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Jax Place
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Friday, October 31, 2003
convictions and new reading list
Nothing in life is certain. One minute, you may be on the top of the world. The next minute, you can be down in the dumps. One minute, you can be the head of the biggest company in the world. The next, you can be scouring the wanted ads for a new job. We can never really know what life has in store for us. Life is never predictable and never certain.

Except for one. God.

I am certain that God is there and will always be there, for me, and for all of us, if we want Him to. I am a baptized Catholic Christian. I was raised by a Catholic family. I studied in an exclusive girls' Catholic school and went to a Jesuit university. But I never really understood my Catholic faith until my senior year in college, 21 years later.

It all started with a retreat that I joined at the end of my senior year. It opened my eyes ever since and answered all my questions and gave me a true peace of mind. It was what I have been looking for all my life. It's true what they say. You don't have to look far for what you're looking for because chances are, they're right there, in front of you.

It's been a year and half since then and everyday has been a test from God. And I think I passed everyday because I thought of nothing but please Him and do what He wanted. I used to live my life selfishly. But now, I try to live my life for Him. I say try because I'm still trying to work on it. Everyday is still a test because I am still weak and there are times that I can give in to temptation easily.

But I'll never leave my faith now. Now that I've experienced true peace of mind, a positive and loving life and a true appreciation for the most important things in life.

I love life! And I love God!

***

I stumbled upon this link (yeah right, more like searched for it) that lists the Top 100 Books of the 20th Century. The list looks promising and looking through it, I realize that I've read some of it, like Pearl S. Buck's Good Earth, William Faulkner's Light in August, E.M. Forster's Howard's End, Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises and Edith Wharton's Age of Innocence.

And this is Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles, Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, LM Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables and Helen Fielding's Bridget Jones's Diary.

Well, it looks like my list of books to buy suddenly increased in great proportions. How's yours?

I leave you now with so many ideas on what books to buy or ask for Christmas as I leave for Tagaytay tomorrow morning to go to another Halloween party. Isn't Halloween so much fun?

I'll be back on Monday.

Take care everyone!
posted by Jax @ 7:38:00 AM   0 comments
Thursday, October 30, 2003
Am I Stella?
I am currently writing a sort of mystery piece for a writing support group that I am a part of.

Yes that's right.

I am trying to write once again.

After weeks of unsuccessfully trying to get my writing groove back, I think I'm now on the right track. I just hope this will continue and not dwindle again after a few weeks.

After all, I have two books, one script and several essays to write.

***

Mandy Moore's coming to town for a solo concert!

But ticket prices are truly high! The cheapest that I can get is at P1240, and that's the Upper B section of the Araneta Coliseum already!

Check out the other ticket prices here.

***

If you can't see the ocho ocho image here, go to this.

And no, Dawna, that's not me doing the ocho-ocho. I wish I can do it. But I can't.

I'm gonna practice though until I can do it.

Hehe.
posted by Jax @ 9:07:00 PM   0 comments
realizations






ocho ocho!

***

I am getting back to my cheezy ways.

Yes, I am watching telenovelas once again. I am watching Darating Ang Umaga again. I am watching Meteor Garden Season 2 again. Goodness.

***

I'm 22 years old (23 in 6 days!) and you know what I noticed? To quote Nicoffeine, I'm becoming an old fart way ahead of schedule.

Lately, I found myself drawn to the music "old farts" love. Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Nina Simone. I found myself drawn to music people my age would deem boring. I even found myself drawn to movies that were made decades before I was even born.

My point? Nothing. I just wanted to visualize my realization: that I'm becoming an old fart 30 years early.

***

But in the tradition of Nick Hornby and High Fidelity (have you guys read this? one of the coolest books ever!),

my first five songs for videoke

1. Di Ba't Ikaw - Jessa Zaragoza
2. Sometimes - Britney Spears
3. The Actor - Michael Learns to Rock
4. Please Mr. Postman - The Carpenters
5. Karma Chameleon - Culture Club

These five songs are dedicated to my ever-so-adoring fans, Nicoffeine, Gulo and Yya.

(Favorite songs are not really meant to be sung at a videoke bar. When in a videoke bar, the cheezier the song, the better!)

***

I just saw the teaser for the new Chinovela of ABS-CBN, Girls Marching On. It looks fun and I probably have something new to watch.

And then I saw the date.

And then I realized.

Is Tabing Ilog over?

Haha!

***

And in the tradition of Friendster, here is another survey. *big grin*

1. WHAT'S THE STORY BEHIND YOUR NAME?
i was named after an angel, a Charlie's Angel, Jaclyn Smith.

2. NAME FIVE [5] OF YOUR FAVORITE PIG-OUT FOODS.
Mikasan choco flakes, Oreos, Nescafe Hazelnut Frothe

3. HAVE YOU EVER HAD A MAKEOVER?
no. dang.

4. NAME ALL MEMBERS OF THE BEATLES.
John, Paul, George and Ringo.

5. WHAT'S THE LONGEST TIME YOU'VE STAYED OUT OF THE COUNTRY/WHERE?
the US I think. stayed there for about 2 months.

6. ONE THING YOU'RE GRATEFUL FOR, TODAY.
Halloween. I love buying candies for the trick-or-treaters!

7. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY?
everything that includes my barkada and 3-4-2

8. WHAT IS THE MOST INSANE THING YOU'VE DONE FOR/TO YOUR CRUSH THAT HE/SHE MIGHT NOT/MIGHT KNOW ABOUT?
oh he knows. thats all im gonna say.

9. DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM WEDDING.
ill have it either at caleruega or at the Shrine sa may Bay Gardens sa Roxas Blvd. ill have a filipiniana theme. with men wearing barongs and the ladies in my entourage wearing baro't sayas. there'll be pina sashes everywhere. no sampaguitas. daisies probably. something simple. motif: white and gold? i dont know yet. but it'll be pure and simple so white will still be there. haven't thought too much about it yet. all i know is i want a filipiniana theme.

10. WOULD YOU EVER JOIN TEMPTATION ISLAND?
nope.

11. NAME THREE [3] TEACHERS YOU LIKED IN HIGH SCHOOL/ELEMENTARY.
Nanay Dette Windsor, Miss Paguio, Sir Dennis/Sir Dante


12. DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE QUOTE? WHAT IS IT?
"Why settle for second best when you can have more?"
"Kung gusto, maraming paraan. Kung ayaw, maraming dahilan."

13. MY FIRST HEARTBREAK HAPPENED WHEN I:
i dont want to analyze.

14. THE SCHOOL PICTURE YOU BURIED IN YOUR BOTTOM DRAWER?
i dont have any school pictures buried in my bottom drawer. the school pictures that i wanna forget are scattered all over my room but i only like looking at my HS and college pictures. forget about my GS pictures.

15. DO YOU HAVE ANY WEIRD PREFERENCES? WHAT ARE THEY?
i dont know. do i have any?

16. WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WILL NEVER UNDERSTAND ABOUT THE OPPOSITE SEX?
um, men?

17. WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND?
TBC.

18. NAME ONE TV CHARACTER YOU'D MOST WANT TO BE.
Buffy.

19. IF YOU WERE FAMOUS, AND WERE TO BE A GUEST ON A TALK SHOW, WHOSE SHOW WOULD YOU CHOOSE? WHY?
Oprah. Sure fire way to promote my new book. Because Oprah will buy copies of my book for everyone in her audience. Instant profit! Hehe.

20. GIVE YOURSELF A PORN STAR NAME.
I have na. Buttercup Tenderbuns. Hehe.

21. DO YOU HAVE ANY WEIRD SLEEPING HABITS?
I have to be surrounded by pillows.

22. WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO DO THIS SUMMER?
Leave for the US finally.

23. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG RIGHT NOW?
"I'll Start With Me" by Alice Peacock and "Englishman in NY" by Sting (I think)

24. WRITE A LINE FROM ANY SONG.
"I'm in love with the world through the eyes of a girl" - Say Yes by Elliott Smith

25. DO YOU KNOW AT LEAST ONE DISNEY SONG BY HEART? WHICH ONE?
I used to know the songs from Beauty and the Beast and Little Mermaid by heart. Pero that was a long time ago. Now, siguro Part of Your World na lang.

26. DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM HOUSE.
Traditional Pinoy pa rin with pinoy (i.e. wooden) furniture with two requirements: a big big backyard for my kids and a big theater for my movie viewing pleasure

27. YOUR TYPICAL SLEEPWEAR:
shorts and shirt

28. WHAT'S IN YOUR BAG?
My wallet, mobile phone, chapstick, lipstick, compact, mint candies, tissue, Gatsby, calling cards, rosary, ballpen, small notebook

29. WHAT'S IN YOUR WALLET?
cash plus coins, some IDs, pictures, receipts and papers

30. HOW MUCH MONEY DO YOU HAVE IN YOUR WALLET RIGHT NOW?
70 pesos, plus around 30 pesos worth of coins

31. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PAIR OF SHOES?
my brown calf-length boots I bought in the US for $75 and my brown midlength boots that I also bought in the US for $59. A bit expensive but both are worth every penny! I do everything in them and they go with all of my clothes!

32. IF YOU COULD'VE GONE TO YOUR PROM IN A DIFFERENT OUTFIT, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
The gown I wore during my graduation ball.

33. HOW WAS YOUR PROM?
boring. but my grad ball was a blast!

34. TELL US ABOUT ANY OF YOUR BIRTHDAYS.
its the day i get a year older. and that days coming up soon.

35. WOULD YOU RATHER BE A HOBBIT, AN ELF OR A DWARF?
elf. they're so beautiful and swift and elegant and wise.

36. WHAT ARE THE FIRST FIVE THINGS YOU WOULD SPLURGE ON IF YOU WERE A BILLIONAIRE?
dvds, books, music CDs, clothes, donate to my favorite charities

37. WHAT IS YOUR DAILY BEFORE-GOING-TO-BED RITUAL?
brush my teeth, wash my face, apply mask on my face, read a book, take off the mask, put my mobile on silent mode, sleep

38. WHAT IS THE WEIRDEST/FUNNIEST NICKNAME ANYONE HAS EVER CALLED YOU?
Karla used to call me Jackalope in grade school. Even til now. Ida calls me Jackloyd.

39. NAME THREE [3] OF YOUR FAVORITE CARTOON CHARACTERS.
Donkey (Shrek), Spike (Land Before Time), Maggie (The Simpsons)

40. WHAT ARE THE MAGAZINES YOU READ ON A REGULAR BASIS?
Press, Yes (hehe. chismosa), Kerygma, Tinig.com
posted by Jax @ 5:27:00 AM   0 comments
Wednesday, October 29, 2003
reflections and excitement
In exactly a week's time, I am turning one year older. That's so freaky.

Reflections on it next week, on the exact date.

***

My worst nightmare has come true.

Yes.

I, Jax, has developed a crush on Vic Zhou, the guy who plays Hua Tze Lei in Meteor Garden.

