Her Name Is Noelle

They asked, I answered.

2013-04-11T10:57:00.000+08:00

I was reading through my old blog when I found this draft.
I can say that I'm pretty amused with my old self.

REWIND TO 3 YEARS AGO

About 5 months ago, I started a Formspring account and so far, I've received 100+ awesome questions. I'm not a celebrity, but I do enjoy it when somebody asks me a random question. For now, I've classified some of my responses below. Enjoy!

ON "NOELLE"

What is it with noelle that other people doesnt know?

There are a LOT of things that people do not know about me. You just have to get to know me to know them. ;)

why are you in love w/ life? by vernongo

'Coz life's great and I am enjoying every moment of it. :)

haha so who is your "life" now? by bryanski

"Life" remains to be the unpredictable, crazy-fun life. Am I making sense? Hahaha! :)) So yeaaaah. If "life" magically transforms into a lovable species, I'd tell the whole wide world. ;)

How do you go about your daily life? by markcerbo

My everyday life pretty much starts at 6:30 to 7AM. I go to school at 8AM (sometimes at 10AM when we only have an Anatomy or Histology laboratory class --- LATE! Lol) Daily activities actually depend on my class schedule. The only constant thing on a weekday is my coffee. HAHA! :) I usually go to a coffee shop after class (I have to get away from THE BED). I go home at 10 or 11PM then allow myself to be lured by the interwebzzz. Haha! :)) On special days (or when I get lazy to do academic stuff), you can find me in random events practicing photography or eating random yumminess. :) So there. My life is a monotonous grind. ;)

Hi Noelle. I am always stunned when you are around.

LOL. :)) Ummm. Thank you? *confused. Hahahaha! :))

what is your favorite ritual before going to sleep? after waking up? hahaha

Before slumberland: Nothing special. I usually doze off without wanting to. Hahaha! :)) After waking up: No specific ritual. AGAIN. Hahaha! But my first thought of the day usually goes like this: "!?@$?#? What time is it?? 7? Sure? 7? Yesss! Class starts at 8!!" *and I die just for awhile then I take the towel and do everything in FF mode. Hahahaha! :))

How come you're so pretty?

Trust me I'm not. <3 But thankyouuuu anyway! Hehe!

ON FATE

Do you believe in fate?

If fate is serendipity, and serendipity is a fortunate chance, then I'd like to believe in fate like I believe in fairy tales. :) But on second thought, I'd rather not. (Confused much? Ha!) --- Everything happens for a reason. End of story.

ON PHOTOGRAPHY

what DSLR do you use? and the lens as well..

I am using a Canon 400D and as for the lens, please refer to the answer below. :) Thanks for dropping by!

what lens do you use? you're an awesome photographer! 8D

Wowwww! Thank youuuu! :) I only have 2 lenses: Canon EF-S 18-200mm f3.5-5.6 IS and Canon EF 50mm f/1.8. I do wish I have more! Hahaha! :)

How did you get into get into photography? hehe by NivekRNTorres

I am always fascinated by beautiful things. I've been drawing ever since I learned how to hold a pencil. I am a "frustrated" artist! LOL. I think photography just came along with my love for the Arts. But yeah, I also love taking photographs of people ever since I was young. My mom used to scold me coz I wasn't always in "my" photos. I had my first camera when I was in the 5th grade.. and my mom spent a lot for the films and the printing. I had my "aha!" moment in photography when I first took a silhouette shot of a fisherman. I will look for it and will try to upload it soon. Haha! :)

"My mom used to scold me coz I wasn't always in "my" photos." - [this happened to me to haha] Um... have you ever joined a photocontest? by NivekRNTorres

I joined 4 photo contests, I think. :)

Would you go out with a Nikon guy?

LOL! :)) Canon guy, Nikon guy, Sony Alpha guy, etc: would it even matter? :P

ON TRAVEL

If you could go on vacation for the next month with an unlimited budget, where would you go?

I'd go to the most romantic place on earth where French is the language of love --- Paris! :) I'd gaze upon monuments, paintings and all of Paris' magnificent architecture. I'd stroll around boulevards and eat more than a dozen selection of yumminess. :) With whom? *thinks hard. Hahahaha!

ON SCHOOL

What do you like more? the pink and gray uniform or the white one in med school?

I love my white uniform. It's the best thing next to my highchool (STC) uniform. Hahaha! :) It's comfortable. I can run around with it! Haha! :) The pink-gray uniform is just too restricting. In a LOT of ways. ;) Heehee!

what would you do if you failed first year med??

I would dieeee! KIDDING. Hahaha! :) Oh jeeez. That is the SCARIEST thing. Haha. I wouldn't want to say things that I probably wouldn't do. It's going to be very different once you ARE IN THE SITUATION. One thing is for sure though. I am going to finish this. Hahaha! :)

why take a med course? by vernongo

Coz there's no more job opening for new nurses. HAHAHA. Kidding! :) --- I've always wanted to become a doctor like my Mom. Even though it's difficult, I find happiness in learning how our bodies work everyday. :) And yeah, I can see myself writing a doctor's order rather than nurse's notes. :) Heeehee!

Since you are now in medical school, who do you have the "hots" for in 1st Year 2nd Year 3rd Year 4th Year PGI ? HAHA

I don't have the "hots" for anyone in med school and even if I do, I'm not tellin! Hahaha! Hey schoolmate!

[Medicine! *bows*] What would your specialization be? by NivekRNTorres

Cosmetic surgery! :)))

Why nursing? by NivekRNTorres

'Coz nursing is an art and I love anything artsy <3 Hahaha! :)) Seriously though, my undergrad course has helped me in soooo many ways --- interacting with all kinds of people, understanding their needs, listening to them and most of all, giving care. I do believe in the power of a good patient-doctor relationship. <3

ON CEBU

Do you enjoy the place where you live?

