Kcatwoman

SOS! This bridesmaid needs help looking for a modest dress...

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sat, 28 Sep 2013 07:58:00 +0000

Hi everyone,

My dream gown! but with more opaque sleeves

A couple of months from now, my cousin will be married. She's the first one to be married in my age group in our family so we are really excited about it. She has asked us to go to her dressmaker and have ourselves fitted with bridesmaid dresses which we'll be flaunting on her special day. The whole wedding preparation is an exciting and stressful time for us (shakes head). Anyway, her wedding prep keeps me fantasizing about the wedding dress I hope I would one day wear. The style of gown that I really like most is the "modest" type of gown because it has sleeves to cover my arms, and it's comforting to know that you won't be showing any undue body parts. I mean if you wear sleeveless, low neckline or short skirted dresses, your body proportions should at least have the right to be shown! Otherwise I would stick to the being more covered up. Unfortunately, with what I see in TV and magazines these days where women opt for more revealing designs, a modest gown with a shawl or sleeves isn’t really pleasing on the eyes nor is it easy to find. Just going to the mall frustrates me when I look for a dress that not only fits well but is covers me up, too! It's difficult enough to find a skirt that goes to the knee. However, thanks to the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, I found my wedding gown style peg! The gown she wore was beautiful, simple and classic and the most modest I've seen on a celebrity in years.

Other than Kate's gown, here are some modest gowns that I would probably like on my wedding day:

But since I'm not yet the bride, here is what I would probably ask the tailor to check out for our bridesmaid gowns.

My mom and my aunt, who is the mother of the bride, would probably love these!

I got a little carried away with the photos but I hope you like them!

All the designs (except the Kate Middleton pic) are from Dress First. You may want to check that out.

Sincerely, Kcat

It's a sin not to watch "On the Job" by Erik Matti

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 14:48:00 +0000

Hi everyone,

from bidakapamilya.blogspot.com

Goodness, i can't believe that the last time I posted was for Rock of Ages. Well, anyway.. I will make it up by posting about a really worthwhile topic, the stellar and much celebrated movie by Erik Matti, entitled OTJ or On the Job which stars Piolo Pascual, Joel Torre, Gerald Anderson, Joey Marquez, etc.

If you search about this film in social media, you will find that a lot of movie goers loved it. And for good reason,.. I am no movie critic but I can say it is top notch. There was only 1 perfect Filipino film in my list, Maynila sa Kuko ng Liwanag by Lino Brocka, which I belatedly watched in some website posted by a kind user. Hopefully I can secure it legally in the future. Anyway, as I said, I used to think there was only 1 Filipino film that is perfect, now, in my mind at least, there are two, and that was since I have watched OTJ.

Basically the film is about hired killers and I don't think I plan to say much about the story because it is yours to find out. The only thing I can say about it is how wonderfully written it was. Wow, for many years, I have been watching Filipino films, paying just to help the industry and though it may be true that there are some that are entertaining or hold promise, this is the one that is perfectly made. I can say that this is better than 1896 or Muro Ami, for a different market, but that's just my opinion. This is better than most Hollywood films I know. It's quite weird to note that we might be raving about it, because a good Filipino film (admit it) is such a rare gem. I must say, the way the shots of the camera were planned, the pace of the story, the action scenes, .. I truly can't be more proud to claim that this is a Filipino film. Even the scoring (sounds), the props, the venue where they shot were really good. (you can tell im no movie critic haha). Okay, there are probably a few needful improvements but I plan on overlooking those, and you can't read about those in this blog. Anyway, I wish George Estregan would watch this film and see that this is an example of a good movie. MMFF filmmakers, take note! Indie film makers, please, also take note.

from imdb.com

Joey Marquez was a revelation. He is an effective actor and even if he is known for comedy roles, films such as this make me esteem him as a serious actor that need to utilized more for films of this caliber. I am glad Star Cinema entrusted the role of the honest policeman to him. You also wouldn't believe that 2 men probably in their fifties (Joel Torre and Joey Marquez) were unbelievably believable in the action sequences.

What I also love about this movie is that it is almost seditious in a sense. Okay, how do I explain this. It embodies everything that is bad in this country, the corrupt, the adulterous, poverty, drugs, murders. In the first few minutes, I experienced a feeling of dread only to be felt while watching horror films. It's a characterization of the worst men from the bowels of the earth.. I was truly scared. I am a Filipino, and you know what being a Filipino is like sometimes? You know for a fact that things have to change about the way this country is run and you just cannot do ANYTHING about it. The movie strangles hope which is very reminiscent of Rizal's El Filibusterismo. I love that this film is so socially relevant. I felt like grieving afterwards for the state of this country.

Anyway, hopefully you can still get to catch it in the big screen or DVD. I can't stress it enough. You need to watch this film.

Sincerely, Kcat

(I do not own any of the photographs used in this post)

Rock of Ages

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 16:50:00 +0000

I probably expected too much

My 2 cents

Downside:
- cheesy
- too much tongue
- no depth to the story, no depth in the relationships of the characters
- for a ROCK musical, it's a little glee-ish
- the 'Cant Fight this feeling anymore' was funny but does not seem to be helpful to the musical
- most of the time i don't understand Tom Cruise's gibberish and if there was supposed to be a punchline in there

Upside:
- the female lead has so much talent
- the costumes were fantastic
- hair and makeup and set were also good

I give it 3.2 stars.

