! Kikay si Kat!

My Quarter Life Crisis

2012-05-29T21:35:00.002+08:00

These thoughts have been in my head for quite some time now and they're not letting me sleep. It's as if my heart is telling me that I should write this down, blog about it, see people's reaction, concern, opinion, or maybe I just someone to listen.

I'm 25. I just turned 25 this April and for those years I wonder if I really accomplished anything, or if my life is directing to somewhere.

1. I got bullied during elementary and highschool because no one can relate to me. Kids tell me I think differently and that I'm weird. - Maybe I still am, it's just that some of those kids are mature enough now to accept people can be different but can still get a long and not judge them.

2. College was awesome, met friends that I want to keep forever.

3. First year of work at HP was the best, I regret leaving there for the sole reason of following...

4. Jeff, fell in love, got married at the age of 21, gave birth to a darling angel at 22. Everything happened too fast, too soon. No regrets. I have a blessing in the form of my baby.

5. So he went overseas, we had plans of building our family in Singapore. Get a job there. Start a business. Buy a house, get a car. Plan for our future. But I guess he couldn't help himself, so he decided to cheat on me, and abandon me and our son.

--

After the traumatic series of events everything in my life went haywire. Everything got messed up, including myself. I ask myself, what am I doing? I'm working, yes I have a good job that pays well, but I don't really have that achievement of lasting in a company for more than 2 years and stick with it. Events led me to resigning, and then transferring to another one. I do envy my batchmates who seem to build lasting friendships and a good bond with their companies (no pun intended). Everyone have grown a lot. While I'm stuck here clueless on what I'm going to do with my life now. I used to know. Really I did.

Being able to travel everywhere with friends, adventure. Those things I couldn't seem to do anymore. My life is not my own. Those were long gone dreams, because I used to dream of travelling around the world with my family. Us 3. Long gone. Maybe my baby and I can travel when he's grown up a bit, just us 2.

75% of my friends in facebook are in a relationship. Friends getting married, starting a family. Pictures of couples together, sweet exchange of messages.Everyone seems to be inlove except me. I used to be a hopeless romantic. Now I just don't know. I can't trust anyone anymore. No one would take someone like me seriously anyway. Who would fall in love with something used and abused already? So I kinda accept the fact that men, yes men, would just toy around with my heart and mess around my head. I lost all hope. My life has lost its direction

I hate being all emo, in fact this is the first time I let everything out. Well, last time I posted something similar to this, was 4 years ago in my multiply account. To those who are reading this think of yourselves as lucky, this didn't happen to you. Or if it did, there's someone who's experiencing the same pain as you are so you're not alone.

Now that I thought about it, I'm thinking of goals I need to accomplish in life together with my son. What I want in the future and how to do it. Wondering if within a year all this would change, a time where I'll look back to this post and just laugh at all the shit I wrote.

Dior Addict Lip Glow Color Reviver Review : One of the Best Lipbalms I've Tried

2012-05-25T21:19:00.002+08:00

Are you like me who is prone to dry lips no matter how much water you take? That putting on lipstick without a balm underneath would make your lips pop and bleed? *ouch* A good balm is hard to find. Since there are TONS out there. From the cheapest to the most expensive ones.

Another makeup product with a very long and descriptive name. A lip balm that claims to be everything you want. Brings out the natural color of your lips, sun protection, superb moisturization, and a promise that with daily use; improve lip texture over time.

Does it do as it claims? Is it really worth the expensive price?
Let's go and take a look ^_-

The case itself is a luxury to hold

But I have a way of making them look tacky -___-

It doesn't really react to your chemistry because based on the ingredients list. It has carmine. A common ingredient in lipsticks that gives it that red color, it probably has a tiny tiny amount so it provides the sheerest bit of color. Main ingredient for moisturization is the mango butter.

What I love the most about this one? The fragrance! Most lip balms with SPF smells and tastes like suncreen. Yuck. This smells delicious, mint chocolate. But not so overpowering, only a light lingering scent that would probably make someone draw nearer to you because your lips just smell yummy.

Before: No balm, so dry, so happy, so flakey. So painful :(

After: Juicylicious luscious lips

It's a pretty good lipbalm all in all, worth the price yes; but it's not practical to shell out around 30 dollars for a balm. It also runs out fast (with daily use) and mine is 3/4 left after a month's use. I'm a frequent balm user because you can see in the picture how my lips were. BUT! After a month's use, my lips were definitely softer, and requires me to use the product less often.

This is how we compare it to cheaper, petrolatum based balms, which makes your lips feel worse the longer you use the balms, making your lips addicted to putting on lipbalm just to sooth the chapping. Talk about good marketing! It makes your lips dependent to the product.

Tip: Did you know this can also be used as a cheek stain? It's not oily at all, and it did not break me out. It gives the best, and most natural flush your cheeks can have!

