Glitz & Glamour

Lips by Sisley

2011-05-06T01:22:00.000-07:00

One of the brands I haven't used for a very long time (since my Dubai time about 21 years ago... Oh my goodness... have I just given away how old I am?), is Sisley. I can't even remember the reason why I stopped using them. Well, never mind... I'm just glad that I found the items below.

Pretty colours!!! Summer is definitely on its way!

Lovely lipliner: Phyto Sheer Lipliner in Mangue Givree

Make up with botanical extract

Pretty lippy: Hydrating long lasting lipstick in L11

When the shop assistant asked if I wanted to try other Sisley product, I said.... YES!!!

Sample sample hahahaha!

FOTD

Reminds me of 80s make up Oh dear!

Bright Spring/Summer make up... Sunset Galore

2011-04-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the newly wed couple... Prince William and Kate (no more Katie waitie aye!). As a couple who have just been proclaimed as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge I wonder if we are also going to have someone (or a couple )named as such on our end or maybe we are just proud to live in the Robinhood county and I guess, we are just happy to keep it that way ;). No one can beat the legendary Robin Hood of Locksley and Maid Marian aye? ;). However, I still believe that Prince William would prefer to be called 'Prince William' or 'Wills' to his friends.

As you could imagine (those who live outside the United Kingdom), the country (or even the whole world) had their eyes and ears on the so called 'Royal Wedding of the Century'. Even tabloids have publised the bikini sets, tops and other holiday outfit that Kate bought from Warehouse a few days before the wedding as if people would rush to the said outlet and get exactly the same items or maybe I'm wrong! Don't you guys think that Kate's dress was a tad understated? I guess I was just expecting for a little bit more because of how grandeur late Princess Diana had for a wedding gown when she marched up the aisle during her time. The fact that Sarah Burton under the magnificent (and one of my favourite designers) Alexander McQueen designed the frock it really raised great expectations on the dress. I suppose the dress suited her really well... she oozed beauty, elegance and confidence (yes, even at the age of 29 and being a so-called commoner... believe me, there's nothing common about Kate Middleton ;)). Oh, not to forget her sister Pippa who looked equally beautiful and elegant in her Vivienne Westwood number (I know sis Nikki, I'm crazy about Vivienne Westwood creation but I don't think you can really blame me.) Anyway, back to Kate's (Or shall I say, Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cambridge)... I guess Sarah kept it that way to make sure that the focal point of the day was Kate herself and not the dress. I hope I wouldn't get a lot of stick on this post about the Royal Wedding. It was just my opinion and I am not saying that I didn't like the dress because I LOVE IT!!! (just to make my position clear here).

A...NY..WAY! My real intention setting here infront my laptop is to post an FOTD but for some reasons, the Royal Wedding came into my mind... I think I've still got hangover from it hahahaha! Now now now... F...O...T...D!

As we've been lucky enough to have great spring/summer season so far, I also have been inspired to wear bright colours this days and at the moment, I'm crazy about ORANGE! It must be the beautiful sunsets we've been getting around here.

I've been finding really great spring/summer looks recently just like the few famous faces who have managed to crack the look and rather look blooming good on them. Let's see if you agree with me... please start browsing now and tell me what you think about orange make up.

...and...

my...

version!

Well, no harm in trying, is there?

TTFN!!!

Clinique Gift Time

2011-04-14T00:32:00.000-07:00

Is it really Thursday? Gosh! Days seem to go by quicker than ever. Just one day and it'll be rest day for everyone. I'm not as lucky as some people (nudge nudge.. wink wink..) as I'm working over the weekend.

Anyway, to wrap up the week, I'm sharing with you my dear friends my recent acquired Clinique goodies :)

A make up cute tin!!! Love it!!!

The freebies when I bought my Repairwear eye cream and lipliner (lipliner to be posted soon)

Very spring colour and I'm loving it!!!

Any freebies at your end to share?

TTFN!!!

Maybelline Define A-Lash Waterproof Mascara: My new favourite

2011-04-04T08:08:00.000-07:00

I just thought I'd share with you guys my new favourite mascara. It's Define A-Lash by Maybelline. What can I say about this product? First let me tell you on the qualities of a good mascara for me. 1. Make sure that it is water proof... Check!!! 2. User friendly... this really is easy to apply that even after 3 strokes, does not clump... so... Check!!! 3. Inexpensive... at £8.49 or around $13USD or around 591 PHP on current rate... now... that is budget friendly price. So... Check!!! 4. Easy to clean... Of course, just like any other make up, we have to remove mascara as well and this is fuss free when it comes to cleansing. So... Check!!! So... it ticks all the boxes and I am ever so pleased! :) Hands down to this little but fantastic product and I'm giving this 5/5. That's how impressed I am with this product. My eyelashes looks longer when wearing this mascara and the amazing part of it... even after cleansing my face, the curls don't seem to disappear and my eyelashes seem to look and feel longer and thicker as well. I would recommend this to friends and family :)

What about you? Have you got a current favourite mascara? If you have... what is it? If you're looking for an effective and inexpensive mascara, I'd recommend you try this :)

TTFN!!!

A softer touch of spring make up using green eyeshadow

2011-04-04T07:17:00.000-07:00

In contrary to my last FOTD in green eyeshadow where I wore a bright red lipstick, I tried to wear a much lighter lip colour and this is what I came up with. I've actually been wearing this make up at work. I'm loving the greens this season!!!

FOTD: An attempt to a spring look... An AMW inspired look ;)

2011-03-29T08:46:00.000-07:00

Hello again everyone! It's been forever since my last FOTD post. Yes, I must admit, I've missed it. As spring is definitely here and although it doesn't seem to be staying for good as we're still been getting frosty morning, I was lucky enough to be off work whilst we had a great sunny spring day. What's the best thing for a make up enthusiast like myself to do but play with bright make up. Although the first time I thought of bright make up was when I saw the St. Patrick FOTD posted by our dearest sister Nikki. I'll be editing this post soon to add the make up I've used creating this look ;)

Just showing off my blingy headband hahahaha!

The outfit to complete my spring look. Yeah right!

TTFN!

Brand Glamour & Glitz

2011-03-24T10:44:00.001-07:00

This gave me a little giggle on one of my shopping trips with bf in Meadow Hall Sheffield. We were randomly popping in and out of shops when I saw these on one of them. I said to my bf... 'I thought it first!'. My bf found it funny too. Nope, I didn't bother trying them on as I was wearing my boots and couldn't be bothered to take them off to try shoe fitting. I wasn't just in the mood that time believe it or not. You would think it sounds unreal but really it was that time hahahaha! I just thought it was funny and worth sharing ;)

On slightly serious notes, I told my bf this morning over a cup of decaf when I came home from my night shift that I'd love another pair designer shoes next time we're in London and I've been browsing at the new Louboutins online (red soles always tickle my fancy ;)) and found these...

Christian Louboutin

Jimmy Choo

Now, I'm torned between the two!!!

Any suggestions?

If you feel like helping... Vote now ;)

Thank you guys!!!

TTFN!!!

My new banner

2011-03-21T02:58:00.001-07:00

This new banner was the birthday card my bf made for me when I celebrated my ...ty eight. I thought it really was cute and the fact that he put this card together for me I've decided to use it as my banner. This card really is very very (yes, major major) me!!! It only shows how my bf know every inch of me ;)

Still here!!! Alive and kicking!!!

2011-03-21T01:48:00.001-07:00

Hello my lovelies!!! Sorry for the long absence due to hectic schedules. With the prices of everything rising like no other's business gives us that kick in the back side to work even harder. Phew! Sometimes I ask myself... 'when will all of these end?'.

Anyway, as my come back post, I'm here sharing a few photos taken during our Valentine's Day date. Hair and make up by yours truly :)

I hope you won't give up on me my friends and you would still visit my blogsite.

I hope to be more visible this time.

Take care my lovelies...

TTFN xxx

Winter Necessities

2010-12-02T00:54:00.000-08:00

Losing my pair my Gucci gloves left me devestated for a few days. I was absolutely gutted! I couldn't believe it happened to me!!!

Lesson learned: Never go to work with my expensive and favourite stuff specially when I'm on my night shift as I tend to nod off on the bus :(

Well, looking at the bright side of it... someone had early Christmas present.

So, to make myself a bit better for losing one of my precious possessions was to get another pair. So there was I finding myself heading to my favourite designer outlet (I love this shop because I managed to build a good relationship with their members of staff and they always look after me very well everythime I visit them). They didn't had any Gucci gloves on stock so I opted for a pair of Prada and they were a great choice and they're lovely! They keep my mits warm specially now that we're having a dreadful winter.

What about you? How's the Christmas season treating you in your end? xxx

Clarins Gift Promo

2010-11-24T07:15:00.000-08:00

Hello again guys!!!

I think most of you who have been reading my blog would probably have worked out how I love freebies ;)

Anyway, as I was running out of my make up removers, I visited my favourite outlet (Boots of course!) and I couldn't believe my luck when I found out that Clarins was offering bonus skin care products for purchase of 2 or more items. So I took it as an opportunity to grab my necessities.

My ever reliable make up remover. It really is great for lifting make up off my skin when it comes to removing my make up. I've tried the eye make up remover as well and I can say that it is my new favourite cleansing product.

