Amor Deliria Nervosa, Do You Want to be Cured?

“Amor deliria nervosa. The deadliest of all deadly things.”

Recently, I've been engrossed with some young adult Dystopian novels and my latest find was the Delirium trilogy. Compared to Hunger Games and Divergent series, this one started a little slow for me but what kept me going was the curiosity regarding its premise. A novel talking about a future where love is considered as the deadliest disease and curing it for a better Portland community if not the world, totally got me hooked. And yes, you read it right, in this series, love  is considered as the deadliest disease, termed as Amor Deliria Nervosa. Upon reaching the age of 18, citizens are required to undergo an invasive procedure that will cure them of this. Also they have to be evaluated to determine who would become their partner in life. Outside the borders of Portland though, are the Invalids, the rebels who chose love over the cure.

The third book of the series is not yet out but the story mainly revolves around Lena Haloway, a girl who, just a few days away from getting the cure fell in love with Alex, an Invalid pretending to be one of them. The action started when she opted to explore the option of loving someone freely and decided to run away with Alex. Things did not turn out well though, and Lena ended up crossing the border alone. Outside the border she started a new life as part of the resistance and then later on fell in love with Julian, the son of an influential man leading the movement advocating the cure. The series ended up with a hint of a love triangle. (Ok, enough spoilers for me, hahah...)

Back in my neurology class during my college days, I actually wondered what it would be like if our amygdala will be removed since this is primarily responsible for emotions such as rage, fear, affection and love. Reading this trilogy raised this thought for me once again and made me ponder deeper on this aspect. What would society be like if everybody, (including the society leaders) would be bereft of their emotions, not just love? Would people still succumb to depression? Would people still fight and kill each other? Would this eradicate greed? What I have in mind seems like a zombie world, but I'm really trying to picture a society with people equipped with their intellectual properties but stripped of their emotions or maybe just partially stripped of them. Would the world be any better?


Then there's of course, the matter of love, which was the central issue of this novel. Some people say that it is the most beautiful thing in this world and I know it's an amazing feeling. I also know that love can touch lives and create miracles for some people. Though, sometimes I wonder, if we don't know this feeling would that make any difference? I know a lot of people would say right away that they would never give up that feeling, but if the procedure would be possible, I honestly think that I might consider it. No more riding an emotional roller coaster, no more butterflies fluttering in my stomach and no more irrational thoughts. Maybe, like Lena I would be torn apart - the girl who doesn't want to bother anymore with those incapacitating emotions and forget about the past albeit apathetic and at the same time, the girl who just wants to laugh and cry with the people she cares about, suffering but happy.

If that would be our reality now, would life be any less remarkable without love? Is a dystopian society devoid of emotions be any worse than our current society with all of it's present issues and woes? And if the possibility is here, right now, would you want to get the cure?

A Subversive Dinner at Restaurante Pia y Damaso

"Subversive was defined as seeking or intended to subvert an established system or institution." 

Restaurante Pia y Damaso is located at the second level
of Greenbelt 5

From the name of the restaurant itself it's quite obvious that Restaurante Pia y Damaso had been inspired by Noli Me Tangere, a novel written during the time when The Philippines became a colony of Spain. After dining there I'd totally say that their tag line "Subversive Filipino Cuisine" is rather apt and its not just because of the era that inspired the place.

The restaurant had been around for some time now, although I haven't really been there before since I'm a bigger fan of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food. (For Spanish or Spanish-Filipino cuisines my main pick would be Barcino and Amalia's.) Anyway, my friend and I were having our usual food cravings and we got attracted to the place as we were passing by so we decided to give a go.

The place is rather small but I found the interior to be rather charming. The seats are inviting and comfortable and the chandelier casts a soft glow to the whole place, giving it a classy ambiance. The table piece is made of paper with details about their restaurant and the menu book is a bit of an artwork itself. Scrolling through the list of menu makes it even more interesting as some of the menu's had been inspired as well by the famous Noli Me Tangere.

I ordered a Smoked Tapang Usa (deer meat) and my friend went for Smoked Bbq Mango Pork (now, that is seriously a long name for a menu.) The deer meat was quite tender and juicy, although, a little salty for my taste but the green mango gave it a zesty twist and the garlic rice with the roasted pepper omelette sort of balanced the saltiness of the meat.

I had a taste of my friend's order and I had two thumbs up for it.The pork meat had a rich smoked, zesty taste to it and the concoction of garlic rice, scrambled eggs, pinach, apple, raisin and pinenut, made it oh so good!

Though, the real highlight of our night had been the Guni-Guni (Sisa's Dementia). It's a truffle cake with white chocolate almond pastille, dark chocolate mousse and ganache. It really made me go oohhh and ahhh upon tasting it and judging my friend's reaction, I'm certainly not the only one who had that toe-curling experience. It has a bittersweet taste to it, with the almond adding the right contrast for the velvety texture of the cake.  I would definitely recommend this to every chocolate lover out there!

As for the service I'd say, not that bad. I didn't see the name of the waiter who primarily attended to us but he was rather lax as opposed to his colleague who had been more attentive. And if you're paying a service charge on top of your bill, of course you would want to receive an excellent customer service, right?

