Cravings

Well today I started browsing the net for the gadgets that I have been thinking of getting this year. Since budget has been flowing so far, I can stop dreaming on some of these and hopefully I can bag some of them by the end of this year.

#1

Canon EF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 II USM Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

Price: about 11,000

Well, this is something that I know that I might need soon. A zoom lens, I haven't really decided on what to get for zoom lenses since there's a 55-250mm that would be around 12,000 and an 85mm prime lens that would be a bit pricey at 18,000 but would gladly share wonderful bokeh-ish shots like my 50mm have been delivering so far.

I'm expecting the performance for both zoom lenses would be the same as the kit lens (18-55mm) that I already have. So I guess it won't be that bad?

Plan: Save up 2,500 per pay day and manage to gather 5,000 per month. I can manage to get the 28-105 or the 55-250 in 2.5 months tops.

Target: September-October of 2009

Need or Want?: Want (can wait till summer of 2010)

#2
iPod Classic 120GB

Price: about 12,000

This is something that I have always wanted. A big storage mp3/video player that can fit right into my pocket. This would really cater my 50gb+ mp3's that I'm already carrying in my external hard drive. And not to forget the series that I have been faithfully watching for the past 3 or so years. Talk about having Jack Bauer take on terrorists while you're on a plane heading to Hong Kong, or on a Bus heading to Makati.

But there's a little competition on this aspect of gear craving. I want to try the Microsoft Zune since it now has a 120gb model too. With its bigger screen and nice design, and the transfer fidelity that it offers, I'm thinking why not give it a shot? It's priced at around USD 250 (approximately PHP 12,500 or less). The only remaining problem would be the lack of official distributors in the Philippines and of course... service warranties.

Plan: My 13th month would straightly go into funding this craving. Nothing will stop that, unless someone gives me one before December arriveth.

I can now retire, or pass on my 1GB Creative Zen Stone to someone else.
I hate not having the ability to change my playlist when my mood changes in the middle of a long travel.

Target: December of 2009

Need or Want?: WANT!

#3
Canon EOS 500D

Price: 44,000

Well my 300D is a little old and is outdated and is way behind when it comes to technology. This 500D is offering video capture and holds a DIGIC 4 processor aswell. This would be a big upgrade from my 300D who has done nothing but amazing for me so far.

That would mean faster clickage and good ISO range. But then again... all photos would still depend on the man behind the machine.

So I guess 300D won't worry that much on being replaced.

Plan: Not really planning to buy this one at the moment

Target: 2012? 2013? 2014?

Need or Want?: Just an afterthought

#4
PC UPGRADE

Price: About 28,000

Well my desktop at home has been on life support for a couple of years already. It's almost 5 years old and is begging to be buried beneath the sands of time. Placed into a museum to be admired by kids who are wearing space jumpsuits and licking digital lollipops, who have been Living Long and Prospering.

I guess it's time, like Star Trek, for a reboot. My table would need a new digital era composed of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 coming out soon, Left 4 Dead and what not...

Starcraft II and Diablo III anyone?

So what you see there is the ECS A780 motherboard, an AMD Phenom II X4 processor and a 22" Samsung Monitor to start things off. The plan would also include a 500Gb Seagate Barracuda Hard drive, 2 pieces of 2GB DDR2 Memory Modules, and a pack of Skittles.

Plan: 2,500 per pay day would equate to 5,000 a month, and we're looking at 6 months tops. That would mean, move over lens, to see this machine rise around November of this year.

Target: November of this year

Need or Want?: Want and Need... (Daddy needs his zombie killing spree)

With all things said here, I'm looking at a new PC by November and 120gb worth of Music by Christmas of 2009. If properly budgeted and planned, I may be looking at change of wardrobe too since this would also mean that I'd be eating less and spending less on burgers...

I'd probably need new jeans and clothes by then too...

Sheeeeeesh.


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Now playing: Splender - High
via FoxyTunes

Bargain Bin

Now that Canon is coming out with new models this year, It's time to strike and help Canon to write the old inventory out of their warehouses. If you're the type who's not really looking towards the new models, but more of price conscious then this former $179 (SRP) camera should make you think, since this Canon PowerShot SD1100 has a 8 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom and a 2.5 inch screen is on sale at Staple's mortar-and-brick stores for $129.99 (Php 6500 est). [via GearCrave]

for more info about the camera check these sites:

• Product overview at Canon.

• SD1100 review at DPReview.

• Deal info at FatWallet.
  

So if there's anyone I know who is coming home here and can bag me this bargain. Let me know! I think I'd love to have one of these, or maybe my mom would appreciate this too. So just let me know!

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Now playing: Snow Patrol - Crack The Shutters
via FoxyTunes

For My Mom

Yesterday in church, they asked me to say something for my mom since it's mothers day.
So for my mom I wrote this...

So here's one to my mom
My only girl while I still have none
To the woman who carried me in her tummy
To the woman who took care of me when my nose was runny
To the woman who makes my day bright and sunny
when I wake up to something yummy
To the reason why I have this big tummy
thought I'd just say that to sound funny
And before I start to sound corny
I just wanna say...
I love you mommy.

Happy Mothers Day.

I also wrote this with crayons heh

The National Anthem Baloon!!!

Oh my friggin goodness gracious... These guys couldn't just let the so called "issue" go.

Now they're filing a case...

so I guess we should let these guys have it...

let's give mister Barzaga (Cavite Rep) a round of applause for being such a patriot and defender of our good country by filing a case to a person who misinterpreted the National Anthem...

I guess this would be my last rant of this issue... unless something else that's totally unnecessary comes up that would deserve a post.

Seriously I live right next to Cavite, and I didn't hear an uproar from the crowd... If I ever did hear one... it's probably because Pacman knocked the lights out from the Hitman in 2 rounds... or probably because it's traffic again in their place.

To all who are against on how it was sung... here's my middle finger to all your uptight asses... False Nationalists... I bet you guys don't even follow the road rules... how do I know? I LIVE RIGHT NEXT TO YOUR JURISDICTION!

PS.
I'm not generalizing everyone who lives in the good province of Cavite. But to the ones that I have encountered along the road... you know who you are, and you know what you do.

news source: GMANews - Charges vs Martin Nievera

Ooops...

Regarding the National Anthem Issue...

I believed I addressed the wrong Atienza on that one. I though it was former Mayor Atienza, it was a different one pala.

But I still think the public reaction towards the rendition is a little over the line. Seriously? I don't even see anyone singing it when It's being sung here in our country. People stand and not mind it, why the public outcry that it's foul...

I still stand by my word that an artists creativity and passion can still be infused to how they wanna do it.

Do Not Break The Diet

Amidst the confliction, amidst the pain and suffering... we should always remember to keep our eyes on the prize.





I feel you Shaq! I truly do... but I have vowed to pursue the Shaq-lite movement. And that would mean that we should avoid them doughnuts... at all cost...

Presenting Your 2009 NBA MVP

It's not much of a surprise, but here's a video to prove just why he deserves the landslide win for the award. And I don't think he's done improving... 2009 is just the first of many...





