2012 in a Review: Lost and Found

10:30:00 APRILSKELTER 2 Comments


I wanted to recount the happenings of this year by doing something that I don't usually do and I'm 
never really good at: a poem. Here's my attempt (hopefully not a failure haha) for a decent one.

***

The year 2012 has its up and down
But know when you're lost, you're to be found
So there wouldn't need to frown
 For His love is everywhere and today, I'll list it down.

This year
I lost friends, though not physically
Felt like at some point I'm alone and nobody
But it has made me look around me
And alas, I realised I have a family who loves and adores me
And it's all and it's where I needed to be.

Family doesn't necessarily mean blood-related
Though my biological family is more than what's anyone needed
God gave me friends who acts the same
Some started from a fandom, maybe, but should not be judged and of it be ashamed
For they don't know what we have and it's something that judgmental kin indiscreetly wanted to claim
Without them realising it.

This year
I lost a loved one; she's now with our Lord
Life, heck it is short, no money can ever afford
But it shouldn't be a reason not to be thankful
For He gave us wonderful memories with her in it that's bountiful
She's left, but never really left
Family's stuck together, loving each other more
No thought has ever been more beautiful
Than that.

This year
I fail at the board; I fail with my job sometimes
What's life without some failure and trying times?
Sooner or later, believe and do something and you'll be on your prime
And remember that "not trying again" is the greatest crime

This year
I discovered more music, the good and the bad
Went to concerts, met great musicians face-to-face
Got inspired by random people, read books that are rad
Those distractions from reality making life a sweet haze
And you know you want it.

2012 is also the year I became closer to the One
Because He makes me happy the most and with Him, I'll never be gone
His love is the sweetest
His grace, overflowing
And His presence is always with you, even 'til the break of dawn
Jesus is all that we need
And then we're fine.

Next year,
I'll be bad and I'll be good and try to live my life more
Because one can never know but Him of what's in store
You are always given a choice and a chance to have your life restored
Now grab it before you get on-board
To your greatest destination.

Wear love like a crown, I heard one sing
Love will always be our greatest possession, believe it
You may not be fully aware of what it can really bring
Not yet
But still feel free to share it to everyone you meet.

2013, you've come too fast but guess I am ready
No, you would never be steady
But with Him that's within me...
Moving forward will always be easy.



2 comments:

The Gift of Christmas

13:06:00 APRILSKELTER 1 Comments

BEFORE: I kind of love giving away artsy personalized stuff as gifts for I actually suck at giving, rather choosing gifts. I usually piss anyone who's accompanying me at the malls for it takes me a fing long time to choose and decide on which gifts to buy; all because you want to give the gift recipient the best.

NOW: Thank heavens wishlists are invented! The day is saved.

Let it also be known that I'm a very appreciative receiver. For example, one can give me anything red and I'd totally love it! (Marceline-ish) I don't want them to have a hard time finding my gifts so I'm very specific with my wishes (for this year I put books at the most because of its practicality and reading is really what I enjoy doing, anyway). So we had our company Christmas party last Sunday and I'm lucky enough (read: very lucky) that my monito gave me some of the things on my list.

Yay yay! 
From left to right: Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, Quidditch Through the Ages, 
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, the Hogwarts Library Books box.


I'm so happy my Hogwarts textbooks are here!! Why, I have this feeling that my Hogwarts letter got lost on its way to my place. Hmm? Muggle postmans usually cannot locate our home easily, perhap the Owl, too? ;-)

PS: I love Christmas.
PS: Thank you, my Monito. I love you, too. And thank Merlin you're not going to be able to read this hahah.



Gifts are good but we should never forget to be thankful, and always keep in mind the reason why we have Christmas; God's overflowing love through His son, Jesus. Hope you all are enjoying the holidays!

1 comments:

Some Of My Very, Very, Verrry Favourite Books of 2012

09:32:00 APRILSKELTER 6 Comments

See what I did there? No? Okay. ;) So the predicted doomsday (12.21.12) did not happen, apparently, which made me think that this is probably the best time to finally publish this draft that I was working on since I cannot even remember.

One of the posts that I always look forward to reading, back in our glorious Multiply days, was my mate Jofer's year end book/film/TV show list. It is interesting to read and it gives me a lot of insights on which to read next or which movie to see next. He's one of those friends whose judgment you could really trust, and I respect because he's got a good taste, AND I DON'T. (Pimping you much, mate? Hahaha. But siriusly.) My choices are mostly based on suggestions and I do not have a, well, definite criteria when it comes to the books and movies that I consume my time with. So one time he's told me to do my own list as well and I thought, why not.