Who can resist this generous gift?

Clinique Bonus Time

2010-11-01T06:19:00.000-07:00

I just love freebies!!! Who doesn't? Well, once again, Clinique is having their 'bonus time' promo for purchase of 2 products but one has to be a skin care. For a skin fanatic like me, this is always a good deal. My bf says that I'm an adverstiser's dream which I probably can't deny. Everytime my bf and I walk around shops, he could tell when something excites me as my jaw drops hahahahaha! I'd stand infront of it with amazement and then I'll start calculating if I could afford it... I'm barred from using my credit cards. I can only use my credit cards for emergency purposes and that doesn't include fulfilling my beauty and pampering wishes.

Anyway, the photos below includes my new Clinique purchase and gifts :)

My recent favourite eye make up remover and my ever reliable face powder

Of course! The gift!!!

Two of my beauty must have

Generous gift

I love this bronzer! I sometimes use this as a blusher. It's gawgeous!!!

Cardiff Castle

2010-10-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, we visited Cardiff to celebrate our 4th anniversary and one of the places we visited was the Cardiff Castle by the Butes.

I'd say, that the castle, although it has now been handed over by the Butes to the people of Cardiff, they've maintained the charm of it. I suppose, castles like these in any countries should be kept preserved as part of our heritage. The castle is amazingly huge that after climbing spiral stairs upon spiral stairs... I came to the point where I turned to my partner and said... One more of that and I'm going to scream! I do question my fitness sometimes.

Anyway, this is not intended to be a 'moaning post' so please browse through the photos below and I hope you enjoy it!

Are you ready? Now... Glitz & Glamour takes you to Cardiff Castle!!! Have fun!!!

Not your average nursery

Fact: This room designed to accommodate ladies whilst they waited for their lords and masters is worth £15M. I entertain my girlfriends in my very own boudoir. It didn't cost me that much hahahahaha!

I'll have Katherine Jenkins here singing beautifully whilst I dine with my guests... yeah, the beauty bloggers hahahahaha!

You'd think they'll have much bigger bed than this one. Hmmm...!

Just pop in a whirlpool bath and off you go!

I personally won't want a mirror on the ceiling... Easy tiger!

Ancient loo?

La Prairie Anti-Ageing Foundation

2010-10-27T06:19:00.000-07:00

Hello again my dearies....

Well, well, well... it's been ages since the last time I have posted any beauty products and it's because of my hectic work and social schedules. I have not been 'big' on beauty shopping this year I must admit which probably have been the reason why I've not been able to update my blog. My monthly shopping has been more on my usual stuff such us Clinique moisturizers and beauty powders and pencils and since I've already been posting them numbers of times, I though I won't bother sharing them again.

Anyway, enough of lame excuses hahahahaha!

Have you already tried La Prairie products? What do you think of them? I once found myself in the counter and got tempted of buying one of their skin care regime but I've been strong enough to resist it! (Pats my shoulder). I'd say that La Prairie products looks very luxurious specially the packaging. However, the price is pretty steep for me specially that I'm saving for a much bigger project.

Anyway, I've seen their foundation on magazines being recommended by beauty columnists that I headed to the counter near me and grab a few samples to try. As I really liked the samples that were given to me that I went back to grab my first ever La Prairie foundie. Being a shopper like me who's eyes are always on freebies, I've also managed to leave the counter with a few samples *wink wink... nudge nudge...

Originally, I was planning to buy the one with caviar but I opted for the much cheaper option. (£117 for caviar and £60 for the one I've got). I think the one I've got suits my skin better (another lame excuse hahahaha!).

Gracie's verdict:

This foundie is great! Best result is achieved when applied using sponge. I've tried applying this using my fingers and foundation brush. I only need a pea size to cover my entire face and neck so although it is quite expensive, it does last well. It doesn't cake and finished with my ever reliable Clinique double powder, I enjoy a flawless look all day.

My 4th Anniversary Present

2010-10-07T07:42:00.000-07:00

Hello again guys!!! I hope you all are doing well!!!

As mentioned a while ago on my previous post, bf and myself have celebrated our 4th anniversary last July. I just thought I'd share with you the present he gave me. I'm telling you, I didn't expect to get this much for the occasion but I did... bless...! He does something that surprises me when I least expect it every now and then :)

Anyway, just a little story of what happened and how I luckily got this. We were walking around town centre on his birthday (the week before our anniversary), when we visited our favourite art gallery. As we were browsing through the paintings on display we came across this and both our pairs of eyes were nailed on this particular piece. We have been looking at 'the right' painting for my bodoir that I intend to redecorate after 2014 (I've got much bigger project that I have to wait that long). I'd love to turn it a nice make up studio :) and my bf has already given me a permission to do just that. Anyway, back to painting. The gallery manager has been kind enough to get this piece (pictures below) from the basement and we looked at it for a few minutes. I remember saying... 'ooohhhh... that's beautiful!' and my bf who was sitting right behind me said... 'we're having it!'. Just like that! Well, I had a feeling that we were going to get it but not that particular moment specially that it was his day. I was absolutely happy on our way home thinking that I had my very own Fabian Perez piece. Alright, not to get too excited about it... it's not an original piece because the original one has already been sold for £18,500. So what we got is a limited print and it is hand embellished. One of these days, we do plan of getting a Fabian Perez original piece :)

Celina Con Abanico II

Isn't she gorgeous?

At the moment, this beauty is in our living room but will be moving to my very own bodoir soon as it's redecorated.

Till next time guys...

xxx

I Miss Blogging...!

2010-10-06T00:53:00.000-07:00

Hello again my dear friends!!! Gosh! I feel so sad that I've not been able to update my blog for over couple of months. My poor blogsite must be feeling absolutely neglected. Never mind... I'll try to publish new post more often from now on. I've also been missing browsing through other beauty bloggers pages no wonder I feel left behind when it comes to new make up and pampering trends not to mention the events that our sisters here have been attending. They are just fabulous and make me feel jealous (in a good way of course). Anyway, I think it's about time to inject a bit of glam into my less exciting life at the moment. I'm telling you, there's nothing exciting about being a workaholic but then again I love the pleasure of having choices it gives me hahahaha!

Anyway, I've got a few things to share so watch this space. :)

I miss and love you all guys...!

Till next time...

Your Gracie xxx

4th Anniversary Celebration: Dinner Date

2010-07-14T02:18:00.000-07:00

One of the things we love about short breaks are the dinners we treat ourselves and since it was out anniversary celebration, we had even more excuse to enjoy the most of it. Of course, special dinners means dressing up (the part I love the most ;)). Whilst I was contemplating of what to wear for the short trip, I thought of the dress that sis Nikki of askmewhats sent me last year (if I remember it right. This special sister of mine sent me a lot of things already hahahahaha!). The first time I saw the dress I thought it really was revealing and I never thought I'd ever get chance to wear it. This is one of those dresses that requires a right place, time and occasion to wear. I honestly not very adventurous when it comes to dressing up. My style is more like comfortable and safe and honestly, there is nothing safe and comfortable about this dress specially for a flat chested like me hahahahaha! But then again, it hasn't stopped me thanks to body tapes hahahahahaha!

I'm honestly convinced that this dress was more of a present to my bf than for myself ;). Sis Nikki, you definitely know how to make a man happy hahahahahaha! Thank you sis!!! Muah!!!

Anyway, I hope you don't laugh at the photos I've posted below and if you do... I'd fully understand hahahahahaha!

Nikki's dress paired with my Gucci heels!!!

Yummy Chateubriand!!!

Our 4th anniversary in Cardiff: First installment ;)

2010-06-28T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hello guys! I'm back again!!! I hope you all are doing well!!! :)

Last week, my bf and I have celebrated our 4th anniversary and decided to spend it in Cardiff. As I need to be getting ready for work very soon, this is going to be a really short post so watch this space as I've got a lot more photos and stories/experiences to share.

See you soon guys!!!

Below were the photos we took on the day that we arrived Cardiff.

I would've never known it meant 'way out'

I lasted the day wearing these ever reliable 4 inches Gucci shoes!!!

Clinique Bonus Time

2010-06-21T01:49:00.000-07:00

For beauty on a budget like me, I always look for good offers when it comes to buying my necessities. Gift packs on offer for every purchase of my beauty necessities give me opportunities to try new products and isn't it just great? As you probably know by now, I'm a Clinique person. Clinique foundations, powders and eye liners are the few of their products I can't live without. I've tried other products but I keep coming back to my ever reliable Clinique!

So, everytime I see that Clinique offers gift packs, I'm like a little child longing for most awaited sweets or toys hahahahahaha! It sounds a bit sad but there you go hahahahaha!

Anyway, let me show you the generous gifts I got with my latest purchases :)

I think sis Nikki (askmewhats) will agree with me that the clinique take the day off eye make up remover is reliable

A generous gift :)

I sweep this bronzer from my temple, right below my cheekbones into my jaw lines creating the number 3 stroke then I apply my blusher. If you haven't done it yet, why don't you try it?

