The Cafemom Chronicles

TEN by Terry Smith

2012-01-26T18:19:00.000-08:00

“Humanity is in somewhat of a mess, but things can get better. God intends for them to get better. Because of his active participation in our lives and in our world, we can believe that good will defeat evil, love will conquer hate, hope will crush despair and ultimately that will lead to a better future.”
----Terry Smith, Author of Ten-

The Book challenges you to answer a basic question: “How de you rate your life?”

Actually, whenever I applied for a new job and the Interviewer would ask me what is seems like a tricky question. “How do you rate yourself?

This question gives a glimpse of the clueless on how to rate my own life. I mean if the is job related and the interviewer would ask me “How do you rate yourself in the scale of 1 to 10?”

I usually reply a quick 7 answer as I find it more a safe rather rate myself a perfect 10 as this might irked him/her that I look like I was professional boasting so much.

So how do we rate our life in terms of fulfillment? Is getting a “perfect 10” kind of life possible? How much do we want it? Why do are the hindrances on getting a level-Ten kind of living?

Of course, we all strive for significance in one way or the other so I thought this is another self-help book like any other self-help book.

But still Terry Smith has something “new” to offer because he encourage you to strive better for the future, get your act together so not only you can maximized your potential, but also make a positive change to others.

The Author gives a more structured approach such as following the seven-step plan.

1. Awaken: Wake up to God’s dreams for your life

2. Discover: Learn how to discover your life’s calling

3. Imagine: Learn how the discipline of imagination makes the future real

4. Grow: Develop the life infrastructure to sustain success

5. Act: Take action to create your future

6. Lead: Learn to lead yourself and others to the best possible future

7. Go: Accept the call to get started living the life God dreams of you

Some chapters’ offers bite-size tips, quotes, inspiring stories enough for you to take the important step towards a more promising future.

I might add this is not your typical self-development book that concentrates more on the self-gratification, but rather it encourages you to become a Leader. You will gain more insight when reach “Chapter 15” of this book explores more of the many facets of human nature. Discover what motivates others and why others seem to have lack the drive or persistence.

Therefore, this book is a must-read for those who work in Church, who inspires to be part of a Ministry, aspires to lead a cell group. For business organizations and for the individual curious enough to find out that indeed getting a “Scale of 10” is possible for a fulfilling life ahead.

I RATE THIS BOOK: 5 STARS *****

TERRY SMITH is the lead pastor of THE LIFE CHRISTIAN CHURCH in West Orange, New Jersey. A member of the board of New York Leadership Center, where he is an instructor in its Leadership Fellows program and a gifted speaker both national and international. Married for 28 years and has three grown children.

Know more about this exciting book at www.livingten.com/book

NOTE: I received this book from The B&B Media group for a review.

UNLEASH THE PHOTOGRAPHER WITHIN YOU

2012-01-24T21:35:00.000-08:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More 365

CSM Encourages Kids to go Outdoors!

2012-01-20T16:11:00.000-08:00

Kids today are growing disconnected to nature. They spend more time indoors than outdoors, and even when they are outdoors, they seldom take time to notice their surroundings. Their ears are plugged with earphones and their eyes are glued to their cellphones and other handheld games. This disturbing lifestyle of our kids today also leads them to become unaware of the role that has been entrusted to our care.

Encouraging children to spend time outdoors and observe natural environment and its inhabitants is a big step towards helping them become good stewards of creation.

Church Strengthening Ministry shares the vision for the kids to rediscover and appreciate the wonders of the natural world and know God more with their latest VBS offering for 2012, The Great Outdoors VBS Camp: Exploring Nature, Experiencing God. More than the usual indoor fun, now kids will have a chance to explore five different terrains (field, water, mountain, trees, sky) and to experience some of God’s amazing attributes as they go outdoors.

Why do VBS outdoors? Here are five very good reasons:

1. Creation teaches us many things about our Creator and Savior.

2. As stewards of God’s creation, we need to be acquainted with what we are commanded to tend and protect.

3. Contact with and enjoyment of creation lead to appreciation and concern for creation.

4. Studies show that exposure to nature is vital to a child’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual development.

5. Learning is double fun when done outdoors!

It’s now time to let kids experience the delights of the great outdoors during VBS!

The Great Outdoors VBS camp is open to Campers ages 4-12. Parents and guardians are welcome to join, too! The whole church is also encouraged to get involved in the exciting activities and experience what the great outdoors can reveal.

The Great Outdoors VBS Camp material comes in one convenient box containing: 50 Camper’s Nature Journals, 3 Teachers’ Manuals, 1 Director’s Manual, 1 music CD, 1 instructional DVD, 50 nametags, 50 ID laces, 250 attendance beads, 4 whistles, and 1 promotional poster. Each Camper’s Nature Journal also comes in full-color which makes it more interesting for the students to write on.

The Great Outdoors VBS Camp package costs P1,999 and is available in English and Conversational Tagalog. This is available at the CSM Bookcorner at tel. nos. 852-7301 to 02 & 04 local 205 and at all Christian bookstores nationwide. Also visit www.csm-publishing.com for the downloadable items to complete your VBS program.

Youtube Link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zlb3_CMMFcc

2012 Starbucks Tumbler and Yeah Notebooks

2012-01-14T10:26:00.000-08:00

I simply love Yeah Notebooks.

It fulfills my need to write something on at an affordable price.

You can get them at any SM Department branches that has a stationery section.

Moleskine notebooks is too expensive for me while I can buy a lot of Yeah Notebooks and won’t burn a hole in my pocket.

Recently, something caught my fancy that I can’t resist. It compliments my 2012 Starbucks Tumbler (Valentine Edition).

There is a site at tumbler on which you can join and share your notebook collections or your fascination with notebooks.

SAYING GOODBYE TO 2011 WITH BOOKS

2011-12-30T21:42:00.000-08:00

I like to say goodbye to 2011 with
books that have created an impact to me or least made a lasting impression. It was a good year and it was also a bad year.
A bad year when my country have been visited by terrible Storms and one that almost wiped out a province but also brings out the best among Filipinos here and abroad---the gift of caring!
Filipinos are a resilient lot…maybe it was faith.
It was the year when people are not made to forget. One cannot move forward, if you can’t right the wrongs of the past.
One must face justice either within the laws of man or within the power of God. I always believe in Karma.
It was the year that I made a lot of friends, It was the year I felt so betrayed by these so-called friends (however, just a few as I have friends who are true). I thank God for them. I had been crushed and burned. But it helps you have the support of family and books that guide you and inspired you. Life must go on despite of everything.
BOOKS I’D TO RECOMMEND TO OTHER PEOPLE:

The New Living Translation Bible or The Message
God Never Blinks by Regina Brett
The Artist Way by Julia Cameron

Negosyo by Joey Conception and Pera Mo Palaguin Mo 2 by Francisco Colayco

(Those two books are great reads to start 2012 if you want to start a business or learn more about financial planning). I wish I have gotten the book by Mr.Colayco earlier when I graduated from college and become a working woman, but it is never too late to learn something new.

· Your Road Map for Success by John Maxwell
· Cure for the Common Life by Max Lucado
· Chocolate for a Woman’s Soul
· Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert (This inspires me to take the plunge
· to travel abroad with my close friends)
· Speaking of Jesus by Carl Medearis
· All books written by Paolo Coelho!!!!

BOOKS I NEVER THOUGHT I’D CAME TO LOVE:

World War Z by Max Brooks
Halo: First Strike by Eric Nylund
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larson

HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!
May you find books that would uplift you. Choose books wisely.

MAGING UBAS HUWAG PASAS

2011-12-29T22:34:00.000-08:00

MAGING UBAS HUWAG PASAS

Mga Kwento Para Sa Buhay na Nananariwa

(AUDIO BOOK/CD)

ERIC C. MALIWAT

Kinagagalak ko na mabigyan ng

opportunidad na gawan ng review o mapakingan ang Audio CD na eto.

Kung ihahambing ko ang Audio CD na eto sa mga prutas. Ito ay hitik sa bunga ang mga nilalaman. Masustansya para sa kaisipan.

Ito ay mga sari-saring kwento hango sa mga naging karansan ni Mr.Maliwat at kung saan pang pinagkukunang kwento.

Kwento na makabuluhan at hindi maaksaya ang panahon mo sa pakikinig.

Sa pakikinig ng Audio CD na eto ay para narin nagkaroon ka ng isang kaibigan na nag sasabi lang ng totoo at hinahangad lang na maging matagumpay ka sa buhay mo.

Sa sobrang ganda nang nilalaman nito, ilang beses ko syang pinakingan at pati na ang mga kapamilya ko. May added bonus pa na kanta na aantig sa puso mo. Maganda at malinaw ang pananalita ni Mr. Maliwat siguro dahil nga galing sya sa Media (Radio).

Ang nagustuhan kong napakingan base sa isang kwento niya ay ang “TEN LITTLE INDIANS” hango eto sa napanood niyang stage play. Pero hindi pala eto children’s rhyme. Naging malawak ang ibig sabihin nito at nagkaroon pa ng “variation” tagos tagusan ang pahiwatig ng “TEN LITTLE CHRISTIANS.”

At ang “Krayola”, agree ako sa kanya na kailangan natin ng “creativity” buhay natin, nasa atin naman talaga kung paano natin lalagyan nang iba’t ibang kulay ang ating buhay.

Makaka relate ka maging ikaw man ay Katoliko (Catholic) or Born-Again Christian sa mga aral na bagama’t pamilyar man sa iyo, maganda parin syang balik balikan upang hindi tayo makalimot na paano ba maging Ubas at hindi Pasas sa labas at loob nang ating pagkatao.

Maganda po etong ipamigay or pang regalo at sigurado pong gagaan ang pakiramdam ng kung sino man ang makakatangap nito katulad nang nangyari sa akin.

Mas mapapakinabangan mo eto kung ma-tatransfer mo sa ano man MP3 player meron ka ang audio files nito. Para mapakingan mo saan ka man---Na loob nang kotse, nakasakay ka man ng MRT papunta kung saan or hindi kaya habang na-ka break time ka sa iyong trabaho lalo’t na kung ikaw ay nalulungkot at kailangan mo nang spiritual booster.

Pero tandaan lang po natin na bawal po ang duplication or distribution ng anomang Audio CD.

Mabibili ang Audio CD na eto sa mga lokal ng Christian Bookstores o di kaya sa

CHURCH STRENGTHENING MINISTRY.

Email: info@csm-publishing.org

____________________________________________________________________

ABOUT ERIC C. MALIWAT

He is a motivational speaker, journalist, columnist and ordained minister. He is the station manager of 702 DZAS- Far East Broadcasting Co. and Pastor of Caloocan Christian Church. He is also the founder of The Grape City (www.thegrapecity.com)

NOTE: International Readers of this blog can use the translate this page found in your browsers (Tagalog to English) within Google Chrome or firefox.

SOMEONE LIKE YOU

2011-12-15T19:30:00.000-08:00

I heard that you're settled down

That you found a girl and you're married now

I heard that your dreams came true

Guess she gave you things I didn't give to you

Nothing compares, no worries or cares

Regrets and mistakes, they're memories made

Who would have known how bittersweet this would taste?

Never mind, I'll find someone like you

I wish nothing but the best for you

Don't forget me, I begged,

I remember you said Sometimes it lasts in love, but sometimes it hurts instead

***************************************

What a powerful voice! What sheer elegance!

You can feel the lyrics, the emotions.

I only become aware of "Adele" when I was watching a "mash-up" episode of "Glee" on which Santana was doing a cover version.

The song runs so deep. It makes me feel like...

COME AS YOU ARE!

2011-12-15T18:10:00.000-08:00

Digital Photography and Confessions of a Pathological Picture

2011-12-15T17:18:00.000-08:00

I think I am not the only one in this vast planet who loves to have Kodak moments or taking a lot of pictures.

Before I only used a camera phone, then there comes the Digital Camera era.

Right now, I love everything RETRO, I love old pictures. I would distort my photos either in Sepia, Black and White, Vignette or Lomo. So I made changes with how my “Blog” looks like now. It is still a work-in-progress.

I don’t have an Apple iphone, but INSTAGRAM is a very powerful free App from the Apple store which you can download. One of my favorite actress Zooey Deshanel of

“New Girl” fame have a tumblr account. I notice she took a lot of pictures of herself and her friends using this Instagram and believe me the results are stunning, it does gives a “Retro” look.

When I was in Singapore, I passed by this store window along Orchard Road which showcases different kinds of LOMO cameras.

Holga is a well known brand.

I was thinking of getting one, but my Olympus camera already have a Fish-Eye and Pin-hole effects so I decided against it.

You can have the “ LOMO” effect and those similar to INSTAGRAM like the INSTANT RETRO.

This used to be a working APP for the Google Chrome, but lately it is not working so you just have to visit the website to have an instant “Retro” look online and you can share it via Facebook. Just have a ready picture to upload and there you have it!

Another fun thing to do if you are a picture taking junkie like I am was to try out this Free fantastic APP called WEBCAM TOY available via Google Chrome.

(Hey! Mountain View Guys are you reading this? =)

You can try different shots/effects with just a click of your mouse. You can even share it to FB, Twitter and yeah…download the shots taken from your webcam.

Take a look of the different “effects” you can have with this photo editing tool below.

Blog readers, please do pardon my “Ugly” pictures as these are for presentation purposes only. I know I seemed to look like I am auditioning for the sequel of “THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT.”

1. OLD MOVIE. 2. SNOW. 3.THERMAL. 4. Sketch

Another “effect” which you would definitely Love! (Trust me) is the “HAZY DAYS EFFECT” using WEBCAM TOY.

IT'S THE SEASON TO BE MERRY

2011-12-10T21:50:00.000-08:00

A painting of Scott the Teddy Bear
By
Noli Espanola
(painting already sold)

NEW ALTERED NOTEBOOKS (DECEMBER HAPPINESS PROJECTS)

2011-12-10T21:40:00.000-08:00

These are my notebooks. All hardbound. The Journal notebook, I bought it from our local bookstore and the other one is from this cute stationery shop while I was vacationing with friends in Singapore. I love the “pink” one because the pages are blank and it has good quality paper (good for sketching too).

But I haven’t thought those notebooks for quite a long time until now.

When a burst of inspiration descended upon me like an Angel curing me of boredom and depression. Perhaps, being in touch with the spiritual side and finding a new church near my place have brought these changes.

My altered notebooks look much better. I am planning to use the other one with my name on the cover to put Bible verses, prayer requests among other things while the other one I’ll start a 2012 Diary as I can sense the coming New Year would be great for me and my entire family.

You can do this yourself. All you need is left over scrapbooking supplies. I recently got a Scrapbooking Kit from CDR King for P150 pesos which include the papers, stickers and embellishments. Yep! CDR King is really the King as it goes beyond computer related stuff.

You can also buy inexpensive notebooks. I even turn ordinary folders to mini-albums. I mean don’t limit yourself to what your imagination can take you.

Of course, I also get to visit other sites to give me inspiration and motivation to finish my projects.

http://inacreativebubble.blogspot.com - In a Creative Bubble

http://www.shimelle.com =

http://simplestories.typepad.com

http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com

http://christytomlinson.typepad.com

I also got involved my “Artist” husband to help me out. I bought some elastic ribbons from this sewing section from this Department store as you can see at the back cover of the altered notebooks. It seems a whole lot better than buying an expensive Moleskine notebook this X’mas season.

TYNDALE NLT BIBLE GIVEAWAY

2011-12-08T21:09:00.000-08:00

TYNDALE HAS COME UP WITH A WONDERFUL GIVEAWAY THIS X'MAS SEASON

ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS JUST SIGN UP AT THEIR FACE BOOK PAGE AND YOU MIGHT BE THE NEXT WINNER.

https://www.facebook.com/NewLivingTranslation

By visiting the giveaway entry page (located on the NLT Facebook page, the link is under the profile picture) and entering your name and e-mail address you'll be entered to win the following prizes:

One random person each day will win a Life Application Study Bible Family Pack (Guys Life Application Study Bible hc, Girls Life Application Study Bible hc, Student's Life Application Study Bible hc, Life Application Study Bible hc, Life Application Study Bible Large Print hc).
One Random person each week will win an Apple iPad 2!

Everyone that signs up gets a free download copy of the Life Application Bible Study – Book of Luke!

Book Wish List

2011-12-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

My wishlist. I hope this book will be available at our local bookstores.

