Look Fab Today!

Floating Beauty

2010-11-18T10:46:00.009-10:00

Check out the new collection from Kakalina's - Floating Beauty. Classified under "Sets: Be Fab for Less", these uniquely handmade jewelries are all priced under $15. The sets float like little treasures when worn, thus the name. Materials used were mostly swarovski crystals, glass pearls, & sterling silver earwire. For the holidays, all purchases come with FREE gift, additional 20% discount in all new items. Spend $25 and enjoy FREE shipping within USA. For other gift ideas, visit www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com
Accepts custom orders!

Sets: Be Fab for Less

2010-11-18T10:35:00.004-10:00

Check out Kakalina's New Collection, Sets: Fab for Less. The set, mostly bracelet & matching earrings, are all priced under $15. For the holidays, all purchases come with FREE gift & additional 10% OFF in all new items. Spend $20 and enjoy FREE shipping within USA. For more accessories, jewelries and other gift ideas, browse www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com
Accepts custom orders for all occasions!

Chain & Chic Collection

2010-10-21T08:41:00.003-10:00

Channel a modern vibe with the latest collection from Kakalina's. Aptly called "Chain and Chic", this set of necklace and earrings are handmade with non-tarnish chains, beads, pearls, and swarovski crystals. Enjoy 10% discount in all items + FREE shipping within USA for $25 total purchase + FREE gift!
Beat the holiday rush. Shop early, shop online.
www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com

Red coral beads, swarovski, gunmetal chain

Gunmetal chain, seed & crystal beads

Gunmetal chain, glass pearls, swarovski

Silver chain, seed and crystal beads

Dainty Dangles

2010-09-30T10:54:00.004-10:00

This handmade design is one of my personal favorites. So dainty, so lightweight. I imagine wearing this on a wedding event, garden tea parties or just one of those days I feel like a girl- wearing a cocktail dress or maxi. Looking for accessories for your bridesmaids? this can be it. Custom work is accepted. For more product choices, visit Kakalina's website.

Big Bead Hoops

2010-09-30T10:44:00.005-10:00

Fun and funky. Big bead hoops from Kakalina's. Each pair is about 2 x 2 inches, embellished with satin wrapped beads or wood beads. Channel a preppy or organic look, this one's for the win. For more products, see Kakalina's website

Free shipping to USA for $25 worth of purchase. 10% off in all items.

Oh my Preppy

Oh Organic!

DIY Earrings by Kakalina: Basic Tutorial

2010-09-16T17:19:00.014-10:00

From trash to treasure. Recycle your broken jewelry and create a stylish pair of earrings in five minutes or less. Look good without breaking the bank by following these simple steps. (Jewelry supplies like headpins, earwires, wire cutter and round nose pliers, such as those shown in the picture, can be bought from any craft store)
1. Assemble your materials neatly. I recommend that you use a jewelry mat to prevent beads from rolling. You don't want to spend more time picking up loose beads.
2. There is no limit to your creativity. Once you have decided which loose beads to use, insert each one into the headpin. I used 1- inch swirl Murano glass and tiny gold beads for this project.
3. Using round nose pliers, bend the edge of the headpin to create a loop.
4. Add pizzas by attaching chains. Open the chain using round nose pliers. Look for the break and clip in between. Attach one chain into the loop of the headpin. Close the chain by using round nose pliers.
5. Add earwire. Open the chain using the same technique above. Attach the end of the chain into the loop of the earwire. Close the chain.
Enjoy your new handmade creation! Please see pictures below for reference.

Check the Boho chic

2010-09-16T09:39:00.005-10:00

Check out the new boho chic accessories from Kakalina's. These handmade jewelries are made with organic, colorful, and vintage pieces infused with modern styles- a favorite theme of the artisan. For more designs, visit www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com

Kakalina's (K)ooking!

2010-09-15T15:41:00.011-10:00

Yes, the girl can cook. Unknown to many, I can be a kitchen diva. Cooking is one of my varied interests. I am no chef but my recipes are good enough to delight the discriminating taste buds of my family. A quintessential health buff, I stay away from frying and cooking cholesterol-laden food. Pork is out of the list, and veggies are staple in every meal. I don't measure ingredients, and everything is gut feel- something I have been accustomed to from years of experimentation in the kitchen. Baking is still a challenge to me. But so far my version of banana cake, carrot pineapple bread, and chocolate cupcakes turned out good if not better. Here's a sample of Kakalina's (K)ooking.

Decluttering 101

2010-09-15T10:48:00.012-10:00

Ever since I started Kakalina's a year ago, I have accumulated so much stuff my little walk-in closet-cum-stock room can digest. I have purged and threw supplies many times over. We sold some to swap-meet at ridiculously low bargain price, and donated some more to Goodwill and Salvation Army. Beads, wires, jump rings, cards, cords, chains- an array of knick knacks that is getting to be an eye sore already. Finally, I had a chance today to manage the chaos and gain a little space to walk inside. This closet houses all my materials, finished products, including stuff that I use for local fairs. Our next DIY project is to create and customize an ergonomic space strictly for Kakalina's use. Hopefully soon.

