Eh-hum # 271

Cougars on the prowl and the last of the Spurmo(s)

Once you give a certain phenomenon a name, it becomes acceptable or at least less of a taboo to most people. One of which is the concept of a “cougar”. Of course, am not talking of the large exotic feline also referred to as a Mountain Lion, but close: women in their mid-30s (and beyond) who date younger men (10 years their junior usually).

Cougars, I mean, these ladies are literally on the prowl for, ehem, fresh meat. Well, I am not saying its wrong; women can date whoever they wish, as long they are of majority age (statutory rape should work both ways). But I find it all too confusing. I mean, why would an independent, successful and smart lady would date some eye candy whose mentality has not gone beyond college, bank account is virtually non-existent and foresight still under construction? Wouldn’t they be a liability rather than an asset? Could this be all about sex and not feeling one’s age? Isn’t it creepy that you and your teenage daughter have the same taste in guys?

Because how they are portrayed in the media, especially in the US’ entertainment industry, cougars are here to stay. I am sure they are couples out there who have the same set-up, but since they are not involved in the circus that is Hollywood, they are able to work out their differences without all that drama. Several weeks ago, my sister and I were figuring out who among the Philippine showbiz personalities fit the typical cougar category. “Kris Aquino?” I suggested. She made a face, “She has to have sex appeal”. Oh. Right. Sorry, Kris.

***

All this talk about feisty females brings me to another topic: Spurmo (what in God’s name are we doing to the English language?). Hmm. Without looking at the spelling, one could think we are talking about a man’s, uh, “boys” having the capacity to swim up the stream to meet their, uh, “date” and thus procreate. Wink, wink, nudge, nudge.

Yes and No, it is actually an acronym: “Straight, proud, unmarried male over 30” (well, it should’ve been called SPURMO 30, like a questionable household appliance). Characteristics of the archetypal Spurmo are as follows:

1. Checking out a woman means checking out if she has a wedding ring;
2. Your ex-girlfriends have “real” children to take care of (not men pretending to be boys);
3. You avoid the hot ladies in their early twenties because they tend to call you “tito”, “kuya”, or worse, “sir”;
4. Most of your earnings go to handsome sports car, car accessories, high-tech gadgets and other similar merchandise;
5. In your opinion, Cindy Crawford is still the best looking supermodel that ever lived;
6. In pop culture, Hannah Montana is still a child. Thus, you relate to her one-hit-wonder of a father; and
7. Recession has nothing to do with the economy, but with your hair.

The Spurmo is a single, successful fellow who does whatever he wants because he can pretty much support himself. Of course, there are some disadvantages, like being labeled as a “stud muffin”, being constantly set-up by your friends’ wives’ single girl friends, and dwindling number of serious drinking buddies since most of them are now family men. But do not fret; with dedication and hard work, you might end up being the local version of Hollywood’s alpha male and super spurmo, George Clooney. I said might.

(The topic on “spurmo” is taken from a local men’s magazine, MANUAL. This is what happens when your friendly neighborhood Starbucks ran out of more sensible reading material. But it was entertaining nonetheless).

Eh-hum # 270

Subject to change without prior notice.

Yep, I am working again. Let's just say they made me an offer I can't refuse; the compensation is (way) better than my previous job and the office is within walking distance from the train station. More importantly, I will doing some REAL research work, thus there is room for professional growth.

Higher salary means more responsibilities. While I'll be able to save more, balancing work and school will be challenging. But what's life without any? I just hope to finish my MA by 2010.

***

An opinion article online caught my attention the other day. It reminded me of a conversation I had with a Navy officer last year, regarding the very confusing role of Representatives (or Congressmen/women) in local governance. Here an excerpt of the article I am referring to:

"On the other side of the spectrum is the Quezon City government under Mayor Feliciano Belmonte. The city has been spending for the maintenance, improvement and construction of new roads although they are national roads that ought to be funded by the national government through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), according to Mayor Belmonte in a private interview. But because the DPWH is not provided enough funds by Congress (most of taxpayers’ money go to the legislators in the form of pork barrel funds and kickbacks), it cannot keep up with its responsibilities. So the QC government, the richest city in the Philippines (P3 billion in the bank), through a combination of high taxes, efficient tax collection and judicious spending, has to tide over the DPWH with loans in order to finish road projects.

