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burgeonmeraki · 3 years

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My Current Skincare Routine

I believe in investing in your skin because it's going to represent you for a very long time. As much as I love wearing makeup, I’d still wanna look natural on the outside. But I also want to go out in public and not wear that much makeup. That’s why I'm a big believer that if you focus on your skincare, you really won't need a lot of makeup. Skincare is self-care.

Just a background story of my skin lol.

This is me back in High School.

Back when I was in high school (the puberty period), I literally have no problem with my skin. I never had any kind of breakout the whole high school life, and for that, I considered myself lucky. I don’t know if it’s in our genes or what, but I think my irregular period explained why I don't break out? I'm not sure hehe.

But when I stepped into college, that’s when I started having cystic acne, just once every month. I noticed my skin reacts in a different environment than I’m used to. Like when I was in college, I was studying in Manila. Manila is known for its air pollution because of traffic congestion. I have also found out that the water in Manila has chlorine, and I feel like my skin gets irritated, and that causes acne or breakout.

My brother who lives in South Korea sent a lot of skin care products. ca. 2017

I started using skincare products when I was in college, but mostly it's just facial wash, toner, and moisturizer. Then 3 years ago, I started putting serum on my face, a sheet mask or clay mask, and my skin feels so good after. My face feels so hydrated and the product that I used which is Innisfree works for me.

April 2018

RECENT BREAKOUT STORY (2020)

Ever since this pandemic and lockdown happened, I started breaking out. My skin became super oily, I thought maybe it was just the heat because it was summer then. I update my skincare, and nothing seems to work on me. And then I thought, maybe it was a hormonal imbalance, so I started taking pills for two months, still not working. The worst part of it, my pimples are cystic. Before, whenever I get a pimple it was just once every month. But now, when one pimple heals, there's another one comes, and they're mostly on my T-zones, which is the oiliest part of my face. I was so stressed about it, so I decided to see a Dermatologist at Cutis Essentials. Take note: this is my first time seeing and consulting a Dermatologist.

In order for the Doctor to treat me, she asked me a bunch of questions like, what kind of product do I use, she asked about my skin history and family history, and if I am taking some medicines or vitamins, and so on. And from that, I have learned that too much Vitamin E, B6, and B12 can cause acne. I have never taken any kind of vitamins in my whole adult life because I hate drinking medicines, but since there's a virus spreading all over the world, killing millions of people, I started taking it to boost my immune system. She gave me an oral medicine called Doxycycline and Epiduo Gel that dries up my acne. I stopped taking my pills and multivitamins and just stick to Vitamin C. I also stopped using this cleanser St. Ives Apricot Scrub and switch to a more mild facial cleanser. And hurrah, I finally see a good result. My face started clearing up little by little, and the oiliness lessens a bit. All I need to do is to get rid of my dark spots, which takes time.

The thing with doing your skincare routine, you have to stick with it consistently. And I gotta admit, there are days that I'm so lazy to do it and just skip some steps. Like sometimes I just removed my makeup, washed it, then put some toner to clean the excess dirt, then I'm done. That's my slacky routine. Don't do it hehe.

I did a one week sheet mask challenge and my skin feels so good after. I definitely recommend this product that I got from BeautyMnl. It’s called Superfood Coconut Salad Mask Package from the brand Farm Skin. Last pic on the lower right, that’s The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution.

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A video of my skincare routine. Sorry if it’s a bit confusing LOL. I’ll make a better video next time hehe.

MY CURRENT SKINCARE ROUTINE & HOW TO LAYER PRODUCTS:

I want to be clear, I am not a dermatologist or esthetician, but this method has worked for me. If your skin is irritated, I recommend hitting the reset button and start from scratch. Try introducing new products one at a time and use it consistently for a few days to see if it's working for you. Also, try to learn more about what your skin needs. Like if you have dry skin, moisturizer and hydrate i every day. If you have an oily skin like me, try to lessen the products that’s very greasy, and don’t use it during the day. Just stick with light moisturizer. It is a little bit of a process and takes time, but once you have it figured out, your skincare routine will be on autopilot, and your skin will look better and better.

Here are the products that I am currently using:

FACIAL CLEANSER

Brand: COSRX

AC Collection Foaming Cleanser

Cosrx is a Korean product. This gentle foam cleanser fights acne. It manages excess oil, without stripping skin of essential moisture. With BHA to exfoliate, lauric acid to provide antibacterial support, and centella ingredients to soothe, this creamy cleanser clears skin while keeping irritation at bay. | I have been using this for 3 months now and the brand works on me. My skin feels so soft after using this.

TONER

Brand: COSRX

AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

Formulated with AHA, BHA and purifying botanical ingredients, the AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner works to soothe, refresh and soften the skin. It is effective for hydrating evening skin tone and texture, and it’s a mild exfoliation. | This toner for me is very gentle and it doesn’t sting and harsh like the other toner that I used before.

MOISTURIZER

Brand: COSRX

AC Collection Light Weight Soothing Moisturizer

This cream moisturizer provides light, non-sticky hydration for acne-prone skin. Made with asiatic acid, niacinamide, and zinc salt, it calms and strengthens skin’s moisture barrier while controlling excess oil. | I love this moisturizer! It’s not greasy so it’s okay to use it during the day because it’s fast-absorbing.

SERUM

Brand: THE ORDINARY

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

The Ordinary comes from Canada. A high-strength vitamin- and mineral-packed formula to minimize the look of blemishes. Contains a high 10% concentration of niacinamide (vitamin B3); reduces the appearance of spots, marks, and congestion; supported by zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid to balance visible aspects of sebum activity. | I’ve heard a lot of good reviews about this product so I tried it, and the brand works for me. It just really takes time to lighten up my dark spots but it works.

