back and ugh!

Now that I finally have time back in my little hands, I suddenly can’t think of anything to talk about. Except that just now I hated my older sister, Pipay, for being such a KJ for changing the radio station and tuned to something that plays contemporary music. C’mon, it’s Sunday afternoon and it ought to be 70’s! And that my brother Oli keeps looking at my monitor. Damn, don’t you hate it when somebody is reading every single word that comes out of your mind? I mean I don’t mind my siblings reading my blog but not when I’m on the process of generating thoughts. It’s annoying that I have to minimize the window whenever he’s at my back!

But anyway, the last weeks were indeed busy for me but it was also a blast that I didn’t notice that Christmas is around the corner… AGAIN! Christmas used to be exciting when I was younger, but now I felt like it’s the time to burn a (BIG) hole in my pocket –sigh- . But it can’t be helped. I loved the feeling of looking forward for presents and celebrating when I was a kid so why won’t I let the kids in my family feel it. After all, I have all the things to be thanked for – a healthy and intact family. AMEN. Money is just a thing that comes, goes and don't worry because it keeps coming back. The smile of a child for this important time of the year is much more important and priceless.
Mom: so why don’t you give your toys to your nephews this Christmas?
Kid: NO! That’s a different issue!!!

Events reports:

The latest one I went to was the 29th Manila International Book Fair. It’s my 4th time in the country’s biggest book fair. Ever since my first attendance I made a pledge to attend every year not because I love books, but because I’m cheap. I’m just after shopping for (good) bargain books and comics which takes less than 2 hours. They have a long program of activities which I never attended because I’m not really onto it.

This year, what do you know, they included cosplay contest and lecture in the program. When I learned of it, all I could ever say in a flat voice was “wow”. My feelings for cosplay have become neutral. I’m still interested in dressing up as an anime character in the future, but I am more than content to be just a spectator by now.

Back to the book fair, aside from manga shopping, what makes this event worth coming are the free bookmarks by exhibitors. I have big use for them I swear. At the SMX lobby, they exhibited popular characters of Philippine literature like Ibong Adarna, Juan Tamad, Tipaklong and Langgam, etc. made of rubber. There are some characters that I didn’t recognize and I suppose that they are from new stories. They are cute though. Too bad my camera is not in good condition anymore. I wish next time there’d be classic komiks on sale, that’d make me feel that “hey, it’s a Phil. Lit. event”.

Eraserheads Reunion Concert:
Okay, I know this is a super late post-facto, but hey, can I say that it’s one of the best concerts I’ve ever been. Honestly, the performance of the group is nothing special to me. In fact, at the onset of the show, it was all over Ely’s face that he’s exhausted and not feeling well. I’m sure a lot of people noticed that. Still I applaud because despite the stress, he still pulled it off. The level of excitement of the people was really moving, it penetrated my bones. The concert was cut short but I do not regret coming. Who knows it might be the last concert of the BEST PINOY BAND ever. The group is very positive for a 2nd round, but will Ely’s medical condition allow it? I’m not being pessimistic here or anything, I just know that heart illness is not something to be taken lightly. Suppose a repeat does happen, I’d still go. My only frustration is that they haven’t performed some of my favorite songs –Maselang Bahaghari, Ang Huling El Bimbo, Magasin, Hard to Believe, Spolarium, Para Sa Masa, Minsan, Tindahan Ni Aling Nena –sigh-

And yeah, I was in the general admission section and we can only rely on big screens to see what's really happening on the stage. But hell, hearing the live performance is enough...

Plays...

I watched an Asian version of Tosca - a Puccini Opera, at PETA Theater last August 29. It's a collaboration of PETA, Black Tent Japan and Nottle Korea. Whenever I'd see operas in movies, they seem old (of course, duh!) and... boring. But I never thought it could be really engaging in live performance or maybe it was because of the modifications -they injected some humor, current issues, pop culture to make it more relevant to Asian audience. I am looking forward to seeing more stage plays, if only it'll be a little cheap.

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And the other things that made me busy... ugh! I'm back to hikkikomori mode...that's all

Asian College of Science and Technology 2008 Acquaintance Party

My sister works at the said school and she invited me at the said event because they featured Pinoy bands – Sandwich, Imago and Kitchie Nadal. I like Imago so I decided to go but I never thought that the party is anime themed! I was surprised to see there were cosplayers, of course they were students. And that reminded me how common cosplaying had become nowadays. Nagi told me how she hated the idea of cosplay going mainstream and I couldn’t agree less. 8 years ago, cosplay is a new and cool thing that only devoted anime fans did it but now, as anime went mainstream too, cosplaying had become a normal activity for normal people. But as I told Nagi too, there are ways to make you feel it’s as exclusive as ever. For one thing, the cosplayers I’ve seen in the party are very amateur. I had a very hard time identifying the characters considering they are portraying popular anime characters. The colors of their costumes are not very powerful. Plus, they can’t do a skit that would identify them. It’s highly acceptable though since it’s not an anime or cosplay convention. There are so many good cosplayers nowadays but only few justify the characters they portray. Back to the party, I didn’t have to remind myself that I was there for Imago and the cosplay thing was just a bonus. And yes, Imago ROCKS! Woot!!!

When I was watching the cosplay parade though, I realized that it would be wonderful to hold anime conventions on a stadium. It’s big and everyone gets the chance to watch cosplay while sitting. Booths can situate at the flat form, I think that would be fare enough.

