of powder (usually what is only left on the brush I used to set my liquid foundation). Then apply I can apply my brow set already. And I'm done!

HOW IT FEELS ON MY FACE?

It feels light on the face after drying. I don't feel that its there working for my makeup but I can see a great difference from when I forget to spray this on. The smell is definitely also lighter from the recent sprays I have tried. 

THE PACKAGING?

I got a big bottle so it is hard to fit in a small makeup bag for when I'm travelling. But I don't really mind. I just sneak it into one of my toiletries bag together with the shampoos, condiotioner, etc. I also like the atomizer as it sprays on just the right amount and also evenly on the face. 

VALUE FOR MONEY?

This may come on a higher price point because it retails 29USD for 4 fl oz. But just imagine it saving you from all the makeup retouches you have to do in a day. Therefore, it can also save you from using up all your makeup! Because I like this so much, I am going to find a backup at Sephora SG during my upcoming trip. This is a staple to my makeup routine already!

At the back of the bottle, you can see this.

"URBAN DECAY by Skindinavia"

So this is a collab between Urban Decay and Skindinavia, right? But how did it happen that this feels better than Skindinavia's own line? Remains a mystery to me. o_o

It has a newer packaging and this is what you'll get if you plan to purchase it...

Urban Decay All Nighter Long-lasting Makeup Setting Spray

There you go... This is already a long review. It seems I can never make my posts as short and concise like others do. Sorry Lovelies!

Have you tried any makeup setting spray?

LOVE,

Anna