burberry cheesecake...a slice of life!

I'm Back!! Well, sort of

2011-08-28T05:47:00.000+08:00

I know I am now one of the many notorious, delinquent bloggers who fail to update the site. Pitiful it may sound, but I may have been overwhelmed by the recent things that happened. This just goes to show that I have a life too!

With the rise in popularity of social networking sites, as well as micro-blogging sites, a quick status update seems to be enough to keep people on the loop. I don't know about you, but posting a single or a bunch of photos, status updates, and quotes can solicit a lot of responses and "likes" almost in real-time, making it a whole lot easier for me to interact with viewers. Moreover, posting the very same things in my blog can make it seem redundant.

Anyway, that's not why I am here right now. I am posting an entry simply because I have this luxury of time, which by the way, should be put in sleeping.

Notice the entry before this, it was in January 2011 and now it's already almost the end of August 2011! So what the heck happened in those 7 months?

To those who care enough to even want to know, or just to the plain curious, I would like to show all of you the product of my silence in burberry cheesecake:

My pride and joy: baby-d

Isn't he a cutie patootie?

But this doesn't mean the end of my blogging career (if we can call it such). I just felt like taking a very looooong break and focus more on my little angel. To those who have been waiting for my semi-useful posts, I apologize. I will try harder to see to it that I keep everyone updated. For now, I will try at least a post per week. :)

Hey Soul Sister

2011-01-20T11:48:00.000+08:00

Hey Soul Sister

Hey, hey, hey

Your lipstick stains on the front lobe of my left side brains
I knew I wouldn't forget you, and so I went and let you blow my mind
Your sweet moon beam, the smell of you in every single dream I dream
I knew when we collided, you're the one I have decided who's one of my kind

Hey soul sister, ain't that Mr. Mister on the radio, stereo, the way you move ain't fair, you know!
Hey soul sister, I don't want to miss a single thing you do...tonight
Hey, hey,hey

Just in time, I'm so glad you have a one-track mind like me
You gave my life direction, a game show love connection we can't deny
I'm so obsessed, my heart is bound to beat right out my untrimmed chest
I believe in you, like a virgin, you're Madonna, and I'm always gonna wanna blow your mind

Hey soul sister, ain't that Mr. Mister on the radio, stereo, the way you move ain't fair, you know!
Hey soul sister, I don't want to miss a single thing you do...tonight

The way you can cut a rug, watching you's the only drug I need
You're so gangsta, I'm so thug, you're the only one I'm dreaming of
You see, I can be myself now finally, in fact there's nothing I can't be
I want the world to see you be with me

Hey soul sister, ain't that Mr. Mister on the radio, stereo, the way you move ain't fair, you know!
Hey soul sister, I don't want to miss a single thing you do tonight,
Hey soul sister, I don't want to miss a single thing you do...tonight
Hey, hey,hey

Tonight

Hey, hey,hey

Tonight

People are So Bored at CAPTCHA's

2010-12-15T08:47:00.000+08:00

As the title of this post suggests, maybe some are inconvenienced by this added security feature to check whether an actual human being or a cheat robot is using a particular site. So the CAPTCHA, stands for "Completely Automated Public Turing Test To Tell Computers and Humans Apart," became a well-known security feature so that spam and other malicious things happening around the web, are avoided.

It could sometimes be a total pain especially when you have to type in long words and sometimes you may not be able to recognize the symbols being displayed in a funky manner.

But to keep things less boring, you should be able to catch these silly captchas I found (Heads up: some are really offensive):

For females only.

Maybe the guys will like this. Either that, or they only get to have this on CAPTCHA only:

Super racist?

Wiki has a point...

This must have hurt many (youch!).

Out of the closet?

For the PINOY men, kindly use in a sentence!

Now, who says CAPTCHAs are boring?

Celebrate Your Love of God

2010-12-10T03:54:00.000+08:00

kirb.us

Inspirational You
by Michelle Yankes

I pray for You to be with me
in the moments I need inspiration
to fulfill my life's pathway
with creative moments and joy.

I know my journey consists of
more than just monumental events,
but is filled with day-to-day activities
that lead me to my greatest work.

I find my joy and inspiration all around me
because You have laid it there,
right in front of me.

A beautiful sunrise, a golden sunset,
my children laughing, my husband gleaming,
the dogs wrestling, the wind caressing my skin.

All of these are Your doing,
but each of them inspires me
to be more than I am right now.

My Amnesia Girl In SD!

2010-12-07T04:30:00.001+08:00

It’s been a while since I’ve looked forward to viewing a good Filipino movie - especially those starring by brilliant actors like John Lloyd Cruz (JLC).

Though some may say that it’s reminiscent of the movie “50 First Dates”, I still think it’s not gonna be another let down because the brilliant chemistry of the leads, JLC and Toni Gonzaga. I never imagined a love team forming between them, but it seems to actually work, and the PDAs are incredibly believable. The “kilig” factor is definitely there!

So essentially the story revolves around 2 individuals in finally finding love in each other - exchanging very cheesy pick up lines, going out on dates - just like how normal young couples do.

There is, however, just this one setback - the leading lady has amnesia and totally forgets who the person she’s dealing with. Now, outstanding the question is left for all: Kung nabubura ang laman ng isipan, nabubura rin kaya ang laman ng puso? (If thoughts can be forgotten or “deleted”, will the heart also forget the feeling?)

