MY FIRST LASER EYE (LASIK) EXPERIENCE

Indeed if anything is for you, the universe will conspire to make it happen. I stand amazed how thoughtful our God is. Series of events happened which lead me to accompany my friend at Shinagawa (located at The Enterprise Center, Makati City).

I'll spare you with the medical details but if you're thinking about undergoing an eye laser surgery anytime soon you may want to scan these details:

* Comply with their pre-operating check-up to verify if you're qualified.

* If you have an eye doctor, ask a clearance and 2nd opinion from them.

* Don't wear contact lenses for 2 weeks straight.

* On the day of the procedure, ask someone to accompany you.

It's not just a weekend for me, it's "the" weekend:

* An anesthesia (eye drop) was applied.

* Procedure was totally painless.

* Follow the doctors instruction (ie. Look straight at the red light, etc.)

Doctor is very approachable and hands-on. He keeps on talking, updating me what's happening (ie. like it's okay - 10 seconds to go...). When you can't see anything *even if it's only a matter of seconds - it really helps to hear things.

After that heart-pounding and longest 60 seconds of my life, thank you Lord and it's over! Right after the treatment:

* My eyesight are cloudy but this will subside over time.

* Don't be afraid if your eyes were a bit swollen, an instrument was used to keep your eye in place but this will be gone in no time too.

* Follow the prescribed interval of eye drops and take the meds, as instructed.

Bottom line is - I really want to shout how thankful I am because my vision are back to 20/20. Some more details:

Shinagawa (click here)

Some of the well-celebrated people who entrusted their eyes to Shinagawa were Ariel Rivera, Krista Kleiner, Janice De Belen, Joey G (of Side A) to name a few. So it's safe to say that it's safe.

It comes with a 3-year guarantee period.

The cost is all in. Including the medicine kit in the pic above.

Feel free to reach out to me (ie. write your comments) should you have questions. I'd be glad to give you my consultant's contact number to give you further details. 

Special thanks to Jolie and Baba - for persuading me into a clearer path ;)

All I can say is... the world is such a colorful place to live! -CMK. 

POSTURA PROJECT (DAY 6)

Postura Project is a 30-day challenge to wear something Filipino everyday. Top is perfect for a nearing-winter weather. I had a camisole inside my top. Just in case it gets windy. I said 'cheese' before leaving my hotel room at Prague's Residence Belgicka (Click here). What about 12 hours of flight time? - Let's bring it on! -CMK

Knitted Blue Top : Landmark Department Store

Pants : Human

PINKY CELEBRATES HER FIRST

PINKY. I always use terms of endearment to my non-life pals (aka gadgets). And for my Sony Vaio E-Series buddy - I call her by the name Pinky (I first thought of Fuchsia-ey, but it doesn't sound so well). Today is her one year stay with me. And with that, I choose to recall our fun times together.

 1. Work my buddy! - Guess who stood by yours truly during my work shift? Every. Single. Workday. Yes. You got it. Excess - you might wonder what's with the pack down below - Salonpas. For back pains just in case.





  



2. Pinky goes to Prague! - Guess who kept me connected with all Pinoy Soaps when I was away? And - special mention: Her plug is a 2-prong plug. Compatible with Europe's socket. She belong! ;)

3. Setting foot in Netherlands! - Guess who's my amiga on my long hours of lag time? Pic was taken in Schiphol Airport. I tried to capture the many air planes surrounding the runway, but I can't. It's too far from the lounging area.





 


4. On Blah! Days - Guess who's my partner in crime on writing all the entries on this blog? Whenever, wherever, it's Pinky winky. 

She's here on this pic. Look. to the right! To the right! Hehehe.... -CMK.

POSTURA PROJECT (DAY 5)

Postura Project is a 30-day challenge to wear something Filipino everyday. Pic was taken when we went to an orphanage (Home for the Angels). For details - click here.

There's always an opportunity to share our blessings on our own little way. :) Anyways, here's the Filipino roll of my Outfit for the Day. This qualifies as CMK's Day 5 Entry. -CMK.