So I hope you don't go to New York... I just don't like the whole idea... But I liked the idea of Nash heading to Phoenix, and who knew he'll win back to back MVP awards there? right?

anyway.. stay in C-land... build your dynasty there!

The National Anthem Issue

I think there never is. These guys just wants to get into the media so they bashed Martin Nievera's rendition of the National Anthem. True, it's supposed to be sung like a marching song, but then again, a singer has his own expressions and should have freedom to express his feelings towards the song he sings.

And to Atienza... I don't even know where to begin with. I hate politicians masquerading as having sense of Filipino pride in them. I think, Sir, You guys have none. Why? If you have some irk of Filipino pride in you then I think with all the taxes we pay, the Philippines should be something else by now.

I don't think someone who rapes their motherland has a say on how to protect the motherland.

As for me... I'll remain to love the Philippines and will express it in any creative way that I am free to do so.


news source: GMANews Article about the National Anthem Issue

Weekend Roundup (A Great Day To Be Pinoy)

Not just Pound-for-Pound king... but debated to be King of the Ring

I guess every had already blogged what they saw yesterday... a date to remember, when Manny P. knocked the lights out of the Hitman.

I wouldn't go further into detail but I'd like to thank TeamPilipinas.info for the live streaming they gave us cheapos who's unwilling to spend about 400+ bucks to watch it live.

I'd also want to thank Smart myTV for giving me the live (no commercial) feed on my Nokia N77 fone. It was awesome!!!! Although it did drain my battery though, since it's been on from the Boston-Chicago game 7 (that Boston won 109-99) to the 5 minute and 59 seconds fight.

It was such a great day to be a Filipino yesterday. Not only was our flag waved in Las Vegas, the streets was free of traffic and... the report just came in that the Nation... was... wait for it... crime free. For maybe half a day... the whole Philippines sat back on a Sunday afternoon, and became one...

Funny comment on the radio though, the reason why the nation was crimeless for a day was because all of the bastards was in Las Vegas... heh heh heh.

With that said, we all say hello to Monday...

Revenge of the Lechon

image from the movie: Lord of the Flies

Now that the swines that we have slaughtered in exchange of happiness during Filipino festivities are making their move of vengeance... our government suited up their preparedness and approved a 10 million budget for swine flu capsules. That will buy 100,000 capsules... for the country... who pretty much embraces pigs...

Yup... that'll really reaaaaally help.

other pandemics wreaked havoc and brought down millions of lives... well I guess, and hope that we won't really get hit by this pandemic.

So to everyone... beware of pigs... that goes to a certain... nevermind.

sources: GMA News Article, Other Pandemic Article

There Can Only Be One.

Derrick Rose, Dwight Howard, Mike Brown...

these individuals have already received what they deserve this year. The best rookie in this years class, the most tormenting player on the defensive end, and the mind and the leader that lead a young team to the best record and almost tying the best home record that the legends of Boston made...

the question still remains (or at least for thrills sake) who will be your 2008-2009...

Really #2

this portion of political and other events ranting was inspired through SNL's weekend update. I guess, in this day and time, there's just too many stuff that would make you ask...



It's everywhere, inches away from each other, and miles apart.
Politicians faces are just plastered on every city around the Philippines bearing the same message you've read on the other side...

REALLY?!? do we really really really have to know that you're doing your job? REALLY?!?

I mean REALLY... isn't that something that you're supposed to do to begin with?

REALLY?!? you'd just have to plaster your face right next to your face to say a different message? REALLY?!?

You just have to spend some of OUR hard earned money to congratulate the graduates of this year... or the new people that would put money into your pockets... REALLY?!???

REALLY?!? my parents took care of me without making a banner about it... and you just have to for one meter of road repair project.. REALLY?!?

so instead of using the money for schools and extra books or programs for the less fortunate...

you need to have your picture taken, edited to make you look less of a schmuck you guys already are to be placed around our city like a movie poster.

REALLY!?!???!! motherbleepers... REALLY?!??

Absurd Choreography + Governor = Priceless

In today's YouTube treasure hunting, my brother found this link and willingly shared it to me to complete my day, or calm my stress from the 3 hour driving I did en route to home today.

Without further ado, I bring you... a Miss Vilma Santos.





seriously? nobody told her where the party is?

Ferrari F50mm!!!!!

My friend Leon said that this lens would make any shot look good.

So I put that myth to the test, I went out and shot random stuff... Car emblem, a gate, a plate number, a vodka bottle, my laptop, and indeed it made things look awesome.

So here's some of my shots.

I name the next composition... "yeah right!"

My Ate Is One Tough Mother... of Two Kids

A wise quote from my ate:

"All the make up in the world cannot hide the whore in you. Join the haliparot ay salot movement today!"

True story.

I Know Delonte... It's Just So Beautiful

I came across this video through Ball Don't Lie and I gotta admit, these Cavaliers are just having too much fun.

From in game dancing, to taking pseudo portraits... and now... your hearts.

Earth Day

It's a bit late... but I was supposed to "Green" up my blog to support Big Momma Earth.

So here's to Earth... soon to be no-ungas-allowed.com is "Earth Dayed".

New Shots

These are some of the shots that I took from our 4-18-09 trip in Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club (Gen. Trias, Cavite).

Thought I'd share you guys some.









you can catch more of these shots in my Multiply Page.
Next post you guys may see here would be the ones shot by my new 50mm!!!

Really?!? with Marco DJ

I've been following SNL for quite some time and I've been having a really good laugh everytime their Really?!? skit come up on their weekend update.

So I thought, why not do it here, in my blog... since I always have something to rant about. I might not do them any justice, but just for shultz and giggles... here it is.


Senator Bong Revilla Jr. Isn't done with making movies and I just read that he's gonna do a take on Panday... and it's already in production...

Really?!? Senator? You have that much time to leave your office and be on set to do a movie? Really?!?

I mean... Really?!? this may be a way to put your face on the screen and on billboards before the ads ban gets in for the elections... Really?!?

Our taxes aren't enough?!? you have to take a space on our movie houses too? Really?!?

-----

Anyway, It's not that funny... but seriously these are all the things that I have in my mind after reading the news clip about the Panday Movie.

I'm sure he knows what he's doing. I'm just not sure it's of the best interest of the state. You're a public servant... I don't think this is the right time to be making movies.

Again, these are just my opinions. They are not surrounded with concrete facts.

But here's one... his wife may be running for congress too...

REALLY?!?

To Serve and Protect: Really?

If you've been watching the news lately, then you won't be a stranger to the news about the roughing up of Ted Failon's entourage (helpers and in-laws) by the QCPD. To which everyone else cries foul. Well, if you've been dragging and arresting everyone in sight without warrant... then I guess you have this coming. If you want to see how Mr. Failons in-laws are treated then you can watch it here.

Yesterday while going home, we we're tuned in the AM frequency and listening to the Vice Chairman of NaPolCom (National Police Commission) enumerate the violations these "men in uniform" made.

