My Great Buy: Shopping Bag

Tweet Bought this chic shopping bag from Robinson's Department Store for only Php39.00!

This serves as my lunch bag going to the office!

Love it. Chic!

My Struggles in Renewing My Passport (The ePassport Story)

Tweet I finally got my ePassport last Saturday as delivered by Air21. I am thanking God, Allah, Buddha and the trees for this thing. I was feeling hopeless regarding the renewal process. My green passport would expire on September, and I have already booked a flight to HongKong. I do not need to worry about HongKong immigration since I have read somewhere that they allow tourists to travel with 1 month valid passport, HOWEVER, Macau does require passports valid for 6 months.

I have tried to book for a schedule online through the www.epassport.com.ph. I did check online on March 24, and the earliest appointment schedule was April 21st1. I booked anyway, and requested for rush processing. At that time, the site indicated 7 business days processing. I was doing some math and thinking by April 30th I would get my passport.

I have read alot of horror stories regarding delayed passport release, so as advised by my friend, I went to a Travel Agency to check if they could do it faster. Sad news, the agent advised that the schedule of 10 business days processing is after the appearance. I was thinking if they could get an appointment later than April 21 (the one that I have scheduled online), I would then be ready to say goodbye to my vacation plan).

Out of desperation, I called the DFA hotline and asked if there is any chance they could move my schedule on an earlier date. I was advised that they also check the schedules online (aarrrgghh). I was ready to bawl when the rep advised me that a slot has opened for April 8! She placed me on hold to confirm the schedule and I was praying that she won't lose me on the line. Lucky that I am, I got the schedule!

Come April 8, I went to the DFA office for the schedule. I was advised to come 30 minutes before the schedule. My schedule is at 8AM, we got there at 7:45AM! Thanks to the traffic, crowded MRT, and that airport taxi (which flag down rate is Php70!).

I was impressed with the building, alright. Went to the table at the entrance to get my printed application form. I was given a queue number and I seated and waited for my number. I just gave my old green passport, photocopies of my passport (front, back, and arrival stamp), and photocopy of id (sss). Better come there ready with all the copies of the documents.

Step 2, at the second floor, paid Php1200 for rush processing (10 business days!), and I was then again given a queue number. Waited and primped.. the LED showed my queue number and off I went to the booth. The girl took my documents, and entered info in the pc, and asked me to validate the details. She asked me for my signature (which I did a couple of times.. it's hard to get the right stroke electronically). Then one shot, she took my pic. I forgot to mention that I wore something business-presentable, which is not necessary since the girl cropped my picture, and did not even include my collar. Arrgh.

That is the last step. But since I wanted to have the passport delivered to my house, I went to the Delivery Center area and paid the fee (Php120). I gave them my receipt and authorization to claim my passport. I spent 1.5 hours in the DFA office, but that's all good, the building is air-conditioned.

My mom is bugging me about my passport, so I told her I am giving DFA office until April 23 to process it. I was hoping I would not get a call from Air21 last Friday, because it only means one thing - delayed release!!! And I am glad there are no phone calls. When I got home on Saturday morning, I found an Air21 plastic on the dining table. I just opened and checked to see what's new about the ePassport.. well, aside from the text which says do not fold or expose in extreme heat and moisture, it does look different compared to the ones I see in Recto Avenue. ;)

Presenting.. My New Watch Case!

Tweet Bought at SM Department Store for only Php899.75!

Checked Ebay and they are selling it for Php1,500. Boo!!

I dropped by this morning to check for new stocks.. they only have for 4 slots and 8 slots. Lucky to have this! ;)

Free Krispy Kreme Signature Coffee

Tweet Meet Chloe! The official Krispy Kreme Donut Girl. Join her community and get to taste a Krispy Kreme Signature Coffee for FREE!

You must register in the site and choose the nearest Krisy Kreme branch form the list. An email notification will be sent to your inbox. Just print and present to the Krispy Kreme branch you have selected. To register, click HERE.


Do not miss out on other Freebies and Promos, please subscribe to my blog through the link below:

http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ruthilicious&loc=en_US

Enjoy!

Tempting Way to a Tempting Prize!

Tweet This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of KAO Brands. All opinions are 100% mine.


