Chause and Charaughts

A Sony Vaio Laptop From MyPhone

2013-03-08T08:00:00.000+08:00

Indeed, for the very first time in my life I won something. And not just something. It’s quite pricey for someone in modest living, like I am. It’s a laptop from Sony Vaio. And yes, it’s something you could brag about. Not everyone has a Vaio and a lot is dreaming to have one. And I have one. Teehee.

Photo courtesy of http://www.noypigeeks.com/

I won it via a raffle entitled “MyPhone Geared Up Promo” which run from October 15, 2012 to January 18, 2013. Basically, you just have to buy any MyPhone unit during the aforementioned period and you might get a chance to win on the daily draw, monthly draw, and grand draw. The prizes at stake are the following:

Daily Draw: 1 MyPhone A168
Monthly Draw: 1 MyPhone A919
Grand Draw:

1st Prize: 5 Winners of Customized Geely 1.3L M/T-GB Cars
2nd Prize: 5 Winners of 43-inch Sony LED TV with Home Theater
3rd Prize: 5 Winners of 11.6-inch Sony Vaio Laptops
4th Prize: 5 Winners of Sony Cybershot Digicam
5th Prize: 5 Winners of MyPhone A919 Mobile Phones

Consolation Prize: 50 Winners of MyPhone A168 Mobile Phones

I didn’t expect MyPhone is earning that big to be able to give away the above prizes. Say what Cherry Mobile? :-P

I was not a MyPhone fan back then. In all honesty I look down to them when I first knew them because they manufacture dual SIM phones and back in the days, dual SIM phones are considered “china phones” or phones that are substandard, cheap, and disposable. Meaning you can’t brag about your phone and owning one might be an embarrassment to you and your whole clan. Haha.

But it all changed when I lost my phone last year, August 3, 2012 while I was walking on the overpass of Commonwealth Avenue near Sandiganbayan court. I owned a Samsung Galaxy Mini then which was picked from my bag without me realizing it. I need an immediate replacement but I don’t have much money to go for the pricey ones and I want an Android phone (which was the operating system of my lost phone).

Photo courtesy of http://www.widgetcity.com.ph

That’s when I heard that MyPhone has just released Android phones. Can you believe that? How timely. Haha. So I browsed though their available phones and back then there were only two Android phones available and I was actually eyeing the A618 one because it has a TV capability. But then I decided to go with A818 because it’s more “premium” though the prices were just the same. So I purchased one and got so happy with it.

Photos courtesy of 1bp.blogspot.com and emg-enterprise.com

However, I saw a “sneak peek” video made by Chuckie Dreyfuss that showed a larger screened MyPhone with a dual core processor, 3G connectivity, Android 4.0.4 (ICS) operating system, and a 512MB RAM with front-facing camera and I told myself “I am going to buy that! I will surely wait for that!” And so I have been on the lookout on all the MyPhone releases last year which I could tell you was too “often” like every two weeks, a new model was being released. It was quite frustrating for those who are easily enticed by MyPhone’s marketing plan.

Photo courtesy of www.askhideki.com

So as the saying goes, “Good things come to those who wait.” And I waited for the release of the A898. Despite the tempting release of its predecessor, the A878 which has exactly the same specifications minus the 3G connectivity and front camera that debuted at the price of P5,480, I still waited for it. The wait, though, was worth it.

It was released around the last week of October and I purchased my unit on the third Sunday of November. The price was P7,499 and the search for the stock was quite a hard work then as almost all the stores, even MyPhone stalls themselves, had run out of it. Luckily, one store to which we decided to go last had two stocks. It was saddening though as I initially intended to purchase a white unit but only black was available. But I got it. And until now I was happy with the unit.

The only thing I wasn’t happy about was that four days after I purchased my unit, the price went down to P6,590. The nerve!

I actually didn’t know that an ongoing promo was running then as I only want the phone so bad. The next day when I rummaged the box I got with the phone, I saw a leaflet about the promo and I absentmindedly sent an entry via text and totally forgotten about it as I did not at all expect to win because I am not fortunate in every promotion I join.

Photo courtesy of http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net

And the good news came when I least expected it. I got a call last January 20, 2013, Sunday, from a girl telling me I won a Sony Vaio laptop. I had to admit I initially did not take it seriously because I thought it was hoax because “who works on a Sunday?” I also asked my little brother to check my email because the girl told me I will be receiving one that contained the information I need to claim it. There was none. Until I learned from Deeta that it was on the Spam folder. How stupid of me to not think of that. Haha.

So there. The rest is history. I claimed the prize last February 15, 2013 at the MyPhone headquarters in Paranaque. I was with the other winners. The prizes were marvelous. I wished back then that I won the 43-inch TV or the car but I am thankful that I still won something that I really need. I have been planning on buying a laptop ever since the last one I bought got broken due to overuse. I also met the marketing people of MyPhone and mind you most of them are good-looking. I wonder if that is one of their qualifications. Haha

This is what I won. An 11.6-inch Sony Vaio Laptop Series E.

The winners of the brand new cars!

The cars! Designed by the MyPhone endorsers.

These are incomplete though as there were 8 given away.

Unfortunately I wasn't able to take pictures of the other prizes such as the TV, camera, and phones as those were not shown to us since the winners did not arrive. ;)

There you go! Thanks MyPhone for this brand new Sony Vaio laptop! And congratulations for a well done job on creating quality phones.

Slán go foill!

A Writer’s Apology

2013-03-07T20:50:00.000+08:00

Do you guys still remember me? Haha. Yep, it’s Hal Benito.

Deeta isn’t the only writer slash owner of this blog, just to let you all know. Haha. But I’d like to give her the credit for continuing in making this blog alive, kicking, funny and “professional-looking.” And just how many products has she won in doing so? Talk about enjoying what you’re doing and still get paid for it. Though not regularly, which is the only downside. But who cares?! We don’t do it primarily for money, it’s just a secondary thing. Plus,we’re getting popular! Immensely popular. (Hey Ellen! Any plans of inviting us?! Charaught!)

Photo courtesy of http://silentchakra.com/

Now, let’s go back to me! It’s me time. I know it’s an overused excuse but I was really busy and I had, yet again, undergone writer’s block. I am in no mood to write and all my writing seemed ugly and uninteresting and insipid and all of the unsavory remarks you could throw on me are all acceptable and I couldn’t get the nerve to post it and serve it to you. I don’t seem to gather my thoughts and come up with a very entertaining yet informative blog post. Perhaps, it’s pure laziness just sugarcoated. Mixed a pinch of unemployment, a dash of frustration, and a handful of low self-esteem and what have you got? An empty writing board.

Hal Benito

But in every absence, there’s a comeback. And I’m BACK! Like forever. I’ll try not to put too much humor in this post as that’s me: funny yet serious and most of all, contradicting. You might find one of my posts funny and the other one overly serious. I have clarified it on the about the authors, in case you’re not reading. It is shining brightly like a diamond on that part of the blog up there. And that is in accordance with the agreement set forth by Deeta and me, she will be the one to put life in this blog, I will put information and rubbish. Teehee.

Photo courtesy of http://1.bp.blogspot.com

So worry no more. You will be seeing more of me in this blog. Well, I’ll see about that. Like I said I have been having recurring writer’s block but I am practicing to try and improve the disease. I have been reading again, watching English videos, and making sure that I am well equipped before I write. I don’t need though to be updated on the latest trends and current events because that is Deeta’s specialty and I don’t want to snatch her candy. We are a family here and we respect one another up to the seventh dimensions.

So I think I have said so much. Nuff (nang?) said. Please keep following us. Spread the word. Help us gain more readers and followers. Help us change the world. Help us build a brighter future for everyone else.

Thank you. See you on my next post!

Slán go foill!

Trick Or Treat!

2012-10-31T12:24:00.000+08:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! :)

Natural Skin Care Routine

2012-10-29T10:41:00.000+08:00

(Featuring Human Heart Nature Products)

Skin care has been part of my daily (and nightly) routine. I have been taking care of my facial skin since grade school (probably since 5^th grade I guess hahaha). I don’t have perfect skin. It has always been oily and I suffered from big acne during high school and now my face is studded with acne scarring. My skin is still oily. But when I started working three years ago, it has transformed into a combination skin: my T-zone gets oily oftentimes and my V-zone is almost always dry and sometimes even flaky and I don’t breakout that easily anymore. I tend to have one pimple every now and then and I am thankful that they don’t leave scars anymore. I actually have a new problem right now: skin aging.

For two years, I only used two products (well it’s three pieces) twice a day: Pond’s Anti-Bacterial Facial Scrub and Eskinol Ageless Day Cream and Night Cream. It worked well for me. It kept my skin clear, soft, and radiant. However, Eskinol discontinued their production of the Ageless line and so I was left with nothing to use, hence, I had to find another product line that would suit my skin well. It was during this stage that I decided “why not try using natural products for a change?” I searched for the most well reputed brand for natural products and Human Nature got in my way. After seeing the reviews on it, I decided, okay, I am going to buy their product line for oily / combination and see how it will work for me.

I bought five products from them: Balancing Facial Wash, Balancing Facial Toner, Moisturizing Day Fluid, Moisturizing Night Cream, and Sunflower Beauty Oil. I purchased and started using them since September 13, 2012.

So below is my three step routine twice a day. I have a fourth item though which I only put on every night before bedtime.