So here's my biased Top 5 books/films of 2012, not necessarily released this past year, that I get to read/see this year. Like what I have mentioned earlier, there are no definite criteria on how I came up with this list. Maybe I liked an aspect of it, the theme, the author, the actors.. maybe I was feeling so down that time and it seemed to be the distraction, the outlet that I need. Maybe... But one thing is for sure, in one way or another, I liked it. You may agree or disagree with my choices but hey, you're free to do your own Top 5 list, if you wish. ;-)


Note 1: May I borrow Jofer's line, please don't judge me by the books/movies that I read/watch.
Note 2: I did not focus on the story/plot so it would not be too spoiler-ish so to speak. Mostly, these are the things that for me, has made impact on me. Also, I'm just a young lady, I get kilig easily. There, I think you already have an idea. Hahahaha
Note 3: This year has been really fully-packed (my first year at work) I might have had lost track of the time. I am not sure if it really has occurred this year, or last year... my short-term memory is so messed up. I have been everywhere, too, that I have not read nor see a lot of stuff, I could not remember. Having said that I only have a few to choose from. Being a busy demigod witch really has its ups and downs.
Note 4: I really suck at posting short stuff, so please bear with my another lengthy entry. Hey, I'm trying to be brief, but unfortunately, when my thoughts are out and I'm putting them into words, I can't seem to stop, even when sometimes I am not making any sense anymore. See, even my introduction is long! lol so anyway...

~TOP 5 BOOKS OF 2012~

No. 5 - The Mark of Athena, Rick Riordan

I may have finished reading the Percy Jackson series long ago, but I have just started reading the Heroes of Olympus series, even though I already have my copy also long ago, when The Mark of Athena was out last October. I was spoiled by my demigod sisters early on that Scribe's been cruel yet again and gave us another cliffhanger so I took my time. I'll have to wait for another year for The House of Hades, anyway. Which reminded me of why I am thankful that I was a late bloomer in the world of Harry Potter for all the books are already out when I started reading it. I do not have to wait for some fing unbearable years to have a grasp of the next. Going back, I have to say that despite the cliffhanger ending, this is the best book of the series so far. And I may or may not have shipped Percabeth even more.

“We're staying together," he promised. "You're not getting away from me. Never again.” 

And I like Leo Valdez. He's a comic relief, just like Ronald. I have just realised that I always have a soft spot for the sidekicks. Not the he was but, with him being the seventh wheel, there's always that left out feels.


TMoA equation: Percy > Jason, at least for me. Elai and I theorized that since TMoA's written with mostly Percy, Annabeth and Leo's POV's, we are going to miss them on the fourth installment. I am still stoked nonetheless.

Another realisation: I kept on making Harry Potter references, oh darn. J.K. Rowling, look at what you've done to me!

________________________________________________________________________________


No. 4 - The Very Ordered Existence (VOE) of Merilee Marvelous, Suzanne Crowley

I cannot find any normal character in this and it is not even a fantasy novel. But it is marvelous with all its quirks. My only problem is that Merilee Monroe speaks older than a thirteen year old. “There's a thin line between genius and bottom-barrel stupidness. I hover delicately on a tightrope between the two, wondering where I'll land if I'll ever fall.” is how she describes herself, see? But then upon finishing the book, I understood why. And it is for you to discover. Not bad.

_________________________________________________________________________________

No. 3 - The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Stephen Chbosky

Not gonna lie, I only read this book because of the film, but I loved it. And although I could not relate to the whole wallflower thing, because I was not and I have already discussed that on my previous Perks post I guess, I still could feel Charlie. I believe there's a Charlie in all of us. Maybe not sexually abused, but still abused in a way. And even though I swear in this moment, this quote has been overused in the web, I still feel infinite and a little less lonely (no matter how redundant that was) after reading it.
“And even if somebody else has it much worse, that doesn't really change the fact that you have what you have. Good and bad.”
_________________________________________________________________________________


No. 2 - Thoughtless/Effortless, S.C. Stephens

The dark horse on my list. This is the first of its genre that I have actually read and surprisingly, even though some parts horrified me to the point of actually thinking of skipping pages, did not disappoint me. I refuse to read Fifty Shades of Grey because of its theme + the author's style and yet I gave this one a chance. Hey, I didn't know Thoughtless was actually an erotic novel until I get to the hot parts. (Defensive?) You, Rhiane, you... didn't tell me!! Hahahahah dang it. I was on a point of no turning back and I hate to not finish any book no matter how lame (I mean, the other books, this one isn't.) it'd be so I did and I thought maybe it is time to grow up a bit. A step towards reading J.K.'s adult book haha, and this even went more. So I have this love/hate feeling towards the book especially with the lead girl's confusing stance on love and the almost never ending deceit and the reoccurring scenes that is sometimes boring. But how does one know if you're reading a good porn novel when you don't have much to compare it with? I still refuse to read 50 Shades (because J.K. vows not to, so do I). The thing that's made me stay is the music/band element. I am such a sucker for rock stars, the hot and sweet kind and Kellan Kyle is just that. And with that I believe he beats Christian Grey by far. Because as far as my friends who's read it and from the feedback from Goodreads, Grey is too fictional. I'm not saying Kyle is real but he is at least believable.