PRAISE AND COFFEE MAGAZINE

2011-12-04T17:17:00.000-08:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More bible

HOW TO LIVE ABUNDANTLY

2011-12-03T04:04:00.000-08:00

LIVE ABUNDANTLY

LENYA HEITZIG

PENNY ROSE

PUBLISHED BY DAVID COOK

“ All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” ---- Timothy 3:16-17

I admit I have struggles reading the bible at times. That is why I like reading bible study guides as it enlightens me more and help me understand the scriptures.

In this bible study it focused more about the Book of Ephesians and it challenges you to keep a daily appointment with God. To spend time and have a life make over within just twenty minutes a day.

The book of Ephesians starts with spiritual blessings and spiritual wisdom. It is actually the Paul letter to the Ephesians.

In order to benefit more of this bible study, you need a bible, a notebook and a pen in handy to make it a more enjoyable reading experience. What I like this book was the side bar located at the right and left of the page that will make it more an engaging and inspiring.

The book is divided by lessons and it contains the following:

· LIFT UP - prayers

· LOOK AT - inductive questions, facts, passages

· LEARN ABOUT - it explains some certain texts, insights and biblical commentary

· LIVE OUT- it points out how to practice what you read or learn. To put the biblical principles into action.

· LISTEN TO- its about inspiring quotes

I have nothing “negative” to say or find any “flaws” what so ever in this particular bible study. Matter of fact, this is a very good gift for Christmas. Living Abundantly is a bible study meant to bring us closer to God.

To allot a certain time a day reading his word so we can renew our minds and uplift our spirits. This bible study offers fresh approach on how to study God’s word and especially created for women in all walks of life.

I RATE THIS BOOK: 5 STARS *****

I would also recommend to that you try out also some of the bible studies under the Fresh Life series such as LIVE REFLECTIVELY: LESSONS FROM THE WATERSHED MOMENTS OF MOSES.

BOOKS GALLORE

2011-11-24T22:43:00.000-08:00

YOU GOT MAIL!
I got this from the mail today. I was really expecting this. Book reading is a very pleasurable experience
for me.

It is the one thing
I can’t live without besides having coffee.
It’s the season to be merry!
I like to consider this as my early X’mas gift.
Live Abundantly is actually one of my Book Reviews assignments by The B &B Media (Thanks a lot Audra!) While I got Vision Collections Gospel for free from the Visions.org.
Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson is a book that I got from
BOOKMOOCH-- a site for those who wanted to swapped or trade books with others. It could be locally or internationally. I am lucky that Kara from New Jersey was kind enough to grant my request to have her secondhand book.

Most Americans that I have asked for certain books are not willing to give away overseas perhaps of the mailing cost. Which I understand anyway, recession is hard for everyone. So I like to make special mention of Kara, we Filipinos are an appreciative bunch.

Happiness it comes in small packages and it also comes from the generosity of other people you may or you may not know. All you have to do is stop, look, and listen and try to smell the roses despite the challenges ahead of us.

A SNEEK PEAK AT THE PERSONAL LIBRARY OF MY FAVE AUTHOR NEIL GAIMAN

(SOURCE: Shelfari).

Who never heard of THE SANDMAN?

Neil Gaiman remains my favorite author aside from Anne Rice and Paolo Coelho.
His stories are magical, so original, filled with mesmerizing tales. I have some of his novels, but only get to borrowed from Felix --- his copies of the Graphic Novels. It’s nice to have friends who lend you books; I sometime missed my former office mate Raye who was generous also with her book lending. But some people do take advantage of the goodness of others.

They would borrow books and would never return it or make excuses that they misplaced or lost it. Some haven’t had the decency to replace it.
I shy away from people like that. So if you had someone who lends you a book. Please take good care of that friend!

MAKE AN IMPACT DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON.

You may wanted to help out this Library if you have old books still in good condition that you wanted to give away.

http://bookmooch.com/qcpubliclibrary

2012 SEATTLE’S BEST AND PAPAYA PLANNERS

2011-11-24T05:01:00.000-08:00

(Photo source: http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/seattle%27s+best)
After seeing the actual 2011 Starbucks planner, I decided not to have the energy and determination anymore to fill up the required stickers even if some well-meaning friends have volunteered to help me out.

It seems as years goes by it gets simpler or smaller unlike previous Starbucks planners on which I shameless begged my colleagues and friends to help me out.

Of course, I involved some family members too who doesn’t share my need for a Starbucks planner. Two years ago, my husband force himself to drink what he calls a very expensive coffee.

Seeing how much I wanted to have it and not to mention I was giving a “ Puss in boots” kind of look. It didn’t escape him and eventually I got the planner.

Last year, my office mates including my Boss even chipped in to fill up the stickers.
Passing by Seattle’s Best last week en route to watching “Breaking Dawn” the movie with my son upon seeing the planner I swore I felt like a child who wanted a new toy.
If the Seattle’s Best planner turns out to be a food I could have salivate right there and then.
Unfortunately, although I sometimes drink at Seattle’s Best there’s no chance that I can get one.

I’ll never fill up that required 18 stickers! To add to my misfortune, my friends were mostly Starbucks junkies.
B
ut for fans of Seattle’s Best in the Philippines---the planner can be worth it as it contains some coupons, stickers and a CD of songs being played in their café.
Current music: The Motels, "Suddenly Last Summer"

(Source: http://www.papayablog.com/)
Another planner which I am dreaming to have is the “Papaya” brand. It’s really meant for the female fatale in mind.

Just look of the cover and inside of the planner.
Perhaps in the end, I might just use my PowerBooks planner which I got last year.

Why do I need a planner for?
I believe if you are a busy person, you need to be organized.

TEAM EDWARD OR TEAM JACOB?

2011-11-21T23:08:00.000-08:00

Twilight and Twilight Pictures

I just recently watched "Breaking Dawn" part 1 with my son. I only force myself to watch the movie because of my son. I really know how it will go or how it will end because I do have the very last book written by Stephanie Meyer. I might be a vampire movie junkie, but at this point watching the movie makes me feel that I should watch "INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE" a hundred times instead or I felt watching "The Vampire Diaries or True Blood" series a whole lot better.

The only thing I wanted to see in this movie flick are

Breaking Dawn and Twilight Merchandise

Breaking Dawn and Twilight Merchand.

This is the only time, I haven't felt so much excitment with a Vampire movie. I couldn't stand to see Jacom whine all over Bella. (Get it over with! You deserve someone better Jacob!).

So you can see I am neither Team Edward or Team Jacob.

But I am with Team Damon and Team Klaus!
Sometimes when the Full Moon is out, I am with Team Alcide!

But what can a Mother do? My son likes to watch the Twilight Saga even I suggest that I'll feel a whole lot better watching the new "The Muppets" movie.

How about you dear Blog readers? Which Vampire movie you liked the most? Care to share it?

ART JOURNALS, MINI-ALBUMS AND ALTERED NOTEBOOK

2011-11-17T20:46:00.000-08:00

MY LATEST PROJECTS

When ever I am stuck in writing (writer’s block), I would took a break for a while and create art journals, mini-album and altered a notebook. It was therapeutic for me. As you can see the covers shows the “coffee junkie” within me. I mostly used the left-over of my scrapbook materials or convert an ordinary folder to an art journal.

Each is unique and have a story to tell.

The CAFEÉ MOM- is an altered notebook. Its cover is hard bound. I used this to write my romantic poems or angst. I also put here printed copies of poems written by my favorite poet Pablo Neruda.

THE BOOK OF ME- is a mini-album of sorts. It contains photos of interesting or memorable things, events, people and places. The sub-title: My Happiness Project.

THE GOOD FOR ONE CUP OF COFFEE AND JOURNAL- are my ART Journals! A college of quotes, photos and some illustrations. I sometimes solicit the services of my artist husband if I like to express something in a drawing but I couldn’t do it on my own. I really “suck” on drawing. I mean I used to draw, but I haven’t develop it as years gone by as writing is my first love and followed by fixing computer problems.
I would visit some sites and read books to get me inspired so I like to share them with you and I hope you get to start your own project too.

JOURNAL REVOLUTION
Art journals, personal manifestos and other artistic insurrections
By Linda Woods and Karen Dinino

I got this book from Book Sale. Lucky me! This is an inside look of the book and the authors seem to have a passion for coffee and Starbucks like me.

http://thecreativeplace.blogspot.com/
A must-see website! Step-by-step tutorials on anything related to scrapbooking and making journals.

HALO NATION

2011-11-17T18:48:00.000-08:00

First Strike by Eric Nylund

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It's been a long time since I read any good Science Fiction book. At this point, I even surprise myself that I have appreciated the Halo Universe on which I may consider myself a late member. I have not yet played the Halo on Xbox 360 because I still don't have that expensive game console, but I look forward to getting the PC version. Meanwhile, I got myself a copy of the novel to better understand why I liked the Halo game at the first place when I discovered a lot of those videos on YouTube.com. It started with the parody of that game-"ARBY N CHIEF". ( A SORT-OF TOY STORY, WHERE TWO ACTION FIGURES COMES TO LIFE WHEN EVER THEIR OWNER JON IS OUT OF THE HOUSE). Pretty hilarious but a novel series from the game is another matter. Nevertheless,this novel doesn't disappoints me as it brings the vivid action of war between Humans and the Aliens called Covenant. I was entertain with all that drama and yes...senseless violence all for the greater good and survival of humanity. War is ugly,but heroes remain alive forever. This is one of those last stand, where a super soldier Master Chief and his A1 companion must race against time as their ultimate nightmare have come true--The discovery of Earth by the Alien enemy. Along with battle weary survivors after the Fall of Reach-The Last Strong hold of The UNSC forces. Tension, suspense in every page. Truly, a must-read for any die hard Halo fan of the game.

View all my reviews

Literary Journals

2011-11-12T08:56:00.000-08:00

I forgot I have a blog.
I forgot I even have a facebook.
I am beginning to forget that I am a part of the human race.
Maybe it boils down that things are not good in my country with all those bad news about as the worst airport ever, highest electricity rates and all that drama about deaths and whether if GMA will be permitted to go out of the country. You pretend that doesn’t effects you. So I just do the sane thing to escape…books,books and more books. Thank God! At least, the bookstores here remains open unlike Borders. So off to Booksale and I got a Literary Journal (Fiction) and a Literary Magazine (Granta). It reminds me so much of those Literary folio’s I used to collect when I was still in College, when I was part of the college paper and a member of the COLLEGE EDITORS GUILD OF THE PHILIPPINES. The folios that so impressed me back then was those that comes from San Beda, La Salle and Ateneo. I still have two folios of the Heights. Of course, with a lot of funding, Ateneo produces quality Literary Folios even my former mentor from U.P even collects. Unfortunately, he was unable to provide me copies of Literary folios from U.P. Well…anyway…I loved the photos and the literature found in Granta. I am just beginning with Fiction. I also got myself a copy of Halo: First Strike and already finished it. It is a welcome respite from all those gloomy documentaries from GMA Newstv (but hell! Its’the truth anyway).
So far I am hooked on Halo…will tell more about it next time.

Writing Fiction Today a

2011-11-12T08:21:00.000-08:00

Encuentros en la Narrativa: Writing Fiction Today

Martes 15/11/2011, 7 pm
Instituto Cervantes

El escritor español Rubén Abella y el narrador filipino Sarge Lacuesta comparten sus impresiones e ideas sobre la narrativa actual y las diferentes formas del relato actual.

Spanish novelist Rubén Abella and Filipino writer Sarge Lacuesta will share their ideas on fiction writing and the different types of short stories.

Instituto Cervantes Manila
855 T.M. Kalaw St.
1000 Ermita
Manila
Filipinas
Tel.: 63 2 526 14 82
Fax: 63 2 526 14 49
cenmni@cervantes.es

THE "F" WORD

2011-10-15T05:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog Readers or to whom it may concern,

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to watch ONE’s new video “The F Word: Famine is the Real Obscenity” and sign the petition to world leaders.

http://act.one.org/sign/hungry_no_more/?referring_akid=.5656287.Oj7U4k

The reasons for the famine in the Horn of Africa are complex and solutions are difficult, especially in Somalia, but we can’t lose sight of some simple facts:

1. 30,000 children have died in just 3 months. Thirty thousand. With over 12 million people at risk.

2. Famine is not a natural catastrophe – drought doesn’t have to lead to famine. It can be prevented, as we’ve seen in much of Kenya and Ethiopia.

In the 21st century, it’s an obscenity that people are dying because they can’t get enough food to eat. Every one of those 30,000 children is part of a family – a son, a daughter, sister or brother. We can’t imagine what it must be like to starve to death, but most of us know what it’s like to lose someone we love.

Please watch the film and make use of the voice you have -- sign the petition.

http://act.one.org/sign/hungry_no_more/?referring_akid=.5656287.Oj7U4k

It will make a difference in putting pressure on world leaders to do more to help those in need right now, and live up to promises already made to invest in the things proven to work – early warning systems...irrigation...drought resistant seeds… and of course, peace and security.

Thanks!

The Truth of Having a Facebook Account

2011-10-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

I got this from a fellow writer from my facebook network. I was unable to obtain the source but it seems it was coming from another facebook page.

I am reposting it because, sometimes... what it is being said from above is not far from the reality.

Most of us create a world or hide behind the photographs to show friends and family how happy we are. I know someone who pretends so much as if the only way

to impressed other people is show the wealth that person accumulated but still it leaves that person an empty feeling. We tend to make a fool of ourselves and social networking true essence is being abused by some.

STARTING ALL OVER AGAIN

2011-10-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

Well...a lot of things have happened lately. The Lay-out of my blog was destroyed. I can't bring the original back (the sidebar) no matter how techie I am. My last option was used the import/export feature here at blogger. It saved my posts except my widgets, my list and the "Followers" who are following this blog of mine.

So I have to start all over again. There are some little things I can't fixed anymore like the site meter visitors traffic is not showing up. Not to mention...I am unable to post using the offline desktop blogging software like WINDOWS LIVE WRITER---which has served me well for quite some time.

Sometimes I wonder why bother?

Perhaps, I still wanted to be a part of cyberspace or make a difference somehow or find someone who is a book and movie lover like me.

Sometimes in life, there is a point that you need to start from scratch or you are less than zero. Either you give up or try to moved up again, get back on your feet or die trying.

Well...what do you think I choose?

THE ART OF NON-EVANGELISM

2011-10-12T18:28:00.001-07:00

SPEAKING OF JESUS

CARL MEDEARIS

(DAVID COOK PUBLISHERS)

"Jesus? Isn’t he the guy who started Christianity?
Close.but no cigar.
“Um,no,actually,” I say, “that would be Constantine, or Pope Leo, or someone like that.”
I usually get a blank stare in return.

I have read all kinds of Christian Books---long before books for bloggers program become popular. Long before the emerging book blogs. I thought I read everything about what is to be a true Christian or to share the gospel properly to the other people.
Oh! There is indeed a label for that---the UNSAVED!

And exactly how would you describe the unsaved? Worldly?, No concrete set of values or beliefs, those religions which looks alien to us like Islam, Judaism and Buddhism etc…

What happens when we do approach these people with questions like : “Are you a sinner? Do you need the gift of salvation from sin? Do you read the bible everyday?
Chances are its either we drive them away or they get turn-off!

They would see us through as someone who tries so hard to convert them when actually we should just point them to the true gospel and that is JESUS.

It is an eye-opener for me as this is something I have not read before. Each page have added another dimension to my way of thinking. The Author wrote in such humorous tone as he shares his failures of leading a ministry, wondering what he can be doing wrong when his church group would dwindle until there is nothing left except for him and his wife.

He learns from experiences and from there he offers suggestions that most of us should stop doing ---which is trying to defend Christianity when it means different things to different people.
It is Christianity 101 with a very progressive approach that will be perfect for a Pastor, any Church Leader, Church worker or average Church goers who would like to try something different.

A new paradigm shift of sharing the Good News! Sharing Jesus---our Lord and Savior. No other way but through him and there is a way of doing things without scaring off people with a “I am more saved” attitude.

VISIT THE AUTHOR’S WEBSITE: CARLMEDEARIS.COM

Technorati Tags: Carl Medearis,christian life book,religion,christianity,evangelism,not evangeligizing,Jesus Christ,Gospel,The Good News

WHAT IS YOUR HAPPINESS PROJECT?