Here’s a little clip:

I think it‘s already showing in Horton Plaza in downtown San Diego! I can’t wait for my husband to get on dry land so we can watch this!

NBI Clearance in Mandaluyong City Hall

2010-11-25T03:41:00.000+08:00

Okay, so I totally forgot about posting this topic because of a ton of things I needed to accomplish, as my timeline suggests.

My first attempt to get an NBI clearance was years back (2003), because I needed this piece of document for employment purposes. I went to the Carriedo Branch and surprisingly, the experience was not so bad after all, even if we could say that the line resembled a human caterpillar detangling itself. But then again, it was really organized, and the ride was fairly smooth.

Here‘s the best part, renewals are much easier because you can swing by at the nearest NBI kiosk, which gives you a shorter queue on off-peak days. For more information about my experience in renewing the NBI Clearance in SM Megamall, click here.

Months ago, I decided to have my NBI clearance updated to my married name. Reasons would include the fact that I urgently needed this piece of identification:

- as a requirement for my CR1 application;
- that it IS considered a valid ID; and lastly,
- it was SUPPOSEDLY the easiest to update.

The last item appeared to be false (well, in my case, at least).

Forget the long lines from renewal kiosks, because changing your maiden name into a married one is completely like applying the NBI clearance for the first time.

To do this, you have to go to a NBI Satellite Office (NOT a renewal kiosk). You can do the application at the following locations:
1. Quezon City Hall **
2. Pasig City Hall **
3. Muntinlupa City Hall **
4. San Pablo City Hall **
5. POEA **
6. Kalibo, Aklan **
7. Las Pinas City hall
8. Mandaluyong City Hall
9. Caloocan City Hall
10. Valenzuela City Hall
11. Marilao, Muncipal Hall
12. Los Banos Municipal Hall
13. Taytay Rizal, Municipal Hall

** Installed with computers. Releases NO HIT clearances applied on the same day (thanks to blog4charity.org).

My proximity to the Mandaluyong City Hall branch was the supposedly perfect place for me to have my NBI Clearance updated. Well, it was! Since I lived in that very district, I did not hesitate for a second to rush its expected busy office.

Well, almost rushed there. I arrived at 3pm -- bad idea! It’s because their cut off is only until 3. You may think that it’s quite unfair for a government office to have a cut off time, but you’d really understand why -- it’s even quite impossible for them to finish by 5pm because of the volume of people trying to avail of their services.

So as a tip, transact before 3pm! Do not even think about going to a kiosk, because they won’t entertain you if you needed to change your name or status.

What to bring:
1. Current NBI clearance (no photocopies allowed) - it’s okay if you were not able to bring it on the day of your renewal. They will just ask you to fill out the NBI Application Form- the kind that first-timers use.

As a suggestion, BRING it. It is a way of immediately identifying you, so that they wouldn’t need to “double-check” your identity.

2. CEDULA - this is to prove that you are indeed a resident of Mandaluyong City. You see, it’s a way for them to make sure that actual residents of the city are getting the benefits of utilizing the town’s facilities. All you need to do is show it to them, and you are not to submit this as a requirement.

3. Amount of PhP115 processing fee.

There is actually only one counter/window opened to submit the form and pay the processing fee. You will just have to wait for your name to be called for the image capture, which is basically also the window beside it. You will just have to stand (or sit) behind the white “background” provided and look at their web cam to capture your smile. Note: you may sometimes not realize that they already took your picture so better be on the alert side.

And then you wait.

Agonizing, I say, because you will have to wait under a “tent” used for street birthday parties and wakes. They have also provided monobloc seats and benches for all applicants who are likewise waiting for their name to be called. Yes, you’d have to wait in “open air” and sometimes, under the scorching heat. You could be lucky if there are unoccupied seats. It was brutal because it’s gonna be humid, noisy and tiring, so a mini-merienda and some drinks would be helpful to cope with hunger and possible dehydration.

I also mentioned it was noisy. You will hear someone shouting out instructions or people’s names through a loud speaker, even if it wasn’t necessary especially if you already have a device that will already blast your voice. Aside from that, the windows to the right also has their own microphone that will blast the names of people getting the Mandaluyong Police Clearance. At least the man there did not have to shout.

And for about an hour or so, you will finally hear your name once they find your records “clear”, meaning, no hits or similar name. Otherwise, they will ask you to return after 1 week on a time they will specify just to get your clearance. So for those with unique names, good for you!

Unfortunately for me, I was one of those that needed to go back because they must have seen me with a “hit”. For those who know my full name, I don’t think everyone will agree that I have a namesake with anyone else in the world, especially with my new married name. You could probably imagine the odds.

On the other hand, it may be because I wasn’t able to give my personal copy of my NBI clearance and filled out the form as a new applicant. I only assumed this because they may think that I would have a namesake, which is just probably myself! Haha!

So after a week, I went back to get my NBI clearance. Went as early as an hour before the schedule, but the staff said to wait at 4pm, since it was their specified time to accommodate all those who were asked to come back. No exceptions.

So I waited again, only because I don’t want to be shouted at by the ones calling out the names. They are sometimes giving out nasty comments to the “pasaway” people who have nothing to do but make their job worse by asking if they were already called or if they could already get their NBI clearance.

