Eh-hum # 117

Thanks to Liza for this　（While I have still time to slack off, hehehehe）.

20 years ago I . . .
Was in kindergarten at Maryknoll Child Study Center

10 years ago I . . .
Was 16 years old, a junior in highschool.

5 years ago I. . .
Was a junior in Miriam College, involved in both curricular and extra-curricular activities.

3 years ago I . . .
Was on a sabbatical, waiting for my target job.

1 year ago I . . .
Was a researcher for the GRP’s premier academic and (defense) research institution.

So far this year . . .
Has been interesting, an adventure with new experiences.

Yesterday . . .
I attended a bible study/small get-together with other Filipino students in Japan.

Today I . . .
Went to school and to my sensei’s office (to use the Internet).

Tomorrow I will . . .
Open an account at the Ginkou and take a test at the International Student Center to know my schedule at the Nihonggo Class.

In the next year I will . . .
Be going home to the Philippines after my exchange program.

In the next minute, I will tag . . .
the friendly friends.

Eh-hum # 116

Its already my 5th day in cool and peaceful Kobe, Japan. I would’ve updated this blog earlier, but the lack of an accessible Internet connection (meaning from the comfort of my dorm room) made it difficult to do so. Also, I have not adjusted well enough for me to include a picture of myself SMILING in the midst of Kobe’s picturesque sites. That’s how I felt in the first two days, but what made me look forward to my stay here is the fact that I’ve meet three Filipinas already. Nothing like a Kababayan to make you feel at ease.

Nonetheless, I’ve taken some shots of the view from my dorm (see above), which consists of mainly two things: Port Island’s apartment buildings and a view of mighty Rokko-san, the mountain where Kobe University is comfortably located.

Since I am missing home so much, let me just say that Kobe University is like UP Diliman, except that UP Diliman is nowhere near a mountain and the transportation is way cheaper. The two are alike because of the sprawling land areas both universities are built upon. Moreover, both institutions are open to the public; people who are not necessarily students can just go in and out of the campus area. While UP has its stray dogs and cats, Kobe has its wild pigs. Yeah, WILD PIGS. I shouldn’t fuss about this, but I am not a fan of situations where panic is inevitable. My adviser tried to console me about the University’s resident wildlife: “We don’t have wild pigs as big as Rokko Mountain”. Great...I wonder if the other exchange students know about this…hwehehehe.

Food is an important concern of mine. I have been eating mostly BREAD since I came to this country and it’s driving me nuts. Forget about losing weight, I need nourishment (I went to a convenient store this morning and brought me some prepared grub; its expensive but me stomach cannot wait. Besides, I have ulcer). Sigh, this is problem if you don’t do ANY cooking. I spoke to my mother last night and requested her to send me through e-mail (my brother’s charging her P50 every time she asks him to open the computer) a list of dishes I could prepare. So kitchen, watch out for Chef Concon, BWAHAHAHAHAHA!

Eh-Hum # 115

Ohayou Gozaimasu!

I came, I saw and I attempted to speak Japanese. I arrived at Kansai International Airport yesterday evening (8:15, Japan time). The flight made me a little dizzy but other than that, it was a good trip. My adviser, his wife, and my tutor were at the airport to pick me up and brought me to the guest room.

While I was waiting for the plane to leave from NAIA, I wished that my family was with me on this trip, but I`ve realized I needed this opportunity to finally grow up and be challenged. For the longest time,　I thought of/treated life as a walk in the park. Applying for this exchange program and getting accepted shows that I`ve decided to jump over the white picket fences and take a stroll down on some unfamiliar street.

Its now time to show what I am made of. Gambatte Kudasai!

Eh-hum # 114

Just a note

After two years of using the serene "Harbor" template, I've decided to change my blog's look. With my cellphone as inspiration, I kinda like the blend of the blues (see clock) and the browns. Notice that I took the tagboard out, thanks to those tiresome spammers who keep clogging it with senseless ads. Anyhoo, I hope Henyo's visitors will like this template as well.

