ENVY MOST FOUL
Just read a few days ago that Dean, Carl, Nikki and Marc had a game.
Waaaah! I am envious like hell, even until now. I wonder when I get o play under his games.
Friday, February 27, 2004
Wednesday, February 25, 2004
Jet Lagged and Foot-in-Mouth problems
Just got struck by a long delayed jet-lag today. Failed to wake up in time for work. Thankfully, I didn't have any deadlines waiting for me, so I was allowed to take the day as a rest day. Kind of miffed still that the people at work actually LOST my Leave of Absence form and listed me as A.W.O.L. for the last three weeks. The penalty: No incoming salary this end of February. I mean, COME ON!!! It wasn't even MY mistake! I filled the forms, I got my boss to sign them.. and now some jerk lost them and I'm paying the price! Damn..
Attended a despedida party today for Ford, an officemate of ours who had the guts to leave our company and head for greener pastures. While there, the inevitable question of how my trip to the United States came up and whether or not I visited the San Francisco office was asked.
I replied: "Nope. Didn't head there. Why should I? They'd simply ask me to go there to work since the launching of the movie MILAN was happening at that date. All I was being offered in exchange for working was a cup of coffee! Excuse me, but I am not that dumb. I'd deserve more."
Only to be told later that my boss' significant other was sitting just behind me.
Sigh. I wonder if I should expect trouble. I do believe I had every right to make that statement. But I do hope it doesn't get blown out of proportion and become an issue at work.
Just got struck by a long delayed jet-lag today. Failed to wake up in time for work. Thankfully, I didn't have any deadlines waiting for me, so I was allowed to take the day as a rest day. Kind of miffed still that the people at work actually LOST my Leave of Absence form and listed me as A.W.O.L. for the last three weeks. The penalty: No incoming salary this end of February. I mean, COME ON!!! It wasn't even MY mistake! I filled the forms, I got my boss to sign them.. and now some jerk lost them and I'm paying the price! Damn..
Attended a despedida party today for Ford, an officemate of ours who had the guts to leave our company and head for greener pastures. While there, the inevitable question of how my trip to the United States came up and whether or not I visited the San Francisco office was asked.
I replied: "Nope. Didn't head there. Why should I? They'd simply ask me to go there to work since the launching of the movie MILAN was happening at that date. All I was being offered in exchange for working was a cup of coffee! Excuse me, but I am not that dumb. I'd deserve more."
Only to be told later that my boss' significant other was sitting just behind me.
Sigh. I wonder if I should expect trouble. I do believe I had every right to make that statement. But I do hope it doesn't get blown out of proportion and become an issue at work.
Monday, February 23, 2004
Immortalized in electrons
Find the bigger pictures of my Three Weeks in USA in my Yahoo! Photo Album.
Find the bigger pictures of my Three Weeks in USA in my Yahoo! Photo Album.
Sunday, February 22, 2004
Back home and taking...
...another step closer to the end of the world.
Held the third game session of White Wolf's VAMPIRE: THE MASQUERADE Gehenna game with my troupe last Saturday night with the should-have-worn-pants Jaguarlord in attendance to see the game unfold. I have to admit, I felt pretty nervous at first, wondering if he'll find the immersiveness of my games a tad.. uh, uncomfortable. I admit, when I run games, I have a tendancy to forget that I'm narrating a story and get caught up into portraying the roles and the sound effects to the fullest. I try to make each scene feel like a movie that runs before you and unfolds with twists and tense-building moments that make you squirm as much as the characters you play squirm.
I guess I did good.
See Jaguarlord's most generous review at his blog.
...another step closer to the end of the world.
Held the third game session of White Wolf's VAMPIRE: THE MASQUERADE Gehenna game with my troupe last Saturday night with the should-have-worn-pants Jaguarlord in attendance to see the game unfold. I have to admit, I felt pretty nervous at first, wondering if he'll find the immersiveness of my games a tad.. uh, uncomfortable. I admit, when I run games, I have a tendancy to forget that I'm narrating a story and get caught up into portraying the roles and the sound effects to the fullest. I try to make each scene feel like a movie that runs before you and unfolds with twists and tense-building moments that make you squirm as much as the characters you play squirm.
I guess I did good.
See Jaguarlord's most generous review at his blog.
Saturday, February 21, 2004
Friday, February 20, 2004
Off to the Philippines..
....In a few more hours. Strangely, I am suddenly afraid of flying today. I dunno why. Please pray for my safe journey. Hope nothing bad happens to me.
Was really really hoping to catch certain people online before I left, just to get some courage and comfort from them that all will be well. Unfortunately, looks like I'll have to suck it up and do this alone. Story of my life. In as much as I devote time from my life for others, very few seem to ever consider doing the same for me on those rare moments I need it. Ho well.. them the breaks.
Manila... here I come..
(i hope.)
....In a few more hours. Strangely, I am suddenly afraid of flying today. I dunno why. Please pray for my safe journey. Hope nothing bad happens to me.
Was really really hoping to catch certain people online before I left, just to get some courage and comfort from them that all will be well. Unfortunately, looks like I'll have to suck it up and do this alone. Story of my life. In as much as I devote time from my life for others, very few seem to ever consider doing the same for me on those rare moments I need it. Ho well.. them the breaks.
Manila... here I come..
(i hope.)
Thursday, February 19, 2004
Who would have known...
..my blog has closeted religious moments.
Check out what site comes up if you do the same error Alex did!
Heheheh.. disturbing!
..my blog has closeted religious moments.
Check out what site comes up if you do the same error Alex did!
Heheheh.. disturbing!
Wednesday, February 18, 2004
The CONVENTION pictures!
During the weekend of the 13th to the 16th, I attended the OrcCon 2004 held at the Westin hotel near the LAX. I volunteered to run a few games and had one major objective in mind: Meet the special guest for the convention, Larry Elmore.
I got to meet him! I got to meet the guy who helped define the vision and imagery of Dungeons and Dragons during its earlier incarnation, as well as give new life to the unforgettable Dragonlance saga.
I tell you, meeting Larry Elmore and chatting with him about the Philippines and all that simply took me out of this world. It was simply amazing! Here I was chatting with the very person who changed my views of fantasy and dragons... and we were cracking jokes about life, gaming and the direction fantasy fiction and art were to take.
Me with the RPG schedulling crew. Many thanks to them all for making me feel very at home and welcome.
Also got to meet two very talented artists. A mother and daughter tandem, both are wonderful people with an incredible capacity to bring to visual life their creativity and vision. I'll try to post links to their online gallery soon.
There were games everywhere! And a lot of wonderful things to see. I tell you, by the second day my neck was hurting from all the glancing around and bending down to read books and peruse products. The sheer number of dice sold on one store frightened me! I tell you, it was simply amazing and unbelievable.
These three guys were pretty much my players for the games I ran. I wish there were more people still interested in White Wolf games, but a pity it seems the d20 games have cornered pretty much the market.
OrcCon 2004... An experience to relive... and to remember.
During the weekend of the 13th to the 16th, I attended the OrcCon 2004 held at the Westin hotel near the LAX. I volunteered to run a few games and had one major objective in mind: Meet the special guest for the convention, Larry Elmore.
I got to meet him! I got to meet the guy who helped define the vision and imagery of Dungeons and Dragons during its earlier incarnation, as well as give new life to the unforgettable Dragonlance saga.
I tell you, meeting Larry Elmore and chatting with him about the Philippines and all that simply took me out of this world. It was simply amazing! Here I was chatting with the very person who changed my views of fantasy and dragons... and we were cracking jokes about life, gaming and the direction fantasy fiction and art were to take.
Me with the RPG schedulling crew. Many thanks to them all for making me feel very at home and welcome.
Also got to meet two very talented artists. A mother and daughter tandem, both are wonderful people with an incredible capacity to bring to visual life their creativity and vision. I'll try to post links to their online gallery soon.
There were games everywhere! And a lot of wonderful things to see. I tell you, by the second day my neck was hurting from all the glancing around and bending down to read books and peruse products. The sheer number of dice sold on one store frightened me! I tell you, it was simply amazing and unbelievable.
These three guys were pretty much my players for the games I ran. I wish there were more people still interested in White Wolf games, but a pity it seems the d20 games have cornered pretty much the market.
OrcCon 2004... An experience to relive... and to remember.
THE GETTY PICTURES!!!
When I was last in Los Angeles, I was DYING to visit a place called the GETTY MUSEUM. The Getty is one amazing museum with rocks shipped all the way from some other country. I guess when you're wealthy beyond belief, you find things to spend your moolah on. So with my brother as my guide and driver (he was able to visit the Getty in the past) I'm off!
Along the way, we were hindered to travel much faster by the big fat monster of a truck in front of us. Well, one can imagine the ideas I had in mind as the truck hindered our progress for nearly a whole hour.
Beautiful... Simply beautiful...
With its floors and walls designed as a replica of a Roman villa, the Getty is just damn beautiful to look at. And with a design approach that just remains unbelievably beautiful, one finds himself thinking he's in another era... or another world. After parking the car down below, you take a gentle tram ride up the hill to get to the Getty.
There were so many sights to see in the Getty. A pity photography was not permitted inside the museum displays itself. The paintings we just gorgeous and the scuptures present simply breath-taking. I tried to take a lot of pictures of the other things you'd appreciate seeing, such as the cactus gardens and the wonderful locations to see.
