When I got interested in makeups, I didn't know what products to buy, what specific tools or whatever.

People love the way I draw my brows, but believe me, my eyebrows were a mess and I was always asking for my friend's help to put my eyeliner, I wasn't good at makeup.
For this post, no matter how embarrassing this is, I will be sharing the transition to when I started learning how to do my makeup up to now.

This is to encourage everyone that are not YET good with something they love to do.
I started using makeup when I was in college because I had to. Everyone was pretty and I don't want to look haggard or "dugyot" that's how we call it in the Philippines.
I had a liquid foundation, a mascara, powder foundation and lipstick. Those were the first items on my pouch.

Eyebrows weren't that big of a deal before. LOL

Say hi to my photobomber. :D

I seriously look like an alien without eyebrows T.T

After a long time, I finally decided to learn how to do my eyebrows and how to put an eyeliner, it was messy at first. I didn't know how to properly draw an eyebrow and I hated looking at photos during the times when my eyebrows were poorly drawn.

Look at my freaking eyebrows :(

The eyeliner is just.. I have no words for it

After some time, I finally found the best product for my eyebrows, I decided to take them seriously. I also upgraded the brands that I use. I practiced how to properly blend foundation, I watched too many tutorials so that I could get it right.

After so many practices, I haven't mastered the art of eyebrows yet but at least they were decent looking.

See the improvement of the eyebrows. Hihi

It wasn't perfect but it's getting there

After so many attempts

Hi, everyone! There are a lot of comebacks lately that's why my feels are exploding and MAMA 2016 is coming soon so I decided to write something to ease my fangirl mind. Or heart. I would like to dedicate this blog post fo my fellow Kpop fans, or other fandoms I belong to as well.

Being a fan makes us happy, it gives us joy that no one would understand apart from our fellow fans, but sometimes it can also make us sad. Sad to the fact that no matter what you do, your idols will not recognize you. There are millions of fans in the world and the chance of you getting to know them is like .1%. LOL.
Enough chitchat, here are my 5 tips on how to be the best fangirl/fanboy:

1. Always support them regardless of the ups and downs

It's important for our idols to feel loved and supported, we may be just a small portion of the fandom, but our support means so much to them. It means that their hard work pulled off. Our simple streaming, voting, buying their merch/album (although buying albums aren't really necessary if you can't afford something, make sure to work hard for it. Don't do inappropriate things just to go to a concert or buy an album) are some of the best ways to support them.
It's also important to give them the most support when they are facing too many issues. It's hard to be a star, so don't make it harder for them. Be sure that you'll give all the love and support despite the negative things.
Awards aren't important, what's important is we have them and they have us so don't be upset when they don't get the award that we want for them. Just support them, that's worth more than any trophy in the world.

2.  Know your limits

As a fan, you must know the limits between a fan and an idol. Don't own your oppas, they belong to the world, not just yours. Don't be overly attached to the point that when they start to date someone, we become upset about it. To avoid such pain, please know your limits.

I experienced this kind of attachment before, when I knew that one of my bias is going out with other girls, I got too upset, that was when I was still in college. It was too immature. I do understand what every fangirl go through, but for your own sake, know your limits.



3. Avoid fan wars

Joining a fan war doesn't prove anything. We don't need to defend or get to a fight just to make a point. Think about how your idols would think if they knew that you are bashing other groups. They wouldn't like it. Sometimes the fandom affects the idols as well. Just live in a peaceful world. Stop fan wars.

I have something to say about this by the way, especially to the newbies who started liking Kpop recently, stop bashing sunbaes or Generation 1 to 2 idols. During their time, they were not allowed to lip sync, unlike today, most of the performances are lip synced. But they killed every performance. So you have no right to say that the older Kpop groups are a flop, there's a reason why they are still in the industry. Even your idols respect them so much so if you really love your oppas, give the older generations of Kpop a lot of respect as much as they do.

4. Get to know your idols

I know we don't really get the chance to meet them personally, have a small chat, but there are other ways. Like trying to search for facts about them. Watch reality TV shows, you may not get to know them well, but you'll have the chance to get a glimpse of their personalities and who they are.

5. Lastly, love your fellow fans

We have that special connection because we understand what each other goes through. It is important for us to love each other. To bond with them. For me, I have never felt happier whenever I have new friends who share the same love for our idols. It doesn't matter if it's a new fan or an old fan, what's important is we understand how each other feels.
This is one of my favorite perks of belonging to a fandom, the friendship, the unity and the love you get from other fans. It's not a fandom, but a family.

