Posted on Wednesday, 13 Aug 2008 @ 04:57 pm

Finally, after nearly a month, another post. I've been both busy and lazy lately, falling asleep as soon as I get home from work. I don't know why, I'm not exactly stressed from work, but most of the time I feel so tired.

However, more importantly, I was "busy" watching Tak Sakaguchi's films, looking for more J-Drama and movie titles to watch, and finishing my Zettai Kareshi review. I'm finally done with the ZK review (which I'll be posting soon, I realized I still have to do a few edits), and next on my list are Linda Linda Linda, Sakigake! Otokojuku (Be a Man! Samurai School), and Pacchigi.

Okay, I admit, there are a lot more things that have been keeping me really busy:

a. Manga.
I just finished reading Zettai Kareshi/Absolute Boyfriend's manga version, and I'm currently reading Wallflower/Perfect Girl Evolution.

b. PSP.
I'm re-playing (?) my old Playstation favorites, like Parasite Eve and Final Fantasy VII on my PSP. Not to mention my PSP favorites as well, such as Patapon and Taiko no Tatsujin. I keep postponing playing Silent Hill Origins though.

c. Poupee Girl.
Enough said. LOL.

d. Crafts.
I've been trying to crochet a nice hot pink and green phone pouch for Sephy's mom, but it looks like I my crocheting has gone rusty and I need more practice. T_T I've also decided to try sewing a nice fabric wallet and wristlet. There are also some pending amigurumi projects. Gaah.

e. Catching up on my reading.
I'm currently reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Yes, pretty late, because I wanted to read "in peace". And I couldn't borrow a copy from any of my friends back then (of course they were reading it LOL). I decided long ago to buy all HP books in hardbound once they're all out, and re-read them all over again, that's why I don't have a single HP book on my bookshelf.

f. I've been thinking a lot.
About some random stuff, like a new layout for my site, new pixels for the Sweet Shop, and how to rearrange my room.


And now, for the FRIDAY FIVE stuff I missed:

August 8, 2008

1. Smells, and memories. Do you have a scent that when you smell it, brings up a memory? Do share.
- No, as of the moment, I can't think of anything.

2. Songs. Is there a particular song that brings back happy memories? Song title and memory, if you care to share that much.
- Spice Girls songs. They remind me of my best friends since we were in 5th grade. We used to sing and dance to Spice Girls songs, and pretty much collect every SG collectible we could find.

3. How about a song that brings up painful memories? Song title and memory, if you care to share that much.
- I don't think I remember anything about this anymore. LOL.

4. Food. Is there a certain food that conjures up memories?
- Zagu's Creme Brulee. Reminds me of college days and Sephy.

5. Clothing? Do you have an item of clothing or if you see a certain item, does it make you think of a time/place or person?
- No.


August 1

1. Name one movie you wish everybody could watch.
- City of Angels.

2. Name two books you wish everybody could read.
- The Tokyo Zodiac Murders by Soji Shimada, and Ring by Koji Suzuki.

3. Name three goals you wish everybody could achieve.
- Finish school, follow dreams, get the dream job.

4. Name four people you wish everybody could know.
- L'Arc~en~Ciel. That's Hyde, Tetsu, Ken, and Yukihiro. ^______^

5. Name five places you wish everybody could visit.
- The Pyramids of Giza, The Parthenon, Angkor Wat, The Louvre Museum, and Fountain of Trevi.

July 25

1. What type of hair do you have? (Thin, Normal, Thick, Frizzy, etc.)
- A bit thick and frizzy.

2. What color is your hair currently?
- Black.

3. What colors have you dyed/highlighted your hair?
- Haven't tried coloring my hair yet.

4. If you could dye your hair any color, what would it be?
- Brown, or violet, if I'm feeling a little bit edgy. LOL

5. What is your hair's length?
- Nearly waist-length, but it doesn't show since I tie my hair in a bun most of the time.



P.S. I "made" my avatar
on faceyourmanga.com.
Does it look like me? =p

Posted on Sunday, 20 Jul 2008 @ 12:16 pm

Last week, I was so thrilled to be at the Eiga Sai film fest with Sephy. I wasn't really feeling good back then, but it didn't keep me from enjoying Linda Linda Linda (my personal favorite!) and Pacchigi. Sephy particularly loved the brawly Pacchigi, especially because Tak Sakaguchi was there! I'm three films away from my 5-film target, and hopefully I'd get to complete them this August. I'd be watching at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, where Mom is working.

Speaking of Tak Sakaguchi, Sephy and I have been on Tak-kun addiction--we've been watching a lot of Tak's movies! We especially enjoyed Death Trance and Sakigake!! Otokojuku (Be A Man! Samurai School). I still have Versus, Cromartie High School - The Movie (live action), and Shinobi: Heart Under Blade to watch.