Over the years, I feel like the organizers are not very sensitive of the audience’s convenience. The average admission fee for an anime convention is P100 and what do you get? No freebies, no loot bags or whatever. The main attraction of conventions is the cosplay catwalk but even cosplayers are asked to pay the entrance fee. Everything’s done for money, there’s no way you could feel the “from fans to fans” spirit. IMHO…

7th Toycon 2008

So I went to the Toycon and now comes the hardest part – my report! NOT!

I’m a little lazy but I have a responsibility to my journal –sigh-

I didn’t stay very long and I wasn’t able to take a lot pics. It was time-constrained, I need to go by 5 PM. I was able to meet with old friends and it felt nostalgic to see them again. I didn’t watch the cosplay catwalk, I was busy shopping. Sadly I didn’t get any toys, just magazine and manga. As always, I didn’t finish the event. I didn’t even get a chance to say goodbye to my friends, I was really in a hurry. I can only say this much… I feel like I’ve been numbed by previous conventions so I don’t think there’s a point extorting what I think about it. But of course, you can expect me to be present by next year hehehe…

And here’s my coverage of the 7th Toycon.

I wonder if anybody noticed that I rarely update my blog nowadays. If you do, then what do you think could be the reason?

1. I’m too lazy to write something
2. I’m too busy, can’t find time for this
3. There’s really no update to write
4. It’s best keep my activities to myself
5. All of the above
6. None of the above

And the answer is… well I’ll leave it to your imagination hehehe. But one reason I have is that I rarely get “connected” to the web. Sometimes, ideas keep popping out of my mind and I feel the urge to share them but it’s either I’m not on my PC or online and by the time I am, all those thoughts have already flown away –sigh-.

As for updates (on my life), I think I owe my (very few) readers a lot… So let’s start with the Ozine Fest last April 5. I attended Day 1 and it was… just fine. Don’t blame me if over the years I’ve gotten jaded over local anime conventions held. There’s really nothing new. But of course I can still appreciate some cosplayers, and yes I still approach some to take pics. It runs on every otaku’s system and can’t be taken off by external influences hehehe. The best thing about it though was being able to see my friends which I haven’t seen for a long time. I finally got to meet Aish’ husband Duston. He’s a nice and funny guy and they really look cute together. I wonder if they’re planning to have a baby soon because I’m really rooting for a baby boy hehehe. Going back to the event, the day 1 featured the Group cosplay competition and I really don’t like staying in the event just to watch the group cosplay category. Don’t get me wrong though, I have nothing against group cosplay, how I’d love to join group cosplaying with my friends. It’s just that I find the skits too lame. Honestly, a 5-15 minute skit by a group can get me snoring. Nothing against the cosplayers, the costumes were wonderful but the “stage play” factor is way below my standards. PLUS, that big yakult replica really helped! If I only knew, I would’ve come the second day and I will never stand behind the Yakult booth ever. Still, seeing my friends made coming worth it. And yes, I managed to get a Ruroken doujinshi and a Yuyu Hakusho snap fit model kit hehehe. You can view my Ozine Fest ’08 HERE.

Speaking of toys, I’m currently addicted to gashapons. Well not really, it’s just that a certain series of gashapon caught my attention. And guess what, they are not anime, manga or game related but replica of the human anatomy. I find it really amusing that these anatomical models found their way to gashapon world. But the main reason I liked it is because I was really impressed with the details in relation to its size. Hail to the Japanese toy makers! The major disadvantage of being hooked to gashapon is the blind purchase system. We all know that you can get them at vending machines installed at various toy stores, and there’s no way you wouldn’t end up getting the same design two or more times. But then again, I have already found a sensible solution for that. Hehehe, for this year, friends can expect me to give out gasahpons as birthday presents!

Last night after visiting Dindee’s mother (she had stroke, pls. pray for her fast recovery) I decided to go straight at home… while walking along UN avenue, I felt this mood of being too exhausted to go anywhere else but too hyper to sleep, or simply say I’m tired but not sleepy. And whenever I’m having this kind of mood, broke or not, with or without friends, I go to Starbucks in Manila Pavilion and let my time pass until I finally feel like resting. And then I realized that it had just been 2 days since it closed but I miss it that much already. On their last day, I, with fellow coffee lovers stayed until closing time and had our last moment in the best coffee house in the world. It turned out that, that place actually touched many lives as well. At first it was just Dr. Robert Li, Dindee and I. Then came Jamir, an Iranian dentistry student at UP. When Dindee had to go back to her mom’s room, I took Dr. Jay with me then Frances and Emil came. Then when we returned, Angelo, a law student was there already. The funny thing was, when each would learn they have a common friend or acquaintance or whatever. And I realized more and more how small the world is. Of course, I’ll always remember the friendliest barristas I’ve known – RS, Paris, Gladys, June, Kent, Ivanhoe, Francis and some that I know by face but not by name… Oh how I really miss them. Here’s my tribute to Starbucks Manila Pavilion.

