Metz's Secret Garden

Back to blogging soon...

2010-06-24T09:38:00.000-07:00

It has been quite awhile since I last blogged about anything but am finally getting my act together. Been very busy with work and am back to modeling again (will share pics next time). For the meantime this will be my marker for a new beginning since I have been absent for quite a long time. Lots of changes will be made and more fun articles to come. Now that I finally have my itouch I can even start blogging on the go. :) till then sit tight and hope that the next articles will get you guys coming back for more. :) xoxo

Work Stress Due to Work Applicants!!!

2010-02-07T05:42:00.000-08:00

I have been stressed with work not because of the company but because of the crazy inconsiderate applicants that I have had. It is as if a lot of the applicants do not have a sense of business ethics. They make an appointment and then cancel it right after missing it???? What the heck is that?? What company in their right mind would hire someone that is irresponsible with even the simple task as properly informing us ahead of time let alone committing to something that you know you can't go to.

I even get those candidates that make excuses which I have prayed isn't true. Like their relatives or family member just died or got sick. But when you check again they give you a different excuse???? That is just downright Insane!

They don't even read the policies of their application. That if they confirm for an interview and do not properly advise the company that they can't make it, their profile gets black listed on the site they applied through - Such site is Jobstreet.com and JobsDB.com. A lot of the candidates fail to see that and just apply and dont really care about what they are applying for.

That also puzzles me - their location. They see that the job posting is for Metro Manila (assuming that they read the job post) and yet they apply knowing that they live somewhere else in the world and God knows they cant make it anytime within the next couple of months for any interview. It just ads to the stress of those that are trying really hard to help those that really want and deserve the job.

So for all you job seekers out there and you get to read this - please take note that this is one of the most common stresses that a recruiter goes through as we look and search for the people that are looking for jobs and trying our hardest to match them to the profiles that our accounts and companies are looking for. We all have a deadline and if you make it hard for us to meet that then that is going to have its toll on both the interviewer and that applicants.

Blogging thru my mobile phone for the first time

2010-01-27T22:24:00.000-08:00

I am just testing how it would be like blogging thru my phone. Can you imagine how much more fun it would be with the new apple ipad. According to steve jobs price woul start at $499 which is going to sell like hot cakes. Hehe

Shakugan No Shana

2010-01-17T07:17:00.000-08:00

I was spending a lot of my vacation time watching anime and one of the favorites for me is Shakugan No Shana. This is a series that ran for three seasons and was truly enjoyable to watch. The main story revolved around a rather precarious love between two young characters that are seemingly opposites of each other. Once you get started on the series, it is a guarantee that you will get hooked.

here is the synopsis according to AnimeUltima:

Sakai Yuuji, a high school student who expected his normal life to last forever, is dead. When he was on his way home he witnessed a shocking view as the world suddenly froze: people were engulfed by blue flames and a monster resembling a large doll swallowed them. Just as the monster prepared to consume Yuuji, a sword-wielding girl in black attire with flaming red eyes and hair that burns like embers saved him from the monster. The girl called herself a "Flame Haze" who hunts the "Guze no Tomogara", creatures from another world. As Yuuji noticed a blue flame in his chest, she called him a "Torch", a temporary replacement, saying that the "real" Yuuji's existence had already ended. Unfazed, Yuuji befriended the strange girl, named her "Shana", and joined her fight against Tomogara and other Flame Hazes.

This a series that runs with 24 episodes on average and you can watch it free on AnimeUltima. Stay tuned for the next anime to be featured as am viewing a rather interesting one as of the moment and will talk more about it once am through :) xoxo

Here are the Openings for Season 1 and 2:

Picasa 2 Tutorial

2009-12-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

I love using Picasa to do my Photo edits. I use Picasa especially when I am in a hurry and I want to share my photos with family and friends. I have started using Picasa early this year since I started using Mini Notebooks(I used an HP Mini 2140) early this year. I used it a lot because Photoshop couldn't run well on a mini-notebook and it was a lot easier to use when one is in a hurry. I found it best when you didn't have to do any major editing. I even played around with its video maker and was quite impressed with what it was able to do. Now I must admit that Photoshop is still the best but if you simply want to use something simple and is looking for a software that wouldn't be so taxing with your computer, Picasa would be your natural option.

I have found a cool video playlist on Youtube that can teach you how to use Picasa. I myself found it very useful.

Merry Xmas :)

2009-12-25T07:49:00.001-08:00

Hi Peeps,

I just wanted to take this time of the year to say thank you so much for being there for me. For inspiring me and showing me new things that constantly feed my mind. But with all that aside, I want to thank you most of all for the friendship that you have shared with me regardless of distance. You are always treasured here with me.

Merry Xmas and May more Blessings come your way.

Thank You all so much :) xoxo

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Have you lost your innocence?

2009-12-20T18:45:00.000-08:00

According to researchers, if you see two couples intertwined in a passionate embrace rather than the dolphins you have already lost your innocent mind. Worse is if you can't find the dolphins - your mind is absolutely perverted :-P so tell me can you find the dolphins?

Anime Recommendation: Chrono Crusade

2009-12-18T07:55:00.000-08:00

I just finished watching this anime series from AnimeUltima and I am happy to say that the show was really fun and dramatic to watch. I loved every single episode as one gets to see the main characters grow and develop each day in terms of belief, faith, love and friendship.

Plot:
Chrono Crusade is set in the height of the Roaring Twenties, where jazz is king, bootleg liquor flows freely, and the mob rules the streets. It is a time of prosperity, luxury and decadence, and the division between rich and poor grows even wider in the wake of the First World War. It is at such times of great change and upheaval that the dark things that lurk below the world of man can come to the surface. In the world of Chrono Crusade, a fictional organization known as the Order of Magdalene (or more specifically, the characters of Sister Rosette Christopher and her soul-bound demon partner, Chrono) exists to fight the demonic threats that appear with increasing regularity across America. Both Rosette and Chrono are revealed during the course of the story to be driven by a shadowy past, centered around a search for Rosette's lost brother, Joshua. Joshua is shown to have been taken from her by the sinner, Aion, a devil who shares a dark and bloody history with Chrono, and seeks nothing less than to overthrow Heaven and Earth.

here is a part of the first episode for you to see and hopefully get hooked on :)

Alice in Wonderland

2009-12-18T07:23:00.000-08:00

There is this cool movie that I can't wait to get to watch this season. Alice in Wonderland by Walt Disney. It is in full 3d and Mr. Depp is of course the reason why many are seeking to watch this movie. I don't want to spoil much as to what one is to expect from the movie but here is a trailer that is definitely going to tease yah into watching it too :)

Xmas Pressure

2009-12-18T06:03:00.000-08:00

Xmas is both a fun and sad part for me this year. Fun because we get to see all of our close friends and relatives and get to spend time with them and to give and receive gifts from the heart. Sad because as of writing this article I am flat broke. It really wasn't easy to see my check with a lot of tax deductions right next to when Xmas is starting. I have to be honest that right now am baffled as to how am going to get through this holiday season. Why am I broke? It because of all the bills that I have to pay from the credit card purchases to utility bills. Sigh, the lifestyle here in the big city is pretty tough. I guess from today I really have to work triple hard in earning extra cash. Blogging is a source that I have found to have given me an extra income from and it has gained popularity with my peers and more. For that I am grateful. I guess with the year ending I have to learn to balance my finances a little better and make sure that I have savings put aside for emergency situations like this. :)

Anime Feast :) - Best Online Resource

2009-12-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

I love watching japanese anime, even if all i can do is to simply listen watch and read the subtitles. There is a lot about anime that I like, for one it helps me get away from the real world even for just awhile and to unwind. I find it filled with funny antics and drama all mixed into one. I know that I am not alone in this either since a lot of these are aimed towards an older audience.

There is a lot of moral lessons too within each of these particular shows. From loyalty, faith and trust and of course the power of love and friendship. Other times there really isn't anything but just sheer fun as the reason as to why I want to watch these Japanese Mangas come to life.

A lot of people have asked me where is the best place to watch these type of animations without having to worry about missing an episode of a show. I found at first that Youtube.com is a fairly good resource in this field but you have to be a little patient and creative in the way that you want to find them. More often each episode is chopped up into 2 or three parts and finding the youtube channel that has the complete series can give you that challenge. If you are going to use youtube it is best to start with the title then the episode number(you can get the episode numbers in wikipedia.org) followed by the words part 1.

Here is an example: Naruto episode 1 part 1. You can also indicate english at the end to see if you can get those dubbed in english.

The other is through a membership website that is known to get the telecast premier before everyone else gets to see it. The website that does this is crunchyroll.com. Non-members can still watch some of the episodes though only members get to see all of their archives as well as get to watch the premier showing of the popular episodes. But unlike in youtube, you dont have to look for all three parts of an episode since they show full episodes and you can get to see a picture preview of each of them.

The last site that I am going to mention is something that I am hooked to right now since they have a pretty extensive list of episodes of different animes from A-Z and more. There are some with missing episodes though to some of their titles due to distribution laws but a lot of them are complete and up to date. The website is animeultima. I discovered this particular site while watching a youtube channel and saw that their collection was pretty clear and best of all complete. The website itself is a social website that you can join in and enjoy. You can even leave comments and reviews of the animation you are watching.

I do know that there are many more sites out there. The internet is a huge place to be in, so I guess if you are reading this and you know of other sites that are like the ones that I have mentioned where anime lovers can converge and watch together please please tell :) Till the next time. :) xoxo

Metz's Diary: Just chilling in Coffee Bean

2009-11-03T07:11:00.000-08:00

I love Coffee Bean for many reasons. Out of sheer fun here are the reasons why:

Moroccan Mint Latte - I so Love this tea mix
Free unlimited all day WIFI - who doesn't love free stuff
Cool Sounds - Today is a Trance Chill out session which isnt bad for a Tuesday.
Guaranteed seats - I must admit the reason for this would be that Starbucks is still more popular here in the Philippines.
A Plug for My Lappy - now with unlimited free wifi the whole day, one definitely needs to have a plug to last that long unless you are using an ASUS EEE PC that lasts over 10.5 hours (I have got to get me one of those)
and of course the swirl card that allows me to save points for the free drink that I so desperately need when am out of a budget hahaha

Mekes me wonder what are the other coffee shops that people like and why. If you do have one please share it with me, I would love to hear it. :)
Till the next coffee talk. xoxo

Metz is Back

2009-10-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

OK, I have to say am so sorry for not being able to say that I wasn't going to be on regular posting as usual, but I so desperately needed the break to focus on the personal things that I needed to do. After the Big Typhoon that crippled metro manila hit I was at a loss for trying to figure out what were the things that I should be prioritizing. Things though have been looking up and now am back on track. So don't worry, You will hear from me now more often :) plus I have so many new pictures and stories to share with all of you :) Till the next post :) xoxo

Metz's Secret: Typhoon Pepeng

2009-10-02T06:42:00.000-07:00

I have to apologize to my readers and friends if I wasnt able to reply to all the comments and feedback that you guys have made but I want to convey that I appreciate them all and I am grateful for your support and all your feedback.

Right now Typhoon Pepeng is about to hit the country and we are about to get a massive dosage of rain water so me and my family are preparing for this wet and windy onslaught. We are however praying that we get out of this one unscathed and well. Please continue to pray for all of us as many are still in flooded areas of Metro Manila.