This, however does the opposite, it did improve the texture and color of my lips overtime. I love this one so much!

Will I buy this again? I probably will! Up until the time I find a perfect dupe.

What's your favorite lip balm?

Voting for Jessica Sanchez outside the US is cheating?

2012-05-23T12:26:00.001+08:00

Just want to share this article since I did this voting from the Philippines thing when I rooted for Season 4 American Idol Contestant Constantine Maroulis. I want Jessica to win because she's really good, not just because she's a filipino. But I don't vote for her because it is unfair and it is cheating. Besides, it's American Idol.. Most likely the WGWG would win just as before (White guy with guitar)

What are your thoughts on this? Winner will be announced tomorrow. Do you think Jessica has a shot?

MANILA, Philippines — Pinoys have been known as block supporters in various contests worldwide that require text and online votes to support a Filipino contestant. But can overeager Filipino fans of American Idol finalist Jessica Sanchez do the same for the 16-year-old Filipino-Mexican?

Over the past couple of days, word spread around various social networking sites that Filipinos even outside the US could vote for Sanchez through various online means such as Facebook, Skype, and MagicJack.

Sanchez is in the running to become the next American Idol after making it to the Top 2 last week, joining 20-year-old Phillip Phillips in the finale.

“Pwede mo na iboto si Jessica Sanchez kahit nasa Pilipinas ka o saan man sa mundo (Voting for Jessica Sanchez is possible, even if you’re in the Philippines or anywhere around the world),” read one of the graphics being passed around on Facebook. “I-dial lang ang numbers ni Jessica gamit ang Skype (Simply dial Jessica’s numbers using Skype).”

Skype and MagicJack are US-based Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services that function as if calls are being made from the US, which explains the possibility of making votes count for the Pinay contender.

Even the American Idol website acknowledged that viewers can vote using such VoIP services, but with a quick disclaimer: “Please note that digital phone and VOIP services often re-route outgoing calls to a different geographical location from which the call is being made,” the show clarified. “As a result, you may only be able to vote in the voting window to which your call has been re-routed.”

The show, however, also made clear that in all three modes of voting–toll-free, text, and online — only viewers residing “within the Continental U.S., Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands” could have their votes casted.

But there is still one method that could be used, which is the online voting using one’s Facebook account. According to one Facebook user InterAksyon.com talked to, however, the site can still detect the geographic location of the user, so he was not able to cast his vote.

The producers of American Idol have not come out officially regarding this matter.

Cheat votes?

Even if there are eager fans, there are also those levelheaded ones who pointed out that by employing such means to vote for Sanchez while in the Philippines, Pinoys would technically be “cheating” for her.

“That is why it is called “American” Idol. It is for people living in the West Coast. It is open to everyone in it, not anywhere else,” said one impassioned Facebook user in response to the viral graphic post.

“No one’s restricting votes here as long as they are legitimate. Doing the above is cheating no matter how you look at it,” the user added.

Another user chimed in: “If I were Jessica, I wouldn’t want to win because a bunch of cheaters from the Philippines used fraud for her to win. Shows how low you people are…. It is American Idol, not Filipino idol!”

Filipino-Americans in the US are already rallying and consolidating their efforts to help Sanchez achieve the coveted title, the farthest any contestant with Filipino blood had gone in the show.

http://www.interaksyon.com/infotech/voting-for-jessica-sanchez-outside-the-us-is-cheating

Lookbook: Classy and Sassy Summer Dress from SheInside

2012-05-20T01:55:00.000+08:00

Hello everyone! I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend. It's been super hot lately, a very hot hot hot summer both in the Philippines and in Singapore. And it's hard to find a dress that's both elegant, and comfortable at the same time. Something that isn't too hot to wear, but isnt to underdressed also.

I was supposed to wear this dress during the 18th birthday of my cousin Andrea but it arrived on a different day so I wore it to a picnic instead.

A dress on a picnic?! Yes why not? Hahaha.. just a girl like you who loves to dress up ^_^

If you're daring enough you can wear this without the tube top and show your sexy cleavage, unfortunately for me I don't have one haha!

The structured skirt compliments well to the soft and sheer top. Very modern.

The pattern embroidered on the skirt is intricate, and how it is cut is very detailed and flattering. It suit's almost all body shapes because of it's empire cut that hides the bulging belly, and cut just right above the knee which makes your legs look longer.

Best worn with heels and simple silver accessories or pearls.

You can get this dress, FREE SHIPPING from any part of the world so wherever you are you can get this piece of awesome at sheinside.com

This dress not for you? They have other styles in their online shop I'm sure you'll find something perfect

Dress was sent courtesy of sheinside.com for optional an feature. This is not a cash paid advertisement.

Neon Shoes Trend. Go or No?

