Eh-hum # 32

Thanks to jac for this survey.

[Shampoo and Conditioner]: At present, I am using Head and Shoulders. I rarely use a conditioner, but if I do, it’s Cream Silk.
[Bags]: I prefer big bags. I am using my ESPRIT bag for work. I am saving up for a nice UCB backpack or a shoulder bag. Also, I have 2 big Old Navy bags.

[T-shirts]: Giordano ever. I buy my blouses at SM Dept. Store.

[Pants]: Slacks for the office at SM Dept. Store, khakis or denims either Hang Ten or Giordano. Being “well-rounded”, I might try Tubby.
[Lotion]: Jergens lotion.

[Shoes]: Ohrelle or Cardams. I am still using my 2-year-old Addidas rubber shoes and my since-high-school Skechers. I have these nice black KEDS that I use for work.

[Facial cleanser]: Pond’s facial wash.

[Make-up]: No make-up, just Chapstick.

[Wallet]: I’m using my Hang Ten wallet (a gift from a lovely friend). However, I am thinking of buying a new one, perhaps Girbaud?

[Pens]: PILOT!!

[Cell phone]: Am using a cute Nokia 5210.

[Underwear]: Triumph and SO-EN.

[Watch]: I have two Swatch watches and my mom’s Gucci that needs new batteries.

[Pillow Case/Bed sheet]: My mom’s hand me downs (but are in good condition).

[Furniture]: No idea, but our house if filled with NARRA-made furniture.

[Caps]: Rarely wear a cap or hat. If I do, I borrow from my brother.

[Magazines]: Time Magazine. We also have a collection of National Geographic Magazines.[Books]: Nothing specific. But I am trying to collect all of JRR Tolkien’s works. I really need to visit Power Books soon.

[Chocolate]: KITKAT!!!

[Candy]: I am more of a gum person: Juicy Fruit, Orbit, etc.

[Medicine]: I try to take Vitamin E everyday.

[Popcorn]: Not really a fan of popcorn. Prefer Junk food.

[Cologne/Perfume]: Victoria’s Secret Garden (Love Spell) among other scents.

[Swimwear]: I CAN’T SWIM!!!

[Jewelry]: Earrings and necklace only. I wear bracelets on special occasions.

[Sunglasses]: I have these Penshoppe sunglasses.

[Computer]: Clone desktop PC that has a COMPAQ keyboard and LG monitor.

[Drink (Alcoholic)]: Mule and Bailey’s.

[Drink (Non-alcoholic)]: Water and iced tea.

[Soap]: Dove soap.

[Automobile]: God-willing, I’d like a SUV Jeep or Volkswagen.

[Fuel/Gasoline]: I prefer diesel.

[Restaurant]: Nothing in particular, as long as it’s clean and the food’s great.

[Dessert]: Belgian Waffle or simple sorbetero ice cream.

[Coffee]: Starbucks (Café Mocha with double shots of Espresso).

[Printer]: Canon bubble jet.

Eh-hum # 31

GAMBATTE KUDASAI!!!

Its November ladies and gentleman! Notice how 6:00 am still looks like 5:00 am, or the nights started to get a little more breezy? Of course, don’t forget the department store sales (Finally, I was able to buy a nice pair of Giordano khaki pants for half the price). Christmas is definitely in the air. I just hope our pockets can take the pressures of the coming holiday season.

For interested parties, its official: last 28 October 2004, I enrolled at the Ateneo De Manila University for my Masteral degree. I will be taking 6 units this semester and hopefully both of the subjects will be on a Saturday (yep, still negotiating for a schedule. However, I won’t mind if it will be after office hours, thanks to the Purple Line). In fairness, the registration process went smoothly and I finished everything around 9:30 am. After that, my parents and I had lunch at Max’s Restaurant in Katipunan. I definitely would not pass up a free, scrumptious meal.

