December 25, 2012

Veselé Vánoce

I was thinking of what to name this post and since "Merry Christmas" is already too mainstream, I decided to have it in a different language. Even though I have no idea how to say "Veselé Vánoce", I still chose it because it looks good, linguistic wise, and I've never heard anyone say it before. It's Czech, by the way.

Christmas eve is still the same, but with a couple of members absent. This year, dad couldn't be around because he's gone away to another country because of work. Well, he was actually present - virtually. Since my older brother has already family of his own, he is away with them for the holidays as well. For this year's Noche Buena, it's just me, my mum, and little sis.

Besides that, everything just went really fine. Mum still cooked us the greatest pasta and whatnot (I was hoping for a situation wherein I was outside, pelting snowballs at random people passing by). We ate dinner over Michael Bublé's Christmas album playing while subtle rain outside made the wind chilly.

Tomorrow (later, technically) during the real Christmas, more family members will be together same as every year. Annually, we gather in our grandparents' home and everyone in the extended family are there giving all of us a chance to keep up with each others' lives since most of the time we're busy with our own. From grandparents, uncles and aunts, cousins and siblings, everyone will be exchanging gifts.

Since it's really fucking late, I'll probably be sleeping my whole Christmas morning later. Basically, I'll miss giving candies to children and I'm really hoping to miss giving cash gifts to my godchildren. I have like, 14 of them already. I'm too young for that count. Which godparent is not gonna hide with that kind of number?

[Side note: It's raining harder. I hope it continues until later. *evil smirk*]

I don't know why but just right before the eve ended, I found myself watching the 2005 romantic drama film Brokeback Mountain. Definitely not a movie for the season but, whatever. Way back when it was still the talk of the town (or world), I only skimmed through the movie quickly (for some reason I had no chance to properly watch it) ergo I wasn't able to appreciate the plot just yet.

[Side note: The power went off. Yes, on Christmas eve. For a couple of hours. I had to feel our electric corporation's unreasonable bitchness during the gay yuletide. So then, to make the most out of the fucked up situation on a past midnight when the generator can no longer be turned on, I was compelled to cut the movie to save battery for the iPad and instead, I, for the meantime, (woo, that's a lot of commas) read Ellen Degeneres' Seriously, I'm Kidding while waiting for the electricity to come back. It's a funny read, though. I recommend the book to all bored, has-all-the-time-in-the-world bums like me.]

This time, I focused myself on grasping the movie's fundamental importance; basically, to watch it with sincerity. Cinephilia wise, I was into absorbing the artisticity of the film, and indeed, it deserved all the many awards it received. It's a depressingly great movie. It's so depressing that it entirely changed my mood from being engulfed with Christmas delight to embracing a gloomy grey romantic setting. There was even a part of the movie where I actually broke down into tears because of sympathy for one of the characters.

Jack: I wish I knew how to quit you.
Ennis: Then why don't you? *sobbing* It's because of you, Jack that I'm like this. I'm nothing. I'm nowhere.
Jack: *embraces Ennis* It's alright. It's alright. Damn you, Ennis...

Frankly, I hated myself for watching the movie. It's a really great work of art but it brought me sad emotions. I really felt for the characters. I'm so glad that the film wasn't based on a true story. Otherwise, I would have definitely felt worse. Nevertheless, I loved it and I applaud the actors Jake Gyllenhaal and the late Heath Ledger, the director Ang Lee, and the rest of the crew. Nice job.

December 22, 2012

Laila

As the title suggests, this post is dedicated to one of my bestest best friends (I have three) in the whole entire universe, Laila Grace.. Since she just turned 23 more than a week ago and I felt my greeting wasn't strong enough, I'm also making this post. It was sincere, though.

Laila is half Ghanaian, half Filipino. Basically, she's Afrasian. Her father is from Ghana, Africa and her mom's from Guiuan, where we grew up. We have been friends for about 18 years now, since we were like, 5 or 6 when we started schooling.

Laila and I had so many ups and downs throughout our friendship. When we were younger, we always fought and argued (even today, but more mature, whimsical arguments).

She is a character. If people that know her were to be asked what they can say about her, they'd probably answer distinct and unique traits because she's badass like that.

These are just a few things among so many things that I know about her that I think can actually be published publicly:

(1) She's a singer. She idolizes Christina Aguilera and Rihanna to name a few.
(2) When she sings, she replaces so many words in the lyrics with other words that just sound alike. Hence, her being called the composer.
(3) She likes to give advice and then quoting her grandmother with words of wisdom (or superstitions).
(4) Even in our own dialect, she makes new words to describe something. The strange thing is, even if the word is entirely new, we still get what she means. (i.e mapara-para [rough as in surface], alunan [pillow], "what do you mean, so not?")
(5) Among the four of us, she is the purest and most truthful. She only lies for very important reasons.
(6) She may not accept it, but her skin color is one of the best among black-colored people I have personally seen in my life.
(7) She is one of the nicest and most generous people I have ever known.
(8) She's gorgeous.

I have had so many super fun experiences and bloopers with Laila in many different places. I don't know if I should tell this but I'm gonna go ahead anyway. Hehe.

When Laila and I went to Singapore for vacation, she got stuck at the immigration office at the airport because of some misunderstanding with a rather strict immigration officer. I was very worried waiting for her at one bench near a conveyor belt, watching people of different races come and go, clueless of what to do. My phone wasn't picking up signal yet because Globe has a very outstanding roaming service, thank you.

Seeing her cousin ate Jaren and her roommate ate Kan waiting for us at the arrival area, I quickly went to up to them and explained what happened. After an hour of tension and anxiety, we all sighed in relief as we saw her coming out of the office, smirking. Apparently, she was the only one who got released the earliest (I bet it was because of her Japanese visa. Hah.) It was kinda worrisome but it was a fun experience (at least for me).

Unfortunately, she is away right now. She's already in Japan with her mom for more than a year now. She's already a resident there which reminds me, Kinna and I will be visiting her in Japan next year since she won't be coming back home anytime soon. I'm quite excited about the trip not only because we'll be having a reunion but also because Japan is one of my most favorite places in the entire earth! We miss her badly.

Despite everything we had been through, we stayed best friends. And we always will stay that way for as long as we exist.

I'm hoping that sooner or later, the four of us could go together on a trip of a lifetime. Karla, who is currently in the US, is the farthest right now. I'm also hoping that if ever I move to New Zealand soon, I'll be able to go back home for anything important, or whatever. Kinna will most probably go to Australia. At least that's near New Zealand. Sigh. Talk about friends drifting apart. Hah.

