This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Bloom. Bling. Bite. | MyMy Blog Celebrates Mother’s Day 2013

Mother’s Day is this coming Sunday, May 12th, 2013.  As a treat for all my mommy followers and readers, I’ll be doing this month’s Freebie Friday three weeks early!  Hooray for all the mothers in the world!!! Hooraaaayyy!!!

I named this year’s theme “Bloom.  Bling.  Bite.” because MyMy Blog‘s treat for the lucky Mom is dedicated to making her feel extra beautiful, elegant and appreciated.  I think y’all get the idea but wait ’til you see the specifics! 

My Heartfelt Gratitude To Our Freebie Friday Sponsors

Before I proceed, I’d like to congratulate in advance the lucky Mommy winner because she’s in for a really fabulous treat!  I’d also like to direct the spotlight on each of our sponsors.  Thank you so much for being a part of  MyMy Blog‘s celebration of Mother’s Day 2013.  Your generosity is very much appreciated! 

Now, without further ado… for our Freebie Friday Mother’s Day 2013 Edition, one (1) very lucky Mom will get to enjoy the following freebies:

Bloom

Professional Makeup Service from The Makeup Fairy by Jeanne Sto. Domingo

Anew 360° White Skin Whitening System from Avon Philippines

Bling

Fashion accessories from SM Accessories

Evening Clutch from Tomato

Bite

Complimentary lunch or dinner for two (2) at the Acacia Hotel Manila‘s Acaci

(redeemable anytime within the month of May).

How To Join This Freebie Friday Mother’s Day 2013 Edition

This Freebie Friday contest is open to all Moms.  The Rafflecopter widget below will prompt/guide you through the process of joining this Freebie Friday giveaway contest.  May I remind you, Friends, to please follow all of the instructions carefully to avoid getting disqualified.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This contest will end on Friday of next week, May 17th at exactly 12 p.m. (noon) Philippine time.  Good luck to everyone who will join.

Win this for Mom!!!

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

Like What You See Here?

I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: Acacia Hotel Manila, Celebrations, Free Stuff, Freebie Friday, freebies, giveaways, Jeanne Sto. Domingo, mother's day, Mother's Day 2013, SM Accessories, The Makeup Fairy, Verona Skin Therapy

More content like this is available from Myla Upshaw ("MyMy") at MylaUpshaw.com - Live. Laugh. Love.

This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: More Than Just Clean Teeth | Dental Prophylaxis

We all routinely clean our teeth as part of our oral hygiene and we do it by brushing several times a day, right?  This routine is done in hopes of preventing cavities, gingivitis and other periodontal diseases.  Unfortunately, brushing and flossing alone are never enough — it can’t remove the hardened deposits that accumulate on the surface of our teeth.  This is where our dentist can help by performing a method of cleaning called dental prophylaxis.

A dental prophylaxis is performed by a dentist not only to clean but also to check the teeth for any other problems.  The cleaning not only includes the surface but also the areas we can’t see such as under the gum line.  This is most important since many serious diseases can come from poor oral hygiene.  The bacteria found in dental plaque, for one, can affect the blood vessels supplying blood to the brain.  Hence, memory loss and dementia are only two examples of the many diseases that have been linked to poor oral hygiene.

It is recommended to undergo a dental prophylaxis every six months. It shouldn’t be an expensive treatment and I suggest that, for your (and your family’s) sake, you find a dentist near you that offers the dental prophylaxis treatment at a reasonable and affordable price so you won’t feel the need to put it off or to make it your last priority.

The Upshaws Get Their Dental Prophylaxis

Well, what d’ya know?  It was time for The Upshaws’ bi-annual dental prophylaxis last weekend!  So off we went to see our local dentist, Dra. Patricia Martin of Advance & Protect Dental Clinic in Paranaque City.

Receiving/Waiting Area

Our dentist’s clinic might not be all that big and fancy but it’s very clean, presentable and cozy.

Dental chair, spit sink and wash area

Le Chair.  Much of Le Torture happens on this chair… but this is also where Le Prophylaxie  takes place. 

Second dental chair; charming wall clock and paper cup

There’s also a pink chair for the more dainty and kikay patients.  Look at how cutesy patootsie that li’l paper cup is!

Preparing for the prophylaxis

Arra waits for her treatment to begin (thank you so much, Baby, for agreeing to be my model for this post). 

Step 1: Scaling

First is the scaling where the tartar, plaque and stains from the teeth are removed.

Step 2: Polishing

Polishing is done next to smooth out the tooth surface using a polishing tip and a generous amount of polishing paste.

Final rinsing

Ayt!  I know you’re gonna have to spit that out but don’t you be aiming that at me, young lady.

Clean. Perfect.

Nakakashokot naman yang smile na yan, baby!

Next!

It’s Big Daddy’s turn to get on Le Chair.

Hmmm… looks like we’re gonna need some help here, people! (LOL)

Show ‘em those pearly whites, baby!

It’s easy to flash a big smile when you’ve got clean teeth. 

Thank you so much for our clean teeth, Dra. Patricia Martin and clinic assistant Jackie!

Advance & Protect Dental Clinic

331 Aguirre Avenue, BF Homes Paranaque

Tel. No. (02) 475-4688

Dental Prophylaxis – Php 500 per person

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

Like What You See Here?

I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: dental cleaning, Health, oral hygiene

More content like this is available from Myla Upshaw ("MyMy") at MylaUpshaw.com - Live. Laugh. Love.

This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Freebie Friday: Rock Your Red!

I sincerely apologize (yet again) for not having published my Freebie Friday post last Friday.  As was the case before, I was tied up with a never-ending list of activities and commitments.  Not that I’m complaining.  I love being busy and productive.  It’s just that it oftentimes takes me away from blogging.  (Haaay!)

Anyway, there’s no changing the past… what’s done is done… let’s just move on and get right to the point of this post!

Shall we? 

Freebie Friday: Rockin’ Your Red Lipstick!

Because you had to wait another week for it, I will make today’s (and by that, I mean for the month of April) Freebie Friday a little more exciting and fun for you, Ladies!

Here’s all you need to do:

1. Post a photo of you on Facebook wearing your favorite red lipstick.  Be as creative and fashionable as you can possibly be with your entry.
2. Type this statement as your status/description, “This is how I rock my red!” and tag me (er…my page), Myla Upshaw, on your post.  Make sure your privacy setting is on “public” sharing so I may be able to view your entry.
3. Get as many of your friends to “Like” your photo.
4. The person whose entry (photo) gets the most number of “Likes” will get to win a red lipstick of her choice from among those I featured on The Perfect Red Lipstick post.
5. Post a comment on this post (scroll down to the bottom of this page) and just let me know that you joined this contest so I won’t miss your entry.
6. As an added bonus to the winner, for liking and sharing The Perfect Red Lipstick post on her Facebook and/or Twitter account mentioning @mymyupshaw and including the hashtags #MyMyBlog and #FreebieFriday, I will be throwing in another special gift:

L’Oreal Lucent Magique Light-Infusing Foundation

The perfect way to rock your red lipstick is to have a flawless, lit-from-within complexion!

(By the way, watch out for my review of this amazing L’Oreal Foundation — coming very soon!)

That’s it, pancit!  Deadline for this Freebie Friday contest is on Thursday of next week, May 9, 2013 at exactly 11:59PM Philippine time.

Good luck and rock it, Ladies!!!

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

Like What You See Here?

I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: Beauty, Free Stuff, Freebie Friday, freebies, giveaways, red lipstick

More content like this is available from Myla Upshaw ("MyMy") at MylaUpshaw.com - Live. Laugh. Love.

This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Samsung Galaxy Camera EK-GC100 | Review

It’s no secret to those of you who follow my blog that I had been wanting to replace my old camera for the longest time now because of the many issues I have with its ability to adapt to low lights, capture moving objects, etc.

Well now…

… just as I had recently posted on my Instagram account, I couldn’t be more thrilled to be back not only on Instagram, but on the blogging scene “WITH A BANG!” –  armed with the new Samsung Galaxy Camera Ek-GC100!

Guys, I’d like y’all to meet my new pal:

The Samsung Galaxy Camera

It’s called the “Smartest” Camera! I feel very intimidated now… LOL!

The tamper-resistant seal

I hardly glance at this side of the box because it looks nothing more to me than a whole bunch of matrix codes! But for the techie guys out there, here ya go!

Product specification

The Samsung Galaxy Camera came with a charger, a USB cable, one main battery and a backup battery.  It also came with a Quick Startup Manual.

Contents of the box

I wanted the white one but at the time I got this, Samsung only had this color

The slim, sleek and compact design makes it a hassle-free companion at parties, shopping, pretty much any activity!

70.8 x 128.7 x 19.1mm dimension

There’s also a tripod mounting socket that allows the camera to be screwed directly onto a tripod.

