say hello to the world Nopickup..

Oh these little hands used to create a lot.

2012-02-08T07:49:00.000-08:00

These past two days had been productive; got a chance to bring out my sewing machine from its box and do some work. I started with making some repairs to my clothes such as turning my oversized shirts into smaller ones. Hadn't finished all of them, but hopefully will do within this week, coz I wanted to start again with something creative.

Yesterday, I unearthed my box of memorabilia from friends and people during college years. Read a couple of letters, reminisced, laughed, and missed them. I have such good friends in college (and even back in elementary and high school), and now one by one, they have their own lives. It's scary how we'll slowly grow apart.

I missed writing letters and creating different craft thingamabobs for friends. I used to do that a lot since elementary up to second year college. What happened? The computer age boomed.

Now, I want to write sincere letters again for my friends, tell them how I really feel and am thankful for them. I also want to create craftsy fartsy things again that I can give away, that is why I want to finish repairing my clothes as soon as possible.

I will create something fantastic again. It's time to be the crafting little girl once more. Toodles! :)

Ilocos Day 2: Laoag + San Nicolas

2012-01-27T20:57:00.000-08:00

[Disclaimer:The usual insomnia attack. Excited for new adventures. Thus, reminiscing thepast craze. Second stop: Laoag + San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte.]

Sinking Bell Tower of Laoag

This will be the blabber for my second day of stayin Ilocos Norte, a tour on the first day of the month of August around some keyplaces in the city of Laoag and San Nicolas with my dear “good” friend again(and would be the last for he had to go back to Manila for school, and as beinga “good” friend to him in return, I’d been convincing him to cut classes.Haha.. I failed.)

I think my day started by eating horse meat again.Apparently, when my tita and tito received the news that I’d bestaying with them for vacation, they prepared three kilos of horse meat justfor me. They thought that I do not eat vegetables. I appreciated the fact thatthey took the time to consider my comfort with regards to food and loved that Iwas able to try eating horse meat, but to eat it everyday was a differentstory. Why do they have the notion thatkids from Manila do not eat vegetables? Oh dear, I am one of those rare citykids who actually ENJOY eating vegetables, absolutely.

If I remember it correctly, my rendezvous timewith Raymond was at around 10am in McDonalds. I had to ask my tito to give me a ride to the bayan since their place was a bit farfrom it, and yey, I got to pass by the view of rice fields again.

Our first destination was the Ilocos Norte Museum.On the way, Raymond had been pointing some key infrastructures, one of whichwas the sinking Bell Tower of Laoag. It indeed was going below the normal landpoint; Raymond showed me how the entrance had been slowly eaten up by theground. I guess, in a matter of years, the entrance would completely beswallowed up.

We arrived at the museum. Raymond, being crafty,managed a way for both of us to pay the student discounted price for theentrance ticket. We used our old student IDs back in fourth year, though theonly student left among the two of us was him.

The museum featured tools used for everydayhousehold and community life in Ilocos Norte, some of which had been obsolete,others still being used at the present. There’s also a section that narratedthe history of Ilocos. I enjoyed the house model inside; I got to see actualold model flat irons powered by hot coal; reminded me of the show Princess Sarah. There were also livebats inside.

This day was also allotted for FOOD TRIP. We tookour first meal at a pizza/pasta resto called C&E, and we ate pizza. Theyhad unique flavors; the usual ulam thatone pairs with rice was a pizza topping. Raymond brought me next to a miki house. As he was sharing on the wayhow good their miki was, I waspicturing the Ilocos miki to be likethe ones we eat in Laguna, the crispy fried yellow ones. Apparently, it was awhole lot different of miki. It looksmore like a lomi, but something that I’ddefinitely eat over a lomi. Trueenough, it did taste great.

Our next stop was the highest point in Laoag. Idon’t really know what to call the place, but on top was a couple of big steelstructures spelling out “L-A-O-A-G”. There was also sort of a sanctuary placeon top; the landscape was great, a few white stone tables and benches and awooden cross at the far end. The place was preserved for the ruin of the 28mcross built during the administration of Gov. Elizabeth Marcos-Keon tocommemorate the 400-year anniversary of the Christianization of Ilocos. Sadly,it was weakened by an earthquake in 1983 and had completely fallen by a typhoonon the next year.

On top, we could see the whole view of the cityand even the towering buildings from the next town, San Nicolas. After a while,it started raining. From that high point, we could clearly see the cloudspouring rain like a series of showers and running from San Nicolas towardsLaoag. The scene was amazing; I was in awe of seeing a scientific processperform itself before me at eye level. Eventually, the hard rain reached ourspot, and when I said hard rain, I meant, HARD rain. I got my chucks soakingwet, and it was the only day that I left my reserved pair of slippers. Why on earth did I leave them that day?O_O

We took a tricycle back to the bayan and munched on an empanada again. Theempanada in Laoag and in Vigan were pretty much the same but Raymond was proudto say that their empanada in Laoag tasted better. Oh well, I just had to eat.

The best Raymond shot XD

After the rain had stopped, we made our waytowards San Nicolas. We rode a jeepney going there and passed by the longbridge connecting the two towns. I asked for a key figure in the place andRaymond couldn’t think of one, except for a giant replica of a stone cookingpot situated in the middle of the road. Sabiniya “banga”. Sabi ko, “palayok”. Again, just like what used up most of ourenergy in Vigan, we made a series of jump shots in a park near the palayok figure. I love jump shots.Teehee. :)

Our last stop was Robinsons mall. Oh yeah. I couldn’ttake the feeling of having my feet imprisoned in my soaked wet purple chucks,so the typical me took it off and walked barefoot inside the mall. Raymond alsohad his own funny blooper. I think we went inside Penshoppe and he startedtrying out some outfits for his creative shot for his grad pictorial, and leftwithout buying.

It was time for us to part ways again. He had togo back to Manila that day in order to catch up on a test in school thefollowing day. Oh, a “good” boy. XD I had my tito fetch me, and he arrived at around 4pm; time for me to put mywet chucks on and bid goodbye to Raymond.

It was a great second day.

Ilocos Day 1: VIGAN

2012-01-26T18:43:00.000-08:00

[Disclaimer: Bored with work. Excited for new adventures.Thus, reminiscing the past craze. First stop: Vigan, Ilocos Sur.]

I had my first independent trip last July/August 2011, andmy then newbie excited feet first landed on some places in Ilocos. It wasoriginally a group trip with a couple of friends from work, but things do notalways turn out great, so it ended as a duo/solo adventure. I was fortunateenough to have a good friend in college, whose hometown is in Ilocos Norte, toaccompany me in my first two days of unplanned, non-strategical land hopping.

My “good” friend and I departed from Manila on a Saturdaynight, 30 July 2011, riding the 1030pm trip of Florida bus line bound for Laoag;yes, a completely pink bus with ornamentations of an even darker shade of pinkflowers (reminds me of the bus from the show Tara Jing Potpot starring IanVeneracion, Bentong, Paolo Contis, and Onyoc Velasco). [Tip: Going to Laoag,Ilocos Norte usually takes about 8 hours or more by bus. If you want to arrivetheir faster, try taking the Florida buses. It’ll only take you about 7 hoursof travel since it has minimized stopovers. It has a built-in CR inside sothere’s no need to worry if you couldn’t manage the call of nature anymore.Just a warning, my friend advised me that they have the coldest aircontemperature.]

Our first stop was Vigan, Ilocos Sur. We dropped off atBantay and took a tricycle towards the plaza of Vigan. The place was great,especially if you want to be refreshed with a scene of nostalgia. The place Ienjoyed the most was Calle Crisologo, a long street of old Hispanicarchitecture. Most of the souvenir shops were situated here; a number of kalesa would pass by from time to time;aside from the old houses, old artifacts also lined up the street to give lifeto the scene; and the road itself was astonishing. I could walk to and fro inthis street over and over again. This was also the area were we used up all ourenergy; making a series of jump shots sure made us catch our breath, but it wastotally fun. I enjoyed it a lot.

We took a kalesaride to tour the place, which costs Php150/hr; it took us two hours, so goodbyePhp300. At the center of the place, one will easily spot the St. PaulCathedral, featuring a white façade, and on the right is its belfry. In betweenthe cathedral and the Salcedo plaza is where the “terminal” of kalesa is situated.

Our first destination with our kalesa ride was an eatery. Raymond was so excited to have me try pinakbet, and in my mind I was totally wondering“Why?”. Isn’t pinakbet supposed to bea common food? And he argued that it was a specialty in Ilocos, even textedsome friends in Manila just to ask if it was indeed a common food. Of course,the result was that he failed. We all know pinakbet.Apparently, I discovered that pinakbetin Ilocos is different from the pinakbetof Tagalog (I still prefer the Tagalog’s).

