The Sassy Melbournite

Melbourne Kitchen Tales

2009-05-21T10:08:00.003+10:00

In the past few months, I found my interest in food to have grown exponentially. In a city like Melbourne, one is spoilt for choice - the perils of multiculturalism. You find yourself sometimes undecided as to what to eat and making a decision can be somewhat taxing.

My friends at work have already dubbed me "the lean, mean, eating machine." All I can talk about is food and all that I can think about is food. So, I thought, what would be the best way to express my passion for food other than eating?

I started taking photos of everything that I eat in restaurants and dishes that I have cooked myself with the intention of starting a food blog.

Without further ado, welcome to Melbourne Kitchen Tales.

I hope you enjoy it as much I. Cheers!

You know you're getting old when...

2009-05-18T11:36:00.004+10:00

... you go into a shop like Tommy Hilfiger and see this on the rack...

Paisley Shirts! Are you kidding me??? I remember seeing guys wearing these like 20 years ago and now they make a comeback? I suppose it's inevitable. The Paisley was an original 60s creation and was again in vogue in the 80s.

Back in the 80s, everyone who had even an ounce of fashion sense had one of these. Funny how guys like my husband, who was a teenager back in those days, cringe when he sees kids in their late teens wearing these.

Note to self: don't throw anything away because fashion gets recycled every 20 years!

Snacking with a difference

2009-05-07T22:15:00.006+10:00

I am an avid snacker. It's a very bad habit that I have acquired since I was a kid. I snack between meals and this drives my mum mad! The older I get the hungrier I seem. I do not believe in diets, except for the sea-food diet which I am an avid fan of - when I "sea" food, I eat it. Hahaha!

In a city like Melbourne, one is spoilt for choice. A snacker like myself has a vast amount of different sorts of goodies to choose from - from healthy options like sushi rolls for $2.00, a slice of pizza for $1.00, or an oh-so-naughty Krispy Kreme donut.

One of my favourite places to go to when I feel like snacking is the David Jones Food Hall. The place caters to a slightly different clientele - the sort who likes snacking on a tail of lobster and half a dozen oysters at 3:00pm. But don't be fooled by the seeming upper class feel of the place, for David Jones Food Hall has a lot of very affordable goodies available to everyday working people like you and moi.

My favourite before dinner snack, a strawberry-topped Evia Vanilla Yoghurt for $5.50

A wide selection of fresh salads, for very reasonable prices!

The freshest seafood - look at the size of the oysters and lobsters!

Different yoghurt fruit toppings!

At the Butcher section - lamb chops, steaks, sausages, the works!

Different flavoured meat pies at the Delicatessen. My favourite is Steak Pepper Pie!

Nuts about nuts!

A wide variety for wine connoisseurs!

I love couscous. My favourite is the Pumpkin. Yummers!

Every beer brew from every country, take your pick!

David Jones Food Hall

David Jones Bourke Street Mall

310 Bourke Street

Melbourne 3000

Sassy Melbournite Version 2.0

2009-05-05T16:01:00.003+10:00

It's been a year since I last posted something in this blog. I guess life has been a bit busy. So, I've been married for a whole year. What can I say? Marriage does not change anything contrary to popular belief. Hubby and I are still very much in love. We still do the same things that we used to do. We still value our independence and spend time with our own friends from time to time. I guess the only difference is that we now run a household together and are thinking about having kids... seriously.

The blog may look a bit droll compared to my previous template. I guess I am more for simplicity nowadays. I am still the Sassy Melbournite, but more mature and focused on what I want to achieve in life.

The past year has given me a lot to think about - career, marriage, love, kids - I've just about figured out what's important for me. I have re-shuffled my life and went through a much-needed reboot.

And the result - Sassy Melbournite Version 2.0 - Faster, Stronger, and Sassier!

I hope you enjoy her as much as I :-)

Sorry for the extra long hiatus...

2009-04-30T14:15:00.003+10:00

Hello folks. Are you still out there?

Very, very sorry for the absence. It's been a very busy year!

I am now in the process of revamping this site and making it more focused.

Watch this space!

Two things that made my weekend complete...

2008-07-28T11:05:00.013+10:00

The "techie" in me is very much alive and well!!!

Full HD LCD Televisions and Blu-Ray compatible gaming stations are not overrated my dear friends - they are a necessity! Crisp, motion-flow, realistic picture quality and sound - it's every nerds' wet dream come to life!

To top that off, we'll be getting an upgrade on our cable TV connection and will be getting full HD on all channels!

Looks like I'll be raking in a lot of overtime on my "couch potato" duties...

What I thought about The Dark Knight

2008-07-21T11:19:00.000+10:00

Last Saturday night, Arnie, I and along with a couple of friends watched the much anticipated film The Dark Knight. Not only is this the sequel to the very successful resurrection of the Batman films called "Batman Begins" but it also happens to be the very last completed film made by Australian actor Heath Ledger who died of an accidental overdose early this year.

There was a lot of hype surrounding this movie regarding Heath's performance as the Joker and how he went a bit nuts after making this film. As I sat in that packed movie theatre waiting for him to appear onscreen, I can't help but feel a bit of sadness that this man has passed. And surely enough, when Heath appeared in full Joker regalia, he just filled the screen in all his mad glory and everyone in the theatre was left in awe of his portrayal of a classic character.

The Dark Knight is not just all about Heath Ledger though. The cast was fantastic. Christian Bale makes a very good Batman - the one of the comic books, dark, disturbed, and a bit sinister. Although when he steps out as the handsome and perpetually groomed Bruce Wayne, I can't help but see Patrick Bateman in American Psycho.

Michael Caine plays a calm and straight talking Alfred Pennyworth, Bruce Wayne's butler and second father. Gary Oldman is perfect as good cop Jim Gordon. Aaron Eckhart was fantastic as Harvey Dent AKA Two Face. He is a villain that I honestly felt sorry for. He was a victim of circumstance and he was truly a good hero for Gotham if not for what happened in the film which I will not tell for I might ruin it for you although if you are a fan of the comic books like me, you'd probably know it anyway.

I don't have anything bad to say about the film. It was entertaining, the plot was excellent, and all the actors did a superb job. As for Heath, he went out with a bang and deserves to be nominated for an award for his efforts.

Married and loving it!

2008-07-18T13:30:00.008+10:00

It has been a hectic four months. But Arnie and I finally made it out alive...

WE ARE FINALLY MARRIED!!!

Amidst all the drama and preparations we had to endure, the end result is what really mattered: we have taken the step that people have been waiting for us to take, that both of us have wanted to take for a long time. I finally get to call Arnie my husband, and me, his wife.

Arnie and I did nothing but laugh and smile through the whole affair. The event was filled with people who loved us and truly celebrated the moment with us. A lot of tears were shed because of happiness. Arnie's family have always loved me from the moment we started dating. My mum loves Arnie like her own son.

I never felt as lucky as I do now that I have bagged this wonderful man and I feel like I have won the lottery a million times over for being able to call him mine.

Finally the big 3-0

2008-02-12T22:56:00.000+11:00

Today I turn 30.

I vividly remember my younger self thinking about how I would turn out when I reach this age.

I'm getting married in six weeks to a fabulous man.

I have two wonderful fur kids.

I am surrounded by friends and loved ones.

I am happy with my career.

I have a fabulous boss.

I am happy - period.

Life truely begins at 30.

2 months till the big day!

2008-02-04T11:58:00.000+11:00

How time flies!

It is two months till my wedding day. So many things to do still...

Last Saturday, my matron of honour, Itchie, and I went to the bridal shop to do our dress fittings. I was nearly in tears when I got into my dress. It fit perfectly and the only thing that needs to be done is the hemming. The bead work was excellent, the material soft and stunning. I just can't wait to see Arnie's face when he sees me in it.

The invitations are mailed out and am just waiting for the RSVPs. We potentially could have around 90 people which is not a huge number at all. Luckily most of my family is in Manila or we could end up having close to 150 people!

We have already booked the car (an Audi A6) and will be using it for three days. Our honeymoon is all booked and the hotel accommodation is already paid for by my sister-in-law (she's a sweetheart). All in all, we're in track.

Happy holidays and all that jazz...

2008-01-07T12:55:00.000+11:00

Let me start off by greeting everyone a belated Merry Christmas and I hope the New Year's celebrations you've had didn't leave you all hung over :)

The past couple of months have been busy in so many ways. First, I started a new job. Second, Arnie and I moved to my mum and I's house. She decided to give it to us and be fully responsible for it. Not bad for a pre-wedding present, huh? Thirdly, all the wedding preparations. There is only about 80-something days till the wedding and I am in panic mode now. Everything is finalised except for the hair and make-up people, bridal car, honeymoon flights, and reception details (which unfortunately has to be left at the last minute till I get the final guest count). I am torn between getting uber-excited to ripping my hair out because of the stress!

It's been a whirlwind and the days are closing in. I have just finalised accommodations for the bridal party after the wedding - very irresponsible of me to allow them to drive after the huge piss-up! I still have to check prices on hair and make-up for the day, and all I can seem to find are atrocious prices! It's pissing me off now...

I am leaving the bridal car hire to Arnie because I honestly cannot be stuffed to look at that. I still have to finalise the guest list and have the invitations printed and sent off. I have to get this done within the week.

Will be posting more about the wedding in the next couple of months since my mind will be mostly preoccupied by this from now on...

Finally... a Labor government!

2007-11-28T11:30:00.000+11:00

I have never been a keen follower of politics nor am I a political scrooge by any sense.

But I have to be honest by saying that this past election has turned me into a raving, opinionated, political activist.

First off, let me just say that I am extremely happy with the results of the last Federal election. Kevin Rudd, leader of the Australian Labor Party for only a short 50 weeks, has been successful in winning the most coveted seat of Prime Minister when Labor leaders before him (Simon Beazley and Mark Latham) failed to do so. And may I add, it's about bloody time that someone knocked John Howard off his high horse!

I am by no means a member of the ALP (although I am seriously thinking about doing so). I dislike politicians in general. But Kevin Rudd's policies addresses modern issues such as climate change, broadband, improvement in education and the health system, multiculturalism and of course, abolishing the dreaded Workchoices (IR) laws. Anything that threatens to destroy the livelihood and working conditions of the common working man is absolutely appalling.

So Kevin Rudd is now Prime Minister-elect. Julia Gillard, MP for Lalor, is his Deputy-Prime Minister - the first woman ever to hold such a high seat of power in Australian politics. I will now see what Mr. Rudd does. The "education revolution", signing of the Kyoto Protocol, and formal apology to the Australian Aborigine people are the issues that I am closely looking at.

These are definitely exciting times and truly a new era for Australia.

Back in the working world

2007-11-21T08:26:00.000+11:00

I never thought I would say this...

but I am now a public servant!

Yes folks... Jennie has bitten the bullet and is working in government.

My official job title is Records and Information Management Officer for a particular department in the Victorian Government. I started last Thursday and I am, so far, enjoying the change of pace.

We're a small team, my boss is a lovely motherly type of woman, and the people are very easy going. I have short working hours (8:30 - 4:30) and my building has magnificent views of the city.

After my first few days here, it made me realise that I should have left my previous job earlier. The grass is definitely greener.

Freedom!

2007-10-25T12:24:00.001+10:00

I am finally free! Free from the shackles of corporate greed and politics!

As if my prayers have been answered, I was made redundant from work a couple of weeks back. Isn't that the best way to go? You get a huge payout and leave the work that you dread behind?

Wahahaha!

So these past few weeks have been spent on looking for other employment opportunities (I am waiting for a couple of phone calls this week) and catching up on playing The Sims 2. Since my mother gave me that game for Christmas (and I bought all the extension packs), I have never had the time to play it. My former job made sure that my "me" time is completely ripped out of me. I surely made up for it this week though. I created a couple of characters and the character I based on Arnie (named Lawrence) already has two loves and scored with both (called a Woohoo) in bed and in the jacuzzi! He is now aspiring to do a "public woohoo" and having a third love. What a pervert! Hahaha!

I also caught up with household chores (the ironing is killing me) and took up a new hobby... taking care of fishes that is! We now have two new fish tanks - one for tropical carnivore fishes (Arnie's choice of course) and one for a couple of cute red cap oranda goldfishes that I have named Sid and Nancy. Hehehe.

I have also taken this time to evaluate what is really important in my life. I found that my career will always come second to my family. Because of the stress from my former job, I now have a condition in my neck and shoulder joint that needs to be tended to by a doctor. I am now seeing a naturopath who is giving me weekly treatments of remedial massage, acupuncture, and Chinese cupping. I really need to take care of myself from now on. I am also taking medication for my stress, pain and energy levels.

Well, I hope in my next entry I'll be telling you guys about my new job.

Jaded worker

2007-10-03T16:09:00.000+10:00

I never thought I'll say this, but I am no longer happy about my work.

The company I work for has turned into a profit-driven, heartless cesspool. They have sacked so many people in the past few months that I am just waiting my turn.

"Operational re-structure", they say.

It's budget cuts, in my opinion.

Also, my present role is becoming such a chore. I wasn't trained properly for this job, thus my work seems to be half-baked. I was expecting full support from management which, unfortunately, I am not getting. And they expect me to perform well? Hah! It's like asking a person who has been a vegetarian all his life to cook a medium-rare steak! I have turned into a zombie that just turns up to work to get the cash. I no longer believe in what I do nor the company that I work for.

In my honest opinion, I don't see myself staying for another month. I actually just came from an interview regarding a job that I actually studied for. I used to do that particular job before I got this "promotion."

Here's hoping... and who knows what's going to happen in the next few weeks? I feel like something is about to hit - an axe on my neck probably. And you know what? I don't care.

To sleep perchance to dream...

2007-09-28T14:52:00.000+10:00

From Hamlet by William Shakespeare

Talk about whacked out dreams!

Last night was a classic in my "wet dreams gone weird" book...

I have been a huge fan of Doctor Who since the series has been resurrected to the hip and uber-sexy show that it is now. I also have a huge crush on David Tennant.

Could you take a guess at what my dream is about?

Well, I happen to be the Doctor's companion and we were starting to discover romantic feelings for each other!

We were having a quick bite to eat while we were in 1970s England. He told me that whilst he won't be able to live the rest of my life with me (being almost immortal), it doesn't stop him from falling in love with me. I told him that from the moment that I accepted his offer of being his travel companion, I'm his. He was about to kiss me when I was suddenly jolted awake by the joint snores of Arnie and my pug Meeko.

Grrrrr..... I was so tempted to knock Arnie on the back of his head. Here I was about to pash David Tennant, for crying out loud!

Perchance I dream again of my dear Doctor? Here's hoping...

Back from the brink...

2007-09-26T15:40:00.000+10:00

I know, I have been away for sometime. It's been madness - work and life - and it has gotten in the way of updating this blog.

My apologies.

So, what have I been up to?

Well, wedding plans are starting to come into fruition. Invitations that are being mailed overseas have been sent to me and are on their way to the people we've invited. I have an appointment with bridal dressmaker to try on the dress that I saw on the shop's website. I have fallen in love with the dress and can't wait to put it on!

We have already picked up our wedding rings and it's now safely hidden in my closet (gotta remember to bring up the contents insurance - AGAIN!). I picked out a very simple 18k white gold band while Arnie got a two-tone 18k wedding band that is thicker and chunkier - suits his huge fingers.

What else? Oh, I got my wedding shoes! eBay is an absolute god send. Instead of paying around $200 for a pair of shoes that I'm only going to be wearing once, I got this beautiful ivory pair from England for only $67 and that already includes postage!

What else is new? I am now totally addicted to make-up. Recently, I bought a couple of eyeshadow pallets and lipstick from Clinique, Radiant Illuminator and lipstick from YSL, and am planning to buy another lipstick from Clinique and an eyeshadow pallet from YSL. Jesus, at age 29 and am only starting to like make-up??? Talk about a late bloomer! Hahaha!

*****

So, what's in my bag? (Got this from Vayie)

It really depends on which I bag I'm using. If I have my big Burberry bag, this is what I usually have:

Burberry Nova Check Wallet

My mobile phone (Nokia N70)

Black iPod Video

Body Shop Almond Oil Hand & Nail Cream

Estee Lauder Powder Make-Up

hair brush

car keys

house keys

Clinique quickliner for lips Pink Truffle

Clinique lipstick Perfect Plum

YSL Rouge Pure Shine Sheer Lipstick Frosted Fig

Chupa Chups Strawberry and Cream

Vicks Butter Menthol

Parker pen

Medication (for my facet joints)

How about you? What do you have in your bag?

Been given a dose of The Cure

2007-08-13T17:30:00.000+10:00

What can one say when one's childhood dreams have come to life?

In my case, I took out the 14-hole Docs, wore black nail polish, lipstick, and black eyeshadow, and teased my hair to an untidy mop. I carefully chose my clothing and decided on black tights, black shorts, a black button-down short sleeved military style shirt and a white tie. And of course, I danced and sang like a maniac. Hahaha!

The so-called "Grandfathers of Goth", the masters of all things "doom and gloom", and my most favourite band of all time, The Cure, had a one-night-only-show last night in Melbourne at the Rod Laver Arena. Arnie, his brother Rey, and I had really good seats that we could clearly see Jason, Simon, Porl, and Robert's features. It was a sea of black, bad hairstyles, and posers (some of the teenyboppers anyway). It was a mixed crowd to say the least but it was the loyal fans (people 30 years and up) that dominated.

What can I say? I was blown away, of course! Here is a band whose music I've grown up with and their songs are a huge part of my life. It was three hours of non-stop Cure goodness. No yucky starter line-ups. It was all Cure and the fans absolutely loved it.

They played the obscure and the popular. I was pleasantly surprised to hear them play "Primary", "One Hundred Years", "Shake Dog Shake", "How Beautiful You Are", and half of the Three Imaginary Boys' album - "Boys Don't Cry", "Three Imaginary Boys", "Jumping Someone Else's Train", "Grinding Halt", and "Killing An Arab", which of course Robert had to change to "Killing Another" due to the current political climate.