Tripod socket

The shutter speed is 1/8 to 1/2000sec (auto mode) and  16 to 1/2000sec (manual mode).  What does this mean?  I have no idea.  Hahaha!  It just sounds so freakin’ cool!

The power and shutter buttons

The retracted lens of the Samsung Galaxy Camera is unobtrusive, which is one of the many things I love about it.  I also love the textured “criss-cross” side for a more secure handling.  I do agree with Samsung that the stylish curves of the camera’s ergonomics place all the key controls right where they should be:  at your fingertips!

Textured easy-grip design

The 4.8″ touch display looks very similar to an iPhone, right?  Hehe!

4.8″ 1280 x 720 (Full HD) LCD

The Samsung Galaxy Camera sports a 21x super duper long zoom lens and a pop-up flash.

21x Zoom Lens (side view)

21x Zoom Lens

The different photo shooting settings — very idiot friendly!

Up close or far away. Dim lights or bright lights. No problemo.

A preview through the macro lens of the Samsung Galaxy Camera.

Up close and personal with the macro lens

The Android 4.1 Jellybean Interface

Here’s a sample of a few shots taken with this kickass  Samsung Galaxy Camera!

To protect my new pal, I got a hard-case bag that has a spacious compartment for the charger and other accessories.

Camera case from Case Logic

My Samsung Galaxy Camera in its cozy li’l cocoon!

As if that wasn’t enough to send my excitement skyrocketing, Samsung threw in a couple of extra freebies with this camera!!!

Free Tripod from Keep

…and a FREE Samsung Galaxy y Mobile Phone

I’m no techie gal, not by any stretch of the imagination, so I won’t even pretend that I can fully explain or discuss the technical specification and features of the Samsung Galaxy Camera.  What I can say though is that this camera is the perfect camera for me for a number of reasons:

• It has wi-fi and 3G connectivity.  That means I can instantly upload my photos online; no need to wait to get home and connect to a laptop before I can share my photos.
• It lets me surf the net, send and receive text messages as on a mobile phone, listen to music, play games, watch and create mini movies in full HD.
• It takes brilliant, “larger-than-life” photos, whether my subject is moving fast, or against the blinding light of the sun, or under extremely low lighting.
• It has the macro lens, light trace and best face features — which are some the most amazing photo settings I’ve ever seen!
• It allows me to do group sharing of photos which comes very handy at parties where everyone naturally will want to have copies of all group photos taken.  Remember all those annoying group photos that take forever because everyone brought their own camera?  Well, with the Samsung Galaxy Camera, I can share my photos with my friends at the same time I shoot them with the “Share Shot”.
• It packs an amazing set of powerful editing features on board, giving me the opportunity to edit my photos with ease like a pro, and while on-the-go.

These are just some of what I think are the best features of the Samsung Galaxy Camera.  I know that there are many other types and brands of cameras out there that might be better and that can probably produce higher-quality photos. However, for simpler “non-techie” folks like myself, who are not photography pros, and whose primary use for it is blogging and social networking — you will undoubtedly find this camera extremely useful, handy, trendy, reliable and just plain fun to use!

For those of you who are in the Philippines, it might also interest you to know that this camera is now available at Samsung stores for less than P23,000 along with a free Galaxy y mobile phone for a limited period of time. However, if you’d like to save even more money, and don’t need a free cell phone, you can buy this camera on Amazon by clicking on the following link:

Samsung Galaxy Camera Ek-gc100 8gb Black, Android Os, V4.1 (Jelly Bean) 3g Unlocked Hsdpa 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 By Samsung

Technical vs. Non-Technical Samsung Galaxy Camera Review

For you techies, I realize that this isn’t the most “technical” review you have probably ever seen.  Please know that it’s not intended to be. I’m sure you have probably seen far more technical reviews out there. If you were looking for a really high-tech review, I’m sorry to disappoint. My “hubby” is the “techie guru” in my family. He’s even managed to turn our two kids into techies as well. That’s just not me. My intent in this review is to write something real and “down-to-earth” that the non-techie can understand and relate to. I hope I’ve accomplished that in this post.

Still Not Sure If The Samsung Galaxy Camera Is For You?

So, you think you might like to own the Samsung Galaxy Camera, but you’re still not quite convinced? May I suggest that you check out the two short video demonstrations below before making any decision towards buying the Samsung Galaxy Camera? After seeing these two videos – one of them with an amateur photographer you might recognize (no, not me!) – I can’t imagine how you wouldn’t decide to make this camera your own!

Would You Like To Own This Incredible Camera For Yourself?

For those of you who are new to my site, and who don’t know me well enough to know that I don’t recommend anything I don’t use myself, I hope that after seeing all that I’ve written about this camera, you can tell that this is, in fact, a sincere, “no-BS” Samsung Galaxy Camera review. If you liked my review of this great camera, and have decided that you’d like to own one, I’d be grateful if you would consider buying it through one of the Amazon links my hubby/webmaster has provided on this page. I don’t make much on these links, but what little we do make goes toward the maintenance and upkeep of this site, allowing me to continue to write reviews like this for you, my valued readers and subscribers!

To check out the Samsung Galaxy Camera EK-GC100 on Amazon, simply click on any of the Amazon images for this camera that we’ve provided on this page, or you can simply click on the following link:

Samsung Galaxy Camera Ek-gc100 8gb Black, Android Os, V4.1 (Jelly Bean) 3g Unlocked Hsdpa 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 By Samsung

What Do YOU Think?

If it’s not painfully obvious by now, overall, I’m extremely happy and satisfied with the Samsung Galaxy EK-GC100 Camera. I’m looking forward to using it for years to come (or until the next cool camera comes along! lol) What do YOU think, though? Have YOU already purchased this camera? If so, what is YOUR impression of it? If not (and whether you are a techie or not), what did you think about this review? Was it helpful to you? Please let me know in the comments section below!

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

Like What You See Here?

I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: fabulous finds, Samsung, Samsung Galaxy Camera

More content like this is available from Myla Upshaw ("MyMy") at MylaUpshaw.com - Live. Laugh. Love.

This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Elixir Of Youth: Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 | Review

I got my first sample of Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 products from my BDJ Box.  After only a few weeks of using the Night Emulsion and the Balancing Softener, I could already tell that it felt really good on my skin.  So, I went ahead and bought the Day Emulsion and the Intensive Eye Contour Cream to complete my new skincare regimen.

I intentionally took my time in reviewing these products because I knew that 2-3 weeks of trying out a new product is not enough time for any significant change to take place and be observable.  Now that it has been more than a month since I started using the Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 products, I feel more confident about the opinion that I’m about to share with y’all.

So without further ado, here are my two cents…

Could Shiseido Have Found The Elusive Elixir Of Youth?

To start off, let me quote what Shiseido has to say about its own Benefiance WrinkleResist24 line:

Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 targets every step of wrinkle formation for youthful looking skin that can resist signs of aging.  The entire line contains a revolutionary breakthrough ingredient, Mukurossi Extract, which directly inhibits the activity of a wrinkle-triggering enzyme.

Now, let’s look at each product more closely…

Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Balancing Softener

The Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Balancing Softener is “a comprehensive age-defying lotion that contains effective ingredients to challenge signs of skin aging.  By generously moisturizing the skin, this sumptuous softener instantly helps to retexturize your skin, making it more receptive to further skincare treatment” (Shiseido).

This product is used just as you would a toner.  It’s applied on the skin immediately after cleansing and right before the day or night emulsion.  It has a very delicate floral fragrance that’s not overwhelming at all.  It leaves the skin feeling velvety soft and not “tight” or overly dry.

Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Night Emulsion

The Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Night Emulsion is “an age-defying night-time moisturizer that intensively addresses lines and wrinkles before they become more serious.  Offers visible reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, and helps promote silky smooth skin condition while encouraging recovery by morning” (Shiseido).

First of all, an emulsion is similar to a cream and has the same purpose which is to moisturize the skin, except that the former is lighter and thinner (or more watery) in consistency than the latter.  An emulsion is more suitable for oily skin.  The Shiseido Benfiance WrinkleResist24 Night Emulsion has a milky white color and “milky” texture.  It feels very light on the skin and doesn’t leave any greasy or sticky residue.  It also has a very pleasant fragrance that’s slightly floral and slightly nutty as well (to me, that is).

Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Emulsion

The Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Emulsion is “an age-defense daytime moisturizer that helps protect skin from damage caused by external aging factors such as UV rays.  The appearance of lines and wrinkles are dramatically reduced, while maintaining rich moisture to the skin under even dry conditions all day long” (Shiseido).

Just like its evening counterpart, the Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Emulsion has the same milky appearance and texture, and the same subtle, sweet fragrance.  What I particularly love about this product is that it moisturizes my skin but doesn’t leave it looking shiny or oily.  After allowing about ten minutes for my skin to absorb the product, I can proceed with my makeup application with no problem.

Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Intensive Eye Contour Cream

The Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Intensive Eye Contour Cream is “an ultra-rich, age-defying cream that visibly improves the appearance of all types of eye-area wrinkles from inner corner creases and under eye wrinkles to crow’s feet, lid creases and under eye vertical lines… prevents future wrinkles and repairs existing wrinkles.  It contains Burnet Extract, to revitalize cells and counteract loss of firmness and was developed with advanced Shiseido technology and ingredients including Super Bio Hyaluronic Acid N for intense moisture and Hydroxyproline to promote collagen production” (Shiseido).

This eye cream, as the name suggests, is thicker in consistency, compared to the emulsions.  It also has a slightly darker color.  I’ve also observed that this product is very potent.  I see a noticeable difference almost immediately after application!

My problem with other night-time eye creams is that most of them leave my eyes looking puffy in the morning.  So, it’s been particularly hard for me to find a single day-to-night eye cream.  I usually end up buying two separate creams.  The Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Eye Contour Cream is simply amazing!  Since day 1 of using this product, I haven’t had any problem with puffy morning eyebags!  Instead, I wake up every morning to fresh-looking eyes!

Conclusion

Top Row: Shiseido Benefiance Intensive Eye Contour Cream; Center: Shiseido tamper-evident product seal; Bottom Row: Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day and Night Emulsion

I guess y’all are waiting to find out if Shiseido delivered on its promise of improving the appearance of wrinkles with its Benefiance WrinkleResist24 line.  I attest that my skin does look more firm, more supple and the appearance of lines under my eyes and my laugh lines remarkably improved!

Based on these results, the price is certainly very reasonable and competitive – especially when compared to its higher-priced competition.  Of course, all things being considered, it’s still not cheap, and I don’t mean to suggest otherwise.  However, if you consider that you get the same or even better results than the more expensive brand, the money you save by investing into the Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 skin care system merely adds even more to the value you already receive by owning this product.

So…

Did I like the Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 product line?   Loved it!   Will I keep using it?   Most assuredly!  Do I recommend it?   Very strongly (didn’t I just do that?)! 

Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Pricing

The Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 line retails at:

Balancing Softener (75ml) – P 2,500

Night Emulsion (75ml) – P3,100.00

Day Emulsion (75ml) – P3,100.00

Intensive Eye Contour Cream (15ml) – P2,850.00
 

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

Like What You See Here?

I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: age-defying, anti-wrinkle, Beauty, Shiseido, Shiseido Benefiance, Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24, Skin Care, Youthful Skin

More content like this is available from Myla Upshaw ("MyMy") at MylaUpshaw.com - Live. Laugh. Love.

This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Hotel Etiquette: How To Be A Cool Hotel Guest

Now that summer is here, many of us are busy planning our next “summer getaway” or hotel “staycation”.  The prospect of getting away always sounds pretty exciting.  However, unfortunately, sometimes annoying things do happen while we are trying to maintain our “zen” mentality.  During these trying times, it’s often difficult to think about things such as proper hotel etiquette.  Maybe something went wrong at the resort or hotel, such as encountering a discourteous member of their staff.   Maybe the hotel turned out to be less than what you expected or what was advertised. Perhaps you were unfortunate enough to be checked into a room next to the room of a loud or otherwise annoying fellow guest, etc., etc.  Life is full of challenges, and events like a vacation or a stay at a hotel or resort are no exception.

Making sure we protect ourselves and our families from any unpleasant incidents caused by others that might potentially ruin our vacation is a no-brainer.  However, it’s also a good idea to make sure that nothing similar can be said about us or our family.  If you’re a veteran traveler & hotel guest, then the concept of proper hotel etiquette is nothing new to you.  In that case, my own thoughts below may be nothing more than a friendly reminder for you.  However, if this is your first time to get ready for such a trip, I thought it might be handy to offer some friendly guidance on the subject.  Either way, my hope is that you find my ideas on hotel etiquette outlined herein helpful to you.  My humble goal is merely to help you make sure that in addition to being all packed and ready for your trip with all the tangible travel necessities, you’re also armed with these great hotel etiquette tips to help make your trip as hassle-free and memorable as possible.

So, let’s go over our hotel etiquette, shall we?

- MyMy’s Top 10 Tips On Hotel Etiquette -

Hotel Etiquette Tip #1:
“A Good Hotel Guest Arrives In Style And With Grace”

Image courtesy of hospitality.cvent.com

Whether you’re arriving alone or with others (such as your family), when exiting your vehicle, be sure to pull your car over to the side so that you’re not blocking other drivers behind you from getting through the hotel driveway.  Pop the trunk open and allow the hotel staff to assist you with your luggage.  That’s his job, so don’t be playing tug-o-war with the guy who’s only trying to help you.  There’s no need to be suspicious of their possible ulterior motives, either, as though the hotel employee might steal your bags or something.  If there’s something in your belongings that should never leave your sight, then calmly and politely take it, saying, “It’s okay.  I’ve got this one.  Thank you”.

If you’re not carrying a lot of bags, and if the hotel allows it, it may be more appropriate to simply proceed directly to hotel parking.  Park your car properly, observing and maintaining proper distance on both sides from the car(s) next to you.  Make sure that the driver of the other vehicle(s) won’t have any difficulty getting into or out of their car because you parked too close to their space.  Also, if the parking area is a car park or enclosed garage, be sure to look for signs on the wall that ask that you do not back in to your parking space, but that you pull in head-first.  It costs a lot of money to keep re-painting the walls in a large facility like a parking garage, but the hotel does it anyway to make things nice and clean in appearance for YOU; so help ‘em out a little by honoring their wishes.  OK?  In other words, it’s simply good hotel etiquette to be as considerate of the hotel as you would want the hotel to be of you.

***

Hotel Etiquette Tip #2:
“A Good Hotel Guest Checks in with A Smile (and A Lot of Patience)”

Image courtesy of www.marriott.com

Everyone understands how frustrating it is sometimes to be standing in line for a long time waiting for the person in front of you to get done with his business so you can also get yours done and over with.  During times like that, hotel etiquette is the last thing on your mind!  However, since long lines and a lot of waiting at places like this are quite often a fact of life (especially at busy times of the year), rather than be frustrated about it, it’s better to simply plan for that probability.  A better way to deal with frustrating issues like this is to plan on arriving early, allowing for maybe thirty extra minutes for check-in procedure.  Of course, even if you plan your time really well, sometimes things just happen that cause unexpected delays.  When that happens, just stay patient and calm.  After all, you’ve already planned for this contingency, right?  For sure, the guest in front of you doesn’t want to be standing at the desk any longer either.  Focus on getting your information ready or whatever documents that you know the front desk agent might need from you, so that when it’s your turn, you’re ready.  Doing so will certainly help speed up the process for those that are behind you in line, and will perhaps set a positive example for others of the right way to handle things in the future.  Maybe next time, it might be THEM you are behind in line, and you might very well see the example you set pay off! 

When you finally get to the front desk, no matter how rushed you feel things are, always start the conversation off with a smile.  This is particularly helpful if you can sense that the front desk agent may be slightly overwhelmed (although at any good hotel, the staff is trained not to show any signs of stress to guests… who knows, maybe a smile is what he/she might need)!  A simple, “Hi! My name is (NAME), and I have a reservation” is all you need to say.  The front desk agent will immediately recognize your proper hotel etiquette, and will be far more likely to work extra hard to make things happen for you as quickly as possible.

***

Hotel Etiquette Tip #3:
“A Good Hotel Guest Interacts and Connects”

One sign of a really good hotel is when they train their staff to remember the faces and names of guests, and then address each guest by name.  Although you may want to view that as merely “part of their job”, proper hotel etiquette dictates that you make at least some attempt at reciprocating such a warm gesture, establishing that real & genuine human connection.  Try to get the names of employees that are regularly making an effort to interact with you.  No one expects you to memorize the names of the entire hotel staff, of course.  However, if you can at least remember the ones you encounter on a regular basis who are really making an extra effort, that kind of thing is greatly appreciated and really motivates the staff to want to be even nicer to you!

***

Hotel Etiquette Tip #4:
“A Good Hotel Guest Gives Credit Where Credit Is Due”

Image courtesy of www.hotelscheap.org

One way we as customers express appreciation for good quality service is by tipping the staff.  Certainly part of being a good hotel guest involves tipping the staff — the waiters, the housekeeping staff, the masseuse, etc.  However, if a staff member does a really good job for you, don’t stop at merely giving them a great tip.  Take a little time and write a commendation for employees that actually exceeded your expectations or who went out of their way to assist you.  Write a letter to his manager about your pleasant encounter with the employee.  Anything you can do to help direct the spotlight onto a deserving service staff member is not only proper hotel etiquette, but such actions will reap rewards in return to you sooner or later!

Finally, don’t forget to say, “thank you”!