Eventually, my brother and I needed a break and before you know it, we hit the cafeteria for some grub to grab. To give you an idea how good the food is, consider this: My brother doesn't like salads. He finds them bland and boring to eat. Well, pictures prove that the food in Getty can change the world! Hehehehe...
Ah... how I wish I could share with you everything I saw. But keep this in mind, if you ever get to visit Los Angeles, take a day to visit the Getty.
When I was last in Los Angeles, I was DYING to visit a place called the GETTY MUSEUM. The Getty is one amazing museum with rocks shipped all the way from some other country. I guess when you're wealthy beyond belief, you find things to spend your moolah on. So with my brother as my guide and driver (he was able to visit the Getty in the past) I'm off!
Along the way, we were hindered to travel much faster by the big fat monster of a truck in front of us. Well, one can imagine the ideas I had in mind as the truck hindered our progress for nearly a whole hour.
Beautiful... Simply beautiful...
With its floors and walls designed as a replica of a Roman villa, the Getty is just damn beautiful to look at. And with a design approach that just remains unbelievably beautiful, one finds himself thinking he's in another era... or another world. After parking the car down below, you take a gentle tram ride up the hill to get to the Getty.
There were so many sights to see in the Getty. A pity photography was not permitted inside the museum displays itself. The paintings we just gorgeous and the scuptures present simply breath-taking. I tried to take a lot of pictures of the other things you'd appreciate seeing, such as the cactus gardens and the wonderful locations to see.
Eventually, my brother and I needed a break and before you know it, we hit the cafeteria for some grub to grab. To give you an idea how good the food is, consider this: My brother doesn't like salads. He finds them bland and boring to eat. Well, pictures prove that the food in Getty can change the world! Hehehehe...
Ah... how I wish I could share with you everything I saw. But keep this in mind, if you ever get to visit Los Angeles, take a day to visit the Getty.
Added recollection..
Which reminds me... yesterday I discovered that a used-CD shop I really enjoyed going to in the past, Moby, has closed down! Darn!!! I used to be able to get a lot of nice soundtracks and stuff there for only $1.99 each! A pity...
Well, thankfully, I found another shop called CD-Trader and found a number of great gems there! I got the soundtracks to Irreversible (Monica Belluchi's controversial film), The Broadway rendition of the Lion King, Usual Suspects, Signs, Peter Gabriel's Passion (Soundtrack to the Last Temptation of Christ), one more title I can't recall and 1942: Conquest of Paradise.
Total cost for 7 Cds: $40.00 which roughly computes to Php 2,240 in Manila. Considering a music cd tends to cost Php450 each, I would like to say I found a very good bargain!
Which reminds me... yesterday I discovered that a used-CD shop I really enjoyed going to in the past, Moby, has closed down! Darn!!! I used to be able to get a lot of nice soundtracks and stuff there for only $1.99 each! A pity...
Well, thankfully, I found another shop called CD-Trader and found a number of great gems there! I got the soundtracks to Irreversible (Monica Belluchi's controversial film), The Broadway rendition of the Lion King, Usual Suspects, Signs, Peter Gabriel's Passion (Soundtrack to the Last Temptation of Christ), one more title I can't recall and 1942: Conquest of Paradise.
Total cost for 7 Cds: $40.00 which roughly computes to Php 2,240 in Manila. Considering a music cd tends to cost Php450 each, I would like to say I found a very good bargain!
DAY 17
Kuya and I were off to check out MAGIC MOUNTAIN this morning only to discover it was closed. Really! They actually CLOSED Magic Mountain. Well, I never knew that theme parks actually close during the week. Could be a freak winter thing. I tell you, I was very very disappointed about it.
Hoping to make good use of the suddenly large amount of free time I had in my hands, we meet up with Angela who actually lived quite close to the area and with her explored the delicious flavors offered by Maggie Moos! Oh boy! It really made up for the disappointment of the early part.
Then went shopping around. A toy shop was selling everything at 30% off and Angela practically devoured the place, buying more than her own body mass. Then, we looked for my Mom's make-up, Jam's diapers and other pasalubong requests. Soon, with exhaustion slowly coming in, we grabbed more ice cream at Dairy Queen then made our way to Ralphs to buy other stuff we needed.
After the eventful day, we headed back home to prepare for a dinner with some cousins. Although to be honest, I feel like I'm more in need of a much desired rest.
Kuya and I were off to check out MAGIC MOUNTAIN this morning only to discover it was closed. Really! They actually CLOSED Magic Mountain. Well, I never knew that theme parks actually close during the week. Could be a freak winter thing. I tell you, I was very very disappointed about it.
Hoping to make good use of the suddenly large amount of free time I had in my hands, we meet up with Angela who actually lived quite close to the area and with her explored the delicious flavors offered by Maggie Moos! Oh boy! It really made up for the disappointment of the early part.
Then went shopping around. A toy shop was selling everything at 30% off and Angela practically devoured the place, buying more than her own body mass. Then, we looked for my Mom's make-up, Jam's diapers and other pasalubong requests. Soon, with exhaustion slowly coming in, we grabbed more ice cream at Dairy Queen then made our way to Ralphs to buy other stuff we needed.
After the eventful day, we headed back home to prepare for a dinner with some cousins. Although to be honest, I feel like I'm more in need of a much desired rest.
DAY 16
Passed by the Westin for the last day of the con. Didn't have any players again but I was still given my full refund. Attended an auction and stared at the Japanese wakizashi and the knife they were auctioning off (starting at one dollar) which I just wish I could get. Unfortunately, I doubt I could have brought it home with me even if I wanted to.
Met up with John, who was inviting me to be part of a new forum and gallery for online comics. We chatted about the local comic industry and I offered some ideas which I hope he does choose to cultivate.
DAY 15
Was supposed to run two games this Sunday, but I was late for my 2:30p.m. game session and I had to cancel my 7:30p.m. game session since my brother made plans to meet up with Rex Aglibot, an old schoolmate and gamer I knew back in Highschool.
So there, around 6:30p.m., Mike and Rex picked me up at the Westin and we headed home for some ACOUSTIC JAMMING! Joining me, Rex and my brother were former schoolmate A.J. Salazar and a friend of his whose name I missed (though he looked a lot like someone I knew back in Don Bosco). We were playing around with various songs; Plush, 1979, and all that until A.J. suddenly shocked us all with a shift towards the old religious songs we used to sing at Don Bosco Makati (highschool days!) and acoustic versions of Britney Spear's Oops I did it again and Backstreet Boys' I want it that way and Everybody!
Had a load of fun singing a more male rendition of Bic Runga's Sway and Lisa Loeb's Stay then gave a soulful approach to Hotel California. Heck, we even opted to have a range of U2, Pearl Jam and 80s songs in the mix!
Of course, by the time the night ended we still didn't know who A.J.'s friend was... Hmm....
Passed by the Westin for the last day of the con. Didn't have any players again but I was still given my full refund. Attended an auction and stared at the Japanese wakizashi and the knife they were auctioning off (starting at one dollar) which I just wish I could get. Unfortunately, I doubt I could have brought it home with me even if I wanted to.
Met up with John, who was inviting me to be part of a new forum and gallery for online comics. We chatted about the local comic industry and I offered some ideas which I hope he does choose to cultivate.
DAY 15
Was supposed to run two games this Sunday, but I was late for my 2:30p.m. game session and I had to cancel my 7:30p.m. game session since my brother made plans to meet up with Rex Aglibot, an old schoolmate and gamer I knew back in Highschool.
So there, around 6:30p.m., Mike and Rex picked me up at the Westin and we headed home for some ACOUSTIC JAMMING! Joining me, Rex and my brother were former schoolmate A.J. Salazar and a friend of his whose name I missed (though he looked a lot like someone I knew back in Don Bosco). We were playing around with various songs; Plush, 1979, and all that until A.J. suddenly shocked us all with a shift towards the old religious songs we used to sing at Don Bosco Makati (highschool days!) and acoustic versions of Britney Spear's Oops I did it again and Backstreet Boys' I want it that way and Everybody!
Had a load of fun singing a more male rendition of Bic Runga's Sway and Lisa Loeb's Stay then gave a soulful approach to Hotel California. Heck, we even opted to have a range of U2, Pearl Jam and 80s songs in the mix!
Of course, by the time the night ended we still didn't know who A.J.'s friend was... Hmm....
Tuesday, February 17, 2004
Monday, February 16, 2004
Musing...
A thought came to me today as I was recalling the events in the convention.
I was heading for the elevator to make my way to the lower level when an american stepped past me and rudely knocked my bag down. I verbally exclaimed a "Hey! Easy!" and he never even glanced back to check what happened.
And I let him leave.
I didn't argue. I didn't yell back. I didn't tell him off about manners and apologies.
Always wondered why I can't seem to just get off my martyr stance. For some reason, its so much easier for me to just accept the responsibility and guilt associated with certain events rather than to stand up and say "Damn it, fuck you for doing that to me!" Does it come from my upbringing as a second child, having to constantly demote myself when my brother likes something i wanted? Does it come from the Catholic upbrining I had where the idea that I should be meek and willing to suffer? Is it rooted to my eternal desire to please others since I just love making others happy?
Some people have the gonads to tell others off.