Oh goodness.

(It's not my worst nightmare but I never thought this would happen.)





He's still kind of cute. But I don't like his stance.

But he's got a great smile. And I'm such a sucker for guys with great smiles.

***

Mandy Moore's coming to town! She's coming here for the MTV Music Summit on November 21. I wanna go!

***

For those concerned, updates about Elliott Smith:

*Fate Of Unreleased Elliott Smith Album To Be Decided By Family
*Elliott Smith still plays in the background
*FLAMING LIPS STAR REMEMBERS ELLIOTT SMITH
*Elliott Smith: A Fond Farewell
*Elliott Smith Tribute Show Scheduled
*Beck for Elliott Smith tribute gig
*Elliott Smith Memorial Concert Planned
*Elliott Smith: In his own words
*Elliott Smith, sharp yet sweet



posted by Jax @ 7:42:00 AM   0 comments
Monday, October 27, 2003
News, Better News, Other News and Halloween!
Chief Justice vows to "fight all the way"

If you're in the Philippines, then you probably know what this is about. Yesterday, Former Philippine President Cory Aquino lead the pro-Davide rally yesterday at the Batasan Complex to pressure the congressmen to withdraw the complainst against Supreme Court Chief Justice Hilario Davide, Jr.

In life, you have to have someone you can look up to. That someone can inspire you to aspire for better things and work for it. For me, one of them is him, Supreme Court Chief Justice Hilario Davide, Jr. There are few people in this world, and even fewer people in the government, that you know is a good person and you can trust. Davide is one of those people. I support Davide and I believe him, just as I believe that these congressmen who have filed a complaint against him don't know what they're doing.

For more information about the case, you can read the following:

*Davide's faith hinges on one word: initiate
*The best laid plots

***

In better news, Alice Peacock is coming here to Manila for a promo tour! She'll be here from November 2 to 10. She'll be having a show at the Rockwell Tent on November 7 and at the Podium at November 8. Wanna come? Leave me a comment!

***

In other news, I heard Maksim is also coming here for a promo tour the same time Alice Peacock is going to be here. But I can't confirm it yet.

***

Halloween is just around the corner. And I've got my costume all ready! I'll be spending it in Tagaytay though. I already bought candies for the kids. I think I got a little excited though since I just threw everything I thought kids would like in the basket I was holding. Good thing my sister-in-law was there and she told me what the kids really liked. If not, I would have given the kids the candies that I liked as a kid.

What about you? What's your costume gonna be this year?

***

Have you guys seen the new TVCs at ABS-CBN? I love the TVC about variety shows. They were doing the otso otso! Haha! Bayani's dance is so famous now. I mean, I was watching Tanghalang Pilipino's version of Merchant of Venice last month and there was a part there were the cast started dancing the otso otso. And a couple of weeks ago, I watched a Dulaang UP play and since it was a musical, dancing was involved. And guess what? Yup. The dancers were dancing the otso otso.

It's such a funny dance! Bayani wasn't in the TVC but Gary Valenciano was and he was dancing the otso otso, too! The whole TVCs just a riot!
posted by Jax @ 11:07:00 PM   0 comments
Friday, October 24, 2003
A Letter to Elliott Smith
It's been 17 hours since I heard about your death, Elliott Smith. Where are you now? Are you with Him? Why did you go, Elliott Smith? Your music took me away from that disillusion called pop. I was hypnotized and you took out my blank stare. Every person who has heard your music is mourning your loss now. You had great music and you had great words.

But I realized that we must be grateful because before you left this world, you shared with us your words through the great music that you sung.

Thank you, Elliott Smith. For the words.

It's my birthday soon and I want to do something that involves you and your music. Maybe I'll give everyone a copy of your CD so they can experience firsthand your great music. Maybe I'll force DJs to play your songs every hour simultaneuosly so that they can't escape you. Maybe I'll go around the Metro with a speaker on top of my car and play your songs so that everyone I pass on the street will hear you.

Thank you, Elliott Smith. For the music.

Goodnight, Elliott Smith. Until we meet again.

R.I.P Elliott Smith (1969-2003)

***

Some sites that feature tributes for and news about Elliott Smith.

*Death and the Songwriter
*Friends, Peers Mourn Elliott Smith
*Elliott Smith, 34, Rock Songwriter and Singer, Dies
*Elliott Smith Remembered
*R.I.P. Elliott Smith
*Elliott Smith, 1969-2003: Found fame in 'Good Will Hunting
*Goodbye, Mr. Smith
*New York in Reverse, Elliott Smith's idea of heaven was modest, like everything else about the songwriter
*10 Reasons Why Elliott Smith Was Cool
*Elliott Smith on NME.com

***

Before his death, he was working on his newest album, From A Basement On The Hill, which was set from completion later this year. No word yet regarding the release of this.
posted by Jax @ 12:23:00 AM   0 comments
Thursday, October 23, 2003
Elliott Smith
This is devastating.

Good singers are hard to come by. And great singers are even rare.

One of my favorite singers, Elliott Smith, has died at the age of 34 from a self-inflicted wound to the chest.

I am devastated.

As a tribute to him and his great songs, I am listening to his songs right now.

Goodbye, Elliott Smith. You are missed.
posted by Jax @ 7:07:00 AM   0 comments
Wednesday, October 22, 2003
FPJ Rants
I woke up near lunchtime this morning and, after taking a shower, I went downstairs to grab some coffee and read through the newspaper. The headline today caught my attention. I was appalled. How could this be? It should be an easy decision for him: DON'T RUN!

