Was out last night with Mommy Dea, Mitch, and Boss Lai for a night of coffee, music, vodka, and zombie at Aruba in Metrowalk. Two bands performed, both with guys in different gradations of hotness in lead vocals.
The first band had a repertoire of mostly ballads and love songs. I requested they do a cover of Right Next to Me by Whistle, but to my dismay they never did get to sing it. Mommy Dea was in a perpetual state of disappointment song after song, and she kept on "accidentally" dropping forks and spoons on the floor to illustrate her dissatisfaction with the vocals. Add to that, the guy had a strange way of moving his body while singing; each second we were almost always sure he was going to throw his clothes off and dirty dance right then and there, while singing Careless Whisper. The girls were sniggering endlessly, and I couldn't stop from biting my knuckles just to keep myself from running to the stage and ripping his clothes off myself.
The second group, on the other hand, performed worlds better. We all enjoyed their rendition of Maroon 5's Makes Me Wonder, A-Ha's Take on Me, and Culture Club's Karma Chameleon. Eric Clapton's Change the World usually doesn't make my booty shake, but their version was so good, especially towards the last part when the lead guy was improvising like crazy and hit a high note with a smooth flourish. But out of all the songs they performed, 99 Red Balloons takes the cake. I loved it a lot! The lead guy looked intense in his orange shirt and shades thrashing around the stage, and the drummer was über sexy beating on the skins.
By the time the first group started their second set however, we all decided to call it a night. Boss Lai drove off back to Eastwood, Mommy Dea and Mitch hailed a cab to Pasig, and I walked towards EDSA to wait for a bus to Makati. The midnight air was cool and damp on my cheek as I was skip-hopping through the quiet streets of Ortigas Center. Another weekend is starting, and a little ball of happiness is swelling in my throat. I let out a chuckle and bit my lip, as I began to hum the first few bars of 99 Red Balloons...
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Belonging to 1% of the Entire Population
Nicked from Froggy. Text below taken from my profile page. Discovering I'm part of just 1% of all the people in the world is quite lonely. Charing. Hehehehe. Good thing we have fellow INFJers Nicole Kidman, Oprah Winfrey, and Piers Anthony in our team. :-)
"INFJs, making up an estimated 1% of all people, are the most rare type (males even more so). They are introspective, caring, sensitive, gentle and complex people that strive for peace and derive satisfaction from helping others. INFJs are highly intuitive, empathetic and dedicated listeners. These traits tend to act as a 'tell me what's wrong' sign on their forehead, hence the nicknames Confidant, Counselor or Empath. INFJs are intensely private and deeply committed to their beliefs."
"INFJs, making up an estimated 1% of all people, are the most rare type (males even more so). They are introspective, caring, sensitive, gentle and complex people that strive for peace and derive satisfaction from helping others. INFJs are highly intuitive, empathetic and dedicated listeners. These traits tend to act as a 'tell me what's wrong' sign on their forehead, hence the nicknames Confidant, Counselor or Empath. INFJs are intensely private and deeply committed to their beliefs."
Monday, July 23, 2007
I Was Dumped!
... for a guy who has a car and a smooth, tight, hard body! The brilliance that is me was thrown aside for fluff! I'll never live it down.
Actually, this happened several days ago but it's only begun to sink in now. Yeah. After over a month of dating, Doc Eddie finally said he's seeing someone else. My initial reaction was, "OK, sure, whatever. We're just dating and having fun anyway. Thanks for the orgasm." And then I went on with my life. But right now, being idle for the first time in days, it's really beginning to sink in. I was dumped.
It shouldn't be surprising at all, considering my track record for getting rejected is quite phenomenal. By all rights, I should already be a ninja master of the stuff. Separating the physical motions from the emotional anguish such acts may cause is an art which no longer requires an extremely high amount of mental fortitude from me.
But... it does. And everytime it happens, the pain is brand spankin' new.
Actually, this happened several days ago but it's only begun to sink in now. Yeah. After over a month of dating, Doc Eddie finally said he's seeing someone else. My initial reaction was, "OK, sure, whatever. We're just dating and having fun anyway. Thanks for the orgasm." And then I went on with my life. But right now, being idle for the first time in days, it's really beginning to sink in. I was dumped.
It shouldn't be surprising at all, considering my track record for getting rejected is quite phenomenal. By all rights, I should already be a ninja master of the stuff. Separating the physical motions from the emotional anguish such acts may cause is an art which no longer requires an extremely high amount of mental fortitude from me.
But... it does. And everytime it happens, the pain is brand spankin' new.
Friday, July 20, 2007
The Tenacity of Feeling
luego de tu adiós sentí todo mi dolor
sola y llorando,
llorando
no es fácil de entender
que al verte otra vez
yo seguiré llorando
(Rebekah Del Rio, Llorando)
I think I saw you in a dream. It was this afternoon, when I told myself I was only going to rest my eyes until our system's back up. I reclined my seat and leaned my head against the cubicle wall. Gathering the warm folds of my sweater about my form, I barely noticed my mind slipping into the narrow path of unconsciousness.
