Finally I understood the feeling of two-timing.
The dilemma of choosing which one. The comparing. The rationalizing. The computing - yup, even that too.
Last Tuesday, I had to run an errand at the Cubao area. I passed by Araneta Coliseum and saw a poster of Incubus - Live in Manila, March 9. I said to myself "Perfect!" I've always wanted to catch Brandon Boyd on stage and drag two of my audiophile friends along. So I was thinking, okay I'll reserve a tickets when I go online. My two friends I decided to pay for - no matter how much it would cost. Since I owe one a Christmas gift, and the other I will have to give a birthday gift. So this is perfect.
When I got into my car, I received a text message from one of those said audiophile friends informing me that Maroon 5 will be performing in Manila on March 5. And I suddenly remembered that when I passed by Araneta Coliseum, Maroon 5 songs were blaring on the speakers. I suspected that they will be playing on that same stadium.
Great. Now what?! I can't miss out watching Maroon 5.
So I started pitting Adam Levine against Brandon Boyd. And I couldn't choose. So I asked Mr. Birthday Boy which he would like to watch. He says any would do - "But surely Maroon 5 will be fun because their songs are danceable. However, I also like Incubus. So whatever you choose, you're not gonna lose."
WE-hell, that's what you think!
So, I consulted the other friend. She informs me that the patron seats of Maroon 5 costs like 10,000 - ouch! I had to go online and check out Incubus prices. Almost 4,000 for a patron seat - reasonable. And yet .... Adam Levine!!! This LOve! Sunday Morning! Won't Go Home Without You! Makes Me Wonder! She Will Be Looooooved!!!
Aaargh.
What to do, what to do.
I was staring at the online reservations of Ticketnet (two pop-ups on the screen). I closed my eyes and let the mouse show me the way.
Dilemma solved.
Brandon, I'll see you on March 9.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
R.I.P. Heath Ledger
I had the shock of my life when I woke up and received a text message from a friend asking me if Heath Ledger died. I was like "What?!"
Fortunately, Globe Innove finally decided to install my DSL after almost two months since my transfer - shesh. (The customer service people will finally have some peace and quiet after all my follow-up calls).
As soon as the installers exited the door, I went online to check the piece of information I got. I need not to do a search. My Yahoo page flashed in front of me with a headline announcing the death of the Aussie actor.
I was quiet for at least 5 minutes, letting the news sink into my gray matter. My favorite "10 Things I Hate About You" scene wherein Patrick Verona serenades Katherina played in my head. Heath was singing "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" and starts prancing around the stadium. It was hilarious.
That movie is my guilty pleasure. When I feel blue, I watch that movie and automatically whatever's bothering me evaporates for awhile.
I know Mr. Ledger had better flicks- A Knight's Tale, Brothers Grimm, The Patriot, and the very much anticipated The Dark Knight wherein he plays the iconic Joker - but 10 Things I Hate About You, was the first time I've met Heath Ledger.
Before I left for work, I watched the movie again ... but the feeling was different. It was remote ... maybe because of the knowledge that he already passed on.
It's saddening that such a fine, young, and highly talented actor met an untimely death.
Thank you Mr. Ledger for the entertainment. And God bless your soul.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Living in High Street
If you're tired of the usual fare, I suggest that you weary and stressed-out city folk to visit Bonifacio High Street. It's in the area of the very posh Serendra condominiums at The Fort.
It's the equivalent of a mall, but it's not. The place is borderline Zen garden with its landscaping and rock-water sculptures, and modern Greek shopping plaza. Series of upscale shops and restaurants line both sides of the open-aired center garden/park area. The area is quite huge but it's walkable - it's good for your heart, you know. If you don't have the dough to shop, you can sit and watch the people because there are interesting things going on usually. If you love dogs, you'll see a lot of them milling around along with their owners. Usually, the owners themselves are loveable - your eye strain from the facing the computer all day will magically be cured.
If people and dogs are not your thing, then you might as well pick any side of the square and start exploring.
Highly suggested discovery areas are:
1. Fully-Booked - It's 4 or 5 floors of a Bookworm's dream, plus - It has its own Starbucks. Now how convenient is that? Geeks can stay in one place and keep themselves busy devouring all those graphic novels, CDs & DVDs, and of course, books while shooting up on caffeine.
2. Time Zone - If you had a really bad day, I suggest you march in here and blow off steam. Pick any of the arcade games available. Who cares if you're surrounded with kids, it's fun and de-stressing. What makes this Time Zone different is it is in The Fort. Not in a mall. There's a prevailing ambiance of snootiness.
