The Devil wears Red Shoes

Maps are important

2009-11-11T15:29:00.001+08:00

"Wasn't the G spot discovered by a guy G something...Gustav? Giorgio? Gary?"

"Whoever he was, he was the only one who found it and he never left a map before he died. The selfish fucker..."

...

2009-11-08T22:17:00.002+08:00

She knew this was coming; she's seen it from a thousand miles away.

He touched her face as he said the words, as if he's trying to make the blow a little bearable.

"It's not that I'm incapable of loving. It's just that I can't love you. You're not the one. I'm sorry..."

Supernatural Recycles!

2009-11-07T22:09:00.002+08:00

The effort to save the earth is one of Supernatural's most important missions. They recycle. Here's proof:

(The Usual Suspects - Karen [the grieving widow] Season 2 Episode 7)

(Monster at the end of the book - Publisher; Season 4 Episode 18)

(The Magnificent Seven - Lust; Season 3 Episode 1)

(Free to be you and me - Chastity; Season 5 Episode 3)

Err...Duh!

2009-11-06T17:47:00.002+08:00

He looked at her while she was reading the paper and having a sip of her coffee. He squinted at her, as if tunnel vision were to give him a better perspective.

"You hold too many secrets. You hide too many things." He said accusingly.

She never looked away from what she was reading and gently put her cup down. "That's why they're called secrets, dumbass."

Apparently, I do have one...

2009-11-06T15:35:00.002+08:00

It was a crazy week for me. Hell, it's been a crazy ass couple of months. But the cherry on top of the entire crazy frozen dessert of a week was when I realized I do have a reputation and that it does precede me.

I decided to have a drink after work, just something to get the edge off. I met up with an old colleague and we just hung out and shot the breeze. A woman came up to our table and asked "Hi! Are you (my name)?" I have never met this woman before nor have I ever seen her in my entire life. I figured, my friend was here and if this woman turned out to be violent or crazy, I got back up. So, I said the affirmative and she spewed out a couple of names of people that I used to work with and I nodded and smiled. Here's the kick in the pants - she goes:

"Oh goodness! So you are THE (my name)!"

The? I've got an article attached to my name now? I'm confused though, does that objectify or stereotype me?

How do you react to that? I did the best I could and gave an awkward chuckle, a lopsided half smile and a facial reaction similar to that of someone tasting something funky.

Of course, with my luck, I get the best kind of audience. My friend chuckled and said "Well, look at you and your reputation. You're your own PR!"

Crap...so apparently, I do have one. This scares the holy bejesus out of me...

Superntural Season 5 Episode 8 - Changing Channels

2009-11-06T15:31:00.004+08:00

Supernatural will be on hell-atus after the November 19 episode and will return on January 7. Damn you, Eric Kripke...

I needed this episode. I needed this episode for a lot of reasons: One - I needed that good laugh-out-loud-belly-aching-tears-in-my-eyes laughter. I loved every minute of it. Second reason was, I needed to feel that we were going back to the story line. It was a wonderful transition. Very well written and very well executed.

I don't think a lot of the "younger" generation would appreciate the beautiful parodies that this episode did. Suddenly, thoughts of my youth came rushing back. I remember the sitcoms of those years - Three's Company, Diff'rent Strokes, Who's the Boss, etc. The OBB had me in stitches! The opening song was the final nail to my laughing coffin. Oh, and the terrible acting.

For the life of me, I can't think of the right words to use to describe the sheer joy I went through with their parody of Grey's Anatomy. It's even more satisfactory for me when they brought up Denny. I would've given anything to be at JDM's side just to see his reaction as he watches that scene.

I'm honestly starting to think that I over-analyze every SPN episode. I'm pretty sure that they wrote it as that - just to have fun and not think of the socioeconomic relevance of the episode. However, I'd like to think that it really does go deeper than that. If you were to ask me, I thought that this was a great episode to showcase how American culture has become so defined by its television shows. It also shows the high dependency people (not just Americans but almost everyone) have on entertainment, particularly television. Now, don't get me wrong and think I'm a freakin' hypocrite. I'm not saying I'm not one of those people - I am writing a review about a TV show I am obviously obsessed about, hello? - all I'm saying is that we are so affected by pop culture.

My favorite part was the CSI sequence. I have expressed my disdain for Horatio Caine and David Caruso's acting time and time again. Jensen could not quite get it but Jared (Hey hun!) nailed it! (excuse me while I watch that scene again and laugh my ass off). That was absolutely perfect. Another perfect sequence? The Knight Rider sequence! I never liked the remake. And it could be just me but doesn't Jensen have an uncanny resemblance to The Hoff? (Maybe that's why they did the KR thing)

I have to admit though, the whole Trickster being Gabriel twist floored me. Very very Gaiman-ish. Kudos to your team of writers, Kripke. Make sure you pay them well.

Another awesome episode. *applause*

No Apologies

2009-11-01T21:04:00.002+08:00

I've realized that we tend to apologize for a lot of things that don't really merit an apology. We take it upon ourselves to apologize because we feel like it's the polite thing to do when we really don't mean to say sorry. I've also come to realize that I will never apologize for certain things that have happened in my life, things that I have done, and things that I believe in.