CRIKEY!! This is just sad. Who would've thought that such a fate could befall on famed zoologist and part-time celebrity Steve "Crocodile Hunter" Irwin. We have seen the guy appear in movies (a cameo plus a starring role) and late night talk shows, but I guess he will be most remembered as the quirky and nutty Aussie who loved his family and his job; protecting mother nature, especially her crocodiles. Animal Planet will never be the same without Irwin. From this part of the world, my condolences to his family and friends.

Eh-hum # 113

(Random)Pictures! Pictures!

What do you get when a Lion and a Tigress (or a Lioness and Tiger) decides to "get it on"? A National Geographic documentary? Well, maybe...how about LIGERS, like the brothers above.

Someone, am sure, we rarely see in entertainment section of websites and other forms of media. Meet Angelina Jolie's mother, Marcheline Bertrand.

Call me silly, but this is one of the many reasons why I prefer not to swin in large bodies of water (the most important reason is not knowing how to swim). Don't want to meet one of these bad boys (or girls).

"Mah Fellow Amerrcuns"...just kidding, y'all. Guess who's the real President George "Dubya" Bush.

Eh-hum # 112

I have taken pictures of the “kids”, but I haven’t downloaded them from my camera (because, as you know, I’m too lazy to do so). So, I’ll skip this item for now.

What I did during the long weekend cannot be described as relaxing. While I was looking forward to just watching TV until my head explodes, I was compelled to clean my room and organize my stuff (and my sister’s) in boxes. Had my room repainted and the plywood for my ceiling changed. The rainy days brought some damage to the roof ; hence, my room was soaked with rain water. We took advantage of the fine weather we’ve been having lately and suddenly, my room’s clean! Also, I was able to finally throw out the things that I don’t need and collects dust. Not so bad when you think about it.

Its official: I am leaving for Japan by the end of September 2006. I haven’t told that many people yet because I still can’t believe I was accepted as an exchange student at Kobe University (even though I have been informed last 01 July). It will be under a scholarship and good for one year. I am thrilled, of course, since I’ve always wanted to study in Japan, it doesn’t matter if it’s less than a year or that I will be only taking a few courses. Whatever I gained there for the next 10 to 12 months would complement my studies at my home university. This would also be a good opportunity for me to enhance my Japanese as well as begin research work on my MA thesis. And hopefully, get to visit Studio Ghibli/Ghibli Museum.

Excited as I am, I can’t help but to feel a little tense with the idea of me living ALONE in a foreign country for a year. I can’t help think that once I get there, I will have a bad case of homesickness. My brother, the youngest in the family, is not too happy with me leaving. My sister is already living at a condo unit near where she works; he will be alone (but not lonely, am sure). Moreover, my dad will be leaving abroad for work soon. So, mom, my brother and Merly will be residing in a 6-room bungalow in the laidback San Bartolome.

Sad as it seems, it is for the best. This is also an opportunity for me to independent and apply whatever survivor skills my parents and reality TV has thought me. Just kidding, it wouldn’t kill me to be self-sufficient. Also, I am already in my mid-20s, so this exchange program couldn’t come at a better time.

In preparation for my study trip, my mom was benevolent enough (always has, by the way) to buy me a new laptop. When we got to the computer shop yesterday, I was amazed how affordable computer notebooks are nowadays. My sister’s laptop (a.k.a. Ramon) is more than PhP 70,000.00; mine’s less than PhP 46,000.00. It’s a good buy (from a not so techie point of view) since its capable of wireless Internet and has a DVD/CD burner. More importantly, its 1-year warranty is recognized at service centers abroad, including Japan.


***


I know this is a little late (and not at all related to the previous topic), but I have come to the conclusion that one member in every boy band is gay. It’s just sad that they have to hide their sexuality in order to part of a popular group. Why can’t they perform as themselves, and not pretend to be straight in order to earn a living.

Eh-hum.

Eh-hum # 111

'Tis August and I can't decided whether to be excited or nervous...eh-hum.