Laila, you know that I love you, we love you. We hope that you're doing really well (even if we're just a messaging application away). Happy birthday and we'll see you very soon.

PS. And after a few moments, I'll be all like, "Chariiiiing!"

December 20, 2012

Goodbye?... NOT

Earlier, I was drinking my milk chocolate drink Swiss Miss when I realized that the presumed end of the world is going to happen in less than two hours. After a moment of silence, I realized that I don't give a fuck. I mean, who does? The Mayans? Please, they're about to be the biggest joke on earth.

I don't even know why I am acknowledging this madness. It's ridiculous. Honestly, not one person I know believes in this crap. I would have been more scared of dying back in the year 2000 because that year made more sense in line with these groundless predictions.

Gangnam Style. Please, pop culture does not have any connection whatsoever with the maelstrom of physical and chemical chaos on the grounds of astrological phenomena. I didn't know what I just said but that's that, you get the point.

Another thing, it has been the 21st in New Zealand for hours now and as far as I'm concerned, my cousins there are still alive. They just posted statuses on Facebook.

That's all I can say for now. If the world doesn't end later (which will be the scenario), I will be updating this post.

Merry Christmas.

PS. I have tons of pending blog posts. Like, there are a zillion unfinished drafts in my post list because I am an insatiable freak who keeps running out of fitting words for what I want to express. Wow.

[Update]
It's already 1:20AM. Still here, alive and kicking. Aside from the oddly strong winds outside, the earth did not budge. Although I still feel dizzy and dying from too much coughing, so I think the world ending today wouldn't be a huge problem for me. Oh well, I guess I better start making my life sensible again. Crap.

December 16, 2012

Yiruma's Impromptu


I finally got myself a copy of my ultimate favorite pianist Yiruma's latest album, Stay in Memory. I have been a huge fan of Yiruma for so many years, since Kiss the Rain and River Flows in You, which are some of my all-time favorites.

As usual, listening to his beautifully made pieces just puts me in a very soulful slow-motion dream. They just captivate the wholeness of me, especially my favorite ones.

Speaking of favorites, my favorite track in this album (which I cannot stop listening to) is the 5th one, Impromptu. I have no idea why the track is called as such but I'm guessing this one's special. Perhaps Yiruma made it in a snap, spot-on, and it turned out just prefect.


The first time I heard the track, my heart melted. The first few notes made me fall in love instantly. It's a magical piece. It puts this positively melancholic tender burst of happiness not only into my ears but through my entirety. Although I already tried, words cannot express how I feel towards this song.

This will of course go to my favorite Yiruma tracks playlist and the replay button will definitely die an unending death.

December 10, 2012

12.09.12

From what I can remember, the whole family of my mum's eldest brother were anticipating the taking of the BAR exam of their 2nd child and eldest daughter. Before the exam, I saw a video of her broadcasting herself of some sort and I could distinctly remember her saying that she was going to take the said exam.

Apparently, upping a video of you in any online streaming site before the exam was out of line (that was weird because the exam wasn't anything related to public participation or anything for that matter). Then we saw a huge sign of her name in front of the school saying "this student attempted to broadcast herself... therefore disqualifying her from taking the BAR exam." Her family was devastated. There was even this image of her being arrested by the cops. I thought they were narcs.

In the later part, I was at home and I found my PSP lying around. Since I wasn't able to play that in years, I tried downloading these PSP games from the internet (i.e Beats, some RPG games I forgot the names of). By the way, the monitor of my PC was not LCD yet, it was still CRT. Classic.

Suddenly, I was already in a convenience store owned by a cousin of mine, the daughter of my dad's first cousin. As far as I was concerned, she was a blogger. Although in my dream she was a cashier in her store which had RTWs, footwear, and of course, convenience store products, I had this assumption that she was making a blog post since she was in the computer, busy.

By the way, her store was located somewhere else other than the Philippines.

I was in one corner of her store, busy with my own computer thingamajig. There was a sliding window nearby and this guy, who I thought was one of our drivers, opened the window and said something to me. I was surprised he was there because well, I was in a place far away from where he could incidentally be. We did a special handshake or something.

A few moments later, my cousin and I were engaged in a fun conversation with a few guys inside their store when this awkwardly weird guy came inside. We fell in silence watching him and figured he was a criminal. He slowly went up to the store goods, took some and left without paying. I guess we were all agitated and scared to stop him, so we didn't. There were discontinued or prevented attempts, though. My cousin had two cash registers. The other one was in a seemingly unnoticeable area.

Then I woke up.

December 7, 2012

Do the Opposite

I just had a long superfluous chat with my friends earlier about things happening as young adults, if you know what I mean. When I checked the fridge for something to scoff up before bedtime, this random thought popped into my mind.

I found a Double Overload (Double Dutch & Rocky Road) ice cream in the freezer. That was one of my favorite sorbet flavors. I knew that eating that ninety-nine was a mistake because I had a cough. As far as I was taught, eating or drinking cold stuff when your throat is not in a good condition will just make it worse.

While I was consuming the ice cream, ironic things were running through my mind. First, it reminded me of people in the past that I have heard saying you have to fight the things which your physique considers to be enemies. Like for instance, you have allergies with nuts. In order to fight off the allergy, all you have to do is to eat as much nuts as you can until your body allows itself to become immune to it.

Perhaps I was just thinking that because I was being rational about eating ice cream whilst having a bad throat. Also, I think that that was a terrible comparison since fighting off allergies and making a minor illness worse are two immensely different situations.

On that note, I realized that despite the logical philosophy of making yourself immune from things that aren't necessarily in agreement with your nature, what I should do is just to prevent it. I should do the opposite. I shouldn't make it worse. I think that'll be much better.

But towards that conclusion of my realization, I found myself having the last scoop of the ice cream.

December 4, 2012

Instaloco


Yes, Instagram. But for the record, I rarely post food. It's mostly about my poor face. If you are tolerant towards pathetic vanity, follow me. Hahaha! If you want to see my profile on your computer, follow this link. If you have Instagram on your iPhone, Android, or any other mobile OS that entertains the app, follow me: juliusrenz89.

In a world today where genuine photography skills are sacrificed or undermined because of the world's most famous mobile-only photo social networking platform Instagram, I wouldn't mind being in it. However, I myself am a photography enthusiast (the real thing, by the way) and I am kinda eyebrows-raised towards people who think they have a shot on art just because they have filtered low quality photos on Instagram. But whatever, not my life.