I’d been walking, thoughtlessly, when I heard a Hi from somewhere beside me. Not a cheery one -- not something that would have been followed with, I’m happy to see you. It was a rather flat Hi. More an acknowledgment of my presence than anything else. You’re here.
We couldn’t stay in one place, you and I. Or, to be more precise, the place was constantly changing. Whether we were the ones moving, or the place was shifting from under our feet didn’t matter.
You were talking; I was listening, occasionally responding. About what, I couldn’t hear. You were talking the way people talk in dreams -- echoes of ideas shaped into sounds. Ghostly and unreal. Unless I close my eyes and let the words form themselves into letters discernible before me, it would have been just another dream. How are you? I’ve been doing fine since we’ve met last. I hope we could hang out without having something pressing down on us. I’m seeing someone now. I’d like to meet you one of these days, but you know how it is when you’re in a relationship.
It was strange, because all the while, my eyes were never open and I could see you bright as day. Your words were marching into my vision, crowding behind you, and you were smiling. I’ll be seeing you around. The glow seemed to nova when you smiled. I couldn’t look away. I heard my voice say something, but you were already gone.
All at once I heard someone say, "System's back up." From where I was, it sounded like someone shouted it from the entrance of a cave. I mouthed the words back to myself. It was only a dream, I breathed. As immaterial as smoke. As cold as death.
Stretching my legs and rubbing the weariness from my eyes, I fired up my workstation and let the monitor flicker back to life. Once again, words marched before my eyes. Black on white. Dark on light. Beautiful, beautiful words.
You do not know this right now, and I am not about to tell you -- but I miss you. In terrible, violent, silent ways.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Kittens Need A Home
The Bunnies need a home for their kitties! Photos and text describing the little babies below, taken from Hono'o-chan's bloggie. :-)
The time has come to put our babies up for adoption. Even though Fire and I love them to bits, we can't keep them. We can only hope to find them the best homes possible.
Please help us match our beloved pets with people who need some cat loving in their lives by passing this message and the links therein among your friends and acquaintances. Thank you very much for your time.
Anyone wanting to see the kittens with their parents, or would want a kitten can contact me at 0917-8166762 or Fire at 0917-8324875. You can also either leave a message here, or email me at dark.beloved at gmail dot com.
BOOTS
male, black and white with moustache and white paws
Boots is a sweetheart. If there was one kitten I’d like to keep for myself, it would be him. He was the first one to learn to cuddle, and he’s very quiet – unless he’s hungry and you have food. He’s what we call a flexi-kitten, a kitten who can be picked up and flopped around because he trusts humans so much. I’ve actually dropped and caught him once, and he didn’t even so much as complain. He’s got quite an appetite and is the largest among the babies, even though he’s only the fourth-born. Boots would fit best with someone who’ll let him climb on their lap and cuddle at least once a day.
COOKIE
male, orange/white tabby
Cookie has a tendency to be a little shy. Good for a home with many high hiding places. An exceptional explorer, we’ve found him trying to catch roaches with his parents, navigating the china cabinet, and tucked I the sofa folds (thank goodness we avoided sitting on him). Somehow he manages to get up on the bed beside us every single night to snuggle on Fire’s hot-water compress – a habit which really doesn’t benefit Fire’s cold.
MOKI
male, orange/white tabby
Moki is into everyone and everything all the time. I don’t even know if he sleeps – the pictures of twins are usually of Cookie and Oishi. I’ve found him in the oddest places – on the second shelf of my scrapbooking cabinet, under said shelf (he had to crawl on his belly to get there and we had to dismantle the shelf to get him), and inside my shoulder bag (my bad). He’s also the only kitten who didn’t inherit his dad’s stubby, crooked tail and instead flaunts a long, expressive one he inherited from his mom.
OISHI
female, orange/white tabby
Oishi has a stubborn streak and requires a patient hand. Girly-girl through and through, you can’t spank her or she’ll ignore you for the whole day. The last one to be toilet-trained, she was the first one to acquaint herself with the shower. She followed her father in and it was hell keeping her out after she discovered water. A real daddy’s girl, she can always be found snuggled up to either Bobby (dad) or one of the other orange tabbies. We hope that Oishi will find herself in a multiple-cat household, as she seems to love company the most.
LILY
female, calico tabby
Lily’s very vocal. She joins her mom in her begging sessions once we return home from work, and is the very first kitten to learn to purr. She’s reasonably cuddly for a female, and gets into less mischief than the other kittens do. She’s not territorial either, and shares her space with cat and humans alike. She does have a fondness for her scratching post, however, and will insist on using it whenever she feels like it, no matter how many of her sibs are already playing on it.
SOCKS
male, gray/white tabby with white paws
Socks is the eldest of the kittens, as well as the most active. It was next to impossible to get a decent shot of him because he won’t sit still! He’s not a very cuddly kitten, though he will tolerate extended petting and picking up. He’s not very talkative either – even when there’s food to be had. He’d rather guilt you into giving him something by sitting at your feet and staring at you. If that doesn’t help, he’s not above climbing up your leg, regardless of what you’re wearing. Socks is the ultimate kitty for a bachelor or bachelorette – he keeps himself occupied, is minimal maintenance, but will be there when you need someone to hug or talk to who won’t talk back.