Your thoughts?

photo by http://silencenogood.net

Sonja, you are my Cuppy cake

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 07:55:00 +0000

In my other blog, I really always rant about how much I semi-hate Bonifacio global city buses, but in truth, I love Bonifacio Global City very, very freakin much. (Light bulb moment) I probably should write a post with photos regarding this so called love, but that would be for later.

Anyway, one of the reasons why I love working here in BGC, though it's so far, is the food! There's food everywhere... Also, aside from the usual fast food chains, there are a lot of restaurants that pop up which boldly cater to unique tastes, like Cha Time, Florings, the Guac Truck, Singaporean restaurant beside Chatime, Kitchen's Best Cakes (which are the awesomest), etc.

I think some find it cool to share in FB
that they ate at Sonja's, haha..
just like I did

Also, one of my favorite dessert places is the very successful Cupcakes by Sonja... which is wildly popular because of its 'cult following'. I think customers make it a point to share in FB or twitter that they ate here. Some even include photos of the beloved cupcakes or of themselves eating 'em. My favorite part when I go to Sonja's is whenever I open the door of the store and I begin to be enveloped by the aroma inside. It's like lazy Saturday afternoons with my mom who loves to bake. Back when she liked to bake. Not that I'm saying she can bake, as well hahaha. Anyway, I also think the biggest reason for Sonja's success is still, of course, the CUPCAKES. They are heavenly, soft, reasonably priced. I have not found any cupcake that would match hers. I am not really a food critic so I am not sure what would be a great way to describe great cupcakes, but yeah, they're pretty great.

One thing to note though when eating there for the first time is that the cupcakes are best eaten in the store, on the tables set outside, with a fork and on a saucer. You might think this is silly to actually use utensils for a small cuppycake, but this way, you will be able to slowly savor the cupcake. If you eat it by just biting on it, you will be overwhelmed with the sweetness and you will also be "hinayang" that your 60-peso (to 100-peso) cupcake will be devoured in seconds. No, I say, sit down on the table, and savor the cupcake.

Red Velvet Vixen
and Strawberry Cheesecake

Also, be adventurous with your choices. My favorites are Chocolate Surprise (haha not so adventurous) and Red Velvet Vixen. I'm not a big fan of the Lemon Drop. I just hope some of the other cupcake flavors are available when i visit next time since not everything in the menu is available on the store in one day. I'm checking the site now and ooh, FlufferNutter looks interesting... (hmmmmmmmm)..

Oh well, okay. I probably should pass by there later on the way to Market Market. Or maybe not, depends on how much i'm trying to stick to my diet.

Haha.

Have a sweet day!,

Kcat

PS. I am not getting paid for this. okay.
__________________________________________________________________________
Cupcakes by SONJA is located at1C 03 Serendra Piazza, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Summer is hotter with Banana Boat Sunscreen Lotion, Schick, & Nuffnang

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 01:44:00 +0000

"What is your ideal Nuffnang summer?"

My ideal nuffnang summer would be unique trips and discovering the beauty of Pinoy spots nearby.. like for example, going to Villa Escudero,eating in Isdaan in Pampanga, swimming in Bolinao, going on a history tour in Corregidor, enjoying the falls in Pagsanjan… all of which are just a few hours from Manila and you get a unique experience without spending so much for airfare and accommodation. I would love to visit these places especially when I’m with my Mom and Dad and sister and brother who all give me such happiness.

This year too, I might be spending summer with an additional person, a special someone, so summer this year is really something to look forward to. Hehe.. summer lovin,… I truly love the feeling. Pray that everything goes well between us.

Have a good day!

"Schick. Free your skin."
"Banana Boat Sunscreen Lotion. We've got you covered."

Glee - Rumor Has It (Mash Off episode)

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:14:00 +0000

Good way for Glee to shake things up a little bit by performing this mash up inspired by Adele's hits: Rumor Has It/Someoone like you.

I think the Troubletones are actually a lot better!.. or maybe I'm just tired of the New Directions usual format :)

The Help (movie)

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 03:42:00 +0000

Hi i'll probably compose a short blog article since Im posting this secretly from the office. A short break from Monday stress.

I cannot help but rave about a wonderful movie I was given the privelege to watch this month. It's entitled The Help, starring Emma Stone, who is one of my newest favorite actresses.

Im not a movie critic, let me begin with that. you wont expect a detailed commentary about the movie from me.

What I liked about the film was when the lead character, Ablene, a black maid, believed that she has the ability to make people feel special. She has a special mantra that she whispers to baby girl, her ward, whenever she wakes up: "You is kind, you is smart, you is important...". This she repeats and repeats to the little girl until she believes she is loved and that she is indeed important. Baby girl has been born to a young mother who doesnt know how to care for a little girl.

I learned that anyone has the capacity to make others value themselves if we all just tried.

The film did not end the way most people would want it to. Skeeter was left by her first boyfriend, did not regain her childhood friends, Ablene lost her work after an emotional verbal showdown with the antagonist, the maid who stole the ring was still in jail,.. but still the ending gave me an impression that there is hope amidst all those trials.

I loved the film. It's funny & amusing at some points but thought-provoking too. I hope you would like it as much as I did.

4.5 stars for me :)

Have a good day!

Kcat

Photo blunder of the week by DPWH

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 07:34:00 +0000

You won't believe it but DPWH officials actually photoshopped themselves into an after-Pedring inspection photo as if they were in deep conversation over the rehabilitation of the fallen sea wall..

photo from http://quiapo.wordpress.com (Controlled Chaos)

And what's worse/better is, it's not a hoax... It's an authentic photo posted by actual DPWH personnel in their official facebook page, subject to the scrutiny of millions of Pinoy users who cannot be fooled. And so, because of the uproar, they issued an apology in facebook, as well.