So for the cheese-fest:
“I knew then, that I would stay with you…even if it killed me.”

“I love you and you understand what that phrase means to me. I don’t say it…to anyone…ever.”

“You…the only woman I’ve ever loved…ever. You thought I’d toss that out? Do you really think anyone in this world compares to you in my eyes?”

"No, I know that I have to be with you. Everything else is just .... details.”

Thank you, I may or may not need a new set of ovaries because of these. Sheesh these alpha-males setting standards. Now I wonder if I'll ever get to have any real boyfriend. (Kidding!)


S.C. Stephens is an independent author, and her writing style isn't perfect. I may be exposed to some good writers out there and it is may be wrong to compare her with them but despite her flaws, there's something about the Thoughtless series (yes, trilogy actually. Reckless is to be out on March.) that is likeable, at least for me especially on the family aspect on the second book, and not just about Kellan, mind you. In a way, it reminded me of Sidney Sheldon's A Stranger in the Mirror. Okay Sheldon's is better, and even more cruel and rad; but at some point, Stephen's deep just the same so haters, you may now all sod off. This lady is awesome.

Oh, and S.C. replied to my email! Bonus!

_________________________________________________________________________________


No. 1 - The Fault in our Stars, John Green


Predictable. Okay.
“You don't get to choose if you get hurt in this world...but you do have some say in who hurts you. I like my choices.”

Time Magazine's Best Book of 2012 and I could not agree more. For not getting to shed tears while reading Sheldon's Rage of Angels last year, I almost thought I already have a heart of stone. But I don't. Kill me now, I bawled while reading this, was depressed for two days before I decided to move forward and I am not even exaggerating. I hate John for killing Gus. I love John for bringing Gus and Hazel into existence. Also, what's made me fall deeply is the cancer element and the different view that he's, perhaps, introduced. It isn't a secret how my aunt's succumbed to the big C just this year and reading this months after losing a loved one just emphasized the emotions even more. I cannot seem to put the shedding of tears into a halt. She (my aunt) and the book left us forever scarred, but in a very good way I'd like to think. So yes, this is my top/remarkable book of the year, hands down.

_________________________________________________________________________________

To read next:

The Casual Vacancy (J.K. The Queen Rowling). Yes. I am ready for you.
Looking For Alaska (John Green) You're next.


Books that has been on hold: The Undomestic Goddess (Sophie Kinsella), Have A Little Faith (Mitch Albom) I don't know why I cannot get myself into reading these yet, but I'll get on with these too, hopefully soon.

Long, yeah? I'll probably just do my films list on a separate post... IF I would not get lazy. We'll see. X


I just felt like I needed to post a photo with some of my books in it.
Got no time to capture my recent buys but... anyway. 

6 comments:

Christmas Meow-Tape (April's Mixtape of sorts.)

12:18:00 APRILSKELTER 5 Comments


Baby Jesus is coming in a few days time and it really is a season to be jolly, right? Also, a season to celebrate some good music, I believe. So if I am to make a mixtape today, which is old school, I know and is not quite possible since we do not keep a cassette player anymore, the following songs would definitely be on my list.

Note 1: I could actually burn one CD, but it would not be as genuine as a real mixtape after all so I decided to just list them down. And listen to them.
Note 2: Playlist = Modern Mixtape

The Cover: 


"Christmas Meow-tape."


The Tracks:

1. Everything's Gonna Be Cool This Christmas, by The Eels. And this song even makes it cooler.

2. Melodies of Christmas, by David Archuleta. One original song off his album, Christmas From The Heart. Pop and bouncy and refreshing to hear especially on this long Archu-drought that we are on. How I miss this man already, but you know, some mission stuff. Good guy, he really is. And before I go on fan-girling, let us proceed on the next track and that is...

3. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, by Darren Criss. This is from his recent weekend gig "Toys fot Tots" of which I have heard just this morning, as Jov has linked to my Facebook and she's said that it is her "pamasko" to me. This man never disappoints me when he's doing live and acoustic stuff. Be it when he's forgetting the lyrics or doing random runs... it's just amazing.