The time has come to put our babies up for adoption. Even though Fire and I love them to bits, we can't keep them. We can only hope to find them the best homes possible.
Please help us match our beloved pets with people who need some cat loving in their lives by passing this message and the links therein among your friends and acquaintances. Thank you very much for your time.
Anyone wanting to see the kittens with their parents, or would want a kitten can contact me at 0917-8166762 or Fire at 0917-8324875. You can also either leave a message here, or email me at dark.beloved at gmail dot com.
BOOTS
male, black and white with moustache and white paws
Boots is a sweetheart. If there was one kitten I’d like to keep for myself, it would be him. He was the first one to learn to cuddle, and he’s very quiet – unless he’s hungry and you have food. He’s what we call a flexi-kitten, a kitten who can be picked up and flopped around because he trusts humans so much. I’ve actually dropped and caught him once, and he didn’t even so much as complain. He’s got quite an appetite and is the largest among the babies, even though he’s only the fourth-born. Boots would fit best with someone who’ll let him climb on their lap and cuddle at least once a day.
COOKIE
male, orange/white tabby
Cookie has a tendency to be a little shy. Good for a home with many high hiding places. An exceptional explorer, we’ve found him trying to catch roaches with his parents, navigating the china cabinet, and tucked I the sofa folds (thank goodness we avoided sitting on him). Somehow he manages to get up on the bed beside us every single night to snuggle on Fire’s hot-water compress – a habit which really doesn’t benefit Fire’s cold.
MOKI
male, orange/white tabby
Moki is into everyone and everything all the time. I don’t even know if he sleeps – the pictures of twins are usually of Cookie and Oishi. I’ve found him in the oddest places – on the second shelf of my scrapbooking cabinet, under said shelf (he had to crawl on his belly to get there and we had to dismantle the shelf to get him), and inside my shoulder bag (my bad). He’s also the only kitten who didn’t inherit his dad’s stubby, crooked tail and instead flaunts a long, expressive one he inherited from his mom.
OISHI
female, orange/white tabby
Oishi has a stubborn streak and requires a patient hand. Girly-girl through and through, you can’t spank her or she’ll ignore you for the whole day. The last one to be toilet-trained, she was the first one to acquaint herself with the shower. She followed her father in and it was hell keeping her out after she discovered water. A real daddy’s girl, she can always be found snuggled up to either Bobby (dad) or one of the other orange tabbies. We hope that Oishi will find herself in a multiple-cat household, as she seems to love company the most.
LILY
female, calico tabby
Lily’s very vocal. She joins her mom in her begging sessions once we return home from work, and is the very first kitten to learn to purr. She’s reasonably cuddly for a female, and gets into less mischief than the other kittens do. She’s not territorial either, and shares her space with cat and humans alike. She does have a fondness for her scratching post, however, and will insist on using it whenever she feels like it, no matter how many of her sibs are already playing on it.
SOCKS
male, gray/white tabby with white paws
Socks is the eldest of the kittens, as well as the most active. It was next to impossible to get a decent shot of him because he won’t sit still! He’s not a very cuddly kitten, though he will tolerate extended petting and picking up. He’s not very talkative either – even when there’s food to be had. He’d rather guilt you into giving him something by sitting at your feet and staring at you. If that doesn’t help, he’s not above climbing up your leg, regardless of what you’re wearing. Socks is the ultimate kitty for a bachelor or bachelorette – he keeps himself occupied, is minimal maintenance, but will be there when you need someone to hug or talk to who won’t talk back.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Almost Like Being Drugged
The entire weekend felt like I was being drugged. From Saturday night up until this minute, the world has gone from sane to noisy then mad then nauseous then finally, blissful -- the kind after expelling a good vomit, to be more precise. Not to say I had a bad weekend; I loved it, as a matter of fact, despite the little blunders littering its borders.
Saturday night, I was out with a couple of friends on a drinking binge in Malate. This should have been a longer story, and honestly, I have been thinking how to translate it into a journal entry since getting home Sunday morning, but I realize now it shouldn't be a big deal at all anymore. Especially when everyone involved has moved on, and no permanent scarring has been done. Hopefully.
The moral of the story is this: Stay away from someone else's boyfriend, especially if you do not know how emotionally fragile the person can be. Listen to what his friend says, because he knows better. At least, better than your horny, drunk self at the time.
Ahem.
Anyway, they're both friends of mine, and I neither think any less nor any different of them. I am more or less familiar with what both are capable of and I'm sure they can handle this quite maturely -- although one requires more help than the other. One minor thing that concerns me, I hope the boyfriend doesn't find out. I haven't heard any updates yet, so I'm holding my breath until I hear from my friend.