For example, the QC government has paid private landowners for the right of way for the long-delayed Congressional Avenue that will connect Edsa to Luzon Avenue that, in turn, connects to Commonwealth Avenue. Congressional now connects to Tandang Sora and will soon be connected to Visayas Avenue in the west and to Luzon Avenue in the east. The whole stretch will be completed, according to the DPWH, in the first half of 2009 after the relocation of squatters who have flocked to the road right-of-way.

Meanwhile, the QC government has also bought the right-of-way to connect Commonwealth Avenue to Quirino Avenue in Novaliches. From there, the road will connect to NLEX. Thus, travelers can proceed smoothly from southern Luzon through C-5, through Commonwealth and Quirino avenues to NLEX and northern Luzon. That would reduce travel time from north to south and cut the shipping costs of goods.

Some QC residents have expressed the wish, though, that the good mayor spend some of city hall’s abundant money to rid the city of squatters that give it problems in peace and order, health and sanitation and give the city the title of “squatter capital of the Philippines.”

So, if the Office of the Mayor is spending for all the projects in his or her city (plus money coming from certain Departments, like the DPWH), then why do our lawmakers need so much pork? More importantly, how do they spend all that money (making laws couldn't be that expensive) ? If both the local government and our dear Representatives have funds for infrastructure projects and other basic needs, why are many cities/municipalities, especially in the provinces, still underdeveloped?

Or am I missing something here...eh-hum

Eh-hum # 269

Happy New Year, Folks (and hope you all had a very Merry Christmas)!

Hopefully 2009 will bring more (from a good friend's text message) "Peace in your Heart, Health in your Body, Wealth in your Life, and Joy in your Home". We remember the good, the bad, and the very ugly of 2008; we only do so because we can learn from our mistakes and be inspired by our successes.

Life is not supposed to be easy. Where's the fun in that? But for all of last year's challenges that made us stronger, failures that made us wiser, and the people we know and loved (and still do) and just met, life with all of its imperfections is a journey to be enjoyed as well.

***

A post-New Year post (eh-hum) would not be complete without a little 2009 fortune predictions. I am not one to believe, but it wouldn't hurt to know (after all, we do live in a mysterious world). For those born in the year of the Monkey (our kanji above), here's what to expect in the year of the Ox:

Monkey people didn't have any significant performance in 2008, the Year of the Rat. They felt that someone or something blocked their luck all the time. In the year of 2009, there are many Lucky Stars coming to Monkey people. So they have complete new luck and they can expect good news from career, money, reputation, love or happiness area. However, some tiny Unlucky Stars hiding beside the Lucky Stars in 2009. That means Monkey people shouldn't show too complacent and too conceited, because their enemies are still around. If Monkey people make any mistake, then they might lose their reputation, power or wealth.

Career: There are three major Lucky Career Stars appearing in 2009. Those signs indicate you will have an extraordinary and outstanding achievement in your job performance or business development. It's time that you show people about your talent, wisdom, skill. Many people will accept your idea and proposal. Your plan or project will show significant progress and impressive results. You have good chance to gain more responsibilities, own higher power and even win a job promotion. When you have better performance or hold a higher position, then many people become jealous to you. Someone might try to look for your shortcoming or mistake in order to impede your working progress and to damage your reputation. Fortunately, since your keen perception and quick response, you are able to a plan to protect yourself. Also, your supporters will help your to remove the hamper.

Money: There is a Lucky Money Star showing in this year. Since you have a good career luck, your salary fixed income will be satisfactory. If you work for someone, you might earn an extra bonus. If you own your business, then the company sales will have a significant growth. However, the Money Star is not a Windfall Star. The money won't come from gambling, heritage, gift or lottery. It's required your hardworking and time to earn all your income. Another sign show that you have a chance to lose your personal property and no way to recover it. Or an unexpected accident causes your money loss. Therefore, it's safer that do show off your wealth in 2009.