I also put up my own photography account. The username is juliofotografia. I hope you can follow that as well because it's new. There, I upload photos that I have by far took since I started photography a few years ago up until today (only the ones I consider good shots).


iTunes 11 Fail


I knew there was a reason behind why I kept ignoring the iTunes update notification. My gut was subconsciously telling me that the new version would suck. Fine, the interface is great but that's useless if you can't use the software conveniently.

I am very upset about my iTunes right now. Why? Simply because it doesn't let me search media on my device via the search bar (which supposedly is its major purpose). It only searches the library and the iTunes store, NOT your own device. Rather stupid, ain't it?

Dear Apple, have you really thought this update through? I'm beginning to believe that you only want to show the world you are able to release frequent updates that's why you have this but sadly, the efficiency of your services are being taken for granted. Love, a concerned, annoyed, and extremely disappointed consumer.

See, every time I use my computer to play songs on my Apple devices, I always use the search bar to get to the song that I want to play. Now, not being able to do that would be fine if all my devices only had a few songs in them (which would be dumb, really). But no, like for instance my iPod Classic where I put ALL of my songs from all eternity, that thing has over 6,000 songs in it. How the fuck am I supposed to easily browse through all of those if I can't just type a keyword? Tell me a good solution for that Apple and I'll let this slip.

I desperately hope you realize this huge mistake and release a new version soon acknowledging this failure. Fortunately, this is free so it's highly impractical for me to go to the extent of suing you, coincidentally giving Samsung a favor. Oh yes, I mentioned your archenemy. By the way, it's Korean. I love Koreans.

You can argue with me all day bickering about your point but I'm afraid that's gonna be stalemate because there is no way in hell I'm gonna get my ass beat up by your shitty excuses.

Earth calling to the brilliant Apple software developers who just proved themselves to be dumbasses by this time (no offense). If you, by any meager chance be able to read this post, I would really appreciate it if you'd do something about this. I wouldn't have done this if your products were cheap. Thank you.

PS. I still have my iTunes 10 point something installer. I'm gonna uninstall this current crap and have that installed again. I strongly hope it works because if not, I will have you know that my rage for you will worsen.

[12.20.12 Update]
The Apple software developers have read my post (I think) and in the recent iTunes version release, they acknowledged this downfall. I can now search my devices' contents using the search bar (although not entirely - the albums list does not narrow down to what I search for, but that's fine I think I'll be able to deal with that for now).

Thank you.

December 1, 2012

Gong Chaaaaa


I have yet again discovered something I love - Gong Cha Milk Tea, particularly Winter Melon. Well, I actually wouldn't have discovered this if not for my cousin who introduced it to me and who knew I would love it.

Before anything else, let me just say that I am not a huge fan of teas. It's not my cup of tea. Hahaha! Get the joke? You get it.

Anyways, yeah, I don't drink tea nor coffee. I have no idea why. Well for coffees, I basically don't like the taste they leave in the mouth. That's discomforting for me especially if I can't brush my teeth right after drinking. As for teas, I don't know. Maybe I just wasn't used to drinking them.

Anyways, while my cousin and I were in this fairly huge mall, she suddenly suggested I try this certain milk tea in Gong Cha. I agreed primarily because she said I was gonna love it and it was milk. I love milk.

When we reached the place, my cousin didn't let me go inside the store just yet. She insisted on buying for me and that it was supposed to be a surprise. I then waited and sat by an empty table outside the store looking very much like an educated homeless. When she got the order, she finally let me in and gave me a very tall drink. The top part was like frappe and beneath it was colored liquid. Apparently, before really indulging to it, there's a process of savoring this unnecessarily costly milk tea. The instructions are all over their store glass walls so you can't miss it.

It's really good. In my opinion, at least. I loved it probably because it was melon. I love almost everything melon flavored. I can't get enough of melon drinks. I love fresh melon juice, Pokka melon milk, melon shakes like Zagu, and a whole other bunch of melon-ness.

They have other great beverages which I most probably won't order in the future because I'll be stuck having Winter Melon. Every chance counts.

PS. Gong Cha did not pay me for writing this post. Lol. I wish they did, though.

November 28, 2012

Ribena

I could still recall the intense delight I felt the first time I tasted this drink. It was an orgasmic whirl of extreme tastiness. In fact, I forgot my name at that very moment.

Ribena is a British brand of fruit-based uncarbonated softdrink. Strange as it may seem, I have never come across this drink in the Philippines. I had my first Ribena drink while I was in Hong Kong when my cousin introduced it to me who encountered it first in Malaysia. She said I'd die. I did.

My cousin told me that they don't sell these in the Philippines. However, sometime ago, I have read an article somewhere that the Ribena products in the Singapore market are from Malaysia and the Philippines. But obviously, I haven't seen any.

I didn't grow up being used to blackcurrant flavors so I'm guessing that's the reason I loved it so much. Meanwhile, I accidentally bought a ridiculously expensive juice drink in a fancy bottle at Starbucks that I forgot what the name was, and if I am not mistaken, that was also blackcurrant flavored because I liked it despite the apparent blandness.

November 27, 2012

My Second Ink 10.23.12

It's almost been a year since I got my first tattoo and right after then, I have always wanted more. This is a ridiculous thought but I don't think I will ever stop getting these body arts unless half my entire bag of bones is already covered with it. Cocky.

Having good tattoos is a luxury mainly because it can be very costly. And with good, I mean getting it in a quality tattoo parlor, with professional tattoo artists, and which are certified by the government health department to be clean and safe. With these two small tattoos alone, I have already spent about five thousand pesos. How much more if I decide covering my whole back?

When I was younger, I always felt bleak towards the idea of having tattoos. I was literally scared of them, let alone people who have massive amounts printed all over their bodies. I always said to myself that I won't be putting dirt to my good skin. But as I grew up, I realized how it meant to different individuals being inked. People do change.

Despite the fact that I crave getting needle carved, I was not entirely reminded to have another tattoo until I realized I was in Galleria where Gene Testa Tattoo was located. I actually went there to have a date with a close friend when suddenly, amid our random chat and out of an unplanned spur, "Come with me, I'm getting another tattoo," I calmly said. Then just a few floors away, we went there, me being unsure of what was happening.

When the tattoo artist asked me what I was getting, I didn't actually know what to say (that's a good enthusiast right there, doesn't have a clue what to get on session time). However, back when I got my first one which was Korean, I immediately thought of having Japanese the next time. So I did. This one was a lot more painful than my first primarily because it had fills and for crying out loud, the tattoo artist gave it a second coating. The skin where it is situated has become a mild keloid. I love it.

