Little Tokyo Adventures: IZAKAYA KIKUFUJI

WHO'S UP for some yummy Japanese food? Aye Aye! :)

I was with a friend when I visited the famous Little Tokyo in Makati. The place really looked like a Japanese food hub! We were lost in the middle of the Japanese lanterns and signages. I bet it'll look more authentic if the lights are on (so next time, I should visit in the evening!). 

We arrived there at around 11:00 am, but we're quite disappointed because most of the restaurants were still closed. Most of them opens at 11:30 am, while a few starts serving as early as 9:00 am. I'm so dead hungry so we looked for a place to eat right away. We settled in a restaurant located near the entrance of the Little Tokyo: Izakaya Kikufuji 

I really love the feels of going inside unknown places, in search for gastronomic dishes that will give me another epicuric experience! However, Izakaya Kikufuji intimidated us, the moment we step inside this spacious Japanese restaurant. But we cannot retreat then! A lady in traditional Japanese clothes approached us and we found ourselves sitting on a chair (but with no legs) with a thin pillow on it. 

It was amazing! even without the food yet, sitting on the floor with a low-rise table in front of us made me feel excited for this Japanese experience!

And so we asked for the menu :)

We were like "Really? this cheap?!"

A meal for a person can actually serve two, and also comes with a bowl of rice and free side dishes. You can also choose whether you like an iced coffee or fruit for dessert, which is also for free! 

MY ORDER: Beef Teppanyaki plus rice and side dishes for only 269 pesos!

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One of the many reasons why I love Japanese food is the taste---very light and not overwhelming to the taste buds! But the flavors are unique and will surely satisfy your tummy and give you a good feeling :)

And this restaurant does the job amazingly! I love their food! 

The beef is soooo tender! And its taste blends well with the vegetables :)

I thought this one is simply breaded meat, but I was shocked because these are actually raw fish meat! *cried*

I settled for fresh watermelon slices instead of iced coffee :)

They serve fast! We ordered Katsu Ni and Beef Teppanyaki (plus the rice and sides) and the lady who attended to us served everything in appropriate temperatures. However, I just don't like the containers (bowls) they used for the food we ordered. In addition to that, I'm not quite impressed on their plating skills when I saw the dishes (except for the California Maki). But at least, all of them are delicious. 

Of course they also have the pricey ones...like their California Maki which costs 280 pesos for 8 pieces. But I tell you, they serve the best Maki! 

A must-try!

If you don't want to be seated on the floor, they have areas with normal chairs. (I love those that surrounds the kitchen area, because you get to see what they are preparing inside while you're eating)

It doesn't look attractive outside, but the interiors will make you say "Suteki na!" (very nice!) You should visit their place today! They are located along Chino Roces Avenue: 2277 Pasong Tamo, Legazpi Village, Makati City.

After a very sumptuous lunch! Hello to my pretty food buddy, Ajay :) 

And there's me, the happy kid! 

Well, see you again next time my epicure friends! I hope you'll visit this place soon and don't forget to share your experiences with me!

Go ahead and have a cheat day, once in a while :)

DIY SERIES: Avocado + Oatmeal Face Mask

THIS BLOG POST shall open two series for Miss G’s Diaries: A special series featuring the fruit of the season, Avocado, and the new DIY series which will be available every month :)

I’m so excited for this special series, #AvocadoFest, because I’ll be using this once-in-a-year fruit in creating yummy desserts and do-it-yourself skincare alternatives. So I hope you’ll stay tuned and wait for the future posts included in our special series. On a different note, I’m happy to share with you my recent Do-it-Yourself projects. I’ll be sharing not only those that are skincare related, but a whole bunch of random stuff which will come in handy for sure!

Let’s begin with this super simple DIY project! 

A little prologue won’t hurt…

Face masks are popular among women because they deliver instant moisture and nourishment to the skin. Actually, it really depends on the type and kind of facial mask---some can lighten the skin tone, minimize the appearance of pores, remove skin impurities, provide additional moisture and a whole lot more. It can also be in any form: cotton sheet, cream, peel-off, mud pack, etc. That’s why a lot of people are hoarding these beauty items, with hopes of achieving a better skin. Sadly, they only find out that most aren’t effective at all after spending a fortune already. I personally use face masks twice a week, cotton sheet masks in particular. However, they don’t seem to address some of my skin problems, plus, I noticed that I’m spending more or less five hundred pesos a week just for additional skin moisture?! And this realization pushed me to look for alternatives :)

Quick note: However, I’m not saying that you should already avoid using cotton sheet mask, No. You just need to know how often you should use them and what brands are the best bets. I’ll post something about this, SOON!