Please read related articles here:
http://quiapo.wordpress.com/2011/09/28/dpwh-photoshop-fail/

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/philippines-officials-photoshop-themselves-into-typhoon-cleanup-photo/2011/09/30/gIQA09OhAL_blog.html?tid=sm_twitter_washingtonpost

http://jimayson.wordpress.com/2011/09/30/the-great-dpwh-photoshop-meme-kicks-into-overdrive/#comment-1431

Wow.

I think the artist better practice more on the Lasso tool before posting the next one.

Hope you have a good laugh today.

Sincerely, Kcat.

What I heard in the radio yesterday (OPM)

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:23:00 +0000

I think that Direk Jose Javier Reyes' article "Last Song Syndrome" in his Yahoo featured blog a while back sums up what I feel about current OPM. Please read this link beacuse it is a well written post about how poor the OPM industry is now... Almost no one buys Filipino music records and when they are released, our kababayans would rather hear them in the radio and take home the pirated version than spend money on Filipino music. But in all fairness to Pinoy buyers, there are really a few songs these days that are made by Filipinos that actually make sense or have good quality. Please don't tell me that Pinoy rock bands these days are all good. The lyrics are mostly repetitive and they sound almost all the same in my opinion. Well, I'm also kind of biased since I am more into ballads (Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang, Hiram, Bakit ba Iniibig Ka, etc.). Some Filipino musicians have also settled for pitiful Tagalized parodies of American pop hits and some even try to emulate Kpop. Sadly my friends, these do not work for us.

Ok, so maybe I should just shut up and let you read Direk Joey Reyes article because as I have mentioned earlier, it sums up what i feel about the downfall of Pinoy music, lately. (http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/blogs/mediacrity/last-song-syndrome-123511260.html)

ANYWAY, amidst the crazy Pinoy music scene out there, I have heard one on the radio yesterday that I thought could be as poetic as the old Pinoy songs. Beautiful, calm, serene, not attention-craving and the lyrics are well made.

I hope you will like it too:

Bihag mo by Bryan Termulo

My Cinemalaya 2011 Experience (1) : Nono

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:04:00 +0000

My Cinemalaya 2011 Experience

Nono by Milo Tolentino

My friends and I really planned to watch the much-hyped Babae sa Septic Tank, but as always with popular films, we weren't lucky enough to catch its screening in Greenbelt during Cinemalaya week.

For those who are not yet aware, it was the first year they actually shown Cinemalaya films at a venue different from the CCP. (But please let me know if this is a misguided claim from moi)

Anyway, so we missed Septic tank, we all know that those who were able to catch it with seats are the Lucky ones and we ended up viewing "Nono".

Nono, according to a lunchtime kwento by my officemate, is a Netscape movie, meaning this is one of those featured films that have already been shown abroad before the Cinemalaya screenings and have already received awards prior to it's premiere here in the country.

Look at it's poster, see how intriguing and amusing it looks :)

We did not expect anything out of the movie since we have not seen one sentence that describes it in the flyers. But we were in for a big surprise. Nono started out a little rocky, it was too raw for my taste, I told myself. Plus the one acting as a gay man.. you can actually tell he is a straight guy acting as a gay man. The acting as a whole did not look good during the first few scenes and a few minutes into the movie, I was starting to regret spending my precious P150.

But as the story developed, we all started to realize that it was a fun-filled movie, full of heart & emotion. The script is wonderful. Some of the best and funniest scenes were coming, shockingly, from the amateur child actors!

Nono, who's real nickname is Toto, is a little boy suffering from cleft lip and palate and although his face has already been surgically repaired, he still speaks in a muffled manner or in Tagalog, he is what you would call informally as a "ngongo". The actor who plays Nono was really the one who brought the whole movie altogether. He was such a treasure of an actor, young as he was. His confidence was sky high! I truly did believe that he was a young boy begging everyone to believe he can win a declamation and, even more so, write his own piece.

I love Nono. I found myself laughing uncontrollably, and even during the sad scenes, you cannot help but feel sincerely sympathetic for the young boys in movie. I am not a genuine movie critic, but as a simple Filipino looking hopelessly for good & creative Pinoy entertainment, I found love for the Cinemalaya film Nono.

At the end of the film, the whole audience cannot stop themselves from clapping. We were even so privileged to actually meet the stars of the movie. There was a short Q&A with the director and cast. The actors were not like they were in the movie! Proof of my ignorance, because I expected that they would somehow be like themselves in the film. I really admire the people who chose the cast, especially those who picked out the young actors from hordes of wannabe child actors out there. They found pure talent in the children of Nono.

The director, Milo Tolentino,man!, he is surely one to watch out for. And in the next Cinemalaya festivals, I would probably scour the schedule pamphlet for his entry before I try out anything else. Hopefully, he has an entry next year!

I hope that you would be able to catch a screening of this film because it's truly a gem.

Have a good day!,
Kcathttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Woman_in_the_Septic_Tank

Cutest John Lloyd commercial ever

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Ang cute!!!!!!!!!!

