Life Et Cetera

Beefing Up

2012-02-19T02:26:00.000+08:00

My Taekwondo class has concluded earning me a blue belt, I wish to continue but I don't have the money to pay for the class yet. However, I also don't want to go all fat and flabby, so I have decided to continue practicing the basics that my master has taught me.

And to add to the power of my kick I figured that I really need to pack some muscles so together with some friends, I hit the gym three times a week. Right now I already at my 5th month, and the results are amazing! I plan to continue working out until the next batch of Korean TKD masters come. This way I won't only have a stronger kick, but overall a strong and lean body.

Supermen Indeed!

2012-01-17T08:00:00.000+08:00

Among the superheroes, none is quite as notable as the Man of Steel. Superman practically ranks number 1 among all superheroes that kids and kids heart want to be.

I for one also coveted the chance of becoming Superman, after all if one has powers like him what could one ask for? Super strength, speed, flight, x-ray vision, super hearing ability, not mention good looks, nice body and of course the package!

Damn! It must be why they call him superman ha ha ha. When Brandon Routh (photo on the right) starred in Superman Returns buzz was going around that the producers have to digitally erase Mr. Routh package because he was too well endowed in crotch department, which could cause the movie to lose its wholesome appeal. Now, it is Henry Cavill's turn to become the new Man of Steel, and I don't if it is just luck or some sort of requirement, he also ends up sporting a bulge that could really stir the imagination.

Hollywood's Golden Couple

2012-01-16T13:29:00.001+08:00

They say nobody's perfect. However, this couple sure comes close to it. Brad Pitt is probably one of the most good looking guys on the planet. His tried different looks, bald, long hair, clean shaven, rugged, whatever it is you put on him even if it is a cane, he would still look dashing.

The same can be said about his better half Angelina Jolie, most women envy her, others try to copy her, there are even those who hate her because they somehow resent the fact that beauty, sophistication, talent, and a totally hot man have all been bestowed to her.

Brad and Angelina are truly a power couple and no matter where they go or what they do, people can't help but notice.

There are those who say not so nice things about the couple, but hey it is not their fault. Let's not hate them because they're beautiful.

Singlet

2012-01-12T23:12:00.000+08:00

I have always known this piece of apparel as an undershirt in English and in Tagalog it is known as sando. Imagine my surprise when I found out that in the UK this is also known as a singlet or a vest!

Anyway that word aside, I am just happy to wear this singlet, undershirt or sando, because after two months of doing exercise I am now filling it out nicely!

Going Against Principle

2012-01-08T08:00:00.000+08:00

Without meaning to, yesterday I found myself staring across the wide green field of grass, before I knew it I have already drifted to some far away memory.

I have always followed my principle ever since I became aware of my responsibility as the eldest son, but there was one instance when I abandoned all of it because of love. It was so strong that I couldn't do anything but go against my very nature. Romantic as it may sound it all ended in bitter defeat, frustration, and misery.

I lost a lot of my former self, and all the influence I had. All the days that followed after that became a struggle to keep my balance and to still stay afloat. But throughout the year the fight has not become any easier nor am I closer to what I have lost.

Right now a certain feeling is creeping up to me, and I am happy I recognized it this early. I will never go against my principle again, for I will be on guard against my own heart.

The Closer Season 7

2012-01-07T08:30:00.000+08:00

I have just started watching several episodes on probably the only American television series that I have loved so much, The Closer.

The show is now on it's 7th season, and as usual it has never failed to give me joy and enjoyment watching every episodes. From the very first season up until now, it has never failed to make me feel good. The main character Brenda Leigh Johnson excellently played by award winning actress Kyra Sedgwick has captured my heart and so much so that at some point I wanted to adopt a southern accent just like her character. Even her catch phrase became my catch phrase "thank you so much" and "for heaven's sake."

It is quite sad though that all good things must come to an end. From what I've read this season would be the finale, as Kyra's family is moving to New York City, which would make filming difficult since The Closer is shot in Los Angeles.

Anyway I'm still praying that things would change but if it doesn't I would like to congratulate Brenda Leigh Johnson and the rest of the gang from Major Crimes for making the show splendid! I will truly miss this show.

Immortals

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000+08:00

Last night I was finally able to watch the movie Immortals. The story is about the power struggle of mortal men against the Olympian Gods by unleashing the Titans imprisoned in the bowels of Mt. Tartarus.

British actor Henry Cavill played the part of Theseus who was forced into battle when King Hyperion's army attacked his village in search of the Epirus bow, a weapon of unimaginable power capable of releasing the Titans from their prison. Hyperion's was played by actor Mickey Rourke.

Legend foretells of a powerful weapon that was lost into the earth during the ancient battle of the Titans and the Gods, it is called the Epirus bow.

Zeus and the other Olympian's despite the dire situation and Hyperion's blasphemy could not intervene because it has been decreed that unless the Titans are set free no Immortal may interfere with the affairs of men.

This movie actually revolves in a very simple plot the special effects aren't really spectacular. I guess what this truly offers is a compilation of eye candies. From Theseus to the Olympians everyone is just so buff! Makes me envy them even more!

The Price Of Fame

2012-01-05T08:30:00.000+08:00

It is impossible for anyone not recognize the young boy in the photo, yup it is Justin Beiber. An esteemed member of the paparazzi of course ever hungry for photos took this and then sold it to some magazines, tabloids and eventually made its way on the internet.

As glamorous as the lifestyles of the celebrities might seem, there is one thing that they will never fully enjoy and that is privacy!

The sad thing is, whether it is a bad or good publicity, celebrities need exposures like this in order for their name and career to remain afloat amidst the ocean of stars in Hollywood.

Criminal Minds Season 7

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000+08:00

Thanks to my student's broadband stick and my recently acquired laptop, I was able to download several episodes of Criminal Minds Season 7.

I was able to finish watching season 6 when I was in Singapore last year, and the finale was a bit sad because one of the character died or so I thought. I am very happy that after watching the first episode of the new season I found out that Agent Emily Prentice (Paget Brewster) is alive and the team is once again whole.

Internet connection is pretty slow so I haven't finished downloading the rest of the episodes but I am looking forward to watching the entire season within this month.

Prediction 2012 - Libra

2012-01-03T11:03:00.000+08:00

Iwas browsing the internet idly when this article from Yahoo.com caught myattention. It's a horoscope reading about people born under the Libra sign(people who are born from September 24 to October 23). I am not a believer ofwell astrology. However, I do reflect on it for inspiration, especially thepositive ones.

Forthis year according to that article is a year full of changes but good ones. Itis as if after so long I will be getting most if not all that I have beenwishing for, be it in relationship or career. It is also foretelling that Iwould have the opportunity to travel a lot this year, coincidentally my friendand I are planning to visit South Korea, and I am also expecting an opportunityto travel to Beijing China. But most of all if the predictions happen I wish itwould include the chance for me to return to work in Singapore!

2012I embrace you with my heart come shower me with all the blessings!