Yes, I do. Nowi <3 Cebu. ;)

ON MUSIC

do you play any musical instrument?

Playing the flute counts, right? HAHAHAHA! :) Seriously though, I wish I listened to my mom when she asked me to sign up for piano lessons. I was an introvert. LOL :) I'm learning to play the guitar now, though! Woooooo! P.S. I was serious about the flute. :)

ON BOOKS

If you could have been the author of any book, what would it have been?

The Little Prince :) It is a novel of a pure untainted heart. Everyone should take the time to read it. "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."

What's your favorite novel? ;) by aimee26

So many good stuff, so hard to choose! Haha! :) Hmmm. Lemme see. My favorite novel would have to be "The 5 People You Meet in Heaven" by Mitch Albom. Yeppp! That guy who wrote "Tuesdays with Morrie" and "For One More Day". Good stuff, good stuff. :)

ON "VICES"

DO YOU SMOKE?

No and never. :)

when was the last time you ever got totally wasted and drunk?? what happened?

Good news, buddy! I was never in that situation. :) I don't drink-drink (inom-inom) and get wasted. Hahahaha!

ON COFFEE

starbucks or coffee bean and tea leaf?

Starbucks! <3

ON TV

HOUSE or GREY'S ANATOMY?

Definitely House M.D! I'm a huge fan of Dr. Gregory House and Dr. Chase's Australian accent! Hahaha!

SOMETHING INTERESTING

stinky feet or stinky breath?

Oh jeeez! This is difficult! Hahaha! :) If I were to choose between two evils, I'd go for stinky feet. Hahaha! I know! INSANE. Hahaha! :)) I bring 3 kinds of mints in my bag all the time --- I am pretty OC about it (stinky breath)! Hahaha! And besides, I can forgive medically-related stinkiness. Lels! :))

hairy chest or hairy back?

Lesser evil! HAIRY CHEST! Hahahaha! :)) Who asked this??

what's your guilty pleasure? (pls. elaborate) ^^ by reigun

Oh my! HAHA! :D I'd have to say that my no. 1 offense is wasting untold hours online. Oh mannnn. I love ze interwebzz! Also, I have a huge weakness for sugar and everything nice. Hahaha! I love dessert. The good stuff! :) I'm a foodie at heart! <3 And oh, Backstreet Boys! Hahahahaha! :))

white or black?

Classic black :) --- Johan? HAHAHAHA!

What's your favorite drink?

Chax red tea from our school canteen. Tastes like red iced tea but with more zing. HAHA! :)

my question is...Shall I compare thee to a Summer's day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate:)) hehe...hmmm sweet and funny guy who will make u happy and wont tire of making u fall in love everyday...u must be talking about adam sandler!! hahaha

Shakespeare, is that you? :)) HAHAHA. And nope! I was talking about Ashton Kutcher. ;)

Ashton Kutcher? seriously!? He's a manwhore! haha...kidding! so here's a good one for u...if i were talkin to ur bestfriend ryt now, what would be the most embarrassing/funniest thing he/she would say that ever happened 2 u that only the two of u knew??

:)) --- Hmmm. Lemme think. Haha! :) Here goes --- My cousin, Camille, is one of my bestfriends. When we were younger (I was 8 or 9), we used to compete over the little stuff -- like who gets the best fork, the perfect spoon, the cleanest plate, the shiniest pair of school shoes, the best chair, the best spot at the dinner table. It's insane really. We even compete at who gets the best (meaning the shortest) bath/shower time. Gross. I knoooow! HAHAHA! :D

kinsa imo crush sa CBS?

Kung mu join si Coco Martin sa CBS, siya akong crush! Lolzz. Mehganun! :P

can i stalk you? -james t.

Be my guest. Hahahaha! :))

Which do you prefer, TAXI or JEEPNEY >_< I dunno what's wrong wif me brain by vernongo

Aircon! HAHAHAHA! :)) But I do ride oa jeepney when I have to SAVE money. Lol

kung ikaw ay isang prutas, ano ka at bakit?^^ by reigun

Durian. You either like me or you don't. LOLzzz! Pwede rin Cebu's finest mango: sobrang sweet! HAHAHAHA! :))

sam milby or derek ramsey?

Derek! Why? :P Funneeee!

kung 3 na lang ang buhok mo sa ulo. ano mas gusto mo? naka trensas(braided) or naka lugay?

Gusto ko nalang magpa-opao! HAHAHAHA! :)) Funnnnneeeee!

hahaha..thanks.. here's one: how would you want to be approached by a total stranger? hahaha.. anyway, take care also noelle. - fischer

Just be yourself! Haha! :) A simple "hi" would be fine and it would be great if you introduce yourself, too!

taga ibang planeta ako. saan mo ako itotour? by reigun

Syempre sa Cebu! :) Hahaha! Maraming magagandang babae.. este.. lugar dito! LOLzz! :)) Seriously though, I believe that Cebu has so much to offer --- good food, beaches, epic night out, awesome people! You can't go wrong with Cebu's lechon and mangoes! Cebu has grown in so many aspects and inspite of that, we, Cebuanos, continue to be the friendliest and most unforgettable people that you will ever meet. ;)

Do you Google yourself?

Honestly? YEPP! Hahahaha! :)) But it wasn't for vanity or egotism's sake. I just wanted to know which of my online communities or website would come up first in the search engine. I did it only once though. Hahaha! :)) This is interesting! Thaaaanks! :)

Adidas or Nike?

My hoodies are all from Adidas. Sooooo yeah. Adidas. :) But I do love Nike's celebrated ad slogan --- JUST DO IT! :) Nike has the best motivational quotes! I <3.