I really don’t want to dwell on how I came up with the decision, since I don’t want to compare school (or maybe, I didn’t pass UP? Heheh, I forgot to call them up last 29 October, so I would not know). However, let me just say that I'm confident I made the right choice, even though it is a thesis program (for those who really know me: a repeat perhaps?). Honestly, I am excited with this new endeavor and looking forward to the knowledge and opportunities that comes with the program. However, I am also worried about the possibility of time management difficulties, so I would have to organize my work and my studies.

DRAGON in the JUNGLE

Over the weekend (during the UNDAS celebration), I was able to spend some quality time with the television. I was able to watch this movie that I would consider a favorite of mine: Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story (1993). Judging from the title, it’s a movie about the life of 1960’s-70’s Hong Kong martial arts superstar Bruce Lee. Eh-hum, though amazing as he is, I am not here to talk about the legendary Bruce but another Lee who played him in the mentioned movie: Jason Scott Lee (nope, no relation). I thought Jason made a stellar performance in this movie, and looked pretty hot while doing it (yep, sporting the “ripped but not too bulky” look). Like Zang Ziyi and “Come Drink With Me” star (for those who watches Discovery Channel), Pei-pei Cheng, Jason Scott Lee is also a dancer and has no kung fu training when he took this role. I bet the flexibility helped him execute those mind-blowing martial arts moves. Though critics say he has leading man potential, I read that he’d rather take supporting roles and pursue a career on the stage (he plays the Thai King in "The King and I").

If you get to see this movie and enjoyed Jason Scott Lee’s acting (or his physique), you should also check out 1994’s The Jungle Book, where Jason plays the (adult) Mowgli, the Indian youth raised by wolves. He’s cute here.

Eh-hum # 30

My 30th post! ALRIGHT! Why am I so glad about this? Well, I thought I will be too lazy (or too busy) to share my thoughts on this here blog. But as it turns out, I am doing fine, even though I average around 2 to 3 posts a week (hehehe, maybe even less). A new look eh? What say you? Hmmmm. I thought a change would be nice. To celebrate this momentous occasion, I shall make this a lengthier (and hopefully, a more interesting) post.

MASTER OF ARTS

After weeks of planning, coordinating with former professors and present supervisors, downloading some important documents and spending time out of the office, I am now qualified to take my graduate studies this second semester. I wanted to take my Masters earlier this year but due to the lack of funds, I was obliged to change my plans. I had to keep it a secret, rather, I decided to work it out quietly and mentioning it only to a few close friends. They say that the more you disclose any future plans, the more unlikely it will be fulfilled. FYI, I was able to submit the requirements last 27 September 2004, 3 days till deadline. Whew.

I applied for both UP and ADMU and the courses were quite similar. I am proud to say that I was accepted into ADMU, excited at the idea that I will be definitely starting this semester. However, I have yet to know the results of all the tests and the interview I had in UP. They were to announce the results late this week, which unfortunately, falls on ADMU’s enrolment schedule. Nonetheless, I still intend to contact UP for the results.

Honestly, the last two weeks has been confusing. If accepted to both universities, it will be a problem where to enroll. I consider both institutions excellent in their own right. More importantly, I believe that the courses I will take will grant me a higher level of competence and will enable me to define my chosen career path. I should point out that my decision will not be based on the tuition fees of the universities, which are (clearly) distinct. I am after the working environment, what the department can offer me and my performance as a graduate student. Education, I believe in some ways, is an investment. My family has been helping out in this decision. The funny thing is, when I think about this predicament, I realized it is not clear yet if I am going to be accepted in UP. We will wait and see and I will humbly share my decision before or after this coming weekend.

TOUGH AND FUNKY

I was surfing the Internet when I remembered a funny site an (former) office mate showed me back in 2001. The site is home to a series of flash animation that features the life of a weird yet lovable character named Mr. Boomba. Not sure if you have heard of this but it’s worthwhile to check it out. Here’s the link: http://www.boombastick.net/mainset.html. Enjoy!

Eh-hum # 29

How Timely.....

Just when I was sharing some (unhealthy?) thoughts on the Songbird, now here comes another concern raised by the televiewers. Yeah, I agree. I noticed how often Regine wears those, eh-hum, revealing gowns that does not exactly complements her (surgically enhanced) body. How about that haute-couture? In Zsa Zsa's case, i find her gowns for "Star in a Million" more sophisticated so she should've stick to that. Lady, you're not in your late 20's anymore.