So would I go back to this place? Well honestly, I'd most likely go back there only to have a taste of Sisa's Dementia once again and as well as to try the other desserts and also for their ambiance.

Their take on the traditional Filipino food is indeed subversive, but I have expected the fusion to really explode on one's tongue and I did not entirely experience that. As for the serving and the prices I find them to be reasonable, although I'm sure that those with bigger appetite will not entirely agree with me.

Smoked Tapang Usa
       (Salted deer meat from Nueva Ecija, with green mango pickles, roasted pepper omelette on garlic rice)

Smoked bbq mango pork
(Smoked barbecue pork with a mango marinade - served with a spinach, apple, raisin, pinenut and garlic rice with scrambled eggs)

the delighful Guni-Guni or Sisa's Dementia!
(Sugar free version of Sisa's Dementia-truffle cake with Belgian white chocolate and almond pastille, dark chocolate mousse and ganache <3)

My Once and Always Love: The Phantom of the Opera

"If you need me I shall be in Boracay," laughter erupted from the crowd last night when the supposedly retiring Monsieur Lefèvre uttered these words as he was exiting the stage. Looks like the cast of this world famous Broadway production had a great time at the shores of Boracay! 

Well, if they had a great time vacationing, I could say the same thing while watching their performance. I had been in love with The Phantom of the Opera for years now and I've always wanted to see it live along with Les Miserables and Miss Saigon. Since my birthday is just around the corner, I thought that the perfect way to celebrate it would be to watch The Phantom of The Opera.

The first time I came across this piece was when I was just 7 years old.  At that time I didn't have any idea about the story nor did I understand it when I read the synopsis. What primarily attracted me to it was the cover of the book which depicted a beautiful lady in an old-fashioned gown. (I can be very visual sometimes.) I thought it was just another 'Cinderella' story.

I spent days reading the book, struggling with some very 'Old English' words and while I was able to realize that its not another fairy tale, reading it did not help much in understanding its premise. The second time I read the book was during my sophomore year in high school and I totally fell in love with it. It had been a memorable read and I found myself swimming in a pool of emotions. I love the genius of the Phantom, and I felt sorry for his miserable existence but I hated the way he played upon the innocence of Christine. I feel for Christine's plight and her innocence and naivety touched me, but sometimes I also hated her character for that. As for Raoul, at times I love him, but at times it seemed like something is lacking in his personality. And who wouldn't be in love with the songs composed for this piece? Imagining it all coming to life truly excited me.

My stomach fluttered as I was waiting for the show to start and I was at the edge of the seat the entire time, singing with the actors, anticipating every act. When they played the overture I had goosebumps all over. I had a clear view of the stage and as well as the whole orchestra and somehow it felt surreal. I wish I was able to take a photo of the whole set up - stage, orchestra and all but the camera on my phone did not come close to even capturing a fraction of that night's magnificence. I was totally enthralled!

When Claire ( the actress who played the role of Christine) sang 'Think of Me' I was captivated by her. She's absolutely beautiful and her voice even more so. I was at the edge of my seat waiting for Anthony's voice to join hers and I must say that he's perfect for Raoul's part. His voice has a rich quality to it. The scenes of Carlotta had been a treat as well, it, watching Andrea channeling the primadonna antics of Carlotta was really hilarious! Though, the most special moment for me was when the 'Music of the Night', was sung. I'm a big fan of Ramin Karimloo and I was kinda hoping that he's gonna be the one playing the part of the phantom but nonetheless, I was hypnotized when Jonathan sung this song. 

Another part that stood out for me as well, was the Masquerade Ball. The act opened to an astonishing ballroom filled with life size statues and it was still a sight to behold. It was also fun to watch the cast singing lively and dancing gaily in their fancy costumes. It was a night of celebration where everyone could hide in their fancy masks while laughing and flirting against each other, whereas for the Phantom hiding behind a mask had been his whole life, a life of torment and anguish where Christine had been his only definition of happiness albeit the fact that her heart never entirely belonged to him.When Eric sang these lines, "Masquerade, paper faces on parade, Masquerade, hide your face so the world will never find you", I felt like my heart would break. Who wants to hide forever in the darkness, especially when you have so much to offer and share to the world?

I cannot mention every single member of this ensemble, but I definitely applaud and congratulate all of them -the actors, the orchestra players as well as the ones who worked behind the scenes. The whole production had been truly spectacular and it made me fall all over again with the Phantom of the Opera. As for the genius behind this masterpiece, Mr. Andrew Lloyd Weber, I'll be forever grateful that he created and shared this masterpiece to the world as surely, Phantom of the Opera will be heralded as a literary treasure forever.  

Cybercrime Prevention Act or Digital Martial Law?

The latest buzz within the Metro is not just about the astounding performance of the casts of the Phantom of the Opera and its not about the upcoming show of David Guetta either. What the people are wagging about right now is the controversial Cyber Crime Law.

The day I became active in using social media accounts was also the day I resigned to the fact that whatever I post will be available to everyone and could and might be considered as derogatory  and can be taken against me. I know that people can hate me or like me and judge me based on what I say or what I write in my accounts, but at the end of the day, I still think I have all the right to rant and rave regardless of what other people will say, because as they are entitled to formulate their opinions about me, I'm also entitled to formulate my own opinions and discuss them as I see fit. I can honestly say that despite my straightforward opinions I have never been abusive towards anyone and I certainly don't mind people correcting my mistakes. That being said, I can never be sorry for being brutally honest and for expressing my thoughts and I'll never will be. 