Finally I got my NBI clearance. For some reason, I always get called last! Maybe it’s because I have THAT ENOUGH patience to endure waiting unlike those that were with me.

And I was so glad that I had to change my name once!

Kay Ganda-Ganda...Ko!

2010-11-21T07:16:00.003+08:00

What do you guys think of this?

When I first heard of the latest proposed campaign for Philippine tourism, I was really skeptic and asked, "really?" While others thought it sounded like a "lazy" edition of another brainstorming session, some would assume that the slogan was not thoughtfully considered. I also thought it sounded like a cross-breed of ABS-CBN programs.

From a local perspective, it may work, or that's what I think, at least. But ask if foreigners or other "balikbayans" would agree. I bet most won't. Bad exposure, or poor branding? That's for you to decide.

But when I saw this logo abovejust recently, I thought it wasn't THAT bad for the color representations depict the colorful heritage of the 7,100 islands of the Philippines. The font choice makes it seem that our islands are fun to visit, too.

But when I saw this...

Polish Tourism logo

As much as the logo would look enticing enough, it still doesn't look or feel right to publish something that was already used, whether they intentionally knew about this or not.

Why not this instead? lol

To generate your own logo, you have to log in to your Facebook account and and search for the Kay Ganda application.

Don't we all agree of the need to revisit the campaign? My thoughts would be to make our officials reconsider other ideas for the tourism campaign. I'm sure they are working hard towards the goal of having an excellent branding for Philippine tourism, but before releasing half-baked ideas as such, they should have made a much more thorough research so that the people would proudly say that the Philippines is the next best destination of choice. Apart from that, people will laud DOT for a job well done in making use of the people's tax money in an efficient manner.

Let's #HelpDOT shall we?

Firework

2010-11-17T02:15:00.001+08:00

Firework
Katy Perry

Do you ever feel like a plastic bag
Drifting throught the wind
Wanting to start again

Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin
Like a house of cards
One blow from caving in

Do you ever feel already buried deep
Six feet under scream
But no one seems to hear a thing

Do you know that tehre's still a chance for you
Cause there's a spark in you

You just gotta ignite the light
And let it shine
Just own the night
Like the Fourth of July

Cause baby you're a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y

Baby you're a firework
Come on let your colors burst
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!"
You're gunna leave 'em fallin' down-own-own

You don't have to feel like a waste of space
You're original, cannot be replaced
If you only knew what the future holds
After a hurricane comes a rainbow

Maybe you're reason why all the doors are closed
So you can open one that leads you to the perfect road
Katy Perry Firework lyrics found on http://www.directlyrics.com/katy-perry-firework-lyrics.html

Like a lightning bolt, your heart will blow
And when it's time, you'll know

You just gotta ignite the light
And let it shine
Just own the night
Like the Fourth of July

Cause baby you're a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y

Baby you're a firework
Come on slet your colors burst
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!"
You're gunna leave 'em fallin' down-own-own

Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
It's always been inside of you, you, you
And now it's time to let it through

Cause baby you're a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y

Baby you're a firework
Come on slet your colors burst
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!"
You're gunna leave 'em goin "Oh, oh, oh!"

Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon

Debunking Beauty Facts (or should we say Myths?)

2010-11-16T08:05:00.000+08:00

Debunking beauty facts -- or should I say myths? Which of these myths are ACTUAL myths, and which myths are actual FACTS?

We women would always have a knack at looking pretty, even if we say we want that sometimes. I mean, who wouldn’t? Now we have to set the record straight. Are we on the path of righteousness, or do we need to revisit our beauty beliefs?

Myth: Chocolate makes you break out.

Fiction. Chocolate won't cause a breakout, but it is true that a poor diet can irritate your skin, so try to limit your chocolate cravings!

Myth: Cucumbers will help de-puff your eyes.

Fact. Eye puffiness can be genetic, but there are definitely things you can do to reduce darkness and those puffy bags we loathe! Cucumbers can do the trick — and so can anything that's cold and can be easily applied to your eyes. The coldness restricts blood vessels which reduces swelling and puffiness. Just make sure to limit the application to about five minutes for optimal results.

Myth: 8 hours sleep can help me lose weight.

Fact. The experts tell us to aim for 8 hours a day, but if that just seems impossible, shoot for 6-8. Obviously we're not eating while we're sleeping, but in addition, not getting enough sleep can prevent us from burning as many calories as we should throughout the day...so get back in bed and rest up! (You don’t have to tell us twice!)

Myth: Your cell phone can make you break out.

Fact. Okay this is gross, but...apparently cell phones are premiere breeding grounds for germs. Some experts say the average cell phone has more germs than doorknobs and even toilet seats — yuck! Make sure you take a clean cloth to your cell phone screen every so often to help get rid of any breakout-causing germs!

Myth: Waxing or shaving will make my hair grow back thicker.

Fiction. Contrary to popular belief, shaving and waxing will not make hair grow back thicker. Most people think this is true because when hair grows back in after waxing/shaving, the hair is a bit shorter than normal, therefore seeming thicker and coarser while longer hair appears more fine.

Myth: Pumping the mascara wand helps to apply mascara better.

