Enigma

Upon doing this blog, Give Me Everything was playing in the background -- which really got me hyped up! HAHA. I can dance to that song all the freakin' time. Anyway, we had a school party at Roxas Blvd. Of all the parties CSSC arranged, this is by far the best. But who am I to judge 'em? I've only attended two! Haha!

Prior to the party, I'm supposed to meet up with my cousin at UP Manila to see cadavers. Missed the opportunity to see dead people though, due to Psych Soc responsibilities.. and the heavy rain. There were a lot of hassles when I was preparing for the night namely the driver not being around and plans getting messed up. Plus it was a really, really bad hair day. And to make me feel a little better, I did what I do best.. I went to the salon, had my nails done and my hair cut -- my number one stress reliever.

Just when I thought I was all set to leave, again, some things went wrong. But found my way through it.. Ninja ako eh. Fetched Tey at their house, arrived at the party 2 hours late (what's new?), danced a little, drank a little, ate a little!!! We left earlier 'cos we had to go to 7th High. I'm too tamad to blog right now. Let the pictures do the talking!

One Sunday morning, I got bored with the school work I had to do. Hence, I did a little browsing over the internet, stalking [in a non-creepy way] my friends on Twitter. I came across Katia's page and saw a link to her Flickr account. Out of boredom and curiosity, and also the desire to see some creativity after a mundane hour just staring at a blank page on Microsoft Word, I clicked it. And I am so glad I did it for I discovered how talented she really is when it comes to photography to think she's at a very, very young age. Here are some of my favorite shots.

And here she is! Such a cutie-patootie, isn't she? :) Really, I was overflowing with delight knowing how good she is. I still remember the days when we were a lot younger, and when we used to play at our backyard (or garage, perhaps).. And now, she has grown! Makes me feel old though. Haha! I hope she gets big in the industry. Oh, if by any chance you want to work with her, feel free to reach out to me by sending an e-mail at piaderez@yahoo.com

(c) All rights reserved. Photos taken by biggestirony. Take a closer look at her gallery here!

Reflection Paper: A Beautiful Mind

 

A Beautiful Mind is a movie about John Forbes Nash Jr. who is notable for his contributions in Economics and Mathematics. It was evident in the film that he has an outstanding talent and showed it by performing at a remarkably high level of accomplishment. In Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences, it was distinct that his intelligence is more on a logical-mathematical side for he has the capacity to distinguish numerical or logical patterns, and also the ability to reason out. With a superior intelligence quotient, I can say that Nash is truly a brilliant man.

Despite the fact he is a genius, everything still wasn't perfect -- he's suffering from a mental illness called schizophrenia without his awareness. While he has a beyond average aptitude in logical and mathematical aspects, he had problems with his interpersonal relationships. This affliction slowly eats up his mind, destroying his bond with the people around him. With this illness, he wasn't able to separate the imaginary world from the real world he is living in, with all the hallucinations and nonexistent friends he has. I strongly believe that these delusions are from the feelings and memories he repressed in his subconscious that liberates in the form of imaginary friends and such. Lucky for him that he has a patient and understanding wife, because if it wasn't for her love and support, he wouldn't be able to get through one of the hardest trials in his life. Although she nearly lost her faith, Alicia didn't give up the hope that Nash will someday overcome his disease. This quality of Alicia is something I admired: standing by and staying commited to the person she loves the most.

Granted all the struggles, Nash didn't give up the passion to learn and share his learnings as well. He came out on top of this illness by declining therapy, living a normal life with Alicia and his child, and also by persisting in educating eager young minds.

After watching this film, I am in heaps of awe with the way Nash conquered everything that stood in the way for achieving his dreams. I guess, the learning we can take from his story is that we should see our disabilities not as hindrances; rather, as challenges to make us strive for more. There may be times that we trip a little, we may even fall, but we must stand up and continue walking towards fulfilling our goals.