FOTD: Charge Cherry lipstick by Avon and Falsies mascara by Maybelline

2010-06-02T01:21:00.000-07:00

As promised previously, I am going to share an FOTD wearing my new make up. Yes, my new acquired Avon and Maybelline make up. Let me know what you think :)

To end this post, let me share a tip that I discovered recently. I don't know if this has already done by anyone. This is to do with applying foundation and pressed powder. In this FOTD, I applied my Clinique Superfit Make Up about 10 minutes after my moisturisers (no primer used). After applying my foundation, I took a sheet of facial tissue and placed it over my face then pressed it gently (doing this all over my face and neck) to absorb the moist from my foundation, then applied my Clinique Almost Powder and Clinique Super Powder Double Face Powder by patting gently all over my face and neck then used my Jemma Kidd Foundation brush (similar to my MAC 187)to buff and blend my face powders. Viola! I lovely finish and great coverage. Note: when patting my foundation with facial tissue, it absorbed the moist without disturbing the coverage of the foundation that I applied. I find this the easy way to prevent my foundation from melting throughout the day and my make up didn't cake at all. I hope this helps :)

REBEL

2010-05-24T00:54:00.000-07:00

I nearly choke on my cup of coffee this morning when Sam came to me. I noticed that he was wearing his new pair of socks we got him last week. I asked him if he was wearing the right pair because they had days of the week printed on them and when he did, we found out that he was wearing the 'Thursday' pair instead of Monday. So, I asked him to get back to his room and change his socks but instead he said to me 'Oh mummy, please let me wear them... I'd like to say to my friends at school... Look, I'm a rebel, I'm wearing my Thursday socks on Monday!' I thought it was hilarious that even my bf laughed because he said it with a 'teenager with an attitude' manner! Kids! You think you've seen it all!

Sam's friend at school took this photo in the middle of their class. I just pinched this from Facebook hahahhahaha!

My Mini Haul

2010-05-18T08:30:00.001-07:00

Last week, I had the chance to grab a few bits and bobs for my dressing table :). I've started to only get the ones that I need instead mad hauling. However, when I saw that Maybelline was on 3 for 2 offer, I just couldn't resist grabbing 3 mascaras and try 2 products I've not used before :)

My new favourite Mascara, Stiletto

The new Falsies that I've just tried! It's a great mascara, I must say! :)

Colosal mascara... this was recommended by 2 ladies at the Maybelline stand hahahaha! I'm still to try this :)

Look like this is made for teenagers but hey, may just work for me too. Afterall, I sometimes feel like I've got skin of a 17 year old girl... yes, a spotty teenager hahahahaha!

FOTD: Avon Make Up: ANEW Lipstick in Berry Bloom

2010-05-15T13:43:00.000-07:00

Just tried to come up with a look using one of my new Avon lipsticks and my verdict to this product is... Woohoo!!! Love it! I love the colour as it's not that shocking bright red and can be worn even at work. The lipstick itself felt great on my lips! It feels really creamy and moisturising which suits my lips that easily dries when wearing lipstick

I think I can wear this lipstick everyday :)

Avon Make Up

2010-05-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

Hello again sisters!!!

Well well well!!! I hope you all are doing well. To those of you in the Philippines, let me congratulate you all for the succesful first automated election. I have been following this even in the past few months and I'm just glad that it's all over!!! Let's just hope that the new governement will start a brand new beginning for all of us. At this end, of course, I have fulfilled my duty to participate the election as well although my vote wasn't part of the automation because I had to write the candidates' names on the ballot that was sent to me. I just hope that they have been counted hahahahaha!

Anyway, I'd like to share with you guys the inexpensive beauty products that have made their way into my boudior. As I've been saying in the past post, I am tightening my belt these days because of the project I've committed myself into. It'll be worth it in the future so I'm determined to meet the deadline I've sat to complete it. Wish me luck :)

I happened to work with a lady who has started to sell Avon products at work and whilst on my break, I picked up and browse through the brochure on top of the coffee table. Just like any other brochures... the glossy pictures of the product attracted me into placing orders and try a few.

They were even having gift on offer for purchase of certain products so I thought, I'll try them too :)

Gift pack of the month consisting Advance Techniques Hair Serum, Anew Lip Plumping Conditioner, Anew Clinical Eye Lift (Upper Eye Gel/Under eye Gel) and Planet Spa African Shea Butter foot and elbow cream with AHA

My New Purchases:

Anew Clinical Thermal Face Lifting Cream

Anew Youth-Awakening Lipstick

2 Ultra Rich Mega Impact Lipstick

I love the colours!!!

Ultra Colour Rich Mega Impact Lipstick in Pink Pop

Anew Youth-Awakening Lipstick in Berry Bloom

Ultra Colour Rich Mega Impact Lipstick in Charged Cherry

Anew Clinical Eye Lift

Upper Eye Gel/Under Eye Gel

Full Size!!!

New make up purchases with generous gift indeed!!!

I'm hoping to post some photos using these products soon ;)

Watch this space!!! :D

xxx

HOUSE WARMING PARTY

2010-05-06T02:02:00.000-07:00

Hello again everyone!!!

Saturday last week (1st of May), we've had our house warming party and although it was a little stressful for bf and I, we've got through it and we've agreed that it was a successful gathering :)

I didn't really cook much as it meant to be an afternoon party started from 2pm until 6pm as I was working the next day. However, just to cover the eventualities of guests having something to eat, I cooked some lasagne (with salad) and bf cooked some chilli con carne (with rice). I've also prepared some canape with creme cheese, smoked salmon and caviar. I've also served some champagne and bucks fizz alongside beers and wine. For the kids, we've had some squash drinks and I've also ordered some pizza's (Yes, when it comes to children, you could never go wrong with Pizza Hut delivery ;)). Bf's dad baked some scones for the party as well which was very kind of him :)

As it was such a hectic day for both of us, I've not been able to take decent photos because of having to entertain guests. However, I've managed to take a few :) By the way, we had a good turn out... Over 50 of them came and enjoyed the party consisting bf's friends, a few from work and a couple of my son's school friends. With the help of bf's parents, we've managed to get our house back into a good state that although our last guests didn't leave until past 6pm, at around 7pm, we were sitting on the dining table having teas and coffees... as if nothing happened hahahahaha!

I was the first time I've hosted a party and I think for next time, I'd be able to use what I've learned from it ;) We're definitely having another one. Perhaps, a family gathering in summer :)

Some friends in the patio

Bf welcoming a couple of friends to the party and his mum shouting at me... 'Don't you dare take photo of my wrinkles!' What is she like!

I'm just glad that it didn't rain that day as guests were able to stay in the garden through out the party although for some peculiar reasons, some kids preferred to stay in my son's bedroom and turned his bed into trampoline

Love kids! :)

Lovebirds in my kitchen ;)

This bunch didn't leave my kitchen throughout the party!!!

Beauty Necessities

2010-04-26T01:30:00.000-07:00

Hello once again my gorgeous friends and sisters!!! Today, Glitz & Glamour is back with beauty post!!! Well, sort of!

As I've mentioned in my previous posts, I've been tightening my belt when it comes to buying beauty and pampering things because of a 'bigger' project that I'm saving my hard earned dosh for. I'm going to post about it in the near future. So, I've decided that I'd only go out shopping for things as I need them instead of looking at them as random retail therapies. Nowadays, it is important that I am sensible with my spending. Afterall, I'm not getting any younger. I've turned 37 this year!!! In just over 2 years, I'd be celebrating my 40th birthday... Oh my!!! As people say... 'life begins at 40' and some says... '40 is the new 30'... For me... It's only a number... It's how we feel deep inside us... Sometimes I wake up early in the morning feeling like 105... can't move and feel like my back is glued to our bed... Anyway, I'm digressing hahahahaha!

Now, let's retract... Yes... my beauty necessities...

As I've started running out of my new favourite moisturizer, Olay Regenerist daily 3 point treatment cream. I've been using this for about 3 months now and I really love it. I've tried this when it was on half price offer in Superdrug. I thought, 'well... since it's on sale and if I didn't like it, it hasn't cost me so much'... but to my pleasant surprise, it seem to have suited my skin. So when I nip in Boots and found that they were doing 3 for 2 offer on all skin care, I took advantage of the opportunity and grab 3... Yes, I saved £29.99, which I think is great!

The other beauty necessities that I needed to grab whilst I was there were my Clinique face face powders ( I use 2, Double face powder and almost powder nake up). I was glad that Clinique was on their 'Bonus time' season so I thought I might as well grab an eye make up remover to get the gift pack on offer. So I opted for take the day off make up remover.

Below are the photos of my mini haul.

The gift

Lovely packaging for a gift

Lovely eye palette with 2 mini make up brushes

My new favourite moisturizers... they were even in presentation boxes...

I can't live without eyedrops because of my dry eyes. I thought I'd try the spray one and it really is a great idea when I'm out as even with eye make up on, I can refresh my eyes without disturbing it.

Maybelline Lash Stiletto... This is the 2nd time I purchased this beauty product because of the way it suits my daily make up needs. It looks natural on my lashes and stays well too.

I found this voucher from one of the Olay Regenerist boxes

What about you? How are you finding the current economic weather? Is this affecting the way you shop for beauty and pampering stuff? If you have any beauty tips regarding to this subject such as inexpensive alternatives, I'd love to hear from you.

Till next post!!!

xxx

Our Humble Home

2010-04-23T01:15:00.000-07:00

Front of the house... I meant to place this photo after the paragraphs below but I think the webpage is playing up that it won't let me do that. Grrr!!!