Love: One very Auspicious Star and a Happy Star are gathering in love area. That is the sign of success, happiness, joyfulness, smooth or marriage. If you are single, then you have opportunity to find your dream companion and enjoy the happy love life. If you are already in love, the relationship with your lover will become much closer. If both of you are ready, then you can consider the marriage. If you are married, you and your spouse have a endless love. A new born baby might come into your family. However, if you are a male Monkey guy, you have the chance to meet opposite sex outside. If you don't give in to temptation, you will get lots of argument with your spouse.

Health: Although you have many Lucky Stars coming in your astrological cycle. There also are some Unlucky Stars around you this year. This brings up the health issue. The career will make you busy in 2009. You will feel tired very often. If you have too much nightlife and too less exercise, then you will get sick easily. As long as understanding the health might become the problem, then you should limit unnecessary social life, keep healthy eating habit, maintain good sleeping quality and exercise routinely, then you will have a healthy life in the year of Cow.

Fortune: Monkey people have excellent career luck in 2009. They will work very skillfully and proficiently on their daily job. Their wealth will increase because of good job performance. However, there still is a potential unlucky event coming. Monkey people still need to pay attention on words and deeds. If you can spend more time in helping others, then you will win the good reputation, which could bring you more money in. The feeling of wealth, power, happiness and satisfaction will all come to you.

If you want to know the fortunes of the other Chinese zodiac signs, click here.

***

Are in the mood for some reminiscing? If yes, may I suggest you visit Time Magazine's The Top Ten of Everything in 2008 list online. The top ten lists are organized by subject matter: (1) news and science, (2) arts and entertainment, (3) business, technology and sports, and (4) pop culture. Very informative and enjoyable.

The last list I viewed was 2008's Top Ten Editorial Cartoons. If I had to choose my favorite, it would be this one:

Eh-hum, need I say more?

Eh-hum # 268

"No shoes beyond this point"

This post is a bit late, but the whole incident still worth talking about as it pretty much sums up how Iraqis regard outgoing P.U.S.A. (President of the United States of America) George "Dubya" Bush. He shrugged off the shoe throwing fiasco by saying (as quoted by Time), that "All I can report is it is a size 10" and "So what if the guy threw his shoe at me?". Well, unfortunately for the President, if he knew what the shoe assault really meant, he would have perhaps wished it was an assassination attempt instead.


For the the Arabs, throwing your shoes at someone is an act of severe disrespect. Moreover, to liken someone to a shoe or feet means that the person or object is of no importance and is beneath you. Before Iraqi TV journalist Muntazer al-Zaidi hurled the first shoe to the President, he shouted, "This is a gift from the Iraqis; this is the farewell kiss, you dog." Of course, al-Zaidi is now in custody and punishing him has now become a real test to Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki (the journalist has gained massive support from anti-US clerics and the public). To set him free or to make him spend at most 7 years in prison, that is the question.

When this news was first released or broadcasted, my mother (pro-Obama) can't help but feel sorry for Bush. What a way to go in his last days as for the leader of the free world. As for me, I would like to know how/why the journalist was still able to throw his other shoe. Are the P.U.S.A.'s secret service NOT TRAINED to handle flying shoes? If this wasn't so sad, it would be extremely funny (imagine the other journalists following suit). This will go down in history as one of the most awkward moments in 2008.


***

Can somebody please do something about this rather delusional individual? His people are dying of hunger (and recently, of cholera) and he proceeds to hold a feast? WTF?!?

This is like the time when the military junta in Burma gave away television sets and DVD players (instead of providing food, shelter and access to water and electricity) to those affected by the devastating cyclone last May 2008, only WORST.

Dear Lord...

Eh-hum # 267

No doubt, I am a Monty Python fan (maybe not as intense as most, but a fan nonetheless). To be more specific, I am a believer of the word according to Michael Palin (see earlier post). So, as a supportive fan, I ordered Palin's Diaries, 1969 to 1979: The Python Years for my reading pleasure.


Though I have finished reading all 650++ pages a month ago, it is only now that I decided to share my thoughts on it my way (obviously, I am no literary critic). So, my thoughts goes as follows and begins now: if you are looking for a funny book, then don't buy this one. Let me elaborate.

The book is not a memoir but rather contains excerpts from Palin's diary, which he started keeping in April 1969. It is organized by year and each passage is headed by when and where it was written. So instead of a long, continuous narrative divided by chapters, the book is essentially a compilation of Palin's diary entries for one decade. Many of the entries extend more than one page, while others are no more than five sentences and are read like simple lists of events and errands.