Credits to SHINee World PH for this photo

Credits to SHINee World PH for this photo

There's no competition when it comes to being a fan, it doesn't matter if you have the complete set of albums, if you have joined every concert, those are just the bonus of being a fan. What's important is we support our idols, and we are always there for our fellow fans.

So there you have them, my 5 tips on how to become the best fangirl/boy. I know you have your own thoughts as well, I'd be so happy if you can share it with me in the comments below. Have a nice and lovely day! Enjoy spazzing.

Most of my friends ask me how I do my makeup on a daily basis, and it is very simple. I used to bake my face going out, but lately, I'm into simple, no make-up look, because it's not time-consuming, and you also won't worry much about your makeup fading at the end of the day. So here's a step by step list of my daily routine.

6. Blush and powder

7. Lastly, I put on my lipstick.

Hi, everyone! So I've been thinking a lot lately about what new blog post to share and started thinking, why not I share how I got into blogging.

Hey ladies! It's been a while since I last posted a review. I'm very excited to share my experience on this product since I've been dying to try this for so long, now that I finally have it, I can truly say that it's worth the wait.

I thought primers weren't that important until I met this primer. From now on, I will take note that primers are very very essential to our daily make-up routine, keep that in mind ladies. You should always prime your face.

But before that, let me have an introduction about this product and it's claims.

banila co. is one of the leading brand for Korean cosmetics, luckily for us Filipino, we now have access to its amazing and best selling products. I bought this primer through Lazada.com since it's one of banila co's trusted online shops here in the Philippines.

I got this for 1,060 PHP (around 22 $)

Product claims:

1. Blurring effect

Diffuses and deflects lights to blur imperfections and boost the radiance of base make up with soft focus finish.

2. Shiny Skin

A perfect blend of light-diffusing three addictive primary color pearl formula imparts soft higlights, gorgeous luminosity, and youthful radiance to skin.

3. Make-up boosting

Helps create a refined appearance and preps skin with a smooth, radiant finish. It's hydrating formula adds moisture-rich feel upon smooth skin-perfecting application.

This product also claims a "just like a photoshopped blut-out complexion finish".

Price: 

How to use: 

You can find more information about this product on banila co.'s website: www.banilaco.com

Swatches:

BEFORE

AFTER (You can see the shimmering, right?)

You know how Koreans love a glowy, radiant and healthy look, this product helps you achieve just that. But I have to admit, I was a bit shocked when I saw that it was shining shimmering splendid when I applied it. I panicked and thought that I wasted money so that my face could shine as in literally shine with glitters. But don't worry, once foundation / bb cream is applied, the glitters or the shimmering will no longer be visible. The three addictive primary color pearl formula as mentioned earlier is what causes the shining thing. It's actually one of its claims, to give you a glowing look.

So I put this product to the test, to see if it does last long, gives you a glowing look, and hydrates your face at the same time. Oh and also have that photoshopped effect and these are the results:

Pros:

• Stays long (as claimed)
• Gives you a glowing look (as claimed)
• Smoothens/preps/perfects your skin so that the foundation would be flawless
• It seriously gives a photoshopped effect on your face. (seriously guys, I'm not kidding)
• Good for dry skin
• Protects your skin
• Good for lazy people (like me) who hates retouching all over again

Cons:

• Too pricy (but it's worth it) 
• Might get you oily throughout the day because of the hydrating factors

MAKE-UP FOR 7 HOURS | NO RETOUCH | NO EDITS

AS YOU CAN SEE, THERE ARE SOME SPOTS FOR MY BLEMISHES BUT THEY'RE NOT THAT VISIBLE. SEEMS  LIKE MY FACE HAVE BEEN FILTERED WITH A GLOW / BLUR EFFECT BUT NO

FINAL CONLUSION:

OVERALL RATING:

5/5 (I'm not kidding)

If you guys have any suggestions, which good products should I try next, please do let me know on the comments below. I'd love to try them! Let me know if this was a helpful review. From now on, priming is important. Okay? ;)

Have a lovely day!

Dear Dawn,

Hi! It's me, your future self. You may be crying right at this moment maybe because you were spanked by mom, or you miss dad but hey. I'm here. I'm listening. I know there were times when you felt alone, when you felt like you're not important. But you're not alone, and you are important.

I know you don't feel beautiful and you claim yourself to be ugly, that's why when people tell you you are beautiful, you reject it. You never believed. When you did, you became boastful. Well, you are beautiful, believe it or not, you don't have to brag yourself to everybody else, believe me, there is this one guy who noticed you and he loves you for who you are.



