Turning Modern Japanese at Nomama Artisanal Ramen

I'll stick to my other love --noticing interiors and details (again!) of new places to visit. Nomama Artisanal Ramen tucked in busy Quezon City was recommended by fashionista couple Jason and Lloyda (of Fashionista Fortune Cookie fame) Tan. No frills and functional get first dibs upon entering. Aside from being greeted by ready hellos and smiles, this little piggly wiggly greets me. Funny that it reminds me of naughty pigs still going to heaven (check King Triton's huge pitchfork).

This Pig Goes To Heaven on a Pitchfork

I'm not going into the type of food served (although i especially loved the Thai Green Curry Ramen and Twice Cooked Pork Belly best).

Twice Cooked Pork Belly

I have to admit I do love the functionality of the wooden box for the utensils. The little green plant adds life to the spartan set up too. Since I'm into stamping, I appreciated the stamp effect on the paper mats♥

Love the Wood + Stamp Feel

It's nice to get reacquainted with Chef Him Uy de Baron (also of East Cafe in Rustan's fame). A busy body in and out of the kitchen, he takes time to chat with guests. Chance upon him working his kitchen except of course on his days off. His clean open kitchen made me feel safe --obviously cleanliness is top priority for me when dining out!

An Open Kitchen means Hygiene all the way

Opposites Attract. I was especially intrigued with this wash bin. The mirrors' layout is something fresh for the eyes but paired with the old school heavy wash bin creates an intriguing combination.

Wash Area Fascination

Oodles of noodles. Perhaps tagged as a famous wall, I love the "boat is sinking" feel to this. HAHA! Polaroid shots are clipped on the ropes that could may as well be the ramen noodles? Or it could simply be the boat's fishing net? Whichever way, it adds texture to the clean interiors of Nomama Artisanal Ramen.

Noodle War or Fishing Escapade

Special Mentions. I love how they cook the egg in the ramen. Firm on the outside, semi-gooey on the inside. Yummy. For Dessert, the Flourless Chocolate cake is divine!! ( I don't have the photo as it was devoured before I can even say, cheese!)

My Egg of Choice..:P

Nomama Artisinal Ramen is located at G/F FSS Building 2, Scout Tuason corner Scout Castor Streets, Quezon City. Phone (2) 9214913

My Glowing Moment with Facial Care Centre

The thing I love about summer is I get to have all the reasons to polish my look. Call me vain, but with the white beaches beckoning me, I need to have my skin glowing! Flawless as others may say. Problem with me, I've always had sensitive skin (boo!!). I need to do regular facials to let go of old skin and let the new ones shine. (YEY!) Read on as I experienced the much loved Repechage treatments at Facial Care Centre Eastwood branch!

Team Facial Care Centre Philippines' lovely and glowing hosts: Nj ,Aivee and Bea

The pretty team of Facial Care Centre knows how to take care of their friends and clients. I went in with an open mind and an even more "unmade" skin. Aivee ushered me in for a skin consultation. Having known her from before, I was pleased she remembered me and my "skin situation". She automatically recommended the Soothing Indulgence, a luxurious 4-layer Repechage treatment that soothes, rejuvenates and stabilizes oil glands. Yes, sadly at this age, I still have over functioning oil glands. :(

Without a doubt, I needed the Soothing Indulgence Package

I'm one for details. I appreciate the personal touch someone puts on his/her work. It reminds me of when back in High School, it wouldn't be enough to just send in your work. It had to merit the teacher's second look! Check out how the ladies of Facial Care Centre took note of the details (with correct spelling and sizes). Pretty and soft to the touch!!

Feels Like Home at FCC

Getting ready for the 2 hour treatment, I braved myself for a bit of extraction (and surely a lot of time was spent taking out the oil mines i have hidden by the T-Zone area!) The skin was then prepped for cleansing before the facial masks (seaweed and mineral) to be placed on the skin. I had an initial panic alert as I'm a bit claustrophobic ( but Denise, my therapist was very nice and reassuring. She stayed with me and explained every step of the way. You'll feel a bit of heaviness on the face but it will last for about another 15 minutes from the seaweed mask (10mins). And look at the glowing Phantom-moment I had. Doesn't the mineral mask show how happy I am to have done this treatment?! A Diamond Peel caps off this Soothing Indulgence. Expect a bit of sting which is natural with the extractions.

Meet My lovely Smiley Mask

After a week: Just like the Gerbera Daisies and other summer blooms adorning the Eastwood Center, I felt the glow. Albeit not instantly, it takes a while for my skin to recoup. Sandy to the touch but glowing and smooth after 4 days, I couldn't have asked for more! Mental check: I need to do this regularly and more often when summer is coming up!!