Fiction. This is a big no-no as far as mascaras are concerned. The only thing you get when you pump the mascara wand is extra air and bubbles in the mascara tube which dries it out and decreases its lasting power. If your mascara is running low but it's not time to toss it, just slowly twist the brush as you remove it to pick up more of the product.

Myth: Sharing makeup with your friends is like trading germs.

Fact. As much as you'd love to try your friend's new lip gloss, makeup applicators and brushes pick up entirely too much bacteria. Just pick up your own makeup, and make sure the makeup stores you buy from clean the products they use to test on customers.

Myth: Popping a zit is fine if only done once in awhile.

Fiction. Please try your hardest to leave your skin alone — especially during a breakout! Messing with a zit will spread oil and bacteria to the clean parts of your skin. Plus, popping a zit will undoubtedly aggravate your pores and won't leave you with the fresh-looking skin you were after in the first place!

Myth: Obsessive face washing can eliminate acne.

Fiction. We know it seems backward, but over-washing your face will dry it out and remove natural oils, which will put your face into over-oil production mode. Stick to washing your face twice-daily, once in the morning and once at night.

Myth: Drinking tea can make my teeth look yellow.

Fact. Red and white wine, soda, tea, and coffee can all contribute to the yellowing of tooth enamel. If you just can't give up your morning tea or latte, try to sip through a straw when possible to minimize contact with your tooth enamel.

Myth: Drinking lots of water will keep my skin healthy.

Fact. Drinking water will definitely keep you hydrated and healthy and those benefits apply to your skin too! Next time you're craving a soda, reach for a tall glass of water instead — trust us, your skin will thank you!

Myth: The best place to apply perfume is on pulse points.

Fact. Applying perfume to pulse points is the best way to make your scent last all day. Fragrances react with heat, so spritz your perfume on your wrists or the back of your neck and you won't need to worry about re-applying.

Myth: Cocoa butter will help get rid of stretch marks.

Fiction. There are plenty of creams and lotions that claim to eliminate or at least minimize stretch marks. While we would love for all of these to work, stretch marks are caused by weight gain or loss, and usually can't be reversed.

Myth: Olive oil can be used to make an at-home cleanser.

Fact. Believe it or not, olive oil really can be used to make a quick at-home cleanser — but only for normal complexions. Mix a quarter cup of olive oil with a teaspoon of brown sugar and dab onto dry or flaky areas to exfoliate the dry skin.

Myth: Split ends can be reversed.

Fiction. Unfortunately, once split ends happen, the only way to get rid of them is by getting a haircut. The good news is that the right hair products can definitely make them less noticeable. Try a pomade like John Frieda's Frizz-Ease Creme Serum Overnight Repair Formula. Also, try to limit the use of heated tools and appliances (hair dryers, flat irons, etc) for shinier, healthier locks.

Myth: Tanning in the sun clears up bad skin.

Fiction. No way! Sun exposure just causes additional skin irritation and damage. Make sure to cover your face with a good oil-free sunblock to prevent any additional irritation if you're going to be out in the sun.

Myth: Spot reducing exercise works.

Fiction. If this were true, we'd be the happiest people on earth! Sadly, you can't just pick one spot and do certain exercises to trim fat where you want. Aim for total body workouts like running or swimming with light free weight exercise to lose more weight and look fit and trim overall.

Myth: Avocados can make a great skin mask.

Fact. Sounds weird, but it works! Mash one ripe avocado and mix it with a little bit of lemon juice. Apply this mask to your face and neck for an over-the-counter toner/firmer.

Myth: Certain cleansers can make your pores smaller.

Fiction. Pore size is genetic, so although there are tons of products out there claiming to shrink the size of your pores, they don't work to minimize pores permanently. What they can do is temporarily make your pores appear smaller. Hey — we'll take what we can get!

Myth: Crossing your legs causes varicose veins.

Fiction. There are plenty of ways to potentially develop varicose veins, but none of them are related to crossing your legs (sigh of relief). Some examples of what could causes varicose veins include genetics, obesity, trauma to the skin, etc.

Myth: Toothpaste can zap a zit.

Fact and fiction. Toothpaste contains ingredients that can dry out the skin, ultimately drying out/clearing up pimples. While this is true, drying out the skin can also cause irritation, so the benefits are short lived. Bottom line: Stick to your normal skin treatment or see a dermatologist if you are experiencing issues with your skin.

Myth: Matching eye shadow will make your eye color pop.

Fiction. Actually, contrasting your eye makeup with your eye color is what will really stand out. Here are a couple recommendations based on your eye color:

Green/Hazel: Plum, deep browns, and light golden hues
Blue: Smoky charcoals, chocolate, and bright berry tones
Brown: Soft pinks, natural beige, and shades of bronze

Myth: White wine can stain teeth in addition to red wine.

Fact. And all this time we thought red wine was the tooth's worst enemy. Turns out, white and red wine negatively affect the surfaces of your teeth which makes them more susceptible to tinting and discoloration. When it's all said and done, limit your wine intake to maintain your pearly whites!

Myth: Teeth whiteners can damage tooth enamel.

Fact. Make sure you follow the directions line by line when using teeth whitening products. If these products are used improperly or too frequently, it can result in permanent damage to your teeth.

Myth: I pluck one gray hair, multiple gray hairs will grow back in it's place.

