Letters to the Pink Diary

Day 2: Top 10 Hollywood Male Actors

2025-06-04T20:48:00.000+08:00

Aside from being a book lover, I am also a self-proclaimed movie fanatic. I always find myself enjoying trailers from upcoming movies and browsing through the net for any whereabouts of a movie that's been a talk of the town. Despite such adoration, I carefully choose which movie to see and critically screen every detail of it. One of the factors I consider whenever I watch a movie is the character and the star playing the role. Here are my top favorite Hollywood actors to date:

10. Robert DeNiro/Tom Hanks

Robert DeNiro with Drew Barrymore in Everybody's Fine (2009)

Robert DeNiro was an unpopular actor when he started, until he appeared in the movie Bang the Drum Slowly (1973) as Bruce Pearson. The role earned him a Best Supporting Actor Award from the New York Film Critic's Circle. Since then, he became a household name. A year later, he earned the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor as the young Vito Corleone from the 1974 gangster film, The Godfather: Part II. Six years later, he brought the Academy Award for Best Actor as Jake LaMotta from the Raging Bull movie.

DeNiro had several directorial credits as well. He debuted on A Bronx Tale (1993) starring Francis Capra, Chazz Palminteri, and DeNiro himself. He then directed The Good Shepherd (2006) starring Angelina Jolie and Matt Damon.

DeNiro had played different roles in different genres. He's one of the few actors in Hollywood who had played roles in action (The Godfather II, 1974), comedy (Meet the Parents, 2000), suspense (Hide and Seek, 2005), fantasy (Stardust, 2007), and drama (Everybody's Fine, 2009), as well as voiced animated films (Shark Tale - 2004, Arthur and the Invisibles - 2006).

*****

Tom Hanks as Professor Dorr in The Ladykillers (2004)

Like Robert DeNiro, Tom Hanks has been one of my favorite actors of all time. With numerous films made, Hanks had proven himself to be a very worthy actor by winning several acting awards including Golden Globe for Best Actor Award (Big - 1988, Philadelphia - 1993, Forrest Gump - 1994, Cast Away - 2000) and Academy Award for Best Actor (Philadelphia, Forrest Gump).

He had also voiced for several animated films including the Toy Story Trilogy (1995, 1999, 2010) as the main protagonist Woody, The Polar Express (2004) as the Santa Claus (and several other characters), and had a minor role in the well-acclaimed animated film Cars (2006) as Sheriff Woody Car.

He also directed the 1996 film That Thing You Do!.

Hanks was best known for playing the protagonist Robert Langdon from the critically-acclaimed suspense-thriller novels The Da Vinci Code and Angels & Demons, both written by New York Bestseller Dan Brown. He is set to appear again as Langdon in Brown's final installment, The Lost Symbol, which is set to be released on 2012.

Ben Stiller as Gaylord Focker in Meet the Parents (2000)

9. Ben Stiller

If I'd be asked of an actor who acts seriously in romantic comedy film, first person comes to mind would be, yes, Ben Stiller. Starring several rom-coms (If Lucy Fell in 1996, There's Something About Mary in 1998, Meet The Parents in 2000, Along Came Polly in 2004, and The Heartbreak Kid in 2007).

Stiller has been noted for his roles in serious comedy, although, in films, he had done black and political comedies.

He was also into writing and directing, among of which are Reality Bites in 1994, The Cable Guy in 1996, Zoolander in 2001, and Tropic Thunder in 2008.

Ben Stiller had voiced animated films as well. He has been credited as the popular lion Alex of the movies Madagascar in 2005 and Madagascar 2: Escape to Africa in 2008. He was also part of the critically acclaimed animated film Megamind in 2010 alongside Brad Pitt, Tina Fey, and fellow comedy actor Will Ferrell.

Brad Pitt as the Greek hero Achilles in Troy (2004)

Tom Cruise in the 1996 film, Jerry Maguire

8. Brad Pitt/Tom Cruise

Ben Affleck with Gwyneth Paltrow in Bounce (2000)

7. Ben Affleck

Book of Eli (2010)

6. Denzel Washington

Pierce Brosnan as James Bond

5. Pierce Brosnan

Bruce Willis as Korben Dallas (The Fifth Element, 1997)

4. Bruce Willis

Adam Sandler with Drew Barrymore (50 First Dates, 2004)

3. Adam Sandler

Richard Gere with Julia Roberts (Runaway Bride, 1999)

2. Richard Gere

Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder in Edward Scissorhands (1990)

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

Depp as the Mad Hatter in Alice in Wonderland (2010)

Johnny Depp as Frank Tupelo in The Tourist (2010)

Captain Jack Sparrow of The Pirates of the Caribbean series

Depp as Ichabod Crane in The Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Victor Van Dort, Corpse Bride (2005)

Willy Wonka (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, 2005)

Depp as Mort Rainey in Secret Window (2004)

1. Johnny Depp

The Bridal Misfortune 7

2012-10-06T17:05:00.001+08:00

I thought I was already having a good day. Everything seemed to be perfect. I left for work early to prepare the business report for the stockholders. Things were doing great. I was able to convince the stockholders that we open up a second location for The Island Paradise. Although, it wasn't easy being the CEO and the president of the company that my dad had established, I am having a great time throwing words with the stockholders, who - at this point - are more interested of becoming famous like a Hollywood star rather than earning from their investments. They have filled me with hard work, especially after what happened to me two years ago.

As much as possible, I don't want to talk about it anymore, but I guess it's already a part of letting go and moving on.

Two years ago, I was supposed to marry the woman of my dreams. I loved her like I've never loved anyone before. She was the only one that I loved. She was my life.

She stood 5'7" tall, Margareth caught my heart right away the moment I set my eyes on her. It was a dinner party - an anniversary celebration for the hotel that I had opened. Yes, The Island Paradise. SHe was one of the models that made the TV commercial for my hotel. Although, I have already seen her numerous times on TV, magazines, and print ads, I was like starstruck when I saw her in person. She was the most beautiful I have ever seen.