Summer Blooms brighten up My Day

Interiors: The Facial Care Centre Eastwood is newly opened. It's been years since they've opened a new branch and what perfect location than at the Libis Area at the MDC building (beside Eastwood). Clean, spartan and with a good view of the city, I like that the rooms are all well-lit. It gives you a condo-ish feel and not a hospital-feel vibe. There are a lot of rooms available so you're sure to have privacy and silence while undergoing some treatments. I call it a haven of tranquility. That for me is a winner!

Clean and Functional Private Rooms are love

A Summer Tip: The Laser Hair Removal is something they do quite well. Depending on the areas you need to work on, I suggest you go for these early in the year to make sure more areas are targeted in time for summer! I've tried it on the legs and it makes the legs smooth!! Summer Love indeed.

The Facial Care Centre Eastwood may be visited at the 30th Floor MDC Building Libis, Quezon City. Call (2) 892-SKIN to schedule consultations.

Big Heart, Big Love with Human Nature

Pro Poor, Pro Filipino, Pro Environment. 3 commendable beliefs I learned from Human Nature. The store, all the way in Commonwealth Ave, Quezon City is home to their best sellers. It doesn't stop there--this organically chic concept store has partnered with other pro-active brands such as Theo and Philo Artisan Chocolates, Cafe De Sug: Sulu Coffee, FilBambu, Enchantea drinks and Golden Eggs among others. 

My Version: Golden (Duck) Eggs used in Salad with Wansuy

Ana of Human Nature and Gawad Kalinga opened with a short talk on their journey. It's true what they say, when you are asked by the One Up There to DO SOMETHING, He will make all things possible. I think that was what their family experienced and look what they are able to do for a lot of Filipinos?

Human Nature's Anna Meloto-Wilks shares their vision

The vision started with Gawad Kalinga Villages via Mr. Tony Meloto (Ana's father). Now Human Nature (by Filipinos, for Filipinos) employs Filipinos from the GK communities all over the country. Striving to keep the ranges organic and enviro-safe, all are rid of harsh chemicals. The prices are very reasonable around Php 200 or roughly Usd4.50. The good part is: The actually work as well.

Citronella Bug Spray and Deet Free Lotion are 2 of the best sellers

Painstakingly into the details, one is welcomed with wood furniture in tree cut outs. 

I'm one into the details ( I believe presentation kicks things up a notch) so I had to notice the hearts they have perfected using their bottles. Doesn't it put a smile on your face too? :)

Big Hearts for All

 After some serious shopping (one needs to stash up on some products because it tends to get phased out--enter the new!) I got the 15 vitamin Day Moisturizer Fluid which seems to be agreeing with my skin. I heard from other guests that the Baby Lotion is pretty good--so far it's able to moisturize my rough/dry patches. Another product I'm trying, is the Balancing Toner which should be good for my sensitive skin. I'm crossing my fingers on this too! :)

My current stash: So Far, So Good

Human  Nature's Camille Meloto and Reby Baldoz "cheesing" with Chinadoll Style

Of course, I've been eyeing food offerings from the store too. The delightful organic beef mini burgers were in fact juicy and flavorful. I like that the French guys from Enchanted Farm created these offerings with love (very Human Nature). We got to talk to them and they were even able to use watermelon and other Philippine fruits for a touch of whimsy.

Organic Burgers made by the French guys (love!)

Nicely packaged and hungrily devoured by the family, I'm liking the 70% Dark Chocolate so far along with the Milk Chocolate with Barako Coffee. Yum without the guilt ( me thinks!). They do have out of the box offerings-- Chocolate with Green Mango and Salt or with Sili Labuyo (if you want yours hotta hotta!)

My  Choice of Theo and Philo Yummy Artisan Chocolates

I've posted I want 2012 to be a banner year for me, in terms of giving back. And just like that, I was steered to the right direction. :)

Human Nature Concept Store is located at 460 Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City or call 931-5787

Travel | New and Newer

Travel Stash from Hobby Depot

New. I love traveling, if it's not obvious yet. I saw these at Hobby Depot and fell in love.  I've had these babies for a few weeks now. The camera case was too cute to pass up but now seems I need a "new" camera. My old school camera has a huge "eyesore" on its screen. Nonetheless, it still captures good memories. The chalkboard pins--well, there is no excuse for this. Since I love entertaining as well, these pins will come handy. Read: travel related menu selections! Tan Pencil Case with Eiffel Tower Design: I needed to keep my pens together. This should be reason enough :)

DIY Stamps and Stickers

Newer. The DIY craze hits me once again. I've enjoyed personalizing tags and cards for friends back in high school--back when time was a thing I had but took for granted. But with these oodles of goodies, I think I know what I'll do when I need to de-stress :) I'll probably share (some) of my new prized possessions to travel bug friends. I can't wait for them to get as excited as me!! Craft Workshop coming up?! *Bells Ringing*
Clockwise from left: Old Alphabet box Stamp Set; Vintage Travel Stickers1 in Tin Can; Post/Travel Mark Stamp Set; Vintage Travel Stickers2 in Tin Can.