White Top : Bayo (click here)
Black Leggings : Landmark Dept. Store
Messenger Bag : The Ramp (click here)

HOW TO RIDE A ZIP LINE?

When you're at the top - the feeling is HIGH!

 1. Think about it 10 times if you're ready. Why? Mahirap mag-inarte pag ikaw na ang next! (It's hard to show some attitude when you're next in line!)

2. Be nice to Kuya. Because it's up to him if you'll still be alive after this. (Lol)

3. Make sure your footwear is secure. They'll be placed beside your waist area. You don't want to walk barefooted after this 'high' don't you?

4. Take a deep breath and close your eyes before they push you around. Plain and simple - that's the instinct of scare-dy cats! (Ahem!)

5. When you can't go back alone. Opt for the better way. Go back to the other side with your friends. -CMK.

Look how far you've come! (Thank You Lord)

Details:

Pics were taken at Danao Bohol Adventure Slide (click here).

Depending on your chosen activity, rates are about Php 100-700.

They also sell your pics on a CD format. If you're with your barkada, you can just go dutch and copy the pics.

Whadaheck is 'go dutch'? -- To "go Dutch," also known as a "Dutch treat" or a "Dutch date," implies an informal agreement for each person to pay for his or her own expenses during a planned date or outing. (Word for the Day : Go Dutch. Why not!) :)

POSTURA PROJECT (DAY 4)

Postura Project is a 30-day challenge to wear something Filipino everyday. Greenbelt is fantastic at night time. This is where most photographers spend their afternoon bonding. Place is perfect for photo ops or simply lounging around. Wearing an easy dress sure compliments the relaxing ambiance. Today is Postura Project - Day 4. -CMK

Leopard Printed Dress : Pink Soda (click here) 

Semi-Gladiator Sandals: Celine (click here)

COLLAGEN DREAM SKIN BOOSTER

I've been meaning to write reviews on some products but 1) I feel that I am not qualified to write one. 2) I think the big word ("review") is sacred only for professionals.

Yet it dawned on me that reviews are opinions. And everybody has opinions. And opinions, regardless of whom it came from is valid. Tooot. Enough of these dramas. Let's move on with the "more exciting" things in life. :P

Presenting.... Nature Republic's Collagen Dream 90 Skin Booster . It costs about 9,000 Korean Won (divide it by 26 for PHP equivalent). 

Not bad for a 150 ml golden drops! Lady in Myeongdong said it's a good toner replacement. Before applying your usual moisturizer, lather a generous amount on your face.

From Earth.

Tighter pores are just some dabs away.

Golden Goody.

Don't forget that Nature Republic is available here! Feel free to check out my post about Nature Republic's 92% Aloe Vera Soothing Gel . -CMK.

POSTURA PROJECT (DAY 3)

    

Postura Project is a 30-day challenge to wear something Filipino everyday. Green is in. As long as it doesn't compromise your comfort, wearing  breezy clothes is a must-try this summer. -CMK.

Green Top : Celine. Yes. You've read it right! (click here)
Messenger Bag : The Ramp Crossings (click here)
Wedge : Celine (click here)

POSTURA PROJECT (DAY 2)

Postura Project is a 30-day challenge to wear something Filipino everyday. And today is Day 2.  Logged in this Style Diary... check! -CMK

Not so Little White Dress : Betty SM Department Store (click here)

Boots : Schu Shop (click here)

92% ALOE VERA SOOTHING GEL

 From Earth.

I've heard of Aloe Vera. I've heard of 92%. And soothing gel. But it's only last February that I've heard of 3 of them all together : 92% Aloe Vera Soothing Gel. The encounter was somewhat accidental - as I am on my way to the cashier back in Seoul, when I saw a huge pile of these goodies worth only 3,300 Korean Won (divide it to 26 and you'll get the Php equivalent). Undecided still, I asked Zen and Lynne, both of them nodded and I got one (madaling kausap hehe...)

It's actually a great catch! Tip: Store the package in the fridge, when you apply it to your face, the cool clear lotion will give your face maximum moisture!

Organic is in!

Clear Gel. Zero harmful chemicals.