EXFOLIATION

Brand: THE ORDINARY

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

A 10-minute liquid mask treatment that exfoliates to visibly improve skin texture and tone. This product goal is to enhance brightness, even out skin, and decongest pores; exfoliates the topmost epidermal surface; helps fight visible blemishes for improved radiance; reduces the look of fine lines with continued use. | Take note: this peeling solution stings for a few sec, but it’s tolerable. Read the instruction first before using this product. When I first used this, I noticed my skin feels like a glass skin, like it looks healthy. I was expecting my face to peel, but it didn’t. I only use this 2-3x a week or whenever my skin needs it.

PROTECTION

Brand: THE ORDINARY

Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone

Helps reverse multiple signs of skin aging with vitamin C, an effective antioxidant; naturally brightens and refines tone and texture; feels smooth on the skin thanks to very light silicones despite the suspension format of the formulation. | I just recently purchased this and I think it’s a great add for my skincare routine to reduce all the blemishes on my face and fights skin aging because well, I’m not getting any younger anymore. This one is a bit greasy so I only use this in the evening, and it has an off smell but fades away for a few sec.

CLAY MASK

Brand: INNISFREE

Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask 2X

Innisfree is a Korean product. Features 2x more powerful adherence to sebum for intensive pore care; provides triple exfoliation from encapsulated Jeju volcanic scoria, walnut shell powder, and AHA; enhanced deep cleansing formula removes away fine dust particles, pore-clogging dirt, and dead skin cells; provides powerful sebum-absorbing capacity as it washes away impurities while moisturizing and brightening skin; leaves a cooling sensation when applied that refreshes pores. | I have been using the 1.0 version of this for 3 years, which is the Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask without 2x. I super love this clay mask because this brighten up my dark spots so fast. I only use this 2-3x a week or whenever my face needs it. I recommend this product.

SHEET MASK

Brand: INNISFREE

My Real Squeeze Mask

These face masks are dew-licious skin treats that target your skin's unique concerns and bump your entire routine up a notch. | So Innisfree has a lot of sheet mask that can be tailored to your skin's daily needs. All I can say that whenever I use this sheet mask, my face feels so hydrated, and fresh. It’s an instant boost for my skin. So every time my face looks so dry and dull, I use this product.

LASH BOOST

Brand: SKIN GENIE

Hair Growth Booster

Skin Genie is a Philippine product. This nourishing clear serum is the answer to fuller brows and lashes. It helps minimize hair loss, prevent breakage, and prime the strands for healthier regrowth. | This product smells so good and I noticed that my lashes became more stronger, longer, and a bit thicker. It will just take times but it works its magic. I put this if I’m about to sleep because the serum goes inside my eyes and kinda sting a little bit.

LIP CARE

Brand: VASELINE

Lip Therapy

A lip-healing jelly with a mouthwatering chocolate fragrance for silky, supple lips. Clinically proven to moisturize chapped lips; instantly softens and soothes dryness and flaking; locks in moisture to help lips recover from discomfort; leaves a healthy, glossy shine; non-sticky formula glides on smoothly. | My lips get dry very easily, and it always turned chapped. Before I go to sleep, I always make sure to put some of this and viola, the next morning my lips feel so soft and hydrated. I used cocoa butter at night, then I use rosy lips during the day whenever I put my makeup on, and they smell so good.

MOISTURIZER

Brand: NATURE REPUBLIC

Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel

A hydrating and cooling gel containing 92% pure aloe vera. Gently moisturizes all skin types, including sensitive skin; soothes and refreshes dry, dehydrated, inflamed, and sunburnt areas; firms skin and naturally protects with vitamins C, E, and other minerals; fast-absorbing gel won’t leave a greasy feel; can be used on hair, face, and body as a moisturizer, mask, and/or sleeping pack | I super love this product. I have been using this for more than 2 years now and it does wonder on my skin. I use it on my hair and body too.

ANTI-ACNE GEL

Brand: GALDERMA

Epiduo Gel (Adapalene and Benzoyl Peroxide) 0.1%/2.5%

Epiduo is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of Acne Vulgaris. Epiduo may be used alone or with other medications. Epiduo belongs to a class of drugs called Acne Agents, Topical Combos. | This gel is pricey, and this was prescribed to me by my Dermatologist. I still use this whenever I have acne, and it dries up my acne fast.

ACNE PATCH

Brand: COSRX

Acne Pimple Master Patch

This is the original set of hydrocolloid stickers that comes with three different sizes to spot-correct pimples. It heals intensively overnight, protecting problem areas from infection and brings out deep-rooted blemishes without leaving behind scars. Slap a patch on your breakouts for instant relief away from bacteria. This will stop the insane urge to pick at your skin and pop your pimples. It’s made with A.D.F. hydrocolloid dressing, a unique material that helps extract gunk from stubborn zits and speeds up their life cycle. | I absolutely love this patch. I use this in the evening whenever I have a very bad acne. TIP: I use the Epiduo Gel first, applied it on my acne, and then let it dry first before putting the patch. I promise, the next day your acne heals so fast! But sometimes, if it's cystic, it will take a few try like 2-3 patch every night.

ACNE PATCH

Brand: LUXE ORGANIX

Hydrocolloid Acne Spot Patch Night Time

When patched to acne; it increasingly absorbs the pus and oil to reduce inflammation and fasten the healing process. This brand is from Korea. | This product works well on me too, plus it contains more patches than Cosrx. Cosrx isn't available in most stores here in Bataan, so I have to order it online. I just go to Watson and buy this, which is very convenient for me.