"All your life you are told the things you cannot do. All your life they will say you're not good enough or strong enough or talented enough; they will say you're the wrong height or the wrong weight or the wrong type to play this or be this or achieve this. They will tell you no, a thousand times no, until all the no's become meaningless. All your life they will tell you no, quite firmly and very quickly. And you will tell them YES."

which is better: masarap ang libre o masarap ang bawal? pls. explain your choice. ^^ by reigun

Syempre MASARAP ANG LIBREEEE! Erf, erf! :)) Hahahaha! I would love to have free food all the time! All the tiiiime. HAHAHA! :)) Everything just tastes better when it's for free! Doing anything "bawal" or forbidden would probably give me a temporary satisfaction but in the end, I'd be guily. I'd rather go for freebieees! Free "Oreo Coffee Layered Twist" at McDonald's pleasssse. :)

arms or abs?

Arms! But aren't they supposed to be together?! It'd be weird to have super toned arms with a beer belly. :P FUHNEEEEEE! Who asked this? LOLzzzz. :))

Think of a three-letter word that has two consonants and a vowel and tell us why you chose that one? :)

Dog! :) Coz I want one! Rarrrr! :))

Be still.

2012-08-23T16:48:00.000+08:00

When I'm alone and without any distraction, my mind often wanders. My thoughts are free to go anywhere, but most of the time, they head in your direction. I miss you.

If terror falls upon your bed and sleep no longer comes, remember all the words I said. Be still, be still. (The Fray)

They say change is constant.

2012-08-21T18:24:00.005+08:00

So, why can't I think of something to write?

I'm stuck.

I've decided to revive this almost dead blog.

I've deleted unnecessary images and links. I've deleted the header, too. Other than ummm.. cleaning, I've done nothing. Words are failing me today.

Sweet Disposition

2011-09-29T12:33:00.001+08:00

A moment, a love
A dream, a laugh
A kiss, a cry
Our rights, our wrongs.

Sweet dispositon.

I am sitting on an orange-red (or red-orange) couch in a coffee shop.
I look around and see waves and waves of people from all walks of life.

I'm exaggerating, yes.

Cheers to idle slash leisure time!
It's a gift and I'm enjoying every second of it.

P.S.
"No Other Woman" at 4ish PM today.
Helzyeaaaah!

Weather: sunny
Mood: happy
Listening to: The Temper Trap
Sipping: Warm café latte

Yellow

2011-09-27T17:44:00.001+08:00

I came along
I wrote a song for you
And all the things you do
And it was called yellow

So then I took my turn
Oh all the things I've done
And it was all yellow

Do you know I love you so?
You know I love you so.
_____________________

#Yellow by Coldplay
#Song in my head
-----------------

When I was 19.

2011-09-16T23:51:00.001+08:00

July 14, 2007, 5:56PM

How many special people change?

It's hard to keep quiet when you think that everything around you seems to be wrong.

I have a blog, but I'm not a blogger.

I think more than I speak.
I don't feel the need to talk to everyone --- or to explain myself to everybody.
And that's me.

It's sad when people don't want to listen to you when you finally want to speak up.

It's sadder when some people just don't understand, don't want to, not even try to.

People judge you even if they don't know your story -- your part of the story.

I know you see me in the hallways. I know you see me outside.

I know you see me smiling and laughing, but I'm dying inside.

Shutters closed, blinds drawn, doors locked against you. And you aren't sure whether you're walking toward something, or if you're just walking away.

I have my reasons.

I don't hate people and I don't want to.
And I just want to be okay again.

Who are we to criticize? To judge?

Personal blog gets personal.

2011-07-09T10:32:00.000+08:00

Dear {first name/nickname}, d'you mind if I get personal?

I am currently trying to finish compiling and editing photos for a major exam soon, but I've decided to resurrect this blog. Why? Because I can. =P I think I've abandoned personal blogging for too long. I miss it. I miss my "Multiply/Friendster/etc" blogs where I could be just totally random. Facebook totally killed it. It was fun and warm and happy. It was an awesome wordplay. I wanna go back to that moment. Why? Because I can and I want to. And I want people to think. With me.

Big eraser.

Miss me?

2011-05-16T11:35:00.001+08:00

Dun worry. I miss you, too.

*hugs you back*

I apologize for my long silence. Between school to random meetings with the iluvcebu.com team, bloggers, photographers, to catching up with old friends, meeting new ones and spending quality time with my family, plus the amount of time and work that I need whenever I post a blog entry (I'm so OC!), I’ve had no time to update my personal blog.

But, like it or not, I’m back in the saddle. Sorta! ;)

I miss blog hopping, leaving random comments, customizing my blog theme, tweaking codes, quite a lot of blogspot things really.

But most of all, I miss you!

I really do.

It's pretty awesome when people come up to me and tell me that they still visit my personal blog.

So yeaaaah, where have I been hiding all this time?

First and foremost, I'm working with my friends now. If you wanna know what to do, where to go and stay, what to eat, basically everything about Cebu and the gorgeous people in this island, visit www.iluvcebu.com.

For my random musings, you can check my Twitter and Tumblr. These two are just too convenient. It’s very easy to post anything, anywhere. My favorite thing about Tumblr/Twitter is the fantastic mobile user experience. They have great apps for the iPhone!

I spend a lot of time outside my home, so most of my thoughts are posted online using my mobile phone. Also, I am in love with mobile photography!

Instagram, anyone? ;)

If you have Tumblr, Twitter, Instagram, please do follow me.

Links are on the sidebar.

Tweet ya later!

