ME, MYSELF, & I: The Imperfect Me

How do you describe a perfect person? How about how you describe yourself? Do you believe yourself to be near perfect? Or do you, like millions of others, admit that you are far from perfection? Had you ever thought of what being perfect really is? Is perfection something you can judge based on what you can see? Who is the role model of perfection? All these (and many others) are questions you may had asked yourself when you start wondering about how to be perfect. I'd also asked myself these same questions and the answer I came up with is I am far too imperfect to ever be the perfect person. And here are the reasons why:

• I don't have a flattering figure, let's just say I'm fat. Except for my butt, nothing about my figure could be considered as a physical asset. I am an overweight person of average height. I have a round face with big cheekbones and small nose. I don't have a long and slender neck. My breasts are of normal sizes. I have a big tummy with lots and lots of body fats. I have a pair of big arms and legs, I even have cellulites (I think so) on my legs.


• I'm not beautiful. I don't have big and beautiful eyes. My lips are not red or pink. My cheeks are not pinkish. I have a subtle mustache and my skin is not flawless, there are scars here and there.


• I have a set of thinning hair. Hair fall has always been my problem and so far I had not found an effective solution for it yet.


• I'm not athletic and have a hard time burning off my excess fats.


• I'm clumsy and forgetful. I have a short term memory lifespan. I could easily forget a lot of things. I also get trips on unexpected places.


• I easily get irritated when things don't go my way and have moody tantrums.


• I'm not good at anything except drawing but that was years ago. I could cook but all of my dish could be considered as experiments.


• I don't have a good sense of humor but I do small things can easily make me happy. I'm not good at telling jokes or making one. All my attempts at joking had been big failures.


• I'm not a good person, I have evil thoughts at times and can do bad things when provoked.

I could lists more things about why I'm not perfect but that would take up too much time. The point is, I had long ago accepted my imperfections and knew that I could never become a perfect person no matter what I do. Though I did accept them it doesn't mean that I'm satisfied with things and just let them be. Oh no...

You see, even though I am totally cool with my imperfections, I know that somehow there is a way to improve myself. Those imperfections are like goal setters that I have to pass in order to become a better me. I am not just aiming for betterment just for myself, I also want to be better for my friends and love ones. I know that with each improvement I also gain self confidence that in turn would help improve my relationship with the people around me.

But, even throughout my imperfections, I am still very much thankful to the people who loves me and had stayed by my side. I'm especially thankful to them for accepting all my imperfections without trying to change me but had been there to encourage me on what I wanted to achieve.

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How Different are the Male Species from the Female? Shopping Anyone?

Men are from Mars and women are from Venus is the most commonly used phrase to describe the difference between the male species and the female ones. It is actually a famous book written by relationship counselor, John Gray. It was so famous that society had adopted it as part of the popular culture. The book was more about how these two gender handle relationships. However, since we are not going to focus on that, let's talk about the different implication of this phrase.

ME, MYSELF & I: A Quick Look Into My Life... So Far

It has been a long time since I'd published any new post and honestly, there are a lot more things I wanted to share for those weeks I'd been on hiatus. A lot of things had happened over the last few months. I wanted to write a lot of things but unfortunately, the four corners of your (and my) computer's screen is not enough to share it all. So here's a quick and vague preview instead into what my life has been this past few months.

Sleep Disorder: When Insomnia Strikes!

Had you been tossing and turning in your bed at night but never able to get some sleep? Ever experienced being sleepy yet you can't get that shot-eye? Is your brain active at night when everyone else's had already shut off? Had you stayed up all night long only to realized that the sun is already rising yet you had never really gone to sleep? You did get to sleep but you get up in the middle of the night only to not fall back to sleep? Or you got your enough sleep but you still feel restless, unsatisfied or not refreshed? Does it happen constantly? Ever reached a point wherein it just got so annoying that it makes you want to cry? That my friend is what we call insomnia.

The Late Night Zombie Diary: How I Cope with Chronic-Idiopathic Insomnia

Ever since I could recall, I was always struggling with falling into sleep, most of the time I have to force myself to sleep, it never worked though. I don't recall when it exactly started but then I barely remembered anything before I was 6 six years old, before our house burnt down. I used to sleep together with my parents and siblings until I reached 9 years old, when I finally got my own room. When we were still sleeping in 1 room, I always lay wide awake every night and let my imagination ran wild since I cannot really move a lot. And when I got my own room, I would toss and turn to no avail until one day I decided to just use those spare times reading novels. I surely spent more time reading than sleeping because I can finish a novel for an average of 2 nights.

Its Flashback Friday! Wait, What?

For those not too biggie with social media hashtags, you'll probably scratch your head and wonder why the heck is there a flashback Friday when there's already the throwback Thursday? I did too and I'd been on Instagram for a year already but had just recently realized this another weekly trend. What I don't understand though is why dedicate two days of your week to posting photos that will take the viewers down to memory lane? Shouldn't we be moving forward after Throwback Thursday? But wait, it doesn't end there. Apparently, there is also this so called memory lane Monday.