You have to be beautiful to be tempting.. and the art of temptation is just so beautiful. Visit Temptation is Beautiful and be tempted with the sultry woman sitting in that lovely chair with such a sexy voice. What does she got? A Temptress Temperate quiz and great prizes! Who would not be tempted with these items?

A daily tempting beauty basket filled with Kao Brands products (retail value of $75)

The Grand Prize of a tempting trip to Las Vegas for you and 3 of your friends with $1,500 in spending money!

Winning is easy (and just so tempting), simply register to get sweepstakes entries!

Don't forget to take the quiz for more chances of winning that tempting prizes! Here's my result:

I have to agree on the results. My significant other accuses me of being a flirt, but hey, it's not my fault if guys love to flirt with me. Besides, what's wrong with being flirty?! It's way better than seducing.. and as for me being a temptress, that is not intentional. It's in me and it just comes out.


So.. are you sizzling hot or cool as a cucumber?! Let me know, take the quiz, post a comment on my blog and share the results in Social Networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, Plurk.. etc)!

This promo is open to all US Residents only. For international readers, what else can I say.. but, just drool and be tempted.

Gulp Your Candidate: FREE Gulp GC from 7-Eleven

Tweet 22 more days before the National Election. TV shows, internet, radio stations, and any other forms of media (including Facebook) is brewing with discussions over this much-anticipated event. People needs to cool down and enjoy something cold this hot summer season.

Bet for your candidate and get gift certificates from 7-Eleven for a FREE 16oz Gulp! Register HERE. You will receive an email to confirm your registration. You must click the link to validate your registration and you will receive another note confirming if you are one of the first 500 to register.

The first 500 registrants within the week will get the freebie. GC's will be sent within 4 to 5 days after registration.

The clock is ticking so better click that link! I registered yesterday but I didn't make it to the first 500..  anyway, was able to register this morning, and I have not chosen any candidate just yet.

The promo will run until May 2, 2010 and you have until May 4, 2010 to claim the freebie. This is valid in all 7-11 branches in Luzon.

Don't miss out on Freebies Alert, subscribe to my blog using the link below:

http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ruthilicious&loc=en_US

Hurting Finances

Tweet I had been a baaaad girl! Not that I have slept with every man I have met, nor finished a whole bottle of tequila. I never robbed a bank, and I never did drugs; NEVER. I have hurt my finances and I hate it.

For the past two weeks, after work we always go straight to Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf for coffee or breakfast. Well, actually one time we had breakfast at Ral's, and the other day, at the Seafood Island. That alone hurt my finances. I just don't want to do accounting for this week, but I am guessing, I have spent a minimum of Php500 in a day (expenses in the office alone.. for someone who is working as a regular full-time employee, that is an expensive lifestyle!)

The "breakfast club" usually meets every Saturday morning after shift, but this time around, we feel that everyday is a Saturday. Should I blame work for this feeling? For two weeks, work is soo light and stress-free, that I feel like Monday is a new Friday (ooopps.. I shouldn't be too happy about this.. management might feel that their people is not really working but just reporting to work, and they might make up new assignments just to get us busy!)

I promised myself I will go straight home after every shift.. and I have to list the cons..

1. Php150 coffee is too expensive.. (add Php200 if I am ordering breakfast!) I could make coffee at home with 3-in-1 coffee mix, would only cost me Php5.

By the way, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf is now offering Ice Caramel Machiatto, but I still prefer the old Iced Caramel Latte.

2. I have to battle with the traffic whenever I go home late.. and cabs are getting rare when the clock strikes 10:00.

3. Seems like I have been to a beach! My kindergarten teacher asked me yesterday, "why tan?" WTF?! Soo this is soo true. Enjoying coffee in a coffee shop is not good for my skin. Better leave the place before 8:00 AM!

4. I can now finish 1 pack of ciggy in a day. This is not good.

So, I am hoping next week is a new life for me and my finances.

SM San Lazaro 3-day Sale and My To-Buy List!

Tweet SM City San Lazaro will hold a 3-day sale on April 15, 16 and 17. I already got a list on my mind on what to buy. Although, I have to be a little more careful in using my credit card.. I am saving my limit for my trip in Hong Kong this May.

Here are my to-buy list (and these are must-buys!)