10 Things That Made Me Happy Over The Weekend

2011-01-19T20:17:00.002+08:00

Sprinkle a sack of school stress, pour in a cup of lens-related worries and drain out 'ze source of energy, TADAAAA! A recipe of gloominess for moi. But in the midst of all these, I realized that the only way to be happy is to stay away from all the negativity. Besides, whining is a waste of oxygen. =P

In no particular order, here are 10 things that made me happy over the weekend.

1. Sleeping on a bed of clouds

2. Dancing in the rain

3. A kiss mark on a future heartthrob

4. The rain of petals

5. A makeshift rain sleeve for my cam

6. The little drummer boy

7. Cebu Digital Photographers, the gang of pure awesome

8. His vantage point

9. Golden wings

10. A photo with a festival queen and my favorite boys

Remember,
"Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."
- Abraham Lincoln

Don't be so sad, yeah?

Lyric tee of the beautiful band, Rescue a Hero
Check out RAH's website and their Facebook fan page.

P.S
I shall upload more Sinulog 2011 photos when I'm done with the sack of school stress. :P

Ciao ^^

The Music Box Ballerina

2011-01-08T03:10:00.001+08:00

She stands inside her music box,

She dances for all to see,

But the one thing they don’t notice -

She’s longing to be free.

Thin and gentle, delicate and small,

Her perfection makes them sigh,

She shows them all a smile so bright,
But inside she wants to cry.

Her arms are growing weary -
From holding the perfect pose,
Her body’s getting tired -
From standing on her toes.

The ballerina girl dances to the tune,
Of a song to which her heart is not attune.
Not hearing, not seeing, just spinning all the time,
Living in monotony, longing to break free of the rhyme.

So she waits for the moment when she is free,

When she can hear,

When she can see.

She hopes for the time when she won’t spin,
For the time she hears the tune within.

The ballerina girl dances to the tune
of a song that is her cocoon.

Not hearing, not seeing, just wishing all the time,

When her heart will dance to its own rhyme.

Texts: Music Box Ballerina by Hannah E., Ypsilanti, MI and Ballerina Girl by iriegurl
[END]

The Music Box Ballerina
Model: Camille Veloso
Make-up: Camille Veloso
Lighting/location: Jonathan James Tan
Styling/direction/concept: Noelle Dotillos

I would also like to thank Kimberly Tan for her moral support ^^.
Thank you Kim for helping us with this shoot!~

Notes about the shoot:

1. This was a long overdue concept. I've always been fascinated with ballet and ballerinas. Their movements are breathtaking and they exude grace and sophistication.

2. And this a long overdue blog entry. :))

3. Date of photoshoot: August 23, 2010. Late is late. Ha!

4. 2 photos from the set were included in our exhibit at the Active Zone of Ayala Center Cebu last year

5. We didn't have any BTS shots. Sucks.

Errr. The ballerina had an accident when I was 6 years old. :)) You might have noticed that the arms aren't pointed in the same direction in 2 photos. Errrrr. I'm too lazy to re-photoshop it. Hahaha! :D

TRON: Legacy is still showing in IMAX Theatre

2011-01-05T00:28:00.001+08:00

TRON: Legacy, a follow up to the 1982 cult classic TRON, is still showing in the IMAX Theatre at SM City Cebu.

Yeap! You read it riiight!

TRON: Legacy, which opened during the Holiday season, is on its last two (2) weeks of showing (January 1 -18, 2011) prior to Green Hornet (another exciting movie this year, YESSS!).

I've blogged the plot summary a few months ago and I've included some trivia regarding the movie. Click THIS to check it out. ;) For those of you who have seen the movie, how'd you like it? For some of you who have been too busy during the holidays, here are a few reasons why you should watch it in the IMAX Theatre:

o Seven sequences on the Grid expand on the screen, thereby allowing audiences to become even more immersed in the massive scope and scale of TRON: Legacy, only in IMAX 3D.

o In addition to the enhanced images featured in the IMAX release, the TRON soundtrack by Daft Punk has been mastered specifically for IMAX’s proprietary laser-aligned sound system which features five discrete audio channels. It will sound amazing.

o The film has been digitally re-mastered into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience® through proprietary IMAX DMR® technology.

o With crystal clear images, laser-aligned digital sound and maximized field of view, IMAX provides the world’s most immersive movie experience.

IMAX moviegoers will truly experience even more the visually breathtaking 3D action!

BUT WAIT,
there's more!
<chuckles>

Definitely another reason for you to watch it in the IMAX Theatre, yes?

Watch TRON: Legacy and be prepared to be sucked into the dream world. ;)

Havaianas Shares a Thousand Smiles at the Northwing, SM Cebu

2010-11-05T22:58:00.000+08:00

Havaianas Shares a Thousand Smiles

“When you have a rainbow deep down in your heart, your smile will shine bright. You know you're a part of that colorful, magical, feeling you'll find, when you have a rainbow inside.”

Havaianas, the world’s favorite flip-flops, is launching the “Design a Smile” campaign to spread cheer and share thousands of smiles with Filipino children, especially to those who have cleft lip and palate deformities.

On November 6 (yes, tomorrow!) to 7, 2010, bring your nieces, nephews, cousins or siblings who are 5 to 12 years old at the Northwing of SM City, Cebu.

All they have to do is to design the sole of a Havaianas pair based on the theme, "What makes you smile?"

Give the kiddos a right brain workout and at the same time, help them create better futures for the children of Operation Smile, a non-profit, volunteer medical organization that provides reconstructive surgery and healthcare to kids with facial deformities.

Make it a fun and colorful family day! ;)

Prizes from Havaianas, My Masterpiece Movement, Polaroid, Faber-Castell, KidsSports, and Orange Juice await the winners.

The top winning entry will be produced by Havaianas in a future collection and will be sold nationwide for the benefit of Operation Smile.