The funny thing was, I actually wanted it to be three Kanji symbols - Love, Money, and Happiness. These three words were the result of a random out-of-boredom game posted on Facebook. Arranged in a crossword-like style, the first three words that one will see are the three things they want in life. Those three words were the ones I got. It actually made sense for me perhaps because it's true that I want and need those three things to stay in my life. But unfortunately, I decided on getting the Love one for the meantime because my mom, who loves me very dearly, might not recognize me anymore.

Another funny thing was, the day after was Big Bang's concert and I had a fresh tattoo. I have no idea how I was able to deal with that. I guess I was distracted enough by the sheer excitement.

Apparently, Gaara from Naruto and I share the same tattoo, only that his is red and located on the forehead. I was like, "Shit, you're right" when a friend pointed that out to me.

As soon as I get the unnecessary funds, my whole body will hold a tattoo festival. Teehee.

November 26, 2012

The Thai Billionaire

This is again one of those interesting moments when I discover amusingly surprising things. See, I was browsing through random movie titles from 2011 when this movie called "Top Secret" caught my attention. I noticed that it was a Thai film and since I got a little curious, I did a quick research about it.

When I read the synopsis and found out that it was based on a true story, I immediately knew what it was about.

Very much like our own Filipino billionaire Henry Sy, Top Ittipat also struggled in life and sought ways to make things better for him and his family. At a young age, he ventured into small businesses selling snack foods. At age 19, he obtained his financial success by selling seaweed snacks which became a top-seller in Thailand. Now, Top is a 26-year-old billionaire.

Going back to my surprised self, coincidentally, my all-time favorite snack is the very seaweed snack that this young Thai businessman created.

When I encountered this junk food in some supermarket in some mall in Manila, I thought it was Japanese-made since Kanji were written all over it and it was made of seaweed which Japanese people are so fond of including in just about anything. You get the logic.

But then I thought, "Tao Kae Noi" doesn't sound Japanese at all. Then when I read the text at the back, Product of Thailand. I was like, "Oh heeey. Western Digital external hard drives are yours and now this? Oh heeey."

I bought one to try thinking it'll be good since I myself have always loved seaweeds in Japanese rice rolls, ramen, among other things. Alas, I was not mistaken. From then on, if I had the chance to, I always bought as many as my poor wallet allowed. My friends know this. It's not cheap at all, by the way.

November 25, 2012

My Lion King, The Musical Experience



When Laila, one of my bestfriends and I went to Singapore for vacation, we had the chance to watch a real live musical of The Lion King. Even before we got into the country, ate Jaren, Laila's cousin already told us that we will be watching it. I almost died of joy.

The Lion King was one of my best childhood movies, if not the most memorable. Even as a child, I was deeply moved by the film. Having able to watch it live was an amazing experience.

Held at one of the theaters of the internationally acclaimed Singapore landmark and tourist destination Marina Bay Sands, we had to, at least dress appropriately. All kinds of races from around the world were there and everything was just so posh at the event venue, nothing like any production the Philippines can ever afford at this time. Hehe.

At the start of the musical, I was already wonderstruck. I found myself running out of small breaths mainly because I was extremely overwhelmed. I then kept my cool as I tried to keep up with the breathtaking moment. Towards the end of the musical introduction, I caught myself letting go small amount of tears. I couldn't help but tell ate Jaren how thankful I was for the opportunity.

Every other unnecessary feeling I had at that moment voluntarily shut down to keep my focus as I savored the majestic moment. I almost did not wink the entire show just to be able to convince myself that everything was perfectly absorbed.

Before this, I also got to watch a Lion King musical in Disneyland but that was more of a fun and child-oriented kind of show. The production and performance were also world-class but it was a part of the park amusement so it was brief and less given importance. Unlike this one in Singapore which was kind of an independent production that's why it was a lot longer and way better.

When the show ended, I felt contentment and happiness fusing together inside my guts. I realized that even I was a musical or a theatrical play fan, some productions like this one can really make you feel entirely different from what you've already experienced or from what you're already expecting.


November 24, 2012

The Mating

One easy afternoon sometime ago, I decided to have a quick look around our backyard garden. Usually, these are the times when I encounter great subjects for stills so I was hoping for one.


Then to my surprise, I found these little creatures getting comfortable by an oak log among the green vines and whatnot. As far as my quick research was concerned, these are called Eastern Boxelder Bugs. They don't do any real harm other than they're a nuisance and can be annoying if they invade your home. But they haven't gotten to that extent for me yet.

While I was trying to take my shots, I was very careful not to disturb their activity. I rarely encounter mating insects which are fixed in one place so this was a vital shot for me. I took a couple and this was one of my best.

11.23.12

The setting was my elementary school. In the early part, during day time, there were classes being held and one of them had a very aggressive teacher madly teaching her pupils. I wasn't sure if they were pupils or students. There were some kind of activities held at the school grounds.

I was with my friends and we were by the flagpole, doing whatever. I then saw my college professor, Mr. Talde. Surprised, I walked up to him and had a small talk about how it was after college. Even in my dreams, he enjoyed brief chats like those. He also mentioned something about phones. In that talk, Mr. Talde did something that I cannot mention in this post, if you know what I mean.

Towards the evening, the school rooms turned into transient rent rooms. I remember a group of people which were checked in room 105. Unfortunately, they were having a hard time falling asleep there because the room was reportedly "haunted." I even gave the room a peek and indeed, it gave me the creeps albeit nothing strange was seen. They then transferred to a different room and it was the one we used when we were in 6th grade.

In an entirely different dream of mine later on, my house was being attacked by a burglar. But it was no ordinary burglary. The criminal was dressed in a Batman costume, but a very poorly made one, suggesting that it was made by a non-professional costume maker. The perpetrator kept running around the house, apparently avoiding being caught. I wasn't even aware which household items he was able to snag.

Just moments before I woke up, evil kids were around my house and they were attacking us from the outside. I got really mad so I got my airsoft gun and shot them like I was some expert assassin. After the kids realized they were no match for me, they left. However, to my discontent, I went outside and tried shooting them more.

Then I woke up.

Cibo Series: Kimchi


Kimchi is the national food of Korea. Before I even got into K-Pop or be interested about Korea, I have already encountered Kimchi. I think that was in my early teens while I was in Manila and I saw my cousin eating some then I was like, "What the heck is that?"

