I've been hearing about this Galleon trade inspired restaurant for a while now and while Manila de Acapulco aka Madeca's buzz has died down in 2018, they're still going strong as evidenced by their newest branch at Serendra.
An any-time-of-the-day kind of joint this Fil-Mex restaurant initially caught my eye because of its vibrant branding. The logo, menu, interiors and prints SCREAM fun. But like clean-contemporary-modern-fun.
I went for the most typical fare : Spinach and Mushroom Quesadillas with Mojitos (adult excuse: because it was happy hour.).
The dish as simple as it is, was done well and did not disappoint. The Mojitos were really tasty too. I believe they were dalandan? I forgot.
Mushroom and Spinach quesadillas. Look at that CHEESE melt.
Yummy Mojito! My favorite. Well...one of.
If you're wondering about the staff, they were nice and accommodating which is a huge thing for me. If the staff are irate and make known they'd rather be anywhere else but there (you know that ones) I won't waste another breath at the area. #ByeForever
Inspired by the Galleon trade, this affordable and reasonably priced resto is a good bet for a quick bite without resorting to the usual fast food.
Have you tried this? Any favorite Mexican restaurants? I've tried El Chupacabra and their sister restaurant which also serve mexican fares. Might just visit Madeca's Serendra branch. :)
xx,
CJ
PS. Taco Bell is pretty good though so no hate for them
PPS.I visited Madeca a year ago or so but I figure this review is still good. Hehe
PPPS.Yes. Yes. My nail is dirty in that cover photo. IDGAF
MADECA
An any-time-of-the-day kind of joint this Fil-Mex restaurant initially caught my eye because of its vibrant branding. The logo, menu, interiors and prints SCREAM fun. But like clean-contemporary-modern-fun.
Madeca, The Podium branch
I went for the most typical fare : Spinach and Mushroom Quesadillas with Mojitos (adult excuse: because it was happy hour.).
The dish as simple as it is, was done well and did not disappoint. The Mojitos were really tasty too. I believe they were dalandan? I forgot.
Mushroom and Spinach quesadillas. Look at that CHEESE melt.
Yummy Mojito! My favorite. Well...one of.
If you're wondering about the staff, they were nice and accommodating which is a huge thing for me. If the staff are irate and make known they'd rather be anywhere else but there (you know that ones) I won't waste another breath at the area. #ByeForever
Inspired by the Galleon trade, this affordable and reasonably priced resto is a good bet for a quick bite without resorting to the usual fast food.
Have you tried this? Any favorite Mexican restaurants? I've tried El Chupacabra and their sister restaurant which also serve mexican fares. Might just visit Madeca's Serendra branch. :)
xx,
CJ
PS. Taco Bell is pretty good though so no hate for them
PPS.I visited Madeca a year ago or so but I figure this review is still good. Hehe
PPPS.Yes. Yes. My nail is dirty in that cover photo. IDGAF
MADECA
The Podium, 12 ADV Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, 1550 Metro Manila
Serendra Piazza, Bonifacio Global City (BGC)
https://www.facebook.com/pg/madecafood
https://www.facebook.com/pg/madecafood
You know the feeling when you've stumbled on a deal that's just too good to pass up? Same. Add in the fact that it's Korean food from a newly opened restaurant and that it's P99 with unlimited side dishes. *breathing heavily*
Jin Joo Korean Grill at Eastwood has been teasing people local to the area (usually office workers) for the longest time, waiting for it to finally open its doors. Last Feb 23rd, Friday, we were finally graced with their official presence. And with Metrodeal offering P99 Samgyeopsal (yes imma repeat it) with unlimited side dishes for two people, I didn't hesitate.
Despite calling ahead and reserving, there was a mishap with the number of people who dropped in without reservations so we ended up waiting an additional 30-40 minutes. The front of the house/hostess was and courteous enough to relay what transpired.
Upon entering you're bombarded with color. From quirky murals, framed art, bright neon signs and mod styled furnishings to wooden tables and seats and soft couches- -it's a feast for the eyes. I found it extremely pleasing. The over-all vibe was very colorful. Very youthful. And extremely instragrammable. Every. Single. Corner.
We had a peek of the menu and just ordered one bowl of rice. Ordering is easy if ever the set wasn't enough, but it was more than enough (I don't usually eat rice plus unli sidedishes. Hello.)
2 moderately thin slabs of pork were served along with 6 side dishes and a handful of lettuce.
Note: Rice isn't included so better buy a bowl or two. Pork + (small basket of) Lettuce + Sidedishes are the only inclusions.
Note: Rice isn't included so better buy a bowl or two. Pork + (small basket of) Lettuce + Sidedishes are the only inclusions.
I thoroughly enjoyed the sidedishes, especially the picked radishes, kimchi (duh) and tofu + bean sprout.