Lots of love everyone xoxo

Metz's Secret: Typhoon Ondoy Aftermath

2009-09-28T07:03:00.000-07:00

Wow and sigh are the only words that have come out of my mouth. Wow because I still can't believe my eyes as to the power that just passed by Metro Manila - It has caused us so much pain and yet it also brought the Filipino people a little closer together. Sigh, because I still have a lot to repair at my own home - luckily the flood waters didn't reach the height that most people have experienced over the weekend. I have come out of this with a slight dent to my pocket compared to most of the people in my neighborhood let alone the people shown on TV.

There are over a hundred confirmed dead and thousands more missing. It is also unimaginable how many people have been displaced from their homes and are seeking refuge from every local government establishment. Thankfully enough, many have heard their cries, both from local and abroad, and have responded with donations left and right. However, there are still many that are waiting for rescuers to come and people yet to be found. All I can say is, aside from the support and donations, we need to find time to pray for those that have passed and most especially for those who are still living. There are things that may be beyond Man's own strength that maybe, just maybe we must look even for the first time that a higher power is up there waiting for us to make a connection. Miracles do happen and it happens when we all come together and believe that things will be ok.

Now I will be showing you a video of what has become of Metro Manila after Ondoy has passed over. As you watch this scene, please feel in your heart that something like this should and shall never ever happen again:

Metz's Secret: Seeking Where I Belong

2009-09-21T09:41:00.000-07:00

This is a topic that I want to talk about especially since this is something that I am praying and hoping that God shall grant my wish. I have just submitted a letter of intent for a position that I am so desperately seeking, not because it pays a higher check but because it is something that I have always dreamed of doing and is within the scope of the degree that I took in the first place. Human Resources was one of the things that I have aspired to join and not just any field of Human Resources - I would love to be in the position of job placement.

It thrills me every time I get to see the people that I have helped get jobs that not only suit their qualification and area of expertise, but to be able to see that they are happy to be where they should be. I don't really think about the compensation or the benefits at all - all I want to is to be there at the heart of it all.

I want to work in a field where a lot of me and my talents shall be utilized and where I can learn at the same time. Feeling stagnant only brings about depression in me. I want to talk to intelligent people, I want to learn from every experience - good and bad. I want to develop myself to my potential and much more. That is what I seek.

Right now am a bit nervous, and excited at the same time. I don't know what the future holds for me and I do know that once given the post it will definitely be a challenge. I feel that lately am walking in a straight line and that tends to get boring, climbing a mountain and waiting to see what is on the other side - now that is something truly gratifying.

For now let us hope and pray that things will work out well. I admit that even though I can offer so much, nothing I did, can do, and say will matter without the help of a Higher Power so I am praying that somehow God will come to guide me through all of the things that I put my mind to. I also hope and pray that this is the right path for me and that all will work out.

Now all I have is a heart filled with anticipation - I pray that all will turn out well for me. I just can't wait to experience the possibilities. :)

Metz Secret: Burn Out

2009-09-17T07:57:00.001-07:00

I am writing this as a means to let out a bit and to voice how burnt out I am with work for the past couple of training sessions now. I don't know why anymore but I just want to be somewhere or do something that just taps into more of what I am really good at and with what I love doing. I feel so drained at the end of each day and am begging for the weekends. Don't get me wrong though, I feel fulfilled every time I get to see the smile on the people that I train and more so when I see that they are improving greatly on a daily basis. I love the fact that they get hired and have begun their new lives in the field that they have chosen. But, my brain, my being feels trapped like a bird trying to figure a way to spread my wings and test the sky. How can I do that when I feel like chains are strapped to my feet.

I don't feel inspired or motivated at work anymore. I know that people have to find motivation and drive from within, but I have been getting that from my reserves for quite a while now since there doesn't seem to be anything that is coming from the outside to replenish it. I normally have a very positive outlook on life but how can I continue to do that when the surroundings aren't conducive to provide the much needed emotional support that I so desperately need.

How much is it to ask for a pat on the back for a job well done. How much does it cost to show a bit of appreciation for working so hard and doing our best to hit the numbers. All I get are rules and regulations, that restrict and restrain. All I see are reprimands coming left and right. Where is the fun in the office that once had a lot of the Philosophy of FISH that made it prosper and bloom? It feels like a black hole has formed inside the office and it is sucking everyone dry. How long will it take for the right people to notice that there is a problem and that it is something that needs to be addressed. How can we voice our concerns out when all one can expect is a possible reprimand or worse nothing but a dead wall to talk to.

We preach customer service to the people we train, but inside the office I feel that customer service amongst ourselves does not exist. How can I continue to teach what we do not practice. How can I stand tall without a strong support.

I strongly believe that the company has the power to fix the problems that it is facing and these are easy things to fix. The issue is - when will someone take the time to listen and to finally do something that makes a difference? When will someone find the power to inspire us to be our best again? Who is going to spark the flames that once made the company great?

I am afraid that the answer to those questions is - I don't know.

Right now all I pray is for someone to help me dream big one last time.

Metz's Diary: Wisdom Tooth acting up again

2009-09-13T04:57:00.000-07:00

My wisdom tooth has been acting up again and boy did it hurt big time this weekend, rendering me unable to eat solid food nor talk for prolonged periods of time. I have done a lot of research about it and the only solution I can see is to have it taken out. That unfortunately requires minor surgery and hopefully Maxicare covers that at least. But have a scalpel to my mouth not to mention a drill doesn't all sound that appealing at all to me. Plus the mere fact that I may have a swollen mouth for days on end and a possible risk of nerve damage to say the least.

I still have yet to consult a dentist and an oral surgeon about it. Thus the decision of extraction is still up in the air. Crossing my fingers and praying that things will work out fine at least.

Metz's Secret: Resting time

2009-09-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

Finally getting time to rest even for just a bit. I haven't gotten much sleep lately as work stress is hitting me pretty badly lately. The office isn't the same as it was in the past. Things that were once fun and enjoyable that made us feel very productive has been taken away and I honestly feel like I am in a production line trying to produce stuff out of the magician's hat. Now don't get me wrong I still love the company that I am working for, but how it is being run and the rules that have been implemented have caused me to feel a bit strangled.

As a trainer we have an innate need to be flexible and be highly creative with the way we deliver our lessons to class. They have to understand that every class can never be taught the same way. True the curriculum is needed to set a base to what we have to teach. It is a framework for everything that we aim for, however, it is also necessary that we learn to examine the different methodologies into teaching it. Some of us may incorporate a lot of media and activities, others may use unorthodox methods in delivering the lessons depending on the type of personalities that are present in a certain class. Additionally it is also important to take note that we need a day to prepare and rest our minds from the weeks of grilling and molding our students to cleanse our system of the bad habits we may have picked up from them. I know we joke around the office about how we have become slightly damaged, but that isn't really a joke as it is a serious issue. There are times when I myself have had to think twice about what I have to say and that isn't the usual me.

I miss a lot of things truly, like a good pat on the back from a superior telling me that I have done a great job would be good. I motivate my kids a lot and that amount of energy doesn't just come from a well of positivity that never runs dry, on contrary it dries up pretty quickly most especially lately. To be given a pat on the back saying we did a good job is a good source of strength for us. We have worked so hard that I feel we are starting to loose focus on what we had envisioned to happen in the first place.

I know that numbers are important in any business, but so is quality. It really doesn't matter how many one can dish out. If it doesn't have good quality to back it up it would be absolutely a waste of time, money, and effort.

I hope and pray that one day someone will wake up and see the world through our eyes before it is too late. Every company starts from the people below. Without the ability to listen to what they have to say about what is important for them, eventually a company will crumble and fall.

Metz's Movie Pick: Astro Boy The Movie

2009-09-07T01:22:00.000-07:00

The lovable Pointy Haired Robot Boy Astro Boy is back and this time on the Wide Screen. This is something that one has to watch out for as am sure it will be a big hit to all the Astro Boy Fans both young and old will be flocking to see it.

Astro Boy is a thrilling tale of a true hero. Set in futuristic Metro City, Astro Boy is about a young robot with incredible powers created by a brilliant scientist named Dr. Tenma. Powered by positive blue energy, Astro Boy is endowed with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly. Astro Boy opens in theatres on October 23, 2009.

Here is the official Trailer for the movie:

To refresh the memories of the Astro Boy Fans Here is the original birth scene of Astro Boy in Episode 1.

Metz's Movie Pick: Disney Pixar's UP

2009-09-05T08:06:00.001-07:00

I just got out of the movie house in Greenbelt and now am back home excited to blog about a really touching movie by the Master of awww moments - Disney. They released the movie under Pixar studio called Up. A movie about how an old gramps has finally made a decision to fulfill his wife's wish of going on an adventure long after she has passed away. Along the way he meets a rather obnoxious but cute and rather extremely lucky kid that helps him through this amazing trip. They meet a very friendly tempermental dog and a mysterious Emu type of bird which becomes the center of all the mayhem in this adventure filled film.

I strongly recommend that the family should watch this as Disney teaches a good moral lesson as always but with an amazing 3d twist :) This is something even grown ups will definitely enjoy.

Here is an excerpt video from the movie:

PS. The Movie Tickets in Greenbelt is Php300 :) pretty cheap for a THX 3D movie ;) But if you want it for 50 pesos less check it out in SM Megamall :) Till the next time XOXO

Metz's Discovery: Insulin and Fat

2009-08-30T21:57:00.001-07:00

I am trying to figure out why I was getting fat even if I did everything from exercise to diet pills didn't seem to work. So I tried digging into the cause of fat a little more and from what I found out it was my diet that was the culprit. I was a call center employee for over 7 years and my diet started out as heavy meal at 10pm and ended with a light meal by the end of the day by 6am. Now that I no longer work at night my habits of eating remained the same causing my insulin levels to spike at the end of the day. From my research it is insulin that causes fat cells to store fat, followed by the lack of activity by night time = fat belly. So now I am reducing my intake of food at night to zero carbs as much as possible and to train my body to be hungry day time and not at night.

Another thing I also found out is that in order to get my muscles and cells to eat up the fat I needed High intensity work outs or something that will cause adrenaline to pump through my system. Since getting spooked into fight or flight mode I guess is out of the question then High Intensity work out and cardio is the only way to go.

Crossing my fingers about what am going to do about my fat battle plan and hope it works :) Till then xoxo

Metz's Diary Log: Shopping for new Stuff

2009-08-23T05:35:00.000-07:00

Today was a rather interesting day. Me and office mates were supposed to go to Tagaytay but things change I guess according to what is fated. Instead of starting at around 8am we ended up meeting around 10 am. Because it was a bit too late so we decided to simply stay in the city and just use our money for shopping.

(Greenbelt)

We went to a coffee shop first and I just bought my favorite cranberry juice. We then went around to look for a gift for Alex our office mate as it was her birthday next week. I also bought a mask at the same place we bought her gift since I was planning to walk home daily now to help me loose weight as much as possible. We explored Greenbelt, Makati for the most part of the morning. When we couldn't find anything else we decided to go to St. Francis Mall.

(St. Francis Square)

St. Francis Mall is located in Ortigas just beside SM Megamall(one of the largest malls here in Metro Manila). We went around looking at all the bargains we could find and we found a lot that we really liked. I myself got a chinese charm bracelet, two shirts, and a bag. This mall had so much to see and it was both fun and tiring at the same time.