1. I will never apologize for my past - Why should I? These things happened to me and not to you, asshole. Why should I say sorry to you for something that I've experienced? My past is my own and it has made me who I am today.

2. I will never apologize for eating like a starving man - So, I'm not one of those "Dainty ladies" you've met who poke their food around and pretend to be full when they're really Jonesing for a freaking cheeseburger. I eat. A lot. (Maybe a lot more than what I really should consume) I like eating.

3. I will never apologize for my fashion - Call me a freaking weirdo for the clothes I wear. You just don't have the guts to wear them. (Or maybe you do...but then that's pudginess 'round the midsection and not guts). I wear what I wear because it makes me feel good about myself. I don't make you wear it, so stuff it up where the sun don't shine, Pokey.

4. I will never apologize for something I've done intentionally - You may not accept the action or the reason behind the action. I will not explain myself to you. I've done it and I have my reasons for it. I've made my peace with it and so screw you for judging me for it.

5. I will never apologize for my "crazy" family - These are the people who stuck by me and loved me unconditionally. Between you and them, there's really no contest there. Blood will always weigh more than anything.

So, here's a thought: Before you demand for an apology from me, think hard about what you want me to apologize for.

Preparation is always the best defense

2009-11-01T13:00:00.001+08:00

I know my kids will never have the guts to call me this, but just in case, I've got a great comeback if and when they do. SCENE!

My kid (Any of my kids): "Mom, you're such a loser"

My response: *shrugs nonchalantly* "It's genetic. Guess what you're going to be after this conversation is over and you have an epiphany of what I've just said?"

I'm awesome.

Supernatural Season 5 Episode 7 - The curious case of Dean Winchester

2009-10-30T15:12:00.002+08:00

***

In honor of Halloween, allow me to dedicate the first few sentences of this review to my hormone driven, shallow and girly personality. (makes a hand gesture and out comes "the girl")

I don't know about you but Patrick (Hal Ozsan) is hot! There's something about his accent and his hair and his lips that make me go hmmm... His eyes are so hypnotic as well; like he's undressing you with it. Of course, Jared's hotness is already a given (don't be jealous, baby)

Chad Everett was kind of adorable as well and maybe (yes, maybe) even hot. For a senior citizen, he's still kinda hot. Okay, maybe it's just me. But he is really cute.

Okay...girly moment over. I'm stuffing her back into the bottom of the chest and will not come out until next Halloween.

For me, the episode was all very moving and very poignant. If there's one thing I like about Supernatural is that even if the show's whole theme is fictional - they try to humanize the characters in it - yes, even the supernatural beings in it. I thought this episode was very moving because it dealt with a lot of human emotions and conflicts.

First, there's that struggle between chasing after hope out of desperation. Often, we find ourselves struggling and searching for hope but we search for it in the wrong places. Bobby was searching for hope in that card game, hoping to gain his self respect back by gaining the use of his legs. He was measuring his worth against his capability to hunt, not even considering how important he truly is to the brothers, with or without self mobility.

It's funny that Dean was actually given a gift in this episode. The presumption was that they'll never live to be that age - as hunters. Now, he was given a chance to know how it is to be a hunter AT that age. He has now understood how his "unhealthy eating habits" will affect him in the future. See? Something great came out of the ugly situation. (Of course I couldn't stop laughing with that entire sequence in the motel room: Dean in that robe, the "grumpy old men" comment, the old chicken junk comment, the "you're just like my grandpa" scene...hilarious!!)

Gray areas and perception was also a sub theme in this episode. We have fallen prey to a lot of presumptions and assumptions about people. I've always believed that in this life, it's all about perception management. It's about how people see you, how you want people to see you and the truth about who you really are. We put people in stereotypes and generalizations; we label them and we often can't see beyond that label - rich, poor, kind, evil, slut, flirt, nerd, etc. We often can't see beyond a label we stick anyone. The layering of Patrick's character was amazing - the character was well written and it kind of left me wondering if a lot of other people think about how one person can go beyond a label or a stereotype. Or, do we just fall prey into the stereotype - that people can't change; that once a (insert label of choice here) always a (repeat label here). Can a leopard really change his or her spots? Can we teach an old dog new tricks? If the only things constant in this world are death, taxes and change, why is it so hard for us to accept the concept of change?

Anyway... going back. I love veteran actors. They've got so much tricks and techniques that you just can't help but be amazed by their performances. Chad Everett got Dean down pat - from his little idiosyncrasies and mannerisms (the open arms gesture, the "twinge", the furrowed brows and even the delivery of the lines was down pat Dean. Chad is the man! I wonder what kind of prep work he had to do.

Here we also see Sam coming into his own as a man. Although they too, fall prey to the trappings of stereotypes (as seen in one sequence where Bobby asked for help to be wheeled up.) But we see Sam come up as a man of his own - trying to save his family and proving his worth on his own. *sigh* Makes me want to just hold him and make him feel all good about himself...(slaps girly self: "Didn't I stuff you in a chest with locks?!")