1.) I wash my face with the Balancing Facial Wash twice a day. The facial wash is designed for oily, combination skin like me. Its main ingredients are elemi oil and orange. Elemi oil is a secret ingredient known to fight acne and other skin blemishes. Orange extracts contain vitamin C which is a great antioxidant. And the facial wash contains bamboo granules which serve as the scrub to slough off dead skin cells and deep seated dirt which, although does not dissolve, is not irritating and safe for daily use. It does not foam like crazy which I like because it doesn’t mess as much but it doesn’t mean it’s not working. I don’t feel dry and tight after rinsing and patting my face dry with a towel. It also doesn’t break me out.

2.) I tone my face with the Balancing Facial Toner twice a day. The toner is non-alcoholic and non-drying. I have not used a toner for two years but since it was suggested as part of the routine I decided to use it. I don’t actually feel any difference with it or with any toner but I could definitely say that it does not dry my skin, it does not sting, and it is not at all harsh, in fact it is very gentle and “waterlike” and I actually don’t know if it’s doing anything for my skin. Personally, I guess with the way the balancing facial wash works, this toner is necessary in “taming” your skin after the exfoliation. The toner contains sugar beet extract that replenishes some of the lost moisture and elemi oil which are good ingredients in preventing and treating infections on your skin. I wouldn’t recommend it personally because I don’t believe in the power of toning but you may give it a try. It wouldn’t hurt and it may actually help you with your skin.

3.) I moisturize every morning with the Moisturizing Day Fluid and Dermplus Sunblock with SPF 35 and at night with Moisturizing Night Cream. Since trying the Eskinol Ageless line, I have jumped into a conclusion and personal preference that day creams should always be different from your night cream. Your skin needs to be protected from the harsh elements during the day and it has to be nurtured during the night while it regenerates as you sleep. The Moisturizing Day Cream of Human Nature has 15 vitamins and minerals (it is enumerated in the bottle in case you purchase) necessary to help your skin combat the harsh elements of the environment as you get exposed plus loads of natural vitamin E to aid in the prevention of UV rays from penetrating your skin and cause long-term damage. It should be enough according to the Human Nature representatives, however, being a meticulous in preventing aging, I still put on lavish amount of SPF 35 on my face, neck and arms every day, rain or shine, just to be sure that I don’t burn or wrinkle early. Then at night, I use the moisturizing to help my skin while it regenerates. This cream is thicker than the day fluid and I feel that my skin is always softer and smoother every time I wake up in the morning. What I don’t like with the night cream though is the smell which is like a cough syrup but it’s tolerable. The creams do not break me out and that’s what I love about them.

4.) I “seal” and intensify the effect of my night cream with the Sunflower Beauty Oil. This is one thing that I would definitely not recommend because first, it did not do any difference; second, it broke me out; third, I started to develop pimple-like bumps under my eye; and fourth, it darkened my face. I also use the oil on my upper arms to alleviate the keratosis pilaris but it only made it worse. I would say that the oil is the cause of all these because all of these symptoms appeared while I was using the oil. I stopped using it and now I don’t know what to do with it. I wouldn’t discourage you from buying this because in fairness, it has a lot of good reviews so maybe my skin isn’t just compatible with it. But it’s just my experience. I used it for about three weeks though on my arms and two weeks on my face.

So there you have it! My skin care routine. I wouldn’t say I have a perfect skin. I still breakout once in a while but very rarely. I think I could attribute it to my “knowledge” about skin and skin care ingredients. I am no professional and expert though but I read. Hence, I know what to use and not use. I have less wrinkles, I have very few hyper pigmentation, I have few blackheads and whiteheads, I have combination skin (from overly oily), and I have no pimple marks anymore, only scars (of which a dermatologist’s procedure is necessary to be removed).

I put on lotion everyday from neck to toes. I use St. Ives Collagen – Elastin anti-aging lotion because I believe that we should all prevent skin aging at an early age.

I hope this post helps you. If you have any other question, feel free to message me or leave a comment below!

Slán go foill!

YouTube: People I Follow

2012-10-28T13:10:00.000+08:00

I used to not watch videos on YouTube until recently when I chanced upon a group of people which I was surprised to know that they know one another. It made me envious and want to do my own video channel as well (which I am really determined to pursue soon so watch out for it!).

Logo courtesy of Ask.com

My “addiction” with them started with Anna Saccone’s make up tutorial which I ‘downloaded’ and watched in my phone before I go to bed. Why? Because make up tutorials make me feel sleepy. Hahaha. I know the reason is shallow but that’s really my intention. Then I started looking for a skin care routine because it equally makes me sleepy and at the same time curious on how to keep my skin in good shape as well. And it led me to Elle Fowler, and the list goes on and on. The last person that I subscribed to is Joey Graceffa. I will enumerate them one by one chronologically on who I subscribed to first up to the last.

Mikey Bustos

A Famous Filipino "YouTuber"

Photo courtesy of noelcabacungan.com

1.) Anna Saccone – A beauty guru. I started watching her because of her beauty routines and tutorials and later on because of her topics. She covers everything from makeup to skin care to housekeeping, and now, being a mommy. Yes she just gave birth recently. I like watching her videos because she is effortlessly humorous and entertaining. She makes it a point to not make every video boring although most of them are long but they are enjoyable. And she’s credible I guess because she’s honest especially in her reviews. And I love her accent and descent. Heck, you all know I love Ireland and Irish people! Her channel is TheStyleDiet.

Anna Saccone

Photo courtesy of sengook.com.

2.) Elle Fowler – A beauty guru just like Anna. I knew her because of her Pevonia Myoxy Caviar Line skin care routine. I started following her because of the way she speaks. She’s so sweet and she sounds very educated. And she’s very pretty. Also, she is honest in stating which products she doesn’t like but she wouldn’t discourage you to use it but rather those products a try to see if the effects will be the same. And we both love cats. She is also funny but very engaging. I never get bored whenever I listen to her. Her channels are AllThatGlitters21 (Tutorials and Hauls) and EllesGlitterGossip (Vlogs).

Elle Fowler

Photo courtesy of ellefowlerbeautyguru.blogspot.com

3.) Blair Fowler – I remember seeing video of her and not knowing she is Elle’s sister. It’s about skin care routine for oily skin. Yes, although Elle has very dry skin, Blair has the opposite. I like Blair because she’s funny and she sometimes retracts what she says which makes the videos entertaining. And she talks too fast! Though it is sometimes irritating (not very extremely). I don’t have much to say about Blair. I just watch her. See for yourself. Although Elle started making videos earlier than Blair, Blair had more followers and subscribers. Her channels are: JuicyStar07 (Tutorials and Hauls) and TheOtherJuicyStar07 (Vlogs).

Blair Fowler

Photo courtesy of her Twitter account

4.) Luke Conard – I started following him because of his looks. :-P But later on because of his topics. I only follow one of his three channels. Yes he has three: Luke (Vlogs), LukeConard (Music videos), and LukesArcade (Games Tutorial and Reviews). I only follow the vlog. I like the way he speaks. It’s very encouraging, more like a big brother. And he looks very kind and honest, and he’s cute. Haha I keep on saying that. He is also very funny and he has these weird but humorous mannerisms or rather acts while shooting the video. He is never boring. He edits the videos well and he sometimes seems gay but I know he is not.

Luke Conard

Photo courtesy of populagram.appspot.com

4.) Ingrid Nilsen – I only knew her via Luke Conard (in my girlfriend does my makeup). I don’t watch all her videos. I only watch her skin care routine. I feel like she’s not sincere and she’s arrogant. It’s just a personal opinion though. I may be wrong. Her channels are Missglamorazzi (tutorials) and TheGridMonster (Vlogs). She is the girlfriend of Luke Conard.

Ingrid Nilsen

5.) Sawyer Hartmann – I only knew him because of Blair Fowler. They were ex-couples. I don’t watch his videos much. :-P I only follow him because he is part of the “circle.” His channels are SawyerHartman and SawyerHartman2.

Sawyer Hartman

6.) Simon Cole – I love how he speaks. His videos are long and are never edited so expect bloopers along the way (which are very few). I love his accents, his looks, and his topics. He is the only British here in the list and he has the fewest videos as well. I wish he makes more. He was masculine in her earlier videos but recently his “gayness” is coming out, in my opinion. But nevertheless, I find him funny and entertaining and informative as well so I will keep following him. His channel is FitchBlue.

Simon Cole

Photo courtesy of castingcallpro.com

7.) Joey Graceffa – The gayest of all. Haha. I was initially confused because I don’t know if he is really straight or gay because of the way he moves and speak. He is friends (like super close) with Luke and Sawyer which made me doubt of he is really gay. But I think he is. His topics are funny as well. I only follow his vlog channel – JoeyGraceffa – and not his game channel. He is very, very funny as a gay is. He although seems insincere to me as well and I feel like he isn’t that friendly to everyone. I hope I am wrong.

Joey Graceffa

Photo courtesy of his Twitter account

So there you have it! I actually follow more people than that but they have ny most watched videos (especially Anna, Elle, Blair, and Luke). I still watch other videos especially Tag videos, make up tutorials for men or women, skin care routine for all skin types, foundation routine, and a lot more. You may give them a try and leave a comment below on what you think and if you have someone in mind that you know I would enjoy following.

Yep they are sisters.

Photo courtesy of shoppingblog.com

And they are best buddies!

Photo courtesy of tumblr.com

Till next time!

Slán go foill!

My Foamy Obsession

2012-09-22T16:12:00.000+08:00

Earlier this year I had developed an addiction towards a certain item: SOAPS.