CLEANSER

Soft Silicone Facial Cleansing Brush

Gently scrub your face with this along with the Foaming Cleanser, it is easy to use. It is great for getting rid of dirt and clogged up skin. I noticed that after I wash my face with full on makeup, it get rids all the excess makeup and dirt that you have on your face because whenever I apply my toner, you can’t barely see any dirt. You better get one of this. I got mine from Watson, and it is very affordable.

FACIAL MASSAGE

Brand: BE KIND

Jade Facial Roller + Guasha Set

This beauty tool duo will renew fatigued skin in just a few cooling strokes. Made from 100% authentic jade, each tool is uniquely designed for restorative facial massages. Not only do these tools boost product absorption, they also offer different types of massages. The roller stimulates lymphatic drainage that reduces puffiness, while the gua sha relieves tense facial muscles. When used together, they liven up dull skin for a fresh, well-rested look. | Sadly, I broke my jade roller, but I am getting one soon. Make sure that before you use this tool, put it first on the freezer for a few minutes, and it feels so good, I swear! I used the jade roller whenever I put on my sheet mask. While I used guasha whenever I put on my moisturizer because it glides really well when your skin is moisturize.

OIL CONTROL

Brand: THE FACE SHOP

Oil Blotting Films

Contains 50 silky-soft blotting sheets; made with excellent oil-absorbing 3M film; works to absorb excess sebum; leaves skin looking fresh and grease-free. | I read that if you have oily skin and you're wearing makeup, don't put on another layer of powder just to get rid of the oiliness on your face. Instead, use this oil-blotting film to remove all the oil before retouching your makeup. It's a helpful way not to clog your pores and for your makeup not to look cakey.

More skincare products that works on me but I don’t use it anymore:

MOISTURIZER

Brand: DRUNK ELEPHANT

Protini™ Polypeptide Cream

Protini’s proprietary formula restores younger, revived-looking skin, almostfrom the first application. Lines, wrinkles, and signs of sun damage appearreduced, and skin feels strengthened and moisturized. | I only have the sample bottle of this because this brand is a little expensive but I heard a lot of good reviews on this. It’s a bit thick for my taste, so I make sure to wear this at night and not under my makeup, that’s only if you have oily skin.

SHEET MASK

Brand: FARMSKIN

Superfood Coconut Salad Mask Package

A set of 7 sheet masks that leaves your skin brighter, hydrated, and more youthful. Nourish, moisturize, and illuminate skin with this set of sheet masks formulated with a combination of superfoods and colostrum ingredient. | First time using this product, and so far, it doesn't have any negative reaction on my skin since they used organic ingredients on their products. Farmskin has different kinds of sheet mask packages, and it is tailored depends on your skin's daily needs. This package is for brightening and hydrating my face since I need to get rid of my blemishes and dark spots.

FACIAL OIL

Brand: HERES B2UTY

Tea Tree Oil Serum

A multi-benefit serum that clarifies your complexion. Treats acne and soothes redness and swelling with tea tree oil; enriched with green tea, which contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory catechins to hydrate and regulate excess oil production; fades spots, eliminates acne scars, and protects against free radicals with chamomile, a powerhouse antioxidant; improves moisture levels as it minimizes the look of fine lines and wrinkles with rose hip oil; alleviates irritation as it tightens skin with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory witch hazel; draws moisture to skin with hyaluronic acid to revitalize skin’s outer layers; plumps, restores, and renews to instantly improve the appearance of fine lines. | When I started using this, I thought it was to prevent me from having acne. This oil doesn't work on my acne though, but it lessens the oiliness on my face. I just don't use it very often because I'm so lazy or sometimes I forgot. LOL

TONER

Brand: ESKINOL

Spotless White Classic Cleanser

Eskinol provides products which are specifically formulated for the Filipina skin. Its range of products is known to effectively solve oily skin problems and pimples. Removes deep-seated dirt, excess oil, and makeup with micro-cleanse anti-bacterial formula. Pure Calamansi extracts known to whiten skin. It has vitamin C derivatives to help lighten dark spots in as early as 1 week for an even skin tone. | This product is classic and very effective that's why until now it's still here, unlike other brands being discontinued in the market. I have been using this since college, but later on this particular calamansi formula is more effective on me, while the other formula doesn't work on me.

BUYING THESE PRODUCT SOON:

PROTECTION

Brand: COSRX

Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++

An aloe-infused moisturizing sunscreen for dehydrated skin. Protects skin from ultraviolet rays and other environmental damages with SPF50 PA+++ | I’m reading a lot of good reviews about this product, so I am adding this to my cart now hehe.

EYE CREAM

Brand: NEUTROGENA

Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream

Help improve the signs of skin aging with Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream. Specially formulated for the delicate eye area, the fast-acting retinol cream helps fade the look of stubborn crow's feet, brightens and evens skin tone in the under-eye area, helps smooth fine lines and texture, and reduces the look of dark circles. This clinically proven retinol formula works quickly with visible results in just one week. | It says that this is the best eye cream for 2020 so let’s see if it’s going to work on my eyes hehe.

Whew! That was a lot of information. I hope you find this helpful and give your skin the love it deserves. If you have any questions or suggestion please don’t be afraid to say it to me. Til next time!

Love Lots, Jamie ♡

#beauty #skincare

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burgeonmeraki · 3 years

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20 Random Things You Don’t Know About Me

Hi guys! I thought I would do something a little fun, humiliating (LOL), and different on my blog today and share 20 things you might not know about me. I get it. As a reader, I, too, love learning a bit more about the people I read. So here goes!

1. I have this weird habit where I want my feet warm especially at night before I go to sleep. I usually put some lotion on it and then put my socks on. And if there are no socks, I put a pillow under my feet, like I'm a mermaid LOL. Weird, I know! But it prevents me from having leg cramps in the morning.