Mermaids: The New Evidence - A Mockumentary aired in Animal Planet?

Ever saw that mermaid documentary on Animal Planet or seen those videos of mermaid sitings in Greenland Sea? Well, its in Animal Planet's follow-up documentary on Mermaids: The Body Found entitled Mermaids: The New Evidence. Wow, talk about exciting reality shows. Apparently, the most viewed Animal Planet broadcast is fictitious. Yes, it is a fictitious documentary that we call mockumentary. Here's the article:

What is with Throwback Thursday?

Are you one of those social media fanatics who uses the hashtag #ThrowbackThursday, #TBT, or #Throwback when the day hits well, Thursday? Ever posted an old picture or anything that is a memento of the 90's or so? Had you ever wondered how this weekly trend or hashtag game began? I did.

My Take on the Movie EVERY CHILD IS SPECIAL also entitled LIKE STARS ON EARTH

After more than a two years of telling myself, I finally got to watch this movie. I had always wanted to watch this after all the good reviews my friends told me about this but what really got me more interested was after I watched Aamir Khan in Three Idiots. It was a really nice movie but that's for another time.

Taare Zameen Par or Like Stars on Earth (Walt Disney's title) or Every Child is Special is a 2007 Bollywood movie about an 8 year old kid named Ishaan Awasthi.

An eight year old boy is thought to be lazy and a troublemaker, until the new art teacher has the patience and compassion to discover the real problem behind his struggles in school.

IMDB

Here is a more comprehensive summary, beware of spoilers below.

Every Child is Special is a Hindi films directed by Amir Khan .The story is about an 8-year-old boy named Ishaan who cannot cope with the academic demands in school. He once complained that The letters are dancing!” when he was asked to read. Teacher threw him out of the class and the students who passed by the hall mocked him for being punished. Moreover, Ishaanreversed letters when he wrote and demonstrated a poor understanding of mathematical concepts. Sometimes if he commits mistakes everybody laughs at him or will shout on him just like what his father or even his mother did. He always find ways to laugh after evrybody laugh bout what his diong. He was at the risk of repeating a grade level again because of his poor scholastic performance.Too often, he may be caught by his teacher daydreaming and getting low grades.

Ishaan began to evade homework and cutting classes because of his discouragement over his failings. Sometimes his father shouts and doing harsh against Ishaan. When his teachers advised his parents to avail of special education services, his family decided to send him to a boarding school instead in the hopes that the highly structured environment will straighten out his “behavioral problems”. But the academic status of Ishaan was not improve. Alternatively, he became withdrawn and lonely, far from the Ishaan who was active and fun-loving.

Ishaan continued struggling with the same problems in his new school. When he was finally on the brink of suicide,Then came an alternative art teacher Ram Nikumbh discovered that he had dyslexia and consequently turned his life around. Ram Nikumbh change the best way Ishaan would act towards school and figure out how to appreciate himself even more, his art teacher who pay attention to Ishaan and to understand Ishaan whom his parents never finds what ishaan is.

Towards the end of the school year Nikumbh organises an art fair for the staff and students. The competition is judged by artist Lalita Laimi, who portrays herself in the film. Ishaan, with his strikingly creative style, is declared the winner and Nikumbh, who paints Ishaan's portrait, the runner-up. When Ishaan's parents meet his teachers on the last day of school they are left speechless by the transformation they see in him. Overcome with emotion, Ishaan's father thanks Nikumbh. As Ishaan is getting into the car to leave with his parents, he turns around and runs toward Nikumbh. The film ends with a freeze frame shot of Nikumbh tossing Ishaan into the air.

by: desiree dela cerna

The first 30-45 minutes (it is a two and a half hour movie) kind of bored me but that's more because there wasn't much in it except showing that Ishaan had great trouble coping up with his studies. The story got interesting after he was sent to the boarding school and later on Ram appeared in the picture. From then on you'd better prepare your box of tissue besides you. No kidding. I'm not quite certain if its because of Aamir's teary eyes or the story itself. Whatever it was, the story starts taking shape from there. You get to see a clear picture of what the real plot is and the true story of the kid's inner struggle.

The teacher-student relationship here is just so heart warming. In fact, it's more touching than Ishaan's relationship with his parents.

The Characters and Actors

Let us start with the kid, Ishaan, who was played by Darsheel Safary. At first, I didn't know whether to hate the kid or love the actor. The glare was most certainly a true glare made by any kids. But it kind of disturbed me when he starts to cry at first however, that changes later on, when I find myself pitying him when he starts to cry. My first impression of the character was that of a rowdy kid who uses fighting to settle things which, I'm apparently totally mistaken. Ishaan's character was actually well written. Here we see a typical kid with a not-so typical dilemma but coping in the most expected way an 8 eight year old would.

Ram, played by Aamir Khan, is your everyday ideal teacher with just the right amount of wit to make a class so interesting and with the ever flowing compassion towards a struggling kid, whether his students or not. In every sense of the word, Ram's character was made to fit what a teacher truly is, a person who teaches and that it includes teaching even the parents. Without any words, with just his facial expression and eyes, you will feel the overwhelming emotions that his character is trying to convey. Truly an amazing skill as expected from such an amazing actor.