2012-05-11T11:43:00.001+08:00

It gives a great pop of color and a breath of fresh air to days where you don't know what to wear and just throw anything on but still want to look very fashionista. Although pairing neon shoes on what outfit is hard as it is!

Here's my friend Dexter wearing neon green sneakers to jazz up his washday fridays.

Can you carry yourself wearing neon shoes? I'm thinking of getting a pair since all my shoes are neutrals! Ranging from black,white,beige,browns.. Yes, boring ol fashion me.

Here are more pictures of neon shoes. They look so yummy..

Tell me what you think!

Love Lots,
K

ZA Skin Beauty 2-Way Foundation Review

2012-05-10T09:19:00.000+08:00

I emptied. Yes I emptied a powder foundation for the very first time and it was my holy grail. The shiseido perfect smoothing compact foundation. The refill was too expensive so I opted to get a cheaper alternative from the same company. Their tag line enticed me

"13 years number 1 selling foundation"

must be good; I told myself, and it is!

It's much cheaper to buy it in a boxed set.

It includes 1 compact, 2 refills, 1 concealer and 1 pouch all for 29.99SGD

The compact is soooo pretty, it reminds me of in2it's

SKIN BEAUTY

TWO-WAY FOUNDATION
Blend well into the skin with a light touch. A natural and ﬂawless ﬁnish lasts for 8 hours. A powdery foundation formulated with hyaluronic acid that moisturizes the skin, naturally covers unevenness and create beautiful clear skin.8 Shades
SPF20 PA++ (Case and reﬁll are sold separately)

I got shade #32

Formulated with a high amount of hyaluronic acid that moisturizes the skin.
Formulated with Poreless powder and Luminous powder that conceal visible pores and create clear, radiant skin.
Micro Spherical-shaped Powder spreads gently over the skin and creates an incredibly natural finish as if it has been integrated with your skin.
Formulated with vitamins and minerals.

SPF･20PA++
Non-comedogenic, Dermatologist-Tested.
(Formulated to minimize the risk of allergy.)


Take up foundation evenly onto one-half of the sponge. →This is the rough standard of applying foundation onto one-side of your face!	The cardinal rule of applying foundation: Apply and spread a foundation to the broader surfaces of the face first. Apply it thinly to the area where foundation fades easily.

Right-side with ZA

But we could not trust this one for flash photography..

Booya... I look so scary... SPF20 = White face cast.. Noooooooo

I really like how it gives a natural smooth poreless finish on natural sunlight, and it really matches my skintone. I'm just so shocked how it looks in night, with flash. This is a big NO NO for me so I might come back to Shiseido's Perfect Smoothing Compact. However, with daily use for around 3 weeks already it didnt aggrevate pimples, even if I left it overnight. Didn't make my skin look "tired" and "swallow" after usage compared to other foundations and it feel like it is doing something good to my skin. Like it's a foundation plus skin vitamins.

For those curious how is the oil control for this one. It's pretty good, and it doesn't overly dry the face also! Controlled oilies for 6 hours tops
This one is highly recommended for day time and daily use since it feels so light on the face and makes you look flawless. Will I buy again? I'm 50/50 on this one and want to try more drugstore foundations that won't give me this casper effect.

Philippine Dupe: In2It's dual powder foundation

15 Foods To Help You Lose Weight

2012-05-09T11:01:00.001+08:00

I've been eating 2 soft boiled eggs for breakfast everyday. Not because I want to lose weight, but it's just so delicious! Especially when I dip bread in it. I got curious and researched that eating 2 eggs for breakfast can help you lose weight the healthy way!

1. Eggs. Skip the bagel this morning. Eggs, which are full of protein, will help you feel fuller longer-a lot longer. A multicenter study of 30 overweight or obese women found that those who ate two scrambled eggs (with two slices of toast and a reduced-calorie fruit spread) consumed less for the next 36 hours than women who had a bagel breakfast of equal calories. Other research has shown that protein may also prevent spikes in blood sugar, which can lead to food cravings.

2. Beans. You've probably never heard of cholecystokinin, but it's one of your best weight-loss pals. This digestive hormone is a natural appetite suppressant. So how do you get more cholecystokinin? One way, report researchers at the University of California at Davis, is by eating beans: A study of eight men found that their levels of the hormone (which may work by keeping food in your stomach longer) were twice as high after a meal containing beans than after a low-fiber meal containing rice and dry milk. There's also some evidence that beans keep blood sugar on an even keel, so you can stave off hunger longer. Heart-health bonus: High-fiber beans can lower your cholesterol.

