Best Finds 2008: Twilight Series (Books)

It used to be that the internet has totally gobbled up the reader in me. Before the net became second nature, my free time would be spent lost in a book. But technology has taken over (shouldn't) until Twilight bit me. Big time.

Twilight, and its sequels, brought back what I had long lost - enough interest in a book that I could not put it down. For the longest time, no book I've come across had captured me enough to want to finish reading in one sitting. And I kinda missed the experience. But Twilight cured me of that.

Twilight Musings and Twilight Series (labels) are testament to what the Twilight series have become in my life this year.

Best Finds 2008: Taylor Swift (Musician)

Since I learned about her and her music, her songs have never left my playlist. I love every one of her songs. Her music has given me something to look forward to, something to dance to, something to sing my heart out with and something to soothe some very bad days.

The Taylor Chronicles was created to celebrate her and her songs.

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Photo Credit: Starpulse

Best Finds 2008: Vancouver (Foreign City)

Got lucky enough to attend a conference in Vancouver last May. The conference was a blast: the speakers were experts, the topics were relevant (at the time, which was post subprime and pre-Lehman), the overall management of the event was the best I have seen so far, even considering that it had thousands of participants.

And yes, I loved the city. Still do. Walked the streets like I've never walked before: I think I've covered most of the place by just walking. Hehe. And loved the bike-friendly streets as well. And the lovely flowers lining the pavements. And the kinda laid back life. And the eco-friendliness. And even the weather!

Conference Venue

Entrance to Stanley Park

Inukshuk: 2010 Winter Olympics Symbol

Best Finds 2008: Boracay (Vacation Spot)

It wasn't the first time I stepped on the country's most popular beach (Boracay) but it felt like it was, considering that the rest of the peeps I went there with last April were first timers. Besides, it's been so long since I have last seen the white sands and clear waters (I was still in college and I went there to join a quiz bee. Ahhh, what can be more nerdy?)

But this time, I was there to unwind, and what an adventure the trip was! My cousins and friends were funtastic company, the resort was brimming with summer activities (local stars populated the place so we had our paparazzi moments, hehe) and there were a number of firsts to try on: the banana boat ride, snorkeling, etc.

Our Bora trip is simply one of my happiest 2008 moments. =)

Best Finds 2008: Foreword

People Magazine does it. And so does ET (Entertainment Tonight). And so do most of media big thingies: Time Magazine, Forbes, etc.

Why not have my own?

My own LIST. Hmmm, empowering.

And so, while People lists its 50 Most Beautiful People and ET lists almost anything in 2008 (e.g., sexiest men, best/worst hook-ups, etc), I - dojski - will list the best things I've found in 2008: stuff that has entered my life this year and made it so much happier, fun, better.

There will be no strict rules, no defined categories. Anything new that has outstandingly impressed me can be it. [It's great to be making your own rules. =) ]

Best Finds 2008 is a celebration of the people who and things that has made my 2008 a great year.

Anjali Talks Bill

I think I've got it. Yep, I think I kinda finally know why there has been a surge on Anjali Rao googles lately (a question I posed in this post): she got to talk to Bill. Yep, Bill. Clinton. =)

Tonight, I caught only a small part of the interview, and from someone who doesn't really stick to interviews with political figures, I must say I did stay tuned till the interview was over. As usual, Anjali was her smart, charming self and the interview was done really well (smooth, cool, good vibes). I hesitated listening to Bill's answer on what he regret doing or not doing while President (read: Monica) but of course, the unmentionable was not mentioned and he instead replied on the big stuff - not doing enough for health care, etc.

Well, so there. Mystery solved.

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On a sad, sad note, a heroic idea turned into a really painful one today. Having missed serious workout, I thought a dip at the pool will do me good - a few laps, and I can give myself a pat in the back for having done a healthful activity. Unfortunately, a sharp portion of the pool's steel ladder cut through my thumb when I slid to the water. Bloody painful. Literally. I will have to see a doctor tomorrow. Ahhh.

Still a Gossip Girl

The thing about being at the latter decade of your 20's is you tend to think you're through with teenage stuff. Well, since reactivating this blog, I have found out otherwise: your years may pile up but some of your interests remain essentially the same. Twilight is teenage stuff, but I'm crazy about it. Taylor Swift is teenage stuff, but I love every single one of her songs. And the new addition to the bunch? GOSSIP GIRL:

I've heard of the show: it's been a big hit. But it did not interest me at all initially because I did not think I could like it. The title itself strongly hinted malice and backstabbing, and the setting (high school and the elite class at that) was susceptible to all the troubles of youth. I thought I did not have to bother with high school gossip or misdemeanors.

Well, I still don't think I have to bother with the world of gossiping, trouble-making high school kids, but it turns out, I can be very entertained by it.

Gossip Girl elicits just the right ounce of intrigue and suspense to pique your mind about what's going to happen next or what happened in the past. It is populated by actors and actresses who are so convincing in their roles, they all should win an award for best performance by an entire cast. It is led by a relative newbie (Blake Lively) whose acting talent is of the Meryl Streep kind - effective, natural and smart. It is put to life by characters that you either hate (Chuck) or love (Dan), with passion.

Gossip Girl - despite its naughtiness, or maybe partly because of it - is a masterpiece.

The Anjali Buzz

Why is everybody googling Anjali Rao?

