Song Joong Ki Reenacts Famous Scenes from Descendants of the Sun

There's this Chinese variety show called "Happy Camp" that recently guested "Descendants of the Sun" star, Song Joong Ki. Aired last May 21, 2016, it showed Joong Ki reenacting some scenes from the wildy popular series. The said episode is reported to have reached record-breaking TV ratings because of his presence.

Watching from this youtube video uploaded by SharpayEvans242, it was fun to see Song Joong Ki gamely interacted with all 3 women from Happy Camp who acted as Song Hye Kyo in different memorable scenes from the famous Korean Drama. 

Don't be deceived by his pretty boy looks. His agility in executing action stunts, even catching a falling smart phone will sweep you off your feet. His gentle, sweet and fun-loving nature were evident when he giggled and hugged the lucky ladies reenacting the scenes with him. Awww-shucks moments fill this segment of the show.

Descendants of the Sun Fever

Ok, maybe I caught the bug a little late. Posts about "Descendants of the Sun" have been flooding my Facebook timeline for like, 2 months now. I've been seeing photos of Song Joong Ki but thought, "ok, another typical Korean actor- pretty boy, smooth skin, chiseled nose". Lee Min Ho and Won Bin were far more striking. Sure he was cute, but didn't catch my fancy.

I've known about Song Hye Kyo since "Full House" and "Endless Love" days. Apart from Kim Tae Hee, she is my idea of a stunning Korean beauty. However, I never watched any of her prior Korean dramas despite the hype.

I tried watching the first episode of "Descendants of the Sun" but never got past 3 minutes of the war scenes. It was not until I saw this clip highlighting the sweet moments of Captain Yoo Si-jin and Doctor Kang Mo-yeon that turned things around. Whoa! The chemistry between this two sent tingles to my spine.

Now I don't know what spell I'm under, to believe that Song Joong Ki is the most gorgeous man on the planet.  I want him to end up with beauty goddess Song Hye Kyo for real! I found myself grinning ear to ear watching the complete series. That electrifying, intoxicating kind of thrill that never got to me since "Meteor Garden".

It's interesting to note how almost everyone in the series have ethereal, poreless skin that I sometimes get late in reading the subtitles because I stare at their amazing skin a little too long.

Woman Amused By Chewbacca Mask

I woke up to this video making the rounds on facebook. Initially, I thought the mask was another lens trick from Snapchat. Someone on my friends' list said this good vibes vid is  must-watch especially for those going through tough times. Indeed, when I paid attention to it, the infectious laughter of this lady is one for the books.

This cheerful woman named Candace Payne  posted on her Facebook Live feed to talk about her newly bought Star Wars toy from Kohl's. She captioned it as "the simple joys in life". Apart from Chewbacca roaring, there was nothing spectactular about it except that when she started laughing hysterically, she got the whole world laughing with her, too. As of writing, this viral video has already garnered  96 million views.

This electronic Chewbacca mask at Kohl's is currently out of stock, by the way. If you want one for yourself, Amazon still has it: Star Wars The Force Awakens Chewbacca Electronic Mask

A Salute to Courageous Caitie

I followed her dad's facebook as a photography hobbyist in 2012. Little did I know, Jay Jay Lucas' daughter would soon capture my attention more than his breathtaking shots as a wedding photographer. Caitlin Soleil Lucas was born at a time when I was struggling with my own health. When her dad was posting pictures of  wife Feliz, excitedly anticipating the birth of their daughter, I was at another hospital scheduled for tumor removal.

I found myself looking forward to updates on Caitie, the happiness of her parents upon her arrival has been contagious. Growing up, she had this endearing smile that could melt away troubles. I was worried the first time they brought her to a hospital before she could even turn one. She was like a virtual daughter that I wanted to hug from afar.

On her first birthday, I sent her dad a message extending my greetings and recounted how I've been hooked to Caitlin's charms. He thanked me and asked if there is something they could pray for me. I replied that everything has been fine so far. Maybe it was Caitlin's smile that had a healing effect on me.

After 2 years, who would have thought that it was Caitlin herself who would be going through a much tougher health ordeal. Learning about her elusive diagnosis, rare condition of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia and series of painful procedures was a shocker for me. This was the cute little girl who brightened my darkest moments, now facing her own battles at such a young age. If I could only give back the healing power of her gentle smile, I would.

On March 31, 2016 noon time- I broke down when her parents announced on her facebook page, "Courageous Caitie", that she has gone to Jesus already. For the first time, I found myself weeping like mad over someone I haven't even met. For several days, my eyes were swollen from crying that I had to take Ibuprofen to relieve my painful facial muscles.

Making this video helped me get over the enormous pain I was feeling. This is my tribute to a courageous little warrior who showed me what faith is all about, no matter how painful life can be. Caitlin Soleil Lucas made an impact in my life in ways I could not have imagined. In the 3 years that I stalked her cuteness, these are some highlights that I wish to remember her by. Credits to Caitie's parents who own the rights to these beautifully captured photos and clips.