3. Salad. Do you tend to stuff yourself at meals? Control that calorie intake by starting with a large salad (but hold the creamy dressing). In a study of 42 women at Penn State University, those who ate a big, low-cal salad consumed 12 percent less pasta afterward-even though they were offered as much as they wanted. The secret, say researchers, is the sheer volume of a salad, which makes you feel too full to pig out. Health bonus: A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that people who ate one salad a day with dressing had higher levels of vitamins C and E, folic acid, lycopene, and carotenoids-all disease fighters-than those who didn't add salad to their daily menu.

4. Green tea. The slimming ingredient isn't caffeine. Antioxidants called catechins are what help speed metabolism and fat burning. In a recent Japanese study, 35 men who drank a bottle of oolong tea mixed with green tea catechins lost weight, boosted their metabolism, and had a significant drop in their body mass index. Health bonus: The participants also lowered their (bad) LDL cholesterol.

5. Pears. They're now recognized as having more fiber, thanks to a corrected calculation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. At six grams (formerly four grams) per medium-size pear, they're great at filling you up. Apples come in second, with about three grams per medium-size fruit. Both contain pectin fiber, which decreases blood-sugar levels, helping you avoid between-meal snacking. This may explain why, in a Brazilian study that lasted 12 weeks, overweight women who ate three small pears or apples a day lost more weight than women on the same diet who ate three oat cookies daily instead of the fruit.

6. Soup. A cup of chicken soup is as appetite blunting as a piece of chicken: That was the finding of a Purdue University study with 18 women and 13 men. Why? Researchers speculate that even the simplest soup satisfies hunger because your brain perceives it as filling.

7. Lean beef. It's what's for dinner-or should be, if you're trying to shed pounds. The amino acid leucine, which is abundant in proteins like meat and fish as well as in dairy products, can help you pare down while maintaining calorie-burning muscle. That's what it did for 24 overweight middle-aged women in a study at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Eating anywhere from nine to 10 ounces of beef a day on a roughly 1,700-calorie diet helped the women lose more weight, more fat, and less muscle mass than a control group consuming the same number of calories, but less protein. The beef eaters also had fewer hunger pangs.

8. Olive oil. Fight off middle-age pounds with extra virgin olive oil. A monounsaturated fat, it'll help you burn calories. In an Australian study, 12 postmenopausal women (ages 57 to 73) were given a breakfast cereal dressed either with a mixture of cream and skim milk or half an ounce of olive oil and skim milk. The women who ate the oil-laced muesli boosted their metabolism. Don't want to add olive oil to your oatmeal? That's OK-it works just as well in salad dressings, as a bread dip, or for sautéing.

9. Grapefruit. It's back! A 2006 study of 91 obese people conducted at the Nutrition and Metabolic Research Center at Scripps Clinic found that eating half a grapefruit before each meal or drinking a serving of the juice three times a day helped people drop more than three pounds over 12 weeks. The fruit's phytochemicals reduce insulin levels, a process that may force your body to convert calories into energy rather than flab.

10. Cinnamon. Sprinkle it on microwave oatmeal or whole-grain toast to help cure those mid-afternoon sugar slumps. Research from the U.S.
Department of Agriculture found that a little cinnamon can help control post-meal insulin spikes, which make you feel hungry. Health bonus: One USDA study showed that just a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon a day lowered the blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

11. Vinegar. It's a great filler-upper. In a Swedish study, researchers found that people who ate bread dipped in vinegar felt fuller than those who had their slices plain. The probable reason: Acetic acid in the vinegar may slow the passage of food from the stomach into the small intestine, so your tummy stays full longer. Vinegar can also short-circuit the swift blood-sugar rise that occurs after you eat refined carbs such as white bread, cookies, and crackers.

12. Tofu. It seems too light to be filling, but a study at Louisiana State University showed that tofu does the job. Researchers tested it against chicken as a pre-meal appetizer for 42 overweight women-and the participants who had tofu ate less food during the meal. The secret: Tofu is an appetite-quashing protein.

13. Nuts. Yes, they are fattening: A handful of peanuts is about 165 calories. But research shows that people who snack on nuts tend to be slimmer than those who don't. A study from Purdue University found that when a group of 15 normal-weight people added about 500 calories worth of peanuts to their regular diet, they consumed less at subsequent meals. The participants also revved up their resting metabolism by 11 percent, which means they burned more calories even when relaxing. Health bonus: Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids. And researchers at Loma Linda University recently found that eating 10 to 20 whole pecans daily can reduce heart disease risks.

14. High-fiber cereal. Studies show that you can curb your appetite by eating a bowl for breakfast. But how well does it really work? Researchers at the VA Medical Center and the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis tested the theory against the ultimate diet challenge: the buffet table. They gave 14 volunteers one of five cereals before sending them out to the smorgasbord. Those who'd had the highest-fiber cereal ate less than those who didn't have as much fiber in the morning. Try General Mills Fiber One (14 grams per serving) or Kellogg's All Bran With Extra Fiber (13 grams per serving).