I blame it on to my discovery of Marseille soap, a traditional soap made from vegetable oils that has been made around Marseille, France, for about 600 years. After learning about this, I have searched every possible website where I could find local sellers of this “medieval soap.” When finally I have found one, yes just ONE, they were out of stock of it already and will have replenishments after 6 months. How pathetic.

The mishap I mentioned above sparked a new interest in me. I became curious how soaps would differ from one another. I immediately began looking for highly reviewed soaps online and tried some. At this time of my life I do not intend to whiten my skin anymore but rather I want it to look younger and more moisturized. But, nevertheless, I still tried whitening soaps. Below are my comments on each one of them.

1.) Luxe and Lace Goat’s Milk Soap with Olive Oil

PhP 120.00 / US$2.50

I got this for FREE from the author’s father (Siege Malva). I found his advertisement on sulit and contacted him to buy one. He is very kind as he allowed me to purchase just one piece from him (whereas his ad requires a minimum purchase of which I forgot) and to return his kindness, I insisted on having it picked up from his home instead of him bringing it to the mall (one of his meetup points). Upon learning that I am planning to use his soap for my planned soap blog (which obviously did not pursue and yes that is how I was obsessed with soaps that I planned to do a blog dedicated to it) he gave it away for FREE! Yes. I saved $3 (Php120) for that. He just wanted me to write good review about it and below is my verdict.

The soap smelled delicious. It smelled like “kabayan bread” (if you don’t know it, go Google. Maximize your internet. Chause! Teehee). It’s slightly soft and it foams to a crazy lather but it takes a while to run out. I guess it took me three or four weeks to actually consume the soap. It’s cost efficient. Anyway, I expected it to be moisturizing because it said it contains goat’s milk and secondly it contains olive oil. But it was not. It was overly drying and I had to stop using it for a week because some “sensitive parts of my body” started to itch and hurt. I don’t know why. I also tried it to my face but I guess it was too drying that the sides of my nose itched as well and get red. But I continued using it after a week until it ran out. What I do like about it is that it evened out my skin tone and got rid of my dark spots. And the smell, never had I smelled something so delicious I was even tempted to take a bite. Hahaha. It was a nice soap; maybe it just did not suit my skin because I have a dry one. And also it’s not that expensive. You may get the soap here: JoJo Malvar or here Luxe and Lace.

2.) Perla Papaya

Yes you read it right. I tried PERLA because I read from forums that it made their skin better looking and lighter. Mind you the people talking in the forums I go to are those who could afford high end cleansers and soaps but they opted to buy PERLA because they saw that it could do wonders.

PhP 11.00 / US$ 0.20

I did see wonders. My skin got clearer and it was not that dry at all. It’s actually gentle and the smell is too faint which makes it even better because fragrant soaps tend to “quarrel” your lotion or perfume. However, because I know that it is a detergent soap, I decided to stop this because I fear that it might have a long term adverse effect on my skin. It’s very cheap as well. US$0.25 (PhP10). It also dissolves or melts easily. It also foams up to a rich lather. I tried it on my face and it’s okay. It felt smooth and soft. But like I said, I am afraid to use it for too long. You can find it in your local groceries.

3.) CY Gabriel

I find it too cheap for a bleaching soap so I decided to give it a try. Also, I have read positive reviews about it on female forums (yes I read them hahaha) that it made their skin clearer, softer, and smoother.

PhP 16.50 / US$ 0.40

It was disappointing though. I have not seen any changes in my skin after using this. Plus, it’s very drying. My skin would flake badly though it did not itch. It may be because it is a bleaching soap but I did not see any lightening in my skin though. I love the smell anyway. I smelled clean every time I finish taking my showers and it would linger until noon time (unless I put on fragrant lotion). It’s not too bad for its price but really I won’t use something that does not live up to their promise. Maybe like with Luxe and Lace, it may have not suited my skin. It worked for others, as with the reviews but not for me. So if you want to give it a try, go to the nearest grocery in your area.

4.) Etta’s Moisturizing Soap

I got this for FREE as well from an online store. I just signed up in their website, liked their Facebook Fan Page, and got 300 points which equaled to P300 that I can use to buy from their store. I got this and the Etta’s Vitamin E cream (which I loved by the way). The store is Hallo Hallo Mall.

Since I was looking for moisturizing soap to keep my overly dry skin hydrated, I excitedly opened this soap and could not wait to give it a try when it arrived. It does not have a smell at all which made me more excited as it meant it is for dry sensitive skin. However, at the first time I used it, the soap was so harsh. It’s too drying. It made my skin tight, squeaky, and itchy. After 4 washes, I decided to stop it forever. It was disappointing. It is targeted to the mature market with mature skin so I wonder how mature people would react to it. I have no idea how much it costs as I got it for free and I don’t want to recommend it because of my experience.

5.) Marseille Soap (Palm Variant)

Finally I got one! Though not the Olive variant which was the original and was the first to be made. When I got to their store, there were only 3 of it left. It was pricey but since I have been itching to try this, I purchased one.

PhP 250.00 (200g) / US$ 6.00

The soap was just okay. I love the scent. Smells like traditional soaps. I love how it slides on to my skin. It’s foamy but the foam has something special in it. It’s not like any other regular soap. It is slick and it felt moisturizing though it dries up my skin as well. I tried using it to my face and it was just okay but it broke me out. I don’t know. It somehow felt oily but it wasn’t oily. I am not disappointed with it but I am not happy as well. I don’t know but I still want to try the olive variant, hopefully the handmade one (as the one I tried was obviously machine-made because it’s rock hard). You may try it though, it’s available at AC+632 in Greenbelt 5.

6.) Ivory Classic Soap

I just stumbled upon it on Google while I was researching about soap (as I have said I once had an obsession with soaps) and I read about its history in Wikipedia. Its ability to float in water caught my attention and I purchased it immediately to see it really floats. IT DID! ~~I’ll post a picture soon. I forgot to take one while it’s floating.~~

PhP 24.75 / US$ 0.60

I fell in love with this soap the first time I used it. It smells great but the smell is not overpowering. It smells clean. It is actually my current soap. It’s also the lightest soap I have ever held. It lasts long, about four to five weeks I guess. It’s not drying. It doesn’t make my skin flaky or wrinkled. It’s even gentle to the face. It doesn’t whiten or moisturize my skin but I don’t know I just love using it and I feel like it is doing what it has to do which is to gently cleanse my skin without doing any harm to it.

What I don’t like about it is that it’s hard to find. When my first one run out, I rummaged the department store and supermarket of Trinoma, SM North, Ever, and other near groceries to no avail (but I remember when I purchased it at Trinoma, it’s stacked up on two shelves, I guess hundreds of it). After about two or three months it became available again and I already purchased three of it (in case it runs out again). True enough when I come back two days after I purchased it, only two Ivory were left. And that is a proof that a lot of people are still using Ivory.

Floating Ivory Soap

I have used lots of soap as well aside from the ones in here but I decided not to put everything as you might get bored and not read any.

I would like to use African Black Soap but it’s a bit expensive (PhP 350.00 / US$ 8.50). I heard it's very good at clarifying your skin and making it healthy. Any sponsorship is welcome. :-P

Happy bathing!

Slán go foill!

Catching the YABU Virus

2012-09-20T12:13:00.000+08:00

It was not really my first time to eat tonkatsu. I am not a fan. For me tonkatsu is just okay. Just “another food” to eat. Nothing really special. But I have been hearing a lot about this almost one year old Katsu house in the country and lots of great reviews are everywhere. So imagine my happiness when my boss asked me and my officemate to eat out with him. Where else? In Yabu: House of Katsu. Of course, he paid for everything. Teehee. ;)

When we arrived at the restaurant, damn it was so full. We had to wait for like 15 minutes (glad it wasn’t that long as we were starving already) before we were asked to get inside and have a seat. The store is so bright which makes the atmosphere alive and uplifting, just right to temporarily escape the stress that you are having while working in your office. Everyone in the restaurant was talking and blabbering and laughing. The waiters were also very pleasing as they ask for your orders. It was the first time that I felt sincere warmth from a restaurant crew as opposed to the hostile (well, quite strong a word, huh) treatment of some other restaurants and especially fast food restos that I have tried. Maybe it was still early and they were not yet tired or they are simply trained that way. Whatever it is, it added to my wonderful experience with Yabu.

The first to arrive was a small, unusual bowl (which looks like a mortar) of white and brown sesame seeds with a pestle. The waitress asked us if it was our first time to eat. We said yes and she taught us how the “katsu ritual” was done for us to get the perfect katsu sauce that suits our taste. It was fun, indeed. You have to grind first the sesame seeds using the pestle and you will pour in the katsu sauce, the amont depends on your taste. And it tastes and smells great. Also at the table were six different spices and condiments that you may use to your liking.

Then came our orders. I ordered HIRE Katsudon which I pronounced as HAYR to the waitress and she repeated it as HEE-REH to my embarrassment. Hahaha. But she was smiling so I guess she understood that although I look perfect, I am not. CHAUSE! Haha. My boss was urging me to order the bestseller (which he did for himself) Kurobuta Pork Set but I declined because it was super pricey (PhP 515.00 for 90g / PhP 525 for 120g) and I don’t want to abuse his kindness that day. Aside from the pork tonkatsu, the orders came with unlimited cabbage, unlimited Japanese rice, miso soup, pickles, and pineapple slices. I also ordered for a green mango shake.