Sunday, nothing much happened. I was hoping to watch Harry Potter with Eddie, or at least spend some alone time with him, but he had other plans. Which got me to asking -- why is it that even if I'm dating someone, I'm not actually seeing them? I'm not hung up on it or anything, it's just that I can't help noticing how much the powers that be do not want me sensing even the remotest possibility of being in a relationship.
Again, no hang-ups. I'm abso-fucking-lutely fine being single. I wouldn't even have asked if it weren't so obvious. Maybe I'm just saying the cosmos could try to be a little more subtle for a change. If they want me alone, they don't have to slap me on the face and kick me around like some beaten up ball or something. I'm not your run-of-the-mill random insensitive male pig. I'm gay, for fuck's sake. I can take a hint.
Sigh. Well. No matter. This shouldn't really be about being in a relationship, is it? It should be more about being with the person. And yes, I do like Eddie, and I think he's worth waiting for. I do understand his situation, being a Med student and all, but is what I have enough to sustain me until I can be brave enough to ask him for us to be together? I desperately want the answer to be, Yes, I can wait. I have enough. But the fact is, it's too young, whatever it is we have. And with the way things are going, it's slow to grow. Any move I make to a further direction will be premature and might end up wounding one or both of us.
So OK, I will wait. My life had always been One Long Waiting Shed anyway. What's a few days/weeks/months/years/who-knows-how-long more?
And finally, today, Monday, was one big slice of blueberry cheesecake -- sweet and slow and easy and definitely comforting. The day started off 11:00 AM, with me heading off to the printers to have the banner I made for our team printed. I told the people at the shop I'd be picking it up 6:00 PM. It should give me enough time to do whatever.
That done, I headed off to Coffee Bean in Greenbelt to finally start reading Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman. One thing I like about reading Murakami is his ability to meld me in the worlds he write about without much mental effort. Simply reading his words and the outside world is shut off from my mind. Inhale, exhale, and I'm back. It's surreal, and it's a welcome respite even if the worlds he brings me to are oft times strange.
At about 2:00 PM, I had to rest my eyes and thought about where I should be having lunch. I wanted pasta so I thought about heading over to Piadina at the older Greenbelt mall, but a spark of wanderlust flickered in my heart and I suddenly wanted to go somewhere else, preferably somewhere outside Makati. That was when TriNoma popped in my head. After all, the MRT bridgeway should already be fully functional by then.
So it was after thiry or so minutes, I found myself walking around the large mall up north, on a quest for pasta. One could only imagine my disappointment when, after scouring every nook and cranny of the behemoth, I did not find a pasta place that called out to me. I, however, did not let it deter my plans. I was determined to have pasta that afternoon, and by golly, I will.
I boarded the train once again and headed back to Makati. It was when I was about to approach Greenbelt that I saw Xochi up the steps near the entrance waving hi. I was so glad to see him again since we rarely get to bump into each other. The last time I saw him was when I watched Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah, but before that, I couldn't even remember. It must have been years.
He asked me where I was headed, and I told him I was on my way to have a very late lunch. He said he didn't have anything else to do until dinnertime and he'd be glad for the company. So we both headed over to Piadina and talked about what's been happening with our lives.
We've known each other since the original PinoyExchange thread started by Carl circa 2001 was young, and the members were just beginning to trickle in. I can even remember how I had a sort of highschool crush on him the first time we met at one of our group's get-togethers. It makes me happy that we're able to sit down and look back and talk about what's happened then, now, and almost everything in between easily and casually. Plus, the fact that he's still as smart and as good-looking as I remember him doesn't hurt either. Hehehe. He's seeing someone right now, tho. Oh well. :-P
At about 5:30 PM, I had to leave and pick up the banner over at the printers. We exchanged numbers and promised to see each other again soon, hopefully with our other common friends in tow. He joked about what it would be like, being in a gathering with past lovers and friends whom one hasn't talked with in a long time. It's not going to be one comfortable dinner, I can imagine.
By 6:00 PM I got the banner and headed straight home right after. I got online to check the screening schedule for Harry Potter, and after confirming the 9:05 PM slot, I went downstairs for dinner and to wash up. 8:00 PM I headed out back to Greenbelt, arriving just in time in the theaters to catch the previews.
The trailer for Stardust definitely got me excited. R still has my book, but I'm not sure if I want to ask for it back. Hehe. In any case, I hope the movie will be as, well, interesting as the book was told. It's not exactly a story for children, as I recall.
And speaking of stories not for children, Harry Potter is a fitting example. I've gotten mixed reviews before seeing the film, so I didn't expect much from it. After watching the movie, I think those who did not like it were the ones who read the book. Those who haven't probably appreciated the effort put in the movie more. Personally, I thought it was OK. Having read the book, of course I was a tad disappointed. But I thought, instead of seeing it as an adaptation, why not see it as a supplement instead? Read the book, and let the film be the visuals. I felt much better about the movie afterwards.