I look at my feedjit, and I mostly see people pointed to this blog through a google search on Anjali Rao. I check out my statcounter and I see the same.

When I wrote about her posts ago, I thought she was just another CNN reporter who has impressed me much. I did not expect many others would come 'looking for her', i.e., be interested enough to search google about her, her pics or the 'Anjali Rao pants' (a most interesting query, hehe). The countries span across continents - from the U.S. and Canada to South Africa, Hong Kong, Denmark, India, Austria, Albania, etc.

But why the buzz? I still don't get it.

Twilight Twice

It's a Thursday-workday-night, and the movie is on its 2nd week, so, imagine my surprise at finding out that there were only a few seats left at a 6:30 PM show this evening. And these seats were mostly the first two rows to the screen!

One of the reasons I wanted to watch again was the theory that maybe, I didn't like the film for itself the first time because I sat too close to the screen. Ah, excuses.

Luckily, I was able to get a seat far enough for me not to be exposed too much to the vamps' powdered faces (make-up: thumbs down). Nothing has changed much from my original opinion of the film but there were some parts that I appreciated more. Those were the parts where I almost forgot about the book and simply let myself get carried away by the movie.

Still, I hope for a better New Moon.

(Regardless of my regard for the film, I grabbed this great CD on my way home. I really love the songs:)

Fave tracks:

1. Supermassive Black Hole (Muse)

2. Full Moon (The Black Ghosts)

3. Tremble for my Beloved (Collective Soul)

4. Eyes on Fire (Blue Foundation)

5. Flightless Bird (Iron & Wine)

What do you do?

What do you do when the day ends with you realizing that things haven't changed? What do you do when they have, but only for the parts that you wanted to stay the same? What do you do when you finally see that the things you wanted over, will never be?

What do you do?

When you got painful blisters on your feet and you got to walk the way home, what do you do? When you got a most loved ipod in your bag and your heart feels so heavy, what do you do? When your spirit is so low and Seattle's comes to view, what do you do?

What, indeed?

Me?

I put on my ipod, think things through while my favorite songs serve as the musical score in my head, walk the way to Seattle's like I've got all the time in the world, and order this plate of comfort:

You, what do you do?

Lola

I just learned that my lola (grandma) got sick. I am so worried. I wish I were there to take care of her.

But it's not till the 20th that I can fly home. And it's going to be a couple of hours from there to my lola's place. Oh...I really hope she is feeling all right now.

La, be strong. We're going to have a great Christmas.

Two Words

Low budget. If that still doesn't make sense, here are two more words: artistically disappointing.

I and four other twilighters trooped to Greenbelt last Wednesday to catch the midnight showing of Twilight - the one thing we all have been waiting for. I and the other twilighters left that theater unanimously feeling like we've been had.

The make-up was horrible. The script was flat. The scoring did not score. The special effects were not special. The editing needed more. The acting did not move me. The whole film was amateurish.

Twilight, was, the low budget film that it was. IF not for the books, I may never watch it again, as I will this weekend. ;) [A fan is a fan.] :)

Twilight Musings: Stars

Jasper, Alice, Emmett, Rosalie, Edward Cullen

Did I expect the actors to be anything like the Cullen kids in my mind? Hmmm. Well, I do not think I really had a face for any of them so it was quite easy to fit the actors' faces to the characters'. I had the easiest time with Rosalie, because women who are said to be outstandingly pretty in the books are often portrayed by blondes like the actress playing her. The Bond Girl who played Jane Bennett in Keira Knightley's Pride and Prejudice is an example.

I had the hardest time getting used to the on-screen Jasper (what's with the hair!) but I think eventually, the image stuck and actually gave more character to the character. Haha.

I think Ashley Greene fits Alice so well - the spiky hair, the cool fashion. =) Kellan Lutz, well, that bod explains all of Emmett's love for a good fight.

And Rob? Hmmm, no question on the messy hair - it's character itself. I think Rob is not as striking as the Edward I expected but it seems he did act so well, he gave Edward life on screen. But, regardless, I embrace anything and everything in that movie. Can't wait to finally see it. (The premiere buzz is cruel. My EQ, or what's left of it, is being tested to its limits.) =)

Single Ladies

I just cannot let this pass:


This was a recent SNL skit posted by a friend in Facebook (thanks, Imee). It gave my heart its best laugh today. LOL. Justin was so game! :)

The New Cover Boy

I was out for lunch today when I chanced upon that Newsweek commemorative issue on the right. It was just too tempting to pass up. Someday, my children and grandchildren will find that issue in their ma/grandma's attic and probably find a historical gem. Haha.

Of course, I had to add in the latest TIME. Afterall, Newsweek was mostly pictures. Ah, I'm guessing all stuff Obama are hot these days. The newsstand salesgirl cheerfully volunteered that the above mags were flying off her shelves. Obama surely faces a whole lot of expectations.

More Than Just Coffee

It was almost noon but I hadn't really had a full meal yet, so I hurried to Seattle's before heading to a 1pm appointment. I still fondly remember the order I took when I last visited the coffee shop, so, I looked forward to enjoying the new discovery again:


I only mostly order coffee before but after I tasted the above treat, I knew I would be coming back for it. Seattle's Best, it turns out, is more than just good coffee. ;)

Being a lazy Sunday, there were a few people around, so I was able to get myself both of the country's biggest national papers (see above). And yes, that's Chris Brown and Rihanna in the paper to the left. Both are in the country for a joint concert tonight. Don't get me wrong, I find both artists admirable - I like Brown's "With You" and love all of Rihanna's unique music. However, I kinda felt having them grace the frontpage of a national daily a bit inappropriate. Is their arrival such a national issue? Ah, no wonder I've always had more respect for the other paper.

