Sunday, December 28, 2008

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE STORY

Their side has been heard over and over on television, radio and print. The average person who would see, hear and read about their story would indeed feel for them completely, and have nothing but anger and hatred for the other party. I’ve read her blog from her BlogSpot, and they sure sounded like the aggravated party on her blog.

I am posting the incident that happened at the south course of Valley Golf and Country Club that fateful day of December 26, 2008 between the families of Pangandaman and dela Paz. But this is not Delfin’s and his children’s side; I am retelling the details of the incident here on behalf of the Pangandamans.

On December 26, 2008, Friday, at around eleven in the morning, the group of Secretary Nasser Pangandaman registered at the Valley Golf Country Club to play golf. Since there were eight of them playing, they divided into two flights, with the Secretary and his companions on the first flight, and Hussein, Nasser JR and two others on the second. In golf terms, a flight is a division of players within a golf tournament or game. Angelo Pangandaman, Hussein’s eight year old son tagged along with the second flight (Nasser Jr’s), since no one would be able to watch him at the clubhouse.

Nasser Jr and his friend, Farah Locsin arrived late at the golf course and followed their flightmates at Hole No. 4 of the South Course of Valley. It was a convoy of two golf carts, one of which was Nasser Jr’s and the second was the golf marshal’s who was escorting them and the caddies. Here, Bambee narrated in her blog: “My brother and I were playing golf at the South Course of Valley. We were on the 3rd hole, and we see two golf carts going past us, overtaking our flight, and setting up to tee off on the next hole. My dad goes up to them and asks them why they would do that, why they would overtake us without even asking for our permission.” Mr. Delfin dela Paz reacted by protesting at what seemed to be an overtaking of flight, in which Nasser Jr explained to the elder dela Paz that they did not overtook their flight but simply tried to catch up with their flightmates at Hole No. 4. He further explained that they, like the dela Paz’s had earlier lined up to play and were already registered at the flight before theirs. Thinking that things had been cleared up, Mr. dela Paz said, “Okay, kortesiya lang” (”Okay, just seeking courtesy“) .

When the 2nd flight of Nasser Jr. already played hole no. 4 which is a par 3, and Nasser Jr. was still outside of the green trying to pitch his ball into the green, the flight of dela Paz hit their shots into the green which almost hit Hussein without shouting “Fore!”. In golf terms, “fore” is a word of warning yelled out by a player who has hit an errant shot. If your shot is in danger of hitting or landing very close to another player or group of players on the course (for instance, if you slice a ball into an adjoining fairway), you should yell “fore!” to warn players to watch out. Surprised, though sensing trouble which they deemed to choose to avoid, they allowed the other dela Paz player to hit his shot so they can peacefully resume and concentrate on their playing. At this point, the caddy of Nasser Jr also took the 8 year-old Angelo to stay behind the golf cart to avoid being hit by golf balls coming from the dela Paz players.

On Hole No. 5, after the 2nd Pangandaman flight hit their drives into the fairway and before they could hit their second shots, the dela Paz players again hit their drives without warning the Pangandamans. Puzzed and surprised, they asked among themselves why the flight behind them were doing this to them as they could be hit by their (dela Paz’s) golf balls. When Nasser Jr’s flight reached the green of Hole No. 5 and after holing out, they joined the 1st flight of Sec. Pangandaman and took their break at the teehouse. During their break, the marshal approached Nasser Jr, stating that the dela Paz’s were complaining that there were five of them in their group and why they overtook the dela Paz flight. Nasser Jr. reiterated to the marshal what he had already explained to the elder del Paz, to which his knowledge the former had already accepted his explanation. Unconvinced with what the marshal had relayed that there were only four and not five in their flight and that they did not overtake as they just went back to the clubhouse and later join their flight, the elder dela Paz approached Nasser Jr, obviously agitated at this time and pointed a finger at him and accusing him that there were two carts in their flight and that they (Nasser Jr) overtook them. This confused the younger Pangandaman, as he had already explained back at Hole No. 4 that they did not do so. He asked in a most respectful manner that he thought that they already had an understanding. Mr. dela Paz at the top of his voice accused him that Nasser Jr was wrong and began shouting profane words at the younger Pangandaman, saying, “P***** i** ka! Member ka ba dito, ha? Hindi mo ba ako kilala?” (”S.O.B! Are you even a member here? Don’t you know who I am?!”) In a calm voice and without revealing that he is the Mayor of Masiu, Lanao del Sur, Nasser Jr respectfully asked Mr. dela Paz why he was raising his voice at him when they were not arguing. The elder dela Paz reacted “Ikaw ang naghahanap ng away!”(”You’re the one looking for a fight!”), while pulling his umbrella and thrusted the pointed part and hit the belly of Nasser Jr, who backed up. This incident happened in front of the marshal who tried to interevene, but Mr. Delfin dela Paz pressed on, thus prompting Nasser Jr’s older brother Hussein, to come to his brother’s defense. Mr. dela Paz hit Hussein on the forehead and the two engaged in a fist fight.

Meanwhile, Nasser Jr., tried to prevent the two younger dela Paz from joining the fight but they got away from him and went in between their father and Hussein. The dela Paz siblings were able to hold Hussein preventing him to reach the elder dela Paz as if trying to pacify the two. Yet, Bino Lorenzo dela Paz kept punching Hussein in the face and Marie Dhel dela Paz from behind kept on scratching his face. At one point Mr. Delfin dela Paz even got a golf club driver and tried to hit Husseinbut Mr. Rene Maglanque was able to pry the club away from him. When Hussein turned his back on the elder dela Paz, Bino then got a golf club and tried to attack Hussein, but Nasser Jr was able to block Bino with his left arm, but hit his left hand. Sec. Pangandaman, Rene Maglanque, and another golfer from a different flight pacified everybody and asked the dela Paz’s to just leave them to prevent further trouble. Mr. Delfin dela Paz called someone in his cellphone and gave orders to come to the clubhouse because they’ve just had a fight with someone.

The dela Paz’s then left the golf course. Losing interest in the game as it was spoiled by the fight, both Sec. Pangandaman’s and Nasser Jr’s flights also returned to the clubhouse after about ten minutes. Hussein, attaining a bump on the forehead due to a punch by Mr. Delfin dela Paz and scratches on the face and neck, hurried to the men’s locker room to relieve himself and wash his wounds from the scuffle. But Mr. Delfin dela Paz blocked his path to the locker room and told him in a threatening voice that it wasn’t over between them and that he’ll take revenge. Hussein, obviously still angry from the brawl that ensued at the golf course asked why they still hadn’t left yet, when Bino again, pleaded not to hurt his fifty-six year old father, and him who’s fourteen, but with fists ready to punch. The Secretary’s elder son was engaged in another scuffle with the father and son followed by Marie Dhel, who came from behind Hussein, scratching him on his right cheek, neck, ear, while pulling and tearing his shirt.

The security and other golfers in the clubhouse who witnessed the encounter separated them, and as soon as that happened, Mr. dela Paz again shouted invectives at Hussein. Around this time, a loud commotion was heard by the entrance; it was Mrs. dela Paz and her two sons. The sons had with them baseball bats, and Mrs. dela Paz, in a house dress (duster), had with her a bladed weapon, all three looking as if ready to assault. The other golfers and security held them off so as to completely stop the fight. At this point, Sec. Pangandaman told his sons to leave already and the dela Paz’s to stop and leave, so that no more untoward incident would happen. The Pangandaman’s party had to leave through the parking exit because the dela Paz family was waiting for them at the clubhouse lobby.