2011-10-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

Action for Happiness - Happiness Action Pack v3

I feel so blessed by this PDF FILE that I have downloaded from ACTION FOR HAPPINESS SITE. You can downloaded it from there or you can download it straight from my Scribd account. I am sharing this file as I wanted more people to get this file as it would enriched them as I am.

We all searching for happiness. We should start first defining it as what is happiness to us. We should strive for what ever is lacking because that is what being alive. Sometimes…I still feel despair but I make a snap out of it when I think of ways…how blessed I am compared to others.

A month ago…I sent this file to some of my friends through email and facebook. It is my hope that this action pack would be beneficial. I hope you blog readers share your experiences with me…if this have been a great comfort or help to you too.

Technorati Tags: free ebook,action for happiness pack,happiness ebook

THE ZOMBIE WAR (World War Z)

2011-10-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

(PICTURE IS NOT CONFIRM IF IT IS THE OFFICIAL ARTWORK FOR THE MOVIE WORLD WAR Z) Illustration is a representation of the The Battle of Yonkers.

Seriously…I like the art work or what ever you want to call this. It looks ghastly,morbid and downright spooky! I won’t say this is the LAST STAND. You better read the book!

A UN representative just submitted a report regarding the aftermath of the Zombie War. But the “human” factor or angle was taken out from that report. Afterwards, he decided to make a book of that edited version. The full reports is actually a series of interviews of the survivors c from different parts of the world. In their own voice they will tell you about the horrors of facing the undead.

After so many months of waiting. I finally got my copy of the mass paperback version of WORLD WAR Z by Max Brooks.

It was so CREEPY! I hardly put the book down and read it twice! Aside from Vampires and Werewolves. I am a fan of George Romero. His zombie films are…the stuff what nightmares are made of.

What will you do if your world is full of zombies?

For Fun, I took this survival test from Author’s official website. The results: 39% chance of survival! I really can’t decide which one is much safer? Going to an unhabited island or going to Antarctica?

Back to the book---this really freaks me out. Having watched so many apocalyptic movies made in Hollywood. I get this impression that Americans must have gotten most of their ideas from reading the book of revelations. This is one apocalypse that you don’t want to happen and Max Brooks had done a splendid job. It was a very skillful piece of writing, full of allegories, not a dull moment. I mean he just presented what fear and paranoia can do to a person or to a Government.

And that my friend is not fiction! It happens in real life…

My favorite chapter is the TURNING THE TIDE because I get to know “THE REDEKER PLAN” a very dark, demented way on how to survive the zombie epidemic. It is a plan that only with sinister mind can come up with and come to think of it “You simply can save them all!” But it does makes sense in the end.

Realistically its just the “us or them” mentally as some of us mare mortals would do if we face a horrific situation.

If there is such a zombie outbreak. Be prepared. Bring the essentials….not a laptop, computer or any gadget.Take anything sharp and bring a radio with you. (that is if you have spare batteries)

To sum it all up…a great piece of zombie literature. As evidence the Author’s amount of research involved to weave such a very scary tale.

Technorati Tags: THE ZOMBIE WAR,WORD WAR Z,ZOMBIE LITERATURE,ZOMBIE MOVIES,MAX BROOKS,GEORGE ROMERO,THE ZOMBIE SURVIVAL GUIDE

CHERISH: A NOVEL ABOUT REDEMPTION

2011-10-06T19:49:00.000-07:00

A Christina Fiction that acts like or looks like a CHICK LIT---not bad! I was totally engrossed with the storyline of two people Kelli and Heather who both have a dark past and one had an axe to grind.

Kelli is talented songwriter, but somewhere along the way she got lost as she tries forget the love of her life--- Brian who had become a famous Rap Christian Artist.

Heather once had a affair with a married man and was devastated from a one night stand from a drummer of a Christian band. It was at a songwriter’s conference that those two women lives was about to change and will be entwined with a song. Both will have to make hard choices and find their way again to be in God’s merciful grace.

Beautifully written, full of strong emotions and anyone can relate as it depicts the struggles that every Christian men and women alike faces.

I’m sure everyone of us had a hard time in forgiving someone in our lives, someone who has hurt as deeply or someone who really doesn’t deserved forgiveness.

The characters portray everyday Christians who are not perfect.But this book you will learn just that---how to forgive and let go. How God will love you and wipe the slate clean if you come to him and acknowledge your mistakes.

I rate this 5 STARS *****

NOTE:

FOR PHILIPPINE RESIDENTS ONLY

You may want to consider visiting or inquiring for this book at

OMF LIT BOOKSTORE as they are one of the distributors of Thomas Nelson books.

NOTE:

I RECEIVED THIS BOOK FROM THOMAS NELSON AS PART OF THEIR BOOK REVIEW PROGRAM. I AM NOT REQUIRED TO WRITE A POSITIVE REVIEW. THE OPINIONS I HAVE EXPRESSED ARE MY OWN. I AM DISCLOSING THIS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISION (U.S.A).

5 REASONS TO LIKE TUMBLR

2011-09-30T11:40:00.000-07:00

But I am not planning to give up Blogger/BLOGSPOT…NOT YET!

I re-activated my Tumblr account recently. Just like Twitter but I am giving that up now. It’s either I’m getting too old to follow or I feel like my life is not enriched by following tweets of famous people.
Ok…for someone like me who treats the Internet for research and checking mail and trying to have a life outside cyberspace. At this point, I am taking the time to smell the flowers. But then being a “Techie” person I like to try out new technology or web service and I will make time for the essentials. Tumblr just re-invented itself.
I might say TUMBLR doesn’t disappoint me. I would suggest this for the newbie or for someone who wants and all-in-one type of service. Treat this as a Swiss army knife whereas you can

Blog,upload videos, pictures, add links,
Change the appearance by using themes,
It has tweet like feature on which you can follow other tumblr users/members and re-blog what they have shared.
Easy to use, clear interface
A site good for sharing your high resolution photos, quotations, post a chat and text.

Only drawback…you can’t make any comments which makes TUMBLR with a snobbish appeal. Consider it like a group or a clique. It is not going to be a thriving community. It is not SEO friendly.
Aside from the CUTE GUYS READING BOOKS that I blog about months ago. I am sharing you some interesting tumblrs that I am following:

Ok, this is for those guys who wants to read other guys or sick of looking at women’s fashion blogs. This guy have fashion sense! Regardless, if his another wanna-be GQ magazine cover in the making or the guy next door. You would appreciate the plain shirts he is wearing because he does know how to wear them well.

I don’t have a LOMO camera. But it is easy now to convert a photo to have a lomo effect. All you need is a photo editing software like Photoshop, Paint.net or The Gimp. But I’m into photography now and this is one of these worth checking it out.

Indulge yourselves the wonderful world of books,libraries and book readers.

Did I mention I was a VAMPIRE SLAYER in another life?
Well…this tumblr site is something I would give up my stake through the heart cravings.
Anything about the Horror genre!
A picture speaks a thousand words.
Does anybody there has a tumblr? Do share it me and drop me a line. Life is so much more interesting!

Technorati Tags: tumblr,five reasons why you should like tumblr,book mania,lomo photography,look book,horror site,fashion,books,photography enthusiast.

FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT GAME OF THRONES

2011-09-20T20:44:00.000-07:00

A long, long time ago in a land far far away

There is Westeros where a realm is composed of Seven Kingdoms and that it should be ruled only by one King. But betrayal, murder and deception have turn into this Kingdom a warzone where 5 Kings claim the iron throne.

You will find out that this fantasy epic written by George RR Martin…

This is not another Lord of the Rings fantasy. You will not find an elf,orcs,wizards,magic spells, but there is a dwarf and 3 dragons involved in the storyline.
A Dark Fantasy more targeted to mature readers than children. Mayhem, Death, Violence, Backstabbing, Lust for Power,Greed, Incest and children being murdered are not for the faint of heart.
It’s setting is similar to Medieval England where there are Kings,Queens,Prince, Princess, Knights, Squires,and Castles.
There is indeed “Supernatural” element with the hint of these “Others” beyond the Wall---the icy stronghold the guards the realm.
It is a literature masterpiece-he lay the foundation of creating interesting characters that you will hate or love. But presents human conflict in every aspect regardless if what realm, world or time it is.

This is my first copy of George RR Martin’s Game of Thrones which I bought from the recent Manila International Book Fair. But I am not aware of it as my world consist of JRR Tolkien's “ Lord of the Rings” and Chronicles of Narnia and I still have a hang over from Star Wars, thus I named my glorified laptop to Darth Vader! (my son warns me not to name his ---Han Solo or he won’t ever talk to me again).

I only become aware of it when I watched full episodes of Games of Thrones from the HBO series of the book adaptation. I swore the producers have done a splendid job on choosing Sean Bean to played Eddard Stark as it must have been second skin to him playing a similar “Medieval/Fantasy” role as he had done from The Lord of the Rings trilogy. As of this writing, they are doing the second season and that is why I might as well buy the 3rd book of the suppose 7 book series. Giving the Author’s age…I hoped he still have the strength to finish the last book.

It is not really easy to write very long pages and it does takes years. The book is written in Point of View (POV) by the characters major or minor in the series.

My verdict: 5 STARS *****

It is an addicting kind, if my husband doesn’t remind me that my eyes are turning red already, I might have read the whole book in one day until the wee hours of the morning. I might buy the succeeding books. The first book collection I have is Anne Rice’s “The Vampire Chronicles” followed by Charlene Harris Sookie Stackhouse series/True blood novels.

Technorati Tags: Game of Thrones books,Game of Thrones T.V Series,George RR Martin

PHILIPPINE BOOK FAIR 2011

2011-09-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

So many books so little time!

I’ve been on the first day of the Book Fair (Sept.14). I was planning to attend the second day as OMF is launching their own version of book for bloggers program. However, my son who is a bookworm like me is so excited that he wanted to be on the first day. It was our birthday treat to him too. He is turning 14 years old. My! My! how time flies! Next thing….he’ll be in college.
It was my opportunity to get some “goodies” from OMF Literature too. I pick up my “complimentary book” and that t-shirt which was I suppose to pick up from their main office in Boni but never had the time to go there as I keep forgetting it anyway. There are a lot of books on sale at OMF lit which I wanted to get some for myself, but then I am in a tight budget. I had in mind to buy ALEPH by Paulo Coelho and WORLD WAR Z by Max Brooks, but even if its is 20% off at the National Book Store booth, ----I still end up buying the 3rd book of the GAME OF THRONES by R.R Martin (it’s book series have been turn into an HBO t.v series). Just imagine the Lord of the Rings in extended version but not a fantasy for children as it contains some very dark themes. I also visited the NEW DAY PUBLISHERS booth hoping to get any copy of book of poetry by Amador Daguio but sadly there are no copies. But since New Day Publishers is known for their short stories anthologies, I bought THE WHITE HORSE OF ALIH AND OTHER STORIES by Mig Alvarez Enriquez. Better check their booth as most books are 50% off.
My son ended up buying THE DIARY OF A WIMPY KID by Jack Kenny and 2 books on THE WAY OF THE MANGA at the PSICOM booth on which my hubby also got himself cookbooks worth only P50 pesos each since he was after all…the family cook! (He is a better cook than me! ). I also got my son a SUZUKI VIOLIN book 2 as he will be performing soon and needs that book so he can practice and practice.
It’s been a long time since I’ve been in the Manila International Book Fair again. I was in cloud nine! I urge every book lover to attend this event. .

Technorati Tags: Manila International Book Fair,2011 Manila International Book Fair,OMF Literature,New Day Publishers,Book Sale,Cheap Books,CSM-Publishing.

GUIDE TO COLLECTING ART

2011-09-10T03:55:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine due to hard times has sold some of his properties and one is a painting that belongs to his family years ago. He was astonished to know the "market value" of the said painting when he had it for appraisal. He doesn't realize what he had been admiring at their living room as child turns out as to what it can be considered a masterpiece!
Art can be lucrative if you had the eye and if you can research a little.
BUYING ART FOR THE NEWBIES
It is not simply for art for art's sake. You must really know what you want and if you are planning to display it at your house, condo or building. As art is very broad in terms of styles and kind. Asked yourselves if you want a landscape, an abstract, a still life, a pen and ink etc...
How much is your budget? How much are you willing to pay? Most paintings now a days are competitively priced but usually...if you are buying from a relatively unknown artist it can prove to be affordable and the same time it can also be gamble ( hoping the art or the artist in the future can turn out to be another Jackson Pollack, Picasso or Juan Luna).
Well known artist or established artist works are usually high priced but it can prove to be worth your money in the long run. The market value of the art you bought is usually tied up with just how well respected or career driven the artist was. The tendency is his or her price would surely go up if there is a demand for it especially if that artist becomes a national artist---you hit the goldmine!
When buying art works, it pays to asked around either an art curator, professional art dealer, an art gallery owner or used to your advantage harness the power of the net. But really nothing beats when it is recommended by close friends or relatives.
Ads by Google
BUYING ART FOR BEGINNERS
1) You must know the difference between buying oil, watercolor, pastel or acrylic. It is important to know what art materials are involved with the creation of that art work you are buying. Materials used by the artist should be high quality so the colors would be preserve or retain for a long, long time.
2) Decide if you are going to buy directly from the artist itself, to an art dealer or go straight to the art gallery. Consider the framing, delivery and other services involved when negotiating with the price or what is included to your payment.
When buying through an art gallery, you usually get to know the profile of the artist and essentially getting a proof or certificate that what your buying is real not fake (as in original) and also verify if it has several reproductions already such as the print version.
If you are buying directly from the artist, you have the option to ask for an authentication paper complete with the artist's signature.
3) Regardless if what you bought is from a relatively unknown artist or considered a masterpiece, you should also know how to preserve or maintain it. As time goes by it will be moisture and humidity to be the art pieces main enemy! Colors can fade. A retouch might be needed. Furthermore, don't expose the painting to the sunlight as the harmful ultra violent rays can affect the colors of the paintings.
4) Your art should reflect your aesthetic taste. Choose art that can help you relax like a landscape or underwater. An art that can make you think like abstracts, an art that reflects your dreams and fantasies like surreal paintings. It brings out your personality and something that brings a certain kind of fulfillment---one that you can be truly proud of hanging at your walls.
5) You must remember value or price of your art work will not go up over night. Hence, treat it like a mutual fund or a time deposit.
6) Always buy from reliable sources. The traditional way is still the best there is.
FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN RE-SELLING YOUR ART
1) Finding a prospective buyer is not easy. Unless, you have a cultured/art loving network. You can off course go through the expert hands of an professional art dealer or art gallery owner but they also get a great deal of share of your selling price.
2) Keep all the receipts, relevant documents like a copy of artist resume or any proofs of ownership. Especially if is a high end piece of art work.
Later on with enough experience you can build a collection that you can benefit from it in the long run. Always remember...time is your friend; don't assume you can profit from your art work right away. The good news is...art doesn't really decline instead its price usually goes up!
In the meantime, enjoy that priceless beauty of the art work you had purchased.
NOTE: This is my original article under the name of VERNIE EVANGELISTA, a byline I’ve been using for years. This content have appeared in several websites or being syndicated.

Technorati Tags: art collection,art collector,local artist,Filipino Artist,Philippine Artist,Filipino Visual Artist,Art Guide 101,Buying Art,Guide to buying art,Art buying,Art collecting,artist,Manila Art Buying,Art buying guide

Church Strengthening Ministry, Inc.-BOOKS FOR 100 PESOS ONLY AT THE MANILA INTERNATIONAL BOOKFAIR.

2011-09-09T20:35:00.000-07:00

LAHAT NG LIBRO SANDAANG PISO LANG!

Booth Nos. 40-42

SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Pasay City

Sept. 14-18, 2011 10AM- 8PM

Limitado sa 200 kopya ang bawat sale item.

Dalawang kopya lang ng bawat title sa bawat isang customer.

Magagamit lamang sa SMX sa Sept. 14-18 at sa

CSM Bookcorner sa Sept. 20-24, 2011.

Mag-email sa order@csm-publishing.com para magpa-reserve (Sept. 5-9 lang)!

para sa ibang detalye, bumisita sa

www.csm-publishing.com

WAIT THERE’S MORE!!!

Witness the Unveiling of CSM's Newest Resources

Friday, Sept. 16, 2011 6pm

at the Stage Area, SMX Convention Center

featuring new resources by

Ed Lapiz, Joey Umali, Eric Maliwat, Robert More, Chris Calalang, Bernie Duran, Armand Canoy, Lizette Knight, Kaloob, Rene Resurreccion, Victoria Nuguid and more!