1. You cannot make warrantless arrests 24 hours from the moment the crime was done. Plus they're not within the scene and no concrete evidences were found to make these arrests.

2. The violation: Obstruction of Justice isn't valid since they found the body and these individuals didn't hide evidence. These cops even saw them clean the blood, and the weapon was presented to them.

In my opinion they're just making these arrests so that they won't look like they don't have a single clue on how to investigate, or what they're going to do. Too bad for them, these people are the MEDIA... so say hello to the public spectacle you're creating... clueless bastards.

3. The arrested parties Miranda rights was not read.
According to Vice Chairman, if these cops violated this procedure... they might face 8-10 years in prison... better yet... tie them where the public passes and have them be spat at or slapped in the face or chest (WOOOOO!) by anyone who wishes to do so.

These are only some of the stuff I remembered from yesterday. These motherless bastards are totally out of their place.

Commission on Human Rights and the NaPolCom are clearly hands on in this issue. Senator Kiko Pangilinan already took notice on this and said these actions should be condemned. The public is already outraged by how things are being done by this... honorable?... men.

Now the question is... What the -bleep- is up with these mother-bleep-ing -bleep-ers??
What should be done to them?
Your call...

Handing Out the Hardware

The NBA Regular season has ended, and we're just actually hours away from playoffs. Before any predictions are done, let's talk about the Regular Season Awards. From Rookie of the Year, Most Improved Player to the Most Valuable Player.

6 awards given to 6 individuals... who are they? time to get your votes in.

Most Improved Player

the award given to a player who basically is a nobody and went in this season and made some impact. One example who won this award about 2 or 3 years ago was former Phoenix Sun, Boris Diaw.

With this seasons crazy injury woes, there's alot of moments and alot of players who really took over those spots... and the nominees for the Boris Diaw award are...

Paul Milsap of the Utah Jazz
Thaddeus Young of the Philadelphia 76ers
Andrea Bargnani of the Toronto Raptors
Troy Murphy of the Indiana Pacers

Some blogs may have placed Danny Granger, Devin Harris and Brandon Roy in this category. But I came to thinking, these guys we're already built to be studs and they we're already delivering during their early years why place them here when they already hold their own respective franchises? so cheers to the 2nd unit guys who stepped up.

The Butter Pick:
I'm torn between the 4 players, Milsap became Boozer when he was out, Thaddeus Young told the Sixers management they didn't need Brand after all, Bargnani stepped up and showed what he can really do later this season, and Murphy went from a 10-10 guy to a potential 20-20 guy.

But with all said and done, my vote would go to the Italian Stallion, Andrea Bargnani simply because he's the one that improved his numbers from his previous season, heck even the 1st half of this season.

Defensive Player of the Year

The award who is unconsciously awarded to the big men of the league. The list hosts a barrage of bigs from Dikembe Mutombo to Ben Wallace to Marcus Camby and Kevin Garnett.

This years nominees are all worthy of the Defensive Player of the Year and the list this year may be mistaken for the MVP award too. Without further ado, here are the nominees for your Defensive of the Year award.

Lebron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers
Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic
Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat
Chris Paul of the New Orleans Hornets

The Butter Pick:
With this list? It's going to be another tough pick for me. But let's analyze one by one and see who would get my vote.
Lebron James, the heart and soul of the Cavs, would be seen locking on an opponent and never giving up on fast break. You'll see this man fly up and block shots or hustle you to give up the ball to him.
The next guy is an obvious nomination, Superman himself who leads the league in blocked shots and boards grabbed. should we even continue discussing this award? or give it to the only big here... who by tradition should get it.
Dwayne Wade... Mister do it all from scoring points, rebounding, stealing and blocking shots from guards to 7-footers (hello Dirk).
Chris Paul got my nomination simply because this guy logs 5+ steals on any given night. Don't dribble in front of this man.

After the analysis, I'd still give it to Dwight. This man really stops people. Heck the fantasy world even made a word for stupified centers against Dwight.
Another year another DPOY to a big.

Coach of the Year

The award given to the coach who did very well this season. To the coach who basically changed the tides of the franchise.. without further ado, here are your nominees.

Mike Brown of the Cleveland Cavaliers
Phil Jackson of the Los Angeles Lakers
Stan Van Gundy of the Orlando Magic
and... please give it to this man
Jerry Sloan of the Utah Jazz

The Butter Pick:
The obvious pick here is Mike Brown since he really reeled the Cavs to certain heights.
But then again Sloan is something else. He never had his full roster for the whole season and he also trusted in guys like Ronnie Brewer, Price and Miles and of course Most Improved Player nominee Paul Milsap to save the sound of the Jazz.. and guess what, they managed to stay on the playoffs.

out of sympathy and with the fact given... COY = Jerry Sloan... but we all know Mike Brown would win the real one.

6th Man of the Year:

The award given to the fire off the bench. The 6th starter of the team, the energizer bunny and the game changer when the starters are out. Past winners of this award are Leandro Barbosa, Manu Ginobili, Mike Miller and Ben Gordon... let's see who'll get them this year.

JR Smith of the Denver Nuggets
Nate Robinson of the New York Knicks
Jason Terry of the Dallas Mavericks
Charlie Villanueva of the Milwaukee Bucks

The Butter Pick:
JR Smith of the Denver Nuggets.
It's a toss up between Jason Terry or him, you all know how I hate the Mavs so... Smithy gets it. But consider how he provides fire power off the bench, and was consistent coming in the 2nd half of the season with 30+ points there and good FG%. This guy really matured under Billups guidance and he may even be overlooked for this award... so Smithy.

Rookie of the Year:

awarded to the most significant rookie for this year. A man who defies what being a rookie is and provides leadership and inspiration to a team. Amongst these ROY winners, some of them became MVP's of the league, to name a few Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan, Lebron James, Allen Iverson, Shaq and Benjie Paras to name a few. Emerging franchise players like Chris Paul, Brandon Roy and Durantula also won this award. The players who would be gunning for this one this year are the following:

Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls
Russell Westbrook of the Oklahoma City Thunder
Brook Lopez of the New Jersey Nets
OJ Mayo of the Memphis Grizzlies

honorable mention: Michael Beasley of the Miami Heat, Eric Gordon of the LA Clippers and Kevin Love of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Butter Pick:
The obvious one... Derrick Rose. Westbrook and Mayo would fight for it but it all falls down to consistency and Derrick Rose is posting consistent numbers on any given night. Lopez does too but Rose transformed a lottery team to a 7th seed team in one season, who's under a rookie coach too. This guy has superstar written all over him... and he looks like he doesnt even give a damn about it.

Most Valuable Player Award

This award is given to the player who did the most impact in the league. This is the most prominent individual award to any player since upon receiving this you're just one career away to the Hall of Fame along with the MJ's the Magic's the Kareem's the Bird's the Pierce? Kidding, that holds no truth. The nominees are...

Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers
Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic
Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat
Lebron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers

sorry Pierce... you ain't the greatest player in this league... heck not even in the fantasy leagues hah.