At first, this dish and I had a rough start because come on, it's cold vegetable and the flavor was entirely new to me. But as a leafy vegetable lover, I have grown to love Kimchi because it is made of radish, cabbages, and other similar things. I also am a spicy food enthusiast that's why the flavor and I eventually became friends.

I have seen many Korean films and soaps that feature how Kimchi is made, among other stuff that it is useful for. You can really see how Koreans give great importance to it not only as a national dish but also as pride of their nation.

November 21, 2012

11.20.12

There were images of the inside of an unfinished and a seemingly abandoned building. There was somebody staying in one corner of the room I was in. He looked homeless. I was there, trying to explore the building. It was barely half-finished. The walls were still hollow blocks, thick cables for foundation were still all over the place, some protruding from concrete supports and the floor was grey sand. In fact, everything was grey.

In the later part, I was with my close friends in the mall. They had blonde-ish hair but they looked like wigs and mine stayed as it was. The next scene was all of us sitting in resto-bar while chatting and enjoying some finger food. Oddly enough, their blonde hair were gone and how they all looked turned normal again. This area of the mall was like a bar chain and was, if I recall correctly, Persian inspired. The middle part of the building was styled like other typical malls which has space and other floors can be seen by the edges. The roof was glass, I think different kinds of stained glass. After the chat and the bill came, I had to pay about Php4,500. Then I found out they ordered lots of beer without my consent. I sent them a text saying thanks but in a sarcastic manner.

I think the mall and the unfinished building were a merged structure.

During the last part, I was with my bestfriend Laila in a condo room and we were high up the stories as we can see the fireworks being shown by an amusement park, I think it was Universal Studios. I took shots of the fireworks and they were amazing, as in reality I cannot take good pictures of it. I was also making fun of Laila's iPhone casing which was Hello Kitty and nicely shaped like one, too.

Then I woke up.

I Love My Dad

I know it's not Father's Day and all but I just had to write this before it escapes my mind. Seriously, I don't even remember when Father's Day is, if not for Facebook or Wikipedia.

Anyways, I just got out from my hot bath in this cold weather and these odd thoughts just keep coming in like emails from your boss. I suddenly thought about how cool my dad is. I am trying my best to make this blurb to sound non-mushy in any ridiculous way. Also, this will probably be the first time that I'm going to write something about my old man having this kind of sincere effort. I mean, not that I didn't want to before, I think I just wasn't in a compelling situation to do so.

When I was a young kid, my dad was a strict parent. Most probably because he was kind of protective with his kids. I even remember my mom saying that dad had always loved having children. He didn't really allowed my older brother and I to go out with friends far away from home if we wanted to (or if he did, I would first cry blood before he gave me his permission). This was actually on me because my older brother wasn't as adventurous as I was back then. Mostly, I always played with the neighborhood kids in our area.

When I reached high school, my dad's strict senses backed down a bit and only had to make me go home when I'm being a little too gypsy already. I had my ear pierced when I was 16 and I didn't hear any snide remark from him, not a single word. When I reached college, I had an additional piercing on the same area, and another helix pierce on my right ear. That made them three, but I was never scolded for it.

Last year, without any permission or whatsoever (just joked to my mom), I had my first tattoo. Almost half a year since I got it, I never thought my dad wasn't aware that I had one (even if it's on my arm, visible). When I said something about blood and tattoo, he just asked where my tattoo was, showed him, and just said, "Okay." I even thought he was happy about it. I got a new tattoo more visible a few months ago and he still isn't complaining. Perhaps I need to go way further, don't I? But my dad never scolds me for what I do to myself, physically or in the matters of outlook. He won't care what I will wear, or any of that stuff. He only scolds me towards not-so-good things that I do to something or someone else. What I always expect from a good parent.

My dad does not argue. When there is something that needs discussing, he talks pleasantly. He also doesn't show any negative emotions while doing so. He never nagged. And I mean, never. In my 23 years of existence, never did I experience any annoying nor unnecessary fuss from my dad.

It has already been a very long time since my dad scolded me about something. I probably won't remember that anymore. He is fond of teaching his children about stuff that he tells with such great details, albeit about things that I most probably know already. On the other hand, when he's the one asking, he likewise wants everything detailed and in such a way that it will be easy to comprehend.

Most of the things that I spend on come from my dad. I just pretend that I won't be asking for any money but when he finds out that I will be going somewhere or I have something to do that will need spending, he is the first one who asks how much I will need, even if those activities are just out of my own wanting, luxury, or other unimportant recreations. For that, I am truly thankful.

I don't think I can ever complain about my dad being a father. He is very sweet to his children and he gives us everything we need and want, as long as it is reasonable. He never gets mad at us about simple mistakes. It's always the huge and really important things that he makes a big deal of, and there was never a time that I wasn't scared of him when he was truly mad.

I am very thankful that I am blessed with this kind of father. Never a bigot, has always been open-minded, understanding, loving, reasonable, thoughtful, and I can just go on forever saying wonderful things about him. One special thing about my dad and I will always be thankful for, is that he never forced me on doing something that I didn't want to do or taking a path that I didn't want to tread, especially about life and personal choices. He has his thoughts about what happens to me as his own, but I guess he just ponders upon them and just tries to be rational and understanding.

He's not perfect and he makes mistakes. But who doesn't? He may have done things in the past that I could never understand, but I'm sure he has his logical and valid reasons.

I love my dad.

PS. Great, now I have to do one for my mom as well. Hahaha. This is brief and I know I could have written more, but the point is, I did this because I appreciate my dad so much and for the things that he has done for me and our family. For the other stuff I couldn't mention, well at least I know they will forever be in my heart and mind.

November 20, 2012

The Walking Dead Infection

I have encountered a lot of posts about AMC's The Walking Dead on Facebook for the past few months. Since I've got so many shows I'm following already, I chose to be impervious. However, for some reason, I got really curious and decided to watch its first episode to see if it really is good.


Blimey, I was really impressed with the show's production. I'm guessing the cost is huge considering the kind of quality production it showcases and the number of episodes per season. Currently airing, the show is already on its third season. I'm almost through the first season and I'm going to start watching the second one soon.

Each episode has its strong impact to the viewer. As for my cousin and I, there was never an episode that did not leave us scarred, out of breath, or sad. The good thing is, although it gives you these adverse feelings, all the more that you want to watch the show. It's like it fires you up from time to time.

November 18, 2012

Sunrise Flare

It's almost five in the morning and I just got back to my headquarters coming from Zaira's birthday celebration. I thought I could spend all this time writing senseless write-ups while waiting for another awesome sunrise.