HIRE KATSUDON PhP 335.00 (90g)

Green Mango Shake PhP 100.00

The food was heavenly. The cabbage tastes wonderful with the white dressing (I do not know how it is called haha, pardon me. It’s on the table anyway. Just look for it. Heehee). It’s crispy and fresh. And although it is unlimited, I only had one helping of it because I am not a big eater. :D The Japanese rice was so soft and white. It has sprinkles of black sesame seeds on top, probably to enhance the smell. And just like the cabbage, I only had one helping of it. (Gosh I won’t be a winner for an eating contest! A buffet businesses will surely earn a lot from me!) The tonkatsu is the star. The pork is tender, perfectly fried, crunchy on the outside but soft on the inside. It does not taste oily and you won’t get tired of eating it. The katsu sauce goes well with the pork. In fact I wished I could have asked for more of it but I was too shy to do it. I never tasted the miso soup because I am not really a fan of soups. The pickles and pineapple were quite sour. But they should be anyway. And the green mango shake was smooth, a bit sour, yet refreshing. I got really full that I was thankful I did not ask for more helpings of cabbage and rice.

While we were eating, the restaurant manager kept on coming back to our table (and to the other tables as well) to ask us if we are enjoying our stay and the food and if there is anything more he could do. I appreciate it a lot. And the waitress assigned to us kept on asking as well if we want more rice, or more cabbage, or water. Indeed, they truly care for their customers. Maybe these are the reasons why their customers kept on coming back (my boss for instance, has told me he ate there 7 times in 2 months) and they have gone viral and famous online.

I observed that day that most of the customers of Yabu belong to the middle to upper class. I guess because the foods are quite pricey (but they are worth it!). I recommend people to try eating at Yabu. It is worth every penny you spend as the food and the service are both excellent you will not regret you’ve splurged once.

Tweets and blog posts of celebrities and famous bloggers

posted on one of the corners

They have two branches: one in Megamall atrium and one at Robinson’s Magnolia (where we ate).

And have I told you Yabu and I share the same birthday? Yes they opened last November 11, 2011.

Enjoy!

*Sorry if my pictures are blurred. I forgot to bring my digital camera because it was not planned so I only used the camera from my phone. :)

Slán go foill!

Book Review: Divergent

2012-09-04T13:54:00.000+08:00

"One choice can transform you."

Title: Divergent
Author: Veronica Roth
Publication Date: May 3, 2011
Language: English
Series: Divergent Series (Book 1)
Genre(s): Science Fiction / Young Adult / Dystopian

In Chicago’s dystopian world, society is divided into five factions – Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). Each faction cultivates traits it consider desirable in the interest of promoting peace and a functional society. Each fulfills its own social role. On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds are forced to choose which faction they want to ally and devote the rest of their lives with. Either they chose to follow a different faction and leave their families behind or stay in the communities they were raised.

Beatrice is a born Abnegation. She has lived her life trying to uphold the ethics of her parents. She finds her life to be so dull. She has always known that she’s different, and she doesn’t belong in Abnegation. Beatrice’s decision is between staying with her family and being whom she really is—she can’t have both worlds. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

Beatrice struggles with her emotions because, at sixteen, her aptitude test and choosing day has arrived. The results for most people are obvious, but in Beatrice Prior’s case, something goes twisted. She’s ‘inconclusive.’ She doesn’t fit into the categories used to assign people, expressing several dominant traits in the Erudite, Abnegation, and Dauntless clans at the same time. It turns out that she’s one of the atypical subset of the population: a Divergent. And being Divergent, her niche makes her extremely dangerous because she fits outside the mesh constructed to create and maintain a flimsy peace between people struggling on limited resources in a dystopian society. When her time to choose arrived, she followed her heart and chose to be selfish but brave, abandoning her family and choosing Dauntless.

While switching factions itself takes a lot of courage, Beatrice soon learns that if she wanted to be initiated into the faction, it will take much more than a simple choice. Only ten spots are available for more than double number of hopefuls, Beatrice struggles to make her way to a brutal and highly competitive initiation. “I would rather be dead than empty, like the factionless” she says. Along the way she unearth a lot of secrets about the world she lives in and the people she interacts with and discern not only what she’s truly capable of, but what it truly means to be a Divergent. She further learns more about the secrets of her own family – secrets which have been deeply buried for a long time.

REVIEW:

It's funny that when I first encountered the book, I decided to include it on my to-read list mainly because of its title! Nothing more than that, just the title haha. It was my boyfriend who started reading it first and told me how great it was.

At first, reading Divergent would make you think of The Hunger Games probably because both almost had same concept and genre. But let me say this, Katniss and Beatrice was incomparable though both were amazing kick-ass heroine. So if you thought Hunger Games had a lot of going on, better read this one! Well basically most of the time Katniss just sits in the cave or sneak and observe up in a tree, here however, Beatrice (or Tris her Dauntless name) is all over the place! Something is always happening here and there. Her mind is restive enough that you don’t even feel when the things slow down. I also loved that Tris gets seriously beaten up. And while she does, she molded herself to be tough and a better Dauntless initiate. Moreover, there’s this believable tension between herself and her fellow initiates and the discrimination she felt as a “Stiff” (Abnegation-born).

Although this is an action-packed book, there’s also a little space for drama and (oh okay…) romance. Why does the dystopian genre always has to comprise with this? Chause! I mean it’s like everyone has the tendency to defend the little protagonist where she can just literally kick butts! Tris is not all goody-two-shoes heroine. She’s selfish, manipulative and cruel as hell but that what you would love about her. Overall, it has the perfect blend of romance, wit and adventure, enough to give you a heart attack haha charaught!

Divergent was beautifully written. It flows just like a movie wherein you’re introduced to the characters, their adversaries, their allies, and their lifestyle. Moreover, what I like about it that the storyline was filled with significant scenes to make it deeper and intense for the readers. So, if you’re looking for an amusing dystopian read and feel like investing a series, here it is: Divergent. Just make sure not to drink coffee while reading this book. And always remember to keep breathing! You’ll surely need that! Haha chause!

“We believe in ordinary acts of bravery, in the courage

that drives one person to stand up for another.”

- Dauntless Faction Manifesto (Divergent)

Book Review: The Sea Of Monsters

2012-09-01T11:59:00.000+08:00

"My nightmare started like this."

Title: The Sea Of Monsters

Author: Rick Riordan
Publication Date: May 3, 2006
Language: English
Series: Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Book 2)
Genre(s): Fantasy Fiction and Adventure

Percy Jackson had surprisingly survived an entire school year without getting into any trouble - he’s having a tiny problem with his new friend, a kid named Tyson. Just before school gets out for the summer, Percy gets into a fight in gym class. A seemingly trouble-free dodge ball game turns deadly when the opposing team turns out to be monsters. And out of the blue, his friend Annabeth (daughter of Athena) came to save him and Tyson.

Percy flees to Camp Half Blood to find sanctuary but only to find out that something has gone wrong there as well. As they arrived, they need to save the camp first from the monster bronze bulls that are terrorizing the camp; Thalia’s sacred tree was mysteriously poisoned. The magical borders of Camp Half-Blood begin to fail and monsters are now testing its borders and Chiron “the camp director” has been blamed for this foul act. Aside from that, little did he realize that he is into a big surprise – Tyson, who turns out to be a Cyclops, was his half-brother.

Hermes (Messenger of the Gods), came to Percy and gave him gifts on his adventure to cure the tree. To save their beloved camp, and the only safe haven for half-bloods that is in danger of being destroyed, Percy, Tyson, and Annabeth, must find a cure for it and the perpetrator. And the only way to save Thalia’s tree and Chiron’s good name is to sail through the perilous Sea of Monsters and bring back a cure— the Golden Fleece. That is, if they don’t die along the way. Furthermore, Percy must juncture a daring rescue operation to save his old friend Grover from the Cyclops Polyphemus who was the guardian of the Fleece as well.

The Golden Fleece did its work too well and shockingly "put another chess piece into play".

REVIEW:

Just as much as you have loved The Lightning Thief, The Sea of Monsters is also good and impressive. So you don’t need to worry that it may fail to live up to its predecessor just like other books did. Though I might say there’s this, “Oh here we go again” kinda feel upon knowing Percy is up into a new adventure again. You know what I mean? Haha. Furthermore, I am constantly annoyed that Percy is so slow at putting things together and figuring out something that seems fairly obvious. Hello? Percy? Really? Haha chause!

Annabeth on the other hand, acts so tough and mature, but she does have a soft side. As the series progresses, you can tell how much Thalia's death and Luke's betrayal has affected her.

The book also had some good morals and values weaved between the storyline. It encompasses loyalty, friendship, family, trust, courage, sacrifice, and more. As each characters grow, they became mature, learned from their mistakes and had learned to do things the right way. As the story unfolds, your understanding of the characters and the world they live in deepens and expands.

Overall a very enjoyable and reader-friendly fantasy read that is further enhanced by unexpected additions to the cast. If you thought that middle grade series are childish and consequently, boring, don't be fooled. Riordan has created a wonderfully multifaceted world filled with characters that are just as complex you’ll caught yourself hooked.

"Families are messy. Immortal families are eternally messy. Sometimes the best

we can do is to remind each other that we’re related for better or for worse

and try to keep the maiming and killing to a minimum."

-Hermes (The Sea Of Monsters)

Book Review: The Lightning Thief

2012-08-09T08:10:00.000+08:00

Title: The Lightning Thief

Author: Rick Riordan

Publication Date: July 1, 2005 (hardcover) /

April 1, 2006 (paperback)

Language: English

Series: Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Book 1)

Genre(s): Fantasy Fiction/Adventure

"If you're a normal kid, reading this because you think it's fiction, great. Read on. I envy you for being able to believe that none of this ever happened.