I’m pretty sure that most, if not everyone, has already read the blog that Bambee dela Paz posted on her blog page. And I’m pretty sure that most, if not everyone totally sympathizes with the dela Paz family regarding the mauling incident allegedly initiated by the Pangandamans. But may I ask, before those hurtful comments were hurled at the DAR Secretary, the mayor of Masiu, Lanao del Sur, the rest of their family, and Muslims as a whole, did the people even bother for just a second to think what the other side had to say? Did they even bother getting information from the Pangandaman’s camp after reading Bambee dela Paz’s blog? I BET THEY DID NOT.

I just have a couple of more questions. If Mr. dela Paz and his children have been playing golf for such a long time now, then they should know their golf etiquette by heart now. If they are professional players, then why did they hit their drives WITHOUT giving any warning to the flight before them? Isn’t it a given to golfers to shout “Fore!” to players who may be potentially hit by the ball since they are in the way of it? Could they have forgotten to warn them TWICE?

Weren’t they supposed to NOT hit their drives unless the golfers before them are OUT OF THE GREEN?

And since it was a holiday, why did the dela Paz flight pushed to play on the golf course when A FLIGHT OF TWO IS PROHIBITED TO PLAY ON THE COURSE DURING HOLIDAYS as per club regulations? Does that mean they are exempted from the rules and regulations of Valley Golf and Country Club?

How can they claim that their flight was overtaken by Nasser Jr’s when they had registered to play on a flight before the dela Paz’s? Do you think the marshal will even escort Nasser and his friend to the golf course if that was really the case?

Why would Nasser Jr complain to the marshal about the dela Paz’s alleged slow playing as stated on reports when his flight is BEFORE theirs?

Why did Bambee leave out the part of what happened at Holes 4 and 5 and just continued her blog on the teehouse? Could she have forgotten to put in her blog that she was also part of the brawl on the course and hurt the older Pangandaman son? Your nails must be pretty long, Ms Bambee, those cuts dug in deep into Hussein’s skin.

Would Bambee even bother blogging about the incident that took place in Valley Golf had they had a tip-off with some other Christian elitist and not Muslim politicians like the Pangandamans? Would the media and the public pick up the story and show the same volume of sympathy for the dela Paz family if the other party concerned were just average, private Non-Muslim citizens?

Would the public still claim Mr. Delfin dela Paz and his children to be brave and courageous people if they had known that they already have a record of run-ins with other patrons of Valley Golf?

Do you seriously think that a person who works as a public official would actually put his reputation on the line over a game of golf regardless of faith or be for or against the administration?

Why are your statements inconsistent, Mr. dela Paz? Reports from different sources seem to vary. From what I know, a person who has had a traumatic experience has vivid recollections of the events that took place.

Like they said, it all started from a small misunderstanding. Had Mr. dela Paz accepted the explanation given to him by Nasser Jr. back at the course then none of this would have happened. This isn’t a case between an underdog and the powerful and mighty. This is a case between right and wrong. The dela Paz family claim that a lot of people have witnessed what took place. That’s what the Pangandaman family think too. Let those people speak up then! But to make quick judgments and accusations against the Pangandamans, politicians, and even Muslims in general, without enough knowledge and proper basis regarding both sides of the issue is just ridiculous and shows ignorance on your part. I am, just like everyone, am praying for this to be resolved.

The truth WILL prevail. Justice WILL be served.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Nonsense.

Just killing some time. I can't sleep as usual.
So I'm doing this random Q and A.

Do you have an older sister?
♦ No. I wish I had one.

Who was the last person you talked to last night before bed?
♦ Hamza. Visited him in his room before I went to pray fajr then dozed off at 8-ish. He's been quarantined for almost a week now.So sad, I know.

What's the first thing you think of when you hear the word "mayonnaise"
♦ My version of ranch dressing.

Who was the last girl you talked to?
♦ Che. We went shopping this afternoon.

Who was the last person you talked to in person?
♦ Halim.

Whats the closest thing to you thats liquid?
♦ An unfinished cup of coffee (from my brother also)

Something you're happy about?
♦ Mom and Hamid arriving from CDO on Wednesday; family reunion on the 26th.

What did you do Friday night?
♦ Took care of my sick hubby.

What are you doing tonight?
♦ Make dinner. It's Italian Night Tuesday provided we get home before 6pm.

Where are you right now?
♦(W)Rec(K) room.

In winter, would you rather wear jackets or hoodies?
♦ We don't have winter here, I wear either though.

Do you wish you were somewhere else right now?
♦ Nah. I'm with family.♥

How long can you go without your mobile phone?
♦ Purty long. It's a bit liberating, really. :)

Who did you last call babe/baby?
♦ Hmm...?

What time did you go to sleep last night?
♦ 8-ish..in the morning.

What/who woke you up today?
♦ Raja slamming the door.

Are you excited for the future?
♦ Hmm.. Yeah, Kinda. :)

When was the last time someone yelled at you?
♦ I don't remember if there were any instances. Prolly when I was younger.

Things you did today?
♦ Checked on HD. Visited our grandparents. Texted with HD (he went to the doctor for a check-up). Went out with my brothers, sis-in-law and our kids to shop. Checked HD when we got home. Had dinner. Chatted with mom and bros on the phone then on YM later on. Played video games (PC,PSP,PS3). Checked on HD. Put Raja to bed. Texted with HD since he didn't want me to stay long around him in the quarantine room. Blah blah blah. You want to know what kind of pizza we had awhile ago? LOL

Do you own a polo shirt?
♦ YUH.

Are you excited for the new year?
♦ We really don't celebrate new year, but I look forward to family bondings and stuff. Exchange gifts. :D

What are you going to do after this?
♦ It's 3am now so I think I'll just wait for fajr to pray then sleep..pray that I do fall asleep!

What was the last thing you drank?
♦ A glass of water.

Do you have any kids?
♦ Just one. *sigh*

When was the last time you threw up?
♦ When we got home after Raja's birthday. I had a really bad headache the whole time we were at Corinthians.

Name 3 people who made you smile today?
♦ Raja. Rashad. Aleeyah, my 2y/o cousin.

What were you doing at 8 am this morning?
♦ Negotiating with the Sandman. Haha!

What were you doing 30 minutes ago?
♦ Eating pizza with Halim.

What is your favorite holiday?
♦ Definitely EID. Celebrating the end of Ramadan or Eid'l Adha.

Have you ever been to another country?
♦ Yuz.

What is the last thing you said aloud?
♦ "Ok, I'll get you a couple and take 'em to your room." HD asking for pizza also. Dang..only Raja sleeps early in this house!

What is the best ice cream flavor?
♦ Oh, this one's a toughie! I love Raspberry Rapture of FIC, but HD's pretty much also a staple in the bedroom fridge. :D

What are you wearing right now?
♦ PJs.

Have you bought any new clothing items this week?
♦ Yes.

When was the last time you ran?
♦ Early afternoon..was running after Rashad.hehe.