After eating, our next stop was St. Augustine Church, whichhas a maroon façade, and on its far left is the famous Bell Tower. The view ofthe Bell Tower was awe-striking. I just wish I had a better camera and a bit ofphotography skills to capture its beauty, still, the actual thing would take yourbreath away rather than a photo. Too bad, we probably got their early so thecaretaker in charge of the bell tower was not present so we weren’t able toclimb inside. They said that usually, one could tour the inside of the tower.Oh how amazing the view from above could be.

Seeing these churches reminds me of some of my art historyclasses back in college (which by now I have completely forgotten). It makes mewant to study those architecture lessons again, so I could identify which type ofstructure and what era does this architectural figure fall under when I chanceupon them again.

We went further the interior of Vigan and took a peek at apottery and weaving place. We also took a visit in Baluarte, Chavit Singson’svery own zoo. Entrance to the place was free of charge and most of the animalswere on the loose, only a few were kept in cages, including the tiger, haha, soit’s great to see the animals do their natural act. What I just found odd aboutit was the gigantic replica of an Apatosaurus. Why? O_O

Before going back, I already took my time to buy a couple ofsouvenirs for my dear two sisters, cousin, and mom, who were left at home. Andyes, what could be more fun than collecting white shirts? Haha.. We alsochanced upon two kuya selling tinubong (rice cake inside a bamboostalk) and kalamay (brown rice cake pressedflat in plastic? LOL) and bought some as a souvenir for my tita, tito, and cousin inLaoag.

Riding a kalesawhile passing by a road in between rice fields and branching trees is more funif you have Raymond by your side, singing “A Pocket Full of Sunshine” byNatasha Bedingfield. XD

Our last agenda before continuing on to Laoag was to grab abite of Vigan empanada. It’s not the usual empanada found in Manila. Itconsists of egg, longganisa, and some vegetables, best paired with vinegar.

After filling our stomach, it was time to take a ride goingto Laoag. I hadn’t taken a sleep since Saturday morning. I was awake for morethan 24 hours already. Lacking sleeping skills sucks. Why does it not occurnaturally to someone? O_O

I think we arrived in Laoag at around 3pm already. Raymondand I made our separate ways for the day. I stayed at my tita’s place in Pila, Laoag, while he went home to theirs at SanNicolas, the next town. My tita’splace was a bit far from the bayan ofLaoag; it’s situated in between rice fields, which was kinda cool. That’s thescenery I’d like to see. Upon arriving, ah, dead tired, sleep, FINALLY! To endmy day, I woke up at night to eat horse meat. :)

That’s it, Vigan, Ilocos Sur for the first day. I stayed inIlocos Norte for five days but only toured on some places in the south. Will begoing back probably to hit the northern part of Ilocos Norte.

The next four days will be in a separate entry, I guess. Fornow, let’s smile at the sunshine. :)

Thank God for Tea Parties.

2011-12-11T19:36:00.001-08:00

JUN & KEI's TEA PARTY

12.11.11

First LFN 02.22.08

2011-12-07T17:25:00.001-08:00

My first LFN attire that got me the best dress for female award. Ahaha.. 02.22.08

CRAFT PROJECT: Best Dress pouch

2011-12-07T16:53:00.001-08:00

Aim for that Best Dress Award. Woot! (I remember that in my first LFN, I got the best dress for female award. That encouraged me a lot. Ahaha..)

The final product

The creative process

Smile for the world!

CRAFT PROJECT: Top Hat - Print: Yellow+Violet

2011-12-07T16:38:00.001-08:00

The last batch! Finally! Woot! Excited for some Tea Party lovin'. Teehee. :)

The final product

The creative process

Top hat is happy thought. :)

CRAFT PROJECT: Top Hat - Print + Stripes

2011-12-03T18:19:00.001-08:00

Woke up early in the morning. Couldn't sleep anymore so two top hats were the result. :)

The final product

The creative process

CRAFT PROJECT: Top Hat - Pink + Lavender

2011-12-01T18:07:00.001-08:00

Woot! Three down. More to go. Gotta magic what's left of my resources. I miss the challenge of producing something out of insufficient resources. Ooh, the thrill. Teehee.

The final product

The creative process

CRAFT PROJECT: Top Hat - Pastel Stripes

2011-12-01T17:09:00.001-08:00

Christmas is here! Tea Party everyone! Gaak! Still need to finish a bunch of stuff, but am totally excited. Woot! :)

The final product

The creative process

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Have a merry tea lovin' party this Christmas. Teehee. :)

Talaba + Isaw Lovin'

2011-11-30T16:08:00.001-08:00

Photo courtesy of Gheck Laroza

Thank God for vacations. :)

2011-11-30T16:01:00.001-08:00

GAAAK! SKYWORLD BOOK 3!! AT LAST!! GAAAAAK!!!!!!

2011-11-19T14:04:00.000-08:00

The Endless

2011-09-06T04:12:00.000-07:00

The Endless

Did a little bit of practice; thus, a website showcasing

The Endless from the graphic novel “The Sandman” of Neil Gaiman.

New project.

2011-08-25T23:07:00.000-07:00

philo notebook

Quotes. Who doesn't love them?

Thank you for the coffee.

2011-08-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

Reread The Umbrella Academy.

I missed this series. Number Five's really the best. I love him. Teehee.

The act of leisurely reading comics, how nostalgic. I miss doing this.

In need of a happy thought? Ice cream. :)

CRAFT PROJECT: Camera Bag

2011-07-29T00:03:00.000-07:00

Productivity has always been an ideal word. It doesn't always come to you at a constant pace. But what is there not to love with moments of it knocking on your door?

Camera bag in preparation for my Ilocos trip this weekend. Couldn't wait for another day to pass. Lord, I pray for the weather to be great.

The final product

The creative process

Lord, I pray for happy thoughts.

CRAFT PROJECT: Pouch (Let me pierce your heart)

2011-07-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

The Spiders have developed fondness in visiting me for these past two days; how sweet of them. Just really waiting for the time when they'll come crashing in my crib to get this particular project started; will be needing it for the coming week, or should I say, the week after that. Instead of buying a pouch for the toiletries stuff for my upcoming escapade, heck I can create one. (Forseeing more pouches to occupy the craft project list. Gaak! Am running out of textile stock!)

The final product

The creative process

I am so itched to go on a vacation already.

CRAFT PROJECT: Bible Jacket

2011-07-23T00:20:00.000-07:00

Spiders of creativity and industriousness finally knocked on my head. Dear sewing machine had been brushed off of its dear dust friends; it was elated to had a day off from its box. Bible jacket, yes, that was the project for the day. Been quite a while since this dear hands of mine had something to play with. Tearing down things in order to construct something fascinating, ooh, the thrill of it; I missed it. Thank you Spiders for visiting me for the day.

The final product

The creative process

I am God's little girl. Teehee. :)

Ang epic badminton match namin ni Ms. Charm..

2011-07-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

2011-07-12T00:23:00.000-07:00

Hearts all over the place. One by one he stepped on them, crushing each firmly to grainy pieces. Like shattering cocktail glasses, their brittleness echoes through the vast field of anonymity. He lusted for this pleasure. The fragility of their cries, oh what a kiss of candy it is on his lips.

Nandito na ang mga Kastila!

2011-07-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Things are getting boring. She’s longing to indulge in some form of excitement in her life. Perhaps, running in the midst of a large crowd while shouting, “Nandito na ang mga Kastila!” or suddenly break in between lovers fantasizing in either the Chinese or Japanese Garden in Luneta to perform the best part: hug clueless Adam, and then run. Ooh the thrill of being a troublemaker. Can’t wait to see the awakening volcanic face of the fiery Eve.

But then Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9).

She laughs, “Lord, You’re so funny. Sorry ‘bout that.”

Still, her desire in accomplishing these silly things has not vanished (Oh, the troublemaker thing can be left behind.).

Things are really getting boring. Tiring life of being a prisoner of duality. Echoes of the pastor’s words are resounding in her 3.5 pound, jelly organ residing in the thick skull in her head: Hindi mo maiintindihan hangga’t di mo tinotodo; hindi mo ma-eenjoy hangga’t di mo tinotodo. Oh, how the world’s still continuously consuming her. Needs to break free. However, there’s this simple fact that is so irresistible: Being a prisoner of the world is enjoyable; it is addictive. Oh Lord, how she’s longing to break free from the pleasure.

There’s pain too. Lots and lots and lots of it.

She sighs and smiles.
“God loves me.”

'nay, ako'y isang hayop

2011-07-08T05:52:00.000-07:00

Below's a part of some stuff that I did for a Filipino project back in college. Digging through old chests sure can surprise one with some.. how do you say this? interesting stuff?