She was taking a glass of champagne offered by the waiter when I decided to approach her. Everyone in the party seemed to be very busy and so I took the courage to talk to her.

Margareth was very friendly and lovely... and of course, beautiful. She seemed to be so fragile. She has a very enigmatic, yet fulfilling smile. And her brown eyes laugh along with her chuckles. Her skin looks delicate that it makes me long to touch it. To sum it all up, she was irresistible. A beauty for keeps. What I liked so much about her was her ability to bring good conversations. Everyone must agree that women find it hard to keep conversations on track, especially on first encounters. But Margareth was a pro at lengthy talks. She looked like she's having a great time with me... and she looks delicate. She bites her lower lip when she feels anxious with the discussion, and brushes her fingers softly against my skin when she's having a good laugh. Everything that evening was magical.

The next thing I knew, we were both naked in my bed. I was on my back, facing the ceiling, catching my breath. She, then, turned her back on me. I hugged her and cuddled her close to me.

"Lovely," I whispered in her ear. "I love you."

I put a soft kiss on her nape.

"Hmmm," was all she said. It wasn't totally what I expected but I still smiled. I closed my eyes and imagined what could possibly happen to both of us.

"Let's go to sleep, Benedict. It's late now."

PREV ----- NEXT

BOOK REVIEW

2012-10-01T23:00:00.003+08:00

LUMAYO KA NGA SA AKIN (Stay Away From Me)

Bob Ong

Grade: 4 out of 5

If you are looking for a trilogy book rolled into one, then this book is definitely for you. It is a three-part book which offers satirical comedy from beginning to end. Providing old antics mixed with new cranks, Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin tackles not only of personal issues but also political and social awareness. It's genre is a combination of action, romance, comedy, horror, suspense, thrill, animation, advertising, music videos and a lot more.

Bob Ong, known for his comic yet striking comedy, has written the book in a way that readers would have to make a double take to lengthen the comic experience. Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin promises not only to tickle your funny bones but also to instill real-life lessons and moral values.

Most of the time, Ong tries to remind Filipinos their traditional values they used to live up with. This was delivered in a way that a reader would laugh it out, but would pause for awhile and think if it does happen in reality.

Although, there were times when the jokes seemed like they were cutout from newspaper write-ups; however, Ong managed to pull it off by backing it up with a funny nonsense comedy.

Lumayo Ka Man Sa Akin is an ideal comic illustration converted into scripts, with effects and other superficial elements. You wouldn't be ashamed of getting your own copy, and once read, shelving it beside your Shakespeare collections.

The Bridal Misfortune 6

2012-10-01T15:05:00.000+08:00

I hurried to get to the elevator as ‘Justin’ chased me. He kept calling me by a different name but I continued ignoring him. It wasn’t me after all. It was all but a miracle when the elevator door opened as I approached. I went in and pressed the ‘ground’ button, closing the door, leaving Justin behind. He sprinted, but he did not make it. The door shut and I smiled in relief. I had enough humiliation so I decided to call it a day.

What a waste! I said to myself. I thought of going home and not pushing through the application. Maybe, they’d call me back when they realize that I have not gone to the interview yet. I hoped. Somehow. On the contrary, I thought of it – everything that had happened on that day – as a blessing. I couldn’t figure out how to work with a psycho like Justin. He scared the hell out of me when he dragged me to his office. Seriously, I almost fainted earlier. The thought of him suddenly kissing me felt like hell.

Or maybe I was overreacting. I must admit, he kissed nice. Okay. He was good. I mean, the kiss was good – but not him. What kind of a good guy who would kiss a girl out-of-the-blue? The enrage I felt earlier poured over me again, and I thought of punching the walls of the elevator, but then I just kept it to myself. I could feel the CCTV staring at me like I was a criminal on the loose.

The voice prompt had said that I was already on the ground floor. I rushed out of the elevator as soon as the door opened. I hurriedly went out of the hotel. On my way, I bumped into a tall guy wearing a gray suit. I was about to apologize to him when, on my earshot, I saw Justin. Instead, I gave the guy an apologetic smile. I saw his expression full of surprise. I thought he would say something when he opened his mouth halfway, but no words came out. I suddenly felt an adrenalin rush when I could already hear Justin calling out.

“Hey! Wait up!” Justin yelled.

I ran as fast as I can. I know I looked horrible, running out of the hotel but I don’t have a choice. I have to get rid of him, as soon as possible.

“Benedict,” I heard him say. “What are you doing here? I thought you’re supposed to be in client meeting now?”

I didn’t hear the other things they talked about because I already got inside the cab waiting outside the hotel. I looked at both guys as they looked at me. I told the cab driver to drive away. Fortunately, the driver politely followed what I just told him. As the cab was getting away, I looked again to the guys’ direction. My jaw dropped when I realized that they were brothers, judging from the way they look and the features of their faces.

It was a good thing that I got rid of them already. I would never set foot to that hotel again, ever – or maybe soon enough for them to forget me.

PREV ----- NEXT

The Bridal Misfortune 5

2012-09-29T20:16:00.000+08:00

He cupped my face and kissed me deeply - no, passionately. I was too surprised to react. My whole body froze as I let him conquered my senses. I did not even notice that my body trembled.

Then suddenly, his hands started to explore my body - that was when I woke up from the, er, sensual feeling that his touches had given me. I transformed myself in defense mode, all of a sudden. My knees landed on his groin with half of my force. He screamed at the top of his lungs while crouching in pain, his hands on his 'precious jewels. To his dismay, I slapped him with the remaining half of my force.

"What was that for?" he quizzically asked.

"What was that for?!!" I mocked. "That was for the kiss without my permission!"

I then grabbed my bag and things, and started walking out when I suddenly stopped just as I passed by him. Without a word, I hit him with my bag.