A car cuts my brother while he's driving and he can yell out "Fuck you!" to show his anger. Me, I'd seethe and grumble frustrated but keep it within. Perhaps I'd lash out, but it tends to be at the wrong people. A stranger puffs cigarette smoke to my calssmate's face and she'd tell him off and yell at him to put the fucking thing out. Me, I'd probably just bear it and grumble about it when I get the chance to do so beyond earshot.
I'm a pathetic coward with a martyr complex.
And I have a permanent desire to make others happy.
I need some backbone, it seems.
Anyone got some to spare?
A thought came to me today as I was recalling the events in the convention.
I was heading for the elevator to make my way to the lower level when an american stepped past me and rudely knocked my bag down. I verbally exclaimed a "Hey! Easy!" and he never even glanced back to check what happened.
And I let him leave.
I didn't argue. I didn't yell back. I didn't tell him off about manners and apologies.
Always wondered why I can't seem to just get off my martyr stance. For some reason, its so much easier for me to just accept the responsibility and guilt associated with certain events rather than to stand up and say "Damn it, fuck you for doing that to me!" Does it come from my upbringing as a second child, having to constantly demote myself when my brother likes something i wanted? Does it come from the Catholic upbrining I had where the idea that I should be meek and willing to suffer? Is it rooted to my eternal desire to please others since I just love making others happy?
Some people have the gonads to tell others off.
A car cuts my brother while he's driving and he can yell out "Fuck you!" to show his anger. Me, I'd seethe and grumble frustrated but keep it within. Perhaps I'd lash out, but it tends to be at the wrong people. A stranger puffs cigarette smoke to my calssmate's face and she'd tell him off and yell at him to put the fucking thing out. Me, I'd probably just bear it and grumble about it when I get the chance to do so beyond earshot.
I'm a pathetic coward with a martyr complex.
And I have a permanent desire to make others happy.
I need some backbone, it seems.
Anyone got some to spare?
Sunday, February 15, 2004
DAY 14
In brief...
Ran two Vampire games. Both went well. Still, had barely three players for each game. Whereas four years ago, I was struggling to make openings for far too many people, I guess this is merely proof that d20 has taken the gaming community with a storm. But then again, I ain't complaining! Had a blast running the Gehenna scenarios I had set up and it was wonderful seeing the players really enjoy.
Met Larry Elmore. Chatted, had some pictures taken, then got some free postcards from him which he ditifully signed. Really nice dude, Larry. Invited him to the Philippines and he said he'd try some time within the year!
All in all, a much better day than yesterday.
Need sleep like hell though.
Barely slepy yesterday prepping. Pushing 24 hours.
Off to bed... after I eat my really late dinner.
In brief...
Ran two Vampire games. Both went well. Still, had barely three players for each game. Whereas four years ago, I was struggling to make openings for far too many people, I guess this is merely proof that d20 has taken the gaming community with a storm. But then again, I ain't complaining! Had a blast running the Gehenna scenarios I had set up and it was wonderful seeing the players really enjoy.
Met Larry Elmore. Chatted, had some pictures taken, then got some free postcards from him which he ditifully signed. Really nice dude, Larry. Invited him to the Philippines and he said he'd try some time within the year!
All in all, a much better day than yesterday.
Need sleep like hell though.
Barely slepy yesterday prepping. Pushing 24 hours.
Off to bed... after I eat my really late dinner.
Saturday, February 14, 2004
Friday, February 13, 2004
DAY 12
No pictures. Let the camera charge the whole day for tomorrow. Been working my ass off with the stuff to use in the game tomorrow. Had lunch with relatives. Hung out with the clan for a while down near San Diego. And helped out around the house a bit.
Ah. Tiring day.
Glad to have heard from some people though!
Thanks for the help, Ner in contacting Joey, Jen and Gaby. Nice of you to give me a call, Seth and yes, Oli, I did get you the CD. Just forgot to list it sa baba.
This is the last leg of my trip here at Los Angeles.
Here's to having a ball!
No pictures. Let the camera charge the whole day for tomorrow. Been working my ass off with the stuff to use in the game tomorrow. Had lunch with relatives. Hung out with the clan for a while down near San Diego. And helped out around the house a bit.
Ah. Tiring day.
Glad to have heard from some people though!
Thanks for the help, Ner in contacting Joey, Jen and Gaby. Nice of you to give me a call, Seth and yes, Oli, I did get you the CD. Just forgot to list it sa baba.
This is the last leg of my trip here at Los Angeles.
Here's to having a ball!
Skydiving...
...has gotten more... unexpected. I love the fact it has been a cathartic blog for me to transform exhaustion, frustration and other negative emotions into a virtual script in progress. Tempted to find some artist to give it a Griffin and Sabine look. Anyway, does anyone out there read it still?
...has gotten more... unexpected. I love the fact it has been a cathartic blog for me to transform exhaustion, frustration and other negative emotions into a virtual script in progress. Tempted to find some artist to give it a Griffin and Sabine look. Anyway, does anyone out there read it still?
From Dhex's blog
You have a surprise kiss! Your partner is always
pleasantly pleased to have you jump outta no
where to dote them with a fun peck on the cheek
or more passionate embrace. super markets and
work places are your favorite places to attack
your loved one with all your love =p
What kind of kiss are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
Mwah!!!
You have a surprise kiss! Your partner is always
pleasantly pleased to have you jump outta no
where to dote them with a fun peck on the cheek
or more passionate embrace. super markets and
work places are your favorite places to attack
your loved one with all your love =p
What kind of kiss are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
Mwah!!!
Thursday, February 12, 2004
BOSTON PICTURES!
Okay, here are the delayed but finally online Boston pictures!
Hmm.. I better prep a website to host the full-sized pics somewhere soon.
Yeech! I really look sick in this pic eh? Well, that explains it then.. I was!
My gosh! SNOW! The last time I recalled touching snow, I didn't even have pubic hair then! Oops! Was that too much information? Heheheh..
Visiting the Massachussets Institute of Technology
Supposedly, the Media Center has some of the latest technology for non-linear editing as well as cinema/television work. Well, unfortunately I got there to find out it wasn't open.
Feeling Good Will Hunting, eh?
Frankly, I think the money spent to build such an artsy building like this one below could have been better spent for scholarships or maybe even funding for other things that could be more beneficial. Some times art isn't really anything more than just aesthetics.
Make no mistake though, my trip to Boston was exceptionally fun and memorable! Thank you to everyone there who made sure I was very comfortable and well-cared for! Miss you all already! Maybe I can visit some time during Autumn and see everything again this time swatched in colors and warmth!
Okay, here are the delayed but finally online Boston pictures!
Hmm.. I better prep a website to host the full-sized pics somewhere soon.
Yeech! I really look sick in this pic eh? Well, that explains it then.. I was!
My gosh! SNOW! The last time I recalled touching snow, I didn't even have pubic hair then! Oops! Was that too much information? Heheheh..
Visiting the Massachussets Institute of Technology
Supposedly, the Media Center has some of the latest technology for non-linear editing as well as cinema/television work. Well, unfortunately I got there to find out it wasn't open.
Feeling Good Will Hunting, eh?
Frankly, I think the money spent to build such an artsy building like this one below could have been better spent for scholarships or maybe even funding for other things that could be more beneficial. Some times art isn't really anything more than just aesthetics.
Make no mistake though, my trip to Boston was exceptionally fun and memorable! Thank you to everyone there who made sure I was very comfortable and well-cared for! Miss you all already! Maybe I can visit some time during Autumn and see everything again this time swatched in colors and warmth!
DAY 11
Am back in Los Angeles! Whoohe!!! Suddenly it is nice and warm here! EHEhehehe I guess walking in snow and all that really changes one's perspective. I guess that explains why upon disembarking there were some Boston-residents who actually exclaimed "Wow! It's summer here!" Hehehe..
Gonna have pictures and more in-depth blog entries later tonight, once I get access to my brother's Adobe Photoshop.
Found a copy of PROJECT A-KO! at last! The original first episode. Damn, it cost me a hefty $24.99 but hey I love that movie that much! I guess I got my fix. Still got some funds to spend for the convention this weekend.
On pasalubong shopping updates, I haven't found an affordable pair of boots that Seth asked me to find for him. Sadly, none of the shoes that my officemate, Jen, asked for were on sale either. And still no sign of Ner's Infinity Gauntlet, nor Vinnie's Dragonblooded book. (I saw the Dragonblooded book earlier, but when I returned to the shop I saw it for sale, it was sold out. Sigh!) Still, there are a few days left. On the successful buys, I got Oliver's Legionnaires #1... and some clothes for people who asked for anything nice. Adrian's StarTrek books are most likely something I will find in the convention.
Other than that, its time for a much needed rest and a lot of planning for the convention. Gonna photocopy a number of character sheets for the upcoming games. Planning to run White Wolf's Vampire and Orpheus soon.
The Games I'll be Running
Here's the write-up on the games I'm to run.
Friday 8pm
"So, do you believe in the Bloody Mary?"
"The drink?" a person in the bar asks humorously, though the rest of
the patrons remain silent. After all, it is not often that someone
reputedly part of the semi-secretive group Orpheus actually shares
stories with others. A woman hushes the man and nods at the speaker
to continue.
"Not the drink. Oh god.. how I wish it was just the drink..."