Uniforms in the Medical Field

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 14:06:00 +0000

Dear fellow bloggers,

You know I have long been gushing about the online store, Blue Sky scrubs. I think it is a wonderful online seller of scrub uniforms that provide great fit to your body and therefore added comfort to the wearer. If you are a nurse, like me, you definitely would understand that most scrubs being sold today are too big for you and some people who wear scrub clothing look like they're wearing pajamas. But scrubs are work clothes and you must therefore feel mobile and comfortable in it, no pulling and adjusting necessary. Blue Sky Scrubs promises just that. An added bonus is that they have classic uniform designs to choose from, as well. They also feature other accessories like hats, jckets and lab coats.

If you are a scrub uniform wearer, I know that you will find it a great benefit to visit their helpful site. I find this link very helpful for women: http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/categories/Scrubs/Scrubs-for-Women/

There you have it.

Thank you very much for reading!

White Oleander by Janet Fitch

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:50:00 +0000

This book will probably one of my favorite books of all time. While reading the book, I've told myself, I don't think anyone could ever be in such a never-ending streak of bad luck as the lead character in the story, Astrid. But I fell in love with the story and I don't think it would be great if I were the one to write a synopsis here myself. I am not a good writer of such things. I do love the lyricism of the words used, how the story was told --in poetry and letters -- and how the emotions portrayed have haunted me long after I've read the last few words.

I love the last part. The story didn't end with a ending perse, as with real life, every "end" is a start of something new. Astrid's story is still unfinished which is something I love so much about the story. It made me hopeful about numerous other paths she might pursue after I closed the last leaf of the novel.

Astrid has also met a lot of people in her life which she never meets again. I realized that that could be true for most people as well. So many characters in our lives have helped shape who we are, and even if they have caused a significant change, we never meet them again. Those people that stay, or return, just like in Astrid's life will probably be the ones who we would most cherish.

Also, I can relate with her. She makes mistakes very repetitively or constantly. Human nature is so much like that. You make the same mistakes almost all the time. There are times that your imperfections can define you. I remember someone telling me that our Maker knows us because of our flaws. Just like her, I know where my stumbling blocks are, which are so hard to overcome because somehow you are born with them. No matter how much you know how wrong it is, you still keep making them. It takes a lot for you to fight back from those imperfections.I probably am still in that phase in my life where I am about to overcome the mistakes I make constantly. So I am not here to tell you that mistakes can be overcome, especially if they're part of your nature, but I have heard wisdom from others that we must all try hard to overcome our wrongdoings especially if they hinder our growth.

So there. I love this book. There's nothing much to wonder about knowing that this is one of Oprah's most favorite books as well.

Have a good night!

Finding Entertainment

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 15:36:00 +0000

Dear friends,

Being on my twenties, I wasn't too aware that work could be a little bit taxing on my own personal time. I truly would love to work out on the rest/recreation/ entertainment part of my life. So, I've listed down some of the things I would like to do or would wish to do in my quest to find more entertainment. I hope you find something you'd like.

1. Watching Local/Foreign musicals

I am very interested in musicals these days. Of course, since the advent of the television show, Glee, the awareness and publicity surrounding musicals and theater shows have heightened. One show that I truly wish to watch in Broadway is the well-loved and award-winning musical, Wicked. At present, I might not be able to watch the original cast (Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel) perform, but just being able to see and hear the live Wicked actors on a Broadway stage would be the fulfillment of my dreams! I'm pretty sure that people really line up to buy the tickets for the show and I do now that when they tour and present on a certain city or area, the tickets may easily be sold out. Acheapseat.com, offers tickets on their website on some of the best musicals. They offer for example, Jersey Boys Tickets. Also sometimes when I search there, there have been times that I find discounts. I think searching the site might just be a good idea.

2. Watch or Perform Stand up Comedy

Stand up comedies are a bit of a mystery to me. I really want to try and understand how I can be someone who thinks of so many jokes and punchlines to say to a big audience. Some perform at a small stage while some comedians make people laugh in big concert halls or stadiums. I love to watch these funny people but all the time I'm crossing my fingers so that their punchlines would make people laugh. They say comedy is harder to act out than drama. I think it requires a certain kind of intelligence and skill to be able to pull off those jokes. I know a few Asian stand up comedians like Rex Navarette who I truly appreciate and would like to watch in person. If youre a fan of stand up comedy performed by Dane Cook, Daniel Tosh, Jeff Dunham , Chris Rock, etc, you might just be able to grab , for example, Daniel Tosh Tickets in acheapseat.com, a seller of online tickets.

3. Watch a live ball game with big-named athletes

Due to the recently concluded NBA Championships 2011, I think sports has provided so much entertainment during the present weeks. I think every guy and some girls in the office want to be constantly updated with the latest score during the 6-series games. What die-hard fans they were! Even public televisions in buses where I ride have all turned their TV sets to the championship match as Miami Heat and Dallas Mavericks battle it out for the precious title.

Are you big sports fans, too?I think the site 'acheapseat.com' offers tickets to be bought for all kind of sports. In big cities where you might find it impossible to line up easily for sports tickets, fans can find, for example, New York Yankees Tickets or New York Giants Tickets just by searching the site. You can even find tickets for specific venues like United Center tickets.

Well I hope you like my simple suggestions which I hope I would be able to accomplish within the year.

Have a good day!

Has Glee become dull?

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 12:20:00 +0000

Hi there TV show fanatics.
I am a Glee fan, but what the heck has the show been trying to prove lately?