"Ow!" was his only reaction.

"...and that was for bringing me here in your office, which is the definite reason why I am already late for my job interview, thanks to you!" then I turned my back on him.

"Margareth! Wait!" he called.

I was already at the door when I froze. I was not sure if I misheard him, but I thought he called me by a different name. I held the knob when he held me by my arm.

"Margareth, please! Let's talk!"

"What did you just call me?" I grinned. "Mister, you got it all wrong. I am not the person you think I am. My name is not Margareth and I don't know you, so please let go of me before I call the security of this building," I said with all confidence. Although, I thought there was something wrong with what I said. Call the security?, I chuckled at the back of my mind. Like I am the owner of this hotel?

"You don't have to hide it from me. I know you, after all, I was really the one you love - and not Benedict," he attempted to get near me. I stepped back as he closes his distance.

"Not a chance!" I covered his face with my hand. "You?! I fell in love with?! Man, you've got some guts! Why would I fell in love with a guy whore? Leave me alone!" I said as I opened the door and went out. I ignored him as he called out for 'me'.

"Margareth! Wait!"

Amelia, the secretary, was about to stand up and approach us when I gave her a demoralizing look. She paused, sat down again, and went back to whatever she was doing, as if she had not heard or seen anything. I felt like remorseful for the treatment I gave her, but brushed it aside. Instead, I hurriedly ran for the elevator for me to 'avoid' the guy chasing me.

PREV ----- NEXT

Words from The Pink Diary

2012-09-28T20:02:00.004+08:00

It's been over a year since the last time I had opened this and made a post. God knows how much I missed this. Now, I'm starting from scratch (again). It's not that I felt reborn for that matter. It's only that things have changed a lot since I, well, left.

Now that I'm back, I wish to update my blog as much as possible (as often as possible, too!). With a promising new look, I will be adding images on my blogs, too - for much enjoyable viewing. For my avid readers, DO NOT FRET! You're favorite novels will be updated in time.

I really appreciate all of your time for visiting, reading, commenting, and, ahem, rating my blog.

Thank you for your support.

Always,

The Pink Diary

UnNoticed

2011-07-18T08:16:00.002+08:00

I watched you from afar

and held my hand close to my heart

I knew you would not notice me

our distance kept us apart

The way you smile could brighten me

it always brings me sunshine

but it wouldn't matter at all

'cause i know i can't call you mine

When you walk right past me

I could hear my heart beats fast

I wish you would stay for awhile

to make this joyful moment last

The way I feel for you could mean so much

And it wouldn't be enough to give me just one touch

I wish, so soon, you would feel it too

Love me, sweet, the way I love you.

Love, No More

2011-07-18T08:11:00.000+08:00

I was in love once

And all I thought were the happy things

The things we did together

And the moments where nothing else mattered

As we danced in the moonlight

I was as light as a feather

While his arm wrapped around my body

I was so close to him I could smell his scent

We had some wine

To warm our soul

We held each other

And never let go

We made love under the stars

I gave him a kiss, a passionate one

Distance between us was never afar

And the shivers we once felt was then gone

So I fell asleep in his arms

I was a baby next to him

I felt secured and felt warmth

The next thing, I was in his dream

But when I woke up in the morning

I suddenly felt strange

The man next to me, silently sleeping

Was a man I never though would change

I felt unusually alarmed

As I looked at him, fast asleep

I thought I might be harmed

So I got up, and off the bed, I leapt

I left him without guilt in my heart

I know it would be best that we part

Because it would hurt him to know, for sure

That I felt no love for him, no more

The Bridal Misfortune 4

2011-07-13T04:24:00.000+08:00

"What are you doing here?" he asked.

"I - I - I was here for an interview," I answered. I was starting to get scared with the authority in his voice.

"Interview?!" he exclaimed in disbelief.

I thought I had to fire back. I should not be intimidated by him. I shouldn't be scared of him regardless of his position in the company.

"Are you hard-of-hearing? I said I was here for an interview, and you detaining me here wouldn't be of any help! I'm late, so I better go now!" I yelled.

"Interview for what?" he asked.

"Well, I don't think I'm here for a press conference. I'm here for a job, of course! What are you thinking?" then I paused after I realized that this guy might be the person who would interview me. "Wait. You don't happen to be the interviewer, right?"

"No?! Hell, no, of course! Do I look like an interviewer to you?"

"Well, you could be." I stood up. "Since you're not the interviewer, I might as well leave you here because I am more than dead to stay for a chitchat, which I am not interested of, actually. Time is gold, and I have to make use of it!"

"Wait!" he held me, this time it wasn't a tight grip. It was like he was handling me with care.

"It's me..." he said, softly. "Justin, remember?"

"Not really," I said, amusingly. "I don't think we have met before. Uh-uh. I don't know you. I'm really sorry mister but I have to go. If you please..."

...to be continued

PREV ----- NEXT

Letter from The Pink Diary

2011-01-04T17:29:00.000+08:00

This is a response to a letter sent by a letter sender. Click here to view the letter.

Dear Doodle,

Thank you for taking the time to write me your story. It was cute. I remember my high school days when one of my friends came to me about her love story, which was quite the same as yours.

It's never wrong to fall in love with someone. You should not be deprived of it. You can be happily in love with someone you think you're comfortable of sharing your life with.

As long as you're both single, then you wouldn't have a problem with it. Just DON'T hurry things up. As you have mentioned, it's been a month that you've known about each other. You need to take time to know more things about him, vice versa. It's not necessary that you have to talk about your personal stuff (e.g. high school crush, favorite color, etc.) EVERYDAY! Sometimes, it would be fine if you would get to discover each other by your own means.

Again, you don't need to rush things. Enjoy the feeling while it's there, but you have to be EXTRA careful. Just because you are comfortable with him, it doesn't grant you to fully dedicate yourself to him. You need to reserve some of those feelings, not only for him, but for yourself as well.