Technorati Tags: Church Strengthening Ministry,Inc.,BOOKS FOR 100 PESOS ONLY,Bargain Books,Books for Sale,2011 Manila International Book Fair

PHILIPPINES CINEMA EUROPA SCHEDULE 2011

2011-09-09T20:16:00.000-07:00

I SIMPLY LOVE MOVIES! DON’T YOU?

Technorati Tags: CINEMA EUROPA 2011,Cinema Europa Screening Schedule,Cinmea Europa 2011 Screening Schedule. Cinema Europa Philippines,Free European Art Films,Free Movies

THE 2011 MANILA BOOK INTERNATIONAL FAIR

2011-09-06T06:22:00.000-07:00

OMF LIT BOOKSHOPS BRING INSPIRATION, INSTRUCTION AND INSIGHT TO THE 2011 MANILA INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR

EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
• Storytelling activities for kids on September 14-16
• Pinoy Christian Bloggers meet-up on September 15
• Live broadcast of The Edge Radio on September 16
• Words and Music (mini-concert and book excerpt reading) on September 17
• Authors meet and greet
     Joyce Piap Go - September 14
     Francie Castaneda-Lacanilao - September 14
     Grace Chong - September 14
     Hiram Pangilinan - September 16
     Gicky Soriano - September 16
     Ronald Molmisa - September 17

The Manila International Book Fair is held annually. It is one of those favorite events of mine as a book lover. I invite Christians and Non-Christians alike to check out the book offerings of one of my favorite Christian Bookstore OMF Lit. Aside from their wide array of Christian publications here and from abroad. Visit their booth at Aisle D so you can avail some discounts as high as 30% on selected titles and 20% off on all OMF Lit imported titles and republished books.

Ok Guys! See you there!

Technorati Tags: 2011 Manila International Book Fair,Book Fair Philippines,OMF Lit,OMF Literature,Christian Books,Inspirational books,Book Fair

HOW COFFEE SAVE MY LIFE

2011-09-01T03:32:00.000-07:00

(ORIGINAL PICTURE TAKEN BY BLOGGER 2011)

I don’t know if its my connection or FACEBOOK IS SLOWING DOWN because of its ka-zillion of users. Anyway…I haven’t missed the net lately except just check emails, FB and Twitter. Yes…I have activated my twitter…although still contemplating if its just a waste of time. The good thing about twitter is that I get to follow some interesting celebrities,indie filmmakers, authors etc…

I followed

Paolo Coelho
Neil Gaiman
Scott Adkins ( yep…I promised myself I wouldn’t follow Scott anymore but I can’t helped it. Once an idol always an idol although I wish he would tweet more and interact more with his fans).
Joseph Morgan( He play the role of “Klaus” from Vampire Diaries. He plays the part so well and his tweets are “lovely,” I am very partial to British Actors, aside from the cute accent. Well…they are mostly theater trained).
Sam Huntington ( He is “Josh” from the American version of Being Human. Werewolf in the most humorous form). Really loved the series.
Pepe Diokno ( Aside from the well respected surname. I like this indie filmmaker)
Ms.Cathy Babao- (My former Editor from ME Magazine and now columnist for the Philippine Daily Inquirer

To name a few…this might be subject to change or I might add more. I fancied adding undersecretary Manuel Quezon III and Edwin Lacierda.

Since my Twitter is not yeat old. I really don’t have any Followers yet. My tweets are raw not the type I would post in on my Facebook as their new “Privacy” settings is making my head spin. Goodness! Do I have to configure and configure?.

HOW COFFEE SAVE MY LIFE

I was practicing my photography skills the other day. Thank God for coffee! I really can’t imagine my life without it. If I only have the “money” I would put up a coffee shop or manage a coffee shop. Being a Barista have entered my mind, but then I might be putting my college degree, techie skills and other Back Office skills I have pick up including Six Sigma go to waste. Did I forget I was a writer too? LOL

When I was working in a BPO/Call Center setting. Coffee flows in my bloodstream. Just to keep me awake. When I was with this European company way back…. there is for free coffee at this vendo type dispenser and cappuccino was my favorite. I took a gulp almost more than 3 times a day that caused me a heart burn. The Doctor from Makati Med have told me to lessen my coffee intake especially going to Starbucks.

Since then I have a slight change from my addiction to coffee which means I shy away from NESCAFE and switch to Mangosteen Coffee which have some health benefits. But this product is not available from most Supermarkets. I have to get it from a specialty drug store. But sometimes, I get by with KOPIKO brown coffee----I swear it taste sooo good, I get grumpy if I this is not what I am drinking at the office. The latest….coffee addiction which doesn’t cause me heart burn is GREAT TASTE white coffee. I think they just added more cream to it but it is indeed a lot creamier taste while KOPIKO is like drinking “caramel” ---adding the brown sugar for this product is good idea. I am not a product endorser of these products mention here. But this Blog is not just about books, movies/films,music but I also love to share my love for coffee.

Technorati Tags: GREAT TASTE WHITE COFFEE,KOPIKO BROWN SUGAR,STARBUCKS

THE BIBLE AND BIBLE STUDY BOOK BLOG GIVEAWAY

2011-08-29T00:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog Readers,

Thank you for participating MY BLOG GIVEAWAY which will end tomorrow. I have finally chosen one winner from those who took time to make a comment. I will inform the winner by email and as I promised she will get the brand new Bible and Bible Study for Women.

I'm an Easy Rider, how do you compare? Personality quiz - Youniverse.com - Be Understood

2011-08-23T23:10:00.000-07:00

I'm an Easy Rider, how do you compare? Personality quiz - Youniverse.com - Be Understood

WHAT’S IN YOUR TOTE BAG?

2011-08-04T07:05:00.000-07:00

One of my primary weakness is BAGS! Not clothes…not shoes…but bags especially if it is tote bag like Shinzikatoh.

This is made in Japan. Their site showcases cute and colorful bags like the ones above. These are the tote bags I like to have but unfortunately there is no shop or store that I can buy these bags in my country.

I love tote bags because I can easily fit my bible, my tumbler, my pens, my notebook, wallet and kikay kit.

If the tote bag is a bit bigger I can bring “Darth Vader” with me and off we go to the nearest Cafe or Coffee Shop.

I WRITE LIKE….WHAT!!!!

2011-08-04T07:03:00.000-07:00

I write like
Arthur Clarke

I Write Like by Mémoires, journal software. Analyze your writing!

There is this site that analyze your writing.

I had mine analyze . I have taken a snippet of a work-in-progress short story. I am expecting the results would be that I write like Anne Rice, Neil Gaiman or V.C Andrews!

Imagine my shock when the results came to be ARTHUR CLARKE!

What??? Who is Arthur Clarke? then I remembered that he is a famous Science Fiction writer.

Hey! I love Science Fiction. Didn’t I name my glorified word-processing electronic gadget as DARTH VADER.

Didn’t I watched STAR WARS ka-zillion times enough to cause a COUP at my own home!

Didn’t I like watching BATTLE STAR GALACTICA the t.v series?

For good measure. I repeat the process again and it still turns out to be Arthur Clarke?

Goodness! I’m loosing it!

There is no way…I am writing about Supernovas! Or a Robot falling in love with a human.

Beam me up Scotty! I suddenly need a drink!

A FAMILY GUIDE TO NARNIA

2011-08-04T06:08:00.000-07:00

BIBLICAL TRUTHS IN C.S LEWIS’S The Chronicles of Narnia

by Christin Ditchfield

I really invite you, children and adults alike

To step into the wardrobe…and discover a world called Narnia.

When I was in grade school, I was so fascinated with this cartoon animated movie shown on T.V. It was THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE.

Years later, I get to meet “Aslan” again this time together with my son---We both watched the Big Screen movie adaptation of the book about talking creatures, Fauns, Dwarfs, Giants, Peter, Susan, Edmund, Lucy and a very extraordinary Lion.

Of course, It is a different experience when I get to read the books. But depending on what age, each reader would understand or view The Chronicles of Narnia books differently. One would find C.S Lewis books-- a way to ignite the imagination, simply a fantasy book made for children. While another will find that underneath those stories are hidden gems of truths taken from the bible.

Therefore, I found this guidebook “A FAMILY GUIDE TO NARNIA” very handy. The author have done a very splendid job of analyzing and presenting each books in The Chronicles of Narnia with fresh biblical insights.

What I get from reading this guide book are the following:

A greater appreciation of the works of C.S Lewis
A familiarization with the characters, their strengths and their weaknesses
Reading it side-by-side with any of the Narnia books and the bible can be truly an enlightening experience for the whole family.

Each chapters of this guidebook are divided accordingly in relation to the 7 books of The Chronicles of Narnia and it comes with brief introduction.

Furthermore, parents can used this as a teaching tool to their children regarding biblical principles. It is indeed a must read book especially if you are a big fan of Narnia.

This book is available from your local bookstores, Christian Book stores and for more information, you may visit WWW.CSM-PUBLISHING.COM (Church Strengthening Ministry)

Technorati Tags: A Family Guide to Narnia by Christin Ditchfield,The Chronicles of Narnia,C.S Lewis,Guidebook to Narnia. Comprenshive guide to Narnia. Narnia,Aslan,Christin Ditchfield's book,Narnia book

A Online/EMagzine for Women

2011-07-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

LOOK WHAT I FOUND!

A magazine to inspire and encourage women and to connect the women of Praise and Coffee Nights

ALEPH by Paulo Coelho

2011-07-28T23:19:00.000-07:00

This video is simply amazing!

It is produced by http://dday.com.tr/

One of my favorite authors Paulo Coelho had a video contest as tribute to his upcoming book Aleph.

I have 4 of his books and each never fails to inspire me. His books are indeed .---that kind that you read after having a bad hair day.

I should say it somewhat transform me to become more of a better human being. The Author after all is very spiritual. Anyway, I definitely love the creative and imagination that this film is made.

If you want to see other videos that is connected with Mr. Coelho new book ALEPH.

Drop by at this site: http://paulocoelhoblog.com/category/aleph/

Technorati Tags: Paolo Cuelho books,Paolo Cuelho blog,Paolo Cuelho's book ALEPH,Aleph,http://dday.com.tr/,dday

POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE

2011-07-28T09:23:00.000-07:00

POSTCROSSING.COM

I stumbled upon an interesting site that I like to share with you blog readers. This is for those who is into collecting postcards, wants to have a postcard from another country….hopefully make friends along the way. This is not….I repeat an electronic postcards you usually get from email.

I don’t know about you….but my face lifts up when I get a postcard from the mailman. The above picture are sample of the postcards I get from other countries in Europe and the U.S.A

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Simply register to the site. State your postcard preference.
Request an address and a Postcard ID
Mail the postcard to that address
Receive a postcard from another registered member
Register the postcard that you have received
Repeat the process if you want to get more postcards.

Technorati Tags: POSTCARDS,POSTCROSSING.COM,free postcards

ANG BABAE SA SEPTIC TANK

2011-07-26T22:23:00.000-07:00

AT IBA PANG STORYA SA CINEMALAYA

I was so happy to attend this year’s Cinemalaya. I’ve been and will always be a lover of Cinema especially Art Films. I was suppose to watch “ Patikul” but ended up watching the short films A, Ang Babae sa Septic Tank at I-Libings.

Mabuti naman naka pag “Facebook status” ako at isa sa mga batchmates ko ay may VIP pass. Isa pala sya sa mga sponsor. Laking tuwa ko hindi lang isa kung hindi apat ang binigay niya sa akin. Since may hang-over pa si hubby from last night’s bday party ni Nanay Cristy Fermin, hindi sya makasama instead I ended up with my new friend ---Cheng from GMA7 to watch Cinemalaya sa CCP and then humbol pa ang isa kung kaibigan na writer na si Ruth.

It was a enjoyable event at ang masasabi kong pinaka highlight when we watched “ANG BABAE SA SEPTIC TANK”. (The Woman in the Septic Tank) by Marlon Rivera and Chris Martinez.

3 filmakers who wants to make a movie as entry to the film fest. While the other one is silent most of the time---the assistant played by Cai Cortez the other two--- the director (Kean Cipriano) and producer (JM De Guzman) each has its own ideas on how to conceptualized the film they were about to make that explores the true face of poverty in the Philippines.

CLAP! CLAP! CLAP! BRAVO! BRAVO!

Wala akong masabi. I’m so speechless!

Ganda nang istorya at ang mga actor na nagsiganap. Nakakatawa….sobra! Parang gusto ko ngang ulitin pa. As of this writing, balita ko nanalo si Ms.Eugene Domingo na best actress.

Dapat lang!

Parang effortless nga ang acting ni Ms. Domingo. Hindi O.A parang natural lang. Feeling ko parang lahat impromptu or walang script.

Parang nai ganyo pa ako pag aaralan kung paano gumawa ng screenplay tuloy…iba ang tingin ko talaga ngayon sa mga indie films.

Congrats Ms. Eugene Domingo at lahat nang mga Indie film makers!

sana sa susunod longer film showing…paring bitin ang one week.

Technorati Tags: Cinemalaya,Ang Babe sa Septik Tank,Eugene Domingo,JM De Guzman,Kean Cipriano,Cai Cortez,Marlon Rivera,Cris Martinez.

BLOG GIVEAWAY: BIBLE STUDY BOOK AND ESV HOLY BIBLE

2011-07-21T21:45:00.000-07:00

I GET MY HAPPINESS FIXED FROM EATING CHOCOLATES AND READING A GOOD BOOK!

Every time I get something from NAVPRESS to review, it brings so much joy to me as they were generous with their book bloggers.

May the Lord continues to bless them and all those publishing companies in proclaiming God’s word.

I LIKE TO GIVE THIS OTHER BOOK AWAY TO MY DEAR BLOG READERS.

Anyone residing within Metro Manila, Philippine residents only can join this blog giveaway.

How to get this wonderful bible study book by Becky Harling.

So simple. Make a blog comment as to why you want this book.

The best answer gets this and a new ESV BIBLE .

BLOG GIVEAWAY DURATION IS FROM JULY 22 up to August 30 only.

Don’t forget to include your email so I can get in touch with you in case you won. Only 1 winner.

Technorati Tags: blog giveway,book giveaway

FAMOUS SINGERS WITH THEIR CATS

2011-07-21T20:52:00.000-07:00

CAT’S DREAM

a partial poem of Pablo Neruda

How neatly a cat sleeps,

sleeps with its paws and its posture,

sleeps with its wicked claws,

and with its unfeeling blood,

sleeps with all the rings--

a series of burnt circles--

which have formed the odd geology

of its sand-colored tail.

ONCE THERE WAS A CAT AND ONCE THERE WAS KURT COBAIN

M.V Evangelista 2011

I missed you Kurt,

I missed how you sing,

Full of angst, screaming for a deeper meaning

See the cat rest on your shoulders

Self-assured and proud,

The cat doesn’t mind that how famous you were

How serene you have looked maybe fame hasn’t polluted you at that time.

It was just one of those afternoon,

You and the cat

Just enjoying the summer breeze

I missed your songs it made me cry

I missed how you sing it as if pain is your constant companion

Or you are simply misunderstood.

You wanted to be a musician, but you can’t handle all that sudden

rush of instant success.

Perhaps, cats are much better than people

I still listen to Morrissey even before he left The Smiths. But I have stopped listening to Nirvana. They both sing the same old tune of angst and despair. But Morrissey was still here, still singing, still making music. Talent thrives for this former frontman of The Smiths, but Kurt got lost, talent wasted and found a release by a bullet.

Two singers, two equally talented singers.

Only the strong survives.

It was nice looking a softer side of them as I am a cat lover besides having dogs around the house.

My cats and dogs they have a calming effect in me. I would at times forget that like Kurt I can get lost too.

Technorati Tags: Morrissey of the smiths with his cat,Morrissey with his cat,Kurt Cobain with his cat,Kurt Cobain of Nirvana,Nirvana.

FIVE BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS

2011-07-21T05:38:00.000-07:00

WRITING IS MOSTLY A SOLITARY PURSUIT
---taken from The Cambridge Introduction to Creative Writing by David Morley.

These are from my book collection. I felt if you wanted to be a good writer, you must read books for writers to better hone your craft. I am not an English or Creative Writing major. But I dreamed that I wanted to be a journalist. Unfortunately, my mother did not share my dream. She keeps saying I’ll starve myself to death.
Of course, years later when she got a check in the mail (it was the norm back then---postal check) I prove her wrong. You can earn modestly from writing. But the U.S writers are more luckier.
I ended up taking Hotel and Restaurant Management and I did not dish out culinary delights but dabble in web content writing or end up working in Information Technology related work. But if you had the passion for writing…it stays with you even if you ignored that inner voice telling you so!