---------------

Still not sleepy!

Saturday, December 20, 2008

You, Speak PRADA?

If you're into chick lit like I am, then I bet you've already lain your eyes on Sophie Kinsella's (Madeleine Wickham) Shopaholic novels, particularly the first of the series, The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic, also known as Confessions of a Shopaholic (US title release).

Eight years after its initial release, a film adaptation of the book which will be shown on the first quarter of 2009. The movie stars Isla Fisher as Rebecca Bloomwood (The Wedding Crashers 2005 -as Rachel McAdams' sister) and Hugh Dancy as Luke Brandon (Blood and Chocolate, 2007; Daniel Deronda, 2002 -->this one's currently shown on Velvet.☺).

Hmm..I don't want to keep my hopes up, but the movie looks promising, it's a Touchstone/Jerry Bruckheimer-produced film after all.
Oh, shoot.
I'm excited as hell! It's like Devil Wears Prada all over again!

I can't wait for February to roll by!
For the meantime, let's all content ourselves with the trailer,shall we?♥



P.S. Thanks Fameeh and Naj for dropping off my little boy. I missed the runt! Take care and enjoy the road trip!♥

Friday, December 19, 2008

:)

Earlier this evening, my sister-in-law Najah and her cousin Fameeh, together with Dee's boys Kazim and Abdul Shakur dropped by to pick up my little boy. Hamza's parents seemed to miss the tykes so they "borrowed" their grandkids from their moms so they could spend the night and a day in Las PiƱas before they leave for Bora on Saturday.

It's 1:54am and I'm having a bout with the "missies".

I miss my Raja.


I miss his loud voice.
I miss when he rides his bike inside the house.
I miss how he pleads me to stop tickling him.
I miss how he endlessly questions me with things that come to mind that I sometimes can't think of an answer to give.
"Why is the sky called 'sky'?"
"Why do we live on Earth? Hindi ba pwede sa Saturn?" ("Can't we live on Saturn?")
"Why did you name me Raja?"
"Where does the water go when it goes down the drain?"
"Why do we need money to pay for things?"
"Where did you come from, Ummi (mom)? Did you come from Abi's (dad's) tummy?" *this one got me laughing
"When is your birthday?"
"Why don't we have the same birthday?"
"I'm four now Ummi (mom). You're thirty. You're old." *ouch
"Are stars flashlights in the sky?"

Those were just questions he threw at me today.
Ahhhh.
Questions/statements of a four year-old mind.

I go through that a lot, everyday.
But tonight's different... it's so eerily quiet, even when Hamza's around.
He's sick, by the way... he either has Parotitis or Mumps so I quarantined him in the other room. (eitherway, it's the same). :(

*sigh*
It's just for one night. Get a grip!
I'll see him tomorrow anyways...
Goodnight, Rajaboy.
See you when the "big fire" comes up tomorrow. ;)

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Join Us at Moro Network!


Visit Moro Network



View my page on Moro Network


A couple of days ago, I was invited by Attys. Ras and Toie to join a site named Moro Network under the Ning social network. It was coined as such because it mainly caters to our Filipino brothers and sisters in Islam.

Its goal is to unite all Filipino Muslims living here and abroad so that we may have our own avenue where we can all share anything that we want with others through pictures, blogs, music, forum discussions, bulletins and invites to seminars and other functions or play games with its applications. It is very much like our dear old Friendster, MySpace, Multiply, and Facebook.

Perhaps what makes it stand out from the others is the fact that the social network is for us Muslims, regardless whether one is Maranao, Maguindanaoan, Tausug, etc. I think it is a great idea and opportunity for us to connect and keep one another updated. The site is fairly young (only a couple of days old), with about fifty members to date.

I'm calling on my brothers and sisters to please take a peek at the site and sign up, it'll only take up a minute of your time. See you there!

Monday, December 8, 2008

EId'l Adha Al Mubarak, Everyone!

Eid ul Adha 2 Pictures, Images and Photos

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Eid'l Adha, "The Festival of Sacrifice"

What is Eid al-Adha

At the end of the Hajj (annual pilgrimage to Mecca), Muslims throughout the world celebrate the holiday of Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice). In 2008, Eid al-Adha will begin on approximately December 8th, and will last for three days.

What does Eid al-Adha commemorate?

During the Hajj, Muslims remember and commemorate the trials and triumphs of the Prophet Abraham. The Qur'an describes Abraham as follows:

"Surely Abraham was an example, obedient to Allah, by nature upright, and he was not of the polytheists. He was grateful for Our bounties. We chose him and guided him unto a right path. We gave him good in this world, and in the next he will most surely be among the righteous." (Qur'an 16:120-121)

One of Abraham's main trials was to face the command of Allah to kill his only son. Upon hearing this command, he prepared to submit to Allah's will. When he was all prepared to do it, Allah revealed to him that his "sacrifice" had already been fulfilled. He had shown that his love for his Lord superceded all others, that he would lay down his own life or the lives of those dear to him in order to submit to God.

Why do Muslims sacrifice an animal on this day?

During the celebration of Eid al-Adha, Muslims commemorate and remember Abraham's trials, by themselves slaughtering an animal such as a sheep, camel, or goat. This action is very often misunderstood by those outside the faith.

Allah has given us power over animals and allowed us to eat meat, but only if we pronounce His name at the solemn act of taking life. Muslims slaughter animals in the same way throughout the year. By saying the name of Allah at the time of slaughter, we are reminded that life is sacred.

The meat from the sacrifice of Eid al-Adha is mostly given away to others. One-third is eaten by immediate family and relatives, one-third is given away to friends, and one-third is donated to the poor. The act symbolizes our willingness to give up things that are of benefit to us or close to our hearts, in order to follow Allah's commands. It also symbolizes our willingness to give up some of our own bounties, in order to strengthen ties of friendship and help those who are in need. We recognize that all blessings come from Allah, and we should open our hearts and share with others.

It is very important to understand that the sacrifice itself, as practiced by Muslims, has nothing to do with atoning for our sins or using the blood to wash ourselves from sin. This is a misunderstanding by those of previous generations: "It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah; it is your piety that reaches Him." (Qur'an 22:37)

The symbolism is in the attitude - a willingness to make sacrifices in our lives in order to stay on the Straight Path. Each of us makes small sacrifices, giving up things that are fun or important to us. A true Muslim, one who submits his or herself completely to the Lord, is willing to follow Allah's commands completely and obediently. It is this strength of heart, purity in faith, and willing obedience that our Lord desires from us.

What else do Muslims do to celebrate the holiday?

On the first morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world attend morning prayers at their local mosques. Prayers are followed by visits with family and friends, and the exchange of greetings and gifts. At some point, members of the family will visit a local farm or otherwise will make arrangements for the slaughter of an animal. The meat is distributed during the days of the holiday or shortly thereafter.

Thursday, November 27, 2008

:)


We came.

We saw.

We conquered a theater full of squealing, shrieking girls!LOL

Ok, the last line may be a tad exaggerated–they weren’t exactly shrieking, but on the verge of doing so. LOL My movie date and I went to the first day screening of Twilight, the movie adapted from the book of the same title by Stephenie Meyer (like duh, as if nobody knows about it,hehe!).