Don't worry about not having to open up everything to him. There's always a time for everything. Sooner or later, you will both soon uncover what needs to be uncovered.

One little advice, Doodle, is that you should ALWAYS BE YOURSELF. From there, everything woul fall right at its place.

Always,

The Pink Diary

Love Blossoms

2011-01-04T17:17:00.003+08:00

Dear Pink Diary,

You can call me Doodle. I am kind of having this "love" problem.

Last month, I moved to a boarding house. You see, I am just renting. My landlord has a brother. I admit, I got attracted to him the first time I set my eyes on him. I am not sure if the feeling is mutual. We have been living in the same house for a month now. It may sound uproarious, but we're NOT living together. Okay, I may be baffling you. We are not together like couples. It's only that we are living in the same house, but with different rooms. We were not so close by then. We were like "hi, hello friends".

After Christmas, everything has changed. I don't know how it happened, but I find myself attracted to him. I always enjoy his company. When we talk, we're like kids. I was caught off-guard when he told me he is happy being with me. Since then, he always makes the first move, only for him to be with me. I find it so cool. We watch TV programs together. Almost every night, we listen to love songs that are common to both of us. There are times when we play CounterStrike together. We do things we both enjoy.

I celebrated New Year's eve with him. He gave me a chocolate cake which he bought at Red Ribbon. All I could give him was a huge, sweet smile.

I don't know if I am falling in love with him or if I am just overreacting, but I always find myself happy whenever he's around me.

Sincerely yours,

Doodle

Click here to view reply from The Pink Diary.

Day 1: What's your favorite color?

2011-01-04T00:31:00.000+08:00

Color everywhere

Each of us has his own definition of colors, depending on our visualization of things. Colors represent a lot of things in life. Some simply describe the emotions and characteristics of a person. Other colors define the appearance of nature.

Green for dew

Most of the time, we use colors to differentiate one thing from the other (e.g. green leaves, blue sky, yellow ribbon, etc.) and some people would use colors to describe what they feel emotionally, on a daily basis. Say, when someone is sad, he'd say he feels blue or when someone is naughty, somebody would say that person is being green.

My favorite colors were not based purely on what I believed when I was a kid, like some people do. Little girls love pink because that's what little girls should like. Boys like blue because that's what little boys should like. It's not about that.

The colors I see as favorite reflect my personality, my emotions, my passion - my whole self. These are the colors that highlight me:

Green is all about nature, right?

Green - Green has been the color of nature for the longest time now. It signifies health, wisdom, wealth, growth and birth. It also represents new life and pristine. I started liking green when I was on high school. I found green to be very relaxing. Like blue, it doesn't strike heavy impacts to my vision. Whenever I am out of the house, green never fails to captivate me.

Pink tulips for love

Pink - Pink symbolizes unconditional love, faithfulness, compassion, and friendship. It always brings the best of my emotional dimension. Always expect me to be very calm, emotional and extra sensitive whenever I wear pink.

Blue - Blue is one of the primary colors of the color wheel. Being one of the most popular and most favorite colors, blue has became a dimensional color. It has been used at different aspects. It signifies patience, loyalty, peace of mind, and spirituality. Like green, it relaxes my inner self and enhances my mentality.

Spirituality and peace of mind

Naming one color as a favorite may not be far from possible, but most of us choose to have more options.

What's your favorite color?

Choose your color

Letter from The Pink Diary

2011-01-01T15:22:00.001+08:00

This is a response to a letter sent by a letter sender. Click here to view the letter.

Hello Pretty Miley C,

Thanks for taking the time to send me your letter. Whew! Indeed, it was a novel-like story, and I thought I was reading Danielle Steel, but still, I appreciate your whole effort of writing me your story.

I have friends who had situations like this, and just like you, they had a very hard time recovering from the pain they had. It was very hard that they believed it was impossible to move on.

Truth is, it wasn't impossible at all, but the pain and the hardships they had gone through made the recovery look unachievable.

I know how you feel. Yes. I definitely know how you feel. I had been there, too - and I sucked big time at that, but what made me moved forward sooner than I thought was the fact that I did not let it eat me up. Breakups are big monsters and it's natural if you feel like a prey at the beginning of it, but somehow, you would learn that the only hero who could help you kill the monster is yourself.

By the looks of it, you think your love was unrequited and that at some points, you felt like you've been used as a safety net. If not, maybe, somehow, close to it.If you'd ask me how I got up from the painful fall I had, I'd tell you this. You need to listen to Elizabeth Gilbert (renowned author of Eat Pray Love):

"A true soul mate is probably the most important person you'll ever meet, because they tear down your walls and smack you awake. But to live with a soul mate forever? Nah. Too painful. Soul mates, they come into your life just to reveal another layer of yourself to you, and then leave."

You might not have felt that he was, somehow, your soul mate but these words definitely would help.

You think you might need some changes. However, I hope you weigh the kind of changes you'll make for yourself. Otherwise, you might end up hurting people who are dear to you without your knowledge. For now, be busy with a lot of stuff. Divert your attention. Avoid the things you used to do together, or at least refrain from going to places where you used to hangout together.

I am not saying that you need to change your whole environment and disappear from the community where you are right now. All I'm saying is, you shouldn't be reminded of the things that you used to have when you were still together, and it doesn't have to happen in a finger snap. Take these things step by step. By then, you'll be surprised to see yourself fully healed - without any scars.

By the way, I credit you for breaking it up with him as early as you could. It takes a lot of courage to do that, but you were able to do it still.Like Gilbert, just eat, pray, and love.

I wish you'd find your happiness soon. Take care and God bless!

Lovingly,
The Pink Diary

Letter from The Pink Diary

2011-01-01T15:12:00.004+08:00

This is a response to a letter sent by a letter sender. Click here to view the letter.

Hi there lonely_guy! Good day! Thanks for taking the time to write me your story. It comes as a surprise that my first letter sender is a guy.