WRITING DOWN THE BONES by Natalie Goldberg. This is a must for those newbie's or those who are suffering from writer’s block like myself. Oh yes….there is such a thing as writers block. This have been my top of my list and I never grew tired of reading it. Ms.Goldberg have made writing such a breeze---like entering into a blissful state. Truly a “Zen” experience.
THE KNOWING IS IN THE WRITING by Jose Dalisay Jr. I met the author once or twice while I was a “tambay” of the U.P Creative Writing Center. Sir Tony speaks so highly of him and despite being a Palanca awardee, he is so approachable. I remember while he was looking into my very “amateurish manuscript” which was lost into oblivion as years go by. He was kind enough to say “you have potential” and since I am concentrated into writing short stories or short fiction. I must learn from a “Master” and it was a good investment on my part. Buy this if you want to learn more about fiction writing.
CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE WRITER’S SOUL – if you are facing rejection time and time again. Don’t despair, read those true stories of writers who have taken the road less travelled. Writers who persevere, writers who keeps on writing despite the odds. When ever I feel so down. I would be “recharge” by this book as it does contains inspirational stories.
FEATURE WRITING FOR FILIPINOS by Maria Cecelia Genove. Another worthwhile investment. This is so informative especially if you like to earn money through article writing or feature writing. I write fiction for my creative outlet if I get paid for it---its a bonus! But if not…article writing can supplement your income or a sideline.
THE WRITER’S IDEA BOOK by Jack Heffron. This is a goldmine of writing prompts to guide you or helped you fueled more ideas that you can turn into articles, novels, short stories and poetry.

Some of these books you can find it in your local bookstores or you can order online. If you have relatives in the states, you can also asked them if they can buy it or order it for you if you are skeptical on ordering online.

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FREEDOM FROM PERFORMING

2011-07-20T22:57:00.000-07:00

BECKY HARLING

It is by grace you have been saved, through faith---and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God---not by works, so that no one can boast.

Ephesians 2:8-9

I am and always will be a big “fan” of bible study books. A superb bible study book especially if is written by a woman and meant for women brings a certain delight for me. It makes bible reading more enjoyable and bridges the “gap” of how things in ancient time before and after Jesus Christ and how it can be relevant in modern times.

In this particular bible study, I have learned from Ms. Becky Harling what grace really means. How must of us strive the be the “Super woman or Wonder woman” who strive for the approval of others or simply obsessed on how to pleased them all.

In the process we end up being emotionally and physical exhausted as we try to “perform” in front of the audience which compose mainly of our friends, family, relatives and even God.

Ms. Harling thoroughly explores how we can have authentic grace or how our significance doesn’t come from what we do or from what others expect from our performance.

I truly loved this 12 week bible study and I highly recommend it for individual or group study as this gives you fresh insights as what grace is all about.

The Authors website : http://www.beckyharling.com/

FOR PHILIPPINE RESIDENTS

Should you decide to order online, you may want to consider acquiring those books, if available from the Philippines branch of Navigators at http://www.philnavs.org/site/literature/bookstore/

NOTE: I received this book from Navpress as part of their books for bloggers program and the opinions I have expressed are entirely my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the U.S Federal Trade Commission.

Technorati Tags: NAVPRESS,bible study for women,bible studies book,bible study book,personal growth for women,Becky Harling,Freedom from performing book,Freedom from performing

CINEMALAYA

2011-07-09T01:31:00.000-07:00

SUPORTAHAN PO NATIN ANG MGA INDIE FILMS

MGA PELICULA NA GAWA NANG ISANG PINOY

I am a born-again Christian, My husband is Catholic, His brother have converted to Islam and refers himself now as a Muslim.

We don’t have a problem with our different beliefs.

Tolerance is the key.

It does not matter if you believe in God or Allah

You are a better person when you do what is right and not hurting anyone.

SUPORTAHAN PO NATING ANG MGA IPALALABAS SA CINEMALAYA AT SANA ANG MGA GANITONG PELICULA AY MAKA GISING SA MGA TAONG NATUTULOG SA DILIM!

Tayo po magkaisa. Sana wala naNg away.

Edukasyon! Kailangan nang bawat isa sa atin.

Education open a lot of doors

Education should be for everyone!

Technorati Tags: cinemalya,patikul movie,patikul ni Joel PATIKUL BY JOEL LAMANGAN JR.

BE YOUR OWN BARISTA

2011-07-06T23:56:00.000-07:00

RECIPE FOR REKINDLING

Find old coffee bean blends from secret secluded shelves,

then brew them with friends, sharing your true selves.

DAVE DAVIDSON

(taken from A CUP OF DEVOTION WITH GOD)

Last Saturday, I attended this AGRICULTURAL AND TOURISM EXPO held at the World Trade Center. Hubby is into gardening and agricultural stuff while I wanted to see the booths that caters to Local and International Travel.

There were booths that showcases coffee beans and coffee blends made in the Philippines. I came across ANTONIO PUEO I swore being a Coffee Gourmet; I am in cloud nine when I got to taste Double Mocha con Hielo mix. I bought one out of curiosity and regretted not buying so many of this coffee specialty.

It was a good ting that their manufacturing plant is just near my place.

KAINGIN ROAD, QC

What’s more astonishing was it was labeled as Product of the Philippines.

I sincerely wish this product get the needed exposure as it deserves!

That more supermarkets would sell this drink.

It’s so easy to make one

Empty the pack to a your favorite tumbler or mug, add hot water until it is dissolve
Get a tall glass, filled with eye (not crashed ice)
Optional: Top with fresh milk and garnish with whipped cream

But the “BARISTA” within me simply wanted to experiment. I just used two packs, put it inside the blender, add ice, add brown sugar and I have concocted my own ice blended drink.

Of course, I can think of more ways to blend this drink but that is for another blog post.

KRISPY, KRISPY, KRISPY

(Krispy Kreme Brewed Coffee Promo)

I can only indulged my glazed donut craving only once or twice a month.That's’ because this donut is indeed expensive, not like very affordable or pang “masa” like Mister Donut, Dunkin Donut, and Go donuts.

Lately, they have come up with a promo that will perhaps have an effect on me to go beyond the once or twice rule of visiting Krispy Kreme.

HOW IT WORKS:

You get a coffee passport on your initial order of brewed coffee.
This small booklet contains 3 levels of corresponding coffee requirements to get your freebies:

LEVEL 1: BUY 3 COFFEES AND GET 6 ORIGINAL GLAZED DONUTS FOR FREE
LEVEL 2: BUY 6 COFFEES AND GET A KRIPSY KREME COLLECTING MUG FOR FREE
LEVEL 3: BUY 12 COFFEES AND GET 12 ORIGINAL DONUTS FOR FREE

3. The Coffee Passport allows you to collect stamps for redemption

It is valid during July 4 to September 30,2011 only. No passport

no stamp policy.

Actually because of this promo it made me tried their brewed coffee for the first time. I get to taste their brewed coffee worth P60 pesos ---the usual kind. It taste good especially when I put 2 cream and 1 white sugar ,I was in a blissful state. However, some variants could be pricey as high as P80 pesos like the Americano, Cappuccino, Cafe Mocha etc…

Technorati Tags: Krispy Kreme brewed coffee promo Philippines,krispy kreme brewed cofffee promo,krispy kreme coffee passport,free glazed donuts,free collectitble krispy kreme mug,free collectible mug,antonio pueo,double mocha con hielo mix,doubled iced mocha coffee shop specialty,coffee expresso,coffee product made in the Philippines,Ice blended coffee made in the Philppines,coffee concoctions,Be your own barista. Barista,Coffee,Coffee Mix

HIS AND HER NOTEBOOKS

2011-07-06T07:17:00.000-07:00

Take a peek of what’s inside my notebook. I am a certified notebook junkie. The better part of my writer side relies heavily on my notebooks and not DARTH VADER (my glorified word-processing thing).

If you want to be a writer, poet or playwright. The tools you need are so simple. It could be a pen, pencil, and notebook to get you started. It could be blank or it could be with lines.

But what matters is you put it to good use. Don’t leave if forever blank. By all means used it to capture your thoughts and ideas.

My partial collection of notebooks throughout the years.

These notebooks contain drafts of my short stories. Some stories had made it to publication, some were rejected as Editors find it a bit depressing or disturbing. Some are for rewrites, Editors find it promising however, I need to do some copyediting or I have to tone down the angle of my story.

My notebooks are mostly made in Korea, China, Japan and the U.S of A.

TAKE A PEEK AT MY HUSBAND’S SKETCHBOOK

Sample of his sketches. He would do this when he is somewhat bored or need to take a break from his intense painting session.

A sketch of my son Stephen playing his violin during practice held at the Ortigas Mansion.

The Monologue brand is the type of blank notebook turned into a sketchbook my husband uses. I got this notebook from one of my favorite bookstore FULLY BOOKED. It got very good quality paper, it used to be mine but I got tired of watching my visual artist husband get a scrap of paper to draw his sketches on.

I can’t seem to tolerate this kind of habit that someone as talented as he is would just do an impromptu sketch on any paper laying around.

When he is gotten over his sketches, he goes back to his painting and he would produce something like this below

HOW ABOUT YOU DEAREST BLOG READERS?

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE WITH YOUR NOTEBOOKS?

FILLED IT UP! FILLED IT UP! LIFE IS TOO SHORT!

For those who are into notebook collecting

Dropped by at this site: NOTEBOOK STORIES

Technorati Tags: monologue notebooks,monologue sketchbooks,japan made notebooks,korean notebooks and U.S notebooks

FREE JAPANESE FILMS SCREENING

2011-06-30T20:16:00.000-07:00

AT THE SHANGRI-LA PLAZA MALL

Guys! See you there!

Eiga Sai 2011: The Japanese Film Festival

July 1, 2011 - Sunday July 10, 2011

SCHEDULES

SHANG CINEPLEX CINEMA 4:
JULY 1 (Friday)
Opening Night by Invitation at Cinema 2
Departures (131 mins ) 7:00 PM
JULY 2 (Saturday)
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 1:00 PM
Departures (131 mins ) 4:00 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 7:00 PM
JULY 3 (Sunday)
Summer Days with Coo (1:38 mins) 1:00 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 4:00 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 7:00 PM
JULY 4 (Monday)
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 1:00 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 4:00 PM
Climber’s High (145 mins) 7:00 PM
JULY 5 (Tuesday)
Your Friend (125 mins) 1:00 PM
One Million Yen Girl (121 mins) 4:00 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 7:00 PM
JULY 6 (Wednesday)
One Million Yen Girl (121 mins) 1:00 PM
Climber’s High (145 mins) 4:00 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 7:00 PM
JULY 7 (Thursday)
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 1:00 PM
Climber’s High (145 mins) 4:00 PM
Your Friend (125 mins) 7:00 PM
JULY 8 (Friday)
Your Friend (125 mins) 1:00 PM
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 4:00 PM
Departures (131 mins) 7:00 PM
JULY 9 (Saturday)
Departures (131 mins) 1:00 PM
One Million Yen Girl (121 mins) 4:00 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 7:00 PM
JULY 10 (Sunday)
Summer Days with Coo (1:38 mins) 1:00 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 4:00 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 7:00 PM

All films will be shown with English subtitles. Admission is free.

CUTE GUYS READING BOOKS

2011-06-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

AND SITES FOR THOSE WHO ARE NEW TO WRITING

http://hotguysreadingbooks.tumblr.com/

I stumbled upon this site, I find it interesting!
Really!’
I mean there is something fascinating about seeing a “hottie” or a good-looking guy whose into reading books.
But even if a guy looks like a nerd…I still find it wonderful to find a true blooded male who reads books.
Should I say it turns into an ordinary guy more appealing.
I am dead serious!
Otherwise, why spent sometime with a website where people can submit photos of interesting guys reading books either caught in the act or stolen shot!
I am planning to send a photo of a really awesome guy reading Isaac Asimov---my friend Felix! But he said he would go on “Death Star” mode if he ever see his photo in any website/blog including mine.
Ah…so much for friendships! =)

Strange indeed! His crazy about taking pictures with his Nikon DSLR, but goes on a warpath if any one of his friends would tag his picture on facebook!

Another side of CUTENESS!
My kitten Misty ( I still forget that she is not a cat yet!) is the certified Queen of the household and a bookworm too like me. I was getting over these books that I wanted to sell or I was thinking on having a book exchange. It was pile up on top of a box and it seems it becomes one of her favorite place to sit.
She is somewhat fixated on that same spot. Originally her name was MORRISSEY but my son keeps reminding me its a female! She is lovable and more affectionate that my other cat.
FOR THE NEWBIE WRITERS OR SEASONED WRITERS OUT THERE!
Check out this site. It offers free online ebooks on anything about writing. It is just too bad it doesn’t have a PDF file version, but its a good reference site for those who like to sharpen their skills as a writer.

www.howto.co.uk/writing

Very informative collection about writing from creative writing, mixing fact and fiction to writing your dissertation.

Technorati Tags: hot guys reading books,cute guys reading books,goodlooking guys reading books,how to books on writing,writing ebooks


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MAX ON LIFE

2011-06-25T00:27:00.000-07:00

ANSWERS AND INSIGHTS TO YOUR MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

By Max Lucado

Max Lucado is not only an inspirational writer, but also a Pastor. This book is a question and answer type. Well-organized into different sections pertaining to: HOPE,HURT,HELP,HIM/HER, HOME,HAVE/HAVE-NOTS AND HEREAFTER.

It is a compilation of sorts coming from people of all walks of life in the form of letters, emails,and phone calls, which questions directly to Max Lucado. His response is somewhat expected from a Pastor with years of experience---honest-to-goodness, simplicity and with biblical sense.

I was amazed by the many questions that the author was receiving like how to handle a rude Christian friend or how to make peace with an ex-wife who was filled with hostility.

I do not find his response pretentions or self-righteous. I feel reading him is like having a Father or an older brother around you that you can confide without being so judgmental. Someone who really listens and gives you some comfort. He tries his best answering delicate questions such as divorce, sex, death and dying with compassion.

Some of his responses have appeared in his earlier books, so if you are a big Max Lucado fan who has many of his books, you might encounter some familiar words along the way.

Another added bonus of this book is there is an advice page for aspiring writers or simply put how to be a Christian Writer.

FOR PHILIPPINE RESIDENTS ONLY

You may want to consider visiting or inquiring for this book at

OMF LIT BOOKSTORE as they are one of the distributors of Thomas Nelson books.

NOTE:

THE JOY OF READING

2011-06-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

Since I have a self-imposed sabbatical. I was going through the motions of finishing my backlog of books.

I had finished reading “The Swan Thieves” by Elizabeth Kostova.

The story that caught my attention was that the central character happens to be a painter.

It is a story about obsession (aren’t we obsessed at one point of our lives…don’t we all?). Anyway…this painter/teacher have given up so much to his obsession, giving up the love of two women and a stable family life.

There is a mystery behind why he wanted to stab this well-known painting in the National Gallery of Art and along the way his caring psychiatrist Andrew Marlow was so involved with his patient’s strange case that he too…ends up obsessed in unraveling the mystery.

It is entertaining and the author is really talented to the point she carefully mixed the past and the present and the Surprise! Surprise moment by the end of the chapter.

I have another book of Elizabeth Kostova…"THE HISTORIAN” before tackling “The Swan Thieves.”

THE HISTORIAN is a very thick book. I can just imagine it might took a long,long time before the author manage to finished this novel. At first…I am about to give up reading it as I felt like I am preparing for the bar exams (that is if I wanted to become a Lawyer!).

But I must give credit to Elizabeth for it’s well-researched historical facts incorporated in the fictional aspect of the life of Vlad, the impaler also known as Dracula. ( In another life, I called Dracula---Drake!).

I am in the process of finishing “HUSH, HUSH” By Becca Fitzpatrick.

What can I say? I had enough of the Twilight saga…why can’t we have fallen angels this time falling in love with humans huh?

I wonder what they will think of next?

A Robot series …probably an ANDROID who would fall in love with a human? Ha ha ha…

I also can’t get enough of “GOD NEVER BLINKS” by Regina Brett. It is perhaps one of my favorite books ever next to “WRITING DOWN THE BONES” by Natalie Goldberg and the books written by Filipino writer F.Sionil Jose.