That is my trophy for the singing contest. This picture was taken 2010, and I couldn’t find my trophy anymore so deal with that picture. Just kiddin’

2. I won first place at a singing contest at a talent show back when I was in kindergarten. I sang this 90s hit song My Heart Will Go On By Celine Dion. And I believe that if my parents put me or enrolled me in a voice lesson, girl, I could've been a singer today, and I might be joining singing contest like The Voice. But I only do the singing thing at the shower and karaoke. Hahaha

Left Pic: My oldest brother wasn’t there because he was working abroad Right Pic: My oldest sister is living in Canada, and my older brother is living in South Korea. My mom was holding her phone because that's them on the videocall.

3. I was supposed to have six siblings so that would make us a total of seven. I had an oldest sister, supposed to be the second child, who died because of some complications in her heart when she was still a newborn. Next is my Ate Jaz, which makes her my oldest sister alive. Then after Ate Jaz, my mom had a miscarriage. Basically, my Ate was in between two dead babies. And if ever my two siblings were alive today, I might not be here or I probably don't exist. I have such a huge age gap with my siblings because my mom had me at the age of 38, and she said that I was her only child who made her pregnancy and giving birth so hard. I was born via C-Section and the rest of my siblings were all delivered normal. So, lucky me for being here! LOL

My collection of Candy Magazine back in High School.

4. Back in High School, I used to collect Candy Magazine until first-year college. This magazine helped me with all my teenage issues like self-esteem, body image, peer pressure, beauty, fashion, dating, friendship, career, etc. They have a bunch of articles there that I enjoyed reading. And I've always wanted to be one of their models, but I was an ugly duckling, and I'm not the confident type of girl back then. I still kept these magazines inside my sentimental box.

This is my box full of photos, letters, diaries, and other stuff.

5. Speaking of the sentimental box, I'm a very sentimental person. I have boxes of stuff from my friends, family, and ex-boyfriends. I kept this stuff for good memories purposes because I like reminiscing good memories. It reminds me of these real moments that I was once shared with these people, and it's like my return ticket to that memories, whether it's funny, romantic, or sad. Plus good times need to be remembered. They need to celebrate and felt. You know, we're not getting any younger anymore, time will come that a part of our brain might forget those memories. So keeping pictures, letters, and diaries is one way to keep those memories alive.

These are my IDs from the Youth Camp Fellowship.

6. I used to be active in Church back when I was in High School. I even joined the Music Ministry and tried to learn how to play the piano. I went to a few Youth Camp Fellowship and met a lot of people, and it was fun. The reason why I became so active in Church because I had a crush on our drummer guy (he’s my first kiss). Yuck! LOL

vimeo

Love Me Like You Do By Ellie Goulding (Short Clip) / Stay By Rihanna (Cover)

7. As I was saying on number 6, I used to play the piano before. They made us choose a musical instrument that we want to play, and I was supposedly gonna go for drums because it's cool, plus I used to listen to a lot of rock bands back then, but I didn't choose it because my crush is going to be the one who's going to teach us, and I was shy, so I end up with piano. I actually tried learning how to play the guitar but you got to have callouses on your fingers in order to play it well because it freaking hurts girl! Hehe

8. Okay, let's talk about Puppy Love. When I was in grade school, I have a crush on this guy who's like 3 years older than me, and he's our neighbor. When I got into 6th grade, he started noticing me, and we became, I don't know, together? Like boyfriend and girlfriend? Haha. But since I'm a shy type kind of girl, I was having a hard time talking to him without blushing, I couldn't even let him hold my hands, or hug me, or kiss me. None of that happened. So we write letters to each other (cellphone is not a thing at that time). I know it's all cheesy and mushy and all, but anyways. I asked my niece to be our messenger haha. So I will give the letter to her, and she will give it to him, and then vice versa. Okay, so this is the funny part!! My niece left my goddamn letter for him at our dining table! And my sister and brother read the whole thing. I was so annoyed at my niece. My siblings were like mad at me for having a boyfriend at such a young age because you know, I'm their little sister, and little sissy is not allowed to have a boyfriend LOL. And then they threatened me that they're going to tell it to my mom, so I broke up with him after a week using a letter haha. We kept in touch til I got into High School. I think we went out before, we watch a movie but I brought a chaperone with me. HAHA we didn’t end up together because he’s such a playboy. FYI: I don't count him as my ex-boyfriend. LOL

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9. I had a puppy named Mocha because she’s dark brown and it suits her. She’s a shih tzu and she’s the cutest puppy in the world but she died because she got sick. I miss her so much! :(

Snorkeling at Coron, Palawan.

10. I love going to the beach. I love swimming! My mom’s sister owns a beach resort and it was just an hour away from our place. We always go there every summer, and that’s where I learned how to swim, not in the swimming pool, but in the ocean. I was supposedly going to be a swimmer. My 4th grade teacher trained me, and he trained other students in other sports like badminton and volleyball, and they joined sports competition, and they win medals. So I got very interested because I want to win medals too. So I did my training but I was having a hard time to dive. I know I'm doing it wrong because the water kept going inside my nose and it freaking hurts. So I stopped and quit the training because I couldn't do it properly. Haha

I think I was in 3rd Grade in here. Lol

11. I joined Girl Scout back in grade school. I can't remember why I joined. All I know is I am going to have a lot of fun in here. And that was my first camping experience. We camped out at our school, and yeah, it was fun and scary at the same time because there are lots of ghost stories in our school. Our motto: "Girl Scouts are always ready and prepared.”