Anyway, I can see how in love you are with your bestfriend's girl, or at least that's how you feel right now. It's complicated when friendship and commitment had to collide, especially when it involves your best bud.

The best thing you can do is to give your guy friend a time to cool down - but not at such point where he might create damage to your reputation. Give him time to think, but make sure you'd talk to him. It's important for both of you to communicate, but I am warning you (although, I am not wishing for this to happen) of a fist fight. You can't blame him if he gets fumed and enraged. It involved the love of his life. Try to be honest to him once you get to talk and apologize for the damage you've caused.

As for the girl, I suggest you to stop seeing her. You have cost your friendship with your best guy, you don't want to create any more damages. You need to learn your lessons, and refraining yourself from seeing her is one of the things you should learn.

It would be hard to move forward, but at least it keeps peace between you and your guy friend. Keep yourself busy with a lot of things.

I am hoping these would help. Thank you!

Always,

The Pink Diary

Rainbow-colored Skies

2010-12-31T17:58:00.000+08:00

December 31

Everyone anticipates of this day each year. Seriously. Like when January 1 comes,

anyone would look forward to how December 31 of the same year would be... and how the next year would start. Every 31st of December, many people would prepare a lot of things to celebrate the ending of one year and the beginning of another. Everyone knows January 1st is the start of every year (who doesn't?).

People always prepare something by this time of the year - from food to displays to drinks to gifts and even to firecrackers.

I remembered how my uncle used to light fireworks while most of us are counting down, saying goodbye to the previous year and hello to the coming year. When the clock strikes 12, we would jump as high as we could (per mom's instruction so we would grow tall as high as we jump). After that, we would look forward to the coins that mom would shower (literally!).

Who would want to miss digging in their favorite food - ice cream, oranges, apples, grapes, cakes, spaghetti, and a lot more? If there's one day in a year where I feel so fat (despite my built and weight figures), it would be this time. No matter how I always try to tell myself that I should eat moderately, I couldn't help but to always satisfy my appetite even though I'm far from being starved.

Lastly, my siblings and I would race to the window and glaze at the beautiful evening sky, filled with rainbow colors. That's how it is every year. Each year, the colorful skies would somehow satisfy each of our hearts since we came to understand what a firework is and what it does. It's part of our annual anticipation.

Now, fireworks have improved. It doesn't only bring different colors to the evening skies, it also amuses us with magnificent shapes and childish figures - flowers, baskets, hearts, stars, or even dragons. The colors and shapes of the fireworks somehow help us forget the dramatic twists and turns of the previous year. It makes me feel overjoyed and hopeful of a wonderful year ahead.

I wish everyone happier years, as well as to their loved ones.

Happy fruitful new year to everyone! Say goodbye 2010! Happy 2011!

The Bridal Misfortune 3

2010-12-13T17:40:00.004+08:00

“Hey! You! Hey!” I yelled. “Hey, mister!” everyone was looking at my direction except for that guy.

Finally, I had the guts to run after him. “Hey!’

He then turned to me. He was surprised to see everybody looking at us.

“Yes? Did you call me?” he asked amusingly.

“Yes! YOU!” I told him.

“What can I do for you?” he raised his eyebrow as he spoke. "It should be important because I am so late for my appointment."

"You just bumped into me!" I said.

"Excuse me?" he asked.

"I said, you bumped into me!" I repeated.

"And?" his only reaction.

I was amused with what he just said. My eyebrows raised higher than it already was. Actually, it curved like it never curved before.

"And... I dropped my things on the floor."

"So? Pick them up!" he said and attempted to turn his back on me.

I tried to think of anything that could catch his attention as fast as I could. I tried to squeeze my brain for any idea, but I'm becoming hopeless. Suddenly, a thought came in mind.

"I can't abort the baby!" I shouted.

He stopped walking. He turned to me. Obviously, I caught his attention. His eyes grew wide as he looked at me. I can sense some panic in him. If there was a thing he was scared about, it's probably having someone humiliate him in public. He sprinted towards me. He grabbed me by my arm but didn't say anything at all. He dragged me until we reached the elevator. People were looking at us. The door opened. He let me get inside, almost throwing me in.

He pressed button 6 and turned to me.

"What are you doing here?" he asked in a very low voice, as if some other people would hear us. His was almost whispering, teeth grinding.

His face was inches away from me. I can smell his after-shave balm. If I wasn't mistaken, he's using Armani Code. It's sexy and seductive, but it doesn't smell very strong at all. I should know. After all, I used to work for Scent Me, a fragrance store in the largest and most popular store in the country, The Andromeda Square.

He was holding my arm. No, actually, he was grasping it. His eyes were round and gray, a sexy combination for a man like him. His lips were pinkish, like it had never touched a cigarette that would make it dry. He has a pair of dimples on his face.

"I... I... I just want you to apologize f-for bumping into me and dropping my stuff," I stuttered.

"You know what?" he stared at me. Suddenly, he let go of me. He was in a state-of-shock. I was confused with such action. He looked like he saw a ghost of his past. "Y-y-you?!"

I was puzzled. Suddenly, there was a tingling sound in the elevator - an indication that we have already reached our destination.

Welcome to sixth floor of The Island Paradise. Enjoy your stay! A voice prompt can be heard, after which, the doors opened.

He dragged me until we reached an oakwood door with brass knob. An average woman was sitting on a table next to the door. She smiled at the guy but she looked surprised to see me. It was the same reaction I saw from the guy earlier.

The guy nodded to the average woman.

"Amelia, don't let any one get inside the office... and I mean anyone! If someone would look for me, tell them I am away for a while. Cancel the meeting that I have, which would due in..." he looked at his watch, "shit! It'll due in an hour from now. You need to cancel it. Tell the department heads we will have the meeting tomorrow, same time. Alright?" his instructions to the average woman, who appeared to be his secretary.