Great episode. It's almost cruel to say the cliche: I laughed, I cried, I had a great tme.

Supernatural is seen Thursdays on the CW. 9pm/8CT

The End (Last part of an untitled series)

2009-10-30T14:01:00.003+08:00

Soon, they were in front of the building where she's staying.

"Thanks Mikhail. This was...nice"

He smiles and alights the cab. He goes to the other side and opens her door for he. He instructs the cab to wait, and walks her to the stoop.

"May I see your phone?" He asks and holds his hand out. She digs through her pocket and plants the phone in his palm. He programs his number in and hands it back. "I'd really like to see you again. You're one of the most interesting people I have ever met and I would be very happy if we could see each other again. Everything will be in your own terms though, so I will not get your number - you dictate and choose the path of this acquaintance. If I am so fortunate then end tonight with a 'see you soon'. If not, say 'It was a pleasure meeting you.'. What will it be?"

She smiled at him as she pocketed her phone. She leaned towards him and kissed his cheek. "Happy New Year, Mikhail. I'll talk to you soon."

He broke into a grin and kissed her on both cheeks. "Sleep tight and I'll see you soon."

She walked up the steps and entered the building. She didn't look back but she knew he waited until she was inside before he took the cab back to Manhattan.

The apartment was still empty when she got in it, but somehow, she didn't feel quite as lonely anymore.

***

Breaking and Entering (Part 2 of an untitled series)

2009-10-28T17:18:00.003+08:00

They talk until the coffee shop closes. He finds out that she's a writer and she learns that he's a pianist. She tells him that she sings and he confides that he loves to dance. He hates vodka even though he's Russian and she can't eat balut even though she's Filipino. They walk around New York aimlessly until they reach a building somewhere in front of Central Park.

"I know this building" she says as she cranes her neck up. "The view of the park must be spectacular from up there."

"Would you like to see it?"

She grins. "Are you suggesting we do a B&E?" Mischief glints in her eyes.

"Well, it isn't a B&E if you've got a key." He smiles

"Sorry to break it to you buddy, but I live in Queens. I got a view of the broadside of the next building though and the entertainment is endless. 12 windows worth!" She laughs.

"We'll do that next time. C'mon!" He puts his hand at the small of her back and led her in. She walks a few steps and suddenly stops.

"Oh Jesus Christ on a stick..."

He stops as well, surprised and confused. "What's the matter?"

"You live here." She says accusingly.

"I can't do this." She went rigid and was ready to leave.

"Louise! Wait! You can't do what?"

"I can't go up there, where you live. It's..." She's waving her hands, trying to emphasize her point but ends up looking like she's doing a botched up job of a hula. "...the cycle! It's the start of the...it's complicated." She finally stops and puts her hands on her hips in an exasperated manner.

"Louise, calm down. It's not anything. I just thought you'd want to see the view. We can go somewhere else, if you want."

"You must think I'm a nutcase or something. I'm not. It's just...you wouldn't understand...I'm sorry." She babbled as she walked toward the street.

"Louise!" Mikhail chased after her. "Louise! Please stop!"

She does and she turns to him, her face all apologetic and embarrassed. She lets out a breath and starts to speak. "New Year, you know? It may sound so cliche and trite but I want to make a new start - or maybe put an end to something. I don't want to have to go up there and take in the view from your assumed gorgeous apartment and start feeling all lonely and then look at you like you can fill the void only for me to look stupid because I started the cycle again. I'm sure you're a nice guy and all but that's it, you're a nice guy that has a nice life and I tend to mess things up as I go through life so I'm just going to stop right here." She takes in a breath and looks at him. He has an amused but slightly confused look on his face. "And that was too much honesty or the first day of the year...pretty spastic too..."

He threw his head back and laughed. "It's pretty honest and I actually appreciate it. It's also very amusing."

She made a face. "Well, I'm glad you think so." She turns away from him and starts to walk. He follows her and starts matching her pace.

"Wait! Just slow down..." He holds her elbow to get her to stop - to which he succeeds. She looks at his hand and then at him. He was flushed from the running and a smile was still on his face. " I didn't mean to offend you. All I wanted to say was that I find it refreshing that you can be so honest. I don't get that kind of honesty too often."

She sized him up and judged that he was sincere enough. "Okay..." she breathed out, half relieved and half embarrassed by her display. They found themselves smiling at each other after a few seconds of awkward silence, then she broke the void.

"I have to go. My friends would be worried." She pointed at a random direction.

"Queens would be that way." He pointed.

"Right..." she blushed. He walked to the curb and started flagging down a cab. One stopped and he opened the door for her to climb in. She said her thanks and was surprised when he climbed in after her. "Uh...where do I drop you off?"

"I'm taking you home. I mean, I'm going with you to make sure you're home safe."

"Dude, you live like four feet away."

He chuckled. "For a woman with such a capacious vocabulary, you astound me with your usage of the word 'dude'"

"Irrelevant." She scoffs. "You don't have to do this."

"What kind of rescuer would I be if I don't follow through with the validation of the damsel's safety and safe return to her chateau?"