I also joined Drum & Bugle. I was a Majorette, the one who throws the baton in the air and twirls it. I just love to dance back then, and nope, I'm not a professional dancer. It's just that life is better when you dance! :)

Junior Year High School. Cheer Dance Competition during our Intramurals Day.

12. When I got into High School, I've always wanted to join Cheer Dance Competition since I was in my freshman year. But most of the girls in my school back then were all pretty and mean. I only joined when I was in my junior year, and we won 2nd place. I'm really not a good dancer, but I know I've got moves. I just don't know what happened today LOL. I'm one of those girls who they always lift and toss because obviously in the picture I'm thin as a rake haha. Then I tried joining again in College, and I got into an accident. I freaking fell flat on my back while we're doing our pyramid stunt and no one's there to catch me. Ouchie! I'm on the second level, standing on my right leg at this guy's shoulder, and then my left leg was angled and lifted because on the third level, a girl's going to stand on my left thigh. She was scared and not keeping her balance well so she dragged me backward with her. Someone caught her and none for me because the way I go down the pyramid is by jumping in front. Our coach didn't see that coming and I thought I am gonna go home with broken hips.

Left to Right: Elementary Graduation Day; Sophomore Year in College; Junior Year - wearing retainer; Retainer and Braces Free

13. I first had my braces when I was in 6th grade because my sister got one, so I want one too LOL. I had it for a very long time. Since I got it at such a young age, my teeth were not complete yet. And based on my x-ray, I've got several impacted wisdom tooth that's going to come out so my doctor waited for it. I only got it removed when I was in my 3rd-year college. So I had my braces for 7 years. HAHA

14. I can’t whistle. I tried. I don’t know how to. I can’t do it. PERIOD

Cupcake Nail Art, Cheetah Print Nail Art, Polka Dots Nail Art

15. I love doing my nail art from when I was in High School to College. I don't like my nails plain and simple back then, so I put a design on it and make it fun. I'm always into art and being creative. Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun. So my parents saw that potential in me, and they made me choose Architecture as my profession.

These are my high school arts that I saw on my facebook LOL.

Circa 2015. Photographed By: Iks Virina

16. I'm not a morning person. I hate waking up so early. I only wake up so early if I have important errands to run or if I have to go to work. I love sleeping during the day and staying up during the night. I'm a night owl. There's something about being up at night that makes it more peaceful to work and think. Most of my creative juices come out during the night. And I've read that night owls have better mental alertness than early risers. I don't need caffeine to keep me up at night. LOL

Circa 2015. Photographed By: Iks Virina

17. I'm not a coffee person. Don't get me wrong, I love the smell of coffee. It's just that the coffee doesn't like me at all. Every time I drink coffee, especially those with high caffeine like espresso, I end up palpitating and having heartburn. I can drink it but not too much, and sometimes I preferred Frappuccino. I'm more of a tea person. I love chamomile and red berries flavors.

FEU I.D. vs BPSU I.D.

18. I went to two schools back in College. When I was in my senior year in High School, I didn't really plan my college life. I have no idea what school I am going to attend. I only know was my mom wants me to take up Architecture even though I don't want to. So yeah, I end up going to Far Eastern University for 2 years. Then, my Dad, he was working abroad in Libya, and there was a war at that time in the Middle East. So they had to go home and stopped working. We have no income, we had financial issues, and that's when I decided to return home and study in my hometown, get a scholarship because I have no choice. I was in college for 6 years, supposedly 5 years only but I had to retake some of my subjects that I already took up in my previous school because the school didn't credit it.

Back in 2015, I tried to dress up like Blair Waldorf. She loves wearing headband hehe

19. My favorite show of all time is Gossip Girl. It's like the first rated r tv shows that I really got hooked up and fall in love with. It's the reason why I've always wanted to go to New York. I have watched this already a few times, and it doesn't get old. I love Serena Van Der Woodsen (Blake Lively), her style, and the way she carries her clothes. She's this free-spirited, charming, nice, laidback IT GIRL. And then Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester) aside from her classy, preppy style, I like her domineering and loyal personality. Plus her romantic on and off love affair with Chuck Bass (Ed Westwick). But my biggest crush on this show is Nate Archibald (Chace Crawford), oh god I love his eyes, it's so sexy! HAHA

Sandbox Adventure at Pampanga; Bike Trailing and Wakeboarding at Nuvali, Laguna; and Skimboarding at Boracay

20. I love some good adventure. I have this bucket list of things to do before I die, and I want to fulfill that. Like traveling the whole world, plus I want to go skydiving or bungee jumping. Aside from that, you're just not creating memories, you're also trying new things. And I'm always up for trying new things, and I like challenging myself sometimes. Life is boring if you don't at least try or go out of your comfort zone. Just try new things once in a while, and don't be afraid to soar high.

What’s something random about you? And if you make a post, share it below. Thank you so much for dropping by!

Love Lots, Jamie

#lifestyle

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burgeonmeraki · 4 years

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Giving Birth Journey

It was supposed to be a normal checked-up day until my doctor saw my ultrasound result. It turns out that my amniotic sac is already leaking, and my water is getting low. If a pregnant woman's amniotic fluid is leaking, it can be dangerous for her and her baby at any point during the pregnancy. It can cause complications, including birth defects. I had no idea that I am already leaking, though I already saw some sign. But I thought it was the primrose oil that my doctor instructed me to put it directly on my vulva, so all those times I thought it was the medicine.

Yes, I am wearing makeup. Ready si girrrl! HAHA

It was December 20, 2016, in the afternoon when my doctor finally decided to admit me to the hospital. That day, a lot of women are giving birth, so lucky me, there's still room for me in the labor room. In the labor room, they don't allow visitors inside. I was all alone and scared throughout the whole process.

First time I had an IV.