15. Hot red pepper. Eating a bowl of spicy chili regularly can help you lose weight. In a Japanese study, 13 women who ate breakfast foods with red pepper (think southwestern omelet) ate less than they normally did at lunch. The magic ingredient may be capsaicin, which helps suppress appetite.

Credits to: http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/15-foods-to-help-you-lose?page=3

Lookbook: Pink and Gold

2012-05-09T09:23:00.000+08:00

Dress & Accessories from HOST (168 Shopping Mall Divisoria)
Located at 3rd floor, near the elevator; It's a "semi-secret" haven for unique fashion finds with good quality.
The owner of the store sometimes designs some of the items sold there and she handpicks what she sells. Clothes come from Thailand, Korea, Hongkong, and some locally made.

I'll try and feature the shop next time I drop by there.

Dream: Blindfolded

2012-05-02T10:05:00.003+08:00

If you are a regular visitor of this blog you would be familiar with me, remembering every single detail of my dreams, vividly. Although I need the help of some to interpret what they really mean. The other night I dreamed that I was blind folded the whole time. So if you ever have the same dream this is what it really means:

PS
I think this is true, and very much applicable

Blindfold
To dream that you are wearing a blindfold indicates that you are being deceived by someone or by some situation. You may be too naive or too trusting. Alternatively, you are trying to cut yourself off from the world.

How to Look Like a Doll Tutorial Review Review

2012-04-27T09:06:00.000+08:00

Many of us admire girls who have innocent looking and sweet faces just like a doll's and there are many tutorials popping out here and there. I'm sharing this popular one for you to view but read my thoughts

For me, it's a basic tutorial, a good one, but nonetheless basic. There isn't any special tricks she did to make herself look "doll-like" compared to other tutorials that I've watched, especially Taiwanese, Japanese, or Korean tutorials and makeovers that really show drastic changes as the video below. The thing is, VenusAngelic already looks like one, she already looks like a doll even without makeup. The shape of her face, the color of her eyes. It will frustrate some girls who will try and emulate the tutorial and still look like theirselves, only better (there is nothing bad about this though!) but not a doll.

So girls, do you want to look like this?

Valeria Lukyanova internet sensation

Tell me what you think!

PS - I do! XD

Aswang in the Philippines Caught : NOT!

2012-04-24T17:29:00.003+08:00

I'm going to post in tagalog dahil nanggagalaiti talaga at nag ngingitngit ako sa galit ng malaman kong nakahuli.. daw ng "aswang" ang military men sa pilipinas as per reported by TV Patrol. Andyan pa naman si kuya kim.. mahiya naman kayo sa balat nyo..

This is a flying fox. Not an aswang or a "witch" We live in a modern age and still we mis-inform our people just to get publicity.

The giant golden-crowned flying fox (Acerodon jubatus), also known as the golden-capped fruit bat, is a rare megabat^[2] and one of the largest bats in the world.^[3] The species is endangered and is currently facing the possibility of extinction because of poaching and forest destruction. It is endemic to forests in the Philippines.^[1]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giant_golden-crowned_flying_fox

You go around hunt for aswangs na? Sige ubusin nyo mga kawawang flying fox.

Okay translation: So you guys are going to hunt for witches? Go ahead, totally extinct their species.

A Video. A Song. A Thank You!!!

2012-04-23T22:16:00.001+08:00

Hello everyone! This is the first time I would post a video with me in it. Besides writing, singing is one of my "dreams". To sing in public, to sing in a crowd. When I was a kid, I always sang at school programs, or barangay fiestas.

*LONG PAUSE* haha! There's a long pause in between the chorus..
I really really really want to sing the original "high" part in the chorus but my land lady would get mad at me.. so I hesitated.. I'll try again better next time!! In another house maybe? :P

Would you like reviews on products, skincare, and makeup tutorials in video format as well? Let me know!

Here it goes.... *runs off* I said Ack-ward.. LoL

Bigger video in youtube :)

Tell me what you think! Song requests etc? Haha! Please do share your comments and suggestions!
Kisses and Hugs

K

Ang Init!!! Various Sunblock Reviews

2012-04-23T10:44:00.003+08:00

Init. Heat. It's one of the trending topics I see in twitter or in facebook. When there's heat there's sun. But who wants to hide under shades or umbrella when you could enjoy cooling yourself down swimming in the pool or at the beach. But with the sun comes the unwanted UV rays that can cause skin pigmentation, sunburn, spots, and wrinkles!

Here are several reviews on suncreens that have tried, loved and hated. Hope it helps!

http://www.kikaysikat.com/2011/05/review-mentholatum-sunplay-super-block.html

http://www.kikaysikat.com/2010/03/review-best-beach-sunblock-ocean-potion.html

http://www.kikaysikat.com/2010/03/summer-is-here-spf-needed-biore-uv.html

Tech Thursdays: Digital Drugs: Binaural Beats. Do They Work?