"Yes, Justin," the woman smiled. "If your brother would lo-"

"Tell him I am not back yet," he didn't let the woman finish what she was about to say.

He dragged me inside and almost threw me on the chair in front of a black granite table.

"We need to talk," he said in a manly expression. His face wasn't dark, but it obviously wants a lot of questions answered - and it's starting to terrify me.

...to be continued

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I am so so back!

2010-12-12T16:04:00.000+08:00

After a couple days of being away (or should I say, weeks eh?), finally, I am back to blogging. I have to catch up with my readers, and uhmmm, subscribers (are there any?).

Anyway, I have updated a few of my stories. I'm still looking forward to finishing them up instantly (or I wish I could).

I'm also waiting for more letters for the Dear Pink Diary columns. Letters will always be appreciated. Again, don't worry about confidentiality issues because your letters will be published with anonymity.

In the next couple of days, I will be very (and I mean über) busy again since I'm going to start working with a new environment, new people, and new (ehem) title and account. Hopefully, this thing would last. Given with such consideration, I'll be going back to school and finish a degree so I would be able to focus on my stuff in writing.

I will be back with more posts and more updates!

Have a great time! Thanks for reading.

The Bridal Misfortune 2

2010-11-24T13:41:00.016+08:00

The Island Paradise, I murmured.

In front of me was a 123-storey building. It's one of the tallest and grandest buildings in the country. In fact, it's one of the tallest and grandest buildings in the world. I hurriedly went inside because I was already getting late for my interview.

When I got in, I was amused with the enormous structure of the lobby. It was adorned with expensive jars and leather couches. The walls were covered with beautiful paintings, but what caught my attention was a picture of two handsome young boys. It was placed on the wall next to the reception area. It was painted beautifully that it looked like they were both breathing and smiling at me.

The two boys were on their bicycles. The joy in their eyes seemed to be endless, which was captured perfectly on canvass.

Everyone seemed to be very busy. I approached one of the receptionists and asked for directions. She was a tall, blonde woman - about 5'7" in height. Her facial feature were strong that it seemed to make her look very intimidating.

"Excuse me," I said. "I'm here for an interview. Which way should I go?"

"Do you have your résumé with you?" she asked.

"I do," I searched for my résumé inside the envelope I brought. Suddenly, a guy bumped me out of my way. I dropped all of my things on the floor.

"Samantha, did you send the things I asked you to send me yesterday?" the guy asked the receptionist I talked to.

"Yes, sir," the receptionist replied.

"Great! I badly need that today. Thanks. I'm running late now," the guy told her and walked away, as if nothing had happened.

I was enraged with how he acted. He left without apologizing. I looked at him with anger.

"Hey!" I called. "Mister!"

...to be continued

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The Bridal Misfortune 1

2010-11-23T11:42:00.002+08:00

I had already spent 45 minutes in front of the mirror. I was in a business attire and was getting ready for an interview, yet I can't help but to keep looking at myself in front of the body mirror. I was memorizing some stuff when the door opened.

"Are you gonna stay there the whole day? I thought you have an interview today?" It was mom.

"Yes, ma. I'm pretty nervous right now," I admitted. It was obvious that I was nervous. After all, I won't be in front of the mirror for a long time if I was not nervous at all.

"I know you'll make it, dear. I trust in you, so you must believe in yourself."

"I know, ma, but this is no ordinary interview. If I'd get this, I'd be working at the country's only 5-star hotel and resort... The Island Paradise - paradise at its best!"

“That’s the reason why you should hurry. Don’t spoil the day. I’ll go downstairs and prepare your breakfast,” she was about to leave the room.

“Ma,” I called her. “Thank you. I hope I can make it.”

Mom came to me and gave me a hug. She then kissed me on the forehead.

“Of course you will. You’re my little princess. You’re as intelligent as me. You better get ready so you won’t miss breakfast,” she winked at me and walked away.

I sighed and looked at myself in the mirror for the last time before I gathered my stuff. I checked all the things I need - pen, envelope, application letter, and of course, my résumé.

After I had gathered everything, I went downstairs and saw mom in the kitchen. She was preparing the table for breakfast. She prepared bacon, eggs, and my favorite - fried rice.

Mom always knows what I want to eat for breakfast. She poured orange juice in my glass as I started digging my meal. Mom never wanted me to go out of the house without taking my breakfast or any of my meals. She’s been taking care of me since I was a child, all by herself.

Dad had died, when I was young, because of an accident, and so she had to take care of me alone.

...to be continued

NEXT

Heart of the Matter 7

2010-11-23T08:57:00.001+08:00

Blair was in the kitchen, munching her breakfast cereal when Jason came on his boxers. She looked at him. Although she looked distressed, probably because of what happened last night, her mind was wandering as she watched his abs crying out loud. He was very lean. He regularly visits the gym three times a week. He works out to keep his body fit.

He went to the fridge to get a box of milk. He also got a glass inside the cabinet right above the kitchen divider. He poured some in his glass.

“I am sorry about last night,” Blair broke the silence.

Jason went up to her and patted her head. He looked at her and smiled. He cupped her face with both hands and spoke.

“It’s okay. You don’t really have to apologize. It was my fault,” he told her and gave her a soft kiss on her forehead. “You’re still my little princess anyway.”

She smiled bitterly. Don’t treat me like a child, Jason. I am not a kid anymore, her mind protested.

“Don’t be sad. I already explained things to Elizabeth and she was sorry about last night. She told me she’d make it up to you. She’s nice, Blair. It’s just that what happened last night was all but a mistake.”

“I felt like I embarrassed her,” she said softly.

“Well, she was embarrassed with what happened, but it was alright. And I already told you, she wanted to make it up with you. She wants to know you more.”

“Okay,” she just said.

“So stop feeling the guilt alright?” he lightly pinched her chin.

“Where did you sleep last night?” she asked.

“I used Kevin’s room. He won’t be back until next week,” he said, pertaining to his older brother, who went out-of-town for a surfboarding competition.