Hello again everyone! I hope you all are doing well!!! Sorry for not being able to post for a very long time. Things have been too hectic for me since half of last year and even until now, I've still got loads to catch up with. Thank you all for your patience and to those of you whom I've been able to chat to on Facebook who never got fed up of telling me that you'd always be here when I get back to blogging again... thanks ever so much sisters... very much appreciated :)

Gosh! How I missed blogging so much! I've missed checking your blogs guys, I hope things will settle down eventually at my end.

Anyway... as a come back post, I thought I'd share with you one of the massive changes that has happened on my end. Yes... after nearly 4 years of dating, my bf and myself eventually decided to buy our home together... quite exciting I know ;)

Below are the photos I've taken of our very own humble home (yes, Glitz & Glamour is now a proud home owner hahahahaha!) on the beginning of spring when it was sunny and a bit warm. I had to convince my bf to give me permission to post this. My bf is very very private and want to keep it that way if he can help it. Although he eventually permitted me I've been TOLD (Yes, told! Afterall he's my lord and master ;)) that I'm not allowed to state the location of the house not that it would matter to most of you :)

So there you go... please feel free to browse through my photos below :)

The front garden. That tree is now covered in lovely pink blossom. I'll try to take photo of it later today

When we moved into the house in the middle of winter, there was no signs of life at all but when spring came, we've started seeing the garden coming back to life.

Another flower that eventually came out. I don't know what it is though

Snowdrops... they look really pretty with flowers in bloom. They seemed to have disappeared into the middle of Spring

Back of the house

The garden

Sam checking the fruits and veg he planted with my bf on a raised bed they built themselves

The garden... We've decided not to do much this summer. We'll see what comes out of it first then plan a new lay out. We'll have a green house and tool shed too. It'll be a big project for next year I think.

Blackberry tree being trained on the fence

Sam and bf checking the growth of what they've planted weeks ago... Although we've already decided that it looks like I'm the one with the 'green thumb' in the house. I'll tell you more about it in my future post :)

The raised bed... They've planted garlic, spring onions, carrots, aubergines, lettuce, pak choi (or pechay), chillies, strawberries, sweet corn and tomatoes. Not all of them grew

Primrose... a lovely flower that came out on beginning of spring as well

I don't know what this flower is called either but it's pretty hahahhahaha!

A pair of pink gardening gloves my bf's mum gave me :)

Tomatoes we've transfered into bigger pots from smaller ones. They'll be ready to be planted outside soon.

So, that's out new home and we'll be having our house warming party soon... I'll keep you posted. Oh! Before I forget... let me tell you that this is a 4 bedroom house and yes, I have my own boudior!!! I'll tell you more about it in my next post.

Till next post guys!!! xxx

Knackered!!!

2010-04-03T20:16:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone!

At last I've managed to nod off for a few hours! Although I still feel extremely knackered and wish I won't have to go to work today. My eyes are stinging and I've got a banging headache. How am I supposed to finish a long day shift at this rate? I'll probably be grumpy at work all day... I hope not!

Anyway... gotta jump in the shower as I've got about 2 hours and 15 minutes left to get ready for work. Catch up with you again soon guys! I missed reading your blogs...

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!!!

xxx

Home alone... thinking out loud

2010-04-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

It's nearly 23.00 here and I should be in a deep sleep at this time but for some peculiar reasons... I just can't. I've tried to read a book (I'm currently reading the 'Lone Survivor' by Marcus Luttrell with Patrick Robinson but the story seem to keep me awake... could it be the thought of those Navy Seals?... hmmm... Now, gotta stop it! It's not helping!) I really am desperately needing to get some sleep now but I just can't... It's crazy!!! I've to get up in about 4 and a half hours and will have to endure a long day shift at work... Grrr...!!! It's bloody frustrating! Why oh why???

To those of you who have tips you may want to share in times like this... please feel free to leave them. It might be too late now but I'm sure it'll come handy for next time. I know this won't be the last time that this happens to me

Well I suppose blogging at this time of the night won't help either so might as well turn this laptop off now and curl under my duvet...

Right... goodnight everyone and to those of you who just woke up... Have a lovely day!!! It's Sunday! Yay!!! Right... I'm off... Till next time guys!!!

xxx

ABSENCE MAKES THE HEART GROW FONDER

2010-03-18T05:06:00.000-07:00

ABSENCE MAKES THE HEART GROW FONDER... NOT!!!

Hello everyone!!!

It's been ages since my last update! I just want to let you know guys that I'm still alive and kicking! However, because of so many things that have been happening at my end, I'm not been able to post. Thank you all guys for visiting my blog although there have not been anything going on here. Hopefully, things will settle soon and when it comes, I promise you guys that you'll hear from me more often.

Take care guys... till my next post.

Loves and misses you all...

Your Gracie xxx

BRAVING THE COLD ENGLISH WINTER

2009-12-14T01:53:00.000-08:00

BRAVING THE COLD ENGLISH WINTER

Hello again everyone!!!

Yesterday was probably the first time we had the chance to do something together as a family for a quite a while since I've been working over the weekends so we made the most of it. Although it was absolutely freezing outside, we put on our warm clothing and didn't let the cold weather stop us from enjoying the day. It was bright outside early in the morning and it looked like it was going to last until al least 4 pm so I've decided that we went to Newstead Abbey (to visit Lord Byron ;)) but as the day went on, it started getting dark but still we went anyway.

I've been wanting to visit the place in the past 9 years that I've been living in the UK but everytime we planned of doing so, something has always happened... this time... we didn't plan it.

So my dearies... let me share you the photos we took yesterday.

BF and I at the Rose Garden

At the back of the beautiful Abbey

Sam and the old Cedar tree.

The Japanese Garden

Sam doing funny things again

The Rose Garden

The maze garden at the back of the Abbey

The place was absolutely gorgeous and will definitely be back next summer as I can just imagine how beautiful it is when the flowers are in bloom. I cannot believe that it took me 9 years to visit the place when it's only about 20 minutes drive from where I live. I suppose it happens... we tend to take places for granted when it is within our local area. To those of you who haven't seen the place yet, I highly recommend it whether you're on your own, with a family, with your love one (it really does look romantic)... if you're a poet or a writer who seek for an inspiration... give this place a try. Newstead Abbey can actually be accessed via public bus that can be caught at the Victoria Centre bus station in town... so there you go.

xxx

Party time!!!

2009-12-11T02:27:00.000-08:00

PARTY TIME!!!

Christmas is time to party!!! So my dear friends... here I am, sharing some photos I've taken during our staff party held last Monday night at a local venue. It was a great night although I was a great night and I'm telling you guys... nurses do know how to party unlike the stereotype saying that we are angels ;)

It was a great night started with a 3 course meal and dance all night. It was fun having to dance on the table although I was cautious as I was wearing a pair of sky scrapers. I didn't quite fancy the idea of falling on the floor specially wheb the tables were a little narrow. It really is funny seeing the other side of your colleagues. You see things you don't expect to see in them and it was hilarious!!!

For the night, I've decided to dress down... Yes, I was the only one who turned up in jeans amongst the girls but I would've not done it the other way. For the night, I wore an ASOS corsette, Jane Norman skinny jeans and my Gucci shoes (of course!). I also wore accessories from Accessorize and the bracelette sis Shen has sent me last Christmas. It was a fab night.

Below are the photos I've taken during the night...

WARNING: LOADS OF PHOTOS!!!

With my fellow Filipino nurses (Pinoy rocks!)

Strike the pose

Dancing on the stage

Dancing with Lulette on the stage

With Sister Lindsay giving me some loves!!!

With Papa Stephen! Hahahahaha!

Another one with Papa Stephen hahahaha!

Lovely Laura rocking it!!!

With Lulette

With Papa Noel. His wife will kill me!!! One of our friends commented on this photo on Facebook saying that we were preparing for Haimlick manoeuvre here. I guess she was right. Well we have to make sure that our resus skills are up to date ;)

Silly poses

Emma, Ingrid and moi!!!

Sitting pretty

With Alison dancing on the stage. That's it chick, tell exactly what you think ;)

Waiting for my food

Kate, Lulette, moi and Laura (Our ward manager)

Kate, Lulette, Charlie and Ingrid

It was a great night although I had to work the night after... never mind... someone had to work ;)

What about you guys... any exciting party for the Christmas season? I'd love to hear from you. I love parties and I love hearing (or reading)exciting stories about parties. I think that is Christmas is all about... having a blast!!!

xxx

I'M BACK!!!

2009-12-10T05:33:00.000-08:00

GLITZ & GLAMOUR IS BACK!!!

Hello everyone!!! First and foremost, let me extend my million apologies for not being able to update this blog in the past couple of months. What can I say? I've been extremely busy with work and with the purchase of our new home, which you'll hear more from me about it in the near future. House hunting is not easy I'm telling you. My boyriend and I have once spent all day viewing 12 properties and at the end of it, I was extremely exhausted. I would never want to do it again believe me. Anyway, after viewing numbers of properties, we eventually found THE ONE that we both fell in love with and we can't wait to move. We've been told that we might be moving in towards middle of next month but anything could happen so I'm not holding my breath over it hahahaha!