2012-04-19T09:21:00.000+08:00

What are Binaural Beats?
Music. Sounds. Different tones that we hear in our ears give us different effects. Love songs make us sentimental, Club music makes us feel like we're on the runway even if we're just walking along the road. But while browsing around android apps for relaxing music, I got curious with some of the apps it was displaying. Binaural Sounds. Brain Waves. Sounds like a weird science experiment right? But some people are actually using and producing this to create drug substitute. That instead of ingesting chemicals in our body, the binaural waves would actually make our brains and body produce the chemicals that we want, depending on our need.

Need something to perk you up? Want to go to sleep? Want more melatonin? (Sleep hormones) How about happy hormones? There are even scarier binaural sounds that induces LSD (psychadelic drugs) and Drunkeness.

Have you tried it?
I just did today, in the train. I selected "brain improvement, energize, caffeine boost" and yes it wasnt the power of suggestion, because a few min. after listening to the music. Instead of perking up, I fell asleep!!!!!

Here's an example

This video and binaural beats is supposed to induce Lucid Dreaming or state of being aware while asleep. I'll try this one later before I go to bed and see if it's real :p Give it a try yourself too!

Do tell me what you think! Have you ever heard of these already? Tried it? Does it work for you?

More reads..

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binaural_beats

http://skeptoid.com/episodes/4147

Message for my Readers.. Working Mom Magazine Feature: During my Darkest Days.. God is good

2012-04-17T11:16:00.001+08:00

2012 welcomed me with a different kind of bang. A not so good one. To those who know me personally, you know the sad story but I'll guess I can share it with you.

Hubby left us for another woman in Singapore. The girl knew he had a family, but she still pursued him. There was even a time I was so pathetic to fix things that I met her in person and begged her to leave my husband alone and that she should stop destroying our family. I can even post her name here..I have a lot of readers.. but I would not stoop down to her level.

But thank God for giving me strength and providing me a loving family to help me through those days. One of the blessings He gave me was a pleasant surprise. Thank you for my followers and readers who continues to support my blog amidst the hiatus..

It was the 2nd week of January and I was in the middle of still trying to fix things for the sake of my son. But alas the devil has a stronghold on that person and I am just human. I'm leaving God to do the work now. Letting go and letting God. The editor-in-chief of Working Mom magazine (Ms. Dedet) asked if they can do a feature about me. I was in Singapore then, but I agreed, since I was going home the following week.

Viviere Salon fixed me up, gave me the makeover that a struggling woman who wants to move on needs. The photographer was even challenged to make me smile. Thanks to their efforts, the output was amazing! Thank you to Ms. Rhia for that wonderful feature and write-up.

Please grab Working Mom Magazine's April Issue :)

*hugs* to everyone! If ever you are in pain, sadness, or trouble.. pray.. God answers.. it may not be today.. but wait for his perfect time.

Love lots,
K

Sorbet Shades for Spring 2012 Fashion Inspiration and Tips

2012-04-17T09:54:00.000+08:00

Mix and match As debuted on the runway of Phillip Lim (left), pretty pales are meant to be combined. Lim claims his pieces are inspired by the kite: breezy and free to fly— much of what sorbet shades emulate. Jonathan Saunder’s spring collection reaffirms this trend, by mixing tangerine hues with a beach-inspired blue and beige skirt (right). As multiple runways reveal, faded neons hold no boundaries. Only suggestion: opt for colours that work against one another (like oranges and purples) to make your look stand out.

Statement piece pantsIf you’re not one for mix-and-matching hues, various designers— like Rebecca Minkoff and Chloe— experimented with sherbet hued pant designs. A sheer midriff-baring look with high-waisted pants (as showcased in Rebecca Minkoff’s Spring 2012 collection) is ideal for a night out. In contrast, Chloe’s spring runway paired a vibrant-toned pant with a ladylike blouse— an on trend approach to brightening up standard work attire.

Go monochromatic  When donning such playful, feminine colours, scope out your most beloved hue, and wear it for all it’s worth. Since the sherbet shade is somewhere between a neon and barely-there pastel, there’s enough pigment to stand out on its own. Just make sure the shade complements your features — like model Charlotte Free’s coveted pink strands on the PPQ catwalk (right.) On Christopher Kane’s Spring 2012 runway (left) a sheen mint blazer and matching shorts brightens up the model’s pale features.

Feminine mid-length skirts  

As the runways of Aquilano.Rimondi and Prada manifest, no garment screams spring more than a breezy skirt in a summer-loving shade. Flowing, pleated skirts reminiscent of the ‘50s have secured a spot on the runway once again— only this time they're brighter, and more versatile. Whether it be an aqua hued variety as seen on the Aquilano.Rimondi runway (left) or a pink and blue toned design showcased on the Prada catwalk (right) these light-shaded skirts can be paired with just about anything. One tip: with a monochromatic skirt, take if from these looks and experiment with a patterned piece up top.