At first, my impression on Ishaan's Mother was that of a strict one that wants her son to be all prim and proper. But that soon changed after they went to Ishaan's school to talk with the principal and the teachers. Here I came to realize that although she is as strict like all mothers, she is also a caring one who just wants what's right for her children. The hard thing about her role is that she is also a wife who is expected to be obedient to her husband.

Ishaan's father, on the other hand, is a stubborn man who wanted the perfect son and drives both of his sons to do so. In pushing his sons he becomes blinded to their true needs. Although he was not the most compassionate father figure, you will still feel pity and compassion when he starts to see just how wrong he is.

Ishaan's brother is the complete of opposite of Ishaan at the start. He is the ideal son, top of the class, never has problem with teachers and schoolmates, ever gets in trouble, very good at badminton, and obedient to his parents. Later on, you will also see a brother who truly cares for his younger sibling no matter what his imperfection is.

The Plot

This is truly a masterpiece with its unique storyline and natural traits of each of its characters. It is a fine piece of entertainment with a moral lesson, a witty yet heart warming drama, it's a musical play but with strong script, it's animation for people of all ages, and it's a slice of life story without removing the la la land aspect. Overall, this is one of the must-see movie of all time.

With numerous awards and hitting box office, it is hard to believe that this is Aamir Khan's directorial debut.

If you hadn't seen it yet, you can watch the full movie below.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/nbkMDS7y1I8]

[youtube=http://youtu.be/9bev--7zthI]

DUMB and GENIUS hopes you enjoyed your time here ^-^

Resources:

• Youtube


• Like Stars on Earth (2007)


• Every Child is Special


• Meaning of ‘Teacher’


• The Economic Times: Taare Zameen Par


• Taare Zameen Par


• List of accolades received by Taare Zameen Par

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• Anurag Kashyap: Few in Bollywood are as credible as Aamir Khan (ibnlive.in.com)


• 10 Unexpected Benefits to Homeschooling a Child with Special Needs (jenniferajanes.com)


• Every Child is Special (Summary and Reflection) (lostindeepthoughts.wordpress.com)

Love for Vintage

Just recently, I started developing this love for vintage things. It first started out with this vintage Coach small purse bag, then I won at an ebay auction this really nice vintage looking Fendi crossbody bag, next I acquired a vintage Just Cavalli printed jeans which I super love, then a leather wallet from Brighton Collectibles that may not be vintage but can be passed on as one because of its simplicity and elegance, I'm also keeping an eye on this vintage Prada black nylon shoulder bag (which won't probably be mine), and next thing I knew I'm searching for vintage tops and more vintage jeans. This is certainly a big shift from my very much loved modern style. Born of the Generation Y, I'm not really a big fan of the classics and most especially the retros.

Love for vintage is not really strange or unusual. In fact, through the years, there are a lot of people who collects vintage items with cars as the most popular amongst the rest because of its whopping value. Some are even acquired at a damaged state thus the new owner needs to have it repaired. There are even vintage shops opened to trade specific vintage items.

To better examine what of the vintage look really appeals to me (and to a lot of others) let us first define the word vintage itself. Vintage, in general, may refer to a lot of things including, but not limited to, wine (of which it was originally intended to), cars, cloths, accessories, and stamps, but its primary definition remains as old, recognized and enduring interest, importance or quality (quoted from Joel Wright). Moreover, this word can only be used to explicitly refer to an item that is existing for the past 20 years and more.

Authentic Vintage vs. Vintage Reproduction

Technically, vintage clothes refer to hand-me-down or secondhand clothing. However, its meaning had gradually changed through time. It can now refer to either the original meaning or those patterned after the previous era's fashion style. Although both follow the same style, it is important to note that this does not mean that both have the same market or users.

Authentic Vintage

Authentic vintage clothes are those that had been produced not less than 20 years ago but not past 1920s. To be more accurate, collectors are looking into clothes produced from 1920s-1980s. Its rare, if not impossible, to find a collector looking into 1990s vintage clothes. Authentic vintage are clothes that were made at smaller quantity and with a lot of attention to details. The garments and materials used to make these are also produced one at a time thus, if translated into the modern currency, it is too expensive. This is also why these clothes are able to survive through the years.

Although authentic vintage clothes are usually used, there are instances, very rare, wherein one finds an unused, not exactly new, ones. However, a buyer should always be careful when buying a vintage item. The demand for these might be smaller compared to the new ones but because of the increase in demand for vintage through the years there was also an increase in the number of counterfeits or fakes circulating. It is always best to know what are the signs of an authentic brand before plunging into purchasing it.

What really made authentic vintage a high value to the collectors and buyers is the fact that these were actually crafted by the original iconic founder/designer themselves, the said pillars of the fashion industry. Although used, its actually hard to find these vintage clothes especially those from the famous designers.

The Pros

• It's cheap. Its cheaper than its original value that is but, depending on the designer and era, it could also be more expensive than a brand new one you'll find in your favorite boutique.