Anyway, I really missed blogging so much and visiting posts as well. Hopefully, things will get better for me after the Christmas season in terms of blogging.

You might be wondering what has made me decide to get back to blogging again... well well well... I thought I'd share with you a few (Yes, sis Nikki... a few!) photos taken during the Freemason Christmas party my boyfriend and I have attended last week. Please feel free to browse :)

That was me glammed up for the night ;)

Dress by Karen Millen

Shoes by Jimmy Choo but not shown in this photo because the dress was insanely long

Hair by my ever reliable hairstylist Jane who has been glamourising my hair in the past 3 years

Make up by MOI of course using my newly acquired Bare Escentual make up (I'll be posting about that soon. Watch this space)

Jewelery by John Lewis

Nails by MOI using my new Christian Dior black nail polish ;)

Anything else? Hahahahaha!

BF is cheezy grin!

Kully & Moi!

Kully & Moi with her hubby

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE AND ALL THE BEST WISHES FOR 2010!!!

XXX

ESSENTIAL SHOPPING

2009-09-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

ESSENTIAL BEAUTY SHOPPING

Hello again guys! I hope you all are doing well :)

Following my last visit back home, my priorities have changed. (Whisper... I'm determined to finish my house in the Philippines) and I need a substantial amount of dosh therefore, I'll have to earn more and spend less. Yes, you've heard it right... Gracie is thinking sensibly these days and taking on what I'd call a more mature responsibilities. Let's face it, I'm not a spring chicken and will need to start thinking about my future ;)

However, just because I have to save for a project does not mean I have to let myself go. No no no no! I still make sure that I have enough to get my beauty essential but this time, instead of going mad on shopping, I'm trying to be clever this time. Yep... beauty on a budget to the strictist meaning.

Anyway, I thought I'd share you guy a few things that I have bought recently (well, since I came back from my holiday in the Philippines).

ESTEE LAUDER: GIFT TIME!!!

As I was running out of my Perfectionist Wrinkle Lifting Serum, I thought, I wonder around town the next day I came back from holiday and found out that House of Fraser was doing Estee Lauder Gift Time. What an opportunity? so I grabbed a couple of the things that I have ran out.

I am seriously thinking or reviewing these products but at the moment, I still have a lot to catch up so maybe later...

Generous gifts

I love this moisturizer! This is the 3rd pot I got free and I use it during the day after applying the perfectionist Wrinkle Lifting Serum. It really is worth grabbing them when they have gifts on offer as it saves me a few pennies. As I do not use all the gifts, I save some of them and give them away to my family and friends everytime i visit home. What a great idea!

ESSENTIAL BEAUTY SHOPPING...

As I was running out of my body moisturizer, I thought I nip down Boots and found out that they were doing 3 for 2 offer so I thought I'd grab a few things as well. I also took that shopping trip as an opportunity to try new products to see how they are.

NEW PRODUCTS I'VE TRIED:

Neutrogena Wave

I've seen some rants on this product and I've decided to go with the flow and so far... I'm loving it!

Maybelline Pulse Perfection Vibrating Mascara

I saw this being advertised on TV and decided to give it a go. My verdict so far? I'm loving it! Probably the best Mascara I've tried so far. Now, that is a surprise!

L'Oreal Vitalift Rejuvenating Cleansing Smoothing toner

I'd love to review this in the future. This seem to be promising product for those who are keen to delay skin ageing. It's too soon for me to review this product as I've only used it for about a couple of days. However, at the moment, I'm loving it!

Does this product tick all the boxes it promised? There is a great potential!

Don't you just love trying new products specially when they give us positive result? Well, I do! What about you... have you tried any new product you would like to share? I'd love to hear from you!

TTFN!!!

SUMMER HOLIDAY

2009-09-03T23:11:00.000-07:00

SUMMER HOLIDAY

Hello Everyone!!! I hope you all are doing well.

I do apologize for my long absence. I've been extremely busy with loads of stuff but now I'm back and it really is a great feeling. Gosh! I missed blogging so much (and part of it was guilt as well ;)).

Gosh, I miss you all guys... I missed reading your blogs but hopefully, things will get better this time and I'd be able to cope with my schedules better to spend more time on myself (and that includes blogging ;)).

Anyway... I've been on a 3 weeks holiday with my son and bf in the Philippines and it has been great! I've had the chance to meet new friends and visit a few places but most of all... being able to spend time with my family specially the kids.

Going home to family on a holiday in my situation is not all about having a constant blast throughout, it's also an opportunity to address some domestic issues which I won't get into details otherwise this post will turn into a mellow dramatic one hahaha! Anyway, I'll only share you the happy part of it so no worries hahaha!

You know what? I don't know when and how to start as we've done quite a few things... Oh right... I'll tell you about it in chronological order... So, here it goes...

MEETING FELLOW BLOGGERS:

I eventually got the chance to meet Jheng, Nikki and Shen (and of course Jinxbea, but I'll get into more details about it later in this post).

Meeting Jheng, Nikki and Shen have been great! We've arranged to meet Nikki and Shen in Robinson's Place whilst I was having my manicure and pedicure with my bf at Ricky Reyes' Salon, then we ate at Dencio's then stopped for coffee to meet with Jheng. It was a lovely meeting and I've really enjoyed the whole thing. I wish we had all night and all week hahaha! I've always had the feeling that these 3 girls were fabulous and I wasn't disappointed because they were just the funniest and craziest bunch you could ever spend time with. We had a great laugh! Nikki and I have always picked on each other even before we met and it didn't stop then. It was crazy and I'd never forget the whole experience. I got presents from the girls as well and it really was very sweet of them. We planned of meeting again during my last week in Manila before flying back to the UK but unfortunately, we were not able to. Hopefully, next time. Will they be my new good friends for life? I hope so :)

INTRODUCING, TWO PRINCESSES OF MY LIFE:

As my holiday back home is always dominated by spending time with my family, I thought I'd share you the two daughters I've never had... My lovelies... meet Liberty Grace (I call her Bechay)... my now 5 months old niece... and Alleana Grace a.k.a. Yanny... my 4 year old niece. She was only 3 months old the last time I visited the Philippines.

Liberty Grace a.k.a. Bechay

Alleana Grace a.k.a. Yanny

PLACES WE VISITED:

Although I planned to post our holiday event in chronological order, unfortunately, I couldn't edit this post and everytime I try, I keep losing photos so there you go :( Sorry guys!

INTRAMUROS:

My bf has been interested about visiting Intramuros for its historical significance and so we did. As we entered the gate of Fort Santiago, we were approached by a tour guide who offered his service for 1,000 PHP fees. As it was also my first time in the place although I attended Lyceum Univeristy some years ago, I just have never had any chance of exploring the area. Anyway, we took George's (the tour guide) offer and off we went. I don't think it was a great idea that we went for it because we barely understood what he was on about but we felt rude having him repeat everything he said so we just smiled. We then went back to places we went through the tour when George eventually left us. In the middle of the tour I just felt like giving him the money and get off the carriage hahahaha!

Neil with one of the guards. In this building, George played piano and sang a song (quite badly hahaha!) I hope he does not see this blog.

Neil with Douglas McArthur

JOSE RIZAL SHRINE, CALAMBA, LAGUNA

My bf has also been interested about the Philippine National Hero, Jose Rizal that we went to see the place. This was also an opportunity to meet up with another blogger, Jinxbea and her family.

Jinxbea's kids and Sam

A play house where Jose Rizal and his sisters played as children.

The house where Jose Rizal was born and raised. I would have loved to see what it was like before it was restored.

Sam with my sister, ate Glean

Jinxbea and I

Sam with the statue of Jose Rizal as a boy

Jinxbea's little boy, LA

LA... A very obedient boy indeed when I asked him to do the Japorm pose for me hahaha!

LEYTE SAMAR BEACH RESORT:

We went to the beach resort whilst we were in the province with my 2 high schoold friends.

My high school friends, Aileen and Eunice May

SAN JUANICO BRIDGE:

MALL OF ASIA... Apparently the current largest shopping mall in Asia

Wanting to enjoy the beautiful sunset in Manila Bay, we ended up in Mall of Asia.

TAGAYTAY:

Meeting with Jinxbea and her family was as opportunity not only to visit the Jose Rizal Shrine but also to visit Tagaytay. We ended up the trip at Alabang shopping mall.

That was our summer holiday and now I'm back to work... back to reality hahaha!

Till next time guys!!! I've got loads of catching up to do...

GREETINGS!!!

2009-07-21T00:38:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY BABY SAM!!!

11 years ago, at exactly 04.18 a gorgeous baby boy was born. although he was born 3 weeks premature, he turned out to be a healthy bouncing baby although tiny at 7.5 pounds. One of the happiest days of my life ever.

Today, is his 11th birthday and it starts to worry me becaues he seem to be growing up so quick! I don't think I'd ever let go of him as my baby so we had a pact that even when he's 90 years old, he will always be my baby. Although I try to be 'a cool mummy', he always say that I'm a great one but he's not sure about being 'cool'. I blame it on the time when I had to tell him off for doing things he knew he should've not done.