Let me just say this–let us all remember that a movie adaptation will always be different from the book, no matter what. Movies and books are two very different mediums of entertainment. Our ideas and imagery of the characters, the places, the plots that took place and everything else concerning what we read will always, always be different from what we see in the movie because the former is subjective to how we see it in our minds–you have your own picture, I have mine. Am I saying I was disappointed with the flick? I’d like to keep my thoughts to myself for now. Still, please do see the film, my opinions after all, just my opinions. I’m very sure you have your own. :)

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Shape Of Your Life

http://shapeofyourlife.com/success

Please check out this site. You can never tell, it just might change your life. :D

Monday, November 17, 2008

Five. :)



JellyMuffin.com - The place for profile layouts, flash generators, glitter graphics, backgrounds and codes

Five Years.

When I think of how long we've been married, I still somehow get blown away. Where did all the time go? It flew by just like that. I guess when two people really love each other, time is something we don't really think about anymore because you think, you feel, you know that time is irrelevant with what we have.

I can't say I've known him all my life nor do I claim him to be my best friend. Stories like that are referenced under fiction/fairy tales (I'll let you believe your story), and our story is as real as real can get. In the five years that we've been married, and the eight that I've known Hamza, I can honestly say that we've gone through a whole lot of ups and downs, twists and turns, bumps and potholes in this ride called marriage. Still we've endured them and come out on top. I'm thankful to Allah (swt) for giving me someone who's like him. We complement each other with our differences, we enhance our similarities together. I don't think I can picture myself with anyone else but him. He's my other half as I am his. That's how simple it is.

Hun, words aren't enough, as always.

I'm just glad it's you and me.

Let's let that forever be. :)

Friday, November 7, 2008

DUPED.

So I was browsing profiles on a lazy Friday afternoon when I saw some photo collages and face morphs. I thought I’d go do some celebrity look-alikes and celeb face morphs of my own on MyHeritage since I wasn’t really anything productive today and I haven’t done that in awhile. Just for fun, and it’s not like I really post them on my pro’,…

Surprise, surprise!

I never thought I resembled someone’s mom on FS (Friendster).

Which is which?

Dang it.

Missy be needing an explanation.

Stupid of me not to recognize a celeb.

But it’s not like I’m Malaysian, so there.

(who do I resemble the most? that's her so-called 'mother'.)

Well, I really shouldn't be so surprised. After all, she did lifted some lines from one of my blog posts on Friendster (the entry about me missing Marawi City); it was too much of a coincidence how we both happen to miss the exact same things, down to the description of the food to the places where we hang out and how the weather darkens my skin. Char. As if we both live the same lives.

I'm on to you now. But I'll let you keep playing your game.

Karma strikes tenfold. You just wait.


MyHeritage: Celebrity Morph - Pedigree - Ancestors

Celebrity Collage by MyHeritage

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebrities - Collage - Morph

It's an OBAMA-nation!







It has already been two (or three) days since the recently ended US Presidential Elections, and I am still feeling the buzz of President-Elect Barack Hussein Obama's victory over Sen. John McCain. For months we have been fed with update after update from their nominations to their respective parties as candidates, their campaigns, debates, controversies, personal lives, the campaign for the seat, the actual election, and then Obama's victory and McCain's concession. I quietly celebrated his win as I am not an American, nor do I live in the land of opportunity, but to me, President-Elect Obama's victory does signify a want for a better world. And while I respect Senator McCain with his vast experience and tenure in the political arena, I felt a bit anxious that if he had won, he would be like President Bush who has made blunder after blunder with his corrupt ways and narrow-mindedness, and continue to wage war and whatever else it is that his would have been predecessor had done. I do commend him though, for having conceded in the most gentlemanly fashion and respecting the outcome of the election. Kudos to you, Mister Senator.

With the economic crises USA has been experiencing lately and quite short tenure in in politics (just in comparison to McCain's, okay) , I think Senator Obama has quite a lot on his shoulders when transition takes place on January 20 next year (2009). President Bush has certainly left him with a big mess. Sorry, I'm really not a fan of that redneck, same goes to his father when he was president back in the nineties. :P I guess America has grown tired of their old ways, and they knew what options they had there. I say they chose wisely. And with Democrats taking majority of the seats in the Senate and the House, Pres. Obama will probably be getting a lot of help too.

President-Elect Obama's win against Senator McCain is an historic event for America and the rest of the world that our generation is able to witness. It was a David and Goliath battle of sorts, and David came on top. An African American winning the top political seat of the country, of the world probably, is not just some small feat--it is an achievement, an event not to be missed considering their history. When I think of that, I feel overwhelmed, jubilant and privileged to have been part of this age that doing the impossible is possible. Perhaps the people felt that change has come. This turn of event has given me hope that good things could still happen in spite of difficulties and turmoil. May this experience cause a chain of positive reactions, not only for America, but for the rest of the world.

Congratulations, President Barack Hussein Obama!

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Raja's 4D Ultrasound



I was cleaning up my computer the other day deleting some files that are taking up space in the hard disk when I came across my 4D ultrasound videos of Raja. I stopped to take a look at the clips and again marveled at the sight of my little bundle who was still then happily snoozing inside my tummy.

That was in September 1, 2004. I was with my mom and my mother-in-law and Hamza. Haha. It was supposed to be just my husband and I, but it was also my first ultrasound, and the would-be grandmoms wanted to tag along upon knowing that it would be in 4D. Why rain on their parade? They were just as excited as we were. We had originally opted for just 3D but we chose the newer version of the ultrasound because like 3D you get to see the actual image of the baby, only better because it is also animated which means you can see what your child is doing in real time, which we think is really cool. We didn't know if we were having a boy or a girl; Hamza was rooting for a son, and I, a daughter. I had an inkling that it might be a boy because I wasn't exactly "blooming" while pregnant with him (but I wasn't entirely ugly either!) and I have this Chinese calendar that I got from my mom that could determine if you were going to have a boy or a girl, which is creepily accurate. So when my obstetrician asked if we were hoping for a girl, I knew my hopes were dashed because I saw that little *toot* of his for the world to see. :D Oh well, as long as we knew that everything was normal, from his features to his limbs, hands, fingers, feet and toes...down to his *toot* and two little balls.LOL

Hmm... I kind of miss the days when my little boy was just that. Little. Tiny. A helpless little baby who's actually got both his parents wrapped around his cute pinkie. He's not so little now... he'll be four years old come November and he's in his "terrible three's" stage where he almost always quarrels his way with us through everything: mealtimes, bathtimes, naps, playtimes, what-have-yous. But don't get me wrong...he's also a very charming angel, intelligent, quick-witted, very sweet and affectionate! I absolutely love my son to pieces and would do anything and everything to make him happy. :)

*Sigh* I better get back to my cleaning.. It's already past 4am and I still have a long way to go. :)
Just wanted to share a li'l something-something with you. ;) Take care!

Thursday, October 16, 2008

See Me There

Johannah Pangandaman Diron-Dimaporo's Facebook profile

October 16, 2008; 5:43am

Okay...