Luggage

I always bring a week-end bag whenever I travel. My friends and family know me that I am no light traveler. An overnight trip would mean 3 sets of clothes for me (just being safe if ever we get stranded). So a multiply 3 with the number of days I would be staying in a place, that should equal to the number of clothes/shirts/dresses that I will pack. Add the accessories, watches and shoes, and bags that should go with it! Well actually, for bags, I only bring my Victoria Secret sling bag when traveling and exploring the place. Something which is close to my body to keep my money, celphone and passport (and kikay kit).

I am thinking if I should buy a Samsonite luggage, but I think it is a little too expensive. I need to consider the baggage limit too. But just the same I would need to buy a luggage. This is actually an extra storage for my shopping spree!

I looove this set; however, I know it would cost me thousands to buy that. So I'll just scout for the most affordable and durable piece this weekend. 



Sony Battery Pack

For my camera. I don't have a spare, and being the camera whore that I am, I would need an extra battery pack. The worst thing that ever happened to me during travel was when my camera died during our trip in Singapore. Just when we have landed to the land of Merlion, it just died! Which prompted me to buy this Sony Digicam (at a cheaper price with lots of freebies!).






Watch Case

I saw new stocks of the watch case I was eyeing last December, and I have to get it. My friend already gave me one but it can only hold 4 watches. The case I saw can hold 10 pieces. Enough storage to store my collection.

This one looks exactly the same case I saw in the department store.. and I have to have it!

Gifts, gifts, gifts

I was invited to 4 events this month. Two kids' parties (one year-olders), a wedding and a christening. I am googling for best gifts to give, though I would only attend 2 from these events. Which reminds me, I would need to sport a hippie look for one birthday party (which got me thinking, I need to buy a new dress!).

Excited for the H&M Haul In HongKong.. and Why I Don't Want H&M to Open in Manila

Tweet I am browsing the internet for things to buy in Hong Kong. Although my passport has not been released yet, I am positive that this trip will push through. It has to push through!

I am checking which stores to raid in Hong Kong. I was informed that there is no Forever21 shop there, so I checked out the H&M (Hennes and Mauritz for those who are clueless is a UK brand) site instead. Actually the website is not an online shop, but just the same, it showcases some of its collection.. and I think.. I am gonna love this brand and will surely max my credit card this May!

My friend has been raving about this store, and I haven't given much attention to it because I was thinking it is more like Zara and Mango; but bet there is much color and design and style from H&M.

Googled and checked every webpage, and I booed those girls who are praying to Allah, Buddah, Jesus and trees to bring H&M (and Forever21) in Manila. It's a big NO. Oftentimes, when a brand reaches the Manila shores, it loses its appeal. So it's still a big NO for me. I would love to go through the hassle of shopping online and going to other countries to get that much-coveted top/dress/boots/purse from this and that brand. Somehow, it brings more character to the clothes.. don't you agree?

When a friend compliments a piece, you can proudly say "I got it from H&M in HongKong, the store was on sale!"or say "I bought this online, I waited for two months before it arrived!".. than wearing a gorgeous dress and everyone knows that the store mannequin is also wearing the same dress that you are wearing.. sometimes people would wonder if the saleslady has undressed the mannequin just so you can buy the dress.. and when they pass by the store, they will remember you, and at the back of your mind, you are worried.. worried that you would bump into another woman who is wearing the same dress that you are wearing and she is way hotter in that dress than you are..

I may sound selfish, (maybe I am), but the reason is that, I noticed that when international brands open their stores in Manila, the items tags reflect the taxes and more taxes (translate: expensive), that frugal fashionistas like me can no longer afford them (so I still resort to buying them online during sale seasons). And most of them brands that are not yet available in Manila are still considered "rare" just like buying a unique top in Ebay or a nice vintage dress in the next-door Ukay Ukay Store. It is not about the branding that worries me, but on how the item/brand would be so common in the marketplace (especially H&M and F21 are soo affordable - the very reason I love the brands).

Then I can say, this whole thing would be a challenge. I cannot stop international brands from opening in Manila (that's how economics work, and that's how it would help the country). So now the battle for being stylish is on, now that there are even more stores to open in the next few months.

On a Saturday Night: FunShots Photobooth and Taverna Verde

Tweet I never realized that realizing you were late for a meeting/event beats the caffeine in that dark blend coffee and noisiest alarm clock! I woke up at 6 PM for an event which starts at 6. I got to the venue at 8:30 PM. Thanks to the crowd, traffic, taxi driver and that unknown convention center where the event was held.

