Brainspreads

Barbie and Hot Wheels in McDo Happy Meal

2014-09-10T13:05:00.000+08:00

McDonald’s Philippines releases the new Barbie Life in the Dreamhouse and Hot Wheels Happy Meal collectible toys. Kids will surely love these toys available now in McDo's bunch of happy meal. For the girls, Mattel’s Barbie Life in the Dreamhouse comes with eight collectible items. For the boys, Hot Wheels set has 8 different types of vehicles with mini boosters to race cars. These will be available for a limited time at all McDonald’s stores in the Philippines.

McDonald's again serves as deliverer of happiness to kids with these toys offered in every Happy Meal.

Revive

2014-09-02T17:31:00.000+08:00

I decided to revive this blog which I abandoned for the longest time... I mean the longest time because some features online were different compared now. As I think of what shall I post, let me hibernate once again. LOL

Take an extra leap today

2012-02-29T09:49:00.000+08:00

February 29 only happens once every four years. So make this day extra special and be a better person.

The start of February 29 shifts me to a different mood. Why... a friend called me and asked if i still work in ___ (name of office withheld). I listened to the query, this friend said that a person is willing to pay me (and/or any person capable of doing) to alter a certain document. The answer I gave, "I am not able doing it and more so I am not willing to do it." The conversation ended there but locking me up on thinking.

All of us citizens are sick and tired of a corrupt government, I know that for sure. But why, to a certain extent, shall we need pushing ourselves to something illegal if we have all the options to do that something legally? Time and money are sure factors yet in exchange of dignity, shall we have the guts to bribe money for it?

If we truly want to have a better government, everything shall start from ourselves. Do all things the right way.

Happy leap day of the year everyone!

Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent

2012-02-22T09:14:00.000+08:00

The Catholic Church in the Philippines teaches the importance of Ash Wednesday as the beginning of the Lenten season. On this day, everyone faithful is encourage to fast, abstain and do charity (these shall also be practiced on Good Friday). The cross on the forehead signifies a reminder that all of us must admit our sins and repent for we are all from ashes and will soon end as ashes.

Lent also known as "Quaresma" that means Forty in Latin, is observed before Easter. It begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter vigil. Though the total number of days from Ash Wednesday till Easter is 46, when lent was observed, the 6 Sundays were exempt from lent as Sunday was considered as day of celebration of the resurrection of our Lord.

Lenten season is a period of preparation for the passion week, which begins on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter, the main and biggest feast of the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church. Jesus began His ministry with fasting for 40 days and nights (Mathew 4 : 2) and finally ended with His sacrifice on the cross. In the old testament, we have a number of instances where people fasted, the more notable one is the fasting of Nineveh (Jonah 3 : 5) and even the king of Nineveh sat in ashes.(Jonah 3 : 6)

Traditionally, the palms of the previous year (of Palm Sunday) are burnt and the ash is made and blessed and put on the foreheads of the faithful on Ash Wednesday using the words, remember you are dust and to dust you shall return (Genesis 3 : 19) or repent (turn away from your sins) and believe in the gospel (Mark 1 : 15).

The faithful go for the way of the cross which is conducted every Friday during this period. People also give up certain habits like smoking, drinking alcohol etc.

The colour of the vestments to be worn by the priests during the Mass, is purple, except on 19th March, the feast of Saint Joseph, 25th March, the feast of annunciation and on Maundy Thursday the colour would be white, while on Palm Sunday and on Good Friday it will be red.

Though Lenten season looks like a difficult period, it is certainly the most joyful period, as we are united in prayer and are spiritually preparing to celebrate the greatest feast – Easter. So, if you are making sacrifices during this period, do it cheerfully, (God loves a cheerful giver..... 2 Corinthians 9 : 7) for the love of Jesus who died for us. It is a way of saying “Thank you Jesus.”

Just a little sacrifice will make this day a meaningful one.

(contains excerpts from unknown authors)

Valentine's Day and the patron of hearts

2012-02-14T09:31:00.000+08:00

Let's have a little religious side on this day of hearts.

The history of Valentine's day (including the story of its patron saint) is still a mystery up to this generation. As a matter of fact, the Catholic Church recognizes three saint named Valentinus or Valentine, all were martyred.

One legend said that Valentine was a priest who served Rome in the third century. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than men with wives and children, he outlawed marriage for young men. As Valentine realized the injustice of the law, he secretly performed marriages for young lovers. The emperor discovered his actions and Valentine was put to death on February 14, 269 AD.

Other stories say that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons and experienced tortures. According to a legend, prisoner Valentine actually sent the very first "valentine greeting" after he fell in love with a young girl (probably the jailor's daughter who visited him often). Allegedly before his death, he wrote her a letter signed "From your Valentine" an expression still used at present time.

The VOICE is gone but will echo in many hearts

2012-02-13T12:15:00.000+08:00

Whitney Houston (1963-2012)

It is just freaky that last Saturday I am humming "a few stolen moments is all that we shared..." and suddenly my brain is booming to "I wanna dance with somebody, I wanna feel the heat with somebody, yeah..." even if no music playing anywhere. And to my surprise I suddenly remembered my childhood and the background suggests "I believe the children are our future.." and I can't imagine why I am reminiscing all Whitney songs. The songs that literally most of us grown up to.

Cover of Whitney Houston

Definitely, Miss Whitney Houston is such a loss to the music industry. With such incredible talent, who would have thought of someone who could sing as if having a CD on her throat. Her songs are the greatest masterpieces and mostly used in singing competitions. Her power and fame; her struggles and hardships: those made her marked. It seems so soon that the life of the extraordinary VOICE will end. It seems tragic. Truly, living a life hurting yourself is not called life at all. If only all of us can live by the phrase "learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all."

Goodbye Whitney...