Would compiled and organized day-to-day journal accounts be considered an interesting read? Well, most definitely, since we are talking about Palin, one of six men who created (wrote and performed in) one of the most enduring comedy series in television. And as I found out after reading New Europe, Palin is an engaging and astute writer.

Palin provides insights into the Python’s group dynamics during the years that catapulted them to international acclaim. He described candidly the individuality (strengths, pet peeves and all) of the other five silly yet brilliant people that make up the group. Monty Python have been a genuine and frank collaboration from the beginning and have remained so even as its members drifted their separate ways. But the stories are not always pleasant; there were the occasional group conflicts and arguments. Aside from Graham Chapman's alcoholism (which he eventually overcame), the biggest source of tension was when John Cleese decided to leave the group after Flying Circus’ third series. It’s very difficult to imagine Python without the prominent Cleese; however, it would be grossly unfair to delegate the group’s success to one person only.

Palin was at times hesitant with Python’s fate after the series, but has been very supportive whenever they reunite for post-Flying Circus projects and resilient in defending the group’s legal rights (e.g. censorship, etc.). But of course, he was keen on making it on his own. One that figures prominently was the production of Ripping Yarns, a comedy series that parodied certain aspects of British culture as well as the pre-WWII schoolboy genre. While Palin co-wrote Ripping Yarns with fellow Python Terry Jones, the show notably features Palin as the lead on and off-camera. Palin relishes this newly found independence, but initially felt apprehensive in expressing this to Jones, his longtime friend and writing partner in Python. We also witness Palin taking the lead role in Terry Gilliam’s film, Jabberwocky and his hosting stints at Saturday Night Live (as encouraged by Eric Idle).

Palin is also generous in sharing stories of his life off-camera. Indeed, interesting and poignant anecdotes on Palin’s parents, wife, and his three children are featured significantly in the book. His busy schedule does not prevent him from being a responsible son, loving husband and affectionate father, which I find truly admirable. His family and non-showbiz friends kept his feet firmly on the ground as Python becomes increasingly popular. We know that fame could either break or make a person, and with all the opportunities coming his way, Palin remains mind-bogglingly level-headed. Honorable mentions are his friendships with other comedians and actors, not to mention the George Harrison.

What I find interesting about Palin is his work ethics. Despite what most people think, comedy is serious business. Palin makes sure that every time he sits down in his working room at his Gospel Oak home in London; he has produced workable materials for his shows or completed a chapter for his novel (which I am not sure if he was able to publish). This is very encouraging for someone like me, who has a tendency to procrastinate. Whenever my mind wanders, I always remind myself that at 28, Palin is already reaping the rewards of his comedic career (he was 26 when Python was formed).

In most of the Python sketches, Palin takes the role of the greasy compere or host, the ineffective applicant to Cleese’ aggressive bureaucrat, the befuddled accountant, and the unaccommodating shop owner. Thanks to this book, the character he portrays on stage and screen is definitely not the kind of person he really is. Palin is often referred to as the “nicest Python”, and for good reason. Whether he realized it or not, his diaries confirm that he really is a nice guy, not to mention intelligent, witty, sharp and straight-thinking (well, except in comedy, where he gets to be hysterical and absurd).

And good news, there will be second volume to be published next year. And I can assure you that I will be ordering my copy once it comes out. I end this post with a video of Palin reading excerpts on shooting Monty Python and the Holy Grail (this and accounts on the Life of Brian were real page turners). Enjoy!

Eh-hum # 266

Oh dear...twenty-two more days and its Christmas!

Blinking and colorful lights/decors, exchange gifts and other presents, pre-Christmas dinners with friends, Christmas parties, holiday ham, school/work holidays, bargains and sales, gift wrappers, Filipino and English carols, cash donations from your "friendly" neighborhood garbage collectors/mailmen and newly printed P100, P50 and P20 notes from the Central Bank.

Whether we like it or not, whether or not our budget/savings can accommodate the demands of this holiday season, us Pinoys will always be looking forward to the "most wonderful time of the year". That's good, I think.