Being mum is the best job in the world no matter how tricky and challenging. I feel ever so lucky to have been gifted such a beautiful, loving, affectionate, clever, caring son. When were together, we tell each other 'I love you' several times a day. Sometimes when I'm busy on my housework, he comes to me to tell me how much he loves me and gives a kiss on my cheeks!... something I'll miss when he grows up and leaves home eventually.

Nearly everyday, I look at his old photos both on my pc and photo albums, and just looking how much he has grown puts a smile on my face. Being a single mum in a foriegn land, no matter how hard things got for me, the thought that I've got a beautiful son I love so dearly makes every effort worth while.

To my dear Sammy, I just want to greet you a happy happy birthday and I wish you all the best the world has to offer. As your mum, never forget, I'd always be here for you and there is nothing I wouldn't do to give you the best that i could. I love you baby! You will always be my baby.

So, today my friends, let me share with you a few photos I have randomly picked and posted. I'm sure that there are some proud parents out there like myself and my message to all of you is never to stop telling your children you love them... it really mean so much!!!

This photo was taken for the Evening Post. He has also been featured on BBC regional news but I left the video file on my old laptop I gave my sister 3 years ago. Typical!

Sam on red vroom vroom!!!

Sam at 11 months old

Grumpy Sam when he was 1 year and a half. The studio was dark and hot... he hated it!

Sam in the Lake District... One of my favourite photos of his.

A few minutes after he was born. I wish I was there to see when this was being done... I was left in the delivery room with my OB Gyne. My sister was there though and she managed to take great photos. Camera was part of my baby suitcase, would you believe that?

Sam on his Christening... How many 21 days baby you know who can cut their own cake? Clever eh? There was I, looking... well... healthy!

At friend's Christening we attended. That little girl wouldn't leave Sam alone even during the reception.

Finally, Sam practicing to be a graduant. Taken during my graduation day.

SCARLET AND POST ACNE TREATMENT FOTD

2009-07-05T23:27:00.000-07:00

SCARLET AND POST ACNE TREATMENT FOTD

Hello once again!!! :)

What can I tell you? Well, let me start with this one...

I truly am happy and excited about the result that I continue to get in terms of treating my spots that has been a great agony for about 5 days (as mentioned previously on my older post). Now, I won't have to worry about it (touch wood!)

I jsut thought I'd share with you a post treatment FOTD to show you how much it has cleared my skin in 2-3 weeks after starting with the treatment.

Scarlet by Estee Lauder

I love this lipstick!

I've used my old Clinique eye palette in Spice to create my neautral eye make up

Spots all gone!!! Woo hooo!!!!

I've already got a few red lipstick but I'm still on my mission to find a red one with a hint of orange in it. Suggestions anyone? It'll be much appreciated... Cheers!!!

TTFN!!!

MORE ESTEE LAUDER

2009-07-05T23:04:00.000-07:00

ESTEE LAUDER MINI HAUL

Hello again guys!

On my way home after dropping my little boy at school, I popped in Boots to grab some body moisturizers and my eyedrops when I noticed that Estee Lauder was offering gifts again! So I went to the counter and grabbed couple of items to get the gift. Well, not that I'm sort of beauty addict in a budget, I might as well take the opportunity to grab a few freebies. No, it wasn't an excuse to shop, I really need them ;)

The beauty consultant was wering this and I was like... 'I want, I want, I want!!!

This is a great stuff!

My fabulous gift and purchases

Gorgeous!!!

I love this too! It's a generous size for a gift at 15ml

Beautiful colours of lip palette

Pretty stuff

ZINERYT: ANTI ACNE TREATMENT

2009-07-05T22:35:00.000-07:00

ZINERYT: ANTI-ACNE TREAMENT

Hello again guys! I hope you all had a great weekend :)

I thought I'd share with you a great anti-acne treament that I have discoverd because it really worked for me and what more? It never stopped me from wearing my make up throughout the treatment. For those of you who have acne prone skin, I hope this post will help.

About 2-3 weeks ago, I piggest out on chocolates (really, I ate the whole 230g of Cadburry's whole nut chocolate on one go and after a very short while, the left side of my forehead down my temple started tingling it was covered in inflamed spots. I was nearly crying because I just couldn't stand that pulsating pain that my spots caused me. So straight away, I phoned my GP who wasn't able to see me until 5 days later. As you can imagine, I was in complete agony for 5 days. Not only that it looked hideous but it really was darn painful! My bf shouted at me for pigging out on chocolate and ruining my skin. He said that I spend a fortune on skin care just to ruin it by binging on chocolates so I'm banned from it at the moment and can only have a little when there are occasions. A girl without chocolate? How am I gonna cope with that? The fact is; now that I'm banned from chocolates, I crave for it even more. Grrrrr!

Anyway, as I saw my GP, he prescribed me Zineryt and it really is a miracle worker. It contains antibiotics (Erythromycin), which accelerates the treatment process and although it stings a bit when I use it (I still use it now everytime I feel that there's one coming). The thing is, if you start using this, you have to continue using it for 7 days even if the spots have gone, just to make sure that the microbes don't build resistance against this antibiotics. One bottle of this treatment can be used for 21 days only and after that, you have to discard it even if it still contains some.

A great miracle worker!

This photo was taken whilst I was going through treatment. Some of the spots have calm down and managed to cover them with make up.

If you have acne prone skin like mine, you might ask your doctor to prescribe this to you. If you haven't tried it yet, it might work for you the way it did for me. I hope this helps.

TTFN!!!

ESTEE LAUDER HAUL

2009-07-02T04:49:00.000-07:00

ESTEE LAUDER HAUL

Hello guys!!! I hope you all are having fabulous summer. It has been hot where I am for the past few weeks now and it's getting a little too much for me. Working in the middle of hot weather has been a little comfortable whether working during the day or night. As much as I am extremely excited about going back to the Philippines to see my family and friends, I am also dreading the fact that it is going to be very very hot. I remember going to Orlando, Florida in August 2004 where I ended up crying on the gutter whilst we were queuing to get on one of the rides in the Enchanted Kingdom. I cried like a baby because it was too hot for me and believe me, it wasn't a pretty sight... I was soooo embarassed!

Anyway, enough of me moaning... let's get on with this thing ;) Well... well... well... I can't tell you how excited I am about posting these products. I absolutely adore them and I've been so excited about sharing them to you in the past month that I have not posted. Sorry about that guys...

As I have mentioned on one of my older posts, I have been looking for a lifting serum that I could use as an alternative to my La Mer Lifting Face Serum and guess what I found...! Advanced Night Repair Protective Recovery Complex by Estee Lauder. Although I've been seeing this for a while in shops and has been getting this with my previous Estee Lauder purchases where I got gift packs, I've never thought of trying it out until I read on my beauty mag a recommendation... Apparently, according to Anastacia Achillos, who's perfected Gwyneth Paltrow's skin, "This radiance-booster is legendary among skincare addicts as you get instant results". As some of you who have read my previous post, you probably have already worked out that I'm mad about skincare. So, I raided a few vanity bags where I stuff all the cosmetic items that I don't use and found a few 7ml bottles. A 7ml bottle lasted me over a week and used it both morning and night time. Really is a great value and I was amazed with the result. I'm not saying that this is as good as La Mer Face Lifting Serum but for the price, which is about 3x more expensive than Advanced Night Repair, there is a competition. I'll be reviewing this soon. Please bear with me :)

Anyway, please feel free to browse through my little haul :)

I use this during the night after cleansing my face with La Mer Tonic and before applying my moisturizer. Apparently, our skin repairs from 11pm antil 3am and this suppose to accelerate that process according to the beauty consultant at the Estee Lauder couter.

I use this during the day after cleansing my face and before applying my moisturizer. I love the velvet feeling that I get as I apply my moisturizer on top of this.

My ever generous gift pack

My new skincare potions plus gifts ;)

As I'm running out of my Creme de la Mer face moisturizer, I thought I'd try their Time Zone and Advanced Night Repair Eye Recovery Complex to replace my La Mer Eye concentrate. I will be reviewing these products in the near future too... Promise! :) xxx

Till next post... TTFN...!

EDINBURGH TRIP

2009-07-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

EDINBURGH TRIP (3rd Anniversary Celebration)

Hello everyone!!! Gosh!!! I missed you all! I missed blogging! I'm absolutely sorry for not being able to update my blog for over a month. I could hardly believe it myself! Anyway, it's nice to be back!!!

As a come back post, I thought I'd share with you our 3 nights trip to Edinburgh to celebrate our 3rd anniversary (3 years! Phew!)

Glitz & Glamour takes you to the magnificent Edinburgh this time.

Are you sitting comfortably? ;)

Edinburgh... What can I tell yo about the city? No, the right question would be... Where and how do i start telling you about Edinburgh?

Well, Edinburgh is a beautiful city and I was amazed on how everything looked... how the buildings looked... being old and yet pristine! The simplest way that I could describe the city is that... it is an old city built in beautiful architecture of bricks and steps. I'm not very good with steps, I'm telling you and the trip made me realize how unfit I am.

We spent the whole trip walking around random places... we didn't use maps or anything... instead we explored the place with open mind and it really was a great thrill for both of us even with the fact that my bf worked there for a few months in the past.

The Photos... Warning!!! I thought the photos came out fab and I couldn't decide which ones to post so I've decided to post most of them. Please feel free to browse through...