Pulmonary Tuberculosis: Surviving and Moving On

2012-02-08T10:29:00.000+08:00

Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is one of the top causes of deaths in the Philippines. The disease is caused by a certain virus or bacteria (which I will not elaborate anymore) present in the air. When inhaled this virus will destroy the lungs.

Probable tuberculosis (Photo credit: sandrabermudez)

I never imagined that I would get this kind of illness as the common symptoms were not visible at times. First of all, I am overweight. Second of all, I don't suffer severe cough. Yet, it was in October 2008 when I coughed fresh blood (excuse for those sensitive brains) and suddenly I felt numbness because of nervousness. I eventually thought I would die and the end is near. I went to the doctor and got my chest radiated on the x-ray (lol). The results said Koch's extensive with cavity. After that I have to undergo three sputum examinations in two days. Praying that it would be negative but sorry to say that it was a big POSITIVE. (I was still on denial even if I knew that the results would be it after coughing those red fluids.)

The doctor specializing in Pulmonary cases from the Quezon Institute (I'm sorry I forgot your name doc but thank you very much for the great advice and help) immediately referred me to a DOTS Course (Directly Observed Treatment Short Course) in Malolos Health Center, all for free. I was treated for six months, two months of extensive phase and four months of maintenance. I left my work in those period. After the treatment, I was cured and able to work again.

Sad to say, the scar (in the lungs) is there forever. All previous x-ray plates of the patient must be kept so that next time that a chest x-ray will be needed, the radiologist will compare if the spot or infiltrates visible are stable. That means no bacteria is causing it to evolve into any suspicious haziness. Although some doctors will still require sputum examinations just to make sure no bacteria is present.

Image via Wikipedia

Let me summarize the truths about tuberculosis:

1. Anyone can acquire the disease and there is no exception. It depends on the person's immune system for the bacteria to be active.

2. The bacteria can be acquired through the air we breathe. Once acquired, it lives inside the body. The rays of the sun can kill it outside the body.

3. Chest x-ray is not enough for a diagnosis of TB. Any suspected patient must undergo direct sputum smear microscopy. If the sputum is negative and the patient is still suspected to carry the disease because of the symptoms (underweight, severe cough for two weeks), the patient will be referred to a panel of doctors for evaluation and right treatment.

4. A TB carrier must wear mask to protect people around him. He must be in a well-ventilated room with sunlight as much as possible. There is no need to isolate the patient. A patient is considered non-infectious in two weeks of treatment.

5. The patient must strictly follow the prescription medicines for six straight months. Tuberculosis is a mutant disease and once the bacteria became immune, the patient will take more time to be cured (the least will be eight months and even long years with vaccination).

6. While undergoing medications, some side effects will be: orange-like color of urine, numbness of arms or limbs, tolerable chest or back pains, and darker skin color. It is important to take vitamins (B-complex or any prescribed by physician) while treatment as some organs are sensitive to the medicine such as kidney and liver. Drink lots of water to flush out dark colored urine.

7. TB is curable but scars will still be in the lungs (just like any other wound) and once you undergo chest x-ray exam, the radiologist might read it as PTB suspicious or something like that. It is important to keep previous x-rays and inform the radiologist on the PTB history for the radiologist to compare if the visible spot is stable meaning it might be the scar caused by previous PTB.

And most important of all, follow your health partners, increase the immune system and have proper hygiene.

Immaculate Conception: what does it mean?

2011-12-08T05:44:00.000+08:00

The Immaculate Conception is a Catholic dogma, proclaimed by Pope Pius IX on December 8, 1854, with a splash Ineffabilis Deus, which claims that the Blessed Virgin Mary was preserved from original sin, from the first moment of conception: The Blessed Virgin Mary was preserved for special grace and privilege of almighty God, in anticipation of the merits of Jesus Christ the Savior of mankind, free from all stain of original sin. In fact, the Immaculate Conception is the doctrine that explains how Mary was protected from original sin, has not had a sin nature and is, in fact, sinless. So the dogma tells us that Mary was conceived by his mother Elizabeth, with the privilege not to carry the original sin that Adam and Eve, we all carry with us at the time of conception. This conception is celebrated on December 8 for the reason that this date precedes the nine months, the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. If this feast falls during Advent is a sheer coincidence that has nothing to do with Christmas. However, we can see, clearly, the relationship with the birth of Jesus, God preserved Mary from original sin, to prepare a worthy dwelling place for Christ incarnate.

"In the sky there appeared a great sign, a woman clothed with the sun, the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars. She was pregnant and cried out in labor ..." (Rev 12: 1-2). The "woman", which immediately suggests the idea of wife and mother refers to the covenant of God with his people, often expressed in terms of nuptial love. And the woman clothed with the sun-the people, the light of God surrounds it. The "woman" has around her head a crown of twelve stars that evoke a whole together and all the people of God (12 tribes, 12 apostles). This "woman" is the assembly of the Church, is Christ who gives birth to son, which was founded by the Church as he had also told Paul to the Galatians. Son undermined by the Evil One, in fact: It appeared a second sign, a huge red dragon with seven heads and ten horns and ten crowns on the heads .. The dragon stood before the woman who was about to give birth, to devour her child when she was born (AP12, 3-4). The dragon is "the antico, serpent called the devil, who satana" (AP12, 9) which acts by entering human history, creeping into the structures of social life, in the centers of power, but not touching the Son { been brought to God } (AP12, 5).

In 1858, the same Mary appeared in Lourdes, Bernadette said to be the Immaculate Conception, and was to confirm the dogma promulgated by the Church in 1854.