The Taylor Chronicles: Taylor

To me, Taylor Swift is to country music what Jane Austen was to English literature: a breath of fresh air, a fascination, a revolution.

There have been singer-songwriter-guitar players before her but Taylor brings into the scene a kind of passion so energetic and a kind of talent all her own, that you can't help but notice and eventually learn to love her music. Her triple-platinum debut album is an undeniable witness to this. As a Good Morning America host once commented, Taylor was something that was dropped onto the stage and massively exploded - in the best sense, that is. But the numbers regardless, Taylor is a breath of fresh air because her songs are original and crafted in such a way that anyone who dare listen are able to relate to the songs like they were their own.

With her achievements, you'd think she'll be older than her sweet 18. When you watch her interviews, you'd think it's an older, perceptive soul speaking. With her resolve, you'd wonder why self-knowledge would come to people like her so soon. Who would refuse a record deal just because they were not allowed to sing their own songs? Who would refuse potential fame and riches just because they were denied the chance to be who they are and to do the stuff that define them? And she was only 13 when she made the decision! Taylor knows what she is all about and it is fascinating to see that in such young a person.

Despite the wave of troubled young celebrities, Taylor is able to keep her smart head level-headed, and her attitude cool and positive. She wears an honesty in her communications with fans that is not often seen in people of her stature. She exudes a character that is appreciative of life and simply, good. Taylor makes a special mark in the biz because she understands the responsibility beside the fame, and appreciates her success for what it truly is - a wonderful, wonderful blessing.

Lost in Madagascar

Even Alice could not have seen it coming. You see, I unexpectedly found myself in Madagascar today:
Alice could not have predicted it because I haven't really made up my mind about watching until the last minute. Traffic looked bad and I didn't think I could go straight home, so, I detoured and hurried to Greenbelt to catch the earliest showtimes. =)

It was a choice betweeen animals and James (haven't seen James yet). I do not think James would like it but he lost to the former. Unfortunately for him, I just wasn't in the mood for serious action. I have an inkling that James' fast-paced sequences would carry a nerdy story (just like the first one - financial options, duh), and I didn't want to do anymore thinking. So, Madagascar was the choice.

Well, it was ok. Typical animated movie. The scenes were amazing, as expected. But I think it didn't offer anything new really. And the laughs...well, they were few and far in between, as far as I was concerned.

Regardless, it was a good thing to have the choice to do something else (e.g., see a film) rather than get stuck to a routine. =)

Light on a Manic Monday

Just when I thought Monday would go by without much to be especially glad about, dear ol' Ely would drop me an invite for that tease of a movie, Twilight. =) Finally, Ely, you have heeded my calls! Hehe. This just proves that being a Twilighter is a very good thing. Apart from the literary pleasure, it can also gather long lost friends. ;)

Looking forward to the movie and talk. =) You better fill me in on your law years or I'll sue. Hehe. Kidding.

P.S. #1 Ynnah, newly-born Twilighter that you are, is it already definite you can't make it?
P.S. #2 Hmmm, I wonder if Popo has already started the read...

Sleepy Rainy Sunday

It is raining outside, and the city seems to be on a standstill - quiet, covered by the dimming raincloud, and looking like everyone's taking a restful afternoon nap. I opened my window and the rushing breeze not only touched my skin but my spirit as well. The rain almost always brings with it a calming effect on me. After it naturally bathes all things on soil, I feel that its next mission is always to soothe me...make me feel that despite life's challenges, everything is going to be all right.

Now is one of the moments I love most - a sleepy rainy Sunday afternoon, my open window inviting the cool wind to come fill the room, my fave music streaming, and blogging away. I feel happy and at peace with the world.

Green

Aren't those eyes pairs of lovely, lovely green?

The Taylor Chronicles: Introduction

This was the moment that started it all, the "it" being my fascination with country star Taylor Swift:


Before that fateful Ellen appearance, I had no idea who she was. I have not heard of her, nor of her songs. It only took that Ellen interview, however, to let her creep into my esteem. She was funny, smart, candid and obviously passionate about her music. Add to that the facts that she was also a songwriter and guitar player, and she cemented her place in my list of great finds. And when she performed, wow, I could feel her energy (and that of her band) all the way to my side of the globe. ;)

I had to write down her name and promise myself to look her over google the next time I got online. It was a promise I was glad I kept...

The Speech

There were a number of lines in Obama's victory speech that I especially liked, and one of them is this one:

"It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation's apathy..."

I am amazed at the delivery of that speech. I can't imagine myself capable of memorizing the lines and delivering them the way Obama did - well-paced, seemingly spontaneous (it couldn't have been, could it?), sincere and oozing with quiet confidence.

Uh, well, I guess it's forgivable if I can't. After all, I'm not a US president-elect. Hehe. :)

Congrats, America

Even to this far a country, THIS is the highlight of the day. Obama wins. What history.

Amidst the rubble of the financial mess and fears of deep recession, America took the stage and performed outstandingly. The voter turnout, the activism of high profile names, the decisive vote, the gracious acceptance of defeat by McCain, the victory of a man which decades back was considered an impossibility...are a reminder of why America rules.