"Is she real?" a young college student asks at the back of the
group. Heavily in the air, the suspense hangs. It is evident
everyone wants to hear the answer. But all the speaker does in
response is glance at a nearby mirror and finish his drink before
quickly leaving a tenner to pay his bill and heading out into the
cold night.
"Is she real?" the girl asks again.
But the only answer she receives is the closing of the door.
Title: Urban Ghost Stories
A mixed group of Orpheus agents discover truths amidst the lies of
various Urban Ghost Stories. Mature players only. Newbies are
welcome!
Game system: White Wolf's ORPHEUS
Gaming style: Immersive, mood oriented, story-focused
Player slots preferred: 4 max, but can accomodate up to 6 if need be.
Note: Game will use only the main book. Characters are partially pre-
generated.
=====
Saturday 9:30a.m.
"They say the red star is a sign.. a sign that it has begun," the
misshappen nosferatu whispers to the rat he cradles in his hands.
The small rodent squirms against the vampire's elongated fingers.
Though long fed on the vitae of the leperous cainite, it seems to be
unwilling to remain in his hands.
"Perhaps some signs are more obvious," the nosferatu continues
woefully before suddenly throwing the rodent across the alley into
the nearby trash bin. Ghouled animals were never things that
betrayed their masters. But the nosferatu stared at his hand and
looked at the chewed thumb where the rat had buried its
teeth. "Perhaps some are too obvious to ignore."
Title: Heralds: A Time of Judgement game
Vampires of varying societies and backgrounds find themselves facing
signs that remind them that immortality is nothing when the End of
Times comes upon them. But are they truly signs or merely events
given far too much meaning?
Game system: Vampire: The Masquerade
Gaming style: Immersive, mood-oriented, introspective
Player slots preferred: 4 maximum, but will accomodate 5 to 6 if the
players are willing to have long waiting periods between turns.
Characters are partially pre-generated.
Note: This game is inspired by both the Gehenna book, the Ericyes
Fragments, the Book of Nod and over-all relates to the Time of
Judgment scenario of White Wolf Gaming Studios.
====
Saturday 7:30 pm
"But what if we're wrong? What if he.. it.. doesn't care?"
The ground began to tremble. Or was it merely his knees. It was
hard to tell, when one felt this much fear. "What if it did not care
about everything we have done for it?"
The older of the two cainites merely stared at the frightened
vampire. Returning his concentration to the occult tomes set-up
before him, the older cainite continued the ritual.
"What if the rumors were true? And the old one never died that night?"
Beyond their perceptions, a lone woman watched in the darkness.
Whispering more to herself than anyone, she replied, "Then Allah has
blessed us for there is hope yet for mankind."
Title: An Ancient Rises: A Time of Judgement game
Vampires struggle to prepare for what they never believed would truly
come to pass. Gehenna. But can anything stop the coming storm? And
shall anything save them from the beating of a thousand youngling
hearts?
Game system: Vampire: The Masquerade
Gaming style: Immersive, mood-oriented, has combat and drama
Player slots preferred: 4 maximum, but will accomodate 5 to 6 if the
players are willing to have long waiting periods between turns.
Characters are to be created, but ST approval will be exercised.
Metaplot characters will make an appearance.
Note: This game is inspired by both the Gehenna book, the Ericyes
Fragments, the Book of Nod and over-all relates to the Time of
Judgment scenario of White Wolf Gaming Studios.
====
Here's hoping things go okay! Wish me luck people!
Am back in Los Angeles! Whoohe!!! Suddenly it is nice and warm here! EHEhehehe I guess walking in snow and all that really changes one's perspective. I guess that explains why upon disembarking there were some Boston-residents who actually exclaimed "Wow! It's summer here!" Hehehe..
Gonna have pictures and more in-depth blog entries later tonight, once I get access to my brother's Adobe Photoshop.
Found a copy of PROJECT A-KO! at last! The original first episode. Damn, it cost me a hefty $24.99 but hey I love that movie that much! I guess I got my fix. Still got some funds to spend for the convention this weekend.
On pasalubong shopping updates, I haven't found an affordable pair of boots that Seth asked me to find for him. Sadly, none of the shoes that my officemate, Jen, asked for were on sale either. And still no sign of Ner's Infinity Gauntlet, nor Vinnie's Dragonblooded book. (I saw the Dragonblooded book earlier, but when I returned to the shop I saw it for sale, it was sold out. Sigh!) Still, there are a few days left. On the successful buys, I got Oliver's Legionnaires #1... and some clothes for people who asked for anything nice. Adrian's StarTrek books are most likely something I will find in the convention.
Other than that, its time for a much needed rest and a lot of planning for the convention. Gonna photocopy a number of character sheets for the upcoming games. Planning to run White Wolf's Vampire and Orpheus soon.
The Games I'll be Running
Here's the write-up on the games I'm to run.
Friday 8pm
"So, do you believe in the Bloody Mary?"
"The drink?" a person in the bar asks humorously, though the rest of
the patrons remain silent. After all, it is not often that someone
reputedly part of the semi-secretive group Orpheus actually shares
stories with others. A woman hushes the man and nods at the speaker
to continue.
"Not the drink. Oh god.. how I wish it was just the drink..."
"Is she real?" a young college student asks at the back of the
group. Heavily in the air, the suspense hangs. It is evident
everyone wants to hear the answer. But all the speaker does in
response is glance at a nearby mirror and finish his drink before
quickly leaving a tenner to pay his bill and heading out into the
cold night.
"Is she real?" the girl asks again.
But the only answer she receives is the closing of the door.
Title: Urban Ghost Stories
A mixed group of Orpheus agents discover truths amidst the lies of
various Urban Ghost Stories. Mature players only. Newbies are
welcome!
Game system: White Wolf's ORPHEUS
Gaming style: Immersive, mood oriented, story-focused
Player slots preferred: 4 max, but can accomodate up to 6 if need be.
Note: Game will use only the main book. Characters are partially pre-
generated.
=====
Saturday 9:30a.m.
"They say the red star is a sign.. a sign that it has begun," the
misshappen nosferatu whispers to the rat he cradles in his hands.
The small rodent squirms against the vampire's elongated fingers.
Though long fed on the vitae of the leperous cainite, it seems to be
unwilling to remain in his hands.
"Perhaps some signs are more obvious," the nosferatu continues
woefully before suddenly throwing the rodent across the alley into
the nearby trash bin. Ghouled animals were never things that
betrayed their masters. But the nosferatu stared at his hand and
looked at the chewed thumb where the rat had buried its
teeth. "Perhaps some are too obvious to ignore."
Title: Heralds: A Time of Judgement game
Vampires of varying societies and backgrounds find themselves facing
signs that remind them that immortality is nothing when the End of
Times comes upon them. But are they truly signs or merely events
given far too much meaning?
Game system: Vampire: The Masquerade
Gaming style: Immersive, mood-oriented, introspective
Player slots preferred: 4 maximum, but will accomodate 5 to 6 if the
players are willing to have long waiting periods between turns.
Characters are partially pre-generated.
Note: This game is inspired by both the Gehenna book, the Ericyes
Fragments, the Book of Nod and over-all relates to the Time of
Judgment scenario of White Wolf Gaming Studios.
====
Saturday 7:30 pm
"But what if we're wrong? What if he.. it.. doesn't care?"
The ground began to tremble. Or was it merely his knees. It was
hard to tell, when one felt this much fear. "What if it did not care
about everything we have done for it?"
The older of the two cainites merely stared at the frightened
vampire. Returning his concentration to the occult tomes set-up
before him, the older cainite continued the ritual.
"What if the rumors were true? And the old one never died that night?"
Beyond their perceptions, a lone woman watched in the darkness.
Whispering more to herself than anyone, she replied, "Then Allah has
blessed us for there is hope yet for mankind."
Title: An Ancient Rises: A Time of Judgement game
Vampires struggle to prepare for what they never believed would truly
come to pass. Gehenna. But can anything stop the coming storm? And
shall anything save them from the beating of a thousand youngling
hearts?
Game system: Vampire: The Masquerade
Gaming style: Immersive, mood-oriented, has combat and drama
Player slots preferred: 4 maximum, but will accomodate 5 to 6 if the
players are willing to have long waiting periods between turns.
Characters are to be created, but ST approval will be exercised.
Metaplot characters will make an appearance.
Note: This game is inspired by both the Gehenna book, the Ericyes
Fragments, the Book of Nod and over-all relates to the Time of
Judgment scenario of White Wolf Gaming Studios.
====
Here's hoping things go okay! Wish me luck people!
Wednesday, February 11, 2004
Update
Staying at the apartment of a student of my aunt named Yan Zhang who has been very very nice and generous to me. We headed off to grab some dinner at The Asgard and had a most intertesting dinner! We actually had SHARK! Yes! Shark! Delicious and really filling, I guess someone finally thought of eating more than just them fins!
It was really nice hanging around here at Boston. Got to see more sights and stuff in the last day here. And my hostess, Yan, has been very very kind too! Ah, she's like a sister I never had... or an old classmate I forgotten.
I'm going to miss Boston. I definitely will.
I guess all my depression was really the cold getting into my head.
Ah... back to Los Angeles for me in a few hours! Do be a doll you all and pray for my safe journey! Be in touch when I arrive there!