I got home at about midnight, which was when I started writing this entry. It's 3:00 AM right now, and I'm alternating between downloading MP3s, reading my dailies online, and writing. Another week is beginning and already I'm missing what has passed. I wonder when I will have another weekend like this again. Ah, well. No rest for the wicked. :-)
Saturday night, I was out with a couple of friends on a drinking binge in Malate. This should have been a longer story, and honestly, I have been thinking how to translate it into a journal entry since getting home Sunday morning, but I realize now it shouldn't be a big deal at all anymore. Especially when everyone involved has moved on, and no permanent scarring has been done. Hopefully.
The moral of the story is this: Stay away from someone else's boyfriend, especially if you do not know how emotionally fragile the person can be. Listen to what his friend says, because he knows better. At least, better than your horny, drunk self at the time.
Ahem.
Anyway, they're both friends of mine, and I neither think any less nor any different of them. I am more or less familiar with what both are capable of and I'm sure they can handle this quite maturely -- although one requires more help than the other. One minor thing that concerns me, I hope the boyfriend doesn't find out. I haven't heard any updates yet, so I'm holding my breath until I hear from my friend.
Sunday, nothing much happened. I was hoping to watch Harry Potter with Eddie, or at least spend some alone time with him, but he had other plans. Which got me to asking -- why is it that even if I'm dating someone, I'm not actually seeing them? I'm not hung up on it or anything, it's just that I can't help noticing how much the powers that be do not want me sensing even the remotest possibility of being in a relationship.
Again, no hang-ups. I'm abso-fucking-lutely fine being single. I wouldn't even have asked if it weren't so obvious. Maybe I'm just saying the cosmos could try to be a little more subtle for a change. If they want me alone, they don't have to slap me on the face and kick me around like some beaten up ball or something. I'm not your run-of-the-mill random insensitive male pig. I'm gay, for fuck's sake. I can take a hint.
Sigh. Well. No matter. This shouldn't really be about being in a relationship, is it? It should be more about being with the person. And yes, I do like Eddie, and I think he's worth waiting for. I do understand his situation, being a Med student and all, but is what I have enough to sustain me until I can be brave enough to ask him for us to be together? I desperately want the answer to be, Yes, I can wait. I have enough. But the fact is, it's too young, whatever it is we have. And with the way things are going, it's slow to grow. Any move I make to a further direction will be premature and might end up wounding one or both of us.
So OK, I will wait. My life had always been One Long Waiting Shed anyway. What's a few days/weeks/months/years/who-knows-how-long more?
And finally, today, Monday, was one big slice of blueberry cheesecake -- sweet and slow and easy and definitely comforting. The day started off 11:00 AM, with me heading off to the printers to have the banner I made for our team printed. I told the people at the shop I'd be picking it up 6:00 PM. It should give me enough time to do whatever.
That done, I headed off to Coffee Bean in Greenbelt to finally start reading Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman. One thing I like about reading Murakami is his ability to meld me in the worlds he write about without much mental effort. Simply reading his words and the outside world is shut off from my mind. Inhale, exhale, and I'm back. It's surreal, and it's a welcome respite even if the worlds he brings me to are oft times strange.
At about 2:00 PM, I had to rest my eyes and thought about where I should be having lunch. I wanted pasta so I thought about heading over to Piadina at the older Greenbelt mall, but a spark of wanderlust flickered in my heart and I suddenly wanted to go somewhere else, preferably somewhere outside Makati. That was when TriNoma popped in my head. After all, the MRT bridgeway should already be fully functional by then.
So it was after thiry or so minutes, I found myself walking around the large mall up north, on a quest for pasta. One could only imagine my disappointment when, after scouring every nook and cranny of the behemoth, I did not find a pasta place that called out to me. I, however, did not let it deter my plans. I was determined to have pasta that afternoon, and by golly, I will.
I boarded the train once again and headed back to Makati. It was when I was about to approach Greenbelt that I saw Xochi up the steps near the entrance waving hi. I was so glad to see him again since we rarely get to bump into each other. The last time I saw him was when I watched Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah, but before that, I couldn't even remember. It must have been years.
He asked me where I was headed, and I told him I was on my way to have a very late lunch. He said he didn't have anything else to do until dinnertime and he'd be glad for the company. So we both headed over to Piadina and talked about what's been happening with our lives.
We've known each other since the original PinoyExchange thread started by Carl circa 2001 was young, and the members were just beginning to trickle in. I can even remember how I had a sort of highschool crush on him the first time we met at one of our group's get-togethers. It makes me happy that we're able to sit down and look back and talk about what's happened then, now, and almost everything in between easily and casually. Plus, the fact that he's still as smart and as good-looking as I remember him doesn't hurt either. Hehehe. He's seeing someone right now, tho. Oh well. :-P
At about 5:30 PM, I had to leave and pick up the banner over at the printers. We exchanged numbers and promised to see each other again soon, hopefully with our other common friends in tow. He joked about what it would be like, being in a gathering with past lovers and friends whom one hasn't talked with in a long time. It's not going to be one comfortable dinner, I can imagine.
By 6:00 PM I got the banner and headed straight home right after. I got online to check the screening schedule for Harry Potter, and after confirming the 9:05 PM slot, I went downstairs for dinner and to wash up. 8:00 PM I headed out back to Greenbelt, arriving just in time in the theaters to catch the previews.