They insert an IV on me, and I was so nervous. I thought it's going to hurt so bad because it was my first time, but I'm glad it didn't. Second, the skin test. They said that this one hurts the most, again it doesn't hurt at all. That's when I thought that maybe I have high pain tolerance, but let's see on the anesthesia part LOL. Okay, so they put some antibiotic on my IV because I tested positive for GBS (Group B Strep). And they did this thing called labor induction where they give me medicine that they also put it on my IV, it's a method to make labor start. The nurse also said that if I can't take the pain anymore, I'll have to ask them for the epidural. Epidural is a procedure that injects a local anesthetic into the space around the spinal nerves in your lower back. This anesthetic usually blocks the pain from labor contractions and during the birth very effectively.

The whole time since I got admitted, which was around the afternoon, I never gotten a chance to eat. I can't eat. They won't allow me to eat. I can't even drink water, so they gave me ice chips. They said that it's not good to eat or drink before the surgery.

The rest of my stay in the labor room was very amusing to me, and a bit scary at the same time. Since there are lots of women giving birth at that time, I heard women screaming their lungs off because of labor pain. And I'm just like lying down on my bed waiting for the labor pain to kick in, but it was just like cramps. Every hour a nurse checks in on me to see how am I doing, and she always has this puzzled look on me like, "why the hell you're not in pain and you're not screaming for help?" Because it just doesn't hurt. I guess because since I'm always having period cramps, I'm so used to it already. Another thing, every hour the nurse or midwife checked my cervical dilation by inserting her finger inside my vajayjay, which is so freaking uncomfortable.

Cervical Dilation Chart. This is how a woman’s vajayjay look like when they’re dilating.

A few hours later, my dilation size is like a cracker, which means I'm on my 4 cm. The nurse was not satisfied with the result, so she decided to pop my water bag or the amniotic sac because it helps with the progress of laboring. The nurse or midwife said that it would help my baby go down my cervix. And that's when the labor pain really kicks in.

They decided to put me in a private labor room so I can have visitors inside.

That evening I tried to sleep, but I couldn't because of the pain, and I'm also super thirsty. They kept giving me ice chips to keep my mouth hydrated. And ugh the pain! It's tolerable, but it freaking hurts. I didn't scream, but my eyes are tearing LOL. The pain was like this: it's going to hurt so bad for a minute, then stop for about 30 sec. I didn't get to rest the whole night.

Before midnight came, my doctor finally came and told me that I have to undergo an emergency C-section. And this is the part where I want to scream because I don't want to go through a C-section. The whole plan was to have a normal delivery. Also, while the nurse telling me earlier that if I need an epidural, all I need was to ask her, right? And I'm like, "what the hell is epidural?" I googled it while I was alone in the labor room. I freaking watched a video of how they freaking insert this huge needle inside your spinal cord. So, I'm like, "nope, I'm not going to ask for an epidural! No way!" And then I’m going to found out that I'm still going to go through that because they're going to freaking cut me. Oh my God! Sorry, my storytelling is getting exaggerated LOL.

Operating Time!

Before I go through the surgery, my anesthesiologist orients me the side effect of the anesthesia. I wasn't really paying attention to him because I was asking for my baby daddy that time to support me and hold my hand while they're injecting me with the anesthesia because I'm freaking out. But I think they didn't allow him inside while they're prepping me. Instead, my doctor holds my hand and guide me throughout the whole process of the general anesthesia induction. I don't know how am I going to explain it, but it doesn't hurt that much. I was just overthinking. LOL

I was nauseous the whole time here.

After the anesthesia induction, they prepped me up on the operating table, and the numbness slowly working throughout my body. There's like a barrier in front of me, so I wouldn't see what they're trying to do with my tummy. I was slowly getting groggy, but I'm fighting it. I was conscious the whole operation, but I need to close my eyes because everything is spinning around me. These are the following side effects of anesthesia to me:

Nausea - I was dizzy the whole time and vomiting all over the place multiple times.

Shivering - the place just suddenly felt so cold, so my teeth kept on chattering.

Shortness of breath - there was a time that I panicked because I can't feel my breathing, but my doctor assured me that my vitals were okay and normal.

I don't want to go through any surgery again. It was the worst experienced of my life. Just kiddin’ LOL.

His umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck. My doctor said that it’s the reason why he couldn’t go down my cervix.

I had to put it in black and white, so you guys won’t see the gory details there hehe.

vimeo

Here’s a short clip how my doctor pulled him out of me. Take Note: Don’t watch it if you can’t take gory stuff.

First, picture taking LOL.

When he finally got out of me and I heard him crying, I was so thankful and relieved that he's okay. I want to hold him so bad, but I was still feeling so weak and nauseous.

They’re prepping the cord to be cut by his Daddy.

He was born on the 21st of December 2016, at 12:21 am.

He’s a pretty loud crier LOL.

They’re closing me up. In fairness, my doctor did a great job with my stitches.

On the way to the recovery room.

When we were in the recovery room, I don't know what time it was but I'm sure it was pretty late, and I kind of fell asleep for a minute or so, I think. I was conscious, but I'm still nauseous. (That rhymes huh? LOL.) I'm still throwing the hell up and shivering. My baby was beside me the whole time, and I could hear him crying. I want to hold him so bad, but I don't have the strength. The anesthesia really kicks me in the ass LOL. A few hours later, they finally put us in our private room.

This is our room.

The nurse checking both our temperature.

Our first selfie.

After giving birth to my son, he was always beside me. Usually, in other hospitals, they put the babies straight to the nursery room. But in St. Luke’s Hospital, they don't do that, I think. It was the next day when I finally recovered. I held him in my arms and tried to breastfeed him. He was the cutest thing ever.