Also, I have my copies of Nana 2 (live action), Kurosagi (live action movie), Samurai 7 (Akira Kurosawa movie), and Nobuta wo Produce! Looks like I have a lot to watch, and more movie/j-drama reviews to make. I've started writing one for Zettai Kareshi (which I watched the whole day last Sunday), and I'm planning to write short mini-reviews for the Eiga Sai '08 movies that I'll get to watch.

I've been too lazy again, and I keep forgetting about Friday Five. >_< Anyway, here they are:

JULY 17

1. If you could change one life-changing event in the life of someone important to you, would you?
- Hmmm. Maybe.

2. Which do you think is easier to do, being friends for many years, or being life partners for many years?
- Being friends for many years, definitely.

3. Have you ever walked away from someone you considered a friend?
- Yes, because she did it first.

4. If you had to choose between telling the truth and hurting a friend or lying and making them happy, which would you choose?
- Tell the truth.

5. Which would you rather hear--the truth which will hurt, or the comforting lie?
- Hear the truth, at all costs.


JULY 11

1. Do you have a favourite cause that you support?
-I'm against animal abuse, but I'm not really active in supporting it.

2. If so, how do you support it?
- NA

3. Have you been an active member of an organization (attending meetings, volunteering etc)?
- No, there's simply no time T__T

4. Have you ever led any group?
- I used to be the president of a writing guild in high school.

5. If so, how was your experience with it?
- It was memorable, but I hated how the kids back then disliked the challenge of writing, and were more interested in the boring, no-brainer stuff.

Posted on Wednesday, 09 Jul 2008 @ 12:35 am

FINALLY. THE AWFUL LONG WAIT IS OVER.

I've long waited for Eiga Sai 2008, and it has just started yesterday. It's a Japanese free-for-all Film Festival sponsored by Japan Foundation of Manila that lasts for about two months, in celebration of Philippines-Japan Friendship Month. The Foundation gives the Philippines the chance to watch some of the most interesting and critically-acclaimed films in Japan for free. Yep, that's what's gotten me so thrilled.

This year's roster of films (go here for synopses and reasons to love it):

1. Kuratta kajitsu (Juvenile Jungle)
2. Kûchû teien (Hanging Garden)
3. Kanaria (Canary)
4. Unmai janai hito (A Stranger of Mine)
5. Linda Linda Linda
6. Pachiggi! (We Will Overcome Someday)
7. Toki wo kakeru shôjo (The Girl Who Lept Through Time) (Anime)
8. Chibi Maruko-chan (Anime)

I want to watch 5 (Canary, A Stranger of Mine, Linda Linda Linda, Pachiggi, and The Girl Who Leapt Through Time), and I've convinced Sephy to go with me. We're planning to watch three films this Saturday.

Also, I finally finished watching Densha Otoko! I loved it. I'm hoping I won't be too busy/lazy this weekend so I can write a review. Next on my list are:

TV Series:
1. Akihabara @ Deep
2. Zettai Kareshi (Absolute Boyfriend)
3. Sexy Voice and Robo
4. Hachimitsu to Clover
5. Nobuta o Produce
6. Kimi wa Petto
7. Ikebukuro West Gate Park

Movies:
8. Death Trance
9. Sakigake! Otokojuku (Be a Man! Samurai School)
10. Versus
11. Cromartie High School: The Movie
12. Shinobi: Heart Under Blade

Errr.. that's quite a lot. I'm crossing my fingers and I'm hoping I'll get to watch all of these!

Do you have some more J-Drama/Movies in mind that should make it to my list? I'd love to know about it!

Posted on Sunday, 06 Jul 2008 @ 11:12 pm

I've been sleepy a lot lately, and these past weeks I fall asleep easily as soon as I get home. I've been meaning to do some J-Movie/J-Drama reviews this weekend, but the past days were a bit busier than usual so I decided to rest. Those and more updates will follow soon, I hope!

BTW, I have Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil(by John Berendt) and the two REMOTE manga (I bought from the 2008 ToyCon) on my reading list. Also, I'm nearly finished watching Densha Otoko, and hopefully I'd get on with the rest of the stuff on my to-watch list: Akihabara@Deep, Zettai Kareshi (Absolute Boyfriend), Sexy Voice and Robo, Kimi wa Petto, Hachimitsu to Clover (Live Action), and Nobuta o Produce. Just to name a few. Hopefully, I'd shake laziness off my shoulders, resist sleeping right away once I get home from work, and get started with all of these soon!

So for now, here are some Friday Five stuff:


July 4

1. What drink wakes you up best in the morning?
- Coffee, of course.

2. During the day, what do you drink to keep going?
- More coffee, mango juice or iced tea

3. Do you drink the recommended 8 glasses of water per day? Why/why not?
- I think so. No particular reason, I guess.

4. What are the ingredients of your favorite mixed drink? (Doesn't have to be alcoholic!)
- Strawberry Daiquri and Sprite, Apple Juice/Cranberry Juice and Iced Tea

5. Are you a coffee drinker? How do you take your coffee, if so?
- Yup yup! I like it hot and a bit strong. And I very much like it when it's Hazelnut flavor (from Nescafe~).