Why is that some women have to wear something short, "binding" (thanks to Cher), sheer and revealing shirts, dresses or gowns to be considered SEXY? How you seen the movie Disclosure starring Michael Douglas and Demi Moore? Demi was wearing a corporate suit and she looks exceptionally sexy even though she was practically covered up. I personally think that being sexy has something to do with a person's attitude and the way she or he carries herself/himself. Showing off that much skin does not mean someone is sexy. In the case of Pinoy sexy star wannabes and starlets, it is definitely downright salacious and not in a bit sexy. More like nauseating. Unfortunately, many chauvinistic pigs don't know the difference.

Eh-hum # 28

GRP Quick Schemes

First, it was the ostensible fiscal crisis. Our economy is in peril, as they say, and if we don’t do something about it, we’re doomed. So, what was the government’s prescription? SAVE THE @#$!! FILIPINO’S MONEY. Oh yeah, we’re on a roll!

Solutions: 1. GMA launched the Austerity Program (Damn. It’s nerve-wracking, really). 2. The proper administration of tax collection (Yep, good, I like that a lot). 3. The GRP must find a way how to effectively purge, once and for all, graft and corruption (Oh dear. Can we say, Mission: Impossible?). 4. Do something about the country’s peace and order situation (Totally agree on that one).

5. Ask donations from everybody (As my friend Quasi would say: HUH?!?) WHAT THE HELL?!?!! In the beginning, it seemed like a good idea, banking on the innate generosity of politicians and businessmen (yeah, right). But, I don’t consider it as a solution. Solutions are expected to be LONG TERM. Asking donations may help, but for how long? If those politicians keep giving their money, the people will become AWFULLY suspicious that for a honest salary of P30,000.00++ per month, how come they are able to shell out millions of pesos in a snap? AHA, GOTCHA!!! For a time, this “solution” was highly publicized. Come on people! It’s a quick solution to a massive problem. GEEEZZZZZ.

Another quick scheme is the FOOD COUPONS, as an answer to hunger. Hmmm. Okay, that’s nice and all but, doesn’t that encourage indolence? I mean, they (the poor) just wait for the free food (YIPEEEE!!!!) and not attempt to make something out of their lives. What they need are programs that would assist them in the beginning, then eventually, they have (they must) to be on their own. It’s good that the GRP admitted that the coupons would be only temporary and now, they are thinking that the GRP should subsidize the food allocation (costing P6 Billion a MONTH!) for the poor. Uh-huh. Not bad, but not totally good either. While we shall witness (we should be assured) that the government funds are being utilized for the better good, am still suggesting those livelihood programs.

“Keep giving a man fish, he will learn nothing. Teach him how to fish, he will never grow hungry”. Or something like that.

On the Songbird

Two weeks ago, I was on my way home using the UBER-convenient MRT, I came across this billboard of Channel 7’s new soap: Forever in My Heart. First of all, I think it’s a pretty boring title. I mean, I still prefer those drama titles using just one Filipino word. Anyway, that’s not what this is about. In the billboard, we find Richard Gomez, Ariel Rivera and of course, the heroine of the soap (and among other Channel 7 productions), Ms. Regine “Asia’s Songbird” Velasquez.

Ms. Velasquez the Songbird. In the beginning, Regine was this young lady from Bulacan with an unbelievable voice. It was unique and it paved the way for a rewarding career. I remembered she starred in this corny movie that featured her singing prowess with a duet with one of the lead characters. It wasn’t a flattering arrangement, but what the hell, it’s still a movie and definite exposure. And then there were the major international singing contests. I was able to watch one and she was AMAZING. And after that, she had concerts and shows and albums and more movies. Sorry to say, but while Ms. Velasquez became more popular, she began to physically MORPH as well (nice nose). It was WAY OBVIOUS people, so no denying here.