3. New Orleans Steaks and Oysters - There are a lot of munching places to try in High Street, but this happens to be my favorite because it's different. I've always been fascinated with the New Orleans style of cooking and this place offers it. Trust me, the oysters alone is an experience worth risking (I'm allergic to it). After downing several preventive meds, I dive into the oysters and the several styles they have prepared it. On recent count me and my friends have tried Oysters Amatriciana, Rockefeller, and Americana - all absolutely yummy. Then there's the appetizer of 6-layer chicken Nachos. For main course, try the Jessica Alba Lobster - I have no idea why it is named like that, and Killer Lobster - yes, if the heavenly taste doesn't kill you, I think the cholesterol will. Also try the seafood jambalaya - excellent! They also offer steaks and other cajun delights. I'm pretty sure they will taste good. This place haven't let me down yet.
4. Cupcakes by Sonja - Yeah, yeah ... it's too Sex In The City. Hanging out in a cupcake shop while letting time pass by as you gossip in your little table in the corner. Erase the image and just peer in the shop and pick ANY cupcake. If you're diabetic, then that's too bad. This place serves the sweet tooth. And they serve them well. With different toppings to choose from, it's almost an adventure itself on what flavor you're going to pick next.
5. Krispy Kreme - Very bad for your body, but hell those glazed donuts are hard to resist! Doh!
6. I-Studio - If you dream of a Mac, want a Mac, will buy a Mac, or don't know what a Mac is, go here. You're gonna be throwing your Windows-based PC afterwards. But before you do, check the price and your sanity won't leave you. Wipe the drool off your face though.
7. Mo's Designs - An ad goes "If you can't find furniture that will fit your living room, don't blame us." Okay, with that clear, go explore the place. You'll discover that if you indeed suddenly have the moola to have your interiors decorated in the tasteful modern style... you have to take their word for it. They've warned you already.
8. Crocs - They have bad rep for alleged hazards, but those things are cute. Add the jibbits to cover up those holes, it turns into a project. Hey if you fill them all up it won't get stuck in the escalator anyway. This place serves up all the Crocs you want. Even the colors you dare not imagine.
I like hanging out here because the setting is different. There is a prevailing air of unhectic,lazy Sundays here. Lovely in the evening with the lights on. Certainly, the place will cool your nerves a bit while just lounging around on the park and watching time pass by for awhile.
It's the equivalent of a mall, but it's not. The place is borderline Zen garden with its landscaping and rock-water sculptures, and modern Greek shopping plaza. Series of upscale shops and restaurants line both sides of the open-aired center garden/park area. The area is quite huge but it's walkable - it's good for your heart, you know. If you don't have the dough to shop, you can sit and watch the people because there are interesting things going on usually. If you love dogs, you'll see a lot of them milling around along with their owners. Usually, the owners themselves are loveable - your eye strain from the facing the computer all day will magically be cured.
If people and dogs are not your thing, then you might as well pick any side of the square and start exploring.
Highly suggested discovery areas are:
1. Fully-Booked - It's 4 or 5 floors of a Bookworm's dream, plus - It has its own Starbucks. Now how convenient is that? Geeks can stay in one place and keep themselves busy devouring all those graphic novels, CDs & DVDs, and of course, books while shooting up on caffeine.
2. Time Zone - If you had a really bad day, I suggest you march in here and blow off steam. Pick any of the arcade games available. Who cares if you're surrounded with kids, it's fun and de-stressing. What makes this Time Zone different is it is in The Fort. Not in a mall. There's a prevailing ambiance of snootiness.
3. New Orleans Steaks and Oysters - There are a lot of munching places to try in High Street, but this happens to be my favorite because it's different. I've always been fascinated with the New Orleans style of cooking and this place offers it. Trust me, the oysters alone is an experience worth risking (I'm allergic to it). After downing several preventive meds, I dive into the oysters and the several styles they have prepared it. On recent count me and my friends have tried Oysters Amatriciana, Rockefeller, and Americana - all absolutely yummy. Then there's the appetizer of 6-layer chicken Nachos. For main course, try the Jessica Alba Lobster - I have no idea why it is named like that, and Killer Lobster - yes, if the heavenly taste doesn't kill you, I think the cholesterol will. Also try the seafood jambalaya - excellent! They also offer steaks and other cajun delights. I'm pretty sure they will taste good. This place haven't let me down yet.