Dawn, please don't rush into growing up. I know you might be far from your friends and you keep on complaining that you never liked school. Finish it, you have a great future ahead of you and some people are actually recognizing you for your talents and you being smart. Enjoy every bit of it.

I just want you to know that we're okay. We're doing fine. Life is a mess but it's okay. As long as I have you, and our memories, I'll be fine. I will always remember your jolliness, your quirkiness, your never ending questions, and how overly dramatic you were crying for the things that you shouldn't worry about. I love how you loved your toys like your own child. Every stuffed toy lasted, when they were broken, you never stopped crying. That's when I know you are such a genuine person.



I miss you. I wish I could feel the happiness again when you see your dad, I wish I could experience the joy again of playing outside like it's the best moment of our lives. I miss how we used to dream, how we believed our dreams are going to happen no matter what. I miss you.

It's hard to bring you back to where I am now but I promise you, I will always keep you here. To remember the things that made us happy, I'll keep you safe.

Please don't let the stress of growing up get to you. Talk to your family. Don't be such a kill joy. Don't hurt yourself just because of some guy. Please don't. You'll find the right one someday, and when you're ready, you'll know what love really means.

P.S You'll be fine, trust me,


Love,

Colourpop is one of the famous makeup brands in the United States, their liquid lipsticks are having a huge hype because of the quality and of course, the swatches are to die for. I discovered that my friend is a re-seller of famous Korean and US cosmetics, and I got my Colourpop Liquid Matte Lipstick from her. Her online shop is called beautypop.ph so for you guys residing here in the Philippines, you can get one from her.

It came with a very cute paper bag with the Beauty Pop Ph's contact information

Closer look

Pros:

I just came home from an awesome event and what I could I say? I was really uplifted by this person.

To those of you who are not familiar with Nick Vujicic (which I doubt there are) He's a motivational speaker and an evangelist from Australia who's born with no arms and legs. He started speaking and motivating students through schools and he became famous for sharing his awesome testimony and encouraging people with his famous line, TRY AGAIN.

This event was held in the Smart Araneta Coliseum and we chose to attend the 8PM session. Nick Vujicic was one of the speakers I look up to. I always listen to his podcasts which are very encouraging, you should listen to them too.

Francis Kong started the session. He is one of the famous inspirational speakers in the Philippines. The event started with his introduction and then he started his talk. This is not the usual Christian conference I attend to, usually the event starts with a praise and worship, with a band playing and all. But this didn't which is pretty cool.

Francis Kong talked about how to manage stress, how to take on life, how to take a risk and live your life to the fullest. These are some of his inspirational words that caught my attention tonight:

I apologize if the photos are not that good

"To be successful is an outcome, nothing worth while comes easy."

"Never feel sorry for yourself, it can make wrong decisions"

 "As long as may trabaho ka, may dangal ka. As long as hindi ka nagnanakaw" (As long as you have a proper job, you have your dignity. As long as you don't steal from others.) 

"Never let an old flame burn you twice"

 "Always give more than what you paid for"

"Comfort destroys usefulness" 

"There are instant noodles, instant coffees, and etc. But there is no such thing as an instant success"

So basically, Francis Kong talked about never giving up, and no matter what type of job you have, you must not feel sorry for yourself. Be happy, be contented. Strive hard, dream big. It's never too late to have a brand new beginning. He ended with the sentence "We all have one life to live, live it well. Life is a one time deal, but life on the other side of this planet is eternal."

I love Mr. Francis Kong's wittiness and how he makes everyone participate.


Now for the main event, Nick Vujicic started the session by taking a photo with the crowd. He was always cracking jokes, and I must admit. I was in owe seeing him, the man who inspired me to try again.

The lights were blocking the projector :(

His session talked about never giving up. He shared stories from his past experiences, how he was bullied in school. How he started to speak in schools and being rejected over and over and over again.

When he was born, his parents didn't know why he was born that way, the doctors didn't know why he was born that way, and even Lady Gaga didn't know why he was born that way (he said jokingly)
There are three things that would help you get through life, faith, family, and friends. Those are the most important things you must hold on to.

The whole session, he basically talked about how encouraging other people can make a lot of difference. He also left these questions hanging "Who are you? What do you want? And what are you gonna do next?

Nick's advice to the Filipinos is to Study the word, let it spread as long as we have the freedom to do so. Let every church be united and help one another. Stop putting a fellow Filipino down but encourage them. He was also consistent about encouraging people to visit an orphanage, visit hospitals with cancer patients, change their lives and be a part of their life, it will truly help you appreciate what you have and be more thankful.