For more of Kakalina's accessories, visit www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com

Tiki for Winkles

2010-09-14T11:21:00.008-10:00

Winkles, our bouncy one year old English cocker spaniel enjoys her new tropical home- a customized tiki house decorated with everything Hawaiian.
She's more than a bundle of joy to us. Very sweet, at times fierce, dog. She barks at the slightest sound, reminding everyone not to disturb her tranquil spot. She's a smart dog, she can identify her toys well. Say "carrot", she will run and give you her carrot. Say "get the monkey, she will parade with the monkey's head in her mouth. But her ultimate toy is still her football, sometimes we think she was a football player reincarnated. Here are some of her great picture moments.

Ready for Hawaii Five-O

2010-09-10T22:11:00.007-10:00

The most anticipated TV show this fall is spreading like wildfire nationwide. Don't miss the remake of the iconic HAWAII FIVE-O, premieres September 20, 2010. A red carpet event is slated on September 13 at the Sunset on the Beach, Waikiki where the pilot episode will be shown to Hawaii residents. Kakalina has a small background role in one of the episodes where she got to wear her own creations. Hopefully her scenes won't be edited out :-p

For more of Kakalina's handmade creations, visit www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com

Facebook: Nuisance and Joyance

2010-08-07T16:38:00.007-10:00

At this day and age, anybody who still doesn't have a Facebook account must be living million light years away from planet earth. Despite all the security issues linked to Facebook, I am a fan. This is the only way I can keep in touch with friends and relatives for free, 24/7, 365. I also use Facebook to showcase my creative side, and to promote my business (click the title to link to my website). But you can't search for me publicly. I have disabled the setting so I can enjoy a little bit of privacy. I only "friend" those I like, and ignore those I don't. I have even blocked some whose threat to my so-called private life is considerably high. As in real life, I don't accept invites from strangers. Who cares if I don't have 500+ friends in my list? I'm not out to win the Ms. Congeniality crown anyway.

Facebook is amusing, sometimes annoying. I enjoy reading occasional updates from friends, but never when it's minute-for-minute postings. I laugh at self-deprecating & wittingly written wall posts, but never on narcissistic-slash-self- glorification. I check out family photos and self portraits, but ignore those overly-excited uploads. Meaning, pictures so small, blurry and upside-down. Yes, I have seen pictures as tiny as 1 x 1 inch, and that's even a group photo with tags! I accept some "gifts" like virtual coffee, cakes, shoes, bear, and hugs, but nothing that solicits personal information from me and my friends. I am amazed at Farmville and Mafia mania, but never really played them. I enjoy occasional chats with friends, but totally abhor gossips. I love to reconnect with old friends, but snub the user-friendly bia*ch** (Those who appear to be angelic and friendly with the aim of using you). Facebook is both a joyance and nuisance. It all depends on how you use it.

FANTABULOUS FEATHER EARRINGS

2010-07-01T08:00:00.003-10:00

Look Fantabulous! Fantastic and fabulous, that is.
These lightweight feather earrings are uber stylish for that girls' night out. Accented with chain and various beads, these earrings measure a little past your shoulder (5-6 inches from base of ear). Custom orders are welcome. I have some colors available, let me know what color and style you want. Anything under the star!

Losing weight is not about vanity.

2010-06-23T10:54:00.003-10:00

Seven years ago, my body mass index* was bordering on chunkiness. I blogged not being able to achieve size 0 or 2 ever in my life. I love food. When I'm stressed at work, I delight myself with calorie-laden cakes, pastries & other what-have-you's. I was never conscious of what I eat. I work hard so I have to fuel the machine, that was my mantra. I dread summer. Tank top is not in my dictionary. At least I'm fashionable, that's how I motivated myself.

Then I started to feel joint pains. Haunted with migraine. Harassed by acne. Self esteem at level 1.5. Boom! Self-pity kicked in. Suddenly, I became a gym enthusiast. Boxing, tae-bo, cardiofunk, belly dance, yoga, hiphop, name it I have probably tried it. Sad to say, none of these worked. After 6- diet, no carb, low fat, nothing worked. I lost two pounds and gained twice as much. So I went back to my old mantra- Eat and be merry like there's no tomorrow.

Fast forward to 2006. My job led me to work in a healthcare setting where I rallied the marketing group. I did some advocacy campaigns promoting kidney disease awareness. Believe me, this job opened my eyes to be serious about my health. Talking to patients first- hand is such an enriching experience. So what's the point?

Statistically speaking, obese people, with BMI (body mass index) of 30 or greater, are prone to diabetes, heart problems, etc. (You knew that already). Though these conditions are manageable with modern drugs, Chronic Kidney Disease or Renal Failure, which is a deteriorating complication of hypertension & diabetes is not. Yes the progression can be prevented with dialysis and transplant (if you're lucky enough) but dialysis patients will tell you that if they don't dialyze (I am devoting another blog about this), that's the end of the road for them. Scary thought!