4. Cupcakes by Sonja - Yeah, yeah ... it's too Sex In The City. Hanging out in a cupcake shop while letting time pass by as you gossip in your little table in the corner. Erase the image and just peer in the shop and pick ANY cupcake. If you're diabetic, then that's too bad. This place serves the sweet tooth. And they serve them well. With different toppings to choose from, it's almost an adventure itself on what flavor you're going to pick next.
5. Krispy Kreme - Very bad for your body, but hell those glazed donuts are hard to resist! Doh!
6. I-Studio - If you dream of a Mac, want a Mac, will buy a Mac, or don't know what a Mac is, go here. You're gonna be throwing your Windows-based PC afterwards. But before you do, check the price and your sanity won't leave you. Wipe the drool off your face though.
7. Mo's Designs - An ad goes "If you can't find furniture that will fit your living room, don't blame us." Okay, with that clear, go explore the place. You'll discover that if you indeed suddenly have the moola to have your interiors decorated in the tasteful modern style... you have to take their word for it. They've warned you already.
8. Crocs - They have bad rep for alleged hazards, but those things are cute. Add the jibbits to cover up those holes, it turns into a project. Hey if you fill them all up it won't get stuck in the escalator anyway. This place serves up all the Crocs you want. Even the colors you dare not imagine.
I like hanging out here because the setting is different. There is a prevailing air of unhectic,lazy Sundays here. Lovely in the evening with the lights on. Certainly, the place will cool your nerves a bit while just lounging around on the park and watching time pass by for awhile.
... When You're Still Hung Over
For someone who is not used to the British alternative sound without mistaking it as new wave, picking up a Bloc Party album based on reviews is quite tricky.
I heard a great deal of raves for "A Weekend in the City," so I decided to check it out myself.
The album contains 11 songs:
1. Song for Clay (Disappear Here)
2. Hunting For Witches
3. Waiting For the 7:18
4. The Prayer
5. Uniform
6. ON
7. Where is Home?
8. Kreuzberg
9. I Still Remember
10. Sunday
11. SRXT
Aside from "The Prayer" and "I Still Remember," the album offers a couple more songs to the list of likeables. "Hunting For Witches" is one entertaining song to listen to. There's some mixing at the start and end of the song, and the unmistakeable Bloc Party guitar sound. But the song I love in the album is "Sunday." It's sort of a light song with an odd lyric line going, "....I love you in the morning, when you're still hung over." Hahaha. These English boys are daft.
As a whole, if you want to experience something different yet still remain in the alternative realm, this album will take you out of the rut. Kele Okereke has a fantastic voice, you're not going to get weary of it. However, some songs do need some getting used to. Maybe the mixing and arrangement of those songs are a bit "off" from the usual.
But then that's what I said to myself about The Stone Roses, and here I am totally nuts about their sound.
I heard a great deal of raves for "A Weekend in the City," so I decided to check it out myself.
The album contains 11 songs:
1. Song for Clay (Disappear Here)
2. Hunting For Witches
3. Waiting For the 7:18
4. The Prayer
5. Uniform
6. ON
7. Where is Home?
8. Kreuzberg
9. I Still Remember
10. Sunday
11. SRXT
Aside from "The Prayer" and "I Still Remember," the album offers a couple more songs to the list of likeables. "Hunting For Witches" is one entertaining song to listen to. There's some mixing at the start and end of the song, and the unmistakeable Bloc Party guitar sound. But the song I love in the album is "Sunday." It's sort of a light song with an odd lyric line going, "....I love you in the morning, when you're still hung over." Hahaha. These English boys are daft.
As a whole, if you want to experience something different yet still remain in the alternative realm, this album will take you out of the rut. Kele Okereke has a fantastic voice, you're not going to get weary of it. However, some songs do need some getting used to. Maybe the mixing and arrangement of those songs are a bit "off" from the usual.
But then that's what I said to myself about The Stone Roses, and here I am totally nuts about their sound.
Cheer Up, Boys (Your Make Up Is Running)
The Foo Fighters' latest offering is Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace.
Very much alive and still kicking butts since 1995, Dave Grohl and the boys dish out that familiar post-grunge music and oh, what a wonderful sound it is.