So I've been absent for quite awhile, neglecting this virtual notebook of mine (plus my other notebook which I keep somewhere in our house.HEHE!). I'm kind of pissed off with my blog in Friendster because I couldn't update it at all, it's gone and I still haven't got an answer from the technical team why it's like that. My fingers were wanting to blog that day, and it was really frustrating because my thoughts were practically pouring out my brain and I couldn't write. I have this page here, yes, but my Friendster blog's about as old as my son, hence my loyalty to it. But right now I'm so friggin' annoyed with it I just want to cancel the whole thing... my account there even.

It's kind of crazy-stupid that I didn't update here instead... I sort of forgot that I have this... *sheepish grin* I've forgotten what I'm supposed to write about...Oh, yeah, I remember. :) Although I think I'll keep this to myself, it's kind of soap-opera-ish, if you know how soaps go. ;) My thoughts, to say the least, are pretty much chagrinned, as Stephenie Meyer would probably described it if she had the chance to nitpick my mind. *Sigh* If only my Psych professor were here, I can unload, have a Carl Rogers session (look up on his style of therapy) so I can get this off my chest. I'm screaming for therapy!

Hmm... I'm probably going to make this my primary blog for now. If things don't improve in FS, then I'm going to say bye-bye to my blog there. *sobs*

Better get some sleep... The sun's come up. I wouldn't want people to see my skin glisten in the sunlight. ;)

Sunday, October 12, 2008

You've Never Been Anywhere If You've Never Gone To...








QUIAPO.

Haha. That’s an exaggeration right there. But there’s truth to it, at least.

In my thirty years of existence, I have never been to Quiapo. Jesting? No. I’d be lost if someone dumped me in the streets of Manila, particularly Quiapo. Don’t get me wrong, I know Manila, and I know where Quiapo is… only that I’ve never actually set foot there. So one early sunny Thursday, I tagged alongside mom to visit the wonders of the streets of that busy, busy place.

I put the cell phone’s alarm clock on for seven in the morning as my mom and I had agreed in the evening they would pick me up the following hour. We were just going to hitch a ride with dad who takes the EspaƱa route to his office, and he’s very punctual (he does not like to wait, super hates tardiness!), so I had to do everything I needed to do before they come by the house (and not ruin dad’s day).

As if I really needed the alarm clock, I woke up a little before seven, which I was also thankful for, because I am never, was never, and probably will be never be a morning person. But I woke up early because I guess I was pretty excited with the mini field-trip. The comfort of the cool room and bed were serenading me though. I got up with about an hour and a half of sleep and trudged to the bathroom. No breakfast for me, we were still fasting then. I was all right with that… I wasn’t hungry, I don’t eat breakfast and I did not have any intention of breaking fast. At exactly eight, I heard dad’s vehicle honking outside the house. I kissed goodbye my husband and kid who were happily snoozing in our room and ran outside.

Quezon Avenue was already a bit heavy with traffic at that hour. All sorts of vehicles were snaking down the polluted road; jeepney, fx and bus drivers all trying to outdo one another hoping to fill in the seats of their transport. I was quite amused when we slowed down a bit near the island and dad’s driver honked the Hilux–I thought he was warning a driver who was driving too close, I never thought it was meant for the woman selling newspapers sitting on the island a couple of meters from us. She got up from her stool with a bunch of newspapers in her hand and waited for us to roll by near her makeshift stand. Dad’s driver already rolled down the window and had a twenty and some change in his left hand–he shoved the money on the woman’s free hand and then got the papers, then drove away. It was a quick transaction. As if I asked, dad said, “Suki nya ako.” Laughtrip. Wow. And I thought online shopping was fast.

Dad dropped us off by the church, and so mom and I began our journey to the busy, busy streets of Quiapo. We went downstairs through the Quiapo Underpass, a tunnel for pedestrians. I only see the tunnel on tv when watching Pinoy movies. I’m now actually in it. I was a bit excited with the flurry of activity going on, I kept looking around but I made pretty sure that I didn’t look like an idiot because mom would have left me standing there by myself if I did. LoL. We turned right and then went up the stairs and sure enough, I have arrived.

Just outside the church that was still full of people (I think there was a service going on), were dozens of vendors selling fresh herbs and homemade medicines. There were the fortune tellers wooing customers, and sellers of colored candles (where a color corresponds to a prayer or wish), and what have-yous. Pretty ironic that they be selling stuff like that right outside a church. We turn to Carriedo (I think!) and went in this building which houses merchants selling electronics and other devices. Mom wanted to buy some trinkets for Eid gifts for the Sisters (my aunties on my Pangandaman-Diron side) and some “orders” from lola whose current “addiction” is the Saturday bazaar in their subdivision. Sorry lola, buking ang kumikitang kabuhayan mo. In fairness to her, she makes about fifteen grand in just three hours, selling trinkets to other lolas and kikays in the ‘hood.

I was amused at how affordable everything was in that store alone. The Chinoy merchant asked me if I shopped at Multiply, because most of her bulk buyers get their stuff from her. Yeah, it did look like so, because while we were there, there was this girl with a list of orders for ODM watches, (must be pre-order from her site). When we finished our transaction with her, we crossed the street and went inside this other building filled with stalls and stalls of clothes. More pasalubong and Eid gifts needed, mom and I checked out stuff from stalls which caught our fancy and bought some stuff for us as well.

The clothes and all the other trinkets they sell there are the same ones sold in the classier bazaars and tiangges, the only difference is that the prices here are far lower than those of say, Greenhills and Tiendesitas. If you came here with a thousand pesos in your pocket, you’d probably be able to buy a whole outfit with accessories to boot.

We didn’t stay long there… I knew we were only able to cover a small portion of the commercial area, but we wanted to be home before Luhor and we didn’t want to get caught in traffic–we were going home via public transport–marunong po kami mag-commute. ).

It was a fun experience albeit a short one. Security-wise, it was pretty peaceful even if it was crowded. I don’t know, I guess we were there pretty early. But we did see two vendors in a shoutfest over a plastic stool. Shopping-wise, I’d have to say that you have to really look around if you want to get your money’s worth, because while there are a lot of really affordable items around, you can never be too sure about the quality. I mean, we scored some really cool finds, but it was pretty much hit-or-miss. Mom got duped with this so-called Corrales bracelet. The saleslady said the stones turn pale when you’re sick… It turns out that the stones will turn pale anyway. We were laughing so hard in the bus when I noticed her wrist turn a bit coral-ish pink. Turning pale when you’re sick… yeah right, we were almost dying from laughter! Good thing we were the only ones in the bus then.

Hmm… I don’t know when I’m going back there. I did promise my son’s nanny we’d go there one time…She hasn’t been there herself, and I’d like to experience that busy-busy place again. Hmm… rating it from one to ten… I can’t say. It was a fun experience for me. I can’t guarantee it would be the same for the next person, though. You’ll have to see it for yourself.

Ah. Quiapo. Quiapo kayo diyan!

(photos borrowed from Flickr courtesy of _gem_ , deadcenter , jdj92088 , ourawesomeplanet , manfrommanila)

Friday, September 19, 2008

Happy Birthday, Mommy!


Mother. Motherhood. Mudra. Madir. Mommy. Ma. Yasmin. (*Peace* about the last one. hehe!)

Thank you for everything.

Words cannot measure up to what I, we, feel.

To say that “we are blessed to have you in our lives” is an understatement.

But we are so.

And it is just that you, and the rest of the world knows.

I LOVE YOU!