Coach Carter Movie Review

My proffessors were out of town for a convention; hence, it was a very petix third week of August we had. Attended only two classes -- an hour each last Wednesday and Friday for Eng104, and that's not even a major subject. Was taking a breather, spending most of my time with Twitter and Blogspot, until I got the bad news last Thursday: we have shitload of stuff to do due the Monday after (tomorrow, that is) . [We are to] watch three movies, make a reaction paper for all of 'em, read three chapters of our book for a really long quiz and [I] have a report to finish. Looking for copies of the old films was a major hassle, imagine making a review for each? Bummer.

Here's what I've racked up so far: Coach Carter. Watched it at around 4AM, feeling all groggy and tired after a long day at school. On the brighter side, Channing Tatum was part of the cast and that kept me awake.

 

Coach Carter is a true story based on Ken Carter's coaching experience at Richmond High School. When he was hired to be the team's coach, the Oilers haven't been doing well both in basketball and their academics. Carter changed everything with the way he fostered his team -- developing them into individuals who aren't just good at their sport, but can also handle challenges the "big world" has to offer them. He did this by imposing rules, as per the contract he had the students sign, which includes proper dress code, good grades, and respectful behavior. Some people didn't agree with his morals and values, thinking he was doing too much especially when he locked out the gymnasium in spite an important game (this really raised a lot eyebrows and became a national controversy), but Carter fought to keep his method, with the desire to stretch the boundaries for his team member's, both in the aspect of the body and the mind.

The first concept of the film I would like to expound on is the significance of teamwork. It shows how cooperation and working together is of vital importance in a team's victory. As said by Aesop, "In union there is strength." For example, a piece of log can create a small fire, but adding a few more pieces will produce a bigger flame, giving more light and warmth. I believe that in general aspects of life and not only in basketball, when we are united and driven by one force, we are likely to accomplish our goals.

Another key concept of the film is leadership where the importance of education comes in – which is to my opinion, the most substantial idea of the movie. It was pretty evident that Carter was a strict leader, however, a good and effective one. Why? Because he's not just thinking of himself, of his success; rather, he's thinking of what's good for his players, of how their future lives will be -- that to me is one the best traits any teacher could have. And after all, the main purpose of being an educator is to mold their students into industrious individuals, contributing to the up-growth of our nation. I must say, I commend the way Carter made education his top priority. This gives out a message to everyone that the finest treasure a person can inherit is education. I also like the way the director included some of the issues in our society throughout the film, such as drugs and teenage pregnancy. However, there were some scenes that depicted an anti-life attitude, when one of the cast members had her baby aborted. On the whole, the  message of the film is positive.

Coach Carter is, without a doubt, an inspiring story of how a person is committed to bring a better future for young people. It depicts the worth of learning and discipline as requirement to achieve success in life, not only in sports. The film really inflamed my desire to do good in school and value education more than anything else in the world, because this is all I can bring with me when I have nothing else left.


One down, two to go. Keri!

Staying positive,
Pia

Philippine Fashion Ball 2011

In lieu of the 25th anniversary of The Proffesional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP), the first ever Philippine Fashion Ball was held last Monday, 15th of August, at the Peninsula Hotel Manila giving recognition to what Philippine's fashion industry has achieved (so far) and also, to those who contributed in its success. An exclusive, VIP affair, this event showcased the country's top names in the said industry. Thanks to Stylebible, I had a glimpse of how everyone looked during the event.. And these people to me are the top five (well technically, they're seven women) stunners of the night (excluding the male attendees -- I have a special recognition for them). These women and who they're wearing left me heaps of awe, leaving my jaw open the entire time I was browsing through.

Apples Aberin in Rajo Laurel

Michelle Panemanglor in Noel Crisostomo

Rissa Mananquil

Two sizzling women bags the number two spot (they wore [almost] the same Rajo Laurel dress, only  different see-thru parts.) But tell me, who looked hotter? I'm guessing, both! :)

Anne Curtis

Pam Quinones

And the best dressed award goes to....