The album features 12 songs namely:
1. The Pretender
2. Let It Die
3. Erase/Replace
4. Long Road to Ruin
5. Come Alive
6. Stranger Things Have Happened
7. Cheer Up, Boys (Your Make Up Is Running)
8. Summer's End
9. Ballad of the Beaconsfield Miners
10. Statues
11. But, Honestly
12. Home
Starting with the screaming "The Pretender," it also happens to be the first song released off the album. The Foos make their rage felt with a video to match. Dave growls with gusto as the sound blasts the eardrums of those who dare to interrupt. "Let It Die," another possible hit, begins slowly only to rock your socks off in the end. Current favorite "Long Road to Ruin," enjoys a good deal of airplay in alternative radio stations, and might end up topping the charts with the vibrant and upbeat rock sound. "Come Alive," my personal favorite, is beautifully arranged with a subdued sound (but still rockin') to match. Nice to listen to when you're in one of those moods. "Stranger Things Have Happened" has an atmospheric sound to it, taking you someplace ... like in a smoky pub with beer-soaked bikers with the band playing in the background. Lovely. Another title I love due to the hilarity of it "Cheer Up, Boys (Your Make Up Is Running)," calls the attention of emo rockers to cheer up .... and grow up.
On the whole, this album has Foo Fighters stamped all over it. Hard-rockin', progressive, and yes GROWN UP. Certainly an album to listen to if you're tired of the wailing around you.
Extremely, highly, most definitely, recommended for hard rockers anywhere. Great driving music too.
Very much alive and still kicking butts since 1995, Dave Grohl and the boys dish out that familiar post-grunge music and oh, what a wonderful sound it is.
The album features 12 songs namely:
1. The Pretender
2. Let It Die
3. Erase/Replace
4. Long Road to Ruin
5. Come Alive
6. Stranger Things Have Happened
7. Cheer Up, Boys (Your Make Up Is Running)
8. Summer's End
9. Ballad of the Beaconsfield Miners
10. Statues
11. But, Honestly
12. Home
Starting with the screaming "The Pretender," it also happens to be the first song released off the album. The Foos make their rage felt with a video to match. Dave growls with gusto as the sound blasts the eardrums of those who dare to interrupt. "Let It Die," another possible hit, begins slowly only to rock your socks off in the end. Current favorite "Long Road to Ruin," enjoys a good deal of airplay in alternative radio stations, and might end up topping the charts with the vibrant and upbeat rock sound. "Come Alive," my personal favorite, is beautifully arranged with a subdued sound (but still rockin') to match. Nice to listen to when you're in one of those moods. "Stranger Things Have Happened" has an atmospheric sound to it, taking you someplace ... like in a smoky pub with beer-soaked bikers with the band playing in the background. Lovely. Another title I love due to the hilarity of it "Cheer Up, Boys (Your Make Up Is Running)," calls the attention of emo rockers to cheer up .... and grow up.
On the whole, this album has Foo Fighters stamped all over it. Hard-rockin', progressive, and yes GROWN UP. Certainly an album to listen to if you're tired of the wailing around you.
Extremely, highly, most definitely, recommended for hard rockers anywhere. Great driving music too.
Monday, January 07, 2008
Sink Your Teeth Into Something New
Everytime I see the serene Taal volcano, there is a nagging voice in my head reminding me that I should buy a lot and build my house in Tagaytay. And why not? Fantastic view, cool weather, an hour or two's drive from the city, an hour and two's drive to the nearest beach, but most of all EXCELLENT food choices.
Tagaytay is a popular international tourist destination for the wonder that is Taal Volcano. But for Manila's weary city dwellers (like me), it's an escape. Actually, the NEAREST escape from the smog, traffic, and stress.
As the city offers a lot of de-stressers such as small hotels, retreat houses, and spas, it also has a lot of quaint coffee shops and restaurants that you can "escape to" for awhile.
Everytime I come up here, I always eat at a different place everytime.
I had the (mis)fortune to spend three days in Tagaytay for reasons I'd rather not say. But then, I also decided to make the most of my stay to finally try the whole eating experience I've always wanted.
TAJ, is the first Indian restaurant I've tried - ever. I've always wondered what Indian food tastes like because it looks pretty interesting on TV. The Brits can't seem to get enough of it - and if they find it great, I'm sure I will to0. So, one night my stomach wanted to be a bit adventurous and with a friend, we ordered Beef Shawarma, Beef Kebabs, Chicken Vindalu and some type of Indian rice - which was spicily fragrant. The food was HOT! But, it was really good. It didn't do wonders to my worsening gastritis, but then I didn't mind having the taste of it (and not to mention the taste of my burp) in my mouth.
Along the road, we stopped by Bag of Beans. I buy pies and bread in this coffee shop when I'm up here, but I never got to sit in the cafe itself. It's a garden setting with a lot of tables in several areas scattered throughout the place. There are birds in cages and it's a lovely place at night for a date. We had the local brewed coffee and a blueberry cheesecake and had a nice time. Note to myself: bring a date here next time.