Staying at the apartment of a student of my aunt named Yan Zhang who has been very very nice and generous to me. We headed off to grab some dinner at The Asgard and had a most intertesting dinner! We actually had SHARK! Yes! Shark! Delicious and really filling, I guess someone finally thought of eating more than just them fins!
It was really nice hanging around here at Boston. Got to see more sights and stuff in the last day here. And my hostess, Yan, has been very very kind too! Ah, she's like a sister I never had... or an old classmate I forgotten.
I'm going to miss Boston. I definitely will.
I guess all my depression was really the cold getting into my head.
Ah... back to Los Angeles for me in a few hours! Do be a doll you all and pray for my safe journey! Be in touch when I arrive there!
So far...
..so good. I think I figured out why I got sick yesterday. While moving around M.I.T. I discovered my back was covered with a thin layer of sweat that my shirt didn't seem to be willing to absorb. Well, I guess I fell pray to the natuyuan-ng-pawis syndrome back home that can cause fevers. Heheh.
Been moving around here, visiting the MITlibraries, the Coop, Kendall square and all that. Not much to look at in pictures, but hey, at least they're fun to check out. Blew my wallet buying David Mack's Kabuki:Metamorphosis to complete my Kabuki set. Then got a copy of White Wolf's Orpheus since I always liked the concept but never could find someone with a copy of the book.
Sigh.
Miss the Philippines.
I miss the warm climate and the cheaper things and the chance to hang-out and keep in touch with so many people. Out here, I feel like I got loads of opportunities surrounding me, and yet I feel as appealing as a leper. Not much word from friends. Barely any hellos from strangers. Each day passes with me having to remind myself, "The rest of the world that calls you friend is asleep Tobie... relax.." Damn. Many say their dreams and hopes can be met in the United States... but it sure feels like crap to a people-person like me.
Once again, considering cutting short my vacation.
Weighing that with the fact my parents would probably blow a few fuses in anger learning I cut short my trip and opted to head back so soon.
At least my blog looks more interesting, eh?
..so good. I think I figured out why I got sick yesterday. While moving around M.I.T. I discovered my back was covered with a thin layer of sweat that my shirt didn't seem to be willing to absorb. Well, I guess I fell pray to the natuyuan-ng-pawis syndrome back home that can cause fevers. Heheh.
Been moving around here, visiting the MITlibraries, the Coop, Kendall square and all that. Not much to look at in pictures, but hey, at least they're fun to check out. Blew my wallet buying David Mack's Kabuki:Metamorphosis to complete my Kabuki set. Then got a copy of White Wolf's Orpheus since I always liked the concept but never could find someone with a copy of the book.
Sigh.
Miss the Philippines.
I miss the warm climate and the cheaper things and the chance to hang-out and keep in touch with so many people. Out here, I feel like I got loads of opportunities surrounding me, and yet I feel as appealing as a leper. Not much word from friends. Barely any hellos from strangers. Each day passes with me having to remind myself, "The rest of the world that calls you friend is asleep Tobie... relax.." Damn. Many say their dreams and hopes can be met in the United States... but it sure feels like crap to a people-person like me.
Once again, considering cutting short my vacation.
Weighing that with the fact my parents would probably blow a few fuses in anger learning I cut short my trip and opted to head back so soon.
At least my blog looks more interesting, eh?
Tuesday, February 10, 2004
DAY 10
Feeling slightly better, decided to charge on and at least make my trip to Boston worth something. Headed to The Massachusets Institute of Technology and opted to see some sights. Visited some bookstores and the like. Saw the place where Good Will Hunting was shot. Decided to go around a bit more.
Will try to post pictures when I can.
Sigh. Feeling a tad depressed again. Must be the cold.
Probably. Stuff. Argh.
Considering cutting short my extremely short trip already. Maybe will feel better when I get back to the warmer City of Angeles.
Feeling slightly better, decided to charge on and at least make my trip to Boston worth something. Headed to The Massachusets Institute of Technology and opted to see some sights. Visited some bookstores and the like. Saw the place where Good Will Hunting was shot. Decided to go around a bit more.
Will try to post pictures when I can.
Sigh. Feeling a tad depressed again. Must be the cold.
Probably. Stuff. Argh.
Considering cutting short my extremely short trip already. Maybe will feel better when I get back to the warmer City of Angeles.
Monday, February 09, 2004
Boston Pictures!
Here, as I promised, are the Boston pictures! More to come in the days to come.
Leaving early wasn't enough to get me to the airport on time! I actually had to convince them to still let me get on-board the plane! I think a bonnet looks good on me though. Whatdoyouthink? O masyado bang mukhang O.F.W.?
I tell you. It looks picture perfect, but DAMN it is COLD. Currently wearing a pair of undies, shorts, jogging pants, then jeans, an undershirt, a long sleeves shirt, a sweatshirt, a leather jacket, a scarf, two pairs of thick socks and a bonnet... and I am STILL feeling cold! Still, hope it snows! I wanna see it snow!
Here, as I promised, are the Boston pictures! More to come in the days to come.
Leaving early wasn't enough to get me to the airport on time! I actually had to convince them to still let me get on-board the plane! I think a bonnet looks good on me though. Whatdoyouthink? O masyado bang mukhang O.F.W.?
I tell you. It looks picture perfect, but DAMN it is COLD. Currently wearing a pair of undies, shorts, jogging pants, then jeans, an undershirt, a long sleeves shirt, a sweatshirt, a leather jacket, a scarf, two pairs of thick socks and a bonnet... and I am STILL feeling cold! Still, hope it snows! I wanna see it snow!
Day 5, 6 and 7 Pictures
Are finally online! As it turns out, My Tita Nimfa has a G4 Macintosh loaded with Adobe Photoshop! Yeah!!! Now to get online all them pictures I've taken for the blog.
Here you go!
Mix and match them with the entries below!
DAY 5 and DAY 6
DAY 7
Don't ask me how much these comics cost! Oh they're not all mine. Many are the "pasalubongs" Angela is asking me to bring back to Manila for her. O mga kaibigan, guess ninyo na alin diyan ang mapupunta sa inyo!"
Are finally online! As it turns out, My Tita Nimfa has a G4 Macintosh loaded with Adobe Photoshop! Yeah!!! Now to get online all them pictures I've taken for the blog.
Here you go!
Mix and match them with the entries below!
DAY 5 and DAY 6
DAY 7
Don't ask me how much these comics cost! Oh they're not all mine. Many are the "pasalubongs" Angela is asking me to bring back to Manila for her. O mga kaibigan, guess ninyo na alin diyan ang mapupunta sa inyo!"
Sunday, February 08, 2004
Day 8
Woke up at 5:00a.m. to rush to the airport for my flight to Boston. Frustratingly, I still arrived too late for the Check-In baggage rule (they don't allow baggage to be checked in 40 minutes before the boarding time, really!) so I had to use my charms, innocence and prowess to convince them otherwise. Thankfully, they decided "Go on and go through the security. Your bag is small enough to be hand-carried!" Though I personally would have disagreed, it was shut-up and go, or get pushed to the next flight and pay a $100 fine.
So off I went.
Security went strange cause my shoes started giving some weird metal signals. I was asked to strip, had a quick search and well, they found nothing of interest (well, I guess in terms of security. In other terms though, there was one security person who kinda eyed me with a grin) and finally let me pass. So I run, hoping to still make it to my flight cause while I was being... er... searched, I heard the intercom announce that my flight to Boston was already boarding.
I get there to discover that the people at the boarding area refuse to let me bring my bag on board. "Its too big. That's too big for hand carry honey." Just as I was about to cry about having to suffer the delays of taking the next flight, a black man approaches us and tells the lady,"Let's just check it in and get this boy off the ground." So before you know it, I'm on the plane to Boston and my late-baggage is resting somewhere in the belly of the ride. Yes, I believe in guardian angels and I believe they can be black if they want.
*I had a cranky American as a seatmate, but he became nice half-way through the ride, so I decided to omit that scene from this retelling. Also noticed a guy who looked strangely like Oliver Pulumbarit! Well, a toughie, macho, I-love-to-rape-anything-with-tits version that is. Too bad I didn't get to take a picture of him!
On Boston
My God! The SNOW! There is SNOW everywhere! On the roof tops, on the road, amongst the trees! Finally I am experiencing what it is like to be in a place that is actually snowing! Well, the snow's all on the ground already (the snow storm was earlier in the day before I arrived, I heard) but hey, its one-step closer to experiencing the white fall upon me and tickle me icicle cold. Heheheh! Pictures to follow... definitely pictures to follow!
An old neighbor and childhood friend, Francis picked me up at the shuttle I took from the airport and brought me over to their place. Tita Nimfa (his Mom), Francis and Tita Nimfa's mom (though I could be wrong) stay in this nice quaint house surrounded by snow and framed by Tim Burton-ish trees. It has the feel and look of them old American Houses that are mostly wood with nice soft interiors and low ceilings. Its pretty warm inside, making it easy to forget that there's all this snow and ice outside.
The house is still under-renovation, and this is considered to be "a mess". Frankly, I don't see it as such but hey I have to succumb to the decisions of its owners eh? So sadly, I don't think there will be any pictures of "the mess". I will try to grab a lot of the snow outside. Hmm... I wonder if I can make a snowman or a snow angel?
Hmm... gonna get wet for that.
Updates soon!