Skin benefits of Avocado

This fruit has so much goodness inside it that will truly benefit your skin. And since it's not available all-year round, you might as well want to maximize its benefits until supplies last!

Avocado is an excellent moisturizer because of its high oleic acid content---a monounsaturated fatty acid---that will help maintain moisture in the epidermal layer of your skin, leading to softer and more hydrated skin. Aside from that, this yummy fruit also contains Vitamin C and Vitamin E which promotes the creation of collagen, which is the secret to firmer skin, and prevention of radical damage, which will delay skin aging. Last but not the least, Avocado is also a great source of anti-oxidant carotenoids which will help your skin block free radicals that could damage it. 

Make your own AVOCADO + OATMEAL Face Mask!

Now, I’ll show you the super easy steps in making your own Avocado +Oatmeal Face Mask:

Step 1: Get a tablespoonful of avocado, place it on a small clean container and mash it lightly. 

Step 2: Add a half tablespoon of rolled oats (oatmeal) and a half a teaspoon of warm water (this will soften the oats). If available, you can use warm lemon juice instead.

Step 3: Mix it completely. Refrigerate for a few minutes.

Step 4: Apply it on your face using a clean foundation brush or your own fingers. Let it sit on your face for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse your face with water thoroughly and pat it dry with a clean towel.

Yup, it’s so SIMPLE and EASY to make! You should try it now! 

Well you may wonder why I've included oatmeal in this face mask recipe, it's because I just want to add texture on this face mask and add more goodness to it!

I hope you liked my first DIY face mask! Will post a lot on my DIY series for sure :) Make sure to try it at home and share it with your friends! Stay naturally beautiful!

The DIY queen (self-proclaimed tho..^_^)

Chasing Dreams: My PAL Experience

"You never failed because you never tried"

It is a dream for me to become a flight attendant. However, I wasn't able to pursue it right after college because I knew that I'm not yet ready. Flight attendants are almost close to perfection, and I believe that I'm not even close to being one. Recognizing my flaws, I worked hard to improve myself. After learning how to put on makeup, improving my skin condition, and building my confidence... I finally decided to try my luck.

I want to fly the flag, so I applied at PAL...

...and this is my bittersweet story :)

THE BEGINNING

One rainy afternoon, I went to their office at PNB Financial building (Macapagal Blvd, Pasay City) and submitted my curriculum vitae. That was a Friday, and I was nothing but hopeful that they'll call me soon. To my surprise, I received a text message from them, Tuesday morning. After a few minutes, I found myself answering questions from a lady on the other line, who later scheduled me for an impact interview. I was given only two weeks to prepare for it so I spent my time seriously preppin' up: reading blogs, buying clothes and makeup and treating my pimples and scars. 

Finally, the day came and I was so ready (I believe so): wearing my black blazer, black knee-length skirt, white collared blouse, red lipstick, red nails, pearl earrings, skin-tone stockings and my hair in a neat bun. I projected a composed, confident, and happy image as I arrived at PAL HR's office. 

THE IMPACT INTERVIEW

It started at 8AM, there were 26 applicants inside the room (including me). However, the tension weakened my knees, I began to lose my spirit. Most of them are very pretty! We were required to submit our transcript of records, CV, and 2x2 picture. After a while, two beautiful women entered the room and we finally started the heart-pounding screening. 

We were called one by one, randomly, to deliver our 2 to 3-minute speech (simply tell something about yourself) and walk straight to them so they can check our smile profile. One by one, each of us enjoyed our share of that moment to stand in front of everyone. After the last applicant, one of the interviewers called several names who were instructed to get a piece of paper from them and read the result outside.

I think my heart stopped for a few minutes. 

And I didn't heard my name.

Out of 26, there were 8 applicants who remained inside the room (including me! yay!) one boy and the rest were girls. We are about to face the second round and they'll be scrutinizing our entire being. Again, we were called one by one, were asked different questions and checked our arms and face for blemishes and scars. After everyone was done, they called a name and the rest were asked to sit near them (the interviewers). 

I was one of the 7 applicants who passed!

"Congratulations! You passed the impact interview!" I can't believe that I made it through that five hours of nerve-racking interview! I'm so happy and thankful :) They gave us tips on how we can even look perfect for our final (panel) interview. But before that, we need to pass the initial medical and different exams. Still a long way to go, but thank God I survived the first step! 