Let me just share a few insights on the Songbird. First, I find Ms. Velasquez voice more beautiful before than it is now. Though she can still reach the highest note, it was not as unique as before. Second, for someone who is famous, I think it’s about time to coordinate with a professional designer. It was in the now renamed “Search for a Star” episodes that I saw the Songbird wearing some totally unsightly gowns (short dresses a definite no). You may be adored by the Filipino masses, but that’s not an excuse to wear anything less than haute-couture. Third, the acting. I am not too sure of her acting. She’s a wonderful singer and all, but a serious actress? I am still doubtful. It’s the same way I feel about Kris Aquino: excellent TV host, still a questionable actress. Fourth, the way she speaks (my mom would agree with me on this one) English. She does this thing with her mouth in order to achieve this certain (pa-sosyal) accent, and honestly, it’s pretty annoying. And lastly, I think she’s a little overexposed. I think Channel 7 is riding on her popularity way too much without really thinking if she can give 100% to the task. You may be good in one thing, but that doesn't mean you can do everything. Give her a break guys, the lady deserves it.

Nope, I don't hate the Songbird. Again, I am just sharing my insights (besides, this is my blog). Maybe, it wouldn’t hurt if we don’t see her on TV 24/7 since it’s possible that she’s going to burn out fast. Too much work and no play, makes a diva lose her star quality by being overworked.

Eh-hum # 27

UPDATES!

Oh dear. It has been almost 9 days since my last entry (I am not really sure if that is the longest). There’s no cause for alarm here folks. I am DETERMINED to keep the HENYO BLOG alive and kicking. Now, excuse me while I express myself.

So what has been happening? Well, the GRP’s austerity program is good and all, but it says a lot about my work. Good News or Bad News? I am not sure. However, I would appreciate it if management will tell us either way. OHBOYOHBOYOHBOYOHBOY. Now, reality is starting to sink in, therefore, I should be ready for more (inauspicious) surprises. While the idealist in me should consider the situation as a challenge (that will create room for personal growth, etc), the realist in me is pissed as hell. Life is unfair, they say. But the thing is, why can’t it be unfair for those who cheat, steal and lie? Should I be like them to make things evenhanded? Crap.

OKAY! Enough ranting. For the other things in life, I AM SO NERVOUS! I took this test and its results will definitely break or make me. Or at least, would cause some sort of awkwardness in the future if things didn’t go according to plan. I just hope that will not be the only basis. One down and one more to go. And this is suppose to be the easy one.

If you are wondering what I am talking about, perhaps I can share it sometime in mid-October. Hwehwehwehewe.

Abangan ang susunod na kabanata.

Eh-hum # 26

Officially unofficial...

I would like to announce that our fate now lies in the hands of the CABINET.

While I have been channeling the Higher Authorities, the future of our workplace is still uncertain.

However, I am pleased that we have set the foundation for CIP. I am proud of my officemate's contributions.

I am proud to be part of this office. And yes, we are still praying for the best.

HAPPY FIRST ANNIVERSARY TO US.

Eh-hum # 25

I FEEL....

Amazed. Can you believe Oprah? The other day, she gave her audience PONTIAC CARS each!!! Let me just repeat that....SHE GAVE AWAY PONTIAC CARS TO MEMBERS OF HER AUDIENCE!!! I cannot believe the influence this lady has, that even a major car company cannot say NO. Just when you thought all those books, clothes and food are cool enough, she had to give her audience cars. No wonder she's America's highest paid talk show host. Wish we are thisclose.

Appalled. Eugene Armstrong. A normal American finds himself in Iraq at the worst possible time. He's one of the three Westerners to be taken hostage by Iraqi insurgents. Last Monday, he was beheaded. I cannot imagine the pain this incident brought to his family. According to CNN correspondents, it was a gruesome sight and the sounds are even worse. I don't have the stomach for this since I know the images will haunt me for the rest of my life. Now, reports say that another American and second of the hostages, Jack Hensley, fell to the same fate. The last of the hostages, a British named Kenneth Bigley, must be praying really hard that his life will be spared. This, of course, is hoping against hope. We know the Bush and Blair governments have chosen not to negotiate with the terrorists. Death of military officers are somewhat expected (and often denotes heroism), but the senseless death of a civilian is unbearable.

