This time, participants are in their respective houses and will be taught by no less than Nina Daza-Puyat and her niece Isabelle Daza. Nina is the daughter and  Isabelle is the granddaughter  respectively of the legendary Nora Daza.  (As a child I remember watching the matriarch of Filipino cooking as she instructed viewers on how to cook, bake and blend.) Of course, Ms. Nora cooked all kinds of cuisines — but I digress.) “I grew up in a home where there was a lot of love for Filipino cooking, thanks to my Lola Nora. This is why I’m so glad to partner with the Maya Kitchen  for a cook-along which allows me to re-explore my grandmother’s recipes t and share the knowledge to a new generation of cooks and foodies, ” shared Isabelle right before the cooking demo started.

Sweet and Sour Pork and Choco-Nut Brownies with Peanut Glaze were the order of the day. I must commend the easy banter between the hosts and how Nina made everything so easy to follow. I also loved the helpful tips that both shared like substitute ingredients, how to make a proper glaze swirl and what baking containers you can use other than the usual brownie pan (bread pan works according to Isabelle). Aside from the live tutorial, participants were sent instruction boards so everyone can easily catch up. Baking the brownies was easy peasy. I, however, opted to top mine with plain cashews (unsalted is best says Nina) as my kids are not too fond of peanut butter.

The Sweet and Sour Pork turned out to be super delicious! Again, having the ingredients all set up and ready did the trick. I learned how to “fry ketchup,”  how to  properly slice the carrots to make pretty florettes, and that frying the pork loin twice over makes it crispier. Also did not put the meat directly into the sauce until it was time to serve it. The result? I got compliments all around the table. Both the husband and the kids loved the new recipe. I’ll make this again for sure!

Interested to get busy in the kitchen? Do get a hold of the Let’s Cook With Nora Cookbook (which has been recently updated by Nina Daza-Puyat) and contact The Maya Kitchen. Follow @themayakitchen1 on IG and @MayaKitchen on Facebook.

You can also check out  https://themayakitchen.com/ for more delicious recipes.

With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Online Cooking with the Dazas at Maya Kitchen appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

Summer is here and there’s no heat that can quite compare to what we experience here in the Philippines. Some even joke that we only have three kinds of weather — hot, hotter and hellfire. Teeheehee. Seriously, though, blazing heat means we have to take extra good care of our skin.

I have sensitive and oily skin. My kids have super sensitive skin. This is the reason why I’m very careful about choosing skincare products. I cannot risk trying new or untested brands as the result can be disastrous. Fortunately, there’s one brand that has over 275 years of expertise in sensitive skin and that is Avéne. At the heart of this French brand is the Eau Thermale Spring Water which is a naturally soothing source of relief for sensitive skin since 1973. This precious water is harnessed and bottled on site by the company and is used by millions worldwide. History has it that 200 years ago, a horse suffering from alopecia would visit and drink from the spring in a little village in France. Soon the horse’s hair and mane became full and lush again. People started bathing in the spring and found that the water had properties that can cure skin problems. Fast forward to today, Avéne is recommended by dermatologists worldwide –most especially to patients who have hyper sensitive skin.

Why AVÉNE?

If you are looking for safe, tested and hypoallergenic products, then Avène ticks all three boxes. The Thermal Spring Water (available in 50ml (P630)/150ml (P800), and 300ml (P1200)) is a unique and original composition that soothes, softens and restores the skin’s natural balance. It may be sprayed on the face or any part of the body after a bath, while traveling, after sun exposure, after shaving, or post-surgery. It’s even safe to use on babies (diaper rash). Likewise, it’s effective to soothe redness, irritation and itching. Just pray a light mist , leave 2-3 minutes and gently dry the skin after.

And since summer is upon us, we must have an efficacious sunscreen within reach. The VHP SPF 50 + Intense Protect Ultra Water  Resistant Fluid (P1940) is a powerful anti-oxidant that protects skin cells fro free radicals. What I like about this spray is that it’s very light on the skin, does not leave white marks or blotches, and is easily absorbed. There’s less contact on the skin as well because it comes in a spray form. No need to spread it on your face using your fingers. Furthermore, it’s silicone, paraben and alcohol free. It can also be used when swimming as it’s water resistant.

As I earlier mentioned, I constantly battle with oiliness on my T-zone so the Avéne Cleanance Cleansing Gel (P1350) is perfect for me. I also experience (thankfully not often) breakouts so this product addresses that as well. It deeply cleanses, is not harsh on the eyes and skin, and helps regulate oil secretions. And as in all Avéne products, this Cleansing Gel is very rich in thermal spring water which soothes and softens skin.

For those who are prone to breakouts, here’s the solution for you. The Cleanance Mattifying Emulsion (P1600)helps eliminate mild to moderate blackheads, blemishes and spots. It may be used together with skin medications. What it does is it gently exfoliates, mattifies (hides the unsightly marks) as it purifies the skin. Rich in Glycerin Laureate, it also aids in regulating oil production.

Tell me what you think after trying the products! All are available in Watson’s stores and online at the Avéne Flagship Store in Lazada and The Goodwill Market www.goodwill.market .