The Butter Pick:
I'm sleepy... Lebron James.
Best record, improved individual statistics, improved teammates and these guys arent even in the caliber of who KB has but theyre on top. This guy can control a game offensively and defensively. No doubt we're seeing another MVP wearing the number 23.

So those are my picks... how about yours? FIYAH!!

It's Amazing!

Saw this video up in Ball Don't Lie's site up in Yahoo! Sports. And damn it we all know that...

It's amazing,
so amazing,
I'm all fired up for the post season!

On the other note, amazing is not happening on my end this year.
I may have lost the championship on my fantasy leagues today after finishing top seed and fighting both in the finals. Too many players resting and not playing is just tough to swallow.

My Phoenix Suns didn't make the cut aswell... oh well... Let amazing happen elsewhere.

Enjoy the video.

Short Changed

I feel bad today!

I rode a cab going to work, but unfortunately mister cab driver doesn't have change for a 500 bill, so I asked him to wait for him while I withdraw small bills, which I did. When I came out of the bank smiling, holding the 100 peso bill that I was to give the cab (and I was planning to bless him with the whole hundred) he wasn't there anymore.

I waited for him to come around for 10 minutes outside the bank, but to no avail, he didn't come back.

I don't roll this way. He gave me a service to which I should repay. But I don't know where he went or why he left. So I just pray that things go his way today.

Tsk...

I feel bad today.

The Most Anticipated Album Yet!

Preview of the new album of the Dave Matthews Band! Coming out on June 2, 2009.
Big Whiskey and GrooGrux King.

... "This is for LeRoi..." :'(

Walkway: Reflections on the Stations of the Cross

Hey guys, I uploaded my shots already on Multiply! Only my selected few. It won't give justice to the whole thing experience though. So if you guys didn't catch the walkway exhibit, sayang.

The easter concert to end the whole event was awesome too! Imagine all those artists on one stage singing praise songs! Truly a celebration of our Lords triumph over death!!!

I actually regret going once lang. Anyway, hopefully... most likely there'll be another one like this next year? So guys... Don't miss out on that one.

Anyway Flippish featured Walkway and maybe you can experience the Stations through the video they posted.



[ChurchSimplified]

Coming Soon

Finally after shooting with my camera for a year... I managed to save up for a new lens. The ever famous "Nifty Fifty". This lens has been famous for making photos look awesome with ultra blurry backgrounds and a master of subject isolation.

This lens is also said to be perfect for light travelers since it's made with light materials, plastic, and with its compact size, you can't go wrong with this one if you're concerned with weight. I think this is Canons shortest and lightest lens as of date... which makes it more awesomer!

It has auto and manual focus aswell... the manual focus couldnt be used that much since the ring is said to be really small... I have yet to see it... will let you guys know as soon as I get my hands on it.

And like I said above, it's perfect for isolating subjects since it can really produce sharp images because of its capability to open its aperture up to f1.8! so hello milky-blurry backgrounds on my next shots.

And I guess the best out of it is it's price!!! It's only priced at Php 4,300 on DPOnline store. With it's price and it's capabilities... I guess it's a perfect 2nd lens for a hobbyist like me.

So come Saturday... I'll have a new toy to play with! next stop... a zoom lens :D

for a more detailed review of the lens check The Digital Picture site.

WALKWAY Easter Concert - FREE

Howdy!!

If you've been following my Plurks or Tweets, or have been active and in my friends list in Facebook then you've probably heard of Walkway, CS's take on our traditional stations of the cross. If you haven't then you can still check it out today! It's the last day for the exhibit and CS would also host a concert to celebrate Easter too, which is the body of this post.

They'll feature awesome artists like:

Barbie Almalbis
Julianne
Radha
Salamin
Gabriel Valenciano
Amber Davis
Marcus Davis, Jr.

So stop being like me who's basically waiting to fill out my social life online and stand up, and bring your asses to Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City (Beside Nike) and jam with us there! If you can come early then visit the Walkway Exhibit as well.

Get off your lazy Sunday couches and bring friends this evening. That's 7:00pm at the High Street mall grounds. We hope you can celebrate Easter with us!

*Photo courtesy of Samantha Godinez

[via churchSimplified]

www.ChurchSimplified.com ::: Facebook

Sasha Vujacic on Faking.

If you guys want to make your opponents look like idiots and make them ask "oh... whats.. going on?" during a basketball game, then this instructional video is for you.

China: Where iPhone Nano Happens

From the makers of the popular TV Phones here in the Philippines, the Chinese mobile phone makers, CECT brings you, the iPhone Nano-t. The m188 looks really similar to the popular iPhone but in a shell measuring 3.5 x 1.9 x 04 inches (roughly the size of a credit card). You can't brush this not-an-iPhone phone too with it's 2.6 inch touch screen, GPRS connectivity, an MP3/video player, an FM tuner with scheduled recording (now you can listen to Mo Twisters rants and crazy ramblings on the radio any given time) and a cheap little 640 x 480 resolution camera. You can also use your postpaid plans and your Sun cellular unlimited capabilities on this one since, unlike the iPhone, this one has dual SIM card slots. We can just wait for our friends over in Greenhills to get their shipment and for probably something around Php 4,800 or 5,000 ($100 in BigBoxStore) you can smirk at your friends who's carrying a wider iPhone with your inferior rip-off.

And of course... to get the most out of this deal, I have to quote DJ Tado on this one... "lower your expectations." [via Gearcrave via Technabob]

Where Tabachoy Happens

Well... It's a two day work week sandwhiched by holidays... and what does one person do when theres no work? Go Bananas with food! And since I just wanna blog about anything for a change... here's a detailed list of what I ate throughout the day... get ready to get bored.

Breakfast...

Since this is the first meal of the day... I always look forward to kicking a day off with a bang... and by bang I mean a kingly meal.

The table was prepared with fried rice, scrambled eggs, sweet ham paired with hot choco and puto maya on the side.
Sidenote: when my mom gets busy in the kitchen... expect magic. My belly could be presented as evidence for that.

How can you go wrong with that? I had two runs at it. As always... breakfast = awesome.

Lunch...

Twas a bit different since my mom wants to dial the meat down today so she went with sweet and sour fish, mixed veggies (twas the innards of a fresh lumpia without the wrapper) salad with her own sauce to boot, and lumpiang shanghai for the non seafood eaters at home.

Meryenda...

We we're having a movie day with my dad on the room when sandwhiches (with the left overs from this morning) came up the room. Me, my dad and my brother had a piece each when we we're still craving for more... Enter Lucky Me Pansit Canton and toasted bread.

I missed eating Pansit Canton... it's been a while since I last had those...

Dinner...

Oh dinner was something... My mom made grilled garlic chicken, and cream of corn soup.
I had two servings for dinner... but then again... it's vacation so... guilt is turned off.

Long weekends: Where Tabachoy Happens.

When in Rome...

do as the Roman does...

When in the Philippines?
... do as the Pinoy does... piss your neighbors.

Today I've experienced my most stressful drive ever coming home from Eagle Ridge to home.