• It's unique. Since it is not being produced in the present period anymore and its production is just few you can expect that you won't bump into someone of the same outfit.


• It's timeless. As said earlier, the fashion trend is just  repetitive cycle so you won't need to worry of being out-of-place but then you must know how to mix and match. As blogger Paris Lux Design pointed out, the key to wearing vintage is to combine it with modern items.


• It saves the environment. Its been produced long time ago so it won't be adding harm to the environment.


• Very good quality. Its been years and yet its still existing so that accounts for its quality. Plus, its not mass produced so the maker was able to inspect it thoroughly. And what more is that the materials used before were actually of better quality than the present.


• True signature item. ITs crafted by the famous designer of the past era, you got them to deign your outfit, never mind that some are long dead already. Isn't that amazing?

The Cons

• It's used. Expect that there is a sign of usage, whether minimal or not. Some may have odors, stains, missing article, and damage.


• It's hard to find an authentic one. Whether online or at the shop, there are a lot of fake vintage.


• It's delicate. Although not all, remember that even though it is made of highest quality the basic way of washing in past era is still hand washing. It is safe to hand wash it the first time and see just how delicate it is. If okay for machine wash, just mix it with your regular clothes but do not put it in the dryer.


• It may need to be tailored. The measurement of vintage clothes differs from the presents and couture clothes are custom fitted to the original owner of the item. There will be instances wherein you will need to have it tailored to best fit you.

Where to buy

Before going through the list, it is very important to note that you need to know how to check for authenticity before purchasing.

• Shop online via ebay (only if you have an idea on what you want in the first place), Etsy , Designer Vintage (highly recommended if you have a designer in mind and want to get into specifics) and Asos Marketplace (highly recommended if you want a specific era or label). Besides ebay, the last 3 are really quite helpful online shops if you're looking for authentic vintage for the first time.


• Browse to the numerous clothes on display at your local thrift shop. This one is the hardest way especially if you do not have a specific brand in mind especially if you're not that well verse with the brands of past era.


• Go to the nearest vintage shop. There are just very few of these and most are situated in USA.


• A person you know might have something for sale.

Buying Reminders

Whether you opted to go to a thrift shop or shop online, inspecting the item is always a must considering this is a used one.

What to look for while inspecting garments:

• Check for wear on knees, elbows, backsides, hems and cuffs.


• Look for fading or discoloration.


• Make sure all seams are properly sewn. If not, this is generally an easy fix as long as there is enough seam allowance and the fabric is in good condition.


• Inspect for stains.


• Sniff the fabric for odors. Most smells can be removed with a good washing or dry cleaning, but a smoky smell might be difficult to get rid of.


• Look for tearing and rips in places other than seams.


• Check for pilling, felting or threadbare areas.


• Inspect the garment for moth holes. If you purchase something with moth holes, wash it in hot water or have your dry cleaner treat it to remove any larvae that might still be in the fabric.


• Look at how securely any embellishment is attached.

by: Debby Mayne

Vintage Reproduction

Because of the continuous rise in demand for vintage styles, reproductions had been made that are patterned or styled after designs of past era. Some were even tweaked to give it a modern twist. A vintage inspired clothing may be branded or unbranded, expensive or affordable, came from the high street or small shops. In order to lessen the cost of production, vintage reproductions are mass produced whether it be a designer one or not. It may come in different sizes, colors, and fabric.

Although called vintage, a collector will never refer to it as one. To a collector, this will be of no value as it is of different craftsmanship and produced at a different era. However, people who are uncomfortable with used or old clothes would prefer this over the other. And there are also times when these are cheaper than an authentic vintage.

The Pros

• It is clean. At most, it was fitted by a handful of persons before you brought it but it was never worn outside the boutique or store.


• Free of defects unless you buy it at a discounted price because of the defect. Otherwise, you are assured that all buttons are in place, the stitching is intact, no missing embelishments, and complete tags.


• You can choose one amongst the varied sizes available that fits you perfectly.


• You can choose the color you desire amongst the collection.


• It is new. You can wear it without worrying if you'll look like from another era.

The Cons

• There are a number of the same outfit circulating. You may bump into someone who have the same clothes as you.


• The quality is not as good as that of an authentic vintage. Depending on the brand, the clothes may last from a few months to a few years.


• Unless it is a gown or custom made, the details are not as intricate.

Where to buy

• Boutiques, stores, bazaars, and department stores. You will find one anywhere.


• Online. Whether you go to ebay, Macy's, Kohls, or some other online store.


• Discount stores. You will usually find old or defective stocks here.


• Thrift shops. Surprising, there are actually some in thrift shops but the clothe might be dirty so just clean it.

Whether you're a lover of authentic vintage or vintage reproductions, keep in mind that there are still fashion trends to avoid. For me, those are:

• shoulder pads - unless you want to be the next Lady Gaga


• harem pants - got one years ago and so totally regretting it.


• elephant pants - need I say more?


• mullet skirt and tops - if its trending it'll only last for 1 month.