***

Hotel Etiquette Tip #5:
“A Good Hotel Guest Expresses Frustration With Self-Control And Respect”

Image courtesy of www.tnooz.com

No matter how upset you are, regardless of the nature of the shortcoming, there is absolutely no justification for hurling insulting or foul words at anybody.  It goes beyond hotel etiquette, or even simple social etiquette.  It’s about moral values.  If you find yourself in an infuriating situation, and if you feel that higher management should be made aware of it immediately, calmly and politely ask to be connected to the manager and either speak to him/her on the phone or face to face.  When doing so,this is the most important thing to remember: Keep your composure and communicate in a mature and appropriate way.  This means absolutely no yelling and making a scene in front of other guests.  No matter how valid your complaint or concern is, other guests should not be involved or bothered by your fit.  Just like you, they are also there for their own “R & R”.  They didn’t come to watch your drama unfold before their unwilling eyes.  Now if what was done to you was blatant, shameless disrespect or rudeness and something that other people should be warned about, there are other platforms where you can air your testimony/opinion that are far more proper and “decent”.

If you don’t see yourself as the “confrontational type”, you can always fill out the guest feedback form.

***

Hotel Etiquette Tip #6:
“A Good Hotel Guest Knows That Respect Goes Both Ways”

Just because you are a paying customer doesn’t earn you the right to go around the hotel demanding special treatment and expecting to be “respected” by the staff while you are barking orders, looking down your nose at them as though they are less of a human being than you are, or talking to them rudely.  Proper hotel etiquette dictates that respect goes both ways.  Show sincere and genuine respect for the hotel staff, regardless of position, and you will gain their respect in return.  Do it simply because it’s the right thing to do, whether you think they deserve it or not.  Many of them might not be able to afford a hotel stay like the one you are experiencing, but that doesn’t make them any less deserving of your respect.  The hotel employees are human beings, too,  just like you.  Also, remember the line from the movie Maid In Manhattan?

“And although we serve them, we are not their servants.” (Lionel Bloch)

This also means respecting hotel property.  If you accidentally broke a glass or stained the linens, inform housekeeping right away so they can do whatever they would normally do to fix it.  Don’t try to hide it or “sweep it under the carpet” (figuratively and literally speaking!).  Should you be charged for what happened, graciously accept the consequences of your mistake.  It’s always better to be honest about it and own up to your mistake, than to behave like a loser by running away from responsibility.

***

Hotel Etiquette Tip #7:
“A Good Hotel Guest Communicates Needs Clearly And Reasonably”

Image courtesy of http://charlottecitypark.place.hyatt.com/

A good hotel will not promise you anything that they can’t deliver.  A great hotel will tell you that they don’t have what you’re looking for at the moment but will move heaven and earth to get it for you — and delivers!  Believe it or not, I know (and have stayed) in a few hotels that are like that.  Diamonds!  I know, right?

Hotel etiquette certainly allows that you inform the hotel of any preferences, requirements or concerns you may have, such as:

• if you prefer a specific type of pillow
• if you only eat a certain type of food
• if you need to have phone calls blocked from going through to you at a specific time every night
• if you are not happy with your room location or setup

Do not hesitate to try to negotiate adjustments or improvements.  Just make sure that you observe proper hotel etiquette by ensuring that you are clear about what you need and that your requests are realistically attainable so as not to set the hotel staff up to failure.

***

Hotel Etiquette Tip #8:
“A Good Hotel Guest Does Not Steal from the Hotel”

Image courtesy of eastonhk.en.made-in-china.com

What items in your hotel are okay for you to take home?  Do you know?  Are you sure?

Hotel amenities such as shampoo, hair conditioner, soap, shower gel, body lotion, shower cap, stationery, pens, sewing kit, shaving kit, toothbrush and toothpaste are okay for you to take home with you upon checking out.  Even the slippers are OK for you to take home for so long as they are the disposable kind that aren’t reusable.  There’s nothing wrong with asking the housekeeping staff, just to be sure.

What you can’t take home are items like:

• hangers
  
• robes
• towels
• bed linens
• pillows
• hotel directory
• hotel menu
• ash trays
• flower vases
• tissue boxes
• lamps
• mirrors
• hair dryer
• electric pot
• cups, saucers, silverware

Taking any of these items home with you are clearly & obviously big-time hotel etiquette “no-no’s”.  Not only that, but taking any of these items will quite often land you in an embarrassing situation with the hotel staff (perhaps even in front of other guests) and could even get you arrested.  Just keep in mind that the hotel pays for these luxurious amenities to give their guests a higher standard of pampering and convenience.  Please don’t take that ability away from them by violating this very important hotel etiquette tip.  Just imagine if a guest of yours in your own home did the same thing to you and decided to take home some of your bathroom accessories and expensive toiletries, leaving you with an unexpected expenditure of replacing the stolen items.  Surely, you wouldn’t appreciate that, would you?  In this case, following proper hotel etiquette is not only the right thing to do, but will also keep you out of trouble.

Enough said.

***

Hotel Etiquette Tip #9:
“A Good Hotel Guest Exhibits A Significant Level Of “Class”

Image courtesy of www.hiltonaviemore.com

When I refer to “class”, I’m not talking about anything that relates to social, financial status.  Being rich and/or famous is not a prerequisite to being a decent human being, and rich, famous or people with a higher level of education are not the only people expected to understand or follow proper hotel etiquette.  If you are checking in to a four or five star luxury hotel, remember that you are entering an environment that is all about class, elegance and sophistication.  Therefore, do not stick out like a sore thumb by exhibiting any form of behavior that will cause people to question your level of education, moral values and breeding, such as:

• No loud talking, screaming,  or yelling
• No slamming the doors
• No loud banging on the floors and walls of your room
• No running along the hotel hallways or stairways
• While out in the hotel dining facilities or restaurants, observing proper table manners
• Make sure you are decently clothed every time you step out of your room
• Observe proper telephone etiquette when talking to hotel staff on the phone
• No pushing your way into lines and elevators, etc.
• An please…. PLEASE…  control your children & guests!!!  Especially if you’re traveling with your kids, teach them proper hotel etiquette while still at home, WAY before you leave for your trip and hotel stay.  Teaching them proper hotel etiquette and decorum in advance of leaving for your trip gives them time to practice it, making it more likely that they won’t disturb, inconvenience or annoy other people who will also be there for their own time of peace and relaxation.

Of course, what’s happening in your home is your business and yours alone, regardless of whether it is viewed as socially acceptable or not.  However, once you and your family steps out of your territory and enters someone else’s territory (such as a hotel) where other human beings are affected, how you, your family, your kids and your guests behave is no longer only your business.  In proper hotel etiquette, we all are expected to realize that behaving as we would in our own homes is not always appropriate.

***

Hotel Etiquette Tip #10:
“A Good Hotel Guest Recommends (Deserving) Hotels to Other People”

Image courtesy of abcnews.go.com

Assuming that the hotel stay was nothing short of fantastic, a good hotel guest will want other people to have the same great experience that they had, and will gladly recommend the hotel to others.  Not only is it good hotel etiquette to do so, but it’s simply good business.   The difference between being merely an average hotel guest, to being a good hotel guest, to being a great hotel guest is directly proportionate to how well you’ve managed to conform to proper hotel etiquette. If the hotel is anxious and delighted to welcome you back again, it’s a good sign that you’ve mastered proper hotel etiquette, and that you’re going to be far more likely to derive the maximum amount of enjoyment from your hotel stay!

By the way, if you’re looking for a good site for finding great deals on quality hotels, be sure to check out Agoda.com!  Also, if you happen to be looking for a great hotel in the Philippines, here’s a resource you might want to check out:  Hotels In Alabang

Got Any Additional Ideas?

Well, that’s my two-cents worth on hotel etiquette.  Did I miss anything?  Do you have any additional suggestions?  List them in the comments section below, and let’s talk about them! 

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

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Technorati Tags: etiquette, hotel etiquette, manners

More content like this is available from Myla Upshaw ("MyMy") at MylaUpshaw.com - Live. Laugh. Love.

This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: 10 Reasons To Stay At The Acacia Hotel Manila This Summer

During the first week of March, the Upshaws have had the privilege of staying in one of the newest luxury hotels in the Alabang area — the Acacia Hotel Manila.

Gracing the corner of East Asia Drive and Commerce Avenue in Filinvest Alabang, the Acacia Hotel Manila is strategically located within a distance of 700m from Alabang Town Center and 750m from Festival Mall (two of Alabang’s most popular hangouts), about 20 minutes from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and also easily accessible via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) or the Skyway if you’re coming from the North.

I intend to publish another post with a more detailed description of our experience with the Acacia Hotel Manila, including my personal thoughts on what this hotel’s strengths and weaknesses are, but right now I’m posting the following information because I wouldn’t want you guys to miss these top 10 reasons why choosing the Acacia Hotel Manila to be your getaway destination might just be the most practical and fun way of spending your time and money this summer.