Hats off. :)

James and I

James Bond will come to theaters again starting tomorrow, but I feel like I've beaten him to the action. I did a thousand things today, and the way I've accomplished the errands I've set to do, feels like I'm a hero. Or heroine, that is. LOL. I'm exaggerating, of course. ;)

Seriously, it feels real good having finally done the weekend's unfinished business (chores, hehe), and some stuff that I've postponed for the longest time. If there is one lesson I re-learned today, it's realizing that nothing can be left undone once I've made up my mind to do it. Well, having vacation leaves I have to use by yearend (or they'll go pffft) was great help. ;)

Tomorrow, though, is another day. Busy day, that is. So, sorry James, you and I will have to meet this weekend. =)

Scariest Halloween Costume

Ellen once again won me over with her Halloween special tonight. Wanda Sykes ("New Adventures of Old Christine") guested, and she was terrific.

In line with the show's Halloween costume theme, Sykes came in wearing the above costume (left). The conversation (gist only, not verbatim):

Ellen: So, what are you?
Wanda: I'm a Wall Street executive.
Ellen: And that hat?
Wanda: Is my golden parachute.

LOL! What an extremely relevant get-up. Loved it. =)

TOSH and Stories

The "The Old Spaghetti House" (TOSH) has recently been a favorite witness to a candid exchange of life stories with my old friends. I think it's both the food and the ambience that provide such a cozy venue to ask the usual 'how-are-yous' and the more brazen follow-up questions. Well, who can dodge a probing question when your mind is occupied with the mouth-watering Mud Pie? ;)

Venue-aside, I think meeting with friends and getting updated on each other's lives is one of the best things in life. :)

High School Musical 3

Went to see this gem of a movie last night. I'm not really into musicals, but this one was a pleasure to watch. I can't believe how well-executed the production numbers are. So creative, original, screaming with artistic energy.

Zac Efron is an extremely talented star. In addition to the good looks and singing, he is a brilliant dancer. When he moves, there's never an awkward moment. Just a fluid sway of the body that matches every beat of the music. Geez, I'm a Zac fan. Hehe.

All the kids in the movie are very talented. They deserve the worldwide appreciation. =)

Thanks, Pops, for the invite. =)

Compliment

I was quite early for a meeting the other day, so I helped myself to a seat outside the conference room, regretting not having brought anything worth reading to kill time. And just when I was starting to surrender to a few minutes of unproductive existence, an angel came along.

Nope. He didn't come with wings, nor did he descend from the roof. ;) He simply got through the door, newspapers in hand, looking forward to literally bringing the news to his clients. The angel came in the form of our office's unofficial newspaper guy.

I used to buy my favorite paper from him but I haven't in a long time, primarily because I moved to a new group and a different floor. But he must have recognized me as well, because his face lit up a bit when I waved hello.

Not having brought a cent with me either, I dared ask if I could have my paper on credit. =) No questions asked, he proceeded to look for the paper I wanted from the stack he held. Unfortunately, he no longer had a copy of the paper. ):

He offered the other papers, but I only really wanted my paper, so, I said my heartfelt thanks and looked on to a passive existence.

But ---

To my surprise, he stayed on, took a seat and scanned through his stack. I didn't quite understood what he was doing but then he found what he was looking for...and gave it to me! He so kindly took time to search for that one paper he could give me - a complimentary copy of another paper he had! Ah, he really made my day. :)

Twilight Musings: Dangerous

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STOP! If you have NOT read the Twilight books, stop reading NOW. This post and posts with this same foreword are my own thoughts on the series. They may contain SPOILERS and I know nobody wants to be spoiled in this respect. I'd also hate to be the one to kill the excitement for anybody who happens to drop by and read. So, in the words (and style) of author Stephenie Meyer: YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
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Two things from the final pages of Breaking Dawn have been bugging me: Aro's wedding gift to Bella and Bella's newfound ability to lift her self-shield to let Edward see her thoughts. I feel something sinister about these two developments.

We know how Aro is. A schemer. Power-grabber. Cheater. So why would he send Bella an important jewelry for a wedding gift with nothing in it for him? I doubt he cared for Bella's or the Cullens' affection. Well, it may be possible that he wanted to simply be on their good side but he didn't have to send such a priceless gift. Unless, there's more to it for him.

I distinctly remember his words when he saw Bella wearing the gift at the battlefield. The book did not make a fuss on his words, but I fear that they were lethal: "I should have sent a note along with that gift". What could he have meant? My fear is, the gift is meant to do harm. Aro's comment was filled with sarcasm and malice.

And as for Bella's act of love, i.e., lifting her shield off herself so Edward could see how much he meant to her, I think it's an act of death as well. It's one thing for her enemies to know they could not touch her because her shield is natural and permanently attached to her, it's another for them to know that it could be lifted. It would take just a threat to Bella's loved one's life to get her to unshield herself.

Ah, Twilight can set a dormant imagination loose!

Come in, December

Oh, wow. My last post was Sunday. Hmmm, I guess that kinda describes how my week was. Bbbbbbussssy.

There were two surprising moments these few days that I especially remember though, and they're just about one thing really. For two straight mornings (I think it were Wednesday and Thursday) I stepped out of home, onto the busy street and then suddenly felt like it's Christmas. The air, the mood, seemed to me like the season was here, not more than a month later. The wonder of it was, nothing in the surrounding was yet physically Christmas-like: no lanterns, no christmas lights, no santa claus displayed anywhere.