• platform sneakers - sneakers are made for comfort and that's it.


• fanny pack or waist pouch - no matter what you say it is so unflattering.


• saggy pants - who wants to wear them?


• uber flare pants - this is so totally Elvis Presley time.


• furry boots and fur in general - unless you're a celebrity, there is no way it will fit in any occasion.


• disco pants - they're a new trend and they're super skinny and shiny? Yes, this is a nightmare that will go away soon, I swear.

As I said earlier, I'm looking for vintage tops and jeans online. I'd been scurrying the net for these items for quite some time now. There are a lot that I would like to get my hands on but majority are not available for sale. Anyways, of all the vintage items I saw online here are my top 5 list:

5. Town and Country 1950s top

Although one of the oldest brands, this one could be mistaken as a new design. This lovely top would be great for parties and events.

4. Elsa Schiaparelli beaded wool jacket 1940

The embellishments are what got me attracted to this one. This would be a lovely topper to any casual or formal attire.

3. Enid Collins Jeweled Carriage Trade Purse

I love tote bags and I fell in love with this one at first site. Although the money tree is Enid Collins' most popular tote, I still love this more because of its fun yet classy design. This would make a nice accessory to any dress.

2. Ossie Clark Black & Gold Gown

I just love how the design is so simple yet very attractive. Instead of wearing it as a gown, I was thinking of having it cut and turned into a dress shirt. It would be a perfect match for jeans and leggings.

1. 1958 Chanel dress

Of course the design of the most iconic woman in the fashion industry, Chanel, would never be missing in my list. This classic dress just screams Chanel (and somehow Katy Perry, hahaha). This would be a lovely dress for any occassion.

Resources:

• What Is the Meaning of the Word Vintage?


• Do the terms vintage and antique have the same meaning?


• Pinterest


• Designer Vintage


• Vintage Fashion: Unzipping The Mystery


• Vintage Clothing | 2013 Fashion Trends


• Fashion Trend – Update Your Wardrobe With Vintage Clothing


• Vintage Clothing - A Timeless Trending Style In The World Of Fashion


• Vintage clothing trend


• ebay


• Etsy


• Designer Vintage


• Asos Marketplace


• The Price of Vintage Clothing


• Collecting Vintage Clothing


• Vintage Care Guide

Related articles

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• Scouting. Or, Should We Say ... Shopping? (sabramorrismedia.com)


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• 6 Best Vintage Shops on Etsy (thevintagecat.com)

Reminiscing Takumi Kun Preview Talks

Today, I went over to watch all the Takumi Kun preview talks, from NijiIro No Garasu (Rainbow Colored Glass / 虹色の硝子) to Ano, Hareta Aozora (Sunny Blue Sky / あの、晴れた青空). Here are things that I really love about these talks and the reason why I never get tired watching all of them again and again:

Designer Bags, what are the Top 10 Most Expensive Brands of 2013?

When it comes to designer bags, some of the highly recognizable brands would be Coach, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, Chanel, Guess by Marciano, Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Dooney & Bourke, Michael Kors, Jimmy Choo, Salvatore Ferragamo, Yves Saint-Laurent, Chloé, Kate Spade, Kenneth Cole, and Burberry to name a few and this is because we see a lot of these brands' counterfeit. But are all these included in the list of the ten most expensive designer bag brands? Shockingly, no! For the other brands that is.

World Greets 浜尾京介 Hamao Kyosuke Happy Birthday!

Its been so long since I'd post anything. So, to celebrate my coming back to the world of blogs, let's start off by celebrating the birthday of one of the most kawaii/cute Japanese actor ever, 浜尾京介 Hamao Kyosuke!

Is Fiction A Waste Of Time?

I love this article so much that I decided to reblog it. And of course I can't help but put my two cents in. So here it goes...

I didn't start loving fiction or reading in general until I reached 11 years old, before that I only love fairy tales, which all girls at that age does. Around my last year in elementary school I discovered that our school's small library contains other books aside from collections of textbooks, dictionaries, encyclopedias and Sweet Valley High series (don't know if they got the complete collection). You can't really blame me since teachers only tell us to go there to do our project or homework in which cases we only open the Encyclopedia. Now, even if we do have a (very) small library (since only from Grade 3-6 occupies that campus), aside from those I previously mentioned, the other books are nearly invisible to the naked eye. Anyways, one day I came upon a very interesting looking book (forgot what it was, it was a big hard covered one though with a drawing of a Chinese girl or so) and out of curiosity read it. I guess it was a good one since it did made me pick another one and another and another.

So, from what I said above you would have probably guess that I don't really believe in the saying "don't judge a book by its cover", literally that is. Why? There are just millions of books out there under numerous genre and authors. If you do not have a preference in genre or author but loves fictional stories, it is just too impossible to read all of their summaries inside the bookstore or library. You have to first identify though what you are looking for, is it a fictional or nonfictional book (autobiography, documentary, reference book, etc.).