While it might be the opinion of many that this almost two-year old hotel still has a lot to prove in terms of establishing a firm foothold in the credibility and longevity department of the hospitality industry, I simply must say that the reasonable and affordable rates, the high spirited all-Filipino staff, the five-star amenities, the aristocratic ambiance that’s reminiscent of classic Filipino charm with modern comfort, the delectable gourmet meal selections and other special touches that are uniquely Acacia Hotel’s,  all put together, give  great value for your money.

So perhaps budget or time constraints make traveling abroad or outside Manila an idea that’s simply “out of the question” for your family this summer, but who says a staycation at a local hotel won’t give you the R & R (and summer tan!) that you’ve been so badly needing?  Check out the Acacia Hotel Manila and the fabulous treats that are in store for you all summer long!

Top 10 Reasons Why A Summer Staycation At The Acacia Hotel Manila Might Just Be What You Need

The driveway leading to the entrance of the Acacia Hotel Manila

1. The Cheerful Staff

Probably the most outstanding and greatest asset of this hotel!  The Acacia Hotel Manila employees are exceptionally warm, cheerful, greet the guests by their names and possess a sincere desire to meet the clients’ needs.

2. Top of The Line Amenities

From the lobby…

The Lobby

to the rooms…

The Hallway

From banquet…

The Acaci where sumptuous buffet meals are served daily

to slumber…

The Junior Suite

The Acacia Hotel Manila has been tastefully appointed with all the necessary amenities to ensure a comfortable stay!  One certainly doesn’t have to spend a boatload of money in an overpriced hotel just to feel pampered.

3. Special Rates For Long-Staying Guests

The Acacia Hotel Manila used to offer special discounted rates for Las Pinas, Paranaque and Muntinlupa residents (living in the South sure had its perks, haha!) but that promo ended after the Holy Week. For those of you who are planning a two-week summer getaway (or even longer), the Acacia Hotel Manila offers a special discounted rate for you as well.

4. The Pillow Concierge

Remarkably, the Acacia Hotel Manila has a “Pillow Concierge” that goes around and visits guests in their rooms, offering a variety of pillows for guests to choose from — Micro Gel, Aroma, Fiber and Latex pillows — to ensure that they get the best night’s sleep.

5. Complimentary Pastries

Although these pastries definitely came from the Acacia Hotel Confectionery, these are not the actual complimentary pastries being delivered to the rooms.

Every night, a hotel staff delivers a small (sampler) plate of complimentary pastries to guests’ rooms.

6. Weekend Sundown Cookout

Weekend Sundown Cookout at the Samanea Garden

Guests can enjoy al fresco dining in the Samanea garden while the summer sun is setting.  What can be more enchanting than that?  Indulge in an assorted selection of meat and seafood grilled to your liking along with a buffet of delicious appetizers, salads, and desserts.

Available every Friday and Saturday, all throughout the months of March and April 2013, from 6PM tp 9PM at Php 850 nett per person.

7. Sunday Champagne Brunch

Sunday Champagne Brunch

Sundays are anything but boring at the Acacia Hotel Manila, not with an extravagant feast of cheese, breads, Japanese delicacies, Asian noodles, pastas, grilled meat, fresh seafood & sinful desserts, complemented with overflowing champagne!

Starting March 24, 2013 from 11:30AM to 2:30PM at Php 1,288 nett per person.

8. Spoiled For Summer Room Package

An overnight stay in a Acacia Hotel Deluxe Room this summer will surely give you more bang for your buck!  Every reservation comes with buffet breakfast for two (2), a choice of lunch OR dinner buffet for two (2), in-room massage for two (2), Fun Ranch free one hour play vouchers for two (2) kids, and 15% discount at all restaurant outlets.

Available from March to May 2013 at Php 5,700++.
 

9. Eat and Swim

The outdoor pool

Weekday lunch buffet at the Acaci comes with a same-day free access to the swimming pool.  Ideal for families who, for some reason, can’t spend an entire night at the hotel.

Available on all weekdays of the whole month of April, 2013, lunch time, at Php 995 nett per person, inclusive of one (1) round of iced tea or pandan juice.

10. I Love Mom Room Package

It’s never too early to plan a pampering Mother’s Day treat for the most important woman in your life!  The Acacia Hotel Manila offers this great idea of rewarding her with a special overnight stay for two (2) that comes with buffet breakfast, choice of lunch OR dinner buffet at Acaci OR in-room massage, and a make-up session by a Shu Uemura Professional artist.

Available from May 10 to 11, 2013 at Php 5,588++, exclusive of VAT and service charge.

Acacia Hotel Manila is proudly 100% Filipino. It is a new brand that promises to showcase true qualities of Filipino hospitality and at the same time offer world-class hotel service. The hotel is owned by Corporate Holdings Management, Inc. (CHMI) through its subsidiary CHMI Hotels and Residences, Inc. and is being managed by Acacia Grove Hotels. (AcaciaHotelsManila.com)

Stay tuned for my (more detailed) review of the Acacia Hotel Manila coming very soon.

 
Acacia Hotel Manila
5400 East Asia Drive corner Commerce Avenue,
Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang,
Muntinlupa City 1781

Telephone: 720 2000 / 588 5888
Email: enquiry@acaciahotelsmanila.com
Twitter: @acaciahotels
Facebook: Acaciahotels

[All images courtesy of AcaciaHotelsManila.com]
 

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

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Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: Acacia Hotel Manila, summer getaway, summer staycation

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This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: The Perfect Red Lipstick

As I posted last month on my Facebook page, I had recently put nine red lipsticks (from different brands) to the test in my search for the “perfect red” lipstick.  I am here now to give y’all my verdict, but first…

Why Search For The Perfect Red Lipstick?

If there is only one makeup product I will choose not to be without, it would probably be a red lipstick (next would be the BB Cream).  Only a red lipstick can make me feel like I’m all made up even if the rest of my face is totally bare.  I just usually put on my red lipstick, plus a pair of sunglasses and I’m a supermodel ready for the runway!

Although I really do believe that one can hardly ever go wrong with red lipstick (contrary to popular belief), I still think it’s necessary to find your perfect match, especially if you’re going for a look that will make a great, lasting impression.

Now, keep in mind that this post represents only my personal opinion and preference.  You might have a different opinion, especially if you have tried some of these lipsticks.  However, if you haven’t yet, and you’re also on your own search for the perfect red lipstick, I hope that this post inspires you to wanna try some of these brands and maybe eventually, it will lead you to your own perfect red lipstick.

The brands I’m featuring here are Shu Uemura, MAC, Laura Mercier, NARS and Smashbox — a little bit on the expensive side, I know, but these are my own trusted brands so I started with them.  Later on maybe I would do a Part 2 on this featuring their inexpensive counterparts or what we call the “drugstore brands”, so stay tuned for that. 

The Contenders

(Back Row, L-R) Shu Uemura M RD 165, Shu Uemura RD 170; (Center, L-R) Laura Mercier Red Amour, NARS Jungle Red, Laura Mercier Haute Red; (Front Row, L-R) MAC Dubonnet, MAC Ruby Woo, MAC Chili

Shu Uemura’s M RD 165

Shu Uemura’s RD 170

Laura Mercier’s Red Amour

Laura Mercier’s Haute Red

NARS’ Jungle Red

MAC’s Dubonnet

MAC’s Ruby Woo

MAC’s Chili

(L-R) MAC Dubonnet, MAC Ruby Woo, MAC Chili, Laura Mercier Haute Red, NARS Jungle Red, Laura Mercier Red Amour, Shu Uemura M RD 165, Shu Uemura RD 170

…and this one by Smashbox didn’t make it to the lineup since Smashbox ran out of stock at the time these photos were taken.

Smashbox Be Legendary Infrared Matte

Will The Perfect Red Lipstick Please Stand Up?

So which one is, in my opinion, the perfect red lisptick?

IT’S A TIE!!!

For me, it’s a tie between MAC Ruby Woo and Smashbox Be Legendary Infrared Matte

In what ways did these two red lipsticks stand out from the rest?

• MAC Ruby Woo – the shade is flattering on my skin tone and gives me a more radiant and fairer look; it has a velvety matte finish that doesn’t dry out my lips; its staying power is so much better than the other brands I tested; I give it a 10 for its WOW factor.
• Smashbox Be Legendary Infrared Matte – the shade compliments my skin tone the same way that the MAC Ruby Woo does, only slightly deeper; although it says it’s “matte”, it felt moisturizing on the lips, yet somehow, it still leaves a matte finish; definitely doesn’t dry out my lips like most matte lipsticks do and it glides on the lips so smoothly; its most outstanding quality, in my opinion, is its staying power — I spent half an hour inside a steam room, took a shower and washed my face after, drank two cups of ginger tea and this lipstick stayed put!  Believe it or not!

So my verdict is in — MAC Ruby Woo and Smashbox Be Legendary Infrared Matte are two of the perfect red lipstick I’ve found so far!