Speaking of sunrise, I am always reminded of a sunrise shot that I got but did not plan to take. Then I eventually realized that it's a really good photo.

I consider this shot to be fate-given because I am never a morning person. I almost always wake up late. Except of course on days that I have something special to do. But the point is, in the rare occasion that I am able to rise and shine in an early time and nature gives me this kind of wonderful scenario, is definitely a blessing for a photography enthusiast that I am.

I haven't seen this kind of flare in the longest time. I have seen more shooting stars than this kind of epic light. When I went out to do a stretch, I knew in a split second that I had to run back in to grab my camera and take that shot leaving my morning yawn half-baked.

I have so many sunset shots and only a few of them take my breath away. This sunrise capture is definitely special for me. I actually take pride in my photography from photos that I never expect I will be able to get in a million years. I am very proud of this photograph.

November 17, 2012

Craving More SNL


I have only recently started watching full episodes of Saturday Night Live (I only watched segments before) because I realized I could really use some good laugh.

November 16, 2012

Taylor Swift's Red Review


From the moment I got my own copy of Taylor's album entitled "Red", I listened to it right away. I have been waiting for this new record two years now, dammit. Haha. I was so excited for this, and now it's here! I love Taylor to death.

Now for my review!

November 14, 2012

The Voice Season 3 Bets


I have been a fan of the singing contest The Voice since its first season when ate Kan introduced it to me while I was in Singapore. Apart from American Idol, I think this show has more class, dignity, and great upholding to it. Well, that's my opinion and it is based from what I can observe. Agree with it or shut up.

Anyways, watching Season 3's run, I have come up with this list of favorites and as some of them may be eliminated, I'm gonna update this page. I'll be damned proud if one of them wins. (I will be putting a strikethrough at the names which have already been eliminated as the competition progresses.)



Aquile, 24
This guy reminds me of Craig David and his voice, a little bit of Eric Benét. He sings his songs smoothly and flawlessly. Aside from that, I think his voice is just so handsome. Check out Aquile's blind audition here.

[Aquile lost to Sylvia Yakoub in the knockout rounds. This is unfair, Aquile should have won. Sylvia's performance of Christina's Fighter didn't do it any justice. One does not simply sing Fighter live. I'm mad.]

Avery Wilson, 16
This guy is one of my top favorites, if not my most favorite. He is only 16 but his performance as a vocal artist is simply amazing. He's undeniably a vocal prodigy. It's crazy. He reminds me of Taio Cruz when he sang Telling the World in Rio and yes, Usher, probably because he sang Without You by David Guetta in his blind audition and he sounded a lot like Usher in many parts. Check it out here.

[Okay. Fuck. I blame his song choice and his dance moves why he lost in the knockout rounds. I admit that I was very shocked that he won't be going any further in the competition. But I'm not totally sad because he lost to Cody Belew, which I also like. That was actually also upsetting -- both of them being paired together. That was a "shit, no" moment for me. Nevertheless, Avery is still young and I'm sure he's gonna go far with his awesome talent. I'm definitely keeping an eye on him.]

Benji Kuriakose, 24
This guy is a rockstar. He did an amazing rendition of Knockin' on Heaven's Door in his blind audition. Plus, his scream at the end of the song did not, even the slightest bit, annoy me. His screams are way up there. Check it out here.

[I was surprised he lost the battle rounds because he showcased an awesome performance. I mean, that crazy scream towards the end was just breathtaking. Even the three judges agreed with me. Unfortunately, Christina didn't steal him. But that's luck.]


Charlie Rey, 21
During his blind audition singing Home by Michael Bublé, the nerves were obvious. But his voice was really good to the ears. I loved his voice. With more experience, I'm sure he will be a really good singer. He's a good-looking guy too, as Blake would say. Haha. Check him out here.

[Charlie Rey got eliminated in the battle rounds.]

Cody Belew, 27
I didn't really feel his blind audition that much but as the show went on, I eventually liked him. Plus, his one-of-a-kind reaction during his blind audition was really funny. I also have a strong feeling he's gay. Check him out here.

[He reached the top 8 and I'm proud of him. He got eliminated along with pretty boy Dez Duron.]


Collin McLoughlin, 24
I think this guy's voice is ridiculously sharp, clear, and with perfect pitch. It has no issues with it, really. His somewhat country rendition of Wild World in his blind audition was awesome. Check it out here.

[Collin lost in the knockout rounds to Michaela Paige. I always liked his crystal clear voice but he got paired up with a very young punk rocker girl in the knockout rounds and I think she made more impression in her performance than Collin.]

Dez Duron, 22
Now, this guy, he auditioned last season but didn't get in (most probably because of the song choice). That time, I already liked him so I kept an eye on him. I have been a fan for over a year now. When I found out he auditioned again and finally got in, I got really excited and happy for him. His blind audition was one of my favorite Blake moments. Check it out here.

[Although I believed in Dez, I think he was able to reach top 8 mainly because of his star quality. But he's a singer, just not the best out there. I'm sure a lot of fans will be keeping an eye on him.]

Diego Val, 25
This Peruvian awesomeness has a great cool voice. I have no idea why only one judge turned around for him (barely) because I thought his performance in the blind auditions was really good, not to mention blending in a twist of Latino to it. Hot. Check it out here.

[Diego got eliminated in the first week of the live shows. He was not saved by America nor his coach Cee Lo. Diego kissed Cody when Cody was saved by Cee Lo. Bromance at its finest.]

Joe Kirkland, 24
This band boy reminded me of Simple Plan, Sum 41, and almost all other bands I listened to when I was just a young teenager. He also made me feel listening to The All-American Rejects at some point. I love his rocker aura when he sang Gives You Hell in his blind audition. Check it out here.

[I was really mad to see Joe got eliminated in the knockout round! I mean, his rock version of Taylor Swift's Mean was awesome -- major concert level! But oh well, all coaches turned around for Bryan Keith in the blind auditions so I'm not gonna argue. I guess I liked Joe more because he's youthful and charismatic. Not fat, *coughs* Haha, kidding.]

Julio Cesar Castillo, 21
Initially, I liked the strength of his voice. But what made me like him is because I enjoyed his La Bamba in his blind audition. He also did a bit of Mariachi with El Rey. Check it out here.

[Julio was not saved by America nor his coach Blake in the first live show week.]

Kayla Nevarez, 17
This girl reminds me so much of JoJo and Jasmine Trias. I loved JoJo back then, and I still do. Her voice is just as awesome as a simpler version of Stacie Orrico yet a strong one. Check her blind audition here.