Technorati Tags: Elizabeth Kostova,Becca Fitzpatrick,The Swan Theives,Hush,The Historian,God Never blinks,Regina Brett

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

2011-06-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance or by means of good or bad luck. Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul. Without these small tests, if they be events, illnesses or relationships, life would be like a smoothly paved, straight, flat road to nowhere. Safe and comfortable but dull and utterly pointless. The people you meet who affect your life and the successes and downfalls you experience, they are the ones who create who you are. Even the bad experiences can be learned from... those lessons are the hardest and probably the most important ones.

If someone hurts you, betrays you or breaks you heart, forgive them. For they have helped you learn about trust and the importance of being cautious to who you open your heart to.
If someone loves you, love them back unconditionally, not only because they love you, but because they are teaching you to love and opening your heart and eyes to things you would have never seen or felt without them.

Ahhhhh…..the beauty of facebook!
I got this from my writer friend Ivan. She tagged me on the NOTES section of FB. I don’t know the exact origin as to where she got it, but I took a snippet of it so I can blogged about it. I like the words or quotes from above. It really hits “home”, I can truly relate.
I am fortunate, very fortunate to have kind friends and I am glad that in a way Facebook serves its purpose. It had been my lifeline, it have kept me abreast of the latest happenings and status updates of my friends.
No man is an island. I am fortunate to have the unconditional love of my pets too. This is not my best picture, but I love the way my hubby capture this moment with my pet dog Scooby which was given to me by AJ who is now based in the U.S of A
When ever I feel so down…I can always count the love of family,friends and pets. Of course, nothing is perfect you I couldn’t count the times that some friends or loved ones have let me down.
But I thank God I still have some of them in my life.

I am taking time to appreciate this sketch of my only son. My hubby who sometimes take a break from his painting sessions would do some sketches.
I wish I can blogged about his sketches of me…but I don’t want to cause scandal in the blogosphere ha ha ha as most of his sketches of me were in the nude especially the time when we were newly married.
I suppose Nude Art is for not for everybody! I think they mostly associated art with Still Life’s and Landscapes.

SCOTT AND SCOOBY

2011-06-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

(SCOTT THE TEADYBEAR WITH SCOOBY THE HALF-BREED DOG)

SCOOBY: “Hi there Scotty!”

SCOTT: “ It’s Scott you doggie moron!”

SCOOBY: “My! My! And I thought British bears are more polite and reserved! You remind me of that guy from American Idol!”

SCOTT: “ Simon Cowell?”

SCOOBY: “Whatever!”

SCOTT: “ Aren’t you suppose to be doing some guard duty today? Aren’t you suppose to be outside with that partner of yours----that hobbit?”

SCOOBY: “ OH you mean Gloria? I didn’t know she was a hobbit? What chapter of the Lord of the Rings?

SCOTT: “Bloody Hell! Am I the only sane here? I called her hobbit because she is a small dog! I think she was named after that ….never mind!

SCOOBY: “Hmmm…I’ll say Scott, I do notice the resemblance to Simon Cowell.”

SCOTT: “ Cute and Cuddly?”

SCOOBY: “Hell no! Obnoxious and Nasty!

SCOTT: “You dogs have no sense of culture!

SCOOBY: “At least I am a superb guard dog!”

SCOTT: “ Bugger off will you?”

___________________________________________________

DOGS ARE MEN’S BESTFRIEND.

ADOPT A DOG TODAY

SUPPORT THE PHILIPPINE ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY

You may donate money, dog/cat food or volunteer your time.

KNOCK ‘EM DEAD

2011-06-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

THE ULTIMATE SEARCH GUIDE 2011

UPDATED EXPANDED EDITION

MARTIN YATE, CPC

Published Adams Media, 359 pages

Globalization. Redundancy. Recession.

Change is constant and the workplace is dynamic. You are never so sure now a days if your job or your Company will still exist for years to come. In some point in our lives, we experience the job hunting process in order to find a new job, get a better salary/compensation or benefits.

But the job hunting process can be a nightmare or an opportunity to find a better pay scale. This guide book teaches you practical tips on job searching and how you can stand out from the rest.

As a veteran job hunter such as myself, I thought I already know everything about landing a good job. As much as I don’t want to undergo the job process again considering I’m no longer a young urban professional nevertheless, most of us have no control over mergers, bankruptcy or management chaos or our clients outsourcing.

So this book really comes in handy as the word “stability” can be considered now as part of the bygone era and it helps to be prepared.

Regardless, if you are just a recent graduate, changing careers or a seasoned professional who just lost a job, this book really fills-in-the gaps how to be successful in our job hunting such as

How to tailor fit your resume to be noticed right away
How to negotiate your salary
How to put your networking contacts to good used
How to ace that psychological test
Where the jobs are…current trends as to what occupation is in demand for years to come. (with a brief description of each profession and the projected salary range).

You don’t have to be an American citizen to fully appreciate this book as most topics are of general interest. After all the job hunting process is pretty much the same elsewhere so anybody can find this guidebook a worthy investment to how to get ahead from the competition.

NOTE:

I RECEIVED THIS BOOK FROM THOMAS NELSON AS PART OF THEIR BOOK REVIEW PROGRAM. I AM NOT REQUIRED TO WRITE A POSITIVE REVIEW. THE OPINIONS I HAVE EXPRESSED ARE MY OWN. THIS IS ACCORDANCE WITH THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION.

Technorati Tags: Knock em Dead guide book. Knock em Dead by Martin Yate,Job search guide,the ultimate job search guide. Complete book on job hunting tactics,Guide book on landing a job. Job hunting guide. How to handle a stressful interviews

FREE FRENCH FILMS AT THE SHANGRI-LA PLAZA

2011-06-07T05:08:00.000-07:00

16th French Film Festival from June 9 to 19 , 2011

The French Film Festival, which also pays tribute to Philippine cinema that will highlight Solito's films such as Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros and Pisay and this will be screen on June 12, 2011

“GUYS! SEE YOU THERE!!!!”

SCREEN SCHEDULE

Technorati Tags: FREE FRENCH MOVIES,FREE FRENCH FILMS,FREE FRENCH FILMS AT SHANGRI-LA PLAZA

MEMORABLE SONGS IN GLEE

2011-06-04T00:23:00.000-07:00

“

Create a playlist at MixPod.com

My son who is musically incline prefers to listen to “Memory” of Cats instead of listening to my favorite bands such as “The Boxer Rebellion, Death Cab for Cutie and The Smiths to name a few.

For about a year…I ignore his fascination with the musical t.v series “Glee” even if all that hype about “Charice” being a guest at this t.v show.

Although I watched Theater plays especially held in U.P Diliman and very much admired Lea Salonga. I have little appreciation for musical movies, musical plays…stuff like that.

But my son introduced me to Glee and I get to watched it with him only this year. Little did I know I’ll get so hooked by it. I have their songs in my IPOD. It’s really an entertaining show. My favorite was Darren Criss version of “TEENAGE DREAM” (sorry Katy! I like this version better!) and it turns out Darren is half-Filipino! (It only shows that Filipinos can be really good in music all over the world) and “NEED YOU NOW” a cover version of Lady Antebellum’s famous hit song. I’m such a romantic so I really liked listening to “Need You Now” especially if I need to unwind.

I also like the slow version of a Beatle song “ I want to hold your hand” it was sang during a touching moment when this gay character is singing to his comatose Dad….oh shucks! I’m a goner! The scene brought tears to my eyes maybe because I don’t know how it really feels to have a Dad.

Anyway…guys…go watch Glee!

Technorati Tags: Glee music,Glee,Memorable songs in Glee

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY AT THE FULLYBOOKED

2011-05-22T03:16:00.000-07:00

It’s been an yearly event and as early as 10am sharp with as family are already at the FullyBooked, SM North Edsa yesterday.
My son and I are into comic books, I’m really a X-men/Wolverine fan and so does Stephen.

I was having a look at a Spiderman comic book as I also adore Peter Parker. As parents, we indulge our son’s passion for comic books as he likes to draw, but I am not sure if that is the direction he is heading if he were meant to be a comic book artist or become a computer animator. But he likes to draw but his into music too!
But what ever he choose, it will be his decision. I don’t want to dictate what he course he would take up. I would like to see him grow up to be street-smart.
I know someone who was pampered as a child or should I say was sheltered too much as a child. I saw him grow up to be a weakling or weak in character that type who if that person gets to be lost in a jungle he won’t survive not even for one day. I think he will go into panic mode.
So I guess teaching your kids to be street-smart is necessity for survival. Nothing as drastic as this Tiger Mom that takes parenting a bit too far.
Anyway, I like spending quality time with my kid and hubby and these events are just one of those that I liked doing with them.

OMF LIT PHILIPPINES BOOK SALE

2011-05-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

OMF LITERATURE BOOKSTORE is one of my favorite bookstores where I get my dose of Christian books.

Now they are having a ROB US SALE (Raid our Bookshop: Ultimate Sale) 40% off all over 200 titles.

Since I am into devotional books, they are offering two devotional books for sale: DEVOTIONS ON THE GO AND THE ONE YEAR DEVOTIONS FOR WOMEN which I highly recommend for your reading pleasure.

These devotional's are good for those working women and busy housewives, it is like a quick caffeine fix only it uplifts and inspires you more.

I'll say grab the opportunity while you can to get those imported high quality books on sale.

So find a nearest branch next to you.

NEWLY OPENED BRANCHES: Cebu (Banilad), Pampanga (SM City San Fernando),

Cagayan de Oro (Level 2, Robinsons),

and Makati (Greenbelt 1)

Quezon City (Il Terrazzo) and Tarlac (SM City Tarlac)

OTHER BRANCHES: Mandaluyong/Headquarters (Boni Ave.), Cebu (F. Ramos St.), Davao (Tionko St.), and Paranaque (The Pergol)

They also offered online shopping now. Visit their site for more details as they accept payments in USD or PHP.

For a complete list of their imported and local books for sale, click the link below:

http://omflit.com/home/events.php?i=158

Technorati Tags: Philippine book sale,book sale,Christian Book sale,Inspirational books for sale,OMF Literature book sale,OMF Literature

STORIES THAT FEED YOUR SOUL

2011-05-11T17:04:00.000-07:00

TONY CAMPOLO

REGAL BOOKS

An excerpt from the book:

Mark Hatfield, the one time senator from Oregon, was heard to have said," “Christianity was born in Israel. They took it to Greece and made it into a philosophy. They took it to Rome and made it into an institution. They took it to the rest of Europe and made it into a culture. Then they brought it to America, where they made it into a business enterprise.”

This is a well-written book, simple and it will not filled your head with philosophical or theological jargons.

It is truly inspiring and what better way to share the gospel of our Lord than to read true-to-life stories. To know that God is not invisible God, that he is everywhere and he does work 24/7!

The Author is indeed a superb storyteller as he have compiled stories based on his first hand experiences and some were taken from his many travels.

It is like a “parable” but it speaks to you in this modern times. It let’s you examine yourself more closely and its not hard not to be “deeply” engrossed with these stories which are organized into 8 parts:

FREEDOM FROM CONDEMNATION
THE NEW LIFE IN CHRIST
INTIMACY WITH GOD
THE CALL TO RESCUE A NATION
LIVING WITH HOPE
PRAYING IN THE SPIRIT
GODS’ PLAN FOR US
THE ASSURANCE WE NEED

In between those pages, I enjoyed reading about Bono of U2 fame as how he used his rock star status to help end poverty in Africa and how he truly live up to being a Christian.

It is a living testament that you can truly do both ways and not lost your soul in this materialistic world.

I highly recommend this not only a reading pleasure for the whole family, but this is also a great gift to your pastor, priest, favorite Sunday school teacher, to a friend in need.

Dr.Tony Campolo’s book is filled with nuggets of wisdom and with powerful stories enough to shake us up and makes you reflect more if it is indeed enough to called a Christian who goes to church every Sundays.

Visit:

www.tonycompolo.org

www.eape.org

NOTE: I received this book from OOZE VIRAL BLOGGERS for a book review and the opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

DARTH VADER WAS HERE (ode to the typewriter)

2011-05-08T19:42:00.000-07:00

The Daily Mail reports that Godrej and Boyce has has shut down its typewriter production plant in Mumbai, India. The plant was reportedly the very last plant in the world manufacturing typewriters.
The company made about 10,000 to 12,000 typewriters a year until 2009. The company says it doesn't get many orders for typewriters anymore.

(photo taken from a free copyright images site).

I got this piece of news from this very handy software that organized all my RSS feeds called Abilon. This software was free and I’ve been using it for years. I subscribe to lot of informative and interesting sites such as Writerswrite.com, Pinoypenman, Blogging tips,Open Source News, The Blog Herald just to name a few.

so Abilon makes my life easier as I believe I shouldn’t waste time so much surfing the net for information I need.

So when this RSS feed delivered this news, I had a mixed feeling about knowing that demise of the manual typewriter.

Maybe because it was the typewriter that helps me started to becoming a published writer back then.

My first typewriter is an Olivetti brand, it belong to my Mom .I think it was considered a “luxury” then for my old fashioned family to have a typewriter. As a I child I was so fascinated with it and I don’t have any inkling that I would grow up to become a wordsmith.

But before I get misunderstood, a typewriter is just only a tool not a tool to make you a great writer. (You leave the talent part to God and determination on your part).

Members of my family had abused this OLIVETTI me ---included! That become rusty and there were already keys missing.

Then Mom being a single parent and money was so tight was not able to to replaced it. Food is more of a priority than to nourish this stupid dream of mine.

Years later, someone gave me an UNDERWOOD TYPEWRITER, he truly believes I will become a writer someday. It was so nice gesture, I truly treasure it and it was then I was transferring my thoughts from longhand and type my manuscript. I remember correction fluid wasn’t the “hype” during those days. So I hated to the max when ever I make a mistake.

But good things never last…I could not bear to touch the keys of this Underwood without going a nostalgic trip. Bad for the creative mind!

BUT NOW…DARTH VADER WAS HERE

When I got married, my hubby got me a computer. It was a gift a year after when I graduated from College. This computer like the typewriter become obsolete in the long run even after so many upgrades I have done; it soon gave up on me.

Then Darth Vader came along (what? Vader?) who in their right mind would named a thing!

But I am not a conventional mortal, I am weird one and I really don’t care.

After all the laptop and net book prices have gone down that even the average Joe can now have one!

So Darth Vader is now my glorified word processing machine. It become my trusted companion and my hubby is even starting to resent it LOL.

It would accompany me whenever I need the excuse to go out and be in the nearest Cafe.

I can’t imagine life without Darth Vader!

Ah…technology! It killed the typewriter but it was replaced but a much better one---That is if you know how to used the word-processing software, know how to configure and pray that you won’t get any viruses.

Then your write life would go on smoothly.

Technorati Tags: Abilon software,typewriter,manual typewriter,darth vader

POETIC DISCOURSE

2011-05-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

I am a frustrated poet. The only poem I wrote so far which was published and got a positive feed back from the readers was “INTERLUDE UNDER THE APRIL SKIES.”

Since then I stopped writing poems…or rather writing all together.

Up to now, I kept a letter or letters or what I have salvaged from old things scattered in my house, it was a testimony that reminds me that I once- a- upon a time I was indeed poet.

There was a letter from a reader who happens to be a teacher telling me how she liked my poem (but she had mistaken me for a guy because of my name-Vernie).

Then there was this one male who hounded me with anonymous postcards because he too was so touch with the poem that he thinks he can relate to the words I have written.

Soon enough, the guy is not contented with sending me anonymous postcards but he wants to meet me in person too!

Postcards coming from abroad--- just imagine my shock when he suddenly shows up at my door step!

Of course,that is considered “CREEPY.”

But it all ends well…he was not creepy in person. He was descent enough (not Freddy Kruger looking )and I have to convinced him that it was just a poem that I wrote while I was having insomnia (the truth is I wrote it while I was nursing my wounded heart) but I don’t want to encourage this fine gentleman.

My poem at that time was what you term as “CHEESY” by today’s standards.

WARNING: Never include your address or kindly asked the Editor to withheld your address when your poem gets published!

What can I say? I was young then and naive, but frankly and yes…even if I hate to admit it----it was downright flattering!!!

Poetry writing in my country is not a lucrative career path not even for Palanca Award winning poets.