The trailer for Stardust definitely got me excited. R still has my book, but I'm not sure if I want to ask for it back. Hehe. In any case, I hope the movie will be as, well, interesting as the book was told. It's not exactly a story for children, as I recall.
And speaking of stories not for children, Harry Potter is a fitting example. I've gotten mixed reviews before seeing the film, so I didn't expect much from it. After watching the movie, I think those who did not like it were the ones who read the book. Those who haven't probably appreciated the effort put in the movie more. Personally, I thought it was OK. Having read the book, of course I was a tad disappointed. But I thought, instead of seeing it as an adaptation, why not see it as a supplement instead? Read the book, and let the film be the visuals. I felt much better about the movie afterwards.
I got home at about midnight, which was when I started writing this entry. It's 3:00 AM right now, and I'm alternating between downloading MP3s, reading my dailies online, and writing. Another week is beginning and already I'm missing what has passed. I wonder when I will have another weekend like this again. Ah, well. No rest for the wicked. :-)
Friday, July 13, 2007
Last Night's Cheese
Why, why, whyyyyy did I have to drop by Bibliarch last night? I have been telling myself to save, save, SAVE, (like I have been telling myself to exercise, exercise, EXERCISE) and just when I think I have gotten control, something like seeing a cheaper edition of Haruki Murakami's Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman bites me in the ass and kills my already weakening willpower. Next thing I know, I'm at the counter, handing over my last several P100 bills, figuring out whether I should be happy or sad with my purchase. Talk about conflicting emotions.
Anyway, headed over to Glorietta Cinemas after buying the notoriously cheap book, where I was finally able to watch Transformers. One would have thought that the theater wouldn't be as packed, especially since Harry Potter: Order of the Phoenix began showing Wednesday, but I still had to consider myself lucky enough to get a free seat.
Never the less, the movie was very enjoyable. Sure, the riot of booms and crashes and metal scraping on metal were enough to instill a fear of machines in me, but it's all good. Optimus Prime is as I remember him, and as soon as I saw his tall and imposing blue-and-red self, I became at one with the Universe and enjoyed the movie a lot better than the first 30 minutes without him on-screen. I got home at around 11PM happier, but keeping to streets with less cars.
Anyway, headed over to Glorietta Cinemas after buying the notoriously cheap book, where I was finally able to watch Transformers. One would have thought that the theater wouldn't be as packed, especially since Harry Potter: Order of the Phoenix began showing Wednesday, but I still had to consider myself lucky enough to get a free seat.
Never the less, the movie was very enjoyable. Sure, the riot of booms and crashes and metal scraping on metal were enough to instill a fear of machines in me, but it's all good. Optimus Prime is as I remember him, and as soon as I saw his tall and imposing blue-and-red self, I became at one with the Universe and enjoyed the movie a lot better than the first 30 minutes without him on-screen. I got home at around 11PM happier, but keeping to streets with less cars.
Monday, July 09, 2007
Grave of the Fireflies
Watched the three-hour made-for-TV movie edition of Grave of the Fireflies this afternoon. Still a bit... unsettled even after taking a bath. I'd seen the animated version about a year or so ago, and it left something heavy in me which I had trouble moving on from; I'm afraid this one awakened the same dormant feeling from that moment as well.
I'm not sure if it's a movie I'd recommend, but if anyone would still like to watch it, make sure there is something fun planned afterwards. Just to temper the melancholy aftertaste.
If I may be excused, I need to go and cry in a corner now.
Friday, July 06, 2007
Tales from the Earthsea
Just finished watching Tales from the Earthsea. I must admit, it was miles and miles better than Howl's Moving Castle, although not as moving as Spirited Away or Princess Mononoke -- but it did come real close, considering it was Goro Miyazaki's first film, eldest son of Hayao Miyazaki. I loved the nostalgia it brought, filled with stuff children's fantasies are made of. It almost made me clap with glee whenever Ged/Sparrowhawk would use his magic, or when dragons suddenly swoop down from the sky and crash into the ocean.
The character I liked most in this one is Prince Arren, the tale's male lead along with Ged/Sparrowhawk. Prince Arren is definitely very reminiscent of Prince Ashitaka from Mononoke, and Haku from Spirited Away. All three have very somber and serious demeanours -- almost equating to a "dark side" -- but what makes Arren different is that his dark side shaped what was most of his character. Not wanting to spoil too much of the plot, but it was even a catalyst to the whole story. That doesn't make him less likeable than Ashitaka or Haku tho. While Ashitaka had the royal bearing of a prince and the battle light of a warrior, and Haku had the mysterious aura of a mythical river god, Arren on the other hand had the vulnerabilities of human emotion succumbing to fear and pain -- which he overcomes in the end, placing him on equal footing with the other two princes.
Also, I was pleasantly surprised that the Law of True Names was utilized in the story to illustrate how magic worked. I first encountered this concept when I played Neverwinter Nights: Hordes of the Underdark, and I thought it gave things of the arcane more depth and complexity. For a time, I even believed it was true. To name something, after all, was to gain power over it. Seeing it used in Earthsea tickled my senses into resuming my readings about it once again.