Not much to expect. I never liked the food and the music. The best part is the Fun Shots photobooth. It sooo reminds me of Neo-print (remember college?), but this one is just better! It's getting to be the "in" thing nowadays for weddings and party souvenirs. Besides who would want another swan? bell? cd? soap set as give-away? I guess this photobooth thing will soon replace photographers who took guests' pics at the wedding/party receptions and display their shots at the hall's entrance for a price of Php100. Even glamourizing the pic, you can have your pic taken with the event's tarp as your background (think of Oscars, MTV event, and Fashion Week). Then wear those crazy, fun hats and wigs (think of TGIFridays!). Drama and fun!

Closing time at 10:30, I headed to MetroWalk to meet a friend. We went to Taverna Verde - this place right in the corner of J. Vargas and Meralco Avenue). We stayed at the smoking area, which is at the second floor.  It reminds me of our roof-top. The place is homey with couches and umbrellas (I wonder how do they operate during rainy season?) less the loud people. I can only hear Lady Gaga and other trance music blaring from the speakers which is above my head.

Being the glutton that I am, I ordered Penne San Miguel and Bacon Cheeseburger pizza. My friend ordered Salpicao. What can I say? The food so much reminds me of my mom's specialties! (translate: D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S!). I am not disappointed.

I had Cosmo Passion just to get alcohol this weekend, with a few sticks of ciggy. Talked about the Hong Kong trip and bash the people who likes hanging out at cheap bars (we are not mean, but we just don't dig it). My weekend is good.

Thanks to my friend for shouldering the bill. It's at Php980 for the two of us. Not bad. Next time (I hope it's soon) will raid another place, and I'll sure bring my camera. Pics not for Facebook, but for my Food Blog.


Photo for Taverna courtesy of Circuitmag.net. Thank you.

The Joy of Being A Kid (again) : Alvin and the Chipmunks (The Squekquel)

Tweet This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Alvin and the Chipmunks. All opinions are 100% mine.


I am not a big fan of cartoons and animation. There must have been something wrong with me. But growing up, I remember that squeky, high-pitched voices that is known as the Chipmunks!

Now Alvin and the Chipmunks are back, and not just a sequel but a squekquel! Expect alot of squeky scenes! What is nice about this is that it comes in a Double DVD Pack that includes "The Squeak Along" bonus disc, with more music, mayhem and all-new singalongs.

Theaters are now loaded with too much animated films that only adults can appreciate. More to that, think of violence and obscene scenes that we never want to impart to our kids (Disclaimer: I am talking like I have a kid, but I don't have one yet. I do have nieces and nephew though). This movie is not just a feel-good piece but a great movie to watch with kids while being nostalgic about our very own childhood days. Besides, kids should know who own that notable squeky, high-pitched voices and should get it when people tease someone if she/he has a voice of a Chipmunk!

Checking the site it welcomes me with their very own rendition of Beyonce's Single Ladies! I just can't help but tap and move my body while browsing through the site. So get that credit card and hit the buy it now button and add this movie to your collection. This is available in DVD, Blu-ray disc and even digital download.

Click the link for More Munk Mayhem. 

Charles and Keith Opening Everywhere!

Tweet I am not a fan (this store doesn't have my size! Arrgh!), but I know how nice and stylish their shoes are. I have friends to testify. I was at SM San Lazaro yesterday and was surprised to see a spot covered with Charles and Keith's tarp. It's on the right side of the entrance where the Penshoppe Lab was located.

Seems that this brand is reaching out to the market. At least, there is no need to bid online or go to Singapore to buy a few nice pairs. Some months ago, I already saw some Charles and Keith collection displayed inside SM Department store.

Ironically, just when a brand reaches to a broader market, it is when it loses its appeal.

Even Youtube Had a Make-over!

Tweet Getting bored with work, so I always have this earphones plugged.. I can't find any decent music site, but Youtube.

I just noticed that they changed the way you comment on videos, even the Like and Unlike buttons. The layout is the same, but it so much reminds me of Facebook (btw, it's a good thing that Facebook is keeping the layout the same for each user. Too much plug-ings, wall papers and designs make my eyes sore - think Friendster. That's one reason I hate logging in to Friendster!).

Just noticed though, Youtube's migration erased the videos' star ratings. Back to zero.