4. All I Want For Christmas Is You, by the My Chemical Romance. From an acoustic, to an all-out rock version of this song.. what a transition, right? This is one of those Christmas songs that I still  keep on my phone and I never get tired of hearing. I remember when Freda and I are having walks on a mall when the Christina Aguilera version suddenly played and we sang along with it the MCR way, with the headbanging and all. So much fun!!

5. My Only Wish (This Year), by Britney Spears. This song reminds me of my high school years when we actually performed this in front of the whole school via a dance competition. We did not win, but I was informed by a mate that a professor commented that I was not the best dancer in there, but I danced gracefully it was fun to watch. That, to me is just as good as winning the top prize.

6. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, by the Orange and Lemons. I believe only a few knows this cover because it was just included on a Christmas EP of a local toothpaste brand, Close Up. Groovy cover.

7. The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late), Alvin and the Chipmunks. One of my favourites. Got to love those cute little singing creatures. ;-)

8. The Christmas Song, The Raveonettes. Hippy, indie vibe.

 "All the lights are comin’ on now
How I wish that it would snow now
 I don’t feel like going home now
I wish that I could stay.."



9. Father Christmas, by The Kinks. Me wants some oldies Christmas rock and roll. "But remember the kids who got nothing, while you're drinking your own wine."

10. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home), by  Death Cab For Cutie. Makes me feel a little dreamy.

11. Carol of the Bells, by Phantom Planet. Pure instrumental bliss.

12. Love is Christmas, by Sara Bareilles. One of my musical heroines showing her awesomeness. Amazeballs!

13. All That I Want, by The Weepies.
"And when the cold wind's blowing....
....In houses lights are glowing
Likewise in your eyes that find me here

With all that I want.

Out in the harbor
The ships come in, it's Christmastime
It's Christmastime
It's Christmastime."


That was fun, wasn't it? Merry Christmas to all! X

5 comments:

Of Kerygma Conference 2012, Chicosci/Parokya Ni Edgar and the Not-So-Distant-Past

14:28:00 APRILSKELTER 0 Comments
Another eventful weekend has passed, and so far it is the most life-changing experience that has happened to me in a very long while.

0 comments:

The Cab: Through the Eyes of a Candid Fan Girl

11:31:00 APRILSKELTER 0 Comments
I have been listening to their songs for months now so I thought I might as well dedicate a post that is solely for them. It doesn't matter if it gets read, but just like the main purpose of putting up this online journal of sort (which is to express)... And if ever any of them would go creeping and reading (which is way too cool)... And because 2013 is going to be a bigger year for them (new record on a huge label, more opportunities, bigger audience).. I cannot see the perfect timing but now for my The Cab appreciation post.

Disclaimer: This is another lengthy entry by yours truly taking into full account from where this Cab madness has started up to this date so read at your own risk. I just hope that through this, you'd get to see them through my own eyes... and then you'll know why.

0 comments:

Lights and Sounds

08:33:00 APRILSKELTER 7 Comments
To start my The Walking Dead Season 1 marathon. To finish reading The Mark of Athena. That is my plan for the past weekend.  But whatever happened to planning things, they never work out anyway, or at least the way we planned it; because most of the times, things work out even more awesome than the things we had in mind. 

I have never been to a Lights and Sound show before and from what I have heard, Ayala Triangle has some of the best that we had in the place and so when my best friend of whom I have not really get to talked with in a very long while told me that she's coming with her sisters, and my schedule is not so tight during Saturdays, I immediately said yes. Part of me wants to see the lights. The other half wants to see her again

7 comments:

Eleven.

21:12:00 APRILSKELTER 2 Comments


I just felt like trying this one out, too, (as tagged by Ate Pet) but this time I won't be tagging anyone. But I will still be posting my eleven questions just for fun. ;)

1. If you were given the chance to live again, would you take it?

Yes. It is fun to be alive. :) Only, my family and  friends would not be there with me so I think it would be better if I'll have no memories of my past life and would get to live a different life from what I am living now. 

2. Do you believe in God?

Yes. Definitely.

3. What is your favorite show of all time?

"Of all time" is quite tricky. This is hard for I don't get to watch anything religiously on TV. Can I do my top three for this? Since I almost grew up with it, I'd say Eat Bulaga tops it, Pepito Manaloto because of its unique concept, and Nandito Ako, just because. For the international shows, it has to be One Tree Hill, Charmed and recently, New Girl.

4. James McAvoy or Michael Fassbender?

I have not heard of both (Yes, I live in a rock for ages). Thank heavens there's Google, and judging from the looks (sorry!!) I'd have to pick James McAvoy. Yes, I like him more.