For this one, I had a hard time figuring out. Probably, for two minutes, I was just staring at my monitor, thinking who do I pick for Best Dressed. Have always been a big fan of Tweetie De Leon -- being 40, having children and yet, looking (almost) two decades younger, who wouldn't be amazed with that? On the other hand, we have Mikaela Martinez, who happens to be my favorite model ever since -- also a mother but looking as fresh and beautiful as the first time I saw her on Candy magazine. That night, they both looked pulchritudinous and ethereal.. Hence, to make my life a little easier, I've made up my mind to pick one and the other as my Best Dressed. By looking at them, I know I've made the right decision. To all them ladies, I am so proud Philippine fashion industry has people as statuesque as your guys are. Keep wow-ing us!

Tweetie de Leon - Gonzales in Rhett Eala

Mikaela Lagdameo-Martinez in Martin Bautista

Happy Birthday, Phoebe!

Sometimes in life, you find a special friend. Someone who changes your life just by being a part of it. Someone who makes you laugh until you can't stop. Someone who makes you believe that there really is good in the world. Someone who convinces you that there really is an unlocked door just waiting for you to open it. This is forever friendship. When you're down and the world seems dark and empty, your forever friend lifts you up in spirit and makes that dark and empty world suddenly seem bright and full. Your forever friend gets you through the hard times, the sad times and the confused times. If you turn and walk away, your forever friend follows. If you lose your way, your forever friend guides you and cheers you on. Your forever friend holds your hand and tells you that everything is going to be okay. And if you find such a friend, you feel happy and complete because you need not worry. You have a forever friend, and forever has no end.

Happy Birthday Phoebe! You're a big girl now!! I can't imagine how much you've (or we've) grown. I hope you achieve your goals but before anything else, I'm wishing you pass all your exams. Teehee. May God bless you and overflow you with happy memories. I have so many things to say but to boil it down.. Thank you for having me in the four last years of your teenage life.. Looking forward to the years to come! 

From this..

.. to this.

See how much you've evolved? Still, beautiful inside and out. :)

I love you!
Pia

Zebra everywhere

Today, I spent a whopping amount of 5k for everything zebra. Well, partly sponsored by Mom, but will pay for everything in the future anyway. So technically.. it was still me who wasted money.

Zebra wallet from Liz C

Zebra wedges from Possibility

This is one of the few good reasons why can’t I be left alone at a mall. Hehe. It’s crazy how much I stop myself from buying other things I want and even need; but when it comes to shopping, I go wild and lose control, like a monkey brought out of a cage. I must admit, at times (or most of it), I am materialistic. Let’s not be hypocrites, people. As much as we want to believe it’s love, money is the real culprit responsible for making the world go round and round and round. As the words of Madonna’s song: “We are living in a material world, and I am a material girl."

Besides, after all the hardwork, I think I deserve one hell of a reward. Or in my current case.. two. I am just so happy! Night! :)

Kisses,

Pia

Banana Leaf

When I’m supposed to be studying for my prelims next week, there I was, spending my day at the mall as if I don’t have to read bajiliion chapters from my books. Mind you, BOOKS.

We went to Gilmore first to buy a new monitor.. since we’re too maarte and we need two for gaming, Twitter and Facebook all at the same time. Passed by at Greenhills and really thought I’ll get a new phone.. False hopes. :-< On a positive note, Mom agreed to get me a new one only that I have to dispose my old Samsung. Yeyyy! And probably after I show her my preliminary exam results — guess that’d be better.

We went home first, all too excited to try it and see for ourselves how cool it feels like. Hey! My day out isn’t over yet. Decided all of a sudden to go to Greenbelt to watch Septic Tank. No screenings at GB so we had to go to Glo, but ended up not watching it because we’re late (as ever). Rather, we spent the evening shopping. I love you Mamita! She got me two new bags. Heh, thanks! Had dinner at Banana Leaf a while later.