This is from General Trias Cavite to Las Pinas and I passed through Amadeo Road then Aguinaldo Highway then more roads that eventually lead me to Marcos Alvarez... otherwise known as the road to Moonwalk.

And seriously, I've never been stressed out with driving... I'd rather drive along EDSA than go through all those crap again.

And this is typical road behavior by our countrymen... Here's the detailed list of my stress elements.

#1. Jeepneys stopping in the middle of the road with broken tail lights.
- Consider that the road is a two lane road, that would usually make you run from about 40-60 kmph and right in front of you... a jeep would suddenly stop without warning! since his tail lights aren't functioning... So what would you do? scream at the top of my lungs (of course the windows are down... but it felt gooood) and flick a finger at the driver.

#2. Bicycle riders who are uungas ungasing themselves on the road.
- first define uungas ungas... uungas ungas is when these riders couldnt regain balance so they'd swing their handlebars from left to right... and they'd look like ungasses on the road. In my scenario... a two lane road (one per direction) and you have an uungas ungas biker on the side that takes away half of the road since you can't really go fast beside him... kasi nga uungas ungas eh... sumemplang pa siya... so kelangan ko pa siyang sundan... kasi d din ako maka overtake... leche.

#3. People that walk on the road.. not the sidewalk.
- so pano ako dadaan? punyemas! masagi ko pa yung grocery niya. lente!

#4. Bike na cuma-counterflow...
- HELLO!!!!!

#5. Taong biglang tatawid sa highway.
- these people don't know that it's hard to see them when its dark and youre eyes are catching the headlights of the vehicles coming from the opposite direction... ang bwisit pa dito... makikipag tanggo pasila sayo... pag aandar ka na... saka pa sila tatawid.

#6. Tricycles on the highway.
- as far as i know these guys shouldnt be allowed to run there... so I don't know what theyre doing there... stopping on a no left turn intersection... to turn left.

So these are the stress elements that I encountered on the road... and some of them went one after the other.

And I know that these things happen everytime to everyone... so...

When in the Philippines?
do as the Pinoy does...

I love the Philippines... but the people living in this country is the best ones that I know in pissing off their neighbors... Traffic palang to.

Daily Musings

"Evening was a shimmer in your hair,
Time was just a button in your gown
Memory's a torture that I'm going through...
She's not you..."

-Spin Doctors

Life

Life... in all that it is... can be quite punishing to a person. And to this we ask if it really is a gift? Why were we thrown into this world that doesn't seem to play the way we want it to work. It works on it's own... and most of the time we run under it. Life... is a gift... others... it's more of a punishment. A test of our own strength, our own will and a test of the grounds we all step on.

To some... that ground is just an inch and everywhere you look it's nothing but pain and suffering. And to those who view life that way... there's no way to live it, so we decide to end it ourselves. And they may be viewed as selfish people... but on the contrary, they're just tormented by the very thing they try to hold on to.

This morning I was rocked by the news that my good friend Jov Kalinga decided to push himself towards the end to stop the pain that he may be feeling emotionally. He decided to give up his ghosts.

He was a good friend, and a great musician. He was a happy spirit, so it was really shocking to hear the news that he leapt towards his freedom.

For what it's worth... Here's a toast to you. May you find what you were seeking, and hopefully... against all teachings and beliefs... you're in our Creators arms.

You are loved by those of whom you left.

Rest in peace Jov.

The Most Intelligent Conversation I've Heard

Youtube Link

This is the infamous video capture of a drunk Bayani Agbayani...
give yourself a peso everytime you hear the word "Settle" come up in this video...
you'll end up having a fortune after watching this.

warning: Profanity and Obscene language comes up here. so keep the volume down.

Unfairness

New job = nothing coming until the 25th.
Old Job = still owes me about 75% of my whole Feb salary that I worked for them.

Present = 40 bucks in my wallet.

I clearly squeezed out all of my January savings and some of my previous savings from my past earnings... my other friends in the old office collected their salary for Feb already, sad part is mine wasn't included in their distribution. I know they're on tough times... but who isn't?

Is it just fair that I get what I'm supposed to receive?...

Farewell to an Icon

March 6, 2009 around 12:00 pm one of the Philippines music Icon and a new-age nationalist, Francis "Kiko" Magalona passed away.

I'd surely miss this man, for the things he did with our music industry and mostly one of the guys who strongly urged our young Filipinos to gain pride in our country.

Farewell idol!
... You're now truly a Freeman.

MUSIC IS LIFE.

I was vocalizing to the new track that we did with Ely B. and THE NEW BAND. Yup, we will have a new band. An album of music, a documentary movie, a foundation, yes all of these will happen. AND I WAS VOCALIZING WHILE TRANSFUSING A PACK OF RBC,

I still hear the voices of Elvis Presley, John Lennon, Tupac Shakur, Kurt Cobain, The Notorious B.I.G. and Frank Sinatra to name a few. And their voices rise from their graves.

I am lucky to have been a recording artist and one day when I leave this world, just like the names I mentioned, my voice will be heard. Always. At a touch of a button or switch, I am "alive" again.

In essence music is life. Music is immortality.

-Francis Magalona
1964-2009

while you're at it... check some of his videos out...
Francis M. - Kaleidoscope World from the album Freeman

His personal Website
Francis M. Clothing

The Edge of Twenty Three

Here I am... hours before I close this year out for me... the edge of twenty-three.

So I hang thee up thy rafters... along with the great years of my life. With a new job waiting for me next week and a great golf week ahead... Real Madrid is just 4 points behind La Liga winners and rivals Barcelona... Phoenix are on a roll (over those B-teams)... I could not ask for more.

well maybe a Canon 50D won't hurt :)

In a few hours I say good bye to the number 23 and say hello to 24.
MDJ24 anyone?

Habby Pirthday to me.

Unexpected Flattery

Before ending the day today, I had a funny experience down at 7-11.

My brother asked me to buy something for him so after dropping off my friend to her destination I headed off to do my brother a favor and buy something for him at 7-11.

While I was paying for that pack of cigarettes the clerk asked me, with a smile, "Sir, ilang taon na po kayo?"... I then relied with a strange look to my friend, a laugh and a high five to the clerk before answering his question. While I was paying I even thanked the man...

An unexpected flattery in an unexpected time... haha I guess being 23 (turning 24 in days time) isn't that bad when you're mistaken to be under 18 hahaha...

off topic: I saw what probably could be one of the baffling sight I've seen this week.
Kids probably at a high school grad ball? prom? or a debut wearing suits and gowns eating hotdogs, siopao and chips inside 711 with alot more of their peers waiting in line.

The event location was just next door... how sad could the food at that event be?

One Week of Unemployment

As of yesterday... 5:00 pm... I, Marco de Jesus, is officially unemployed.

This certain status message caused some activity on my facebook wall asking me what happened and such... to those who did, I thank you for your concern. But starting March 9, 2009 I'd be a part of another organization as a Documentation Specialist.