Eh-hum # 24

Bawal Magkasakit.

It has been more than two weeks since my last entry and I have a very good reason why I was unable to update my BLOG: I was sick for the last 5 days.

So, why was I sick? I got sick because of my brother, got too close and then caught whatever virus he has. I obviously have low resistance at the time, so it was no surprise that I find myself lying beside my brother getting some "motherly" treatment the following day.

For 5 days, I was not eating properly, therefore eating less of everything. This is not a good thing, believe me, because I lost my sense of taste and even had some problem chewing my food. Being unable to savor your food is a BAD, BAD THING. Part of enjoying your meal is its taste, without it, what’s the point of eating? Since I can’t eat, my stomach's usually empty. When I do eat something, it acts up, leaving me with this nauseating feeling. Also, I couldn’t drink as much water as I wanted to since my stomach was empty.

Then my temperature skyrocketed, and I can even feel the heat rising from my eyes, face and hands. It was amazingly uncomfortable and with all that body heat, you can’t sleep properly. I thought I was going to burst into flames (Okay, so maybe that’s too much imagination). Also, I cannot stay directly in front of the air-conditioner to cool down for the fear of getting even sicker.

Lastly, since I would spend the whole day resting, my whole body hurts, especially my back. I also had a hard time sleeping because I am constantly searching for a comfortable sleeping position; this of course, adds pressure to my back.

Being sick leaves your body battered and doing the simpliest task can be tiring. Hence, I rather come to work everyday and be completely well then stay home drinking tons and tons of medicines and eating some mush. I wouldn’t mind staying at home to enjoy some quality TV time, but I definitely don’t want to be sick.

Now, am feeling better than last week, but my taste buds are still on the road to recovery.

Eh-hum # 23

The BERS

Hello! I just realized that this week is also the first week of September. It’s the BER season, which means that Christmas is just around the corner, which is about 4 months. Heck, time flies while you’re having fun, or at least busy with something. IN FAIRNESS, busy ako. This is not, as my officemate says, A.I.D.S. (as if doing something). Busy for work and that other plan. Will share it when the time comes.

The BASH (hehehehe)

I was able to watch the Buzz last Sunday, and I thought John Lapuz made an impressive impersonation of Kris Aquino.

Speaking of Kris, I find Mark Lapid funny, if not foolish. I mean, am surprised that while Pampanga is very much affected by the recent floods, its dikes about to give way and the huge number of people homeless, he has time to comment on the issue that he two-timed Kris Aquino. In the love game, Ms Aquino should be extra careful of struggling actors, politicians and/or actors who plan to run for office. Her lineage and people skills pretty much says it all.

There’s this particular segment of the show that I try to catch. It used to be called “Stop Me”, now it’s named as “Nakakata-Quote”. Honestly, I don’t know which title is better. The segment features showbiz personalities that are, um, let’s just as say, has no knack for the English language. Barok, ika nga. Yep, pretty degrading stuff here, but since I am EVHUL, I find it damn entertaining. And I notice, the usual victims of the segment are sexy starlets. Uh-huh, those girls (and sometimes guys) in their late teens and early twenties who decided to make easy money by showing way too much skin. Obviously, since they didn’t prioritize their education (and whatever values that were taught to them), they lack the, uh, skills to effectively communicate, therefore they miserably fail in their attempt to sound “sosyal”. Ladies, there’s nothing wrong speaking in Filipino. Ang paggamit ng Filipino ay hindi nangangahulugan na mababa and iyong pinag-aralan. Mas importante na malinaw mong mailahad ang mga (makabuluhang) kwento’t ideya mo. Oh well, there’s a problem in showbusiness: You can’t enjoy success as yourself.

What say you?

Eh-hum # 22

“Class struggles”

Nope, will not talk about communism here. I was watching TV last Saturday night and switched to the local channels. Imbestigador’s topic was about the living (barely) conditions of the poorer population of the country, mostly the squatters. I think the title of the episode was “Yagit”.