Last Sunday I attended the Ozine Fest 2007 at Megatrade Hall 2. I was there early just to be sure I’d get a ticket. I’ve learned my lesson at UPAME Matsuri last December. And I was right because it went sold out by the time Neil came. Gosh, cosplay seems to become more and more popular with kids. I noticed the vast increase of young cosplayers in the event and the good news is that they are becoming more conscious of accuracy and quality of costumes. Just to add testimony to the growing popularity of cosplaying in the Philippines, Ozine released a cosplay magazine. I bought one just for the sake of knowing how the Ozine people do it this time. I have to admit that any magazine they release doesn’t please me. There was no single issue have had something that’d be interesting for someone who’s been an anime fan for almost 8 years already. Of course I’m not saying I know every single anime but their reviews are pathetic. It couldn’t get my attention for more than a minute. And I’d say, I could get articles waaaaaayyyyy better than that for free –in the internet. Though it’s really ironic, because I actually have 5 or 6 issues, but it was only because they were featuring events that I had attended and I was hoping I’d see my pic somewhere hehehehe… Going back to the event, I was both pleased and pissed with the way it was organized. Pleased because of the bazaar (huhuhu, I wish I had more okane) and there lots of fun booths –parlor games, video games etc. But I was pissed because the organizers seemed not to consider the convenience of the fans. First, the area for the cosplay viewing was too small, and it went even smaller because they had to put room for the judges just a minute before the cosplay show offs started, making the audience occupying the viewing area, which was supposed to be for us (pls. be reminded it was too small already). Haay, and that annoying Level-up crew keeps on reprimanding some fans to keep from the space (good enough to accommodate 10 people) just in front of their booth. They reasoned out that it was off-limits because they hold transactions in that space for buyers. And I really hated how dimwitted he was, of course that was the instructions of his superior and he’s just following SOPs. But anyone can see that every damn attendant was focused on the catwalk. How in the world can you expect a customer at that very moment??? And with that crowd, how can you expect a 5 ft. kid like me to enjoy the show? Oh well, that was a Palm Sunday and I decided to quit watching, instead I attended the mass and thank God, it gave me peace of mind. After the mass, I contemplated and realized that I am slowly outgrowing the local fandom. Of course I still love anime and Japanese culture, I’m just disappointed. I feel like the Anicons here are contaminated of pathetic Filipino culture. Oh boy I don’t want to end up criticizing my own nation again, so I’ll end these thoughts of mine. Just check my Ozine Fest 2007 pics HERE.

I’m just glad that the long weekend is just a day ahead! And that means I could rest and watch anime! Yay!!!

I’m gonna miss that old place… where I used to relax and pass my time before going home from work… huhuhu, today’s the last day of Starbucks Pavillon! They are transferring to SM Manila, but we rarely ever drop there. I’m gonna miss that good ‘ol staff with warm greetings of “hi Kid”… haayyy… in the place where friendship grew… even doctors are affected. Just this morning when I met Dr. Blas in MDH lobby, other than the usual “hi” I automatically blurted today’s Starbucks’ last day… and he reacted “oh no, where are we going to stay na”…Oh well, so much for the regrets, might as well switch to Figaro since Starbucks Bayview is too far for a walk (NOT!).

Yesterday I attended the 3G Gigabyte Lan Party at Market Market. That was actually my first time going there and what a hell of an adventure I had been. Nothing scary or serious, just exhausting. When I arrived at the event, I hardly had the strength to enjoy. Besides, the event turned out to be for beneficial for online gaming enthusiasts in which I admittedly cannot relate. There were very few cosplayer whom I cannot recognize the characters. If they are not from online games, then they must be the latest anime. Whatever, the bottom line I did not enjoy. But for the sake of experience (I think 3G is also held annually-I’m not sure), so this is what goes on at 3G and other related events. Simply put, stick with anime, manga, toy, and J-culture events. Well, it’s never too late to enjoy, tomorrow’s Ozine fest, this’ll be the first time I’m attending an Ozine event, I just hope I’d get the smoke of my money’s worth.

Holidays are almost here (2 weeks to go) but I can really feel it coming. The silence for one thing is a sign eh. Why of course it’s Saturday hehehe. But just to share my surprise, a while ago on my way to Frio Mixx to eat my lunch, I took the ER exit and lo and behold, no patient bed was occupied and the ER people are really benign! Maybe it’s not much of a phenomenon but for 3 years working in this hospital, never have I seen the ER unoccupied of px. But I think that’s a good thing, means the number of sick people has declined for this particular day. But then my pessimistic side is pointing that perhaps financial concerns caused this particular event. Or whatever… I just want to have my vacation!

Anyways, a couple of days ago, I was trying to confirm this Hobbiworx event which was supposed to be on the last day of March, but to my surprise it was moved on the 12th of May. Geez, how can an otaku event be coincide with the heat of elections???? Further (i-net) research made me realize (again) how outdated I am with otaku related events. Geez! There are lots in line right now, just to mention, Gigabyte Lan Party on March 30, Ozine Fest 2007 on April 1, J-crunch Ripiito on April 12, Hobbiworx Tagcom convention on May 12, Mangaholix Animangaming convention on May 19, and of course don’t forget the Toycon which is being held every June ( I haven’t got the final schedule). Whew, I only hope I could attend all of those… though part of me would only get sad for not being able to participate in cosplay. Until now I haven’t got any inspiration. Most anime I’ve seen recently are set on real time and characters and costumes don’t vary much with ordinary clothes (except for Yuuko of XXX Holic). Anyway, the most recent I’m watching right now is School Rumble, a highschool love story comedy. One of those boy-loves-girl, girl-loves-another-guy-and-this-guy-seemed-not-to-care plot. What do you call that again? Love Polygon! Hahaha. And of course varieties of friends to support the girl are always present and so far I couldn’t get myself amused. The only thing that keeps me with this anime are the translation notes which was being flashed before the start of the show and from time to time on the duration of the series. Thank goodness I have the fansub version. Now I’m not a critic here, all I’m saying is that I haven’t found the engaging side of School Rumble (if there is). There must be since my friend recommended it to me…

Greetings & Toycon...