Of course, they played the show stoppers - "Inbetween Days", "Close To Me", "Why Can't I Be You?", "Lullaby", "Friday I'm In Love", "A Night Like This", and of course, Arnie and I's theme song, "Lovesong" - I have to admit that I was teary eyed when they played it.

They also played heaps of tracks from the Kiss Me album. Kinda says something about Robert's current mood I guess.

I just love Robert Smith to bits. He looks like an adorable overgrown rag doll. He's so gorgeous!

I am so happy to have been able to attend such an extraordinary event. I don't know when this will happen again, but it is definitely a night to remember!

Most notable moments?

When they played "Primary", I noticed that Simon Gallup's current hairstyle resembles his hairstyle in this song's music video. That's going back 26 years ago!!!
Robert Smith is so cute doing his signature "mini-jig" ala "Lovecats"
They did not play "A Forest"! ARGH!!!
Porl looks like Billy Corgan... hmmm...
Robert looked at me when he looked at our direction! I was waving my arms around like a mad-woman! Hahaha!

Gandalf as the Mad King

2007-08-06T10:44:00.000+10:00

Last Saturday, I had the privilege of watching the Royal Shakespeare Company's performance of "The Tragedy of King Lear", played by no one else but by the great "Gandalf", "Sir Teabing", and "Magneto", Sir Ian McKellen.

Sir Ian McKellen as King Lear

For theatre and Shakespeare lovers, King Lear is a role that one would describe as the "Mount Everest" for any Shakespearean actor. They basically say that "if you're old enough to play King Lear, then you're too old to play King Lear". It is a role known to be emotionally and physically challenging. Sir Ian delivered, and more.

Sir Ian McKellen with Sylvester McCoy as The Fool

He took his kit off... naked as the day the Maker made him and might I add, not bad for an old gay man!

But I digress.

He is truly the greatest stage performer of his time. His stage presence, his command and ease of Shakespearean English, and his ownership of the part of Lear just proves his magnificent talent.

A fallen King Lear with The Earl of Gloucester, played by William Gaunt

Jonathan Hyde (you'll probably remember him as Richie Rich's butler and Robin Williams' greatest fear in Jumanji) was a fantastic Earl of Kent. Sylvester McCoy who played King Lear's Fool was a joy to watch as well. Frances Barber who played the evil eldest daughter Goneril was so effective is her role that I literally wanted to strangle her.

It was truly a night to remember. Seeing Sir Ian perform in all his excellent theatrical glory is something that I will truly take with me till death. He made me cry. He made me sympathise with an old, proud, foolish man who not only lost his kingdom but also lost his whole family, especially his dearest daughter Cordelia.

Howl, Howl, Howl...

Found this sample in YouTube. This is a scene between King Lear and The Fool. Enjoy!

O, let me not be mad, not mad, sweet heaven,
Keep me in temper: I would not be mad.
- King Lear, Act I Scene V

Psychedelic flashback

2007-08-01T16:00:00.000+10:00

Got inspired by Vayie's post about MTV...

Do you guys remember this song?

Don't you just love it?

How about this one?

And who can possibly forget this one?

Psychedelic Furs is one of those bands that a Filipino growing up during that incomparable era (the 80s of course) will possibly first mention when asked about new wave music. They first emerged as a post-punk band but ended up making albums with a more "pop-bent" to it with biting vocals and fantastic droning guitar work.

Hope you enjoyed that short blast from the past and who knows? I might find some other gems...

The end of Harry Potter in Deathly Hallows

2007-07-22T11:05:00.000+10:00

I have attended the book launch at Borders in Melbourne Central yesterday morning. I was there since 8:00 am, waiting alongside other Harry Potter fans for the first box of books to be opened by lucky little girl. I was part of long queue to purchase the book, and the queue didn't abate till the afternoon. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is clearly the most anticipated book of the decade. Finally, the question whether the 17 year old hero Harry Potter will defeat his nemesis Voldemort once and for all or will evil reign the world.

I have finished the book last night and have fully enjoyed it. I was also saddened that there won't be anymore Harry Potter after this book, but I 'll be consoled for the meantime because there are still two movies about to come out.

For my full review, click here. Major spoilers abound!

A bit of culture and child-like glee

2007-07-16T13:46:00.000+10:00

This weekend was quite eventful. After spending three days at Newcastle for a conference, I went back home to Melbourne on the Friday only to get ready for a night of theatre - Miss Saigon.

Needless to say, it is a fantastic piece of musical excellence. The cast was full of Filipino talents. The Engineer was played by no other than Leo Valdez. He made a very good impression with the Australian audience. It's quite amusing that I still remember the songs from when it was made popular back in 1989 by the original "Kim", Lea Salonga. My girlfriend and I couldn't refrain from singing along, albeit softly, to Kim on-stage.

The boys had a wonderful time. I couldn't help myself from getting a bit teary eyed in the end. It is a tragic story but was a very common occurrence during the war. I guess people who watch Miss Saigon do get side-tracked by the music and fail to remember that women like Kim suffered in the hands of the GIs and fellow Vietnamese alike. I hope that Miss Saigon stands as a reminder of the atrocities and sacrifices people have suffered during the war.

*****

Yesterday, Arnie and I - along with my mum - watched Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. It was a full house and everyone seemed to enjoy the film. It wasn't a bad effort - a 772 page book crammed into a 2 1/2 hour film. Of course, it was to be expected that there are some changes made to make the story flow better in the movie. In my personal opinion, it was fun. It was nice. Harry and Cho's first kiss was sweet - and there were people in the theatre who gushed of course. Luna was endearing. There was not enough Kreacher though. Bellatrix's appearance was short but very effective. The Thestrals were cool. Tonks was cool. Ginny kicked arse - very powerful Reducto curse.

I enjoyed Order of the Phoenix as much as the last Harry Potter movies. But if I was going to be honest with myself, it was anti-climactic. Sirius's demise was expected, of course, but very understated. Harry and Dumbledore's interaction was short and a bit emotionless. I was expecting Harry to have blown up spectacularly like he did in the book. Oh well, it was to be expected anyway - the movie will never be completely faithful to the book.

I am now looking forward to the book. I'm picking it up on Saturday morning at Borders and am expecting my free Hedwig plush doll. Can't wait!!!

I got tickets!

2007-07-04T11:18:00.000+10:00

Miss Saigon is finishing it's Melbourne run on July 15 and we've got tickets to see this wonderful musical on the 13th of July!

Very exciting considering I wasn't really planning to watch it to start with but a friend emailed me and told me that all tickets are being sold for $75 only. Wow! What a great opportunity to catch one of the best musicals ever written!

I vividly remember this musical when it was just new and our very own Lea Salonga played the most coveted role of Kim. That role made her a worldwide sensation. In this version, Kim is also played by a Filipina woman based in Sydney.

Can't wait for a piece of great theatre!

8 years of separation

2007-06-26T10:39:00.000+10:00

I've been in Sydney since yesterday to conduct a series of training sessions for managers and team leaders with regards to systems procedures. It was also yesterday, last night as a matter of fact, that I was able to catch up with a friend that I have not seen since I graduated from La Salle in 1998.

His name is Xerxes, one of my closest "sistahs" back in La Salle. We took the same classes together when we were doing our Literature degree. He's a good looking, well groomed man. And of course, he is a first class flirt which I absolutely love.

He took me to the Opera Bar for a few drinks. I am currently addicted to Smirnoff Double Black Ice and had a couple while he had a Vodka Cranberry drink. We were seated outside with views of the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House which was absolutely breathtaking at night. Sydney winter is nothing compared to Melbourne for we were able to sit outside comfortably. We chatted about old times and what's been happening with our lives. He was really happy for me finding Arnie, and that he was really glad I found my soul mate. I also found out about his boyfriend who is a few years older than him - a graphic designer who has his own place in the Rocks. Impressive, I said. Then, he calmly told me that he's actually his boyfriend's "number two". I told him that's fine as long as they both know what they're getting into. I am fully aware that some gay relationships do have a tendency to be non-monogamous but as long as consenting adults are involved, it's fine.

After our drinks, we headed off to a restaurant which, unfortunately, I can't remember the name but had the same amazing views of the Opera house and the Harbour Bridge. The food was excellent and the service was very personal. We both knew we were loud while we chatted away and laughed, but they didn't care and left us to enjoy ourselves.

I am not sure when we're going to see each other again, maybe the next time I visit Sydney for work, or better yet when he visits me in Melbourne. But after 8 years of not seeing him, I realize that I have a real friend in Xerxes. He's a non-judgemental kind of guy who is honest, comfortable in himself, and is genuinely happy for his friend's achievements. He helped me out during a time in my life back in our uni days when no one else could. I will always treasure him for that.

I miss him already. I am now consoling myself by eating the yummy Bon Bon chocolates he so kindly bought me last night. What a sweetheart.

It's hard to find true friends, and Xerxes is definitely one of mine.

The Cure is coming!!!

2007-06-15T11:07:00.000+10:00

Just found out this morning that my most favourite band ever, The Cure, is coming for a concert on August 12!

I am so excited! The show promises 3 hours of amazing music from their 30-year music career. No pre-show, just all Cure.

Tickets are pre-selling on the 19th till the 21st of June through Ticketek. Tickets are for sale to the public from June 22 until they're sold out. Concert will be at the Rod Laver Arena. Tickets are priced from $99 to $120.

I can't wait to dance, strut, and wail to Robert Smith's genius!

Waaaahhhh!!!

Soooo cold!!!

2007-06-14T10:40:00.000+10:00

It's finally June and winter is definitely here. Gone are the sunny and lovely 20 degree days and in its place are chilly 3 - 5 degree mornings. Since moving with Arnie to our lovely little cottage-like house away from the Western suburbs (my house with mum) and closer to the mountains (in the leafy East), the cold seems to be more intense. This morning, when I was about to drive off for work, I saw my car covered with a thin layer of ice... I think it was about 2 degrees overnight!

When it's cold, it's so hard to be motivated to do anything. Going to the gym becomes a chore (I actually haven't gone for a week because of a cold). Getting out of bed gets harder. Even my dogs are finding it difficult to move around in the morning! I feel sorry for Arnie because he starts early in the morning and has to brave the cold. I have the luxury of an extra half hour while the heater does its thing.

As much as I love Melbourne, Melbourne winters are nothing to sneeze at. It's gloomy, it drains your energy, and leaves you unable to do anything but stay underneath the covers.

For the next three months, I am resigned to wearing scarves, thick jumpers, and closed shoes or boots. It's the only way to battle the cold.

I guess I have an excuse to check out the sales and scout for new turtlenecks and leather gloves :)

Jennie Vs. God

2007-05-30T11:43:00.000+10:00

I confess. I was a blinded Catholic believer when I was much younger. I was even part of the founding members of a religious organisation in school back in my high school days (I actually squirm in disbelief now). I wasn't self-righteous or anything like that (I hope) and still got along with heaps of people, regardless of their religion or belief.

Ironically when I went to DLSU, which is a known Catholic university, I got introduced to several professors who presented different ways of thinking. I met different people who were very outspoken about their beliefs - my professor in Contemporary Philosophy was an "out of the closet" Atheist, my other Philosophy professor was an Existentialist, and a classmate of mine was an Agnostic. I have never encountered such diversity!

Being a person with a very open mind, I listened and saw the validity of their arguments. I found myself leaning towards Existentialism during my first year of university - that is until I had Mr. Monera for a Religion class.

It was a Bible Exegesis class, which involves an extensive and critical interpretation of a text. In this case, we were made to pick certain books of the Bible and conduct research to determine history, tradition, and authorship of the books.

Wow, so God didn't write the Bible after all! Fantastic stuff, isn't it? Turns out that the Bible was a collection of stories written by men. These stories went through a lot of heavy editing at the First Council of Nicaea during the time of Emperor Constantine in 325 AD. During this time, a lot of the books, now knows as the Gnostic Gospels, were removed. Basically, the Council developed what we know of Christianity now and the divinity of Jesus Christ - man, but not man-like. Son of God who knew no woman, who couldn't possibly have any sort of relationship let alone a family.

From an Existentialist, I have become Agnostic. I began to read books that would question the validity of Religion and existence of God. I have been Agnostic for 11 years now and people say that it's natural progression would be turning to an Atheist.

I may be a few steps away from that now... especially since September 11 happened.

I am not saying that Religion doesn't do anything good for people. Sure, there are people who truly feel like their lives have improved because of it and best of luck to them. What I gripe about are those who feel like they are better than everyone else because of their faith and thus do evil things in the name of their God.

As Steven Weinberg, the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize winner in Physics, said, "Religion is an insult to human dignity. Without it you would have good people doing good things and evil people doing evil things. But for good people to do evil things, that takes religion."

The idea of a Greater Good is fantastic. Very ideal. But, if you take the scriptures literally, what you have is a racist, petty, jealous, unjust, and unforgiving God. Why would we want to emulate someone like that?

Have a chat with fundamentalist Christians and right wing Muslims and you'll see my frustration. You can never have a logical argument with these people. Both are convinced that the other is believing a lie and that they are the only ones going to heaven.

What ego!

If you are open minded and secure in your personal belief, please read The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins. It has been on my bedside table for the past few days but it's not the best bed time book. It's guaranteed to keep you awake and think.

Also, watch the following documentaries:

The Root of All Evil? by Richard Dawkins and God On My Side by Andrew Denton.

I encourage a healthy and logical debate about this. Feel free to post your comments and I will discuss your concerns to your heart's desire. Nothing revitalizes me more than a intellectual spar.

Kiss and tell... the final chapter

2007-05-21T16:29:00.000+10:00

So, part 3 accounts for all of my relationships previous to my current one.

One thing is for sure, this one is the best of all!

Lawrence Arnold Estrada - Arnie to his Aussie friends, Lawrence or Oren to family and friends, Banee to moi :)

Well, we actually first got introduced through an ex-friend/workmate of mine. My blog readers would probably be familiar with the complete story of how that whole relationship with the ex-friend went but for those who are not, check it out here.

To cut the long story short, Arnie and I started talking over the phone first and got to know each other a little better. The funny thing is that the first thing we found that we've got in common is our taste in music - would you believe, Metallica?!? Hahaha!

We decided to meet up and have dinner somewhere. We felt the attraction from the start and found so many other things that we liked about each other. Sparks flew, and here we are now, 7 years down the track, happily engaged, and about to get married.

Going back to my younger years, I never would have thought that I would be meeting my future husband in Melbourne, let alone that he is also a Filipino. How amazing is that?

Arnie is someone whom you would not label a typical Filipino man. He cooks, he cleans, he does the laundry, he irons, he pampers me and he works really hard. He is very confident with himself and is not afraid to speak his mind. Being older than my 29 years (he's already 38), he has experienced so many things that has left him wiser and more mature than any man my age. I have never met anyone like him. He makes me very happy and content with everything that I have now. He is my rock, my support system aside from my mum, and is someone that I am sure will stick by me till the end of our days.

I love this man so much and I am so excited about the wedding!

10 more months to go...

*****

On that note, our wedding website is now up for viewing! Please feel free to have a look around and constantly check it out for updates. I will be placing a permanent link on my sidebar.

Cheers and have a great week!

Kiss and tell part 3

2007-05-17T11:07:00.000+10:00

So, a short recap of what happened so far in part 2...

Went to a Catholic girls' school
Had relationships with several girls
Broke some one's heart

So, I'm back in my old Alma mater. Mum's reasoning? An all girls' school was making me more obnoxious and naughty. Hahaha!

Because I was sort of a "new" student again, I was required to take summer classes as a prep for my sophomore year. There, I met a few students from different year levels. It was actually fun. I made friends and enjoyed being with students who are just not that into studying but were more into partying and the like.

It was here that I met one guy who was no longer studying in the school but was visiting with a friend. Let's just call him R (again). He was not bad looking, although not as remarkably cute as the first R that I went out with. But one thing I have to grant this R... he was an excellent kisser and he had such a sexy voice!

Man, oh man, the places we made out in! Just thinking about it is making me laugh so hard because of the gall and how shameless we were! We just didn't care at all! The relationship, of course, didn't last. It was, after all, just a "kissing relationship", no substance or depth whatsoever. It didn't even last a month for as soon as school started, we broke it off. All the while, there was this other guy by the name of Harold that was sort of courting me but didn't come to anything. He was lazy with everything - school, courting - it just wasn't worth it. Too bad, since he was so cute!

So throughout high school, I had a boyfriend every year. Hahaha! Ang landi!

My boyfriend in second year high school, H, was a sweety. He was a gentleman and nothing - absolutely nothing - happened between us. No kissing, no hugging, nothing. It was amazing. He was like a boyfriend by name and that's it! We were more like friends, nothing more. We broke up amicably.

In third year, another guy came along. I shall call him D. He was a nice, sweet, handsome man. He was a year older - in his fourth year of high school. The relationship was, let's just say, intense. It got too intense for my liking that I broke it off with him during the first few months of my senior year in high school. We were 11 months into the relationship, he was already in college. I got scared. I guess being just 15-16 years of age, I wasn't ready to go that deep into the relationship. I understood that he was older and may have needs that I am not ready to provide as of yet. I just don't want to get into a situation where I would have to give up something I am not prepared to... you know what I mean?

So, in my fourth and last year of high school, I decided to have a relationship with someone who was younger for I thought it was much safer. Hahaha!

David, my bestest friend, was really a boyfriend before we became great friends. Our relationship was great, close to the ideal. He was sweet, attentive, a gentleman, and we had a great time together just hanging out or playing games at the mall after school. I was never bored with him and he got along so well with my friends. He was really an amazing guy. With him, I felt the kilig again. The relationship was not as intense as with D. I never felt pressured into doing anything with David because we just had fun as is. I guess one of the reasons why we're still great friends to this day because we shared a lot of good times together.

David was also what you would call a bit of a player, although he never played around when we were together. You could say that he learned to treat women really well because of me. I was his first girlfriend and I kind of defined the how's and why's in a relationship for him. And what do you know? It actually works! It's just amazing to see that women are falling for him left, right, and centre. And you know what? When he's in a pickle, he still asks me for advise.