I was supposed to kick off this week with a round of golf with my dad and some of his friends when colds kicked in... again. And I hate it... I was supposed to be out there, swinging those balls out of the fairway... into mostly patches of rough and having fun... instead I'm stuck with my sweat pants and tissue beside me. Woe... is... me...

I have officially gained weight... thank you very much. And I plan to lose em again, by methods of I have yet to figure out. I'm living with a brother who's trying to gain weight and It's just pure temptation to watch him down one burger after another. It's gonna be one tough ride.

Tough I say... tough.

Searching for that Happy Pill

Birthday's coming up, and one of my close friends asked me something I've never heard before... any plans for it? Thinking about my past birthdays, I've never really wanted to do anything special there... But maybe, just maybe something special happens.

Right off the bat, I just said that I don't have anyone to really spend it with right now... and so I began ranting about singleness... I guess One really is the loneliest number.

So I think I'd just have to ask my dad to spend the day with me on the golf course and practice for my first ever tournament on the 7th.

After that conversation I found it hard to keep a smile, temporarily I've never really thought what's wrong... I just know something is...

Is it so tough to be noticed?

I wish I could fly
From this building, from this wall
And if I should try,
Would you catch me if I fall?
--When I Fall by the Barenaked Ladies

This is how *SOME* public servants "SERVE" the public

I read this over a blog I got from a blog.
A horrible incident that happened in the golf course involving some public officials who have their balls bigger than their minds.

Blog Link

Is these the guys we vote for? Or are these the guys that force themselves into office so they can act like these? The Philippines is lovable my friends, there's much to love, much to hope... It's just guys like these that makes the Philippines, the Filipino's look bad.

Tsk.

When The Country Is Torn Again

How much is enough? Apparently nothing is enough when one has delved deep into greed.

Today the country again is torn into two, those who are fighting for whatever dignity this country has, and those powerful few that wouldn't give a flying f*** what happens to their people. Public servants my ass.

Rumors around the news lines and the local interwebs have been buzzing about the immenent change of the 1987 Constitution that would allow current President Arroyo to stay in power way past the year 2010. Thus forcing people to step out of their circles just to display their protest and their disapproval of this ruckus. 

How much more will this country bleed into submission?

I refuse to believe that this country will remain at its current stature as the 2nd most corrupt country in the whole friggin world. No, this country deserves better. I refuse to accept the fact that this country will remain as a 3rd world country... 

From the outside looking in, our big ass tax percentage, VAT, and E-VAT should be enough to keep this country out of the fritz. Maybe as far as out of it's debt. How many people eat at Jolibee and McDonalds everyday? take out 10% (VAT) of it and see how much money should be spent on our country...

Then enter our natural resources, we have alot of Gold mines out there, Silver, Nickel and Copper too (according to my Tito who basically knows alot about mining), but then again I don't think we own these mines anymore, this country is being sold out to others... Bled... out of its life. Again this is from someone outside looking into more details.

And now politics, our crazy politics. Sure economy rised after the fall of former President Estrada, but we could've been more. If expenses of certain projects are trimmed from their "extra crap". Based on the fertilizer crap and the former ZTE deal... which amounts to billions of friggin dollars are spent properly on this country then improvements would certainly be felt and seen.

I want my taxes seen!!!!! not just on asphalt patches on our streets!!!! F###!!!!!!!

Next thing you'll know you're going to see the assitant secretary of Defense and the Vice President of the Philippines in the ring beside Manny Pacquiao. For crying out loud? Do you have to display yourselves there? Isn't it enough that you guys saw the fight? You just have to shout yehey in the ring that you don't have anything to do with...

And then your First Gentleman is rumored to be denied of entry in the United States because of undergoing investigation on Money Laundering of which he "could" be involved.

And yet... Economy is improved from previous Governments... F### ME! Too much shame has this current administration have given this country. So far this current administration have seen so many demonstrations and coup de etat attempts compared to the other ones... 

GET A CLUE F###ERS!!!!

I mean... We could have more reasons than Pacquiao to be proud of...

Jason Richardson -> Phoenix

The trade wires began buzzing again this morning (Manila Time) as the Phoenix Suns traded two familiar faces in Raja Bell and Boris Diaw to Charlotte for Jason Richardson. Sean Singletary of the Suns is also included in the trade along with Jared Dudley and future 2nd round pick going to Phoenix.

On paper, I'd be happy with the trade, this trade would certainly boost their ratings in either NBA 2K9 or NBA Live 09, I'm just not sure what it would do to the franchise. The Suns basically gave up a little bit of their depth of the bench and their most tenacious defender in Bell. But honestly, what would you do with a player who's not thriving in the new system that Coach Porter is using. 

Jason Richardson, a 2 time slam dunk champion, capable of shooting threes and basically an entertaining player to see on court, will be able to help the Phoenix Suns get more points but will he really answer the very thing that Suns GM Steve Kerr, and coach Terry Porter wanted to improve? Defense?

... at least Kerr did something good to this team... will reserve my comments later on.

When I Hear You Call

Gary Valenciano - When I Hear You Call
another homer right here... made me say hello to subtle tears pa... ok ok i cried... not a big deal.

Video Link

and here's the lyrics of the song

When I
Look into those bright eyes
So young
Always so ready to run
Then I
See your change when fun subsides
And new colors start to arise
There's a hidden picture
That wasn't seen outside

When you run, don't tire
Keep on reaching, higher
Even when the pain and trouble bring you down, sometimes
I will see you through
I'm forever right here with you
Even when you feel you don't need me around

I will be your friend, forever
I will be your one, big brother
Even when I see you fall
I will be your father
When I hear you call

Don't cry
This is not the end, nor goodbye
But begin
To know I'm with you 'til the end
And when you pray
I will hear every word you say
And so with all my promises made
For one like you
Someone who's especially made

When you run, don't tire
Keep on reaching, higher
Even if the pain and trouble bring you down, sometimes
I will see you through
I'm forever right here with you
Even if you feel you don't need me around

I will be your friend, forever
I will be your one, big brother
Even when I see you fall
I will be your father
Yeah

I will be your friend, forever
I will be your big brother
Even when I see you fall
I will be your father
Yeah

I will be your friend, forever
I will be your big brother
Even when I see you fall
I will be your father
Be your friend, your brother
When I hear you call
Lift you when you fall
When I hear you call

The Need to Get IT Together

At this point, being 23 years old and all, I got to stop thinking that I'm still young, because I'm not. I need to think about what I'm going to do for the next following X years. Right now I'm lost and have no idea where to go to, and hopefully this is where I begin.

I got lost along the way, losing hope and all, oh and if you don't have a clue on what I'm talking about, It's about saving my professional career. I got lost along the way, no clue on what to do, and too hopeless to start doing what needs to be done. And right now, at this second, at 1:56 am on the 7th of November of the year 2008, something needs to be done. I need to finish what I have started.

I know my shit, and have been too complacent on it. Just had a reality check with my big brother that if I stay like this for two more years... I'll be next to useless. As of now that's how I feel.