This is disturbing. I can't think. Therefore I will answer another brainless survey. Well actually, even if today's headlines were different, I'd still answer the survey. :)

1. IF YOU COULD BUILD YOUR HOUSE ANYWHERE, WHERE WOULD IT BE? nice, france or stratford-upon-avon, england

2. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ARTICLE OF CLOTHING? my trusty boots

3. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PHYSICAL FEATURE OF THE OPPOSITE SEX? smile

4. WHAT'S THE LAST CD THAT YOU BOUGHT? bought by me? Alice Peacock

5. WHERE'S YOUR FAVORITE LACE TO BE? anywhere as long as i have my coffee and staring out into nothing.

6. WHERE'S YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PLACE TO BE? waiting room. i hate waiting

7. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO BE MASSAGED? back. im an "old lady". my back always troubles me.

8. WHAT'S MOST IMPORTANT,STRONG IN MIND OR STRONG IN BODY? both would be good but i like a strong mind better


9. WHAT TIME DO YOU WAKE IN THE MORNING? depends what time i sleep. but i usually wake up between 8 and 9 am

10. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE TV SHOW? friends

11. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE KITCHEN APPLIANCE? coffee machine

12. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY? doing anything and everything with my cousins

13. WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH? anything and everything. it's quite easy to make me laugh

14. WHAT MAKES YOU REALLY ANGRY? when people mix up what they said so they can blame me

15. IF YOU COULD PLAY ANY INSTRUMENT WHAT WOULD IT BE? drums

16. FAVORITE RESTAURANT/CAFE/EATERY? bizu. i love their desserts! i love coffee bean and tea leaf for their coffee.

17. SCARIEST MOMENT OF YOUR LIFE? during my "depressed state" last year

18. IF THERE WAS A MOVIE MADE ABOUT YOU, WHAT CURRENT/FORMER HOLLYWOOD STAR WOULD PLAY YOU? angelina jolie! haha! seriously? i think hilary swank

19. DO YOU BELIEVE IN AFTERLIFE? yeah.

20. FAVORITE CHILDREN'S BOOK? a wrinkle in time and charlie and the chocolate factory

21. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON? spring (if im somewhere else), wet season (when im in the phils)

22. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE HOUSEHOLD CHORE? cooking. because i cant.

23. IF YOU COULD HAVE ONE SUPER POWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE? phoebe halliwell's power: the power of premonition. or piper's: power to freeze time

24. IF YOU HAVE A TATTOO, WHAT IS IT? i used to have a henna tattoo of a sun on the back of my right hand. i dont have any permanent ones.

25. WHO WAS YOUR FIRST LOVE AND AT WHAT AGE? God. 21.

26. THE SONG YOU WISHED YOU HAD WRITTEN? 1000 Beautiful Things by Annie Lennox, Say Goodnight by Beth Nielsen Chapman

27. DO YOU PREFER CATS OR DOGS? dogs

28. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DAY? friday

29. WHAT IS ONLY ONE WORD DESCRIBE YOURSELF? ironic.
posted by Jax @ 3:13:00 AM   0 comments
Tuesday, October 21, 2003
Bush, Keys and Happy Times
US President George Bush came to the Philippines for a visit last Saturday, October 18, 2003. The purpose of the visit: I have no idea. I do not agree with Bush about anything. And I cannot find any reason to respect him as a president. After his visit here, any respect I have left for PGMA are gone. Along with countless other Filipinos here in the Philippines. She can kiss her dreams of winning Philippine presidency next year goodbye.

And, if she won next year, we'll definitely know that it was luto, that it was planned.

***

My keyboards are whiter now. And they should be. I spent 45 minutes cleaning every single key, every single crack, the whole thing. I can't believe I let it get that dirty. Dang!

***

I'm still in a funk right now. I haven't written anything that I want to in days. Well, except for the posts in this blog.

***

On a happier note, I'm meeting up with some college friends on Thursday. Brunch with some and snack with another. It's been so long since I've been with these friends. And I'm finally meeting up with them! Yey!
posted by Jax @ 2:37:00 AM   0 comments
Monday, October 20, 2003
Musings, Baguio, Superblessed, Alice Peacock and ABCs
Sometimes I wonder if I'm calling myself a Catholic for granted. I seem to find myself working hard to keep my faith. But then I remember that nothing in life is easy. And it is true. We have to work hard to get what we want. Being Catholic and believing in God takes a lot of patience but I am willing to do anything for Him. He is my God and I love Him so much! I'm really glad that I came back to Him.

***

I came back from Baguio yesterday afternoon. Baguio was so fun! And so cold! Bought choco flakes and ube jam again! Yum yum! And I bought this amazing skirt from ukay-ukay for only P80! Amazing! Oh and I saw three college friends there. What's funny about it was that we never saw each other in Manila. We always texted each other but can never seem to meet up. We saw each other sa Camp John Hay while shopping. It was so good to see them. Hope we can meet up again soon.

***

There are times when I know people are here, lurking or making their presence known. There are times when I wonder if people even come here. And then there are times when you know you are appreciated. This is one of those times.

Ganns has released the nominations for the Superblessed.net Christian Blog Awards 2003. And Jax Place, yes, this place, has been nominated for 2 awards. This is really very special to me since I look up to Ganns as a brother in Christ. He inspires me to be the person that I can be. And when the going gets tough, I look at him and I realize that giving up hope is never the option. That there are so many great things to celebrate in this world. That is why this nomination is doubly special to me.

Thanks, Ganns!

Hike on over to Superblessed and check out the other nominees. To tell you the truth, there are only 3 blogs there that I know of and go to.