This part struck me the most when Nick counted 30 seconds, and said "you have 30 seconds to breathe, 25... 20... That's it. How did you forgive people? How did you love people? How did you serve people? Were you patient with your wife? When was the last time you took her out on a date? When was the last time you did an activity with your kids? Don't just ask them about school, talk to them. Play games with them. 5 seconds.. Did you live your life well? How will you be remembered?"

I almost cried because I have been taking my life for granted. Not appreciating my parent's sacrifice. Buying things to satisfy me yet left unfulfilled. Always being angry with my partner and not appreciating the things he does for me. Facing my phone all day, connecting with thousands of people, yet not having a long conversation with my mom. That really hit me hard. How am I gonna be remembered? I wanted to do something out of the box, but I'm too scared of being uncomfortable. I'm too scared of being laughed at. I'm just too scared! And that's the point of this talk that no matter how hard you failed, you get back up. You can always try again! Never, ever be afraid to fail.

His talk encouraged me a lot and the challenge now is how would I apply it. I couldn't fit everything in this blog post but please visit his website http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/ and listen to his podcasts if you want to be encouraged. That's it for today, I hope you were encouraged as well! Let me know what you think.

I dedicate this blog post to my grandfather who passed away last week due to a car accident. I can still remember the scene when my father called me with the news saying that my grandfather is gone. I just went, huh? In my mind, I felt like he was just in the hospital trying to get better or something, that someone just exaggerated the news that he was gone. My heart and mind never accepted it.

Me and tatay on my 7th birthday

What went through my mind when I heard the news? Regrets. So many regrets. My grandfather was a tough old dude. He was always the angry one. What he wants is what he gets. But other than that, he was generous and kind. When it comes to his grandchildren, despite everything, he will be there, he used to give me money even when he had nothing left for himself.



I felt like I haven't been a good granddaughter to him. These are my regrets, I haven't even told him that I love him, that despite everything, he was still my idol. That I love how he loves my grandmother deeply. I never got to hug him one last time. The last time he went here, I haven't even spoken to him long enough. I haven't asked him how was his trip, was he tired? Did he want to eat? I can't even remember having a short conversation with him. I did not even greet him on his birthday. I was not able to treat him when I got my first payslip.



I haven't told him how I thankful I am for giving me the greatest dad in the world. During the funeral, those were the thoughts that haunted my mind. While I was sitting there, looking at his coffin, I can still feel that he was there, like at some point he would come through the door, nagging at how I sit like a boy. He would ask if I had eaten, and he would scold me for not finishing my meal. His death was not sinking in, or I just wouldn't accept it.

I haven't got the chance to spend time with him for a long time because of the distance.

His death was a shocker, an eye opener. These words, these tears, no matter how meaningful they are, it still means nothing because he wouldn't hear them. I think I can move on from this, but I will never move on from the fact that I did nothing. I was writing this with rivers of tears, It was sad, painful, but hopefully it will get better.



To my family, the ones that are left, let us not forget the meaningful life that tatay left. Let us not live in pain, but with lessons learned. Let us always recall the memories left from him and nanay. Let us promise to be complete without saying goodbye to another loved one. We may always be together in a tragic way, but at least we were together for a while. In the end, we always regret the chances we didn't take.








For now, we say goodbye to you tay, we will always remember you. Forever. I love you and I'm sorry.

Goodbye, tay!

Can you still remember the feeling when you first recited at school? The first time you stood on stage? The first time you had a crush on someone? Your first relationship? Heart break?

How about when you first entered college? Fresh start, fresh faces, fresh place. The first time you rode an airplane, the first time you traveled. 

Your first job interview? Getting your first payslip? Moving away from your family?

Every first time is exciting and scary at the same time. Just like a roller coaster ride. It requires courage and a positive attitude. You need to live your life  like how you ride a roller coaster. It's okay to be afraid, for a while. Be excited for what's ahead. Be prepared. The most important lesson? Choose who you want to spend the ride with. After all, the ride doesn't really matter, it's who you spend it with. I may not be with someone on my first ride but that's okay. At least I proved to myself that I can do anything, even without someone beside me. We all need to be alone for some time. 

The first part will always be the most extreme or the most scariest. As the ride goes on, every turn, every bump, every loop will be the most fun part. So hold on tight, enjoy the ride of your life. You'll never know what's next, but it will be the best experience! Sometimes you just want to close your eyes until it ends because you're too afraid, not knowing that that would have been the best part of your life.

Step out of your comfort zone, allow yourself to be free, scream at the top of your lungs.