-yawn- it’s Father’s Day! I just want to greet the best dad in the whole world! My Fodsie Dodsie… well, okay, I did already, I even bought him his favorite Hopiang Ube hehehe.

I just finished editing the pics I got from Toycon (day 1). Oh yeah, how was it. Well if I’d be speaking of the event, it turned out pretty well. With 170 cosplayers, mostly are new faces to me, I’d say, the anime, rather, the cosplay community wouldn’t die soon hehe… well, I felt really envious…. How I wished I were part of the group back then. But I really have no one to blame but myself… well, my slump state that is… I’m not sure when is the next J-event, but I wish I could think of a character that would suit my appearance and personality (and taste) –sigh- and yeah, as I thought, it was really depressing to be on the bazaar, eyeing on some stuff, yet I got no cash to purchase them –sigh- hmmm, I just wish that nobody bought that Akira action figure that I wanted… well, what else, they got decent bands to perform. I can’t remember the names, but they were good, not the usual garage bands (sort of) I’ve heard during the past events…


A bishie cosplayer caught my attention, he’s name’s Diego… I have no idea whoever he was cosplaying, but I didn’t bother. He’s so damn cute, he looks like a younger version of Dr. C*** hmmm, I wonder if some of my friends know him. He’s really cute, I can’t stop taking pictures of him… now there goes my fangirl instincts hehehe… darn, I wanted to get his number and email address, but when I was following him already, I saw a girl beside him –sigh- erase that stalking plan. But when I get to see him again, I’ll ask for his contacts when he’s alone… surely hehehe… I realized, it’s time for me try something like this hehehe…

Also, I was glad to see friends that I haven’t seen (and heard) for a long time. Chris, well, what’s with the curly hair on the back, he looks more slut than ever haha… Neitaro, waah, really, it’s been ages since I’ve heard something from her. She’s much cuter than ever. And of course, those cosplayers that I’ve met from past events, but oh, I’m just so cruel to have forgotten their name when they remember mine! Kido ga hidoi!




And here’s another funny story. When I was watching the program, I took a seat in the front row. Suddenly I realized that the girl beside me kept smiling at me. Then she asked me, this is you right? She showed her mobile phone with my pic when I cosplayed Soujiro during the 1st UP-AME con. So I said “oh yeah, that’s me”. Then she showed another pic, this time I’m not cosplaying, just in my plain clothes. It was taken during the 2nd UP-AME event. Always in UP huh? Anyway, I felt guilty again that she remembered me, yet I never remember her. So this time, I took the initiative “hey let’s take a pic, so I won’t forget you hehehe”. And finally I asked for her name, well if it isn’t fate or something, her name’s Rachel hahaha! Now here’s the funny part, I asked her how old she is –I’ve been trying to identify the age range of my fandom hahaha-, and I was really surprised to hear that she was 21 already. Whoa! I thought you’re on you’re teens only, say 16-18… yeah I really thought. She just smiled. Then she asked me, “how about you?” – “oh, I’m 23” and then she and her little sister were even more shocked… they actually thought I was 12. Now that’s exaggerating. But it always happens… this is nothing new hehehe…

Going back to the event, we (my buddies) went off after the cosplay catwalk… we chat a little with friends… and headed to food court for a Pica-pica… yeah, by the way, I brought my co-staff, Neil with me. I’m glad to see that he had fun. And yeah, I was surprised when he took Mike and Paolo’s cell numbers, he’s such a loner in the office, so I’m glad to see that he’s making friends with my friends. And yeah, when we had our group pic, I realized that they’re all guys with me hahaha…well Jam was originally with us earlier, but she left a little early. Anyway, setting my personal frustrations aside, it’s worth coming… after all, this is TOY con we’re talking about.

wahaha, i can't believe that i actually had time to delete "unimportant" messages in my inbox... they have stayed long enough and they're probably the reason why i can't compose, forward and reply! Awww, my compose page is always on error-display! Even with another PC so i don't think the problem is in my PC...

good news, early this morning, i received a text message from Aish, she just informed me that Chris won the Best J-rock Cosplayer award! Way to go! He's really something when it comes to dressing up. I'm proud of my friend. Too bad i wasn't there to witness it... if i wasn't exhausted from our IQA outing, i may have considered coming... oh well, i'm sure there are more awards for him coming hehehe, hopefully i could be there... damn, i'm missing a lot.

It’s a Maundy Thursday… the start of a long rest for me, I’ll be back at work on April 18 na! but I have a meeting to attend on Monday and also I have to go to school to claim my class cards…. But I have 4 days to savor, yay! Anyways, my agenda for the loooooong weekend is to look for jobs (via net), watch anime vids, savor my collections –my toys hehehe-, sleep-sleep-sleep! What’s this National Cosplay Competition that I’ve read… organized by Otakuzine, Hero TV and Kenkyu Kai. Hmmm, a NATIONAL cosplay competition? I don’t like it…. I mean I don’t like the idea of cosplay and other J-culture stuffs going mainstream… oh well, I wish to join… if only I have the time, money and inspiration *sigh*

well more importantly, it's Holy Week... I must work on enhancing my spiritual life... meditate... reflect... ask for penance...