But if you recognize yourself in these pages—if you feel something stirring inside—stop reading immediately. You might be one of us. And once you know that, it's only a matter of time before they sense it too, and they'll come for you.

Don't say I didn't warn you.

Meet Percy, a normal 12-year old kid. Was he really normal? Well, never completely normal. He suffered from ADHD and dyslexia and somehow had a bad reputation - making one think that he’s screwed up. But, Percy isn't really a troublemaker himself. He had this weird attraction for funny events that happen to him. Unexplained events, if I may say. Though what he really wanted was a completely normal life.

Until one day, he accidentally vaporizes his math teacher, who turned into a Fury and has tried to attack him. At that very moment he’s about to welcome a drastic turn of events that will completely change his entire life. He found out that his bestfriend, Grover, was a satyr who had been keeping an eye on him since sometime. He was brought to Camp Half Blood which is considered as the safest place for kids like him to train and practice fighting with monsters after a dreadful journey with his mother and Grover and got chased by a Minotaur who had snatched his mother away as they reach the camp.

At the camp he found out that he is the son of one of the Big Three – the son of Poseidon, God of Sea. However, peace can only last long, once he found out that Zeus’ lighting bolt was missing. Where Zeus suspects his father to be the main man and him, his accomplice.

Now, the real adventure starts when Percy and his friends, Annabeth (daughter of Athena) and Grover have just 10 days to find out the real culprit and return Zeus’ stolen property to bring about peace to a warring Mount Olympus. But first, Percy must come in terms wih his father who had abandoned him and solve the riddle of the Oracle which warns a betrayal of a friend; and unearth the new height of treachery.

REVIEW

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief is the first installment of Rick Riordan’s five-part series, Percy Jackson and the Olympians. It has also been turned into a movie, though I havent seen it yet.

The book is a great tool for introducing Greek Mythology. A thrilling tale superbly woven by the author Rick Riordan which modernizes the ancient tales to make it more interesting and enjoyable to read. Bringing mythology to life is a great way to make these stories accessible to the new generation. Though I had a little difficulty coping with the story since I'm not familiar with Greek Mythology. It somewhat appealed to me like Harry Potter-ish type of story since both were a mid-school novel about adventure, friendship, the trials of school and peers.

The book was simple, yet written with great style. It was quick paced, characters were lovable and relatable. These are all mixed into a piece of history, full of action in itself dashed with a little pinch of humor. Though it may seem a little predictable to the more mature audiences. Still, the action will sweep you along from one exciting scene to the next, and you'll find it hard to put down.

The story values friendship, responsibility, trust and honor. It gives us the idea that no matter how hard and unpredictable life may seem, perseverance is still the best option plus trusting your friends and everything will fall in right place.

Overall, Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief is one enchanting story. It is a total page turner. Great starter for those who are not really into reading yet. And who knows, you might be one of those unclaimed Demigods haha chause! See you at Camp Half Blood.

"Knowing too much of your future is never a good thing."

— Chiron (The Lightning Thief)

Book Review: The Hunger Games

2012-07-29T01:06:00.000+08:00

Teens and pre-teens are currently reading The Hunger Games trilogy with so much gusto. Oops! Do I still fall under that category? Haha chause! THG craze has been circling around like wildfire before I've got to discover it.(You know me, I’m kinda always out-to-date! Darn! Sign of aging it is!) Not until it's movie was released on the 3rd quarter of March this year. After a week or so, so much fuzz about it has been going thru the social networking community. Some say it's almost like the Japanese movie, Battle Royale. With that I've decided to read the book first few month's ago; basically to save my ass from not being able to understand the entire movie haha chause!

Disclaimer: I'll try to be very, very careful not to spoil anything for anyone but if you haven't read the book please don't hate on me. So help me God! :p

"May the odds be ever in your favor"

Title: The Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins
Publication Date: September 14, 2008
Language: English
Series: The Hunger Games Trilogy (Book 1)
Genre(s): Adventure / Dystopian / Science Fiction / Action

The Hunger Games was set during the post-dystopian world of 'Panem' which is divided into 12 districts. Panem was governed by devious tyranny, a supremacy of the modernized capital city named 'Capitol.' Citizens of the Capitol lived in luxury. All served in a silver platter. On the other hand, people in the districts lived their lives in great misery and distress. To make districts repent for the rebellion against the Capitol, in which, destroyed the 13th District decades ago, an annual reaping insists one girl and one boy (per district) between 12-18 years of age to participate on the Hunger Games. A lottery to fight-to-death as only one tribute can survive and be hailed as the so-called victor.

The story was narrated in the voice of the main protagonist-Katniss Everdeen. A 16-year old hunter and the sole breadwinner of their family who volunteered to be District 12's female tribute to take her sister's (Primrose) place after being reaped. So there's where the story starts to unfold...

REVIEW

The story is pretty unique in it's own ways. Where in the world were you could watch publicly, children fight for their lives-a quite literal translation of survival of the fittest, Reality TV show style! Every page was so riveting with all the action and suspense it offers. It is actually a great critique, politically and economically. The world that Collins created was like a real-world scenario with an exemptional twist where all positive aspects turned to nothing while the negative ones (greed, inequality, poverty and the likes) prevail and were distended beyond normalcy.

The Hunger Games was the first book series I've completed and is my favorite so far. It caters to different types of audiences, though it might not be for all because of the violence it depicts. I was so fascinated and hooked to it that I finished the entire trilogy in a month. I even dreamed I was tribute haha what a barbaric dream. Reading this will probably make you see the world and yourself differently. *touching three middle fingers to my lips and holding up* :)

"You don't forget the face of the person who was your last hope."

-Katniss (The Hunger Games)

10 Commandments Of Working For Others

2012-07-17T11:39:00.000+08:00

Finally got the time to blog! I was quite damned with the sudden burst of workloads! I’m still trying to redeem myself from all the gloom and doom. Chause! I was actually attending seminars and training for the past weeks for my professional and personal development. Naks! Along with that, of course payday just came by; my entire world revolves around payroll and timekeeping. On the other hand, Hal Benito is sooo busy exploring the corporate world! Oh my! He must have been lost. Charaught! Never heard from him for the quite some time. You sure do miss him :)

As mentioned, I attended a seminar last week. It is the “Free Learning Sessions” by Ariva Events. It was a 1-day learning session which discusses Company Policy and Labor Laws; facilitated by Atty. Ranulfo P. Payos. It costs around P1116 for both AM and PM sessions which cover snacks and certificates. Sponsored by the company of course! :)

I will not be giving a rundown of what had happened throughout the seminar, I would just want to share this little note instead. I found this inside the loot bag I got during the seminar. It is “The 10 Commandments of Working for Others”

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS OF WORKING FOR OTHERS:

1. DON'T LIE. It's a waste of time. I'm sure to catch you in the end and that's the wrong end.

2. WATCH YOUR WORK, NOT THE CLOCK. A long days work makes a long day short, and a short days work makes my face long.

3. GIVE ME MORE THAN I EXPECT AND I'LL GIVE YOU MORE THAN YOU EXPECT. I can afford to increase your pay only if you increase my profits.

4. YOU OWE SO MUCH TO YOURSELF THAT YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO OWE ANYBODY ELSE. Keep out of debt or keep out of my shop.

5. DISHONESTY IS NEVER AN ACCIDENT. Good men and women never see temptation when they meet it.

6. MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS and in time you'll have your own business to mind.

7. DON'T DO ANYTHING TO HURT YOUR SELF-RESPECT. An employee who is willing to steal for me is willing to steal from me.

8. IT IS NOT MY BUSINESS WHAT YOU DO AT NIGHT UNLESS IT AFFECTS YOUR PRODUCTIVITY DURING THE DAY! If you do only half as much as I expect you'll last half as long as you hope.

9. DON'T TELL ME WHAT I LIKE TO HEAR. Tell me instead what I need to hear.

10. DON'T KICK IF I KICK. If you're worth correcting. it's because you're worth keeping.

Source: Ariva Academy

There you go! Hope this will come in handy for everyone. This is your friendly HR neighbor, signing off! :)

"Be a blessing in the workplace today."

-Maloi Malibiran-Salumbides (Protips)

My Thrown Up Memories

2012-06-25T19:23:00.004+08:00

I love traveling. It’s a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of the Metro. I love to see sceneries and meet wonderful strangers whenever I hit the road. However, I am no wealthy individual so I do my traveling via commute which is perfectly fine for me.

But it was not always like this.

Buses are important vehicles for the working class and for the travelers. I, myself, go to work daily riding a bus. In the Philippines, there are two types of buses: Ordinary Bus and Air-conditioned Bus.

Ordinary Bus

Photo courtesy of flickr.com

Ordinary Bus Interior

Photo courtesy of flickr.com

Ordinary buses are those that have open windows and the fare is generally cheaper. On some occasions, these buses are also dirtier. It is so because the dirt and grime as well as the smoke of the main road enter through the open window. You can close some to your liking but you can’t close the entire window because they are necessary for ventilation. Otherwise, the passengers will be drenched in sweat and the interior of the bus will smell bad, given the tropical climate that we have in the country.