Haaaay... I miss him! How I wish he makes it to my wedding...

Okay... so obviously, we broke up after I went to college. The distance was killing the relationship and it wouldn't be fair to David to have him tied down to someone at such a young age. It was a amicable break up and we parted as friends for real. Of course, I found myself entering a relationship which, in hindsight, I really wasn't ready for. I guess my mistake was I should have just enjoyed my single hood for I was never single for a long period of time, the most being 6 months, since I started dating.

It was my first adult relationship. My blog readers would probably remember that I would go on and on about how I regretted that relationship. It's been awhile. I am 29 and I am getting married soon. I can honestly say I am over it and I don't really regret being in that relationship. In fairness to the guy (whom I shall not name and have never named in this blog), I did love him and there were great times between us. Like my friend Ryan said, we were good for each other at the time. I have learnt a lot from the relationship and it helped me become the person that I am. I wish that person nothing but happiness and the best of luck in life. I hope that he finds true love like I have...

...Which comes to my current relationship... the man that I am about to marry, Lawrence Arnold Estrada...

...to be continued...

In search for the perfect dress

2007-05-11T15:30:00.000+10:00

With the wedding only 10 months away, my "to-do list" seems to be growing by the week!

Tomorrow will be the first of my many appointments with various dressmakers in search for the perfect wedding dress.

I am not what you would call the most feminine person but I do want to have an extra special dress. I am also not what you would call a traditional bride.

So, I have decided that the perfect dress for me would have to meet this criteria:

Should not look like a pastry of some sort, or the more common meringue style
Should not cost as much as my monthly salary
Should not be strapless (I really don't feel like showing off my tattoos)

It should be fun, no doubt. I hope that within the next three months, I'll be able to choose the "one" for me.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Of goodbyes and birthdays

2007-04-24T15:47:00.000+10:00

And so my nephews in law left early this morning. The past couple of weeks was fun. They actually gave me and Arnie a thank you card and gifts - for me actually. A pack of US playing cards (15-year old Aaron was teaching me all these neat card tricks that I will definitely get better at) and a Lord of the Rings 500 piece puzzle (for I am a huge LOTR fan - I actually have an elvish tattoo on my arm).

And silly me, I actually cried! Gah!

Oh well, they are very sweet kids.

To my "adopted sons Allan and Aaron, you guys are always welcome to stay over and I hope to see you guys next year!

Danke!

*****

I also want to greet my loving fiance a happy 38th birthday.

Lots of love and kisses and wish you more to come!

Family matters

2007-04-23T10:41:00.000+10:00

It's been a busy few weeks for me this month. Arnie's family from Europe came to visit because it was their father's 80th birthday. Wow, what a feat!

I suddenly had three grown up boys living in our place - all sons of Arnie's brother Rudy from Switzerland. They are all good kids - I use the term "kids" loosely here since their ages are 28, 23, and 15.

Having come from a big family myself (mum is the second eldest from a brood of 9, myself being the eldest grandchild of 26), I am used to the chaos that family reunions come to be. One minute everyone is laughing and joking around, the next minute someone starts some sort of drama and runis everyone's fun.

Makes me not look forward to my wedding next year, where I have two sets of family members (mine and Arnie's) to deal with.

Hay...

Something to think about...

2007-04-05T10:58:00.000+10:00

Seeing that it is Easter, here's food for thought...

James Cameron directed a documentary for the Discovery Channel, claiming that they have found the family tomb of Jesus Christ. 10 ossuaries were excavated from a tomb found in a construction site in 1980. Inscriptions were carved onto these ossuaries that makes a curious mind work overtime...

Jesus, son of Joseph
Mary
Mary
Matthew
Judas, son of Jesus

Of course, this was debunked by believers of the faith saying that these names were so common back then that every family had a female named Mary or a Maria.

But interestingly, a statistician who had nothing to do with the making of the documentary later said that the chances of all these names being related in some way are 6 million to 1... those are pretty big odds.

Now, this poses a great big question.

If it's proven, without a shadow of a doubt, that this is truly the tomb of Christ and that he had a family with Mary, thus debunking the whole Christian faith of Christ rising from the dead and ascending bodily into heaven, would this shatter your faith to the very core?

If you ask me, then my answer is NO.

Regardless of Jesus being married or just being a man like everyone else, this will actually make me cling on to my faith even more. Does it really matter that Jesus Christ isn't really the Son of God? Can't a man live life spiritually and morally? Can't a man be good as well as be a husband and a father? As Robert Langdon said, regardless of what the truth is, Jesus Christ was a great man who did great things for people.

And that's all that matters.

Happy Easter everyone.

Kiss and tell part 2

2007-03-30T11:54:00.000+10:00

So, I'm stuck in an all girl's school for a whole year - first year high school. It was quite a shock to the system, considering I have been going to a co-educational school from the very start.

Never in my life have I seen so many "bois" around. You know the type, girls acting all boyish and cool and stuff, struting around like they own the place. There was one group of juniors who were targeting young, naive froshies like myself and trying to get into a "relationship" with them.

I think the "lines" they used were as follows:

Hi! Anong pangalan mo?
Cute mo! On tayo ha?

Hahaha! Come to think of it, napakababaw diba? Even boys wouldn't have the audacity to do such a thing! Such chutzpah! Hahaha!

Of course, nagpakagaga ako at kumagat naman! Hahaha!

The stupid things you do when you're young!

But it wasn't with that so-called girlfriend that I experienced my first ever kiss from a girl. It was with a classmate who was cute as a button and as sweet as apple pie.

Her name was Sharon.

And she caught me unawares one day and just planted one straight on my lips, right in our classroom, in plain view of all our classmates.

And boy, did that cause a ruckus!

Turns out that she liked me and that was the only way for her to grab my attention because I was such an insensitive cow - and it did, alright!

We became an item soon after that.

It was quite addicting, kissing Sharon. She was sweet, she was eager, and she was in love with me. She would pass me notes every single day with short but sweet messages. The relationship made such a difference in the way I saw things. I came to realise that you fall in love with a person not because of their gender but of who they are. Yes folks, this early on in my life I have embraced and accepted my bisexuality.

Pity it didn't last for there were many others vying for her attention. She was THAT hot, and she fell for me first! She didn't want to let go of me, for I broke it off with her first. It was getting ugly - girls were actually being nasty and harassing me every single day to break it off with Sharon. At first I didn't want to, but I was so young back then. The concept of "fighting for love" was foreign to me and nasty rivals was something I never encountered before. I got tired of the harassment that I broke Sharon's heart.

And I'll never forgive myself for that.

She became quite a brash party go-er who went with anyone who asked. I feel like I am to blame for her sudden change of behaviour. I should have fought for our relationship.

I went from one relationship after another. There was absolutely no substance in all of them, no kissing, nothing at all. It was just a relationship by name.

And then I found myself falling in love again.

Her name was Russell, a senior CAT officer who was cool as a feline in a show. She was a brilliant singer, an excellent guitar player, and a fantastic friend.

We never had a relationship, but we had an excellent friendship. She never found out about my feelings for her until she graduated and I left to go back to my old alma mater.

Yes folks, I went back to co-ed territory after a brief stint in all-girl purgatory.

And that was where a lot of interesting things happened!

To be continued...

Blahs about ageing

2007-03-21T15:02:00.000+11:00

They say that it's not important how old you are but how old you feel.

Would you be surprised if I say that I reckon my inner self is a 30-year old woman?

Yes, one year older than my actual age... confusing huh?

I guess that I'm just past all the usual trappings that come with being a young 20-something --the never ending drinking sessions and parties, the sleepless nights, tireless dancing, "jamming sessions" (if you catch my drift). I'm not so interested in that anymore. Sure, I don have the occasional urge to "party down" but I don't feel like I'd be missing too much if I don't. In fact, i hate the posing, the virtual meat market atmosphere, and shallowness of it all.

I've partied hard and virtually did it all, except for the hard drugs and mind numbing vomiting sessions (which I absolutely hate). In fact, I think I've turned to a bit of a square. My idea of fun now is catching the latest film festivals (the French film festival is coming out soon), watching really cool gigs (can't wait for Bloc Party), going to art galleries, and never missing the comedy festival. Sigh, I've become a mature lady.

But a huge part of me still has that youthful exuberance - my love for heavy metal and punk music, for instance. I don't think I will ever lose that even if I'm a granny with 20-odd grand kids. I still love my tattoos and never regretted the day I got them. As a matter of fact, I want to get another one but am not too sure what design though. I like technology - I absolutely love Mac's commercials, I'm such a geek!

I guess nowadays age is such an overrated thing to worry about. In my case, I embrace it. The world is my oyster and with age comes new experiences. Like marriage for instance...

*****

Speaking of marriage, I am about to start my wedding site. Will post the link here as soon as I have it up and running. Cheers!

In warm Bris-Vegas

2007-03-05T14:56:00.000+11:00

I'll be spending the whole week in Brisbane for work. It's rather humid, so much like Manila, that it's not funny. Thank God the office is airconditioned properly or I would have to resort to murder!

I have been so lax with my postings lately and I apologize. Life has gotten in the way, as usual.

I will try to post pictures of my trip here. I have uploaded all my pictures of my last trip to Sydney and I just haven't found the time to post it yet. Sorry...

Kiss and Tell part 1

2007-02-28T16:34:00.000+11:00

I apologize in advance for the very candid nature of this post. Just think of this as a post-valentine treat :)

Amidst my seemingly worldly ways, I am very inexperienced when it comes to the sexual dealings of men and women. I have only been "physical" with two men, the first one being a mistake. My total inability to express myself sexually was only rectified a few years back when I started dating my dear fiance (soon to be husband). But there is one thing that I have always liked since I was a young girl of 13.

I absolutely love kissing.

I would not pretend to be some delicate little China doll because the truth of the matter is I have kissed heaps of boys... and girls too - done during my young, experimental stage. Kissing to me is the most intimate of all acts, more so than sex. There is a reason why prostitutes charge extra for a kiss because this is one performance you cannot possibly fake.

Kissing isn't just about lips touching and tongues dancing merrily. It's the pressure, the breathlessness, the gentle touches and sometimes wayward hands. I've had my share of kisses - sloppy, dry, sucky, tongue wrestling - you name it, I've done it. Kissing is definitely on the top of my list of things I love to do!

My first kiss was, as any first kiss is, very sweet and short. R, my first boyfriend, is a year younger and a couple of batches lower in school. I was 12 when we first kissed and it was electric. Going back to the days when kissing does not always constitute sex, all I had to do was remember the feeling of our kisses and I would be rendered useless for the rest of the day, just day dreaming and wishing for another kiss. R was a great kisser. He was sweet and always kept his hands to himself. We were together for 11 months and when we weren't playing sport (real sport like basketball to the pervs out there :p) with friends or chatting over the phone, we'd go to our secret spot in school and kiss for hours. What a simple life I led back then.

As any young love story, we thought it would last forever but alas it wasn't so. I had to go to high school and he was left behind to complete elementary school. I was heartbroken and never thought I would love someone else. I always hugged the Garfield doll he gave me from his trip to the States one summer as if I'm in mourning.

A month later, I got into a one month "kissing" relationship with a neighbour whom I really didn't like but just wanted to snog - oh boy, was my mum pissed off!

I got sent to an all-girl Catholic school for my first year of high school - according to my mum, it should instill discipline. It was a culture shock - from a school full of obnoxious, sometime perverted, boys to a whole school of skirts - I was freaked out! But it didn't last long...

The day I was born...

2007-02-12T15:25:00.000+11:00

It's amazing how much people change as they get older. I remember when I was a kid, I used to love having my birthday around. It meant having all the attention of your family and friends, and getting all the wonderful gifts.

Today, I turned 29. Not such a big deal anymore. I am currently in Sydney, working. I left my mother, Arnie, and two (doggy) kids behind. Not really fussed, I just miss spending time with them whenever my "special" day comes up.

My work mates are taking me out tonight which I think is so nice of them. When you get older, birthdays don't seem to matter much. In my case, all I long for is the company of my loved ones...

But it doesn't hurt that you get excellent gifts though... like the one Arnie gave me 3 weeks back. I mentioned 2 doggy kids, right?

This is our new baby pugalier (Pug x Cavalier) boy named Gimli. Isn't he a sweetheart?

Happy birthday to me...

A Sydney affair 1

2007-02-07T12:07:00.000+11:00

I have been assigned by our National Operations Director to be in Sydney for the next two weeks to scope our Active File operations in one of the sites we bought out. So far, so good. Four Filipinos work in the department and they are quite friendly and helpful with what I need.

I am staying at the Holiday Inn close to the airport. A colleague of mine from America is staying at the Pacific International in the city and we have been meeting up for dinner for the past couple of days.

I've been known to bag Sydney being the stauch Melbournite that I am. After a few days of not just concentrating on work but on spending time with a work friend, I am getting a feel for it and am beginning to like it, believe it or not. I am still a Melbournite at heart, but this Sassy Melbournite takes off it's hat to the wonderful seafood Sydney has to offer in Chinatown and the fantastic Angus Beef Rib-eye steak I had in the Meat & Wine Co. at the harbour.

And if you ever visit, please try the Thai Traditional Massage at Body Relax located on the 18th Floor of the Pacific International Apartments in George Street. Excellent service, excellent ambience, and fantastic Jasmine Tea.

I am planning to go for a little stroll around the city tomorrow and soak up the sites. Late night shopping is calling! And I will definitely post some pictures...

Till next time!

Mark your calendars

2007-02-02T10:23:00.000+11:00

Hang onto to your hats, Harry Potter fans!

The final installment of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, will be released in July 21, 2007.

Oh, I can't wait!

Daniel love 2

2007-01-31T15:54:00.000+11:00

At the risk of getting Harry Potter fans' parents angry, here is another pic I saw from the promotional shots of Equus. I lifted the photo and caption from today's Sydney Morning Herald.

Daniel Radcliffe and Joanne Christie are seen in the stage play Equus.
Photo: Reuters

I can't believe that some parents think that Daniel's parents have made a grave mistake by allowing their son to take on this wonderfully mature and dark role. Please, give the boy a break. He's an actor for crying out loud! Some people are so hypocritical. Kids nowadays have sex in such an early age. I believe we should educate them rather than hide them behind rose-coloured lenses. Daniel is no longer a child. He is a 17-year old who is turning 18 - a young adult - in a few months. We should congratulate Daniel on his efforts to grow as an artist. I don't want him to turn to another Macaulay Culkin!

As for me, allow me to drool... for a second or two before I get jailed for mentally molesting a minor :p

Daniel Love

2007-01-30T11:29:00.000+11:00

It's been a while since I drooled over Daniel Radcliffe. It may be the fact that he is only a 17-year old boy but when I saw this, I couldn't resist but go "hubba-hubba."

Yes folks, THAT is Daniel Radcliffe, starkers! Would you believe that the boy wizard is all grown up? This photo was from the official shoot for the promotion of the play Equus. This is Daniel's West End debut and his first serious play. He plays the role of a mentally-disturbed stable boy by the name of Alan Strang who ritualistically blinds horses. You may have read the play. If not, go read it!

The play requires the character of Alan to ride a horse naked - very Lady Godiva. There is also a failed sex scene between him and his girlfriend (lady in picture plays the part). So yes, Daniel is going to prance around the stage in all his naked glory!

Okay, I'm bordering sicko territory here. It's just fantastic that Daniel is breaking out of the cute Harry character he's played so well.

And speaking of breaking out of character, check out this scene from "Extras", one of the funniest shows I've seen for a long time.

A Wii entry

2007-01-18T16:32:00.001+11:00

Hey guys, sorry for the delay. I've just been absolutely occupied by a purchase I made over the weekend. I consider it an early birthday present for moi...

Yep, the Nintendo Wii, whose sales surpassed the XBox 360 here in Australia, is my brand new toy. It is the most fun and interactive game I've played ever. It forces you to get up and move (especially Tennis and Boxing) and engage in friendly competition with your pals. Arnie and I had friends over last Saturday and it was a riot!

When I bought it, it came with Wii Sports which included Tennis, Golf, Baseball, Bowling, and Boxing. Tell you what, guys, playing Boxing is like doing a whole session of Tae Bo in the gym. It's fantastic! I also bought Legend of Zelda which I haven't played yet. I am scared that I might stay up all night playing the damn thing. Arnie bought Wii play which comes with 9 mini-games and an extra remote controller.

I am now anticipating the release of Wario Ware Smooth Moves which includes over 200 mini games that make you do really silly things - great for parties - and also Dragon Ball Z. I remember back in high school when the SNES was the biggest thing. My friends and I would often wonder when a fully interactive Dragon Ball Z game will come out. We often joked around about doing a kamehameha gesture with our hands and the game will recognise it through a sensor. Now, the dream is for real and here's my chance to emulate Son Goku!

I'm back and sassier than evah!

2007-01-11T14:01:00.000+11:00

Hello my blog friends! Sorry for the long hiatus but I enjoyed my break too much that even when I went back to work, I honestly felt like I was still on holiday! It's already the second week of the first month of the new year and we are yet to get back to normal working pace.

It's been a blast this past Christmas and New Year. I don't want to bore you guys with the details but it basically involved:

Shopping
Lots of alcohol
Lots of late nights
Lots of yummy food
Lots of cuddling with the hubby
Days and days of not logging into the net

I am now getting back to my gym routine and try to work off all those cheeses (blame Arnie's sister) and wine (can't blame anyone but myself) I gorged myself in.

I am also going to stop with the shopping. All these after Christmas sales is driving me mad and makes me reach for my already empty wallet over and over again! Damn these capitalist maniacs!

How about you people? How was the holidays for you?

Till next time!

Over and out...

2006-12-22T10:44:00.000+11:00

I'll be away for a few days. Not going anywhere special, mind you, it's just going to be a rather busy Christmas and New Year for me is all. I'm afraid I won't be able to update for awhile.

Here's just a brief look at what's currently in my social calender:

Complete furnishings at house
Go to Sassafras
Christmas Party at Mum's place
Boxing Day party at friends' place
Arnie's sister coming down from New South Wales - staying at our place
Accompany said sister shopping for probably 3 days
New Year's Eve party at my place
New Year's day party at my place

This is just a tentative list which I am quite sure I'll add on later during the week.