A Look at the Year 2005

One and a half hour to go and it’s the end of the year. The moment I’m doing this my nephew is watching the special yearend report of ABS-CBN. I just got home. I slept at my cousin’s house in Marikina. Also, while doing this, random BANG and BOOMS irritate my ear. Why, I really shouldn’t be irritated as it is a normal thing that happens in a year. While waiting for the opening of the year 2006, I’m pondering on the things that happened to me this year. As NASA quoted 2005 as the stormiest year for the past Nth year (I can’t remember), this year for me was probably was the most number significant events. The year where most unexpected occurrences took place. My busiest year ever (to date). Most productive and most spendthrift (for me)…well let’s have a wrap up…

Starting with work/career related issues. I got transferred from the President’s office as an Executive Assistant to Human Resource Division as an HR Staff for Recruitment. Admittedly, some perks as an Executive Assistant were gone, I lost a favorable charm from some members of the Senior Management, but I never regret my decision to transfer. It was only then that I felt having a purpose in the organization. I was able to recruit a batch of Staff Nurses and some of the position lacking. It was a really good performance for someone new in that field. But this year was also I decided to pursue Fine Arts studies. When I finally got the opportunity, I realized that I had to give up my position in HRD. It was really hard for me because for a very short time, I have learned to love my job, something I never did at the President’s Office for more than a year of my stay. But, this Fines Arts thing is a part of my dream and a step to go to Japan. And this Japan dream is my number one motivating force in world of professionals. I was ready to leave Manila Doctors. I decided to leave HR, but fortunately (I think it’s fate) The QM had one of its staff resigned unexpectedly, which initiated a possibility of placement for me. Which eventually I got in. Looking back, I still long for the fun that I had experienced as a recruitment specialist. But I also had fun as a QM Staff. I met a lot of people, particularly doctors. And the best part, despite the never-ending feud of the current and former QM Head, and the countless criticism and hindrances, we got the ISO certificate, simply put, the project was successful. And of course, as I have mentioned, I took a second course, Fine Arts. Going to school again wasn’t so easy, managing my time was really a challenge. And the sad part about it is that I had to sacrifice going home to the province and seeing my family. I also got isolated from my friends. But definitely I learned something and is still learning. Right now, I still couldn’t call myself a real artist, but with perseverance, I can be, if not good, a professional.

So much about my career moves, talk about family. A lot of members joined the Heavens, mostly the oldies. My grandmother passed away, just a few days after Pope John Paul II. It was one of the saddest event, but at the same time, we, the Alvarez clan were also happy that her sufferings have come to an end and she finally joined her most beloved, our Grandfather, and of course, God. Also, Cha-ibang, my grandma’s auntie and my cousin’s so-called mother in-law. I didn’t get to attend the internment of these old ladies because of my very busy schedule, but from the bottom of my heart, I prayed for their peaceful journey to the eternal life. If there are sad news, there are also good. This year, my dear cousin Jona got married. And next year, a new and lucky member of the Alvarez clan will be born. She’s 4 months pregnant now.

Now let’s get personal. Starting with my favorite hobby, anime, this is the year that I least watched new anime series/movies, again, all debited to my busy schedule. But, I made sure I attended major anime events and if possible, I join the Cosplay. This year, I cosplayed 3 different characters. Anime Explosion 2005 last February, I wore the Soujiro Seta costume for the 2nd time. 4th Toycon last June, I was Seguchi Tohma. I even had my hair blonde, which became very sensational both in school and office. I think it was the start of my very “pasaway” days. Though it only lasted for barely 2 weeks, I made sure I got a lot of souvenirs. I took as much pic as possible. And of course, the recent Hanep Hataw Hero con, I wore the ready-made Sasuke Uchiha costume, though it was still incomplete. I still have one more character to cosplay for this year, but I changed plans because of my unstoppable increase in weight. I still plan to cosplay for the next event and hopefully, I’d lessen my weight by that time. I’m sure this year was also remarkable for Chris and Aish, for last UP-AME event last November, they won 3rd place in the cosplay competition. They cosplayed the Loveless couple Ritsuka and Soubi. This year, I also got hooked with books. It originated when I was looking for a birthday gift for a very special person last June, but as I browsed through various bookstores, I found some titles interesting, and it was the start of my book hunting habits. Right now, I’m fascinated with the novels of Laura Joh Rowland, in fact, I’m currently reading her first book “Shinju” while I am happy to receive her latest novel “Perfume in the Sleeve” in our recent Christmas party. Videos, I didn’t acquire much, but I’m satisfied that I was able to have and watch Full Metal Alchemist, Tsubasa Chronicles, Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children, and the Otaku No Video. Toys, I’m glad that slowly, I’m completinng my toys wishlist. All thanks to this Christmas Sale, some RK figures have slashed prices by 50%. Though I never got to see those first ever Kenshin figures, I’m still crossing fingers that I’d still find one in the future. And of course, I finally got a laptop.

There are still so many things that happened that I lost count of them already... Ans some things are better kept secret, so i guess this would be all.

Right now, it’s 1:08 AM in my PC. Which means it’s already 2006. I don’t know what awaits me. But I hope that everything would be alright, for me, my family, friends…. And for YOU… HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Yay! It’s the last working day of the year! I walked early this morning at Baywalk again. Have to start my weight reducing intervention again. I also had my haircut today, and it feels really light… that’s better now.