***

Normally, I wouldn't bother to take a look or partake in the sales and other events held at Trinoma's Activity Center. But yesterday's happening was pretty interesting because it was the first day of the Quezon City Invasion: Philippines vs the World Grand Billiards showdown (the event is until tomorrow, 04 December 08). Yep, caught a glimpse of some Pinoy billiards heroes: Efren "Bata" Reyes, Alex Pagulayan, Francisco "Django" Bustamante, Dennis Orcollo and Roberto Gomez. They, and others, represented the Philippine team in this friendly competition. Meanwhile, the World team is composed of players from the United States, Europe and Asia.

I stayed for a bit to watch both teams try to sink all the shots and analyze their next move. I enjoyed the audience's reaction whenever a member of the Philippine team missed a shot, a lot of "Aaawwww" and "Sayang!". Here's an article on the results of yesterday's game.

Aside from quality entertainment, I realized the event also gave the politicians involved (as sponsors) good media mileage. Like the five or so banners/tarpaulin with the words "Villards" printed on them. Wink, wink, nudge, nudge.

Haaaayyy, 2010 here we come.

Eh-hum # 265

After the US elections, I haven't really been interested in watching the news. So imagine my surprise when I found out yesterday that Presidentiable and Senator Manny Villar is no longer the Senate President. He was replaced by 84-year old Senator Juan Ponce Enrile.

This is all too bizaare to me since last time I heard, Villar and his supposed allies outnumbered those belonging to the administration. Fourteen senators, both from the minority and majority voted for Villar's ouster and supported Enrile's election to the Senate presidency. Meanwhile, six of them abstained from voting (Aquino, Arroyo, Cayetano siblings, Pimentel and Pangilinan). This most recent development in the Senate proves, without a doubt, that there are no permanent friends, only permanent interests. It's strictly politics, as one journalist in the Philippine Star opinion section said.

Villar's involvement in the C-5 controversy (hence, Senators Lacson and Madrigal voted "Aye") were said to be one of the main reasons for his ouster. Another is his bid for the Presidency in 2010; some say that he could use his position as Senate President to allocate Senate funds to his campaign (hmmm, now where have I heard THAT before?). In addition, the Inquirer reported that deposed President Erap Estrada "helped oust Manuel Villar as Senate president because he wants the latter out of the way of the opposition ticket in the 2010 presidential election". Of course, Estrada denied this. Similarly, Malcanang denied any involvement in Villar's ouster.

His resignation could work for Villar. One journalist said that "Villar can now cultivate an image of independence from both the administration and the mainstream opposition". He can also take advantage of Enrile's reputation as, excuse me, a serial "balimbing". Enrile was one of the enforcers of Martial Law (remember the assassination attempt that started it all), then became a "hero" of 1986 People Power revolution, and then was implicated in a series of coup attempts against the Aquino government staged by his former military aide and now Senator Honasan. Moreover, Enrile is part of the administration bloc but is still affiliated with the Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino, an opposition party. This is not funny anymore.

Of course, this is not to say that Villar has not switched sides (A Pinoy politician not switching sides is truly rare, or endangered), remember Estrada's impeachment and his current political affiliation. We shall see how long Enrile can stay in power; if he's not careful or if he fails to "please" the divas in the Senate, he could end up like another trapo, Representative Jose De Venecia. Moreover, can he salvage the reputation of the Senate from an "inquisitorial institution" (CONFESS YOU SINNERS!!! CONFESS!!! CONFESS!!!) to an establishment founded on justice, integrity and honor. Can he also effectively make the Senators (about a quarter of them already preoccupied with running for higher office), you know, WORK. Haaaay, indeed, where is the Senate going? More importantly, where is the country headed?

Dear Lord...

Eh-hum # 264

Second semester for this school year started last Monday, but my class officially starts tomorrow. I must say, am looking forward to finishing this semester with flying colors. Moreover, am glad that the comprehensive examination and thesis writing are just around the corner. Hopefully in less than two years I will have a Masters degree.

Its a pity that I had to resign since it was promising at the beginning. But then came the issues, plus my rather mediocre school performance (but am extremely thankful for getting a B+! Whew!). I made my decision and am standing by it.