Fiction. This isn't true — which is good because some of us were starting to worry! While plucking gray hairs won't make more grow back in its place, it's not a good habit to get into since it can damage the root.

Myth: Consistently wearing dark nail polish can turn your nails a yellowish hue.

Fact. This was tough news to take since dark nail polish is definitely in this season, but not to worry — this yellowing is temporary, not harmful, and can also be avoided! Before painting your nails a deep dark hue, paint on a layer of clear base coat to protect your nails from any discoloration.

Myth: Sleeping on your back may prevent wrinkles.

Fact. After hearing this, we're never sleeping on our sides again! The American Academy of Dermatology says that sleeping in certain positions may result in "sleep lines." After time, these lines can turn into deep-set wrinkles, so flip over and get your shut-eye on your back.

Myth: Brushing your hair 100 times every night will increase its shine.

Fiction. We wish! Brushing your hair too much actually increases the potential for pulling out strands of hair. Instead, just brush your hair when drying or styling it and use a shine spray like Rusk Shining Sheen and Movement Myst if you're looking for more luster.

Myth: Cutting your hair will make hair grow faster.

Fiction. While we wish this one were true, it seems your hair will grow at its own pace (usually about half an inch per month) no matter how many trim-ups you take. Don't do away with trimming your hair altogether though, since it will look much healthier without the split ends!

Myth: Beauty products have an expiration date.

Fact. That's right — just like groceries, your beauty and hair products have a shelf life, too. The expiration date depends on the beauty product. Here are a couple common ones:

Mascara and Liquid Eye Liners: 3 months
Liquid Face Makeup, Cream Eye Shadow: 6 months
Powder Face Makeup, Powder Eye Shadows, Pencil Eye Liners, Lipstick, Lip gloss: 2 years

Myth: Coconut oil is an effective skin hydrator.

Fact. Coconut oil contains natural moisturizers that will help breathe life into dull skin. If you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts, then steer clear!

Myth: You don't need sunscreen on a cloudy day.

Fiction. The sun's damaging UV rays are still in full effect even on a cloudy day. In fact, the cloud cover sometimes gives a false sense of security, since some think that cooler temperatures and less sunshine can’t lead to skin damage.

Myth: Ignoring a need for glasses can lead to wrinkles.

Fact. Ignoring the need for glasses means more squinting, right? And more squinting leads to...you guessed it — wrinkles. In fact, any repetitive facial movement can lead to wrinkles so wear your glasses and sunglasses!

Source: realbeauty.com

Pacquiao-Margarito Live Streaming

2010-11-14T10:36:00.000+08:00

It's fight night once again!

Manny Pacquiao vs. Antonio Margarito

image: karrathatav.com.au

Sadly, my husband can't make it home for the fight because he is currently on training right now to what could possibly be one of the Pacman's last fights before he finally focuses on his political career.With that in mind, the best I could do is watch in online via streaming since I won't be seeing my husband until the 19th.

And here's what I can share with you:

link 1

link 2

link 3

Veterans Day

2010-11-12T05:02:00.002+08:00

A Veteran is someone, who at one point in their life, wrote a blank check payable to the United States of America for an amount up to, and including, their life. That is beyond honor, and there are far too many people in this country who have forgotten that fact (from FB).

My husband (in shorts) with his new found friends (WWII veterans)

This is actually my first time to experience the celebration here. Unfortunately, my husband is currently on training, preparing for another deployment so I am just watching (and learning) a lot of things from the news on how important this day is today. But when we visited the San Diego Veterans Museum & Memorial Center, this somehow make me see how veterans played a big part in World History, and we should be thankful for their brevity and sacrifices they made for US and the rest of the world.

The prayer below is dedicated to all veterans, relatives of veterans, as well as active troops who served, and are still serving. Thank you all! Thank you hubby! You make us proud.

A Soldier's Story

Bless the soldiers who sacrifice,
who serve and do us proud.
Protect these home-grown heroes
out there in a foreign field,
on the front lines
where fear and fate intersect.
Place them in Your perpetual care.

Bring them back to us intact,
back to the warmth of home,
the smell of fresh bread,
mom in an apron, flour on her face,
the high school sweetheart, with a promise ring.
Back to the things they are fighting for.

- Ruth Williams

ABS-CBN Station ID 2010

2010-11-07T08:52:00.000+08:00

Christmas Countdown - Christmas Layouts

Ah, yes! Christmas is indeed around the corner, and still widely felt, even if I’m now dwelling overseas.

I really love how ABS-CBN make their Christmas Station IDs (SID). Though the theme revolves centrally about Christmas in the Philippines, they certainly know how to relate with its people.

Last year (2009) was especially heartwarming not only because this was a year the popularization “Santino” and “Bro” were in place, but because we knew we were deeply hurt with the past circumstances that happened in the country. Examples would be the Typhoon Ondoy tragedy and the Maguindanao Massacre. ABS-CBN was able to send out the message of hope with “Bro” as the Star of Christmas. It was also arranged by Marcus and Amber Davis.

Star Ng Pasko (2009)

Recording sessions:

The concept of the video itself was totally changed, following the Ondoy tragedy as its centralized theme. But then again, it was not a total mess, and it sent out a compelling message to all Filipinos across the world and up to now, more people would opt to listen to this jingle for the holidays.