Rosso is one of the newest restaurant in the stretch of Aguinaldo Road. When we came in there, it was still their soft opening, so the menu was pretty limited. I ended up ordering a set menu with Baby Back Ribs as entree. The salad with berry sauce was good, mushroom soup was excellent - not from the can, ribs was delicious, and the dessert, which was like an ice cream sushi was okay. We came there dinner time, so we were not able to see the view of the volcano. I'm guessing it must've been spectacular as this place is perched near the edge of the cliff and is facing the volcano. The place is not bad itself. It's one of those date places you'd love to go. A little training on the staff though. Need to polish up on the waitressing style - out of place for the place.
My favorite food trip was Buon Giorno. Ooo, I love this place. We came in, dinner as usual, and was fortunate enough to get a table. It was New Year's eve and the tables were reserved 'til the closing hours. We ordered a very sumptuous pumpkin soup (yum, yum, yum - my stomach is getting excited with the thought of it), a salmon & asparagus risotto, and a deli platter which I nearly forgot to mention. All my taste buds can remember is the wonderful risotto. Excellent, excellent! Makes me want to seriously read all my cookbooks with risotto recipes. This is a place I will come back to when I go up again. It's excellent Italian fare with a reasonable price tag. Plus, a view and ambience to match. On busy days, you have to fight for parking though. My suggestion would park it somewhere else safe, and walk there. Trust me, it's worth it.
OTHER MENTIONABLES (restos I've tried in the past):
Antonio's - If you want to try something more different than the usual Filipino breakfast (they still have it though), try their pancakes and omelettes. And again, they have the view of Volcano, so it's a nice backdrop while sipping your morning coffee.
Gourmet Cafe - I went here once when I was still in medical school. It was an escape from the books and I was with a crazy friend of mine. We heard of this place in Manila a lot so we tried it. And we were not sorry. Different salads and pastas to choose from. Too bad we were not able to tour the farm. That is why I vow to come back there - if I can find it, again.
"The Greek Restaurant" - It's the only Greek restaurant in Tagaytay. The name eludes me that's why I put the name in quotes. Must try: Baclava. It's sweet and nutty. Lots of cinnamon and tastes good. I forgot name the potato-ish meat pie or pasta pie I ordered, but it was also okay. But the Baclava, I will not forget. Consume right away though, it goes bad after a day.
Tagaytay offers a lot for everyone. I suggest everytime one comes up there to sink their teeth into something new everytime, try everything. You'll get addicted coming up there ... or maybe think of living there for the rest of your life (sigh - AMEN to that.)
Tagaytay is a popular international tourist destination for the wonder that is Taal Volcano. But for Manila's weary city dwellers (like me), it's an escape. Actually, the NEAREST escape from the smog, traffic, and stress.
As the city offers a lot of de-stressers such as small hotels, retreat houses, and spas, it also has a lot of quaint coffee shops and restaurants that you can "escape to" for awhile.
Everytime I come up here, I always eat at a different place everytime.
I had the (mis)fortune to spend three days in Tagaytay for reasons I'd rather not say. But then, I also decided to make the most of my stay to finally try the whole eating experience I've always wanted.
TAJ, is the first Indian restaurant I've tried - ever. I've always wondered what Indian food tastes like because it looks pretty interesting on TV. The Brits can't seem to get enough of it - and if they find it great, I'm sure I will to0. So, one night my stomach wanted to be a bit adventurous and with a friend, we ordered Beef Shawarma, Beef Kebabs, Chicken Vindalu and some type of Indian rice - which was spicily fragrant. The food was HOT! But, it was really good. It didn't do wonders to my worsening gastritis, but then I didn't mind having the taste of it (and not to mention the taste of my burp) in my mouth.
Along the road, we stopped by Bag of Beans. I buy pies and bread in this coffee shop when I'm up here, but I never got to sit in the cafe itself. It's a garden setting with a lot of tables in several areas scattered throughout the place. There are birds in cages and it's a lovely place at night for a date. We had the local brewed coffee and a blueberry cheesecake and had a nice time. Note to myself: bring a date here next time.
Rosso is one of the newest restaurant in the stretch of Aguinaldo Road. When we came in there, it was still their soft opening, so the menu was pretty limited. I ended up ordering a set menu with Baby Back Ribs as entree. The salad with berry sauce was good, mushroom soup was excellent - not from the can, ribs was delicious, and the dessert, which was like an ice cream sushi was okay. We came there dinner time, so we were not able to see the view of the volcano. I'm guessing it must've been spectacular as this place is perched near the edge of the cliff and is facing the volcano. The place is not bad itself. It's one of those date places you'd love to go. A little training on the staff though. Need to polish up on the waitressing style - out of place for the place.