I'll be taking the whole week off from work and will be back on the 2nd of January wherein a ton of work will be waiting. I have just received my targets and it is rather challenging. I will definitely try and meet it. After all, the monetary incentive is quite promising!

Just in case I don't "see" you guys, thanks for your continued support, for reading and taking an interest in my ho-hum life.

Have a safe Christmas and fantastic New Year!

My current alcohol fave

2006-12-19T17:29:00.001+11:00

The Sassy Melbournite Recommends...

This happens to be my most favourite wine at the moment. I first got a taste of this at the Sky High Bistro in the Dandenong ranges wherein I took a chance and ordered a glass to accompany my anti-pasto platter.

It is one of the most beautiful tasting wines I have ever tried and I have been hunting for a bottle since. I have been unlucky. I recently found out from the franchise owner of Vintage Cellars in Port Melbourne that this particular wine is not available in the shops. You can only buy it in the winery cellar itself.

So last Sunday, Arnie and I drove to Yering Station Winery off Melba Highway in Yarra Glen (just 30 minutes from Ringwood). Yering Station happens to be the first wine vineyard in the state of Victoria, dating back to 1838. It is the most lovely property and judging by how "country" the place looks like, you would feel like you have travelled hours to get to the place, when in fact it is only about an hour from the city.

So, off to the cellar to purchase the wine. The great thing about wineries is that you can taste everything in the menu for free, except for certain items that specifies it is not available for tasting. I have tasted about 8 different varieties of wine... all this before lunch!

Arnie and I bought 4 bottles. It's Tuesday today, and we only have 2 left. Not enough for New Year's eve!

So, we're planning to go back to the winery on the 30th and probably purchase a whole case... hahaha!

Highly recommended if you like your wines easy and sweet but not sickingly so like botrytis blends. Perfect with chilli hot food and light desserts. Can also be enjoyed by itself.

A bottle costs $17.50, a whole case costs $199.50. Excellent value for money!

Old and grey...

2006-12-14T10:00:00.000+11:00

I know it sounds vain...

but yesterday after my morning shower, there it was...

standing at attention, a terrible sight...

I found my very first grey hair...

ARGH!!!

I wish I was the first...

2006-12-08T15:09:00.000+11:00

I am in love with Arnie and have been for the past six years.

No other man has invoked womanly feelings from me. He made me aware of my desires and allowed me to let go of my inhibitions without judging me but instead, supported and guided me in finding my way.

We enjoy our lives together. It's barely a week and we are both settling into our shared domestic lives very well. We are very compatible in every way, if you get my drift.

Amidst the packing, I stumbled across old pictures of him when he was in his 20s.

Regardless of the 80s garb and hairstyles, he looked so cute, so taut, and so hot.

Not that he isn't less of a hottie now, but a young Arnie?

It made me quite... excited.

God, you'd think that having sex with the same man for six years would have quelled any pent up frustrations, huh?

Damn photos!

Just looking at a younger Arnie made me think, if we met around the time he was 25 I would have been 16... yikes!

But it still didn't stop me from fantasizing... how about when he was 18? Around the height of his clubbing days? If I were the same age as him, we could have met in one of the numerous night clubs he frequented back then. Apparently, he was an exceptional dancer - still is now - and anything could have happened...

I understand that experience is the best teacher. Arnie at 18 would not be the same as Arnie at 31 (his age when I first met him), but still... that young, firm, taut, cycling God that was MY Arnie...

Have to get a cold shower now...

A legend dies...

2006-12-04T11:05:00.000+11:00

Maximo V. Soliven, publisher and writer for the Philippine Star, died last November 24 of complications from cardiac arrest.

Being an alumnus of O.B. Montessori Centre, I have had the privilege of meeting the man in person numerous times in parties, Tuesday assemblies, and just seeing him pass by to visit. I even served him a glass of wine during a Food Technology project we had to do in third year and he even praised me for pouring it perfectly in his glass without a drop of it spilling! It's a well known fact that his wife, Philippine Ambassador to UNESCO and O.B. Montessori Ex-President Preciosa Soliven, was his wife.

A very intelligent man, he never ran out of interesting quips to tell us impressionable teens back then. I especially enjoyed his stories of the past when he was a younger journalist battling injustices head on during the regime of Apo Marcos (as he so fondly called him).

I will no longer see his Latin quips, his catch phrases (Salamabit, Sanamagan, Susmaryosep), and his fair but critical views of the current government. First Teddy Benigno, now him. What is left in Philippine Journalism?

Rest in Peace, Mr. Soliven. May you enjoy sipping Earl Grey tea with Alexandre Dumas discussing "The Three Muskateers" in heaven.

To Pinoy new wavers...

2006-11-30T09:59:00.000+11:00

If you grew up in Manila, you probably heard of the song 'More To Lose" by Seona Dancing. It was such a big hit that till now, New Wave clubs play this!

A bit of trivia for you... do you know that Seona Dancing's lead singer is no other than Ricky Gervais from the hit TV show, The Office?

I saw this video from a recent TV interview he had in England and they played a short music video clip of one of his songs... too bad it wasn't "More To Lose" though...

"More To Lose" was one of those very sad, danceable songs that unfortunately never made the charts in England, nor did the band. Ricky looked absolutely embarrassed when the video was played, but wasn't he such a cutie?

And talented too.

If you're a fan of "The Office" or Ricky Gervais in general, go and see "Extras". Fantastic concept, fantastic writing, all courtesy of Mr. Gervais.

Because there's nothing better to do...

2006-11-30T09:00:00.000+11:00

I finally succumbed to this craze: checking which celebrities I look similar to using MyHeritage.

Scarlett Johansson? Cate Blanchett? Hikaru Utada? NANA MOUSKOURI???

I seriously doubt the accuracy of this thing! Oh well, it was all in good fun anyway :)

Grrrr...

2006-11-29T09:34:00.000+11:00

Just because you think people ought to know what you know, does not mean that you are justified when you get pissed off at them if they happen not to know.

Just because you think you're older and so-called "wiser", does not mean that you can dispense unsolicited advice.

Focusing on small things and making it big by creating an argument with everyone is not a mature thing to do.

Saying that you see things that I don't see but fail to logically explain yourself to me, when asked what it is, is just plain idiotic.

Accusing me that I am blind for not seeing whatever it is you see is insulting and demeaning.

Judging people when you've only met them once or twice is just plain wrong.

When you listen to a moron who lives in his own world (read: 19th century values), it makes me question your intelligence.

And before you say things may not work out, please, give me some credit.

How can you possibly know that when I have not even tried it?

I am old enough to know. I'm fucking 28. Let me go and let me live my own life!

The voters' choice...

2006-11-27T11:46:00.000+11:00

State elections happened last Saturday and once again, Labour Premier Steve Bracks is in power which I am very happy about. Steve Bracks is now in history as the longest serving Labour Premier in the state of Victoria. Hah! He kicked Ted Bailleau's (so-called "Hunk from Hawthorn" - puh-lease!!!) arse from here to Carrum! Bwahahaha!

*****

Last night, the new Australian Idol was crowned and it was no other than Irishman Damien Leith. I am also happy about this. Jess is a wonderful singer but there are far too many belters out there for my liking. Irish crooners aside from Bono? Nuh-uh.

I downloaded Damien's new single and it is fantastic! I can't wait to get his CD when it comes out!

Whoopee!!! Go the Irish!

The weekend that's been...

2006-11-20T10:24:00.000+11:00

This past weekend has left me completely tired yet satisfied. Last Saturday night, as mentioned in my previous post, Arnie and I went to see U2 at the Telstra Dome for the much awaited Australian leg of the Vertigo Tour. The concert originally was scheduled last year but because of unexpected familial circumstances, it had to be cancelled. With a wee bit of Irish luck, Arnie and I secured tickets on Friday morning and off we went to see the biggest band in the world!

From start to finish, it was a roller coaster ride filled with beautifully sang songs, political messages, and making people stand up against poverty. Bono is a very passionate man and he stands up for what he believes in. He is also a brilliant show man. Him, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr. rocked the Telstra Dome off its hinges. Everyone was on their feet, stomping and dancing to their songs - even people who were in the reserved seating section!

They played the best of their songs - Vertigo, Elevation, One, With or Without You, Where The Streets Have No Name, Angel of Harlem, Desire, I Will Follow, Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own (which Bono sang in his father's funeral), City of Blinding Lights, and lots more.

Arnie was in heaven, to say the least. I guess to be able to see your most favourite band live is any one's aspiration. In my case, U2 is up there in my "favourite band" list. It was a spectacular show with an audience of diverse age groups but who are all fans of the band led by a man with such charisma that if he decided to run for "President of the World", he'd win without question.

We ended the night meeting up with some friends who also watched the concert. We went straight to an Irish pub in the city called Pugg Mahones - how quaint!

*****

Yesterday, it was a day filled with a lot of Paella, Salsa, Churros, and Cuban cigars. Arnie and I went to the Latin American fiesta in Johnston Street, Fitzroy. Spanish and Portuguese flowed freely, with people pigging out on something as simple as fairy floss or something more exotic as chorizo in a bun. I actually had the former and was jumping out of my skin because of the sugar. People were dancing in the streets to lovely Brazilian music and there was a lot of "eye-balling" between singles. I have to admit that Latinas have such beautiful skins and bodies (I am so glad that a lot of Filipinos are of Spanish decent).

I did a bit of shopping and got a nice knitted bag from the Jamaican stall and a beaded bracelet from a lovely Argentinian lady. Arnie got a couple of Peruvian whistles. We also bought some classic Spanish hot chocolate and some churros. Yummy!

*****

The Sassy Melbournite recommends...

Chocolateria San Churro - located at 277b Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

For all your chocolate needs. Filipinos would love their hot chocolate - similar to what we are so used to having back home during New Year's Eve! Their churros dipped in melted chocolate are to die for! For cold drink lovers, I especially recommend the White Chocolate & Berry - far less sweeter than Max Brenner's Strawberry White Chocolate Float.

One man come in the name of love...

2006-11-17T23:37:00.000+11:00

It was definitely last minute but this morning, I was able to secure two tickets to see U2 tomorrow night on possibly what may be their last world tour - The Vertigo tour.

U2 happens to be one of my favourite bands of all time and Arnie's number one band (with Metallica a close second). Needless to say, we are both very excited. What luck, huh?

The weekend is looking rather nice... sunny spring weather and the best band in the world, what more can one ask for?

So till tomorrow night, I'll be singing...

Youre packing a suitcase for a place
None of us has been
A place that has to be believed
To be seen
You could have flown away

A singing bird
In an open cage
Who will only fly
Only fly for freedomW

Walk on
Walk on
What you got
You cant deny it
Cant sell it or buy it

Walk on
Walk on
You stay safe tonight

-- Walk On from the album All That You Can't Leave Behind, 2000

Go the Irish!!!

2006-11-16T17:40:00.000+11:00

To all Australians, please vote for Damien Leith so that he can be this year's Australian Idol.

I have never been a big follower or fan of Australian Idol but this Irish cutie just blew my socks off with his lovely, angelic voice. OMG, that falsetto is to die for!

Have a listen and let me know what you think...

Best of luck to Damien!!!

Damien Leith singing "Crying" by Roy Orbison (with judges' comments)

Damien Leith singing "Wicked Games" Chris Isaak... it'll make every woman swoon!

Damien Leith singing "Nessun Dorma" by Pavarotti... wow, that voice!!!

GO, DAMIEN!!!

Adult decisions

2006-11-15T10:13:00.000+11:00

Arnie and I decided to cancel our house hunting for at least six months. With the interest rates fluctuating at the moment because of the upcoming elections, it may be a good idea to wait till it all settles. Besides, we're in no hurry. It's not like we both don't have a home to go to.

Except that this decisions sets us back, again, from finally living together.

We've been together for six years and have never lived together aside from our "bahay-bahayan stints". We really want to experience being together almost 24-7 in the same space, sharing the same kitchen, lounge, bedroom, and all the that.

So, we also decided to bite the bullet and speak to my mum about us living together in a rented property for the time being till we finally decide to buy our house.

And to my surprise, my mother was quite accepting and understanding.

She also says that it'll be good for my independence.

Okay, I'm not lazy but you know when you live with your mother, you tend to leave most of the housework to her. Mothers being mothers, you know.

So, Arnie and I will be moving in together after all. It may not be our own place yet, but it is the start to our brand new life as a live-in couple.

We are now in the process of looking for a place that is practical, reasonable, and pretty.

Will keep you guys posted.

Hmmm, come to think of it, we are still house hunting in a way, huh?

Exciting times ahead!

Of Holidays and Horses

2006-11-10T10:12:00.000+11:00

It's been a short but very busy week. Last Tuesday, Melbourne had a holiday because of a horse race that was visited by the Queen a long time ago.

Go figure.

But what the heck, we all need a break anyway.

Considering that Australia has far lesser holidays compared to other countries, like the Philippines.

We only have 10 Australian holidays and 2 Victoria-specific holidays.

How many does the Philippines have?

13!!!

Okay, it's just one more than Oz but take a look at some of these countries:

Indonesia: 16
Thailand: 15
Japan: 19
Taiwan: 14
South Korea: 15

How come Asian countries have so many holidays? Western countries, on the average, have 12. Weird...

*****

Speaking of the races, the horse that won was owned by a Japanese man and had a Japanese jockey. For the first time ever, the Melbourne Cup will be travelling to Asia. Fantastic stuff. This just proves that the Melbourne Cup is not only a "race that stops the nation" but a race recognised world wide!

Too bad I didn't bet. Turns out that the horses that won are 2 -12... My birthday! Frig! If I bet $10, I could easily get $500 back! Shucks!

NaNoWriMo

2006-11-03T17:10:00.000+11:00

Just in case you haven't seen the addition to my profile, I have decided to join the NaNoWriMo Contest.

As if I don't have enough to do, I have committed myself to completing a 50,000-word novel in a month. By the 30th of November, my first novel will be complete. Yeah, right...

Oh well, here's hoping... and wish me luck :)

I'm not high maintenance!

2006-11-03T11:32:00.000+11:00

Who ever says that I am high maintenance is, well, highly mistaken!

Moi? High maintenance? Puh-lease! I loathe people like that and to be one of them? Sheesh!

It does not take a lot to make me smile or laugh, really.

The simplest things in life usually makes me feel content and completes my day. I have listed some things that never fail to cheer me up:

Sitting by beach, enjoying the breeze while pigging out on ice cream
Being inside Borders book store, surrounded by all the books, wishing my personal library was as huge
Listening to music (currently mad about the Scissor Sisters. They are so camp!)
Driving around with Arnie and Meeko during the weekend
Visiting the Warrandyte Strawberry farm and eating their delicious homemade ice creams and hot jam donuts
Going up to the mountains and having homemade scones with cream and jam
Sitting in a cosy cafe drinking coffee or tea and reading a book
Playing with Meeko
Watching anime (currently watching all the Dragonball episodes... I'm such a kid!)
Learning new things
Kissing :p
Hugs
Playing bowling
Going to the gym (health is wealth >wink<)
Taking walks in Elsternwick park with Arnie and Meeko running around
Giving my mum everything she wants
Yummy home-cooked meals made by my mum
Going out with Mig and Jet (Brothers who have been my friends since grade school. I am so happy they're here in Melbourne with me!)
Being with my school girlfriends (a very intelligent and funny bunch :)
Intelligent conversations
Going to Art galleries
Pug pictures
Dogs in general
Holidays
Small tokens of affection or appreciation
David Jones Food Hall (they have the best cheeses, yoghurts, and wines!)
Chai Tea Lattes
Pigging out on Japanese food
Being inside JB Hi-Fi. If Borders can make me drool over their books, JB makes me drool over their CD and DVD collection!

That's about what I can think of for now. So you see, not hard to please me right?

Basically, if you want to shut me up, give me a tub of ice cream and a handful of books. Oh, don't forget to turn up the music. I'll be out of your way... hahaha!

Another reason why the Howard government sucks...

2006-11-01T15:31:00.000+11:00

It's just one of those days when I think, "Why, oh why, did I stop my law studies?"

My mum just heard back from the union and told her that she does not have a strong case. WTF? Any simple-minded bogan can see that she definitely has a strong case! Argh! If I finished my law degree, I could represent my mother in court and take that blasted company to the cleaners!!!

The union is nowhere near as strong since bloody John Howard introduced the Industrial Relations Law which basically gave employers a lot more power and employees far lesser rights. It is so unfair!

Gone were the days when Bob Hawke was the Union President and represented the workers to the best of their ability. Now, they just take the union fees and not do anything! Sissy little f*cks!

I told my mum to withdraw her membership. They are so freaking useless anyway... Grrrrr!!!

The injustice of it all...

2006-10-31T22:53:00.000+11:00

My mother got sacked from work last Monday.

And she did not deserve it.

I am not just saying this because she's my mother.

Sure, she had her faults. She had a temper that won't quit and stands up for herself quite well.

In a country like Australia, you are expected to stand up for your rights. We were both bowled over by the obvious harassment and discrimination the supervisors did to my mother.

You see, my mother started working for a particular contractor 6 years ago who was overtaken by another contractor just 8 months ago. Since then, my mum was harassed, constantly checked, and picked on.

A lot of my mum's former workmates left on their own accord because they too were harassed constantly. These contractors were dead set on getting rid of all the old workers to put in their own, who were mostly made up of family members and friends. It was the ultimate act of nepotism!

They had a meeting this morning and started accusing my mother of being constantly late from her breaks. of not following SOPs, etc, etc...

They were lying through their teeth and were being completely unfair.

Now, my mother's confidence is shot. She had worked her butt off for the past six years and that was what she got. She has constantly complained to me about the company since they've taken over and have told her time and time again to leave and look for something else. I kind of knew this was going to happen and I am definitely not happy that they beat my mum to resigning.

I feel so sorry for my mum. She did not deserve to treated like a dog. She went through this alone, regardless of her other work mates going through the same poor treatment.