And here’s the 2010 Station ID:

I notice that a lot of the ABS-CBN stars were not in the video -- personalities like Kris Aquino, Karen Davila (because of her leaving TV Patrol?), Sarah Geronimo, and Charice just to name some. I don’t really mind because the music video was still likewise touching in its own right.

And yes, the message is still being carried out in this year’s SID, but with positivism as the main idea/theme. I have mentioned this in FB already, but I want to say it again. ABS-CBN never fails to give me the shivers or goosebumps (in a nice way). And it gives each Filipino, local or overseas, that warm glow inside with the anticipation of the birth of our Savior.

image: assets.gearlive.com

Coming To You In Prayer

2010-11-04T00:37:00.000+08:00

Help me lift my mind and heart to You.
Let me come in reverence
for You are greater
than anything else can be.
Let me raise my voice in thanks
for You have given me so much.
Let me hold up my brothers and sisters,
fellow humans in need
of Your love, Your strength, and Your mercy.
And last of all,
let me share with You my own concerns
for You are the One who listens when I pray
and holds my cares close, day and night.

- Sue Bradford Edwards

image: stjamesofthemarches.com

Only Girl (In The World)

2010-10-29T04:26:00.003+08:00

“Only Girl (In The World)”
Rihanna

La la la la

[VERSE 1]

I want you to love me, like I’m a hot guy

Keep thinkin’ of me, doin’ what you like

So boy forget about the world cuz it’s gon’ be me and you tonight

I wanna make your bed for ya, then imma make you swallow your pride

[CHORUS]

Want you to make me feel like I’m the only girl in the world

Like I’m the only one that you’ll ever love

Like I’m the only one who knows your heart

Only girl in the world…

Like I’m the only one that’s in command

Cuz I’m the only one who understands how to make you feel like a man

Want you to make me feel like I’m the only girl in the world

Like I’m the only one that you’ll ever love

Like I’m the only one who knows your heart

Only one…

[VERSE 2]

Want you to take me like a thief in the night

Hold me like a pillow, make me feel right

Baby I’ll tell you all my secrets that I’m keepin’, you can come inside

And when you enter, you ain’t leavin’, be my prisoner for the night

[CHORUS]

Want you to make me feel like I’m the only girl in the world

Like I’m the only one that you’ll ever love

Like I’m the only one who knows your heart

Only girl in the world…

Like I’m the only one that’s in command

Cuz I’m the only one who understands, like I’m the only one who knows your heart, only one…

[BRIDGE]

Take me for a ride

Oh baby, take me high

Let me make you first

Oh make it last all night

Take me for a ride

Oh baby, take me high

Let me make you first

Make it last all night

[CHORUS]

Want you to make me feel like I’m the only girl in the world

Like I’m the only one that you’ll ever love

Like I’m the only one who knows your heart

Only girl in the world…

Like I’m the only one that’s in command

Cuz I’m the only one who understands how to make you feel like a man

Only girl in the world…

Girl in the world…

Only girl in the world…

Girl in the world…

I super miss the SALE events back home

2010-10-29T02:28:00.000+08:00

I remembered how me and my family back home literally "fought" for items during sale events -- especially that CROCS Mega Sale held a few months back!

For those back home in the Philippines, I hope you don't miss out on this. I'm pretty sure you guys are all covered!

It's always easy to get a CEDULA in Mandaluyong!

2010-10-27T05:46:00.002+08:00

Though we know that this is a simple piece of document that is supposedly easy to get, there are things we must know in order not to be confused when you suddenly are being charged PHP200++ for that piece of paper.

Relax.

We all were used to receiving a 5-peso Cedula (community tax certificate) because either we were too young, unemployed or seeking for a job. Yes, we all know that a Cedula is not supposed to be too costly. But you should know that it’s our way of giving back to the community.

Cutting the bullcrap, this is a form of tax to all residents and owners of corporations, and each have respective fees.

A. For basic community tax:
1. Resident Individuals - P5
2. Corporations - P500

Usually, after we graduate, only pay for the basic community tax since some companies or other government offices require this piece of document for identification purposes. Some offices can be very lenient in issuing this type of document.

A person is required to present a cedula when he or she acknowledges a document before a notary public; takes an oath of office upon election or appointment to a government position; receives a license, certificate or permit from a public authority; pays a tax or fee; receives money from a public fund; transacts official business; or receives salary from a person or corporation (inquirer.net).

Then later on in life, after landing our respective dream jobs, we will be needing to update some of our government or company IDs, and here’s where we will likewise be needing another cedula since its validity is good for only one year.

Now don’t ever think that it will still be the same P5 document. As your income increases, your responsibilities as a resident individual also changes. When you start earning on your own and have been working for at least a year, your next cedula will ask you to pay for additional community tax.

B. Additional Community Tax:
1. Resident Individuals - P1 per P1,000 of income
2. Corporations - will depend on earnings, and real property the preceding year

However, these additional taxes must not exceed P5000 for individuals, and P10,00 for corporations. (inquirer.net)

Now in Mandaluyong City Hall, you can easily get the Cedula at the main city hall building. They will not ask you for any form of identification, but they will instead have you fill out their information slip that will ask for the following:

1. Name
2. Address
3. Birthday
4. Monthly Income

The Mandaluyong City Hall

After handing over that piece of paper that contains your details, they will compute the applicable taxes, and give you your very own cedula, which is again, good for one year.