 

How Not To Go Bankrupt Reading Beauty Blogs

Beauty.. Fashion.. Techie.. Food.. Lifestyle blogs.. they're all the same.. They introduce you to all the cool stuffs you never knew existed. Whenever I'm on a tight budget, I stay away from them. Never mind that I maintain this beauty blog which has been practically abandoned because I was busy looking for money to buy things that I read on other blogs. Err..

You probably read beauty blogs such as this (The Doctor is vaIN), because there's a new make up or skin care procedure that you want to try, but are hesitant to give in to because you're not sure if it will be worth it. You want me to tell you, "go ahead, splurge on this one, it's a miracle from heaven," or "forget it, it's not worth the hype." The best thing about blogs by regular people is that you get an idea about the investment you're about to make from those who actually tried it. The reviews we read are essential to pre-purchase stages. Problem comes in when there are too many awesome products we blog about and you want to try all of them even if you don't have the budget for it.

In this age of blogs, Instagram or Facebook, it's easy to give in to our materialistic urges. The pretty things that we see on other people make us green with envy, sometimes even to the point of insecurity. We think we have to have what they own to make us feel appreciated. Clearly, this is a false sense of security that seduces us every now and then.

Lately, I found myself browsing fashion blogs, not only because their pictures are catchy but I also get style ideas for power dressing from fashion-forward gurus. But then, the subliminal message a blog imparts is too influential that marketers have recognized this power by tapping on bloggers to promote businesses. Sometimes I find myself wishing for- say, a Balenciaga bag because I saw how pretty it looked on Camille Co or Kryz Uy. But then, my rational self would take over and ask, "If I had the money to burn, wouldn't it be wiser to spend that on real estate, or the latest Mac Book, or the highest end Canon DSLR and lenses, or a cutting edge machine for my clinic?" Unless of course if those bags could fly and carry themselves on their own.

I'm thankful that my inner Suze Orman speaks to me in times of temptations to buy things that are beyond my purchasing power. In reading blogs and browsing pictures containing things we wish to have, let's go rational before hitting the "buy" button, shall we?

Are There Cheaper Alternatives?

Go ask yourself, "is it necessary to get the exact brand?"

I'm not telling you to steer clear of expensive goods, because sometimes, we do get what we pay for. Although I'm guilty about featuring some beauty products that sting on the wallet, I invest on them because of the quality I need that cannot be found in other brands. Buying cheaper ones that don't deliver its promises only end up being more costly in the long run.

When I was still doing makeup gigs, buying a makeup chair and trolley bag were necessities because breaking my back would be more expensive. It was an investment. Same goes with my Make up For Ever and Smashbox foundations, I used them because I wanted the best results for my clients. I don't just choose them to impress people with my tools, I had to have them because they work best.

If you must really purchase, scout for cheaper alternatives first. If there aren't any, then go for the tried and tested ones even if they're priced higher. Save up for it.

Rummage Around Your Existing Goods

Sometimes, when we look around our closet, we see things unused because we bought them on a whim. Maximize what you already have before buying something new which will likely gather dust once more.,

When I read about the Urban Decay Naked Palette on beauty blogs, I couldn't resist having one for myself too. Sure, it was awesome, the quality is superb, in fact if you're still on the hunt for a neutrals palette, I'd recommend you to get the Naked Palette. But then I already had tons of MAC neutrals that I previously invested on. Getting another set of eye shadows with almost the same shades turned out to be impractical.

If you're lusting over the heaps of make ups of some beauty bloggers, think again. Unless you'll earn back your investment by turning pro in the make up industry, there's nothing to be jealous about redundant makeup shades that are piling up. You only have 2 eye lids to put them on, unless you fancy doing makeup of your whole barangay for free. Remember, make up products have expiry.

If you still don't feel like using what you already have, sell them. With makeups, sanitation issues may be difficult to reckon with, so it may take a while or a much cheaper price for you to dispose used cosmetics.

Innovate

Now that you've found potentially useful stuff lying around your crib, let your creative juices flow and create something unique that even trendsetters would crave for. The young Carrie Bradshaw found her mom's Mark Cross purse accidentally tainted by her bratty little sis, but her avant garde artistic sense rescued it into a fashion must-have. In fact, it caught the attention of fashion editor Larisa Loughlin. Alright, "Carrie Diaries" may be a fiction, but you get my point, right?

When I had several lipsticks accumulating, I researched on ways to make my own palette. I blended some colors which resulted to shades that won't be bought anywhere. Cheap, practical, achievable.

Be Realistic

If you earn below Php 10,000 a month, do you think people will be impressed if you strut around town wearing Balenciaga? The first thing they'd probably ask you will be, "which ukay did you get it from?" Or, tell you : "nice replica!" Or worse: "who's the sugar daddy?" Stay real. If you really want it bad, ask yourself, "what would you accomplish from having it?" Think about the bills and obligations you have to fulfill before indulging in luxury. Don't compromise the your financial security or that of  your family with temporary quirks that will never increase in value.