While I've read a lot of reviews online saying that the movie was not at all very faithful with the novels from where it was based, I'm still very happy I was able to watch it -- especially at a time when I rarely get to indulge my inner child. I'm sure the book was good -- and I'd love to read it one of these days -- but the film, on its own, was good too.
The character I liked most in this one is Prince Arren, the tale's male lead along with Ged/Sparrowhawk. Prince Arren is definitely very reminiscent of Prince Ashitaka from Mononoke, and Haku from Spirited Away. All three have very somber and serious demeanours -- almost equating to a "dark side" -- but what makes Arren different is that his dark side shaped what was most of his character. Not wanting to spoil too much of the plot, but it was even a catalyst to the whole story. That doesn't make him less likeable than Ashitaka or Haku tho. While Ashitaka had the royal bearing of a prince and the battle light of a warrior, and Haku had the mysterious aura of a mythical river god, Arren on the other hand had the vulnerabilities of human emotion succumbing to fear and pain -- which he overcomes in the end, placing him on equal footing with the other two princes.Also, I was pleasantly surprised that the Law of True Names was utilized in the story to illustrate how magic worked. I first encountered this concept when I played Neverwinter Nights: Hordes of the Underdark, and I thought it gave things of the arcane more depth and complexity. For a time, I even believed it was true. To name something, after all, was to gain power over it. Seeing it used in Earthsea tickled my senses into resuming my readings about it once again.
While I've read a lot of reviews online saying that the movie was not at all very faithful with the novels from where it was based, I'm still very happy I was able to watch it -- especially at a time when I rarely get to indulge my inner child. I'm sure the book was good -- and I'd love to read it one of these days -- but the film, on its own, was good too.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Slower Is Better
Got me some extra lovin' from Doc Eddie this afternoon when I picked him up from UST and handed him his surprise. Seeing him again after two Eddie-less weeks made me remember why I was dating a Med student in the first place. It's difficult, to be honest. And as a matter of fact, I was almost at my wit's end when he cancelled last Sunday, but I'm determined to make things work.
"Slower is better," Oprah said. I was never a fan -- although I do admire her work -- but the truth in the statement is undeniable, especially when it comes to men and dating. I've been in enough pseudo-relationships where either me or the other person jumped into the fire too quickly, thoughtlessly, that one or both of us unavoidably got burned. I'm a slow learner, so I'm glad this time I'm gradually getting a rein on my emotions.
"Slower is better," Oprah said. I was never a fan -- although I do admire her work -- but the truth in the statement is undeniable, especially when it comes to men and dating. I've been in enough pseudo-relationships where either me or the other person jumped into the fire too quickly, thoughtlessly, that one or both of us unavoidably got burned. I'm a slow learner, so I'm glad this time I'm gradually getting a rein on my emotions.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Ikaw Ang Super Hero Ng Buhay Ko
"Only two days hold the most significance within one's life: the day one is born; and the day one finds out why," read a text message from a friend. I have yet to cross paths with the second, but each year, the day of my birth never fails to remind my heart that no matter how cruel and scalding life can be, there will always be something beautiful, something powerful telling me to keep breathing -- just keep breathing.
Last Friday was fun, despite being tagged as The Day Of The Curious Incident Involving The Flush In The Male Washroom. My teammates gifted me with a shirt and blueberry cheesecake and lots and lots of Pancit Malabon! My boss even made a large jar of buko pandan salad! There was enough love around to eclipse the emotional fatigue caused by The Incident, and no scar was left visible in the four chambers of my heart.
Several people also called me up who, to be honest, I didn't think would remember it was my birthday, but they did and it made a world of difference to my day. Among them was Jeff, whom I haven't talked with in a long time, and was calling from Australia to wish me a happy birthday. R also called when I was having dinner with the team, and he wouldn't let me interrupt his singing.
And in the evening, despite my better judgment, I answered the summons of my Sutherland brothers and sisters for a night of booze and videoke at Cable Car in Pasay Road. There were Jimmy and Ken, Donnie and Gabby, and Czai who automatically became my date for the night. The festivities ended at about 4AM, when I knew I really had to go since I still had to prepare for work that day. We all parted reluctantly, but still brimming over with love and light and ears ringing of alcohol-induced videoke masterpieces. Life has always been one great party whenever I get together with this side of the family.
Saturday night was fabulous. I met up with Hono'o-chan and Fire for the 8PM showing of Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal in RCBC Plaza. It was a magical, amazing musical, adapted from an equally magical and amazing graphic novel. Watching it made me absolutely proud to be Filipino, and imbibed a much deeper pride in being gay. It affirmed my belief that yes, we are the next step in evolution. LOL!