Awesomest!

Note: For the Cebu leg, visit the Design A Smile booth which will be at the Upper Ground Floor of SM City Cebu, Northwing (near SM Appliance Center and Kultura). No registration fee needed.

Visit www.havaianasphilippines.com/smile for more information on how to make kids smile.

TRON: Legacy | Win tickets to the special screening!

2010-10-15T14:09:00.006+08:00

Hello movie buffs! Get ready for another exciting movie during the holidays!

TRON: Legacy

Here's the plot summary from IMDb.com:

Sam Flynn, the tech-savvy 27-year-old son of Kevin Flynn, looks into his father's disappearance and finds himself pulled into the same world of fierce programs and gladiatorial games where his father has been living for 25 years. Along with Kevin's loyal confidant, father and son embark on a life-and-death journey across a visually-stunning cyber universe that has become far more advanced and exceedingly dangerous.

This action-adventure-sci-fi movie will hit the theaters on December 17, 2010 in Disney Digital 3D™ and IMAX® 3D.

Among the film’s firsts:

first 3D movie to integrate a fully digital head and body based upon an existing actor, creating the younger version of Jeff Bridges’ character
first movie to make extensive use of self-illuminated costumes
first movie to create molded costumes using digital sculpture exclusively, creating molds directly from computer files using CNC (Computer Numerical Cutting) technology
first 3D movie shot with 35mm lenses and full-35mm chip cameras
first movie to record uncompressed HD Video to Hard Drive.

3D, self-illuminated costumes, and everything else in between,

GAH

I'm ready to be blown away!

BUT WAIT,
there's more!
<chuckles>

On Oct. 28, in select IMAX theaters around the world, fans will be treated to a 20-minute sneak preview of the new film. Get a chance to win tickets to the special screening on 0ctober 28, 2010.

Visit TRON'S Facebook page for details!

*Wooters!*

See you on the 28th?

*winks*

Oh freedom

2010-10-12T13:24:00.000+08:00

I can almost taste you.

*nom*

120 test items more to go and I'll be in my sembreak mood.
Wooooters! :)

Okay, back to my ~~books~~ photocopies. :))

Hobby Convention 2010: Photo Exhibit

2010-10-04T22:56:00.000+08:00

School has been physically and emotionally draining lately. The stress of trying to read and understand the minutest details just so I could survive.. gaaah! But it's all good.

Friends and photography are keeping me sane.

I'm stressed out but happy and giddy and excited and so so so glad that life is what it is.

Know why after the jump!

On October 10, 2010, an empire will rise! Cebu, get ready for HobCon 2010: Imperia. For details, please visit CANE Events' FB page. In line with this, the Cebu Digital Photographers has a week-long photo exhibit at the Active Zone of Ayala Center, Cebu.

I am a proud member of this awesome group

and yesssss,

CDPeeps are my favorite people. Too much talent in one place!

This is our photo wall.

Aaaah, memories!

I would like to invite everyone to check out our photo exhibit at the Active Zone until the 9th of October, 2010. My photo panel's right across Sanuk! ;)

I will drop by Ayala anytime this week. I "need" to take a photo of my panel for docu purposes. Hahaha. Hope to see you there!

Important dates:

OCTOBER 5, 2010 (TUESDAY) ARTIST’S DAY
OCTOBER 6, 2010 (WEDNESDAY) SYKES DAYOCTOBER 7, 2010 (THURSDAY)PHOTOGRAPHER’S DAY
OCTOBER 8, 2010 (FRIDAY) STUDENTS’ DAY / iLEARNERS’ DAY
OCTOBER 9, 2010 (SATURDAY) PRE-REGISTRATION for Cosplayers (4pm – 6pm)

OCTOBER 10, 2010 (SUNDAY) *COSPLAY COMPETITION AND YOUNG DESIGNERS FASHION COMPETITION @ THE ACTIVITY CENTER, AYALA CENTER, CEBU

Visit CANE Events' official FB page for updates.

I'm a Britney fan. Don't judge me.

2010-09-29T21:17:00.000+08:00

I listen to different types of music because sometimes I'm happy, sometimes I'm pissed off and sometimes I wanna party. I could listen to Coldplay one day and then Flo Rida the next. I love songs of intelligence, but I also love "Let's Party!" kind of songs told in a hundred different ways.

Oh yes, I'm random like that.

I love music and I love how my mind wanders with each musical note.
I love music because it inspires me and helps me get through whatever.
I love artists who are good songwriters and musicians.
I love the celebrated melding of poetry and music.

Alanis Morissette can b*tch about her day, and it's practically okay with me.
So please don't judge me when I say, "I am a Britney fan."
I know that's incredibly strange, but whatever. :P

Heather Morris, "Brittany": TDF body, killer dance moves.
Photo from ze web.

*This entry is a tribute to Glee's Season 2, Episode 2, "Britney/Brittany". Gave me the goosebumps in a nice kind of way. And oh, Dr. Carl (the ageless John Stamos) was/is hot! * and puts on heart goggles*

Guess who got herself a billboard? Hahaha!

2010-09-05T13:41:00.001+08:00

    Remember this and this? 

Anywhoooo, my friends and I were on our way to IT Park last night when we found THIS!

See tiny, teeny me?
Hahahaha! :))

ROFL.

Thank you for the call, the texts and the wallposts.

HAHAHAHA!

*siiiiiiigh*

Such awesome, supportive friends!

And to the big guys of Islands Souvernirs,

thank you!

For their awesome contest. Click this for details.

*5 minutes of fame!*

*bubble of happiness!*

Hahahaha! :)

Oh by the way, I had an awesome photoshoot with an awesome ballerina.

*Hey Camille!*

Still have a lot of things on my hands right now.