In a nutshell, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 is divided into three categories: (1) offenses against the confidentiality, integrity and availability of computer data and systems, (2) computer-related offenses, and (3) content-related offenses. I don't have anything against having a law that would protect people from fraud, cyber bullying / libelous notions and most of all cyber prostitution, I do think that we should have had done something about these things a long time ago. I read the whole article to understand what's going on, and while some of the clauses are reasonable and well defined, there are some that seem to have been included without a thorough consideration. I'd also say the same thing about enacting this law, it was signed without proper discussion or review.

The first time I heard about the proposition of this law I was already skeptical. It seems too hurried. There should have been more deliberations on what would constitute as online libel as opposed to merely basing it on Article 355 of the Revised Penal Code. Is that Penal code really even updated and in lieu to our current situation? Delving deeper, this law would protect us, but it would also exploit us, especially with the amount of power that will be entrusted with the Justice Department and we definitely don't want to give them more license to further abuse their authority.  

People like me who blogs, rant, rave and talk about whatever in their social media accounts will no longer have the freedom to do so. We can no longer complain that a certain restaurant have a shitty customer service or even voice out our opinion about certain anomalies going on within the society. And speaking of anomalies, isn't it a little suspicious that this became a law in a very short period of time following the wake of various parodies about some of our Political Leaders (i.e Sottomy, Noynoying, etc) and considering that there are tons of pressing issues in the Philippines since when did online libel become a top priority?! Can we do something first about the horrid transportation system in the Metro?!! They are not just merely stifling the freedom of speech, this law actually makes me feel like they are also insulting my intellectual faculties. So I'm supposed to hear no evil, see no evil and definitely speak no evil! Seriously?!! Well there you go, long live the democratic country of the Philippines!!

And what about this Law??

Wait, did I just type in the word democratic, because this is more like a scenario from those dystopian novels I'm loving these days. If they really seek to protect the netizens as they are claiming, they ought to have a discussion first with the people and I mean the ordinary citizens, to have a more defined guidelines that would constitute a cybercrime. This is a subject that should not be pass abruptly but ought to be discuss and argued over. It is also unacceptable for some Senators to issue an apology for signing this law without thoroughly reading the clauses or to apologize for overlooking certain paragraphs. Seriously?!! I think I'll be overlooking certain Senatorial candidates as well at next year's election. I wonder though, if there will be any reliable candidates for next year's election. Kindly enlighten me. 

Oh well, I guess it would be pointless to come up with some witty parodies now, after all who wants to pay 1,000,000 or spend 12 years in jail? I know I don't. 

You could read more about this law through these links:
Cybercrime Prevention Act 2012
GMA News: Digital Martial Law

Partying the Night Away with Tritonal: BigFish Innovation Black 2012

A couple of weeks ago, BigFish had their annual Innovation Black Party at the World Trade Center. My friends were unavailable but since Tritonal would be the headlining artist I decided to go stag, its gonna be a huge party anyway so I won't be so alone and well, I'm really glad I came! 

The "tunnel entrance"

The venue was packed. I saw lots of beautiful people having fun, I've met some pretty cool ones and the set up really rocks. But what made it a real smash was Tritonal! Their set had been totally awesome and beyond what I've expected. It was full of energy and you could see that both Chad and Dave were having fun as well. It was also evident that the crowd was full of Tritonians who were immensely enjoying themselves. 

There was that collective vibe that was truly infectious and would set you off to go dancing like crazy and not to mention that the laser lights had been fantastic and complimented the whole party mood.  

I didn't get drunk (well I got a little tipsy and its not my thing to go inhaling stuff in any parties) but I totally felt high that night and even if my legs were already killing me, I'm quite sure I'd be able to dance till daylight if their set lasted that long. And if it had been up to the crowd I'm pretty sure they would be spinning 'till sunrise as the party people were screaming (like literally) for more, towards the end of their set. 

 

It had been an epic night for me and BigFish did a pretty awesome job, just as always and I'm definitely looking forward to attending their upcoming events! 

Another international artist who performed that night was Jerome Isma-ae. I'm not a very big fan of progressive beats but I'll give some thumbs up for this guy. He's really pretty good and I actually love his remix version of Feel So Good by Armin van Buuren.

A teaser video of Tritonal's set is available at this site.

Tritonal Live in Manila (BigFish Video)




Upcoming BigFish Events:
Oct. 27, 2012 - Cream Ball at the World Trade Center, ft. Simon Patterson vs Sean Tyas
Nov. 24, 2012 - Exception Music Festival at Bonifacio Global City ft International and Local artists

Weekend at Lima Park

A month ago, my friend and I found ourselves wandering around Batangas City for a relaxing weekend away from the bustling streets of Manila.

It was a real fun time for both of us and a bit of an educational trip as well (ironically). We’re both not used to going out of town through public transports and we were really clueless as to how much the fare would be or how to even read the bus ticket. Yes, I would admit that was a rather blonde moment for us, especially since it was just a simple thing, but well at least we learned something!