***

I visited a good friend at her workplace yesterday. It is a place where many have dreamed of working due to the experience, the environment and the compensation packages. I often sigh whenever the MRT passes by the office's compound in Ortigas. My friend was gracious enough to give me a tour, with me looking like a wide-eyed seven-year old visiting Disneyland for the first time. My favorite place was the library and its urbane yet affable ambiance. Who would've thought that working for an IO could be cool?

The trip was a revelation for me. Though it would be difficult to get in such an office (or any organization in the same caliber), it is not impossible. I am even more inspired to plan my career, work hard and, as my friend said, determine the sector to specialize in. Time to get down to business. :)

Eh-hum # 263

Will keep this simple and short since many blogs and websites have already discussed in detail the stunning win of Senator and now President-elect Barack Obama. I (and amazingly, so is the rest of the world) am so pleased with the results that I just had to dedicate one post to this historic event. The results have changed not only US politics, but also the world's perception on the US. Most countries believed that the US' foreign policy will improve once Obama becomes the 44th President of the USA.

I tuned in when soon-to-be-President Obama gave his victory speech. As usual, he was intelligent and eloquent; his words compelling and not too, uh, florid (in my opinion anyway). He was obviously humbled by his victory, giving credit to the people who have supported his campaign (family, friends and his constituents). He has nothing but praise and kind words to his rival, Senator John McCain (who graciously accepted his defeat) and with good grace reached out to the Republicans.

What I also found overwhelming were/are the voters, especially the African-Americans (images of Rev Jesse Jackson and Oprah Winfrey weeping unapologetically were really moving). Indeed, Obama's win signified that yes, anyone qualified and regardless of race can become the next commander-in-chief (makes sense since the US is a melting pot of diverse backgrounds). Nice to know that leadership has nothing to do with race.

Now comes the hard part: Obama to prove himself worthy of the highest position in the land.

Abangan!

***

UPDATE! Found the picture below while surfing (note: I cited the website where I found it, not sure if its the original source). Really cool, must share it.

Eh-hum # 262

Whew! Finally submited my paper last week, just in time for the break courtesy of the annual undas.

My mother hosted a dinner for the family on the 31st. It was fun watching my younger cousins huddle together and talk about college life (O-M-G! I am THAT old already) and other stuffs that young people in their early 20s and/or late teens talk about. Meanwhile, me and my sister decided to sing (rather, melodiously shout) a couple of 80's/90's karaoke hits. She also attempted to play with our three-year old nephew (rather, first cousin once removed), but what they had was a failure to communicate (he insisted on playing "Thomas the Train" with his own rules, meaning disregarding the stop/go signs my sister diplomatically explained to him. Awww, kids and their tendency to challenge authority). And then, my immediate family and I went to the cemetary yesterday and offered prayers for our departed loved ones.

And now, our attention turns to Christmas.

***

After submitting the paper online, I suddenly found myself with a lot of free time. My brother, using his power of persuasion, asked me to help him with a book report. Now, I am reading Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things. Its not an easy read, but so far very interesting (I am half-way done).

I should spend all of this time wisely, which will be quite a challenge. But what motivates me are the advantages of a MA degree and the realization of my future plans. So I should get on with it and take things more seriously than usual. So, a partial list:

1. My SSS account;
2. Enrolment this Friday;
3. Acquire list of readings in preparation for my Comprehensive exams next summer;
4. Organize my readings for my thesis;
5. Review my nihonggo; and
6. Work for additional income.

Eh-hum!

***

ALRIGHT! Tomorrow, the United States will decide who will be leading their country after W. The rest of the world can only watch and pray. Abangan!

Eh-hum # 261

This pretty much sums it up:



Really LOL funny. *sigh* But I prefer SNL when it had Tina Fey and Will Ferrell on it at a regular basis.

Eh-hum # 260

Bwahahaha. Yesterday, I laughed most part of the morning and all evening.

Accompanied benjotheman to the department store to purchase a few shorts and some socks for his overnight stay in a beach resort in Batangas (he left around 1:30 am today and will be back tomorrow afternoon). The said trip to the mall was hardly an adventure, but his impressive impersonation of his marketing professor (Are you insane?! Are you desparate?!) made the simple errand very enjoyable. The mall wasn't teeming with people yet so I doubt if my unabashed mirth disturbed anybody. Couldn't care less, really.