I haven't had the opportunity to think what I am suppose to write on next. Still a little shaken by my uncle's death (I pray that he is in heaven, drinking and smoking to his heart's content with my Tito Ed, my mother's kuya and his friend), I realized that I will never be ready for that day (or days) the Lord decides to call either of my parents to His place. When that happens, you can't helped but to be overcome with emotion that you do not realize that it is part of life. You don't know what you got til its gone...you try to remember every feeling, every memory and every detail that will help you remember what life was when they're still with you. Sigh. Life is a gift from God, it should be spent wisely. As one movie's tagline goes: Life's about the Journey. Enjoy the ride with your loved ones and friends, while the road's still straight and less bumpy and the car is in good condition and has comprehensive insurance.

Our growing "kids" are growing up fast, and have no idea that playtime is not synonymous to uprooting plants, digging up holes, tearing up paper and plastic and chewing mud guards of a car. I am talking about our mixed black Labradors, Balto (or Buster) and Chile. I haven't taken pictures of them, but I will soon, perhaps publish it on this very post. More on this when I have the photos. ;)

The weather has not been kind, especially two weeks ago. I was forced to evacuate and stay at my sister's room. Its funny that during the first night, I was not able to sleep soundly. Eventhough its just one room away, namahay pa rin ako. Hmp....

Eh-hum # 110

Last week, my Tito Sonny passed away. He was 62.

He died of complications to his lungs. Am not particularly sure the medical terms, whether it is pneumonia or emphysema; but it was critical enough for him to use a ventilator. He stayed in the hospital for one and a half months before God decided to grant him eternal life. He couldn't speak and used a whiteboard to communicate with his family. He was survived by his wife and two children, who thankfully are now working.

The last time I saw Tito Sonny was perhaps last year. My father has always expressed that his kuya was generous and laid back, and I totally agree. Initially, I was afraid to look at him; afraid that the pain he suffered will be reflected in his face ( I would rather remember him as this person who was soft-spoken and down-to-earth). Fortunately, he looked peaceful and content. I am sure that he is in a better place right now, and he deserves it.

The only good thing about this whole experience was that I had the chance to spend time with my cousins (from my father's side) whom I rarely meet. I look forward to getting to know them better.

Eh-hum # 109

Eh-hum, congratulations to Italy and her fans.

Yun lang, hehe

***

I got this from Liza:

List 10 songs you are into right now. No matter what the genre, whether they have words, or even if they're any good, but they must be songs you're really enjoying now. Post these instructions in your blog along with your ten songs. Then tag ten other people to see what they're listening to.

Here goes my Playlist:


Wish You Were Here- Incubus

Hikari - Utada Hikaru

Pardon Me - Incubus

Blue and Yellow - The Used

One Way Ticket - The Darkness

Its Gonna Rain - Bonnie Pink

I Want You - Savage Garden

Inner Smile - Texas

Travelling - Utada Hikaru

When I Get You Alone - Thicke


Kahit sino pwede sumagot...:)

Eh-hum # 108

Adik na sa blogthings...heheh

Your Values Profile

Loyalty: You value loyalty a fair amount. You're loyal to your friends... to a point. But if they cross you, you will reconsider your loyalties. Staying true to others is important to you, but you also stay true to yourself. Honesty: You value honesty a fair amount. You're honest when you can be, but you aren't a stickler for it. If a little white lie will make a situation more comfortable, you'll go for it. In the end, you mostly care about "situational integrity." Generosity: You value generosity a fair amount. You are all about giving, as long as there's some give and take. Supportive and kind, you don't mind helping out a friend in need. But you know when you've given too much. You have no problem saying "no"! Humility: You value humility a fair amount. You tend to be an easy going, humble person. But occasionally your ego takes over. You have a slight competitive streak - and the need to be the best. Tolerance: You value tolerance highly. Not only do you enjoy the company of those very different from you... You do all that you can to seek it out interesting and unique friends. You think there are many truths in life, and you're open to many of them.

The Five Factor Values Test

Eh-hum # 107

See, see?!!