The precursor of this long journey, for the promulgation of the dogma, was S. Anselm of Canterbury (1109), but he developed his thought in the sense strongly in favor of the Immaculate Conception, was his disciple Eadmer (1134). He was the first to write a treatise on the subject, which says that the popular faith is universal on this point, and that this wisdom is wiser than the learned. Eadmer lays the foundation for the Church in 1854, 720 years later, promulgated the dogma of the Immaculate Conception.

We can not and must not forget that the Holy Rosary is an eloquent prayer in which it is clear this dogma, as well as the litany that we always remember: "Queen conceived without sin, pray for us."

Things You Should Stop Doing in Your 30's

2011-11-19T14:55:00.000+08:00

I came across this hashtag on Twitter and some responses are really amazing. I can relate somehow because I am so near approaching 30s. LOL.!!!

Some of the replies are: (sorry if I failed to credit you dear twitterers...this was randomly selected)
#ThingsYouShouldStopDoingInYour30s

1. wearing tighty-whities
2. using pickup lines
3. the classic rolling down your window next to a hot girl and checking her out
4. dressing like a teenager
5. obsessing over celebrities
6. asking money from parents
7. going to frats
8. saying your parents' house is yours when they're not home
9. lying about your age.... trying to make yourself younger
10. having a Bieber fever or claiming Justin is your baby's daddy

11. getting tattoos and piercings
12. playing in video game tournaments
13. spreading the rumor about Santa Clause
14. trying to grow your hair
15. messing with younger people
16. acting like you're in 20s
17. running to the ice cream truck
18. dyeing your hair 5 different colors
19. depending on others to take care of you
20. waiting in line for Twilight tickets

21. sagging your pants
22. waking up with a hangover
23. kissing in public
24. stand in front of the mirror, pout and snap photo of yourself
25. fist fighting
26. whining and complaining
27. getting drunk every weekend
28. being a fake friend
29. keep committing big sins
30. telling everyone that you're still 29, you've been 29 three times now LOL

And a lot more... Hmmm.. I guess there is one more thing you should stop doing in your 30s...

Sampung Payo sa mga Gustong Tumanda na Malakas ang Katawan (Ten Tips to Those Who Want to Grow Old in a Strong Body)

2011-10-28T17:43:00.000+08:00

This is just a repost. I certainly do not own this material. I am just glad to share it with you my loyal readers. Nakanang! Lol. Enjoy reading.

1. Huwag agad bibitawan ang iyong trabaho. Maging abala hangga’t maari. Ito ang magpapanatili sa iyong kabataan na labis nyong ikaliligaya.
Don’t let go your job. If possible keep yourself busy at all times. This will keep your youth and keep you happy.

2. Hangga’t maiiwasan, huwag makitira sa mga anak na may pamilya na. Kumuha ng isang lugar na matitirhan. Panatilihin ang iyong kalagayan upang makaiwas sa pakikipagtalo sa iyong anak at manugang. Ang makitira sa kanila ay magiging sunod-sunoran ka na lamang, hindi makakapag decision sa sarili at mawawalan ng karapatan na labis mong ikalulungkot.
Whenever possible, do not stay with any of your children with families. Get your own place to live. Keep you own circumstances to avoid any arguments with your children or in-laws. If you stay with any of them you may not have or may loose your own decision that will make you unhappy.

3. Hawakan ng mahigpit ang iyong baul. Kung magbibigay ng pera sa anak, yung kaya mo lamang at laging magtira ng malaking bahagi para sa sarili mo. Ang libro de bangko na may laman ay magandang kaibigan sa iyong katandaan.
Hold on to your treasures tightly. If you give or lend money to any of your children, just give them enough and leave large portion for yourself. Big check book is the “best friend” at old age.

4. Huwag masyadong maniwala sa iyong anak na nagsasabing kayo ay aalagaan. Madalas ang mga nagbabanggit nyan ay syang mga hindi gagawa. Ang mabuting anak ay hindi nagbabanggit ng anuman at ang masamang anak ay kailanman hindi tutupad ng pangakong binitawan.
Do not believe that you’ll be taken cared of by your children. Most often those who say they will are the ones who won’t do it. A good child won’t mention anything and the bad child is almost always the one who will not fulfill promises.

5. Upang manatili kang masaya, panatilihin ang pakikipagkaibigan at magdagdag pa hangga’t maaari. Humanap ng mga kaibigan na mas bata sayo. Ang mga matatanda kasi ay malapit ng mamahinga at ikalulungkot mo na labis ang paghahanap ng kapalit. Sumali sa mga magagandang asosasyon, grupo, kooperatiba, o apostolada.
To stay happy, keep friendships and if possible add new ones too. Find friends younger than you. Elder friends may pass away earlier than you and it’s grievous to find replacement. Join wonderful groups, associations, cooperatives or church/apostolic ministries.

6. Maging maayos, laging maganda, malinis at mabango. Ang katandaan ay hindi dahilan upang ikaw ay maging madungis at nanlilimahid. Sila ay di dapat na mandiri sayo kaya’t pangalagaan mo ang iyong sarili.
Keep yourself neat,always beautiful, clean and smelling good. Old age is not a justification to be filthy and unkempt. People don’t need to insult you so protect yourself, nobody will.

7. Laging abala sa pagawa ng kabutihan sa kapwa. Asikasuhin sila upang asikasuhin ka din nila ayon sa “law of ripple effect”. Huwag kalilimutan magdasal sa araw araw.
Be occupied in the working of goodness in others. They will look after you also to supervise them according to the “law of ripple effect”. Do not forget to pray everyday.

8. Huwag panghimasukan ang buhay ng iyong mga anak. Hindi sapagkat anak mo sila ang lahat na magugustuhan mo ay magugustohan din nila. Alalahanin mong nagbabago ang panahon.
Do not interfere in the lives of your children and let them manage their own. Just because they are your children, don’t expect them to do or follow what you want. Remember times changes.