On the other hand, I am proud of her. She stood her ground and did her job the best she could. She gained the respect of her colleagues. A job can come and go, but her pride at least is still in tact.

We are now in the process of filing an unfair dismissal law suit against the contractors which we are quite sure we'll win. I am also helping my mum look for a new job and on Thursday, she has an interview with a potential employer.

I know I don't ask this often, but please pray for my mum. She needs all the positive vibes that she can get.

And I am personally sending a "Kiss my arse and go to hell" to those c*nting f*cks who gave my mum hell at work. They'll get their comeuppance, I'm sure of it.

The top five series part 4

2006-10-27T14:41:00.000+10:00

It's been awhile hasn't it? I know my male-loving blog readers have been waiting for this so without further ado, I present to you my...

TOP FIVE FILIPINO MEN

... I am so tempted to put Arnie in here but that would be very biased of me and I don't want others ogling my man :p...

5. Francis Magalona

And they say that Jin Tha MC from America is the "first Asian rapper"? Hell, I beg to differ! FrancisM has been around since the 80s and he's a very talented rapper. The fact that he was part of the Bagets gang and is current the Vice President of the Bagets foundation makes me like him more. Not to mention he loves dogs (as seen in the photo - gorgeous Whippet!) and has a lovely wife and family.

4. Aga Muhlach

Another Bagets original. He just looks so neat. He is an excellent actor. My most favourite of his was "Sa Aking Mga Kamay" with Christopher De Leon and Chin Chin Guttierez. He still has his boyish good looks at the age of 38. I love his dimples. He has a penchant for dating beauty queens and ended up marrying one. Personally, Charlene was a much better choice than Janice De Belen. Honestly, who in their right mind would say "God was with us when we had sex?" Puh-lease!Remember when he was dancing like Michael Jackson to the tune of "Wanna Be Starting Something" in Orange-coloured Chucks? Who ever knew that it would be back in fashion?

3. Carlo Aquino

This kid is very cute! He is in the same level of my infatuation with Daniel Radcliffe, only that he is of legal age and is Filipino. Talk about a talented actor. I have especially enjoyed watching him in "Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa?" He's now all grown up, taking on more mature and challenging movie roles. Sayang split na sila ni Angelica Panganiban. She is such a cute girl! Lucky guy...

2. Rico Yan

Napaghahalataan na mahilig ako sa chinito! Hahahaha!
Too bad that this nice guy is no longer with us. Back in my uni days, I often saw him with his friends. He's all smiles and he's a very friendly and approachable fellow. I was in shock when I found out he died. I guess Billy Joel was right when he sang "Only The Good Die Young."
He's not much of an actor, but I will always remember that commercial where these two girls were watching guys pass by and rating them while eating something (can't remember that product). Rico, with his cute dimpled smile, got the highest rating, of course! :D

1. Herbert Bautista

Hmmm... I seem to be following a theme here. Another Bagets member. He may not be as cute as other actors out there but I have always had a crush on the guy since I was 8 years old! Excellent actor and comedian. I fell in love him in Bagets when he played that shy, awkward, typically torpe teenager. It takes me back! The memories! He has a penchant for courting most of his leading ladies and surprisingly, they end up going out. I can only think of two people who said no: Lea Salonga and Mikee Cojuangco.

I recently watched an interview conducted by Ariel Oreta in "My Favourite Show." His rather frank and blase story-telling of all the loves of his life, his successes and failures, and his way of thinking made my silly childish crush turn into reverence for the man. That interview made me realise that here is a man - an actor and politician - who has no pretences, who loves life and love, and who does not have any regrets. It's very refreshing to see men who readily admit that they are human and prone to making mistakes.

Regardless of obviously womanising ways, I love his boyish charm and intelligence. He is the long serving Vice Mayor of Quezon City. He is a well-educated man (San Beda and UP). I just hope that he finally settles down instead of just having kids left, right and center. I guess being the bolero that he is, he just can't help himself. Oh well...

Note: It is so difficult to find pictures of Filipino actors for some reason so apologies if the ones I got don't do the guys justice...

Halata bang Bagets fan ako? hahahaha...

Next time: Top five Irish Men

House hunting

2006-10-26T10:23:00.000+10:00

Why is it that most people's definition of adult responsibility always includes the following?

Get married
Have kids
Buy a house
Buy a car

So if one refuses to do so, does this make you any less of a responsible adult? My mother has always been one to drill it on me - make a name for yourself, get property, get a car, get on top of the career ladder.

Without sounding arrogant, I've done it. At the age of 22, I got myself a stable job and slowly crept up to where I am now. At the age of 24, I purchased a car. At the age of 25, I bought a house. At the age of 26, I got engaged. Now, at the ripe age of 28, I am buying another house with my fiance - soon to be husband - Arnie. We are getting married in 18 months - I'll be 30 by then. Will we have kids? Probably when I'm 32, who knows?

Anyway, Arnie and I have been looking. We have been very particular about the location of the house we're buying. In terms of real estate investment, this is very important. A house in an excellent location can increase in value within just a year. Mum is getting a bit impatient with us (probably because she really wants to kick me out of our house) but these things take time and a lot of planning.

We have narrowed down the top three suburbs we're planning to buy in - Boronia, Bayswater, and Ferntree Gully. All suburbs are at least 28 km from the Melbourne CBD but are very good in terms of location, population, and affordability. Also, the Eastlink is being built and once that is completed, we expect a real estate boom within the area.

Have a look at some of the houses we checked out. Click on the pictures to see the property details.

I personally love the last house because it has a colonial cottage feel to it. I can see myself sitting by the verandah gorging on Devonshire tea. And the furniture I can put in there!

Arnie and I will be spending the coming weekend inspecting these properties and making offers. Hopefully, if everything works out, I'll be spending my 29th birthday at my new home!

Must love dogs

2006-10-25T10:41:00.000+10:00

If I had some sort of application process in getting a man, this would be in the criteria for sure...

Must love dogs.

I have always been a dog lover. I grew up with dogs of all shapes and sizes - Spitz, St. Bernard, Pug. I find that having a dog is the best end to a stressful day. They are always so enthusiastic and excited to see you that even if you've had a crap day at work and almost killed someone while driving home, you feel all your tension wash away as you're greeted by a furry family member.

Meeko is the first pug I have ever owned. In fact, she is the first dog I ever had here in Melbourne so she is quite special. Not only that, Arnie and I consider her as our first child. She knows that we're mum and dad, while grand mum and grand dad are my mum and stepfather. She's nuts. She knows she's loved and she loves the fact the she's spoilt rotten.

In case you're asking, Arnie has passed this qualification with flying colours. In fact, I think Meeko loves him more than I. I don't mind, really. She is daddy's little girl :)

Arnie took us to Torquay for the weekend. Meeko enjoyed the sun, surf, and ice cream :)

A new look!

2006-10-24T13:07:00.000+10:00

Hi blogfriends!

How do you like the new sassy look of my web home? Picked out the template and added a few things. The banner picture is actually an original artwork by Josh Agle otherwise known as Shag. The print is called "Collins St.", named and modelled after the fantastic street of the same name in Melbourne.

Hope you enjoy the new look :)

Another tag...

2006-10-18T11:26:00.000+10:00

Been tagged by Karen Kristie.

1. How often do you blog?

As much as I can. There are times when life gets in the way that I don't blog as much as I want.

2. Online Alias:

Jaguarxjsau, quidditch_champ, Dark Mistress... don't ask about the last one :)

3. Have you ever stood up for someone you hardly knew?

I always keep my appointments. It's the right thing to do.

4. What do you do most often when you are bored?

Watch my DVDs, usually Daria, Ranma 1/2 or Rurouni Kenshin. I also read, play PS2 or Nintendo DS. On hot days, I hit the beach and relax with a cold drink and a good book.

5. When bathing, which do you wash first?

My hair.

6. Have you ever been awake for 48 hours straight?

Yes, and it was not a good thing to do.

7. What color looks best on you?

Black. I'm partial since it's my favourite colour. Recently, I've been wearing a lot of pastels. Mum reckons I look good in torquise.

8. What?s your favorite alcoholic drink?

Japanese Slipper, Screwdriver, Dry Martini

9. Do you believe in heaven and hell as a real place that each of us will go to after death?

I question the existence of heaven and hell now, as opposed to the past when I truly believe in it.
10. Do you find that you have more online friends than offline friends?

No. As much as I love meeting really nice people online, I still prioritise my offline friends of course.

11. What was your favorite subject in school?

History, English Literature, and Japanese Literature.

12. Are you a perfectionist?

I prefer not to be, but old habits die hard.

13. Do you spend more than you can afford?

I've fallen into this trap heaps of times. But I've been good.

14. Is it better to have loved and lost than never to have loved before?

Definitely. It's part of growing up.

15. Do you consider yourself creative?

Oh yes. My hands are very busy!

16. Do you give yourself the credit you deserve?

Yes, and I never fail to reward myself afterwards! :)

17. Do you donate time or money to charities?

Yes, to causes I believe in.

18. Have you recently done something yourself that you've criticized others for doing?
Who hasn't? We're only human.

19. What's on your mind right now?

How long I have left at work before the weekend officially starts!

20. Say one nice thing about the person who tagged you and the five people that you are going to tag:

R*yan - I like the fact that he is very honest about himself and his oh-so-romantic lovelife... and I also like butts :)

Bridget - Such a cutie... sayang hindi tayo talo! hahaha! Bati tayo, Jher-papa :)

Jaynir - artsy fartsy like me, likes the fine things in life like me :)

Jayce - I love his musings... sayang he's been so busy with life that he doesn't get to blog that often anymore

Kat - former schoolmate. I'll alsways remember her as Kurama from Yu Yu Hakusho :)

Pardon my absence...

2006-10-12T11:35:00.000+10:00

It's just one of those hell-weeks at work. Been trying to complete a data analysis project for my boss but to no avail, simply because I do not spend 24 hours in the office. I am supposed to analyse 2.9 million items of data and check the destruction dates. Bringing the data up in the system already takes a couple of hours, sifting through the info will take me another couple of hours. That's 4 hours gone! Then, I'll have to sort the data according to account number... that will just take ages!

Oh well, soldiering on...

*****

I just found out that I'll be flying to Brisbane, Queensland on Monday for a conference. Talk about a very short notice! Thank goodness there are flights available or I'd probably wouldn't make it. Funny thing is that my boss was not aware of any conferences that require my attendance but he did say that the nature of the conference seems important for me to be involved. As far as I know, the attendees are mostly from Sales and Customer Care. I'm the only person from Operations! Oh well, it'll be a good chance to meet new people in the business. It's amazing that even with me being in the company for 6 years, I still meet new faces almost every week.

*****

I had a quick case of the flu over the weekend. To top that off, I also had hay fever. Tell you what, having a runny nose from the flu, itchy eyes and throat from the hay fever is definitely not a good combination. I just wanted to tear my nose off. It was so annoying! Thank God I'm over it now. I had to skip gym this week to make sure I'm completely healed. I don't want to spread my germs around.

*****

Melbourne has been experiencing bizarre warm weather these past few days. I expect summer to be an absolute scorcher if we're already getting 30 degree days mid-October. I'm kind of not looking forward to summer now. Too much heat is just unbearable. Oh well, at least I'll get to even out my tan quicker than usual.

*****

I bought a fantastic book last Tuesday. It's called "Female Chauvinist Pigs: Women and the Rise of Raunch Culture" by Ariel Levy. As part of my thesis proposal, I bought this book to further explore on what raunch culture is about. It's an excellent read. Levy argues convincingly that women of today may think that their actions are liberating and freeing but what they don't realize is that they are just perpetuating the images and ideals of a male dominated society. It seems rather harsh and conservative to think so, but feminists like Erica Jong even say that females today who brand themselves feminists have gone a bit too far.

To quote:

"If male chauvinist pigs were guys who treated women like pieces of meat, then female chauvinist pigs are women who make sex objects of other women, and of themselves, and think of this as empowerment."

Fantastic reading, girls. Go check it out!

Dissertation brainstorm

2006-10-06T10:38:00.000+10:00

I am still in the process of writing my 600-word thesis proposal for my PhD application. I know, 600 words does not seem to be a lot, right? Well, I am seriously shitting myself since it has been a while that I attempted to write a thesis... a good six years back. It has been long.

I thought long and hard about what my topic would be. Science fiction, Jane Austen, Crime Fiction -- the list goes on and on and on. There are too many things that I can explore and research on, but it has to be something that I am willing to commit to for the next 6 years.

Then, it hit me. Raunch culture, the stuff that fascinates, intrigues, and disgusts me in some ways as a woman. The belief that women simply enjoy being liked for their bodies and they exploit it. They do not believe in old school feminism. They are the women that get attacked by old school feminists. It started off with women simply "surrendering" to men -- taking on the "female" roles that have been instilled by society for generations. Then, it became overtly sexual -- women dressing up like strippers, women learning how to pole dance, women becoming more attuned with their sexual desires. Like all sub-cultures, there is always the good and the bad stuff. I intend to explore this in my thesis.

Finally! A topic I can commit to! Now, it's just a matter of putting my thoughts into paper... wish me luck and have a great weekend!

Blog upgrade?

2006-10-04T15:43:00.000+10:00

I'm thinking about changing my blog, organising my posts better, and getting a snazzier template.

What do you think?

Thoughts on sex...

2006-10-03T10:48:00.000+10:00

At the risk of being called names again (who knows if the psycho-stalker bitch is lurking - see March 15 entry), I shall endeavour to talk about a little thing that has been bugging me for a while. I apologize in advance for the choice of words I have used - blame Girl With A One Track Mind :)

Have you ever wondered why women who have a huge sexual appetite are often called nymphomaniacs whereas men are never labeled as such? Is it because society has molded people into believing that it is okay for men to be so sexed up whereas women should always be playing the "receiving orifice" role?

Isn't that a bit unfair? I mean, why is it that women cannot enjoy themselves during sex? Is sex all about the penis? Isn't it about the vagina as well? Isn't sex suppose to be an act that should be enjoyed by all parties involved?

In this day and age, I believe it is absolutely okay for a woman to acknowledge that they want a good shag. Is that so much to ask? If men can think about shagging, why can't women? I think it's only fair that women demand a good rogering. After all, women have the equipment that men need to get off - unless they intend to grow hairs in the back of their hands from tossing too much.

There is nothing wrong with a confident woman who knows exactly what they want and how to get it. If a woman goes to the pub and picks up a good looking bloke because she just wants a good seeing to, does that make her a slut? Of course not. I believe that she is honest with herself. If I were a bloke, I find that very sexy. Confidence is a fantastic trait to have. Of course, not all men think this way. Some men actually want all women to act virginal. These same men go out of their way to bed as many women as they can. Isn't that paradoxical behaviour? Fuck heaps of women and expect them to act like nuns.

In my opinion, it takes a real man to take on a sexually confident woman. It is a rarity even in today's supposedly modern world. In spite of people believing that the world has abandoned backward thinking, just reading the papers every morning is enough to tell you that nuh-uh, it's not happening.

You know what I don't like? People playing games. Women acting all coy and hard to get when their bodies say differently. It's all about appearances, isn't it? How about acting on that want? Scratching the itch? It's all about attitude. Acting like a slut and acting sexually confident are two very different things. It's easy to be a slut. It's hard to be sexually confident.

Here is a list I believe that women should follow to be a sexually confident person:

1. When talking about sex, never giggle. You come across like a damn teenager if you do. Talking about sex like an adult is key.

2. There is always a time and place for talking about sex. You may think about sex all the time and probably sneak into a toilet every so often for a quick fiddle, but you cannot talk about it when it's inappropriate.

3. Dress appropriately. I cannot stress this enough. When at work, very low cut blouses that show off half your boobs is not on. Very short skirts that shows your bum off when you bend is not a good look either.

4. Flirt smart. Listen to intelligent women flirt. There is a huge difference with how they go about it than their slutty counterparts.

5. Confidence is a big part of the package. How you walk, how you talk, how you carry yourself in general.

6. Never giggle. Smile, laugh, but never giggle. You will come across like you're nervous. Having the confidence to smile and laugh at loud at a man's jokes is a sure fire way to come across as being completely in control.

7. Have a lot of different interests and be prepared to talk about your interests with passion. Remember that there is a difference between being passionate about something and being obsessed.

Easy enough? I think so. These tips are not only about being sexually confident, but also about being a woman whom men can take seriously. How do I know these things you may wonder? I'll be the first to admit that may experiences in sex is limited and that most of what I know I learned from my current relationship. I like observing human behaviour, reading books about the subject, and experimenting myself on how people react to different types of behaviour. I actually found it amazing that something as simple as giggling can invoke a different reaction from men.

I would like to ask my readers to comment freely on the topic and share their thoughts. Feel free to contradict what I said. I encourage a discussion in the matter for I believe it will just lead to better understanding between the sexes.

And please, no name calling or similar. This is an adult forum so let's talk about sex like adults, okay?

Cheers!

The top five series part 3

2006-09-26T10:15:00.000+10:00

What is it about Scottish men? People refer to them as the more brusque and slightly unrefined lot compared to their British neighbours. For me, if we were to take this very shallow observation as gospel, it is part of their charm. They have the greatest sense of humour (having worked with a few Scots in my day, I should know), they are never afraid to take the mickey of anyone (including themselves), and they are so masculine that you can die of testosterone overload if you're in a room full of them!

Oh, I should also mention that their accents are way too cute :D

So, here is my list...

TOP FIVE SCOTTISH MEN

Number 5 - Billy Connolly

Just looking at Billy is enough to make me roll around in peals of laughter. He is such a gifted comedian and refuses to hold anything back (he has a penchant for saying "fuck" all the time). Despite having a difficult childhood, admitted to having A.D.D. and was physically and sexually abused by his father, he has constantly proved to the world that nothing can keep him down. He refuses to act his age and continues to look at the world with the eyes of a child. In his words, he refuses to be one of those old folk playing golf and wearing beige clothing all the time. He refuses to be a "beigist" (as seen in Andrew Denton's interview). He is also an extraordinary actor. Watch "Mrs. Brown" and you will see his talent for serious acting.