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- Friendster blog post, published September 17, 2008

http://pattycake.blog.friendster.com/2008/09/happy-birthday-mommy/

45 Random Facts About Jodi

1. My name is Johannah.

2. My nickname is Jodi, derived from the first syllables of my name JOhannah and my (former/maiden) surname, DIron. It still applies though, my family name now is DImaporo. How about that?! :)

3. I am thirty years old. — I think it’s hilarious at times when people think I’m in my teens. But I also find it utterly annoying at times when people think I’m in my teens. Haha. Repetitive, much? Baby faced? I think. Vertically challenged? Blame it on the genes. Bwahahaha.

4. I am Muslim. Technically, I am three-fourths Muslim, and a quarter Christian. My maternal grandmother, Esther hails from Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, and Lolo Lindy is full-blooded Maranao, so my mom’s a mestiza. Lola’s reverted to Islam though (her Muslim name is Mariam), and we’ve never thought of ourselves as anything but Muslim. So there.

5. I am a wife and a mother of one. Our neighbors here in Manila initially thought that Hamza was my older brother and Raja, our bunso. Harhar!

6. I should have been a mother of two, but things happen for a reason…

7. I love family gatherings. ‘Nuff said.

8. I wished I had continued playing the piano. Maybe if I did so I would’ve been really good with it by now. I can still widow, though.

9. I am trying to get over my obsession with Havaianas. Maybe I’ll stop when I get my last batch of orders from abroad. Have to stay away from Multiply more often! Hmm… Anyone wanna buy them? :D

10. I’d like to start collecting cameras now. Not digicams. They’re too generic.

11. I started writing when I was in the sixth grade. I had journals and wrote essays, articles in the school paper in high school and college. I’m still so into writing. :) Big thanks to Mrs. Berran (PWU-JASMS) and Ms. Abueva (DCFI), my English teachers, for inspiring me to write.

12. I used to be a text addict.

13. Texting in StIcKy CAps is not and never was my style.

14. I don’t text using short cut either.

15. I love sweets. I love pastries. It’s a tie for me between chocolate bars and cakes. But I’m not so much into ice cream. :D

16. I used to feel nauseated with the aroma of coffee. But I’m starting to like it now; I’ve even gone as far as to drinking it. My husband is ecstatic with that development. HAHAHA!

17. I don’t like it when bands change their sound to make their music more mainstream just so they could have more fans. That’s artistic suicide.

18. I get really irritated with people who copy other people’s stuff. Plagiarism is punishable by law.

19. I want to have a pet… maybe some fish or a pair of African love birds. I had a cat with “odd eyes” (one blue, one yellow), but he ran away (found a mate).

20. I can live without a cellphone. I’ve tried it… it’s quite liberating, actually. :)

21. I put my thoughts to words in ink better than in speech. Obvious much?

22. My hair is long and straight…and past my waist already. :D

23. I don’t scare easily, nor do I get irked by yucky stuff right away.

24. I have a habit of walking around the house at ungodly hours (told you I can’t sleep).

25. I also like it a lot when I have the house to myself.

26. I am unofficially obsessive-compulsive.

27. I procrastinate. I like playing things crunch. It gives me an adrenaline rush.

28. I graduated with a degree in Psychology.

29. I love giving out Psychological tests and analyzing their answers.

30. I miss taking REAL Psychology exams myself.

31. I want to learn Rorschach. Calling the attention of Ma’am Agda, I believe you owe us a couple of sessions? :)

32. Sleep is something that is a bit alien to me. Maybe I was a vampire in a past life. HAHAHAHA!

33. When I do get to sleep, I do not move–I sleep and wake up in the same position. Hamza and my family can attest to that. I can probably sleep in a four-inch wide bench and not fall.LOL

34. I like having the comforter cover me from my head down to my feet. Yes, including my face. Weird. I know, I know.LOL

35. I’m a movie freak.My family and I love watching movies on the big screen. I love movie channels also. Tune me in to any movie channel and throw away the remote, I won’t mind. I can name which movies the actors/actresses acted in in their past films.

36. I have high tolerance for physical and emotional pain.

37. I definitely detest rodents! YUCK!

38. Lifestyle Network is one of my favorite channels.

39. I wish Ina Garten could adopt me. I just love her and her show. :D

40. I am absolutely looking forward to the dates November 17, 21 and 30.

41. I have regretted the times when I stopped school. I could have been a doctor by now. Blech.

42. I splurge a lot buying stuff online. Another habit I have to break. :(

43. Currently thinking if I should go home to the province or to Las PiƱas for Qutba.

44. I’d really like to go back to school. But there are also other things I want to do… I’m still weighing my options.

45. I fear death and the afterlife. What we have here right now is very temporary. If you are getting everything that you want now… do you think you’ll still be in the same predicament in the akhira? I think not. :)

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- Friendster blog post, published September 16, 2008

http://pattycake.blog.friendster.com/2008/09/45-random-facts-about-jodi/

PUNny Indeed!

I know with all the hype that has been building around the Twilight Saga and the movie, there was bound to be a spoof made about the movie’s trailer. Sure enough, last month, while I was browsing through YouTube’s search engine, I came up with this video from Evil Iguana Productions, a company founded by bored high schoolers that has grown through the years along with its fans (I myself included… squeeze me, but I’ve been subscribing to their vids since last year, so puhlease, spare me the bull that you learned about it first before I did. :p).

It’s really funny and even Stephenie Meyer has this on her MS site. It’s all in good fun, please dear TS fanatics, don’t get hurt.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BELLA!

Enjoy. :D

Twilight Teaser Trailer

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Friendster blog post, published September 13, 2008

http://pattycake.blog.friendster.com/2008/09/punny-indeed/

Monday, September 15, 2008

Breaking Dawn (Stephenie Meyer)



The last of the Twilight Saga, I finished Breaking Dawn in about two and a half days. Huh. I had to slow my self down because I was devouring the book again (meaning I’m reading too fast again.hehe).

BD is divided into three books, book One and Three are Bella’s and Book Two is Jacob’s. It’s my second favorite, with Twilight as first. I’m not going to divulge on the details anymore, it’s too good a read for me to make a review. :)

Eclipse (Stephenie Meyer)


I was supposed to post this and the last installment of the saga earlier, but I got too engrossed with my other blogs that I forgot to put these on Blogger.

The third of the Twilight Saga, I rank Eclipse as third favorite of the four books in the series. In the story, Seattle was plagued with mysterious murders which t urned out to be vampire killings initiated by Victoria who was actually building an army to avenge the death of her mate, James. Once again, faces danger as she is hunted by newborn vampires. But a greater conflict arises when her best friend Jacob reveals his true feeling for her, and she, too, finds herself in love with him.

The love triangle for me was a bit unneccesary, but it makes for a good fictional plot–a human torn in love between a beautiful vampire and a werewolf (who’s actually a shape-shifter),and it is a love story after all. I found Bella a bit greedy in this book–she loves Edward, but she wouldn’t let go of Jacob; Jacob, a bit pushy; Edward, beautiful as ever (sorry for being biased!). But she’s human after all, so I guess there’s the excuse for such. Oh, just get the darned copy, ok? I swear, it’s worth every penny. :)

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Random Thoughts *I'm Missing Mode*

It's been almost a week since I got home from my eventful trip in Marawi and Cagayan de Oro. I'm now back in the boring conundrum I call "life". Haha. No, I'm not being sarcastic. I'm more homesick than anything else right now.