9. Huwag ipagyabang ang iyong katandaan. Hindi sapagkat ikaw ay lumilinya na sa 80 ay napaka runong mo na. Isaisip mo na hindi mo taglay ang lahat ng karunungan sa mundo. Huwag isipin na ang katandaan ay kalayaan upang maging inutil, ulianin at wala ng silbi sa buhay. Makipag paligsahansa lahat ng bagay para may dahilan ang bawat pagising mo sa umaga.
Don’t boast of your age. It’s not true that just because you are in your *0s that you have all the wisdom of the world. Don’t think that old age is a freedom to become crazy, forgetful and no use in life. Join every/ any contest to expect something when you wake up the next morning.

10. At sa wakas, huwag maging makulit. Huwag ikuwento ang nakaraang panahon ng paulit-ulit. Huwag ikukumpara ang mga bagay bagay na makakasakit ka sa kapamilya. Huwag maging mapaghanap. Matuto kang mag-puri ng magandang nagawa ng kapamilya upang manatili ang magandang samahan. Hanggat kaya, magbasa ng magbasa ng dyario, libro at makinig sa mga talakayan sa radio. Ang “imaginative mind” ay malayo sa Alzheimer’s disease.
And finally, do not be repetitious. Do not tell the past repeatedly. Do not compare things that hurt you in the family. Do not be demanding. Learn to take great pride in achievements of family members to stay in good relationship. Unless so, read and keep reading newspapers, books. Listen or be part of the discussions on radio or anywhere. REMEMBER, the “imaginative mind” is far from Alzheimer.

LIVE WELL, LOVE MUCH, LAUGH OFTEN!!!

Flood reflections

2011-10-12T15:11:00.003+08:00

After the floods in Bulacan due to typhoons last September 27 and October 1, I posted something to reflect on Facebook which I am now sharing here. It is originally written in Filipino so I included some translations.

This is the original text...

pagninilay po lamang...

(1) sadyang mababang lugar ang bayan ng Hagonoy, sa tuwing may high tide ay umaapaw din ang mga ilog, at sa katunayan nung 1972 nakaranas na ito ng malaking baha na nagmula sa Angat Dam, naging "catch basin" at pinayuhan ang mga residente na lisanin ang lugar... ngunit sinong residente naman ang aalis sa isang bayan na kanyang kinalakhan lalo pa't nandun din naman ang kabuhayan. nagpatupad ng iba't ibang solusyon gaya ng pagtaas ng mga daanan na natupad sa ilang lugar, gayundin ang paghukay ng mga ilog na alam nating hindi naging ganap na tugon upang maibsan ang pagbaha kahit mag-high tide.

(2) may itinakdang taas ng tubig sa Angat Dam upang mapanatili ang de-kalidad na serbisyo nito sa ilang kababayan sa Bulacan at Maynila. tuwing may bagyong nagdadala ng malakas na ulan, naghihintay sila ng abiso sa tuwing tumataas sa kritikal na lebel ang tubig ngunit naisip kaya ng pamunuan lalo't alam nila nung 1972 madaming namatay sa pagbaha dulot ng Angat Dam? at alam din naman natin na tuwing tag-araw nagkakaproblema din sila dahil mababa naman sa itinakdang lebel ang tubig sa dam. sadyang wla bang solusyon upang hindi masayang ang tubig na itinatapon ng dam sa tuwing mapupuno ito?

(3) ang tagapagtaya ng panahon sa PAGASA ay nakakapagsukat lamang ng dami ng ulan kapag ito ay nakapasok na sa kalupaan, ang radar ay sumusukat lamang sa lakas ng hangin at bugso nito gayundin ang bilis at direksyon ng takbo nito. Ang mga dam ay nagpapasya ng pagpapakawala ng tubig ayon na din sa dami ng ulan na ipapalabas sa ulat ng PAGASA. wala bang pagsasaliksik kung papaanung sa karagatan pa lang na nasasakupan ng Pilipinas ay masukat na din ang dami ng ulan at pati na rin dayametro na maaring kapalooban nito?

This is the translated version...

For a reflection ...

(1) The town of Hagonoy (in Bulacan province) is actually a low-area, surrounding rivers overflow during high tide, and in fact in 1972 the town experienced a great flood that came from Angat Dam spills, it became the "catch basin" and some authorities advised the residents to leave the area... But residents would not turn away as their livelihood is situated there, they have implemented various solutions such as elevating the passage which was carried out in some areas, as well as the dredging of rivers that we know did not become complete solutions to relieve the flooding even during high tide.

(2) Angat Dam has designated water measure to maintain the high quality service to some fellows in Bulacan and Manila. Whenever a storm brings heavy rain, they wait for notification when the water reached critical levels, but the authorities did not learn just so in 1972 when many died in floods caused by the Angat Dam? and we also know that during summer they are also having problems because of low water level in dams. do they have solutions to design and not waste any water from dams thrown whenever it reached high water level?

(3) the PAGASA forecasters can measure the amount of rainfall only when the typhoon makes a landfall, their radar measures only the strength of the wind and gustiness as well as its speed and direction. The dam decides to release water after they knew the amount of rainfall also to be disclosed in the report of PAGASA. are there researches wherein the amount rainfall can be measured when the typhoon is still on the Philippine seas and also the typhoon's diameter?

After that... I am mocking a plank

2011-07-19T10:08:00.001+08:00

Yes, and so! After that stressful day thinking of some nonsenses, I eventually started to look for some things to take away my stress and downsides. Some of it are as follows.

1. Heavy breakfast. Nothing is ever so rewarding with a good food to start a stressful day. And how it excites me to hear myself burp and having a feeling of full stomach.

2. Listening to any cool good music. Any upbeat song, bubble gum pop, danceable tunes! Makes you nod a few times, stomp a little and then jump to the fullest headbanging.