How about you?  Have you found your perfect red lipstick?  What’s yours? 

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

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I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: Beauty, Laura Mercier Hauter Red, Laura Mercier Red Amour, MAC Chili, MAC Dubonnet, MAC Ruby Woo, Makeup, NARS Jungle Red, perfect red lipstick, red lipstick, Shu Uemura M RD 165, Shu Uemura RD 170, Smashbox Be Legendary Infrared Matte, the perfect red

More content like this is available from Myla Upshaw ("MyMy") at MylaUpshaw.com - Live. Laugh. Love.

This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Fantasy & Fashion: A Fusion Of Talents

Last February, Everything ‘Bout The Girl (E’BTG) spearheaded a photo shoot that highlighted the exquisite talents of two renowned artists in the field of weddings and fashion.  It was the first collaborative project ever done with fashion magnate Francis Libiran and brilliant wedding photographer Derek Delos Santos and it was So. Much. Fun!

Also joining the team to showcase her skills was Jeanne Sto. Domingo, a budding makeup artist, slowly making a name for herself via The Make Up Fairy, located in Quezon City.

We found our dream location for this li’l project in Fernwood Gardens under the hospitality and supervision of its owner, Mr. Al De Veyra, whose collection of vintage memorabilia and decorative displays didn’t just provide the perfect backdrop for our artistic vision, but clearly became a distinct trademark that has set this awe-inspiring venue apart from its competitors for many years now.

You can expect to see these photos grace the pages of our websites, catalogs and Facebook pages in the near future; but I guess the biggest purpose of this collaborative project was to give you guys a glimpse of what it’s like to mix together fantasy and fashion — a vision that is not impossible to transform into reality – not when you’re surrounded by the simply beautiful setting at Fernwood Gardens, wearing a gown by Francis Libiran, looking like a fairy goddess courtesy of The Makeup Fairy, all captured and immortalized by the lenses and keen eye of Derek Delos Santos.

So who’s in the mood to get married? 

Models:

Fritz Baum, Roe Cuntapay, Janice DeVera, Bryan Dungo, Ron Rosauro, Rica Mae Santos

For inquiries and bookings:

Francis Libiran – +63 (2) 925-5495 / +63 (2) 416-9098

Jeanne Sto. Domingo – +63 (917) 794-0005 / +63 (923) 300-1231

Derek Delos Santos -+63 (2) 927-2543 / +63 (917) 883-0708 / +63 (920) 953-1442

Fernwood Gardens – +63 (2) 925-0020 / +63 (2) 926-2493 / +63 (2) 426-0968 / +63 (2) 426-0633
 

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife, mother and “domestic goddess”.  She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

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Technorati Tags: bridal shoot, Derek Delos Santos, E'BTG, Everything 'Bout The Girl, Fantasy & Fashion, Fashion, fashion shoot, Francis Libiran, Jeanne Sto. Domingo, Project Photo Shoot, Redfox Photography, The Makeup Fairy

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This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Clarins Multi-Active Power Duo

I first mentioned this “Power Duo” from Clarins when I published a review on Clarins Double Serum Complete Age Control Concentrate.  If you’ve read that blog post, then you guessed right!  I’m talking about the Clarins Multi-Active Day Early Wrinkle Correction Cream and Clarins Multi-Active Night Youth Recovery Cream.

I did say on that post that, although any moisturizer will work well with the Double Serum, this multi-active partners from Clarins still work best!  Here’s why:

Clarins Multi-Active Day Early Wrinkle Correction Cream

Clarins’ age-defying plant extracts go beyond prevention, helping to visibly correct the appearance of early lines and wrinkles. A perfect formula for neutralising the harmful effects of fatigue, pollution and UV stress—so your skin stays smooth, protected, moisture-perfected. (Clarins)

Clarins Multi-Active Night Youth Recovery Cream

Think of it as 8 hours of sleep in a jar. Clarins’ moisture-rich, anti-stress treatment works the nightshift, when skin is most receptive to renewal. Complements the benefits of Multi-Active Day Early Wrinkle Correction Cream — helping restore natural tone, elasticity and radiance for a more youthful appearance by morning. (Clarins)

I’ve been using the Clarins Multi-Active Power Duo for as long as I have been using the Clarins Double Serum Complete Age Control Concentrate, and I must say that I’m absolutely happy and satisfied with its performance!  My skin is noticeably younger-looking, pores less visible and I’ve never had any serious breakouts!  Most importantly, it did correct the early signs of wrinkles under my eyes and no new wrinkles have since developed.  I also applaud Clarins for doing a fantastic job on infusing fragrance into their Multi-Active creams because they both smell so heavenly!

Since the Clarins Multi-Active Day Early Wrinkle Correction Cream tends to feel slightly more “greasy” on the face than the Clarins Multi-Active Night Youth Recovery Cream, I just skip the serum when I plan on going somewhere in the morning, then I give my skin at least 10 minutes to absorb the cream before I put on my makeup.  It also helps to dab on some mattifying cream as a finishing touch to control the shine.

Freebie Friday

Since I believe so much in this Clarins Multi-Active Power Duo, I would like to give away two (2) 15ml Clarins Multi-Active Day Early Wrinkle Correction Cream and two (2) 15ml Clarins Multi-Active Night Youth Recovery Cream to one (1) lucky MyMy Blog reader!  Woohoo!  Just visit my Facebook or Twitter page for the very simple mechanics on how to win these freebies!  Good luck, Ladies!

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

Like What You See Here?

I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: age-defying, Beauty, Clarins, Clarins Multi-Active, Clarins Multi-Active Day Early Wrinkle Correction Cream, Clarins Multi-Active Night Youth Recovery Comfort Cream, Clarins Multi-Active Power Duo, Free Stuff, Freebie Friday, freebies, giveaways, Skin Care, Youthful Skin

More content like this is available from Myla Upshaw ("MyMy") at MylaUpshaw.com - Live. Laugh. Love.

This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Weekend Reflections: Paid In Full

What comes to your mind whenever Holy Week comes around?  I am guessing that most of you think of it as a time for remembering the Lord Jesus Christ’s suffering and death — a time for deep, solemn reflection.  Although this is the right thing to be doing during this time of year, and certainly there’s nothing wrong with thinking of it this way, I would much rather focus on the underlying point (the most important point, in my opinion) of all that Christ went through  for us thousands of years ago.

I personally believe that God wants us to direct our understanding and focus not on how He suffered but why He suffered — on the fact that HE LOVED US SO MUCH  that He gave His Son to take our place and accept the penalty for our sins so that we won’t have to.  I believe that it wasn’t so He could rub it in our faces that every time we remember what He did for us, we feel all guilty and dreary.  Although we should naturally feel a deep sense of gratitude for what He did for us, I believe that God wants us to look far deeper than all of that and see the bigger picture.  Christ’s death on the cross — Him uttering the words, “It is finished” — means that He already paid for our sins in FULL.  By doing so, Jesus canceled the debt that held the charges against us.  Nothing else is owed after that.  Nothing.

Image courtesy of ubdavid.org

You see, when you owe a such a large debt — the interest for which has compounded so much that it is no longer possible to pay it off unless you “sell your soul to the devil”, so to speak — it certainly would have a strong impact on you if someone were to come along and suddenly pay for your debt in FULL.  Can you even begin to understand the magnanimity of such an act?  When your debt is paid in full, that means you’re free.  Those days of constantly looking over your shoulder, afraid that your debtor might be hunting you down and might eventually take away your possessions (or even your life if you can’t pay) are over.  You can go on with your life without any fear… and I’m not even talking yet about the part where someone else pays it on your behalf!  If someone steps forward and volunteers to pay off all your debt, you’d probably pledge the remaining years of your life to that person, wouldn’t you?  I’d bet there’s nothing he would ask of you in return that you wouldn’t give especially if what was owed against your debt was your freedom or your very life.  Makes sense?

This is the message of the Holy Week that I honestly believe God wants us to take, meditate on and understand.  Instead of just allowing ourselves to be engulfed in sadness and grief over the memory of His unfathomable agony, it would be good for us to channel our attention to the greatest and most absolute message of love ever spoken in the history of creation — that God loved us so much that He sent His Son in our place to pay our debt with His own life (“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16).  He purchased our freedom with His own blood!  Because of what He did, we were set free — free to go on and live our lives… free to enjoy all the great things that life has to offer… free to pursue happiness and build a future with our loved ones!  Free to live, free to love.  Isn’t that amazing?  Isn’t that something worth rejoicing over?

Yet, many of us continue to live our lives as though we were still bound to the cross by guilt and shame.  Many of us still question our own “worthiness”.  Many of us still choose to commemorate Christ’s suffering during Holy Week with a gloomy countenance as though Christ has died all over again, or worse, as though none of it ever happened!  I cannot stress the following statement enough:  Christ already paid for our sins in FULL, conquering even death, which is the ultimate payment for what we owe (“For the wages of sin is death…” – Romans 6:23).  That means no trials, no tribulations, no grief, no sorrow, no hardships, no temptations — NOTHING — can’t be overcome by those who believe in Christ!  And only by believing in Him shall we be saved (“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved–you and your household.” – Acts 16:31).  All of this because of one reason — LOVE.  His love for us.