Maybe, I'm just so looking forward into the season, that I could feel it in my bones this early. ;)

Twilight Musings: Alice

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STOP! If you have NOT read the Twilight books, stop reading NOW. This post and posts with this same foreword are my own thoughts on the series. They may contain SPOILERS and I know nobody wants to be spoiled in this respect. I'd also hate to be the one to kill the excitement for anybody who happens to drop by and read. So, in the words (and style) of author Stephenie Meyer: YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
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Among Edward's siblings, I am most fond of Alice. Her special talent is quite useful, yes, but it's the way she uses it that makes her extra special. Her intentions are always to help, be kind, support. In Breaking Dawn, I think that it was her who saved the day, or equally with Bella at least.

I love the stubbornness. She may drive Bella crazy sometimes, but it's those moments of persistence (the birthday party, the clothes) that bring in the affection. She's a classic I'll-get-my-way-no-matter-what girl but it's the kind that let's you like her more because she is so only if she firmly believes getting her way is best for all.

I think, she is the best sister and potential sister-in-law that Edward and Bella, respectively, could have. She welcomed Bella like a true friend and sister, and stood by the lovers in their many times of need. I particularly loved the way she connived with Edward to keep Bella from coming to La Push at the height of the Bella-Jacob story, the fact that she took care of Bella when the latter was recovering from James' attack, and her frustration at Bella's fashion style.

Now that I think of it, though, I cannot recall if Alice's story - past - has been sufficiently told in the books. Ah, I would have to re-read. =)

Tweaks and Turns

Well, it was good while it lasted. I was charmed with the original template this blog lived on and so, I no longer tweaked it as I normally would.

But somehow, the 'infatuation' slowly faded. That - and some free time - gave me the opportunity to bring Keira in.

Yep, that's Keira Knightley in the background of the blog, pensive atop a rock (it's a very steep cliff actually but the height cannot be seen). It's a scene in Pride and Prejudice, which she so brilliantly starred. I so love the pic, it has long been my old blog's background. I so love it still, that it's going to be this blog's too. =)

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Thanks much GRSites for the background clouds.

Unwritten

Sometimes, lyrics do really get to me. A word, a phrase, the message --- they make a song talk to me...make me feel like I own it because it's my story, my emotions, my thoughts that the song actually speaks of.

Natasha Bedingfield's "Unwritten" is one of those lyrics.

Unwritten

Natasha Bedingfield

I am unwritten

Can't read my mind

I'm undefined

I'm just beginning

The pen's in my hand

Ending unplanned

Staring at the blank page before you

Open up the dirty window

Let the sun illuminate the words

That you could not find

Reaching for something in the distance

So close you can almost taste it

Release your inhibitions

Feel the rain on your skin

No one else can feel it for you

Only you can let it in

No one else, no one else

Can speak the words on your lips

Drench yourself in words unspoken

Live your life with arms wide open

Today is where your book begins

The rest is still unwritten

I break tradition

Sometimes my tries

Are outside the lines

We've been conditioned

To not make mistakes

But I can't live that way

Unwritten. I love the word...the freedom it promises. My future (blank page) is up to me (pen's in my hand)! Isn't that great to know? Isn't that wonderful to sing about? :)

And yes, I shouldn't let anyone live my life for me, because only I can truly feel the rain on my skin, speak the words on my lips. Literally, who else can?

The self-affirmation in the song is enough to raise a weary spirit and put one in a good mood. The empowerment is so strong, it can make one think that nothing - nothing - is impossible. =)

4-0

I've proven today that the keys to success are a shameless face and resilience to constant embarrassments. ;) And if that success is one that is shared with somebody else, teamwork plays a crucial role.

I played badminton only occasionally in the past, but for lack of other more enjoyable alternatives, I took the game a little more seriously in recent months to help lose the piling weight. I ended up signed to a badminton tournament (doubles) and thus, the necessity to play against other badminton club players for practice.

"Practice" sounds good, except that the club mostly has veteran players...people who have been playing even before badminton became as popular as it is now. In years, that equates to about a decade of regular play.

And that disparity in experience (10+ years to mine's months) shows. The club's practice system is designed in such a way that players are on a queue and so, we don't really get to choose our opponents. Most of the time, my opponents are the vets.

Having experts to play with is primarily good for me because that just means that I will learn from the best. However, playing with the best also means that I stuck out as the sore thumb (I spoil a good rally), I made otherwise unnessary errors (I miss hitting an easy ball), and I deprived the vets with a challenging game.

This is not to say that the vets were not gracious enough to invite me to play despite knowing how little I spice up a game. Some even encouraged me to play more since I supposedly had 'potential' (ehem). =) Others who I get to partner with were even heroic enough to cover the rest of the court that I sadly couldn't reach.

Still, the fact remains: I played relatively bad. If that's not embarrassing enough, I would have to add to my conscience the additional fact that I may also have been making the games of other club members bad. These facts regardless, I continued to play, and play, and play.

The pay-off?