June 27

1. You have the summer and plenty of money to travel abroad. Where all would you go?
- JAPAN, Korea, France, Greece.

2. What foods would you be sure you got to eat?
- Lots of Sushi.

3. What landmarks would you be sure you got to see?
- Temples, ruins, shopping districts, historical places.

4. What airline would you use?
- Any would do, as long as it would take me where I plan to be.

5. Would your knowledge of other languages influence where you went? (i.e. would you be more likely to go to France if you spoke French)
- Hmmm... not really.


June 20

1) what is one thing about you that you hate?
- MY HAIR.

2) what is one thing about you that you love?
- Hmmm...

3) if you had to change one thing about you what would it be and why?
- My hair, because it annoys me too much.

4) what is one word that you would use to define yourself?
- Different, I guess.

5) imagine what you would look like in a perfect world...what do you look like?
- Rich, talented, beautiful. ROFL.


June 12

1. Did you get an allowance as a kid, and if so, how much was it?
- Yes, about Php. 50 - 100 (like $1-2; but it was sort of more than enough for me. Everything was cheap back then! LOL that makes me seem so old!)

2. How old were you when you had your first job, and what was it?
- I was 21. I worked as a web content writer.

3. Which do you do better: save money or spend money?
- I do best at saving money that I intend to spend soon! (Like saving for a shopping spree LOL)

4. Are people more likely to borrow money from you, or are you more likely to borrow from them?
- A bit of both, but most of the time, I avoid borrowing money from other people.

5. What's the most expensive thing you've ever bought?
- An air-conditioning unit for my room.

Posted on Thursday, 19 Jun 2008 @ 04:54 pm

...for my Pinky dolls. Not that they're crippled or something, I just found some hot legs that would fit nicely on Pinky dolls.

The obsession began while I was checking the Kalye Pinky flickr group yesterday, and saw the post Nina made about some gorgeous legs (and nice shoes too) for Pinky dolls.

They're called Kokoro legs, and they feature legs that let Pinky dolls sport some Crocs! I'm not a big fan of Crocs (the usual designs you can find, but I like the more recent designs) on people, but I think they look pretty nice on Pinky dolls! I'm sooooo drooling over all these:






Standing Kokoro Legs:




Sitting Kokoro Legs:




Kokoro Skirts that match the sitting legs:




Both the sitting and standing legs sell for $2 unpainted, $5 painted. The skirts, I'm not sure yet. Visit Kokoro Shoe Shop for more pictures and details!


Nina is asking if anyone wants to group order, and I'm seriously and carefully contemplating whether I should join them. I really, seriously, deliriously want these f*cking delicious legs. Sorry for the f*ck. LMAO.

Posted on Wednesday, 18 Jun 2008 @ 12:22 am

Last June 14 and 15, Sephy and I went to the 7th Philippine Toys, Hobbies, and Collectibles Convention held at Megamall. Better known as ToyCon, it is an annual event where all collectors and hobbyists gather around to celebrate their passion for, well... toys and collectibles!

In a nutshell, you can find Marvel comics, anime, manga, exhibits, and toy figures in ToyCon. Cosplay is also a part of the event, and many anime fans take part and enjoy themselves in the said segment. Toy collectors also anticipate the event since they can buy new toys to replenish their growing collection.

Okay, enough of the crappy intro. LOL.


JUNE 14

Anyway, Sephy and I went there early on Saturday, and the line to the ticket booth was already super long at 10 a.m. (around the time the mall opens). We got inside the Megatrade Hall after an hour, I think. It was worth the wait though. We were also with Kezzy, who we met about an hour after we got inside.

Our first stop was a shop selling cute paperweights and slabs, where we also found some minature food erasers. Sephy and I thought they'd make good props for my Pinky dolls and his Yotsuba, so we bought some. My next stop was a booth selling cute plush toys and keychains, where I bought a panda keychain coin purse and a Frog Style plushie. Next, we went to the Sanrio booth, where I bought a nice Hello Kitty hotdog tako pen and Hello Kitty in kimono odoriko phone charm (which matches the Hello Kitty earrings I bought last year).

Around 1 p.m., Kezzy had to meet her boyfriend so Sephy and I decided to have lunch. We had Tonkatsu Curry at Rai Rai Ken. Yummy, it became my instant favorite (I used to like Ebi Curry only.)!

I was hoping to find some Pinky dolls, but unfortunately, Kalye Pinky wasn't able to get a booth. KP is the only sure way for me to find Pinky dolls, but since there was no booth, I decided to look around. I couldn't find any. T___T So I just went along with Sephy and Lez (one of our best buddies and manga guru LOL) as they checked each booth and looked around for some model kits and figures.

Although my Pinky mission failed (LOL), I found a lot of goodies though. And in place of a Pinky, I bought 2 Peto-Peto San figures. I've been wanting to buy them since I first heard that they resemble Pinky dolls, and their heads actually fit nicely on Pinkies.