Apply it to your tired face. Then smile :)

Good News : Nature Republic is now in the Philippines! It's more fun talaga! There's one in Festival Supermall, Alabang and another Nature Republic SM North EDSA, The Block.-CMK

EXPECTING LEADS TO DEATH

Don't expect. Deadly. Lol!

When expecting goes beyond the borderline, the big flop will come. Maybe not physical death but probably spiritual or emotional death. A specific incident came flashing into my mind upon seeing those words! And I am sure you too can relate on this signage :)

Oh well - there are times "Finding Out The Hard Way" is our theme song for the day. Having expected [too much] and got disappointed and eventually died a painful emotional death, I am one resurrected soul now. Special Thanks to Jesus who's been there all along! -CMK

IN SUPPORT OF POSTURA PROJECT

Postura Project is a 30-day challenge to wear something Filipino everyday. To know the details, you can click on this link : Postura Project. I am all for supporting Filipino Brands! Consider the above an entry to this fantastic endeavor. -CMK

Maxi Dress : Meg Clothing (click here)
Messenger Bag : The Ramp (click here)

NAMI ISLAND GETAWAY

What can we say but... WISH YOU WERE HERE!

Namisum (Nami Island) is a tiny half-moon shaped island located in Chuncheon, South Korea, formed as it was inundated by the rising water of the North Han River as the result of the construction of Cheongpyeong Dam (청평댐) in 1944. Its name originated from General Nami who died at the age of 28 after being falsely accused of treason during the reign of King Sejo, the seventh king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea. Although his grave wasn't discovered, there were a pile of stones where his body was supposed to be buried. It was believed that if someone took even one stone from there, it would bring misfortune to their house. A tour company arranged the grave with soil and then developed Namisum into an amusement park. (details from Wikipedia). 

We have to jump on a giant boat for a 10-minute ride to reach Nami Island. The place is popular because of Winter Sonata (a Koreanovela). Me and my friends went gaga over the flags. We even named as many flags as we can and in the end - laughed our hearts out over some silly nothings! The temperature when we went there feels like -12 degrees (approx) but we had so much fun! The culture of South Korea and everything about it - I love! Here are some random pics from our not-so-recent trip: -CMK.

Red Trench. Cool Huh?

Trees. Snow. Woods. Ahhh!

Unleashing the call of an art attack

Emote ang peg?

PS: Thank You Lynne for being uber nice taking our pics the whole, entire trip. (^-^)

HAPPY FIRST! JOB!

Job - not a person but a noun. This is one area of my life of which I am truly thankful for. One which, I am eternally endowed to the Divine.

Today marks my first year as an Implementation Consultant. I was a grasshopper once in my life. From being with SGV to Deutsche to NetSuite to my current job. Sparing you with all the nitty details - thankful is an understatement. I don't regret any path that I have walked the past career years of my life.

All the experiences I've been through have been part and parcel of who I am now. Not perfect. But better half-a-decade ago. Everyday is a learning experience. And cliche' as it is - I don't feel 'working' the past 12 months. More than just a daily grind - it's a learning playground. -CMK.

Let me share with you some notable quotes about work:

I don't wait for moods. You accomplish nothing if you do that. Your mind must know it has got to get down to work.
-- Pearl S. Buck

Don't waste life in doubts and fears; spend yourself on the work before you, well assured that the right performance of this hour's duties will be the best preparation for the hours and ages that will follow it.
-- Ralph Waldo Emerson

I feel sorry for the person who can't get genuinely excited about his work. Not only will he never be satisfied, but he will never achieve anything worthwhile.
-- Walter Chrysler

Surround yourself with people who take their work seriously, but not themselves, those who work hard and play hard.
-- Colin Powell

Whenever it is in any way possible, every boy and girl should choose as his life work some occupation which he should like to do anyhow, even if he did not need the money.
-- William Lyon Phelps

Yes. Rumor has it.

BAG OF BEANS TAGAYTAY

WHY DO WE LOVE BAG OF BEANS?

* Menu * 

 Wide variety of dishes and pastries.

* Ambiance * 

 They have an upper and garden room. 

* Close to Nature *

 Feel chummy-chums with the trees and the bees.