She rolls her eyes and smiles. "You have got to stop reading Harlequin books. Trust me, go for Tolstoy instead."

This time he lets out a deep laugh. "To Queens, my good man." He addresses the driver and off they went.

Articles of choice (Part 1 of an untitled series)

2009-10-27T15:43:00.004+08:00

"Happy New Year!"

Ryan Seacrest's voice boomed from the speakers, followed by New York's Times Square.

"Happy New Year!" She screams in the air, hands raised in jubilation, excitement and intoxication. She keeps her face tilted to the sky, refusing to open her eyes as she knows everyone around her is with someone, kissing like they'd die if they stop.

"Happy New Year" she whispers and lets the tears flow. She pushes her way through the crowd, panicked to the point of suffocation. She knows her friends are going to be looking for her and she hopes they'd understand why she's running. She runs and runs, finding a place where she can be away from the couples and their happiness. She finds herself on a street corner four blocks away from Times Square. She plants herself on the curb and just starts crying.

"Hey..." a gentle voice called her. "Are you okay? Are you lost?"

She doesn't look up because for one, she knows she looks horrible and two, she's sick and tired of people thinking she's a fucking child just because she's petite.

"Hey...miss?" A hand on her shoulder gently nudges her. She flinches and looks up. "It's okay...I'm not going to hurt you...Do you need a phone? Are you lost?"

She pulls out her cellphone from her pocket and shakes her head while hiccuping. He thought she was giving him her phone. "No...no..." the man chuckles softly. "I don't need a phone...Look, it's not safe for you to be out here alone near Central Park. Where are your parents?"

She couldn't help it. She laughs and cries at the same time. "I'm...(sob)...not...(laughs)...a kid...(sob)...I'm...(chuckle)..thirty-four!...(sob)"

The man laughs in spite of himself. "Okay then." He hands her a handkerchief as he sits next to her. She takes it gratefully and tries to regulate her breathing. "I'm just going to sit here until you're okay to talk. Is that okay?"

She nods as she wipes her tears with his hanky. They sit in silence for a few minutes. "Thank you" she whispers. "I may have ruined your handkerchief though."

"It's alright. Do you want coffee? We can go somewhere warmer and have coffee?"

She nods. "I'd like that"

He stands up and offers his hand for her to take to help her up. She takes it and they walk silently, side by side to a nearby Starbucks. She sits down on a chair and he gets the coffee. He came back with two cups, an assortment of sugar and creamers. "I don't know how you take your coffee, so I got the extras."

She offered him a small smile. "Thank you." She dug into her pockets for some cash to pay him back but he held out his hand to stop her. "I got this, don't worry"

"Thanks again." She stirred her sugars and creamer in, concentrating on her coffee as if it held the answers to universe's questions.

"You want to talk about it or is the silence better?"

She let out a soft laugh. "I'm not quite sure about that..."

"Sometimes it's better to wallow in silence and to contemplate on stuff. Sometimes it's necessary to let it out."

"Not that I don't appreciate this act of random kindness, but do you do this on a regular basis?"

"Do what?"

"Rescue crying women from New York Streets?"

He chuckled. "No, no I don't. You would be my first."

She smiled. "Okay...Thanks, again."

"Where are your friends? New Year, New York..." He trailed off.

"They're probably too busy being drunk on champagne and joy that they'll go apeshit in the morning realizing I'm not there."

"Why aren't you there? If you don't mind me asking..." He sipped his coffee - black with two sugars, she noted. His hands are beautiful big, nails looking professionally manicured.

"New year, New York. Couples. Kissing..." she points to herself "Sore thumb and third wheel"

"Aaah..." he said. "Say no more..."

"What about you?' she asked as she blew on her coffee to cool it down a bit.

"New year. New York. Boring party. Same people. Same drama." He points to himself "Needs a change"

"Aaahh...." she said. " I gotcha"

They sit in silence for a while. She's staring out the window and he's staring at her. She catches him looking at her and she blushes. "Your wife must be worried about you..."

"I don't have a wife. I have an ex. Not recent....you?"

"No, I don't have a wife." She grins. "I have an ex as well. Not recent either."

He chuckles. "You're funny."

She cocks her head to the side "It has been said...So, this ex wife of yours, a model?" she smirks.

"No." he chuckles. "Although you're not the first person to say that. Why do people say that?"

She shrugs "You look like the type. Very Donald Trump but with better hair."

He cocks an eyebrow "And The Donald always goes for models?"

She looks at him incredulously "Seriously?"

"Well...he sometimes goes for game show assistants."

A beat. Then, they both laugh.

"Why is he named The Donald anyway?" she scoffs

"The trappings of success, the privilege. It's about the status."

"Oh yeah? I don't hear people saying The Bill, or The Steve or even the Tommy"

"Clinton, Martin and Hillfiger?"

"Gates, Jobs and Motolla. And thanks, you've proven my point - or contested it...I think"

He laughed. "Like I said, It's about the notoriety of success."

"What about you? What's the name attached to your article of choice?"