The highlight of the day for me and Sephy would probably be running into the famed Hard Gay cosplayer, Hard Gay Philippines! He has caught the attention of many cosplayers and HG fans since he began cosplaying the Japanese comedian, and now has a fairly large fanbase. Sephy and I are smitten. LOL. Sephy brought out the HG Stitch we bought at Multiply last week, to the surprise of everyone! HGP even wanted to buy it from Sephy! Sephy had his 'moment' with HG Stitch and Hard Gay Philippines caught on cam, and I wasn't the only one who took a snapshot!



JUNE 15

I had second thoughts about going there the next day, but Veronica, one of my best buddies at my previous work, said she was going, so I decided to go and meet her there. Before meeting her, I went back to a booth selling kawaii stuffed toys and plushies. I found a purple Afroken and a dancing Korilakkuma (battery-operated). I couldn't resist, so I bought them both. LOL.

Sephy and Lez were there too, and after spending some time with Veronica, I went with them and two more friends, Leo and Benjo. Later we had our pictures taken for free in one of the booths (argh, will post them later), and they turned out nicely!

Later in the afternoon I spotted some limited edition Pinky dolls! There was also an accessory set of guns for Pinky dolls. Too bad I didn't have enough money to buy at least one doll. Since they're limited ed, they're priced higher and my wallet started yapping that I couldn't afford them. Not yet. LOL.

Before we went home, Lez and I checked some manga being sold for Php. 100 - 300. He spotted Volume 1 and 2 of Remote, priced Php. 150 each, and handed it over to me. That was pretty cheap for a good manga, so I couldn't resist.

So with all that, I ended up broke. But happy!

We took a lot of pictures, and I guess showing them would be better than anything I would manage to write here. So, here they are!

www.flickr.com

READ SEPHY'S POST HERE AND VIEW PICTURES HE TOOK HERE!



P.S.
I know this is quite crappy,
but hopefully I'll be able to
edit it one of these days.
x___x

Posted on Sunday, 08 Jun 2008 @ 10:42 pm

Early this afternoon, while I was watching CNN with my parents, the breaking news around 2 p.m. shocked me.

A 25-year-old Japanese man ran over a group of Sunday shoppers with a rented 2-ton truck then went on a stabbing spree in Akihabara around 12:30 p.m. Japan time. On the latest update posted in CNN's website, at least 7 victims--five men, a woman, and a victim of unknown gender--were killed in the incident. There were also eleven injured, two being in critical condition. In a Yahoo! News report, the suspect, identified as Tomohiro Kato, said he "was tired of life" and came to Tokyo's video game district to kill people.

Just several months ago, a similar incident occurred in Ibaraki Prefecture, wherein a 24-year-old man went on a stabbing spree outside a shopping center. According to a Japan Times report dated March 24, 2008, Ibaraki Prefectural Police arrested Masahiro Kanagawa near the crime scene shortly after he attacked eight people (one killed, seven injured). The police also said that Kanagawa was placed on the wanted list two days before the stabbing spree, on the suspicion that he was behind the murder of a 72-year-old man. Reports also mentioned that Kanagawa went to Akihabara on the day he was put on the wanted list by the police. Coincidentally, the stabbing incident also occurred on a Sunday.

For reports about the Akihabara stabbing spree, go to:
1. http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/06/08/japan.stabbing.spree/index.html
2. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080608/ap_on_re_as/japan_stabbing
3. http://www.akibanana.com/


I found the Akihabara stabbing spree a bit timely (if you can put it that way) since it so happened that one of the Japanese television series I'm watching is Akihabara@DEEP. It focuses on the struggles of a group of young otaku in Akihabara, and their efforts to help others like them. One of the key issues in the series is violence against otaku, who are considered as social misfits and outcasts. I'm planning to make a review about Akihabara@DEEP, and hopefully I'd be able to get started with it soon.


So that's about it for Akihabara-related stuff. Now, for some Friday Five:

1. If you had to participate in one olympic event what would it be and why?
- Perhaps I'd just cover the event/write something about it.

2. What is the one song you always sing along to?
- I think I do pretty good on most songs that I like, it's just that I don't sing (like on karaoke/videoke) a lot.

3. Do you wear a seatbelt in the car?
- I don't have a car LOL

4. Car, suv or truck and why?
- A car, it's more personal, I guess.

5. Are you a good/bad drive? explain (sic)
- I don't drive.

Posted on Monday, 02 Jun 2008 @ 11:20 pm

Yep, I'm posting every Friday Five episode I missed. It's quite a long list! Hopefully I'd be able to make some proper updates one of these days. I've been too lazy, I know! T___T



May 30
"With the following phrases, post a single image of the strongest thought/idea that pops into your head."
1.) Favorite Food:
- SUSHI!

2.) Least Favorite Food:
- Anything that I find unappealing or something.