The Scottish Parliament...

As we walked down the road from a small cafe where we grabbed teas and cakes, we came across this and I thought it looked unusual compared to other buildings. My bf told me that it might have been the Scottish Parliament and the the only way to find out was to walk in front of it (Yep, nothing to indicate which building it was until we reached the front of it).

The Scottish Parliament...

This was one of the sides of the buliding as we walked towards the front.

Mother Earth Museum...

We didn't bother having a look inside as it was getting late

Some fit blokes in uniform ;)

My bf said this was the Scottish equivalent of the Wesminster in England (Did I get it right? Oh, I've been getting things wrong these days)

The Scottish Parliament...

The front of the building... It turned out to be an over budget building that that media has gone gaga at some points

We didn't bother going in either as the security looked really tight (not that we were carrying anything, it was just running late for us)

Shop where you could find replicas of the royalty stuff you'll find at the Buckingham Palace. I was going to get a tub of hand cream but it wasn't as nice as I thought it was going to be. No shopping for me this time

Holyrood House Palace...

The official Scottish residence of Her Majesty The Queen

Bloke in Kilt...

This is for you sis Nikki! Sorry sis, I didn't see any fitter bloke in kilt. I threw in a bagpipe for you as well sis hahahahaha!

Edinburgh Castle

Me looking scruffy after over 4 hours of travelling in a train

My honeybunch! ;)

FREEDOM!!!!!!!! Yeah, I'm doing the Braveheart bit ;)

Taken from Starbucks Cafe whilst we stopped for refreshments

Taken from the Art Gallery's restaurant whilst we grabbed some lunch before heading back home. We've been lucky that the 3 days we've been in Edinburgh has been bright, warm and sunny until the last day when it started raining.

I hope you've enjoyed the photos... till next time!

FOTD: PURPLE

2009-05-30T23:32:00.000-07:00

FOTD: PURPLE

I have been inspired by the beautiful English summer that I tried to come up with brighter make up hopefully saying goodbye to gloomy winter... At the moment, I'm going through a rough time and I could do with cheering up hence brighter make up... bring on the colours!

Sorry for the disappointment... when I said bright and colours... I didn't mean those kind of bright ones ;)

Just a simple purple look really :)

Sorry guys... I thought my blogging mojo is back but I miserably failed! Waaaaahhhhh!!!!

Anyway dearies... promise, I'm going to edit or re publish this to include the make up and tools that I've used.

Please bear with me... for now... I have to mend 2 broken hearts

Muah to all of you guys!

CLINIQUE BONUS TIME!!!

2009-05-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

CLINIQUE BONUS TIME!!!

Hello guys! Great to see you here again!... and welcome to those of you who are visiting my blog for the first time :)

Anyway, today, I thought I'd share with you my recent Clinique purchase... well, nothing much exciting about my purchases because I must have already posted those products many times in the past year. As some of you have probably worked it out... I'm a sucker for Clinique pressed powder that I do hoard them... of course... everytime there are free gifts on the table hahahahahaha! Well, duh! It's recession! We beauty followers will have to be clever at financial weather like this ;)

Anyway... feel free to browse through my new stuff ;)

My purchases:

Superpowder double matte pressed powder... the best I've ever tried and been using them for about 15 years now.

Repairwear intensive lip treatment... I keep this in my pocket for quick lip refreshment and rehydration specially when I'm working.

My gift and my purchases

Gift included:

Make Up Bag

7 Day Scrub Cream Rinse 50ml

Butter Shine Lipstick 3.4g

Superdefense SPF 25 Age Defense Moisturizer 15ml

True Bronze Pressed Powder Bronzer 1.8g

Colour Surge Eye Shadow Dou 1.2g

Clinique Picnic Mat

For a third purchase (but has to be a skin care), I got this gorgeous picnic mat that can be carried around like a bag. Great for summer picnic in park. Anyone wants to join me?

Up Lighting Liquid Illuminator... this poor thing rolled down the floor unnoticed so it wasn't included on the photo shoots hahahahahaha! Never mind... it has it's own special place although it does look lonely on its own hahahahahaha! It has now been reunited with the rest ;)

Been hauling lately? I don't blame you! Hahahahahaha!

TTFN!!!

CHRISTIAN DIOR

2009-05-30T08:05:00.000-07:00

JEWEL: CHRISTIAN DIOR

Last month, I got my second £50 (80.92 USD/3,812 PHP) worth voucher from Flannels (my favourite designer shop ;)). I originally planned to use it against a pair of shoes but the pair I wanted didn't materialize so I ended up using it on a pair of earings instead.

The good thing about Flannels is that when you spend £1,000 (1,618 USD/76,812 PHP), you'll get £50 worth voucher. I think it is a good deal, don't you? The earings were originally priced at £120 (194 USD/9,150 PHP)... so at the end... they cost me £70... bargain or what?

Anyway, I thought I'd share with you my new pair of earings... they really are sweet and I love them to bits! I wear them to work hahahahahaha!

Silver with Swarovski crystals

That's all from me for now... catch you again soon guys!!!

I'M BACK!!!

2009-05-21T07:11:00.000-07:00

I'M BACK!!!

Hello you my gorgeous friends!!! Did you miss me? I surely missed you guys!!! What can I say? I'm soooo glad to be back. I've missed blogging so much and I could never be any happier that my internet connection have been sorted. I've been browsing some of your posts and oh my... I've got loads to catch up, I'm telling ya! I thought it was going to take a lot longer to resolve my internet problems but I'm glad it, it has been surprisingly quick... so here I am... back to blogging :)

Anyway, being 'the' come back kid... ;)... I thought I'd throw in a post of one of my latest purchases although I got these ones before my internet connection became a big pain in the...

As some of you probably know, I've been some kind of a La Mer lady since February this year and I'm getting so into them that eventhough the prices a bit steep (specially with the current economic condition), this is probably something I would want to be carry on using. In my economic status, I'd say that it was expensive to get the whole line to start with but now that I only have eto buy the items that I'm running out, it's not so heavy on the budget anymore.

Below are the 2 items that I bought plus a gift :D

The Tonic, The Mist and The Body Refiner (The latest Product)

The Tonic

This is my second bottle and I really love it. It feels so gentle on my face and it is very very refreshing specially after removing my make up. It gives that instant boost of fresh feeling every after wash.

The Mist

Although this is my 3rd bottle, I don't remember posting this. I've had many purchases that I never get the chance to post because I just haven't found time to do it. Hopefully, I'd be more diligent in the future hahahahaha!

~~~oOo~~~

+++ JUST A QUICK AND BRIEF REVIEW +++

~~~oOo~~~

I love this facial mist because it has got a very very delicate scent and gives me that great refreshed feelings everytime I spray my face with it. I love this specially when I'm on night shift and wanting to stay up all night... a couple of spray twice during my entire shift does make the difference.

~~~oOo~~~

What does The Mist claims?

~~~oOo~~~

'The highly charged waters in this refreshing mist help heal, hydrate and rebalance even the driest complexions. The Mist creates a special negative ion-rich environment that instantly shift skin's energy level, visibly uplifting and reviving lethargic skin. A live internal magnet continually recharges the ingredients to maintain their optimum potency. Marine and botanical extracts soothe surface irritations and gently relax dry lines to restore skin's appearance. The Mist is indispensable after exposure to sun, wind or other dehydrating conditions, and also recommended for men after shaving.'

~~~oOo~~~

I think you've already worked that out that I love this product and has been in my hand bag wherever I go. It simply is a wonderful product to have and if you haven't tried this out yet... I think it's about the right time to do it ;)

The Body Refiner

~~~oOo~~~

I bought this when we went to London to celebrate my 36th birthday and I really love it.

~~~oOo~~~

That's all from me for now guys and I look forward to publishing my next post. Take care you guys... It's nice to be back... I missed you all!!!

APOLOGIES

2009-05-13T06:11:00.000-07:00

APOLOGIES

Hello guys!!! I just thought that it's only right that I apologize to you all for not being able update my blogs in the coming few weeks.

I have been having problem with my internet connection with having to move on temporary accommodation. I am currently using a mobile broadband and it feels like moving to that hideous 56K modem (those of you who can remember using it about 10 years ago will know exactly what it's like). I'm hoping that this problem could be resolved soon so I can get on with my non-stop blogging (alright, I'm exagerrated that bit). I just got a warning of failure as we speak so I'm not even sure now if this would publish (Bloody thing!).

Anyway, as this is already starting to get on my nerves... I have to say bye bye for now. Please bear with me. I'll have more stuff to share when I eventually made it back to un-interrupted publishing ;)

Love you guys and I will surely miss you all.

Take care all of you and stay pretty.

Loadsa luvs...

Your ever Glitzy (ish) & Glamourous (ish)...

Gracie xxx

Muah!!!

CLINIQUE BONUS TIME

2009-05-09T08:54:00.000-07:00

CLINIQUE BONUS TIME

A leaflet came through my letter box this morning and look at this free goodies we can avail starting next week!

It even included a sample of the Superdefense Moisturizer. It's got SPF 25 element in it which is great for summer :)

Not as generous as what we saw in London the last time we were there but I guess, even them, they're also feeling the credit crunch hence the limited gift items.

I'd definitely be going to take advantage of this opportunity to grab free goodies since I'm running out of my ever reliable pressed powder ;)

Have a great weekend everyone and stay pretty!!!

TAG TIME

2009-05-09T01:38:00.000-07:00

TAG TIME: UNRETOUCHED PHOTO

Rule: Take a picture of yourself RIGHT NOW. No pimping or preparing. Load the picture onto your blog. Tag some people to play.

I guess I wasn't so unlucky to get this tag because I was quite made up when I got it hahahahaha! You think you'll catch me without make up huh! As you can see... I get myself ready first before tidying up...hence the untidy background and if you notice, I have a few clothes that needed ironing as well.

I had to crop this photo though because the place was a right mess... that's what you get when you've got a 10 year old boy (yeah, it's nice to have someone to blame hahahaha!)

I was just about to start tidying up my living room and ironing our clothes and linen when I turned my pc on check my blog when I got the tag... so I took this photo.

Now, I'm tagging...

Shen! Sorry sis... it looks like everyone else have been tagged :( Luv ya sis!

TAG TIME

2009-05-07T04:56:00.000-07:00

FRIENDSHIP GOES BEYOND BLOGGING

Thank you very much Kristine for nominating me... very much appreciated :)