Gotta scoot for now. Tita Nimfa just cooked some really delicious smelling steak. And I think the cold has just nurtured a ravenously hungry monster in me.
Later peeps!
Woke up at 5:00a.m. to rush to the airport for my flight to Boston. Frustratingly, I still arrived too late for the Check-In baggage rule (they don't allow baggage to be checked in 40 minutes before the boarding time, really!) so I had to use my charms, innocence and prowess to convince them otherwise. Thankfully, they decided "Go on and go through the security. Your bag is small enough to be hand-carried!" Though I personally would have disagreed, it was shut-up and go, or get pushed to the next flight and pay a $100 fine.
So off I went.
Security went strange cause my shoes started giving some weird metal signals. I was asked to strip, had a quick search and well, they found nothing of interest (well, I guess in terms of security. In other terms though, there was one security person who kinda eyed me with a grin) and finally let me pass. So I run, hoping to still make it to my flight cause while I was being... er... searched, I heard the intercom announce that my flight to Boston was already boarding.
I get there to discover that the people at the boarding area refuse to let me bring my bag on board. "Its too big. That's too big for hand carry honey." Just as I was about to cry about having to suffer the delays of taking the next flight, a black man approaches us and tells the lady,"Let's just check it in and get this boy off the ground." So before you know it, I'm on the plane to Boston and my late-baggage is resting somewhere in the belly of the ride. Yes, I believe in guardian angels and I believe they can be black if they want.
*I had a cranky American as a seatmate, but he became nice half-way through the ride, so I decided to omit that scene from this retelling. Also noticed a guy who looked strangely like Oliver Pulumbarit! Well, a toughie, macho, I-love-to-rape-anything-with-tits version that is. Too bad I didn't get to take a picture of him!
On Boston
My God! The SNOW! There is SNOW everywhere! On the roof tops, on the road, amongst the trees! Finally I am experiencing what it is like to be in a place that is actually snowing! Well, the snow's all on the ground already (the snow storm was earlier in the day before I arrived, I heard) but hey, its one-step closer to experiencing the white fall upon me and tickle me icicle cold. Heheheh! Pictures to follow... definitely pictures to follow!
An old neighbor and childhood friend, Francis picked me up at the shuttle I took from the airport and brought me over to their place. Tita Nimfa (his Mom), Francis and Tita Nimfa's mom (though I could be wrong) stay in this nice quaint house surrounded by snow and framed by Tim Burton-ish trees. It has the feel and look of them old American Houses that are mostly wood with nice soft interiors and low ceilings. Its pretty warm inside, making it easy to forget that there's all this snow and ice outside.
The house is still under-renovation, and this is considered to be "a mess". Frankly, I don't see it as such but hey I have to succumb to the decisions of its owners eh? So sadly, I don't think there will be any pictures of "the mess". I will try to grab a lot of the snow outside. Hmm... I wonder if I can make a snowman or a snow angel?
Hmm... gonna get wet for that.
Updates soon!
Gotta scoot for now. Tita Nimfa just cooked some really delicious smelling steak. And I think the cold has just nurtured a ravenously hungry monster in me.
Later peeps!
Saturday, February 07, 2004
DAY 7
Woke up really early... then was off to meet up with Angela once more for another trip to the comicshop! Found myself devouring my wallet to buy copies of Chris Sprouce Legionnaires (Issue 1 to around 15) and found myself scouring for other stuff. Got copies of the Legion/Titans team-up special, and got a present from Angela, a copy of Violent Cases!
Passed by CSUN with my brother (he's finishing his MBA there! Scored rank 2 in the tests!) and found myself admiring both the landscape and the fact I think I'll be checking this campus out for my graduate studies.
Then found myself in an anime shop and again, my wallet is the victim as I purchased at last a copy of the Studio Ghibli collection! Also purchased a Project A-ko DVD set but got the sequels instead of the really hilarious and cool original movie. Sigh. Well, still is entertaining. Just not as good as the first one.
Then it was a round of Jamba Juice drinks...
and a buffet at a restaurant...
before heading home to panic-pack for my trip to Boston!
Gawd, I heard its below-zero there... hope I don't lose any toes.
Be in touch!
Woke up really early... then was off to meet up with Angela once more for another trip to the comicshop! Found myself devouring my wallet to buy copies of Chris Sprouce Legionnaires (Issue 1 to around 15) and found myself scouring for other stuff. Got copies of the Legion/Titans team-up special, and got a present from Angela, a copy of Violent Cases!
Passed by CSUN with my brother (he's finishing his MBA there! Scored rank 2 in the tests!) and found myself admiring both the landscape and the fact I think I'll be checking this campus out for my graduate studies.
Then found myself in an anime shop and again, my wallet is the victim as I purchased at last a copy of the Studio Ghibli collection! Also purchased a Project A-ko DVD set but got the sequels instead of the really hilarious and cool original movie. Sigh. Well, still is entertaining. Just not as good as the first one.
Then it was a round of Jamba Juice drinks...
and a buffet at a restaurant...
before heading home to panic-pack for my trip to Boston!
Gawd, I heard its below-zero there... hope I don't lose any toes.
Be in touch!
DAY 6
Well, spent it mostly watching more movies, as well as bonding with the kids, Janna, Mark and Tim. Spent some hours hanging out at a nearby Borders and found myself perusing copies of White-Wolf's Guide to the High Clans as well as the Guide to the Low Clans (for their Dark Ages: Vampire line). Opted not to buy it instead and save up for the coming Ascencion book as well as the Time of Judgment book.
Had a heck of a time playing the Return of the King Playstation 2 video game! Played it for a while solo, then eventually joined up with Tim. We got all the way to the Southern Gate before we realised what time it was and called it a night.
To cap the day, I opted to watch About Schmidt and found myself getting depressed again. Gah, it really puts old age into perspective, eh?
Well, spent it mostly watching more movies, as well as bonding with the kids, Janna, Mark and Tim. Spent some hours hanging out at a nearby Borders and found myself perusing copies of White-Wolf's Guide to the High Clans as well as the Guide to the Low Clans (for their Dark Ages: Vampire line). Opted not to buy it instead and save up for the coming Ascencion book as well as the Time of Judgment book.
Had a heck of a time playing the Return of the King Playstation 2 video game! Played it for a while solo, then eventually joined up with Tim. We got all the way to the Southern Gate before we realised what time it was and called it a night.
To cap the day, I opted to watch About Schmidt and found myself getting depressed again. Gah, it really puts old age into perspective, eh?
Thursday, February 05, 2004
DAY 5
Pardon the lack of photos for now. And possibly for day 6 as well.
Well, the day began late in the afternoon. Having stayed up till the wee hours of the morning chatting with some friends back home, I woke up way past four p.m. with a strange dream still lingering in my head. I can't seem to recall the details again, but I know it had to do with sex and some officemate. Hmm... That was yummy, as far as I can barely recall.
Then it was off to my Uncle Joe and Tita Nanette's place for a few days. Got to their house in time for dinner and had a delicious meal courtesy of a Chinese place with a Panda for a logo. Spent the earlier part of the evening watching American Idol and watched as they culled the herd to a small group. It is actually a fun show to watch, seeing how many of them would forget some lines and whatnots. Damn can some of them really sing!
Then, went off with my cousin, Tim, to grab some rentals at Blockbuster. Grabbed Run Lola Run, About Schmidt, Brotherhood of the Wolf, Musa: The Warrior as well as a rental PS2: Return of the King game to keep me occupied as I stayed up in hopes some pinoys back home would be online while I was. Hung out and watched Brotherhood of the Wolf with Tim, Janna and Mark but Tim headed up ahead to catch some Zzzs. The two younger cousins enjoyed the movie though, even if I had to skip the scene where Monica Belluci (Malena, Matrix Revolutions, Passion) first appears.
It is colder here than my other Uncle's place. They also got wireless internet, but the laptop I borrowed (Mark's, THANK YOU MARK!) doesn't have photoshop so I can't really move my pictures in here. Darn it. Well, them the breaks eh?
Still, I'm enjoying myself. I miss these people a lot!
Pardon the lack of photos for now. And possibly for day 6 as well.
Well, the day began late in the afternoon. Having stayed up till the wee hours of the morning chatting with some friends back home, I woke up way past four p.m. with a strange dream still lingering in my head. I can't seem to recall the details again, but I know it had to do with sex and some officemate. Hmm... That was yummy, as far as I can barely recall.
Then it was off to my Uncle Joe and Tita Nanette's place for a few days. Got to their house in time for dinner and had a delicious meal courtesy of a Chinese place with a Panda for a logo. Spent the earlier part of the evening watching American Idol and watched as they culled the herd to a small group. It is actually a fun show to watch, seeing how many of them would forget some lines and whatnots. Damn can some of them really sing!
Then, went off with my cousin, Tim, to grab some rentals at Blockbuster. Grabbed Run Lola Run, About Schmidt, Brotherhood of the Wolf, Musa: The Warrior as well as a rental PS2: Return of the King game to keep me occupied as I stayed up in hopes some pinoys back home would be online while I was. Hung out and watched Brotherhood of the Wolf with Tim, Janna and Mark but Tim headed up ahead to catch some Zzzs. The two younger cousins enjoyed the movie though, even if I had to skip the scene where Monica Belluci (Malena, Matrix Revolutions, Passion) first appears.