3.) Favorite Thing:
- Books, PSP, Multi-colored Holga, Sephy, Momo!

4.) Least Favorite Thing:
- Mainstream Hiphop.

5.) A phobia:
- Bugs.

6.) An addiction:
- Video games, coffee, Momomomo, books.


May 22
1. What were some of the smells and tastes of your childhood?
- Fresh grass, dirt, rain.

2. What did you have as a child that you do not think children today have?
- Lots of playtime outdoors. Not a lot of children spend time outdoors these days.

3. What elementary grade was your favorite?
- Hmmm. 5th grade, perhaps.

4. What summer do you remember the best as a child?
- I can't remember any. LOL. I try to make most of out every summer vacation back then.

5. What one piece of advice would you give to your younger self, and at what age?
- Follow your dreams! Around 13 or so.


May 16
1. What's your favourite TV network?
- Animax and KBS World, if those count.

2. If you could create your own channel, what would it be?
- Errr... I have no idea.

3. What TV show did you watch as a child, that you wish they would bring back?
- Strangebrew! (LOL actually I can't remember anything I want to watch from childhood.)

4. What show have you always hated, and wonder why they ever made such a dumb show?
- Reality shows. Duh.

5. What TV show's seasons would you buy on DVD?
- Heroes, Prison Break, Supernatural, Roswell, CSI.


May 9
1. If you knew that you had only one day left to live, what would you do for the 24 hours?
- Watch J-Drama/J-movies while snacking on some cheese-flavored popcorn.

2. Do you think that life has meaning?
- Maybe.

3. What was your favourite childhood toy/object, or some of your favourites?
(Remember childhood according to the United Nations is anywhere from 0-18 years, so this is a fairly broad span of time).
- Playstation, Sega Mega Drive, Gameboy.

4. When you clasp your hands, do you put your right thumb over your left thumb, or your left thumb over your right thumb?
- Left thumb over right thumb.

5. If you had to teach the most ignorant person on earth the most difficult thing you have ever learned, how would you go about doing it?
- I have no idea. Haha.


May 2
1. What's one of the nicest things a friend has ever done for you?
- Remain my best friend for the last 10 years or so.

2. What's one of the nicest things a stranger has ever done for you?
- Pick up the hanky I dropped and go after me just to give it back.

3. What is a trait in another person that you instantly admire, and that draws you to them?
- TALENT.

4. What is a trait in another person that instantly repels you, and prevents you from forming a close relationship with them?
- Mediocrity.

5. Time to vent: tell us about something rotten someone has done to you.
- That's a long and horrid story.


April 25
1. What's harder to live without, chocolate or alchohol?
- Chocolate.

2. Does the colour yellow remind you of anything?
- Tweety Bird.

3. Who most annoyed you last week?
- None.

4. Do you have a cutesy romantic nickname for your partner (or previous partners)?
- Daddy-pu. ^^

5. What is your favourite Stephen King movie?
- Errrr... nada.


April 18
1. Love at First Sight: Fact or Fiction?
- FICTION

2. Fortune Telling: Fact or Fiction?
- FICTION

3. Other Life: Fact or Fiction?
- FACT

4. Afterlife: Fact or Fiction?
- FACT

5. Bigfoot: Fact or Fiction?
- FICTION

Posted on Tuesday, 06 May 2008 @ 05:13 pm

I know it's been so long since my last post, and yes it's because I'm out of bumhood (finally!). I'm not really busy, but lazy rather. And I guess I'm still adjusting to work and stuff. So, yeah, sorry for the late updates.

I'm now working as a writer for a beauty website. Right now I'm tasked to post product descriptions and stuff on the website as they're expanding to include product information and product reviews. It's a lot easier compared to my previous job, and the pay is so much better! Everyone has been nice to me, especially one of the bosses, a pretty Japanese lady. She has been talking to me a lot, and from my first day at work, she always makes sure that I'm comfortable. My immediate superior and the clients I'm working with are really nice too.

I was also thrilled to find out early this afternoon that an old friend and writing buddy,Nicole, and I are working in the same office! Small world, so she says!

I'm also learning a lot about beauty and wellness because of work, and I'm now lusting over some hot cosmetics and skincare items too! My wishlist has started to swell with recent additions from brands like MAC, Revlon, Smashbox, and Elianto. I'm not exactly a make-up junkie, but I know for a fact that finding (and using) the right make-up can be handy at times.

I'm thinking of stopping Project 365. *sniff* I don't think I'll be able to take nice pictures everyday since I'm at the office now most of the time. I don't really want to, but I haven't taken any pictures since last week. Oh well. Maybe I'll start with a new photography project that is a bit more flexible, perhaps once I finally have a nice lomo cam. =)

This week, I'll post the Friday Five stuff I missed. Hmmm I can't think of any more stuff to update, so I guess that's it!