With a pocketful of glitter,

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The good news is we CAN fight bad skin with Celeteque DermoScience Hydration Ultra Moisturizing Essence. It contains potent hyaluronic acid which serves as a magnet for hydration, locking in moisture and making skin look well-rested. The product also boosts hydration with its Hydralock Complex, acting as a protective skin barrier to prevent the loss of moisture up to 48 hours. Stress and exhaustion will always be present every day but we can keep its harmful effects at bay.
Nighttime Ritual
Make it a habit to apply the Hydration Ultra Moisturizing Essence at the end of the day. Cleanse and tone your face as usual then apply the essence all over your face. The product’s rich concentration allows the formula to penetrate deeply into the skin while you sleep.

Take control of your beauty. Use the Hydration Ultra Moisturizing Essence daily. In addition, you can also try the other products that are included in Celeteque’s wide range of skincare. Visit www.celeteque.com to get more information.
With a pocketful of glitter,

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Soon, it was time for the anti-aging Spalia Gold Facial. The hour-long facial was the most thorough non-pricking facial I’ve tried to date. NIne products were applied on my skin plus a gold mask. I was pleasantly surprised at how lavish the P1800 facial turned out. There was definitely no scrimping on products!

Biel asked me to inhale a relaxing scent from the back of her hand. Then she applied a cleansing gel and gently massaged it on my skin. Next was a peeling cream and a creamy moist wash. Soft bristle brushing and milk emulsion followed. The sixth to ninth steps are as follows : steaming, vacuuming (no pricking!) and application of eye mask and gold mask. Another facial cream was applied from the Spalia Gold line and a circular, smooth, flat head was used to spread it. By this time, I really felt like a queen! What a treat! Finally, a serum was applied to seal in everything. I captured all the steps in videos. Please check @thebusyqueenp on Instagram. By the end of my documentation, my skin was really glowing!

https://thebusyqueenp.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/IMG_6688-1600×1600-1.jpg
Can’t say enough good things about the anti-aging Spalia Gold Facial. You really MUST try it!
Start 2020 by putting your very best face forward! Visit House of Resha Greenhills and avail of eyelash, skin, and body treatments. All are definitely worth your time and money. Call 0917 1306637 to book your appointment.
To self-care and self- love!

With a pocketful of glitter,

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So the CAT(S) is out of the bag and it’s purring for everyone’s kindness. I’ll start with the good points. The choreography is exceptional and the dancers equally so. It is very apparent that a lot of time was spent perfecting the dance routines. The music is timeless. Strong performances are given by Ian Mckellen (Gus), Taylor Swift (Bombularina), and Jennifer Hudson (Grizella) — if only you can get past the nose drips! Audiences will cheer for Laurie Davidson ( Mr. Mistoffelees) and will laugh at the incomparably hilarious James Corden (Bustopher Jones).

The story is set in London where we find the Jellicle cats preparing for the annual Jellicle Ball. During that fateful night, one lucky cat will be chosen to be reborn. But first, candidates must perform for the head of the feline community Old Deuteronomy played by Dame Judi Dench. The main villain Idris Alba (Macavity) wants to be chosen and tries his devilish best to get rid of the competition.
I first saw the musical in broadway some years ago and was completely enthralled by it. The story is not for a passive watcher as there are many characters and many subplots. The movie version definitely helped me understand the story (and the lyrics)  much better and helped me appreciate the characters as played by known celebrities.
That said, the problem lies mainly in the underwhelming and troubling computer-generated imagery (CGI). Actors were transformed to disproportionate creatures with skin-tight fur. Some characters would have clothes initially, and then in the next scene would look like they are naked when they are shown without their coats. Idris Alba and Rebel Wilson were so hard to look at. The former looked like a muscular brown rat and the latter just looked simply inappropriate while wagging her tail in between her legs. IF you can get past this major, glaring flaw because it is there to for all to see the entire length of the movie, then you can appreciate the redeeming qualities of CATS. There are some long drawn dance sequences, too. So the editing could also have been improved. (There are scenes showing Judi Dench with her bare hands and rings on her fingers.)
The movie imparts lessons of empathy, courage, kindness, and most important — hope. Do give the movie a chance. CATSch it in theatres today!
With a pocketful of glitter,

I

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So, on a fateful Tuesday afternoon, I went to Bianca Festejo Hair and Skin Salon located at the GF of Promenade, Greenhills. I was handed a questionnaire about my health and was thoroughly briefed by Bianca about what to expect. Then she spent a good 20 minutes measuring the distance and arc of my brows. She drew the outline and finally said, “I’m happy with that. I’ll follow the natural contour of your brows but will shape it to best frame your face.” Topical anesthesia was applied and after 30 minutes she showed me the sealed needle to be used. Then the procedure started. The pain level is 1. That’s very, very bearable coming from someone like me who has almost zero tolerance for pain. You can hear a small buzz, feel a little itchy, konting-konti the pain. Within 45 minutes, I sported new brows and a big, big, smile on my face.
There is also hardly any downtime. The very next day, I went to an event and felt comfortable. You just have to apply an ointment to be provided by the salon every 2 hours for the next 2 days after the procedure. The soft scab will fall off, the color will lighten and then a very short while after, beautiful natural-looking brows will emerge.