(SM Megamall)

We got exhausted from all the walking that we decided to go to another coffee shop in SM Megamall just to chill and relax. We even spotted participants of Cosplay(anime costume competition) which we went to and were pleasantly amused with all the people in weird costumes.
We finally ended our day with a delicious dinner in SM's Food Court before we said our goodbyes and went on our way.

I guess I have to admit that this day was rather productive and fun. Though a part of me still wished to have gone to Tagaytay but there will be time for that some other day.

Till the next time. xoxo

Metz Secret: Lonely and Confused

2009-08-18T06:23:00.000-07:00

Feeling rather lonely today. I dont really like the feeling of isolation. Where did it originate from? Not really sure. I guess it stems from the need to truly belong somewhere. I try to fit in all the time, I tried to look for people that I would feel at home with, but it seems that the search isn't over - as right now I still feel isolated.

I have been different from the others, but everyone is unique and different - that is what my professor would say to me, my mentors say that in our uniqueness we find common ground and that over all we eventually find that we are truly alike. Confused about my statement? However that is what is inside my head - voices debating constantly and bickering and fighting to take control. Who should I follow? In time maybe I'll know - or maybe not.

One thing is for sure - I want the dreams that I have, the strange prophetic kinds to reveal why they are being shown to me in the first place. Why do I see things that happen to other people in my sleep? Is it all just coincidence? Or is this something solid and real? Am I still sane or am I going crazy?

Within these thoughts and now its release somehow the loneliness doesn't feel so bad. When will I feel this again? Who really knows, but when it does come back am going to need to talk about it yet again.

Who am I? What am I? What am I to become? Where am I going? all these questions of reflection and discovery has constantly affected every human mind in its development. Where it will lead is upto us.

Till the next need for gibberish :) xoxo

Metz's Anime Pick: Ghost Hunt

2009-08-15T11:18:00.001-07:00

Browsing through the web for a new anime to watch has brought me to a series called "Ghost Hunt". Ghost Hunt (ゴーストハント, Gōsuto Hanto) is a manga series based on a light novel series called the Akuryou Series (悪霊シリーズ?) created by Fuyumi Ono. A radio drama for Akuryou Series was made in 1997. It was then converted by mangaka Shiho Inada to a shōjo manga series.

Currently, the manga runs in the shōjo magazine Nakayoshi, published by Kodansha. An anime based on manga by J.C. Staff premiered on October 3, 2006. The anime series consists of 25 episodes (approximately 20 minutes each).

On October 31, 2007 FUNimation Entertainment announced both their acquisition of the licensing rights to the anime, and the release date of the first DVD in the United States to be in the fall of 2008.

Here is the first of the episode for this series for you to enjoy - as always it is divided into easy to buffer parts to watch in youtube.com and all you have to do is type in these keywords to look for the next parts or episodes -- ghost hunt episode 1 1/3 -- simply replace the episode number or the part number once the search bar for youtube pops up at the end of the video.

Metz's Anime Pick: Blood Plus

2009-08-11T07:47:00.000-07:00

Going through a list of anime that I had planned on watching over the weekend I found this one which I just realized I had not finished yet. Blood Plus's story goes like this: Under the care of her adoptive family, Saya Otonashi has been living the life of an anemic and amnesiac, but otherwise ordinary schoolgirl. Saya’s happy life is shattered when she is attacked by a chiropteran, learning that she is the only one who can defeat them.

Armed with her katana, Saya embarks on a journey with her family, allies, and her chevalier, Hagi, to rid the world of chiropteran and rediscover her identity. The course of the journey reveals the background history of the chiropterans and Saya's very deep past, which extends into the mid-19th century.

The series is initially set in present day (September 2005) Okinawa City (Koza), on Okinawa Island, near the US Kadena Air Base. In the course of the series, Saya visits locations across the world, fighting enemy chiropteran and searching for her origins.

Pretty Cool if you ask me and with all that being said below is the the first part of 3 of episode one which you can watch on youtube. Simply finish watching this part to get to the next part of the episode or at the end when the search option is available and you want to get to the more advanced episodes simply type in this format - blood plus episode 1 english (1/3) - simply replace the episode number with that of the number of the episode that you wish.

How many episodes are there? Here are the episodes listed out for you:

#	Title	Original air date^[6]	US air date^[7]
01	"First Kiss" "Fāsuto Kisu" (ファーストキス)	October 8, 2005	March 11, 2007
Saya Otonashi seems to be a fairly normal high school girl, except that she has no memory of her life beyond a year ago and she must have regular blood transfusions. Later, she comes across a mysterious man playing a cello whose song triggers a vague memory. When Saya goes to the school that night to retrieve her forgotten shoes, the cello player approaches her holding a dagger. Saya flees and runs into a teacher, who is then killed by a monster. Saya runs into the school, locking the door behind her, but the monster easily breaks through. The cello player appears and fights off the monster before grabbing Saya and taking her to safety in a classroom. There he tells her the monster is a chiropteran. The man kisses Saya, forcing her to drink his blood, then tells her she must fight.
02	"Magic Words" "Mahō no Kotoba" (魔法の言葉)	October 15, 2005	March 18, 2007
Saya coats a sword provided by the cello player with her blood, then strikes and kills the chiropteran. Saya awakens from her trance and then faints. The man carries Saya and Kai to safety as American soldiers flood the school. When Saya wakes up in the hospital, she has no memory of what happened. David tells George what happened at the school, and rebukes him for being so attached to Saya that he doesn't want to let "them" have her back. Saya starts having flashbacks about the events at the school and goes down to find her father. Overhearing the conversation, she gets upset and runs away from the hospital. At the beach, she meets the cello player again. She asks who and what she is. The man says he will tell her, but before he can, Kai finds her and the man leaves after a brief tussle with Kai.
03	"The Place Where it All Began" "Hajimari no Basho" (はじまりの場所)	October 22, 2005	March 25, 2007
David has given George a deadline to give Saya back to the Red Shield. George takes Saya to his family grave to show what happened to her one year ago.
04	"Dangerous Boy" "Abunai Shōnen" (あぶない少年)	October 29, 2005	April 8, 2007
George is attacked by a second chiropteran and is severely wounded. Kai leaves with his father's handgun to track down the monster hoping to kill it for revenge.The cello player finally introduces himself as Hagi.
05	"Beyond the Dark Forest" "Kurai Mori no Mukō e" (暗い森の向こうへ)	November 5, 2005	April 15, 2007
George has been transferred secretly to a hidden facility in Yanbaru (Nago), Northern Okinawa, under the authority of the American Forces there.
06	"My Father's Hands" "Otōsan no Te" (お父さんの手)	November 12, 2005	April 22, 2007
David, Saya and Hagi infiltrate the Yanbaru Center to rescue George. Meanwhile the Commander of the U.S. Forces in Okinawa has authorized surgical bombing of Yanbaru to remove any incriminating evidence. David, Saya and Hagi are suddenly attacked by chiropteran but George appears and helps. Kai arrives later to tell them the place is going to be bombed. George starts turning into a chiropteran but Saya mixes her blood with his so he dies still human.
07	"I Must Do It" "Watashi ga Yaranakya" (私がやらなきゃ)	November 19, 2005	April 29, 2007
Saya and her brothers are still shocked by the death of their father. Saya asks Hagi about her past. He tells her she can't know yet because the way she is now she cannot accept the truth.
08	"Phantom of the School" "Fantomu Obu Za Sukūru" (ファントム·オブ·ザ·スクール)	November 26, 2005	May 6, 2007
Saya is given the assignment to infiltrate a Vietnamese boarding school. Hagi goes undercover as the gardener. Saya learns about the Phantom and is later attacked by him. She then believes he is a chiropteran but is somehow different from the others.
09	"Rainbow for Each" "Sorezore no Niji" (それぞれの虹)	December 3, 2005	May 13, 2007
Left behind by David, Kai and Riku are searching for Saya in Hanoi. Riku and his new friend, Mui, get captured along with Kai.
10	"I Want to See You" "Anata ni Aitai" (あなたに会いたい)	December 10, 2005	May 20, 2007
Saya goes to the forbidden garden and finds the blue roses and a mysterious container. Later, she sees pictures of the Vietnam War resulting in flashbacks of her past. While being attacked by the Phantom once again, Saya finally accepts her past.
11	"After the Dance" "Dansu no Ato de" (ダンスのあとで)	December 17, 2005	May 27, 2007
David and Julia are making use of the opportunity provided by the annual Ball held in the boarding school to search for the mysterious container somehow connected to the events in Vietnam 30 years ago, while Saya dances with a charming stranger. Karl, who is the Phantom, attacks them later. David figures out the container holds Diva and they go after it.
12	"Lured by the White Mist" "Shiroi Kiri ni Sasowarete" (白い霧にさそわれて)	December 24, 2005	June 10, 2007
The Red Shield has tracked the container to a secret research farm in the Vietnamese jungle. Once they get there they are attacked by Chiropteran.
13	"Jungle Paradise" "Janguru Paradaisu" (ジャングル·パラダイス)	January 7, 2006	June 17, 2007
Under the mysterious influence of Diva, Saya starts to attack friends and foes alike just like 30 years ago. Kai stops Saya by yelling her name causing her to come back to herself. Solomon and Van get away with Diva while Saya fights Karl.

For the second season, the opening and closing sequences change. The opening theme used is "Seasons’ Call" by Hyde and the ending theme is changed to "Cry No More" by Mika Nakashima.

#	Title	Original air date^[6]	US air date^[8]
14	"The Last Sunday" "Saigo no Nichiyōbi" (さいごの日曜日)	January 14, 2006	June 24, 2007
The Miyagusuku family returns to Okinawa to say goodbye to their friends.
15	"I Want to Pursue!" "Oikaketai no!" (おいかけたいの!)	January 21, 2006	July 1, 2007
Ever since returning from Vietnam, journalist Akihiro Okamura is getting more and more obsessed about the events happening around Saya and his father's encounter with chiroptera near the Laos border 30 years ago. He is unable to continue his research until he gets unexpected help.
16	"Siberian Express" "Shiberian Ekusupuresu" (シベリアンエクスプレス)	January 28, 2006	July 8, 2007
David, Saya and others enter the Russian port of Vladivostok to board the Trans-Siberian express heading for Ekaterinburg, where a key scientist in chiropteran research was last seen. Before boarding they meet a red shield member named Liza who is later killed by Amshel, whom has taken upon the appearance of Liza. Two chiroptera appear on the train while en route.
17	"Do you Remember the Promise?" "Yakusoku Oboeteru?" (約束おぼえてる?)	February 4, 2006	July 15, 2007
Riku is pulled off the train by one of the chiroptera, and Hagi and Saya jump off to rescue him. Saya has a dream about her past in 1920's Russia with Hagi, tracking down Rasputin and Diva, who was disguised as Anastasia.
18	"Moon Over Ekaterinburg" "Ekaterinburugu no Tsuki" (エカテリンブルグの月)	February 11, 2006	July 22, 2007
David, Lewis and Kai's search for a defected Delta-67 scientist leads them to an abandoned nuclear facility called Sverdlovsk-51. Hagi, Saya, and Riku have reached Tyumen and board another train to reach Ekaterinburg.
19	"Broken Heart" "Oreta Kokoro" (折れたココロ)	February 18, 2006	July 29, 2007
Saya, Riku, and Hagi arrive at Ekaterinburg to rendezvous with David. Suddenly, Riku falls ill. Liza questions Saya about her true intentions for fighting chiroptera.
20	"Chevalier" "Shuvarie" (シュヴァリエ)	February 25, 2006	August 5, 2007
David and the others arrive at the Red Shield headquarters. Kai learns the truth about Saya from Joel's diary. In France, Amshel, Solomon, James and Nathan discuss Saya's fate.
21	"Sour Grapes" "Suppai Budō" (すっぱいぶどう)	March 4, 2006	August 12, 2007
Okamura and Mao are looking for clues about the '67 vintage wine in Chateau Duel. Saya and Hagi find themselves hunted by a group of artificial chiroptera known as the Schiff.
22	"The Zoo" "Dōbutsuen" (動物園)	March 11, 2006	August 19, 2007
Saya visits the ruins of Joel's mansion, known as "the Zoo". There, she recalls her first encounter with Hagi.
23	"Two Chevaliers" "Futari no Shuvarie" (ふたりのシュヴァリエ)	March 18, 2006	September 2, 2007
David and the others arrive at the Zoo. Solomon confronts Saya with his side of the story and tries to convince her to join him.
24	"Airy Singing Voice" "Karoyaka Naru Utagoe" (軽やかなる歌声)	March 25, 2006	September 9, 2007
Saya confronts Diva after Riku is lured into the bell tower by Diva's singing.
25	"The Red Shield" "Akai Tate" (赤い盾)	April 1, 2006	September 16, 2007
Okamura and Mao arrive at the Zoo only to find the end of a broken sword left behind. Saya returns to the Red Shield headquarters with Riku, who is wounded.