Air-conditioned Bus

Photo courtesy of flickr.com

Air-conditioned Bus Interior

Photo courtesy of flickr.com

On the other hand, Air-conditioned buses are the ones that are generally comfortable because as the name implies, it’s air-conditioned, hence, it’s cooler, plus it’s cleaner! The seats are more comfortable and the smell is better because of the air fresheners. Also, the passengers are protected from the harsh elements of the environment such as dirt, smoke, and during daytime, the sunlight, because the windows are closed and there are curtains that may be opened or closed. I personally favor this over the ordinary bus and this is actually what I ride on my way to work! J It’s cold (although there are some which I don’t know if they are saving batteries or the air-conditioning system is just broken because it’s hot) you can actually fall asleep while traveling. It’s a great way to combat the heat and arrive at your office still looking fresh.

But, like I said, it was not always like this.

When I was younger (like five years old until High School), I have an issue with buses. I didn’t like them. They make me vomit my entire stomach out! (Ewww! Gross! J) When I was really younger (haha), just the sight of the bus, ordinary or air-conditoned, makes me dizzy already and want to throw up. Sometimes, I would actually throw up. As years go by, the issues lessen and lessen; I became used to ordinary bus but not of the air-conditioned bus (because of the smell of the air fresheners that I used to abhor so much!). Then, during college, when I had to do more traveling due to school researches and because some of my classmates live at the other end of the world (chause!) that required riding a bus and the heat was so scorching and makes me drip with sweat, I had no choice but to learn to travel in air-conditioned buses to achieve comfort while traveling. It was hard because I would get dizzy and even vomit sometimes. But I’m glad because over time, I had gotten used to it and now I choose it over ordinary bus and any other “hot” vehicles.

I guess we just have to face our fears and find good things out of it. We should always find positive things from negative situations.

Slán go foill!

Why I Love Maria Callas Among Others

2012-06-14T12:57:00.002+08:00

Maria Callas

There are definitely a lot of beautifully voiced operatic sopranos out there, but it is not what matters so much for me. I am looking for great musicianship, techniques, and the ability to do wide repertoire of operas. And Maria Callas satisfied my desire with flying colors. Although her voice is not the most beautiful and is actually flawed and had declined over time, it was her singing that made me appreciate and love classical music. It was her who exposed me to a lot of things about music. And it was through her that I realized, fame is not really everything.

Anyhow, enjoy the videos!

Maria Callas, The 20th Century Assoluta

Maria Callas, The Many Voices of the Diva

Slán go foill!

GUINNESS BEER: The Taste of Ireland

2012-06-13T19:59:00.001+08:00

I have been an Ireland (and Irish) fanatic since knowing the country in 1999. I would like to give the credit to Westlife for they were the one who introduced me to the beautiful, green country. Since then, I got a bit “obsessed” to it by researching stuff about Ireland, like St. Patrick, Irish geography, tourists destinations, and Irish products. One of the most prominent and worldwide best-selling, truly Irish product, is the Guinness beer.

Photo courtesy of review.productwiki.com

Guinness is a popular Irish dry stout that originated in the brewery of Arthur Guinness (1725–1803) at St. James's Gate, Dublin. Guinness is one of the most successful beer brands worldwide. It is brewed in almost 50 countries and is available in over 100. 850 million liters (1.5 billion imperial or 1.8 billion US pints) are sold annually.

Just this year, I have been researching on where in the Philippines I could buy the said beer as I would like to give it a try. I am no drinker. I would just like to try the beer that makes a handful of Irish people drunk. So for days, I have searched the internet and almost gave up on it after 4 months. I found one, a specialty store that sells world class and imported wines and beers but every time I pass by the said store, it’s closed! I felt hopeless and thought that maybe now is not yet the right time.

Until one day, when I had to accompany my best friend to buy her youngest sister some school stuff, we went to Shopwise Commonwealth to look for bags (as we were done purchasing papers and other stuff at the Ever Commonwealth). Out of the blue, I decided to visit the wines and beers section and to my surprise (and I literally yelled to my best friend), I saw tall cans of Guinness beer on one of the shelves! I felt so happy because you really never know when good things will come your way. It arrived when I least expected it. So obviously, I bought it and took it home. Excitement is lurking all over my system.

I decided to drink it two days after and I shared it with my parents. My, it was not like any typical beer! It’s very dark, foamy, creamy, and in fairness, delicious! I don’t like beers because they’re bitter. But this one’s not at all, though I initially thought it’s strong and bitter to death because of its color. My parents loved it as well but they were shocked at the price. Well, for me, since I really like it, the price is just okay!

Finally, I got to have a portion of Ireland. I promise to search and buy some more Irish stuff.

Slán go foill!

At The End Of One's Rope

2012-06-04T13:00:00.003+08:00

FOR: Toinks

FROM: Someone Who Hates You

DATE: June 4, 2012

SUBJECT: As Stated

______________________________________________________________

This is to inform you that you had officially pissed me off today. I can literally feel my hair kink and my hands fidget. You probably know very well how to raise hackles. Should I compliment you for that? You perfectly ruined my day. *slow claps* I could've had a wonderful day if not for your wobblers.

Since you’re such a lousy reader, kindly practice the habit of reading with COMPREHENSION. It’ll be for your benefit anyway. And by the way, you should’ve asked first before doing anything you are unsure of. Questions and clarifications will be very well entertained, if there’s any.

In view of the abovementioned, you are hereby given this to refrain yourself getting into my nerves. Please be reminded that commission of an offense of the same nature will be dealt with accordingly and may affect specific standard in our interpersonal relationship and respect for you. This shall serve a Written Reprimand.

For your information and guidance,

“The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention…"

- Rachel Naomi Remen

Goodbyes and Hellos

2012-06-01T21:39:00.000+08:00

As the month of May struts her way for a graceful exit, here comes June making a grand entrance, hitting us by storm, literally! Charaught! Now, we’re entering the first half of the year. Time flies so fast.. Such a cliche!

Even our bipolar weather had already been making signals that it was through with its super kaduper scorching hot episodes, now its starting to give us a sneak peek of its rainy episodes with the heavy downpours these past few days. Mother Earth must have been PMS-ing! The mood swings huh! Chause.

Finally, it’s a bye bye vacay for all students out there since classes is officially starting next week. Go ahead and make your last hurray for vacation. You still have the weekends, so work it out because on Monday... reality bites and say “Hello!” to school. Isn't exciting? *insert sarcastic smile here* haha charaught! For sure, everybody’s busy making their last minute shopping for school. And I can just imagine how giddy the students are with their new school stuffs, new set of uniforms and shoes. And please don't forget to include the rain gears on your list. :) And for all the commuters and motorists, it'll be a long day on Monday, make sure to carry some extra patience! :)

Let’s make this month legendary. Make everyday count by simply being a better version of your old self... Starting today!

“...Every new beginning comes from some other beginnings end”

-Semisonic (Closing Time)

Picture the World with Instagram

2012-05-11T19:21:00.003+08:00

For the longest time, my pseudo-cousin Sora Iteti has been bugging me to download and use Instagram as she said I will definitely enjoy it. I kept on refusing as I said, “Ulk. Just another social networking website. I can’t maintain too many accounts!” I already have a Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest and I actually am not able to update them that regularly, most especially Pinterest.

I actually kept on uploading pictures that I find interesting. However, I limited it lately because I fear that my friends might find I am flooding their news feeds already

But then due to its recent buy out by Facebook and seeing that a lot of the celebrities that I follow use it, I finally gave in just last week. I downloaded it and tried it and “my, it was fun!”

I love the idea that the image captured by the low-res camera of your gadget (be it a mobile phone or anything that has camera) can still turn out to be a professional photographer’s work! Though it’s not as comprehensive as the Adobe Photoshop but it allows you to show the world the things that might interest everyone’s inclination toward visual arts. Simple garbage might become a work of art. It all depends on one’s level of creativity.

Plus Instagram may show the potential of a future Morgan Norman or Lynsey Addario. It all starts in small things. By trying new ones every day, you get to discover what it is that you want to do. And since I like photography a bit, Instagram satisfied it!

Yup, it's me! :)

Toddler Tonsurephobia

2012-05-10T19:09:00.001+08:00

Did you have any fear when you were younger that is quite out of the ordinary? Do you still carry the fear up to this day? What is it? And do you find it amusing now that you have outgrown it?

We all have a lot of fears when we were younger and most of them are just normal: fear of the dark, fear of animals, fear of insects, and fear of adults. But there is one fear that I really find very odd. And it’s funny because I once had this fear too.

Photo courtesy of sunncity.com

Fear of haircut a.k.a. Tonsurephobia (tissue please - nosebleed).

Photo courtesy of 4.bp.blogspot.com

Yes. When I was younger, I am afraid to go to barber shops. Yes, you heard it right. I hate having haircuts. My dad would hold me tightly in my seat so I wouldn’t fall off because I was struggling. Haha. I actually don’t remember anymore what it was about haircut that I didn’t like. I just did not like it.

Photo courtesy of newsinfo.inquirer.com

It all came back to me when I had my haircut last Sunday. While I was waiting for my turn, a kid was struggling noisily on his chair while the barber is razor-ing his hair. He had a skinhead haircut. I guess it was the easiest for little kids, especially for struggling ones. It was my haircut too. Unlucky for me because it is still my haircut. Haha. Anyway, while watching the child struggle in all his might with the dad struggling as well mightier just to prevent the child from a possible cut on his head, the question again popped in my head: what is so loathsome in haircut?

Photo courtesy of image.chinasmack.com

Do you know?