P.S.
I want some boots and
maryjanes from Sugar.
T__________________T

Posted on Wednesday, 23 Apr 2008 @ 02:22 am

WARNING: REALLY LONG POST!

Every now and then I get to encounter people who are so rude that I so desperately want to scream at them and tell them to shut up. Sometimes it irritates me because I rarely go out and I rarely mingle with people. And of all the people to meet during these rare chances, I encounter more of the rude types compared to the nice ones.

I'm not used to conversing with people of all attitude types, and I only talk to someone after I get to know him or her for quite some time. I thought about it for bit, and it led me to realize that I don't even like to engage in "friendly" conversations with cab drivers the way some people (like my parents) do.

Why did I mention cab drivers? Because some cab drivers can be pretty rude. I have my own share of unfortunate experiences with rude and annoying taxi drivers, including one where my classmate and I were forced to get off before we even reached our destination so he could avoid heavy traffic (and he didn't give us the change! The bastard!).

Early last night, there was yet another encounter with the rude and annoying kind. Mom, Dad, and I took a cab home after we bought an airconditioning unit for my room. The driver started yapping about the AC unit we bought, saying that it's not a good choice because the brand is of poor quality. Mom and Dad were generally quiet about it, but also argued discreetly that it's not entirely a poor choice.

I found that really rude. Why should he comment so badly on something that the passengers had just bought? Does it concern him? And would such comment prove beneficial to the passengers now that they've bought it? I started to feel irritated, but I kept quiet.

My parents have this annoying habit of talking to taxi drivers. I'm not entirely against it, but I think it's not a good idea to talk to them since they're technically strangers. You don't know where the conversation can lead to, and you don't know what kind of reaction you'll get. It's not a good idea to talk to strangers especially if they're on the driver's seat. At least for me.

In this case, the conversation soon led to how many children my parents have, who is the eldest, who has finished schooling, and finally, the course I took in college. It went something like this: (Sorry for the rough translation; my parents were also talking, but I wanted to stress the conversation between me and the rude driver.)


Dad: "Media. Journalism."

Rude Driver (turning to me): "Aba, malakas ba loob mong tumira ng pulis at pulitiko? buo ba loob mong pumunta sa mga delikadong lugar saka delikadong trabaho?" (So, are you brave enough to criticize policemen and politicians? Do you have the guts to go to dangerous places and take on dangerous jobs?)

Me (in a joking tone): "Ay hindi ko po type ang politics." (Oh, politics is not my type.)

RD: "Kung gusto mong sumikat, mag-radyo ka muna." (If you want to be famous, start in radio [broadcasting].)

Me (still in a less serious tone): "Naku ayoko din po sa radyo. Lalo na kung pulitika, sakit lang sa ulo yun." (I don't prefer radio [broadcasting] either. Especially if it concerns politics, it would just burden me.)

RD (laughs a bit): "Eh anong gusto mo?" (So what do you like?)

Me: "Travel or lifestyle, kahit ano basta light lang." (Travel or lifestyle, anything as long as it's light.)

RD (raises voice): "Naku walang pera sa travel travel na yan! Alam ko kasi nasa production ako dati!" (Oh, there's no money in that travel stuff! I know, because I used to work under the production [division].)

Me: "Meron naman, yun nga lang kailangan alam mo kung saan ka susuot." (There's money [in Travel], provided that you know where to go [I meant agency, company, magazine, etc.].)

RD: "Malaki pera pag tumitira ka ng pulitiko, tignan mo, mabenta sina K****a, T***o, saka N**i!" (You'll get a lot of money if you criticize [expose] politicians, see how K****a, T***o, and N**i [three of the the most popular journalists in the country then and now] get to be paid a lot!)

Me: "Kung sweldo lang, siyempre maliit makukuha mo, pero sa lagay madami kang makukuha." (In terms of salary, of course you won't get much, but you'll get a lot in terms of bribe money [to prevent journalists from making exposes and criticisms].)

RD: "Ganun? Eh kung sa travel travel naman, kaya mo bang ma-assign sa mga gyera? Tipong dun sa may Abu Sayaff o NPA?" (Is that so? About that travel stuff, are you willing to be assigned in war zones? Let's say where the Abu Sayaff or NPA [terrorist groups] are?"

Me (in a joking tone yet again): "Pwede naman siguro, sakaling dumating yung time na ok sa akin yun." (Perhaps I could do that, in case the time comes when I'm okay with it.)



That was the last thing I said. The conversation went on, but I didn't bother answering anymore. Mom and Dad continued conversing with the driver. I was irritated beyond comparison.

Fast-forward to dinner time, Mom and Dad began scolding me moments after they sat down to eat. They said I shouldn't have answered the way I did, and I should know how to "estimate" the attitude of the person. Otherwise I'd end up offending the person and who knows what could happen next.

I completely understand their points, but I wanted to let them know my side as well. They should have at least asked me why I argued the way I did. I could have given them three points:

ONE: It would be rude not to answer when someone is talking to you. I answered as honestly and truthfully without sounding too arrogant or too naive. At least that's what I tried to do.