For the third season, the opening theme changes to "Colors of the Heart" by Uverworld and the ending theme changes to "This Love" by Angela Aki. The opening sequence of the third season was produced by animator Naoyoshi Shiotani and features an unusual mix of crayon, watercolor, and 3-D artwork. The sequence also uses cels and dermatographs, something rarely seen in modern Japanese anime productions. The sequence was nominated for the Holland Animation Film Festival's International Competition for Applied Animation awards in the Film Leader category.

#	Title	Original air date^[6]	US air date^[11]
26	"Those Who Serve Saya" "Saya ni Shitagau Mono" (サヤに従うもの)	April 8, 2006	September 23, 2007
Riku's eyes are now open and he is wondering about his newfound properties, such as why he thinks about Saya constantly and has an unquenchable thirst. Kai tries to make him eat, most likely trying to prove to himself that Riku is not a chiropteran or Saya's chevalier, but a human.
27	"Paris, Je t'Aime" "Pari Jutēmu" (パリ·ジュテーム)	April 15, 2006	October 7, 2007
In Paris, Kai follows Irène and saves her. She then tells him about the Schiff.
28	"Limited Existence" "Kagiri Aru Mono" (限りあるもの)	April 22, 2006	October 14, 2007
While the Red Shield is preparing for another attack by the Schiff, Okamura and Mao suddenly appear.
29	"Cursed Blood" "Norowareta Chi" (呪われた血)	April 29, 2006	October 21, 2007
After the Schiff's attack, Saya agrees to share her blood with Irene. After drinking her blood, Irene's body crystallizes and shatters. The Schiff realize that they have been lied to and that it is Diva's blood they need to survive. They leave, taking most of Irene's pieces with them. Saya and Kai mourn Irene's death.
30	"Joel's Diary" "Joeru no Nikki" (ジョエルの日記)	May 6, 2006	October 28, 2007
Saya visits Joel's Room in the Red Shield headquarters and learns about her and Diva's beginnings and the 1972 tragedy in Vietnam from Joel's Diary.
31	"Breaking Shield" "Koware Yuku Tate" (壊れゆく盾)	May 13, 2006	November 4, 2007
While Saya, Kai, Riku, and Hagi go on an outing and Riku tries to repair Saya and Kai's broken relationship, Diva demands Carl bring her "that boy," while Dr. Collins and Julia meet with Van about their research into chiroptera. Solomon meets with David and warns him that Diva's chevaliers plan to launch an all out attack on the Red Shield Headquarters in three days, and asks him to take Saya to safety. When David asks why, Solomon says it is because he doesn't want Saya to die. Solomon also reveals that the Red Shield has been betrayed from within. David quickly takes Saya and the others back to the ship, leaving Okamura and Mao behind. Solomon and the other chevaliers discover that Carl and Diva have disappeared. Dr. Collins reveals to Julia that he doesn't think chiroptera should be completely destroyed and that he knows about the planned attack on Headquarters. While the Red Shield prepares for the coming attack, Riku convinces Kai to play catch with Saya, which helps them finally return to normal. As they stand on the deck, Saya and Riku hear Diva singing just before Carl and Diva attack the ship. As Carl begins killing the Red Shield operatives, Diva wonders where "that boy" is.
32	"A Boy Meets A Girl" "Bōi Mītsu Gāru" (ボーイ·ミーツ·ガール)	May 20, 2006	November 11, 2007
Saya and Hagi search for Diva as Kai and Riku go to join David. Kai hears men screaming and goes to investigate, leaving Riku alone on one of the decks. He can hear Diva calling for him, but Kai returns and they head to the conference room. Saya finds Carl, but leaves Hagi to deal with him and so she can continue looking for Diva. Kai and Riku join some of the operatives at and elevator that will take them to the conference room, but when it arrives Diva is in it. Kai grabs Riku and runs, taking refuge in a storage room, while the men try to stop Diva. Saya finds the men's bodies, but Carl appears again and she's forced to fight him. Joel and David agree to activate the ship's self-destruct sequence to try to entomb Diva in it. Kai and Riku hear the warning about the self-destruct sequence, but Diva finds them. Kai shoots her, but she instantly heals and she knocks him away, leaving him barely conscious while Diva rapes Riku. Saya and Carl's battle takes them to the same room, where Diva is holding Kai and threatening to give him her blood. Saya stabs her, but as she forgot to add her blood to her sword, Diva just laughs and shoves her away. When she falls, Saya spots Riku's naked, cracking body near by; Diva taunts Saya that she gave him her blood, killing him. As Hagi holds off Carl, Kai and Saya watch helplessly as Riku's body shatter completely. David and Lewis find them and lead them back to the ship deck. They had tried to seal Diva and Carl in the ship's hold, but they easily break out and Carl seriously wounds Joel. Saya and Hagi stay to fight them while the others get away to safety. As Kai watches from the departing helicopter, the ship explodes.
33	"The Power of Believing" "Shinjiru Chikara" (信じるチカラ)	May 27, 2006	November 18, 2007
One year has passed since Riku's death and the destruction of the Red Shield Headquarters. Kai, Lewis, and David are now in London, living at a shelter for war orphans run by Gray, an ex-military man and David's former instructor. Kai now wears the crystal chunk from Riku's body around his neck in the form of a diamond-shaped pendant. Devastated by the events and with his spirit broken, David lives in a drunken stupor. Joel, confined to a wheelchair from the injury Carl gave him, brings Kai some special bullets they hope will be able to kill chiroptera. He also reveals that Julia is in the United States with Collins. Joel thinks David hates him for what happened and he blames himself for Riku death. Kai tells him he is determined to stop Diva and her chevaliers, and that he must do all that he can until Saya returns. Gray lectures David on his walling in self-pity when Kai has turned his loss into his strength and found his purpose. Later, Kai pours out all of David's alcohol, asking him what he would say to those who died. David says it is pointless without Saya, and Kai yells at him it is his job to wait for her. Meanwhile, in the US, James and Van give a demonstration of their new soldiers, the Corpse Corps. Three of the soldiers kill a single chiropteran, and Dr. Collins tells Julia they don't need Saya anymore. The US agrees to use them. As the Corpse Corps are transported, several Schiff watch from the shadows. That night, Kai and Lewis are out hunting chiroptera, but the new bullets do not work. As they find themselves surrounded by three chiroptera, Saya and Hagi appear.
34	"World Where We Exist" "Oretachi no Iru Sekai" (俺たちのいる世界)	June 3, 2006	November 25, 2007
Saya saves Kai and Lewis from the chiroptera, but collapses afterwards. They take her back to Gray's house to recover. David learns Saya is at the farm, but doesn't react. When Monique touches the sleeping Saya, Saya pops her awake and almost attacks her. She barely acknowledges Kai's presence and calls Hagi to leave. Gray won't let her leave while she's still weak, though, and manages to get her to stay for breakfast. Kai tells her about David, but she cuts him off telling him it isn't relevant to her and that he should go back to Okinawa. Hagi finds David throwing up behind a building and asks if he's given up fighting. While they talk, a chiropteran attacks the farm, having followed Saya's scent. It gets upstairs and goes after Monique. Kai shoots it but is knocked aside. David also shoots at it, but is attacked. Saya, unable to find her sword, attacks it with a kitchen knife coated in her blood and kills it, then leaves with Hagi. As they walk through London, they spot an advertisement for a performance by Diva, who has changed her appearance to look similar to Riku. David and Kai also see the ad on TV.
35	"Tomorrow Without Hope" "Kibō no Nai Ashita" (希望のない明日)	June 10, 2006	December 2, 2007
James uses the Corpse Corps to attack the Schiff. During the battle, it is revealed that they are "improved" clones of Moses. The Schiff, already suffering from Thorn, are being badly beaten. Lulu manages to escape and runs to where Saya and Hagi are resting in a church. Lulu begs her to help them before collapsing from her own wounds. Saya agrees to go, but when they arrive at the warehouse, Dahz is dead, and Gudrif dies shortly afterwards. Only Moses, Karman, and Lulu are left. James reports back to Amshel that he wasn't able to kill all of the Schiff, but Amshel says it is no problem. Amshel puts James in charge of killing Saya despite Carl's objections. That night, the last three Schiff bury their comrades. Lulu asks Saya if she will fight with them to defeat Diva, but Saya says she fights alone, and will not grieve the loss of anymore comrades. Lulu tells her she has lost her hope. She also tells her where Diva will be. As Lulu leaves, she asks Saya to please remember her, because she doesn't want to be forgotten. The three Schiff go to the museum and again fight the Corpse Corp. They are losing when Saya and Hagi arrives. When Saya destroys one of the Corpse Corp, the other two retreat. Moses, Karman, and Lulu pledge to go with Saya, not as help, but because it is the only way they can survive. Meanwhile, David goes to see Joel, sober and no longer drinking. Joel tells him he wants to revive the Red Shield. He later meets with Okamura and Mao and asks them to find out who is sponsoring Diva's upcoming concert.
36	"Mismatched Feelings" "Surechigau Omoi" (すれちがう想い)	June 17, 2006	December 9, 2007
James and Diva leave to go to a luncheon, but Diva gets him to take her to Royal Covent Garden so she can sing. David meets with Mao and Okamura who tell him that Diva's opera is being jointly sponsored by Cinq Fleches and Goldsmith Holdings, that the two companies have partnered to produce food for the military forces across the countries, and that they have a research facility on the outskirts of London being run by Van. David uses a stolen ID to infiltrate the lab where he discovers Julia and learns a little more about the research being done. He's almost captured by Van who remembered David from Vietnam, but David instead uses Van as a hostage to escape. At the opera house, Saya, Hagi, and Kai battle with James while Nathan watches. Saya's sword is unable to penetrate James' iron-like skin, leaving James an opportunity to kill Saya. However, Nathan stops him and makes him leave, promising Saya he would find her a "suitable" stage to die on. Weakened from the battle, Saya feeds on Hagi. Kai turns away, then looks back to find both have left.
37	"To the Sheer Level of Madness" "Kuruoshii Made ni" (狂おしいまでに)	June 24, 2006	December 16, 2007
Gray and the others prepare for Javier's birthday party. While shopping with Monique, Kai spots Saya and Monique asks her to come to the party, which Saya agrees to do. Karl steals the Corpse Corps without Amshel's permission to go after Saya and Amshel sends Solomon after him. While Kai and Saya are talking, Karl arrives to battle her. Hagi, the Schiff, and the others deal with the Corpse Corps while Saya battles Karl. Karl grabs Saya from behind and bites into her, planning to drink all of her blood to kill both her and himself. Solomon arrives and cuts off Karl's arm, giving Saya the chance to stab him through her own body killing him. He orders the Corpse Corps back to their beds, and before disappearing, tells Saya that Diva is on her way to Christina Island.
38	"The Showdown Island" "Kessen no Shima" (決戦の島)	July 1, 2006	December 23, 2007
Unable to get a boat on her own, Saya reluctantly agrees to go to Christina Island on the boat the Red Shield and the Schiff accompanied. When they arrive, the three Schiff go off on their own, despite Kai's warning to stick together, and engage numerous Corpse Corps. David, Lewis, Kai, Saya, and Hagi continue towards where they believe Diva, but first must face off against James. While Saya continues to battle James, Kai takes Hagi to save the Schiff. With the help of the Schiff, Saya is able to strike James with her sword. As he falls into a huge tunnel, he manages to pull Saya and Kai in, but Solomon appears and saves them both. He tells them that it was a trap set by Amshel to see if Solomon would tell Saya and that Diva is on her way to New York. Before leaving, he tells Saya he is in love with her and will always be on her side.