I was surprised when Jason called me this morning asking if I’m in the office. He went here just to give his Christmas gift for me. Awww, I was so touched. I thought he had removed my name on his “list” already. It has also been a while since we’ve seen each other… anyway he gave me a set of Naruto key chains.

Tomorrow I’ll be seeing Sherry and Sri, we’ll probably just eat and talk… I missed them a lot. The last time we’ve been together was more than a year. They both have “koibitos” already and I’m being left out *sigh*. But I’m getting excited to see them already, especially Sri, since I see her more rarely than Sherry.

I feel bad that I don’t have any Christmas gift for my friends, especially those who gave me something… as much as I want to give, I’m broke and it’s also almost impossible to see them at once. 2 days to go and it’s another year. I hope this coming year would be a charming one for me…

Last December 27 was our Christmas party, I was one of the Emcee together with Gel and Dr. Hogar. I wore my favorite costume, Soujiro, minus the white polo. Instead, I sported a black shirt. The party was supposed to be "costume themed" but my colleagues are so hard-headed that i was the only one in costume. Oh never mind, I was happy to wear my Souji costume anyway. The party was really a blast. We all had fun, and we laughed all through out the event hehehe. It turned out to be a comedy bar... I'll post pictures soon. For the meantime, enjoy the last glimpse of KiD for this year (",x)

It’s part 9:00 in the evening and I’m alone in the office. Next week is the Christmas and break and I’m getting excited already. There are lots of videos lined up for me to watch. Tsubasa Chronicles is a top priority. I’m already at episode 19 and I’m really enjoying the series, but not as much as the I did with the manga. Well I’ll try not to critic, anime versions always have their own appeal and edge. I'm still yearning for their CCS character… the bratty Shaoran and Genki Sakura… well have to be reminded that it is not CCS! And the voice dear lord the voice… *sigh* anyways, I’m so happy I finally got a copy of Otaku No Video! Yay, I haven’t scanned the video but I’m already getting excited to watch it hehehe.

Con updates, I’m not sure anymore if I could still come to Otaku Zine Fest. Definitely I’m not cosplaying, I lost motivation because of my uncontrollable gaining of weight *sigh* I can’t afford to dress up as Subaru when my weight is 114 lbs! Shame on you kid! What excites me is my former school’s alumni homecoming on the same date as the Otaku Zine Fest (Dec. 18), I was looking forward to see my batchmates, I’m just worried that there’s a big chance that many are not coming… it’s so hard to motivate busy people to come to such events… I’m busy too, but I’m really eager to see them… I just want to relive those days when I’m still a college student. Hey, I’m still a college student! Hehehe, kidding aside, I miss my college friends, my classmates...

It’s Sunday alright, what am I doing here in the office? Well, unfortunate events happen you know. Yesterday, while at the “kAME Ulit Intercollegiate Anime Fair”, I had my stomach screaming in pain, okay that’s exaggerated, but the pain was really intolerable that I decided to go to MDH and have myself check. I was taken at the emergency room. It was unfortunate because I didn’t get to finish the event and hang out at Chris’ place, but I’d rather call it a blessing in disguise, for I got to now people who truly care for me. Mike, despite the several months that we haven’t seen each other and the rare communications, was still caring for me as ever. He accompanied me to the hospital until I’m okay. Dr. Dindee Hogar, went all the way from her house to the hospital, to watch over me. She slept here in the hospital, I know how busy she was (we call her Dr. Haggard hehehe) but she had the time to accompany me. I was really touched. And of course my boss Ma’am She and our NP Coordinator Ma’am Len, they were in a strat planning in Antipolo, but they were so concerned and helped me in anyway they can (they called Dr. Hogar). Well what do you know, the ER officer-on-duty said that it was just APD (hyperacidity) hehehe. I had CBC and urinalysis, all the results were normal. Whew! Anyway, for these people who were very concerned about me, thank you so much (“,x)…

Now, with my update on the recent UPAME Fair, it was really a blast. I got there without the hassle of falling in-line and registering because of my advance ticket, which I bought last HERO event. When I got in, I saw bunch of cosplayers already. Man, it was only then that I realized how big this event was because there were really vast nmber of cosplayers, the last number I could remember was 170+. The Naruto Cospalyers were still dominant, but had subsided compared to the HERO event. This time it’s raining Tifa Lockhart hahaha! The Aerith cosplayer I met at HERO event cosplayed Tifa this time. Chris and Aish went with their Loveless couple cosplay, they were really cute and I’m proud to announce that they won 3rd place! These two hot people have a long way to go hehehe. It was really notable that the anime characters from different anime varied greatly this time. The group cosplay was also great, there were the X, TRC, FMA, Naruto, and Robert Wong’s group (I don’t know what anime they are from, but they are in armors again) are some of the groups I could remember. I gave my salute to all the cosplayers! They all did a good job. There were also more number of booths and freebies compared to last year. The “kAME Ulit” was really a success. I’d give it a rating of 8 out of 10 (because I didn’t finish the event and I didn’t get to cosplay hehehe)

Now on some side-stories, I feel glad that I have established myself (even just a little) in the anime community. There were young girls who took pic of me even though I didn’t cosplay, they recognized me as Soujiro, yay! Way to go Seta-kun! I also saw Kara’s friends, I feel bad that I didn’t recognize them, if they didn’t tell me that they were friends of Kara, I wouldn’t know. I have a bad memory, shame on Kid! Anyway, I’ll try to be more retentive with people’s faces. But I knew that they were Jamie and Berna. Of course there was Maui-chan whom I haven’t seen for a log time. Anyways, all this young girls I have mentioned are all fans of Soujiro Seta. I really thank Seta-kun, I met a lot of nice people because of him hehehe. I miss wearing his costune, someday I’ll wear it again I promise…