Number 4 - Sean Connery

He is known as the first actor to play the dashing British agent 007, James Bond. This man proves that there is such a thing as growing old gracefully. As this man gets older, so does his appeal. It's no wonder that even today, he gets paired up with the most beautiful women in his movies. He can really cheeky ala James Bond or he can be a regal man ala King Arthur. His accent is quite endearing and his arrogant, masculine manner (when he said Pierce Brosnan is a "nancy-boy" James Bond) shows his utter Scottish-ness.

Number 3 - Ewan McGregor

One word: Renton. Any "Trainspotting" fan would recognize him. "Moulin Rouge" proved his ability to sing. "Star Wars" just made him a household name.

He has a charming, boyish look about him that I just find adorable. He is easily one of the most popular young Scottish actors at present and his star is still rising. If movie makers ever decide to make "Porno" (sequel to Trainspotting), I hope Ewan reprises his role as Renton. I'll definitely be the first in line to watch it!

Number 2 - Danny Bhoy

People who are not into the Comedy Circuit may not know this bloke but everyone in the know says that Danny is clearly Billy Connolly's successor. He is funny, he is witty, and he is just bloody cute! He is very talented, quick-witted, and a natural on the comedy stage. I have seen him twice live during the Melbourne International Comedy festival and I tell you, it is worth every buck!

Watch this bloke, folks. He may make it to the International scene like ol'Billy soon.

Number 1 - David Tennant

I am such a sci-fi buff! Okay, where do I start with this lovely man? I love his very expressive, big, brown eyes. I love his accent. I love that he is already 35 years old (I just love men in their 30s!). I love that he can play very sinister characters ("Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" as Barty Crouch Jr. and "Secret Smile" as Brendan) and kooky, cheeky characters (Doctor Who and BBC's Casanova) with ease. He went to drama school and started off as a theatre actor, thus the acting talent. I have also thoroughly enjoyed his role in "Blackpool." He is the cutest detective there is! And being able to do a love scene and sing at the same time takes talent! Hahaha!

Check out this short clip from Blackpool. So hot! Hahaha!

He is such a joy to watch in every role he's played. He has given Doctor Who charm and sex appeal. It's obviously noticeable because soon after shooting the Doctor Who episode "The Girl in the Fireplace", Sophie Myles started dating him (The chick from Tristan and Isolde). Lucky girl!

Next series: As requested by Karen, I'll give you my top five Filipino men.

This should be quite interesting :)

Relaxing weekend

2006-09-25T21:07:00.000+10:00

This past weekend has been very relaxing. Arnie and I went away to a town called Warburton which is along the Yarra Ranges close to best wineries in the state.

We checked into a self-contained cottage called The River Cottage.

The cottage was absolutely beatiful. It was a home away from home. Very inviting with a fire place, a double oval spa, and a kitchen with a well-stocked fridge!

The inviting double spa which Arnie and I thoroughly enjoyed and relaxed in

On the decking

Such a cozy cottage!

I just loved the whole atmosphere. We were surrounded by the beauty of nature and relished our stay.

For afternoon tea, we went to a place called the Patchwork Teahouse. I am a big lover of Devonshire Tea. Arnie and I enjoyed each other's company over a nice cup of tea (him, Earl Grey, and I, English breakfast) and freshly baked scones.

Outside the Teahouse. Friendly atmosphere and friendly staff. Yummy scones too :)

Dinner was a quiet affair. I prepared fresh natural oysters for our entree and Salmon steaks with zucchini for our mains. Arnie and I also shared a nice bottle of Brown Brothers Muscato. It went perfectly well with the fish!

Preparing dinner :)

Cheers!

It was a lovely way to celebrate our anniversary. I hope to do something like this again with the man I love.

It's been a fantastic six years and I am looking forward to spending more beautiful years with him.

Doctor Yap???

2006-09-22T11:05:00.000+10:00

I made a bold move this morning ensuring my future as a highly educated woman. This November, I am completing my postgrad studies in Information Management. It was a change, for sure, from my original Bachelor degree which was Literature.

I wanted to pursue further studies in Information Management and become the most highly qualified Information Manager in the company I work for. After careful consideration and discussions with Arnie and my school buddies, I decided to do go for a doctorate degree in English Language and Literature instead. Studying for work is all well and good, but I want to do something that I will enjoy for a change, not that I didn't enjoy Information Management mind you.

Literature is my first love. I want to be surrounded by all the things that I immersed myself in during my undergraduate studies. I love to be able to bounce around abstract ideas with people. I love to sit and immerse myself in a topic that I am very passionate about. Heck, I just love to books and reading. The very sight of Borders is enough to give me an intellectual orgasm! Now, at the age of 28, I have decided to commit myself to six years of research. I don't know where this venture will take me. I don't know if this will divert my career path in any way. What's important is that I am starting the road to my ultimate goal: have a PhD before the age of 40.

I have sent an e-mail to the University of Melbourne English faculty to set up an appointment. I am looking forward to hearing from them soon because I am very keen to get started by next year.

So, am I going to be a ponce and re-name myself "Dr. Jennifer S. Yap, PhD" in the future? Who knows? I really want to do this for myself, for my self-worth, and for my love of literature and the English language.

*****

On a different note...

Today, I am celebrating my 6th year anniversary with the man I am lucky to be with - my future husband.

To Lawrence Arnold Estrada - I love you more and more and more each passing day. Thanks so much for your support, your love, and your undying will to keep me happy.

Happy anniversary, love...

The top five series part 2

2006-09-21T10:05:00.000+10:00

As promised, here is the second of the series, featuring my favourite British men.

Ah, Brits... or Poms as we Aussies call them :)

What's to love? Is it the posh accents? The devil-may-care attitude? Or the impeccable grammar? Don't know. All I know is that some of them are quite gorgeous. I wouldn't mind if they talk to me all day and I would just be content to listen and nod... hehehe

So, without further ado, here is my...

TOP FIVE BRITISH MEN

Number 5 - Patrick Stewart

Captain Jean-Luc Picard - the man who has "boldly gone where no one has gone before." This man is already in his 60's and he still quite fit. He is a highly trained Shakespearean actor thus the impeccable diction and accentuation. I find him very good-looking, extremely charming, and multi-faceted. He can be a villain( in Conspiracy Theory), he can be a hero (in X-Men), and he can be gay (in Jeffrey). He is very much the British gentleman.

Number 4 - Michael Parkinson

I respect the man. I enjoy watching his show every Saturday on the ABC. His interviews with people are fun to watch, even that absolutely painful one that he did with Meg Ryan (I felt so bad for him then). He has a great sense of humour, as seen in Star Portraits with Rolf Harris and his brief cameo in Love Actually. He is a British television icon and a gentleman.

Number 3 - Orlando Bloom

Okay, I can't help myself. I loved him in Lord of the Rings as Legolas. Heck, I think I just have a thing for gorgeous elves in general. Hahaha. But he is gorgeous. He was even more gorgeous in Pirates of the Caribbean. Him and Johnny Depp in that movie, oh dear, I thought I was going to have a heart attack!

Anyway, he is an absolute sweetheart. He looks like fun, he does not take himself too seriously, and (have I said this enough times?) just gorgeous.

Number 2 - Daniel Radcliffe

I know, he's only 17 - so sue me! But I ain't blind. Daniel is a good looking boy and will only grow up to be a really handsome man! I made no secret of the fact that I am a mad Harry Potter fan and have watched this kid grow up. I even saw his first ever big role in David Copperfield. He was such a cute kid then. I also saw him in Pierce Brosnan's film Tailor of Panama.

If ever Daniel decides to have an older woman, I'm available! I'm only 11 years older than he is. Hahahaha!

Number 1 - Colin Firth

Oh, Mr. Darcy (stares dreamily into space).

My favourite lines uttered by this man:

"I like you just as you are."

"Alone again, naturally."

I guess I don't have to say much about this bloke. Just go and watch Bridget Jones' Diary, Love Actually, Importance of Being Earnest, and BBC's Pride and Prejudice. That says a lot. Cool, stand-offish, arrogant, intelligent, and just plain sexxxxxxy!!!

Next in the series: Top five Scottish Men

(seems like I'm going around the world, aren't I? hahaha!)

TIME's 100 Movies

2006-09-18T15:39:00.000+10:00

Here is another higlighting exercise and I'm not particularly tagging anyone so just feel free to do so if you feel like it. Basically, highlight the movies that you have watched and the list is from Time magazine's list of 100 best movies of all time, in alphabetical order...

A - C

Aguirre: the Wrath of God (1972)
The Apu Trilogy (1955, 1956, 1959)
The Awful Truth (1937)
Baby Face (1933)
Bande a part (1964)
Barry Lyndon (1975)
Berlin Alexanderplatz (1980)
Blade Runner (1982)
Bonnie and Clyde (1967)
Brazil (1985)
Bride of Frankenstein (1935)
Camille (1936)
Casablanca (1942)
Charade (1963)
Children of Paradise (1945)
Chinatown (1974)
Chungking Express (1994)
Citizen Kane (1941)
City Lights (1931)
City of God (2002)
Closely Watched Trains (1966)
The Crime of Monsieur Lange (1936)
The Crowd (1928)

D - F

Day For Night (1973)
The Decalogue (1989)
Detour (1945)
The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie (1972)
Dodsworth (1936)
Double Indemnity (1944)
Doctor Strangelove: or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)
Drunken Master II (1994)
E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
8 1/2 (1963)
The 400 Blows (1959)
Farewell My Concubine (1993)
Finding Nemo (2003)
The Fly (1986)

G - J

The Godfather, Parts I and II (1972, 1974)
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly (1966)
Goodfellas (1990)
A Hard Day's Night (1964)
His Girl Friday (1940)
Ikiru (1952)
In A Lonely Place (1950)
Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956)
It's A Gift (1934)
It's A Wonderful Life (1946)

K - M

Kandahar (2001)
Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949)
King Kong (1933)
The Lady Eve (1941)
The Last Command (1928)
Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Leolo (1992)
The Lord of the Rings (2001 - 2003)
The Man With a Camera (1929)
The Manchurian Candidate (1962)
Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
Metropolis (1927)
Miller's Crossing (1990)
Mon oncle d Amerique (1980)
Mouchette (1967)

N - P

Nayakan (1987)
Ninotchka (1939)
Notorious (1946)
Olympia Parts 1 & 2 (1938)
On The Waterfront (1954)
Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
Out of the Past (1947)
Persona (1966)
Pinocchio (1940)
Psycho (1960)
Pulp Fiction (1994)
The Purple Rose of Cairo (1985)
Pyaasa (1957)

Q - S

Raging Bull (1980)
Schindler's List (1993)
The Searchers (1956)
Sherlock Jr. (1924)
The Shop Around the Corner (1940)
Singin' in the Rain (1952)
Smiles of a Summer Night (1955)
Some Like It Hot (1959)
Star wars (1977)
A Streetcar Named Desire (1951)
Sunrise (1927)
Sweet Smell of Success (1957)
Swing Time (1936)

T - Z

Talk To Her (2002)
Taxi Driver (1976)
Tokyo Story (1953)
A Touch of Zen (1971)
Ugetsu (1953)
Ulysses' Gaze (1995)
Umberto D (1952)
Unforgiven (1992)
White Heat (1949)
Wings of Desire (1987)
Yojimbo (1961)

The top five series part 1

2006-09-15T10:34:00.000+10:00

This may be out of sheer vanity or the fact that people actually want to know stuff about me (right!). So, I have decided to start the "top five series." These refer to my favourites in any given category.

So, without further ado, the first part of the top five series refers to my...

TOP FIVE AMERICAN MEN

Girls, enjoy!

Number 5... Tom Hanks

Tom isn't as good looking as other Hollywood hunks, but what he may lack in looks he makes up for his exceptional acting talent. Regardless of what people say (and I agree Tom being casted as Robert Langdon was a mistake), he made the most memorable films in the 20th century - Philadelphia, The Green Mile, and Forrest Gump. His roles in Big, You've Got Mail, and Splash endeared him to me.

Besides, better to choose this Tom than the other Tom, right? Hehehe.

Number 4... Michael J. Fox

I know, he was born in Canada but I decided to include him in this list anyway. Where do I start with this bloke? Teen Wolf was my first favourite movie. I have always loved that look of his - the look of a clueless and utterly lost teenager :p

I loved Back to the Future. I loved The Frighteners. I enjoyed Spin City immensely. When he announced that he was suffering from young-onset Parkinson's disease in 1998 (7 years after he was diagnosed), he earned the utmost respect of his peers and fans around the globe. His autobiography, Lucky Man, is a joy to read and is one of my all time non-fiction books. I hope his foundation would help in finding the cure for Parkinson's.

Number 3... Gale Harold

This hunk-o-spunk became popular because of the television series Queer As Folk. Given that this was the North American version of the popular two-season original British series, the fact that they chose Gale to play the role of Brian Kenney was genius to say the least. He made women swoon even if he played a gay role. As Brian, he plays a lusty, larger than life, unashamedly gay man who picks up whenever and wherever. I will always remember his ever famous line - "I don't believe in love, I believe in fucking." I will always remember Brian as the man whom, regardless of his untiring adage of not believing in the elusive L-word, actually fell for an 18-year old beautiful boy named Justin. I fell in love with Gale because of his characterization of a tough yet softy man.

Number 2... Johnny Depp

This guy just exudes cool without even trying. How hot is this bloke? Even with the ugly teeth and the unwashed look of a pirate, women still wet their pants looking at him. Why? Because he's just sexy.

How cute was he in 21 Jumpstreet? Even in Cry Baby? But the clincher for me was Edward Scissorhands - that made me a fan for life!

I always enjoyed his films - From Hell (which I thought was brilliant), Finding Neverland (loved the Irish accent), Fear and Loathing Las Vegas, and of course, Don Juan de Marco.

And my Number 1 man is... (drum roll please)

David Duchovny

I am an X-phile, so this is quite an obvious choice isn't it? It was his role as Fox Mulder that made me love him so much. A sexy, intelligent, highly educated geek - how cool is that? How did Scully ever keep her hands to herself? My God! If I were in her shoes, I would have tried to land Mulder a week into our partnership!

People may not know that in real life, David is a very educated man. He earned an undergraduate degree in Princeton University and went on to earn a Masters degree in English Literature at Yale. He was already half-way in his doctorate studies when he quit and became an actor.

For more David eye-candy, I suggest you watch his episodes in the Red Shoe Diaries... hubba, hubba!

David is the epitome of a sexy, hunky, absolutely f*ckable geek :)

Next in the series: Top Five British Men

Have a wonderful weekend, folks!

Fashion-vision

2006-09-13T11:08:00.000+10:00

My blog readers and friends alike would agree on one thing about me: I love fashion. Regardless of my self-imposed "restraining order", I still can't help myself and buy that cute skirt or top from Cue - just happens that they have a cute item out every damn week! I walk into Ralph Lauren just in case there is a sale, which just so happens it was last Saturday - I bought a nice sweater. I go into Nine West every week to see if they have any styles that I like available. I could walk around David Jones all day and rest my tired feet in the Food Hall and have a nice strawberry yoghurt for a snack.

With Spring being here, the Spring Fashion Festival has arrived as well. A couple of weeks ago, a swimwear designer decided on not using rail-thin models to display her designs and rather used real women of all shapes and sizes during a show. Fair enough. In her opinion, it's not the models who will be wearing her swimwear, it will the everyday folk - you and me.

Good on her!

Then this morning, an article from The Age finds the world's first ban on overly thin models at a top level fashion show in Madrid. Of course, the ban has caused an outrage among modelling agencies who recruit only those who have the "waif and heroin-chick look."

Regardless of what people think, I embrace this idea 100%. Please, how many people in the street do you see in size 6 outfits unless you're 13 years old? I have heard of people who take diet pills so that they can lose weight fast without the pain of doing exercise. Hogwash. All you end of doing is getting addicted to the damn pills and getting all weak. I am a big fan of the "no pain, no gain" philosophy. I work out four times a week at the moment. Monday night I meet up with my personal trainer and go through a tough training session. Tuesday night I go to my Pilates class. Wednesday night I take Spin classes. Saturday, you'll find me either running along Beach Road or swimming if it's not too cold. I have maintained a healthy size 10-12 and I am well within my BMI (body mass index). I am rather strong and have an enormous amount of energy. I enjoy eating the food I want without having to worry constantly about my calorie intake (unless it's Krispy Kreme donuts... hahaha :p).

Using very thin models in advertising, magazines, and fashion shows can be very damaging to an impressionable teen who is starting to tackle the issue of body image. This is the stage of a person's life when they are so vulnerable and susceptible to suggestion, even if it's not blatantly obvious.

This whole concept of "thin is beautiful" is a load of rubbish. In my opinion, "health is wealth." Being healthy is all that matters and that's that.

Taboo

2006-09-12T15:07:00.000+10:00

Religion and politics have always been considered as two of the worst conversation topics between acquaintances. Not only is it pointless but you are sure to offend regardless of how P-C (politically correct) you try to be. I always steer clear of talking about the current state of government in this country to just anyone, unless it's Arnie or my mum whom I share the same sentiments with.

So, imagine my surprise the other day when a work colleague from Sydney came down for a meeting with myself. We were having sandwiches for lunch and for some reason, the topic diverted to whether I follow politics or not. I said that as much as I don't like it, I can't help but follow it - my background, having a father who is a solicitor/consultant and very much involved in the Philippine senate when I was growing up, has been steeped in political awareness.

We started talking about politics - about, as a British national living in Australia, he's become so disappointed with how our government is being run, how Britian itself is being led by a PM who is well-known for American arse-kissing, and that the war on Iraq is just wrong. Then, he started talking about religion. His sentiments were exactly like mine. People just use religion nowadays to justify the evil they do and attribute it to the cause of glorifying their god.

What god would want this? What god would want people killing each other off for the sake of Allah or freedom or revenge It's just hogwash. Pure baloney.