So I guess I need to refocus on what needs to be done, drop the other stuff that gets in the way, tie my shoelaces and run towards that goal. Freak... I am indeed 23 years old and I don't want to turn out to be next to useless. It's not going to be easy living out of my comfort zone, heck nothing is really easy to begin with, but if I need to do something about this dance, I gotta buckle up my dance shoes and take a lead on this one. Life should begin at this intersection... so help me God.

So I'm going to have to put the other things aside from now... No more playing games (except for sports), and hobbies... I guess they can wait. You, my friends, will still be there, fo shizzle, or I'll be found hanging on a tree not being the proudest monkey if it wasn't for you guys, but yeah... at this point in time... I need to get IT together.

... ... so help me God

NBA League Pass Channel?

To Cablelink subscribers...

anyone know if we still have the NBA League Pass Channel? If we still have it, what channel can I find it? I haven't seen it on channel 51 lately. :(

Day 3 (frustrated)

Frustrations have been piling up on me lately.

Saturday I lost a poker night, I never even got good cards on me... I got aces, true, but with 5's or deux... how would you bank on that?

Anyway on to the quest story.

Sunday afternoon, lunch time, the family decided to go to this restaurant named Cravings first, and as I went on looking for good stuff to order on the menu, this burger picture with melted cheese resting on a thick patty dawned on me, the name beside it even made it better... I will order the Ultimate Cheeseburger... its not just any other Ultimate Cheeseburger... the menu says that it's THE Ultimate Cheeseburger.

but alas... it wasn't available, so we decided to go to Wendy's since everyone was looking forward for burgers that day. As I was looking for something similar to THE Ultimate Cheeseburger (which they dont have) I just ordered what seems to be the most expensive (hoping it's the best they have), The Big Bacon Classic Burger. I told my mom that that's what I like and I went on to bring my nephew to the toy store and get a lesson from him about the names of DC Superheroes.

When I got back the burger wasn't there yet, and I had my expectations running. I munched on some ridiculous fries (not a compliment). It took another 10 minutes and a couple of follow ups to get the staff into realizing that we're still not yet served. Rushing to the end of the story, they mistook my order of the Bacon Classic to... a... Bacon Cheeseburger... wrapped in some normal paper wrap was this maybe less than 6 inch burger that has a thin slice of burger patty, a piece of bacon and torn up cheese. It was less than appealing and it took me about 20 minutes more to realize that i'm hungry and I need to eat that burger no matter what.

I ate the zombified thing that they call a burger. I could've had something better from Burger Machine or Minute Burger. Their buns tasted old... I never even got a taste of what the patty tastes like. It was an utmost disaster and piled up more on the frustrations that has been piling me up all week.

That burger is out there... and unfortunately these zombies are too. But that BURGER is out there somewhere, waiting to be had, waiting to be appreciated, taken care of, and to be loved. She's somewhere out there... And I won't stop until I have her around my palms.

To Leave or Not To Leave

2 years have passed and enter year 2009, 5 months into it, I'd be gunning for three years working in the same company. I've held my own during that stretch, and reasons to stay have gone by. Friends went on to move to another chapter of their work life, Pay has gone from 15th/30th to weekly to guessing. As for me, I wonder with some of my friends, why am I still here?

I used to give out this answer, that I'm happy working there. I didn't mind the delayed pay that I'm getting, I get to learn software development related stuff and such. Right now I'm just full of sh... I ran out of leaves to take day offs, and honestly I don't even care if I lose a days wage just to stay in bed. The office has gone from a place where smiling places and stories come and go to... a fallout shelter with a handful of survivors. It's not the beacon of light that everyone has become accustomed to. Is it time for me to abandon ship?

I don't know where I'm going to see myself after this one though. I'm also thinking to study for a little while, but I don't really know if I can do that at home. Or I could reinsert myself in the industry by looking for another job, new office, new environment, or simply go rogue on this, freelance after studying.

As of now I'm liking the last option since I could go and have my hand on my time and I could shoot here and there with my camera every once in a while. Do the things that I really like instead of waking up everyday dragging myself from bed and put on pants and collared shirts and go to work. I used to like, I just don't know if I can say the same thing right now.

I'm giving myself two months to think about this. December 2008... To leave? or not to leave...

... ... sometimes I think why I even add the 2nd question.

Day 2 (The Journey Continues)

The following events happened between 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

And so the journey continues in search of the best burger in town. I was told of the burger in Chef d' Angelo, and again my mouth watered. I already have seen it in a plate since that's what my officemate orders when we eat there. And for what it's worth I also enjoy their Salisbury Steak which could be their burger patty as well. With these things in mind and anticipation in part of my mouth, I approached my colleagues to accompany me to Chef d' Angelo in Greenbelt 1 to order one for my fill, but they had other plans.

They already have plans to go to Glorietta to check pillows and shirts. I told myself, well I can still pass by Chef on our way back. We left the office around 12:00 pm and minutes later we're in Greenbelt 1. I realized that Glorietta from Greenbelt is a good 15-20 minute walk, so thats already almost half an hour, plus the time to check shirts and pillows would cost another 30 minutes, the walk back from Glorietta is another 15-20 minute walk, plus the line in Chef and the order time, we'd arrive late in the office so I just decided to leave the dream for a day and continue another day, off we go to Glorietta.

As soon as we arrived in Glorietta a light bulb switched on my mind when I saw what greeted us when we got in. It was a poster of the burgers that made this fastfood chain declare themselves as a King. One decker followed by a double decker followed by a triple decker burger... Burger King said welcome to us when we got in and I knew right there and then that my journey continues.

Skipping through the details of shirt buying and pillow picking, we went to the store to get a glimpse of what I'm eating for lunch today. And choices flooded the menu from left to right starting from the Angus Steakhouse Burger to Chicken Sandwhiches to the BK Deckers to the Whoppers. But I was there for one thing and one thing only, taste what they have to offer and I had my eyes set on the Classic Angus Steakhouse Burger beacause the Loaded version of it was just too nasty (it had mashed potatoes in it).

3rd in line, 2 people away in anticipation of holding that new taste within my hands. It took me 5 minutes to get to the Cashier, to the promised digital machine. I gave my order... 1 Classic Angus Steakhouse Burger with large onion rings and regular drink for take out.

After the order we planned to take the cab because I just couldn't wait to taste what the King can offer. few more minutes I was sitting down on our pantry carefully laying down one meal piece after another. First I took out the Large Onion Rings and placed it carefully on the table and welcoming it to my office since minutes later it'll say goodbye to this world while it serves its purpose. Next was the drink, a fairly size drink that's enough to wash down what I'll have later on. And last but not least the Masterpiece that is the Classic Angus Steakhouse Burger.


It was atleast as heavy as the Jollibee Champ, but I felt the force on this one. I knew right there and then that I will not be disappointed today, I knew right there and then that the Champ will relinquish its day-old belt to the one I was holding at that moment. Slowly I began to unwrap the burger like it was a gift under the tree on Christmas morning. One side at a time, carefully and slowly like making love for the first time. And inch by inch I can finally see it. The patty was about half an inch outside its bun and the cheese was one with the patty. Huge slices of tomatoes, lettuce and bacon bits was inside this masterpiece. I began to admire what I have in my hand, and I started to apologize for what I was about to do. I knew right there and then that the Angus cow gave me a nod of acknowledgement that he died so that I can enjoy that moment there. He along with the onion that was being taken piece by piece was serving their purpose. They have lived their lives not in vain.