Another cute story, when I got in, the very first person I saw was Mido Ban, and it was really timely because I have to give him the Initial D DVD which Nagi handed to me when we met the night before the event. We talked very shortly, then only a few seconds after we parted, Lee texted me that Mido Ban is not coming hahaha! Very funny, last year on the same event, these three people went in UP together. This time, I sense a gap between them. I might be wrong… but I miss their tandem. And besides, if there’s anyone in this community I’d want to talk to, it’s Mido Ban… because there are so many things I want to ask him. But maybe, it’s best not to…

Okay, that’d be all for now, I can’t think of anything to say now. Oh yeah, it’s a holiday tomorrow, but we have a field trip for our History of Arts 2 class so I’ll be out tomorrow. My cousin Jona will be coming back to the place were renting, it’ll be a congestive sleeping life for me again but nevertheless I’m very happy. (“,x)

I can breath now....

Haay, it’s been a while eh?! I’ve been very busy the last few days. I never got the chance to tell what happened last November 13 at the Hero TV day event. I went on with my cosplay plan as Uchiha Sasuke. Man it’s raining Sasuke (and other Naruto cosplayers) there. I think I spotted 6 or 7 Sasuke, including myslef *sigh* and it’s kinda intimidating because I didn’t get to furnish my costume… first I don’t have the bandage on my lower hind limbs. Then I don’t have the Uchiha clan logo at the back of my shirt. Lastly, I don’t have enough props, I was only able to buy the kunai at the Comic Alley booth… I don’t have shurikens… but one thing I could say, I am a bishie Sasuke hehehe. The Sasuke who won the “most accurate” award was also bishonen, and he's my favorite sasuke cosplayer hehehe (see pics). Another thing, it’s raining bishonen cosplayer hehehe… the female Naruto cosplayer, the black Sasuke (both female), my favorite Sasuke(his real name is miguel)… and of course my favorite cosplayer, Kadaj! His name is Michael Chua, he’s so cute, and he definitely has a lot of fans there hehehe. He was a finalist on the first day of the event. It’s kinda new for me to go on an event and join the cosplay without my friends with me, but I went on just fine and i'm thankful that i'm starting to overcome my stage fright. And contrary to what Chris had told me last Saturday, I enjoyed HERO TV day. My only regret was that I didn’t get to register as a member of HERO TV club or whatever that is. Attendees are required to register otherwise they can’t enter the event. But being a cosplayer gave me the privilege of passing the back entrance (exclusive for cosplayers and organizers) without going through the process for regular attendees. And being alone in this event left me no choice but to mingle with other cosplayers which I actually enjoyed. I roamed and roamed around, had pics with other cosplayers. I bought a personalized souvenir badge pin at Comic Alley booth, advance ticket for UPAME fair on Nov. 26, and of course the Kunai. I didn’t get to eat lunch, the food were expensive although they don’t look like they would pass my taste buds hehehe. I also got a Sasuke keychain (freebies for cosplayers)… the event finished at around 5:00 PM. Then I headed back to office…

*sigh* our ISO Certification audit was the next day (Monday) so I had to work. The last three days, were the longest days I’ve been awake, I’m working for STRAIGHT 24 hours! Then I’d sleep for 2-3 hours, then work again…. Man I was really really exhausted. And now the audit is over, I can have longer sleep again, whew… and I can go back to school, yay, I’ve been absent for one week already, damn I have to catch up! The good news, our Hospital will be certified!!!! Whooot!!!! After so many sleepless nights! I’m so happy that our efforts paid off. But it isn’t time to fully celebrate, we have 4 minor NCs to close, which I know my boss can take care of hehehe. What I’m looking forward now is the UPAME fair, because I intend to push through with my Subaru plans. I’ll just have to decide which of Subaru’s outfit would I wear hehehe. I heard that there’ll be group cosplayers of X and Tsubasa Chronicles, I hope it’s true, can’t wait to mingle with them, after all, Subaru appeared in both series hehehe. Yay, it’ll be raining CLAMP!

I'm posting some of my Sasuke pics now, enjoy! (",x)

SASUKE at HERO TV day 2

2nd sem!

haay, it's the start of 2nd semester... back to cramming... expect that i'd get tanned again. I still got the same sched, except that my sundays would be free, because my NSTP's Prof remarked "dropped" in my class card hehehe... no big deal really... it's a good thing that i'd get 1 of my rest day back hehehe. The important thing is that i passed my major subjects. =)

I noticed that our class had reduced, then i learned from FA dept. head that around 40% of my classmates has not yet enrolled yet... if they have plans of enrolling, then that'd be just fine. If not, i feel sorry for them. I didn't see Emard. He's one of the outstanding FA students we got, I hope he won't stop this sem... it happens a lot, students dropping school due to financial reasons.