Familiar But Not Familiar

2012-01-02T12:13:00.000+08:00

On photo is Mike Tan, a local actor currently playing lead role in an afternoon drama series for TV station GMA7.

I am not really a fan of this guy, but my afternoon was spent googling him. Why? Well in the past I've met someone using Mike Tan as a pseudonym and knowing that person I got curious as to why he chose this Mike Tan character.

Apparently this guy has graced quite a number of blogs on the internet most of it well...are for homos. I even read an article speculating about his sexuality. Anyway I really don't care about that. This afternoon I was also able to see him act on television and well, considering how slow his career moved according to what I've read, I'm no longer surprised!

The guy is already trying so hard but he just can't act.

2012 Is Here!

2012-01-01T20:44:00.000+08:00

Last night's celebration marked the end of 2011 and ushered in 2012. Last year was quite a challenge for me, because I almost came to the point of losing my faith from all the trials I had to face. But towards the end, I am thankful that I was still able to find my way.

2012 is the year of the Dragon, and since I was born under this sign many believe that I will be blessed with more luck and good fortune. This I believe! Despite whatever shortcomings or new trials that may come, I will not sulk and try to solve it by consulting my own knowledge and experience. Instead I will use rely on both my capacity and my faith.

God thank you so much for this New Year!

Pocketjockit

2011-12-21T09:12:00.001+08:00

Everyone is thinking about the perfect holiday gift, at the same time everyone's worried about security too, especially because during the Christmas season, crimes like pickpocketing, and robbery are on the rise.

But never you worry, our good friends from Aussiebum, has just released their new product: Pocketjockit! It's a stylish and comfortable underwear for men, plus it comes with a unique feature. This brief doesn't only protect your private parts, it now has the capacity to protect things that are important to you as well, say a wallet or a cellphone.

The front of the Pocketjockit has a pouch good enough to hide small but important items. So if you haven't found a gift for your dad, brother or even boyfriend, I recommend this to you! Get the new Aussiebum Pocketjockit, now!

Worth Every Sweat!

2011-12-20T22:57:00.001+08:00

A few months ago I was such in a terrible shape, my stomach was bulging, my arms were sagging. Then taekwondo training started, and just seeing how active my master was, I felt very inspired. I thought I was ready to just grow old and fat - I'm not!

The training for taekwondo can be tough and after that my friend and I rush to the gym to do some weight lifting so overall it was an exhausting routine. But after seeing this result, I think it was well worth every drop of sweat I shed.

Now all I have to do is either maintain this or improve it further, and why not? It doesn't hurt getting the attention be it in person or on facebook. It just makes me feel so good when people would comment on how great I look for them.

And Then There Were Four

2011-12-18T10:11:00.001+08:00

On the first photo from left to right (bottom) Jessica Barbosa, Mary Rona Uy, Sherline Parohinog, Cristine Saludo, Sherla Marie Ortega, and Ma. Betsaida General. From left to right (top) Karina Stella Punzal, myself, Solomon Pastoril Luis, Maria Theresa Gimao, Mark Joseph Catayong, Edgar Agustin, and Kristy Anne Habito.

On the second photo on the left is Bernard Ramir Arcabos a.k.a Kevin.

These people make up the ESL Department. It was not too long ago, when all of us were still together, until last year some of us left. It was sad but we were able to go on comforting one another because there were still plenty of us left.

But yesterday, just after the Christmas party, everyone bid their farewells. And for the first time in a long time, I couldn't say anything, I just cried and hug them.

Now it is just me, Gary, Tess, and Lala. But I know pretty soon this number will go even smaller, as hard as I have tried to predict what would happen, I failed. So now I don't want to make predictions, I'll just hold my breath.

Its The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

2011-12-01T15:49:00.000+08:00

How time flies when one is having fun. Not too long ago I celebrated my first Christmas at LCCM and now it is Christmas time once again. It is a little sad though because it feels as if folks I have been working with are going to leave soon, just like last year.

I do hope things change, I wish everyone would be able to work their differences and eventually meet half way with a win - win situation. If that happens then this will really be a very Happy Christmas!

Aging Gracefully

2011-11-18T14:47:00.000+08:00

Last September I turned 35 and I was a bit concerned because I was so out of shape. My tummy was bulging. Even when I tried to suck my gut it is still quite prominent. I also noticed that the muscles in my arms and chest are no longer that firm, thanks to a considerable amount of time of living a sedentary lifestyle. I was so worried that I would end up aging in a not so pleasant way and eventually looking so terrible, that I wouldn't even have the confidence to deal with people.

Fortunately, Taekwondo came into my life, so I now have some semblance of an active lifestyle and just three weeks ago, I started working out at a nearby gym with a colleague, which is quite an effort at first. Everything ached. But after taking this photo last Wednesday, I was instantly happy as I saw the changes, good changes.

I posted this photo on facebook and lots of my old friends said I look better now. And with that how could I simply let myself slip back into the old habit, right? So I am now making a pact with myself to try harder, work harder and see to it, that I maintain my commitment towards a healthy and better looking me.

Of course we will all get old eventually, but there is a difference between just old and old but still looking good. Naturally, I prefer the latter.

Taekwondo

2011-10-22T19:12:00.000+08:00

On the photo above is our Taekwondo team. The one sitting on the floor holding the floppy target is out Master (Sabumnim) Jin In Woo.

One of my friends thought of taking photos during our training and posted it on facebook.com, and naturally other people saw the pictures too. My old friend Maribel who is currently in Canada saw it and she immediately posted a comment inquiring why I am involved in martial arts.

Maribel and I have been friends for a long time so she knows that I hate anything which involves physical exertion. She was very surprised hence her comment. But I explained to her that times have changed. And I am happy that now I am discovering a lot of things that I thought I didn't like, are turning out to be really enjoyable.

Aside from flexibility Taekwondo is helping gain more focus, in everything I do. It is teaching me to keep on pushing despite difficulty. I am so grateful for this form of martial arts. It has reinforced my sense of self and my overall confidence.

Before I was just a clumsy wimp, but now I can confidently say that no one will be able to push me around easily anymore. And to those who don't believe, I encourage you to try me.

Mongolian Quick Stop

2011-10-17T07:34:00.003+08:00

Last Saturday Gary and I decided to visit the Gateway Mall in Cubao, to check out mobile phones as we were both planning to buy. After comparing prices we got hungry so we went to one of our favorite fast food store - Mongolian Quickstop!

Each of us ordered a bowl of stir fried noodles, with vegetables, beef, and seafood. It taste great! The meal was very satisfying and on top of that the crew who worked there were all well trained. They knew all about customer service. To those who haven't tried, I recommend that you visit them at the 4th level of the Gateway mall.

I promise you won't regret it. Good food and good service.

Better Late Than Never

2011-10-16T18:33:00.000+08:00

On the last day of last of month, I celebrated my 35th birthday, with my family, in our house surrounded by flood water due to the recent typhoons. I was very happy although we couldn't celebrate properly because of the circumstances. And I was already satisfied with the fact that strong weather disturbance came and went but none of us got injured or sick.