From http://29secrets.com/sections/style/fashion-trend-sorbet-shades-spring-2012

Lookbook: Soft as Spring

2012-04-16T09:29:00.000+08:00

Inspired by spring, but has a funny story behind it. I wore this look for church yesterday and while walking near the MRT an old lady told me that my undergarments were showing when light hits it because it was too sheer!!!

OMG OMG OMG. The panic! Good thing there was a mall nearby and already open so I headed towards Cotton-On and got a white miniskirt to wear underneath this one.

CopyKat: April Week 1

2012-04-13T13:31:00.000+08:00

I have to be honest to you folks, with regards to fashion "creativity" I base what I wear on stuff I feel comfortable wearing, or looks cute and more often than not I lack inspiration. My fashionista blogger cousin The Yuume Bunny, recommended this website http://www.yesstyle.com for more fashion peg that can be my inspiration.

CopyKat! Fashion Adventure would be a weekly series of me, Kat, scouting different thrift or cheap shops and will try my best to copy the style or at least its essence. It would be a combination of 2 posts, one the original and the next would be the adventure and me posing for the copied. *wink*

Let's start with our first post then? This style grabbed my attention because it looks very retro yet modern. The bland colors do well with this style because using sequins may be a bit bold.

Tell me what you think ;)

Lookbook: Happy Mom is Happy

2012-04-11T14:54:00.001+08:00

Obviously everything I wore in this look is bought from BUGIS STREET! It's like the bargain 168 shop back in the Philippines. It was my 25th birthday last Saturday and my son gave me a visit *hugs* What I like about this look is that it's vintage yet modern. Sexy, yet innocent.. oh and I had to walk barefoot after a couple of hours because the shoes were painful!! XD

We had a great time in Sentosa even with a limited budget. The importance is we are together as a family. He came with my mom and siblings. Thanks for the airfare and pocket money! C/o Mama2 and Ninang Marie and Lola Olive.

I miss the Philippines, but those who know me personally know the reason why I had to make this sacrifice and work here. Thank you for my family who always have my back. If not for their support, I would not be this fine. My baby geof is my biggest inspiration I love him so much :) Everything I am doing is for him.

K is a mom, a career woman, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a lifestyle blogger.

Guess what I deleted in my description :p

Love lots,
K

Review: K-Palette 24H 1 Day Tattoo Real Lasting Eyepencil : Perfect Liner for Waterline

2012-04-06T20:48:00.001+08:00

It's truly been a journey on the search for an eyeliner that can be used in the waterline. One can be waterproof but not sebum-proof, and at the end of the day, all your line falls down and makes you look like a racoon or a zombie.

Found the perfect liquid eyeliner in K-Palette and they have released a new product in pencil form that is specially made for waterlining! Hooray! Wish granted! Now for the review..

PROS

No need to sharpen, less mess. Just twist.
Really lasts like a tattoo, through sweat, through tears, this liner will stay
Though it doesnt last 24H it is the best pencil liner I have tried for my waterline, compared to Urban Decay's In2Its and Makeup Forever

CONS

Can't think of any for now. Perhaps the price is too steep? But eye makeup is essential, especially liners because it's one of the instruments in making that "no makeup makeup look" that k-pop artists have

TIPS

Want to look young? Line the upper lid and waterline only
Want to look sexy? Line the upper lid, waterline, and 3/4 of the underline, wing a bit for that sexy cat eye
Want to look mature? Line everything!
Where to buy? At Watson's or Sasa :)

I recommend it for girls who wants to try something more natural because liquid eyeliners are too "showy"

*wink*

Will definitely purchase again

Live Life Happy

2012-04-03T14:48:00.000+08:00

CURE vs PureDerm Dual Well Being Pack

2012-04-03T09:15:00.001+08:00

CURE Aqua Peeling Gel	Purederm Dual Wellbeing
I feel it really does remove dirt and skincells, skin looked clean afterwards	skin looked glowing and fresh after using	Exfoliation
Not Applicable	It has a another mask, the fruit mask which I think made hubby’s skin glow	Moisturization
Very gentle!	it felt stingy when rubbed to hard	Gentleness
Love the pump bottle	It’s quite a hassle to buy a sachet after sachet but it’s hygenic	Packaging
Fragrance Free	Not a fan of the mandarin orange fragrance, reminds me of taxi cabs and buses	Fragrance
Expensive! 1600php – 1800php per 250ml, and has to be used within 6 months	29.50 per sachet and one sachet can be used 2x	Price

Verdict: If CURE wasnt so expensive, this would be my winner. It was gentle, and it works. I love how my skin felt afterwards, it’s also fragrance free which is a plus plus! The residue it creates also is real, try it for yourselves if you have a sample. Apply it again for the second time around and you wouldnt get anymore residue since it exfoliates just enough. As for purederm, I rub it anywhere and I get the white flakes. Skin looked drastically glowing after one usage though.