*Rick, who has amazing photos every time he posts something.
*Sue, who has amazing insights the stuff she encounters everyday.
*Darren, who is establishing an emerging in Melbourne, Australia.

Anyway, go check them out and vote for the People's Choice Awards at Superblessed!

***

Last summer, I asked people for names of singers they liked since I was looking for new people and music to listen to. One of the names that came up was Alice Peacock. I started downloading her songs and I loved her instantly.

When I saw her CD being sold at Tower Records in Megamall, I quickly grabbed it and paid for it and have been listening to it non-stop. Well I found out today that she might be coming here in November! I'm so excited!

***

ABCs about me. Have fun!

A - Age: 22 for 15 more days
B - Boyfriend: God
C - Chore you hate: Cooking. coz I can't!
D - Dad's name: Nitoy
E - Essential make up item: Chapstick and Body Lip & Cheek Tint
F - Favourite actress: Drew Barrymore
G - Gold or silver: Silver
H - Hometown: QC
I - Instruments you play: None. :)
J - Job title: full-time freelance writer
K - Kids: i want at least 2 but not more than 6
L - Living arrangements: i live in a house with my family
M - Mom's name: Jenny
N - Number of people you've slept with: none
O - Overnight hospital stays: none. well unless you count the time when i was born
P - Phobia: dont like snakes
Q - Quote you like: 2 Chronicles 7:14
T - Time you wake up? 8am to 9am
U - Unique habit: i dont know if i have one
V - Vegetable you refuse to eat: ampalaya and pumpkin
W - Worst habit: i dont know.
X - X-rays you've had: for my teeth and a chest x-ray
Y - Yummy food you make: mango float
Z - Zodiac Sign: scorpio
posted by Jax @ 5:02:00 AM   0 comments
Wednesday, October 15, 2003
Bye!
Bye guys! I'm off to Baguio for the weekend. I'll be back on Sunday. See you then!
posted by Jax @ 6:55:00 AM   0 comments
Tuesday, October 14, 2003
Friendster
Some say that the people in Friendster is just a popularity thing. That they're there merely to collect friends and have the "pleasure" of reaching that 500 mark. Yes. There are people like that. And I have to admit, I used to be one of them. But I guess, it's become something else for me now. I've reconnected with lots of "long-lost friends" from high school and grade school. I've kept in touch with several of them. I've discovered common stuff with some of my old friends. And I've found old friends who have migrated to somewhere else. I've discovered new friends, too, but seriously, Friendster is just something that's fun to do. Ewan. Basta ako, I'm enjoying my stay here.

Speaking of though, two strangers (and I mean, complete strangers) have requested to be my friend. I'm not a bad person. And as long as you're not vulgar or obscene, even if I don't know you, I'll add you. But I still checked out their profiles. I didn't know any of their friends. And then I checked out their profiles and they both were looking for men they can date. And then it hit me.

Did they think I was a guy?

Omigoodness. I mean, my name there is Jac and my primary photo is a shot of my hand writing so they could have mistaken me for one. But I indicated in my profile that I was a "female". Ah. Who cares? Besides, I already approved them and, well, I really don't like deleting friends unless they told me to delete them on my list. At least, more friends for me to get to know.

On a side note: Bundi gave into Friendster! Haha!

***

Just watched Noon at Ngayon and Mga Munting Tinig awhile ago. I bought the VCDs of both movies yesterday. Great movies! Noon at Ngayon is very funny. Great story. Watch the movie if you can.

Mga Munting Tinig is an exceptional film about hope and never giving up on your dreams. It's only P250 at Astrovision. Go buy it! You won't regret it.

***

So far I've only seen one here in Manila: Ganns. Are there any more Maksim fans here in Manila? Raise your hands! Let your voices be heard! *snigger* I just haven't met any other fans yet.

***

I wanna ask you, the readers of this blog, something. How do I come off across to you, guys? I mean, based on my posts, what do I come off across as? Just curious. Coz Dawna "raised" it in one of the comment boxes in a previous post. I'm just curious. Use either the comment box below or my guestbook.
posted by Jax @ 12:49:00 AM   0 comments
Monday, October 13, 2003
revelations?
Took a career test c/o MSN and I found out the perfect careers for me are the following:

*special education teacher
*alcohol and drug addiction counselor
*diversity manager/trainer
*speech/language pathologist
*career counselor
*therapist
*director of religious education
*editor/art director
*writer

Wow. An alcohol and drug addiction counselor? Hmm. Never crossed my mind.

Oh, and it turns out I'm an INFJ (Intravert, Intuitive, Feeler, Judger) person. I must say I always thought of myself as an extrovert.

It says:

People of this type tend to be creative, original and independent; thoughtful, warm and sensitive; global thinkers with great passion for their unique vision; cautious, deliberate and planful; organized, productive and decisive; reserved and polite.

The most important things to INFJs are their ideas, and being faithful to their vision.


Sounds a lot like me.

***

Was able to watch The Magdalene Sisters by Peter Mullan earlier today at SM Megamall.

It's a very confusing film. Well, confusing for me. I'd like to set aside the fact that the film is set in a Catholic nuns convent. People should learn from this movie. Whether people we have condemned or judged truly deserve to be judged like that.

Technically, it's a wonderful film. Except for the ending. I think Peter Mullan built up the story so much in the beginning that he had a hard time thinking of something that people will always remember the ending. Well, I guess that happened but it doesn't work for me.