But life indeed offers a lot of surprises. Just when I thought my birthday had gone by ordinarily, good friends and colleagues made a very special treat just for me. To Miss Aileen, Tess, Gary, Tin, my Taekwondo masters, my student Kim Tae Wong, and Arron, thank you so much, for the wonderful post birthday celebration.

It is indeed true that it is never too late to be happy.

Surviving Pedring

2011-09-29T13:06:00.000+08:00

Just three days till my birthday, typhoon Pedring struck the country, and although I am supposed to be so used to the way numerous weather disturbances come and go, this one left a particular mark.

Typhoon Pedring flooded nearly the entire Region three and nearby provinces and even Metro Manila. My own house turned soggy wet, when howling winds smashed and tore the windows off of my room and the galvanized iron sheets of the roof.

Flood water also rose so fast and we (my family and I) literally didn't know to react. We found ourselves a bit paralysed, but eventually we started running back and forth trying so hard to save things from getting wet.

It was one worst experience about the typhoon that I will not forget in years to come. But I am thankful because despite what happened, all of us are safe.

Samsung Galaxy SII

2011-09-16T21:04:00.000+08:00

This is the latest phone for Samsung the Galaxy SII and right now this is what I am just dying to own! It features a 4-inch display and an 8 mega-pixel camera with LED flash. And from what I read it has faster processor.

One of my student is currently using this phone and according to him, it is really very good. I want to save enough money to buy this phone and get rid of my ridiculous iphone 3G! Frankly I am sick tired of it. Apple is definitely not the brand to choose if you want an easy maintenance - type of phone.

Big Thing

2011-09-08T09:55:00.000+08:00

Ambition, passion, and dedication towards the people, this is what Big Thing or Dae Mul is all about! I just finished watching the entire series, and just like the other drama where Ko Hyun Jung starred, once you start watching it is virtually impossible to turn off the television.

If you haven't seen this show guys I sincerely recommend you go out and get a copy. You won't be disappointed. Koh Hyun Jung a.k.a Seo Hye Rim is a superb actress.

Sumptuous!

2011-08-27T20:03:00.000+08:00

Eating a delicious meal makes one happy. But feasting on a variety of delicious Korean food, is simply a gastronomic joy!

Due to the long weekend my boss decided to give me and 2 other colleagues a treat. We went to a Korean restaurant in Malate, the name was Hello Sambap if not mistaken. Unfortunately I was not able to take a lot of pictures no thanks to iphone 3gs' camera. But anyway, we truly enjoyed dinner.

We arrived at the place at about 7:30 pm and we started eating nearly 8 o'clock in the evening. But the food was so good it was worth the wait though it only took about 10 minutes roughly, and everyone started digging in. Never has a dinner table became so quiet, why? Because everyone is just so wrapped up in the delightful variety of food that no one had the desire to do anything save to savor the flavor of the food!

In one word last night's dinner is simply sumptuous! Thank you very much Miss Aileen F. Castro and Sir Ardee for the wonderful dinner.

Inspiration

2011-08-20T15:32:00.000+08:00

In order for us to continue towards the mysterious destination in the journey called life, we must always have a source of new ideas and new sensations, otherwise it will become a monotonous trip.

I am so glad I never run out of people who provide just that sweet stimulation, one that keeps old age at bay, and keeps bitterness from ruling over my otherwise battered and worn personality.

2256

2011-07-18T06:21:00.002+08:00

I am sure many of you are familiar with Globe Telecommunication Company, in fact one of you are probably using its service like me.

Frankly, I have always preferred this network, because many of my friends are using it too. However, lately I have been experiencing deductions amounting to PHP 2.50 since I started using my prepaid SIM which I bought three weeks ago.

It started to happen when a four digit access number 2256 sent me a message, mostly jokes and quotations about love, which I ignored and deleted. I thought that was the end of that until one day after topping up my prepaid account 2256 sent me a message again and lo and behold suddenly my account incurred a deduction. I tried to be patient but it just went on and on, even after sending a request for discontinuing a service which I don't even understand how I contracted in the first place.

I tried calling the "customer service" of Globe Telecom and all I got were indirect answers and very slow customer concern resolution. This company is in serious need of a good lecture from Nancy Friedman, if she were alive today she would probably have her forehead twisted in frustration when she hears how the customer service agents of Globe takes a call.

Freshman - Masculine Wash

2011-07-16T18:20:00.001+08:00

When I was younger, my mom would always say how lucky I am to have been born a man. According to her men don't have to do so many things which she as a woman considered bothersome, particularly with hygiene. She said men are fortunate because the penis is easier to maintain compared to a vagina!

Imagine, hearing this at a young age and being shown what a feminine wash looks like, at that time my mom said she is doing that to prevent us from making a mistake of using her intimate wash as a shampoo, which my dad did during the early months of their marriage.

Anyway I never really thought that the day would come when men would become so vain and so particular about cleanliness particularly with the reproductive organs. Well, I am wrong! Now there is a product in the market called Freshman masculine wash.

Yes, I tried it after all what is the point of blogging about something one has never experienced before right? Anyway, this masculine wash has some sort of cooling effect it does make one feel fresh and leaves a lingering
pleasant smell, especially in the pubic area. I used it in the morning and when I got home I still felt clean and fresh, no sticky feeling from sweat.

Some would think this is just vanity, but for me it is the new way of keeping oneself extra clean. So guys what are you waiting for, go to the nearest supermarket grab a bottle and try it. You won't be sorry and I am sure your girlfriend/ boyfriend will appreciate the extra cleanliness.

Insidious - Certified Scary

2011-06-29T06:19:00.001+08:00

We have all seen horror movies revolving around ghost in haunted houses, but this movie offers a new twist. What if it is not the house that's haunted, what if it is the boy living in it?

This movie entitled Insidious tells the story of a boy who could perform astral projections unconsciously this power led him to be lost in another dimension where the lost souls reside. Being out of his body ghost from every where including a demon are on a race to possess his corporeal form...and this is where everything becomes truly horrific.

I watched it with my sister in Singapore and we got scared, now that I have returned to the Philippines, I watched again with my other siblings and my mom, and we all got scared. If you love something to stir up your imagination into fright mode, this movie is definitely for you.

Return To The Classic

2011-06-27T18:17:00.000+08:00

With everything that is happening to me, at night my head literally goes spinning as I struggle to devise a new strategy that would allow me to survive, and I kept on thinking about improvising and reinventing.

However, that is what I have been doing for the past few years since I left congress. Perhaps I don't need to reinvent but rather I need to embrace old values which I may have forgotten. Hence, in this time of self assessment I think it is only fitting that I once again wear a classic scent Eternity for Men by Calvin Klein.

It evokes effortless comfort, sturdy and lasting...the kind that will stand the test of time.

My Apple Iphone Experience

2011-06-23T17:52:00.000+08:00

Don't get me wrong this phone of course especially in the Philippines, would definitely scream "status" and for quite some time I have often flirted with the idea of owning and wondered what it would be like to have this mobile - phone.