But I love food still! How can I ever be healthy without depriving myself? It was a long journey, but so far I won the battle. This time I did not spend a fortune, neither broke a leg with gym routines nor engage in another yo-yo diet. I vowed to DIY! Do-It-Yourself. I devoted 15 minutes everyday, while watching TV, or upon waking up, to exercise. I bid goodbye to high-fat Mr. Porky. I prefer baked ,steamed or grilled over deep-fried. I eat three times a day, and yes, still delight my sweet tooth once in a while. Hallelujah! I wasn’t deprived at all. One time a colleague told me “You should eat more, why are you so conscious about your health? You’re still young to do that!”

You are never too young or too old to be healthy. But it's always better if you start early than be sorry later. So losing weight is never a vanity. Entiendes?

* Body Mass Index calculates body fat based on height and weight.

P.S. It's great to have friends who tell you straight than candy-coat. I dedicate this to all my fab friends who stayed with me, through thick and thin (literally!)

Artisan celebrates birthday with BIG 36% OFF in all items

2010-06-22T15:15:00.004-10:00

The Big Annual Sale is on! To celebrate her second 18th birthday (18 x 2 = 36) on July 4, the artisan wants to share her blessings with this big discount to all her customers and supporters. But this is for a limited time only. Starting today 'til July 4, enjoy 36% discount in all items, including new and already reduced items. No need to enter coupon code when you checkout as prices were already reduced. Plus enjoy FREE shipping to USA for $25 worth of purchase. See these one of a kind, fun and chic accessories at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com

AGE IS NOT A NUMBER BUT A FEELING. FEEL YOUNG. LOOK YOUNG- KAKALINA

Hoop you don't mind

2010-06-20T11:56:00.002-10:00

Stylish hoop earrings you won't mind wearing over and over again. These handmade pieces are the latest addition to Kakalina's fun, chic and uniqely designed earrings. More styles at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com

Wear your Independence

2010-06-20T11:23:00.002-10:00

Grab these stylish earrings to celebrate 4th of July- only from Kakalina's. Made with hex charms, semi-precious stones & swarovski crystals. More styles at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com
Ships Free to USA for $25 worth of purchase. Custom orders are welcome.

Vintage Elegance

2010-06-17T21:08:00.004-10:00

From Kakalina's Vintage Elegance Collection comes these handmade designs reminiscent of vintage years. Practically all-around, wear it to compliment your LBD, boho, weekend or casual outfit. See more styles at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com

I Heart Retro

2010-06-17T20:56:00.005-10:00

Channel a retro-feel with these super cool and vibrant earrings from Kakalina's. Made with different materials with focus on funky colors and chains. These handmade pieces will surely brighten your wardrobe. See more styles at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com

Loco with Coco

2010-06-15T18:28:00.005-10:00

You'll go loco with these fun handmade accessories featuring coco shells, cowrie shells, silver links, glass beads, etc. They are your perfect must have's for summer. Fun in the sun! More styles at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com. Free shipping to USA for $25 worth of purchase.

Let there be Chain

2010-06-15T18:15:00.003-10:00

Get these uber chic chain earrings from Kakalina's. Made with silver, copper, gunmetal, bronze, & gold chains, accented with crystals, semi precious stones, glass beads, etc. These handmade pieces prettify your wardrobe. Wear it daytime or nightime, the choice is yours. More styles at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com. Enjoy Free shipping within USA for $25 worth of purchase.

CHARMING CHARM NECKLACES

2010-06-11T21:53:00.004-10:00

Look charming with these handmade charm necklaces by Kakalina's. Made with various charms, stones, beads, crystals, sterling silver and silver plated chain, these pieces are made with you in mind- fun, chic & confident women. More styles and products at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com. Custom orders are welcome.

SUEDE STYLE EARRINGS

2010-06-10T08:41:00.007-10:00

Get these fun and funky earrings from Kakalina's. Made from suede cord, chains, swarovski crystals and beads, they compliment any casual wear. Other suede colors in stock: lilac, white, old rose, turquoise, green,yellow, tan. More styles and product choices at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com

OUT OF AFRICA

2010-06-09T09:25:00.005-10:00

Check out the new safari-inspired earrings from Kakalina's. Made with Kazuri beads (clay handpainted by the women of Kenya), coconut shells, animal brass & wood charms. More fun, chic and uniquely handmade accessories and jewelries at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com. Ships FREE to USA for $25 worth of purchase.

WATCH WATCHIN'

2010-06-08T18:16:00.006-10:00

Dress up your outfit with these cool watches handmade by Kakalina's. Each watch comes with matching earrings to compliment your wardrobe. They are shipped to you in a jewelry box ready for gift-giving. See more styles at www.kakalinasaccesories.artfire.com. Free shipping to USA for $25 worth of purchase. Custom orders are welcome.