Anyway, going back to the real story, we decided to stay at Lima Park Hotel. This hotel can be found at the heart of the Lima Park Technology Center. Given that no public transport gets inside the techno park if you don’t have a car its best to call the front desk so they could have their shuttle service pick you up by the entrance of the Lima Park. Otherwise, if you feel like walking I gather that it would take you about 20 minutes to get to the hotel.

The Lima Park Technology Center is an Industrial Park situated between the boundaries of Lipa and Malvar City. Since we went there on a weekend we hardly saw any people around.  The view of Mt. Makiling and Mt. Malarayat and the well trimmed bushes all over greeted us upon setting foot at the place. Lima Park is quite vast and I could imagine that a biker would surely get a kick from the cool wind blowing on his face while taking in the scenery around him. We saw a restaurant right in front of the hotel called Ipponyari which mainly serves Japanese Cuisine. For those who are wondering if there are any entertainment facilities in this place well you’ll be disappointed because there are no malls or bars yet, (it is a Techno Park after all) though, it seems like they are in the process of putting up more amenities as we saw some construction being done for what seems like a boutique shopping mall and a spa.  

The hotel itself is not a typical high rise hotel. The lobby looks very stylish and modern and has a grand piano adorning a corner. The trimmed lawn offers a relaxing view especially if you’re chilling out with your friends at the veranda area. While the swimming pool isn’t huge, it’s seems big enough to accommodate around 10 persons and has a provision for a kiddie pool and a Jacuzzi. Asian Flavours, the hotel’s restaurant has a cozy and a Hindi inspired deco and right outside is the Patio Bar. The hotel also has a gym so you wouldn’t miss out on your routine while you’re on vacation.

We stayed in a Standard room and we loved it! The room was quite spacious and well ventilated. I’m not a big fan of dark and gloomy hotel rooms and what I like the most about our room is that it has a very vibrant atmosphere but the drapes are quite thick and one could opt to dim the lights or use the lamp shades for a darker room. We also a have a mini bar with 2 complimentary bottles of water, along with coffee, sugar and creamer sachets. The bathroom has a bathtub and a complete set of toiletries for 2 which had been neatly arranged on the sides of the dresser. Also, I would have to mention that our bed had been fantastic!  I’ve been to a bunch of hotels already but I seldom get to find a bed that feels just right - not too soft and not too hard. Another thing I’ve noticed is the cleanliness of our room. I did not see a speck of dust even on the unused drawers, and there are a lot of drawers in our room.

 
I would also have to commend the customer service of this hotel. I have a rather impatient nature at times and I really hate a slow service. I’d say that I’d totally give an A+ to their as they are very prompt and courteous in attending to the requests of their guests, I didn’t even see anyone cringing or frowning from any of my silly questions or from my numerous requests. They were all ever smiling and attentive! Their shuttle service is not just good for picking up their hotel guests. The shuttles can be use to to SM Lipa, to the Country Club or to Tagaytay City!

The hotel offers Spa services like facial and massage. A massage was supposedly included in our accommodation but as we learned it could only be availed from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, one person at a time as there is only one masseuse. Only one masseuse, why oh why? We didn’t get to avail this as we weren’t able to squeeze it in. (The Jacuzzi had been delightful and we soaked up for about 2 hours!) 
 
Another thing I have to mention would be the set of menu and bar drinks at the Restaurant. Given the name, Asian Flavours I was expecting a wide array of menu but I was disappointed to see common Asian dishes, though the food had been excellent and the serving was really huge! There was also a problem with their cable provider during our visit so TV was out during our stay.

So, will I come back to this hotel? Most definitely! Will I recommend it? Yes! This hotel is definitely a place to go to when you want to feel like you’re right at home while having a relaxed time, close to nature. I hope that the service of this hotel will not decline but will continue to excel and I’m looking forward to further improvements on their amenities on my next visit.

Following the Journey of Zander Bleck

There are tons of talented musicians out there but most of them almost, always sound alike that sometimes you feel like nothing would surprise or fascinate you anymore. So when you stumble upon a song that really piqued your interest, you always find yourself digging about the whereabouts of the song, looking up the artist behind it and all the whatnots.

Recently, I came upon such a discovery while browsing youtube. I clicked on a cover of Bohemian Rhapsody and I was awestruck! The voice of the singer was totally beautiful and perfect for the song. Bohemian Rhapsody is one of my favorite songs from Queen and to hear someone singing parts of it with such emotion and with almost the same range as that of Freddie Mercury is simply wonderful. He wasn't just simply singing it, he's owning it and expressing his own style.

That singer had been Zander Bleck. I've heard of that name a couple of times before. Well I'm quite aware that he's a gorgeous model with a perfect physique, but a singer with a captivating voice, that is news to me! Curious and all, I decided to look up his other materials and I was totally surprised, the guy could really sing! His voice reminded me of my childhood days when I would usually wake up on weekends to the awesome sounds of 70's and 80's. Yet you wouldn't exactly get lost in time as his music still have that contemporary feel to it.

Temptation, a recently released track from his upcoming album got stuck with me for a couple of weeks, and until now it is still included in my playlist all the time (both the album and remix versions and I got the remix as my ringtone). It has that old rock n' roll vibe, it's quite upbeat and definitely sexy! That voice and style are both something I haven't heard of for awhile now. Listening to Zander is totally eargasmic! 