[When she got paired with Joselyn Rivera in the knockout round, I was kinda confident she'd win. But watching their performances, Joselyn's Love on Top by Beyoncé was just amazing. She reached those difficult high notes through and through, while Kayla kinda being safe with Shark in the Water. So, even if it was a little bit upsetting seeing Kayla go, I felt Joselyn really deserved it.]

Melanie Martinez, 17
This gal is one of my top favorites. I was really impressed with her very unique rendition of Britney Spear's Toxic. She has a strong and sweet, kinda dramatic voice. I like it a lot. Plus, how awesome is playing two instruments at a time? While she played the guitar, she was softly kicking her tambourine down at her feet. Check it out here.

Michelle Brooks-Thompson, 28
I was very impressed by her flawless, strong, and astounding performance of Proud Mary in her blind audition. She reminds me of the other big black African-American mommas who love to belt out strong diva songs out there. Check it out here.

[I was shocked she lost over Amanda Brown in the knockout rounds. She kicked butt with Jennifer Hudson's Spotlight. That solid high note towards the end was unbelievable. She even made Christina shake her head in awe.]

Terry McDermott, 35 [2nd Place]
I adore this guy's voice, let alone his vocal range. It's incredible. It's like if he were already famous, I really think he could be one of the greatest musicians in the world by now. If he goes far, I'm pretty sure he's gonna be a legend in the future. That's how good he is to me. He reminds me so much of classic rock musicians and bands like The Beatles, Journey, Queen, etc. This guy is just awesome. I'll be damned if this guy doesn't win the whole competition. Check out his rendition of Maybe I'm Amazed here.

Trevin Hunte, 18 [4th Place]
At a very young age with his strong vocal ability, he may just go far. His performance of Listen in his blind audition was stellar. Check it out here.

Cassadee Pope won the third season of The Voice. Terry McDermott, my most favorite, came in second. Honestly, I also like Cassadee. She's really good but I think Terry was way better. He should have won. Unfortunately, Cassadee's genre was more mainstream and more people are into it, unlike Terry's classic rock. But oh well, I'm pretty sure Terry's gonna make it big because he is just and amazing singer.

November 13, 2012

Being Alive and Living

Most of us probably already know the difference between being alive and living. But since we are so busy focusing on things that are obviously the reason we constantly forget the deeper meaning of these concepts, being reminded from time to time helps a lot.

We might have different interpretations especially about small details on how we view the concepts of just being alive and actually living. But I strongly think that no matter how varied our opinions and ideas are, they can be stitched together and blend well because they have so many similarities and connections among them, which will actually lead to one huge point.

Last night, I watched the fourteenth episode of American Dad's third season, and this particular episode kinda made me realize the distinction between being alive and living.

The family got a new dog and apparently they enjoyed it's company and simply just how adorable the dog was. Unfortunately, while they were playing with the dog one day, it got into an accident bringing it into a life-or-death situation. The dog's body basically took a somewhat 90% brutal damage and what was making it alive was just this particular pumping machine of some sort. Out of desperation, the dad brought it into a weird psycho quack doctor or whatever and asked her to do anything she could to bring the dog to an "almost normal" state again.

After the surreal and very strange operation, the dog was back to its feet. However, it looked absolutely terrifying. Random materials like a baseball glove, a weird plastic frog leg, and whatnot were attached to its body like it was absolutely unplanned. Looking at it made me really queasy, even if it was cartoons. It was like an undead -- an animal zombie.

At that point, it made me think that what good is the dog's life if it can no longer normally walk, run, bark,  snarl, roll over, or just about any other things that dogs do.

Similarly for us humans, what good is our lives if we don't do the things that we are supposed to do? What good is it if we don't do what we want and love to do? Yes, we can say that we are alive, we breathe, and our bodies move. But it takes a whole lot to live.

And so I say, we must live the life we want to. Live our dreams. Live happy and healthy ones. Live for ourselves and for the people that we love.

I know this is cliché but I'm gonna say it anyway. Life is too short to be waiting for something to happen. Make it happen right now because we won't realize that life is short unless we no longer have much time. We all know this but admit it, we always forget. That's why this is a reminder.

Live the life you love, love the life you live. xx

November 11, 2012

Why Barack Obama Won

I know I am not in the position to say these things but since this is my own personal space and I won't give a fu_k if anybody ever tries to be negative about this, I'm just gonna go ahead anyways. For the record, while I was saying that, I made a kind face and I was smiling the whole time.

In connection with the above statement, this isn't a formal write-up about the USA elections at all. This is just in fact, a brief "whatevs" and I'm only gonna base this one thing that I have to say with the things I have seen and heard about those two great gentlemen of America. Since I am a useless Political Science graduate myself, I also felt I was obliged to do so. But no really, somebody in my dream last night forced me to.

I didn't know how it felt living in America over the past four years while Obama was in the White House, browsing through 9gag. But seeing that America gave him another four-year term, I suppose it wasn't that bad.

Mitt Romney had a lot of good and great political positions as I have read different articles from CNN, Bloomberg, The Washington Post, etc. But so did Obama. Personally, I would have really voted for the African-American guy, no doubt. Both positions were really good, but the question was, "Who had the better...?"

To cut this really really short:

People hate Romney.

November 3, 2012

Cibo Series: Baked Scallops

I already forgot when I first got to taste baked scallops but I'm pretty sure I was still tiny. Imagine my overwhelming reaction by the magic this dish brought.


I don't always have the chance to eat scallops that's why whenever I am somewhere which I am certain baked scallops can be accessible, I search. The only problem is, I forget. I get really giddy because of joy and excitement whenever there are scallops around. I love scallops. Like, I love them so much. Thank God for baked scallops.

October 30, 2012

BIG BANG: The Best Concert Night of My Life (So Far...)

Okay, I don't want to sound overly enthralled by this whole thing but it was just amazing. Experiencing a major concert of the idols of your fandom life is one of the best moments you can experience. That's just how it felt - GRAND.

A month before the concert, I found out over the internet that my idols of almost 6 years, BIG BANG, will be having a concert tour in my country, the Philippines. I was filled with joy inside. I wasn't a hundred percent sure that will definitely be able to go, though. But after a week of mild discernment, I immediately bought a VIP ticket, the most expensive ticket I have ever purchased yet.

I became more and more nervous, anxious and at the same time excited as the date approached. I wanted everything to be perfect because it was a rare and golden opportunity. Then the fateful day came.

