Les Miserables - pass the tissue, please.

I love musicals, I say it time and time again. Ok, I'm a frustrated singer. But when I can (mostly, when I'm alone) I belt out songs which have the lyrics memorized to a tee. My playlist are a mixed of old and new songs. Dear Hubby even said that before a song gets frequent airplays, we are already tired of hearing it coz I got it on replay for quite some time before it gets famous, and where am I getting the songs? :) Even at the casa, the workers would comment that our playlist is good. Hmmm so, they've been tweaking our car stereo...

Anyway, enough about my love of music.

Aren't we glad a movie adaptation of the musical Les Miserables will be out soon? By soon I mean 2013. The movie will be released last week of December 2012, and I'm guessing it will be shown the next year , January, because of the MMFF. 

I was so ecstatic chancing upon the trailer above months ago. I even asked G to watch the trailer with me, twice haha! It just gave me chills and I got teary eyed, was thinking I should bring a box of tissue when we watch it.

What more can you ask for? A good plot, an intricately detailed set by the looks of it, an emotionally arousing music delivered by the superb cast. Anne Hathaway, G and I have been a fan since her Princess Diaries days. But have you seen her sing at Ella Enchanted? We love her rendition of Somebody To Love and she host the Oscars, you should check it out too, and she raps at a Conan O'Brien show. She's a delight. And yes, she also helped Hugh Jackman at opening The Oscars years back. It was a dream to see Hugh Jackman sing! You should really take a look at him opening The Oscars at 2009. You'll take a first glimpse at Jean Valjean and Fantine. 

In the clip, we are briefly treated to Amanda Seyfield's innocent schoolgirl voice. Although, I think some of us can't wait Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha baron Cohen's takes on their characters. Also, Russell Crowe is a welcome addition. The movie is directed by Tom Hooper whose work includes the multi awarded The King's Speech.

An extended firstlook at the movie:

So, the actors have the freedom to sing live which I think will do lots of good to the movie since they will have a chance to give more emotion to the the songs rather than just lip-sync it from a pre-recorded audio. This I believe,gave the trailer's opening song full of emotion.

I haven't read the book, someone told me Les Mis is one of the longest novels written. But I've checked Les Miserables at Wiki to give myself a heads up on what to expect. It is a five volume plot. Tragic and sad, I really should bring the tissue come showing day! With the beautiful story and characters life span length, the movie better be over 2 hours!

Now, on my wishlist, a Les Miserables book to collect! =)

Les Miserables is written by Victor Hugo, he also wrote The Hunchback of Notre Dame which have been adapted to movie by Disney; which I remembered watching at the big screen when I was still in high school!

I'm so looking forward for this movie! You too?

Merry Christmas!

xoxo

Bearland Paradise Resort

Finally, we were able to visit Bearland Paradise Resort in Tigbauan, Iloilo. Though a mere 20 minutes drive from the city, we often put off going to the resort. I mean, if we want to swim at the pool, we can just walk to the clubhouse hehe! And with their room prices, we might as well drive to Boracay. But, midday today, I finally persuaded myself and my sis to visit the paradise resort. So off we go after G's dance class, 2:30pm.

located at Brgy. Tanpael Tigbauan, Iloilo

Going to the resort is easy, Tigbauan is the second town from the city of Iloilo after Oton. Once in Tigbauan, it is hard to miss Bearland Paradise Resort, just have your companion have an eye at the left side of the road, after Sol Y Mar, slowdown as few meters after, you will see the Bearland sign which will direct you to pass by a rough road. Follow the rough road until you reach the cemented area, you will not miss the resort. If you're feeling any doubt, just ask a local, like we did, they'll surely point you to the resort's entrance. 

I wondered why the driveway was narrow, it turned out, it is used for passenger drop off to the reception area, their parking lot is outside the resort.  As we are there for an afternoon swimming only, we went directly to the resort and paid the fees at the reception area. I called in the morning though to inquire if the place is open for public that day. You never know, there may be a private event =).

Reception (at night)

At the reception area, the kids are excited!

Upon arrival, we paid the entrance and swimming fees.