Slowly my mouth opened, eager, yet careful... and there it was... the first bite. I was out of description at that moment, but a grunt of satisfaction was belched. I chewed that burger until it was so masticated that it couldn't recognize itself already. I remembered what God knew when He created the world... in the Bible, it said that when God saw His creation He knew that it was good. And upon biting that burger... swallowing every bit of it I felt the same thing, the same (well maybe not really the same) feeling... It was good... I was having a good lunch.

The burger was done, the meal was gone and there I was still thinking about the better burger out there as I was licking my finger of any residue the burger left on it. This beef took the belt right out of the Champ.

And it was good...

... The Quest (Explanation of what it is + Day 1)

Eversince watching episode 2 of How I Met Your Mother, my mouth couldn't stop watering. It just had to stop. I have to find the best burger that my taste buds can ever taste, I just have to.

And this is how I plan to go about the tons of burgers that are around Manila. I'll just eat everything that I can grab hold on to. It doesn't matter if it comes from a local resto or fast food or a clubhouse... as long as it is a burger I'll have to get hold of it.

Health wise... this is suicide... so I'd probably go through 2 burgers a week or 3 a month. This is a long quest, and I don't want to burn out quick.

Day 1 (10-6-2008)
the following events took place between 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Office hours was ending and my mouth started to water. I felt the primitive urge within me... I just had to eat something, I was hungry... and I'm hungry for beef. So the search began for a good burger patty in between 2 perfectly shaped buns with sesame sprinkled on it. The taste of lettuce and juicy tomatoes that would circle your mouth until you find the taste of that pickle to go with that juicy burger that would make you not want to brush your teeth again.

So I went down the office with a friend of mine to search for the nearest place that offers a burger. So I saw this small place, Big Brothers sa Salcedo, in front of my office along Salcedo street corner Soria street, and entered it to begin my quest.

The first words that we're out of my mouth was a question if they offered a burger, which they did for 80 bucks. So I got my wallet and paid the fee that was needed for the purchase... a few minutes later I'm bringing back the first burger that would round up and try to make my tummy one happy tummy.

The anticipated first bite was taken after unwrapping the plastic that it had around it... and alas... it didn't hit the mark. It was a burger alright... but I wasn't happy... It has a pickle that tasted like cucumber, and too much of it that I couldn't even taste the burger anymore. I was shattered to have it as my first try. It came to me that this is going to be a long quest.

With a shattered dream, I hurried home.

the following events took place between 10:00 pm to 11:00 pm

The day was nearing it's edge, and I enjoyed a good Monday Night Basketball, and the haunting start of the quest came back to me as my stomach complained and requested for food. I remembered that I didn't eat anything for dinner since I rushed to the courts to make the game.

With 4 companions, we went to this local fastfood chain that everybody loves, Jollibee... Looking at the menu I knew I just had to get the Champ. My friend who went before me ordered one too after sharing the quest that I'm in... and minutes later I find myself in front of the cashier and with a smile on my face I told the guy that I'm going to get myself a Champ with regular fries.
He looked behind the counter and asked if they had a Champ ready to serve...

...
...
alas... It had to be made for me so he asked me if I could wait for 15 minutes for the mouth watering burger... My patience was being tested in this encounter and so I said yes. With regular fries and a big glass of water on my trey I went back to our seat tired, and bruised of hope... My mouth had to wait a little more.

One by one a fry went down, and my watch told me every moment that passed by. My friend who ordered a piece of chicken had his fill, my other friend who ordered the last remaining Champ was just beginning to bite on his, and the 4th member of the fellowship had his spicy chaofan on his plate... I remain patient, and so I took the fries slowly... piece by piece in anticipation of the best burger that this chain can offer.

A crew with a box on a trey started to come out of the counter, as he was inching slowly at our place my arched back begins to straighten up slowly. He stopped to get my number and checking the receipt if it was the correct order... The burger now landed in front of me, smoking of a freshly cooked patty and inviting my mouth to take a munch.

Slowly I begin to open the box, and there it was... The Champ. 1/3 beef patty with big slices of tomatoes and pickles, lettuce after the bun and a cheese on top of the burger... My day will not go down in vain. I took a moment to observe what I held within my hand, and then I took a bite.

There it was... the start of a brand new beginning... a burger I enjoyed! A good start for this quest! And so I just had to say it there and then... It's the best so far.

I went home with a smile and hope of more burgers to come.

After a shower, I slipped into my sheets. Tomorrow will be a brand new day.

The worst thing that happened in EDSA

I was browsing the goodtimes blog to catch up on the latest with the goodtimes radio show on Magic 89.9, and they did not fail to share something amusing, and possibly this one could fight off the "Ellen" billboards in EDSA that DJ Mo Twister has been bickering about since the dawn of their radio show. 

Here it comes... the worst thing that ever donned EDSA so far. Kaibigan... handa ka na ba?

Boy Abunda Billboard, Photo courtesy of http://leviuqse.blogspot.com/

The Michael Guglielmucci Issue

Michael Guglielmucci news clip

this is the news clip about Pastor Michael Guglielmucci coming out and bringing his lie into the light.

weeks? months? ago, the said pastor told everyone including his wife, mother and father that he was suffering from terminal cancer. created a song, that became an anthem to those who knew the song.

The song healer was said to top the charts and was downloaded alot on the itunes store during this time.

the news clip will explain it all...

basically the issue is a pastor created a lie and somehow reaped benefit with it. disappointing? yes... devious... it truly is... but what do we do with it now? what do we do with the song (Healer) now that it is tainted with lie?

for me? i'd still sing it as if nothing happened. people were moved by his "lie"... i was moved by his repentance. watching that clip i couldnt help but feel glad and happy that he did the right thing. i know what repentace can feel and i can just feel what he is feeling now... true freedom from the web of lies he was entangled in. Michael even admitted of his addiction to porn and that i applaud.

We had this wrist band before that has WWJD written all over it... and in this situation.. What would Jesus do? be disappointed? condemn? or display love and embrace this guy... man if i knew this guy, i'd give him a hug.

Matthew 18:21-22

Then Peter came and said to Him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.

This is the song that he wrote and sang with Hillsong, you can catch it on their album This is Our God

Hillsong - Healer

Candle Light

tried to write something with what i see during the 1 hour brownout at home.

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Desperate for light
as I'm embraced by the dark night
All i have is this diminishing candle
a few more hours is all that it could handle

Yet it flickers with all its might
giving all it can to shed its light
and accompany me tonight

this room is almost lit
a little candle, short but fit
enough to warm me up with its heat

and now the little candle is almost gone
it took me awhile to write this along
now back to the darkness my eyes belong