“I see. Well, I need to get going. I still have to meet Cynthia for our book report. Thanks for the breakfast!” she said.

“Alright. Take care little princess!” he said.

“I’m not a kid anymore,” she protested. “Just tell your mom thanks for the dinner last night, as well as for the breakfast.” She gave him a kiss on the cheek.

“Sweet!” he chuckled.

“Yeah? Look at your boxers. You’re fully aroused,” she turned her back and let out a boisterous laughter.

Yeah, right! He thought.

...to be continued

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Heart of the Matter 6

2010-11-15T18:42:00.001+08:00

They heard light knocks on the door.

“Jason? Is everything okay?” Jason’s mom called.

“Yeah, mom. I’m sorry about that. I got Blair frightened. I’m sorry,” Jason answered.

“Alright. I thought there was a robber who got in the house. You go to sleep now. It’s already late,” she said and walked away. Footsteps can be heard fading.

Jason sighed. He thought he was already in great trouble.

“You live your mom?” Elizabeth asked with brows raised.

“Well, I live with my mom and dad. Why? Is something wrong with that?” he asked her back.

“Uhmm, nothing,” she answered then she looked at Blair, “but her? In your bedroom? What’s this all about?”

“Let me explain,” Blair said, already calm. “I didn’t mean to offend both of you with... your... intimate moments’, but I asked Jason earlier if I could sleep over.”

“Sleep over? I can’t believe this!”

“She’s my best friend, Liz. We used to do that when we were younger.”

“B-but,” Elizabeth tried to protest.

“M-my dad was having some kind of a party at home and, well, I couldn’t concentrate studying my Algebra lessons, so I asked Jason if I could stay over and spend my night here. It wasn’t just the first that I sleep over,” Blair explained. She was starting to get irritated and was almost running out of patience. She was trying to control herself for her best bud.

“Whatever!” Elizabeth picked her dress and underpants. She looked at Jason scarcely. Jason,
getting what Elizabeth was trying to do, signaled her where the bathroom is. She went in and
slammed the door.

Jason tried to clothed himself while Blair stayed on the corner of the room, feeling guilty about
everything.

“I’m sorry,” she finally spoke, breaking the silence between her and Jason.

“Let’s talk about this tomorrow,” he answered.

After a while, Elizabeth went out of the bathroom, all dressed up.

“I’ll send you home,” Jason offered. Elizabeth didn’t say anything and went out of the bedroom.

Jason looked at Blair. She gave him a sad smile, but he just nodded his head and walked out.

to be continued...

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Questions of Love

2010-11-13T11:21:00.002+08:00

Dear Pink Diary,

Hello! Please call me Pretty Miley C. I have a heart problem.

I had a boyfriend. We'd been together for a month. On November 2, he went to his friend's house. It was already morning when he got home. On November 3, he called me around 2PM. We talked. It was a smooth talk. After awhile, he said he would take a shower because he'd go to his cousin to a certain school. After that, he didn't call nor text messaged me, and he wouldn't reply to my messages nor answer my calls. Around 10PM, he text messaged me. He said his grandmother asked him a favor to fetch his ex-girlfriend at the airport. They were together for 5 years. She arrived from UK. That was the "reason" why he wasn't able to go with his cousin. Right after, they went out for dinner - him, his granny, and his ex.

He said his granny want them back together, so I asked what his reaction was. He said he was surprised and speechless. As he mentioned, it was hard for him to refuse his granny's request since they're living under his granny's roof. He said he was having a hard time. Also, the girl wants the same thing.

The girl has plans of staying here in Cebu (Philippines) for a month and his granny wants him to accompany the girl while she's here. He told me he doesn't love the girl anymore and doesn't have any plans of getting back with her, but I had a hard time believing him considering the longevity of their relationship and the reason of their breakup. They only broke up because the girl had to migrate to UK. For me, there's really a huge possibility that he's still in love with her.

The next day, November 4, they went to Imperial Palace (a well-known hotel and resort here in Cebu). They would stay there for 3 days. It was the girl's treat. With them were his grandmother and his cousins. Since his grandma and cousins would only stay during daytime, the only people left there during nighttime were him and the girl. I asked him why he wouldn't go home. He said he need to accompany the girl.

While in the hotel, he said he wouldn't be able to text message me much because he's hiding his phone from his grandma. She might confiscate it, so he'd text message me whenever he's in the bathroom or if he's alone, but I sometimes find this confusing because sometimes, he text message me like everything was normal. When I talk about us, he would tell me he had to go because he was just in the comfort room. He was kind of avoiding the issue. Sometimes, he would just answer me with "I don't know". It was totally confusing me.

I told him that no matter what would happen, he had to find ways for us to meet on November 6 because it's our monthsarry. He just told me he would try, but I felt it was effortless. For three days, he never tried calling me while he's in the hotel. That's when I started doubting him.

When our monthsarry came, I never got the chance to meet him at all. After that, November 7, their group (a group of bikers) had a ride and would go somewhere. Their meeting place was just near my workplace, so I went there for awhile. He arrived late. I wasn't expecting that he would go there, so I was surprised to see him. It also surprised him to see me there. We got the chance to talk, but his treatment was kind of cold. He told me a lot of things. Our conversation ended and we were cool with each other, although, I already had a couple of doubts on him. After that, I had never heard of him.

The following day, we were text messaging. I asked him if he could go to our place. He borrowed cash from me and I wished to get it. He told me he'd give it to me and asked me if he could bring the girl along. I asked him if they got back together. He said he doesn't know and told me that that's what the girl believed in - that they were together again. So I told him he doesn't have his principles because he couldn't make his own decisions. He didn't comment on that. I told him to bring the girl so I would get to know her.