Image courtesy of firstbaptist4me.org

So the question is, “how do you respond to His love?”  Knowing now what He’s done for you, do you respond by ignoring Him, mocking Him, denying Him, defying Him?  Should you not feel compelled to love Him back and obey Him (“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” – John 14:15)?  If you agree with me that He deserves from you nothing less than your love and obedience as an expression of your overwhelming gratitude, then I urge you to examine the sincerity of your love for Him.  In what ways can you fully declare that you’re showing your gratitude to Him for having paid in full all of your debts with His own blood?  He said that anyone who loves Him will obey Him, so are there areas in your life where you are deliberately disobeying Him?  Then you need to confess that to Him, seek His forgiveness and accept the love that He offers!  Get the proverbial sign stamped across your forehead that says, “PAID IN FULL” so that there is no question about your status, and start living a life that shows evidence of God’s amazing grace and love.

The truth of the matter is that the only way we can genuinely show our gratitude is by offering our lives to Him as well.  That is His invitation but that doesn’t mean crucifying ourselves on a cross, too (fortunately for us, we can never equal or surpass what Christ has already done!).  All we need to do is offer our lives in service and obedience to Him, yet even that is not being forced down our throats.  Having paid for our debt in full, He freed us from this burden, and that includes our freedom to choose.  Will you choose to love Him back?  Think about it!

Have a B-L-E-S-S-E-D Good Friday everyone!

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

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I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: Christian, death of Christ, Faith, holy week reflections, Inspirational, paid in full, passion of the Christ, suffering of Christ, Weekend Reflections

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This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Your Home, Your Spa: Milk And Honey Bath

You probably already know this:  Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt, was famous for her flawless and radiant skin.

Her secret:  She bathed in milk and honey.

You’re also probably thinking that only a woman of great power and wealth like Cleopatra can possibly indulge in such a luxurious bathing ritual.

Wrong.

You can most certainly create your own Milk And Honey Bath… just like I did… and I loved it!  It felt so heavenly!

That’s why I’m here to share with y’all my own recipe for this famous Milk And Honey Bath so you could also bathe a la Cleopatra and pamper your inner pharaoh! 

Why A Milk And Honey Bath?

What really makes milk a perfect choice for your bath indulgence is the lactic acid which breaks down and dissolves the proteins that supposedly hold the dead skin cells together.  You will need to get rid of dead skin cells in order for fresh, new skin to resurface, resulting in an overall youthful looking skin.

The honey’s ability to absorb and retain moisture makes it another ideal ingredient for this bath.  It also has natural antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal properties which promote healing of various skin problems.

Other Important Ingredients of a Milk And Honey Bath

My version of the Milk And Honey Bath includes four key ingredients (aside from the honey, which will have to be added to the bath separately) — milk, ground oatmeal, ground almonds and baking soda.

Whole milk or full cream milk, in liquid or powdered form, is recommended for this Milk And Honey Bath recipe.

Oatmeal is a great exfoliant and also does an amazing job soothing and healing skin irritations, rashes, even sunburn.  I recommend grinding the oatmeal so that it blends more easily with the milk and the bath water.

The oil released during the process of grinding the almonds is essential for making the skin softer and smoother.

Just like the oatmeal, baking soda is also great for soothing irritated, itchy and sun burnt skin.  It is also well known for drawing out toxins, leaving you with a healthier, clearer skin.

 Milk And Honey Bath

The ingredients of the Milk and Honey Bath: powdered full cream milk, oatmeal, almonds, baking soda and honey (not shown in this photo).

Thoroughly mix all the ingredients together, except for the honey.

Grinding the oatmeal and almonds to a powdery consistency makes it easier to mix in with the powdered milk and to dissolve in bath water.

Store your powdered Milk Bath mixture in a pretty li’l mason jar, a clip seal jar or any clear glass jar with rubber seal.

Milk And Honey Bath Recipe

This recipe is good for two baths, but if you prefer a “milkier” bath, you may use the entire recipe in a single bath.

• 4 cups powdered full cream/whole milk
• 1 cup ground oats
• 1 cup ground plain, raw almonds
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 cup sea salt (optional)
• 2 cups honey

Mix the first 4 (or 5 if you’re using sea salt) ingredients thoroughly.  Dissolve 3-4 cups of the powdered milk bath mixture in moderately warm bath water (if you’re concerned that the ground oatmeal and almonds might not fully dissolve in the water and might therefore clog your drain, try pouring the powdered milk mixture into a bag made of cheesecloth, a coffee filter or a clean sock, securely tied at the end with a string and soak in the bath water).  Add 2 cups of the honey, mixing it really well into the bath water to completely dissolve it.  Soak in the milk and honey bath for 10 to 15 minutes.  Rinse the milk off your body under a warm shower.  Gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel.

*Optional:  For added fragrance, you may add a few drops of your favorite essential oil or essence of vanilla into the bath.

This Milk And Honey Bath is also a perfect ending to a Coffee Body Scrub.

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

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I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: Beauty, Cleopatra's milk bath, homemade, homemade bath, homemade milk and honey bath, homemade milk bath, milk and honey bath, milk bath, Skin Care, Spa, wellness, Youthful Skin

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This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: Your Home, Your Spa: Homemade Coffee Body Scrub

I am an ardent “spa aficionado”.  In fact, my passion for this pampering treat was what inspired me to write my To Spa or Not To Spa post.  When my schedule and budget permits, I try to make it a point to go to the spa twice a month.  One of the treatments in which I indulge myself when I go to the spa is a body scrub.   There are usually several different kinds of body scrubs to choose from, but my absolute favorite is the coffee body scrub.

At the very least, a body scrub treatment should be done every two weeks, in order to maintain that healthy, glowing, smooth skin.  This is true for a coffee body scrub as well. However, at a price range of P1,600 to P2,600 per treatment (which lasts for 90 minutes and is usually inclusive of a full-body massage), I realize that this is not an indulgence into which many women would be willing or able to invest that often.  So, I thought, “Why not make my own coffee body scrub , see if it’s as good as the one I get from the spa and then share it with you guys?”

Well, I did just that and I’m here now to share the recipe with y’all, but before I get to that, let me lay down some important facts/information about this coffee body scrub and the benefits one can get from it.

Why Do A Body Scrub?

First of all, a body scrub is just one method of exfoliation (the process of removing surface dry skin cells).  Regular exfoliation of the skin removes residual dirt and dead skin and leaves your skin looking young and fresh.  After the skin is exfoliated, it is able to absorb and retain moisture from your body lotion/body butter/body oil more effectively as well.  A scrub can be done as often as 2-3 times a week to once every 2 weeks, depending on the present condition of your skin and what you are aiming to achieve.

Why A Coffee Body Scrub?

Because of the caffeine, a coffee body scrub is said to be the best choice for improving blood circulation and reducing the appearance of cellulite and varicose veins.  Caffeine, being a natural antioxidant, prevents premature aging and draws out toxins from the body.  The aroma from the coffee also works as an anti-depressant and can combat feelings of nausea.

“A study conducted in Korea found that the caffeic acid found in coffee grounds can significantly affect anti-inflammatory activity and skin wound healing.” (ehow.com)

“Rejuvenating coffee scrub energizes tired, sluggish skin, jump-starts circulation and helps with cell metabolism and cellulite treatment.  Recommended bi-monthly treatment.” (The Spa)

Other Important Ingredients of A Coffee Body Scrub

Some coffee body scrub recipes call for any type of oil (olive oil, grapeseed oil, etc.).  I recommend the use of extra virgin coconut oil (if you can find one that’s organic, much better) because coconut oil possesses the most excellent moisturizing, antioxidant, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

There are also some coffee body scrub recipes that use salt instead of sugar, or a combination of the two.  Generally, salt is most suitable for oily skin, while sugar is for normal to dry skin.  In the following recipe, I used just the sugar because although I have oily facial skin, the skin on my body tends to be more on the dry side if I don’t pay enough attention to it.  I particularly chose brown sugar simply because it is much less abrasive and therefore more gentle on the skin than refined (white) sugar.  In the recipe below, feel free to replace the sugar with salt (or use a combination of the two) to suit your body skin type.

I also added a little bit of honey just to suit my preference for the consistency of my coffee body scrub.  I prefer mine slightly thick in consistency.  Honey is great for achieving that.  Honey is also excellent in retaining and locking in moisture, as well as promotes healing of various skin problems and prevents irritation.

Homemade Coffee Scrub

Homemade Coffee Scrub ingredients: ground coffee, extra virgin coconut oil, brown sugar and honey

Store your Homemade Coffee Scrub in a pretty li’l mason jar, clip seal jar or any clear glass jar with rubber seal.