Whatever happened to just getting along and embracing each other's differences? The Prime Minister of Australia, John Howard and Federal Treasurer, Peter Costello, have made a faux pas for making statements regarding Australian Muslims, that they should embrace the "Australian way of life" - whatever that means - and not just be loyal to their belief as Muslims, but be loyal to Australia. I don't know what they were thinking when they made this pronouncement. Singling-out Muslims or any minority for that matter just screams sheer prejudice and ignorance, doesn't it? The fact that it is just the very loud and ignorant minority that's creating the problem(e.g. Cronulla riots) does not merit this kind of statement. This country for some reason always had a problem with integrating with other races/cultures .Before, it was the Aborigines during the colonial period. Then, it was the Europeans during the 60's and 70's. Then, it was the Asians' turn in the 80's. Now, the Muslims. When will it stop?

I don't want to think of Australia as a racist country. In fact, I believe it not to be. The fact that I am living in a multi-cultural city (not just in terms of food but also of how different cultures are embraced) and have never experienced a racial attack, I have every reason to believe that Australia, specifically Melbourne, is the place to be. However, if you've got the nation's so-called "leader" spouting very irresponsible comments, it does not reflect well to the rest of the world 'innit? For a country who prides itself for being "multicultural", the statement just reeks of prejudice. We are no better than the red-neck southern states of America.

I expect a lynching next...

A week of mourning

2006-09-08T23:26:00.000+10:00

This past week has been big in terms of the sad demise of a couple of Australian icons.

Last Monday, the Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin was struck by a sting ray through the heart while he was scuba diving. Footage apparently shows Steve pulling the barb off his chest and then he fell unconscious. He was 44.

Today, at exactly 3:06 pm the Age (a Melbourne-based newspaper) posted a news feed that sports racing legend Peter Brock was killed when he lost control of Daytona Coupe during the Targa West race which started today because of wet conditions. The car hit a tree side-on, with no chance of survival. Peter died on impact. He was 61.

I respected bothof them. Steve contributed a huge chunk of his earnings to wildlife conservation and educating people of how important it is to nurture nature. Peter was a road-safety advocate and started a foundation to help disadvantaged kids. It also helps that I am a big car-nut and I follow most of the races - V8, Bathurst, etc.

I guess the only consolation is that they died doing what they love the most.

Rest in peace, Steve "Crickey" Irwin and Peter "King of the Mountain" Brock. You will be missed.

Highlights

2006-09-07T22:47:00.000+10:00

Got this from Jac.

Highlight the ones you've done:

01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said 'I love you' and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby's diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was shit faced
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. Sat at a stranger's table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDs
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Posed nude in front of strangers
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played DVD for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an "expert"
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Had a one-night stand
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror
96. Raised children
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, despite someone looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn't have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Petted a stingray
110. Broken someone's heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours within 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone's mind on something you care about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Petted a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad
135. Read an "important" author you missed in school
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Talked with someone with no common language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to a stranger
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
150. Saved someone's life

Now, I tag Kat, Jaz, and Karen... enjoy!

Nostalgia

2006-09-06T15:52:00.000+10:00

Mum returned from her short trip to Manila last Sunday. As expected from any holiday-maker, she brought back pasalubong. She brought back food, cute beaded sandals, and some clothes from my cousins.

She also, unexpectedly, brought back some photos that we left behind. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the photos were in albums compiled by my grandmother, comprised of photos of myself back in high school and college. My grandmother painstakingly salvaged them from getting completely destroyed by a storm that ruined most of our photographs.

Wow, I thought. Talk about a blast from the past! From high school were pictures of myself with my friends in a summer excursion to Laguna, my graduation with my high school bestest buddies James, Ryan, and Brian, schoolmates during the World Youth Day celebrations in Manila, and a stack full of official grad pictures from my batch mates. From college were heaps of random photos taken during my stint in a Japanese school during the cultural exchange program I participated in, hanging out with my close girlfriends DJ, Lynette, and Janelle, and other photos of myself in the traditional graduation toga with friends during the graduation mass. There was one particular picture of me and a boy I used to be in the same classes with during my freshman year. I was telling Arnie that the boy should have been my boyfriend and not the other one I had. Back then, I would never dream of telling a guy I liked him. In hindsight, I should have had the courage to tell him that I did. He is, after all, a very nice boy whom I've been really close friends with up until he decided to shift majors.

Alright, my dear friends... if that wasn't enough of a hint... hehehe.

Yes, there were a couple of group photos which had the ex in it. Upon looking at the photos, I could not make myself angry. I was actually happy. I have finally acknowledged the fact that yes, that relationship did not work out but we had happy times as well. We both graduated in the same year and we were surrounded by friends. I mean, yes, if I were given the opportunity to go back in time I wouldn't have a relationship with him and instead concentrated on being just friends. I guess I am now past the whole "I hate him" stage. I can honestly say that if I go back to Manila now and have a reunion with my college classmates, I would not mind him being there. I will go up to him and say "hi" and apologize for whatever hurt I have caused him. I guess it's just the mature thing to do.

Looking at old photos of yourself and your friends just makes you realise that time passes us by in a blink of an eye. I graduated from DLSU 8 years ago. In my circle of friends, one is about to give birth to her first child. Two of my friends had a tift and is still yet to reconcile. Another friend has moved to the States for good. One is working in their family owned business. From what I last heard, the ex is very happy with his girlfriend. As for me, I'm in different country that I have grown to love where I have met the love of my life, my future husband. I know that I still have a lot of growing up to do regardless.

It was nice to know that at some point in my life, regardless of all the adult complications that seem to litter my life at present, I was once a mere child who enjoyed her youth as much as the next person. Those photos were evidence of that.

I will try and post some of the pictures here shortly. Cheers!

The first day of spring.

2006-09-01T10:33:00.000+10:00

It's the first of September and that marks the start of a brand new season.

Spring is here!

Gone are the dreary, cold days and nights that winter bestowed upon Melbournites. Today, we are blessed with a sunny 23 degree day. How wonderful!

Being that it's casual Friday today at work, I took the opportunity to wear a short-sleeved polo shirt, jeans, and my trusty, comfy Nike runners - heels 4 times a week is killing my feet!

I love the sun! It just means more fun and more outdoor-sy activities once again!

Taken from outside my office building. What the fuck am I doing inside?

I would love to go out and spend my lunch break at St. Kilda, get seated on a table by the beach, and just soak up the rays. Finally, I can get my tan back... whoopee!

Have a great weekend, everyone!

A day in the life of the sassy Melbournite

2006-08-25T15:25:00.000+10:00

Got inspired by Jaz's blog entry about her day to day activities.

Luckily, my job does not require me to do the same ol' shit every single day. Do I find it exciting? Yes. Boring? Not at all. Unsettling? It can be.

There is no such thing as routine in my job. I could get a phone call or an email in the next 10 minutes telling me to get my arse on the airport pronto because I have a corporate meeting in Sydney in 3 hours time. I could get an urgent request from our global office in Atlanta (State of Georgia, USA) asking me to participate in testing a system upgrade. I could get meetings set up by people from different departments wanting to sit with me for a whole day to plan and document new and existing processes and training matrixes. I could get phone calls from my boss in all hours (even weekends) about - what else? - work. It's a wild, wild world for me wherein I have been uprooted from my relatively stress free position of 5 years past. I have been thrown into a pit where important people in the company want a piece of me, every single day. Do I feel important because of it? Bloody oath. Is it worth it? For a workaholic who takes pride in their work, it definitely is.

It is very hard to summarise what I do in a day to day basis. In a nutshell, it's basically get up from bed in time to get to work (whether that be my office in Melbourne or another site or a flight to another city), make sure I have my trusty mobile phone, pad, pen, and laptop with me, and away I go. I can start at 10:00 in the morning but I can also start at 5:00 am due to early flights. In quite days, I finish at 6:00 pm but can also go onto 9:00. Grad school completely fucks up my schedule but I consider it a "break" from the rat race at work. My friends from school keep me grounded and entertained. I especially enjoy our lengthy debates about everything and anything NOT RELATED TO WORK.

Weekends is something I treasure. I could spend it doing nothing. I feel like I'm starting to become like our National Operations Manager, Karen. She is just so sick of going all over the place (US, Europe, New Zealand, South America, Australia) that whenever she has a break, she just spends it lounging about at home. Well, I guess I'm not that bad. I still like going out, having dinner in nice restaurants with Arnie and my mates, checking out the shops, probably experience some sort of culture (I am yet to see the Picasso exhibit). Arnie is planning to go for a long drive somewhere this weekend, I don't know. We'll see where the wind takes us.

Above all this is trying to divide my time between people I love (Arnie, mum, friends) and Meeko! How can I forget my baby? She, who regardless of the mood I am in, never fails to greet me with a smile, her tail wagging happily, and a soft bark telling me "I miss you, mum."

On that note, have a great weekend everyone!

My Social Life at Hogwarts

2006-08-23T11:29:00.000+10:00

Harry Potter fans... go ahead and do this quiz. You know you want to ;)

Social Life at Hogwarts

Everyone, except the Slytherins, like you. You are friendly, nice, and a well-rounded person. Your studies aren't that important, but you pull of decent grades. You live your life with risks and don't think about the consequences. Friends mean a lot to you. Your friends love you because you are always the one who they can talk to.

Harry: He is in love with you. You're the one he wants to be with forever. He's tried to push you away, but you refused to leave him. Despite the danger that comes with being his girlfriend, he's too smitten with you to let you go and is glad you are willing to face the danger to be with him.

Ron: He loves you as a little sister. He admits to having a crush on you before, but has stronger feelings for Hermione. He acts as an older brother to you.

Hermione: She is one of your best gal pals. She always scolds you for not doing the best in your studies, but she is your friend just the same. She's very happy for you and Harry. She secretly has a crush on Ron, but she won't admit it. And neither will he. You're the one who's going to put them together.

Ginny: She secretly hates you. You stole Harry and one of her older brothers too. She knows she's overreacting, but she doesn't care. She hates you and shows it when no one is around. But when someone is around she acts like the sweetest little girl.

Neville: Thinks you are great and has a crush on you, but he's too shy to do anything. Plus, you're with Harry now.

Fred and George: They love you. As a friend though. You're one of the few priviledged people who get to help them with their pranks. They are glad you are with Harry, but sort of wish you ended up with Ron instead.

Oliver Wood: He knows you, but doesn't really talk to you. All he knows is that you are Harry's girlfriend.

Cedric Diggory: Him, like Oliver Wood, knows you, but doesn't talk to you. Or should I say he knew you. That is before he died.

Cho Chang: She is slightly jealous of your relationship with Harry. Cedric died and she was left alone, and her and Harry didn't work out either. She is nice to you, but doesn't really like or hate you.

Lavender Brown: She doesn't like you because she thinks Ron likes you more than a friend. She hates Hermione more than you though, if that helps?

Draco Malfoy: He doesn't like you at all. You seem like a goody-two-shoes to him. He dislikes you even more because you're Potter's girlfriend. All in all, he doesn't talk to you or have any contact with you whatsoever.

Pansy: Doesn't talk to you and hates you. Period.

Crabbe and Goyle: Don't know you.

Dumbledore: He likes you and thinks you are strong-willed and perfect for Harry.

McGonagall: She thinks your an average skilled witch, she doesn't really notice you that much.

Hagrid: He adores you and constantly invites you to help him with his creatures. He loves that you and Harry are together.

Snape: He hates you. Loathes you. Despises you. He thinks you are very poor skilled and dislikes you even more for being Harry's girlfriend. He loves taking points away from you.

Voldemort: You are on his list of people to kill. You make the top 5. Not exactly a good thing, but what'd you expect being Harry's girlfriend and all.

Reputation: Harry's Girlfriend.
Take this quiz!

Quizilla
Join

Make A Quiz More Quizzes Grab Code

Whoa! I'm on Voldemort's top 5 list of people to kill!

Ginny hates me? Oh well...

Harry girlfriend? Well, if he's as good looking as Daniel Radcliffe, I aint' sayin' no!

Hahaha! Lumalabas ang tendency ko for corruption of minors! Bwahahaha!

Today marks the 23rd anniversary of Ninoy's death

2006-08-21T12:33:00.000+10:00

Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. was assassinated on this day, 1983, during the dictatorship of then President of the Philippines, the late Ferdinand Marcos.

He was one of the last true patriots. He was one of the last Filipinos who did what he did out of sheer love for the country. That is truly a rarity in Philippine politics nowadays.

A moment's silence for this hero who encouraged real "People Power."

Bahay-bahayan

2006-08-21T10:53:00.000+10:00

Since mum left for the Philippines last Friday, I am left on my own in our house. Arnie will be staying with me for the next two weeks to keep me company. In short, Arnie and I will be playing house or in Filo-speak, bahay-bahayan - a popular game amongst kids pretending to be a family unit.

Well, in our case, we're playing the role of husband and wife, keeping a clean and well-run household.

I guess this will be good practise for us considering we are planning to do this for real next year and so far, we're doing well.

Yesterday morning, after a long, hard night of partying (i.e. eating, drinking, smoking you-know-what, and painfully singing our hearts out on my PS2 Singstar game) because of our friend Caloi's despedida (he'll be leaving for Manila and is planning to stay for there for a year - we'll miss you, bro), I woke up with a massive hang over and cooked breakfast for Arnie and our friends who slept over. After breakfast, our friends left and we went back to sleep. Arnie woke up to prepare lunch. After lunch, I started ironing my clothes while Arnie cleaned the house. We were working as a team, doing household chores. It was kind of fun.

I spent the rest of the afternoon napping while Arnie played games on the PS2. I woke up in time to prepare dinner while he rested with Meeko next to him. We both went to bed early after a refreshing shower to ready ourselves for the long working week ahead.

So far, so good. I'll be going home tonight to prepare dinner and get my stuff ready for my early flight to Sydney tomorrow. "Married life" is looking quite promising. :)

Mum on a holiday...

2006-08-18T11:36:00.000+10:00

Mum is leaving tonight for a two-week short holiday in Manila. Lucky!

I won't be going. With school and my new job, I just can't find the time to go. It's a pity really, considering I haven't been back for 4 years. Arnie and I were actually thinking about spending Christmas there this year so that he can finally meet my family but no cigar. He started a new job and won't be able to take any leave until after 12 months! It sucks!

Aside from family and friends whom I really want to see and spend time with, there is one other thing that I really, really miss in the Philippines...

FOOD!

As much as the food here in Oz is nothing to sneeze at and the variety is rather extensive, there are specific delicacies and specialties that you can find only in the PI. Here's a list of things I want to pig out on:

Maki. Chinese dish that I always ate in Ongpin. My mum can make it but for some reason cannot completely copy the way this dish is cooked in that small hole in the wall restaurant. The thickness of the soup and the tenderness of the pork is heaven!

Machang. Another Chinese dish from the same Ongpin resto. They do sell something similar here in Melbourne, specifically in Box Hill Centro, but it's not the same. Sticky brown rice with tender pork and chicken, smothered in Chinese hot sauce. Yummy!

Ensaymada. Super melt to be precise! Damn! Why can't Australia allow products with dairy into the country? Argh! Will probably convince mum to stuff a couple into her bra... hahahahaha!

Red Ribbon Brownies. I've already asked my mum to buy me a box! Hehehehe!

Tulya. The most simple of dishes. Pour boiling water on it, let the shells open, drain out the water, drizzle some fish sauce and heaps of calamansi juice. Heaven!

Lansones. Just so happens that my mum is going back in time for the season. Lucky!

Tikoy. Okay, so my Chinese side is screaming. There is tikoy here, but not in the same way the PI sell it. Big, chunky, and cheap! I'll try and get mum to buy me a box... hehehe!

My Lola's fried chicken and Kare-kare. Nothing beats my lola's home cooking. Nothing at all.

Luk Yuen's Halo-Halo Congee. My God, just thinking about this dish is making me very hungry!

Jolibee Palabok and Spaghetti. Hahaha! Miss ko na yung Filipino-style spag :)

Hen Lin's siomai and Samurai balls. Halata bang maller back home akish? :p

Anything Icebergs. Halo-Halo, Parfait, Banana Split, Mais Con Yelo... the memories of people I went with to that little nook in Greenhills is enough to make me smile.

The little Taco stand in Greehills Shopping Center. I don't know if this place still exists, but when I was a young high school student in OBMC my friends and I used to visit this place and pay a measly P15 for a yummy taco treat! I liked mine with heaps of cheese and hot sauce and then guzzle down a large glass of chinese gulaman juice from one of the many stalls that sell it in the center. Yum!

That little carinderia next to DLSU Gokongwei building. Fellow LaSallians, you probably remember their Sisig? OMG! Sarap!

Saisaki. Probably not the best Japanese restaurant around, but where else can you get eat-all-you-can buffet including California Maki for a measly $10? And instead of putting Avocado like how they serve it in Oz, it's PI Mangoes! Yum!

Auntie Anne's. Bakit wala nito sa Oz? Isn't this an International Franchise? I miss their pretzels!

Balut and Taho. Being sold in the streets, sometimes directly to your home. Yummy!

It's a wonder I'm not terribly obese considering how much I love my food.

Oh well mum, i-kain mo na lang ako.

Ingats sa biyahe.

PS. Pardon the "taglish" delivery of my post. Considering I am not a big fan of this method, I really shouldn't use it. I do not plan to make a habit of this, it's just that I'm feeling rather lazy today. Have a great weekend!

Who ever said romance is dead?

2006-08-16T17:04:00.001+10:00

Something short and sweet...

I slept over Arnie's place last night because I was going to Dandenong for work in the morning.

He left for work early.

When I woke up, he left the heater on and a pot of hot steaming coffee brewing on the machine.

And a small note by the front door...

Love you.

Sigh...

From Karenkristie...

2006-08-15T15:50:00.000+10:00

'What will your obituary say?' at QuizGalaxy.com

Oh me, Oh my... Hmmm, Jennie... is there something you're not telling us? Hmmm... Bwehehehe!

Super cultured weekend!

2006-08-14T10:27:00.000+10:00

This past weekend was probably the best one I had in ages. I didn't laze about doing nothing, I actually went out and enjoyed a couple of days of pure cultured entertainment!