3. Do something you never did for the rest of your life. Do something unusual like extensive exercise routine. Just make sure you are still alive after that.

Focusing on number 3, I did really something unusual that I never did ever. Planking! Yeah! No, no, no... this is not suicide. I am still alive after that attempt.

The infamous graphic designer tag

2011-07-18T14:43:00.001+08:00

I don't know if I should create a big deal of this some kind of extraordinary incident which happened few days ago. Well, as if you know, I am bestowed upon the infamous tag as "graphic designer" in the ever coveted missosology.org forum almost a year ago.

It all started with a not so official contest of creating a web banner by a forum administrator. This contest created loud buzzes as the winner will be given the tag and the chance to contribute for the graphic presentations of the site. Though rules are not clear, this administrator then posted designs which he thinks were qualified for the contest, and without any of my posted designs. Shocked a bit, I went on to post some of my bitterness and trying to calm myself. To make the story short, the supreme administrator changed my tag and my other fellow forum buddies, who joined the contest, into graphic designer. Some administrators are against it but seems the contest is not pursuing itself, anymore.

Happy as I am, I wholeheartedly followed errands of creating designs for the website. I know it is not of the eye-popping bestest design ever created but I know the efforts are some kind of the best I given. Upon having this tag we are entitled to give such enormous talent of graphic skills to beautify the forum and the site as well, all pro bono. (Although, only one banner I created was posted on the site and that is the big 4 banner, I also created banners for the MissUSA 2011 contestants. I don't know what happened with those designs.)

Lately, I have been busy for my work and will not be able to create a design for them for months now. I received messages from the admin and some members tagged as "experts" to create banners and designs but I really have don't much time to fulfill my duties.

A few days ago, I received a group message again and this includes a warning that some designers are in danger of getting demoted. Plus, another message asking for a banner design to be given within 24 hours. Much as I am preoccupied with other errands I failed to do so. Least to my expectation that I am one of those "graphic designers" who will be dethroned based from the said posts.

SHOCKWAVE. MISSOSOLOGY BIG 4

My work is still on the missosology website. This is not bragging or anything because I know the graphics are of poor quality but I had a contribution once for the website. Not of the excellent quality they expected but worth of time and effort to compensate my egoistic sense of having the "graphic designer" tag, all for the love of voluntarism.

As a regular member who passioned to be of great help, this simple "tag" of course is one way or another the best reward a member could get. But now that they already took it away, I rather accept the fact that in some ways, efforts exerted are of least appreciated. Now, I am okay to be a regular member. At least, the only pressure I will think of is my regular job, and just set the forum as an outlet to have fun, relax and enjoy one of my passions: pageantry at its best.

Miss Universe 2011 personal choices

2011-07-16T16:59:00.000+08:00

So this is it, months before the pageant itself, I post here my choices whom I thought are big contenders for the title. Just wait and see. lol.

July Rainy Day Specials from Sun Cellular

2011-07-15T09:07:00.000+08:00

It's raining FREE phones and exciting deals in the July Rainy Day Specials of Sun Cellular. Hurry! Visit The Sun Shop starting July 6 to 30 for great rainy deals and more.

For a larger view of the image click here Sun promo poster

Creating happy moods

2011-07-08T10:43:00.001+08:00

Gloomy weather and rainy days put things on slow. Especially when you suffer mood swings in unexplained situations, getting up from the wrong side of the bed is not an excuse to let the whole day suffer from negativity. Lucky enough if these "gravities" can be easily diverted into "light forces" and so here are some few ways that may interfere those irritable situations.

1. Inhale, exhale... breathing? Thank God for that. The world is filled with fresh air and the fact that you felt some bloating in your lungs is something to be thankful for. Life is a gift given by the Ultimate Creator and this must be cherished at the first few seconds of breathing.

2. Go outside and look for the sun. The rays of the sunshine during sunrise gives positive energy. Even if it's gloomy, just look towards the east. The sun is just behind those clouds and its energy is penetrating towards you.

3. Think green. Not the greens that you used to think. Trees, plants and grasses or anything green. It relaxes the mind.

4. Eat well. An empty stomach can drive you crazy. Have a full meal at the start of the day.

5. Drink sometime, not everytime. For the party-goers out there, this will surely be a hit. But of course, as everyone says, do it in moderation. A little tingling of alcohol excites positive aura in you.

And speaking of drinking, there goes Tanduay ICE alcomix. It is one smooth 5% alcoholic beverage that is so easy to drink. Well, just to swing your bad moods into good ones. In short, there are more good things in life, so grab one!

More information about Tanduay ICE visit: http://www.asiabrewery.com/tanduayalcomix.php !

Get excited with the McDo Coke can glass!

2011-07-06T09:25:00.001+08:00

The ever-stylish Coca-Cola glass is back at McDonald's store, this time in a new design. The previous design McDo had is the contour glass.

Beginning July 2, Coca-Cola Can Glass may be availed just by adding P25 to any McDonald's Extra Value Meal. There are six colors to choose from - Blue, Charcoal, Purple, Lime, Green, and Pink - the new Coca-Cola Can Glass is a nice collectible available until July 15.

The Coke special design glass will be exclusive at McDonald’s 13 markets including Singapore, China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, The Philippines, Malaysia, Pakistan, Tahiti, Fiji and New Caledonia.

Welcome back!

2011-07-04T10:38:00.000+08:00

Wow, it has been almost a year since my last post and I promise to update my blog as soon as I can.

This past few months I have been busy and I admit that I neglected some of my online duties. Well, anyways I am back and starting something new. I will update my previous post (Miss Universe 2010 pageant soon enough so watch out for that!

Thank you everyone and Mabuhay!