Maybe for the fact that we are a third world country and …most Filipinos their priorities is not consuming the beauty of the written word or poetic rhyme but mainly food and how to pay the bills.

But lately, I try to write a poem for my pleasure and I was hoping to buy this book from the last month’s International Book Day to jumpstart my poetic juices.

TWENTY LOVE POEMS

AND A

SONG OF DESPAIR

PABLO NERUDA

However, I was told any books written by Pablo Neruda was already sold out by the time I arrived in the afternoon.

Pablo Neruda is the only poet I admired next to Amador Daguio. I used to have this tattered copy of a poetry book called “ Six Filipino Poets” but the pages are really worn out until eventually it got lost when my house was flooded ages ago. (along with my hardbound books of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo). =(

There is one poem of Amador Daguio which I try to commit to memory or recite it. It was so beautiful…

I used to know all the words that poem by heart ,but sadly as I am getting old. I can only remember some of its lines:

I shall die here where you shall not meet me again

In April, where the golden yellow bells are sweet,

Where the red white lands of the plateaus sweep

Towards clouds, where the stars burn on the mountain

At dawn! I shall die softly---alone!

________________________________________________________

Seeking which was forever lost which was always there

For I shall,

I who loved you once…singly remember?

Remember you with unperishiable time.

I asked for your kind indulgence or forgiveness of admirers of Mr. Amador Daguio. I don’t have a copy of the poem now. It all I can remember. It is not entirely the whole poem ,but it was the poem of my youth, that one that I fell in love with.

That one poem that inspired me to write a poem!

I stand to be corrected if I have not put it here the correct verbatim.

But I wanted to show this poem because we do have talented Filipino Poets.

If anyone reading this and have a copy of TO J.---THE TITLE OF THIS POEM

Please get in touch with me.

How about you? How about you…the readers of this blog?

Do you have a poem that touches you ?

Do you have a poet you really liked so much. I hope you can share it with me.

Better yet, show your appreciation with that Poet if he or she is still alive but letting them know by letters or email how you liked their poems ( just don’t show up up suddenly in front of their home! There’s more acceptable ways to show your admiration).

http://poewar.com

www.pinoy-poets.com

http://www.highchair.com.ph/

Technorati Tags: Pablo Neruda,Amador T. Daguio,Amador Daguio,Amador Daguio poems,To J poetry by Amador Daguio. Six Filipino Poets

A BILLION REASONS WHY

2011-04-29T07:06:00.000-07:00

Kristin Billerbeck

Perhaps not a billion reasons why you should read this book…

But indeed there is a reason why you can appreciate this, if you are after good old fashion romance and chick-lit with a Christian twist.

Although, in just a few chapters you will already get some hint how the story would end.

So there was Kate McKenna, a Special Ed-Teacher, with a comfortable apartment, a best friend on the side and engaged to Dexter, whose description is safe, secure and utterly boring ,but Kate finds him to be what she envisions him to be a the right husband even if he doesn’t share her loved for bygone era (40’s look, dancing and torch songs).

Then her ex-boyfriend Luc DeForges with movie star looks and a successful businessman (with lots of money to spare) suddenly rocks her world again…

How can some like Dexter beat someone like that?

Of course, this is where the fun starts-- who would really win Kate’s heart? Daze and confused with her past catching up with her and trying to find God’s will along the way but nevertheless, a brave heroine who would face the odds of going home to a place where she desperately wanted to escape in the first place.

This is for those who also facing to make choices in life.

NOTE: I received this book from B&B Media group for a book review.

The opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

Technorati Tags: Kristin Billerbeck,A Billion Reasons Why

BLOGGING CODE OF ETHICS

2011-04-29T05:18:00.000-07:00

“Mabait ba ang anak ninyo?” a stupid question by a media person asking a parent grieving for their young son who recently had a tragic car accident.

(Will any parent in his or her right mind would admit na hindi mabait ang anak nila?)

“Balita namin may alitan daw kayo nang biyenan ninyo?” a reporter asking a man whose wife was sentence to death overseas.

(Wow…showbiz ang dating, I forgot I was watching the news=(

Really people! This is coming from the tube now a days. Where did the good reporters have gone? Have sensitivity gone dead? but then same goes for the blogosphere….those who wanted to be trolls or so happy being one. It brings to mind as to why I suddenly wanted to share this. I got this years ago. I still think it is still applicable.

This blogging code of ethics was a set of guidelines created by CYBERJOURNALIST.NET and I found this article from

http://www.pcij.org/blog/?page_id=3

I am not sure if the page is still there but I manage to keep a copy and would like to share it with you for those who are truly serious in being a blogger. It is really up to every individual blogger if you want to consider these best practices.

(photo is taken from a free copyright image site)

Be Honest and Fair

Bloggers should be honest and fair in gathering, reporting and interpreting information.

Bloggers should:

• Never plagiarize.

• Identify and link to sources whenever feasible. The public is entitled to as much information as possible on sources' reliability.

• Make certain that Weblog entries, quotations, headlines, photos and all other content do not misrepresent.

They should not oversimplify or highlight incidents out of context.

• Never distort the content of photos without disclosing what has been changed. Image enhancement is only acceptable for for technical clarity. Label montages and photo illustrations.

• Never publish information they know is inaccurate — and if publishing questionable information, make it clear it's in doubt.

• Distinguish between advocacy, commentary and factual information. Even advocacy writing and commentary should not misrepresent fact or context.

• Distinguish factual information and commentary from advertising and shun hybrids that blur the lines between the two.

Minimize Harm

Ethical bloggers treat sources and subjects as human beings deserving of respect. Bloggers should:

• Show compassion for those who may be affected adversely by Weblog content. Use special sensitivity when dealing with children and inexperienced sources or subjects.

• Be sensitive when seeking or using interviews or photographs of those affected by tragedy or grief.

• Recognize that gathering and reporting information may cause harm or discomfort. Pursuit of information is not a license for arrogance. • Recognize that private people have a greater right to control information about themselves than do public officials and others who seek power, influence or attention. Only an overriding public need can justify intrusion into anyone's privacy.

• Show good taste. Avoid pandering to lurid curiosity. Be cautious about identifying juvenile suspects, victims of sex crimes and criminal suspects before the formal filing of charges.

Be Accountable

Bloggers should:

• Admit mistakes and correct them promptly.

• Explain each Weblog's mission and invite dialogue with the public over its content and the bloggers' conduct.

• Disclose conflicts of interest, affiliations, activities and personal agendas.

• Deny favored treatment to advertisers and special interests and resist their pressure to influence content. When exceptions are made, disclose them fully to readers.

• Be wary of sources offering information for favors. When accepting such information, disclose the favors.

• Expose unethical practices of other bloggers.

• Abide by the same high standards to which they hold others.

Technorati Tags: blogging code of ethics,blogger guide,blogging guidelines,weblog guide,cyberjournalist.net

A DAY OF FUN AND FESTIVIES AT THE INSTITUTO CERVANTES

2011-04-16T22:24:00.000-07:00

ME ILLAMO VERNIE

YO SOY FILIPINO

HABLO UN POCO DE ESPANOL

ME ESPOSO NOLI

Yesterday, after work ( no sleep at all straight out from the graveyard shift). My husband I spent the Saturday at the International Book Day held at the Institute Cervantes.

Institute Cervantes Manila holds a special place in my heart as I frequent the place to watch their free Spanish Films with English sub-titles and it is probably because as they are part of the Spanish Embassy when years ago they have a painting competition on which my husband won the Grand prize for his painting titled: THE MODERN ETHIC TRIBE OF ECOLOGY

My foray with the Spanish Culture came when I was younger when I was reading two old books of Jose Rizal: NOLI ME TANGERE and EL FILIBUSTERISMO (sadly I lost the two books when my house was flooded ages ago.

My interest to learn Spanish was reinforce when I was still studying at Siena College, QC and there I met an old nice Dominican Filipina Nun who speaks Spanish. I thought if I learn the language I will impressed my benefactor who was a Dominican Priest from Sto. Domingo Church whom I found out speaks Spanish fluently.

My Professor told me back then---“Vernie…Spanish is a dead language!” But then he did not predict the booming Call Center/BPO industry which pays premium when you know another language besides English. Spanish is widely spoken as there are more Hispanics in the U.S. and that is a fact.

Too bad, hubby forgot my Olympus digi cam so I have to settled some shots taken from my camera phone.

We spent the day…eating traditional Spanish food like the Paella. I got myself a souvenir t-shirt that when you buy one, you get 1 book free anything you like from the slash pile on the table.

I got my hubby a glossy art book showcasing some works of painters from Spain and then I got myself a what seems to be a VAMPIRE NOVEL

VAMPIRO A MI PESAR

Which means I have to take extra speed on learning Spanish in order for me to appreciate the whole text as it was written in Spanish. At least, some words are familiar.

I also attended the demo class and one of the best part of the day’s festivities was the

POETRY READING

on which representatives from AUSTRIA, BELGIUM, CZECH REPUBLIC, GERMANY, GREECE ITALY, NEATHERLANDS, POLAND, SPAIN, U,K AND THE PHILIPINES recited poems from the poets of their respective countries. It was recited at first in their native language followed by an English translation.

There was one poet who made an “impromptu” performance…funny it might seems… but in my humble opinion there is a time and place for everything

SO OK….IKAW YON!

but hey! I did like your poetry…really love it as it reminds me that I used to also write poetry like that. A poem I can relate!

But for me …

GANITO NGA PALA by ABDON M. BALDE JR.

Brought the house down with laughter and so much appreciation. Truly, you don’t need special effects para masabing isa kang magaling na makata. You just go there,be yourself, recite the poem and make every Filipino proud----PERIOD!

Did I mentioned…they gave free copies of booklet form containing all the poems being recited!

I’m glad they included a poem of our national hero JOSE RIZAL.

We ended the day watching an Spanish Art film called “ El Secreto de sus ojos”.

It was a good night for the rest of us.

Technorati Tags: Instituto Cernvantes Manila,April 16 International Book Day,Dia del Libro. learning Spanish,Abdon M.Balde Jr. Abdon Balde Jr. Bersong Europinoy,Filipino European Poetry ricital. Recital de poesia europea y filipina,Manila International Book Day 2011

INTERNATIONAL BOOK DAY-INSTITUTO CERVANTES

2011-04-07T02:01:00.000-07:00

IF YOU LOVE BOOKS AND THE SPANISH CULUTRE LIKE I DO!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS BLOG READERS!
SEE YOU THERE!
APRIL 16

Día del Libro, an international event celebrated throughout the world where books are met with red roses.
From 10 am until 8 pm, participate in the festivities of books and reading. Thousands of books will be available on that day: old and new copies in Spanish, English and other languages… with prices as low as P20!

Roses will be given to the book-buyers, following the Spanish tradition.
You can also enjoy movies, poetry recitals, live music, photo and writing contests, Spanish food... even activities for the young ones.

On Saturday April 16, 2011, come and join us for the mad-rush as the gates open for this year´s book sale. Thousands of books in both Spanish and English, ranging from classics to children´s literature, dictionaries, and so much more will be on sale for as low as P20. A rose will be given for every purchase, following the Spanish tradition. On the same Saturday, there will also be an Open House at the Instituto Cervantes grounds. The festivities will begin at 10am ending at 8pm.
Enjoy a day of books, poetry, music, dance, cinema and Spanish food. Día del Libro is going to be a day full of excitement for all ages, with adventures to be had and prizes to be won.
If you love books, you shouldn’t miss it. See you at Día del Libro!

Time Activity

9:00am–5:00pm        Enrollments
9:30 – 10:00am         Percussion concert
10:00am onwards     OPEN HOUSE
10:00am–7:00pm      Book Market10:00am–11:00am   Drawing workshop for kids
10:30am                  Free Spanish Demo Class (30 minutes)
10:45am                     Photo Contest: La Foto del Día
11:00am                   Guided Tour
11:00am–12:00nn Story telling for kids
11:00am                  What is the DELE?
11:15am                   Presentation of AVE (Spanish On Line Course)
11:30am–1:30pm      Book signing by various authors
11:45am                     Test your Spanish
12:00nn–1:00pm       Percussion concert

1:00pm–2:00pm        Jazz concert: HDC Trio
1:00pm–2:00pm        Story telling for kids
1:30pm                       Free Spanish Demo Class (30 minutes)
1:30pm                       Guided Tour
2:00pm                       Film for the kids

3:00pm                       Bersong Europinoy 33:00pm                       What is the DELE?
3:15pm                       Presentation of AVE (Spanish On Line Course)
3:45pm                       Test your Spanish

4:00pm–5:00pm        Spanish Rhymes for kids
5:00pm                       Guided Tour
6:00pm                       Film: The Secret in Their Eyes

7:30pm                       Jazz in the Patio
8:15pm                      Awarding Ceremony:
                                                       Photo Contest: La Foto del Día

Photo Contest: Lectores
Fast Fiction Contest

SCOTT AND NAW NAW

2011-03-24T22:29:00.000-07:00

The many adventures of Scott the teddy bear

SCOTT: “ Can you please find some place else to be lazy?”

NAW NAW: “ I heard you are character assassinating me?”

SCOTT: “ SO! you’re buddy buddy now with that new white kitten huh?”

NAW NAW: “ You’re days are numbered Scott!”

SCOTT: “ Ha! I’m sooooo scared! I am not like Salem, Gigi’s black cat! You can do better than that!”

NAW NAW: “ Salem knows this is my territory and I am the Godfather!

SCOTT: “ You mean Godmother?”

NAW NAW: “ You know Scott, if you’re such a wise guy maybe you should drop the FAKE British accent of yours!!!”

SCOTT": “ Bloody Hell! I am already been a British Bear! I am from Manchester, my idol is Tony Blair and Sir Bob Geldof and for my listening pleasure my favorite band is COLDPLAY and U2!”

NAW NAW: “ Give me break! Noli just bought you from the Bear Cuddler store. You’re more native Filipino than any of us here!”

SCOTT: “ It is pointless! I am not speaking to you!”

NAW NAW: “ Fine! And I thought those two crazy dogs outside are the ones having an identity crisis! Normal is indeed boring!”

SCOTT: !@#$%^&*

_____________________________________

Do something worthwhile this Summer!

Volunteer or support the Philippine Animal Welfare Society.

Stop animal abuse!

Adopt a pet!

Technorati Tags: Paws,The Philippine Animal Welfare Society,cats,kittens,teddy bears,scott the teddy bear

My Son playing Moon River

2011-03-13T05:31:00.000-07:00

My favorite old song Moon River, I first heard it from a classic Audrey Hepburn movie “ Breakfast in Tiffanys”.

I requested my one and only son during his violin practice to played it.

He is a bit shy even if his playing under a bright light. I didn’t edit this anymore using Movie Maker, he wants' an aura of mystery.

His taking formal violin lessons.

Technorati Tags: Filipino violinist,teenage violin player,Moon River violin cover version.

iShine Bible

2011-03-13T03:18:00.000-07:00

NEW LIVING TRANSLATION

TOTALLY FOR TWEENS

For this specific bible, I asked the help of my 13 year old teenage son Stephen in making this book review.

Raising a teenage son is like exploring a whole new territory. Imagine being an astronaut on the moon!

And there is so many things in this modern world that can distract a young mind and to prepare them for what lays ahead, its to get a bible made specially for them, a bible that speaks to their own language.

The iShine bible for teenage boys . Compact and it’s leather like soft cover and according to my teenage son what he likes about this bible that there were colored pages inserted on those pages divided with 3 sections:

VALUE
IDENTITY
PURPOSE

The first few pages deals with what the bible talks about that concerns the teenagers of today such as the following to name a few:

About making choices
How to handle anger
Why it is important to study the bible
Fear
Gossip

What we both like about this bible is not heavy to bring it around, fits in his back pack. But what’s more important it made bible reading fun for him as it is after all a bible meant for teenage boys where they can also find answers to life’s many questions.

This is a practical bible that would helped make our boys become a man for God later on.

For Philippine residents who might want to grab a copy of this bible, you may want to consider visiting

OMF LIT BOOKSTORE as they are one of the distributors of TYNDALE HOUSE PUBLISHER BOOKS.

NOTE: I received this book from TYNDALE as part of their books for bloggers program and the opinions I have expressed are entirely my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the U.S Federal Trade Commission.