For me, my main interest is in fictions. Four years ago I started preferring suspense that involves serial killing, my favorite is when the story is told using the the killer's perspective. Prior to that, I'd been more into family drama and archeological mysteries kind of stories for most of my life. I love reading these books because I get to convince myself that I have a better life than those characters when reading family dramas and I am living my first dream job, to be an archeologists, when reading archeological mysteries.Secretly though, I think I was just being a masochists. I just love to feel the character's pain and suffering. Now, I think it's the sadist part of me that is seeking satisfaction. Even if I said all these, I had not faced any family drama worth writing about, nor did I discover any worthy artifacts, nor did I wish to kill somebody. So, reading fiction is purely for entertainment purpose for me.

I don't read a random book though out of impulse. My impulse is always equated with what I like for that time. Like when I'd seen one episode of Dexter it triggered me to read a book with similar theme, just so happened that it was originally a novel series. And I love it, the only series (aside from Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings) that I bothered to collect, its still on-going now.

When I choose for a book to pick-up what I do is:

1. Identify the genre I prefer or the author I want.


2. Whether I do step 1 or not, I always check the title out.


3. If I find a title interesting I look at the cover (sometimes step 2 and 3 are interchangeable). This also entails how thick or thin I want it to be because there are times when I just want to read it in one sitting.


4. If I like what I see, I read the summary. There are also books that have no summary, in that case I either have to really love the title, author or cover for me to choose it.


5. Based on it I decide whether I want it or not.


6. Finally, I check the price out. I don't have the luxury to afford a book, which I could finish within days or even hours if time permits, costing more than $30 no matter how good the review is.

I always follow these steps not just so I can find a good book but more so that I don't waste a considerable amount of my time reading all of the summaries. Besides, its impossible to stay on one shelf for hours without catching anyone's attention and, since I like to be left alone during this time, it really annoys me when someone will disturb me.

But, in today's modern times, books are becoming more accessible and affordable through the power of the technology. You can already read a story online or via ebook. It does not only save you the energy required to walk around a bookstore or library, it also saves you money and provides mobility. You can read it anywhere, at the bus, on the road, at the park, without the need of bringing anything but your smartphone or tablet, which I presume you always carry around. It also saves you space and helps conserve trees.

For those who are avid fans of a book or collecting a series, like I am for Dexter, paperback and hardcover is still the preferred one. I guess its the sentiment behind owning the book or something. What do you think?

Anyways, for the re-blog posted, I do not own anything. All credits goes to the author Down And Out In The 21st.

ENJOY!

Hamao Kyosuke in Goseiger

I just found out that Hamao Kyosuke, playing Gosei Black/Agri, is the youngest amongst all the actors in Goseiger (the basis of Power Rangers) and the one playing as his young sister is actually the 3rd oldest? I hadn't watched the show since there is none with English sub in Youtube but based on the clip I'd seen, I do agree with this blogger that Gosei Pink seems too exaggerated in her acting.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/tC14A197EBg]

I really don't care about the story honestly because just like Power Rangers, through the years, it tends to get worser though the years. Or maybe it just seems so because we always compare it to its precedent or that we actually did start to grow up and is more critical with the details. kids don't really mind the details much as long as its entertaining. Anyways, I was curious as to what people who had commented re Mao's acting and was actually surprised that there were those that will always think of him as Takumi during the early stage of Goseiger. This just really shows how much of  an impact the the DaiMao tandem have.

Anyways, since this show was already years ago maybe you'd watched it? If so, what are your opinions/comments?

References:

Tensou Sentai Goseiger

Youtube

Mystical Powers - Don't Call Me Weird!! XD

Gaijinside

Who Am I?

I never really thought myself

Mao's movie back in 2009. Title Please?

Mao's movie back in 2009 as Sakura Yuuto. Title Please?

So, I'd just randomly discovered this Live journal (LJ) while browsing the net. Hamao Kyosuke is in  it. Its basically a high school themed movie that he did back in 2009 about a new student attracting the attention of the class. Mao plays as the role of the popular sports prodigy.

Anyone care to translate the title? And do you know any link with eng sub of the movie?

Here's a trailer online.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/Pw6uGTO8d_E]

ENJOY ^-^

Thank you very much Topsy

Just want to give a quick thank you to Topsy for saving my tweets from my now deactivated twitter account, teamKHSph, although I don't why its there, hahaha. Anyways, now I could retrieve the important links I'd tweeted. Seriously, most of those links are information that took a lot of research and time. This then made finding my references easier. Again, thank you very much to the team behind Topsy.

References:

Twitter profile for teamkhsph - Topsy

Takumi-Kun Series

Do you love live action BL? Or just love the tandem of Daisuke Watanabe and Hamao Kyosuke? Then better check out this post on Takumi-Kun Series. For those who had nor seen this BL movie, you have just missed a very important movie in the BL genre.

For those not into BL (boys love) movies but curious about it or want to watch one then Takumi-Kun Series is a good start. Just make sure to never miss the 2nd-5th part because these were what made this a very popular and most loved BL movie.