TITANIC: The Epic Drama That Still Touches My Heart 15 Years After

2012-04-16T17:43:00.001+08:00

I decided to write a reaction piece instead of a review as I am not aware of the technicalities of a film that is most often contained in a review. To be perfectly honest, my mind is very preoccupied with thoughts about things that I wanted to write about Titanic but I just could not organize them. So I decided I will just write the way I want to say my opinion about the film.

Photo courtesy of gossipboy.ca

I saw Titanic 3D last April 14, 2012 with a friend. I was very happy because I realized it was the CENTENNIAL of the SINKING (which occurred on April 14, 1912). Even if it was on its second week of showing, the theater was still jam-packed; a live testimony on how well-loved the movie is that people are still willing to spend a portion of their money to SEE IT AGAIN. It was my second time to see it on big screen (the first one was in 1997) and my first time to see it in 3D but I have watched it several times before via VHS, DVD, free TV, and my laptop (the last being just November of last year). However, whenever I watch it, the emotions that I feel in every scene are always the same like it was my first time seeing it and even if I know what is going to happen next, I still could not help but feel scared, excited, happy, angry, and sad with each respective sequence being shown.

The film being in 3D is not its main attraction. Indeed, it’s a plus. But the fact that it will be shown again on the big screen made the fans excited that the first time it was hinted, people started raving about it on the web. The movie’s story: the clichéd romance between two lovers of totally opposite social status, and the dramatic and realistic portrayal of one of the most famous maritime disasters in history, are actually what the moviegoers are interested in. In fact, while watching the movie, I have totally forgotten about the 3D thing because I was so engrossed in the film, I hardly noticed the 3D features. It was that good. No further promotions had to be done. No merchandise had to be sold, It just had to be announced that it will be shown again. And we, the fans, went crazy.

The way the film was created was near to perfection. I especially would like to commend the musical score. It was fantastic! It stirred my emotions very, very effectively and accordingly to the scenes being shown. And, although I am quite fed up already with Celine Dion’s song, the humming of it whenever being played on certain scenes was so perfect, the scenes get emotional and, sometimes, even haunting. I guess no matter how much they bash the said song for its cliché, it was perfectly made, tailor made for Titanic. One of the tearjerkers as well was the music played by the four violinists towards the end of the film when the three had to rejoin their group mate who decided to perform solely. The scenes that were shown while their music was being played were really painful and affecting.

Photo courtesy of joblo.com

The casts were all effective. I never thought of the two main casts as Leo and Kate, but rather, they were Jack and Rose. They were able to transform themselves and be exactly the character that they portrayed. I am really glad that Leo accepted the role after rejecting it for a couple of times and I am glad as well that James Cameron gave in to the lobbying of Kate for the role. Otherwise, I don’t think it would be this phenomenal. The two have amazing talents and they totally complemented each other. On the other hand, I was bothered by the acting of Kathy Bates and Billy Zane. I don’t know if their characters were really like that (Cal having a shaved eyebrows and acting like he has a Tourette syndrome) but, anyhow, I was really bothered whenever they show up on the screen.

On a side note, all the characters, for me, are essential. There were no extras. Everyone mattered. Everyone had their fair share of emotional contributions to the film. There were heroes who surfaced, some were fictitious, and some were real. He characters, although a lot, are all important.

Despite being shot and shown fifteen years earlier, it seemed like Titanic was just a new film shot this year. Everything looks new: the technology, the costumes, the music. The only thing, however, that looked 1990’s to me was the granddaughter of the old Rose Calvert. Heck she even looked like she was transported from the 1980’s. But overall, I loved the film. James Cameron was a wonderful director, a genius visual storyteller. I know it will be one of the films that will stand on top; a film that will be at par with the world’s greatest films; and a film that will be enjoyed by all generations.

Photo courtesy of ca.movies.yahoo.com

“Well, yes, ma'am, I do... I mean, I got everything I need right here with me. I got air in my lungs, a few blank sheets of paper. I mean, I love waking up in the morning not knowing what's gonna happen or, who I'm gonna meet, where I'm gonna wind up. Just the other night I was sleeping under a bridge and now here I am on the grandest ship in the world having champagne with you fine people. I figure life's a gift and I don't intend on wasting it. You don't know what hand you're gonna get dealt next. You learn to take life as it comes at you... to make each day count.” – Jack Dawson

You have to see it! AGAIN!

Yeeha! ;D

Harmony Soap Review

2012-03-31T12:17:00.001+08:00

My discovery of this soap was accidental. It was offered to my mom by her friend while she was at her store. My mom bought it for PhP 12.00 (0.24 US$) because she was fully aware that I love trying different soaps. This soap especially appealed to her because of its strong yet pleasant fruity smell. It has many variants but she chose the strawberry because it stood out among others. Then, when I arrived home that day, she showed it to me at once and, true enough, I fell in love with its look and smell.

It’s very rare that I see transparent and translucent soaps. I actually have not seen personally a transparent soap yet. Harmony soap is almost translucent and it’s shiny and smells like a strawberry candy.

When I first used it, I noticed that it was not as foamy as the other soaps are. I would compare its lather to the Safeguard soap by Procter and Gamble. But the smell was really magnificent. It filled the entire room with the smell of strawberry. After rinsing, I noticed that the water formed a droplet in my skin which is normally an indication that the soap dried my skin. It did not feel tight, though. Also, the smell still lingered on my skin.

On the contrary, my skin was not dry after patting it with towel. It did not show and white patches which normally tell me if I had to put on heavy lotion to ease the dryness. It was just okay, not moisturized as well. I had to put on lotion though just to be sure.

My final verdict was, it was just an OK soap. Nothing really special in it. You may use it as your daily bath soap. You just have to be careful as fragrant soaps are usually irritating to sensitive skin. I never had issues with it, though. Mind you, I have overly dry skin. I used it until it run out which was quite long: two weeks. And there were six of us using it every day.

Yeeha! ;D

The Jeepney Royalty

2012-03-20T18:58:00.001+08:00

Riding the Public Utility Jeeps (PUJ) or jeeps has been a part of my daily life. I would ride on it every single day whenever I travel. Of course there are other vehicles that I would ride as well but jeeps have been the most frequent. It is never comfortable and I wouldn’t want to actually ride on it, given the chance. It’s hot during summer, wet during the rainy days, smoke would enter the “always open” windows, and the seating is horrible especially when the driver squeezes in the maximum number of passenger even if some of the already seated are overweight, which consumes extra space. But I don’t have a choice. Financial difficulties have declared my fate and I had to learn to love the jeeps. I still don’t.

A typical Philippine Jeepney

Photo courtesy of aboutph.com

What even irritates me when riding the jeeps are the “too lazy” and “too social climbing” yet disgusting passengers who consider themselves the dames and knights of the jeeps who wouldn’t want to pass on the payments (fares) made by other passengers, or worse, even their own payments!

Here’s the thing. Jeeps are long vehicles of which the interior is made of two long bench on the left and right and when you enter, you will not be facing the front of the jeep when you sit but rather the side where you will meet the eyes of your co-passengers (Hard to explain huh?! See the picture below!). So when you pay, you have two choices (unless you are alone). One is to walk (or crawl using your butt) and go near the driver and hand him your payment, or ask someone ahead of you (meaning, others who are nearer to the driver) to hand your payment to the driver for you. This last one is being abused so annoyingly.

Photo courtesy of bigflax.com

Photo courtesy of journals.worldnomads.com

Here’s what I hate. In my case, if there are just few people inside the jeep ahead of me, I would just walk to get near the driver to hand my payment. Sometimes I would even sit at the driver’s back for the rest of the travel. What I hate about other people, let’s call them the LAZY MASS, is that when they board the jeep, they would sit at the farthest end of the jeep just so they could prevent handing over the payment of the others. And even worse, they would wait for someone to board the jeep so that someone would hand over his payment too! Talk about ULTIMATE LAZINESS! What’s equally funny and annoying is that I would observe that most of the passengers would squeeze themselves on the farther part of the jeep, and when a very unlucky person decides to go near the driver to “hand his own fare (as no one would like to do him a favor),” he will be doomed! As all of the passengers will ask him to hand over their payments.

Photo courtesy of christianwildernesspress.net

Photo couretsy of filipinolifeinpictures.wordpress.com

Not only that. I also hate the people who are ahead of me (I repeat, these are passengers who are near the drivers) who would never ever pass the payment to the driver. They are the social climbing, trying to be ELITE ones who don’t want to touch the money of others due to FEAR of SARS, Swine Flu, Anthrax, and any other diseases that’s giving them the paranoia.

Below are the most notorious of all the tactics of the “elites”.

1.) Pretend that you are asleep. To make it more effective, your head should be swaying back and forth or even sideways to the point that you would accidentally lean on your seatmate. Drooling is the most effective. Otherwise the lazy mass would know you are just faking it and they will curse you in their minds.

2.) Listen to a very loud music so they know you just don’t hear them. To make it more dramatic, wear supersized headphones. To make it even more award-winning, put the volume to the maximum so they would hear Katy Perry’s Fireworks being played. Then they might believe you. Otherwise, they will curse you in their minds for IGNORING them.

3.) Wear a stern face so the lazy mass would know who they are dealing with. An ELITE in a jeep. And they would be intimated. Just make sure you are intimidating. Otherwise you will just be inviting trouble especially from the elders of the lazy mass.

4.) IGNORE the request to hand over the payment the best that you can. Be sure to withstand all the criticisms, badmouthing, and anger of the lazy mass on the farther side of the jeep. Ignorance is not acceptable to the lazy mass but some “elite” could get away with it, especially women and old (who have not learned their etiquette) people.