BONES, MUSCLES and such!

Can't wait to work on the rest of the photos!

You be the sun, I'll be the moon.

2010-08-30T00:03:00.000+08:00

And nope, I did not make this poem.:P
I'm trying to keep myself awake.Need to study. Arrrgh.
I'm gonna be more productive tomorrow.Ahoy!

Enjoy Philippines 2nd Edition Launch in Cebu

2010-08-27T23:05:00.009+08:00

ENJOY Philippines 2nd edition is now in Cebu!

Authors of www.iluvcebu.com, members of the Cebu Bloggers Society, Inc., people from traditional print media and a few of Cebu's VIPs were invited to the launch of Enjoy Philippines last August 25, 2010.

What is ENJOY?

Enjoy is the Philippines' premiere loyalty and privilege marketing program. It is a lifestyle card which offers over P250,000.00 worth of treats, discounts and freebies in Metro Manila, Boracay and yessss, CEBU!

How much is the ENJOY card?

Free massage, discounts at hotels, free desserts and so much more for only P895. Not bad ey?

What makes it different from other lifestyle cards?

ENJOY Philippines allows its members to maximize the card's potential through EnjoyPH, the mobile application of the Enjoy card. EnjoyPH works on the iPhone, Blackberry, Nokia, Samsung and Sony Ericsson mobile devices. For those with the Android OS, fret not! It'll be available for Android phone users in September.

Imagine this, perks and everything awesome right at your fingertips!

Dining.Nightlife.Shopping.Health and Beauty.Travel.
Whatever lifestyle you may have, you can never go wrong with an ENJOY card.

EnjoyPH is a mobile app that provides an access to a directory of ENJOY partners and a live news feed of the latest news and promos from merchant partners.

It also has a built-in GPS and mapping technology which helps members find the coolest deals whenever, wherever!

Member's guidebook, discount vouchers, map of merchant partners all over the Philippines and the ENJOY card in a sleek metal red box.

Authors of www.iluvcebu.com.ENJOY Cebu!

At Maya Taqueria and Tequila Lounge.ENJOYing great food, mojitos and margaritas and an awesome company.
Lovely, lovely night.

Food porn! <3
An Enjoy card in your wallet + EnjoyPH in your phone = an awesome time!
For more information, check out the Enjoy fan page, follow Enjoyphil on Twitter, or visit their website at http://enjoythebest.ph.

A Landscape of Emotions - Master the Techniques of Portrait Photography

2010-08-21T10:27:00.001+08:00

"A portrait is a painting, a photograph, a sculpture, or other artistic representation of a person, in which the face and its expression is predominant. The intent is to display the likeness, personality, and even the mood of the person."

I've always been fascinated with portraits. I love looking at details of a person's face -- the eyes, the mouth and everything that curves when a person smiles (or frowns).

I always make it a point to get a close shot of someone whenever I can. I believe that with the right twist and turn, everyone can be beautiful.

I'm not endowed with the a lot of time to shoot people in a controlled environment. I always find myself in lifestyle events where everything is just.. FAST. I'm not complaining though. I like the spontaneity of fashion shows, concerts, parties and the like.

I've been having a lot of creative image kicks lately.

But I just can't put everything away in an instant.

School demands a lot of time from me. I can't just do it all. I want to, I can, but I should not.

Catch my drift?

*sigh*

"Sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same."

From a friend's FB status. LOL.

So yeah, here's something that I would love to join but I just can't.

A Landscape of Emotions 2: A Manny Librodo Workshop in Cebu with Kharu and Sarita.

Click the photo for details.

"Everywhere is something which could be beautiful. You must only to see and to know what and how to take off, to crop from the infinity. Abstract, fine art, nature, landscape and portrait photography."
Florin Constantinescu

Links:

*Definition of a portrait - Wiki

*The Master - Manny Librodo

After 3 weeks of hiatus..

2010-08-19T14:39:00.000+08:00

I'm back with a couple of pictures to keep you errr.. entertained.

There's an 80% probability that you've seen these photos but..

whatever!

Here's to making up for my absence in the blogosphere!

E N J O Y!

Bullee's birthday party! <3
An awesome night with friends after a stressful week at school.

I'm Princess Cowgeek

a.k.a the Chinese CowQueen!

Pretty fun to see everybody in costume.
A for aeffort! :P
Laaaaaa~

So there you go. That's pretty much the peak of the mountain. When I'm not in a rocker or a cowgirl costume, I'm just a regular Medicine student. I don't say that much about that part coz I don't wanna bore you with our SGD cases and our "lab" life. Yesss, I still have a pretty stressful life. For my gazillion backlogs, I'm sorry. I shall try to post something interesting when I have the time.

Yeeeehaw!

Quick snapshot:

100% cuteness!

My July: Photography Sprees and More!

2010-07-27T10:41:00.004+08:00

Bought this uber funky puzzle calendar last Sunday. Me likey!

July = school, extra-curricular activities, family and everything else in between.

Just to escape from the usual med school stress and hullaboo, I've joined 2 of the most rewarding (and yes, exciting!) photography sprees in the metro.

The first one, Photography With a Difference, was an activity of my group, Cebu Digital Photographers, and also of Cebu Images Camera Club. The second one, Scott Kelby's Worldwide Photowalk, was the 3rd annual social photography event worldwide.

I will have separate blog entries for both.

Soooonest, I hope.

In the mean time, here are my fave photos from both events.

Photography With a Difference

Left photo: Doyzkie Buenaviaje
Right photo: Paul Gotiong

Scott Kelby's Worldwide Photowalk

Left photo: Gabe HortelanoRight photo: Paul Banday

I am loving B/W photos now!

Will probably do something creative about this when I have time.