I went to SM Mall of Asia Arena and fans from all over the country were there, mostly fangirls rummaging and screaming, most of the time for no reason at all. There was even a fan who came all the way from India. Talk about obsession.

As everyone fell in line, it felt unnecessarily hot and of course, really stuffy. One of the main reasons why I bought a VIP ticket was to avoid these kinds of situations because frankly, I become very uncomfortable with it. Surprise, I felt mobbed. So yeah, that wasn't really something I was happy about. For consolation, at the main entrance, everyone finally got sorted out.

Just being near the stage, and seeing the huge concert building from the center was just breathtaking. Before the concert started, some of the members teased the audience with their subtle appearances from behind the stage. Of course, screams and shouts were trending. I almost felt my eardrums burst the entire time. Then it started.

The show lasted for almost 3 hours including the unnecessary talks and encores. I was starstruck mainly by T.O.P even if I am team Teayang. He had an enigmatic yet captivating aura seeing him in person. Daesung was jolly as usual, Seungri being childish, Taeyang (who eventually ripped his shirt off) being awesome and hot, and well, the snobbish GD.

All I can say is it was an amazing show and the overpriced ticket was worth it. This was the first time I bought a VIP ticket for an international concert. That's how much I love these guys. I'm not a religious follower of K-Pop anymore but they were one of the first artists I loved when I was just starting being a K-Popper.

Someday, these guys won't just be like, meters aways from me performing, but chatting with me over coffee or something (even if I don't drink coffee) or perhaps pigging out over Bulgogi and Kimchi? Haha.

I will forever be a VIP.

October 5, 2012

Confessions of a Non-Alcoholic

In a very alcoholic generation like ours, almost everyone drinks booze. In fact, more than half of my friends and acquaintances are moderate to frequent drinkers. However, as a young adult, I still don't fully understand the goodness in getting tipsy, being hammered, nor going wasted.

I understand that it has been a tradition for us Filipinos to drink in so many different situations and occasions. It's just not gonna be the same without alcohol. It's almost like a way of life for so many. But there are just times that I wonder why so many people drink like it's a baby gone a bender with his milk. It's crazy.

To be honest, I already got drunk more than twice before. On my defense, those were situations where one would rather choose to be drunk even if they don't want to than to be sober and be an alien. Be that as it may, in any bottle or glass of liquor that successfully made my head spin, not once was I happy about it. I was never glad I got drunk. Aside from the absolute fact that it makes me feel terrible, I get unnecessarily paranoid from its effect to the human body, particularly the liver. Though once in a while alcohol intake is good, I convince myself that I don't need it.

Recently, I finally found out why firewater and I aren't the best of friends. I'm allergic to alcohol. I got a chance to talk to a professional and told him how dramatic my body becomes and how these weird things just come crashing in every time I try to drink. I then underwent through so many intense medical examinations and that was his diagnosis.

Up until not long ago, I always told people who wanted to make me drink that I can't because I'm allergic. At the time, it was supposed to be just a false alibi for not wanting to drink. It came true anyway. Law of attraction, maybe? At least, I have a truthful excuse now.

Most of my friends know I don't/can't drink yet still invite me to sessions. Well those sessions also involve conversations and insanity which I am good at. When everybody's already groggy and disoriented, I automatically become a one-man support team, designated driver, or sober partner.

I likewise admit that I'm the so called "Kung-Fu" which is slang and the shortened form of the Tagalog phrase "kung pumulutan" (when eating finger foods). That's mainly my role, and nobody will dare complain because I still give contribution even if I don't drink. Bleh.

Some say, all the more that I need to drink the bottle and fight the allergy so that I may get rid of it, and that it's just a matter of getting used to. I say, I don't need to ditch this antipathy because I don't need to drink alcohol in the first place. I also made a promise that I will never let myself get drunk for as long as there's still sanity in my gut. I guess my being a hungry pig in the group is enough conviviality. Thank you.

PS. I love drunkards. It's not you, it's me. I still drink wine. xx

October 3, 2012

Mixed Emotions

I am upset with a few things, sad with other things, frustrated about one thing, and I feel really empty for some reason I still have to figure out.

I don't know. I know that it's almost unreasonable for me to spill all this here but I just feel the need to spit it out. I won't be blabbering about so many things, though. I want and need to say how I feel right now, and hopefully it'll make me feel better even just for the slightest possible circumstance.

However, I also am aware that all these emotions are being balanced by the intense excitement I'm also feeling right now (probably the reason why I'm still happy). I just hope it goes as planned, without too much downfall.

I'm a happy person. That will never change, I guess. There are just times that my happiness gets clouded by negative emotions, thus my responsibility to wipe it clean from time to time. The cloth I use are my sources of happiness like noodles and movies.

This post is so vague. But, whatever.

October 2, 2012

Justin Bieber: 18 and Pregnant

This is good news to all Beliebers out there. JB is finally having a baby, and at the perfect age of 18, too. What's more thoughtful of him is that he announced it while doing a concert in Arizona. Check out this awesome announcement.


But seriously, he is taking things too fast-paced. And, I wonder who the father is. Anyone knows?

11:11

I think it was about a couple of months back when this phenomenon got quite dinning to my ears and I wasn't sure if prior that time, I was already aware I was experiencing it or if I really was experiencing it. But as far as I can remember, I wasn't. :DD

According to what I have heard, if you check the time and coincidentally happen it's 11:11 (I guess it doesn't matter if it's AM or PM), you are entitled to make a wish. But of course this is all a belief, with respect to chance and coincidence. There is no absolute truth about it.

According to Kindred Spirits, numerologists believe that events linked to the time 11:11 appear more often than can be explained by chance or coincidence. That probably explains the alarming unexplained multiple times I have been coincidentally seeing 11:11 on my watch, my phone, and other devices (I have more than 10 printscreens of 11:11 in just a month [Is Lady Luck my guardian angel?]) -- that it can't be easily explained. See the confusing paradox that seemingly lurks?

However, from all the time I have seen 11:11 on the clock, I haven't really made a wish from them. According to George Barnard (2004), some authors claim that seeing 11:11 on a clock is an auspicious sign. Well, if that's fortunately true, I would like to gather all the power of my 11:11 encounters into one wish and make it happen, please.

Unfortunately, I am a person who doesn't really believe in making wishes nor the idea some things do happen just because they were wished, primarily because of the fact that I have more faith in Science than things I have no clue about. But then again, I guess it's inevitable sometimes, even for myself, to have those wishful thinking, hoping that something you want to happen, to actually do.