Roti Canai

Meant as a dessert but food arrived after ages, we had to eat this first. It’s like a pita bread? Idk. =)) It tastes so good with condensed milk, I tell you. But as far as I remember, by looking at the menu, you can also match it with curry sauce. Not a fan, though.

Roti canai (pronounced “chanai,” not “kanai”) is a type of flatbread found in Malaysia, often sold in Mamak stalls. It is known as roti prata in Southern Malaysia and Singapore, and is similar to the Indian Kerala porotta. (Souce: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roti_canai)

Stir Fried Mussels with Sweet Chili Sauce

Have always been a big fan of shells and above ‘em all, I’d go for mussels. I can eat an entire bowl full of it in one sitting. The sauce tastes good only that we forgot one important detail: it is made up of chili. Whew, I really felt the tang of the red pepper! Weird it may be but I’m not fond of eating spicy food even if I’m a Bicolana. Hence, wasn’t able to enjoy this course. But then again, on a higher note, it tastes good! 4.5, maybe.

Deep Fried Pandan Chicken

This reminded me so much of my condo living way back 2009. I remember me and my cousin cooking this for dinner most of the time because it was easy to prepare -- plus those we buy from SM tastes so good. However, with BL's Pandan Chicken, I wasn't too satisfied. The aroma of the pandan is evident; although vapid in terms of the marinate of the chicken. Makes me wonder, would it taste better if they did brine it long enough? Anyway, I give it a 3.5.

Oh by the way, I saw Heart Evangelista today with her boyfriend. She happens to be my ultimate (local) showbiz crush. I was just in awe. Damn yo gorgeous gurl!

Rain pouring hard on our way home. I got too emotional listening to The Script while looking outside the window.. You know how they do it in movies. HAHA. Life just has too much drama. K.

I talk too much. Ta-ta!

I am so tired of school work, of reviewing for exams, of the endless nights, of drinking coffee, and of not getting any (decent) sleep — on a positive note, they keep me occupied during idle moments, taking my mind off-heart rending thoughts. Hard to handle and stressing they may be, I owe it all to them for keeping me sane, reminding me to hold on and keep fighting. There are so many better things worth my time..








.. not just him.

Marchesa Fall 2012

If I were to be asked who's my favorite designer, Marchesa is the first thing I'd have in mind. The way Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig works with drapery is just beyond perfection, reminding me so much of ancient Greek goddesses and Asian princesses. The silhouette of their fabrics are picturesque, making every woman in it look graceful with every move. February of this year, Marchesa launched it's fall collection: Resort 2012, working [more] with pastel hues and a little less extravagant accents. According to Emily Holt of Vogue, "it was nice to see them toy with the idea that sometimes less is more" and to that I must agree on. Even not as lavish as their past collections, Chapman and Craig [again] left everyone in awe, with the desire to be dressed by two of the world's best couturiers. Here's who I think will look great, if not perfect, with some of the pieces from Resort (which are also my top five picks).

DRAPED CORAL CHIFFON COLUMN WITH EMBROIDERED DETAIL

Among the collection, this is the piece I loved the most. If this was in black, I'd immediately think of Angelina Jolie. However, when I tried to recall her red carpet fashion, I remembered what she wore for the Ocean's Thirteen premiere two years ago; that yellow Emanuel Ungaro gown is something new.. Something not Angelina, but she worked it. So I guess this would fit her impeccably in spite the pastel shade -- the way it was constructed hugs her body in all corners, and the drapes are perfect for her classy image.

LONG SLEEVE SILVER EMBROIDERED COWLNECK GOWN

Do I need to expound on this? I mean, with a butt like that....