Hmm.. what do I miss about the city with a lake? It's not like I go out there to meet up with my friends, to make 'tambay' at CommCen (although I'm not sure if that's still the 'in' thing to do, and I never had that much of a chance hanging out there even then). I think it's more of the feeling that I'm with family--being with the people I know, and those whom I know as well. It's catching up with your aunts who've seen you during your awkward years when the chilly climate of Marawi turned me into some sort of burnt-looking marshmallow (yeah, nakakaitim talaga ang climate ng Marawi, at least for me), and they knew everything that went on with everyone who lived in the city. I miss the food! Pyaren. Randang. Pisasaten. Bakas.HAHA! All the yellow spicy food, where everything is yellow, even the rice..it's kyuning, right? I miss seeing relatives come over the house to hang out and exchange stories and opinions on various topics. I miss their loud voices, the laughter, the banter. The never-ending coffee refills. The broa that goes along with the coffee (or brua? Not bruha, ha!). And the one and a half hour long good-byes. Haha.

I miss the company of my friends, basically my batchmates, whom I hadn't had the chance to see for such a long, long time. I thought that coming home would equate to some sort of informal reunion, but amidst the buzz of activity, unfortunately there was no time to get to it. Well, I did Khuna, in all her pregnant-but-still-beautiful glory, who came to my place in spite of her condition and the chaotic atmosphere, to show support and make chismis as well. I don't think I was able to thank you properly my dear sister... I hope I can return the favor to you in the future, Inshaallah.

I also miss the chilly foggy mornings, and the way you see air come out when you talk..feeling abroad-ish.*snickers* I miss the view of MSU from the terrace of our home, the lush green meadow (meadow daw..ok, basak!) spread before your eyes, and the trees, that line up the road going to Marantao on one side, and to Tuca on the other. Especially that humongous one where the elders say is home to some 'people' we can't see.

I miss Ramadhan in Marawi. That's when I learned to drive.LOL! I was fifteen then, and my classmate would come to our place and help me with the mechanics of driving. But we didn't practice there. I practiced outside the house, picking up our classmates from their homes as I learned how to drive. But it wasn't just about that. It was bonding with them. I miss how we're welcomed by our classmate's family to his/her home to share with us their spread. I miss the colorfully lit houses, seeing people coming out from the mosque after Tarawih, with the women garbed in their colorful muqnas, and the men in their kimon or malongs.

Oh, I did get the chance to see my alma mater, Dansalan College, now called Dansalan College Foundation, Inc. (I don't know exactly when "FI" was formally added to the name). It has changed a lot since. Well, I fathom it would, the last time I was there was during my high school graduation.*smiles at the thought* Seeing the school brought me into a nostalgic mood. I remembered the funny and sad things that went on between me and my batchmates and other schoolmates, our teachers who were our strict mentors inside the classrooms but warm friends outside. I remembered standing on the soccer field during practices for the city-wide silent drill competition (which we won, by the way), the never-ending band practices and school activities and our "wholesome" after-school (weekend) adventures, which sometimes meant unscheduled trips outside Marawi (translation: takas sa magulang, going to Iligan or Timoga or Tinago or anywhere else to de-stress from the pressures of school). It was all for fun. Seeing the school and looking back at all those memories made me feel just one thing. OLD.

CDO is a different story. I only spent two years there unlike Marawi where I spent four. It wasn't as exciting of a life, but it was exciting nevertheless. We were what Maranao people would describe as masamok. But we were actually harmless folk; we're just plain masamok. I miss those times I was with my friends in XU. To the administration there, we were like an itch that wouldn't go away, because we made our presence felt and they didn't like it, considering the fact that we didn't even reach seventy; they very much preferred we were just on the side..the very far side. But now, they can't ignore the number of Muslim students in that place. And I'm happy with the way things had come about. You kids have it easy now, be glad you weren't around during our time! But more so I miss being with my family who is based there. My mom, my four other brothers, Ina, and everyone else who lives in that spacious bungalow I call home. I'm going to miss the banter by the porch where we laugh louder than the tambays by the store across the street.LOL Halim, no one's gonna make macaroni for you now.Bleh! Hamsa, make up your mind, ok? Weigh your options, but your option A is a No-No. And mom, better learn how to tinker with the pc and the net so you won't have to bother us again when the arrow on the screen's not moving 'coz the mouse is stuck by the wrist pad.LOL Kisses to Halil who's looking more gwapo as he gets older and Ina who's always startled with Raja's constant slamming of the door. As to Hamid. I'll miss you "Jimmy" ways, but not just yet coz you're here in the Metro.Hehe!

Hmm...it would be good to go back there now... I miss how life in the south is so laid back. It's not that I mind being in the metro.. I love it here! Most of my life was spent here. But it's just stressful. With the traffic. And the noise pollution (although I'd choose to live here in the Scout area than go back to the subdivision where it's too damn quiet..sorry lolo & lola.hehe!). And the never-ending expenses. And you're so far away from family. Hmm... It would really be good to go home. But I'm not ready yet. I'mma miss the malls here. And Raja's gonna look for his Gardenia bread.Hehe!

Hmm... Home. Where're those ruby red shoes?

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Twilight Movie Date for the Philippines Confirmed! (faints)

I have been distracted the past couple of days; I keep thinking about my favorite vampires, especially my beloved (HAH!), so yesterday I sat myself in front of the pc and searched for stuff on the net about Twilight groups. I came across this blogsite (below), and lo and behold, a probable answer to my restlessness! Perhaps Edward has been trying to tell me something and here it is. *wide smile*
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http://twilightcovenph.blogspot.com/
Sunday, August 24, 2008

Twilight movie release date for the Philippines confirmed!
It's official! Viva International Pictures has just confirmed with Twilight Coven Philippines that the Philippine release of the "Twilight" film will be on November 20, 2008.Visit our sites for updates as regards news and promotions for the upcoming film (there are a lot in store for us Twilighters!). We will appreciate it if you will post a link to direct your readers/members in our site to keep them updated. Thanks. :)

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Imagine my glee... I was ecstatic! I was in euphoria! The glee I felt was and is immeasurable; words won't do justice to the emotions I felt when I read the post (sorry I sound overreacting).

But My God, THANK YOU!

While I, and the rest of the Philippine-based fans rejoice in this great piece of news, I am saddened that there are those who don't seem pretty happy with the playdate of the movie which will be shown a day before US and Canada. Seeing comments on the blogpost saying that it is unfair and unjust, asking WHY we get to see it first before the rest of the world does (which is only a couple of hours earlier to be exact), I say, WHY NOT?

First and foremost, why are we arguing over something that cannot be resolved? What is to be resolved, in the first place anyway? It's a non-issue my dears. We can exchange all the hurtful and discriminatory words out there, but the play dates will remain the same. Of course, unless there's some sort of miracle to happen in the coming weeks and months and Maverick Films decides to show it another month earlier than in the Philippines.

Second, Filipino Twilight fans had nothing to do with the decision of Viva International Pictures, the local distributor of the movie to show it on an earlier date. Movies here change picture on Wednesdays to be exact, and November 20 falls on a Thursday. Actually if we were unjust and selfish, we'd probably make a petition and move it to the 19th. But we're not like that. What's one more day to wait?