My favorite food trip was Buon Giorno. Ooo, I love this place. We came in, dinner as usual, and was fortunate enough to get a table. It was New Year's eve and the tables were reserved 'til the closing hours. We ordered a very sumptuous pumpkin soup (yum, yum, yum - my stomach is getting excited with the thought of it), a salmon & asparagus risotto, and a deli platter which I nearly forgot to mention. All my taste buds can remember is the wonderful risotto. Excellent, excellent! Makes me want to seriously read all my cookbooks with risotto recipes. This is a place I will come back to when I go up again. It's excellent Italian fare with a reasonable price tag. Plus, a view and ambience to match. On busy days, you have to fight for parking though. My suggestion would park it somewhere else safe, and walk there. Trust me, it's worth it.
OTHER MENTIONABLES (restos I've tried in the past):
Antonio's - If you want to try something more different than the usual Filipino breakfast (they still have it though), try their pancakes and omelettes. And again, they have the view of Volcano, so it's a nice backdrop while sipping your morning coffee.
Gourmet Cafe - I went here once when I was still in medical school. It was an escape from the books and I was with a crazy friend of mine. We heard of this place in Manila a lot so we tried it. And we were not sorry. Different salads and pastas to choose from. Too bad we were not able to tour the farm. That is why I vow to come back there - if I can find it, again.
"The Greek Restaurant" - It's the only Greek restaurant in Tagaytay. The name eludes me that's why I put the name in quotes. Must try: Baclava. It's sweet and nutty. Lots of cinnamon and tastes good. I forgot name the potato-ish meat pie or pasta pie I ordered, but it was also okay. But the Baclava, I will not forget. Consume right away though, it goes bad after a day.
Tagaytay offers a lot for everyone. I suggest everytime one comes up there to sink their teeth into something new everytime, try everything. You'll get addicted coming up there ... or maybe think of living there for the rest of your life (sigh - AMEN to that.)
Potter to the Classics
It's quite a shocker that I, a Harry Potter fan, finished HP and the Deathly Hallows just before New Year.
But let me explain myself. It was not my intention to do so. My dear brother had this "generous" idea to give the book as a birthday present. Unfortunately, my birthday does not occur in July. It's in December. I soo love my sibling's sense of humor.
Someone should give me some credit for exercising my EQ - never even attempted to know what happened in the end when most of the people I had conversations with "offered" to slip in some juicy details.
Most of the world knew, who lived and who died. Among the lucky ones who lived is the scarred boy himself. I find the other deaths in the book a bit unnecessary. I think Rowling wanted to inject some sense of reality. Though, I could not see what this will achieve considering it is a FANTASY book - last I checked.
But then I could be just a tad bit bitter, as I like happy endings which include nobody dying.
Diving to the book itself, I got transported back to Harry's magical world - though a bit glummer and scarier this time. With Voldemort back and pushing his weight around, our heroes went on the run as to complete the "mission" Dumbledore entrusted to them. As they bumble around -it's not easy looking for Horcruxes you know, specially if your instructions are in riddles - they come across the story of the Deathly Hallows. This knowledge further complicates Harry's already too preocuppied mind. To choose which path to pursue - Horcrux-hunting or Fairy Tale chasing? - Harry Potter is one lucky boy indeed, as there are allies out there when he least expected it. He refocuses himself and ends everything were it started - in Hogwarts of course. Voldemort always wanted a homecoming king party - unfortunately like all of those parties, it never goes well. And there Harry Potter and Tom Riddle dueled 'til the death. And the whole world knows who won.
HP and the Deathly Hallows is not just the end of the series. It ties all the loose ends which the other six books left dangling in the air. Sometimes, I wonder if JK Rowling planned all of this all along, since the connections of data which seem innocent and unnecessary in the other books became vital data in the end.
I am re-reading the whole series again (just like what I did in LOTR). Harry Potter's story is one heck of a trip, though it's a bit sad that it had to end. One best word to best describe it: MAGICAL (to the nth degree). Kudos to the very brilliant (and very rich) mind of JK Rowling. Her books are classics that every bookcase should have.
But let me explain myself. It was not my intention to do so. My dear brother had this "generous" idea to give the book as a birthday present. Unfortunately, my birthday does not occur in July. It's in December. I soo love my sibling's sense of humor.