PLEASE BE CAREFUL when trying anything new. One service could be good and the other not so.

Lashes to Lament

Unfortunately, I did not exercise the same kind of caution when I tried the same salon’s Russian Volume Lashes service. I had a lash extension done just one time prior. I felt immediately uncomfortable after the procedure. To make things worse, my forehead broke out in hives because while the lashes were drying up, the salon attendant offered to thread my brows. Good thing I had antihistamine medicine, drank it and quickly left. To cut the story short, I had the lashes removed by a different salon. (I was told, “Ma’am nakadikit sa balat. Dapat sa lashes lang.”) In between that time, I had a hard time putting my reading glasses on, had to deal with uneven clumps of synthetic lashes, and got funny looks from relatives and friends. So, PLEASE BE CAREFUL when trying anything new. One service could be good and the other not so. Ask to see pictures. Look at others who have done it and make sure it fits your lifestyle. So this is a valuable lesson learned on my part.
I think this is as fair a review as I can make given the discomfort (so plenty!) I experienced.
I hope this was a helpful read!
With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Why I Waited Two Years to Get My Brows Done appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

Available til January 15!

The best part is that this delicious offering is available for just P2799! That’s equivalent to a whopping savings of P835!
So hurry and order the Potluck Holidays Bundle! I like Yellow Cab PIzza best of all because, unlike the other pizzas in the market, leftovers are still as good when reheated. It does not get hard and the taste remains the same.
Available for delivery or curbside pick up. Just call 8789-9999!
With a pocketful of glitter,

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I like that the place looks like a big cozy cottage. It immediately felt familiar once we entered the place and were greeted by the friendly staff. It’s really a one-stop eating and relaxing destination. Adults can have Japanese food, kids can enjoy doughnuts — there’s something for everybody.

Amidst the smoky, noisy, full packed highway, stands this building that promotes sustainability. Much thought was given on providing comfort to diners while still considering the environment. Dining areas are supplemented with wide terraces to reduce dependency on airconditioning, their solar panels reduce energy footprint and can avoid 30,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions. LED lighting was also used all throughout the compound.

What a great Christmas gift to the people of Cubao and to all motorists traversing the busy highway.  See you all at EDSA Eats, Main Avenue!
With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Max’s Opens Multi-Brand Hub EDSA Eats appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

Cleaning with Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner will be such a breeze as it is proven effective against the most stubborn grease, grime, and dirt. It leaves any surface germ-free and smelling great. It’s even effective as a cleaning ingredient on hard nonporous surfaces like floor tiles, walls, stovetops, countertops, and glass.
Moms will truly get their money’s worthwhile using Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner in Pine. That’s because it’s versatile enough to use in multiple rooms— from the kitchen, bathroom, living, room, and even the garage!
You may avail of Pine-Sol products in leading supermarkets and retailers nationwide. Other scents include Lemon Fresh, Lavender Clean, Sparkling Wave, and Orange Energy.
Have yourself a pine-scented Christmas, everyone!
With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Have Yourself a Christmas Pine Scented Home with Pine-Sol appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

Today, Nina Daza Puyat, the youngest daughter of Nora Daza, pays tribute to her legendary mother by updating her cookbook. To reintroduce the well-loved recipes, the food writer hosted To Mom with Love: Nina Daza Puyat’s Loving Tribute to Nora Daza’s Iconic Cookbook.

It took her over a year to kitchen-test all the recipes in her mom’s cookbook Let’s Cook With Nora. The new edition still remains true to the old recipes but she tweaked some instructions, updated the ingredients, added variations so that it reflects how people cook today. “My mom’s cookbook was launched over 50 years ago so it’s really time to update the recipes,” Nina shared.

Nina chose four recipes to cook for the selected guests: Chicken Relleno, the Daza family’s signature dish, Parmesan Fish Sticks, an updated version of her mom’s Fish and Sticks Italian Style, Kaleslaw, a healthier version of coleslaw and Orange Tart, a dessert served at Nora Daza’s Frech restaurant in Ermita.
“Hosting Nina’s demo of recipes of the new edition of the cookbook brings Maya’s bond with her family full circle,” said Eric Fajardo, Business Development Manager of Liberty Commodities Corporation. “The Maya Kitchen has always been proud to be a part of the Daza’s culinary legacy from Nora to Nina.”

The Daza- Maya connection goes decades back. Maya and Nora hosted the pioneering and baking competition The Great Maya Cookfest with Nora Daza from 1976 to1990 and helped launch careers of a new generation of chefs and cooks. Miss Nora also promotes the Maya Kitchen, formerly known as the Maya Bakeshop by holding cooking demos all over the country. And that cooking I was talking about early on was shot mostly at The Maya Kitchen. Hard to believe that my kids and I now have participated in many cooking classes there!
Get your copies of the cookbook at leading bookstores nationwide. The recipes will be perfect for your Christmas gatherings and for everyday meals, too. The fish sticks are really good and so are those tarts! I’ll surely cook it for my family!
With a pocketful of glitter,

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