Third, I don't think Stephenie Meyer, had envisioned her fans quarreling like this. Remember that this had all started from a dream, that turned into a book, that turned into a movie. The book itself is a gift. The movie is just a bonus; a visual treat to satisfy our thirst for our hero and heroine, and the rest of the characters of the Twilight saga. Let us not squabble over this. No one is above nor below--we're all equals here. So please, let's all sit back, take a chill pill and patiently wait for November to roll by; it's not like Stephenie Meyer, Catherine Hardwicke, Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and the rest of the cast are going to come over the Philippines for the premiere... although the idea of Rob coming over wouldn't be too bad at all. *crooked smile*

Sunday, August 24, 2008

New Moon (Stephenie Meyer)


I had finished reading the second installment of the Twilight saga, and New Moon is far different from the first.


Just like the first book, it was hard to put down; I was actually able to finish it faster than I did with Twilight. I was consumed with it to say the least--the almost non-existent presence of Edward (am I exaggerating here?) in the book made me read it faster, wanting to know if he'd appear on the next page. I found that part depressing, completely opposite from the prequel. Only the vampire's voice appears in Bella's head every now and then for almost half of the part of the book (and they weren't even actually his). There was also the "re-introduction" of Bella's Quileute friend, Jacob Black who becomes her best friend... and something else.

Oh, just go get a copy so you'll know what I mean. :)

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Twilight (Stephenie Meyer)



I've been absent in the literary field for quite a long time; I believe the last series of books I read were those of Dan Brown's, and J.K. Rowling's, aside from the Psychology articles and books that I browse through every now and then.


I first learned of the series from my friend, Toie, who is so into it, and then later from an online buddy, Reisha, who's also a big fan. When I found out that hollywood had made a movie out of the book (which will be shown on NOVEMBER 21st and not December 12 as primarily scheduled), I had decided to give it a go; I was getting more and more curious of the characters Bella and Edward, but I didn't want to check out the author's site for fear of spoilers... I did, later on, though (i couldn't resist!), and it only made me want to grab copies of the books, a.s.a.p.


I just finished reading the first of the series, Twilight, which I bought and started on late last night. I'm so glad they had the hardback editions here in Cagayan de Oro, I bought Twilight and New Moon right away! They didn't have the hardback editions of Eclipse and Breaking Dawn. I had read all of 498 pages plus more in less than a day! It wasn't surprised with my hunger to finish one page after the other... it was too good a book to put down, I swear. And just like all the other girls, I am in love with Edward! *sigh* (I hope my hubby doesn't read this!LOL) I love all the characters, but Edward, most especially... he is simply to die for ([no] pun intended)!


What about the rest of my review?I'm leaving it at this. Find out for yourselves why I was able to finish the whole thing in less than a day.:)


Get your copies, girls... best to read before the movie comes out!


I'm out, I'm starting on New Moon tonight!

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

All Systems Go!

I received word from my brother Hassan, who went to our grandparents for lunch earlier today. He said that according to our Uncle Boy, the ARMM elections will push through as scheduled. So that means, I'll be going to Mindanao really soon to help out (although I know it's really late). At least I'll still be able to help!

I'm feeling a bunch of emotions all at once. This isn't our first time to run for office... My family's been in public service for the longest time. But this one is different... it's my BROTHER who's bidding a post for Assemblyman in our district, unlike before when it was either my grandfather, uncle or cousin. This one is really close to home.

It's a green light.

All systems GO!

I'm Wholesome!

OnePlusYou Quizzes and Widgets


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Friday, July 25, 2008

ARMM Elections Postponed.

It was my parents' thirty first anniversary three days ago. That day should have been spent relaxing and enjoying each other's company, but because my younger brother had run for office in the coming ARMM elections, every waking moment was dedicated to my brother's campaign.

Countdown. July 22. It was supposed to be twenty days to election day. The night before, the LAKAS CMD official candidate for Regional Governor had called on them to go to Cotabato City for the announcement of the final line-up of the party, since there were four of them who were announced when there should have only been three. Going to Cotabato is not a joke. From Marawi, it will take about eight friggin' hours for them to reach Cotabato. Eight hours. Thank God when Lolo was Regional Governor of the ARMM he was able to finish the Circumferential Road linking provinces to one another, thus making travel time faster, shorter and far more convenient compared before. Still, that's eight friggin' hours.. err...

Anyway...When dad, mom, my brother, and their entourage, and all the other candidates got there, PGMA had decided and announced that the ARMM Elections 2008 be POSTPONED. She didn't even announce if it will be set on a later date.

WTF?!

All that time, effort, and money spent had gone down to NOTHING.

What in God's name is she waiting for?

A miracle to happen?

Postponing the elections... what for? To wait for whatever outcome of the MILF or Malaysia talks will be? Whatever it is, let it be. All this stalling isn't going to do us any good. My parents, although I know how busy they are, could have taken that time off from all the hooplah and just lounged away somewhere, celebrating their anniversary. I feel sorry for them, and for everyone else. Such a waste. SUCH A WASTE!

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Kawaii! ^_^



Singer Gwen Stefani has partnered up once more with Coty to launch a line of five new fragrances called Harajuku Lovers, inspired both by her personal interest in Japanese pop culture and street fashion, as well as her perceptions of her four back-up singers in real life.
The fragrances are called Love, Li'l Angel, Music, and Baby, after the stage names of her back-up "Harajuku Girls", and G for Gwen Stefani.

The real names of the Harajuku girls are Maya Chino, Jennifer Kita, Rino Nakasone, and Mayuko Kitayama.


"Love"
- a sensuous floral concocted by Yves Cassar and Pascal Gaurin of International Flavors & Fragrances, has top notes of sparkling bergamot, pink pomelo, peach and bamboo leaf mist; a heart of watery peony, living hydroponic lace rose, jasmine sambac, nectarine blossom, creamy paperwhites and Egyptian jasmine, and a drydown of petally ylang, creamy vanilla orchid, sensual musk and blond wood.


"Lil' Angel" -a fruity floral by Givaudan's Christophe Raynaud, has top notes of raspberry, cranberry, blackberry and pineapple; a heart of pear blossom, candied violet and sugared rose, and a drydown of lollipop accord, hinoki wood and crystal amber.

"Music" - a delicate floral by Honorine Blanc of Firmenich, has top notes of clementine and sparkling pear; a heart of jasmine sambac, sweet pea and honeysuckle, and a drydown of vanilla, skin musk and sleek woods.

"Baby" - a powdery musk by Firmenich's Harry Fremont, has top notes of freesia, bergamot and white rose; a heart of orange flower, tiare flower and jasmine petals, and a drydown of white musk, soft woods, heliotrope, vanilla and violet.

"G" - a modern gourmand by Steve DeMarcado of Fragrance Resources, has top notes of crisp mandarin, fresh coconut and apple skin; a heart of jasmine sambac, soft freesia and magnolia vapor, and a drydown of coconut cream, white sandalwood and cottonwoods.

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*The packaging's just oh, so cute!@.@ V*


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*MUSLIM * wife * mother * blogger * online shopper * CBTL/Starbucks fan * sweets is my kryptonite *

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