But as always I have found out that sometimes there are just things that are better in the imagination than reality. I thought this was one cool gadget, however, now that I have one, I found out that it is actually quite limiting.

The camera, though resolution is quite okay at 3 megapixels is a bit difficult to handle especially if one wishes to take a photo of oneself. LG Viewty is way cooler in this aspect, add that to the fact that this model of the iphone does not have a timer, though I am not sure if the latest model has one.

The applications are okay however, one has to jailbreak the phone in order to install certain apps which is not the case with previous phones I had from Nokia or Sony Ericsson. This thing doesn't even have a document viewer, and if you want to transfer photos it can be quite cumbersome.

This thing has a bluetooth but if you try to pair it with other phones...it sucks! I can go on and on about the things that aren't cool about this but for now I need to be patient and wait till I have enough money to buy a new phone.

But all that hype about iphone well for me it is my personal opinion that this phone is not as hot as everyone thinks!

X - Men First Class

2011-06-15T08:08:00.000+08:00

I had the chance to finally watch this movie, I was excited to see the newest installment for the series of X - Men movies, but now that I have, I am a little bit unimpressed! I guess the new talents they have recruited for the movie just doesn't have the spark the way the previous ones had.

And I really have to say that the mutant characters here particularly the villains are so, boring! I mean, in movies such as this one it usually is the job of the villain to make the story interesting, that perhaps is what this film lacked, which is why I even as a fan of the X - Men I must say I find it hard to recommend this movie.

Today Is The Day

2011-06-14T08:39:00.000+08:00

One of my favorite villain of all time, but personally I regard her as my heroine, Seju Mishil of Silla. This photo was taken from 50th episode of Queen Seon Deok, where she bravely faced death and the bitter result of her failure to gain the throne.

In this very trying times that I am experiencing I draw myself from her character, how she was able to see all things till the bitter end, so shall I. Today is the last day of salvation for my pride at least, but I guess I will have to come home a loser.

Painful yes it is. But have I not experienced more agonizing moment than this one? So even if I hurt I will just take some time to heal...it is not the end for me yet, rather just another chance to start over.

What Is My Destiny?

2011-06-14T00:00:00.000+08:00

Mythology has it that the Fates are consisted of three women who spun the golden thread of one's destiny. In the television series Supernatural Season 6 it is explained that even death is just some sort of foot soldier for these women. Because doesn't decide who goes first - the Fates does!

I am curious however about one thing, does the Fates have knowledge of what will become a person from birth or just the life expectancy of a person. If they do and if there is a way to see one's destiny, I would like to see what mine is.

All this time I've been trying to interpret at what is happening with my life and the more I do so, I only get more confused. I'd be happy to get some straight answers for once. And if there is such entities as the Fates and they can hear me or they can read this, I would like for them to answer what will become of me.

To wonder is intriguing and searching for an answer is an adventure but it drags on and on for too long and more often just when one think that the answer is within reach one finds oneself at the beginning. It is most troublesome and exhausting, so if there is a short cut I sure would like to know now what lies ahead of me.

Skinny Love - Birdy

2011-06-13T09:16:00.003+08:00

Birdy - Skinny Love [Official Video]

Powered by mp3skull.com

Some things are just so sad, and this song I guess just carries that emotion all too well. I heard if from the Vampire Diaries Season 2 Episode 21, made me cry. And now I am sharing it with you, may it inspire you and move you all to feel.

Life is precious, life is dear especially when love is always near.

Never To Be Forgotten

2011-06-12T01:01:00.001+08:00

Of all the creatures of the supernatural, the Vampires fascinates me the most. They are sensual, beautiful, alluring, cold and powerful. They have superhuman strength, speed and some even possess telekinetic and telepathic powers.

It is quite sad however that some films are trying to make Vampires as if they are some sort of mutant, they need guns or weapons to protect themselves especially with the whole Vampire versus Werewolf war going on.

But truthfully though a werewolf's bite can kill a vampire one as powerful as Akasha the Queen and mother of all vampire will just rip even the oldest werewolf apart before it could lays its claws on her.

In the photo above is Aliah in her role as Akasha, from the Queen of the Damned this is my tribute to her and the character she played.

The Vampire Diaries

2011-06-11T00:30:00.001+08:00

I was sad upon hearing that the Closer is about to end. But as they say when a door closes a window opens. When I was in the Philippines I first got a glimpse of this show called the Vampire Diaries on channel 9. I couldn't connect to it much because the station kept playing one episode over and over.

Annoyed I decided to go to the local market and purchased a copy of the entire Season 1. And what do you know, like a vampire addicted to blood I wanted more! Luckily Season 2 was already available so I purchased a DVD copy of it, and as each character develops, as the story continues to become even more engaging I find myself waiting earnestly for Season 3.

So to all you guys out there, watch the Vampire Diaries and trust me you'll be hooked!

The Scent Of Earth

2011-06-10T10:17:00.000+08:00

Aside from getting the Sony Ericsson Experia Arc, on my wish list is a bottle of cologne. The last perfume I used was Issey Miyake and it lasted me for almost a year. The last drop ran out when I left the Philippines.

Being an optimist if I will be blessed with the chance to work here, I plan to save enough money to buy this cologne called Terre D' Hermes. I first caught the scent it when I was looking around the perfume counter at Takashiya shopping mall in 2008. Unfortunately by the time I got a whiff of this divine scent I have already purchased a perfume for myself.

This time around though, if the fates would allow I will definitely buy one of these. It's smell is just so uncommon it does not evoke sophistication instead it carries with it warm, yet strong simplicity, very earthy in an ethereal kind of way.

Missing The Taste Of Korea

2011-06-09T10:33:00.000+08:00

To those who doesn't have an inkling of what the vegetable dish on the photo is, it is called Kimchi. It is a traditional and fermented vegetable dish made of cabbage, cucumber and a variety of dishes.

The smell to the uninitiated this dish has quite a strong odor, the first time I got a whiff of it I actually asked my student a Korean if it is edible. He laughed and told me that no table in Korea would be complete without it. It is quite spicy but as you get accustomed to the taste it is actually addictive at least for me that is how it is.

When I was still working with LCCM we get a lot of Korean students and I was fortunate to receive half a jar of Kimchi. My sister Andrelyn who is just so wonderful in the kitchen even found a way of mixing it with rice et voila! Kimchi fried rice it is.

Here in Singapore since I am still under tight budget I am struggling very hard to control myself from buying Kimchi since it is a bit expensive for me. But should I clinch that elusive job, I plan to buy lots of Kimchi and eat it along with my favorite ramyun.

Running Out Of Time!

2011-06-08T22:15:00.000+08:00

They say patience is a virtue. But truly one of the most difficult thing to do is to wait, especially when time is no longer by one's side. I only have 7 days and if things don't go as planned, I may have to return home...empty handed.

I do understand, it was a gamble I took coming here and looking for a job, but I just wish that the odds would go easy on me for a bit. As each day passes waiting for that illusive work pass is starting to drive me insane. I keep trying to preoccupy myself with something but it doesn't seem to be working.