Technorati Tags: Bible for teengers,Bible for teenage boys,ishine bible,Tyndale,specialty bibles,gift bibles

SCOTT MEETING MISTY

2011-03-12T07:18:00.000-08:00

(THE MANY ADVENTURES OF SCOTT THE TEDDY BEAR)

SCOTT: “ Hey! You’re new here aren’t you?”

MISTY: “Yeah! My name is Misty, originally named MORRISSEY but then Gigi realizes that I'm a female”.

SCOTT: “ Oh no! Haven’t we have enough strays here in this house!”

MISTY: “ I am not a stray! I am a domesticated kitten till my former owner decided to give me away to Stephen and he gave me to his Mom”.

SCOTT: “Well…you met the other cat around here Nawnaw? She’s a bully, I’ll give you a month! You wouldn't’ last!

MISTY: “ For a teddy bear you seem like a snob! What’s with that fake British accent of yours?”

SCOTT: “Excuse me! That is my natural accent! I was named after that good looking British Martial Arts actor Scott Adkins!

MISTY: “ Scott who? I only know Brandon Vera and Dwayne Johnson”.

SCOTT: “ Never mind! You cats are always the eat and run type! The only one left standing here is Nawnaw and that clever feline drove Salem away!”

MISTY: “ Oh! The other kitten?”

SCOTT: “ I don’t know why Gigi ever bothers to have pets here when she has me! Beware of those two dogs outside, they are both having an identity crisis-- Sco0by and Gloria thinks they are German Shepherds!”

MISTY: “What you need Scott like any teddy bears is a good welcome hug!”

SCOTT: “Back off! Back off! Bloody Hell! Help Gigi get me out of here!

ADOPT A PET!

Cats and Dogs are good stress relievers!

Great companions!

Don’t know where to get one?

Ask from your neighbors and friends or better yet visit PAWS.

THE SMITHS: PHILIPPINES ROCK ROYALTY

2011-03-07T21:54:00.000-08:00

YOU CAN CATCH THEIR ANTICS ON A NEW REALITY T.V SHOW

Back then I followed the reality t.v show “THE OSBOURNES”, I am not a fan of Ozzy, nor I am into heavy metal but I was fascinated that a t.v crew would followed them and chronicle their lives in front of the camera. I was curious about Sharon Osbourne, her children and whether daughter Aimee “the so-called normal one” in their family would show up on screen or take part of her family bizarre adventures on T.V.
Fast forward….I can’t barely wait to watch the next episode of “THE SMITHS.”
I’m really a big fan of Pepe Smith of the famous JUAN DE LA CRUZ BAND. Who would forget the iconic “Ang Himg Natin” song? Surely, that person should be banned in Mars if he or she hasn’t heard of it.
I’m a fan of Pepe Smith so much that I have to begged my husband to have his picture taken or at least have a picture taken along with him during a “sketching” session held at the OBRA NI NANAY gallery.
My hubby being the simple man that he was---is not thrilled with my request. “What will Pepe Smith think of me if I asked for a Kodak moment!”
I rolled my eyes in frustration as if I were asking for the moon and the stars. Finally…he gave it like he always has…especially when I would gave him the sad look ala “Puss in boots in Shrek.”
So I must applaud GMA News T.V for envisioning such a concept similar to “The Osbournes”.

Watching the first episode, Pepe strikes me as one hell of a very COOL Dad. I wish I had a father like that!
I never met my Dad, but at least I was glad for his sperm cell donation otherwise I won’ t be a here in this mixed up world where I am wife to a Visual Artist and Mom to a 13 year boy who some times test my patience but talented with the violin and digital animation!

My hubby’s sketch of the Pinoy Rock Legend of all time. According to my hubby, Pepe is so down-to-earth!
No feeling like a “Star” persona unlike some celebs out there. So that is why….he was so endeared to many fans like me.

PEPE SMITH! ROCK AND ROLL!
Catch them every Saturdays, 8:45pm at GMA News TV on Channel 11

Technorati Tags: The Smiths T.v reality show of the Philippines,GMA news t.v,channel 11,Pepe Smith,Pinoy Rock and Roll,Obra ni Nanay Gallery,Juan de la Cruz band,Ang Himig Natin,Sketch of Pepe Smith,Pepe Smith portrait

TRUE FAITH AND OPM MUSIC

2011-03-04T19:45:00.000-08:00

WHAT’S IN MY PLAYLIST AND YOURS?

A few days ago, I took a detour to Trinoma on the way to work. (I just looooove my new sked!). Astropolis is having a CD sale. This is no longer a surprise to me because there is indeed a decline of CD sales.

Then there was the closure of my all time favorite radio station NU.107 and Music One the record store. Perhaps, this is the reason why I seldom listen to the radio now. It’s nothing but pop tunes and same old rehash sounds.

To get more popular, just sing a revival change the tune and viola it becomes a hit.

While I browse the CD sales from the original price of P300 pesos ( believe me that is expensive in Philippine setting standards). Most CD’s were being sold for just P100 pesos now.

I think they are quite desperate to get rid of their inventory as you can sample the CD music, they would open a brand new CD and they have those big speakers so you’ll get to listen anything you fancied upon.

Oh! It was agonizing for me to decide in between THE BEST OF SPANDAU BALLET and THE BEST OF TRUE FAITH.

But True Faith won! How can I resist a good music like the True Faith had produced in those years. My favorites are

PERFECT
AMBON
ALAALA
MUNTIK NANG MAABOT ANG LANGIT

Luckily, in the office they allow us to have a background music and we have our own version of the office DJ who played the True Faith CD as soon as I sat down to my cubicle. (Thank you “K” you’re such a darling!)

I thought I will hear some groans or moans or violet protest from my younger officemates. I was dead wrong! They seem to appreciate very much the music of my youth. Oh! What a big relief! LOL

Ang langit sa `yong puso muntik nang mailapit
Nguni't `kaw na ngayo'y alaalang kay pait
Muntik nang maabot ang langit
Oohh ang langit

This is my favorite lines from the song Muntik Nang Maabot Ang Langit.

It was a very sad song actually, MEMORIES ARE CHEAP!

I can very well relate to that….YOU ARE NOW A MEMORY TOO PAINFUL TO REMEMBER. (you know who you are!)

TO LISTEN TO ORIGINAL PINOY MUSIC STREAMING AUDIO

OF ROCK/ALTERNATIVE and True Faith go to this link:

SINTUNADO

It doesn't’ offer music downloads! But let’s you hear streaming audios of the good old 80’s and 90’s music.

Technorati Tags: OPM,Pinoy Music,Pinoy Pop Music,Original Pinoy Music,Sintunado,Pinoy streaming audio,where to listine to Pinoy rock for free,Free Filipino Music,TRUE FAITH,Rock,Alternative

PASSPORT THROUGH DARKNESS

2011-03-03T19:18:00.000-08:00

(A TRUE STORY OF DANGER AND SECOND CHANCES)

BY KIMBERLY SMITH

DAVID COOK PUBLISHERS

To be completely honest, this book is not an easy thing to read without getting affected along the way as I was teary eyed in between pages.

This is a true-to-life story of an American couple who is living a very comfortable life but gave it all up one day as they both decided to follow a much higher noble calling or to surrender to a yearning---how to serve God better!

They left their comfort zones to serve the Lord in probably the most darkest place in the whole planet Earth---Darfur, Sudan!

The Author shared with us through this book her journey where she gets to experience the outcome of the horrors of war, there is rape, torture and murder. Evil is so much written in this place that one would ask “ Why did Kimberly stayed on?’.

Perhaps, Kimberly Smith is truly living the Purpose Driven life along with her husband Milton, they gave hope and they continued the good fight to start an orphanage there and established a organization to end human trafficking.

I must really emphasize that this book is really hard to put down once you get up with all that suspense and drama involved. It is not really much about the suffering in Sudan, but the question is….how far will you go as a devoted Christian?

There is so much revelations here that might shock you but that is the reality, it is something you can’t simply ignore.

Overall, it is kind of a depressing but this will help you dig deeper to your faith and know what it means to truly follow Jesus Christ not only by reading the bible but by practicing it.

Faith…as this book is trying to convey…is not just a word --it is something every one of us should act upon with conviction despite all the odds.

Visit the Author’s website:

KIMBERLYLSMITH.COM

and

MAKEWAYPARTNERS.ORG

NOTE: I received this book from B&B Media group for a book review.

The opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

Technorati Tags: Kimberly Smith,passport through darkness book,david cook publishers

THE BEST OF ASIAN ART

2011-03-02T17:12:00.000-08:00

&ampltbr>&ampltbr&ampgtaA

After so many years of having a Gmail account. This is the only time I get to explore the DOCUMENTS portion located at the top of my Gmail inbox --free web based office productivity tools. Although, I am not giving up on my MS office and I still advocate the use of Open Office as the best alternative for people on a techie budget especially those who live in a Third World country such as mine.

I must say I am impressed with the productivity tools that comes with your free gmail account even if there some limitations. What’s the best way to experiment than have something to promote a worth while endeavor such as the promoting The Best of Asian Art Facebook page that my hubby recently joined.

It was easy thing to make this one just click CREATE NEW and from the dropped down menu you have a choice of

DOCUMENT
PRESENTATION
SPREADSHEET
FORM
DRAWING
COLLECTION

There are templates to choose from and because of its simplicity, I don’t think a NEWBIE will have a hard time, give it an hour or so a bit of patience. When you are still confused….consult your nearest Tech Support such as ME LOL or grab your nearest loved ones, relative or techie friend.

ANYONE WHO CAN DISTINQUISH A DESKTOP FROM A TASK BAR AND KNOWS HOW TO RIGHT CLICK ….LOL

Technorati Tags: THE BEST OF ASIAN ART,FILIPINO ARTIST,ARTIST IN THE PHILIPPINES,FILIPINO PAINTERS,FILIPINO MURALIST,GOOGLE DOCS,GOOGLE PRESENTATION,FREE OFFICE PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS,WEB BASED OFFICE PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS,CLOUD COMPUTING

THE BOXER REBELLION BAND

2011-02-26T03:59:00.000-08:00

What’s in your playlist?

I'm always here
Waiting for you all alone
Eyes of the night
Just to see, see you home

There's two of us in here
The only only
There's two of us in here
And it's only

I'm always here
All alone without you now
Lights of the night
Just to see you somehow

There's two of us in here
The only only
There's two of us in here
And it's only

Just you wait

If you run if you run
I'll wait
I'll wait for you

***********************************************

Ever since Nirvana, The Smiths, New Order and The Dawn ( Philippine band, famous for the Song “Envelope Ideas”) that I got so excited listening to another band such as The Boxer Rebellion!

They been around but it was only from that movie “GOING THE DISTANCE” that I get to be aware of them. They were featured in this film playing themselves while Justine Long and Drew Barrymore’s portraying a couple who is trying to make it work of their long distance relationship as they watches this band perform in a club.

Not to downplay the movie, but I only finished it so I can see more of the Boxer Rebellion. I liked their songs especially this one…IF YOU RUN.

Lately, I don’t get to listen to the radio as I am hearing musicians who seems to have less than stellar talents or they played almost the same sound. It was refreshing to listen to the Boxer Rebellion, an alternative rock band.

Since there aren’t much music stores in my country, their earlier songs only available for download in ITUNES.

I haven’t got a copy of their UNION ALBUM cd but for the meantime, I get to watch and listen them to YOUTUBE.

Another song which got me into a “heavenly” kind of mode was “SEMI-AUTOMATIC”.

~ flexiPoll: free online web poll ~

Technorati Tags: The Boxer Rebellion band,Alternative Rock,Going the Distance movie,If RUN SONG,THE BOXER REBELLION ACOUSTIC VERSION IF YOU RUN

The Cafemom Chronicles

TEN by Terry Smith

UNLEASH THE PHOTOGRAPHER WITHIN YOU

CSM Encourages Kids to go Outdoors!

2012 Starbucks Tumbler and Yeah Notebooks

SAYING GOODBYE TO 2011 WITH BOOKS

MAGING UBAS HUWAG PASAS

SOMEONE LIKE YOU

COME AS YOU ARE!

Digital Photography and Confessions of a Pathological Picture

IT'S THE SEASON TO BE MERRY

NEW ALTERED NOTEBOOKS (DECEMBER HAPPINESS PROJECTS)

TYNDALE NLT BIBLE GIVEAWAY

Book Wish List

PRAISE AND COFFEE MAGAZINE

HOW TO LIVE ABUNDANTLY

BOOKS GALLORE

2012 SEATTLE’S BEST AND PAPAYA PLANNERS

TEAM EDWARD OR TEAM JACOB?

ART JOURNALS, MINI-ALBUMS AND ALTERED NOTEBOOK

HALO NATION

Literary Journals

Writing Fiction Today a

THE "F" WORD

The Truth of Having a Facebook Account

STARTING ALL OVER AGAIN

THE ART OF NON-EVANGELISM

WHAT IS YOUR HAPPINESS PROJECT?

THE ZOMBIE WAR (World War Z)

CHERISH: A NOVEL ABOUT REDEMPTION

5 REASONS TO LIKE TUMBLR

FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT GAME OF THRONES

PHILIPPINE BOOK FAIR 2011

GUIDE TO COLLECTING ART

Church Strengthening Ministry, Inc.-BOOKS FOR 100 PESOS ONLY AT THE MANILA INTERNATIONAL BOOKFAIR.

PHILIPPINES CINEMA EUROPA SCHEDULE 2011

THE 2011 MANILA BOOK INTERNATIONAL FAIR

HOW COFFEE SAVE MY LIFE

THE BIBLE AND BIBLE STUDY BOOK BLOG GIVEAWAY

I'm an Easy Rider, how do you compare? Personality quiz - Youniverse.com - Be Understood

WHAT’S IN YOUR TOTE BAG?

I WRITE LIKE….WHAT!!!!

A FAMILY GUIDE TO NARNIA

A Online/EMagzine for Women

ALEPH by Paulo Coelho

POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE

ANG BABAE SA SEPTIC TANK

BLOG GIVEAWAY: BIBLE STUDY BOOK AND ESV HOLY BIBLE

FAMOUS SINGERS WITH THEIR CATS

FIVE BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS

FREEDOM FROM PERFORMING

CINEMALAYA

BE YOUR OWN BARISTA

HIS AND HER NOTEBOOKS

FREE JAPANESE FILMS SCREENING

Eiga Sai 2011: The Japanese Film Festival

CUTE GUYS READING BOOKS

MAX ON LIFE

THE JOY OF READING

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

SCOTT AND SCOOBY

KNOCK ‘EM DEAD

FREE FRENCH FILMS AT THE SHANGRI-LA PLAZA

MEMORABLE SONGS IN GLEE

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY AT THE FULLYBOOKED

OMF LIT PHILIPPINES BOOK SALE

STORIES THAT FEED YOUR SOUL

DARTH VADER WAS HERE (ode to the typewriter)

POETIC DISCOURSE

A BILLION REASONS WHY

BLOGGING CODE OF ETHICS

A DAY OF FUN AND FESTIVIES AT THE INSTITUTO CERVANTES

INTERNATIONAL BOOK DAY-INSTITUTO CERVANTES

Time Activity

1:00pm–2:00pm Jazz concert: HDC Trio1:00pm–2:00pm Story telling for kids1:30pm Free Spanish Demo Class (30 minutes)1:30pm Guided Tour2:00pm Film for the kids

3:00pm Bersong Europinoy 33:00pm What is the DELE?3:15pm Presentation of AVE (Spanish On Line Course)3:45pm Test your Spanish

4:00pm–5:00pm Spanish Rhymes for kids5:00pm Guided Tour6:00pm Film: The Secret in Their Eyes

7:30pm Jazz in the Patio8:15pm Awarding Ceremony: Photo Contest: La Foto del Día

Photo Contest: Lectores Fast Fiction Contest

SCOTT AND NAW NAW

1:00pm–2:00pm Jazz concert: HDC Trio
1:00pm–2:00pm Story telling for kids
1:30pm Free Spanish Demo Class (30 minutes)
1:30pm Guided Tour
2:00pm Film for the kids

3:00pm Bersong Europinoy 33:00pm What is the DELE?
3:15pm Presentation of AVE (Spanish On Line Course)
3:45pm Test your Spanish

4:00pm–5:00pm Spanish Rhymes for kids
5:00pm Guided Tour
6:00pm Film: The Secret in Their Eyes

7:30pm Jazz in the Patio
8:15pm Awarding Ceremony:
Photo Contest: La Foto del Día

Photo Contest: Lectores
Fast Fiction Contest