If you consider your materialistic desires to be your driving force to succeed, then learn how to save and invest with the little income you have, then wait until you can actually afford it before you splurge. However, if you belong to the rare breed of the filthy rich, then what you do with your money is none of my business.

Build Your Confidence

When you are confident about yourself, not a single Chanel or Prada will be required to boost your coolness factor. If you're insecure, it will be easy to give in to what society dictates and buy anything that you think will heighten your status in the community. Develop your skills, be the best you can be, because people dig in to truly confident, positive individuals, regardless of the brand you wear.

Whenever you're tempted to blow your budget to fit in, remember Will Smith's line, "Too many people spend money they haven't earned to buy things they don't want, to impress people they don't like."

MANGO Opens at Ayala Centrio Mall

Since the opening of Ayala Centrio Mall in Cagayan de Oro, a lot of shops and restaurants that I  frequently visit every time I'm in Manila are now within our reach.  During my internship days in Manila a couple of years ago, MANGO was a favorite fashion hub and I could only wish they had one in CDO too.

That wish was granted when they finally opened a flagship store at Ayala Centrio yesterday, December 2, 2012. It was attended by CDO's fashion forward personalities, bloggers, and representatives from MANGO Spain, where the brand originated. Thanks to Irene of Mindanaoan for the exclusive invitation.

Visit MANGO at the ground floor of Ayala Centrio Mall in Cagayan de Oro.

The Mistress

I have a confession to make: I've always been a John Lloyd-Bea fan.I can forego watching flicks starring either of them and wait for the DVD to come out. But the two of them together in a movie is too much to miss, let alone this Olivia Lamasan masterpiece "The Mistress," which marks their 10th year together as on-screen partners.

Until now, playing their blockbuster hits "One More Chance" and "Close To You" at home remains one of my guilty pleasures. Watching the trailer of their latest movie tells us that they have progressed as actors and have taken on more complex roles. Indeed, with the emotionally-loaded plot of "The Mistress," don't expect to come home giddily smiling the way you fell in love with Basha and Popoy in "One More Chance."

It was a bit uncomfortable to watch Bea Alonzo play mistress to Ronaldo Valdez' character. I can't help but associate it  with their Betty La Fea TV series where the latter was a respectable, protective father to Betty (Bea). As an actress, Bea admitted to finding her scenes with the veteran actor most challenging.

"The Mistress" explores the other side of the coin. It doesn't glorify adultery, but depicts the mistress in a more humane light. A human flawed in her judgment, bound to ultimately suffer the consequences of her actions. You will neither hate Sari nor wanna be her. Sari (Bea Alonzo) as the mistress, is not the stereotypical skimpily clad, she-devil incarnate, social-climbing bitch. On the contrary, Sari is a goody two shoes, decent-looking, soft-spoken woman in her mid-twenties devoted to her family, albeit  burdened by the secret life she leads as a kept woman. Bea Alonzo's under-acting in this movie reminds me of Jaclyn Jose's thespian trademark, but not lazy enough to graduate under Bella Swan's lethargic acting school. The radiant and hardworking woman being weighed down by her sinful undertakings is executed perfectly by Bea's calm but troubled take on the role. She has come a long way as an actress. Bea Alonzo has arrived.
John Lloyd is the flirty and confident architect JD, who is swept away by Sari's charms. Despite discovering the sticky situation that Sari was in, JD's messianic complex has taken over and wanted Sari out of the rut. According to him, it was love, that's it. How could he resist the flawless, beautifully-lighted Sari reminiscent of an angel who just dropped from the sky?

Upon entering the theatre, I could hear people coming out of it, saying they should have brought tissues. I initially couldn't relate to their sentiments as I was having fun with the intermittent injection of humor despite the seriousness of the theme. Thanks to the little kid named Mamon (Clarence Delgado) and K Brosas who mostly provided the comic relief. However John Lloyd Cruz is John Lloyd Cruz. This man knows the way to your tear ducts without you realizing it. I have long been amazed with his relatable, realistic and poignant acting. The scene with Ronaldo Valdez was epic. So yes, even if you're not a mistress and cannot relate to the role, bring lots of tissues. Blame that on John Lloyd.

The presence of Anita Linda, Ronaldo Valdez and Hilda Koronel spelled powerhouse. Although there were scenes where Hilda went too theatrical in acting out her heartbroken, alcoholic of a wife role, it was forgivable.

"Chasing Cars" by Snow Patrol still lingers in my head. This leads us wondering, what made Star Cinema use foreign music on a movie that could possibly redefine local films? I don't know, perhaps there was no Jed Madela song  that could capture the melancholia in JD and Sari's love story as much as "Chasing Cars" could.

The moviegoers could barely wipe off their tears when the end credits started rolling.It was a heavy feeling to carry home. "Di dahil gusto mo, makukuha mo," (not everything you want will be yours) could very well tell the gist of the story.I think this was what pierced through me- the painful realization that there are things that will never be, no matter how desired zealously enough. It sure stings. Sometimes, the only way to have it is to close your eyes and dream about it. Sigh.