Oh by the way, just 3 more days til MYOH 2010!

See ya!

Make Your Own Havaianas 2010 Cebu

2010-07-23T07:34:00.001+08:00

True blue Cebuano Havaianaticos,
let the countdown begin to the grandest and most colorful event this year!

Make Your Own Havaianas 2010

The photo above is my masterpiece. MYOH 2009 was truly a fun event.

I had a grand time!

Click this to learn more about that awesome experience.

MYOH turns 5!

To celebrate its 5th year of chic and colorful customization, Havaianas offers a number of stylish, new options. With an extensive color palette of Top and Slim soles and straps, silver letter pins, crystal studded pins, jelly, fluorescent and glow-in-the-dark Top straps, the possibilities are endless!
There will also be a commemorative sole and pin for the true blue Havaianaticos.

The only limit is your imagination!

(1) Super pink sole, sandy grey strap with a dolphin pin

(2) Grape sole, navy blue strap with the commemorative pin

Visit Havaianas Philippines to create your own masterpiece online!

I took my first pair of Havs to a landscape photography workshop and lost it in the water. Jeeeez.

I will definitely be at the MYOH 2010 to replace the lost one. :(

When: July 30 to August 2, 2010

Where: SM City Cebu Northwing Atrium

Take part of this unique shopping experience and let your imagination go wild!

See ya!

___________________________________________________

A.L. Amizade Marketing, Inc. is the exclusive sub-distributor of Havaianas in Central and Eastern Visayas. In Cebu, Havaianas is available in All Flip Flops SM and Ayala, Rustan’s, July, Republik, Maribago Blue Water Resort, Abaca Boutique Resort and R.O.X Ayala. The Havaianas Kid's line is also available at Ballooney Shoppe. Celebrate 5 years of chic and colorful customization at http://www.havaianasphilippines.com/myoh

IMAX Theatre, SM Cebu: Think Big!

2010-07-21T21:05:00.001+08:00

Yes, I am OFFICIALLY back.
*and makes an epic grand entrance

And what could be better than an IMAX experience for a comeback entry, huh?

Hello there buddies (IMY sooo)
and say hi to the newly opened IMAX Theatre at SM City Cebu!

Think BIG!

I was fortunate to be invited to the special screening of James Cameron's Avatar on the IMAX Theatre. I've seen the movie last year at SM's Digital Theatre (which was awesome, by the way EXCEPT for the fact that I had to adjust and readjust the 3D glasses) but complimentary tickets are just hard to resist, yes? (Okaaaaay honestly, I've been praying for a complimentary ticket. Ask Doy. *wide grin. Hahaha!)

I went to the event with a couple of friends, fellow members of CDP (Cebu Digital Photographers) and CBSi (Cebu Bloggers Society, Inc.)

Group shot with CDP and Mr. Allan M. Florendo, Assistant Vice-president for Sales and Marketing of SM Cinema

Aside from the press kits and the stickers, we also had free popcorn with a *surprise doughnut in a paper bag and drinks, as well. (*surprise: My friends and I didn't know that there was a free doughnut in the paper bag 'til 20-30 minutes before the movie ended. Surprising, huh? Hahaha!)

The first 3 rows and the huge screen. Photo by Xerxes Aaron Chua Bernadez

The huge screen and that-brand-new-car-smell was just awesome.

HAHA.

Cam-whoring with the 3D glasses before the movie started.

Note: You are not allowed to take photos inside the movie house.

We were just lucky kids. HA!

I have high hopes for the IMAX Theatre. I'm a pretty big movie buff and the biggest issue that I have with our local movie houses is the audio quality. Surround sound is just not too "surround" for me.

When the movie started, I was in awe. Sound system was superb. Avatar, with its epic world, Pandora, was a wise choice.

Larger screen + better resolution = visually stunning.

Those luminous, floating jellyfish-like creatures which descended on Sully's body were twice its awesomeness in IMAX.

SM Cebu's IMAX Theatre is actually the third in the country and the first one outside Metro Manila. I've been asked a lot of times by friends about IMAX. Yes, IMAX was officially opened to the public last July 9, 2010 and no, the D-Cinema (Digital Theatre) of SM Cebu is not an IMAX Theatre.

What makes it IMAX?

The unique digital projection system delivers the key elements that make up the IMAX experience. These include:

Revolutionary projection technology
Powerful audio system
Customized theatre geometry

I wouldn't go into the science of this awesome technology. What matters most is that we, the audience, are able to experience and enjoy this immersive movie watching.

Here's the tentative movie schedule of the IMAX Theatre (from the press release):

August 4 -- Hubble 3D
Sept. 24 -- Legend of the Guardians 3D
Nov. 18 -- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 2D
Jan. 08, 2011 -- Tron Legacy 3D

Note: P400 for the 3D films and P350 for 2D.

I think Tron is one movie to watch out for. Hohummm. :)

A tip before the vanity photos (errr): Rows H, I or J are the "center" seats. We were seated at row N. It was just the perfect distance from the screen. It would have been more perfect if we were in the center of that row. Teehee.

Oh by the way, I love the fact that I wasn't adjusting and readjusting the 3D glasses this time. Yaaay! I'm just wondering how they sanitize these glasses after every movie. Hmmmm. :) The recliner seats are better than the regular ones. Just the right amount of space. You can also move the arm rest up so that you sit nearer (ehem) to your movie buddy. And oh, the restrooms were spacious! HAHAHA!

Although ticket prices are a bit steep, the experience of a 3D movie in an IMAX technology is worth the price.

I would like to thank SM Prime Holdings for bringing this technological evolution in Cebu.

SEE MORE, HEAR MORE, FEEL MORE.

The IMAX Experience.