Last Saturday, I went out with my bessie Mig and his older brother Jet. The Melbourne International Film Festival was on so we decided to go and see the only Filipino film entry - Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros.

This movie was awarded three times in the recent Berlin Film Festival and received rave reviews and nominations in the popular Sundance Film Festival. It was a joy to watch. Maxi, played by newcomer Nathan Lopez, is a 12-year old lady-boy who lives in poverty with his crook father and brothers. His family loves him dearly and treat him like the "mother" of the family. He then meets a cop whom he falls in love with and made him question the life his family leads.

This is an independent film, made by newcomer Aureaus Solito. The imagery and the story was enough to make you enjoy this film immensely. I was extremely pleased to find the cinema packed with mostly Australians supporting the festival. At the end of the film, people clapped in appreciation.

It made me proud of being a Filipino for once. At last, the Filipinos are learning what real movie-making is all about.

Yesterday night was a dream. Arnie and I went to see The Boy From Oz, a musical about the Australian music legend that is Peter Allen, played enthusiastically by no other than Wolverine himself, Hugh Jackman.

What can I say? I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS SHOW!!!

Hugh was an absolute joy to watch! He engaged the audience, he performed fantastically, he gave 110% of himself to make the role his, and boy can he sing!

We were seated 6 rows from the stage... yep, we were THAT close. Hugh is an extremely handsome man with a fantastic physique. I'll choose him over any other actor anyday :)

I was pleasantly surprised throughout the whole show. There were songs that I didn't even know were written by Peter Allen, such as I'd Rather Leave While I'm In Love by Rita Coolidge, Don' Cry Out Loud by Melissa Manchester, and (Arthur's Theme) Best That You Can Do by Christopher Cross.

Do you guys remember Chrissy Amphlett? She was the lead singer of the Divinyls, famous for such hits as Pleasure and Pain and I Touch Myself. She played Judy Garland and boy, was she good!

In fact, the whole cast was good. It was pure unadulterated entertainment for 2 hours and we all danced, sang along, and clapped in appreciation. We also spotted a few stars in the crowd: Rove McManus, Belinda Emmett, and Debra Hutton.

It was a fun-filled night I surely won't forget for ages. Nothing like a bit of culture to keep me going :)

Australia, 'racist, sexist, deeply flawed'

2006-08-11T11:43:00.000+10:00

An article of the same title was published in The Age today. The columnist is a woman whom, stemming from Mel Gibson's drunken raving and Dean Jones' terrorist gaffe, made a weak argument on how Sydney is a city where you can "forget about popping out to the corner shop and coming back with a feast of Polish bread, Turkish cheese and Indian vegetables."

Hmmm... It makes me wonder how a person can make a strong statement like that considering that in her own admission, she had only been to Sydney once five years ago with an ex-boyfriend on a business. After a few days, she began to formulate her opinions.

I don't know. I mean, I myself do not like Sydney so much. Being a Melbournite, I guess that comes with the territory. Sure, the Cronulla riots were a clear indication that racism is still alive in some way. But, Miss Pool (the columnist who wrote the article) fails to acknowledge that every country has its own type of prejudice. The Philippines has prejudice against the destitute, South Africa has prejudice against Caucasian South Africans, Japan has prejudice against non-Japanese, and North Korea has prejudice against the West. Germaine Greer, writer and feminist extraordinaire, said "Australian racism derives from the same bottomless source as British racism - from universal ignorance and working-class frustration, reinforced by an unshakeable conviction of British superiority over all other nations on earth, especially the swarthy ones."

Do I think Australia is racist? In my personal opinion, not as much as people believe it to be. I mean, I live in a city where multiculturalism is encouraged and embraced so I may not feel it as much as people who live in remote areas or the like. Segregation is not practised, there is a massive amount of migrants who come into the country every year, and equal opportunity exists for everyone.

I guess Sydney is not so bad. Like every other big city, it has its flaws. But, Miss Pool cannot be viewed as a reliable writer if she bases her opinions from staying in the city inside a hotel for a few days. Don't you have to live or explore the city to have a real taste of what it has to off? Her opinions are nothing more than uneducate, ignorant dribble.

Jennie aka Storm?!?

2006-08-04T10:47:00.000+10:00

I'm still here in Sydney. At present, I am sitting in the board room with my co-worker and boss. Ours is a small team of three. We haven't started our meeting yet so we're all just sitting around fiddling with our laptops and doing some work... not! Like in my case, I'm blogging. My boss is replying to a gazillion emails, Harris is looking up something in the system, and I'm multi-tasking - reading up on Standard Operating Procedures and blogging.

My flight was a nightmare. It was raining hard. We boarded the plane and ten minutes before departing, we were asked to disembark because the wipers won't work - some faulty engineering problem crap. We then boarded another plane and left the tarmac an hour after supposed departure time and got to Sydney around 11:10, which is only 40 minutes later than my original arrival time. We then headed to the baggage claim area where everyone in my original flight had to wait 1 hour for our baggage to turn up! Turns out that our baggage came in another plane and not the one we boarded!

What a waste of freaking time! I ended up being really late for my 11:30 meeting. I got to work at 2:00! Argh!

The weather was fantastic though. We had a nice late lunch at the local pub outside which was a real treat since us Melbournites can't do that at present because of the cold weather. As soon as we got back into the office, it started raining. The team has been joking around and telling me I brought the rains to Sydney. Hahaha.

I stayed at the Stamford Plaza. They upgraded me to the deluxe suite on the topmost floor... fabulous! Dinner was very nice. We went to this small, quaint Thai restaurant in Beverly Hills. Lovely meal.

Had a nice bath but after downing three screwdrivers, hot water and alcohol are not very good combined. Nuh-uh.

Woke up this morning, had a big hearty breakfast of Ham and Cheese Omelette, Sausages, Hash Browns, English Breakfast Tea, and an Apple Juice. Took a shower, checked out of the hotel. Hailed a cab. Lovely, it's raining cats and dogs - I did bring the storms to Sydney!

As a result, I was 15 minutes late which my boss understood perfectly. Sydney traffic and the rain is not a good combination. So now, I'm here blogging away...

My flight back home is at 4:45 pm. I'll be leaving work to head to the airport at 3:00.

Then, back to work in Melbourne on Monday.

Oh, how I love my life...

Have a great weekend!

Off to Sydney...

2006-08-02T17:20:00.000+10:00

Hi guys. I'm flying off to Sydney tomorrow morning for work. Will try to take some pics to post here, if I can manage to squeeze that in my already busy work schedule for the next couple of days.

Till then :)

My new cyber hangout/Wake up call for Filos

2006-07-31T17:32:00.000+10:00

I don't know if you guys have noticed my new blog link "Writing On Air." That is actually Apo Jim Paredes's blog. The man himself has actually migrated to Australia a few months ago and has been religiously documenting his life in the country. I have known about his blog for sometime now, but recently I have been reading his thoughts and have been posting comments... and he takes time to respond to everyone's comments which sometimes reaches a hundred or so!

He is a joy to read and his musings are very well thought of. It's just sad that the Philippines has once again lost a brilliant mind. I really hope that the government gets its act together, or else all of the country's intelligent minds will just up and leave for a better life. If an accomplished artist like Jim Paredes decided to take his family and leave all the comforts (i. e. maid, cook, driver, huge house) behind to start a brand new life in a foreign country, what is stopping other qualified individuals from doing the same? I know that this isn't new, but the situation is so dire that the country needs all of its resources to be able to function. I mean, just look at the government. It has turned into one big joke.

Even education has taken a downturn. Would you believe that a lot of call centres are closing shop in the Philippines because employers cannot find enough people who speak English properly? When in the world did that happen? These same companies are now opening up in India! India! No disrespect, but some companies are very strict when it comes to accents that it is an essential part of their employees' training. Indians usually have a very hard time learning this. And yet, they rather have Indians doing the work than Filipinos who used to have the highest English literacy population in Asia. Now, even China is catching up... fast!

Given that the quality of education has become shit, there are two other things that did not help the Filipino youth of today and I am sure there are people out there who will agree with me.

Text messaging and Taglish.

Okay, fair enough that there isn't enough space to write up a lenghty message using one's mobile phone. But for Christ's sake, if you are going to type up a whole novel using abbreviated words that don't make much sense except for people who are well versed in text-speak, wouldn't you rather just dial the number and get it over and done with in less than a minute? It's obvious that I am not a fan of text-speak. It has become such a dilemma not only in the Philippines but also in first world countries like Australia that kids 15 and under use text-speak to write essays for school! They have become so immersed in using text-speak spelling that they no longer use the correct spelling of the word!

And regardless of what your peers say, mate... it ain't cool. You sound like an uneducated fool. Imagine applying for a high paying job and your CV has:

joe bloggs
addy: 6 white st qc
qual: hs grad, col grad
exp: 10 yrs txting

Another thing that I hate the most is Taglish. I guess this is coming from my old school training. I still remember my 6th grade English teacher:

"You start a sentence with one language, you finish it with the same language."

Sounds easy enough? Wrong. I am appalled that people even older than I who fall into the trap of sounding like uneducated morons who think it's cool to speak in a mish-mash of two languages. It pisses me off completely.

Kung tingin mo na mukha kang mayaman dahil baluktot ka magsalita, hindi po.

Using a Filipino-adopted jive, it's try-hard.

Sorry, I know I'm ranting. This actually stemmed from an email I received from a colleague whom I thought would know better than to use text-speak in a work related email. Drives me absolutely batty! You know that it actually took me yonks to figure out apt is not the word "apt" but actually a shortened "appointment". No wonder when I was reading the statement it didn't make any sense. Argh!

Melbourne an Aussie favourite!

2006-07-25T10:31:00.000+10:00

Forget the Sydney Harbour bridge and the Opera House! Melbourne was voted as Australia's favourite city in a recent survey conducted across the country. While people say Sydney tops in nearby regional events, Melbourne is streets ahead of Sydney in terms of dining, nightlife, sporting and cultural events, romance, and my favourite of all... fashion and shopping!

Melbourne is very European in its setting. The people who walk the streets come from different backgrounds, making it the most multicultural city in Australia. The streets are safer than Sydney by a long shot and the food... let's just say you will not run out of places to go even if you decide to eat in a different place everyday! Other cities bag Melbourne for its unpredictable weather, often saying that Melbourne has four seasons in one day. In my opinion, this is one of the reasons why Melbourne denizens are the most well-dressed lot amongst all Aussies. They dress according to the weather, and they do it damn well.

I am so proud to be a resident of a city that oozes so much appeal and class. A city that boasts good food and good shopping is definitely tops in my book.

If you have the chance, come and visit this wonderful city! I'd love to take you around :) In fact, I will start posting more about this beautiful city. Think of me as your personal tour guide :p

What's on:

Picasso, Love & War 1935 - 1945 - an exclusive exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria
The Leonardo Da Vinci Machines - An Exhibition of Genius at the Waterfront, Docklands

***pictures taken from several websites***

Would you buy a fake Louis Vuitton just to look cool?

2006-07-21T11:48:00.000+10:00

This is stemming from my recent naughty little spree. As much as I love shopping and I like nice things, I also like a bargain. I always frequent the sales in my favourite shops and I always come out feeling elated by the good buys I got. For example, prior to my new job starting, my most favourite shopping centre David Jones had a sale. I ended up buying 3 suits for the fraction of the price.

There are times when I also bought items from eBay. That place is a god-send when it comes to certain clothing and shoes. But it is also a place full of counterfeiting fiends who just want to make a quick buck.

I have read a few articles on how to spot fakes and questions to ask online sellers to determine the authenticity of items being sold. D. Parvaz's article was very well researched. They picked up 5 items from vintage stores and online places like eBay and Yahoo. They've discovered that the stitching in bags were poor, dust bags used are of poor quality and are of the wrong font, and there were even prints of bags that were never made by the original manufacturers! Very cheeky.

Another article from Postgazette.com stated that "if prices.. for some of the hottest luxury brands seem unreal, it very well may be because the goods themselves aren't real." True.

Okay, so you may think what the big deal is. Aren't people allowed to buy fakes if they want to? Are people ought to be shot if they want to buy a fake Louis Vuitton Poppincourt Haut to look cool and trendy? Can't people go and buy fakes just to show up "the man" for feeling the can justify charging us hard working folk thousands of dollars for a handbag? Fine, go ahead. But what these people don't understand is that the counterfeiting industry is a multi-billion dollar business and often involve poor children who are overworked and suffer in appalling living conditions not even fit for a dog.

In my opinion, at the risk of looking not-so-cool I'd rather not buy a fake item. Firstly, because you look like you're trying too hard to be someone you're not. Secondly, it's only feeding the counterfeiting fiends and they make more money by making fools out of others and treating children poorly. Lastly, heck... buying a fake is not even worth it! You can tell it's a fake, you'll look stupid for carrying one around, and you're ripping people off!

I feel sorry for people who honestly think they're getting a bargain when all their getting are lies and poor quality products. The only place where you are guaranteed to get the genuine article are the boutiques themselves and online stores like e-luxury.com. eBay? Not so sure. Apparently only as small as 10% of advertised luxury items are authentic, everything else is fake.

I may sound harsh towards people who knowingly buy fakes. I guess I'm just a firm believer that if a person can't afford something, don't force it. I like nice things but I also know my limits, thus my self-imposed "restraining order" (borrowing this term from you, Jaz :p) So what if you don't have a Louis Vuitton bag? It's not the bag that makes you cool, it's the person. Accessories are just that - accessories. They don't make you - YOU!

Just think of this the next time you're tempted to buy that oh-so-real-looking Hermes Berkin handbag...

Sex and the City's very own Samantha buying a "Fendi" bag from someone, stashed in the boot of his car!

How embarassing!

Melbourne, the Australian shopping capital?

2006-07-20T10:24:00.000+10:00

Oh boy. I think the Gods are conspiring against me. I just read in the Herald Sun that the City of Melbourne and State Government of Victoria have proposed to launch an annual shopping festival. Cities like Dubai and Hong Kong do this, but their shopping festivals last for at least a month which includes fireworks, live shows, and huge bargains. In Melbourne, because of its already full calendar from annual events like the Melbourne Cup (horse racing), AFL (Aussie rules football), Australian Open (Tennis), Comedy Festival, and others, the shopping festival will last only a week. Of course, major city retailers whole heartedly support this initiative in order to rake in as much moolah as possible.

The City of Melbourne is not content being just the fashion capital of Australia. It also wants to be the center of retail heaven.

Damn. Well, at least they don't see it happening until 2008. It gives me a year and a half to lay off the shopping a bit.

*****

On a similar note, I am slightly disappointed with myself. Last Monday, I got a big surprise when I checked my bank account. Turns out that all salaried employees got their annual bonuses. It was a hefty bonus at that. So, what was the first thing I did? Deposit the money in my savings account? No. Pay some bills off? No.

You know what I did?

I went straight to Louis Vuitton, that's what!

And I got this beautiful bag...

Luckily, I had enough self-control and did not buy the matching wallet.

Sigh. So much of refraining from shopping... I am a mad, bad, shopaholic! Argh!

***note that I am only slightly disappointed. Heck, it is a gorgeous bag and I've always wanted it :p***

Johnny is a hot pirate!

2006-07-17T11:41:00.000+10:00

Finally watched Pirates of the Carribean, Dead Man's Chest yesterday afternoon with Arnie, courtesy of free tickets given by my kindly co-worker/Sales Manager in the company I work for. It was such a fun movie. Johnny Depp, as usual, was a sight to behold. He was just perfect as Captain Jack Sparrow. Orlando Bloom provided just the right amount of "yum-yums". Keira Knightly got a bit annoying for me close to the end of the film, although I do like her as an actress.

Oh, and watch out for the nice little surprise in the end of the film. Makes you want to go and "eat a whole bushell of apples." >hint, hint<

The special effects was spectacular. Bill Nighy was an impressive Davey Jones. Excellent sword fight scenes, plentiful funny moments, and just the right amount of kick arse action from each character.

Well-worth the 2 1/2 hours!

*****

On a different note, Doctor Who is back! David Tennant is such a cute Doctor! Season two started last week with the Christmas special which I watched last January with the help of my trusty broadband connection - i.e. downloaded it off the net!

The first episode was shown on the 15th and it was fantastic! I have read up a lot on this season and I know a lot about what's in store for the Doctor and Rose Tyler. I just can't wait to see it all.

Confessions of a shopaholic - in hiatus

2006-07-11T17:33:00.000+10:00

Okay... so everyone knows I love to shop. I love clothes, I love shoes, I love gadgets, I love to have new things.

But there comes a point when one has to stop.

And that time has come for me.

This promotion at work is both a blessing and a curse. The amount of money I'm getting allowed me to buy anything and everything I want without even thinking about whether I really need stuff or not. I have become a woman who thinks, "I don't care, I have the money anyway."

Not very wise.

It's not so much of the amount of money I spend on the luxuries I allow myself, after all I always think that I've worked hard for my money so I should bloody well spend it the way I see fit. It's actually a combination of things that convinced me that maybe I should lay off the shopping for a while.

Firstly, my closet is bursting at the seams. It has come to a point that I have come to wearing a piece of clothing twice a month at the most. Really silly if you think about it. Of course, this would mean longevity of use but not very handy if I have barely enough room.

Secondly, Arnie and I are saving up for our house. A few hundred dollars a week may not look too bad, but multiply that by months and years... yikes! There goes the deposit!

Finally, I don't really need anymore clothes and shoes! How many pairs of Chuck taylors does one woman need? 3? 5? 9? Sheesh...

Shopping has become a compulsion for me that I really need to stop. No more buying shirts and pants and skirts and shoes because I "may" need it later on. From now on, I'll only buy stuff when I really need it. I need another pair of shoes like a hole in the head!

Tough, but I'll persevere. I want to see the rewards that I'll reap from this, like that beautiful home that Arnie and I will share in the future as a married couple. That is an image that cannot be replaced by a pair of Manolo Blahniks.

Until then, "The Shopaholic Jennie" bids you farewell...