The episode’s aim was to generate sympathy among the televiewers or raise awareness of their difficult lives. I am saddened by their situation, really. But, I am pissed at their attitude and how they would blame everybody BUT themselves for their hardships. To be honest, I have little concern to those people who would lie in the streets all day than those who put some effort and try to earn a living. I am also appalled by the tendencies of the typical “masa male” to squander what little money they have on cigarettes, gambling, booze and women when they should be feeding their families. Furthermore, I don’t understand that given their present state, they have more than 3 children, some reaching to a dozen. What is it, carnal needs over practicality? Or more manpower? I hate it when they send their children on the streets to work while they stay at home to wait. Also, being poor is NOT AN EXCUSE NOT TO KEEP YOUR SORROUNDINGS CLEAN. Everything time I go to work, I pass at this particular district which used to be a sprawling business center (clue: there stands a revered church). Now, its home to perhaps, hundreds of squatters who badly needs a lesson (a course even) on waste management and hygiene. I would suggest that the place should be evacuated and burned to the ground to sanitize it. Afterall, desperate times calls for desperate measures.

Worst of all, these people do not pay taxes and politicians, especially during election time, are prioritizing them over those who are shouldering everything. Their huge numbers and destitute conditions are a sweet talking, re-electionist’s dream, and the taxpayer’s nightmare. Biased? Can afford to say all these things because I am not in the same position? The thing is, my parents came from humble beginnings too, but that did not stop them to stay that way for the rest of their lives. Hard work, efficiency, honesty and faith in God paid off (with love, of course). These people need to help themselves and not totally depend on others. The government could teach them or provide them with basic things. From there, they will have to make most of what was taught and what was given. I guess they were hasty in thinking that life in the city was better compared to their hometown, considering that they have very little money and formal education. Obviously, they are too trusting of people who coaxed them to come here. These so-called friends pretend to help them, and then eventually exploit them. On the other hand, I do hope that those greedy officials from the provinces where these people came from are watching and absorbing every minute of it.

Eh-hum # 21

Back to work.

The storm (or no storm) has passed and am back at work. While some areas of the country are still flooded, it has become manageable here in the metropolis. Especially if your family owns a vehicle with big wheels. The heavy rains and floods gave the work force 2 days of rest, however, staying at home can be a bit boring. However, thanks to the TV and a good book, it wasn’t so bad.

Speaking of TV, I was able to catch Ranma ½, which is a favorite of mine. This series is absolutely HILARIOUS. I doubt if anyone has not heard of it since it was based on the popular manga with the same title during the early 1990’s (I think). It rides on this unusual idea of mostly teen-aged martial artists turning into something else when poured with cold water and returning to “normal” with hot water (due to this Chinese spring). Of course, the show also talks about love and romance, even in the strangest circumstances. While it is funny, its humor is NOT applicable to kids. Before, I was thinking of buying a compilation of the series (as well as Ruoruoni Kenshin and Gundam Wing), especially its OVAs. Wonder where to look? Hmmmm…

Pork Diet.

The country is in a fiscal crisis according to the President, while her economic team says it isn’t so. Am no Economist and I don’t know what a fiscal crisis is, but it definitely sounds BAD. And what contributes to this is the HUGE debt and rampant GRAFT. Of course, let’s not ignore the continuous increase in fuel prices, which has a domino effect on almost everything with commercial value. What are we to do?!?

Save, save, save. Waste not, want not. Haste is Waste. Conserve energy. Pay your taxes according to the law. This is something both the people and the government should do.

And then there’s the controversial pork barrel.

From what I understand, it’s the funds used by our esteemed(????) leaders, solons and magistrates for their projects. I wonder who gave that name? It’s the subject of much scrutiny, asking if they are really using it for the benefit of the majority, especially the taxpayers. Well, I guess judging from all that Lexus, Mercedes, BMWs, mansions, prime lots, escort service (hyuk), etc, the answer is a resounding MAYBE….actually, a couple of notches from NO.