5. Who is your favorite athlete of all time?

Anthony Helterbrand (Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel, PBA)  from the locals because he is such an awesome man, definitely, then there's Tony Parker (San Antonio Spurs, NBA) and Lin Dan (former No.1 badminton player).

6. Are you enjoying your course/job/career right now?

Yes. So far. hahah I love my chosen path/career, and that's where the enjoyment came from. Although I would love to try some other stuff, too, but not in the near future.

7. If there is one place you could visit before you die, where would you go?

Somewhere in Europe. London? Picadilly Street? Leavesden Studio? I am fascinated with everything British.

8. If there is one person you would like to meet (athlete, actor, actress, musician or anyone), who would that be?

Athlete: David Beckham. Hug him, too. Would that be alright?
Actor: Rupert Grint. Love the guy.
Actress: Jennifer Lawrence. This girl's got the best attitude and outlook in life, ever! Loved her interviews. Getting to talk with her would be nice.
Musician: Joseph Thunder, just because I haven't gotten the chance when they came here the last time. And the ever talented Andy Skib, because he is way too cool.
Anyone: John Green. We'll talk about anything under the sun and nerdy stuff.

9. Favorite new show?

New Girl. Zooey Deschanel is so quirky and beautiful I love her! I want to try watching The Walking Dead, too, and maybe Touch, if I'd get to have the time.

10. Have you seen or watched The X-Files? If you have, what's your favorite episode? If you have not, would you ever consider watching this amazing show?

I haven't. hahahah maybe, yeah, given all the resources and the time.

11. Who are you?

I am who I am. April Ann De Guzman Y Contrata

As for the questions:

1. What is your favourite song of all time?
2.  Which line from a song would best describe your feeling at the moment?
3. Do you prefer coffee over milk tea?
4. Do you love animals? What is the story behind the name of your first pet?
5. What is that book that you have read but is least liked?
6. Name that movie that you have seen at least more than 5 times.
7. In high school, do you belong to the nerdy, bully, jock or the mean girls group?
8. What is your favourite Dairy Queen ice cream Blizzard flavour?
9. Sea or forest?
10. Are you into reality shows? Why or why not?
11. Basketball or Football?
Not really related but I just felt like posting this
cat looking up at my answers from Tumblr. Isn't it adorbs?


2 comments:

For The Gryffs: Christmas Wishlist 2012

09:25:00 APRILSKELTER 7 Comments

Or rather Things I Can Afford In Time But It Would Delight Me More If It'll Come From You. 

 1) Ticket to The Script Live in Manila 2013 (March 31st). Any seat will do, but if you're being too generous, VIP is for 7420PHP.

 2) Anything Fender. I already have a Fender guitar capo. Guitar strings, guitar strap or if you really want to make me very very happy (because I have been wanting to own one since high school), a bass guitar. Hahahahah 

 3) Incoherent With Desire To Move On by MWK is not probable since the physical CD is not available in CD Baby anymore so a To Have Heroes EP will do. If I were you I'll pre-order this from the moment that I have read this list, for it takes usually 2 to 3 months to ship that up to our humble home (Hagonoy). Remember what happened to my The Other Side Of Down Deluxe Edition from the U.S.? Sad, but yes.

4) A Slytherin and a Ravenclaw shirt. Yes, if you are to choose this option, it should be both. 

5) A Totoro jacket, to match my Totoro bag. hahah 

6) A red bag, because you know how much I love red stuff. I appreciate anything that's red. Hahahahah 

7) And lastly, books!! You can choose from Jodie Picoult, John Green, David Baldacci, Mitch Albom and David Levithan. I'm still not closing doors for a J.K. Rowling, if not The Casual Vacancy then preferably The Tales of Beedle The Bard. But if you happen to find Fantastic Beast And Where To Find Them then cool. :)

8) I want to finally own a skirt to be worn on our next trip to the beach but I would not reveal my waist line so forget it. 

There you go, my wishlist for this year, posted as a part of our Yule ball (Christmas party) tradition. Well.. these are just to guide you, as always. You can always choose to follow your free will. And I am someone who's very easy to please and is very appreciative, anyway so... See you, my dearies, on our December party. :)

 Note: This is as addressed to my CE Gryffs friends. If you happen to know me and read this too and you have no idea on what to give me for Christmas yet then this may also apply to you. ;)

7 comments:

From The Serious... To The Not-So-Sirius Stuff.