For the final season of Blood+, "Raion" (雷音) by Jinn is used for the opening theme, and "Brand New Map" by K is used for the ending theme. For the final episode, however, the first season ending theme, "The Things I Pass Down" (語り継ぐこと Kataritsugu Koto) is used for the closing sequence.

#	Title	Original air date^[6]	US air date^[12]
39	"The Magic Words, Once More" "Mahō no Kotoba o Mōichido" (魔法の言葉をもう一度)	July 8, 2006	January 6, 2008
Lewis and Okamura confirm Solomon's story that Amshel is a chevalier. Saya agrees to go fishing with Gray, Kai, and the children. David and Joel drop in on a party being held by Amshel and Van Argiano to celebrate the American branch. While there, David talks with Julia, but is interrupted by Dr. Collins. Joel also talks with his "Uncle" Amshel, discussing the new business. Mao and Monique talk about their respective feelings for Kai, and his lack of feelings for them. To Van's shock, Amshel makes him the CEO of the Cinq Fléches' American operations due to Solomon's continuing absence. Saya is sleeping longer and becoming harder to wake up. The next day, the group says their good-byes to Gray, Monique and the children and heads to New York.
40	"Dreams That Chevaliers Dream" "Shuvarie no Miru Yume" (シュヴァリエの見る夢)	July 15, 2006	January 13, 2008
In New York, Saya rests in a hotel room and receives more blood transfusions while Hagi takes care of her. With her condition worsening, Saya grows more contemplative. She apologizes to Hagi for making him a chevalier, but Hagi assures her he has never regretted it. Solomon goes to where Diva and the others are, wearing a black suit instead of the white suits he used to prefer. Solomon asks Diva if she remembers the day they met. He tells her that he can not see Saya as his enemy and proclaims his love for her. Diva tells him to do what he likes and strips him of his role as her chevalier. Amshel refuses to let him leave alive, but Nathan stops their fighting and Solomon says he will live with Saya as Solomon Goldsmith.
41	"The Place Where I Belong" "Watashi no Ibasho" (私の居場所)	July 22, 2006	January 20, 2008
A month after the last episode, the apartment Okamura and Mao in Los Angeles were using is blown up, so they join David and the others at their cheap apartment in Little Italy, New York. Saya is continuing to grow weaker and requiring more sleep. Mao makes her promise to return to Okinawa and go shopping with her after everything is over. Kai and Lewis meet with one of Lewis' old CIA contact, and learns that Goldsmith has deep connections to the US military and the Secretary of Defense. While meeting with a retired general, Joel learns Diva will be performing at an Air Force base in North Carolina. Mao overhears Hagi and Saya talking about Saya's time to go into her 30 year hibernation approaching. Though she's furious, Mao agrees to keep her secret and makes a promise with her that no matter what, Saya will return to Okinawa. Meanwhile, Van puts Dr. Collins in charge in the research division at Cinq Flèches, while Amshel has Julia replace Dr. Collins as Diva's primary care physician. Julia learns that Diva is pregnant and that Amshel is one of Diva's chevaliers.
42	"Soprano of Miracles" "Hibiku, Utagoe" (響く、歌声)	July 29, 2006	January 27, 2008
Saya and her group have infiltrated the air force base. Following Julia, David learns Diva appears to be eight weeks pregnant and that the babies will be born soon. Once Julia and Collins are alone, he attempts to kill her, but David intervenes and is shot. At the same time, David manages to stab Collins in the arm with a scalpel, after which Collins runs away. Meanwhile, Amshel captures Kai and takes him to Diva, who wants to make him a chevalier. Saya is able to get Kai away, but when she goes after Diva, Amshel captures her, and Hagi is caught by Nathan. While they fight, several people attending the concert suddenly change into chiroptera and begin killing the other guests, only to be killed themselves by the Corpse Corps. Solomon appears and saves Saya from Amshel before flying off with her, after which Hagi frees himself from Nathan's grasp and leaves to rescue Saya.
43	"Confused Heart" "Kokoro Midarete" (こころ乱れて)	August 5, 2006	February 3, 2008
Saya wakes up in Solomon's New York penthouse apartment, while Hagi searches for her. Solomon explains that he has left everything behind for Saya, including Diva. He pledges his eternal loves and asks Saya to be his bride. He pledges to protect her and fulfill her every wish. As they talk, Solomon realizes Saya's time of sleep is coming, and swears he would kill Diva if Saya ordered him to. Hagi appears to retrieve Saya, saying she is his reason for being. Solomon won't let her go, and they begin a battle. As they fight, Saya gets dizzy and falls from the building. To save her, Hagi unleashes his true form for the first time in the series. When they land, Saya gently rejects his feelings, and tells him killing Diva is her job. She and Hagi fly off, returning to the apartment. Meanwhile, Julia goes with David to the hospital. As he is rushed to the emergency room, he asks her to come back to them. Julia keeps vigil over him as he lies unconscious in the hospital, and kisses him. Back at the apartment, Mao kisses Kai and confesses her love, but also accepts that his only thoughts are for Saya.
44	"Into the Light" "Hikari no Naka ni" (光の中に)	August 12, 2006	February 10, 2008
Julia, Kai, Lewis, and Saya discuss Diva's pregnancy and David's slow recovery. Lulu comes to visit Saya again. Julia tells them what she learned about the Schiff experiment and the Corpse Corp and that they could suppress the Thorn in the Schiff with Diva's blood. Kai takes Moses a shipment of blood, as part of their agreement that the Schiff won't attack humans if the Red Shield supplies them with blood. When Lulu returns home, Karman forbids her from seeing Saya and the others because they are too different from the humans. Moses enter and Karman yells at him too. As they argue, Moses and Lulu discover that Karman has been inflicted with the Thorn. Karman runs out, unknowingly passing James. As the sun rises, Lulu asks Kai and Saya to help her find Karman. Karman goes to a hospital and attacks a nurse, but then sees a vision of Irene and the other Schiff who've died. Realizing they are still alive in his heart, he leaves the woman alone. That night, James goes to see Moses, revealing that much of his body is now that of the Schiff and that he was rescued before Saya's blood could completely destroy him. He offers to help the Schiff try to cure the Thorn, just as Kai had. Moses finds Karman on the roof with his hood down so he can die in the rising sun, but Moses stops him and promises to save him.
45	"Turn the Palm of Your Hand Toward the Sun" "Te no Hira o Taiyō ni" (手のひらを太陽に)	August 19, 2006	February 17, 2008
Unable to find Karman, Kai and the others return to the apartment. Moses arrives and after apologizing to Kai, tells him he must die. Saya blocks his scythe swing, but Moses manages to knock Kai out of the window. Hagi catches him before he hits the ground. Kai runs, trying to stay in the light so Moses can't attack him. When Moses corners him in an alley, Kai tries to convince Moses to stop and find out why he's doing this, but Moses won't answer. Backed against a fence, the sunlight stops Moses and Kai escapes. He runs to Central Park, but Moses finds him again and begins chasing him around the forest. Meanwhile, James goes to the Schiff's hideout and tells Karman that Moses is going to kill Kai to save him, even though it won't really work. James tells Karman it is for his revenge, because the existence of the Schiff has separated him from the one he loves the most. After seeing his new half-Schiff body, Diva declared that James wasn't her James anymore and hates him. In the park, Kai manages to shoot off Moses hood, but then runs over to cover him back off so the light wouldn't kill him. Spurning Kai's sympathy, Moses strikes at Kai with a spike he grows on his hand, but Karman appears and takes the blow meant for Kai instead. Karman calms Moses down and before they left, asked Kai to give Lulu their weapons. They go to a bridge where Karman tells Moses they won't be forgotten since Kai will remember them and pass on those memories. Together they stand and face the setting sun, their hoods removed. As they are enveloped in green flames, they agree that they are glad they met. In the apartment, Lulu cries over their weapons.
46	"May Tomorrow Be a Clear Day" "Ashita Tenki ni Naare" (あした天気になあれ)	August 26, 2006	February 24, 2008
Mao, watching Saya and Hagi talk and hold hands, asks Kai if Saya is her competition for his love. She sends him out shopping, then asks Saya to catch him because she has some embarrassing things on her list, then keeps Hagi from following by saying she needs his help around the house. At the subway station, Saya starts to faint, almost falling in front of the train but Kai catches her. Later, Saya promises Kai that she will always protect him and asks him to take better care of himself. Kai has a key of their father's bar made for Saya, so they can run it together. David leaves the hospital and returns to work. Saya and Hagi remember her making him promise to kill her, with his own hands, when everything is over. As he, Lewis, Julia, Joel, and Okamura discuss the situation, they realize the American government has Cinq Flèches deliberately creating chiroptera in America, and abroad, to create enemies they can then rescue the people from using the Corpse Corp. Julia explains to them that Diva's singing, when heard in person or a live process, it increases the effectiveness of the D-base that causes people to turn to chiroptera from 3% to 100%. Meanwhile, Nathan visits Solomon and takes him to see Diva and the babies, which Amshel "cut out of her stomach." Nathan tells him that now that the babies are born, he has no reason to fight his family anymore. To prove his commitment to Saya, Solomon attempts to kill Diva, but Diva easily defeats him and leaves him badly wounded. As Diva takes the babies inside, Nathan wonders if even a chevalier can survive such wounds.
47	"Beyond All Blood" "Subete no Chi o Koete" (全ての血を超えて)	September 2, 2006	March 2, 2008
In order to keep Diva's public performance from being broadcast, David, Lewis, Kai, and Okamura go to Staten Island to blow up the satellite dishes. Though she is growing weaker and more tired, Saya is determined to fight so she doesn't wake up in a world full of chiroptera. Hagi asks Saya to reconsider their promise, but she makes him ask her to fight again. Amshel orders Nathan to kill Solomon, but Nathan releases him from the dungeon instead. James, in his full chiropteran form, goes to the apartment and attacks Saya. When Saya attacks him, though, her sword bounces off his skin. Hagi and Lulu try to help her in the fight, but the three are losing badly. As James moves to kill Saya with her own sword, Solomon arrives and, in his human form, blocks James' attack. Solomon then swears that he is Saya's chevalier by his own choice and states that it is "beyond blood". He is able to make James drop Saya's sword, but as it falls, it slices Solomon near his chest. James is suddenly inflicted with the Thorn, and Saya is able to strike the killing blow to his head. Solomon tells her to call his name if she ever needs him, then leaves. Though Hagi sees the cut from the sword, Saya does not appear to. Amshel finds Solomon in an alley trying to hold on, but he crystallizes in Amshel's arms from Saya's blood on her sword. Nathan and Amshel are now Diva's only surviving chevaliers.
48	"Skyscraper Opera" "Matenrō Opera" (摩天楼オペラ)	September 9, 2006	March 9, 2008
Saya, Hagi, and the Red Shield goes to the Metropolitan Opera House to try to stop Diva's performance. Before the show starts, Nathan tells Amshel that the world exists to showcase Diva's beauty, as was predestined before she was born. When Amshel says Nathan talks like he was there, Nathan says he was and that before Diva was born, there was their "mommy" and her faithful chevalier. Kai confronts Hagi and demands to know what else they are hiding besides the coming hibernation time and begs him to take care of her. While they talk, Saya slips the key Kai gave her into his coat pocket and whispers goodbye. Saya and Hagi go to try to kill Diva before she can take the stage, but before she can charge Diva, Saya grows woozy again and can't attack. Hagi attacks Diva, but she easily dodges him. Hagi and Saya fight against Amshel. After he knocks Hagi out, Amshel tells Saya that if she had never set Diva free, Diva could have been his and his alone. He admits he has a constant obsession with Diva, which he views as the ultimate form of love for her. Diva begins singing, and people in the audience begin changing into chiroptera. Lewis is able to blow up the relay stations, but it doesn't work because they relay the signal through the military satellite feeds. Kai, David, Lewis, and Lulu go to the relay vans and destroy all of the equipment to finally bring down the world-wide broadcast. They get surrounded by chiroptera and David is injured. Hagi attacks Amshel so Saya can go after Diva as Nathan watches from the audience with the babies beside him.
49	"Two Queens" "Futari no Joō" (二人の女王)	September 16, 2006	March 16, 2008
Grant, the Secretary of Defense, escapes, and leaves Van behind to face the chiropterans alone. Saya tries to explain to Diva why she wants to kill her to protect the humans, but Diva reminds her that she was the only one who was ever treated as a human being. Diva returns to her regular form while she and Saya argue over the existence of chiropterans. Backstage, Amshel tries to upset Hagi by reminding him that his parents sold him to Amshel for a loaf of bread, but Hagi tells him he is grateful because it enabled him to meet Saya. Amshel and Hagi assume their true forms and begin fighting, going through the roof outside where Hagi is badly losing. Meanwhile, Lewis runs out of the transmitter trailer as a decoy to draw the chiropterans away with Lulu's help while Kai gets David to safety. Hagi gets the upper hand on Amshel and impales him on the top of a skyscraper, but loses a wing in the battle. As Amshel tries to pull himself off, lightning strikes the rod, appearing to kill him by electrocution. Diva asks Saya is she is going to kill her babies as well, since she believes chiropterans shouldn't exist. Both load their swords with blood and begin their battle. Nathan, holding the babies, and Hagi watch from the audience, having agreed that in the end it is the queens' fight. Saya and Diva each impale the other with their blood-soaked swords, but Saya heals while Diva begins crystallizing. Saya cries and tries to help her, but Diva begins shattering. Nathan brings the babies to Diva, and she tells them good-bye and imagines herself holding them before she dies. Nathan says all she wanted was a family, something Amshel never understood, and explains that when she became pregnant, Diva's blood lost its potency. Nathan asks Saya to kill him, as he no longer has a purpose with Diva dead, and Saya does. Hagi comes up behind her and wraps his arms around her as she cries. Kai comes in and Saya tells him that she must die after she kills the babies.
50	"Nan-kuru-nai-sah" "Nankurunaisa" (ナンクルナイサ)	September 23, 2006	March 23, 2008
With the song stopped and Diva dead, the chiropterans begin howling and the Corpse Corps stops fighting. Inside the opera house, Saya explains to Kai that she fears that if she and the babies live, they would be used as weapons of war. Kai promises to make anyone who won't accept them understand and to always protect and love them all. Hagi tells Saya that he has loved her from the moment they met and that for once, he is going to disobey her. Taking her sword, he begs her to live on and kisses her forehead. Saya cries and says she wants to live before kissing him. David bursts in and tells him to hurry and leave because Option D has been activated. Kai and Saya carry the babies as the group leaves, but Amshel, who survived his fight with Hagi, attacks the group, ripping off Hagi's arm with his breath attack. Saya swears to protect the babies, but when she tries to attack Amshel, Hagi grabs the sword from her and pushes her away before stabbing Amshel himself. As Amshel begins crystallizing, he stabs Hagi through the chest with his hand and the roof collapses on them both. Saya screams his name and the military planes begin bombing the opera house. A month later, Saya and the others are back in Okinawa. The number of chiropteran attacks continues to decrease and Julia, who is now pregnant with David's baby, has found a way to prolong Lulu's life. Nathan, who survived Saya's attempt to kill him, is seen at a press conference in America about the criminal investigations surrounding Van and Cinque Fleches' close involvement with the U.S. military. Saya and Kai are hosting a party at the reopened restaurant, inviting their friends from the Red Shield and their schoolmates. Okamura and Mao plan to go to the Middle East together. During the party, Saya slips outside and looks back at the restaurant with tears in her eyes before she collapses. Kai catches her and agrees to wait to tell the others. He carries her back to the Miyagusuku family crypt where she woke up. She whispers thank you as she drifts off to sleep. As he carries her up the steps toward the crypt, he promises to make them all happy and care for the babies until she wakes up. After the final credits, Kai is shown with Diva's children going to visit Saya, still asleep in the crypt. When they arrive, he sees a pink rose with a blue ribbon left behind by Hagi, and tells the children to leave it alone.