"I'm just a Mikhail...A Mikhail" he extends his hand.

"I'm a Louise" she shakes the offered hand.

W7

2009-10-26T16:56:00.002+08:00

In honor of the Windows 7 launch in Japan, Burger King came up with this whopping 7 patty burger.

Awesome. If the Operating system won't kill you, the cholesterol on this motherfucker would.

No offense to all the MAC users out there, (to which I know I will incur terrible wrath from), even if sometimes Windows is wonky, I still prefer it to your....thing.

Now, I'm sure Dean would love one of these babies...

Little Accidents

2009-10-26T09:49:00.003+08:00

He leaves on a Tuesday afternoon in June, just as Summer was about to end. He left with a tattered Pablo Neruda book, a stolen kiss and a bag full of memories. He leaves her with a promise he'll never keep, a broken heart and tears of infinite bitterness.

She wonders if her body is all she can give him; that the only comfort she can offer is purely physical - the pillows of her breast, the brush of her hands and fingers, the heat of her kisses and the tightness of her cunt.

It seems like fucking was the only way to say hello and goodbye.

She counts her days with little accidents she experiences before they meet again: a cut from the paper she was handling, a trip down the steps, a bump under the table. It was as if her clumsiness was a sign of his impending arrival in her life; as if all these small bruises, cuts and scars were her early warning devices. Maybe, she thinks, maybe if she bleeds, he'll stay

Supernatural Season 5 Episode 6 - I believe the children are our future.

2009-10-18T13:16:00.002+08:00

You know, I'm starting to think that on his free days, Kripke goes on the internet and just googles the top fans of the show. I could be stupidly vain when I think this episode was a thank you to all the parent and Australian fans of the show. Don't get me wrong, I think it's awesome!

Oh, and I just would like to be a little smug about the whole anti-Christ being misplaced and all - didn't I mention this before? Well, technically, I didn't - it was a book by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett (Good Omens). But I did call it, so there. *sticks tongue out*

This was a very light episode - sort of like a breather. I have my reservations when episodes like these come into play. Almost always, the next episode is something that blows our hearts into tiny little bits. It's like your breath is always hitched...and then...hiatus...(Damn you, Kripke)

I couldn't stop laughing at Dean's hairy palm. *Chuckles* I'm still laughing now... The comedic timing on that guy is superb. The writers have done an excellent job here too.

What really caught me (and has successfully lodged my heart in my throat) was Dean's litany at the end of the episode. I've said it time and time again - being a parent is the most stressful, most gratifying and most thankless job there is in the world. There's no manual on how to be a parent and there's not second guessing it and there's no reset button. I constantly live in fear that I'm somehow going to fuck my children's lives up. We lie to our children for a variety of reasons - one, as Dean has so eloquently put it, is because we want to protect them from the real evil things out there. Two, we want to keep their naivety for a little bit longer. No use in saying the Tooth Fairy isn't real if it makes them happy. (Although, my daughter had the same reaction when I told her about the Tooth Fairy. Then she complained that the coins I gave her weren't shiny)

I wish my parents lied to me on some parts of my life but I value the sincerity of cruel honesty now that I'm an adult because they didn't. I guess, it all depends...

Great episode...now if it isn't too much to ask, may I please have my shirtless Sammy now? *big grin*

Dirty Dirty Money

2009-10-17T12:57:00.002+08:00

I've always hated talking about money. For me, it's so classless to talk about it. I don't see the fascination in discussing how much you're getting in a year, what benefits, what you're doing with it and all that. For me, money is just a theory - a concept and it's pure evil.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not shunning money. I recognize the need for it. If I didn't have any then my children would not survive. However, I don't make it the center of my world.

I don't need your money. I have my own - I make my own and I have enough of it, thank you very much. So, for you to insinuate that I'm just after your money is an insult. However, you crossed the threshold when you implied that I might even steal your wallet while you're asleep. Wow...that's awesome, really. That's pure talent right there. You've managed to imply that I'm a gold digging kleptomanic whore in one conversation. Awesome.

You're so consumed with money that you're going to miss what's really being offered - what treasure is being given to you.

That...is what angers me; it frustrates me. It breaks my heart.

Gratitude

2009-10-12T09:01:00.003+08:00

This weekend was a little tiring for me.

I had to take care of mom and miss one day at work (which was a Friday, and that means I have to come in early today just to make sure I catch up on what I left behind.). I was supposed to go out Saturday night to relax but I had a call for a shoot for a film. Was filming until 5:30 in the morning and had to go back to Las Pinas to just literally shower and dress up for another event over at Quezon City at 9 in the morning. Got back home at about 9 in the evening and had to take care of some other personal stuff until about midnight.

Now, tired as I may be (and sleep deprived - yes, I can hear all of you screaming, especially Malou, Dean B and Japs) I still can't shake this feeling of immense gratitude. True, I may not be at the pink of my health nor am I out of my financial and emotional burdens but there are a lot of things that I am still grateful for and these things make me happy day in and day out.

I've got beautiful, smart and polite children who greet me every day with a smile, a sloppy kiss and sticky hugs. They make me laugh with thier antics and make me feel like I've done something right in this world. There's no better word in this lifetime than the word "Mommy".