10:34:00 APRILSKELTER 2 Comments

So, I have been tagged on a blog, apparently, and have decided to try this one out which is very timely, I must say, because I haven't really posted a note in a while. I know, it should be on my blog account (Multiply) but things are just not pretty lately. Multiply, my sanctuary, will be closing in a few months time. I'm deeply saddened by that news 'cause basically it has been my go-to site whenever I feel like speaking what's in my mind back then. But maybe some good things never really last. 


Uhm... okay. I posted this as a note on my Facebook before but because I have a Blogger account now, too and the one who's tagged me is from Blogger so I decided to do this in here, too. If you'd get to read some Facebook note/Multiply references just like on the paragraph above then it explains why. I am too lazy that I have just copy-pasted most of the original contents but I made a few changes that I doubt you would even notice haha, the most remarkable would be the fact that I now followed  most of the rules. Anyway, let's go back to business before I bore you, hopefully not, with this not-so-related lame introduction. haha

I want to thank Ate Pet for tagging me. I had fun reading yours I hope I won't bore you with mine. *wink* And hopefully with this, you (and the others that I have tagged) will get to know me better.

I am supposed to do six, as was listed in the rules, but I am doing seven instead (it being "the" number of all the numbers, if that even make any sense).

Below you will find random facts about me. Some funny, some serious, some.. Er, let's start, shall we?

Oh, quick reminders. I am a very contradicting person. I tend, though not intentionally, contradict my own thoughts, my own self. Sometimes I tend to think a lot (Charlie-ish?). Sometimes I am talking nonsense. I also am very random with my thoughts that whenever I am speaking it out,  blurted something out then after a few seconds I was like, "Did I really just say that?" I even get surprised meself with the words coming out of my mouth, or the words that I am writing rather sometimes. Magulo talaga kong tao. Hahaha! Also, this post is long. Really long. Well, at least you are warned.

2 comments:

Just Those Things That You Do When You Are Bored.

19:05:00 APRILSKELTER 0 Comments


Found this survey (No? Uhm... List?) on my good ol’ Multiply site, and felt like re-posting it so here you go. This was as tagged by my friend Clarice before and somehow, going back to those Multiply-ing days still makes me smile.  I retained some of my previous answers and decided to alter some for reasons I don't really know. (I italicized the altered ones)

The rule is simple. You just have to answer every entry using the first letter of your first answer. Sounds easy, but it is kind of hard, too, honestly.

1. What is your name: April.

2. Four letter word: Arts.

3. A boy's name: Alexander.

Pretty famous, huh?

4. A girl's name: Apple.

A college professor used to "unconsciously" call me Apple before. I swear he knew what my real name was, but he's kept calling me that. Maybe because of its alliterative nature? I don't know. It is annoying at first but I learned to just laugh it off after a while.

5. An occupation: Accountant.

6. A color: AMARANTH. 

Okay, wordnerdy haha. Reddish-rose, in layman's term.

7. Something you wear: Anklet. (Thanks Joe!)

8. A food: Adobo.

9. Something found in the bathroom: Albatross. :D

I cannot think of any, even up to now. Hahahaha. Can you?

10. A place: Armenia.

Amsterdam. Austria. Australia. Antartica.

11. A reason for being late: "Antok pa." Huh? Hahaha

Now that I have thought of it, Accident could be a more sensible answer but I am trying not to deal with the negatives. Okay, and I am trying to be funny as well. Though it is probably not funny at all haha.

12. Something you shout: Awwwwwwwwh yeah!

13. A movie title: August Rush.

A Walk To Remember is my initial answer to this. Oh, and there's Alvin and the Chipmunks. I enjoyed seeing that too a lot.

14. Something you drink: Aysti. (Iced Tea. haha) Apple Juice.

Pretty desperate haha, desperately humorous.

15. A musical group: All American Rejects.

If I am to answer this now, I'd say Air Supply because I have recently rediscovered my fondness of them. I used to sing a lot of their stuff (and Michael Learns to Rock) when I was 3 or 4 years old. Hey, don't give me that look. I am just 21.

16. An animal: Armadillo.

17. A street name: Angel Street.

18. A type of car: (Ford) Anglia.

The flying one.

19. The title of a song: MWK's Anodyne.

It, being the inspiration for my page's header. ;)

PS: There is nothing too special with today, maybe except for Obama winning in the election. I wish him luck on the next four bloody years. I'd rather America have him than that Romney guy, anyway. #FORWARD

Another PS: I just remembered, there is something special that has happened today. But sorry, I won't elaborate. This smile on my face that's probably going to be etched 'til I close my eyes to sleep tonight... is all. ;)


Song playing on backgrounds as of this post: Vegas - Sara Bareilles


"No fame, no money, I'm nobody
The way I'm running has sure got me down on my knees.
But next stop, Vegas please."