I suddenly remember, I used to write. Wonder what happened.

at magulo
magulo rito
walang tigil ang kaguluhan
dahil sa hindi pagkakasunduan
mananatiling ganito
wala nang katahimikan ang mundo
mag-away na lamang tayo
para ayos pa sa'kin at sa'yo

"di tayo bati,
isusumbong kita sa nanay ko"

Awesome Bible Kids

2011-06-29T01:59:00.000-07:00

Link: Awesome Bible Kids

Finally.

Translating this project into web is done. (though I could not hack it properly with IE).

This project is all about digging some of the small characters from the greatest and best-selling book ever written in history, the Bible, and taking these “small characters” on a much literal sense, I mean to pave way for the children characters of the Bible; exploring the stories from which these characters belong in order to allow the audience obtain the knowledge about these children and be enlightened with the significance of the role that each of them play in every story.

Explore it now and be blessed how God uses each and every one of us, even the littlest child, in His great masterpiece: Awesome Bible Kids

LBD + Chucks

2011-06-26T09:55:00.000-07:00

Hair & Make-up, Photography, and Editing by Jun-kun (Jj Santiago).

Jun-kun should have been part of these shots too but ended up enjoying in styling me; therefore, a solo-flight piece.

As we have discussed, it's a symbiotic relationship for both of us; I get to be styled for free while she get to have a doll to play with. I love Jun-kun! Teehee. ♥

My signature pose!

Preparation + Practice / My hair's not styled yet. -_-

Balloons are ♥.

Yey! Wrap up time! Teehee. :)

Happy Beeday JG!

2011-06-16T12:05:00.000-07:00

Baka medyo matagal mag-load. Teehee. :)

I honestly do not want to see.

2011-06-10T05:51:00.000-07:00

It’s frustrating how most movies and TV shows portray how small the world is in their plots. They could come across a person a character is looking for, a person a character is longing to see. It’s even far frustrating when you are fully aware that both of you are living in the same area and yet could not be gifted with even a single glimpse. Well, there are stories which move a bit closer (just a bit closer) to reality; it took Matt Damon three years to see by chance, once again, Emily Blunt in the busy world of New York (The Adjustment Bureau). Still, Matt Damon was given the chance.

I haven’t.

Lemon Tea + GOD

2011-06-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

I got rid of all sorts of things that could remind me of it. Only to find myself (after weeks of resisting) one day, freely and purposely learning about it again. Useless weeks.

But God is with me. Thank You Lord that You are in my life. Masaya akong Ikaw ang laman ng puso ko. I love You, Lord.

Torstar is ♥.

2011-05-31T08:47:00.001-07:00

The Feast by Budjette Tan, Alex Arellano, and Kajo Baldisimo

2011-05-28T04:50:00.000-07:00

Been a long while since the last time I’ve read anything, and it’s just by chance that I get to read another work of Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo. “The Feast”, yes, that’s definitely it. This really is one interesting twist in stories written about Philippine folk creatures. The resolution is one witty, brain-catching scenario. Heck, going on road trips to try each place’s best delicacy… delicacy of aswang and the like. Such a refreshment.

The Feast

M. Barretto

2010-05-30T21:59:00.000-07:00

29 May 2010
My best friend invited me to see the M. Barretto Fashion Show, an event under the Philippine Fashion Week 2010. It was a nice experience. :)

Bench

2010-05-30T20:44:00.000-07:00

22 May 2010
On this day, we celebrated a wonderful and special day for a beloved friend. Ice cream and balloons are always the best! :)

Photos courtesy of Jan Christopher S. Rico, who is now, by the way, 20! XD

Hair Day: 17-30 May 2010

2010-05-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

It's been hard to find time to do some editing and posting stuff, which is why these updates are all cramped into one entry. Oh well, enjoy! :)

30 May 2010

Just in time to go for church. See how wet my hair still was? No extra time to let it settle; Sunday mornings have always been rush mornings.

29 May 2010

Yey, this shot was taken with my best friend, just after the M. Barretto Fashion Show. It was my first to attend one, and the style of the show was innovative.

28 May 2010
I was not able to take note of my hair for this for I did not go out of the house. Oh well, just expect the ordinary let down hair. :)

27 May 2010

Since it's just been a week when I had my hair cut, I still cannot tie it or do crazy clippings on it, but this new hairstyle allowed me to use once again my wild headbands. I missed using these eye-catching accessories of mine. Teehee. :)

26 May 2010

Simple hair day. :)

25 May 2010

I love this headband. It makes me feel like I popped out from the game Plants vs Zombies. :)

24 May 2010

Haha. One of the cutest headbands I have acquired in my life. Reminds me of Robby Rabbit.

23 May 2010

This shot is definitely one of those crazy random stuff with my sisters. She looks like the brother of Taguro from Ghost Fighter (Yu Yu Hakusho).

22 May 2010

Exploring the second day with my new hair cut.

21 May 2010

Yey! A new hair cut! And just the way I want it. Actually, after having it touched by a hair dresser, I cut and fixed my bangs right after arriving home.

20 May 2010

Clothes pin day! Hooray!

19 May 2010

This headband also comes in handy when I do not know what to match with my clothes.

18 May 2010

A lovely clip on my head. I bought this clip, I think, about a year ago, but this was the first time I used it. Couldn't find a perfect opportunity to use it.

17 May 2010

Gave my hair a half-pony and a little touch of sunglasses (though it's not really an accessory for the hair. XD )

I pray for PASSION HONG KONG

2010-05-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

Hair Day: 12-16 May 2010

2010-05-16T23:45:00.000-07:00

Going home late every night tires me out that I do not have enough strength and will left to face my laptop, so my hairdos for the whole week are compiled in just one entry. But still, enjoy! :)

16 May 2010

It pretty much shows how I love using this headband. :)

15 May 2010

I love this headband of mine. It is really really cute. :)

14 May 2010

This headband is such a wonderful thing. It's glimmery property allows me to use it for everyday use or even in cocktail events. :)

13 May 2010

Again, my most loved pair of clothes pin. :)

12 May 2010

Since I have such a great love for One Piece, I created a clip based on Monkey D. Luffy. It was sort of a challenging job to sew a small piece but it turned out great in the end, and I LOVE IT! I attached a mini clothes pin to Luffy's back and YEY! I have a Luffy clip. Teehee. :)

Hair Day: 10&11 May 2010

2010-05-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

11 May 2010

For today, I decided to tie my hair up, and resulted with a half-pony. I sort of missed tying up my hair. :)

10 May 2010

Here, I have my sister posing with me. I just had a bath and she just came home from the voting precint. Election Day. o_O

Hair Day: 8&9 May 2010

2010-05-09T01:43:00.000-07:00

9 May 2010

Yes. I do have a fetish for clothes pin, and I really love what's on my hair for today, a mini clothes pin with a snail design on it. Gaak! Small things are irresistible. XD

8 May 2010

Headband hairdo again.
I actually have a lot of different styles of headband but unfortunately I could not freely use them at the moment for most of them do not match my current hairstyle. Sigh. I gotta need a haircut that'll allow me to use them again, and believe me, if I have a fetish for weird stuff such as clothes pin, these headbands are not an exception. o_O

Oh! A Happy Mother's Day! Teehee. :D

Hair Day: 7 May 2010

2010-05-07T06:47:00.000-07:00

Yey! No accessories for today; just let my hair down. :)
[Ooh, I love this shot; it's able to capture my One Piece pendant. Teehee. :D ]

Hair Day: 6 May 2010

2010-05-06T07:13:00.000-07:00

My hairdo for this day is an innovation of my 'pout hair'. My pout hair basically looks the same; I also have a small part of my hair tied up, but minus the clip, then a piece of headband. With this one, I do not have a head band but a piece of clothes pin with a yellow fish design [I love clothes pin!] clipped on the pony tail keeping my hair up.

Pout hair, by the way, is coined by a friend of mine who calls me 'Pout'. It's a long story of evolution of how I ended up being called with that by him. :)

Probably, next time, I get to show what pout hair looks like. Teehee. :)

Hair Day: 5 May 2010

2010-05-05T07:03:00.000-07:00

This particular thin, violet, metal headband of mine always comes in handy. Whenever I cannot make any precise decisions on what accessory to use for my hair to match up with my clothes, or whenever I am in a rush for an errand but does not want to leave my hair with a blunt look, this headband always saves me. :)

Hair Day: 4 May 2010

2010-05-04T06:59:00.000-07:00

For today, I had my most favorite pair of clothes pin. I love clothes pin! :)

Hair Day: 3 May 2010

2010-05-03T06:16:00.000-07:00

I did not actually go out somewhere so I just had my good-old ordinary hair. :)

Hair Day: 1&2 May 2010

2010-05-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

I've decided to take note of the hairstyles/accessories I attach to my hair per day, so this is the result of the first notes. Enjoy! :)

2 May 2010
1 May 2010

Working Girl

2010-04-25T05:43:00.000-07:00

[image from www.czariflores.blogspot.com]

Once again, I absent-mindedly kept on buying Filipino indie comics during the Summer Komikon held last 17 April 2010 in UP Bahay ng Alumni, and one of the last titles I bought, wait, it was the last title I bought, was the Working Girl by Czarina “Czari” Flores, and I think it was worth it.