Metz's Movie Pick: G-Force

2009-08-10T04:19:00.000-07:00

Who wouldn't be taken in by cute furry animals that just makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Nothing does that as well as the cute little hamsters and guinea pigs. But what if we add the magic of Walt Disney and a group of funtastic special effects into the mix and what you have is a total cuteness powerhouse that kicks butt at the same time :)

Here is what G-Force is all about:
The story is about a team of trained secret agent guinea pigs that takes on a mission for the US government. A specially trained squad of guinea pigs is dispatched to stop a diabolical billionaire, who plans to taking over the world with household appliances

And here is the official trailer to this Action packed Furry Fury :)

Try and catch it in a 3D theater near you :)

Metz Secret: 2 of the cutest awards for August

2009-08-07T08:18:00.000-07:00

Aren't these awards so cute hehehe :) Love em a lot La Shan and Liza - XOXO :)

Traditionally I would pass these awards on to someone else but for a change I have something even better in Mind :)

I am giving these two special peeps that made me smile this week with their fantastic awards and all of my friends a cool award of linky love for this month of August :)

The Linky Love goes to these Fantastic people and their Amazing Blogs:
Liza of A Simple Life
LaShan of a Lil Enchanted
Marzie and the wonder cats
Emila Yusof
Monica of Turn U Off
Mize of Night Clicks
East Coast Life
Xephan and Reema
Khyre
Uprinting

And to spice things up a bit more here is a music video dedicated just for you guys :)

Lots of love peeps :) xoxo

Metz Secret: Corazon "Cory" Aquino Funeral March - Makati District

2009-08-05T03:48:00.000-07:00

Today I was fortunate enough to get the chance to witness a spectacle of great magnitude today here in the Philippines. Former Philippine President Corazon Aquino who passed away last Saturday due to Colon Cancer had her Funeral March scheduled today. I was only able to watch it on the Television early in the morning, but when I found out that they would be passing through South Super Highway, a couple of blocks away from my place. I immediately went to the area and did some scouting for the best possible place to get a good angle to take the video of her as she passed through.

One would think that it would be a sad event but surprisingly many were smiling and celebrating, not of her death but of the memories of the legacy she had left behind. This shows that she is not truly gone but is immortalized within the hearts of every Filipino

I also took along with me my camera and samsung J700 to capture each and every moment that unfolds as we awaited her entourage.

Here are all of the random shots that I took as I walked and explored the area of South Super Highway to get a good place to see Corazon Cory Aquino one last time before she is finally laid to rest at the Manila Memorial park.

Metz Secret: The Last AIrbender The Movie

2009-08-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

For all of you that have been watching the cartoon series from Nickelodeon The Last Airbender, Aang has a new treat as a movie version has just been scheduled for release this 2010. And with the Director M. Night Shyamalan leading the way it is sure to amazing.

To show you what I mean, here is the official video trailer for you to enjoy:

Here are the actors and actresses casted for this movie:

The Last Airbender is a cult animated series, that's for sure. So no wonder that fans some fans are bickering over the cast. But there's nothing there to fuel a controversy. I even think that the cast chosen by Director M. Night Shyamalan looks quite good actually:

	Aang the last Airbender, aka the Avatar (Noah Ringer)
	Katara (Nicola Peltz)
	Sokka (Jackson Rathbone)
	Zuko (Dev patel)

The rest is found in this video presentation of the cast and crew :)

For those that want to visit the main website check out here at this link: The Last Airbender The Movie

And for those that want to spice up their Computer's Wallpaper with The Last Airbender's Wallpaper 1024 x 768 pixels - simply click to enlarge.
Enjoy :) xoxo

Metz Secret: Kiba Episodes English Dubbed

2009-08-01T10:57:00.000-07:00

I was watching cartoon network the other night and saw this rather cool japanese anime about a character named zed. So I did a little research and found a way to watch the episodes via youtube for others to enjoy.

Here is the video for you to watch, each episode is divided into parts for easy buffering and watching. Simply select the next part of the episode or episode that you wish to watch at the end of each video as it is all linked up:

There is a total of 51 episodes to be precise and over 149 videos uploaded here in youtube for you to watch and enjoy.

Now as for the anime itself here is what Kiba is all about:
Episode: 51/51 (Finished)
Genre: Action, Fantasy

Plot:

Kiba's main character is Zed, a 15-year-old boy who lives in a place called "Calm". Frustrated by his current situation in life he feels that somewhere out there is a place where he can live more fully. One day, at the invitation of a mysterious wind, Zed dives into a space-time crevasse (portal), seeking the answers that might be there. Riding on the wind, he is transported to a war-torn world where magic users called "Shard Casters" fight endlessly with each other, using spells in the form of marble-like "Shards".