Someone should give me some credit for exercising my EQ - never even attempted to know what happened in the end when most of the people I had conversations with "offered" to slip in some juicy details.
Most of the world knew, who lived and who died. Among the lucky ones who lived is the scarred boy himself. I find the other deaths in the book a bit unnecessary. I think Rowling wanted to inject some sense of reality. Though, I could not see what this will achieve considering it is a FANTASY book - last I checked.
But then I could be just a tad bit bitter, as I like happy endings which include nobody dying.
Diving to the book itself, I got transported back to Harry's magical world - though a bit glummer and scarier this time. With Voldemort back and pushing his weight around, our heroes went on the run as to complete the "mission" Dumbledore entrusted to them. As they bumble around -it's not easy looking for Horcruxes you know, specially if your instructions are in riddles - they come across the story of the Deathly Hallows. This knowledge further complicates Harry's already too preocuppied mind. To choose which path to pursue - Horcrux-hunting or Fairy Tale chasing? - Harry Potter is one lucky boy indeed, as there are allies out there when he least expected it. He refocuses himself and ends everything were it started - in Hogwarts of course. Voldemort always wanted a homecoming king party - unfortunately like all of those parties, it never goes well. And there Harry Potter and Tom Riddle dueled 'til the death. And the whole world knows who won.
HP and the Deathly Hallows is not just the end of the series. It ties all the loose ends which the other six books left dangling in the air. Sometimes, I wonder if JK Rowling planned all of this all along, since the connections of data which seem innocent and unnecessary in the other books became vital data in the end.
I am re-reading the whole series again (just like what I did in LOTR). Harry Potter's story is one heck of a trip, though it's a bit sad that it had to end. One best word to best describe it: MAGICAL (to the nth degree). Kudos to the very brilliant (and very rich) mind of JK Rowling. Her books are classics that every bookcase should have.
Vertical Horizon in Retrospect
My brother was dying in envy when he learned I had tickets for the Vertical Horizon concert in Manila. My ticket was a birthday gift from a friend, Chloe.
The concert was held at Araneta Coliseum last December 7.
For someone used to see this coliseum filled up to the rafters every UAAP game, it was not a surprise as I always knew their brand of music is not for the masses. In fact, their songs are only played in radio stations with a certain niche market. But then it was not a disappointment as the night turned out to be a happy birthday gift indeed.
We came in late as Rivermaya was already performing on stage. Though the new vocalist and new members were good, and though I am not a Rico Blanco fan, I certainly miss the old Rivermaya band. I was explaining to Chloe that the sound of Rivermaya matured as they grew older, and it was already great, then all of a sudden it regressed or went back to the teen stage again. It's like watching someone going through a midlife crisis, or worse - second childhood stage - I just hope they get over the punk-emo, "oh-I'm so in like Fall Out Boy/My Chemical Romance" stage antics. It's getting a bit old. I mean c'mon, you've got a cache of old great songs, don't ruin it please. Even if it's not the same without Rico, you don't go killing what you have. It worked well when Bamboo left. It can work well without Mr. Blanco.
After Rivermaya, came in Jamie Kennedy. For people who were not used to Jamie Kennedy's brand of brash stand-up comedy humor, it was a little too much when he was dishing out his sex jokes on stage. Those with wider thinking, enjoyed the show laughing out loud at his antics. I, on the other hand, thought he could've done better. His material needed more material. You got to hand it to the man though, as he tried his best to speak in the vernacular - joke wise.
At last, after the long wait, Matt Scannell and the rest of the band came to the stage. I could not recall what their first song was but I remember everyone getting up and singing along.
With a background history as a Christian music band, Vertical Horizon, is very popular in the alternative music circles. To the whole world, they are known as the band that gave you hits like "Everything You Want" and "You're a God." But for alternative music lovers, there are certainly more songs in their albums. Enjoying a good deal of airplay in local stations such as Jam 88.3, 99.5 RT, NU 107.5 and the former 103.5 K-Lite (which I certainly miss - specially the era of The Blade), songs like "Best I've Ever Had," "Send It Up," "Finding Me," and "Forever," were in the top ten list of requested songs.
I don't know if the band had this knowledge on how popular their songs are (or to the audience who are in the coliseum). By concert standards, it was a pretty sedate crowd. But from what I gathered from the band's reaction to the crowd singing along MOST to their songs - it's something priceless. I'm guessing that they never thought an ocean and several flyer miles would make them popular here. Well, I'm happy to say, as much as I had fun singing along I think they had some fun themselves for stopping over Manila.