It is colder here than my other Uncle's place. They also got wireless internet, but the laptop I borrowed (Mark's, THANK YOU MARK!) doesn't have photoshop so I can't really move my pictures in here. Darn it. Well, them the breaks eh?
Still, I'm enjoying myself. I miss these people a lot!
Wednesday, February 04, 2004
DAY 4
The day started as groaning moment.... barely had enough sleep for the day. Funny thing was, I didn't really feel THAT lousy. I had an interesting dream running, which I really just found myself relishing. The most I can currently recall is it had something to do with me being able to walk on walls and that there was this giant pinata I wanted to reach. Ah, darn... wish I recalled.
Anyway, the day progressively got better and better!
First, I opted for a more interesting get up. Sadly the pictures don't show it clearly but I went for a green and fushia motif. My Buko Pandan look which seemed to be a hit in the household. Very Pinoy, they told me, and frankly I cared not if it was meant half-in-jest or whathaveyou. Basta, feel ko maging artsy sa color choices ko kanina.
I was to meet with Angela who wanted me to visit a comic shop she frequented. A comic shop! Damn, I was excited! Getting dressed early, I began looking through the long lists of stuff I was to buy for others and made sure I had enough to get what they wanted. Well, as it turns out, the comics were either not available (Sorry Ner!) or too expensive (Sorry Oliver!). I did find myself ravenous over the many options i had before me. In the end, I blew $70+ on a load of a comics I had long wanted to have, or lost and wanted to replace.
Eventually I also asked my brother to bring me to a nearby store I can shop for music cds. We wen't to the nearest Tower Records and found three CDs I wanted to get. The first was 10,000 Maniacs: Campfire Songs (which Oliver gave me money to buy for him), the seond was a Dido single that contained White Flag, Paris (A previously unreleased song) as well as the Johnny Toobad Mix of White Flag (which I shall admit I didn't really like.)
Got myself copies of Girl, Human Target, Face, V for Vendetta TPB, Legion, Generation X and the last Stormwatch TPB which lead to the death of the team and the beginnings for The Authority. I also got myself a copy of Strangers In Paradise which I think Oliver would love to read as material for inspiration for his upcoming solo comic.
After that, it was a quick trip back to the house to help in a Commercial which my Uncle was planning to have made for their business. Amusingly, the people they were to meet with to conceptualize the commercial was from ABS-CBN International. Traded ideas, shares stories and had a lot of fun chatting about work. (Egad.. during a vacation!?!)
Then, it was off for a few hours of bonding with my brother, Mike, who had been staying here in Los Angeles for a while now to finish his MBA. I am so proud of him. He ranked 2nd place in the recent testing for the MBA.
We headed off after a light snack and made our way to the...
Joe and Nanette household. Arriving there, we had dinner, traded updates on the family and tossed jokes back and forth. Though I was having such a great time, I have to admit, exhaustion and sleepiness started to get the better of me. As I was nodding off on the ever so lovely leather couches (which I sadly must admit did nothing to force the cold away), my brother opted that we head back to the house, but not before going for some groceries and introducing me to a new vice to cultivate:
JAMBA JUICE!
Even if we were freezing our hairy asses off, I knew I just had to try this famous drink that composed of fruit, ice, blended juices and the like. And damn, I will tell you now it was well worth feeling the tips of my fingers grow numb. Jamba Juice Rules!
So there you go, a very eventful Day 4. I'll be heading off to bed very soon though. Been having small headaches which remind me of tiny lice dancing the tango while wearing steel-tipped boots. Been slipping into sleep every now and then at any moment I am in a quiet place too.
No sense getting sick while here, eh?
The bed awaits! As a sidenote (which I should have posted at the start) pardon the confusing non-linear recollection of the events, my friends. It must be my lack of sleep. Back to my empty cold bed then.
Sayang lang talaga... why does it have to be empty.
Haay...
The day started as groaning moment.... barely had enough sleep for the day. Funny thing was, I didn't really feel THAT lousy. I had an interesting dream running, which I really just found myself relishing. The most I can currently recall is it had something to do with me being able to walk on walls and that there was this giant pinata I wanted to reach. Ah, darn... wish I recalled.
Anyway, the day progressively got better and better!
First, I opted for a more interesting get up. Sadly the pictures don't show it clearly but I went for a green and fushia motif. My Buko Pandan look which seemed to be a hit in the household. Very Pinoy, they told me, and frankly I cared not if it was meant half-in-jest or whathaveyou. Basta, feel ko maging artsy sa color choices ko kanina.
I was to meet with Angela who wanted me to visit a comic shop she frequented. A comic shop! Damn, I was excited! Getting dressed early, I began looking through the long lists of stuff I was to buy for others and made sure I had enough to get what they wanted. Well, as it turns out, the comics were either not available (Sorry Ner!) or too expensive (Sorry Oliver!). I did find myself ravenous over the many options i had before me. In the end, I blew $70+ on a load of a comics I had long wanted to have, or lost and wanted to replace.
Eventually I also asked my brother to bring me to a nearby store I can shop for music cds. We wen't to the nearest Tower Records and found three CDs I wanted to get. The first was 10,000 Maniacs: Campfire Songs (which Oliver gave me money to buy for him), the seond was a Dido single that contained White Flag, Paris (A previously unreleased song) as well as the Johnny Toobad Mix of White Flag (which I shall admit I didn't really like.)
Got myself copies of Girl, Human Target, Face, V for Vendetta TPB, Legion, Generation X and the last Stormwatch TPB which lead to the death of the team and the beginnings for The Authority. I also got myself a copy of Strangers In Paradise which I think Oliver would love to read as material for inspiration for his upcoming solo comic.
After that, it was a quick trip back to the house to help in a Commercial which my Uncle was planning to have made for their business. Amusingly, the people they were to meet with to conceptualize the commercial was from ABS-CBN International. Traded ideas, shares stories and had a lot of fun chatting about work. (Egad.. during a vacation!?!)
Then, it was off for a few hours of bonding with my brother, Mike, who had been staying here in Los Angeles for a while now to finish his MBA. I am so proud of him. He ranked 2nd place in the recent testing for the MBA.
We headed off after a light snack and made our way to the...
Joe and Nanette household. Arriving there, we had dinner, traded updates on the family and tossed jokes back and forth. Though I was having such a great time, I have to admit, exhaustion and sleepiness started to get the better of me. As I was nodding off on the ever so lovely leather couches (which I sadly must admit did nothing to force the cold away), my brother opted that we head back to the house, but not before going for some groceries and introducing me to a new vice to cultivate:
JAMBA JUICE!
Even if we were freezing our hairy asses off, I knew I just had to try this famous drink that composed of fruit, ice, blended juices and the like. And damn, I will tell you now it was well worth feeling the tips of my fingers grow numb. Jamba Juice Rules!
So there you go, a very eventful Day 4. I'll be heading off to bed very soon though. Been having small headaches which remind me of tiny lice dancing the tango while wearing steel-tipped boots. Been slipping into sleep every now and then at any moment I am in a quiet place too.
No sense getting sick while here, eh?
The bed awaits! As a sidenote (which I should have posted at the start) pardon the confusing non-linear recollection of the events, my friends. It must be my lack of sleep. Back to my empty cold bed then.
Sayang lang talaga... why does it have to be empty.
Haay...
Tuesday, February 03, 2004
After soaking my feet in the water, and dropping my sister-in-law's cellphone in the gutter...
I finally got to meet up with Popay! Yeehey!!! Popay and I used to hang out a lot together back in college. She was the epitome of a living person to represent Death and was one of those friends whom you knew you'd keep for many many years to come. When she left for the US, I was depressed for a few days. Gone was the person who helped me stay smiling even when a relationship I had back in college disintegrated. I wasn't sure if I'd be able to see her again... even if I knew we both were trying to keep in touch.
So there, we finally meet up thanks to the fact we were able to keep in touch, and we brave the cold, chilly rain as we make our way to a Thai Restaurant she wanted us to eat at.
Unfortunately the restaurant happens to be closed on Mondays. So without any other choice, and with the rains getting worse, we tarried on to the nearest food place and found a diner a block or two away. (Trust me, a BLOCK is a LONG way in Los Angeles). We had great food, talked about life, love and everything else fun in between, as well as reminisced on the good old times, the great todays and the wonderful tomorrows to come.
Ah Popay, I miss you already! Thanks for finding time in your schedule to accomodate lil ol me.
Wait a minute, RAIN???
Yes, you read it right, it was raining today.
I didn't really check on the weather reports so I don't know precisely why. I doubt its the big Man up there having fun on my expense. Heheh. But hey, I'm not really complaining anymore. Though it gave me a chapped lip that still smarts, at least I didn't end up bleeding. Though it made me dunk my sister-in-law's phone into the gutter and forced me to fish it out with my nimble hands, at least it didn't ruin it and fuck it up from still working, eh?
Still, it was a nice touch. Gave the night a
feel. Ah yes...
All in all, a good day!
I finally got to meet up with Popay! Yeehey!!! Popay and I used to hang out a lot together back in college. She was the epitome of a living person to represent Death and was one of those friends whom you knew you'd keep for many many years to come. When she left for the US, I was depressed for a few days. Gone was the person who helped me stay smiling even when a relationship I had back in college disintegrated. I wasn't sure if I'd be able to see her again... even if I knew we both were trying to keep in touch.