I've got a wonderful and loyal mother who'll always mean well and want the best for me and my children. She raised me to be the best that I can be and to be who I wanted to be. She may have a weird way of showing her support and affection but I wouldn't want it any other way.

I've got my Nanie who'll always treat me as her "Baby". I will always find comfort in her arms and in her phone calls (albeit weird meteors attacking the earth ones...hehehe)

I've got a few true friends (Virtual and RL - you know who you are. *wink*) that will never ever steer me wrong and will always want to hear about my day even if it's pointless and whiny.

I've got a job that lets me help those that need and want it, it pays the bills and it also lets me do other things that I love (such as shoot for shows and films) It's really a godsend.

I'm filled with love and affection and genuine concern. What more could I ever want? (Although Jared Padalecki is still on the top of that list. hehehe) The universe has been generous. I want to be able to share those blessings as well, in any way I could.

Thank you.

Supernatural Season 5 Episode 5 - Fallen Idols

2009-10-10T07:40:00.003+08:00

***

The last episode has left us in a place where we were happy the brothers are back together yet, it also put us in a position wherein we are left wondering if it will ever be the same. Certain changes to a particularly strained relationship cannot render a relationship good as new or "Fresh" as Dean would've said. Again, good intentions but the motives behind it were a little skewy.

The episode in itself is a wonderful breather from the impending doom brought on by the apocalypse. Let it be said now, that Rachael expresses her dislike of the episode simple because it did not have any Castiel appearance in it. (I've done as you've asked, can I get on with my review now? lol!)

Like in any kind of strained relationship on the mend, the brothers find themselves tiptoeing around each other, trying to find the rhythm to dance to. Dean easily falls into the alpha role as he is bound to do so, to which Sam feels a certain distaste to. (All will be explained in good time as the episode progresses)

I just have a quick question though - what was up with the shaky camera movement during the confrontation between the brothers? I'm sure they can afford a steady cam - as we've seen in previous episodes, especially a lot during season 3 (what, with the chase scenes between Dean and the Hellhounds and all?). But I feel like they just hand held the cams here - and those cameras are heavy. Were they going for the "reality tv" feel? There was some emotion in that mise en scene, a bothersome emotion. Perhaps that's what the director wanted us to feel - like everything was on shaky ground again between Sam and Dean; like anything can trigger another break in the already fragile and fractured fraternal relationship. It's cool and all but for someone who has vertigo - it isn't fun.

Oh...and I have to take a moment to rewind a particular scene in the episode over and over again...you guessed it - Sammy with the shotgun. Just seeing those beautiful fingers load the gun gives me the shivers *huge grin and gutter thoughts* Sigh...Kripke loves me...

We all had our apprehensions with Paris Hilton guesting in the show. Inasmuch as I hate to say this - she actually did a good job. Of course, the fight scenes were shot in extreme close up because I highly doubt it can look that good when shot from a different angle but still, she did like, totally awesome.

On an existential standpoint, what the "god" said hit close to home. At least in the olden days we worshipped gods - celestial beings that brought forth such magnanimous power of destruction and creation. Now, we worship fellow human beings whose only claim to being close to a deity is having a sex video and is a hotel heiress. It seems like it truly is the end of days.

I like the ending - there was a resolution and there was closure. It made a lot of sense for the brothers to end the past and start with the present this way. It's time and it's appropriate - especially if they're going to focus on the task of killing Lucifer.

Loved the preview for the next episode as well. Hilarious!!! Jared did a wonderful impression of Horatio Caine.

Supernatural - Thursdays 9pm/8ct only on the CW.

Justify

2009-10-04T21:29:00.001+08:00

My lips
have lost
all feelings
and when you
kiss me hard
I can't tell
if you're
doing it
because you so
desperately
want me to feel it
or you're trying
to convince
yourself
that you
still love me.

Constant

2009-10-04T21:26:00.003+08:00

I miss you
even before you've
gone.
My heart aches
in longing
and nothing
can fill the
hollow.

Your absence
has caused me
grief and I
am forced
to wear it
like a veil.

But I will
be here,
waiting
at the place
where you left me.

I will be
exactly
where you
found me.
And if you
never return,
if you forget
that there
is one person
who longs for you,
know that I
will never
take it
against you.

I will remain
here -
as faithful
as time;
as constant
as weather;
as solid
as love.

Was

2009-10-04T21:23:00.002+08:00

I know you
have grown tired
of me
and that finally
you have forgotten
me.

Forgotten how
I used to make you
smile in the middle
of a conversation
because my face
crossed your mind.
I used to make
you believe
in the greatest
possibilities.

But that is
no more
and what's left
is an empty void
and a withered
heart
along with
a picture
of when
I was young.

Supernatural Season 5 Episode 4 - The End

2009-10-03T13:36:00.004+08:00

***

Disclaimer: I apologize if the quality of my review falls short of your usual expectations. I'm just caught up with so many things right now that I may not be able to deliver the same kind of quality. I will try though.