I have to say, I missed my classmates especially my 'yoyo' buddy, Mark. I'm happy to see them again and it feels good to be in school again hehehe... but this means more hectc days to come (damn, i didn't even feel i had a break!)

well, great news, 2 Anime events coming for this month! I already knew about the UPAME event on Nov. 26 but the Hero TV on Nov. 12-13 was such a short notice, or was i just too busy to read the notice hehehe... Damn! I wanted to cosplay Subaru Sumeragi so badly but i really have no time. I only have sasuke as my ace, good thing i bought his costume... but i still don't know if i'll make it. Most probably i could attend, but cosplay, my mind was set on Nov. 26 event... we'll see

Ah, good news, I asked for reservation for the Roy Mustang figure at SM Manila Toy department hehehe, i told the sales crew that i'd get it on Thurs! Can't wait to claim it! Also, I'm so happy to see another Laura Joh Rowland title at Book Mags! What a good start for the 2nd sem! Hope this goes on and on ^-^x

By the way, 12 hours to go and my cousin is getting married! Kanpai for Jona and Bong!!!!

It’s 12:25 am and I’m still here in the office. Just finished producing DRRF for QMS documents. I don’t want to bother explaining what are those, they’re not interesting anyway, I just feel good I’ve done my work haay. I’m so tired.

Yesterday, I slept past 1:00 in the morning doing my plates and I woke up before 6 to continue… and I’m so happy I’ve finally submitted my final plates for my 4 major subjects. 2 more to go *sigh* but it felt good being “unloaded”… and that damn boring Typography is a major dilemma for me! I thought I’m gonna die.

We did a face casting, imagine my face plastered! Hay, the first try was a disaster, I think some plaster of Paris entered my ears… gosh if something happens to me as a result of this face cast, I don’t know what I’ll do =’(.

By the way I bought a Sasuke costume, and it’s really cool. I bought it so I can have a “back-up” just in case I don’t get to push through with Subaru (due to lack of time to look for accessories) Damn it costed me P1850… guess I’ll just have to defer buying the Roy Mustang toy =’(…

Jona’s wedding is on November 8, and I heard that I’ll be her maid of honor *ahem* it’s just a rumor, I haven’t confirm it from her… gosh, I think I’m gonna cry on her wedding day… come to think of it, we’ve been together for so long. Starting from college, we took entrance exams together, made it to scholarship together, graduate together, and even work together (in both companies I’ve been!) and we live together in a room we’re renting right now. And it’s been almost 2 weeks that she’s not coming home, she’s staying at her boyfriend’s place… and this time, I really miss her, and I’m sure I’m gonna be missing her…

aww, my hair sucks! I badly need a haircut, next week, it’s a must! And I need to lessen eating!

I'M GEARED!

I finally got a Naruto headgear! I redeemed it from Quantum SM Manila, for 300 tickets! Yeah, I am now a… uhm… genin hehehe… honestly, I know so little of Naruto. I’ve only seen the first 7 episodes and read the pilot manga *sigh* I know this series is really hot among anime fans and I liked it but I just don’t have the time to watch it. Anyways, the headgear is really cool. I wear it in the office every night ever since I got it and my boss and colleagues here really find me weird… well they should get used with me doing weird stuff like this hehehe.

I feel sad, I miss Killua-chan sooooo much! All this time it’s still you... if you only knew what i'm going through...

Anyways, on a happier side, I’m gong to the L`arc~en~ciel Phis. Fans club launching this Sunday and I’m excited to see my friends--Aish and Chris again. I miss them so much! It's been a while that we haven't hang out together.Well I shouldn’t get too excited, I have to constantly remind myself that I have too many requirements in school to complete! Anyway, I’ll make sure I’ll complete them all! Gambarimasu!

Okay, okay i know i GAINED weight... don't remind me... it gets more depressing =`(... but that won't be for long because I had finally decided a character to cosplay... so now i'm motivated to control my apetite! Yay! This cosplay plan should push through or I'll be force to treat Yoji to Teriyaki Boi and order that "limited edition" Kobe beef >.<

Today is my eldest brother's birthday -- Richard! Happy birthday bro! *muah*

till next time, ja ne! (",x)

It’s a cloudy day! I wish it’s always like this so I don’t have to ride PUVs on my way to office from school. I love walking. When I walk, I tend to be more observant on the things around me. I get to see the scenes on the streets, longer than I would if I’m on a moving vehicle. I get to burn those unnecessary calories (yay!). And most important of all, I get to save money!

Anyway, I’m really loaded with assignments. Tonight I’ll have to finish 2 plates for Typography. Last night I did a portrait of myself using watercolor. I suck… but wash technique is fun! I have decided! I want to specialize in watercolor!

Change topic, waaah, I’m full. I just ate some chips and my tummy is screaming out of my pants! This is bad, I’m not inspired to cosplay any character as of the moment, thus, keeping me demotivated to control my appetite. The latest anime I’ve seen so far is Tsubasa Chronicles.. I’ve only seen episode 1-4… honestly, I feel a little frustrated. It didn’t justify the manga as I expected. Maybe in the later episodes… it’s still a good thing that it was animated… seeing various characters of CLAMP from various series, pooled together with different character in a whole new different environment being animated. Their trademark characters are still prevalent. Sorata and Arashi for example, though the setting is different, the way their bonding was portrayed is exactly the same as how it was portrayed in X. Touya’s feelings toward Sahaoran ididn’t change either. I’m hoping that the Nokoru, Akira and Suoh would appear in anime too. In X, they appeared from time to time in the manga but not in anime. How frustrating… Anyway, I’m going too far, going back to my appetite, I’m really having a hard time to control it… Especially when I see a Nacho King stand in a mall, I just can’t resist it. Waahhhh!