Stunning new decade: Miss Universe 2010

2010-09-28T21:37:00.001+08:00

SEE PART 1

After the gruesome and nerve-wracking announcement, this is crucial for all candidates as they realized mixed emotions: some were defeated and the others tasted a sneak of winning; but the contest was just starting. The girls then went backstage and started to prepare for another exciting part of the evening: the swimsuit competition.

Reigning Miss Universe. Stefania Fernandez won as Miss Universe 2009 staged in the exotic islands of the Bahamas. All her achievements within her reign underscored the AIDS awareness cause of Miss Universe along with her numerous travels all over the world.

The judges. Before the competition started that evening, hosts Natalie Morales and Brett Michaels introduced the judges one by one:

They are: Nikki Taylor (international supermodel), William Baldwin (actor-producer), Chynna Phillips (singer-songwriter), Evan Lysacek (Olympic champion), Tamron Hall (NBC anchor), Chazz Palminteri (Oscar nominee), Jane Seymour (Golden Globe and Emmy winner), Criss Angel (master illusionist), and Sheila E. (queen of percussion).

Swimsuit competition. The ever-stunning swimsuit competition was accompanied by the stars of "Viva Elvis" by Cirque du Soleil - a perfect soundtrack for this year's swimsuit parade. The candidates wore swimwear of Dar be Dar by Tala Raasi and footwear by Nina. They look great in lavender bikinis ornamented with silver designs. The average combined scores were shown to home viewers.

Puerto Rico sported a wave-curly hair. Her catty look and flirty moves created sexy ambiance on stage. This excellent move scored 8.443 and not bad for a start.

A pretty face combined with a nice body, that is Ukraine. Although she failed to create a little play with her silver robe, she managed to mesmerize the audience. Those tiny efforts scored 8.333.

Even if she looked small onstage, Mexico exuded her sweetness all throughout the swimsuit parade. Her shoulders played a big part for a successful catwalk. The 9.265 score is really sweet for her.

Quite pale performance for Belgium. The strokes of her hips seem slow and less energetic. The judges might came boring with her to score 7.571 in average.

Stunning, that is the word for Ireland. She knew what she had to do onstage while wearing a swimsuit plus high heels while carrying a silver cloth. A great projection deserve a high score, more than 8.784.

Not that whistle-blowing and a little stunner, South Africa's posture probably saved her in the competition. She looked good in a swimsuit yet not of her best. Well, she deserve the judges' 8.229 for an average score.

Just too fast for France. A short runway might be not suited for her. Great hair, pretty face but speedy walk. Running the runway ended with 7.586 for the judges.

Ending the first half of the swimsuit parade is Australia. Young, fresh-looking... a little chubs yet with an innocent face, that would smash a powerful aura. Scoring 8.543 was a proof of a youthful catwalk.

Jamaica knew how to drop off with the music. Great catwalk synchronizing with a smooth turn was her big plus in this swimsuit competition. With an excellent performance, a score of 9.426 is well-deserved.

Less energetic Russia came down the stage. Still, her curves managed to do it. But somehow, her overall performance was less impressive finishing a score of 7.843.

The performance of Albania is not of an extraordinary but her flowing hair plus curvaceous hips is barely noticeable. Moreover, a pouting 8.229 score help a lot in exuding stage attitude, a tie with South Africa.

Rehearsed-style of swimsuit catwalk might seem not work that night for Colombia. A great body of less presentation was not that much effective with a score of 7.643 - stating there are lesser impressed judges.

Much to everybody's surprise, Guatemala showed maximum improvements in the entire pageant. She was much beautiful during the finals compared to preliminaries and 8.071 score was surely a consolation.

The fighting spirit might be off for Czech Republic. Her face somehow was in the fighting form. Her nervousness sprung her luck to a score of 7.429 and locking her to a big time low.

When you speak of fighting form, here was the Philippines. A very confident lady boomed the runway and wowed the audience with her exotic beauty. Ever wonder if an 8.957 score suited her performance.

Viva Las Vegas! The music suits the swimsuit parade very well. After the eye-popping swimsuit was the announcement of the top 10 ladies who made it for the next cut. A much more intense competition came right after.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Glamorous new decade: Miss Universe 2010

2010-09-28T11:01:00.007+08:00

It was one night on the 23rd of August 2010, more than 80 women gathered for one crown. All of these girls came from different parts of the world; competed in swimsuits, evening gowns, the crucial final question and on its conclusion, a new beauty queen from Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2010. A spectacular evening happened at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas; a night of overwhelming beauty, glamor, surprises and excitement. It has been a month after an another unforgettable coronation event of the most prestigious pageant of all time, so let us recall what happened that night as we review this year's most awaited pageant in the universe.

The coronation night was staged in a simple platform with a short runway at the center. This simple design was accented with a crescent-like adornment creating highlights at the steps of the two staircases. Lights installed all throughout the stage makes it alive and remarkable, plus the venue has a big audience area.

Opening number. All 83 delegates introduced themselves with a recorded presentation of their national costumes after a short prelude voice-over of Mr. Donald Trump, Miss Universe Organization co-owner.

This year's opening number made the audience tip-top and mesmerized by an incredible choreography. Much more, the music of David Guetta featuring Kelly Rowland entitled Commander made this number spectacular. The girls look absolutely stunning with their silver and black dresses. Hosts Brett Michaels and Natalie Morales officially opened the much-awaited event.

Top 15. The crowd showed excitement as the hosts randomly announced the name of the countries represented by the ladies who made it to the top 15. All contestants were judged by a separate panel in the preliminary competition; and together with the Miss Universe Organization, the semi-finalists were obtained.

There were no surprise to Puerto Rico in being included for the semi-finalist. Yet she never hide the excitement to be called on first. The crowd went wild as her supporters wave flags and shout tremendously.