Lord I pray to you, please let your blessing come soon.

Your Weiner Is A Winner!

2011-06-07T20:09:00.000+08:00

And I thought things like this only happen in my country lol! The photo above is the erect shaft of 9th Congressional District of New York Congressman Anthony Weiner.

If you are into puns you could say that it is the Weiner's Weiner! Anyway it is no longer very surprising for someone in the government to do behave like this, in the past there were leader of nation who were involve with more vulgar sexual activities, of course they say that shouldn't happen now because today's people are better educated and more modern, well what can I say, history just has a way of repeating itself.

As for Congressman Weiner, this might just be a proof that he is still in an extended stage of adolescence this wouldn't have been against the law or much less shameful had he been a bit a more careful.

Flash Floods In Singapore - The Changing Climate

2011-06-06T11:27:00.001+08:00

These photos were posted at Yahoo news last night, after torrential rains struck Singapore yesterday morning, resulting into about 4 to 5 hours of downpour and thus flooding several areas in the country.

Second and third photos shows a mall being infiltrated with water, something like this already happened in the Philippines only it was worse. During the Typhoon Ondoy, big department stores particularly the SM mall in Marikina City was submerged in water as high as 1 storey.

What is alarming is not the fact that a Nation as advance as Singapore became affected by the floods, but as Singapore's Minister of the Environment and Water Resources Vivian Balakrishnan, stated the weather pattern is changing. This is clear proof that Climate Change is a serious issue and if people continues go about living their life with total disregard for the environment, I am afraid that the frightening movies we have all seen about cataclysmic events befalling our world due to the wrath of nature might indeed come to pass.

This is a wake up call for everyone, we have to ponder and act now, before its too late!

Fort Canning Revisited

2011-06-05T06:49:00.000+08:00

The first National Park in Singapore that I have visited in Singapore during my stay here in 2008 was Fort Canning Park, this one has a lot of history both to Singapore and to myself.

I saw it quite fitting to revisit this place which is a fort enclosed in the beauty of nature, it is very relaxing and ideal for hiking, or just for some quiet time and reflecting. If you ever plan to visit Singapore you just give this park a visit, which is located at Clarke Quaye very accessible through Singapore's MRT system.

Stay Awake!

2011-06-04T01:07:00.001+08:00

Taking punches left to right, it must be the reason why I feel drowsy, problems come like a mob of thugs, its a good thing I have a constant supply of caffeine.

It keeps me awake, alert and though nervous it helps my mind stay sharp and plan for things to come. I don't know how but eventually I will find a way to sort things out and as always if I don't come out on top, I'll be sure to survive this and just start over.

Long Life

2011-06-03T03:40:00.001+08:00

Some say if you eat noodles it helps lengthen your life span. Should this be true, I think I will live for a very long time indeed. Ever since I stepped here in Singapore I tried different kinds of noodle dish, and I can't seem to get enough of it!

Noodle soups and dishes here are really great. Nothing like authentic cooking, the one on the picture is called Fried Dumpling Noodle with chili! This one is so great, I practically have this every dinner time and come to think of it I haven't had rice for almost a month now!

If you ever go to Singapore, I recommend that you try this dish it'll surely make your day if you love noodles.

Frustrating!

2011-06-02T04:06:00.001+08:00

Life has never been easy for me. Whether its love, money or even looking for a job it has always been difficult from the get go. And now, being in a foreign country again, I have to deal with the encroaching expiration of my visa and the lack of employment.

There are jobs but the qualifications some company requires for the job is ridiculous! For instance why would you need someone who finished a degree to sell RTW, cheap jewelry, shoes, or attend to the front desk as a customer service agent? I mean come on!

Graduating in college is a plus but when they make the game like this then why not send all undergraduates inside a huge boat float it in the middle of the ocean and then sink it! That way the problem of unemployment goes away.

I don't care what logical explanation companies may have it is just plain ridiculous that I want to land a hard kick on their asses!

Warm Summer Memories!

2011-06-01T01:17:00.001+08:00

When one ventures in to a different place and things don't go as planned (which is almost always in my case), there are times when one can't help but feel hope is dwindling. It feels as if rain is falling and it just won't stop. Being far away from home make this a little difficult to deal with especially when you are no longer a young person.

When one becomes an adult it is as if your right to be weak has been forfeited that you can no longer complain, and most of the time one must deal with the problems all alone.

I am quite lucky because before venturing in to this endeavor I was able to make so many happy memories, as warm as the summer time. These memories help me survive and get through rough times.

To the friends I've made at La Consolacion College Manila, thank you for all the laughter and light moments, for giving a lot of happy times to think about again thank you all so very much!

Getting Worse Before Better

2011-05-31T01:25:00.000+08:00

They say trouble never singly come...and it is true. For some reason just when you're already in a lemon and you think things can't get any worse - guess again, it does!

I am blogging this not because I am new or I am surprised with the way things are happening. Everything in my life is elusive. As a lion stalking swift-footed impalas, sometimes even if it is just a hair's breathe unless I have the prey wriggling away its life in my jaws I can never really be certain.

This is the kind of joke this world has chosen to play on me. Well so be it, but I will not bow my head nor will I take a step back, it will always get worse before things better. So this time, give me everything you've got I am ready!

My Next Project!

2011-05-26T18:03:00.000+08:00

My LG Viewty is 2 years and 5 months old to date. It is still functional but of course lately I have been observing some changes in its performance. So once, I get a job I plan to get a new phone: Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc.

This baby boast of a 4-inch display and 8 mega-pixels camera! My current hand-phone has only 5 mega-pixels, nonetheless I was able to take a lot of photos with it and mostly it served as my digital camera.

This time around though I plan to buy not just a brand new phone but a digital camera as well from Sony of course!

Martial Arts Is Sexy!

2011-05-24T10:20:00.000+08:00

The guy in the photo believe it or not is actually a actor for Kung Fu / Martial Arts movie Donnie Yen. He is Chinese and played a small role in Blade 2 starring Wesly Snipes. But what really made him famous is his portrayal of Bruce Lee's teacher's life in the movie IP Man.

When I was taking Taekwondo training in the Philippines, I became interested with martial arts movies, IP Man 1 & 2 were some of Donnie Yen's film which I and my family had the opportunity to watch, it was of course in Chinese with English subtitle but nonetheless we (my family and I) all agree that those movies were really good.

In the movie Legend of Chen Zhen, there was a scene showing his really lean body, naked. I just thought well maybe the scene called for it that is why Donnie agreed to take off his clothes, till I found these photos on the internet.

Apparently aside from high kicks and punches, Mr. Yen is also an underwear model and was paid a hefty sum of money to wear the brief he is wearing on the photos above. Not bad I say, after all if one has body no harm in flaunting it.

Letter To Marjie

2011-05-23T10:34:00.000+08:00

I found this old email as I was checking the old mails in my inbox, if I remember it correctly it was sent to me when I was still working for Sykes Asia, a contact center in the Philippines. It was sent all over the entire floor to keep us all awake with laughter during the graveyard shift. Every time I read this I get a kick out of it, and burst out laughing so I want to share it with you guys too!