The comics is just simple, art style-wise or plot-wise, but it definitely is enjoyable to read. Its little humors worked well and I think it suited the art style.

Working Girl is about an unnamed girl [but I absolutely think it is the creator herself] who likes to cry when in panic but sweetly and cheerfully smiles upon arriving at a resolution to her problem, and shows episodic scenes from her work life.

She cries when she cannot find her pencils, but joyfully smiles upon seeing them in her drawers.
She cries when she cannot find her way to their office, but enthusiastically wave at her officemates upon seeing them.
I just find her really cute that way.

Also, I love this particular page [shown above] which shows the places she hopped in to search for her pencils. I love the “other sister’s room” and “other brother’s room”. It reminds me of Other Scott from the Canadian comic series Scott Pilgrim by Bryan Lee O’Malley [Now, I am giddy again for the upcoming Scott Pilgrim movie].

Skyworld: Prodigal

2010-04-25T04:21:00.000-07:00

[image from www.iantoy.deviantart.com]

Just about a week ago, I dropped by the Summer Komikon in UP Bahay ng Alumni and grabbed a copy of some Filipino indie comics, and the number one in my list was the 12-page prologue of the third book of Skyworld, Prodigal, a comic series created by Mervin Ignacio and Ian Sta. Maria.

I remember the first time I was leafing through the pages of the first book, Apocrypha, and felt an intense form of power voicing out from it, which then made me feel a bit of fear, but at the same time, I could not help but admire how marvelously created the plot was; how it was meticulously ‘storytold’ by Mervin Ignacio; how it was intricately portrayed through the drawings of Ian Sta. Maria.

Skyworld has been one of the Filipino comic series I’ve been excitingly and enjoyably following. I remember the time when I could not really make it to the Komikon held last November 2009, I actually asked someone and persuaded him to keep on looking and buy for me a copy of the second book, Testament, which he fortunately and successfully did.

I was joyful.

And now that I have a copy of the prologue of the third book, I once again felt the same intense of power and the fear I had when I was reading the first book.

The character of Kaptan is truly veiled with such strong intensity of boldness, and I admire how Mervin Ignacio created him; he, too, has the same boldness that his character Kaptan has. Not fearing to give Kaptan the full qualities of a god, not minimizing his character traits so as to avoid issues, Mervin Ignacio courageously paralleled him with the living God we know of, and I absolutely admire him for doing that.

I finally got to meet the creators and personally got an autograph from them. It feels good watching comic artists write your name and their dedication on a copy of their work that you own.

I briefly browsed through the gallery of Ian Sta. Maria in deviantart.com and found some interesting new characters, and I do think that the third book will be something extravagantly great to look forward to, and I am definitely looking forward to the release of the complete version of the Prodigal.

I am glad that I took that chance in Summer Komikon 2009 to spend my last 100-peso bill for a comic book whose cover had distinctively caught my attention. I never regretted the loss of that 100-peso bill.

Nooto - ichi | ノート: いち

2010-04-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

04.19.10

This is basically just a note of some of the fun things I had for the week. Enjoy!

*For the flash (.swf) version, choose the first one, or for the video (.avi) version choose the second one.*

Nooto - ichi by ~nopickup on deviant ART

The Kambal

2010-04-12T04:17:00.000-07:00

I love the Kambal. For me, they are the greatest and coolest characters created in the world of TRESE, a comic series by Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo. Yes, it is without a doubt that the main protagonist, Alexandra Trese, gives off a suave appeal to the readers; however, the Kambal also possess a certain charismatic atmosphere around them; though they are the foil used to complement the overwhelming serious character of Trese, still, they do not look stupid; instead, they are admirable, which is why I really love the third volume of the series because the stories revolve around the Kambal [which then reminds me I have yet to buy a copy of the third volume; I always forget.]

Above is just a rough fanart of the Kambal. I opt not to portray them in their usual suit and black trench coat attire, hoping to make them look good in their clothes when they are kids, while vaguely remembering the scenes from the last volume, which, unfortunately, I still do not have a copy. But I think it is a FAIL.

Anyway, I just love the two of them. :)

Things I look forward to on the last volume of Scott Pilgrim:

2010-04-11T02:24:00.000-07:00

~If Gideon and Simon Lee are just one person
~If they are, is the reason for Gideon attempting to kill Scott Pilgrim because of Kim Pine?
~Will Stephen Stills and Knives Chau end up dating?
~Will Scott Pilgrim win Ramona Flowers?
~Or will Scott Pilgrim and Kim Pine end up being together again (which is what I like better)?

Another SCOTTPILGRIMxKIMPINE moments from volumes 4 and 5. :)

I am totally excited for the last volume and the movie. :)

Little Black Dress with Heels

2010-03-10T02:53:00.000-08:00

Just had some night fun before graduation! :)

Erika Aranas
Haizell Anore
Jeya Bersales
Ellery Magbato
Jj Santiago

Photographer: Erika Aranas
Edited by: Jj Santiago
Logo created and laid-out by: Jeya Bersales

Arcade

2010-01-09T08:23:00.000-08:00

Since we have been already enjoying our morning and evening jumps for the coming 2010, to explore the jumping fun to a greater extent is what living out "the attraction towards the good" is. Therefore, going beyond just jumping, this is what magis means [LOL]. Here is me with my sister, sharing you the gift of jumping, a live action arcade. Enjoy and have a prosperous 2010! :)

[click image for full view]

Evening Jump

2010-01-09T07:52:00.000-08:00

An evening jump for the dawn of 2010

Morning Jump

2010-01-09T07:43:00.000-08:00

A morning jump for the last days of the year 2009

Mr. and Ms. Dikaiosyni 2008

2010-01-09T06:07:00.000-08:00

This is the product of the photoshoot of Mr. and Ms. Dikaiosyni for the Mr. and Ms. Gabay 2008 contest. Though a year has passed already, I still cannot help but admire these shots [Oh and I love the first photo the most]. I am such a fanatic of this pair.

Photos courtesy of Wowangkan

2009-12-27T23:12:00.000-08:00

I'm starting to enjoy doing this.

To make a full use of our time while celebrating a very special day of a beloved friend, here is the product of a wonderful, coincidental, bandwagon of black-loving people! Again, it is to be noted that this is done not for any professional or serious work. We just love to enjoy each other's company. With that, have fun and a happy holidays to all! :)

Photos courtesy of Jan Christopher Rico and Karlo Abril

2009-12-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the virtue of boredom and wackiness while waiting for the Christmas bash of the Carolers' Dawn, here's a special magazine treat for everyone, participated by the Gabayano girls. It is, however, to be noted that this is done not for any professional or serious work. Just enjoying the wonderful Christmas season with some Christmas carols and magazine cover attempts. Have fun and a Merry Christmas to all! :)

Photographer: Mitel Macalinao
Photos courtesy of Jarylle Chu

Teleserye
Candy
FHM
Mega
Model
Ms. Earth
Demure
Haute Couture
Friends
The Reporter's Notebook
Hip Hop

Skip Beat: Mangaholix 2009

2009-12-02T08:08:00.000-08:00

Mangaholix 2009
PICS

I used to spend my money on body bags.

2009-11-03T07:36:00.000-08:00

I used to spend my money on body bags.

Now I spend my money on head bands.

I used to spend my money on anime stuff.

Now I spend my money on comics.

I used to spend my money on sketchpads.

Now I spend my money on scratch pads.

I used to spend my money on pencils.

Now I spend my money on ink pens.

I used to spend my money on shoes.

Now I spend my money on costumes.

I used to spend my money on art materials.

And I still do spend my money on art materials.

GAMESCAPE | I will roll to live.

2009-08-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

“Nothing is more difficult, and more precious, than to be able to decide.”
~Napoleon Bonaparte

This is the opening line of the comics “GAMESCAPE” by Butch Mapa (words and pictures) and Wilson dela Fuente (letters), the first story in the compilation Con+Sequence No.1, August 2009, published by Bad-S Studios.

Gamescape is a 13-page comics about a small group of people that’s left of an army. The soldiers are thrown into confusion one day upon finding their warren, which they call prison, in shambles. A new goal has now been set for them: to head for the Edge and escape that world of endless wars controlled by The Hand.

Upon my initial turn to the first spread, I thought I might not enjoy reading this story because I was faced with a military-oriented scenario, which I believe is a frustration for a person who’s clueless with regards to battle terminologies and strategies, just like me; so I assumed that, once again, I would be flipping through the pages of a comic book which I cannot fully grasp its concept. However, this did not happen.