I'm really looking forward to the release of his album to hear more of his music and hopefully he'll have more visibility as well. I think he is a very promising artist who has his own flair and style and it's a great thing that he decided to share his gift to the world.

Official video of Temptation

Leadership Lessons from Cyrus The Great

Cyrus the Great founded the greatest empire in the history and he is widely known as the "Father of Iran," through his deeds on uniting the Medes with another major Iranian tribe, the Persians. He's also the first world leader to be called as "The Great" and was considered as a triumphant conqueror and a great warrior. For the Jewish people, Cyrus had been heralded as the "Liberator" and as "God's "anointed one" after letting the Jewish people to return to their homeland. Throughout his reign, he exercised a compassionate principle ruling with generosity instead of being a tyrant. He is the very image who symbolizes multiculturalism and religious tolerance. 

Out of all the legendary and renowned historical figures, Cyrus the Great has always been my favorite. Granted that he is still a conqueror which would make him a slaughterer, I still see him as a magnanimous, and principled leader. His traits, as written by historians are considerably admirable. As I was browsing around the net I saw an article from Forbes regarding Leadership Lessons from Cyrus the Great as written by Xenophon. I'd like to share it here as I believe that each one of us should adapt these principles in our life.

9 Timeless Leadership Lessons from Cyrus the Great 

Be Self-Reliant
“Never be slow in replenishing your supplies. You’ll always bee on better terms with your allies if you can secure your own provisions…Give them all they need and your troops will follow you to the end of the earth.”

Be Generous
“Success always calls for greater generosity–though most people, lost in the darkness of their own egos, treat it as an occasion for greater greed. Collecting boot [is] not an end itself, but only a means for building [an] empire. Riches would be of little use to us now–except as a means of winning new friends.”

Be Brief
“Brevity is the soul of command. Too much talking suggests desperation on the part of the leader. Speak shortly, decisively and to the point–and couch your desires in such natural logic that no one can raise objections. Then move on.”

Be a Force for Good
“Whenever you can, act as a liberator. Freedom, dignity, wealth–these three together constitute the greatest happiness of humanity. If you bequeath all three to your people, their love for you will never die.”

Be in Control
[After punishing some renegade commanders] “Here again, I would demonstrate the truth that, in my army, discipline always brings rewards.”

Be Fun
“When I became rich, I realized that no kindness between man and man comes more naturally than sharing food and drink, especially food and drink of the ambrosial excellence that I could now provide. Accordingly, I arranged that my table be spread everyday for many invitees, all of whom would dine on the same excellent food as myself. After my guests and I were finished, I would send out any extra food to my absent friends, in token of my esteem.”

Be Loyal
[When asked how he planned to dress for a celebration] “If I can only do well by my friends, I’ll look glorious enough in whatever clothes I wear.”

Be an Example
“In my experience, men who respond to good fortune with modesty and kindness are harder to find than those who face adversity with courage.”

Be Courteous and Kind
“There is a deep–and usually frustrated–desire in the heart of everyone to act with benevolence rather than selfishness, and one fine instance of generosity can inspire dozens more. Thus I established a stately court where all my friends showed respect to each other and cultivated courtesy until it bloomed into perfect harmony.”

adapted from Forbes.com, written by Ryan Holiday, 4/19/2012

2012 BigFish Innovation White Party

Welcome To BIGFISH: Welcome to INNOVATION WHITE 2012 

       for tickets/table reservations you may reach me at 09276385904

Another huge white party from BigFish 


7 Artists ... One Big Room ... One Massive Dance Floor......

               ----WE SHALL UNITE IN WHITE FOR ONE MAGICAL DANCE EVENT----

>>>>This Is the Era Of White<<<<<<

>>Purity ....... Unity ...... Seduction...... Sensation<<

Artist Line up:

- Chris Reauber
- JohnPaul Lee
- The Japanese Pop stars
- COSMIC GATE
- EMMA HEWITT (LIVE)
- MYON&SHANE 54
- BOBINA 

http://vimeo.com/38497051



Tickets on Sale Now:

- Preselling:Reg 700 Valid till May 15 .2012
Reg 850 May 16 - June 16. 2012
Reg 1000 June 17 - Jun23. 2012
Door Charges: Reg P1500 + 2 Free Drinks

- VIP Tickets available at: 2,500, 2,000 & 1,500(3rd and 4th stage)
- VIP Tables: 25k, 20k, 15k (3rd and 4th stage)


Grab your tickets / reserve your tables now!!
Call: 09276385904 Queen Magbanua (BigFish Promoter)
Attire: Strictly in WHITE:

My Life's Witticisms, Crazicisms and those Mashed Potatoes!

In my own dictionary a word such as crazicism exists and I defined it as those funny, crazy, witty and irritating moments put together. As for the mashed potato, I'm not referring to the food itself, I don't even eat mashed potato, I don't like it at all. When I say mashed potato that could only mean something cheesy is going on and well I'm not a very cheesy person, not on an daily basis. 

There are days when I'm too damn bored I get to remember certain things I've said and done and I thought I'd put some of them in here. They're not all guaranteed to make the readers laugh, some are not even amusing at all, but I just feel like writing these stuff just the same.