According to the servers, you can only use the grill on the table if you order and additional set otherwise they will grill the orders in the kitchen.
The pork wasn't the most lovingly grilled. Despite the nice looking char marks, these tasted bitter because some parts turned out burnt and the meat itself was a little tough. On another note, great looking plates.
Would I come back? Maybe. Was the set worth it? Yes, for the delicious sidedishes. If not for the tough and charred meat the whole experience would be a 10/10, for sure.
Have you tried Jin Joo? Do you like Korean grills in general? We have quite a few here in Manila don't we?
xx,
CJ
PS. Their side dishes change every day according to one of the servers I asked.
Following my previous liquid lipstick review here , I'm coming at you with another liquid lipstick review. This time from Ever Bilena.
If you're a beauty lover you'd probably have or have owned an EB Matte Lipstick at least once. You know those OG squarish black-tubed lipsticks that smelled like wax (and sort-of like 'old lady' makeup) from their main line. They were truly matte and CHEAP.
I had one in Mauvey and well...Mauvey. I felt like that was the safest 'blind-buy' colour before, but that was before my obsession with deep dark wine, reds, warm nudes and roses came in to play.
So take that well beloved OG lipstick and put them in the preferred formula today( liquid format) ét voila. We have the EB Liquid Matte Lipsticks.
Read on for my thoughts and swatches about this DELICIOUS smelling, LIGHT-as-a-feather and SUPERBLY pigmented liquid lipstick.
Here it is dried down. The colour dried-down has darkened very slightly.
I purchased five colours that I know would work well for me and that I can actually wear on more than one occasion.
Bare lips.
Packaging | Consistency | Application
Right off the bat, I like that it's just a simple clear tube so you can see the inside and the standard doe-foot applicator. Having tags of the shade on the top of the tube as well as the bottom is a great touch.
As you open the tube you do get a whiff of something sweet but not overpoweringly so. Something like cupcakes? Pulling the wand you can immediately tell it's very liquid-ey. As such the application is smooth and tug-free leaving an even application of colour. Some colours like the Vamp Red, need at least two swipes to make the colour on your lips even. Matte lovers rejoice because this dries to a powdery matte finish that's transfer-proof.
Sexy Nude a peachy salmon colour.
Siennas as an warm light orangey brick.
Wear time | Formula
If you wet your lips with water (anything non oily) it does get slightly tacky and very slightly separates. I've noticed that while using Careline's formula as well. But it didn't crumble and my lips didn't look like the Sahara desert. It was still comfortable enough for me to wear all throughout the day.
Plus I didn't have to worry about it bleeding, moving around and crumbling like I have colored polvoron on my lips.
Toast of New York a warm milk chocolate with red tones.
Vamp Red - A cool-toned red.
Price : 195
Net Weight : 5. 5ML
Ingredients : Isododecane, Hydrogenated styrene/isoprene copolymer, talc, ,trimethylsiloxysilicate, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexyglycerin, fragrance, may contain tintanium dioxide, red iron oxide, yellow iron oxide, black iron oxide, d&c red 6, d&c red 7, fd&c blue 1
Dusk is a deep dark red with purple tones.
Once dry it's quite a challenge to remove. So you have to use oil-based removers. I used Simple's Micellar water (not oil based) and had to rub hard multiple times for it to come off. The good news is that they won't transfer (unless you eat or put on something oily).
I noticed that since the consistency reminds me of Colourpop Satin Lips and some of the shades from EB are from the same colour family I decided to put them side by side for comparison. (Plus Careline's Gotta Go)
Siennas, Sexy Nude and Echo Park are close to each other. Sexy Nude is lighter and more pink, Echo Park is darker with more brown in it, Siennas is darker then Sexy Nude and has more red.
Final thoughts?
If you're a beauty lover you'd probably have or have owned an EB Matte Lipstick at least once. You know those OG squarish black-tubed lipsticks that smelled like wax (and sort-of like 'old lady' makeup) from their main line. They were truly matte and CHEAP.
I had one in Mauvey and well...Mauvey. I felt like that was the safest 'blind-buy' colour before, but that was before my obsession with deep dark wine, reds, warm nudes and roses came in to play.
So take that well beloved OG lipstick and put them in the preferred formula today( liquid format) ét voila. We have the EB Liquid Matte Lipsticks.
Read on for my thoughts and swatches about this DELICIOUS smelling, LIGHT-as-a-feather and SUPERBLY pigmented liquid lipstick.
Here it is dried down. The colour dried-down has darkened very slightly.
I purchased five colours that I know would work well for me and that I can actually wear on more than one occasion.
Bare lips.
Packaging | Consistency | Application
Right off the bat, I like that it's just a simple clear tube so you can see the inside and the standard doe-foot applicator. Having tags of the shade on the top of the tube as well as the bottom is a great touch.