After paying, we were accompanied by a staff to the poolside where the tables and chairs are. There's just one family at that time, and the place felt private. The kids hurriedly changed to their swim wear and enjoyed the two pools and jacuzzi.  

shower

Ladies CR/Changing Room

There are no showers at the changing room. At the right is the common shower area.

While the kids are enjoying, my sis and I walked around and took photos. The staffs are courteous and they greet you every time. They are also non imposing and let you wander around except on the overnight accommodation area.

G enjoying the fountain at the kiddie pool

  

loungers by the adult pool

Even with our kids on the water, we felt secured leaving them since the pools are shallow especially the kiddie ones. The adult pool is only 4 feet deep as well. But supervision is still important. 

lounger and sunken bar 

Walkway beside the pool, good place to witness the sun set.

Bearland at night.

We love the afternoon and evening at the resort. Bearland is a good place to laze around and relax. You can order drinks and food, watch the beach and horizon turn beautifully as the sun set. Afterwards, take a dip at the pool or enjoy the jacuzzi. I think we were lucky that we went in a day that there are few guests around. It felt like we have the resort for ourselves!

Will we come back? Yes! The kids enjoy the place and the adults were able to lounge around and enjoy too!

Going home, I suggest not to turn back to the rough road, especially if you leave the resort at night. We left at around 7pm. Drive straight and when you are at the end of the road, turn left and follow the traffic which will bring you to the main road. We didn't bother to ask for direction as I figure, a lot of traffic only mean that we are going to the highway. Ask around though if you are in doubt, the people of Tigbauan will surely direct you, it is unlikely to get lost in a small town :).

The Rates:

General Admission – Php 250/pax
Children 3-10 yrs old - P150/pax
Sun Lounger – Php100


Package Cottage Rental:

Php 2,200.00
Good for 5 includes:
P600.00 food consumable
Bamboo cottage or Tables &chairs
Access to all ameneties

Php 3,600.00
Good for 10 includes:
Entrance and swimming
P1000.00 food consumable
Bamboo cottage or Tables &chairs
Access to all ameneties

Php 4,500.00
Good for 15 includes:
P1,200.00 food consumable
Bamboo cottage or Tables &chairs
Access to all ameneties

Php 5,200.00
Good for 20 includes:
P1,500.00 food consumable
Bamboo cottage or Tables &chairs
Access to all ameneties

Note: All packages does not allow outside food and drinks. Corkage and fees apply.
Extra child entrance: P100   Extra adult: P200

Table with chairs and umbrellas:
Good for 4 persons – Php300
Good for 6 persons – Php400
Good for 8 persons – Php600
Table with chairs (canopy) – Php1,000

Cottages:
Bamboo at beach:
Group of up to 8 persons – Php1,500/day
Group of up to 20 persons – Php2,200/day
Cottage wood up to 20 persons - Php2,300/day

Note:Cottage price does not include consumables nor use of all resort amenities

Cabana Accommodation:

One bedroom good for 2 persons – Php5,500
(Including breakfast for 2 & use of all resort amenities)

Two bedroom good for 4 persons – Php7,500
(Including breakfast for 2 & use of all resort amenities)

Additional bed - P600

Bungalow Accommodation:
Inclusion: kitchen and use of all resort amenities 

Two bedroom -P10,000
One bedroom in double storey house house good for 2 – Php6,100
Deluxe villa for 6 – Php22,500
Luxury villa (family suite for 8) - P24,500
*includes all use od Resort Ameneties

Pre-Nuptial Package with snacks and drinks (Good for 6 pax) – Php6,000
Exclusivity for venues up to 150 persons – Php35,000

Contact Info:

Telephone: (033) 3330748
Globeline: (033)5118016
GLOBE: 09178292327
SMART: 09186297840
email: admin@bearlandresort.com
website: http://www.bearlandresort.com

OPI Skyfall Collection

Hi lovelies!