Prof: This class is of royalty, I'm amazed. We have an Earl, a Princess, a Prince and a Queen!
Me: (I grinned at Princess who's sitting beside me.) Prince and Earl?? Earl is really cute!
Princess: Laughs
Prof: Earl and Prince will both of you come forward? Two guys stood up, looking embarrassed. 
Prof: Now will you guys take the seat at the back of Queen and Princess, you guys over there find another seat.
Me: What?!!
Prof: You have any questions Ms. Queen?
Me: None, though we're incomplete, where's the King, the Duke, the Count, Duchess, Lady, Lord. This is hardly a royal court. (the whole class burst out laughing)
Prof: You'll have to make do with a small court, your highness.


Classmate: Queeeeen, stop running, you're wearing heels!
Me: I'm in a hurry, I'm already late for my next class.
Classmate: You gonna break those legs.
Me: I won't, these are just 3 inches!! 
And thud!! I did not break my legs, but I did get a minor sprain from falling from the stairs. I had a good landing as well, I landed right in front of crush! :S


Years ago I was working on a night shift doing a marketing job for a US based company and I usually go home with a friend who's working on another department.  One morning I was pretty beaten up as I only had 3 hours of sleep and had to put in an extra 2 hours of work. Fortunately, my friend had to work overtime as well so we still head home together. I was already groggy as we rode the bus and my friend pulled me in a sit located at the back of the driver. Much to everyone's surprised (& amusement) I blurted out (real loud) "I don't wanna seat there, there's a hump!" I was actually referring to the protruding part that serves as an allowance for the wheels, or whatever that is. I honestly don't have any idea, what you call that stuff. Anyways, when I started walking towards the seats at the back of the bus I saw people giggling at me and my friend was also laughing at me. I rolled my eyes at her as we were taking our seats and then I burst out laughing as well, and just like that I'm totally wide awake again. Totally better than 2 cups of coffee!XD

Headhunter: If you're looking for excellent opportunities just let me know. You may reach me 27/7.

Me: huh?

Headhunter: I always have my phone with me you can call me anytime. 27/7

Me: ok sure. (surely not! 27/7?! That's not even remotely possible on planet Earth! I wouldn't wanna work for some Martians, there are tons of aliens around here already.) And most definitely I wouldn't wanna work for a worse slave driver than myself.


Starbucks crew: Ma'am, can I have your name please?
Me: Sure, its Queen.
Starbucks crew: I'm sorry ma'am, what's that?
Me: Qu-eeen.
Starbucks crew: (looking clueless) come again ma'am
Me: Anne, its Anne.
Starbucks crew: Ok thanks!
Me: There, that made both of our lives easier.

Headhunter (from another company): How are you?
Me: Good, just pretty busy.
Headhunter: Why are you busy?
Me: uh, coz I'm working...
Headhunter: Yes, but busy??
Me: (rolling my eyes in front of my pc, like duh?!) had tons of requirements right now, multiple clients, aren't you working on any requirements?
Headhunter: yeah
Me: So why aren't you busy??
Headhunter: Just don't feel like working today.
Me: Well there's your answer, (duh?!!)


Persistent Applicant: Is it possible for us to have a quick chat maybe at Starbucks?
Me: hmmm... yeah, but then again we already had a phone interview, I already have a fairly good idea about what sort of industry you're looking at and right now we don't have a job match for you.
Persistent Applicant: Yes, but I'd like to discuss more about my career plans and my other interests.
Me: (other interest ha,) Well I'm sure we could set another phone interview for that, maybe once I have a career opportunity for you.
Persistent Applicant: Can we not meet, have coffee and have a chat even just for 15 minutes?? I'd really like to talk to you.
Me: (already irritated) I have a busy schedule at the moment, maybe we could arrange something next week.
Persistent Applicant: Yes, but I'd rather meet with you.
Me: (So not keen on that idea) Do you want to meet up with me because you want to have a quick chat about your profile or about my profile?!
Persistent Applicant: Err... yes, um no, Well I'm just curious about you. You have a beautiful smile.
Me: (Uh huh...) Well thank you for that, but I prefer to have a professional meeting agenda with clients and candidates. If you'd like to discuss more about your self then we could set a brief skype meeting sometime next week or I could just give you another phone call. But right now I'm really busy.
Persistent Applicant: Oh ok. You sure, you don't want to have coffee with me?
Me: (100% sure!) I'm actually acidic.

Colleague: So how's work so far?
Me: Pretty cool.

Colleague: So what made you pursue this Industry?
Me: hmm... the people, I just generally like talking and meeting people
Colleague: But your course in college was pre-med right?
Me: Yeah, sort of...
Colleague: So what happened to med school? Can't take the sight of blood?
Me: Not really, I just don't like cutting people up. I like them alive and talking, like you. 
Colleague: Ohhh.... I see (looking a little freaked out)

"I never meant to kiss you, but after spending a couple of hours with you that night I just want to kiss you right there and then. I didn't do it because I'm not sure if you'll be ok with it. Now after kissing you, I'm glad I waited and I want more than just to kiss you."  I think I almost hyperventilated after hearing this. This is the sweetest thing I've ever heard from a guy. What melt my heart was the fact that this guy swept me off my feet from the first time I saw him.
  