After another day, I finally got the strength to get up on my bed. I started walking, peeing on the toilet which burns a little but it's normal, nursing my baby, and the most important thing, I farted and pooed LOL. The doctor needs to know this stuff because it is a sign that everything is returning to normal, and that I am good to go. I just stayed at the hospital for two and a half days, and I think that was a fast recovery for a C-Section patient.

So that is my giving birth journey, and it was such a rollercoaster experience for me. I suggest to you guys, especially you boys, to always respect, love, care, and protect women at all costs. A woman is what brought us into this world, so we have no right to disrespect one. Always be grateful mostly to your mothers because it's not freaking easy what women go through pregnancy and childbirth. We sacrifice literally almost everything. Our body, career, our sleep, our hot meals, and even our mental health. So please, remember that!

“Pregnancy is not gonna be easy, but it's worth it.”

I hope you guys enjoy another story of my life, and thank you for dropping by.

Love Lots, Jamie ❤

#motherhood

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burgeonmeraki · 4 years

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My Pregnancy Story

My pregnancy test and first ultrasound. He’s 7 weeks old here.

Back in 2016, it was supposedly my career breakthrough. It was my second year working and doing my apprenticeship before I take my licensure board exam in Architecture. I quit my job in Bataan and came to Manila to work, and somehow get away with my family issues. I also broke up with my ex-boyfriend at that time because we're also having issues. So I was broken-hearted, and I became precipitous that's why I ended up getting pregnant. My dreams literally fall apart because of my recklessness.

Before I found out that I was pregnant, I always have this feeling that I am pregnant. I have been waiting for my period, and at first, I thought I was just delayed for a few days or weeks because that's pretty normal to my condition. My period isn't accurate. Usually, I have a longer cycle. But it's been a month, and I am getting anxious. I asked my best friend to buy me a pregnancy test because I need to know.

The next morning, I took the test during my first pee. They said it's more accurate if you do it in the morning. And just like that, it was POSITIVE. I was scared but I didn't cry. I don't have the energy to be so emotional at that time because I'm really not a morning person LOL. But I think I remember saying "FUCK" when I saw the two lines. It was a mixed emotion for me. I was worried with a lot of things like..

How to tell my parents that I am pregnant?

I was scared of the operation or surgery, and the process of giving birth.

Lastly, am I going to be a good mom?

My first ultrasound at MDCare Ob-gyn Ultrasound Clinic, Fisher Mall, QC.

I finally decided to get an ultrasound because I was worried that if I'm really pregnant, the baby should be okay or alive inside of me. And the reason why I was worried because I have been drinking a lot of alcohol, and I had a bad tonsillitis back then that I had a fever for a few days and I drink medicine for that. So I had to know if he's okay in my tummy. My OB gave me some medicine though to avoid miscarriage.

I told the father of my child that I was pregnant, and we're not in a relationship at that time. He said that he's willing to marry me and take the obligation. And somehow, I felt relieved because I'm not going to be alone on this journey.

My second checked up. 12 weeks old.

I’m now eating for TWO haha.

Work Attire. My bump is showing already so I thought I need to wear clothes that’s not fitted anymore.

I was working as a Technical Assistant at Fisher Builders Corporation. No one in my colleague knows that I am pregnant. So I need to hide my bump. Aside from I work at the construction site sometimes, I don't want any rumors about me circulating at the office, plus I just started there. I just want to do my job peacefully. That’s it!

My bump, my bump, my bump. Check it out! I don’t know how many weeks or months I was in here. I forgot na! LOL.

I have so many horrible experiences with my pregnancy.

FIRST TRIMESTER:

I had morning sickness but usually occurs at night which was weird, I know!

My sense of smell became super sensitive that if I smell something stinky I would throw the hell up.

I became more picky with food. The food that I usually eat before doesn’t look appetizing to me anymore.

I had a bad breakout, and when I say bad, its really, really bad. See for yourself. Scroll down!

Told ya, its bad! Ugh! My OB said that its normal because my hormones is changing. And I’ve read that half of half of pregnant people can expect to develop acne. In my case, my acne was severe here.

First Trimester Photos.

After my blood test at Capitol Medical Center, Quezon City.

One thing I didn't know about being pregnant was I have to go through a lot of blood tests. And that means I have to go through a lot of needles. And I hate needles! But later on, I found out that I have high pain tolerance, and you'll find out more about that on my next blog. LOL.

At 16 weeks old, I found out that I am having a Baby Boy.

My last day at work.

After 4 months of working at Fisher Builders Corporation, I decided to quit my job. I had to quit because it's not safe and healthy for me to work there. The company has a townhouse which is located in front of the Fisher Mall. I was living there with my best friend and some of the staff who also work in Fisher Mall. The rent was free, we just have to pay for the electricity and water bill. So every day, going to work I have to cross the overpass that has no roof. For me to cross the overpass, I have to climb up 20 steps and another 20 steps down. Since it has no roof, it was hot during the day, and it sucks more when it’s raining. The area was polluted, most definitely the area is not safe if you're going out alone during the night. So I had to quit. My career got held off, and it was all my fault.

This was the day we told my family that I am pregnant.

So my baby daddy went home from US to the Philippines to visit me and wooed my family. My family doesn't know anything about him, and they didn't know that I broke up with my ex, so they're all shocked. At first, we were having a hard time telling them, like the timing was always off. But then after 2 days of our stay, we need to tell them. I talked to my sister first, and I was so nervous. We both end up crying because she doesn't want another history to repeat itself. Okay, so I have 2 sisters, both of them are single moms. My oldest sister's ex cheated on her, and the same thing goes for my older sister. She just wants a different life for me so she was upset and sad at that time. And while I'm talking to my sister, baby daddy was writing his speech LOL.