Exempted are diplomatic and consular representatives, and visitors staying in the Philippines for less than three months. They can still get a cedula voluntarily for P1.

Simple isn’t it?

Monopoly Millionaire

2010-10-26T03:48:00.002+08:00

Ditch Travis McCoy for now.

Now fantasize the idea of buying estates and property -- making ourselves a little extra rich if we play the game right. And the temporary madness of being filthy rich is all rolled up in this little family game called Monopoly.

about.com

I never recall playing this as a child even if I had a lot of board games stacked back home, but I did remember Millionaires Game, a variant of the game used in the Philippines created by Mabuhay Board games (wikipedia).

I am fascinated by how this game evolved, and how it branched out to have different versions. Glad to know that this comes in PINK!

radikalfx.com

Well whadd'ya know?

popgadget.net

Now if you want to take the notch a little higher, you’d have to be absolutely filthy rich to play the game -- literally! If, of course, you’d like to indulge yourself to cast the diamond-clad-$10K dice, with “properties” decked with gems to this 18 karat, $2M board game!

midastouch.goldgenie.com

Wild!

midastouch.goldgenie.com

Currently, the Golden Monopoly set is on display at the Museum of American Finance, New York.

The restrained dawn strains behind the crowd.

2010-10-21T00:17:00.000+08:00

The restrained dawn strains behind the crowd.

Twister Fries are Back!

2010-10-21T00:02:00.001+08:00

One of the things I miss about the Philippines is the fact that McDo serves Twister Fries on an occasional basis. Even if the 'seasoned curly fries' is a regular menu item here in Jack In the Box and Arby’s, I would wanna partake in this kind of offer from McDonalds back home. After all, it WAS part of growing up.

If I were you, I’d rush to the nearest McDonald’s and grab a box or two. Or better yet, you can just call 8-McDO (or 8-6236) or go to www.mcdelivery.com.ph. Order one, no problem since they still have the NO MINIMUM/fixed delivery charge of PHP40!

Arigatou

2010-10-20T05:46:00.003+08:00

It means “thank you” in Japanese (at least almost everyone knows this).

But not everyone I know of would be familiar with a song bearing the same title. More of that in a bit.

As a total procrastinating critter, you would find me just in bed, with a remote control on hand (my fingers help me burn calories!). Channel surfing has been redefined in our household when I started to get hooked on Korean dramas c/o KBS World (Sky’s Ch. 75), and Japanese News on NHK (Ch. 78). I betcha didn’t hear shows like Reversal of Fate (다 줄거야) or Here Comes Ajumma (아줌마가 간다). Moreover, have you even heard of shows like Pitagora Suichi (ピタゴラスイッチ) or Gegege No Nyoubou (ゲゲゲの女房)?

Which now brings us back to our song, Arigatou, currently being used as the theme song for the NHK drama series "Gegege no Nyoubou," (Gegege's Wife) which ended just last September 27.

"Gegege's No Nyoubou" is an autobiography of a woman who married the author of the classic manga series, Gegege No Kitaro, or better known as Spooky Kitaro.

Now since I already moved to the States, I no longer have access to my Asian channels, so I heavily rely on the internet for whatever I could find. O, and thank God for torrents! :)

The song was originally released as a single earlier this year (May 5). It even reached number 1 on its debut week.

Credits given to Ikimono Gakari, the band behind this seemingly touching song. They also will have a 3D music video for "Arigatou,” was Japan's first 3D music video to be publicly shown in movie theaters (started May 8). Audiences who watched the 3D movie "Alice in Wonderland" or "Clash of the Titans" got the chance to see the 2-minute video before the start of the film in only three theaters of Japan. Ikimono Gakari is actually the second Japanese artist to do a 3D music video.

I especially love the melody and how it become stuck in my head though I couldn’t make sense out of it. But surely enough, it’s aimed to “thank” someone.

Enjoy:

View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Lyrics:
(romanized/romanji lyrics, click here)

Arigatou (in Kanji)
ありがとうって伝えたくてあなたを見つめるけど
つながれた右手は誰よりも優しく
ほらこの声を受け止めてる

まぶしい朝に苦笑いしてさあなたが窓を開ける
舞い込んだ未来が始まりを教えて
またいつもの町へ出かけるよ

でこぼこなまま積み上げてきた二人の淡い日々は
こぼれた光を大事に集めて
今輝いているんだ

あなたの夢がいつからか二人の夢に変わっていた
今日だっていつか大切な思い出
青空も泣き空も晴れ渡るように

ありがとうって伝えたくてあなたを見つめるけど
つながれた右手がまっすぐな思いを
不器用に伝えている

いつまでもただいつまでもあなたと笑ってたから
信じたこの道を確かめていくのに
今ゆっくりと歩いて行こう

喧嘩した日も泣き合った日もそれぞれいろ咲かせて
真っ白な心に描かれた未来を
まだ書き足していくんだ

だれかのために生きることだれかの愛を受け入れること
そうやって今をちょっとずつ重ねて
喜びも悲しみも分かち合えるように

思い合うことに幸せをあなたと見つけていけたら
ありふれたことさえ輝きを抱くよ
ほらその声に寄り添ってく

愛してるって伝えたくてあなたに伝えたくて
かけがえのない手をあなたとのこれからを
わたしは信じてるから

ありがとうって言葉を今あなたに伝えるから
つながれた右手は誰よりも優しく
ほらこの声を受け止めてる

Justin Bieber (not the popstar)

2010-10-08T01:43:00.000+08:00

I rarely post nowadays due to my 'settling' period (geez, settling takes forever, I know). I also know for a fact that I seldom post anything about Justin Bieber, but can't help it since he's virtually everywhere!