Mom: (talking to my 6 yr old nephew) Don't go home anymore with your parents, stay here with me and your aunties.

Nephew: I don't like!
Mom: Why? I'm nice towards you, aren't I?
Nephew: No, you're not nice you're a nagger.
Me: (LMAO) big time! Kids just don't lie!XD

The elevator was already closing as my colleague was about to enter and she went like "waaaaah", with both hands in front of her face. 
Me: (LMAO) That's a very good way of opening an elevator door, maybe more effective than the button over here.

Bouncer: Sir, cigarettes are not allowed inside. None smoking area.
Guy Friend: (scratches head and gave up his cigarettes) ok
Bouncer: Lighters are not allowed inside as well.
Guy Friend: Glared at the guy but surrendered his lighter as well.
We entered the venue and we can't hardly breathe, the smoke, the light, the teeming crowd - totally suffocating! My guy friend was practically annoyed. Halfway through the show I decided to light a stick as well (I was still an occasional smoker at that time). 
Guy Friend: WTF?!! You have your cigarettes with you?!
Me: Yes, and my lighter too, oh, as well as this bottle of water.
Guy Friend: So they did not confiscate anything from you?
Me: (grinning) Nope
Guy Friend: WTF??!!
Me: (shrugging) Smiling helps, guess that confirms the bouncer isn't gay.

Close Guy Friend: (addressing me and my bff over at dinner) So would either of you consider a threesome?
Me: Hmm... maybe
BFF: Yeah I guess.
Close Guy Friend: Looking at me, what would you prefer, 2 girls or 2 guys?
Me: 2 chicks and 1 guy. I don't wanna end up being harassed and totally sore!
Close Guy Friend: Looking at my bff, what about you?
BFF: (responding immediately) 2 guys! I can't imagine doing it with a girl.
Me: Arching my left brow, 2 guys?? Like omg?!! Anyways what about you A?
Close Guy Friend: I'd go for 2 girls, I think most guys would prefer that.
Me: So that's chick, chick boy for you as well. Then gasps all of a sudden, hey we're chick, chick boy right now.
My friends both turned towards me looking surprised, then we all burst out laughing. So I'm the chick, chick girl, BFF is boy, boy, chick and Close Guy Friend is the chick, chick boy!XD

One evening I was sitting in a restaurant waiting for my date, it was raining hard that time and I'm already getting a bit worried. I was about to call him to ask where he is and to move our date to a day when the weather is more permissible when I saw him entering the restaurant. He's all drenched (but still looking gorgeous, like unbelievable!). I stood up and he walked hurriedly to my side to kiss me, oblivious to the people around me. (That totally made me blush though made me feel proud inside.)
Me: You're all drenched, you could have just waited for the rain to subside a bit or we could have just moved our date to another day.
SS: (reached out for my hand and held it) It's ok, I don't want to keep you waiting here, besides I'd much rather get drench than not see you. We've been too busy lately, I really want to spend sometime with you right now.
Me: Well I just smiled. What can I say to that? My heart positively flutters. I felt like one of those swooning and totally swept off damsels in distress from those best-seller books (the not so dumb and helpless version that is). 

Company Director: Your name is Queen??!
Me: Yes, why?
Company Director: Wtf?! What kind of parents would name their daughter, Queen?
Me: (well wtf as well, what kind of parents would raise such a rude person??) My parents.
Company Director: Yes, I can see that. It's only in this country you'll get to find such stuff. Crazy people.
Me: (what a fkcing racist!) I'll take that as a compliment. If you have a problem with my name well there's nothing I can do about it. Let's just get this meeting done and over with.
Company Director: Very well.
I did not lose my job after that incident but I mostly ended up arguing with that jack**s Director. When I  finally resigned he actually emailed an apology for that incident.

Lady friend: We'll have to go light so try not to bring a lot of stuff with you.
Me: Hard stuff!
Lady friend: I'll help you up, what would you mostly need?
Me: Hair dryer, flats, my boots, lots of undies, my....
Lady friend: Why do you need your boots?!
Me: Its comfy and stylish, would go well with casuals and dresses.
Lady friend: Boots and dresses. FML!
LMAO

Teambuilding
Me, singing Hanging by a Moment...
I turned and look at my boss. 
Me: Do I really have to walk over that inch wide of a rope??
Boss: Yes, its part of the activity.
Me: (FML, I'm gonna die now.) Can I like resign now???
Boss: Sure.
Me: Ok. Quitting now
Come my turn
Me: (Screams) Noooooo I can't do this! Looked at my boss who was standing by my side and toss the gloves to him, and push him towards the starting point. "Go, go, go!" 
Its a good thing my former boss is pretty cool, I didn't get fired or anything. Whew!XD

Persistent Suitor: I could give you anything you want.
Me: Since when did you become the King of the world?
Persistent Suitor: Do you want the world?
Me: Not really. I never have any thoughts about world domination, you know. I'm not a sociopath.
Persistent Suitor: Walked away, wincing.



That awkward moment when you're gushing about your crush who is sitting not far from you and you didn't know that he can actually understand your language. 


Piece of advice from a Guy Friend: If you gonna let a guy get in your pants then make sure that he knows the art of taking them off as opposed to just simply unzipping it and shoving it down. In short, make sure that he's worth it, that he totally charmed his way around you in a manly way, not just merely seduced you like a boy would into doing the deed.