A very poised and surprised Ukraine zoomed in the camera. Her pretty face saved her to advance for that night's competition. She is classy and elegant as she move center stage.

The audience seem to agree that Mexico deserves a spot in the top 15. Screams made her put on a big smile as she pose at the center with a little wink. She was somehow fetching readiness for the battle that night.

Everybody was surprised with the inclusion of Belgium. She seem relaxed as she walk at the center and have the first-pose for the top15. Well, the recovery seem fast enough for this lady or maybe thinking that it's not a rehearsal anymore.

A front-runner Ireland went down the staircases and finally addressed her fans with a sexy and elusive look. She was definitely expected to made it in the list. Her beauty is extraordinary.

South Africa is the savior for the African continent. Nevertheless, her country does not fail in choosing the best girls for Miss Universe through the years. This is not quite a surprise for her to be included for the semis.

An angelic face France was called on stage. Many were shocked but fully recovered upon seeing her innocent smile to the camera. Flashing lights added a flavor in this magic moment.

A bubbly Australia raised her both arms as she was called that night. Very young and fresh, she was indeed a sure choice for the finals for having a jolly and pleasing personality.

A little bit over for a reaction with Jamaica.but no one will surely argue that she deserved the spot. Maybe she was really surprised, yet a well-prepared girl would be expected to penetrate in this pageant and that would be definitely her.

Creating much buzz for the inclusion that is Russia. The facial beauty saved her for this competition and the audience seem agreed. A much exemplary performance in the preliminaries garnered her a spot.

Albania zoomed in to camera wearing much of a pleasant surprise in her face. A little pouting of her lips finished a great pose at the center stage.

Colombia flaunted her hips as she move at the center. A big smile proved her excitement for the competition. Her curves were highlighted as she pose for a second.

Really seems lucky enough for Guatemala. Quite unexpected to be in the list, she still presented some elements of surprise. Indeed, this pageant follows a different flavor in choosing girls.

Another pleasant shock with Czech Republic. Barely unnoticeable at the duration of the contest's early stages and before preliminaries, she still managed to step up and set her best for the competition.

After a long breath-taking announcement, there goes the Philippines. A strong candidate right from the start, equally twinned with lots of controversies. Consider the loud holler from the audience showing a signal for victory.

After the gruesome and nerve-wracking announcement, this is crucial for all candidates as they realized mixed emotions: some were defeated and the others tasted a sneak of winning; but the contest was just starting. The girls then went backstage and started to prepare for another exciting part of the evening: the swimsuit competition.

TO BE CONTINUED...

SEE PART 2

What made them fail in the pageant

2010-09-01T11:30:00.002+08:00

The Miss Universe 2010 is over yet the results show never fails to be on headlines. The pageant is still talked about in several websites and forums especially the crown that slipped away from Miss Philippines' hands. Actually, the controversial final question-and-answer portion is forever mentioned every time the newly-crowned Miss Universe Ximena Navarette is interviewed in America.

Well, everybody knows that I rooted to our very own Venus Raj of the Philippines and continued supporting her all throughout the pageant so I came by to notice that the results may sound unfair to some of the candidates that for me may seem more deserving to be at least on the semi-final round. Never get me wrong, but at first I am happy that most of them failed to the first cut because that gave Venus a big chance to shine in the finals. But somehow, it was disappointing not seeing them after their performance all throughout the pageant.

Rima Fakih, USA. As soon as she was crowned Miss USA, Rima adorned newspaper headlines and several websites about her controversial winning of the pageant. Aside from being an Arab descent, she was scrutinized and accused of degrading the Muslim culture.

Like Venus Raj, Rima also defended herself with these issues and proved that she deserves to be Miss USA, although not as close of losing the crown like Miss Philippines. She then represented USA in the pageant. But, as the contest transpires, Rima started to get away of her own spark. It started when she, along with some other contestants, posed half-nude in the official glamor shot. Rima made noise but not as loud as before. Also, her get-to-know video is not that impressive as she prompted her close-to-whisper voice and have to sing a lion sound. A little not impressive again.

During the preliminaries, she was energetic in the presentation portion and stunning in swimsuit. Her red evening gown failed to save her, I think. At the semi-final announcement, I was still confident that USA will be called in the top 15 just like every other Miss USA did in the previous years.

"And the final spot, are you ready, in the top 15 is for the Philippines," the host exclaimed.

Miss USA, just a few steps away from Venus, seems disappointed. Rima never clapped right away after the announcement. But I know she carried on well, she is beautiful with that long straight hair as she performed with the girls before the swimsuit parade. She is the fourth Miss USA who failed to be in the finals (1976, 1999 and 2002).

Marelisa Gibson, Venezuela. After winning the crown as Miss Venezuela, the pressure is then on for Marelisa. Nevertheless, two consecutive wins for her country is not an easy task to bare with. Yet, no one underestimates the capability of Venezuela to have a three time win with her. The world knows how serious they are in producing the best beauty queens in the universe.

With a beautiful face, who can never adore Marelisa. But, photos of her before joining the local pageant eventually became viral in social networking sites. A lot of enhancements, they say, had been made to sculpt that beautiful face. Well, with her get-to-know video, I can say this girl is real inside. She answered very well and very spontaneous, jolly and fun to watch. Just set aside those physical attribute issues and she is definitely it.

I do not love Marelisa but I do not hate her either. Well, thanks for the Venezuela sash, I constantly notice her in every pre-pageant activities' updates on the net. She did very well in the preliminaries. Personally, I was mesmerized by her beautiful smile that made me decide, she will be on the top 15. Well, all balls have turned for Venezuela, I guess having two wins back-to-back shall gave them a break for 2010. Miss Gibson is now added to the list of Venezuelans who broke their pedestal in the pageant, same in 2004 and 2006.