Photos: Nike Cagulada

Photos: Chai Rico

Here's my baller band from the pre-launch party of IMAX at the North Wing. Thank you Greg Limpin!

P.S.

You'll get a free baller band for every ticket ('til supplies last!).

A friend got his baller when he watched Inception last Saturday.

Go grab yours!

How To Survive The First Week of Med School

2010-06-22T21:46:00.000+08:00

Veni, vedi, vici.

I came, I saw, I conquered.

I survived the first week of medical school.

*whew!*

The night before the first day of school, I had a lot of questions in my head. Will I meet friends? Are we going to have "terror doctors?" Do I have to wear my uniform the first day? Yeah, mostly geeky stuff. That night, I had multiple alarms to wake me up. Then I snoozed, and dreamed of a white blazer and a bright light. Naks. Geeky. Hahaha!

I woke up the next day, not to the sound of the multiple alarms, but to the voice of Manang Liosa waking me up. I arrived in school, texted my classmates, Kathleen and GingGing, rode the elevator to the fifth floor (which will be my "home" for the next months, and years, I hope), went to the gym, met Kath, her sister, and Edgar, sat down for awhile, be bored, blended with the crowd of first year nursing students, then proceeded to the auditorium for the Mass and the general orientation. I didn't listen to any of the reminders, or whatever it was they were talking about. I was having "fun" in my seat, looking at anybody and everybody to the point of staring. I looked at their shoes, their clothes, their hair and thinking about how they should cut it to satisfy the eyes of the faculty. I was looking at a group of 3 or 4 boys, who were also busy looking for possible prospects and eye-candies. I can imagine them chilling at THE SPOT near the elevator, on the way to the canteen, cat-calling ladies and sitting like there's no problem in the world. Basically, the whole morning was spent doing nothing. I could have listened to the announcement or reminder, but I knew most of the things that they were talking about anyway. TIP #1. Look at your environment. Take the time to observe not just the physical aspect of the school, but also the people around, as well. Use your senses. So when the time comes that you have to walk around in a blindfold, you'll know your way out. Or something like that. Hahaha!

At 1:30 in the afternoon, we had a medical library and computer orientation. It took them 3 hours to finish (?!?). On a positive note, I learned about conducting a boolean search, using operators and commands. They're really geeky stuff, so beware. Haha. I actually learned a few things after the orientation. I even got to try them at home, and yes, I have medical e-books now. *winks. TIP #2. Be open for new things. Do not let your misconceptions hinder yor learning. There's so much to learn, and there are many opportunities to learn if you just listen. TIP #3. Never wear a shirt with a bright color if you don't want to be called. Red, yellow, orange, and the likes. You wouldn't want to draw attention to yourself, right? Also, don't wear anything with a conspicuous logo, such as that of Starbucks, or Coca-cola, or anything of the sort. Worse, don't wear a shirt with a bright color and a logo, or sit beside a person wearing a bright color and/or a logo. "Oh yes you, the girl beside the guy in a red banana shirt." Sheeeesh.

For the next 2 days, we had an orientation to the problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum, had a practice session on concept mapping, small group discussion, orientation to the PBL evaluation and grading system, as well as medical perspective. I was attentive most of the time, but for some parts, I swear I felt like my eyeballs could roll out in a minute. TIP #4. Sit beside a person who can jab you whenever you feel like dozing off. TIP #5. Never sit in the last row. Teachers usually look at the people at the back. They're the most likely people to be called, and they usually think that you came in late even if the truth is, you're the first person to arrive and is just too scared to sit in front and breathe the same air that they're breathing.

On the 4th day, we had --- drumroll please --- a FILM SHOWING. Woohooooo! Hahaha! We watched "Titanic: The Uncovered Secrets" or was it, "Titanic: The Last Secret?" I forgot, I'm sorry. I was late so I had to stay in the last row for 5 minutes, or so, before I found where Kath and GingGing were seated. So anyway, it was an interesting documentary. I might watch it again just for fun. TIP #6. Be on time. Latecomers, if not always, miss the good stuff.

On the 5th day, the last day of our first week, we had a small group discussion, concept mapping and evaluation. Our case was on --- guess what? --- oh yes, TITANIC. Amazing, huh? And I thought we're going to have "chocolates." *winks again. Hahaha. TIP #7. ALWAYS speak up. You don't have to be a know-it-all in order to say something. Just say whatever it is in your mind. If it makes sense, or if you think you have a good point, then say it. It's a discussion, after all. We learn from eachother. TIP #8. No man is an island. Yes you can make it on your own, but it'll always be a breeze if you have friends to stand by you and who can help you. Get help when you need it.*Thank you Elise. TIP #9. Smile. It's the easiest way to gain friends and to make oneself beautiful. 'Nuff said. TIP #10. Don't sweat the small stuff. Don't make a big fuss about your mistakes. Learn from them, instead. TIP #11. Time management is the key. When you know the things you have to do, and accomplish your tasks like you're supposed to, there will always be time for other things. I believe I did whatever I have to do for the whole week, and so the next day, I gave myself a good break: be with the person that I love, do the thing that I love and be with the people who love me and who I love back. : )

People always tell me that I should've waited for another year to get into med school. But I say, "There's no other day but today." I know it will not be easy. Sometimes, I ask myself, "Am I volunteering for a mental, emotional and physical suicide? Can I do this?" Those are the times that I doubt myself and the things that I can do. Whenever I feel like giving up, I remind myself of my goal and what I want my future to be. Without the people who believe in me, Hester Renel, my friends and family, I will never make it. So, thank you. Thank you also for helping me survive my first week. There will be more days, weeks, months, years to go. Please help me in my journey. Lastly, TIP #12. Love what you're doing. Everything starts from there.