I am sharing about Gamescape to say that it really is able to fascinate me. Though it only has a very brief plot, it is cleverly written. Probably one of the best examples in giving emphasis to the value of the unexpected, and which I can personally say a real must read.

The following three paragraphs would be about the conclusion of the story, so if you would not want to be spoiled so as to savor the actual experience of reading the comics, skip them.

It turns out that the whole endless war is a chess game and the soldiers are the chess pieces. The characters have described the circumstance to be endless for in every start of another game, they have to battle with the white army (the protagonists are that of the black chess pieces). After one of the kings has been defeated, they will shut down and will just resume again if there’s another match to be held. The Hand which the soldiers refer to in the story is the hand of the human being playing chess.

Now what is this thing that they call Edge? The Edge is the slight opening of the chessboard, a portal for the chess pieces to roll out and give humans a difficult time in gathering and picking up all of them and then keeping them safe back in the chessboard.

To be able to decide for themselves, not being controlled by The Hand, who would have thought that chess pieces can have strategic plans in rolling out of the chessboard?

Butch did.

--------------------------------

[Butch Mapa (left) and Jason Paz (right)]
I found Butch Mapa to be a funny person.

And even funnier upon reading his dedication.

The following is the line of characters [in case one wants to know].

Yes. There's a cat.

Skyworld: Apocrypha

2009-05-18T00:05:00.000-07:00

[image from www.iantoy.deviantart.com]

For the recently held Komikon 2009 in UP Bahay ng Alumni last 16 May 2009, I gravely felt the rapid flow of money out of my wallet, and comics with wonderful covers that were able to catch my attention were most often than not were the ones successful in doing the trick. One of them was Skyworld: Apocrypha, created by Mervin Ignacio and Ian Sta. Maria.

The plot is that of the usual ones of today’s emerging local comics, that is, having to do with Philippine mythology, but do not get me wrong; I found the crafting of the plot of Skyworld a good one. There are only few dialogues and the story is formed mostly with just simple but creative lines of narration; however, the organization and delivery are impressing leaving the reader with satisfaction [well, that is for my case].

The plot follows the journey of a tikbalang named Makabo in fulfilling his task of avenging his father, the king of their race, against an asuang named Rianka, who is also responsible for the fall of one of the gods called Kaptan, whom Makabo also seeks in his voyage.

I know that I have given this particular comic book some praise, but in every good thing, yes, we have to admit, that alongside them are their counterparts, the negative ones.

As I was reading the comic book, I cannot help but feel disturbed, and I mean honestly disturbed, and it was all because of the way the character of Kaptan was delivered. The approach of presenting his character was too powerful that it was almost comparable to the traits of our real God, the One and only God. Though I know that everything inside the story was fictional, for me it still gave a blasphemous impression. I did not see the character of Kaptan to be presented in a manner like the other gods in our folk tales, and it occurred to me [though I know everything was fictional] that the creation of the character Kaptan was dangerous. As I held the comic book in my two hands and flipped the pages as I read through it, I was simultaneously pondering if I should continue in doing so.

Sigh. This comic book could have totally been a good shot on me if not just because of this.

The Endless

2009-05-08T23:33:00.000-07:00

What Orpheus calls The Endless..

I seldom dream; nevertheless, he keeps on visiting me.

2009-05-08T20:49:00.000-07:00

After months of prolonging of reaching my goal of finishing reading The Sandman by Neil Gaiman and [cannot really specify an artist for it changes every time], I am brought once again to the state of uneasiness which most often results from having known something to have finally come to an end.

Recovering from this state may not really take a while, but it really haunts me at its climax. Just when I have recovered from the farewell of Special A, something new immediately presented itself to prick each soft tissue composing my cardiac muscle and drives my squishy organ up in my skull unstable, but I definitely know that in a few days time, or hours, it will pass, but as I have just recently stated, it definitely haunts me at its climax.

I know there are tons of things that I want to discuss with regards this comic series; however, it is also clear to me that I would not have a very great idea of how to organize this, or how to start it, or in the end, I may not really be able to talk about the things I would want to drop off in this entry. Probably, if things strike me again, there may be additional entries, but I doubt if they’ll be enough. In the end, it might just haunt me every time my dear parasitic organ taking refuge in my skull decided to remember them, and worse, blaming me for not being efficient enough to let them escape.

Brain talking to Master: NOPICKUP!! Your thoughts are all cramming up here in my body!!

The idea of starting to read The Sandman occurred to me when I was presented with drawings of Dream and got attracted to his physique. Afterwards, I found myself downloading the comic series; thus, the beginning of my journey in the realms of The Endless.

Gaiman has presented a lot of characters, and I do mean a lot, that some of them, at first, one would think very irrelevant. Sometimes the idea of these characters being created just to clump one’s brain with tons of details and torture him with the task of remembering each one of them is very plausible to sink in a reader’s mind. In addition, as one continuously reads the series, it is also inevitable to perceive that the story keeps on jumping to different plots. However, what I found wonderful about this comic series is that despite of that bunch of characters, which one might think dispensable, and those jumping plots is that they all are necessary and connected to one another. After being presented with those seemingly disjointed scenarios, it definitely would stun and amaze a reader upon discovering the connections of all those chapters, which most often than not would turn out to appreciate with greater depth the whole comic series.

I come to adore Dream, which was fortunately [or unfortunately] the reason why I started to indulge myself with this comic series. As I have already said, his physique is what first caught my attention. The bluish-black aura clothing him releases a certain atmosphere that makes one to know more about him. In addition, it is his eyes that intrigue me the most. I have always wanted to see his eyes; however, every time he would turn around and make his face revealed, tiny sparkles of light would always fill his eye area, which deepens of great magnitude his mysterious character, which makes me long more of seeing them. Indeed, he is mysterious, which is why I believe one would want to keep on knowing more about him.

Personally, I do think Dream is hot. When I told my sister about this she thinks it is weird [Well, what more can people expect from me? They all have already labeled me with the adjective “weird”, and I came to accept it already.]. However, I will remain strong with this view of mine. If one would examine, a lot of female characters in the story are also not successful in resisting his charm. They would, in one way or another, fall for him. Too bad, not even one received a happy ending.

This previous paragraph now takes me to one thought that I have been deeply pondering about when I was still reading The Sandman. There is this chapter where the Dreaming is continuously experiencing a gloomy weather; there is a non-stop raining, which is already turning into a flood, almost filling up each house in the Dreaming, and the simple explanation behind this is that the Lord of the Dreaming is undergoing a very depressing situation. The lady whom he has fallen in love with [again, and is the last one to be mentioned in the series], has decided to leave him once again. What frustrated me while reading this chapter is that it has never been revealed in that chapter or the following chapters who that woman who broke his heart is. However, Gaiman did not allow me to be wholly frustrated about this matter. In the last volume of The Sandman [which is numbers of chapters away from this one], there he revealed who that woman Dream has fallen in love with and broke his heart [I do believe I have the right conclusion. If I am wrong, trouble will once again visit my mind.]. It turned out to be Larissa, the witch who previously helped Barbie in her quest against the cuckoo and also the one who protected Lyta Hall from being harmed by Dream. With that, one troubled thought in my mind has finally come to a rest.

Aside from Dream, I do also like very much Death, his older sister. It is not just because she is a goth chic, well, probably, also because she is a goth chic, but more rather because she is just too pretty, or maybe just like Brant Tucker, I fell in love with her at first sight.

Death is very caring to her brother, Dream, and seeing the flow of relationship between them is very heart-warming to look at. Of all The Endless, it is Death whom Dream is closest with, and the one he turns to when he is in need of company, and Dream do behave well in front of Death, just like a good little boy with his older sister. Sometimes, I do wish for them to be always together, though there are only few situations where the comic series has presented them having conversations together, but in each panel they are presented conversing with one another, it all seemed very rich and fulfilling.

One other character that I notice and took a likening to is Matthew, Dream’s raven. He used to be a man living in the waking world but decided to be a raven and serve under the Dream Lord. His actions turn out to be funny, all of these, I can see, as a result from him being born a human first. But the one thing that I loved the most about him is his loyalty to Dream; he does adore him very much and even sees him sometimes as a friend.

Talking about Matthew’s heart-touching dedication to his master, I am brought to remember another heart-piercing scenario, and this is all about Nuala, the gift presented from the land of Faerie when Dream held an event where he would choose to whom shall he give the key to the gates of Hell. The panel on the right has made me feel very sorry for Nuala. It is when Matthew came to the castle in the Dreaming, looking for the Dream Lord, and there he found Nuala in the throne room tidying things up. Then Matthew asked him if the Dream Lord asked him to do those, and her reply is seen in this panel.

Nuala is longing to be asked by the Dream Lord, but the sad thing is, Dream has never asked her of anything, and that is painful because it sort of implies that her presence is not really important in the castle. Unlike Dream’s other servants, he literally does not give tasks for Nuala.