Adjust the consistency of your Homemade Coffee Scrub by increasing or decreasing the amount of coconut oil and honey.

My Homemade Coffee Body Scrub… it smelled so good, I could almost taste it!

Coffee Body Scrub Recipe

To fill a small mason jar, I used:

• 1 1/4 cup ground coffee
• 1 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup extra virgin coconut oil
• 1/4 cup honey

Mix all ingredients thoroughly.  Adjust the amount of coconut oil and honey to suit your consistency preference.  Apply by massaging the mixture on moist skin in a circular motion.  To target cellulite more effectively, consider wrapping problem areas with a cling wrap and leave the coffee body scrub on for about 10-20 minutes.  Thoroughly rinse it off with warm water.  Gently pat skin dry with a clean towel.

For extra pampering, follow with a warm milk and honey bath. 

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

Like What You See Here?

I’m really working hard to provide you some great content! If you like what you see in this post (or any page or post of my site), I’d appreciate it if you’d take a few moments and bookmark the page(s) or post(s) you like on one or more of your favorite bookmarking and web 2.0 websites. Doing so only helps me continue to grow and build more content for you!

Simply select the social bookmarking site(s) of your choice on the using the toolbar my techie-geek-hubby has provided for you on the left side of this post and every other page and post on this site, and click on it to share or bookmark the post. Thanks in advance for helping me out!

Technorati Tags: Beauty, body scrub, coffee body scrub, Glowing Skin, homemade, homemade body scrub, homemade coffee body scrub, Skin Care, Spa, wellness, Youthful Skin

More content like this is available from Myla Upshaw ("MyMy") at MylaUpshaw.com - Live. Laugh. Love.

This content has been made available from Myla Upshaw through her Official Website & Blog at MylaUpshaw.com. The original content can be viewed here: The 7 Day Weight Loss Plan

Disclaimer

I am not – nor do I claim to be – a doctor or any other type of medical professional.  I am merely a woman who wants to take care of herself as best I can, although I confess that I am growing less and less confident in traditional medicine to make that happen.  However, I have to say here that if you choose to follow my 7 Day Weight Loss Plan as outlined below – or any diet and/or weight loss program – it’s still a good idea to consult a medical professional before doing so, so that you have all the facts in front of you before making decisions about your health.

I’ve said in a previous post that I don’t constantly fuss about my weight.  I’m not the kind of person who gets all bothered and depressed if and when I gain a few extra pounds. So, in my case, my eagerness to go on a diet (if and when I do choose to do so) tends to be more out of a desire to live a longer, healthier life so that my family can have me around for many more years rather than anything having to do with weight loss.

My Situation, And Some Encouragement!

I stand 5 feet 2 inches tall, and I have a “petite” frame (meaning that I am not “big-boned” at all).  So, my ideal weight is between 95 to 100 lbs.  For more than a year, I was able to keep my weight right around 100 lbs or so . However, since the last holiday season, I confess that I have been very undisciplined when it comes to my food intake.  I know that there are people in this world who seem to be able to eat anything and somehow don’t gain weight, but I most certainly am not one of them… not any more!  In my case, increased food intake (not to mention a total disregard for the quality of the food being taken in) is the fastest and surest way to gain weight!  You see, like many people, I am what you would call a “stress eater”, which means that my tendency is to eat more when I’m under a lot of stress.  Big Daddy being laid up in the hospital for three months certainly didn’t help.  So three months later, here I am — 20 lbs. heavier… again!  Yeah, yeah… I know, right?  I wish I could say that I totally regret every single doughnut and slice of cake I’ve eaten, but in truth, I confess that I don’t.  I felt extremely happy and satisfied when I had them!  Haha!   I recall shaking my head one time and throwing my hands up in the air in frustration while trying to squeeze myself into my favorite pair of jeans (great jeans…what a waste!),  but – since I don’t really place my self esteem squarely on the number displayed on the scale – I am still at peace in the knowledge that I’m beautiful just the way I am — heavy thighs, hips, love handles and all!

That’s how I’d encourage y’all to think too, Ladies.  Please don’t let your weight affect how you feel about yourselves.  Yes, it’s a healthy thing to be convicted about taking better care of your bodies, but only because you want to improve  the quality of your lives, living life to the fullest, and not because you think you look disgusting and ugly.

Luckily for me, my body has always had this weird ability to shed off excess fat as quickly as I put it on, especially if I commit to a reasonable diet or weight loss plan.  (Thank you, God!  :))

7 Day Weight Loss Plan

So, today, out of a desire to jump-start my journey back to my ideal weight, I’ve decided to use the same weight loss plan I implemented a week prior to my wedding day eight years ago – a plan I would call my 7 Day Weight Loss Plan.

Over the next seven days, starting today, I will work to lose (again) at least 10 lbs.   To be clear, this is not the Master Cleanse Diet (which I also do three times a year) because my goal in this case is not to detoxify, but simply to lose pounds – two entirely different objectives.  (It’s really important to differentiate between the two).  I hope to document for myself and the world that losing 10 lbs. in just one week is a safe, reasonable and realistic goal, without having to go through a serious detox such as the Master Cleanse Diet to get it done – even on a small frame such as mine. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that whatever weight loss or diet plan you decide to start, trying to lose significantly more weight than that in a short amount of time will do more harm than good.

The Specifics Of My 7 Day Weight Loss Plan

Day 1 : Fruits Only

• all kinds of fruits are allowed except for banana
• preferred fruits are apples, watermelon and all citrus fruits
• eat as much as you want
• no preserved and canned fruits allowed

Day 2 : Vegetables Only

• raw or boiled vegetables only, may or may not be seasoned with only a little bit of salt and pepper
• no cream, milk, butter or oil may be used in the preparation of these vegetables
• snack on at least one 8-inch celery stalk in between meals

Day 3 – Fruits & Vegetables Only

• Both vegetables and fruits are allowed on this day
• oil, butter, cream, cheese or milk must not be used in the preparation
• only raw or boiled vegetables are allowed
• no potatoes allowed
• no bananas allowed
• no preserved and canned fruits allowed
• snack on at least one 8-inch celery stalk in between meals

Day 4 : Banana & Milk

• consume 8 bananas, 3 glasses of milk and 1 bowl of vegetable soup* throughout the day

*Vegetable Soup: 23oz of vegetable broth, 1 onion, 2 green chile or bell pepper, 1 cabbage, 2 lettuce leaves, 1 chopped stalk of celery and 1 carrot, seasoned with a little bit of salt & pepper and boiled together for 5 minutes.

Day 5 : Adding Brown Rice

• mixture of fruits, vegetables and a small cup of boiled brown rice
• consume 1 small cup of boiled brown rice, 6 tomatoes, 2 apples, 1 small bowl of vegetable salad, 1/2 glass of skimmed milk, 1 orange, 1 grapefruit throughout the day; vegetable soup optional
• snack on at least one 8-inch celery stalk in between meals
• no preserved and canned fruits allowed

Day 6 : Vegetables & Rice

• oil, butter, cream or cheese must not be used in the preparation of the vegetables
• as much vegetable salad or vegetable soup throughout the day but only 1 small cup of boiled brown rice
• snack on at least one 8-inch celery stalk in between meals

Day 7 – Vegetables, Rice & Fruit Juice

• as much vegetable salad or vegetable soup throughout the day but only 1 small cup of boiled brown rice, with fresh fruit juice (preferably grapefruit or orange juice)

Everyday : Day 1 to Day 7

• Right after waking up, drink one glass of water with at least 1 tablespoon of Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
• drink a glass of warm water with 3 tablespoons of lemon juice before breakfast every day with no more than 2 tablespoons of honey (the less honey, the better)
• drink 10-12 glasses of water every day
• no fruit juice allowed
• 3 cups of green tea (consumed throughout the day) with very little to no honey
• do at least 15 minutes of walking
• do 5-10 minutes of the exercise illustrated in the following video every day:

As you can surely see, this 7 Day Weight Loss Plan (or any other weight loss plan for that matter) requires a great deal of commitment, discipline and self-control — something I admit I haven’t been so good at recently — so wish me luck, guys!  I will post the results of my own journey with my 7 Day Weight Loss Plan here on MyMy Blog a week from now, so stay tuned.

By the way, should any of you decide to join me on this journey, please share with me your progress too! I would love to hear from you!

About The Author: Myla “MyMy” Upshaw

Myla “MyMy” Upshaw is a stay-at-home mom who prides herself on her status as a Filipino Christian wife and mother and “domestic goddess”. She blogs about popular subjects for stay-at-home moms such as fashion, family, beauty, relationships, entrepreneurialism (“mompreneur”), movies, self-improvement, health & wellness as well as about her faith as a follower of Christ.

To learn more about Myla Upshaw, please click here:

Myla Upshaw

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