But what's in a name? And how is to live in this age of stardom and technology?

Ask Justin Bieber, not the popstar okay, but this man:

Justin Bieber, 35-yo from Jacksonville FL doesn't really mind getting a lot of fan mail from all over the world, doesn't mind getting voice messages from crazy screaming fans that shout "I love you Justin" or "You suck". Even after putting his phone under his wife's name, he still got a lot of calls since the number was posted on a fan website.

What ticked him off was that Facebook accused him of having a "fake name", and disabled his account without asking him or giving him a chance to tell the folks what his real identity is.

In an interview, this married, self-proclaimed pinball geek said, "I guess their policy is ban first, ask questions never." He was briefly kicked off another social network, Ping, which is affiliated with iTunes -- and still no luck with the Facebook team.

And on a funny note, he joked about how people could now pronounce his name properly, where he used to be referred as "Justin bay-ber".

Full story here:

Awakened and jetlagged

2010-09-03T05:31:00.001+08:00

Okay. I am a delinquent blogger.

Technically speaking though, I never considered myself as a blogger because I never liked blogging, (well, not really) but it's kind of an occasional thing. I only write to my heart's content, and when inspiration calls for it.

One of the reasons why I wasn't able to update this page is because my laptop broke down, setting my blogging mood down -- suddenly not inspired to write anything unless I wanted to join some sort of ridiculous contest. Apparently, some of my blogger friends seem to feel the same, so I'm not exactly alone in letting cobwebs grow out of my blogs.

Aside from which, I also got too busy with other stuff, which includes my preps to see my husband once again. Remember how I tried to document my US Immigrant Visa status? And now - I'M FINALLY WITH HIM in beautiful Oceanside! I am just in time for our 111th month as a couple. Who knew we'd end up together, rather, begin life with each other?

And after unpacking my stuff, de-cluttering the apartment, and coping with the jet lag (pretty much on it still), I am now finally able to post an entry! Now ain't that quite an accomplishment after 5 weeks of not being able to blog? lol

So in my spare time, while waiting for my Social Security, I will just be chillaxing and will probably post an entry or two about random stuff or stuff that could be informational in nature. Who knows?

That's all for now!

Nuffnang and HEAVEN Ice Cream invite you to a special screening of ‘SALT’

2010-07-23T22:54:00.002+08:00

Divine ice cream pleasure is HEAVEN Ice Cream.

Give in to the richest, smoothest, and creamiest by NESTLÉ Ice Cream. Revel in the exquisite goodness of its four sophisticated flavors---Belgian Chocolate Bliss, Strawberry Dream, Vanilla Almond Secret and Butter Pecan Obsession. HEAVEN Ice Cream is made with only the finest ingredients and contains no artificial food colors. Available in 800mL(Php 175) & 450mL(Php 115) tubs across supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores nationwide.

Twilight Saga: Eclipse Philippine Movie Premiere

2010-06-22T14:47:00.001+08:00

Yes, I have it! Or at least my dear friend Raunche have our tickets!!! He received the tickets just this morning via parcel and we are more than excited to be one of the first to catch a glimpse of this much-awaited installment of the Twilight saga!

Image by iluvtwilight.multiply.com

Quoting from this site:

This time Bella finds herself surrounded by danger as Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob –knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella is confronted with most important decision of her life. More action, suspense and cutting edge special effects mark this must-see movie.

The Philippine Premiere will be on June 29, 2010, 8:00 p.m. at the SM Megamall Cinema's newly-renovated, state-of-the-art, all new Dolby Digital Surround sound cinema!

Now you also want this rare opportunity? Here's how:

Full colored tickets of “ECLIPSE” are now available at Astrovision SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia Branches. For sponsorship and tickets reservation, call 524-0175 or 728-9885

Contact person:
ROMIE BERONA
Phone: 0918 9590317, 524-2689
E-mail: wabyphilippines@hotmail.com
www.rigencourier.com

Max's Chicken-All-You-Can!

2010-06-18T21:09:00.000+08:00

Sarap to the Bones! (Sarap = delicious)

Just got this from a friend in Facebook. I think this is a pretty good deal for June! I always love eating here, and I was NEVER disappointed.

MAX’S RESTAURANT is celebrating 65 years with the loudest bang as it launches the biggest chicken-all-you-can promotion this June. Customers can now enjoy as many of their favorite sarap-to-the-bones chicken, cooked to golden perfection - for only PhP165!

Max’s ultimate anniversary promo aims to reach out to as many Filipinos possible with
an affordable offering of PhP165. Starting June 17, Max’s Restaurants nationwide will be serving unlimited quarter-sliced chicken pieces to diners from 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm daily. By adding PhP39, customers can
also avail of bottomless Pepsi products.