I do not own anything. I'm just re-blogging this because I love and agree with what was written. All credits goes to the original author, filmsargument . Thank you ^-^

Related articles

• [Eng] "Watanabe Daisuke & Hamao Kyosuke's NAKAYOSHI" Talk show on 03/17/2013 (whatinterestme.wordpress.com)

My Thoughts on Windows 8

Author's Note: This is just a random rambling of a disappointed individual, so excuse me if you disagree with what I have to say. Anyways, I originally posted this in my Facebook account but decided to post it here to see if what your thoughts are. 

This is a personal comment/reaction on the following article:

Investor dump Microsoft, PC stocks on bleak news

Honestly, I'm glad I got to buy my lappy before Windows 8 was out because I would have gotten the latter since I was looking forward to it since Microsoft's announcement last year. I used to be one of the enthusiast that believed Windows 8 will give a new definition to innovation (which Jobs did) and take over Apple's position as the leader in the computer industry. But after using a laptop running on Windows 8, I was truly disappointed and thought that maybe I was just not "technology-savvy" enough to appreciate its workings because there were mostly good reviews online. Turns out I'm not alone.

Well, in my opinion, all is not lost for the PC industry yet. Tabs and smartphones still have its limit. There are just a lot you could do in a PC that you can't done correctly in a tab (for now that is). Plus, the PC's bigger screen (13", 14", 17"), which I may point out is the most convenient screen size, is not an ideal dimension for a tab. So unless someone comes up with a way to make these dimensions conveniently portable there is still hope for Microsoft and HP and other such companies struggling nowadays. Microsoft would just have to revamp its Windows 8, this time around they should be more user friendly conscious.

So, how about you?

[polldaddy poll=7056547]

All About Kurt Hugo Schneider: An Introduction - Part1

Are you a music lover and a YouTuber? If you are then you most probably know this guy. If not, then believe me that he is a very famous internet celebrity. Search for him in Google or other search engine, you'll be directed to millions of results. He is even associated with famous TV personalities like Nickelodeon stars Max Schneider and Victoria Justice. But of all the people he worked with, he's most popularly associated with neighbor/alumnus/colleague/friend, Sam Tsui, "the face of the Schneider Youtube brand" (quoted from Sarah Yager).

Kurt's first viral video had been praised by Time Magazine in 2009. He also appeared in shows like Ellen (2010), Oprah (2010), and Bonnie Hunt (2009). In 2011, Kurt's cover video with Sam was posted in Britney Spears' official site. In the same year, Business Insider included him in the list of The World's Most Powerful YouTube Stars and the top 1 in their YouTube Thought These People Were Going To Make $100,000. And to top the year, he signed with renowned music publisher Steve Lindsey, the same publisher of Bruno Mars' debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, and now with Grind Management. By 2012, he partnered with Alloy Digital, a big distribution company. Shared the stage with Shontelle and 3 other Youtube stars including Sam in 2013 singing Impossible.

At a young age of 24, Kurt had already built a name for himself in the industry. It is also notable to mention that through the years, he had been nominated and won different awards both in the academe and professional world. And to add to his very impressive portfolio is his latest and biggest independent project for 2013, Sam's first all original album, Sam Tsui The Debut Album. To cut this all short, Kurt Hugo Schneider is just starting, so watch out Hollywood.

So, who is Kurt Hugo Schneider really and what's the big fuss about him?

Smartphone Requirements: What I Look For

Samsung Galaxy S4 is has been released to the market this month. Never tried the actual device myself. But I was wondering, would it be better to get this or wait for Samsung Galaxy Note 3 instead? I was really planning on waiting for the latter once I get a job because I want a smartphone that is power pack in terms of battery life. If Note 2, with Li-ion 3100 mAh battery, has a very good battery life performance I'm pretty sure Note 3 would be at par or, if not, exceed its precedent. However, with the battery/charging problem of my current Samsung Galaxy Y (just 1.5 years with me, a short time for me) I don't think it will survive for another month. So my next option is to decide between Note2 and S4, with Li-Ion 2600 mAh battery.

This new smartphone launched by Samsung promises a lot of new features making life more convenient. But then again, isn't that always the case for new smartphones?

So, what should you look at when you choose a smartphone? For practicality purpose, let's not look into what the new features this Mobile companies are offering. For me, the following are my basic requirements:

1. Call and SMS feature of course


2. Battery life since I love to play songs and videos especially when on the road


3. Large RAM, ideally 2 GB


4. Expandable memory of up to 32 GB as much as possible


5. Big screen, for me touch screens are hard to operate with just one hand plus its hard to type in a small keyboard when you have chubby fingers as I realized with Galaxy Y. plus, its way better to watch videos in a bigger screen.


6. Speaker's quality, I might just need to use it in an event.


7. FM and wifi of course


8. Camera with flash because I already sold my DSLR


9. Front camera just so i could have a video chat without opening the computer


10. Other features

Of these 10, only the Top 5 requirements are what I really check into.

What's your top requirements?

Sunday Service at North Point: Why are you afraid?