As you open the tube you do get a whiff of something sweet but not overpoweringly so. Something like cupcakes? Pulling the wand you can immediately tell it's very liquid-ey. As such the application is smooth and tug-free leaving an even application of colour. Some colours like the Vamp Red, need at least two swipes to make the colour on your lips even. Matte lovers rejoice because this dries to a powdery matte finish that's transfer-proof.
Sexy Nude a peachy salmon colour.
Siennas as an warm light orangey brick.
Wear time | Formula
If you wet your lips with water (anything non oily) it does get slightly tacky and very slightly separates. I've noticed that while using Careline's formula as well. But it didn't crumble and my lips didn't look like the Sahara desert. It was still comfortable enough for me to wear all throughout the day.
Plus I didn't have to worry about it bleeding, moving around and crumbling like I have colored polvoron on my lips.
Toast of New York a warm milk chocolate with red tones.
Vamp Red - A cool-toned red.
Price : 195
Net Weight : 5. 5ML
Ingredients : Isododecane, Hydrogenated styrene/isoprene copolymer, talc, ,trimethylsiloxysilicate, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexyglycerin, fragrance, may contain tintanium dioxide, red iron oxide, yellow iron oxide, black iron oxide, d&c red 6, d&c red 7, fd&c blue 1
Dusk is a deep dark red with purple tones.
Once dry it's quite a challenge to remove. So you have to use oil-based removers. I used Simple's Micellar water (not oil based) and had to rub hard multiple times for it to come off. The good news is that they won't transfer (unless you eat or put on something oily).
I noticed that since the consistency reminds me of Colourpop Satin Lips and some of the shades from EB are from the same colour family I decided to put them side by side for comparison. (Plus Careline's Gotta Go)
Siennas, Sexy Nude and Echo Park are close to each other. Sexy Nude is lighter and more pink, Echo Park is darker with more brown in it, Siennas is darker then Sexy Nude and has more red.
Final thoughts?
Great buy. For 195? Absolutely get your 'everyday' and 'for special occasions' shades. Great job EB!
Have you tried any of these? Would you want to try them? Let me know!
xx,
CJ
Have you tried any of these? Would you want to try them? Let me know!
xx,
CJ
Are you a fan of unusual ideas? Well, if you don't have a closet (many homes don't), you will learn to be.there's nothing to worry about because there are many back up plans to save the day.
One very helpful way to store your clothes is to use an old wood trunk. Not only will it bring an elegance to your home, but it's very practical as well and can hide things which usually turn your room into a mess. With some patience and creativity, you can transform it as you wish.
Add some colour and bring it back to life! It can be used for a range of storing ideas. Another plus is that you can hide it under your bed or in any other room. Fantastic!
If you have some free space in the hallway or behind the door, you can use it to put a small shelf, where you can place all the shoes. You can also use this shelf for storing socks. Just provide yourself with bins or boxes, label each who it belongs to and fill it with their possessions. If you just want to provide yourself with something that at least looks like a typical closet, buy yourself a clothes rack. They are inexpensive and will work great in any property.
When I was a kid, I used to hide from my parents under the bed. It was a very strategic place back then. Now, when I'm already a grown-up, it occurred to me that I can use storage containers or rolling drawers that go under the bed and make the best of that free space.
In case you have a bookcase which you don't use accordingly, you can always benefit from the empty shelves. There you can place clothing that doesn't bother to be folded. The greatest advantage of this organisation idea is that you don't have to spend an eternity looking for what you need.
If you lack space, the easiest way to make the best of your place is by rotating clothes that are already out of season. Pack up all the clothes which are out of season and keep them somewhere safe...under the bed or in boxes in the garage. (or re-purpose them/make new clothing etc!)
Do you know what's the best part about not having a closet in your home? Less space to clean. As my home is big enough, I'm actually very happy that it does not have a closet. Since I'm not into cleaning, scrubbing and vacuuming (yes, I'm a housewife, and yes, I hate doing the housework), the basic household cleaning usually take me a couple of hours. As if this is not enough?
No closet, no problem, no cleaning! Have you used any of these tips already? Do you have other closet organisation tips you would like to share?
Contributor : Nicole is a manager of a small local business and adores fashion. In her free time she often travels with her family.
So you've decided to finally buy your first hair extension because of a bad haircut, a swanky event you want to go to, a new look etc whatever it may be you've bit the bullet. So how do you start choosing which is the best for you?
Here are 3 important things to know before clicking that BUY NOW button.
1. Colour matching is a must
Choose hair extension that is the similar shade as your current hair colour. You want it to blend as seamlessly as possible for the most natural look. The best way to do it is to match with the most prominent colour at the ends of your hair not with your roots.