LIGHT EMERALD CHIFFON STRAPLESS DRESS WITH DRAPED BODICE AND
EMBROIDERED SCALLOP DETAIL

We've always known Mila Kunis as a risk taker when it comes to red carpet fashion; from that printed dress at SAG awards to the purple Elie Saab gown during the Oscars -- she's never afraid to try something unsafe.. But not a time she failed in looking fashion forward. Being adventurous, I think this emerald dress fits her and works well with her skin tone and body. And with the same up do in the photo above, all I can envision is her exquisiteness.

ONE SHOULDER LEOPARD ORGANZA FULL-SKIRTED DRESS WITH EMBROIDERED WAIST

Pixie cut or not, Emma Watson is, with no question, one of the most beautiful of the youth today. We all saw her transform from that brouhaha haired Hermione to this matured, full-grown statement maker. I must admit, when she had her hair cut, I had mine fixed, too. Going back, I think this leopard dress fits her perfectly say, for a premiere night for another movie. Very lady-like and matured because of the animal print, but there's a youthful touch to it with the length and cut.

TEAL SILK GAZAR STRAPLESS DRAPED BODICE COLUMN GOWN

And last but not the least, Anne Hathaway. She's the only person I had in mind who looks perfect in this teal gown with a really, really big bow -- resembling most of what she wears during Hollywood events. With her skin tone and the mid-length hair, not to mention her full lips and fulgid smile -- this vision is just divine.

Amber Golden Plate Restaurant

Stayed up til 7am yesterday morning trying to study.  Though I was only able to finish one chapter for EducPsy for the reason that I spent most of my time, 80% perhaps, tweeting. Anyway, I decided to go to my room for a power nap.. which ended up as a 6-hour sleep — happens to me all the time. I woke up with bad vibes of all over, realizing I wasn’t making progress with my work. But when I went downstairs and saw what we’re having for lunch, I was just overflowing with delight.

Pancit Malabon that I ate the whole day for it tastes so good. Unlike those I’ve tasted before, it’s not too salty and the sauce is not too thick. I totally don’t have an idea how the yellow sauce is made. Regardless, I say it’s an 8 out of 5! (Yes, beyond the highest score)

Pork Barbeque If you set it up against those found on the streets, there won’t be anything special about it. Or maybe I just don’t like the marinate — I am more of the common toyo-calamansi mixture, not of the sweet ones. Prolly 3 out of 5.

Pichi pichi To my opinion, this is one of Amber’s best sellers and most likely, will be on top of my list. If you’re gonna have food delivered from them, you must order pichi pichi. Again, with even more stress, YOU MUST ORDER PICHI PICHI. My rating is pretty much obvious, go figure.

 

Brownies from Pampanga I forgot the brand.. :| Almost gave up, but took the time to research on Google. Clever, huh! It’s from Pines’ Delicacies. These to me by far are one of the best brownies I’ve ever had. If ever you’re interested, tweet/tumblrask me for orders. Mi amiga’s selling ‘em.

Okay.. I have to get back to studying now.

Ta-ta!

People who get acquainted with me is pretty much aware I have a lot friends. If I get a thousand for every pal I have, I’d prolly be rich by now and buy all the shoes I like. Going back.. Of the crowd, there’s only an inconsiderable number who are true.. And a girl named Gel is one of the few. Wow, only now have I realized we’ve been friends for a long time. 5 years maybe? Anyway, today’s her birthday and I don’t really want to make an overly emotive entry so to boil it down.. I am more than gratified I knew an amazing girl like her (Uy.. bolera ko.)

Hi Gel, I know you’re an avid follower (hahaha) so you’d likely get to read this. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Want you to know I am proud of what you’ve achived — a scholar, a writer for Manila Bulletin, a consistent DL — I can’t get any happier for you. I wish you reach your dreams (well.. I believe you will and you’re little by little fulfilling ‘em) and also the best for you, and your family. Even if we barely see each other (and when we do, only for less than 5 minutes), I’ll always be here when you need a friend.. or a stylist. Or a personal shopper. I love you so much. Always remember that.



P.S., I miss the crazeh times.