We took our lunch and returned at 2 pm for our initial medical. They checked our height, weight, body frame and eyesight (vision check for color blindness). The requirement is at least 5' 3 height for girls and 5' 6 height for boys; weight must be proportional to height and 20/20 vision, not color-blind. I passed the initial medical, but sadly, only 5 of us remained (out of 7 who passed in Impact interview).

Though I'm so tired and exhausted, I went home happy and contented :)

THE EXAM (Profile XT and BMAA)

The Impact interview happened on June 15, 2016 (Wednesday), then I was scheduled to take the exam on June 17, 2016 (Friday). I looked for online IQ tests and run through each the whole day of June 16.

The location of my exam was at Ortigas Center and was administered by Profiles Asia. It is divided into two parts: the first part is composed of numerical, verbal and abstract reasoning. I think I was given only less than a minute for each question which made it quite difficult, I was so pressured that time! You have to pass this part in order to proceed to the second part. 

Fortunately, I passed :) so I was directed to the second part of the exam. There was no time limit according to the psychometrician, but I finished mine within an hour. The second part of the exam was composed of long series of questions, basically a combination of Math, English (vocabulary and grammar), Logic and Personality questions. When I was done, I left the office and was told to wait for the results next week. 

I waited for a week before I received a text message from them, instructing me to call their office. I called and was informed that I passed the exam :) I was immediately given a schedule for the Integrity test. 

Note: This step (Integrity test) is new, because I haven't read anything about it from the previous blogs.

THE INTEGRITY TEST

According to my research, an integrity test is simply an honesty test. I found a few samples online, which I tried just to to be familiar with it. 

The location of my Integrity test was at Universal Motors Building (Chino Roces Ave.). The test was a bit confusing and each question has a time limit. I used a computer in answering the questions. I just trusted my instincts and answered truthfully (somehow..*smiles*). Again, I've waited for the results. 

It was Friday when I took the exam, and the results came two days after---I passed! 

The HR lady on the phone delivered the most heart-pounding news, I was scheduled for an Executive Panel Interview (EPI) on Thursday, June 30, 2016. 

THE FINAL INTERVIEW (EPI)

They've given me two days to prepare, but I was so worried because of my hormonal acne (I always have them before my period), my skin was not at its best. 

I just tried to remain calm and conceal all the blemishes along my jawline and chin. I woke up so early on the day of the EPI, so I had a lot of time to prepare. I decided to put more makeup (than what I sported during the Impact interview) for a more polished look. 

I arrived at the PNB building an hour early. I know that they will just ask us a few personal questions and read a spiel, so I was not really super nervous. However, I was the last applicant to be called, and I've already waited for three hours, that's why I'm not feeling very well as I entered the room...

...the interview went well. I was also asked to remove my blazer so that they could check my arms.

As I walked out of the room and returned to my seat, I can feel that I'm about to finally achieve my dream, because after this will be the full medical and training---then, I can already fly the flag. 

But then I heard my name was called. I was instructed to enter the room again and was told that I didn't passed the EPI. Maybe you're also wondering why? Me too. I don't even know what to say, but the HR lady told me that it was just about my makeup, it looked "mataray" in front of the panelists, and also, I failed to hold my smile during the interview. 

My hands were shaking as I tried to push the door of the HR office. I immediately went to the comfort room and recalled everything. I didn't cried, not yet. I texted my parents, my sister, my friends (Henry and Ana) and called Mr. J. It was beyond the word "sayang", because I've been through a lot. The words I've written here cannot describe all the sacrifices I've made just to reach the last step of the application, but still, I failed...I failed in chasing my dream. 

To be honest, I don't want to share this experience because it was such a shame on my part. I'm not good in accepting failures, because I rarely fail. There are a lot of people around me who believed that I would make it, but sadly, I didn't. I guess there will also be people out there who would say "you deserve it, buti nga", and they are one of the reasons why I hesitated in bringing this story out. 

It was like a heartbreak, it's like you've lost a valuable thing in your life. But that moment when I keep on blaming myself, thank God I have my family and friends---I survived because of them. They keep on telling me that maybe it was not yet my time to be a cabin crew, or maybe there is a greater opportunity waiting for me and I just need to believe in Him. I don't know if these things are true...but I always believe that He has better plans than mine. 