I just have major issues with the story. I guess I can't just accept that that's what happened. It's only one side of the story. As a Catholic, it's a very disturbing film about abuse and discrimination. But as a movie critic, it's an exceptional and eye-opening film.

***

Went to Powerbooks awhile ago and a bought a copy of Steve Martin's Shopgirl. Critics have been raving about it and, well, since it's only P265, I decided to see if the book's really all that. Will let all of you know in about two weeks when I finish Rudy Giuliani's book and probably ROTK.
posted by Jax @ 5:29:00 AM   0 comments
Sunday, October 12, 2003
Site Meter, Magnifico, and Manila
I just finished watching Maryo J. Delos Reyes's film, Magnifico, starring Jiro Manio, Gloria Romero, Lorna Tolentino and Albert Martinez. This movie was shown in local cinemas last Feb 2003 but did not get a warm reception from the Filipino audience. It then travelled the world through different international film festivals and was wildly applauded.

Magnifico just ended a couple of minutes ago. It was shown in Philippine Cable TV for the first time on Cinema One.

An exceptional movie about unleashing your magnificent self, it's a movie that everyone can appreciate and learn from. Magnifico was named after Magnifico the Magnificent, a magician that his father saw perform at a local carnival before he was born. Naming him Magnifico, his father envisioned great things that his son will bring. But instead, Magnifico is the middle of three children, with a not-so-brilliant mind. His mother has gven up on his intellectual skills and his father is disheartened by it.

But the movie shows us that a person doesn't need to be magnificent by living a rich and opulent life. He doesn't need to be magnificent by having the most brains. The movie shows us that being magnificent can be about the little things. I can't elaborate too much on this because I will spoil the ending. I suggest you guys watch this. If you have Sky Cable, Magnifico will air again on October 29, 2003, Wednesday, 9p on Cinema One. Watch it. It's a tremendous film.

***

I don't like going to Manila. I don't like passing by its narrow streets, filled with tricycles, jeeps and floods. That's why if I can, I always avoid going to Manila.

***

I checked out Sitemeter statistics and I found out that some people have been getting here through different search engines using the following keywords:

*bizu+greenbelt
*larry+fonacier+and+wesley+gonzales
*pictures+of+Wesley+Gonzales
larry+fonacier+photos
*FEU+TAMARAWS+UAAP+SEASON+66+CHAMPIONS
*UAAP+Season+66+photos
*Lord+of+the+Rings+Marathon+Boston+Commons+Theater
*concert+of+Nina+in+Virgin+Cafe+manila+Philippines
*gallery+of+feu+tamaraws

A looooot of searches that include UAAP. They don't call me a fan for nothing. Oh well.
posted by Jax @ 8:11:00 AM   0 comments
Saturday, October 11, 2003
books
Can I just rave about two of my most favorite books? They're two of the greatest books ever written.

***

1. Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize Award in 2000, Interpreter of Maladies is a collection of short stories by Indian-English writer, Jhumpa Lahiri. All of the stories are all about the lives of Indians in India and around the world. It's a well-written book that exudes so much emotion, history and passion. I first heard of the book from a Filipino writer I interviewed a couple of years ago. Then I saw it in a bookstore inside the San Francisco airport and quickly bought it. A bit steep, around $13, but it was worth it. I love to read it again and again because it's so passionate and emotional. I haven't seen a copy of this book here in the Philippines yet but when you do, I suggest you grab it quickly. It's so worth it.

I'm looking forward to grabbing her copy of her second book and first novel, The Namesake. It got mixed reviews but I still want to buy it.

***

2. Leadership by Rudy Giuliani

Not something you'd expect but ever since I caught him on the Oprah Winfrey Show promoting this book, I've been curious about it. Then I saw its paperback edition at Powerbooks Arnaiz during its annual sale and I grabbed the book, especially since it had a 20% discount. Anyway, I bought it last August but since I was still reading LOTR, I didn't have a choice but put it aside. (I never reads two books at the same time) I started reading this book around a week and a half ago and I swear it is one of the greatest books I have ever read. Every leader, CEO, politician, entrepreneur, everyone, should read this. People will learn so much about leadership skills after reading this. And if everyone actually used these skills, oh, this world will be a better place.

I've been taking this book everywhere with me because I don't want to let it go. I have the utmost respect and admiration for Giuliani as a leader now. I wish everyone had his principles.

One of his principles is to always prepare and never assume anything. Wise words from a wise man. I think one of the reasons plans and events go haywire is because people assume that everything will go smoothly. But as an organizer or a leader, you have to cover everything from every base, every angle, every situation to have smooth sailing.

He has more to say. And I strongly recommend everyone buy this book. It is very inspiring, especially as a leader.
posted by Jax @ 2:01:00 AM   0 comments
Friday, October 10, 2003
I changed my lay-out, thanks to Blogskins, and I am loving it! Don't you think it looks great?

***

Went to watch Kung Ako Na Lang Sana this afternoon with my sister-in-law. It stars Aga Muhlach and Sharon Cuneta and written and directed by one of my favorite writers, Jose Javier Reyes. I was actually a bit hesitant at first. Didn't want to watch the movie because it was a Sharon-Aga movie. But you know what? It wasn't really bad. Apart from the great story, it was an enjoyable one. Acting was great and the Sharon-Aga tandem was really sweet and it had chemistry.

If you guys want to watch a movie this weekend, I suggest you watch this. It's funny and sweet. You'll have a great time.