I'm feeling a little bit sad about the show, recently. It has become boring, a drag... Kurt (Chris Colfer) used to have gotten a Golden Globe cause he was such a great performer and comedian. Now, the Glee writers have turned him into such a pessimistic whiner. It would've not been a problem if, while whining, he was still funny but he's not. The last time he was funny was the Alcohol episode when he didn't drink because he "didn't want to look sloppy". Also, this second season, we've long anticipated his on-screen kiss with Blaine ( Darren Criss). And when it did happen, I didn't feel the love connection between the two back when they sang Baby It's Cold Outside. After the kiss in the last episode, only surprise registered on Kurt's face and probably some relief. Not love, tsk tsk tsk, not love.

Sue Sylvester, used to say the funniest of lines, but the writers, I think, are trying too hard to pull off wisecracking dialogues that she has stopped being hilarious as she has once used to be. Nowadays, she's just a generic antagonist. Where was the old Sue? Where is she? The Sue who was funny. Most especially the Sue with feelings. The Sue who showed heart when she visited her older sister at the specialty care hospital and felt sympathy for Becky. Please bring her back. Sue's losing streak started on the Glee Christmas episode when she was the Grinch and stole christmas presents. That particular episode was so cheesy and not touching at all. I mean being a grinch? Even painting her face green? I just dont know what to make of her that episode. Well, that kind of was forgivable. So I tried watching on, then, there she is again on the episode where she and her Cheerios lost the Regional Cheerleading competition. She began to look and sound like a wisecracking, unfunny, whiner. Then came the episode of the Regionals where she became the coach of Oral Intensity, a competitor of the New Directions. When the winners were announced, Sue punched the announcer! What for?!?! I dont know how that makes anything funny. I dont know what to think. What were the writers trying to make us feel? To be honest, I just dont know anymore.

Ms. Schue this second season, always, ALWAYS, gets angry and shouts at one point or another. He would shout "Enough guys!" "STOP!". Mr. Schuester, the writers decided, will be temperamental this time around. The first season, he was such an inspiration though we all felt sorry about the way his wife treated him. He was so nice, had a clean heart that always inspires the glee kids to push through. Now all that has changed with his new temper.

Recently, at the New Directions Regionals winning episode, I felt good about the story development and that finally the glee club was going straight to Nationals. But the truth is, their original song, Loser Like Me, was too early-2000-pop-song for me. It was not that good. The glee club was searching for a theme song that was epic so one would expect it would be more in the category somewhere near "Sing" by My Chemical Romance. But it wasn't. They made us raise our expectations too much and their performance in the Regionals just fell flat. Of course, Loser Like Me would win any day over the "religious" number Oral Intensity sang. At least that was funny. Then again, how on earth could their original song be better than when they lost at the 1st season regionals? They sang a Journey Medley for crying out loud. And the choreography was a lot better. Please watch the vid attached.

Now, don't get me started about the Glee couples. I used to vouch for Rachel and Finn. Sam and Quinn were okay too. Then when the new development started and Finn & Quinn started to have feelings for each other again, I kind of liked the idea, as well. It gives the show excitement. But now Finn, Quinn, Sam, Santana, Puck, Rachel (love hexagon, seriously!) have all become couples and interchanged partners too many times the whole season that I think I speak for most fans who do not understand anymore who will end up with who. Like I'm starting not to care any longer who would be anyone's next love interest cause the writers will probably change their minds again. At one episode, Finn likes Quinn. And Quinn likes him, and now Finn is starting to feel something again for Rachel. At another episode Quinn kinda still as feelings for Sam who was stolen by Santana then suddenly in the next episode, has her full attention to Finn. In the Valentine's Day episode, Puck falls in love with Lauren Zizes, then in the Alcohol episode, flirts with Rachel like the whole character change in the Valentines episode was forgotten. Dang, it's so confusing!

Come on, writers. I think it's time that you all start talking about the direction that you want the characters to follow, not confuse us each episode. It's like they don't communicate with each other about what the story developments would be. One writer just writes this episode and another writer writes the next without regard to how the first one was created. Glee has just become the most confusing show on earth.

But in the end, I still have high hopes for Glee. I loved how the story developed in the first season, how the characters began to be more relatable each time. I love the performances, how the songs were mixed with each other (e.g. Walking on Sunshine/Halo). I love the special episodes when they had themes, like the Madonna, Britney and Lady Gaga episodes. I love how the show makes me feel as I anticipate each episode and watch it for the first time. I truly still love Glee and I hope against hope that it rises out of its losing streak.

Have a good night,
Kcat

Just two years ago, I was a graduate nurse...

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 11:27:00 +0000

Hi friends,

Congratulations to all the graduates this March! I remember just 2 years ago, I was beaming graduate in after 4 years of studying Nursing, full of hope and aspirations. I never got to work lengthily as a nurse but I did have experience inside a hospital. However here in my current job, I work in an office coordinating a certain research project.

Today, as part of my job, I visited a doctor's office inside a city hospital. It was a very old medical center but it was standing there proud. Even with it's archaic design, it boasted of very modern amenities and treatments. Sitting in the halls, waiting, I saw some nurses in their scrub uniforms walking along the hallways, probably out on their breaks, going to another department on an errand but hopefully not loitering. Somehow, it makes me reminisce the days that I have laboured inside a hospital among patients in a ward or other therapeutic areas. I also remembered the times we stood waiting for patients to treat in the occasionally lazy emergency room. But my favorite area was, of course, the operating/ surgical theater. Being inside an operation makes me feel important, useful, dynamic and wise. We were an important part of the surgical process. We made sure that the tools were complete and prepped the area to make it as aseptic as was ideal. Ahh, how I loved being in that area! We even get to wear lab coats same as the surgeons. We sometimes hear people refer to us as doctors because of the crisp, white lab coats we proudly wore with matching white OR slippers and sometimes caps.