Needless to say, I took hours of Lloyda Tan's (of Hobby Depot and FashionistaFortuneCookie.Com) before I decided on the loot I went home with. Thank you for your patience. Check the site out but make sure leave some for other hobbyists!  Heeheehee!

Give Back | Any ideas?

This 2012 opened with a bang. January flew by.

Photo taken from Decor8 blog

This February, my team (at work) is quickly imbibing the Good Vibes. We're loving work, and the frenzied pace. How to push the envelope more? We're thinking of coming up with a few (even intimate) ways on how to give back. Give back may sound so generic or even over used. I'm calling out to friends / industry colleagues who can share a few ideas on how I (we) can turn a few things around even with just small groups.


Feel free to message me should you have any leads on how I can go about this! Thank you.


Ps. I'm leaning towards equipping men/women for more job opportunities. 
* Good Vibes photo from lafemmerousse photobucket

Lessons of Pretty

Late bloomer, that's me. Yes, I started a career in Fashion and Beauty Publishing back in 2001. I appreciated pretty things but was never one to buy beauty products on a whim. I charge it to having sensitive skin. Last 2011 had been an amazing year of learning and beautification (LOL!). No amount of countless shoots can make up for Studio SnR Workshops I attended. It boosted my otherwise sagging beauty morale. I diligently learned the proper way of slathering creams and washes on my face. I started putting a bit of color too!

With Nikki Tiu at the much desired Studio SnR x Bobbi Brown Workshop

Pretty Satisfied. When back then I scoured counters to "pull out" beauty products to shoot, now I walk into a store knowing what I need/want, eagerly :) There's a bit of confidence to listen and compare. Age now makes me stand by my decisions even in simple beauty choices. Hint: Never let the seller railroad you into buying something just because!

2011: The Last Quarter Splurges

I saw this Cosmetic Chiller at Suesh and had loved it since. I had other practical uses for it (stocking some food treats in my office, perhaps?) Last December, I finally gave in and never regretted it! Check what's inside!

Shu Uemura Face Architect Fit Foundation in 764: Best thing I have come across since its water based formula does wonders for a flawless base. It's my constant go-to now. (Thanks Patrick Alcober for showing me how to use this!)

Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation: A Miraculous Illuminator is what I call it. Dabbing less than pea sized drops on my round cheeks make me feel I'm glowing morning till night. :)

Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water: I'm trying this to see if it makes much of a difference to take off makeup. 

Suesh Sponge Puff: Looks familiar? It works wonderfully like the Beauty Blender but at a fraction of a price. Moisten it and "roll" on skin--it can be alternated with a foundation brush when I'm in a rush.

Benefit Beauty Bella Bamba: I may be a bit late but this baby rocked my world! Adds color especially in my sluggish days--'nuff said! Swish and pat. Repeat.

Suesh Orange Puffy Hair Benders: When I've got at least 30 mins to spare, I use this (pack of 6) to add definition to my soft waves.

Suesh Blue Hair Velcro: Asian inventions are pretty neat when it comes to vanity tools. This 2 piece velcro pulls back my baby hair away from my face when putting on my pop(s) of color!!

Coming Up: My 2011's Firsts: Beauty in Retrospect. Watch out for it. 

Follow Me on Twitter: @mssydneygo for updates on some of my favored lifestyle choices. 

1st Hand | A Vision in Green

The Product: The vision that IS Lancôme's Visionnaire

My latest 1st hand experience

How It Works: A product of 10 years of research, the folks at Lancôme uses Jasmonic Acid, a single molecule found in plants to create the breakthrough LR 2412. It heals, repairs (automatically) and self-propels and permeates even to the deepest layers.
How To Use: Give yourself about a week to touch, feel and witness amazing results on the entire face. I know it took me that short a time to see the difference. Plumper softer skin, is that you?
Perfect For: Unwanted eye bags, Unsightly crow's feet, deep laugh lines, (colorful) uneven skin.
Verdict: It just about sums up a magic in a bottle for me. At P5,300.00 it does give invasive facial treatments a run for their money. Start 'em age spots young. When you can work on something using topical creams, exhaust all efforts on that first. I learned never to make it tomorrow's problem, rather act on it now!

Tip: You don't need to slather the rich cream all over--just a pea-sized pump, warm it up with your fingertips and gently massage on problem areas (concentrate here). 

Available at Lancôme Boutique Greenbelt 5; Rustan's Shangri-la Plaza and Makati; Essenses Power Plant Mall. Like them on Lancôme Philippines for more inside information on the newest and freshest news and other promos! 

I'd like to invite you to follow and enjoy this blog (my little piece of heaven). Follow @mssydneygo on twitter. I'd love to hear from you, drop me an email at chinadoll.style@gmail.com for any comments and suggestions.