***

A friend of mine, a schoolmate from high school, and I have rediscovered each other through Friendster. Isn't Friendster great? Anyway, we've been talking (e-mail) the last few days. She's in the UK right now, on her last semester as an undergraduate, and I've been telling her about my dream to study there in the UK. And she's been bugging me (in a good way) to get my ass up there! Hay. I really wanna live there, in UK. And if I don't, at least get to study there or just spend some months there and write. Hay.
posted by Jax @ 2:30:00 AM   0 comments
Thursday, October 09, 2003
musings
Sometimes, I think I am alone in this world. When I do the things I do, I realize that no one can do it but me. I know I've always wanted to be independent. But maybe I can hold on to dependency still? For now?

I think this all boils down to the fact that: I MISS MY FRIENDS!

I never realized how valuable my friends are to me until we all parted after college. Hay.

***

I can't believe I forgot to write it here. Ganns's wife, Cath, gave birth 2 weeks ago to their priide and joy, Nathan! Congrats, Ganns and Cath! Welcome to our world, Nathan!

***

Tina is having her thesis defense on Saturday. Wish her luck!

***

I watched Underworld starring Kate Beckinsale earlier today. It was a pretty cool movie. It was about the "neverending battle between vampires and werewolves". Story sucked as always. But directing wasn't so bad. I was scared out of my wits while watching it. It didn't help that I watched it alone.

Hmm. I seem to find myself watching some scary movies alone. Good thing I didn't watch Ringu and The Others by myself.

Anyway, back to Underworld, though scary, I found myself laughing at the most inappropriate times. Conflict happens when Selene (Beckinsale),a vampire warrior, falls in love with a werewolf, the species she has vowed to destroy. Okay. Right. It would have been fine if there was more indication to that falling in love part than that little kiss they shared in the vampires' interrogation room.

But like I said, the story sucked but Kate Beckinsale's stunts were so cool! I mean, all through out the movie, I kept thinking, Kate Beckinsale rocks. When she jumps from the window to the ground below, it's flawless. Flawless, I tells yah!

I passed up The Magdalene Sisters for this. And I'm hoping I won't regret it. But heck! Life is short. No time for regrets. It was a cool movie. Nuff said.

***

Watching a movie called Complicity starring Jonny Lee Miller right now on Star Movies. I don't particularly care for the movie since I have no idea what everyone's talking about. Only kept the TV there because I saw Jonny Lee Miller's name and he's been my crush ever since I saw him in Hackers around 6 years ago.

***

Oh yes. Before I forget: I got my hair cut today!

Finally. After more than two months, I had it cut. It's been weighing me down for so long. But now, I feel lighter. I love my hair!

***

Musings is one of my favorite words. I just love saying it. I don't really know why. I just do.
posted by Jax @ 8:38:00 AM   0 comments
Wednesday, October 08, 2003
new template
Due to some freak accident, I had to change my template and all I can say is: I miss my old one!
posted by Jax @ 3:10:00 AM   0 comments
Tuesday, October 07, 2003
que horror!
Que horror!

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Mike Arroyo and Ignacio Arroyo are all running next year! What will happen to the Philippines now?

Hopefully, people will not be stupid enough to vote for these three people who have brought nothing but shame and problems for the Filipinos.

Obviously, I will not campaign for them.

Instead, I will campaign for Raul Roco, who deserves to win and restore the Philippines into a better condition.

Imagine, GMA even had the nerve to ask Raul Roco to run as her VP. Kapal!

***

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Help fund free mammograms by going to the Breast Cancer Site.

Spread the word!

***

I changed my comments box now to Halo Scan and my tagboard to dekap. I do hope this will be the last time I change them.
posted by Jax @ 7:26:00 PM   0 comments
Sunday, October 05, 2003
weekend
Goodness. I was just raving about Oktoberfest and was raving about it to my sister, thinking all the while that it was going to be next Friday, October 10. Turns out it was last Friday, October 3, and I only found out that morning. Oh well. I guess I'll just have to celebrate my own way, the whole October! Haha!

***

On a sad note, my Ateneo Blue Eagles lost against the Far Eastern University Tamaraws earlier this evening to become the UAAP Season 66 Men's Basketball Champions. I don't remember the score. I think it was something like 69-54. So depressing. I'm so glad I wasn't in Araneta to watch the game. But I still would like to commend the team. They played one heck of a season. And even if they didn't win, I'm still proud of them for trying their best. Til next year, boys!

But on a happier note, the Ateneo Blue Eaglets won over the Adamson Baby Falcons to capture the UAAP Season 66 Junior's Basketball Championship crown. Congratulations, boys!

***

Last night, I was at the GK777 Concert over at the Fort, Global City. Started past 730p when it was supposed to start at 7p. But then, what else is new? It was a pretty good concert. And the host kept the audience up with her humor. I was actually having a good time until Kuh Ledesma appeared. And then she bored me to death. No offense to fans. She's cool. But I'm not a fan.

Anyway, afterwards we trooped to Big Buddha, Greenbelt 3 where we had a big dinner. Food is good. Next time you're at GB3, try Big Buddha, Chinese food with a low price and big servings. Yum yum!

After dinner, I trooped over to Bizu, Greenbelt 2 to take home some of their sumptuous desserts. I recommend tasting the Blueberry Cheesecake or Roca. Yummy! Taste the Macaroons, Opera and Baba at your own risk.

***

I am currently reading Rudy Giuliani's Leadership. It's a very good book but I haven't been devoting as much time I want to to reading it. I've been too tired nowadays. I haven't even been writing that much nowadays. I can't force myself to write nowadays.

***

One of the things that is taking up my time is Friendster. Are you a part of it? Let me know by adding me: hazpafis [at] yahoo [dot] com. Even if I don't know you, feel free to add me. Just be sure to introduce yourself first.