Photo courtesy of filipinolifeinpictures.blogspot.com

Photo courtesy of wn.com

There, if you are planning to be the bad guy, be the lazy mass or the elite, you may use the above advice. But if you’re like me who believes it is our social responsibility and obligation to do the favor of handing over the payments of the lazy people of this country, you will do the otherwise. And pray. Chause!

Yeeha! ;D

Manila in Retrospect

2012-03-19T17:14:00.002+08:00

I have strong interests on everything that is old. Old houses, old pictures, old things, even old music (heck I so love opera!). I like seeing things or souvenirs that have survived the tests of time and I am very eager to know their stories, why they are like that, and how they survived. I am not a fan but I like going to museums to have a closer look on the preserved artifacts that relate their own stories to us just by looking at them.

So I joined this tour that I saw in Facebook. It was headed by Rence Chan, a 20-year stamp collector and an employee of the Philippine Postal Corporation (PhilPost). It has been his advocate for years already and he has been doing this for FREE! Pre-registration was necessary because permits were needed to be asked and an exact number of participants must be determined. I initially asked my best friend to join but unfortunately she wanted to pursue other things on that day. So I asked my officemate to join who registered at once and was equally excited as I am for the tour.

Rence, our tour guide, is the one in green shirt. ;)

Day of the tour came. We assembled ourselves at the Liwasan ng Bonifacio in front of the Headquarters of the PhilPost. The expected number of participants was 65 but only 30 arrived. At around 1 PM, Rence started his speech / lecture about the points of interest of our tour (e.g. stamp, stamp collection, brief history of the postal services in the Philippines, etc.) right at the Liwasan. Afterwards, we took a group picture of ourselves in front of the Bonifacio statues for souvenir. And then we went inside the PhilPost compound to start the tour.

Inside the compound, we were first brought to the two smaller buildings erected beside the main building. The bigger one is the PhilPost Annex building with four floors, but the 4th floor is condemned already and no one is using it. The ground floor is the cashier and the second and third floor is the Postal Museum and Library. And the fourth floor is empty because, like I said, it’s condemned. The other building, which is a smaller one, is totally condemned and is not being used anymore. It was a former warehouse and printing office where the PhilPost would print their stamps and other documents. Now, PhilPost has partnered with different third party companies to print their stamps.

I apologize for my inability to give you detailed information as I did not take down notes while the guide was talking and I have forgotten most of his imparted knowledge. Yeeha! ;D

Next, we entered the main building of the compound, the PhilPost Head Office. It is where the letters, parcels, and other things were being received and dispatched. It is also the office of the PhilPost executives and high officials. That day, an auction and exhibit were being held on the lobby. Auctions in the PhilPost are for the items that were sent by people via PhilPost but were not received or claimed by the recipients here or abroad for some reasons. An exhibit of the stamps by the stamp collectors were also held there and it was one of the greatest exhibits I have seen. One of the officers, Ray Ong, discussed tirelessly the stories behind each frame and each stamp and they were all amazing, especially if you will imagine the hard work being exerted just to achieve the collections that were displayed there. I saw the first ever stamp, the Black Penny, the Postal Marks which came before the stamps and other rare collections that even dates back to pre-war era and some even cost millions!

By the way, PhilPost will soon be converted into a hotel so getting a last glance at its structure, I guess, is a wonderful idea.

Next stop, we went to the theater notorious for its ghostly and supernatural apparitions, the Manila Metropolitan Theater, one of the most glorious theaters during its earlier years. It was greatly damaged during the World War II. It has undergone several restoration attempts but for unknown reasons, the restorations were not finished and my personal visit gave me a glimpse of how bad the condition of the theater is. Upon entrance, I saw the former grandeur that it might have been boasting but are now ruined. The furniture and fixtures inside are obviously expensive, from the woods to the doors, to the tiles, and others. It was a magnificent structure clearly set aside and taken for granted. Vandalisms are everywhere. It is such a waste of fund used to build it and I hope restorations will be pushed through. It will surely be one of the grandest theaters when it reopens.

Yup, it's me! :)

Next stop we just had a stroll to the Escolta, The Burkes building, and the Calvo building which was the former home of the GMA Network before they transferred in their current building in Timog corner EDSA. We parted ways at one end of the Jones Bridge after the Calvo visit. Six of us decided to eat to a famous eatery in Binondo named “Estero.” They initially joked us that it the dirtiest eatery ever so I grew interest in it. But after seeing it, I thought it was just okay. The food, however, is affordable and delicious. What made this dinner out marvelous is the bonding that we had while eating. We arrived there barely 15 minutes before 7PM and we left at around 8:10 P.M. We talked happily, laugh at each other’s jokes, and shared experiences. I was usually shy and timid to a new crowd but I was very jolly that night. I guess because my new found friends were also very friendly and talkative.

So there you have it! A different Sunday for me because I would just normally stay at home and read a book, watch movies at our DVD player, or just look blankly at the ceiling until the day ends. It was a day full of new learning and knowledge that made me appreciate history, architecture, social interactions, and walking!

Till next time! Yeeha! ;D

The Philippine Star's My Icon, My Hero 2010 Entry

2012-03-15T18:55:00.008+08:00

Below is my essay entry to the 2010 contest of The Philippine Star's My Icon, My Hero. And it did not win. Haha. But that's okay. I would like to share it to you anyhow.

THE GIFT

I have never met my icon personally. But that did not prevent me from looking up to him. He is not someone that you would see dancing on the stage, or waving at people, or even doing talks on television and newspapers. He is someone whom I haven’t heard of; until I received his gift of knowledge.

My icon died long before I knew him. Yet, his legacy and advocacy to improve the life of every Filipino continues. He helped the youth realize their dream of a better future. He was trying to erase the notion that poverty is forever and further education is impossible for people who are undergoing financial difficulties.

His name is Francisco M. Bautista. The founder St. Peter Group of Companies, and to which the Francisco M. Bautista Foundation, Inc. was established to give rightful honor to his desire to give every Filipino high school students their very much aimed college diploma. He, himself, was an “undergraduate,” reaching only 4th grade due to financial challenges. Yet, he never gave up. He worked hard to attain the life that he wanted for himself and his family and he was successful in doing so. He prospered and he left the world with so much comfort and security.

That was the idea and belief that he wanted to instill to the minds of every “poor” students that he is helping. He started it early without bragging about it on the media. His death did not hamper the continuity of his dream. His family felt the same passion to give a helping hand to the students and founded a foundation after his name, funds of which will be used to finance the college education of the underprivileged, yet, deserving students. The foundation is strict in helping only those who can’t really afford going to college. It started on 1996, after the death of Mr. Bautista, and it goes on until today, until they could make every student’s dream to receive higher knowledge.

I was lucky to receive his gift of a better future and I worked hard to nurture the opportunity that was given to me. I share the same vision with Mr. Francisco M. Bautista that education is a weapon that you can utilize to deal with life’s never ending battle. His absence of education is one thing that he doesn’t want to happen to the youth of today. He had so many difficulties because of it, but he never gave up. His life is an in inspiration, so as his advocacy. I was moved by his insight towards life. His poverty did not ignite hatred and vengeance in his heart but rather empathy towards those who undergo the same situation.

I would love to follow his footsteps of changing a part of this world, no matter how small or big it may be. I may not be able to do it now. But I know I could.

Mr. Francisco M. Bautista a.k.a TATAY

as he is fondly called by his family, close friends, and scholars.

Photo courtesy of www.stpeter.com.ph

The Unexpected Book Signing

2012-03-14T19:44:00.004+08:00

I went to Greenbelt 5 on February 18, 2012 to do something else: to buy an olive variant of Savon de Marseilles. However, upon arriving on their store and asking the sales lady about the item I was looking for, I was totally devastated to know that the soap I have been contemplating on buying for months was already sold out! And the only one left is the Palm variant which is not an original variant. It is original and from the same manufacturer, but I mean Olive is the very first and original variant that they produced.

So I walked out of Greenbelt 5 pissed off because I travelled all the way from San Juan City and I would be traveling all the way again to Fairview in Quezon City to get home FOR NOTHING!

Until I went past Powerbooks in Greenbelt 4. I glanced at it and saw the banner that says a book signing was ongoing upstairs until 5PM only. I checked my watch and it was already 5:10PM! My friend Editha (who was bugging me to listen to The Morning Rush) told me to buy the book as well (prior to this book signing) so when I accompany her to the station of The Morning Rush station, I won’t be left out and I would have something to get signed too. So I entered the bookstore, looked for the book, asked the cashier if the DJs are still upstairs and was told they were, paid the book, and went upstairs. I saw that there were still many people and the line going to the DJs for autograph is still long and many are still seated which were also waiting for the line! I approached the registration and asked if I could still have my book signed and felt a bit nervous and slightly devastated again when she asked her colleagues if I still could enter since it’s already 5:15! I am glad I was allowed to. And remember I wasn’t a fan yet!

So I went in, sat, and listened to the host saying jokes about the DJs who were signing the books. They were kind, pleasant, and they look good in person. Only Chico and Delamar were there. No Gino. I guess because he wasn’t actually a part of the book but I wished he hosted the event because I want to see him in person. Teehee. ;)

So I got my chance to fall in line. Had my book signed. And had a picture taken with them. It was a fun experience. The ambiance of the place was happy, the people were kind, and everybody was laughing.

And I enjoyed reading the book!