Out of My System

2012-03-27T22:16:00.001+08:00

Out of My System

Kat Liwanag

Drip. Drip. Drip.

Cold air against my skin

Lips shows a slight grin

Drip. Drip. Drip.

Rain is my joy.

The scent of dewdrops in the morning

Swish

Like a child who likes to play in a puddle

Drip drip drip

I promised forever

I could do this for the rest of my life

If only..

Drip. Drip. Drip.

Are those raindrops?

Or are those tears?

Cold. Chills. Aches.

Right after walking through the rain.

Guess I've learned my lesson.

Never again.

It would be weird if I posted an explanation of my poem, I wonder if some of my readers would get the "jist" of it.. :)

The Face Shop Fresh Lemon Fruit Mask Sheet Review and a Personal Update

2012-03-24T21:29:00.000+08:00

When my mom got her brows fixed by Erabels at Bugis, she gave a compliment to the lady fixing her brows because her skin was really bright, fresh and glowing. My mom asked her "What's your secret?"
The lady answered "I use face masks 2-3x a day"

and after both of us heard that.. mom and I looked at each other and understood what both of us wanted without a single word... FACE MASKS!

Meaning yours truly is on a sheet face mask phase and will be reviewing several of them throughout the coming days ;) ;) ;)

Benefits of using a face mask:

Convenience - No mess no fuss. Apply within 20 secs. Take it with you on your trips or apply it on your flight.
Highly effective - Immediate difference after use. Users testify that high quality face masks were better than a $90 facial.
Organic ingredients - Natural skin care that energizes and detoxifies our face skin.
Perfect budget - Great prices starting from $2 and up.
Easy to carry - Very light and in a sealed packet. Easy to carry around during vacation.
Special occasions - Use the night before or on the morning of a special occasion such as a wedding, party or conference. No need to book at a spa and spend time traveling and waiting.
Great makeup absorption - Applying make up after the use of a face mask maximizes the absorption of makeup. Leads to smooth and shiny skin.
Gifts - Great gifts for your girlfriend, daughters, moms, wives. Even great for men since it is so easy and they can hide in their home.

Now onto our review..

You can get this at The Face Shop 4pcs at 10SGD so that's around 75PHP each back in the Philippines, I'm just not so sure if it's cheaper there. It comes in other varieties such as aloe, rice, and pomegrenate; also more expensive ones like collagen and hydraulic acid? (is that right? haha) at 20SGD each which is too expensive for a piece of mask in my opinion.

It comes in individually packed sheet, and upon opening you can definitely smell lemons. They also indicated that each mask is infused with 1000mg of lemon extract that will help in brightening the skin.

How to use?
You just place it over your face, allowing the eyes and nose and lips to be exposed. Be careful! It stings the eyes, it's a bit more moist to other masks so be aware of drips. After 20 minutes, remove the mask and pat the remaining liquid on your face with a gentle massage. The lady at erabelle told me she leaves the mask overnight, but just to play safe, I left it for 20 minutes; as indicated in the instructions.

Did it work?
Yes it did, but only temporarily, maybe continous usage will contribute to a more permanent effect. It made my skin "glow" and lessened the dullness that I'm having lately. I read in other blogs that there are a lot, lot more effective mask such as Silk Whitia or Beauty Diary. Definitely looking forward to trying other masks. The photo below is the day I used the mask and no face makeup was used that day. It wasnt oily or anything, just glowy. Sorry for the very distracting nose scar!

Will I recommend it?
I suggest you do a patch test on the skin of your arm before putting anything on your face. These are made of different ingredients so we have to be sure youre skin will not react. But I do recommend it to people who wants a spa-like treatment at home. I must admit, the feeling of the mask is very refreshing and relaxing at the same time. It felt like a reward after a tiring day at work.

PS
To those looking for personal updates, I am currently located in Singapore for work :) Will still consider products for reviews but unfortunately I cannot attend to events in the Philippines for now. But yes, kikaysikat is definitely back ^_- I'm so excited since there are a WHOLE LOT more varieties of skincare and cosmetics here in singapore that I want to share to all of you. I could probably hold some pre-orders of some sort if you guys like what I reviewed or shared here so that you get to try yourselves as well
^______^

Love lots,
Kat

Walang Mawawala sa Pag-Like

2012-03-20T07:16:00.000+08:00

Yes that title is direct. Don't worry a decent product review is up for posting later this evening *wink wink* but for now, my friend needs help in this contest he joined

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=372256896130907&set=o.280100788704348&type=3&theater