2. Quality is Key
Synthetic is definitely way more affordable compared to natural hair, but they tend to look fake. The goal of clip in extensions is for it to look like you DON'T have extensions. Splurging on natural hair or even high quality synthetic hair is a better bang for your buck if you're looking for longevity.
3. Fake hair need love too!
Just because they're not your 'real' hair doesn't mean you just haphazardly store it wherever. They need cleaning and styling as much as your real hair.
Proper washing is to gently massage it with shampoo and conditioner free of sulfates while holding the 'base' where all the hair is sewn in. That goes the same for brushing, while holding the base, ends first, and ever so gently brush-out all the tangles. Blot with a towel then air-dry. Wait until extensions are completely dry before using hot styling tools.
Start your extensions journey here -> https://www.sheinhair.com/
xx,
CJ
Disclaimer: Sponsored post.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil easily tops the list when it comes to essential oils that are good for your health. It is widely known for its healing properties and is therefore used as an antiseptic in cuts and wounds.
Lavender oil also has a distinct scent which makes it great for use in aromatherapy. Apparently, it helps relax your mind and body and therefore is good for curing anxiety, stress, and depression.
Tea Tree Oil
One of the most widely hyped essential oils in the market, you will find many skincare products boasting of having tea tree oil included as one of their ingredients. Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties which makes it great for use on skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Tea tree oil is also great for use on acne-prone and oily skin. Many people who have had terrible acne breakouts at some point in their life swear by this oil.
Chamomile oil is used far and wide to cure insomnia. It is easily the most potent natural cure for the sleepless condition.
Other than insomnia, chamomile oil is also used as a stress reliever. Getting a massage with chamomile oil or brewing yourself a cup of chamomile tea will melt away the stress and tension you have accumulated throughout the day and you will feel at complete ease.
Frankincense oil is best known for being beneficial to the skin, but did you know that it is known as a natural remedy for a wide range of respiratory problems as well? It acts as a valuable addition to teas to be consumed by asthmatics and bronchitis patients. This oil helps in improving sleep and reducing fatigue.
Lemon essential oil can be added to foods and drinks as it acts as a cleansing and detoxifying agent for your body. It aids in efficient digestion and breaking down toxins inside the body.
Alternatively, lemon essential oil is also a really effective agent in calming our nerves and making us feel relaxed and refreshed.
Myrrh Essential Oil
Myrrh essential oil has antiseptic properties which protect you from skin infections and diseases. You can also sterilize wounds with the help of this oil.
Adding this essential oil to teas and drinks and using it as a massaging agent also keeps your hormones balanced.
Rose Essential Oil
I believe we are all familiar with the lovely smell of roses. This smell is the reason why rose essential oil is so widely used in aromatherapy.
Rose oil is also widely used as a massage agent. This is because it improves blood circulation to the skin. This makes the skin soft and gives you a healthy glow.
Contributor : Sara is a psychologist by profession and she loves massage therapies. She enjoys home-based work and traveling. She is obsessed with massage chair therapies and other relaxing techniques. She recently published a post on the massage chair blog.
You know the feeling when you're spoilt with options you don't really know where to begin or even HOW to begin? I could only imagine the people who are getting married (thanks to my FB feed) choose their rings. Engagement AND wedding rings to be precise. (maaaan getting married is expensive af)
Gold is typically the most popular due to tradition, society but also for its qualities. (It's more precious than silver, another precious metal). But if you prefer a white-coloured metal but don't like silver, there's white-gold or platinum.
Either option is a great but if you're looking for the best quality here's a little something to weigh your options.
Platinum is supposedly harder (source) making it theoretically a better choice to secure and safeguard the diamonds (or other gems) inside your rings. As opposed to gold which will get worn thin with time. Some people are also allergic to (alloys inside) white-colored gold so you won't have this problem with platinum since it is hypo-allergenic...BUT...
Either option is a great but if you're looking for the best quality here's a little something to weigh your options.
Platinum is supposedly harder (source) making it theoretically a better choice to secure and safeguard the diamonds (or other gems) inside your rings. As opposed to gold which will get worn thin with time. Some people are also allergic to (alloys inside) white-colored gold so you won't have this problem with platinum since it is hypo-allergenic...BUT...
Whilst it may be true that platinum is harder than gold in its purest form, 18k white gold is mixed with other metals, most commonly palladium, silver and copper to make it harder. This results in 18k white gold being harder than platinum alloys, which are most commonly 95% platinum. - Jogia Diamonds
So there you have it. Gold is the way to go. A tip according to jewellers is to mix both platinum and gold for durability.
Valentine's day is also coming up so spend a little something something for your other half or just treat 'yo self to a little sumthin sumthin'. You deserve a little bling ;)
Check out http://www.myraygem.com/ for more gorgeous rings.
xx,
CJ
Disclaimer : Sponsored post.