0 comments:

Temporary Bliss @ Anawangin Cove

09:23:00 APRILSKELTER 2 Comments


It is my first time to be actually going on places with my mates that is not school-related, because technically, our first beach experience together, the Hundred Islands, and the farthest that we have been before, Hongkong-Macau escapade, are both part of the school's field trip curriculum. We have been wanting to go off somewhere for the longest time but could not just find the right time. We cannot just squeeze it in on our busy working schedule. It is very true how old people says that when you're younger you have the guts and the time and yet you don't have the resources. And now that you have (quite a bit of financial) resources (just a bit), work is taking much of your time... And it saddened me a bit thinking how some of my best buds couldn't join us for they have to work over the long holiday weekend. Me myself just got lucky to have the time off. And although I had *hint* the best days of my life in there, it could have been more if they were able to come with me.

Back to the planning stage, it was so hap-hazardly made we have not decided on which place to spend the long weekend off not until the week itself. An officemate of one of my chums even called us "easy-go-lucky". And yes, I bet we are and we don't intend to change that. For now.

We actually thought about going to Vigan, Batangas... Pansol.. until we ended up with Anawangin (which is a cove in Zambales. I'd like to call it heaven).


My long weekend started, November 1st, of which I spent with my loving family, where we usually go to the cemetery to visit the graves of our deceased loved ones. It is also the first time that we get to visit our dearest aunt's (she died fighting the big C just this June) and it is quite surreal because maybe her memories stored in our hearts is very much alive. You know they have parted physically and yet they never really left, you never want them to be gone so you keep them safely inside where it cannot be tampered by anyone if you get what I mean. I also noticed how my cousins have grown, physically and emotionally. They are taller than me now, haha, and being the eldest, well, not that it bothers me much, really, but it's amazing how time really flies. The day ended with us walking our way home around 6pm, which is like our annual "panata".

Because our call time is initially 2am of November 2nd, me and my girls spent the night at Abby's for easy travel in the middle of the night. I remember sleeping for only 30 minutes because we missed each other haha, oh, and so we talked and talked over dinner, stoked for the next two days and one night in the island and everything. Abby's been there with her family before so she's been giving us "tips".

We shaved off our legs, the first time for me, and it felt quite...  liberating. My legs are... okay, hairy. Theirs are, too.  And I don't know if I can maintain it, though because I am too... lazy haha. Nonetheless, we did it.





And so we are off to Anawangin.

Missed my son, Dominic. Hahaha. We all do and we all know why and let's just leave it with that.



It was a well-deserved temporary bliss at a piece of heaven. Anawangin is indeed, heaven on Earth. No electricity. No phone signal for two days and surprisingly I did not even miss my phone nor the access to the world wide web (wifi). It was one heck of a break that I badly needed. I just wish I brought Rue with me (my little guitar) to complete the relaxing experience and brought a rubber shoes for trekking instead of only a flipflop, but I enjoyed the whole experience.

Food is never an issue because we have packed more than enough.. Minus the usual junk foods haha. And of course, I would not forget to bring my favourite handy canned food, Maling with me. Boys cook, we girls usually do the cleaning. Every trip to the table was a feast. Although I must say from then on, everytime I'd get to see an eggplant (torta, in particular) I would go, "Yuck yuck yuck!!" as was inspired by the famous "Yum yum yum".

The lake reminded me of camouflaging Peeta, and I was telling them I was a bit worried I'd step on him in there. *wink*



The mountain and the lighthouse trekking is a bit stressful, to be honest, mainly because we aren't prepared. With no stretching and warm-up at all. But the view when you have reached the top is priceless. Every muscle pain and wounds... forgotten. It was also a reminder that I should take into full consideration, to manage to exercise despite being busy, for my own sake. Not just because I'm becoming fat, but because it is better to stay fit and healthy.

I love the beach. I love sleeping, laying down in the sand while staring at the beautiful sky. The sunset. I can't even. God, Your creation is soooo perfect. And I am very blessed to be able to see it with my friends.



Time in the island is incredibly slow that I have rested pretty well, sleeping in the tent, if we aren't gallivanting around the place.



The bonfire and Gangnam. Who would've thought it could even go hand in hand?

I didn't bring any camera with me (well, except for my phone) because based on experience, if you want to have more photos taken, you shouldn't haha. Each of the boys brought theirs, anyway. Kidding aside, I felt like at that particular moment, I am more of the "living in the moment" than the "capture the moment" type. And believe me, it was even more fun.

I would not want to go back in Anawangin. Not because I did not enjoy the trip but because I want to experience more and go to other islands in our very own country. Next stop? Palawan or Bora, hopefully. ;)



2 comments:

And The Best Youtube Video Ever...