Laugh out loud after all it's free :)

Marjie,

I am not surprise or wander why Dennis leave you.

Why?

What reason you can think about but you’re very fat body. I thought before
that Dennis only use me to his toy but sooner and later I’m realize that he
really can’t not beared or stomached to be with you anymore because at
first, Dennis say he could not stand you’re habit of making pakialam all
his walks [lakad] and always calling to their house what he go home or this
or that and then he say he get ashame to met either in school or in his
family and then asking you to exercise you’re very, very, very fat body but
you hate it thought you’re the most preetiest girls he knows about what do
you think you are “Beautiful Girl” of Jose Marie Chan (even you are
beautiful face to your think).
You do not have the right to called me whatsoever or else different name
one time or the other for the real purposed to insults my personality
because I’m never call you names either in the front of Dennis or in the
backs of Dennis, but if you start already to calling me different name, I
don’t have any other choice but to call you other different name to like
you are a PIG, FAT, OBESSED, OVERWEIGHT, AND UGLY SHAPE girl. Shame to
you’re body that is to a BUDING. You can’t not blame Dennis for exchanging
you to me because I am the more sexier than you when you look to us in the
mirror. I’m repeat again that you are like Ike Lozada when she is a girl.

FROM: THE SEXIEST GIRL OF D.M.

P.S. You say that I’m the bad breathe but who is Dennis want to kissed. Me
or you? You or me? And the final is me.

A Perfect Couple

2011-05-23T03:36:00.000+08:00

I found this cute video about the Daesang Award it is a prestigious award giving body in Korea, feautring Go Hyun Jung and Kwon Sang Woo tow of the leading stars of Dae Mul a television drama.

Naturally the talented and beautiful Go Hyun Jung bagged the highest award, but what is interesting about this video is the music and the photos showing two beautiful people. It is the first time I saw Kwon Sang Woo with Go Hyun Jung and they look just perfect!

Thor - God Of Thunder!

2011-05-22T01:43:00.001+08:00

First time I saw this guy I thought he was Brad Pitt, but on closer inspection he's more effortlessly rugged, and brimming with the Blonde Norwegian charm. I am not sure though if the guy is from Norway, but one thing I am sure about Chris Hemsworth is every bit Thor as Thor will ever be.

I watched the movie and compared to Superman and Batman this one is certainly refreshing for me. There weren't too many Marvel superheroes that made it made to the big screen save for Spiderman and the X - Men. For those who haven't seen Thor, do not miss it.

Go Hyun Jung For Re: NK Whitening Product

2011-05-21T00:12:00.003+08:00

Re:

One of the most striking factor of award winning Korean actress Go Hyun Jung is her beautiful, pearly white and glowing skin. It is not surprising for her to end up in commercials on television endorsing beauty product.

I read somewhere that she was also an endorser for L'Oreal in Korea, but the most recent is a whitening product from NK. And no doubt this product is going to sell, after all who wouldn't want to have ageless beauty like hers.

A Frozen Flower

2011-05-20T07:39:00.000+08:00

Korean culture like most Asian cultures abhor homosexuality. In fact it is something that they don't even want to mention or talk about. Hence, I was very surprised upon stumbling on this movie starring one of my favorite Korean actor Jo In Sung entitled Frozen Flower.

This movie, not only deals with

homosexuality but actually even bisexuality. Set in ancient time the story depicts a King who does not feel attraction for women,and thus could not get his queen pregnant.

Owing much to the pressure of having an heir to the throne the King decided to have his lover and bodyguard played by

Jo In Sung to have sex with the queen. Now I didn't know how graphic this would all be because before I watched the movie I read about it in Wiki and it never stated that there would be sex scenes and I was very surprised that the scenes involve not just man and woman having sex but even two men having an erotic moment in bed.

Jo In Sung's portrayal was very good in fact the cast of this movie were all very good. Considering how harsh Korea deals with homosexuality, Jo In Sung and Joo Jin Mo who played the role of homosexual King did exceedingly well. To all Korean movie fan out there watch Frozen Flower you will not regret it!

The Wakewood

2011-05-19T23:22:00.000+08:00

What if someone you love dies an untimely death, and then you found out that there is a way to bring that person back for and remain with you for 3 days, will you go for it?

It is a pretty tough question to answer, and this movie shows just that. Letting go is difficult to learn, because not everyone has the ability to heal the emotional wounds fast. Watch this movie and see how a couple deals with the lost of their child and how they were forced to deal with letting her go for the second time.

Get a copy of Wakewood and see what I mean.

Cafe Baskin Robins Malaysia - A Delightful Dessert Spot!

2011-05-19T00:35:00.000+08:00

My sister didn't have anything to do and we have the rest of the day, so we decided to go for a little trip to nearby Johor Bahru in Malaysia.

Compared to my last visit in June 2008, there was much improvement not only at the Malaysian Immigration but also on Johor Bahru itself.

The place was a lot tidier than it was before. It looks more pleasant and newly

built structures abound from hotels, condominiums and restaurants.

We have decided to have dinner and tried seafood fried rice, it was delicious. For dessert we wandered down the lower level of the mall right next to the immigration office and we found this neat spot - Cafe Baskin and Robins.

They served coffee, cakes and ice cream. I decided to try their Cafe Americano while

my sister opted to have Cappuccino. The place wasn't enclosed to be called intimate but there is something about the warm service and ambiance that makes the difference, and more importantly it doesn't cost too much.

We had so much fun at this place and both agreed that on my first salary, we will both journey to this place again and go on another exciting food trip and possibly some shopping!

My Favorite Coffee

2011-05-18T08:30:00.000+08:00

I was surfing the internet this morning and while searching for videos of my favorite Korean Actress Go Hyun Jung, I found out that she did lots of commercials and product endorsements. One of which is Maxim Arabica Coffee.

I remember when I was still teaching Koreans at La Consolacion College Manila, a student of mine Hwang Il Ho, gave me some of this brand of coffee and it is really good. I tried looking for some here in Singapore but I haven't found one yet.

Now knowing that Go Hyun Jung is endorsing this brand you can bet your bottom dollar I'm making Maxim Arabica coffee my favorite caffeine source!

Scream 4 More!

2011-05-17T05:21:00.000+08:00

We finished watching Scream 4, the original characters like Neve Campbell, Courtney Cox and David Arquette were once again reunited, though noticeably older. And they were joined by younger generation stars like Kirsten Bell, Hayden Panettiere and Anna Paquin.

I had Scream 1 to 3, and usually if you've been watching a movie with the same title you sort of become less and less interested because there's the element of predictability. But somehow Scream 4 was all suspense and horror and keeps you guessing till the very end.

Really great and scary movie. One that never grows old.

The Closer - Final Season

2011-05-16T01:37:00.001+08:00

I have just finished watching the entire Season 6 of one of my most loved TV series The Closer. Way back in 2007 that was the first time I laid eyes on this show and from then on, I became instantly addicted to it.