I asked if he still loves her and if he wants her back. He answered "no". I asked him if he loves me, and he said yes, but with everything he showed me, I thought otherwise. I can't feel his love. I decide to call it off. I broke up with him. We had to stop right there and then so that he could focus on one thing - the girl. I know I'd end up helpless if I'd continue fighting for it. I have done so much for our relationship. I did my part, yet it appeared that I was the only one fighting for it. Of all the things I told him, he only replied with, THANKS A LOT. It was very disheartening.

Later that day, he went to our house, but the girl wasn't with him. We talked about our situation. We talked about us after the breakup, but he changed the topic. He talked about their group ride and stuff. He said he was with her when they had their ride because his grandma won't allow him to hangout if the girl is not with him, but I had proven this to be untrue since his co-rider's wife was my friend. I asked my friend if those things were true, but she said it weren't, that he was alone during their group ride.

Right after our conversation, I cried a lot. Like a lot! I talked to some of my friends and I was crying like there's no tomorrow. It was very painful. He told me different lies. I even asked my friend to text message him, and he bit the bait. He replied to her text messages, yet he didn't reply to any of my messages at all. It was very disheartening.

I had no intentions of breaking up with him, but it hurts so much. Please help me.

Always,

Pretty Miley C

Click here to view reply from The Pink Diary.

Heart of the Matter 5

2010-11-10T11:25:00.001+08:00

Their kiss was intimate. Jason slowly unbuttoned his shirt until he was half-naked. Then, he concentrated on undressing Elizabeth. He unzipped her tube dress. Elizabeth, on the other hand, slowly unzipped his pants. They continued kissing like they were hungry souls.

He started kissing her everywhere as he tried to remove her bra. He kissed her on her lips to her cheeks, her eyes to her earlobes. Then, he started going down to her neck. Elizabeth moaned in satisfaction. She wrapped her arms around his neck as slowly went down with his soft kisses.

Finally, he was able to remove her top. Like a hungry child, he went to her nipples, sucking them alternately as his hands caressed each breast. He was fully aroused, and so was she.

He slowly laid her on the bed as they kissed, very torrid this time. Elizabeth’s moan went louder, which aroused him even more.

Suddenly, an unknown motion startled them both. Somebody was on the other side of the bed.

“Aaahhh!!!” Elizabeth freaked out as she grabbed a blanket to cover her and jumped off the bed.

“Aaahhh!!!” a woman shrieked. Jason hurriedly turned the lights on, only to see Blair with a scared face. She looked as scared as hell.

“What are you doing here?” he asked Blair, panting, trying to cover himself since he’s just wearing his boxers.

“Who is she?” Elizabeth asked. Confusion was painted on her face. “What’s this all about?”

...to be continued

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Heart of the Matter 4

2010-11-10T11:20:00.001+08:00

Jason stepped on the brakes. They finally reached his house. He looked at Elizabeth, but said nothing. She looked back at him. They looked at each other as Mariah Carey sang Whenever You Call on the radio.

He touched her face, slowly lowering his lips towards her. He wasn’t sure if she feels the same, but all he knows is he wants to kiss her. Their distance kept narrowing until their lips touched.

He kissed her gently, brushing his lips to hers. Her lips were as soft as a feather. She responded to his gentle brushes. She opened her mouth a little more, inviting his tongue in. He explored inside her mouth as his hands wandered freely. He landed on her soft breasts and gently squeezed it. Suddenly, Elizabeth stopped him. He was in great pain – abdominal pain.

Not now, he thought. We’ll get through this so soon, damn it!

“Not here,” she just said. “It feels awkward. Let’s get inside.”

“Okay,” he smiled as he gladly accepted his invitation.

They both got out of the car. Jason set the auto-lock of his car and searched for his house keys in his pocket. He tried to open the door, but before they could get in, Elizabeth aggressively kissed him. It surely surprised him. It’s his first time to find someone as aggressive as her, but what the heck? He can’t complain!

He was very responsive to her every kiss and before they knew it, they were already inside his bedroom. He locked the door as they continued their passionate kiss.

...to be continued

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Heart of the Matter 3

2010-11-09T11:28:00.001+08:00

Jason cranked some jokes. Although, those jokes were corny, Elizabeth can't seem to contain her laughters.

Suddenly, Jason's phone rang. He canceled the call, but after a few minutes, it rang again. He was about to cancel the call, but Elizabeth stopped him.

"It's okay. Just take it. It might be very important," she said.

"Thank you. I'll make this quick," Jason murmured.

He stood up and went out before the answered the phone, which rang for the third time. He looked at the screen and sighed.

"Hello," he greeted in a monotonous tone. It was Blair on the other line and he seemed uninterested to take any calls at the moment, since he's in the middle of something.

"Hi!" Blair greet enthusiastically, "how was your date?"

"It's doing great. We're HAVING fun right now," he answered, trying to emphasize that he was busy doing something.

"Oh! I'm sorry," Blair realized her mistake for calling.

"Alright. What is it?" he asked.

"Well, I was wondering if I could sleep over tonight?" she asked, innocently.

"What?" Jason freaked out.

"Well, I can't stay at home. Dad's friends are in the house and they're having some kind of a party. I'm having a hard time studying my Algebra lessons. Final exam is fast approaching. Besides, it's not the first time I'll be sleeping over," she said in a very pleading voice.

"Oh my! Not tonight, Blair. I have other plans," he said defensively.

"You're not gonna bring her home, are you?" she asked.

"W-what? Heck no!" he said.

"Well, there's nothing wrong then if I'm gonna sleep over, right?"

"Fine. I'll send mom a message about YOUR plans."

"Oh no, it's okay. I'm already here in your bedroom. She's probably asleep now, so no need to bother her. Enjoy the rest of the day, bye!" she hang up.

Jason wasn't able to do anything but sighed. He went back inside the restaurant where Elizabeth was patiently waiting for him.

"It was my best friend Blair. You should meet her one of these days," he told her.

"Wow! That's cool. You have a girl best friend. I'm excited to meet her," she exclaimed.

...to be continued

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