Right now, I don't know why he made me experience this whole thing, yet fail in the end. Maybe to share this story with you, my readers (if I have any...hehe) so that you'll somehow realize these things too:

1. There is no single person who never fails, but one cannot always fail either.

2. Failures humble a person, it's God way of saying "Hey, you still need me".

3. God's plans are always the best, all you need to do is to be patient, wait for the right time. 

4. In every experience, good or bad, you'll meet people who are destined to be a part of your life. 

5. Those who experience failures are those who always chase their dreams---so don't give up!

Since day one, I prayed for the success of this endeavor. Though the ending was not what I've expected it to be, I'm still happy because a lot of great things happened to me as I struggle with this mishap: I've realized that I have the best people around me, my family and friends, who didn't even doubted my chances of succeeding in the future. 

Others have tried seven times just to receive 

their wings, so I won't give up!

If you've reached this far, well thank you for reading the entire post. Being a cabin crew is really not an easy thing, the application process seem to be a long shot for me again. But still, I would like to thank everyone who supported me, I cannot mention all of your names, but your warm hugs and best wishes are enough for me to move on and seek another great perhaps. But if you're one of those who is now happy that I failed in chasing my dream, don't worry, because I believe I'll be able to achieve it---so stay tuned, because I'll fly soon! :)

If you have questions, don't hesitate to post a comment below and I'll definitely answer, to the best of my knowledge :) 

Keep on chasing your dreams!

Pocket-friendly Treats at Doztelo's Cafe

I RECENTLY DISCOVERED a not-so-popular cafe near our place. Usually, after hearing the mass, we (with Mr. J and a friend) would go on a cheap food tripping and spend an hour or two chatting over rice meals, calamares, hotdog sandwich and barbecues. Now, since the discovery of this cafe, we always look forward to another slice of heaven every Sunday at Doztelo's Cafe.

The MENU

Alright, their menu is not unique and the ambiance inside the cafe is not IG-worthy, but what sets them apart from the others is that they serve very affordable meals that are so delicious you'll ask: This? for only 50 pesos?! Slap me on the face dude!!


Here are some of their budget rice meals:

~Spicy buffalo wing with soft-boiled egg, corn & carrots and steamed rice~

~Lechon kawali with soft-boiled egg, corn & carrots and steamed rice~

Aside from the very yummy rice meals (which are plated nicely), I think their forte is on the cakes. I love the cakes because they are so cheap but taste better than those sold in sosy cafes! I swear! I think the owner (who's a guy) is the one who creates all those sinful slices tho. Well, I haven't tasted their coffee mixes and pastas, but so far, my gastronomic experience inside this cafe is super awesome! 


Here are some of the cakes I've tasted:

S'MORES CAKE

RED VELVET CAKE

PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE CAKE

My favorite? The S'mores!!! You can indulge in three slices for only 150 pesos, isn't that awesome?!

But of course, it's not a perfect place. The cafe is  too small, with only two tables that can probably accommodate not more than 10 diners. I hope they'll be able to find a bigger place, that will definitely attract more customers :) But for now, I hope you'll support me in unearthing this hidden gem, for them to be able to continue offering great food at great price! 


Oh! it's me in front of the cafe! That door, pointed by the yellow arrow, is the entrance to the cafe. 

See? their place is really small...-_-

Before I forget, they also offer food for bulk orders, you can give them a ring for your parties or family events! Here's their FB page so that you can contact them: Doztelo's Cafe Facebook page


They are located at Rustia Commercial Building, near Sto. Niño de Molino Parish Church along Avenida st., Bacoor City, Cavite. So if you are residing within the vicinity, pay them a visit now!

"I blog about amazing stuff, I don't care about popularity because that spoils my purpose" 

'til next time my gastronomic buddies!

Girl Talk: Are you a Makeup or a Skincare person?

Back when I was still in college, I suffered from mild acne, it was scattered all-over my cheeks and forehead, and haunted me until graduation. I don’t wear makeup (aside from the baby powder I use daily) and don’t even follow a strict skincare regimen. I can’t explain why, but I’m just not that conscious with my skin before. But when I finally started working, I started to be aware that my skin doesn’t look presentable in front of my students---that’s the time when I decide to use makeup.

I covered my zits and other skin imperfections with makeup. Eventually, as the people around me begins to notice the change, a lot of them commended my skin as it appeared to be a lot better than before. I was happy then. I continued using makeup and looked for ways on how I can further improve its application. One day, as I wash-off the colors on my face, I noticed that my skin have changed…it is not as healthy as it was before.