We first talk to my Dad because my mom wasn't at home. He did all the talking and I was just crying the whole time. He said that he's going to take care of me, that he's going to marry me, blah blah blah. I can see in my Dad's eyes that he was sad and disappointed in me. Then my mom came, I thought she's going to go crazy but thankfully she didn't LOL. I was more scared of her than my Dad. After that, they just welcomed him into our family, and I was finally relieved.

His family already knows that I am pregnant, and they were not so into it at first because they don't know anything about me. Although I already met his parents and relatives during those supposedly fun time with him. It wasn't my intention to get pregnant, it wasn't my intention to have a relationship with him because I was planning to get back with my ex but sadly it didn't happen. They thought that I planned it all, they thought that I'm into his money or the citizenship which I'm not. It's just sad that people judge us so easily when they don't even know anything about us. I mean, yeah we're not rich but we're also not poor. I am educated and I have a college degree, and I was working my ass off that time. So why do I need those stuff that they're trying to accuse me of?

I’m still trying to hide my bump in here.

Okay, so I quit my job and moved to Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. They want me to live there so it would be easier for him and his family to visit me and the baby whenever they go home to the Philippines. They also want me to change my OB and have my check-ups at St. Lukes Medical Center, Taguig City.

These are all the test requests from my Doctor. It’s a lot, I know!

From urine test to blood test, and pap smear. Then RPR where they test you if you have syphilis. HIV Screening, where they asked you a bunch of questions about your sex life which is embarrassing. Then the OGTT (Oral Glucose Tolerance Test) which mainly used for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes. You have to do fasting, afterward, someone will take your blood. Next, you will be asked to drink a liquid containing a certain amount of glucose, and wait for an hour. After an hour, they will take your blood again. Then again for the next hour. It was torture!

Letter from Dr. Cervantes to Dr. Chua about my test result.

During my first trimester back at my old doctor, I tested positive for Hepatitis B which is not good for the baby. And when I told that to my new doctor, she had me consult a Gastroenterologists who specialized in digestive diseases for a second opinion. I think this was the expensive test that I ever had. Like if we get the test at St. Lukes, it would cost us around 15k. So we went to the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, East Avenue, QC to have my test there, and it just cost us 11k. And OMG! They took a lot of blood on me. I think it was around seven test tubes. I almost faint! Just kidding LOL. And when the test result finally came, turns out that it was just my immunization most probably from the vaccination. Oh God! I felt so relieved.

My medical record from my Doctor.

This is my medical record from my Doctor, and she freaking pressured me to gain some weight. I have a check-up record there that is around September, and if you'll see in the picture I have the same weight (52.6kg). She told me that I need to gain 3kg on my next check-up, and I did! I really ate a lot, as in a lot of sweets haha.

This is the picture that I posted on my Instagram to finally announced to the world that I am preggo. Obviously, a lot of people are shocked! LOL

This is just a self-timer photoshoot LOL.

More preggy photos. Hehehe

SECOND TO THIRD TRIMESTER:

CONS:

Since my tummy is getting big, I was having a hard time breathing.

My boobs got so huge, I had to buy bigger bras.

The frequent urination which is pretty normal but annoying LOL.

Constipation, also normal to pregnant women. It's the pregnancy hormones which is the culprit behind it. Plus the vitamins (iron) that I'm drinking makes me more constipated that I had hemorrhoids.

Pregnancy heartburn.

Swelling of feet and legs.

I always feel hot, like sweaty.

Backaches. Oh God! It’s really bad.

I had rashes on my inner thigh every time I wear undies. So whenever I’m at home, I don’t wear undies. And if ever, it has to be cotton. My doctor prescribed me this lotion called Calamine.

PROS:

Courtesy lane for pregnant women, at the grocery store, taxi lane, when I got my passport, etc.

Feeling your baby moving inside of you. It may hurt sometimes whenever he kicks you, but most of the time it tickles.

Pregnancy sex. You know it! HAHAHA

Big boobs. Big ass. LOL

No menstrual cramps or bleeding every month.

Cancer risk is reduced.

Congenital Anomaly Scan Ultrasound at 23 weeks old.

A congenital Anomaly Scan is when the sonographer takes a closer look at your baby, and your womb (uterus). The sonographer will check if your baby is developing normally, and look at where the placenta is lying. The scan aims to look for any major physical abnormalities in the growing baby.

4D Ultrasound at 28 weeks old.

It’s funny because he’s hiding his face with his hand. But I have a video of this ultrasound where we kind of wake him up just to see his face.

PHOTOSHOOT:

Hair and Makeup By: Rah De Jesus

Photographed By: Ronald Garcia

BTS By: Fatima Torcuato (my college bestie)

Check-Up Time with my Mom. My doctor’s checking my baby’s heartbeat.

At 36 weeks, I was tested positive for GBS. Group B Strep Infection is a type of bacterial infection that can be found in a pregnant woman’s vagina or rectum. This bacteria is normally found in about 25% of all healthy, adult women. Women who test positive for GBS are said to be colonized.

Take Note: GBS is not a sexually transmitted disease. You can't spread it on food or water either. Many healthy people carry it in their body for a short period, or it may come and go, or might always have it. You can only spread this by vaginal delivery to a newborn.

I was devastated when my doctor told me about this. But she makes sure that everything's going to be okay.

36 weeks old.

I’m about to pop. HAHA

December 18, 2016 - I turned 24 years old.

We’re all set! Just waiting for the baby to arrived.

I know this blog is quite long but thank you for dropping by and reading this. Hope you enjoyed it, and I hope you learned a few things about my experience. Have a good day! :)

Love, Jamie ❤

#motherhood #pregnancy

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