TWO: I don't want to get embarrassed by this rude driver. I wanted to give the impression that I know what I want and I have an idea on how the "system" works.

THREE: I wanted to defend myself because it seemed like they were ganging up on me. I was offended. My parents gave the impression that they don't like the course I took, while this rude driver backed them up and badmouthed the field.

I know I have my own share of mistakes and I know that I shouldn't have engaged in the conversation in the first place. I couldn't suck up and agree to that stupid driver who thinks he knows everything about Journalism (he has this idea that Journalism refers to Broadcast Journalism only) just because he worked in "production" (the hell, he didn't even mention under which division [news, sitcom, noon time show, etc.] he worked for), so I might as well have kept my mouth shut.

I guess I learned the hard way. This would be the last time I would ever have a conversation with a rude person.

I'm still irritated about it, so I'd better cool down with some Laruku hits. I'm forever addicted to Eien, Winter Fall, Honey, Kuchizuke, Kaze ni Kienaide, and Kasou. Hyde-sama's voice is so calming and soothing yet stimulating! (LOL) Thanks Sephy for sending some songs! You're so sweet~ =*



P.S.
Finally, I'm no longer a bum!
Today (tonight, rather) is my
first day at work. Wish me luck! ^__^

Posted on Friday, 18 Apr 2008 @ 02:17 am

A. Skullcandy Love~
Finally, I got my Skully headphones two days ago! I've been eyeing this purple Lowrider for ages, and I never really thought I'd be able to get my hands on it. I finally have one thanks to Sephy! I let him try it first for a few days and from what he has told me, the Skully rocks! ^__^

One item off my current wishlist! Yay!

B. April 11 Friday Five

1. If you had the ability to legally change your name, would you? To what?
- Sure. Something like Rowan Mayfair. *wink*

2. What do you with with change that you receive from banks/purchases/find on the ground?
- I often use them, but if I save/put them in a piggy bank of some sort if I feel like it.

3. If you could travel back in time to change the course of one historical event, what event would it be?
- Hmmm... perhaps the Japanese Occupation here in the Philippines, so people here wouldn't think so badly of them/the present generation.

4. Would you rather live a safe, stable, moderately interesting life or one where every day was dangerous, volatile, and different?
- Safe, stable, but SUPER interesting life.

5. What do you think you'll be remembered for when you die and, if you could, would you change it to something else?
- I'm not really sure, but I'd really want to be remembered as a prominent writer.

C. Longest exam ever
Last week, a prospect company in Ortigas invited me for an exam and possible interview. I was given a 9 a.m. schedule and I was there a few minutes early. I thought it would comprise the usual stuff--short IQ tests, basic grammar tests, and a written/online exam. I didn't really feel jittery about the exam, but more on the interview part.

When I finally went in, I was given a some forms to complete, and some questionnaires and answer sheets for the IQ and grammar tests. After I was done with them, I was immediately asked to write product descriptions for three beauty products made by two prominent brands. Expecting it to be the last exam for the day, I was ecstatic because it was easy and I could finish before lunchtime.

Minutes before noon, I was almost finished with the last two products, but I didn't want to make the impression that I work too fast and I'm impatient. So I took my time to make a few revisions and double-check everything. Then I submitted my work to the lady in charge. To my surprise, she handed me a piece of paper with another set of online exam questions and explained the details as I read.

I was instructed to write three articles and transcribe an interview. To make the long story short, I spent nearly 8 hours answering three sets of exams. Yes, without eating lunch. By the time I was done, it was already 5 p.m., and I was so hungry I dragged myself to the nearest mall to eat something.

Darn, they'd better give me the good news, or else...

D. Some girls seem to like being trouble magnets. Tsk.
I know it's a common scene in the Internet today when girls take pictures of themselves in suggestive poses, boobshots, and everything else they perceive "sexy" to attract boys and post these photos in forums, blogs, personal websites, and the list goes on. I don't know what these girls are thinking, but personally, I see it as a way to invite nasty sex maniacs who are nothing but trouble. As if that's not enough, many of them do post their contact details (messenger usernames, blogs, e-mails) in forums or their blogs, where these sex maniacs can contact them, or talk to them in a suggestive, flirtatious manner.

I just don't get it. Why do they like to invite trouble into their lives? Are they doing it to feel good about themselves? I just can't stand it. It's like throwing yourself to a pack of hungry salivating wolves!

Posted on Sunday, 06 Apr 2008 @ 11:13 pm

A. FRIDAY FIVE

April 4
1. If you became ruler of the world, what three things would you do first?
- Feed the hungry, kill corrupt officials, do something to achieve world peace (hahahaha)

2. If you were a superhero, what would be your name and what powers would you have?
- hmm.. I'm not exactly a huge fan of super hero stuff.. so I have to say pass.