Yesterday, my OPI Skyfall Collection arrived. I was so excited  but it took me a day 

before opening the package, was a little busy. And yes, nail polish swatches can wait. =)    

It was a pre-order item, I waited more than a week before it got delivered.                                                       

Received my nail lacquers. Packaging was good, wrapped in a bubble plastic to avoid breakage. Ordered the OPI from here. You could check the online shop out, I'm sure you ladies will love the wide range of beauty products they sell. I still have reservations in using my credit card for online purchases, good thing you can pay Digital Traincase  though bank deposit and Gcash. I opted to pay cash through BPI, after paying, an acknowledgement will be sent to your email.

OPI Mini Skyfall Collection

The OPI relesead nail polish inspired by the Bond films, Skyfall in particular. I got The Bondettes  mini nail lacquers. I thought it would be a good collection I could bring anywhere. 

3.75ml minis out of the box

The Swatches:

GoldenEye
 1995 Pierce Brosnan

GoldenEye is bright yellow golden 

glitter.1st coat, I thought it is a nice light wear, on the 3rd coat, I was ecstatic! It glittered beautifully in my nails. Only, when removed, the glitter spread on my hands. But still, I love it! In real life, this shimmer is a sight to behold, I just can't get a good shot.

The Spy Who Loved Me
1977 Roger Moore

The Spy Who Loved Me is bright red infused with ultra fine gold glitters. I love red polish that when I opened the box, I tried this first (notice my long nails which was shortened afterwards) and slept with it haha! One coat could easily pass as the formula was good, but 2 coats is the best, romantic finish.
     

The World Is Not Enough
1999 Pierce Brosnan

The World Is Not Enough is rosy silver with pink shimmer. I love this one too and I can't seem to capture how beautiful the color is. But in real life, the shimmer is really pretty. Two coats is nice enough but like the GoldenEye, you'll love the shimmer on the 3rd coat!

Live and Let Die
1973 Roger Moore

Live and Let Die is jet black with green shimmer. I love this one too, the formula is pretty amazing that a single coat is enough. I used one coat on the photo at the right, and it's good to go!





Which one is my favorite? Hmmm GoldenEye, I can't stop looking at my nails haha! BUT, I'd say I love all the shades! It's not often to get great colors on nail lacquer sets. However, I'm pretty sure, the ladies will love each and every color on the mini set. I don't usually use up a bottle of polish, I'm feeling I'm gonna use the 4 Skyfall minis in the next months til it's all gone. :)

I promise, the photos do not do justice on how beautiful these lacquers are on my nails. 

Til next review, ladies!

XO

Rhyl Xionist Boutique/Tips on Boutique Shopping

Hi lovelies!

Indulge me as I share a friend's business, probably a dream business for most of us girls (including me!). Yesterday, the second branch of Rhyl Xionist Boutique opened its doors at the 2nd floor of The Atrium Mall, Iloilo City. 

Rhyl Xionist @ The Atrium Mall, Iloilo City

Me, Rhyl's owner and Grace with baby Sam!
Bagong gising ang peg ko, ang eye bags hehe!

The day started with the store's blessing followed by a filling merienda and of course, our chance to browse through the newly displayed stocks while talking with other mommies.

Look at our kids! They're all so well behaved during the blessing.

"I woke up late, jump into the shower, threw on my reliable leggings and shirt combo, have G dressed too, didn't have a chance to even drink my morning coffee, so come merienda time, I was famished that I forgot to take food photos (hehe, sorry!)."

The pretty owner at the counter :)

Rhyl Xionist got a wide selection of Bangkok clothes, bags and shoes for everyday use even for special occasions. For  moms like me who go out everyday to bring and fetch the kiddos to/from school, I think it's a must that we take care of ourselves too. Dress right and good, don a comfy, statement footwear, wear  that stylish bag and accessories, but it doesn't mean we have to break the bank. Remember: the tuition, the ballet, voice, violin, piano, belly dance fees..etc..etc..

Save those LVs,Chanels, Fendis and  Pradas, not for everyday use, but if you think otherwise, go! haha

easy to slip on tops and trendy bags (was eyeing that purple dots bag)

for the young fashionistas, wide selection of affordable trendy dresses

'think I'm gonna ask my niece to check on this cute owl top!

Got my eyes on you! How cute is this slip on!?

There are a lot of merchandise on display. Sometimes we women get overwhelmed with the selections. 