Late 2011 or early 2012, a peer invited our barkada to attend a Sunday service back at home. It took us weeks before we got to attend that service. So what would you expect if you are to attend a different Sunday service? Would Love, Sex, and Dating be part of it? How about if you are told that the talk would be about the new rules for these things? If you are to tell me that the pastor was openly talking about all these then I would probably think that you're crazy. So imagine my shock when I stepped in and heard it myself. I don't know with the other services and cultures but coming from a conservative Church I was really flabbergasted to receive this postcard (just got this picture online).

After that first day we decided to attend again and again and again. The talk was really interesting not just because of the topic but most especially because of how the pastor related the Bible's teachings to the modern era. The pastor, Les Tilka,was also commendable. He not only captured our 100% attention but he also amazed me with how easy it was to understand what he was saying because most of the foreigners' accent back home were hard to understand. As a young person, I was able to understand more how to apply Jesus' teaching in my life. I am not a Religious person so being able to grasp a clear understanding of the Bible was truly an amazing experience for me (and for my friends too).

Anyways, enough of that eventful Sunday, that is for another day's topic. Yesterday's series is the focus of this post.

The series Follow started last April 7, 2013, yesterday, April 21, was the 3rd part of this series. So far, of the first 3 parts this struck me the most because it was the very answer to my current dilemma. The topic did not really gave me a solution but it did remind me that I should not fear what may happen because God has a reason. Whatever will happen will happen, I just have to accept it whether good or bad because at the end of the road there is a silver lining. I will never forget the questions "Why are you afraid? Don't you have faith?" At the moment when Andy Stanley, the pastor, said those it was at the same moment when it made me realize how inconspicuously God answers our doubts. The most funny thing is Pastor Andy's example is about joblessness, which is my biggest dilemma now, and he even repeated this word over and over again throughout the service.

However, even though I said all these I am still not in that level where my faith never waivers. For all those whose faith never waivers, if you exist, I really salute you. Life is indeed full of unexpected twist and even though most, if not all, are aware that it is part of God's Plan we still doubt where it will take us. it is not easy to Follow Jesus' teachings but its even harder to put your complete faith in God's hands even though you said time and time again that you have complete faith.

Now, this is a very interesting everyday topic. No matter what we are doing or will be doing, we are always expecting some kind of result at the end. It is kind of frustrating when the end result isn't what you hoped for that sometimes we tend to blame someone or something as part of our defense mechanism. Sometimes, we tend to indirectly place this blame on God. It is time to sit back and think, what is it really like to completely Follow?

Oh, you might still be wondering what this Sunday Service is, its North Point Community Church. You can actually attend the service online via live webcast, which is what me and my roommates do. Just check the schedule on their website. Hopefully you are also enlightened with this.

Just got Spotify!

Singapore Job Hunting 101: Time Constraints

Are you an expat in Singapore, holding onto a Visit Pass, hopeful for a chance to work here or plans to do so? If you are then go ahead and read this article otherwise, you have an option to disregard this or to proceed out of curiosity.



The Singapore job market is very abundant with openings from all categories but are you qualified? The most important thing to remember when in this country is the Government's restrictions on Companies hiring foreign employees so you will mostly encounter jobs that are for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents only. So whether you are highly competent in the field it does not always guarantee you a good opening. Years ago, this is a haven for foreigners looking for jobs in this open country however, due to "supposed anger from “ordinary Singaporeans” to foreign workers supposedly taking their jobs and using their facilities" (as quoted from Chris Reed's article) Ministry of Manpower is now imposing stricter regulations on Companies. Keep in mind though that there is a certain reason why Companies do hire foreigners and what is the root of this supposed anger but that is for another article.

All is not lost yet as there are still Companies willing to hire foreigners though it will be though to point who they are.

So, you ask yourself, what is the best way to get a job interview when I got a limited time? Job search sites and newspapers are definitely a good way to find job openings however, you cannot get through all of them one-by-one if you want to maximize your time. My advice is:

1. Know what position you want or is qualified for.


2. Tailor your cover letter and resume for the position you want to apply for. I would highly suggest to have only one position in mind however, if you cannot decide on a certain position then just make a general cover letter. Remember to state in your letter that you are a foreigner and what your pass status is (find other information in Gateway's article)


3. Go through all the jobs vacancies you find online


4. Look for the companies page or website


5. Open one job ad


6. Look for the words Singaporeans or PRs or Dependent Pass only


7. If no such phrase is posted then get their email address. If you find that phrase then disregard that company and continue looking.


8. At the end of the day, compile all the email addresses.


9. Then when morning comes, send your resume and cover letter to the gathered email addresses (just BCC these email addresses).The trickiest part is coming up with the Subject title to catch the recipients attention.

This technique is not a guarantee that you will be called for interviews, there might also be some who will tell you that they have no quota for foreigners or no opening qualified for you. But this is definitely time saving and you may never know when one of those Companies might just have an opening for you.

There might also be times when they will be offering you a different position. Don't be choosy, if you think you can perform the job then grab it. Remember that your length of stay in the country is solely dependent on your work permit, S Pass, or E Pass.

Once you get that interview, give it all you can. Find other tips on Amit Puri's article.