Kyra Sedgwick's character Brenda Lee Johnson is just impossible to ignore and not to like. The photo that you see above is actually from the 14th episode of season 6. It was Christmas time and the team along with Brenda's husband and parents were all very happy.

Over the years I have come to anticipate each new season of this series but sadly, it has been confirmed that Season 7 will be the last. Everything comes to an end after all, and though this is just a show, it really makes me feel very sad. I know it is foolish but I still have to ask: "Why do good things have to come to an end?"

In Retrospect

2011-05-09T19:45:00.000+08:00

Today the application for my employment had been submitted. And though I have been issued with that document a couple of years ago, there is this bit of uneasiness in me. Doubts and some worrying thoughts are trying to shake me. I know I shouldn't feel negative but I can't help it.

Lately the question for the one thing that I lack as a professional has been frequently arising. Doors of opportunity are closing on me more often than it used to, when I was younger. And sadly I have no one to blame except myself, because I became consumed with chasing roses and butterflies! Love - what a senseless thing to dream of. It is ultimately useless in the end.

Looking back at all the years I have wasted I feel ashame not only to myself but more to my family. If only I didn't let myself get so distracted I would have realized sooner that the question about my educational achievement will become inevitable and I could have taken measures to prevent it. But I didn't! So here I am now aware and finally realizing my greatest mistakes..I only pray that it is not yet too late.

If They Can Do It, Then Why Can't We?

2011-05-06T21:27:00.000+08:00

My sister and I are living in a different community called Yew Tee point, a couple of years ago we were at Teck Whye Lane, so just to touch on some old memories I decided to visit.

As I was walking around the old neighborhood this banner caught my eye. Singapore is indeed a place of variation, different people, races and culture and yet their difference with one another didn't become a weakness in fact, it is the source of the Lion City's strength. A myriad of individuals coming together, forming a whole by combining all of what they have.

This made me wonder, why we can't do it in our own country. The Philippines is inhabited by Filipinos, just one race or at least it is the most dominant, and yet one Filipino couldn't find it in his or her heart to help another. Like crabs stuck at the bottom of a deep basket each tries to escape by pulling another down. When are we ever going to learn?

Candid Photo

2011-05-04T19:09:00.000+08:00

Today I went for another interview my second in two weeks of job hunting for a UK based company. The interview lasted a little over an hour, but it was nice. The lady who interviewed me was very pleasant both to the eyes and ears.

Unlike some interviewer who goes as close to making you beg for the job as possible, she's different. She made me feel that I'm interesting although I still need to wait for a call from her within the week to know if I have been selected for the position.

Anyway what really surprised me was, at the end of our conversation she asked if she could take a photo of me. I told her I have one printed along with my resume, but she smiled and said she prefers candid photograph. I was a bit shy and caught off guard, but anyway I told myself mentally that I am an applicant and whatever floats the boat of the person who would hire me, as long as it doesn't require drugs, jumping off tall places, murder or some overly covert and dangerous thing, I would happily oblige. And so with one click she got a photograph of me.

I just hope my photo somehow gets me closer to the job that I am aspiring for. I am not one to bank on looks but if for some reason I get hired because of that photo well, I guess I have to start believing that I do look good. :-)

Liu Yifei's New Movie

2011-05-04T01:23:00.001+08:00

One of my favorite Chinese goddess Liu Yifei has a new movie. I saw her billboards on the street right across the apartment building where I live.

Yifei also known as Crystal Liu is a Chinese actress who grew up in USA and starred in Jacky Chan and Jet Li's movie "The Forbidden Kingdom." I just love looking at her lovely face, it is flawless and has absolutely no lines, not even a hint. I remember my student Yang Ming Yi always complained whenever I say how beautiful this girl is. For him Yifei is just another pretty face, that maybe true especially in his country.

But for Filipinos such as myself her beauty is truly refreshing!

Briani...Yummy!

2011-05-02T22:53:00.000+08:00

This is one of my favorite food here in Singapore , Briani. Its made up of rice cooked with various spices including saffron and it can be served with mutton, beef, fish or chicken and some veggies. The curry on this dish is a bit strong but mixed with all the other spices it gives out a certain delicious flavor!

According to my Singaporean friend, this dish is very healthy because it helps digestion and the spices in Briani actually helps prevent certain diseases like Alzheimer's and according to her spice is good for the brain. She even told me that India is the only country in the world without the aforementioned brain disease, and the reason for this is the spice in their diet.

I searched Briani using Google and I found out that there is a Filipino dish from Pampangga that may have originated from this dish and its called Biringyi also known as Aroz Valenciana, which happens to be my Mom's favorite. What can I say my mother and I really have a lot of things in common :-)!

So for you guys out there I am inviting you to try this dish and I promise you won't regret it.

Better Than Ever!

2011-04-30T23:37:00.000+08:00

This afternoon I went for a walk all the way to a park in Bukit Batok called the Little Guillin Park which features a small lake, where people could sit on the rocks under the shade of the trees, go fishing or just admire the beauty of nature.

I am as relax as the scenery, and when I think about it, the first time I came to Singapore everything was hard from the get go. I guess at that time my heart was still hoping and my focus was on another matter. But now having been able to let go FINALLY! I feel lighter and happier. I no longer entertain memories of the past that brings pain, instead I look forward towards the happy and exciting memories that the future will bring.

Groovin Your Groin!

2011-04-29T16:00:00.000+08:00

This morning after my job interview, I decided to have a look around and check the different malls that along Orchard Road. At OG Department store I saw a new line of men's underwear brand called Groovin. I asked the salesperson and according to her the brand is from Japan.I touched the material and it is made of Lycra.

Aside from the material used the design was nice, especially the cup boxer (top most photo). When I get a job I plan to buy some of these, so when I got home I checked on the internet for additional information and I was taken to a blog containing a review of this underwear and more surprisingly I found out that there's a brand called K'mando.

At first glance I thought it was a sock! Turns out it is actually an underwear. I couldn't help bursting out laughing when I saw this, but honestly I think the design is pretty cool. Sometimes I just wear my pants without any underwear and for some people that's a bit too much. So maybe I'll buy one of these anatomical pouch instead.

Time To Fly!

2011-04-24T18:24:00.000+08:00

Today is Easter Sunday! The Lord has risen, and I hope that this day will also be symbolic of new hopes and better opportunities for me and my family.

While I was walking to board the plane I noticed that most of the passengers were Filipino, all of us were heading for the same destination - Singapore. Some of them I think are on a holiday perhaps visiting a loved one. As for me its both a holiday and a job hunting opportunity.

I have my hopes high and my fingers crossed, knowing that no matter what happens God will always have something better for me.

The Power of Faith

2011-04-21T17:25:00.001+08:00

This morning my mom, my sister Andrelyn and I, went to several Churches as part of the Bisita Iglesia, a practice during the Lenten Season which involves going from one Church to another, visiting and praying. While we were on our way towards our seventh destination the Holy Trinity Church, we saw this man flogging himself under the heat of the sun, and as what can be seen from this photo, his body is all covered with blood. Nonetheless he continues to go about to fulfill his religious vow.