~credits: www.birchbox.com~

I was so alarmed and that’s when I started to wash my face and use moisturizer regularly. I followed a simple skincare routine for several years until I’ve reached the age of 23. But as I learn how to properly apply makeup, I also found out the benefits of strictly following a complete skincare routine. I tried and tested a lot of products until I discovered some that really jives with my skin type. Now the question is: am I still a makeup person or a total skincare person? I can’t say, I guess both ^_^.

I believe you should enjoy the benefits of both. As a woman, you must know how to put on the perfect makeup and be able to pick the best makeup products that will fit your skin type and bring-out your best qualities. A lot people say that using makeup will only damage your skin. In my own opinion, it’s a big NO. As long as you choose the right products, there’s nothing to worry about. Actually, makeup will not only enhance your look, but it will also protect your skin from harmful constituents in our polluted environment. Aside from that, it also boosts your confidence, because you feel great and happy with your look.

~credits: made2style.com~

However, if you don’t know how to remove your makeup properly, that’ll be a great problem. So here’s where proper skincare practice comes in. It will start with the removal of makeup, followed by cleansing, toning and moisturizing. There are a lot of other products that are recommended to be included in our skincare regimen, and most of us find it very expensive and time-consuming. As we age, our skincare practice requires a more elaborate routine, involving a wide-range of products. Additional products include serums, eye creams, sheet masks, mud packs, etc. Sometimes I can’t even figure-out which one to use first and how often. But as you build your own regimen, you’ll just wake-up doing everything automatically.

In the end, I realized that when you started to follow a skincare routine diligently, it will show! For sure you’ll have a great skin---a perfect canvass for your lovely makeup products. A great skin will look even greater with makeup on!

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It’s good to be back sharing nice thoughts with you my dear readers. Hoping I can somehow find a way to start vlogging! Agree? We’ll see...soon! By the way, I'm planning to have this "girl talk" blog posts running every month :) So don't forget to SUBSCRIBE! 

Always aim for the best of both worlds,

MAYBELLINE LipGradation Red 1 [Review]

RED LIPS, ANYONE? 

They say this is the most indispensable item inside a woman's makeup kit: a red lippie. Oh well, I have a couple of red lipsticks, but I'm much comfortable with my red lip stain from Peripera (a Korean brand) because it's barely there. Two things I hate about lipsticks: they are heavy on the lips and smudge easily. 

Then recently, I was forced to look for a red lippie out of need (long story...but I just badly need it). So I went on and look for one. Most of the famous international makeup brands are on SALE this season! It's kinda hard to choose -_-. After several rounds of scrutinizing and testing, I found a good one. Now here's a review of that product! *ecstatic*

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Product Name: 

Maybelline LIPgradation by colorsensational

Product details: 

RED1 (lip crayon + sponge smudger); 1.25 grams 

Description: 

The product is a buttery soft powder stick which comes in beautiful, bright shades exclusively for your lips. Color sensational lip gradation has highly saturated pigments which give you that gorgeous pop of color and inviting flair.

Claims: 

Matte-finish, color stays for hours.

Price: 

SALE: 349.00 php (Original price: 399.00 php)

From: 

Watsons (SM Store) at SM Bacoor

The product comes in a long plastic cylindrical container (5.2 inches long and 1/2 inches wide) with dual ends: the lip crayon and the sponge (cushion) smudger. Both ends has a cap, but the sponge end can be twisted (to glide up/down the lip crayon). The lip crayon, if extended, is 1 1/2 inches long. 

THE LIP CRAYON  (RED1)

GOOD POINTS: The lip crayon is hard enough not to break that easily, but soft enough that it glides on the lips smoothly. I love the color and the clean matte-finish. You can either go FULL or SUBTLE with the help of the sponge smudger for the ombre effect. You don't need to put layers over layers just to achieve the color, because ONE SWIPE is enough to achieve the color that you want :)

NOT-SO-GOOD POINTS: It's a bit pricey (good thing I bought it on a sale). And because of the very thin diameter of the lip crayon, I think it may break easily, especially if it's extended a bit long (so make sure you'll expose just enough). Lastly, it is available in 8 shades only, I think they should include some "more unique" shades. 

OVERALL, I'm very happy with this product. I will recommend this product to every lass out there because it is so handy and functional. You can easily transform your look from DAY to NIGHT just by adjusting the gradient of your lips. Try it now!

My LIPS don't LIE :) Twilly and Lippie matchy!

End of the post again, but I'll definitely see you next time with another great review. If you want me to review certain makeup / skincare products, comment them below! :)

Hugs and Kisses,