This is exactly why I did not vote for the likes of "this girl Maria Ana Consuelo Madrigal", or Jamby, in the Senate during the last, or the coming, elections. As Philippine Star columnist Federico Pascual, Jr said, "Senators worthy of the office are cast from sterling silver, not from cheap copper".

Who died and gave her the authority to go to the Netherlands and "negotiate" with Jose Ma. Sison, aka Joma, and Luis Jalandoni to discuss the "socio-economic and political crisis" of the country. HELLO?!? We have a more capable and authorized negotiating panel to do that.

What's worse, Sison disclosed that the CPP-NPA-NDF signed a communique with the Opposition stating that they would "work" together to remove PGMA from office before February 2007. Reports gave us the impression that as a member of the Opposition, Jamby signed the said communique. So, the Opposition decided to team up with the leaders of the CPP-NPA-NDF to topple the Arroyo administration. What I am afraid of is what's going to happen if they succeed; do these "bourgeois politicians" really know what they're getting into? Eh-hum, there are no permanent allies, only permanent interests.

Madrigal said that she went to the Netherlands in her capacity as a "senator and a peace advocate". If she considers herself as a peace advocate and a public official, she should've stayed HERE and WORKED HER BUTT OFF to help improve the lives of those affected by the internal armed conflicts; not going all the way to Europe and signing a deal with two individuals who are, unfortunately, considered as international terrorists and as enemies of the state. A publicity stunt on her part that goes against (as in head-on) a stated public policy. Whose side is she on, anyway? Certainly not the Filipino people, which according to Fr Romeo Intengan, S.J., "whose poverty is aggravated by an insurgency that increasingly burdens poor communities and households with taxation and conscription". Moreover, Madrigal completely ignored the sacrifices made by our soldiers and law enforces during encounters with the insurgents and the losses suffered by their families.

Great, what's next?

Eh-hum # 106

Huwaw!! July already?! Seems like I'm the only one moving at a moderate pace; the time and most people are too fast...too furious, hehehe. Oh well.

Congratulations to THE Pacman for winning yesterday's slug fest against Mexicano Oscar Larrios. The third round onslaught courtesy of Larios got us a little worried; but Pacquiao soon recovered and clobbered his nemesis to a pulp, especially on the seventh and twelfth rounds. A KO would have been sweeter, but seeing Larios' cut under the left eye and the blood gushing out made me pity the fellow. Tsk, tsk. Boxing pays big money, but at what price? Oh yeah, I also would like to congratulate the pre-fight, uh, fights in which all Pinoy boxers defeated their Mexican counterparts. Mabuhay Kayong Lahat!

While I am upset with the Miami Heat's win over the Dallas Mavericks last month, I can't imagine what is like to be a hardcore Brazilian fan at this point. In case you've been sleeping under a rock, World Cup defending champs Brazil was booted out of the competition thanks to France. Eerily enough, this was not the first time Brazil was defeated by France, its actually the third time. Perhaps in the next World Cup, Brazil should make sure that France is eliminated early on. With the South American contender out of the way, its a rare all European face-off: France, Portugal, Italy and host Germany. However, World Cup fans expect a French-German match up in the end. As for us belonging in this part of the world where soccer/football is perhaps second/third/fourth only to basketball, we can only wait and see.

Excuse my French, but I am starting to get really annoyed with Zhang Ziyi. She's beautiful and talented, no doubt about it. But she's just everywhere...and guess what? There are other equally (or more) beautiful and talented Asian actresses out there...Hollywood is just too damned lazy to notice. Perhaps this "annoyance" came from the news that Zhang will co-star in a remake of the epic Seven Samurai by the great Akira Kurosawa. Okay, fine, we let Memoirs of a Geisha pass (after all, it was written by a Westerner), now Hollywood wants to place its grimy hands on a Kurosawa classic? Couldn't they get at least an all-Japanese cast this time? Or were they afraid that the movie will not "sell" without a famous cast? Right! Who cares about authencity if the movie will not sell. That's Hollywood for you, tsk, tsk.