The following panels about Nuala and Dream are also heart-breaking.

I have been wondering for years already why the sand is always being associated with dreams. Not only here in The Sandman, but there are also others, such as the children’s show Nilus the Sandman. I have not been presented yet with the explanation behind this, and it would be a great relief if one day, I would find the answer for this question.

I guess it is time to give this entry a rest. I know there are still things I would like to share about this, but I think they’ll just have to fill in the additional entries. I cannot handle all of them as of now. My brain is already forcing itself to break so that it can stop me.

There.
The Sandman gave me a good reading.

thoughts for this Cyberzone Cosplay Tour

2009-05-02T06:59:00.000-07:00

Today I ended my day outside by dropping by the Cyberzone Cosplay Tour in SM Marikina. Without any idea in my mind of how the whole thing will be done, I arrived at the place at around 5pm and finally a rendezvous was fulfilled. Together with Jj and her brother and her brother’s friend, we tried to circle around the place for quite a time.

The event is not really satisfying. This is the first thing that I can say.

It was not really a miss for me for not being able to witness the start of the catwalk proper and finishing the show. Honestly, I did not bother much about the catwalk [which is weird, because I always look forward for the catwalk]. I think the wind of boredom quickly blew at my direction or it was probably just that it did not amuse me right from the point that I got there.

One of the primary reasons for me wanting to go in a convention is to take photos. For this time, however, I did not feel like taking many shots, which was the basic explanation why I only got very few photos. One major factor probably was the atmosphere itself. Not very encouraging to bring out a camera and take shots of cosplayers or other cool stuff, even though I wanted to take shots of some cool costumes there. I guess the drive was overwritten by a greater force, which was, unfortunately, a negative one.

One thing I need to take note of right away before I even forget to write about it is on a particular cosplayer who pronounced Tsunade as CHUnade (with a hard CHU). I don’t know, am sorry, but I just cannot help but criticize it. It’s T-SU, not CHU.

Not saying that it was 100% disappointing. Somehow, with some few points, little satisfaction was met, and my top one reason for this was that finally, was able to see someone cosplaying from Darker than Black, and he even cosplayed Hei, the character that I most wanted to see.

One of the cool ones I saw is the one in the photo below. Have no idea of what character he is portraying but he definitely reminds me of Archer from Fate Stay Night [and I love Archer]. The hair and costume is really similar [Jj also agreed with me on this one], but somehow I guess it is just the hair that is sort of a bad shot. I think it would turn out better if he opted not to use rubber foam.

But I do like his pose in this one.

The person below, I think she is not really portraying a specific character but I would give her a thumbs up for successfully catching my attention. She has a very cute face and I think the kimono suits her well.

The next one, I think she is really adorable, and I have been constantly thinking about from where is this character from. I think am familiar with it but also not. Nevertheless, she is still adorable.

Below is the last cosplayer I took a shot of, and I told myself that I really have to take his photo. Not because I find him cool or that I like the character he is portraying. Honestly, I also have no idea what character he is portraying this time, Jj just told me he is doing the one from God Save Our King [unfortunately, still haven’t watched that until now after many attempts of putting it in my watch list]. The reason that I am fond of taking his photo is that he is the one who also cosplayed Luffy in Hataw Hanep Hero last November 2008, and probably that is my problem, I guess, no matter how bad the character is being portrayed, if I see a person do the character that I want to see being cosplayed, the result would be that I would get up all giddy and take that shot no matter what. Of course, it would be a lot nicer if the portrayal is good. Therefore, I think, I would always be familiar with his face just because he did Luffy.

And let us end the day by witnessing a potential crime scene in the event.

Goodbye S.A

2009-04-30T23:31:00.000-07:00

Today I arrived again at a moment that somehow creates a sting in my cardiac muscle. This usually happens after I’ve finished watching a certain series of anime. Knowing that it is the end already and there is nothing more to come, the feeling is a mixture of sadness and satisfaction. Sadness because the story has ended already; I will not be able to go with its journey anymore. Satisfaction because fulfillment has been achieved.

No. To be honest, it is sort of impossible for me to explain this kind of feeling in words. I am not very good in words and that is one of the sad parts. But as Chuang Tzu has said, “Kapag nasabi na ang lahat ng masasabi, ang pinakahalaga ay hindi masasabi. Magagawa lamang.” [Thank you very much for PH101 and PH102.]

However, for this time, I am not having this feeling because an anime series has ended. For this time, I am having this feeling because a manga series that I have been faithfully following has already come to an end.

Minami Maki, the creator of Special A, or better known as S.A, has finally decided to put an end to this series. With 99 chapters uploaded in OneManga.com and a remark “Completed” beside it, I knew that even before I would click the link, I will be brought once again to this kind of point.

I already know, way before in February, that S.A will be finished by March in Japan; however, I am just simply not aware of the reason why I am blessed with such patience that I can really wait for Scanlations to be uploaded months after. Probably, an actual experience is still the best. And the point of this paragraph, I wonder, is simply to explain why it is only now that I am reacting to this incident.

I do think I am dropping words and thoughts randomly now. The 3.5 pound, jelly organ residing up in my cranium cannot think of a way to organize its master’s thoughts.

Commercial finished. Back to S.A.

S.A, though it is only a manga series, has the right to be proud of having an impact in my life. Very good and fun [well, there are also not so good] memories are created all because of S.A. It jumped from the pages in the internet into the reality [probably not reality] I am living in.

I think it is the first shoujo manga I have ever read in my life, and played a major role in having me realized that I do have “fangirl” abilities. [I really cannot believe that I am able to accept that I am fangirling. Sigh.]

S.A also became a bridge for me to enter in a wild and fun adventure with friends I never thought I would be able to experience with these kinds of stuff. Yes, yes, my first ever group cosplay is Special A, and the experience we had as we walked through the tiles of Megamall was fulfilling for I never thought a lot of people already has knowledge about Special A. It only started with Kassandra recommending me to read S.A in RSF to kill time, and now people were excited having to see the whole cast complete and alive right before their eyes [and cameras as well].

Tsuji Ryuu [yes, someone I am obliged not to forget about] has also done his part very well for keeping me tuned in to S.A. He is now part of all the characters that I would always adore. He keeps me alive in times that I do get bored of the development in the relationship between Kei and Hikari. And I really love how Minami Maki has finally noticed that he has created a character named Tsuji Ryuu. My experience in reading the manga has been completed.

Honestly, I haven’t really watched the anime yet. I do get some spills of it whenever I drop by chance in TV5, but it is always about to end. Well, I do remember watching a complete episode, the one when Yamamoto Jun turns into inner Jun and he kisses Takishima Kei. I just love that scence [No! Definitely I am not a yaoi fan but I just cannot understand why I love that scene so much]. I have already downloaded the complete episodes of the anime series, all saved in my external hard drive, it is just that I have no time to watch it [these past weeks, am not able to watch any anime series. Too sad].

I am being warned by my senses that this entry is getting long already, and despite that fact, it is still much unorganized. And another not so good thing is about to happen, it will not be organized anymore. So feel free to get dizzy and experience nausea.

Parting words. Probably. Because I am hungry already. Or simply running out of sensible things to say [Wait. Is anything sensible here?]

I do will miss S.A.

Special A Photoshoot

2009-04-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

Kei turns to Ryuu

2009-03-26T05:36:00.000-07:00

I think it is somehow a bit of a deviation that am gonna write something about a manga, for recently what I’ve just been sharing about are either Filipino or Western comics, but right now, am gonna talk about something, which I can say that people would really say, a lot closer to me.

And why am I gonna do that right now?
No, no, am not gonna make a summary or whatever intense review for it. I just have to comment on one particular observation that I have made [for it involves my favorite character in it.. teehee..].

So for this particular blog, it’s all about Special A by Minami Maki.

What I just have to comment on is the relationship between Takishima Kei and Tsuji Ryuu.

It seems that out of the entire SA (Special A students), it is Ryuu whom Kei is able to relate some of his personal ideas [or personal problems or issues], or should I say, it is Ryuu who has this enough friendly concern on Kei’s potential problematic issues [scratch Hikari’s clueless and dumb worries ].

I have proof!

See!

From chapter 65, when Ryuu and Kei got into bad terms with each other because of a misunderstanding. Ryuu was concerned of whether Kei was two-timing Hikari for he had seen him hanging out with Alisa for three times already.

[And I love this panel for this is the panel in the whole manga series that shows Tsuji Ryuu at his cutest form. It’s like he suddenly has a different but very attractive [no.. scratch that.. MEGA-ULTRA-SUPER-ATTRACTIVE] aura. Probably it’s his eyes.]

From chapter 87.5, the fantasy dream of Kei.

From chapter 90, when Kei is troubled by his jealousy over Tokiwa.

So there.

Haaaaa.. Tsuji Ryuu.