***

In my opinion, this entire episode is all about redemption (as what Sam had mentioned.) Think about it: even the most hardcore atheist has that small amount of thought at the back of his head that when he dies, he'd like to know what was that one thing that he did to change the world for the better. I'm agnostic and I think about that a lot. "The End" does not necessarily mean a stop or a closure or even a death. The end could actually be a good thing - ending a vicious unhealthy cycle, ending a bad habit, putting an end to apathy or the like. In the end, don't we all just want salvation?

Okaay....moving on (got a little waaay too existential there. LOL!) I chuckled at the sketch of Castiel's humanization. However, this episode left me totally slapping my knee and guffawing at how "human" Castiel has become. Although it also broke my heart to see him so broken and empty and helpless (exactly like a human) when he realized that not only did he not have Heaven's blessings, he doesn't have anything that resembles heaven anymore. He was trying to create his own version of heaven with the drugs, women and alcohol. How very human he has become. We strive to be like angels and now, Castiel searches for Heaven in pills and in between women's folds...

I highly doubt that this future IS the future destined for the brothers. I don't trust Zachariah at all so for me, this is just an elaborate and expensive ploy to get Dean to say yes to being Michael's vessel. Lucifer|Sam was mighty creepy. Kudos to Jared for his very understated yet effective acting. It was very disturbing to see Sam's face and his subtle facial expressions showing but his eyes were the ones that held the power. You could literally feel Lucifer in those eyes. It must also be so hard for Jensen to deliver an effective characterization. Great acting from his end too - although the technicality of the set up was more pronounced (Same character, in the same room two different motivations and back stories. That thought alone is giving me a massive nosebleed)

Going completely off tangent for a bit though - What if we had an episode where we see different futures or different universes of the Winchesters? Like, there's a universe where the Winchesters are sisters, instead of brothers. Or we have a universe/world where they're the ones who are evil and they're the ones being hunted, or where Sam's the older one and their roles are reversed. Sorry...just thinking out loud...And no, I'm not taking any kind of medication - I'm just sleep deprived. *sticks tongue out*

Going back to our regularly scheduled program: I'm happy that Dean made the right decision and I'm happy that Sam humbled himself. It doesn't make any sense for them to be apart anyway.

Be Prepared - The checklist

2009-09-30T14:23:00.000+08:00

There's another threat of a strong typhoon. It's predicted that it will come within the Philippine Area of responsibility tomorrow and will hit Manila on Friday.

Let's not make the same mistake of being unprepared. Prepare your Emergency Kit. (Every home should have one) Here's what you should stock up on:

1. Clean water. My suggestion is to skip the teeny tiny bottles. Go for the big containers.
2. Self charging Radios and self charging lights. Some self charging lights have the capability to charge a phone. On that note, if you have a lower model phone, it's best to keep it charged as well and use that. Lower model phones consume less power.
3. Flashlights and batteries
4. Canned food, power bars, ready to eat meals. Avoid putting salty food in the kit as it will only make you thirsty.
5. I normally would not recommend candles especially if you have small children. But keep some just in case your batteries or the self charging lights go out. Just make sure to keep it away from the kids.
6. Rope. I suggest the nylon ones just in case you have to get them wet.
7. A first aid kit. Make sure you have these items in your first aid kit:3 pairs of Latex gloves (just in case you have to help a stranger out, the latex gloves will help prevent the spread of infection), Sterile dressings, Cleansing ointment or liquid, antiseptics, burn ointment, Adhesive bandages in different sizes, gauze pad, micropore tape, tweezers, scissors, eye wash, thermometer, prescription medication (if your family members have existing illnesses, it's best to be prepared.), antihistamines, paracetamol, ibuprofen, anti-diarrheal medication and vicks or katinko. Make sure your first aid kit is in a waterproof bag or at least put those that are in risk of getting wet in a ziploc bag.
8. Blankets and jackets.
9. A whistle. If (god forbid) you get stuck on top of your house, you can use the whistle to call for attention and help.
10. Wet wipes.

Keep an emergency kit at work as well. It's better to be prepared than to regret things later on. Keep a set of extra clothes at work as well (yes, including undies.) Keep a pair of flip flops or sneakers just in case public transportation gets screwy and you have to trudge on home.

Being prepared is the first step in averting a major disaster.

We need your help. Stop Apathy Now!

2009-09-27T18:03:00.002+08:00

280,000 DISPLACED, 72 KILLED BY TYPHOON ONDOY
At least 51 people were killed and more than a quarter of a million displaced after tropical storm Ondoy (international code name: Ketsana) dumped the heaviest rainfall on Manila in more than four decades, officials said Sunday. -AFP

* Floods submerge Metro Manila areas
* Metro, 23 provinces under state of calamity
* Waters in Bulacan dams breach maximum levels
* 1,180 passengers stranded in Bicol ports
* 38 dead in Bulacan floods, Pampanga landslide
* Oil firms join Ondoy relief efforts
* Tourists bound for Boracay stranded
* P10 flat rate for MRT, 2 LRT stations: 26-27 September
* Solons asked to give ‘pork’ to Ondoy victims
* Ondoy intensifies slightly as it moves out
* US donates $50,000 to flood victims

MAKE A DIFFERENCE. WHAT YOU DO WILL HELP - DONATE, SPREAD THE WORD, PRAY, VOLUNTEER!