A 4-0 tournament result, in our favor! Yep, that's winning all four of our games and us (me and my partner) becoming "champions" in our bracket. Cheers! =)

And speaking of 'partner'. An important element of our sweep was our amazing teamwork. Let me tell how it worked:

• my partner did most of the smashes (kills) while I made sure to keep my service errors to a minimum =)
• my partner kept herself busy with returning the ball while I applauded everytime she scored =) =)
• my partner ran the courts while I stayed out of her way because she had a better chance of hitting the ball =) =) =)

Amazing, eh? LOL.

The Problem

The problem with being teased to the max (see preceding post) is it changes your normal way of living.

As a rule, I don't buy hardbound books. I believe that if I had patience, I could save myself half the price for something that will have the same content regardless of the cover. And so, I usually end up getting myself the paperback.

But --- not this time.

Breaking Dawn has to complete the set. And so, it did:

Teased to the Max!

It's out. Yep, Twilight's final trailer has debuted and it is killing me. I am dying to watch the movie.

Go to MySpace Trailer Park for a wider screen experience. Fantastic!

Tina in Action

I didn't expect to post as early as now but it only took one look at this vid and I knew I just had to put it in this blog.

Remember "Woman of Substance: Tina Fey"? Here she is in action, as Sarah Palin (Amy Poehler as Katie Couric also does a very good job):

Ah, it's good to have a good laugh this early in the day. :)

Apologies for the extra stuff on the embedded vid. It's the price I have to pay for going after NBC's original vid (best quality) over a YouTube vid.

12 Moves

I didn't even know that I've already nailed it. I knew I had the upperhand, yes, because my pieces were set to conquer and I was better positioned. But, although I had the opportunity to end the opposing queen's life, I didn't think the battle would end so soon.

And so, I opened my Schemingmind account today, expecting to see the usual list of games I played. The table looked different.

(click image to enlarge)

It turned out, I have already won one game! =) My first ever completed game in the site is a win! Yipeeeeee!!! The pleasant surprise made me smile like crazy. =)

It wasn't a forced mate (my target result), but after having no choice but to surrender his Queen to my Rook (12th move), my opponent (a very good sport) resigned, leaving this farewell comment: "Good catch"

Ahhhh, lovin' it! =)

The Taylor Chronicles: Cover

Middle of the Road

At the end of a day that definitely made history for the unprecedented upheaval in global financial markets, what good thing.....what "great find" is there to write about?

Then I remembered this photo from fellow blogger Julia's blog and I knew it's the one:

The first time I laid eyes on it, my affection was captured right away. For one, I love photos of roads, especially those that are seemingly 'less travelled by'. For two, having that girl sit that way in the middle of the road is quite artistic, photography-wise. And for three, I realized that at some points in my life, that photo represents me.

But then, I look at the world today, and I feel like it's not only me that the photo describes so well. I bet global investors right now are as forlorn as that girl is, considering all that happened, and still happening.

Good thing for me, it just takes a look at that photo to wash me over with some calm and hope. But global investors, hmmm..... CNBC just reported that they're still on panic mode.

Photo credit: Rachel Whiting

Perfect Bike

I so loved this bike.

I walked into that bicycle rental store at a street corner just outside Stanley Park, extremely excited at the thought of exploring Vancouver by biking through its biggest park and bike-friendly streets. Leisure biking is not something you can really do in the Phils, considering how the streets are and so, the prospective experience filled my head with the word "adventure".

A cutie attendant approached me and asked which type of bike I wanted. I had no idea. All I thought about prior to that question was renting a bike, but no particular model was in mind. I scanned through the rows of bikes on display and pointed to one which I thought I could handle. Basically, I had only two criteria for the choice: the height that would allow my feet to hit the ground without having to unseat, and a brake.

I barely caught the attendant's reaction but I had a feeling he grinned a bit and was quite amused. I think I must have initially picked a kiddie bike. LOL.

The attendant offered alternatives, which I was happy to accept. He led me ultimately to the one in the above photo which looked quite scary at first. I thought it was too big/high for me. But the attendant, cool as he was, merely smiled and assured me that the bike would be perfect for me. The seat could be adjusted to my satisfaction.

The moment I first sat on the bike, I strangely felt like I belonged. Or rather, that the bike belonged to me. I loved it more when the attendant added that front basket, which took care of the bag I then had with me. The bike was perfect.

And so, head gear and a happily-beating heart later, I courageously crossed a Vancouver street and headed straight to Stanley Park.

The park had a bike trail which covered its entire perimeter. I biked the entire length, and I loved every moment of it. The views on both my sides were fantastic (mountains on the left, the inlet on the right), the bike trail offered challenges (the curves, the elevation) and the weather cooperated. I even passed a lighthouse along the way!

It was a little sad to have to finally return the bike a couple of hours later (it was getting late and the store was closing). But though the tour was over, the memories remained and will always be looked back with the greatest fondness. :)

Countdown to Twilight

With all the mess of the financial troubles in the US, you would think the future looks so bleak, there's not much to long for anymore, especially with any other stuff that comes out of that country.

But then, there's this and all you think is how far November is and why doesn't it come sooner:

Uh well, at least they've moved the release date from December to November. Further, we'll be able to watch it ahead of most countries because it'll be here November 20th, a day earlier than the US premiere. Ah, we're still lucky. I am. =)

Anjali Rao

I don't exactly know why but whenever Anjali Rao fronts a CNN segment, I tend to stick to the channel much more than I usually would. Sometimes, whenever I feel discouraged, frustrated or simply down, and I chance upon her show, I get a sudden surge of inspiration. The kind that makes you feel anything is possible, so feeling directionless is a waste of energy.