As I was reminiscing in my formal office attire waiting outside that doctors office, I missed my old job. I missed my old, comfortable nursing uniforms. I never thought I would miss the way it felt to be a nurse after I have decided my office job is way better. But as they say, nursing is one of those noble jobs that asks you to give a little of yourself just to get through to your patients.This is a fulfilling profession that I would always have great memories about. Who knows? Maybe in the future, I could go back to being a nurse.But as for now, I am content just reminising.

Choco Almond Fudge

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 12:06:00 +0000

This is my ultimate most favorite ice cream flavor from Selecta... i love it more than all the flavors in the Selecta Gold Series combined.. awesome i love it. I can eat the 800 ml cup all by myself!

Try it please!

Sincerely,Kcat

The Little that I know about Makeup

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 05:20:00 +0000

Dear Pals,

I am so desperate about makeup because I am in my 20s and know absolutely nothing about it other than the powder-lipbalm and the occasional blush combo. So I took a class with Ms. Cielo, a local entrep and a fabulous lady, too. She gives classes on beginner's makeup, for everyday and maybe, for night outs. Haha she'd probably love it that I'm giving her a free boost in advertisement. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=138024289563591&set=a.103049553061065.7079.100000680618029&pid=235093&id=100000680618029

Here are the basic skincare and makeup things I have learned. These are the things I do : Sorry if this sounds toooo basic for you but really, i've only known about it recently:

1. Cleanse-tone-moisturize routine. I only use Ivory soap for my face because I do not break out with it. I tone using Celeteque and moisturize with Celeteque. To date, their moisturizer is the only water based drug store brand moisturizer that I know about . I find it also very gentle and it doesn't enlarge pores. When I do not want to use toner and already feel that my skin is clean enough, I use a small ice cube for my face. Please comment if you think this is okay or not.

2. Importance of using sunscreen. I almost never come out of the house without sunscreen and an umbrella.. Also, I never buy a powder without SPF.I use Maybelline Pressed Powder because it has a good enough SPF, it's a known brand with an affordable price.

My lip balm also has SPF factor to prevent darkening of lips. . For lip balms, regular Chapstick has a very disappointing SPF 4.. FOUR! How on earth can that help you with our very hot sun! But I love Chapstick and found out that even if it's a few pesos more pricier than Blistex (SPF 15 at least), it's still the most effective for my always-dry, parched, peeling lips. They have since given a solution to that with the Ultra, Moisturizing lip balm (lemon flavor) with an SPF of 30. I'm using that one now.

clear spray

Chapstick is better

For sunscreen. If you, like me, are afraid of the heavy lotions (in my opinion, then make faces break out), I use the Beachhut clear spray sunblock SPF 36. At least it's clear and therefore less heavy. I use this on my face. Please comment if this is okay or not.

Another reason for the sunscreen is that I have started having premature age spots (in my early 20s) and I swear that they have been less visible after I've been very keen on these sun protection measures. I can't see them anymore on my face, thankfully!

3. Wearing foundation. This one I've learned in my makeup class. Our teacher told us that we wear foundation (or maybe tinted moisturizer) to be able to cover our flaws and pores and discolorations. Foundation accdg to the handout given by my teacher, prepares the face for the colors to be applied. She also made us differentiate between a variety of foundations like L'oreal & MAC versus Ever Bilena. Since Ever Bilena is also a good brand but not as pricey, this is what she uses for daily use. It feels lighter on my skin too. I also think that since this is a Pinoy brand, there are colors specifically matched for morena skin just like mine. On the other hand, Loreal and MAC were very heavy (in my opinion) and therefore should be used for special events.

Be careful in choosing the right foundation, I bought a Korean brand before and now realized my mistake. Koreans have different skin color and skin type altogether. Korean makeup usually has shimmer which is something I think is not friendly to most Filipinas' skin type or color. I do not like to look shiny because I have oily skin. Also the shade I bought was lighter than my real skin color so I looked lighter. Foundation should match your skin. The key is to always sample the product before you buy, even if it's just a tinted moisturizer.The thing is if you look greyish / ghoulish because of the foundation you use, ditch it. You wouldn't want to look like Miss Foundation Day everyday! Buy another one that's good for your color.

The good thing about buying Pinoy brands is that they match Pinay skin brands because they are made for specifically for us. American brands are good also because they also create makeup for a variety of skin tones since the US is a home for hundreds of nationalities.

Anyway...

4. Setting everything with powder. As I have explained before, I use Maybelline. Maybelline Pressed powder is affordable and there are even times they go on sale (around P149 to P200). Always try on the shade to pick the right color for your facial skin because you dont want to look like your wearing Chin Chan Su. Also ,when choosing a color, use your face/neck area to test a sample not your hand or arm because these parts have a different color than your face.

Setting with powder reduces oiliness but still do not overpowder because you would not like to appear mattified. The goal is to look dewy and radiant.

To avoid overpowdering, I think it's better to use a powder brush. Mine is from a drugstore brand, Shawill. I know my brush in this picture looks like the cheapo brands in convenience stores but it's priced almost at 300 and it's super soft and gentle to the face. Of course we couldnt let anything coarse be used on our faces. A soft brush reduces the chances of making your pores larger.

super soft

Nichido loose powder is one of the most affordable and popular brands out there. They have many colors to choose from and they work well too. Unfortunately their powders do not offer any sun protection (no SPF).