The solution? Give up the barrel (last paragraph please). 9 Senators said they are willing to take only 50% of the total, while the others seem to be clueless. Others are demanding that they should cut everything, as in totally eradicate the funds. I bet its not going to be easy, and some of them might get a heart attack just thinking about it. Waitaminute. Too much pork fat leads to high blood and then the risk of heart failure. Diet anyone?

Eh-hum # 20

Bookworm

MY 20th POST!!! Isn’t it grand? Just when I thought I won’t be able to update my blog at least once a week. Whew.

Today it started out ok, until it rained, rained and rained. The result? Floods in the big city. Since our Exalta is hardly amphibious, we decided to turn back. As anticipated, classes are suspended, my brother at home while my sister at her dorm. It’s a relief that the higher authorities decided to suspend work today, though I couldn’t say the same for the private sector. However, I whished I had brought home some stuff from the office so I wouldn’t missed our deadline (yes, I AM SERIOUS). After four hours upon our return, it’s still raining. And guess what? No storm. Is this erratic change in weather patterns are caused by global warming and pollution? We better do something or else…

Lethal combination: cool weather, nice couch and TV. And finally, I get to watch OPRAH. Though am no super fan, but I think she’s one smart lady and has good taste. I think she’s one of those few celebrities who loves to read (while others are partying way too hard and getting arrested on the process). I would like to be an audience in her show and get all those cool giveaways (I remembered she gave her audience rubber shoes, Reebok I think), the free taste and the books. Aaaahhh, the books that are recommended by her Book Club. The Oprah’s Book Club was put on hold for a pretty long time, am not sure why, then it was revived for the summer (U.S. time). The book that brought back the club was The East of Eden by John Steinbeck. The only book I’ve read with the club’s nod was White Oleander. That was a good read.

I am no book critic, but I usually say if I find a book good or bad. I like to read and I wouldn’t mind spending the whole afternoon just reading. Unfortunately, since books are not cheap and work leaves me bushed, I don’t get to read, or buy books, as much as I want. I have a small collection of books, some of them are required readings at school but good nonetheless (yep, including the Good Earth, believe it or not). However, I am trying to make time. Now, I am reading Wild Swans (The Three Daughters of China). It’s about three generations of women, their loved ones and their struggles before and after the Cultural Revolution in China. It’s sort of an authobiographical and historical novel. It’s poignant at the same time highly informative (especially on details of Mao’s rule). I bought the book because I am also interested in stories about women and how they deal the challenges of living in a particular society in a given period.

I want to buy so many things and a great part of it are books. Why do I like to read. I can’t say, words fail me (maybe jac can help me out, hweheh).

Eh-hum # 19

Inspiration

I think it's a tad late for me to talk about the Olympics, however, I discovered something that I considered inspirational. It was 1936 and Berlin was the host of the Summer Olympics. By the way, during this time, Hitler was the leader of Germany. According to LIFE, the dictator intended to use the Games as a tool for Aryan (race) Supremacy. However, this wasn't realized because an African-American athlete named Jesse Owens dominated the track events when he won 4 GOLD MEDALS. While the German athletes treated him well, Hitler refused to shake his hand (sore loser). Here's a pic of Owens in fighting form from LIFE. Moral of the story is: 1) never let others put you down and 2) don't underestimate the capabilities of others. Galing noh?

Eh-hum # 18

Does this font work?

I am in the process of getting to know the other features of the HENYO Blog. Call me silly, I didn't know you can actually change the font in your post. Geeeezzzz.

What's in a font? It could set the mood or give the sentence/words some "emotions". Like, if you use Arial, its a bit serious as compared to Comic Sans. Monotype Corsiva is feminine while Arial Black seems masculine. I like Garamond, which we refer to as the Harry Potter font. Its not as, uh, serious as Times New Roman, and not too big either. Color can also be a factor to the emotion the fonts give. Of course, you have to use the color and font accordingly, like you can't use bright yellow when sending your supervisor a letter, he'll (or she) will go blind, or Balloon for a memo.

Now, back to my question, does this font work for my blog? Hmmmmm....how about 2 more posts eh?