I think, the charm must be the idea that to me, she has broken barriers career-wise. I don't really know how CNN works behind the scenes but I think it's amazing for her to get the job she has considering that not many women (especially Asian women) get the same kind of spotlight in news programs and international TV. Her feat of being a top-notch CNN anchor is testimony to the heights women can reach in any field.

Apart from her achievement, I like Anjali herself for the amazing confidence and obvious intelligence. When she talks, you just got to listen and believe. Ah, when knowledge and confidence mix, you get a true talent.

Cheers for Anjali. =)

Scheming Mind

Heavens, I missed chess. Much.

I have been itching to play one for quite some time now, so I know I must be missing the game, but only after I've started playing did I realize how much I missed it. Playing again feels like coming home --- familiar, memory-filled (ah, the thrills of those old plays) and wonderfully exciting. :)

I have to thank fellow blogger Toguints for leading me to this jewel of a site: SchemingMind. I have to admit though, that I've been quite skeptical at first. SchemingMind is primarily a site for correspondence (not live) chess. Meaning, it would take time to finish a game because you and your opponent only make a move whenever you're online.

Surprisingly though, I found the set-up kinda cool and interesting, despite having to wait days to see the game through. For one, you get to play a number of games with different people at the same time. For two, the SchemingMind community is quite friendly! As a newbie, I randomly challenged a couple of nicks on the site, expecting a rebuff or an arrogant message but hey, ALL of them welcomed me nicely and took the game seriously. THAT is not an attitude you would usually get from chess sites (past experience, hehe).

Apart from its chess-related good points, I have grown quite fond of the site for two additional reasons: one, I love the site name ("scheming mind" = perfect name for a chess site) and two, I love that photo (logo) accompanying the site name. The people behind the site must be schemingly bright minds. :)

Midnight Companion

Ellen once again gifted my midnight with a couple of laughs.

"Ellen" (the show) airs, I think, at least thrice a day on 2nd Avenue. I am able to catch it, however, only at the 12:00 am slot, which is a good thing, considering that not many shows are good enough at this hour.

I love the show because Ellen (the host) exudes fun and laughter both as a host and apparently, as a person. Her opening monologue almost always delivers (casually said but funny, nevertheless) and her dance sessions are fun to watch because they never fail to bring the audience to their feet. The features she presents in the show are most often, if not always, positive --- an endearing photo, a heroic act, a talented artist, a cool prank (e.g., George Clooney Watch 08), a fun game, a cute kid, a generous surprise to the audience, etc.

Naturally, her staff must be credited for their initiative and hardwork. However, I bet Ellen is also actively working behind the scenes because she seems to have creative control over the show.

Ellen has recently become two things to me: music influence and quotable quotes. Some music artists she had featured have become my top favorites (e.g., Natasha Bedingfield) and her spiels are laden with witty, cool quotes.

Tonight, she made these quotes (context only, not exact words), which may be the only fun coming out of the US financial crisis so far:

1. "We've got big news. We've been bought by Citigroup." - Ellen, in view of the recent mergers/acquisitions in Wall Street. LOL. A new logo of the show combined with the Citigroup logo (the one with the red umbrella) was then shown. :)

2. Ellen: "This is really bad times, considering that the Lehman Brothers may be borrowing money from the Jonas Brothers". Hehehe.

The Sisterhood

I and my friend Ynnah agreed to watch "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2", with me thinking all along that I've watched the first one. After all, who would want to watch the second installment without first acquainting herself with the first?

And so, there I was, casually telling Ynnah as we were entering the cinema, that I honestly did not have any idea what the movie was about, except as a continuation of the first one. And then, it hit me. What the heck was the first one all about anyway?

Dang. Goodness, I had it mixed up! With the help of Ynnah's all-too-convincing confirmation, I realized that the first movie I had in my head was "The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood", a totally different movie (starring Ashley Judd)! LOL. Geez, I just turned a year older but my memory seems to have added much more. Hehe. =)

So, it turns out, I hadn't watched the first Traveling Pants movie. Ynnah's quick run-through of the gist of the first movie was a big help, still, it was up to Traveling Pants 2 to officially introduce me to the Sisterhood.

In a way, having missed the first movie was a two-edged sword. On the downside, there were aspects in the current movie I couldn't quite follow because they seem to have alluded to events in the first one. On the upside, I had no expectation, no bar from which to judge the current one.

Traveling Pants 2 is a well-crafted story of growing up, growing apart, moving on, and above all, deep-rooted, real friendship. The four friends were given unbelievably equal share of the limelight, as each had a story of her own to tell. The acting was good and the comedy actually earned the laughs it sought. Shots of the picturesque Santorini (Greece) were also a bonus, despite having been similarly shown in that Richard-KC starrer (For the First Time).

Traveling Pants 2 is not Oscar-material, but I doubt it ever meant to be. However, for friends and peeps looking for a light-hearted movie, Traveling Pants 2 is a great pick.

Pocketful of Sunshine

In the tradition of my affection for the music of singer-songwriters, Natasha Bedingfield's "Pocketful of Sunshine" is the latest addition to the fold.

I think I've heard of her songs somehow, but it was when she guested on "Ellen" that I got really interested in her music. Interested enough, that is, to eventually get my own copy of the CD she was promoting then. It was a buy that I haven't regretted yet.