What I do is since I buy the Maybelline pressed powder which has SPF, I buy a powder container, crush the Maybelline pressed powder and voila! I have instant loose powder.

instant loose powder

5. Applying Natural Blush. I've seen a lot of makeup videos giving different tips on blushing. Some say to apply it on the side of the face, on the front of the cheeks etc. But my teacher told us to apply it on the apples of the cheeks then work your way outward near the temple. Do not forget applying in the part of the cheek that is near the nose so that your blush would look like a natural coloring of your cheeks and not just a mere application.

Some argue that the more professional way of putting blush is not the grin-and-put-in-the-apples-of-your-cheeks style as mentioned above but pucker/or suck your cheeks then apply at the sides. To be more precise, they say, start putting it directly below the iris part of the eye then start working outward. I personally feel that this way of putting it (under the iris) appears less natural because you can definitely see that there is a starting point to the blush unlike if you put blush also on the cheeks near the sides of the nose.So I'm still sticking to grinning it out and putting blush on the apples.

Body Shop blush Number 5 is highly recommended because it's the color that best matches the natural skin color. I am not in any way affiliated with them but Body shop is a good brand and it's nice to invest on makeup that has a quality that makes it incomparable with others. The colors are not bright than the usual color of drugstore brands. Also it does not have shimmer or glitter on it like most brands. Even if it's not body shop, make sure you buy a blush that is matte and therefore, more natural-looking. I made a huge mistake in buying my Faceshop brand of blush because it has glitter in it/ or some sort of shine to it since Faceshop is a Korean brand. The glitter only made my pores appear bigger bcause the glitter /shine puts emphasis on the enlarged pores. So always try makeup on before buying it.

So anyway, that completes my list of beginner know-how on makeup and skincare routines. I hope this helps in any way. Thanks for reading!

Meow,

Kcatwoman.

The Long Line in Roxas Boulevard

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 12:43:00 +0000

Last night, we were riding the bus along Roxas Boulevard, and we saw so many people lining up in super long queues. How could I describe it... hmmm. Throngs of people were lined up in an almost snake-like line that never seemed to end and we realized as we saw from the bus that the line started back in Mall of Asia. I thought it was just one of those really awful commute days that happen almost thrice a week now (thanks to our trustee MMDA officers. I swear, whenever I see an official in blue uniform, I know I'm going to have a difficult commute!). Anyway, we realized these people were not lining up to get a ride home but they were actually lining up for some event. We saw fireworks too. What really awes me is that those people actually had the patience to stay on that super long line just to get to whatever that important event was. There was even a possibility that it would rain. Well anyway,... what we noticed was that the crowd control was not very effective during this time. The queue of people actually reached until the huge highway .Some people were stepping on the main road outside the side street oblivious to the dangers of being hit by the fast moving vehicles. People were not meant to go beyond the safety of the sidewalks. More effective safety measures like for example, barricades, could've been set up to prevent the people from any untoward road accidents since they have been stepping on the main road already. And this is all for the sake of some event!A few stanchions and velvet ropes here and there could keep the line more orderly and less stressful for both the people on the line and for the even coordinators, as well.

I kept wondering what that super important happening was, that people were actually willing to put aside their safety for it. I found out that it was the annual Muziklaban - or rock band contest that was held in the very accessible Mall of Asia grounds. This event did not charge anything for entrance fee and that was maybe the reason why people were so willing to stay on queue amidst the possibility of rain, stampede, or automobile dangers. Okay, so maybe the stampede part was too exaggerated , but come'on people, nothing should be more important than your own safety. It shouldn't matter that the entrance fee is free!

Fixing the value of Gold

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 13:30:00 +0000

As I am starting my career, and earning my own money, I begin to think about the future ahead of me. I'm sure everyone would like to find themselves secure within the next few years, within the next few decades, and all throughout retirement. It's always great to think about our individual (and our family's) financial future so we can experience contentment and be able to do the things we love without worrying. It also pays to be wise with the way we save and invest.

I've read amazing and helpful articles that helped me know wise investment ideas. I never thought that buying gold coins, gold bullion or other precious metals can be investments, too. As I read, I've learned that the price of gold is stable that it has outperformed other stocks especially since it's a stable and profitable vehicle as the article says. Of course, it's gold! It's not made just by cash or figures but of the real form of wealth and trade that has been used for many years.

Spot gold price or just gold price is set to provide a recognized rate for markets around the world. Gold prices are fixed by 5 important banks around the world : Deutsche Bank, HSBC, Scotia-Mocatta, Barclays Capital, and Societe Generale.Societe Generale has recently replace other prestigious banks like Johnson Matthey and CSFB and is currently holding the fifth seat in gold price fixing in the world. Gold spot fixing is definitely an important aspect in determining the value of gold and has in fact, been done even way back in history.

So I hope this article has helped open your mind on other profitable and smart ways of investing!

Thank you!

Nice One KFC ?