"And the final spot, are you ready, in the top 15 is for the Philippines," the host exclaimed.

Miss Venezuela, at the centerstage, also can't hide her disappointment inspite of her smile. Marelisa was still composed and smiling onstage but her smile reflects how she was defeated. Could it be her sash Venezuela saying that her country needs a rest after winning back-to-back?

The Philippines made it! (yes, after 11 years)

2010-08-30T08:49:00.000+08:00

This is one good thing to celebrate. The Philippines made it to Miss Universe after a decade of non-placement to the semi-final round of the most prestigious pageant. I actually set aside my blogging responsibilities just to follow updates about her on Twitter, Facebook fan pages, and pageant site forums. Indeed, the time I spent over it did not put into waste. After all, it is only now that our country had a very strong candidate for Miss Universe.

Pageant fans were all rejoicing as Venus Raj was last called during the top 15 announcement. I myself got nerve-wracked when all 14 girls were called plus USA, Venezuela, and some strong Latin countries were not still there. I was watching alone simultaneously checking updates on the web and on the delayed television broadcast. Somehow, if I also video-taped myself I may look like these guys jumping all over as Philippines made it to the semis.

During the swimsuit, Venus did her best. I love her walk here compared to the preliminaries. She boosts a lot of confidence. The pony-tailed hairstyle really helped a lot emphasizing her face and great figure. Her evening gown design is not quite impressive for me but with the way she carry it have her a ticket for the top 5.

Photo courtesy of missosology.org

After announcing the finalists, every Filipino is now expecting her to win. She has it all. Until there is the final question which is the game-changer, as the host said in the pageant. The Philippines finished fourth runner-up, the highest achievement after Miriam Quiambao, first runner-up 1999.

"What is one big mistake that you did in your life and what did you do to make it right?" This question blocked the chance of the Philippines to have its third Miss Universe. According to some reviews, this question seems easy but even persons of higher positions had a hard time answering this. To mention, even former US President George Bush is glued when given this question.

Her answer became an instant hit and a trending topic on Twitter for hours. She goes, "In my 22 years of existence I can say that there is nothing major, major... problem that I did in my life because I am confident with my family and the love that they are giving to me." There is no wrong in her answer but I guess everyone expects more from her answer.

Congratulations Venus Raj!

Venus Raj's Get-to-Know Video in Miss Universe

2010-08-16T14:56:00.000+08:00

I just watched Miss Philippines' official video in the Miss Universe website and I just transcribed it, for me to have something to do. LOLZ!!! I think she did great though her weakness is obviously repeating her points over and over again, but she managed it gracefully. Here is the full interview. Enjoy!

Q1: Being a woman, what piece of advice would you give to a man?

V: Wow, it's wonderful! You know there is a lot of things that men can also learn from women, but I think one major advice that I can give to men is that just be with themselves. I mean, just be themselves, like you don’t need to pretend, if you’re hurt you can cry. If you feel bad you can express yourself in a way that you want. No need to pretend that you’re strong or you’re this big, no need. If you want to do everything just do it. You’re a man… I know every man is strong but if you’re hurt you can cry out loud if you want to.

Q2: What is the best gift you have ever received?

V: Wow! I think the best gift I’ve ever received is the love of my parents, specially my mom because I grew up without my biological father but the love that my mother is giving me is wonderful. It cannot be compared to any other love or any other gift that you receive from other people… and that is perfect! Everything goes so smooth and she is like an angel from heaven.

Q3: What is the worst date you have ever been on?

V: Date… whoah! I’m not really that fond of dating with guys (grins).. No, I actually had two boyfriends before but it was not that long and… well, I don’t know. I just don’t experience date really, I mean not that very serious. I go out with friends. I go out with guy friends but not that very serious with like boyfriend or a suitor. You know, I’m too young, I’m just 22. (laughs)

Q4: Please make the following sound effects: lion, car starting, rocket launching, sheep, cow, robot

V: *lion* I think it’s rawwwwr, is it? No?
*engine starting* vroooom… vroom droom… droom… woa, that’s good.
*rocket launching* tssszhhhhhhhh!
*sheep* meeeeeeh! (laughs)
*cow* moooooaaaaah!
*robot* erk erk erk erk (laughs)

Campaign for Venus Raj, 22, Philippines

2010-08-09T16:30:00.000+08:00

Binibining Pilipinas-Universe Maria Venus Raj is currently leading in the online ratings provided by the official website of Miss Universe. (See related article.)

Although these ratings have no bearing at all in Raj's possible inclusion to the semi-finals, at least we can somehow prove the Miss Universe Organization and the world that we are in full support of a deserving winner for the title. Later on, NBC will also provide online polls for Miss Photogenic Universe 2010. We shall all watch out for that and support Venus Raj all the way.

We hope to maintain Philippines at the top!

Dealing with floods

2010-08-08T15:30:00.000+08:00

All right! So our city is such a beautiful city, so maybe that is why floods visit us regularly. What I mean by regular is when rainy season comes specifically the months of August until November, expect water to rise up to knee-deep or even higher than that.

Last year, we actually planned to reconstruct our home because the actual ten years of dealing with floods is such a pain in the ass. It was a terrible experience that every time we wake up for school; having to dip our feet to the coldness of flood waters just to go to the bathroom. After that we will also cross over floods on our way outside to reach the pave ways. Boots will never work out so we have to walk barefooted holding our bags, socks and shoes. Sometimes, we became late for school and worst thing about it was when the teachers did not believe that we have to struggle long flood ways just to be in school. Our place, I think, is the only place left low-leveled after the constructions of many subdivisions and villages within the city.

Now that rainy season is in again, I know we have to suffer for floods again. Our family managed to construct high level flooring for us not to get wet again. But our roads still will be filled in with water. Hoping someday that we will be able to stop dealing with floods ever.