Honestly, I can't seem to find the words to describe her sound, but I do know that I thoroughly enjoy it. My top favorites are the first cut "Put Your Arms Around Me", the title song "Pocketful of Sunshine" (it's genius to coin this endearing phrase), the duet with Sean Kingston (Love Like This) and the reflective (questioning?) "Soulmate". :)

Woman of Substance: Tina Fey

"I thank my parents for somehow raising me to have confidence that is disproportionate with my looks and abilities. Well done. That is what all parents should do."

- Tina Fey, Winner: 2008 Emmy for Outstanding Writer and Outstanding Actress, 30 Rock

What a way to thank your parents at a moment of tremendous success. Some awardees don't even bother to remember them. But Tina Fey remembered, and delivered the gratitude like a true winner - savvy, witty, cool.

Haven't really known her long. Happened to hear about her in a feature somewhere sometime ago but it was the much-awaited Sarah Palin impersonation at Saturday Night Live (SNL) that prompted me to finally google Tina Fey. Her bio is pretty impressive. Who wouldn't take a bow at the first woman to become SNL's headwriter? Who went on to create her own show, write for it and star in it?

Fey truly has it. Looks. Smarts. Wit. Talent.

Geez, some people have all the good stuff. And some, like Fey, deserve every bit. ;)

Eclipse

Got this hardbound gem from Ynnah for a birthday present:

Cool, eh? Ah, there is no escaping the Twilight saga.

I was totally unaware of the books until I chanced upon this weird picture of an extremely pale, seemingly-dangerous, good-looking teener with the especially notable eyes and hair, in another friend's Facebook. I had to ask who he was, what the picture was about and why she was raving about it much. That's when I came to know about Edward.

The first book, "Twilight", was indeed a good read. I couldn't put it down. The thrill of the book for me, is not really the love story (I think Bella sometimes really gets way ahead of what it means to be 'devoted') but the anticipation of what's going to happen next. The book's basic story may be nothing new but unlike other books where you more or less know what's ahead, Twilight abounds with possibilities.

Then came "New Moon" which further made me think Bella is taking her relationship with Edward to unreasonable levels. Still, the book got me hooked. =)

And now, the third installment: Eclipse. Ah, I wonder what awaits.

Thanks, Ynnah.

Batman Begins

It was a good beginning. Loved the kid batman (batboy?), Christian Bale and the flying battie effects. When batman spread those wings, they came out so naturally.

Didn't like Katie Holmes playing the DA though. Her supposed affair with you-know-who (Tom Cruise!) unfavorably clouded my appreciative nerves. The moment her face showed up, I kept thinking how this supposed no-nonsense, woman-of-substance, crusader-in-her-own-right District Attorney could be the 20-something girl involved in a 'flaunted' romance with a 40-something guy. Ah, bad publicity is not always good.

Going back to BB (Batman Begins). Certain fight scenes got me confused. They were performed too fast. I had a hard time following who was hurting who.

Overall though, I think the movie was worth the more than 1 hour I had to line up to watch the premiere.

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Lifted from my old blog dated 14th June 2005.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith

The film was very entertaining. All this time of waiting was worth every sec.

Foremost, of course, was the fact that two pretty faces graced the theater screen almost all throughout the movie. Yep, Brad and Jolie carried the film all by themselves. The support cast rarely showed up. The wonder was, we (I and my friends) didn't mind at all. We kinda liked it that way. *grins*

Now that the obvious has been officially laid down, let's get down to business.

This movie rocks because the plot is something relatively new, the actors are credible, comic attempts hit home, scenes were creatively made (that dinner dance, wow), the makers left no dragging moment, and the script did not screw things up.

I loved the way the writers differentiated Mr. Smith's (Brad) reaction from that of Mrs. Smith (Jolie) when they discovered the other's true identity. They were typical reactions of a man and a woman. Genius.

All in all, I think this film is a must. My fear that it wouldn't measure up to my expectation was crap.

I think I'm gonna watch it again this weekend.

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Lifted from my old blog dated 8th June 2005.

Eternal Sunshine

Ten minutes into the movie, my friend squirmed in her seat, complained and 'tried' (I didn't let her) to blame me for choosing the movie over Garfield. But by the time we were exiting the theater, she humbly admitted that she was going to watch the movie again.

Yep, that's Eternal Sunshine in a nutshell.

The first part would really mess up your understanding, logic and patience. The sequence of events was presented in a such a way that you ask questions almost all the time. But that's one of the charms of this movie: it makes you think (ala Matrix, hehe).

Eternal is original, well-acted, and smart. *thumbs up*

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Lifted from my old blog dated 11 August 2004.

You Complete Me

Is it possible to love ALL the songs of ONE artist's ENTIRE album? Trust me, it is. I have proof of it: Michelle Branch's Spirit Room.

<<If Only She Knew. I'd Rather Be In Love.Goodbye To You. Drop In The Ocean.Second Chances>>>

Maybe it's the impression that she's a true, talented artist that made me appreciate her songs. After all, it's not often that you get to meet singers who are also songwriters who are also guitar players. Somehow, there's the trust that she isn't fooling me with just tricky packaging and brilliant marketing.

Or maybe it's the songs themselves that are the real culprit - the lyrics, melody, interpretation.

Whatever the reasons, one thing is sure: Spirit Room puts me in high spirits.

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Lifted from my old blog dated 16th July 2004.