The night was made even more special since I was able to see and exchange tight hugs with Kuya Carl again! I was surprised to see him present, since I thought he'd seen enough of the musical to last him several lifetimes, but he was there and I was thrilled to be able to see him again! And just when I asked Hono'o-chan if we'd see someone famous that night, Xochi came and greeted us! Being with Hono'-chan, Carl, and Xochi, there was enough wavelength to take me back during the Bohemian days of poetry reading, and dancing during Saturday Nights at the now-defunct La Dida in Malate. I wish I could get to hang out with them again.
But it doesn't end there! Sunday morning, Hono'o-chan and Fire picked me up 9AM from my place and from there, we drove to Tagaytay to have lunch in Sonya's Garden. The place was beautiful and the air was clean, and there were enough flowers to make me think fairies resided in the various nooks and crannies of the wide expanse of fragrant and green things.
We were supposed to go with Eddie, but he had to cancel at the last minute since he needed more time to catch up on his readings. I was a little irked at this sudden change but I more than made up for it by teasing him throughout the day. Hehehe.
The three of us headed back to Manila at around 3PM, and we arrived just in time in the Bunnies' place for dinner. Hono'o-chan cooked up a storm, and made wonderful stuffed peppers with cheese, and beef with asparagus. Fire's friend, Abby, made it in time to join us for dinner, and the four of us enjoyed Sunday night stuffing ourselves with food, good conversation, and reality TV. The night ended 10PM, and I got home 30 minutes after where I spent the rest of my waking evening talking with Eddie on the phone.
Now how do all of these relate to the title of this entry? Ikaw Ang Super Hero Ng Buhay Ko is the final song in Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal. To everyone I have spent my birthday with, to everyone who greeted me, and to all the souls who have made a difference in my life during my 25 years of existence in this sick, sad, eternally beautiful universe, Kayo Ang Super Hero Ng Buhay Ko. Maraming Salamat!
Last Friday was fun, despite being tagged as The Day Of The Curious Incident Involving The Flush In The Male Washroom. My teammates gifted me with a shirt and blueberry cheesecake and lots and lots of Pancit Malabon! My boss even made a large jar of buko pandan salad! There was enough love around to eclipse the emotional fatigue caused by The Incident, and no scar was left visible in the four chambers of my heart.
Several people also called me up who, to be honest, I didn't think would remember it was my birthday, but they did and it made a world of difference to my day. Among them was Jeff, whom I haven't talked with in a long time, and was calling from Australia to wish me a happy birthday. R also called when I was having dinner with the team, and he wouldn't let me interrupt his singing.
And in the evening, despite my better judgment, I answered the summons of my Sutherland brothers and sisters for a night of booze and videoke at Cable Car in Pasay Road. There were Jimmy and Ken, Donnie and Gabby, and Czai who automatically became my date for the night. The festivities ended at about 4AM, when I knew I really had to go since I still had to prepare for work that day. We all parted reluctantly, but still brimming over with love and light and ears ringing of alcohol-induced videoke masterpieces. Life has always been one great party whenever I get together with this side of the family.
Saturday night was fabulous. I met up with Hono'o-chan and Fire for the 8PM showing of Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal in RCBC Plaza. It was a magical, amazing musical, adapted from an equally magical and amazing graphic novel. Watching it made me absolutely proud to be Filipino, and imbibed a much deeper pride in being gay. It affirmed my belief that yes, we are the next step in evolution. LOL!
The night was made even more special since I was able to see and exchange tight hugs with Kuya Carl again! I was surprised to see him present, since I thought he'd seen enough of the musical to last him several lifetimes, but he was there and I was thrilled to be able to see him again! And just when I asked Hono'o-chan if we'd see someone famous that night, Xochi came and greeted us! Being with Hono'-chan, Carl, and Xochi, there was enough wavelength to take me back during the Bohemian days of poetry reading, and dancing during Saturday Nights at the now-defunct La Dida in Malate. I wish I could get to hang out with them again.
But it doesn't end there! Sunday morning, Hono'o-chan and Fire picked me up 9AM from my place and from there, we drove to Tagaytay to have lunch in Sonya's Garden. The place was beautiful and the air was clean, and there were enough flowers to make me think fairies resided in the various nooks and crannies of the wide expanse of fragrant and green things.
We were supposed to go with Eddie, but he had to cancel at the last minute since he needed more time to catch up on his readings. I was a little irked at this sudden change but I more than made up for it by teasing him throughout the day. Hehehe.
The three of us headed back to Manila at around 3PM, and we arrived just in time in the Bunnies' place for dinner. Hono'o-chan cooked up a storm, and made wonderful stuffed peppers with cheese, and beef with asparagus. Fire's friend, Abby, made it in time to join us for dinner, and the four of us enjoyed Sunday night stuffing ourselves with food, good conversation, and reality TV. The night ended 10PM, and I got home 30 minutes after where I spent the rest of my waking evening talking with Eddie on the phone.
Now how do all of these relate to the title of this entry? Ikaw Ang Super Hero Ng Buhay Ko is the final song in Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal. To everyone I have spent my birthday with, to everyone who greeted me, and to all the souls who have made a difference in my life during my 25 years of existence in this sick, sad, eternally beautiful universe, Kayo Ang Super Hero Ng Buhay Ko. Maraming Salamat!