Later that evening, I was in a different mall enjoying a hearty pseudo-Japanese meal (gyoza and fried rice) with a small group of friends: one of my highschool/college barkada, my former boss and two former officemates. Talking about our misadventures at work left us gasping for air and teary-eyed. Of course, there was some serious moments, when our respective plans for the future dominated the conversation. It was, to say the least, a riot of an evening. It was a pity that we had to adjourn at around 22:00 to catch the train home. Nonetheless, I look forward to more of these soon.

***

So, what did I do in between (still staying at the mall). Well, I spent lunch and the early afternoon trying to figure out a concept for my final paper, which I promised to submit on or before Wednesday next week. I hope to submit a good one because my professor was kind enough not to give me a failing mark.

For the first time in the history of my grad school life, I have an INC grade (my idea). I am not proud of this and my rather dismal performance during the first semester really caught me off-guard. This is primarily (nudge, nudge, wink, wink) why I decided to resign: for the longest time, my studies played second fiddle to my work.

As I've mentioned before, I need this degree to move forward, professionally and personally. I was skeptical at first, but since I am thisclose to taking my comprehensive exam and writing my thesis, I became more comfortable with the decision to prioritize my MA. But of course, working part-time is not out of the picture since earning a little money on the side wouldn't hurt. Hehehe.

Eh-hum # 259

Look what I found in YouTube (talk about a major trip down memory lane):



Its just one of the opening sequences of this crazy Canadian comedy sketch show for kids. I remembered watching this on Nickelodeon and LMAO.

Seriously.

Eh-hum # 258

And now, a word from the man:

"I'm conscious, as ever, that a lot of water has flown under the bridge since my last message. Since then I've been working hard at an edit of my Diaries 1980 -1988 in time for publication next year, whilst watching Archie grow up and trying to come to terms with my identity theft by a hockey mum in Alaska. And no, Sarah Palin is not my sister, daughter or alias. And I'm Sahara Palin not Sarah." (Read the rest of it here)

Damn straight! No way can he be related to Ms. Sarah "I-can-see-Russia-from-my-house" Palin, especially she was born as Sarah Heath. Yes, we should be looking at the husband. But he's not running for VP, is he? Hehehe, sorry, just like to point that out.

***

In other news, I have decided to prioritize my studies over work. Its going to be challenging for me to do this full time since I REALLY like earning some serious dough (I have a lot of stuffs I wanted to buy). Then again, I have to move forward professionally and I can't be a staff forever. I am optimistic that my MA degree would help me secure a better job and open other doors/opportunities both here and abroad (eh-hum). Time is of the essence and I have to accomplish this by 2010.

Gambatte Kudasai!

***

Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book is ALREADY OUT! And as far as I know, only one bookstore in Metro Manila has copies. Excuse me, I need to make a phone call.

Eh-hum # 257

Two articles on the much contested and yet approved Reproductive Health Bill, but different sets of opinions/POVs.

In the Philippine Star: "Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, principal author of the Reproductive Health (RH) Bill, said yesterday support for the measure has been growing among members of the House of Representatives and the public at large."

Meanwhile, according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer: "A survey of a Catholic Church-owned radio station shows majority of congressmen are opposed to the proposed reproductive health bill, which would promote artificial contraceptives."

Hmmm, interesting to note that both sides believed they are winning the argument of whether or not the Filipinos should be wary of using contraceptives to tackle, among other things, population control.  Am sure you are familiar with this issue, so I won't be discussing specifics here.  Just for the record, I support the passage of this bill. And yes, I am Catholic.  So, what gives?

Well, I am generally pro-choice (but for the record, I am against abortion) and quite a practical person, so I don't find anything wrong with family planning via artificial means.  Its really a matter of choice.  With the economic conditions of the country, it would be understandable for couples to seriously think about the well-being of their children and future of their families.  If they feel that they need to use contraceptives, then so be it.  For me, it would be a greater sin if the parents miserably fail to properly feed their children or send them to school because their income is not enough to cover every child.   If and when the bill is passed, it's not the end of the world; it will ultimately be the parents' choice whether to use artificial and natural means to deal with reproductive issues.

Yun lamang.