***

Zonkboard e-mailed a couple of days ago. Turns out they're going to start charging for their services now. So now I'm contemplating whether I'm going to get a Tag Board or I'm going to erase it and just use Blog Out and my guestbook. What do you guys think?

***

Studio 23 will be airing the last 3 episodes of the last season of Dawson's Creek starting this Tuesday. I was able to watch the 2-part season finale some months ago and it was just so touching. To everyone who loved DC and have stopped watching it, I suggest you watch these last 3 episodes. It will remind you of the reason why you loved DC in the first place. As for me, I've been watching DC again ever since I found out that Studio 23 was showing the last 6 episodes.

***

I watched the 3rd episode of Survivor: Pearl Islands last Friday. My favorite team won again! But I do feel bad for the other tribe (I can't remember their name. Drake, I think). They've lost 5 straight challenges. This is even worse than Survivor Marquesas. I do hope they "shape up" soon.
posted by Jax @ 4:16:00 AM   0 comments
Friday, October 03, 2003
past few days
I feel like I've been so out of touch the past few days. But anyway, let's get on with the show.

***

Wednesday afternoon saw me at The coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Greenbelt 3, where I had coffee with one of my dearest college friends, Glady. I hadn't seen Glady since my friend's baby shower more than 3 months ago. We talked and reminisced and let me just say 2 hours? It's never enough!

Side Note: I love Coffee Bean drinks! It is so damn good. Try it! (If you haven't yet.)

Wednesday night saw me at Nuvo, Greenbelt 2, where I had a reunion dinner with some college friends. There were originally around 40+ of us in college but last night only around 7 people came. But I'm not sad coz we rocked the house! Haha! I can't believe I just said that.

Anyway, so yeah, we had dinner at Nuvo and reminisced about old times since most of us hadn't seen the others in more than a year, ever since the oldies (that would be more than half of us) graduated from college.

Got all the latest chismis (gossip) finally realized that we were really getting old-er. Then we had dessert at Bizu and it was still the same. We were still loud! But I guess that will never go away (the loudness) because we were never shy and quiet in the first place. But what can you expect? Good wine + Good company = Amazing Fun!

Next reunion: November 2003

***

Thursday afternoon saw me at the Araneta Coliseum for Game 1 of the UAAP Finals between the Far Eastern University Tamaraws and my Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles. Well, as much as I screamed and cheered my heart out (my voice is still hoarse as of now), we lost. Big time. The final score? 83-65. It was so embarrasing! No "In fairness..." talks. We lost. That's it. Just hope we can bounce back in Game 2 and eventually Game 3 and retain our title. Kudos to Larry Fonacier, Wesley Gonzales and Rich Alvarez for their great game!

UAAP Annual Awards will be on Sunday. Hope Rich or Larry will be MVP. Although I think Arwynd Santos of FEU will get it. I also have a feeling JV Casio of DLSU will be Rookie of the Year.

Went to M&S at G4 last Wednesday and found so many great tops there! I need new clothes. Actually I need new tops. Last time I shopped for clothes was last year. Too long ago. A lot of them are already worn out. Besides, my mom was the one who brought up the idea of buying new clothes. I'm just helping her out by suggesting the pieces that we can buy. Hehe.

***

Since I am some kind of a bored right now, I'll just answer some survey I got ages ago that I've decided to re-answer.

1. What is your name? JAQ
2. What colour pants are you wearing right now? wearing short, not pants, but they're brown
3. What are you listening to right now? listening to Peter Jackson and the cast & crew of LOTR talk about FOTR
4. What are the last four digits of your phone number, mobile or home? i dont want to say
5. What was the last thing you ate? tinapa! my favorite!
6. If you were a crayon, what colour would you be? red
7. Where do you plan to go on your honeymoon? Venice, Italy or Chester, England or Nice, France or Brussels, Belgium
8. How is the weather right now? hot
9. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Karlo, my 5-year-old nephew
10. What's the first thing you notice about the opposite sex? eyes and height
12. How are you today? bored
13. What's your favourite soft drink? i don't drink soda
14. Favourite alcoholic drink? beer, vodka and now, Shiraz Red Wine
15. Favourite sport to watch? basketball
16. Hair colour? black
17. What colour are your eyes? dark brown
18. Do you wear contacts? yup. clear, soft ones
19. Favourite month? november (bday) and december (Christmas!)
20. Favourite food? tinapa, chicken, mexican, sinigang
21. Last movie you watched? Pirates of the Carribean on the big screen, Two Towers on DVD, Royal Tenenbaums on TV
22. Are you shy to ask someone out? i can ask anyone out pero kung kung long-time crush na, i think i would be
23. Do you like scary or happy movies better? i like both
24. Summer or winter, spring or fall? winter, spring
25. Relationship or one night stands? relationship

***

You guys have anymore surveys I can answer?
posted by Jax @ 12:47:00 AM   0 comments
Wednesday, October 01, 2003
last night
Oh goodness. I'm so wasted.
posted by Jax @ 6:48:00 PM   0 comments
About Me

Name: Jax
Home: San Francisco, CA, United States
About Me:
See my complete profile
I am a freelance writer, editor and blogger.
I write from home and I write from the
coffee shop I manage. I am also a graduate
student at AAU, studying film.
I have never been more stressed in my life.
And I am loving it!
To know me and more about my writing services, drop me a line at
jtabergas [at] yahoo [dot] com.
Meanwhile, read some of my works here:
  • HubPages
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  • Flick Rev
  • Good Life Review
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