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sat, 18 Dec 2010 10:15:00 +0000

We finally meet! Chomp, chomp:)

In the evenings at our local KFC, the Double Down Sandwich is always SOLD OUT, so I was extremely excited to find that the last time I visited the chain for dinner, the 'controversial' sandwich was finally available. Good thing I still had a few hundred pesos on the wallet and so, at last, I managed to be able to try THE EPIC Double Down.
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To those who still do not know what a Double Down is , although I doubt that since Pinoys love to eat anything even if it's high blood inducing,( uhmm --- especially if it's high blood inducing!), the Double Down is " one-of-a-kind sandwich [that] features two thick and juicy boneless white meat chicken filets (Original Recipe® or Grilled), two pieces of bacon, two melted slices of Monterey Jack and pepper jack cheese and Colonel's Sauce. This product is so meaty, there’s no room for a bun! ". (words taken from the KFC site)
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Anyways, to start, I opened the sandwich wrap and the oil was literally dripping down the wrapper. To be honest I was worried by the dripping oil and it's effect on my cholesterol levels but I was also excited to take a bite. I started taking pictures to document. At first I thought, how come this sandwich looks so much bigger in the ads and posters? However, halfway through, I was already thinking.. "How am I ever going to finish this?".. meaning, it was kind of big a meal for me. I started craving for rice or any type of carbs to eat with the meat since I only ordered the sandwich. The taste? Well, it's KFC chicken so of course it's alright. It's a little too salty though what with the bacon and the sauce and the cheese so my suggestion for those who want to try it would be to order some fries, or potatoes or maybe, rice. I wish I tried it with rice. (Haha I am a proud Pinoy who loves my rice). Anyway, to be honest there isn't anything special with the Double Down burger. But in all fairness, at the time I ate this sandwich, I was not entirely hungry, I ate something else before. Also, my brother totally loves the Double Down so I guess we each have our opinions on it's taste. One thing's for sure, it's total winner in the KFC menu. So overall I think they did a great job marketing the chicken sandwich.
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I don't recommend it though to people who have high-cholesterol-related ailments. I am a person who doesn't usually care about fatty content when I eat since I also love deep fried food. But this one was really dripping with oil which is kind of worrisome. I'm not sure if it's supposed to be like that or the cook just wasn't able to drain the fat properly before serving.I hope they should be responsible enough next time to wipe off the excess oil.
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This is also not great to eat when you're trying to impress a date. The chicken sticks on your teeth ! hahaha. Total LOL moment for me since I was unable to bring my hygiene kit(containing toothbrush) and I had to be somewhere else. I needed to meet people afterwards so I kept sucking at my teeth hoping that no chicken fibers remain stuck there. I know it's disgusting so sorry!
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Well that was my Double Down experience. Hope that you share yours.

Best of the best in Showtime.. Please watch!!!

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 13:23:00 +0000

Nothing beats Pinoy talent in this emotion-stirring gymnastics routine featured in Showtime..
World class! To think that they're just students in highschool and elementary :) wow

Glee - Teenage Dreams episode could be it's best, ever?

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sat, 13 Nov 2010 14:42:00 +0000

This scene almost made me cry. Yay for Kurt and every girl out there who dreams to find the perfect guy and found him...

And i love this mashup of the girls too !!! these girls are pro rockstars. theyre awesome

Glee is inTOXICating!

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 14:29:00 +0000

Oh the pure geniusness of Glee! Who knew Toxic would sound so good!!! I mean it was sung by a guy and a whole choir.. so utterly amazing.http://img833.imageshack.us/i/gleetoxicofficialful.mp4/

Eating in Manila: not your usual food blog post

noreply@blogger.com (kcatwoman) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 14:32:00 +0000

Hi guys :)

Ebi Fry Don from Karate Kid

Well, I just wanna share with you a great meal that I enjoyed last night. I am not a certified foodie and certainly not a very adept food critic. I'm just a simple Pinay girl who wants to try out the delectable food that I see around town. Last night, I ate this wonderful Ebi Fry Don at Karate kid, which is fried shrimp with rice topped with egg that was cooking right on my very hot bowl as it was being served. Arrrg, I'm salivating just thinking about it now. I guess the tempura and rice combination always tastes good to the filipino palate.And the meal's affordable too at 115. I also learned that Karate kid offers refillable rice. The things that you can have nowadays ever since the advent of "UNLI" -- Unlitext, unlicalls and UNLI RICE. It's a great marketing strategy since they cater to class B and C. Of course, the masang Pinoys would really eat up the refillable rice offer. Wow, I'm promoting Karate kid a lot (haha). I guess I really enjoyed this rice bowl!

The food I ate may not be as expensive or sosy as the food being featured in most self-confessed foodie blogs out there. But we Filipinos are really lucky since there are so many food restaurants and chains here whose menus are reasonably priced and still within most of our pay scales. Some US blogs feature places where they could eat 2 dollar lunches. Actually they're already quite lucky if they get a whole meal for as low $2 (P100). A meal in the US might be a sandwich or meat & carbs but meals here in our country is almost always synonymous to rice and ulam (viand). In the Philippines, we can eat ulam and (a lot of) rice under P100 -- sometimes even less than P50! Paotsin is an example. That fried food store is such a runaway success that I wish I could franchise even just one store.Even McDo, Jollibee and KFC always offer value meals so that there's a choice for each Filipino. Here's an entire meal I ate under P100. I even ordered dessert with it :)

burger steak, fries and peach mango pie :)

So I can really say that the Manila is such a food haven for me and I guess for most of us.I can eat great food without hurting my budget. I will always love to eat here in this city. I think that we bloggers should blog more about the things that we eat on a daily basis. It tells the truth about our lives.For example, if you enjoyed the food that you ate at a turo turo or a carinderia at lunch today, that is blog-worthy already. Cause it's something that's true about your way you live your life. If we enjoy simple food or simple things, even if it's not so bonnga like those featured in other blogs, it's still what we enjoy so it's what is unique about us.

I guess this would be the start of featuring my delicious below-100-peso lunches in this blog. Let's hope it sparks interest in most Pinoy 'eaters'. Share yours too please!

Kain na po!