The Umbrella Academy in A PERFECT LIFE

2009-03-25T01:32:00.000-07:00

Okay.

Am really happy that because all my finals are finished, am finally able to read the fourth issue of the Dallas story of The Umbrella Academy, but I think am starting to have problems in understanding the plot. Bit by bit it is getting twisted already, and I sort of find it hard now to follow it, especially if I still don’t have at hand a copy of the next issue.

But am really glad to read up on The Umbrella Academy again.
This comic series is what I can say part of my favorites already.

There’s just an insight that I have to allow to escape from my mind.

Since recently I have read and watched Watchmen [all due to a philosophy paper], then today I read the fourth issue of the Dallas story, I was somehow astonished with the fact of John F. Kennedy’s assassination being a real hit in America [probably its impact is sort of the same as the assassination of Ninoy Aquino in the Philippines], for I have read two comics incorporating the incident of John F. Kennedy’s assassination [probably there were a lot more].

There.
I know am a parasitic person that I have to depend on my blockmate to squeeze the next issues of comics from him.

I just have to find out what’s next..
what will happen when Scott finally meets Gideon [Scott Pilgrim] and whatever happened to the waiter who helped Klaus, or if Rumor and Number Five are twins..

or is there a comic book incorporating Ninoy’s assassination? Shall I create one? o_+

Quotes from Watchmen

2009-03-17T22:18:00.000-07:00

Since I don’t want to be part of the unstoppable noise going around regarding Watchmen, am not really gonna give a review for it. But why the heck am I writing right now?

I’ll just share some quotes that I like from the comics [coz I can’t help it!].

Initially, I had no plans to plunge into this sudden emergence of the world of Watchmen [due to the movie] but I had no choice but to dive into it for the sake of my philosophy class. I have an incomplete recitation so I have to write a paper about it to fulfill my requirements.

But am glad it did happen.

Watchmen is a very good piece for philosophy class.

Okay! So much for this stuff, I said no reviews! Here are the quotes!

In this world, you shouldn't rely on help from anybody. In the end, a man stands alone.
–Newsvendor | Chapter 3: The Judge of all the Earth

On a rooftop in the past, I pull her sixteen-year-old body to me, breathing her perfume, never wanting to lose her, knowing that I shall.
–Dr. Manhattan | Chapter 4: Watchmaker

Perhaps the world is not made. Perhaps nothing is made. Perhaps it simply is, has been, will always be there.. a clock without a craftsman.
–Dr. Manhattan | Chapter 4: Watchmaker

What I said was 'God exists and he's American'. If that statement starts to chill you after a couple of moments' consideration, then don't be alarmed. A feeling of intense and crushing religious terror at the concept indicates only that you are still sane.
–Dr. Milton Glass | Chapter 4: Watchmaker

I do not believe that we have made a man to end wars.
I believe that we have made a man to end worlds.
–Dr. Milton Glass | Chapter 4: Watchmaker

I'm not locked up in here with you. You're locked up in here with me.
–Rorschach | Chapter 6: The Abyss Gazes Also

Once a man has seen, he can never turn his back on it. Never pretend it doesn't exist. No matter who orders him to look the other way.
–Rorschach | Chapter 6: The Abyss Gazes Also

This rudderless world is not shaped by vague metaphysical forces. It is not God who kills the children. Not fate that butchers them or destiny that feeds them to the dogs. It's us. Only us.
–Rorschach | Chapter 6: The Abyss Gazes Also

The Wolves in the Walls

2009-03-13T01:56:00.000-07:00

So this was one of the days am hangin’ out in the lounge, and as always, there were a bunch of comics and illustrated books lying everywhere, and a bigger-than-regular-size story book was lying in front of me, seeming that it knew that I won’t be able to resist reading it.

I tried to.

But I also ended up reading it.

FAIL.

So this story book am talkin’ about is Neil Gaiman’s The Wolves in the Walls, illustrated by Dave McKean. If I remember it correctly, he is also the illustrator for Gaiman’s Coraline.

And the reason why I cannot resist it was the art itself.
Take a look.

The plot is about a young girl named Lucy who started hearing noises from within the walls of their house and she keeps on telling her family that there are wolves within their walls; however, her family keeps rebutting her argument, saying that it’s either just mice, rats, or bats, and that it cannot be wolves for if it were wolves and they come out, it’ll be all over.

And the conversation they had that I liked the most was when Lucy’s mother first told her that it’ll all be over, Lucy asked what’ll be over, and her mother answered, “It.”

I like this dialogue for it reminds me of one of our class discussions in philosophy, wherein our teacher asked us what is the “it” in the sentence “It is raining,” and no one could answer it.

The way the plot’s resolution was delivered was, for me, very awesome, also the way it was concluded, which was very similar with the resolution.

The illustrations are really good; though too bad I cannot describe or review them [even though am an art student.. FAIL!] coz my descriptions might totally not suffice. All I can just say is that, it’s incredible.

So there, a story book for today.

The Umbrella Academy

2009-03-07T22:40:00.000-08:00

I have been introduced to another comic series to love, which is why I would not let this chance to talk about it just slip by. Anyway, I think I still have very few time to spare before starting on school stuff again.

The Umbrella Academy, a creation of Gerard Way and Gabriel Ba, is what I am talkin’ about.

The story is about seven [alien] children [but have human biological mothers] gathered and adopted by a world-renowned scientist and entrepreneur [and is also an alien], Sir Reginald Hargreeves, or also known as The Monocle. He raised them in a way that they would form a team of superheroes, to save the world, but save from what?

If the plot sounded too typical the way I have described it, too bad, the problem’s just with me, for I really do not view it as a very typical superhero-saving-the-world-thing. The way I see it, it’s not really focused on the issue of being superheroes and saving the world, but more on the conflicts and the development of the relationships within the family. Their job and responsibility to the world only serves as a foil to reveal the mystery clothing them.

Here’s a quick peek at the major characters of the story:

I don’t think he was given a human name.

As for Vanya, I did not like the appeal of the very fast development of her character. The pacing was too fast to digest. The way her character turned out was plausible and interesting but it could have been a lot better if it was not rushed. It’s like, “whoa! I haven’t completely digested it yet."

What am I talking about?

And here’s one of the things am lookin’ forward to:
the development of the relationship between Vanya and Diego.

I like the title of this issue. It really sounds good.

I also love to quote this:

“I used to think I had a family… but I have nobody.” | Vanya Hargreeves [00.07]

Hail to the cover artist also, James Jean.

I also love this.

So there, still waiting to have a copy of the next issue.

Who is Scott Pilgrim?

2009-03-04T02:41:00.000-08:00

Finally, I was able to catch up to the fifth volume of Scott Pilgrim.

It’s funny how I get accesses to these comics. But it’s fun, and I am thankful that I get to be exposed with these kinds of comics [and what I mean is western comics] and have a sort of little breathe away from my usual anime and manga stuff. And yah, I admit, their orientations have this wide range of difference, but am not really that culturally shocked or whatever coz I know the west have that kind of cultural [or should I say environmental?] orientation. I mean, one would obviously be aware that these two have different auras.

And am not trying to stereotype here [sorry if it sort of sounded that way].

Anyway, back to Scott Pilgrim.

By the way, Scott Pilgrim is a creation of Bryan Lee O’Malley. And what’s the story behind all the creation and stuff, sorry, I cannot provide you with that for I don’t really like lookin’ beyond the product itself. I think I am the kind that is usually interested with just the creation itself.

So a quick sneak peak for those who have no idea.

Scott Pilgrim is about a 23-year-old guy named… uhh… Scott Pilgrim… I guess? And he basically has to fight the seven evil ex-boyfriends of Ramona Flowers to continue dating her.

That’s it.

And though it has a practically mature aura for me [which may probably may not be the same for a lot, especially those who are already super used with these kinds of stuff], I like it. It’s fine with me. I like that it is able to keep me anticipated for what is next to happen. And that’s what I want when reading something, to be able to keep me hanging on with the story. And now as a segue, am already excited for the next volume. And I have no idea when it’s gonna be out. Just have to wait for an announcement from my very good comics-expert blockmate who is the one introducing me to the world of comics. And honestly, I am thankful that he is introducing me into his world. Yey!

And what encouraged me to read it immediately, despite the fact that I was supposed to be doing my final projects [haha..] and the fact that I do not usually indulge with the stuff right after getting a copy of it [it takes me sometime before I start reading or watching something], is the art style. I found it cool and not so conventional. And I like it; though it sort of reminds me of the art style of one of my watchers in DA. Still, it’s not your everyday comic style. I think.

And if you have no idea what Scott Pilgrim looks like, just take a look at the image below this line.

Here are also some nice panels I like to share, that is, only if you are willing to be spoiled. But I suggest not looking at them if you would not want to.

This is my ultra-favorite of all.