~~~oOo~~~

I have mentioned many times on my previous posts how I've met many beauty bloggers and connected with them. It really is a great feeling knowing that we're not alone in our addiction to make up and other forms of vanity. It's great to know that this form of addiction is now being embraced by millions of women and we are now able to express this freely. I've once thought that vanity is something very personal and it's something that I would never share publicly. However, when I discovered beauty blogging through Jheng I found out that it's amazing how things are done through blogging. I just love the way women share beauty tips and tricks and I must say, I have learned a lot... so thank you guys!

~~~oOo~~~

The rules are:
1. Take your award here.
2. Put the logo on your post.
3. Link the person who awarded you.
4. Nominate at least 7 other bloggers.
5. Add the links of those bloggers on yours.
6. Leave a message for your nominees.

~~~oOo~~~

My nominees are..

Jheng I met Jheng through Friendster and her link to her blog site posted on her profile gave birth to Glitz & Glamour, which is now nearly 14 months old :). I've had such a great connection with Jheng. I treat her like my baby sister alongside a couple more bloggers.

~~~oOo~~~

Nikki I met Nikki through blogging. It was her posts of make up tutorials, products reviews, beauty tips and other useful information she posts that got me connected to her... and then... through YM... we bonded like real sisters. We chat like we've known each other forever :)

~~~oOo~~~

Shen I met Shen through blogging as well. It was her glamourus side that got me tapped to her blog then we've started chatting on YM and found out that we have so much in common (I'm talking about vanity and all that jazz hahahahaha). We could talk about vanity like there's no tomorrow hahahahaha! I can't wait to see you guys in person eventually. Only 2 more months!

~~~oOo~~~

Jinxbea I met this lovely and really sweet person through blogging as well and just like the above dearies I have named... we have also been bonding on YM. We chat about different things... make up... being mums... being us... and everything else that our imagination ventures hahahahaha!

~~~oOo~~~

Mhean Meeting Mhean through blogging was exciting! She's addicted to MAC products so if you want to know anything new about MAC... check her blog and you can start by clicking on her name... right... now!

~~~oOo~~~

Kristine I met Kristine through beauty blogging as well and I've got a feeling that there might be exciting happening for our families in the future hahahahaha! Am I keeping you puzzled now sis? Hahahahaha! Think about it ;)

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Whitz Just like everyone else, I met this goegeous young lady through blogging as well. She always provide her readers exciting posts including FOTDs and gorgeous stuff. I love reading her posts as well and most of all... I love her.... hmmmm..... You know what I'm talking about Whitz hahahahahaha!

~~~oOo~~~

Cris I also met this sweet and lovely beauty through blogging. She's ever so sweet and you could feel that through reading her posts. She could be everyone's baby sister... she's such a sweet darling! :)

~~~oOo~~~

Please click on the nominated bloggers to get connected to their respective links

NIGHT OUT

2009-05-04T12:18:00.000-07:00

GLITZ & GLAMOUR ON A NIGHT OUT

Last Saturday night, I had the chance to enjoy a good night out once again. I don't got out that often as I feel that I'm getting too old for that. However, it was the night that I can't really miss specially when it was me who suggested the date to celebrate the first wages of two of our new colleagues (you know what it likes when you've just qualified and on your first job... first pay is definitely something to celebrate ;)).

Anyway as not all of could attend the party because we cannot afford to leave the ward without staff in it, it was nice as most of us who were off that night turned up.

Although I've only managed to take a few photos of the night, I thought I might as well share them with you guys ;)

Me at Sinatra's grabbing dinner to line that tummy up before hitting booze!

Me again!

Another one of me!

Oh! Another one of me!

Guess what... It's me again!

Paul and I. Paul and I attended the same class when we took Access to Nursing course at college before hitting the university :)

Sister Lindsay, me! Lovely Lauren and Paul

Alisson, leia and Sarah

I hope they were not talking about work

Lovely Lauren... shame she had to leave early because apparently, she was not in the mood. Makes me wonder... 'how can anyone not be in the mood looking like that?' I'm convinced she's had other agenda ;)

Michelle's tatoos made me cringe... Ouch! I wondered how people in town knew her name... It was tattoed on the back of her neck... hardly a rocket science hahahahaha!

The last photo I took on the night. This was just sooo cruel! Exactly what Luke said when I showed him the photo on my phone cam... 'Hahahahahaha! That looks funny! Hey, wait! That's my back!'

Poor Luke!

~~~oOo~~~

The night was great... Neil and I had a great laugh although we didn't get the chance to have our photo (together) taken. One time, we were sipping our drinks whilst looking at people passing by the window when a group young girls dress up in Moulin Rouge outfit stopped and posed but I took my phone out late to take a shoot. I can't believe the girls wear on night out now a days... There was a group of girls who wore knickers topped with see-through tutus... that freaked me out!

~~~oOo~~~

Oh, yeah! When I woke up the next morning... no hangover! I drunk my favourite Jack Daniel and coke all night... didn't mix my drinks and managed to stay away from Rose wine... It's lethal as I just keep drinking the thing without realizing I've had more than i can handle hahahahaha! Not such a good idea.

~~~oOo~~~

What about you... any crazy night out lately?

Mine wasn't that crazy because I've managed to end the night with my dignity intact ;)

CREDIT CRUNCH BEAUTY REMEDY

2009-05-02T00:12:00.000-07:00

GLITZ & GLAMOUR CREDIT CRUNCH REMEDY

Last month, I was trying to find something that I could use as an alternative to my pricey Creme de la Mer Lifting Serum when I came across Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate. The product looked promising so I've decided to grab one.

GENIFIQUE YOUTH ACTIVATING CONCENTRATE

WHAT THIS PRODUCT CLAIM?

' Major scientific descovery: Skin's youth is characterised by the presence of certain proteins on the skin surfacee which are the result of gene expression.'

'For the 1st time from Lancome: Genifique helps promote an environment more characteristics of youthful skin, to leave skin looking younger. The proteins that are specific to young skin increase.*'

'Drop by drop, skin is refind and re-illuminated, as if infused with life. In just 8 weeks, regain the signature of younger looking skin.'

'Apply daily, morning and evening, before regular skin routine.'

REGENERGIE MORPHOLIFT R.A.R.E.

What this product claim:

'Inspired by the latest facial lifting techniques, Lancome introduce Renergie Morpholift R.A.R.E. technology. Enriched with unique oligopeptides the R.A.R.E. range combats the sign of aging by better defining the skin's contours, for natural-feeling lifting effect. Wrinkles appear visibly reduce, and the skin is left feeling firmer and smoother.'

'Inspired by the structure of the skin's natural support network, the patented NEXTENSE complex combines different fibres to imitate the framework of the skin's surface for an intense, yet natural-feeling lifting effect. Immidiately, skin is firmer and smoother, and wrinkles appear visibly reduced.'

GLITZ & GLAMOUR VERDICT:

After using these products for a week, I have noticed that they have undone the improvement that the La Mer Lifting Serum has given me. They literally took the radiance that my skin had in the past 8 weeks of using the range of La Mer skin care that I use. although I carried on using my other La Mer skin care products minus the Lifting serum replacing it with the above 2 products, I felt that my skin was going back to its state before I started La Mer and I found it alarming that I stopped using them and get back to my La Mer lifting serum. They just didn't work for me.

Will I purchase these products again?

God no! I've already promised to give these products to a friend for her to try.

GRACIE'S RECOMMENDATION:

Before buying this product, try the sample first because although it is not as expensive as Creme de La Mer, it is still a bit pricey at over £50 GBP. The clinical trial that Lancome has conducted on these product came out with positive results so... who knows? This might be the right product for you.

Have a great weekend everyone and... oh yeah...!

Just watching Skynews and there's an update on Pacquio V Hatton match tonight... they've done the weighing and Pacqiao is slightly under the weight limit whilst Hatton is bang on the limit. Does this mean that our Pacqiao is on disadvantage for this match. It will be decided tonight so... tune in!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE AND GOODLUCK TO RICKY AND MANNY!!!

TTFN!!!