So there, we finally meet up thanks to the fact we were able to keep in touch, and we brave the cold, chilly rain as we make our way to a Thai Restaurant she wanted us to eat at.
Unfortunately the restaurant happens to be closed on Mondays. So without any other choice, and with the rains getting worse, we tarried on to the nearest food place and found a diner a block or two away. (Trust me, a BLOCK is a LONG way in Los Angeles). We had great food, talked about life, love and everything else fun in between, as well as reminisced on the good old times, the great todays and the wonderful tomorrows to come.
Ah Popay, I miss you already! Thanks for finding time in your schedule to accomodate lil ol me.
Wait a minute, RAIN???
Yes, you read it right, it was raining today.
I didn't really check on the weather reports so I don't know precisely why. I doubt its the big Man up there having fun on my expense. Heheh. But hey, I'm not really complaining anymore. Though it gave me a chapped lip that still smarts, at least I didn't end up bleeding. Though it made me dunk my sister-in-law's phone into the gutter and forced me to fish it out with my nimble hands, at least it didn't ruin it and fuck it up from still working, eh?
Still, it was a nice touch. Gave the night a
feel. Ah yes...
All in all, a good day!
Day 3
Its another cold morning.
The starts with a wake-up call from Popay Ranada, an old friend of mine who lives in Sherman Oaks. Hoping to set up a meet. Probelm is, she's all the way down Sherman Oaks and I'm here stuck in the Valley.
So I bend over my bed, grabbed the lap top and started checking Yahoo! Maps and MTA.net.
So I searched for the major intersections and typed in the zip codes and what nots. Estimated distance of trip was 14 miles. Estimated travel time was 20 minutes. Okay. .that doesn't sound to bad right? This is one of the things I really REALLY like about Los Angeles. The fact that they have maps on how to get around that ACTUALLY WORK. I mean, in the Philippines, street names change so fast and so frequently it is plain and simply annoying! And then you got all them one-ways, no-exit roads that don't make sense existing. And the added annoyance of stupid policemen who don't know the roads, and non-existent road signs that are supposed to give you the name of the road your at.
Hay... Manila talaga.
So now I'm off to the showers. Gotta get changed fast.
Am excited as hell and I have no idea exactly how cold it is going to be tonight. Well, one thing is for sure, I'm going to be enjoying the Los Angeles night sky tonight. And possibly the company of an old friend. Maybe if I get back soon enough, I can tell you about the Philippine Fencing Team in Los Angeles. A small ditty of an anecdote that happened day one of my trip here. Its a riot.
Its another cold morning.
The starts with a wake-up call from Popay Ranada, an old friend of mine who lives in Sherman Oaks. Hoping to set up a meet. Probelm is, she's all the way down Sherman Oaks and I'm here stuck in the Valley.
So I bend over my bed, grabbed the lap top and started checking Yahoo! Maps and MTA.net.
So I searched for the major intersections and typed in the zip codes and what nots. Estimated distance of trip was 14 miles. Estimated travel time was 20 minutes. Okay. .that doesn't sound to bad right? This is one of the things I really REALLY like about Los Angeles. The fact that they have maps on how to get around that ACTUALLY WORK. I mean, in the Philippines, street names change so fast and so frequently it is plain and simply annoying! And then you got all them one-ways, no-exit roads that don't make sense existing. And the added annoyance of stupid policemen who don't know the roads, and non-existent road signs that are supposed to give you the name of the road your at.
Hay... Manila talaga.
So now I'm off to the showers. Gotta get changed fast.
Am excited as hell and I have no idea exactly how cold it is going to be tonight. Well, one thing is for sure, I'm going to be enjoying the Los Angeles night sky tonight. And possibly the company of an old friend. Maybe if I get back soon enough, I can tell you about the Philippine Fencing Team in Los Angeles. A small ditty of an anecdote that happened day one of my trip here. Its a riot.
Monday, February 02, 2004
Hmm... What language is this?
Found another website hosting a work of mine without permission.
This is a translation of my RPG article "Approaching Disciplines" which I submitted to a website called Sanguinus Curae for their articles section. Seems like more than just one article has been translated for this site. See Here is another. Ah wish I could read this site.
I wonder what language this is in. And I wish they contacted me about this too
Like this game for instance.
Discernment was an experimental role-playing game that is available for free online. The author, Michael Miller, was nice enough to include me, Sam and Awie in the credits since we playtested the game.
Hay naku, some people just don't know how to do things right.
Found another website hosting a work of mine without permission.
This is a translation of my RPG article "Approaching Disciplines" which I submitted to a website called Sanguinus Curae for their articles section. Seems like more than just one article has been translated for this site. See Here is another. Ah wish I could read this site.
I wonder what language this is in. And I wish they contacted me about this too
Like this game for instance.
Discernment was an experimental role-playing game that is available for free online. The author, Michael Miller, was nice enough to include me, Sam and Awie in the credits since we playtested the game.
Hay naku, some people just don't know how to do things right.
Insulted in good faith
I dunno how to really feel about this blog.
The author made a MST of a fanfic I wrote.
Though its said to be something meant to be humorous, I found it slightly offensive since it pokes fun at my work and yet I was never contacted about it. Sigh..
Find what the author did here.
The author had a disclaimer that read: "Disclaim me, baby: The Enigma Grows is by Tobie Abad, and I'm MSTing it without permission from him. Tobie, if you find this, it's all in good fun so don't take it personally. I mean, if you liked The Enigma, you must be a cool guy."
So I guess I shouldn't feel bad about it. But having never been contacted about this just irks me the wrong way.
I dunno how to really feel about this blog.
The author made a MST of a fanfic I wrote.
Though its said to be something meant to be humorous, I found it slightly offensive since it pokes fun at my work and yet I was never contacted about it. Sigh..
Find what the author did here.
The author had a disclaimer that read: "Disclaim me, baby: The Enigma Grows is by Tobie Abad, and I'm MSTing it without permission from him. Tobie, if you find this, it's all in good fun so don't take it personally. I mean, if you liked The Enigma, you must be a cool guy."
So I guess I shouldn't feel bad about it. But having never been contacted about this just irks me the wrong way.
Stuck at home!
Looks like I ain't stepping out tonight. Well, at least not unless someone here is willing to go out around 2:00a.m. You see, here in the house, someone tripped the Security Alarm Systems. Tripping the alarm means the motion sensors have come on. Motion sensors on means that anyone who tries to open the doors to step in or out the house triggers the really, really, REALLY LOUD sirens that claxons for about five minutes straight. Sigh..
We tried calling the company that installed the alarm and as it turns out, the thing was installed before my uncle and his family moved in here. Now, to make things worse, when they instructed us how to deactivate the bugger, as it turns out, the thing even when unplugged remains active for at least 6-8 hours (due to a back-up battery).
So I'm under involuntary house-arrest.
Unless we want to lambast the area with noise and possibly even get the cops to show up and give us a hassle. Well, I guess this means at least I'll get some rest. Hey at least we got great internet connections to use for free.
Looks like I ain't stepping out tonight. Well, at least not unless someone here is willing to go out around 2:00a.m. You see, here in the house, someone tripped the Security Alarm Systems. Tripping the alarm means the motion sensors have come on. Motion sensors on means that anyone who tries to open the doors to step in or out the house triggers the really, really, REALLY LOUD sirens that claxons for about five minutes straight. Sigh..
We tried calling the company that installed the alarm and as it turns out, the thing was installed before my uncle and his family moved in here. Now, to make things worse, when they instructed us how to deactivate the bugger, as it turns out, the thing even when unplugged remains active for at least 6-8 hours (due to a back-up battery).
So I'm under involuntary house-arrest.
Unless we want to lambast the area with noise and possibly even get the cops to show up and give us a hassle. Well, I guess this means at least I'll get some rest. Hey at least we got great internet connections to use for free.
DAY TWO!!!
Woke up around 1:00p.m. since I headed for bed around 7:00a.m. Grabbed some food at a hear by McDonalds. Then eventually, went off to the nearby Northridge Mall to go window shopping with my brother.
We visited a nearby Borders and I found myself over-whelmed by the sheer amount of things I wanted to buy! After going around for a few minutes, I ended up having to choose whether or not I'll get certain things. In my hands were a copy of Kabuki: Masks of the Noh, Neil Gaiman's Season of Mists: Sandman, Image comic's The Authority: Earth Inferno and Other stories, and Neil Gaiman's Murder Mysteries. Well, guess which ones won out!
Haay... hopefully, the great BED can help me get the others next time. At sana may discount! :-)
Woke up around 1:00p.m. since I headed for bed around 7:00a.m. Grabbed some food at a hear by McDonalds. Then eventually, went off to the nearby Northridge Mall to go window shopping with my brother.
We visited a nearby Borders and I found myself over-whelmed by the sheer amount of things I wanted to buy! After going around for a few minutes, I ended up having to choose whether or not I'll get certain things. In my hands were a copy of Kabuki: Masks of the Noh, Neil Gaiman's Season of Mists: Sandman, Image comic's The Authority: Earth Inferno and Other stories, and Neil Gaiman's Murder Mysteries. Well, guess which ones won out!
Haay... hopefully, the great BED can help me get the others next time. At sana may discount! :-)
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