 

* Furnitures *

Something about the table captures me. It's woody with a twist!

* Food Presentation *

 Simple yet accurate. No hidden agenda. I love that.

 

* Blueberry Cheesecake *

 It's the BOMB! Ice-creamy. Fruity. Melt-in-your mouth kind of bomb!

* Happiness in a plate *

 That's me! -CMK.
   

  

DETAILS:

Website: http://bagofbeanstagaytay.net/

Address : 115 Aguinaldo Highway, Mendez Crossing West, Tagaytay City, Philippines
Contact #: +63922 873 9686 or +63920 954 6370

'EATS' MORE FUN AT SOFITEL

5 Reasons Why EATS more fun at Sunset Bar (Sofitel Philippine Plaza):

1. It lives up to it's name as a five-star hotel.

2. All of their entrees are superb.

3. Laidback Ambiance. Perfect for relaxing.

4. Chikka-fest and Laugh Trip anyone?!

5.Pyro Fireworks display. Ok - we just got lucky!

Pardon me for the grainy pics. I really love to share this one with you guys!
Part of the menu that I can still recall:

Salad, Pesto Pasta, Lechon, Lambchop, Roast Beef, Chicken, Shrimp, Squid.

Wide array of sauces and spices.

Cheesecakes (Blueberry and Mocha), Hazelnut Truffles.

Assorted high-quality fruits.

Halo-Halo, Sapin-sapin, Kalamay.

Ice Cream (Mango, Strawberry, Ube).

Free-flowing beer and iced tea.

There's a free mini-cultural show where Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao folk dances are showcased. It's by the Manila Bay (think: summer breeze). Located some minutes away from MOA. The waiters are very polite and helpful.

We got the deal as a by-product of the online coupon craze. It's still available (I think) when you visit ensogo or cash-cash pinoy site. EAT-ing is more fun when you bond with your friends. Be it from the heart of Binondo or anywhere else, as long as you're with someone w/ whom you can laugh your throat out - it would be a sure fire eat, I mean hit! -CMK.

EASY PEASY PASSPORT RENEWAL

This is one reason to celebrate! Passport renewal in the Philippines is so much easier compared to last 5 years ago!
 
Easy Peasy there we go:

1. Log in an appointment to Department of Foreign Affairs Site.

2. An e-mail will be sent to you together with crucial information.

3. Print the appointment slip and be there on your scheduled time. 

Handy Tips:

*  Be sure to take off your contact lenses as their machine may detect it, hence you have to go back.

*  Download, print and fill-out the passport application forms with the appointment reference numbers.

* Applicants will not be admitted at the entrance gate without valid appointment and application forms.
* Photocopy all the necessary documents before proceeding to DFA Aseana.
* Applicants will not be processed if they do not have complete set of photocopies of their documents.

Passport Fees:

• Regular Processing: Php 950.00 (15 working days)
• Rush Processing: Php 1,200.00 (7 working days)
• An additional fee of Php 200.00 will be charged for processing of Lost Passports if it is still valid.

Location Map: DFA Manila

You heard (or read) it right! It's that simple. Based on my experience, it took me less than an hour to finish everything. And in fer - nakaupo na ang mga tao! Unlike years ago where the queue is more than one can imagine. Kudos to DFA for this big leap of improvement. -CMK

CHAMPED THE LONGCHAMP

Ever a price-oriented type of gal, I gasped  through the prices of a Longchamp bag, it never occurred to me that I will be holding one in my arms ;)

I've been hearing a lot about Longchamp being on sale on Europe Airports, but double sniff! I have not been lucky enough to score one on my recent trip last year. February came and we spent a few days in Seoul, Korea. Lo and behold! Incheon Airport. Longchamp Store. Sale. All colors. Wohoo!

LOTD (Lesson Of the Day) : As they say, keep your words nice and sweet, such that if you need to eat them someday, it'll be a breeze. -CMK.

Details:

Where: Incheon Airport

Price : In USD

* The bag is lightweight by itself, but will it stand the test of time (and ang bigat ng gamit ko!?) We'll soon find out! :-)