Eh-hum. However, I am still being kind to Zhang, you should see/read what the Hong Kong media say about her. Tsk, tsk.

Eh-hum # 105

Dito sa amin sa Research, ang walang ginagawa ay OP...mga adik kami sa trabaho...

How did I spend my weekend? Working as part of the secretariat in writeshop, what else? My boss, a colleague, my sister (!?) and I were in Silang, Cavite for a Family Welfare writeshop. It was quite tiring but we were able to finish ahead of schedule. On the other hand, I would very much would like to spend my weekends at home, watching TV till I get a migraine. Unfortunately, duty calls and I am compelled to answer. My sister had a blast though and is eager to echo some insights to her students in MC (yep, she's a teacher; a noble profession if you ask me).

This post will be dedicated to W-O-R-K, so it's not going to be that long. We are booked these last two weeks of June. YES...LAST TWO WEEKS. It crazy man, just crazy, how time flies when you're having...uh, fun.

I am not particularly good at public speaking, let alone conducting a lecture. But beginning today until Friday, I will be attending a course for potential trainors on dispute management/resolution which is sponsored by the "mother ship" and that country down under. I am about to burst a vein just thinking about it: speaking in front of 15 or so persons, each with a considerable amount of ego (what if I can't freaking answer their freaking questions!?). To keep myself from having a nervous breakdown, I just think that this would be a GREAT opportunity for me to develop my speaking skills...or lack thereof.

Eh-hum...

Eh-hum # 104

Quite accurate...and then some...heheh

Your Ideal Pet is a Big Dog

You're both energetic, affectionate, and a bit goofy.And neither of you seem to mind very slobbery kisses!

What's" Your Ideal Pet?

You Are 30% Evil

A bit of evil lurks in your heart, but you hide it well. In some ways, you are the most dangerous kind of evil.

How Evil Are You?

Eh-hum # 103

We are in the middle of June, and classes (for most students) have already started. As for me, I did not enroll this year (GASP!). Why? To put it simply, the subjects I still need are not being offered this semester. I’ll take this opportunity to assess my goals/plans for the future (and beyond).

Oh yeah, I want to greet my fellow Pinoys a belated HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY; I hope all of you feel independent from whatever, or whoever, we should be independent from (sigh).

I finally was able to watch Steamboy last 11 June 2006 at 2100 (Pinoy time). The animation is superb; a nice blend of computer generated images and hand-drawn/painted movements. Really, not even Disney blockbuster full-length animated features are a match to anime movies: the intensity of the plot, detailed illustrations and the fluidity of the character’s movements are indeed remarkable.

To reiterate, Steamboy’s animation is without a doubt amazing. Unfortunately, it overshadowed the story. There are moments that I find myself not interested and wanting to switch channels. I think the way they tried to convey the main lesson of the story was underdeveloped. Sayang, the message was very significant, even today (science without morals is dangerous). I was also unimpressed with the fight scenes. Nonetheless, the dubbing was good, especially Alfred Molina as Edward Steam. In most cases, I prefer subtitles to dubbing because I would like to hear the character’s original voices. For me, that somehow helps determine the personality of the characters. I am not particularly good of giving, uh, criticisms about movies, books and other mediums of entertainment (and learning), so those are the things I can come up with. I hope it made sense.

Movies that I hopefully will get to see...like soon:

With all due respect to Chicken Little fans, I think Disney should leave the CG animated movies to Pixar (even if the former bought the latter last year). "Cars" should prove that Pixar is still on top of its game.

I think Jack Black is a very cool and funny guy (watch School of Rock, da best!). Nacho Libre tells the story of an aspiring Priest who gets into the Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling) circuit to help save an orphanage. This sure will be crazy funny and at the same time heartwarming.

I rarely see romantic movies--I am more into epic adventures and action comedies. But when Sandra Bullock's in it, its usually entertaining. And when Keanu Reeves is in it, you can't help but STARE at him... The storyline is unrealistic, of course; but since this is a love story, anything seems possible.

More movies to come, stay tuned!