10:11:00 APRILSKELTER 0 Comments


Because surprisingly I have been checking out on a lot of Youtube video in the past months, here goes my latest blurb and it is to start with this revelation: I am never really a Youtube person. Although I love browsing Annoying Orange vids during my lone time (I even have some on my phone), I don't stay much on the site inasmuch as I would dawdle on Twitter, Goodreads or any other site for that matter. My high school best bud is even convincing me to watch this suspense Youtube film and I cannot get my arse on it. Not that I don't find it interesting, in fact, I think its plot is dope but she wouldn't spoil me of the ending (that, I am yet to find out). The reason would be because I don't want to stay glued in front of the computer for long, and if I would, I'd rather talk/communicate with my friends online (which is I think why social networking sites came to life, anyway) or write (just like this). There's the go-to television set, anyway, if I ever want to watch movies and stuff.

I go there occasionally, whenever my friends would link something to me -- concert fan cam/clips, movie previews, interviews, even the most random stuff. I must admit I'm pretty lazy to check them on my own before but now, I also find it enjoyable that I would check a few, subscribe to channels of some of my favourite musicians and other sort. I even have uploaded some clips of me and my friends singing on karaoke which is kind of fun, especially remembering all the happy memories whenever I'd get to see each one.

So, recently, I get to see some which has really gotten my full attention. It may seem basic and boring to some, but to me, it's probably the best that I have seen yet. Might as well make a rundown, right?

This is quite hard knowing that there are a lot of awesome clips out there. But if I am to choose the Best Youtube Video ever, these two that I am about to mention will most likely be on top of my list.




I have just finished reading John Green's The Fault In Our Stars when a friend has linked this to me and... I was very drawn into it. At first I find it amusing that they actually used the books as their instruments in addition to the acoustic guitar. My mind was like, "What the freaking heck? Are they even serious?" But as the song progresses, the lyrics has definitely hit me and it has brought out that feeling of depression yet again. That book meant so much to me that after reading it, I got depressed for at least two days just because... (Maybe I'd get to post a separate review for that one in the coming days). Yeah, this song is so freaking good it hurt. But you'll get to appreciate it more if  you've read the book, so I suggest you go ahead and read it first. Hah.




The other one, of which I think is one of the most kickass video ever, is this video of Urbandub (one of the local bands that we have that I am extremely fond of) playing their hit song "First of Summer" using only iPod Touch apps. YES! iPod Apps. Isn't it just rad? I got totally addicted to it! It was the first time that I get to see such act and man, Gabby Alipe and his ever haunting voice, Lalay Lim-Geronimo (my favourite girl bassist) and John Dinopol's harmonies, and JanJan Mendoza's drums... Goodness! Pure musical genius! They did another one, this time with "A Call To Arms" and I loved it just the same. The riffs. The rhythm. The harmony and percussion. Those songs are already awesome by itself but it was just cool seeing them doing it, playing it! like it was the easiest thing to do in the world. Like they were just kids playing with their toys and yet, they are making good music together. I remembered Randy Jackson's famous line on Idol, "If you can really sing, you can sing ANYTHING." that in this case, I must say "If you can play, you can play using anything (any instrument available)." And with the booming technology that we have right now... Yes, musically, anything is basically possible.

I still go to Youtube these days when I want to get entertained so this may change in no time, for bajillions of good clips are being uploaded every day. But these are my top picks at the moment. Definitely. Hands down.





Random PS: I just loved the third part of Urbandub's The Red Mug Sessions with Nescafe where they played a new song called "Cold Hearted" that's going to be included in their 6th album, set to be released by next year. Amazing stuff. Also, it excites me to think that The Cab will be recording their next album in the coming months. I cannot wait for that one, either. 

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A Rundown Of My Favourite Overexposed Tour A.K.A. Maroon5/The Cab Live in Manila 2012 Moments

14:13:00 APRILSKELTER 0 Comments


Originally posted in my Facebook account, but since I am all on this "migration" to Blogger thingy, might as well post this one too in here. And it is fun to take into account these kinds of memorable stuff that you want to preserve in your mind for forever. Experiences that you would share to anyone who would want to hear you out, and make them feel how you've felt at that point in time. Most of the comments from my friends on the original post told me that I am successful on that latter aspect and I am happy for being able to let them relive my treasured moments, and see it through my own eyes.

That, to me, is even more priceless.





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What's Inside....

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Me Before You
November 9
P.S. I Still Love You
To All the Boys I've Loved Before
These Inconvenient Fireworks
Percy Jackson's Greek Heroes
Six Earlier Days
Are We There Yet?
Confess


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