That Marvelous Movie: The Avengers 2012

Last April 26, I found myself amongst the long queue of people who are all eager to watch one of the awaited movies for this year - The Avengers. I've been wanting to see this movie since I saw the preview last year and of course I mostly just want to ogle Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth! 

Granted these movie series will not be included in my 'most favorite list', but I got to say that it was a delight to watch The Avengers. It's witty, sarcastic and hilarious but at the same time it's also action packed. I also have to mention that Incredible Hulk is absolutely adorable in this movie, even though that might sound totally inappropriate. Watching The Avengers is like having the ultimate stress buster, you just can't help but feel good afterwards. To conclude this entry, I'd like to share some of the unforgettable and witty punch lines that I personally think made this movie extra spicy.

Tony Stark: Give yourself some credit, please. Stark Tower is your baby. Give yourself... twelve percent of the credit. 
Pepper Potts: Twelve percent? 
Tony Stark: An argument can be made for fifteen. 
Pepper Potts: Twelve percent for my baby? 
Tony Stark: Well, I did do all the heavy lifting. Literally, I lifted the heavy things. And sorry, but the security snafu? That was on you. 
Pepper Potts: Oooooh. 
Tony Stark: My private elevator. 
Pepper Potts: You mean our elevator? 
Tony Stark: Was teeming with sweaty workmen. I'm going to pay for that comment about percentages in some subtle way later, aren't I? 
Pepper Potts: Not gonna be that subtle. 
Tony Stark: I'll tell you what. Next building's gonna say 'Potts' on the tower. 
Pepper Potts: On the lease. 
Tony Stark: ...Call your mom, can you bunk over? 

Tony Stark: I thought we were having a moment. 

Pepper Potts: I was having twelve percent of a moment. 

Natasha Romanoff: This is the Tesseract. It has the potential energy to wipe out the planet. 

Bruce Banner: What does Fury want me to do, swallow it? 

Agent Phil Coulson: I gotta say, it's an honour to meet you, officially. I sort of met you, I mean, I watched you while you were sleeping. I mean, I was, I was present while you were unconscious, from the ice. You know it's really just a, just a huge honour to have you on board.
Steve Rogers: Well I hope I'm the man for the job. 

Tony Stark: Dr. Banner, your work is unparalleled. And I'm a huge fan of the way you lose control and turn into an enormous green rage monster. 

Bruce Banner: Thanks. 

Steve Rogers: We have orders, we should follow them. 
Tony Stark: Following's not really my style. 
Steve Rogers: And you're all about style, aren't you? 
Tony Stark: Of the people in this room, which one is A, wearing a spangly outfit and B, not of use?  
Thor: You people are so petty, and tiny. 

Bruce Banner: I don't think we should be focusing on Loki. That guy's brain is a bag full of cats. You can smell crazy on him. 
Thor: I care how you speak. Loki is beyond reason, but he is of Asgard. And he is my brother. 
Natasha Romanoff: He killed 80 people in 2 days 
Thor: ...He's adopted 

Agent Phil Coulson: (dying) You're gonna lose. 
Loki: (sneering) Am I? 
Agent Phil Coulson: It's in your nature. 
(shoots him through the wall with a big gun)
Agent Phil Coulson: (after firing the gun on Loki) So that's what it does... 

Tony Stark: (to Bruce Banner) You really have got a lid on it, haven't you? What's your secret? Mellow jazz? Bongo drums? Huge bag of weed? 

Loki: What have I to fear? 

Tony Stark: The Avengers. It's what we call ourselves, sort of like a team. "Earth's Mighiest Heroes" type thing. 
Loki: Yes, I've met them. 
Tony Stark: Yeah, takes us a while to get any traction, I'll give you that one but, let's do a head count here. Your brother, the demi-god; a super soldier, a living legend who kind of lives up to the legend; a man with breath-taking anger management issues; a couple of master assassins, and *you*, big fella, you've managed to piss off every single one of them. 
Loki: That was the plan. 
Tony Stark: Not a great plan. When they come, and they will, they'll come for you. 
Loki: I have an army. 
Tony Stark: We have a Hulk. 
Loki: I thought the beast had wandered off. 
Tony Stark: You're missing the point. There's no throne. There is no version of this where you come out on top. Maybe your army comes and maybe it's too much for us but it's all on you. Because if we can't protect the Earth, you can be damned well sure we'll avenge it. 

Loki: (Hulk and Loki fighting)  ENOUGH! You are, all of you, beneath me.  I am a God! I am not going to be bullied by a...  (Hulk grabs him by the legs and throws him around back and forth)

Loki: (Loki is stunned by what happened and cannot get back up) 
The Hulk: (Hulk strutting away) Puny God. 

Maria Hill: When did you become an expert in thermonuclear astrophysics? 

Tony Stark: Last night. 

Bruce talking to the Security who saw him falling while he was still the Hulk
Security Guard: Are you an alien? 
Bruce Banner: What? 
Security Guard: From outer space, an alien. 
Bruce Banner: No. 
Security Guard: Well then son, you've got a condition. 

Tony Stark: (regaining consciousness) What just happened? Please tell me nobody kissed me. 

Steve Rogers: We won.