Here are some of my tested tips on shopping from those overflowing with goods boutiques.

1. Bring a friend for a second opinion :) 

--sometimes some 'tinderas' would be too pushy in selling you the goods, your friend, sister or even your kid will give you that honest opinion if you don't look good on that dress you fitted.

2. Items on display could sometimes look dowdy, look at the make and materials used, you'd be surprised on how it will transform once worn.

--I emphasize this to my sisters when we do some clothes shopping. Some shirt/dress would look unimpressive just hanging but when you wear it, it actually look good! One too many times, I proved this, and they would later on tell me that they got compliments on that not so special dress we saw neglected at a mall's sale. 

(see the blue owl slip on, how it looked so so on display)

3. When you see something you want, don't put it back on the rack.

--another shopper might be eyeing that item too and once you let go of it, it will disappear and some boutiques have limited stocks on sizes and designs, save for those too generic clothing which obviously we don't want to buy and see being worn by the next girl in the coffee shop. So, hold on to that nice top and don't let it go. :)

4. Before you pay, check the item.

--does it have a little rip somewhere? Does it look like the gems on that stylish footwear are just glued? The lace have runs? Check check check!

5. Don't hesitate to ask for discount.

--there's no harm in asking :) oftentimes, you'll get a 10% discount on regular priced items.

Take advantage of the cheap but quality made shirts and dresses you will find in mall boutiques.

Once a 'fashionista' acquintance  told me: "I don't repeat wear my clothes."

oh-uh that sounds..whatever, but hey if you buy it for rock bottom prices, 

guess it's ok to make it into 'basahan' after 1 wear. 

Or probably you don't like the dress well enough not to wear it again and give it away. 

Really, who has the money to buy something and wear it once? 

So, don't be afraid to repeat wear your stuff, lovelies! :)

XO

from my aspiring photog friend like me, Grace :)

Visit Rhyl Xionist, 2nd floor The Atrium Mall
also at the The Robinsons Place Iloilo, near the foodcourt

Rhyl Xionist is on SALE! 

It is a perfect time to start on that Christmas gift list, from our yayas to the in-laws, 

you will probably find something for them at Rhyl (hehe this is not a paid advertisement!)

P1 Seat Sale

SALE Alert:   Cebu Pacific P1 seat sale to all Philippine and international destinations!

What are you waiting for, lovelies!? Book a flight for that well deserved vacation.

Sale period is up to October 31, 2012. 

Travel period is from June 1, 2013-December 15, 2013

Hurry! Don't wait until the last minute to book your flight. 

http://www.cebupacificair.com/Pages/default.aspx

Site is experiencing so much traffic but be patient, you'll get a piso seat!

Catchy Windows 8 Advertisement

Moments ago, after seeing the Windows 8 advertisement, I thought it was catchy. Well, I'm not the only one who thought so. G, asked me if I know the title of the song. She wanted to Google it haha and she's already singing the few lines that she caught.

Here's the few lines:

Everything at Once

Lenka

As sly as a fox, as strong as an ox
As fast as a hare, as brave as a bear
As free as a bird, as neat as a word
As quiet as a mouse, as big as a house

All I wanna be, all I wanna be, oh
All I wanna be is everything.

The whole lyrics here

We love Lenka and Everything at Once is as catchy as The Show.

Wanna hear the song and sing along like we did for the past hour?

credits: Florin Puscas

Now, Windows 8...with what I've seen from the advertisement. I think it is engineered  for tablet use. I'm not as technical as hubby, I'll ask him how we could benefit from it :) and maybe he'll get me a new Windows 8 license and review it too!

A happy song for you lovelies!

XO

Iron Man 3

Loooove Iron Man! Remember The Avengers?  

Yesterday, a trailer for Iron Man 3 hit the web. Sir Ben Kingsley is the new villain, 

The Mandarin who will turn Tony Stark's (Robert Downey Jr.) life in disarray.

Have a sneak peek and wait long until April 2013, for the movie release. 

Hmmm I'm finding Iron Man's life turning too serious and dark...with a Dark Knight Trilogy tone to it. 

Oh well, let's wait til April 2013 and really review it!