There are some people who don't understand and don't agree with what this man is doing. But somehow it doesn't matter. What we believe in, our faith is so strong that it defies criticism and provides confidence as well as determination to reach one's goal.

I used to doubt my faith, and there were times that I doubted God. But He is kind, merciful and loving, that He simply did not forsake me. This blessed season of Lent, let us all reflect on ourselves. Rekindle our faith its power can take us even through the most difficult of situations.

Robust for Men!

2011-04-14T16:18:00.002+08:00

I have recently read about this product in an online forum, and some comments were positive others were negative, so I told myself only one way to know the truth - try it!

According to the instruction Robust should be taken preferably on an empty stomach 1 or 2 tablets. Since I was just satisfying my curiosity I took just a single tablet. Then at about 10 to 15 minutes of ingesting the yellow pill, I felt a bit different, it is as if the blood circulation in my body was faster. I didn't feel dizzy but I felt rather hot, and horny!

I don't have erectile problems or anything, but this pill somehow manages to elevate sexual desire, so much so that after taking it, I kept getting erections at the slightest hint of something sexual. And the effect is almost instantaneous, although in the packet it says that it takes 2 hours before it works, but I guess depending on the age and health condition this pill works even faster.

This pill also claims to be all natural, I read the list of ingredients and so far except for L - Arginine, everything that was used to make it came from herbal extract. So for guys out there who maybe suffering from some low sexual desire or poor performance in bed, I recommend Robust!

Robust really works and it is even cheaper than viagra. A packet consist of 2 tablets, I only took 1 and though it is supposed to work for only a short period, in my experience even after 36 hours the pill still works. So if you ever feel like you need to boost your sexual confidence and performance, Robust is definitely for you!

My Dream Dogs

2011-02-14T16:58:00.000+08:00

I love dogs, but of course owning one with a breed is quite expensive, I would need to save enough money in order for me to have one. So at the moment I satisfy myself with pictures and reading about some of the breeds that I want to have. Number one on my list is the Presa Canario or Canary Dogs. This one is a massively built Molosser type breed, with cat-like athletic movement. It can be quite aggressive and territorial and requires early training. I've seen videos of this dog and the mere sound it makes is enough to make a any prowler stop dead on its tracks.

My number two choice is the Doberman Pinscher. It has an elegant form and remarkable intelligence for a guard dog. Ever since I was a kid I wanted my Dad to buy me one, but he would often tell me horrific stories about this dog going mad and attacking its owner. The truth is we just can't afford to buy this handsome pooch.

Last, but certainly not the least is the Rottweiler. According to some articles I read on the internet this muscular type of dog will fiercely defend its territory and will take on just about any opponent. It has also been noted that aside from its impressive and powerful form it is also very intelligent.

At Long Last!

2011-02-08T15:40:00.000+08:00

After almost three weeks of waiting my ATM has finally been issued to me. Last week, this almost made me hit the roof, when I called the bank and found out that my card was not yet ready. When I opened an account I was given a service expectation of within two weeks, then to my surprise when I called I was told its supposed to be up to three weeks. When I asked for the reason why it has taken that long, I was told that it is due to the personalization process, to which I strongly tried to control myself from asking the teller if a picture of a tree or flower is being carved into the card.

Anyway, all my worries have ended I am finally in possession of my ATM card, I just wish the bank would further polish its customer service method.

Dorian Gray - Forever Young

2011-02-04T17:06:00.000+08:00

Wouldn't it be nice to be immortal? To live forever? Yes perhaps, but only if one doesn't only get to live but stays young-looking forever too. What good is immortality if your face looks like a thousand years old too, right?

Anyway, this movie by Ben Barnes an English actor who was the first choice for the character of Edward Cullen (vampire from Twilight), recently caught my attention in a DVD stand and as I was looking at it, the vendor told me: "Sir panoorin po ninyo, maganda yan!"

Normally, I would have dismissed it, but I felt a bit intrigued so I bought it. And surprisingly the vendor was right, the movie turned to be really good. I enjoyed it thoroughly in fact, even my brothers who usually don't watch anything other than B - rated sci-fi and hardcore action films actually liked it.

The story was fast-paced from start to finish, no dull moments, and I must say Ben Barnes played out his character superbly. So if you haven't seen Dorian Gray, I highly recommend that you grab a copy and watch it you won't be sorry.

Taekwondo

2011-02-03T14:33:00.000+08:00

As defined in the Wikipedia: Taekwondo (태권도; 跆拳道; Korean pronunciation: [tʰɛkwʌndo])^[a] is a Korean martial art and the national sport of South Korea. In Korean, tae (태, 跆) means "to strike or break with foot"; kwon(권, 拳) means "to strike or break with fist"; and do (도, 道) means "way," "method," or "art." Thus, taekwondo may be loosely translated as "the art of the foot and fist" or "the art of kicking and punching."

With me in the photo above is Soo Ji Jeong, one of the Taekwondo instructors whom I had the privilege of teaching English. In exchange for language, she and her friend are teaching me and my colleagues with the art of Taekwondo.

The training started last October, it has been three months and I can honestly say, I have made a lot of improvement. I kick a whole lot harder and stronger now, proof of that are the muscles in my legs, which has become well defined as a result of the rigorous training.

Initially, I thought learning martial art is boring and physically challenging. Guess what, I was only right about the latter part. Training is fun and exciting, because the warm - up exercises are varying. Unlike the typical workout in a gym where one has a routine, Taekwondo offers a different challenge every session.

During the first month, I learned how to do a front kick properly, as well as using my arms for low, middle and high block. Then gradually the skill I learned progressed so now, I can add roundhouse kick (my favorite), ax kick, back kick, side-step kick, and high roundhouse kick.

Currently I along with my colleagues are trying to master Taegeuk Il Jang and Taegeuk Ee Jang, and hopefully once we are able to do it perfectly, perhaps we could get an examination and get a belt or higher level. Doing this sport has given even more self-confidence as a state of physical wellbeing.

My training will end in March, but I plan to continue. Hopefully I can find a dojo in Singapore that teaches Taekwondo so I could further improve my skills.

There's Nothing Like the Beauty of Nature

2011-02-01T13:55:00.000+08:00

Last Friday we went to Kabayan Resort in Batangas. Although this was not the first time I've been there, somehow at that time there was something different. The weather was very nice, not too hot, with the winds blowing just the right kind of breeze...gentle almost as if lulling so someone to sleep. My friend and I walked along the shoreline and somewhere on the stretch of sand we found this spot - magnificent!

I felt a strange feeling as I looked at the sea, some calm, so quiet - what life ought to be. There are currently lots of man-made resort but none can compare to Nature. I just hope authorities and even the people in this area are aware of this fact so that they could do everything in their power to preserve the beauty of this place. Otherwise, I feel sad for the next generation who might only enjoy nature by gazing at old photographs.