3. You can ask one question to someone who knows EVERYTHING. What is it?
- Is there life after death?

4. If you were invisible for a day, what would you do?
- Stalk Hyde/L'Arc En Ciel/Shun Oguri (LOL)

5. If you saw a mythical/religious deity walking down the street, what would you do?
- Take pictures of him/her.


March 28
1. What type of food do you most like to eat?
- Japanese food!

2. What type of food do you most like to cook?
- Hmm.. fish and chicken dishes.

3. What ingredient could you not live without?
- Salt

4. What do you never let in your kitchen?
- Hmmm... it's mom's kitchen so she should answer. LOL

5. What is your favorite drink?
- rootbeer, iced tea, coffee

B. QUICK UPDATES
1. I've been sleeping a lot. LOL.
2. I finished Final Fantasy VII Crisis Core a few days ago. I got depressed with the ending. T____T
3. I'm getting purple skullcandy headphones soon! (I'm super excited about it LOL)
4. I'm suddenly interested in Lomography. And I want a multi-colored Holga starter kit! *edit: I might try the famed Php. 50 Vivitar IC 100 or Vivitar Ultra Wide and Slim (a.k.a. poor man's Lomo) cameras before the Php. 4500 Holga in candy colors.
5. I still haven't found the job for me (or it hasn't found me yet? LOL). Talk about tough luck.

Posted on Sunday, 23 Mar 2008 @ 03:44 pm

I wasn't able to blog for the week mainly because I went on a trip with my parents last Sunday and I just got back three days ago. Anyway, here are some stuff I wasn't able to post, and a little something about the trip.

FRIDAY FIVE

a) March 14
1. What do you see when you are looking out of the window closest to you?
- The new condo across the street.

2. Who was the last person coming into your room?
- My dad.

3. What is the most predominant colour around you?
- Purple and pink.

4. What is right behind you?
- My pillow.

5. What is on today's calendar sheet?
- My classmate Macy's birthday.

b) March 21
1. Did you vote in your most recent applicable election? (If you're not yet old enough, do you plan to vote in the future?)
- No.

2. Have you ever protested or attended a march?
- No.

3. What political issue is the most important to you?
- Uhmm.. I'm not really a fan of politics, but I'm most concerned about corruption.

4. Are you a member of a party in your country? If so, which?
- No.

5. Do you ever plan to run for office?
- Never. LOL.

THE TRIP

I went to my parents' hometowns in Pangasinan last Sunday. I left with my Mom since Dad was already in his hometown in Alaminos. We went there first and arrived around 8 pm. After a brief visit and chitchat with our relatives there, we dropped by to the carnival and town fair since it was the town fiesta. There was a 5-peso store there where everything costs only five pesos. I bought two pretty plastic rings for only ten pesos (approx. $0.25).

The next day, we left for Mom's hometown in Urbiztondo, where we stayed in grandma's house until thursday. There weren't much to see or find there, except for the corn and rice fields, rice cakes and other native delicacies, and fresh fish. Mom had to process some papers in Urbiztondo, but we also took the opportunity to relax. We had some halo-halo, ginataang bilo-bilo, and turon for merienda. They're my favorite native delicacies! We were supposed to bring home some mangoes (which are incredibly cheap in Pangasinan, where there are many mango farms. You can buy 1 kilo for only 25 pesos or approx. $0.60!), but Dad thought we already have a lot of baggage with us.

We left for Manila on Thursday moring and arrived around noon. It was a short trip, but I'd like to do it again since it has been so long since I went on a vacation with my family.

*Edit: Click on the thumbnails below for some pictures.

Posted on Sunday, 09 Mar 2008 @ 09:40 pm

Argh, I totally forgot to post my Friday Five. Anyway, here it is.

FRIDAY FIVE
1. What song would you sing to your newborn child? (OR if you already had a child, which song did you sing to him/her?)
Colbie Caillat's Bubbly

2. How do you think animals think? (i.e. in animal language, human language, etc.)
Hmm.. I'm not really sure, but if something does them good, they pursue it. Otherwise they avoid it.

3. As a child, did you have a dream to make a difference in the world? Can you describe your dream?
Yup. I wanted to be a doctor and help those in need of medical treatment. Then I wanted to become an influential writer.

4. Do you believe in God/a Higher Being?
80% yes, 20% no.

5. Do you believe in aliens?
50% yes, 50% no.


TAGGED
I was tagged by Courtney!

Rules:
1. Link to your tagger and post the rules.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself.
3. Tag 4 people at the end of the post, list their names, and link to them.
4. Somehow tell the people you tagged that you tagged them and link back to your site for the rules.

My 7 Facts:
1. I have a weakness for cats.
2. I rarely eat breakfast.
3. Shopping is one of my guilty pleasures.
4. Writing was my first love.
5. I want to learn how to swim.
6. I love to sleep.
7. I'm 22, but I feel like I'm still 16 or 17.

I'm tagging Sephy, Jordan, Leoneth, and Kezzy!