Junior Chamber International Manila
Baypark Tent, Roxas Blvd.
will accept goods starting Monday

Our Lady of Pentecost Parish
12 F. Dela Rosa corner C. Salvador Sts., Loyola Heights, Quezon City
(+632-4342397, +632-9290665)
will accept relief goods

Kapuso Foundation
2/F GMA Kapuso Center
Samar St. cor. 11th Jamboree St. Diliman, Quezon City
Call 9827777 loc. 9901/9904/9905.
accepts relief goods and cash

Sagip Kapamilya
ABS-CBN Warehouse
13 Examiner St. West Triangle, Quezon City
Warehouse tel. no: +632-413-2667
will accept goods

Operation Rainbow
Ayala Alabang Village
4687991
Accepts Canned Goods, Ready-To-Eat Food,
Bottled Water, Ready-To-Drink Milk/ Juice, Clothing, Blankets

La Salle Greenhills
Drop off goods at Gate 2

Ateneo
Drop off goods at the MVP Lobby

Caritas Manila Office, Pandaca, MANILA
accepts relief goods esp. milk, dry clothes, food

Philippine Army Gym
Fort Bonifacio
accepts relief goods

Camp Aguinaldo
CRS Office, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City
0915-1162853
will accept food, medicines, and other relief items

Radio Veritas
Veritas Tower West Ave. Corner EDSA
9257931-40
accepts relief goods

LUCA store
Rockwell, Eastwood, Shangri-la
will accept relief goods

Myron’s
Greenbelt
will accept relief goods

Papemelroti Stores
will accept relief goods only – NO CASH)
91 Roces Ave. / Ali Mall Cubao / SM City North EDSA /
SM Fairview / SM Megamall / Glorietta 3 /
SM Centerpoint / SM Southmall)

Balay Expo Center across Farmers Market Cubao
(NoyMar Volunteers)
will accept relief donations as well as volunteers

Team Manila
Trinoma, Mall of Asia, Jupiter Bel-Air and Rockwell

Red Cross * Red Cross * Red Cross * Red Cross * Red Cross * Red Cross * Red Cross * Red Cross

1. CASH or CHECK
Please send cash or check donations
to the PNRC National Headquarters in Manila.
Checks should be made payable to The Philippine National Red Cross.
They can arrange for donation pick-up.

2. BANK DEPOSIT
Account Name: The Phil. Nat’l. Red Cross

METROBANK
Port Area Branch
Peso Acct.: 151-3-041-63122-8
Dollar Acct.: 151-2-151-00218-2
Type of Acct. : SAVINGS
Swift Code: MBTC PH MM

BANK OF THE PHIL. ISLANDS
Port Area Branch
Peso Acct.: 4991-0010-99
Type of Account: CURRENT

BANK OF THE PHIL. ISLANDS
UN Branch
Dollar Acct.: 8114-0030-94
Type of Account: SAVINGS
Swift Code: BOPI PH MM

For your donations to be properly acknowledged,
please fax the bank transaction slip at nos.
+63.2.527.0575 or +63.2.404.0979
with your name, address and contact number.

Credit Card

Please fax the following info to +632.404.09.79 and +632.527.0575:

Name of card member, billing address, contact nos. (phone & mobile),
credit card no., expiration date, CCV2/ CVC2
(last three digits at the back of the credit card),
billing address, amount to be donated.

For online donations you may also visit:
www.redcross.org.ph .

In-Kind Donations

LOCAL

Please send in-kind local donations to The Philippine National Red Cross –
National Headquarters in Manila.
They could also arrange for donation pick-up.

INTERNATIONAL

1. Send a letter of intent to donate to the PNRC
2. A letter of acceptance from PNRC shall be sent back to the donor
3. Immediately after shipping the goods, please send the
(a) original Deed of Donation,
(b) copy of packing list, and
(c) original Airway Bill for air shipments or Bill of Lading for sea shipments
to The Philippine National Red Cross–National Headquarters
c/o Secretary General Corazon Alma de Leon,
Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila 2803, Philippines.

SMS and G-CASH

SMS
text RED AMOUNT to 2899 (Globe) or 4483 (Smart)

G-CASH
text DONATEAMOUNT4-digit M-PINREDCROSS to 2882

URGENT NEED FOR THE FOLLOWING ITEMS

Food items: Rice, noodles, canned goods, sugar, iodized salt, cooking oil, monggo beans and potable water

Medicines: Paracetamol, antibiotics, analgesic, oral re hydration salts, multivitamins and medications to treat diarrhea diseases

Non-food items: Bath soaps, face towels, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, plastic mats, blankets, mosquito nets, Jerry cans, water containers, water purification tablets, plastic sheeting, and Laundry soap

Supernatural Season 5 Episode 4 - The End - Trailer 2

2009-09-26T22:14:00.002+08:00