It's one of the best concerts I've watched (Matt Scannell's voice did not change live, it's the same, and they sounded great)... and I certainly hope it won't be the rare ones.
Now I'm wishing Dave Matthews Band will come here too.
The concert was held at Araneta Coliseum last December 7.
For someone used to see this coliseum filled up to the rafters every UAAP game, it was not a surprise as I always knew their brand of music is not for the masses. In fact, their songs are only played in radio stations with a certain niche market. But then it was not a disappointment as the night turned out to be a happy birthday gift indeed.
We came in late as Rivermaya was already performing on stage. Though the new vocalist and new members were good, and though I am not a Rico Blanco fan, I certainly miss the old Rivermaya band. I was explaining to Chloe that the sound of Rivermaya matured as they grew older, and it was already great, then all of a sudden it regressed or went back to the teen stage again. It's like watching someone going through a midlife crisis, or worse - second childhood stage - I just hope they get over the punk-emo, "oh-I'm so in like Fall Out Boy/My Chemical Romance" stage antics. It's getting a bit old. I mean c'mon, you've got a cache of old great songs, don't ruin it please. Even if it's not the same without Rico, you don't go killing what you have. It worked well when Bamboo left. It can work well without Mr. Blanco.
After Rivermaya, came in Jamie Kennedy. For people who were not used to Jamie Kennedy's brand of brash stand-up comedy humor, it was a little too much when he was dishing out his sex jokes on stage. Those with wider thinking, enjoyed the show laughing out loud at his antics. I, on the other hand, thought he could've done better. His material needed more material. You got to hand it to the man though, as he tried his best to speak in the vernacular - joke wise.
At last, after the long wait, Matt Scannell and the rest of the band came to the stage. I could not recall what their first song was but I remember everyone getting up and singing along.
With a background history as a Christian music band, Vertical Horizon, is very popular in the alternative music circles. To the whole world, they are known as the band that gave you hits like "Everything You Want" and "You're a God." But for alternative music lovers, there are certainly more songs in their albums. Enjoying a good deal of airplay in local stations such as Jam 88.3, 99.5 RT, NU 107.5 and the former 103.5 K-Lite (which I certainly miss - specially the era of The Blade), songs like "Best I've Ever Had," "Send It Up," "Finding Me," and "Forever," were in the top ten list of requested songs.
I don't know if the band had this knowledge on how popular their songs are (or to the audience who are in the coliseum). By concert standards, it was a pretty sedate crowd. But from what I gathered from the band's reaction to the crowd singing along MOST to their songs - it's something priceless. I'm guessing that they never thought an ocean and several flyer miles would make them popular here. Well, I'm happy to say, as much as I had fun singing along I think they had some fun themselves for stopping over Manila.
It's one of the best concerts I've watched (Matt Scannell's voice did not change live, it's the same, and they sounded great)... and I certainly hope it won't be the rare ones.
Now I'm wishing Dave Matthews Band will come here too.
Starting from Negative One
The year 2007 was not a really bad year to me. I had fun most of the year - career wise, and a slump as usual in the social department. However, no matter how great things were, life suddenly throws you a curve ball. The biggest blow in my life happened in the 15th of November when my father died. I was expecting Christmas to be exceptionally happy this year, but unfortunately, this was not the case. New Year was bittersweet too. I was planning to go on a trip with my family, I ended up spending New Year in a nice place missing the people I want beside me.
But then I'm not really sad, with the bad came the good. My brother came home from Canada (because of what happened), and it was good seeing him (though I wish it was in a happier circumstance).
I get to move out of the house and finally got my own. I love the "independent thing." And with what's happened, nobody questioned my immediate decision to leave the coop.
I made sure my schedule has room to visit my dad in his "new home." He visits me in my dreams when I don't - never argue with the dead.
2008: New year, new life, new house, new business, new people and places to discover! Though I'm starting from negative one in the scale, I'm actually looking forward to a better year. Anything can happen.
But then I'm not really sad, with the bad came the good. My brother came home from Canada (because of what happened), and it was good seeing him (though I wish it was in a happier circumstance).
I get to move out of the house and finally got my own. I love the "independent thing." And with what's happened, nobody questioned my immediate decision to leave the coop.
I made sure my schedule has room to visit my dad in his "new home." He visits me in my dreams when I don't - never argue with the dead.
2008: New year, new life, new house, new business, new people and places to discover! Though I'm starting from negative one in the scale, I'm actually looking forward to a better year. Anything can happen.
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