I sort of feel sorry for Scott here. *sniff sniff*

And yey, am starting to like Kim Pine, or maybe what I mean is that I already like her, or that am starting to like her more, or whatever. Scratch that.

And it’s sort of hard for me to distinguish sometimes who’s Scott and who’s Young Neil especially when they are put together.

Even Knives Chau confirms it.

And it was only in volume three that I realized that Stacey is younger than Scott. o_+

This panel is a total kvshfewkf38jwplgnfnvme for me. Okay, backstreet boys. o_+

Anyway, so much for this [why am I even doing this? I can’t believe I started doing this. *evil look at Ikabod*].

Mommy, I met Nardong Tae yesterday..

2009-02-27T19:33:00.000-08:00

Some time ago, I’ve started hearing stuff about Nardong Tae, a Filipino Indie comic book, and an urge of wanting to grab a hold of a copy of this started to develop inside me. Unfortunately, am not really that resourceful of a person so I have no idea where to get one and I’ve heard that there were only a few copies of this comic book.

But there are just times that I am being showered with blessings.

Just a few days ago, together with some of my blockmates, we happened to drop by Sputnik in Cubao Expo, and there, both my comics-expert blockmate [shall I name you?] and I was blessed with the sight of the photocopied cover of Nardong Tae. And I guess really blessed coz there were only three copies there [or maybe there were more. I don’t’ know.].

Anyway, the whole point of the story was that I already have one.

Though the author was not mentioned in the comic book, through the help of one of my very awesome blockmate, I was able to find out that it was created by Louie Cordero.

Basically, Nardong Tae is about a boy named Bornek who owns a carabao named Baldo and also loves watching Nardong Putik at the house of their neighbor. Then this extraterrestrial being from an extraterrestrial planet egested all the stuff that can be egested from his body and it all flew towards planet earth in the form of a comet, and it unfortunately (or fortunately) directly hit Bornek. In the end, Bornek became feces in human form and was labeled as Public Enemy No. 1.

And yes, the whole comic book is supposed to be gross, and indeed, it is gross, but indeed funny too. While reading it, one can’t help but feel grossed but definitely cannot help but laugh hard at the same time. It is tremendously direct to the point and totally vulgar but all of it is worth the reading when you laugh already.

Here are some of the panels that best illustrate how superb it is in allowing one to laugh out loud.

The cover of Nardong Tae

In conclusion, this comic book is one of those that totally made me laugh.

Yey!

That’s all.

Let me tell you about Ikabod Bubwit..

2009-02-27T05:32:00.000-08:00

To make use of the long hours I have to wait for a rendezvous, I decided to spend my time reading Filipino comics in the library. What I really had in mind at that time was to pick Kikomachine Komix by Manix Abrera. However, as I was surfing the catalog in the computer, I came across with a title that had already been intriguing me for quite a time.

IKABOD BUBWIT.

I first heard these two words some years ago from the best friend of my mom. He said, “Hindi mo kilala si Ikabod Bubwit?” and I got the impression that it is a character that used to be well known in the past, way before I was even born. But I never tried to research about it after that. However, those two words really hit something on me that triggered my curiosity over them.

And now, we finally met.

Ikabod Bubwit is a series of comic strips created by Nonoy Marcelo trying to ridicule mostly the political situations in the Philippines and also the influences of the Japanese and American occupation in the country in a comical way. Comics, that is.

Am not really sure about the timeframe of the duration of the series of comic strips, but the compilation of the strips I was able to access was published on 1980, so we can just assume how old it is already; though not really exactly. Well one thing’s for sure, it is way older than me.

So what really is Ikabod Bubwit?

We cannot assume for humans to be the main characters; though there are humans. What we are presented with with this comics are our nice, little friends in our house and over our backyards (if we have one).

An ultra-bully cat that has three mice minions and bullies a dog which is owned by a naughty Filipino boy who is the neighbor of an African American boy who loves cheese and happens to own the ultra-bully cat that, as I have said, three mice minions where one of them would run for mayor to be supported by ants and would eventually have eight bubwits (small mouse) where one of them would be named Ikabod who would only be introduced in the middle of the whole duration of the series of comic strips and is the basis of the title of the comics.

So, are we going to do a character names enumeration?
Okay, fine, let’s do it.

• Myawok: the ultra-bully cat
• Peter: mouse minion of Myawok who ran for mayor
• Inot and Kiko (or is it Kikoy? or is it not Kiko or Kikoy at all?): two other mice minion of Myawok
• Hammer (oh no, is it Hammer?): the dog bullied by Myawok
• Kinse: the African American owner of Myawok
• (I cannot remember the owner of Hammer. Oh no.)
• Ikabod: the favorite son of Peter
• And there are a lot of other names, and unfortunately I cannot remember all of them for they are not really that significant. But if you insist I can mention one.
• Hiklog: the homosexual brother of Ikabod which name is really supposed to be Iklog.

Ikabod is a perfect example of a son of a political official who tremendously abuses the power of his father and Peter is a perfect example of a political official who also tremendously abuses his power. For instance (sorry am not able to provide for a snapshot of this panel), there is one situation wherein the teacher will have to expel Ikabod for having his bodyguards salvage his classmate (I think its name is Kado, am not sure) and then Ikabod brought his father over and Peter warned the teacher of having her expelled from school instead. Then, in a fast and comical way, the teacher rephrased that the one to be expelled is Kado.

Of course, this situation is supposed to be funny while reading the comic strip but we can completely understand the underlying real-life situation it wants to convey. And, admit it, we all know these kinds of things really happen.

Anyway, here are just some of the panels that really made me laugh.

Panel 1:
Myawok: Hey dude, the only reason I cooperated with you is for you to be in good terms again with your owner and that he may finally feed you, right?
Hammer: Right.
Panel 2:
Hammer: Am already in good terms again with my owner that is why he gave me tons of food. And here…
Panel 3:
Hammer: am giving you half of it as a means of showing my gratitude to you.
Panel 4:
Myawok: How about I hit your head with all of these?! I told you to replace those with fish, asshole!

Panel 1:
Peter: If even one of you shouts asshole again while I am reciting my speech, I will not give you sugar.
Panel 2:
Peter: Ahurmn! As I was saying before I was rudely heckled… wait! May I remind you that not only the shouting of asshole is not allowed but also…
Panel 3:
Peter: the spelling out of the word! You [insert another form of bad word. Sorry I do not know how to translate it anymore.]!!

Panel 1:
Myawok: Moron! Don’t you know that it is holy week today, and that Peter is really…
Panel 2:
Myawok: having his tail clasped by a mouse trap as his penitence.
Inot/Kikoy: [the joke will not work in English anymore. Too bad. Huli=capture]

Myawok: Until now your pregnant wife still hasn’t eaten all up that green mango? No matter what, when I come back, that should be all finished up already.
Peter’s wife: It’s hard to eat it all up. There’s no bagoong [what’s the English for that? Is there even one? Fermented fish/shrimp? Anyway, green mango is good with bagoong.].

Panel 1:
Peter: Look at my son, Ikabod, he also already knows how to count from one to ten. C’mon, Iks, show them.
Panel 2:
Ikabod: Ace, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, jack, queen, king.

Dagalandia Pre-Nursery School Excuse Slip
Please excuse my son Ikabod for being late/absent on _______1980 because
Bullet 1: stayed up late in the casino
Bullet 2: got wasted in the beerhouse
Bullet 3: robbed a taxi
Bullet 4: [am not exactly sure what ‘nambubwit’ actually means]
Bullet 5: got struck by a bubonic plague

This panel would certainly not work if translated to English.

Since am also left-handed, I wanted to share this.

And yey! The amazing cover of Ikabod Bubwit. I love it.

Here are also some of the nice passages I got.

Magbiro ka sa lasing.
Huwag lang sa may hang-over.
(You can joke over a drunk man, but never with someone who has a hang-over.)

Ang liksi at tapang,
Conditioned reflex na,
Defense mechanism pa.
(Agility and bravery are not only conditioned reflexes but also a defense mechanism.)

Ang jogging ay nagpapaliit ng tiyan.
Pero nagpapalaki naman ng butas ng ilong.
(Jogging allows for your stomach to shrink, but also enlarges your nostrils.)

Ang buhay ay parang gulong ng jip,
Minsa’y nasa ibabaw, minsa’y napaplat.
(Life is like a jeepney’s wheel. Sometimes you’re above, sometimes you get flat.)

Ano ang softdrink ng palaka?
Kokak kola.
(What are frogs’ softdrink? Kokak kola.)

Kung saan ka nadapa,
Tanga ka.
(Where you tripped, you’re an idiot.)

Okay, so it is only now that I have decided to put up a disclaimer.
Sorry for the translations. Am not really good at it.

So there, I hope you all reached up to this point of what I am writing and that you all enjoyed reading what I have shared.

Yey!