With the power of the Shards, the Shard Casters are able to use spells and control monsters called "Spirits". Fascinated by that power, Zed aims to become a Shard Caster. However, he still doesn't know that residing in his body is "Amil Gaoul", a mighty Spirit with the power to influence the world's future. Amil Gaoul is one of the "Key Spirits" that, when together with the other Key Spirits, can destroy or save the world. There are a total of six Key Spirits: Amil Gaoul, Pronimo, Sachira, Monardi, Jumamis and Shadin.

Zed undergoes countless trials in order to find out who he really is and what is most important to him.

Enjoy the video :) Till the next anime that catches my eye :)

Metz Secret: Legend of the Seeker

2009-08-01T07:09:00.000-07:00

I just watched this wickedly cool trailer of a new series that will be airing in sci fi channel and it just got me anticipating. The scenery and special effects are just jaw dropping and with a cast that is just as eye catching to match who wouldn't want to watch it :) so for those that are curious as to what am blabbing about I have found a way to plug the trailer in for you to enjoy. Hopefully you have the sci fi channel with your cable provider :)

Main characters
* Richard Cypher (Craig Horner) starts out in the series as a young woodsman living in Hartland, a town in Westland and a place where no magic exists. Richard is the adopted son of George Cypher and brother of Michael Cypher, but he does not know who his real parents are or that Zedd is his grandfather. He discovers that he is a Seeker - "a hero who arises in the times of trouble and suffering and seeks out evil".. Although Richard is reluctant to be the Seeker, he is earnest in fulfilling his role as he is the person prophesied to defeat Darken Rahl. Craig Horner explains Richard's character as someone who is "what you see is what you get" and is "so truthful", adding that "the only thing he's been taught to reserve his whole life is his anger, and he can release that once he starts to get hold of this Sword of Truth."

* Kahlan Amnell (Bridget Regan) is a Confessor and in contrast to the novels which the show is based on, she is not the last living Confessor. As a Confessor, she has the power to magnify the love a person has within them for her, allowing her to control the person. This power allows her to serve the people of the Midlands, who respect and fear her. Both her parents are deceased and her sister appeared to have been killed at the beginning of the first episode in the series. Later we learn she has indeed survived and will give birth to a male confessor. In Kahlan's quest to defeat Rahl, her role is to protect the Seeker with her life. Executive producer Robert Tapert describes Kahlan as "a female action hero for 2009... she's perhaps more feminine at the same time as being as ruthless as Xena was."

* Zeddicus "Zedd" Zu'l Zorander (Bruce Spence) is a wizard who the people of Hartland believe to be a crazy old man, and is Richard's grandfather. Heeding the prophecy concerning Richard, Zedd brought him into Westland after his birth to protect him from Darken Rahl and gave him to George Cypher to raise. After Richard accepts the name of the Seeker, Zedd becomes his mentor and is sworn to protect him with his life. He rarely panics and always looks ahead to what has to be done.

Recurring characters

* Darken Rahl (Craig Parker) is the emperor of D'Hara and the Seeker's enemy. He is an evil tyrant who wants to capture the Midlands and Westland into his empire by enslaving the people living there. While he has at his disposal wizards and legions of soldiers to help him achieve his goal, he seeks the three Boxes of Orden, which will give him ultimate power.

* Dell "Chase" Brandstone (Jay Laga'aia) is the head of the Councilor's Guards in Hartland. He is also a family man and Richard's closest friend. Aided by his large frame and strength, Chase is a skilled fighter. He is loyal to his friends and does not hesitate to help them.

* Michael Cypher (David de Lautour) is Richard's older brother and the First Councilor of Hartland.

* Jennsen (Brooke Williams) is Richard's younger sister. She is referred to as "pristinely ungifted," meaning that she cannot use magic nor can magic affect her directly. Although Jennsen is introduced in the first season, she does not appear in The Sword of Truth series until the seventh novel, The Pillars of Creation.

* Denna (Jessica Marais) is a ruthless Mord'Sith sent by Darken Rahl to torture Richard into swearing his allegiance to Darken Rahl. When her efforts are in vain, she's given a second chance but when that fails, Richard allows her to flee to escape Darken Rahl's wrath.

* Shota (Danielle Cormack) is a powerful witch who controls a part of the Midlands. While Zedd, whom she is loathfully aquainted with, warns she is "no friend of The Seeker," she antagonizes Darken Rahl for he threatens her current state of power.

List of Episodes Season 1:

Episode #	Title	Director(s)	Writer(s)	Original airdate	Production code
1	"Prophecy"	Mark Beesley	John Shiban, Ken Biller & Stephen Tolkin	1 November 2008	101
Darken Rahl, a tyrant who wants to expand his empire into the Midlands, sends soldiers to obtain the Book of Counted Shadows, which is in the possession of a Confessor named Kahlan Amnell. Kahlan crosses the magical boundary into Westland, a land of no magic, in search of a wizard. In Westland, Kahlan meets Richard Cypher, a woodsman who helps her escape the soldiers. Kahlan finds the wizard, Zeddicus Zu'l Zorander, and insists that he take her to the Seeker. Richard, who was sent by his father to Zedd, meets them and discovers that he is the Seeker, the person prophesied to defeat Rahl. One of the soldiers, Fane, kills Richard's father and takes the Book of Counted Shadows from Richard.
2	"Destiny"	Mark Beesley	Ken Biller & Barry Schkolnick	1 November 2008	102
After accepting the role of the Seeker, Richard formulates a plan with Zedd, Kahlan and his friend Chase to find Fane. Darken Rahl attempts to bring down the magical boundary that separates the Midlands and Westland, which will allow Fane to return with the Book of Counted Shadows. Fane kidnaps Chase's daughter and forces a sorceress to give him the Night Stone to cross the boundary. Richard and Kahlan pursue Fane to the boundary, where Richard kills him and retrieves the Book. Meanwhile, Rahl's soldiers destroy the boundary. Richard throws the Book into a fire to stop the soldiers from taking it. Together with Kahlan, he defeats them. Having recovered from his injury, Zedd joins Richard and Kahlan as they set off into the Midlands.
3	"Bounty"	Jesse Warn	Chad Fiveash & James Stoteraux	8 November 2008	104
Richard, Kahlan and Zedd are attacked by a band of mercenaries, one of whom, they find, was carrying a map that tracks Richard's location. Soon after they discover that Darken Rahl is offering a reward for capture of the Seeker, a woman named Lily asks for their help to save her brother from the Shadrin, a mythical monster. When the group finds yet another map tracking Richard, Zedd sets off to find the mapmaker Sebastian (Ted Raimi). Richard and Kahlan follow Lily to find her brother but it turns out to be a trap. Lily wants to exchange Richard for her brother, who is to be executed by the Rahl's soldiers. Meanwhile, Zedd warns the mapmaker not to make any more maps to track the Seeker. He returns in time to save Richard and Kahlan from capture. Richard helps Lily's brother escape. In return, Lily helps to spread word that the Seeker is here to help them.
4	"Brennidon"	Jonathan Brough	Erin Maher & Kay Reindl	15 November 2008	105
While Kahlan performs her Confessor's duties, Richard returns to his birthplace Brennidon but is unnerved to find it under siege with D'Haran soldiers. A woman named Brigid claims to be Richard's birth mother and that her son Mark is his brother. After witnessing a woman almost getting killed for defying Darken Rahl, Richard is determined to save his village despite the D'Harans' intention to capture him. Meanwhile, Zedd convinces a woman that he is not the father of her son and reveals to Kahlan that Richard is his grandson. When both find out where Richard is, they rush off to Brennidon. They arrive in time to help Richard and the villagers fend off and kill the D'Harans. Brigid reveals to Richard that although she thinks of him as a son, she is not his mother and that his real mother is out there looking for him.
5	"Listener"	Mark Beesley	Stephen Tolkin	22 November 2008	106
Upon witnessing Darken Rahl's soldiers capturing a Listener, who has the ability to read others' thoughts by looking into their eyes, Richard, Kahlan and Zedd devise a plan to rescue him. After the rescue, Zedd uses the soldiers to find Rahl as Richard and Kahlan set about returning the Listener, a boy named Renn, to his step-father. Renn grows to trust Richard and Kahlan after they risk their lives to protect him. Using his abilities, Renn discovers Richard and Kahlan's secrets including their feelings for each other and reassures each of them that the feelings are mutual. Not wanting them to be harmed, Renn leaves with his step-father and is sold off again to Rahl's soldiers, who have captured Zedd for helping a D'Haran traitor escape. Richard and Kahlan find Zedd and Renn, and help them fend off the soldiers. They journey to Thandor, where Renn is then left in the care of the Sisters of Light.
6	"Elixir"	Charlie Haskell	Mike Sussman	29 November 2008	103
A boy named Jack steals Zedd, Richard and Kahlan's horses and sells them to Rymus, a magic peddler, in the village of Drendril. While tracking Jack in the village, Richard is aided by a bartender's magic potion that allows him to see Jack's precise location. Jack takes them to the peddlers, who start a fight, forcing Kahlan to use her Confessor's power on Rymus and Zedd to expose himself as a wizard. They discover that Drendril is being corrupted by a wizard's magic potions. The wizard captures Zedd and is revealed to be Jeziah, a past student of Zedd. Richard learns not to rely on magic and uses his woods guide skills to find Zedd. Richard, Kahlan and Rymus defeat Jeziah and the peddlers in a fight, but Rymus dies protecting Kahlan. Noticing Richard's feelings for Kahlan, Zedd reminds Kahlan that she has yet to tell Richard of her Confessor's power and how that will affect their relationship.
7	"Identity"	Garth Maxwell	Chad Fiveash & James Stoteraux	6 December 2008	107
Richard ignores the warning of Shota, a sorceress who has had a vision of his death, and proceeds with his plan to capture Demmin Nass, Rahl's right-hand man, in Kalabra. Hence, Shota uses magic to temporarily exchange Richard's identity with that of a merchant's son, Gryff. Kahlan and Zedd leaves for Kalabra with Gryff, who they think is Richard. On the way, Kahlan reveals her feelings for Richard to Gryff and how they can never be together because of her Confessor's power. Meanwhile, Richard is forced to marry Gryff's betrothed, Bronwyn. When Bronwyn is eventually convinced by Richard that he is not Gryff but the Seeker, she leads him to Kalabra, where he reunites with Kahlan and Zedd, and saves Gryff's life. They learn from a document Kahlan took from Nass' tent that Rahl is looking for the boxes of Orden. Shota reveals to them a prophecy that foretells Kahlan betraying Richard.
8	"Denna"	Michael Hurst	Ken Biller & Mike Sussman	10 January 2009	108
Fearing that her feelings for Richard may compromise his mission to stop Rahl, Kahlan leaves Richard and Zedd to find another Confessor who can help them. Shortly after, Richard is captured by a Mord'Sith named Denna (Jessica Marais) who can manipulate any form of magic directed at her; Zedd is powerless to help. Denna reveals to Richard of Rahl's plan to torture him into submission. As she tortures him, Kahlan locates Lara, a Confessor who has abused her power to gain control over an entire settlement. Upon learning from Zedd that Richard has been captured, Kahlan goes to save Richard. Lara is killed by Rahl's soldiers and the people she confessed are freed from her control. Richard and Kahlan escape from captivity after killing Denna, who is brought back to life by another Mord'Sith. When Richard tells Kahlan that he knows of her secret, she reaffirms that they must focus on their mission and cast aside their feelings for each other.
9	"Puppeteer"	Mark Beesley	Nicki Paluga	17 January 2009	109
As Darken Rahl plans to obtain the third and final Box of Orden from Queen Milena of Tamarang, Zedd poses as a puppeteer at her daughter Princess Violet's birthday party while Richard and Kahlan attempt to delay Rahl's emissary from reaching Tamarang. Zedd befriends Rachel, a ten-year-old girl enslaved as Princess Violet's playmate. With her help, Zedd steals the third Box of Orden and replaces it with a look-alike. Meanwhile, Richard and Kahlan intercept a small party of Rahl's soldiers and discover that Rahl is travelling to Tamarang himself to retrieve the box. Rachel helps Zedd smuggle the box out of Tamarang with the assistance of a cook named Martha, and takes it to Richard and Kahlan. Rahl realizes that the box is a fake but fails to capture Zedd; he kills Queen Milena as a result. After Zedd rejoins Richard and Kahlan, Rachel is taken in by Martha.
10	"Sacrifice"	Michael Hurst	Chad Fiveash & James Stoteraux	24 January 2009	111
Richard, Kahlan and Zedd encounter a group of Confessors and their leader, Mother Confessor Serena, who are on their way to an island called Valeria to hide from Rahl. After discovering that her sister Dennee is alive and is being held at a D'Haran prison, Kahlan rescues her by disguising as a Mord'Sith and Richard as her prisoner. The Confessors' happiness at finding Dennee pregnant is short-lived when she gives birth to a boy. As part of their tradition, all male Confessors are killed at birth because they are unable to control their power. Serena confesses Zedd and retrieves Dennee's son from Richard, who does not want the boy to be killed. Deciding to help Dennee save her child, the remaining Confessors confess Rahl's pursuing soldiers with Richard and Kahlan's help and use them to distract Zedd while they confront Serena. Dennee's mate kills Serena, releasing Zedd from her control, and leaves for Valeria with Dennee and their son. The remaining Confessors name Kahlan as their new Mother Confessor.
11	"Confession"	Garth Maxwell	Barry Schkolnick	31 January 2009	110
When two resistance fighters against Darken Rahl die under suspicious circumstances, their leader, Connor, requests Kahlan's help. Zedd set off on a separate mission to retrieve the key to a crypt where they will hide the third Box of Orden from Rahl. Richard and Kahlan arrive at Connor's home to find him dead. Kahlan uses her Confessor's power on a thief named Niles, who tells them that he killed Connor. They discover too late that Niles, who was hung for the murder, was not responsible. When Kahlan finds Nile's sister dead and Richard convinced that he is the murderer, they believe that magic is being used by the real killer to give others the memories of killing the victims. The town's constable, Declan, brings forth evidence that Connor's wife, Nella, had committed the murders but he is revealed to be the murderer and a Rahl follower. Zedd rejoins Richard and Kahlan after obtaining the key and repairing his relationship with his brother.
12	"Home"	Charlie Haskell	Stephen Tolkin	21 February 2009	114
Using a rare astronomical alignment, Darken Rahl has his wizard, Giller, cast a spell that places Richard under a dreamlike trance in an attempt to reveal the hidden location of the third Box of Orden. Under the spell, Richard believes he is home in Hartland and begins to tell of his past months adventures. Darken Rahl, under the guise of a childhood infatuation, pushes him to disclose where he hid the Box of Orden. Zedd is powerless to break Rahl's hold over Richard so a desperate Kahlan admits the truth to Richard — she loves him. Kahlan's tears break through to Richard's dreams and he is able to at last see the truth and the face of Darken Rahl. He rips out of his dream state in time to recover the Box of Orden before it falls into Darken Rahl's hands. This episode is a clipshow.
13	"Revenant"	Geoffrey Cawthorn	Erin Maher & Kay Reindl	28 February 2009	112
Zedd leads Kahlan and Richard to the tomb of a past Seeker named Kieran, where he plans to hide the third Box of Orden but they find Kieran's remains missing from his sarcophagus. After they are led by the spirit of Kieran's Confessor, Viviane, to his remains, Zedd undoes the spell that prohibits Kieran's soul from going to the underworld. Kieran's spirit possesses Richard and expels Zedd from the room. Kieran, in Richard's body, uses Kahlan as a vessel for Viviane. Zedd meets Kieran's former wizard, Amfortas, who explains to him that the thousand-year old legend of Kieran and Viviane is not as it was. After Viviane committed suicide to release Kieran, whom she had confessed, from her power, Kieran turned into a violent killer, forcing Amfortas to kill him and to keep his spirit from entering the underworld. With Amfortas' help, Zedd re-opens the door and forces both Kieran and Vivane to depart for the underworld. Zedd decides that the tomb is not a safe place to hide the Box of Orden, and that he will take it somewhere secretly by himself.
14	"Hartland"	Mark Beesley	Mike Sussman	7 March 2009	113
After reuniting with Chase, Richard and Kahlan return to Hartland to find that the D'Harans have taken control of everything. Despite the fact that most people in Hartland seem to think that the D'Harans are helping them, Richard, Kahlan, and Chase discover that the D'Harans have been taking dissenters prisoner, and feeding them to gars. Even though Michael, Richard's brother, first resists their efforts, he finally is convinced and helps them. Michael helps them, in particular, after the D'Harans discover that Richard is in Hartland by giving up his life to help them escape back to the Midlands.
15	"Conversion"	Andrew Merrifield	Chad Fiveash & James Stoteraux	14 March 2009	115
Giller attempts to recreate the Confessor's magic for Darken Rahl by experimenting with ancient magic on Rahl's prisoners. Dismayed by Giller's slow progress, Rahl decides to pay a visit. Richard, Kahlan, Chase and Devlin, a resistance fighter, rescue the prisoners from Giller's keep. Chase is struck ill when his wife Emma, whom Giller had performed one of his experiments on, unknowingly unleashes a form of Confessor's power on him. Upon discovering that Rahl will be arriving at the keep, Richard and Kahlan head there in hopes of killing Rahl and capturing Giller. They are captured when Giller proves resistant to Kahlan's Confessor power and Richard is defeated by Rahl in a fight. As Giller works to take Kahlan's Confessor power, Rahl reveals his plan to use it on Richard, triggering Kahlan into the "Con Dar" or "Blood Rage". She kills Giller and confesses Rahl's minions, forcing Rahl to retreat. After returning to Chase to give him Giller's potion, which will keep him safe from Emma's power, Richard and Kahlan receive a message from Zedd, who tells them to meet him in D'Hara.
16	"Bloodline"	Garth Maxwell	Nicole Paluga	21 March 2009	116
Zedd reunites with Richard and Kahlan in D'Hara after hiding the third box of Orden near the People's Palace to lure Darken Rahl out. Rahl's minions locate the box but are unable to retrieve it due to a magical shield. Rahl sends Denna to recruit a young woman named Jennsen, who is immune to magic. Denna forces Jennsen to retrieve the box by threatening to kill her mother but loses the box to Richard, Kahlan and Zedd. After Denna escapes with Jennsen's mother, Richard discovers that Jennsen is his sister and Zedd is their grandfather. In exchange for the third box, Denna helps Richard and Jennsen to steal the two boxes in Rahl's possession. When she attempts to take all three boxes, Richard assembles them and obtains the power to command others. Finding his mother dead, Richard is overcome with vengeance, and commands Kahlan to kill Denna and Rahl's soldiers to kill each other. Jennsen, horrified by Richard's actions, separates the three boxes to cease their hold over him. To keep the boxes apart, Zedd gives two boxes of Orden to Jennsen to protect, while they protect the third.
17	"Deception"	Chris Martin-Jones	Raf Green	28 March 2009	117
Richard and Kahlan return to the Midlands and come to the aid of a group of rebels whose homes have been destroyed by a new weapon created by Darken Rahl called the "Whisperer". Kahlan manages to confess a D'Haran soldier named Carver Dunn, who helps them to deduce that the Whisperers are being stored at a fort nearby. Richard infiltrates the fort using Carver's identity and discovers that a cargo of Whisperers is being sent from D'Hara to replenish the fort's supply. As Richard befriends the fort's captain, Kahlan becomes protective of Carver, who is later killed by one of the rebels. When Kahlan learns of the rebels' plan to use the intercepted cargo of Whisperers on villages loyal to Rahl for revenge, she goes to the fort to inform Richard, and together, they are able to stop the rebels in time. As Richard and Kahlan destroy the Whisperers, they reflect on the choices they made to save the innocent D'Harans.
18	"Mirror"	Jonathan Brough	Michael K. Sheeter (story) & Stephen Tolkin (teleplay)	25 April 2009	118
Gwildor, a common thief, uses a magic mirror to change his appearance to that of a D'Haran captain. He also causes two other thieves named Clayre and Frytss to appear like Kahlan and Richard in order to rob the people of Midlands. Upon seeing Richard and Kahlan, the thieves hatch a plan to steal the Sword of Truth. Clayre and Frytss succeed in stealing the sword but are captured by D'Haran soldiers after Gwildor betrays them. Clayre and Frytss escape only to be found by Zedd, who discovers that they are not Richard and Kahlan. Meanwhile, Richard and Kahlan are captured by D'Harans after being tricked by Gwildor's lover, Bianca. Zedd uses the mirror to pose as Bianca and attempts to trade Clayre and Frytss for Richard and Kahlan. When that fails, he tricks the D'Harans again by having Bianca appear as him, while they escape. Zedd changes Frytss and Clayre back to their original appearances before continuing on his journey with Richard and Kahlan.
19	"Cursed"	Mark Beesley	Chad Fiveash & James Stoteraux	2 May 2009	119
King Gregor, an ally of the Seeker, allows Shota to curse him with magic that transforms him at sunset into a beast called the Calthrop in order to protect his kingdom from Rahl's army. However, he is unable to control the Calthrop as it preys on the innocents, forcing Richard and Kahlan to kill him. Meanwhile, Zedd discovers from Shota that without the Calthrop, the D'Harans will be able to take over the throne. Upon the D'Harans' invasion, Zedd and Shota use magic to darken the sky, unleashing the Calthrop. Corah, who inherited the throne and the Calthrop curse from King Gregor, turns into the beast herself, driving the D'Harans away. Just as Corah decides not to hide the identity of the Calthrop from her people, Kahlan realizes that she must accept and learn to control her magic. After returning, Zedd reveals the existence of a second Book of Counted Shadows and that they must find it before Rahl.
20	"Sanctuary"	Garth Maxwell	Mike Sussman	9 May 2009	120
Richard, Kahlan and Zedd arrive at the library in which the remaining copy of the Book of Counted Shadows is hidden. To find it, they seek the help of a librarian named Livia, who suddenly disappears. A painter named James had use magic to transport her into a world he had created through a magical painting, where she reunites with her missing son, Aidan. After James explains that he was keeping Aidan safe, Livia informs him that she is needed at the library. James promptly returns to the real world to paint the library into their sanctuary, transporting everything inside it along as well. He is found by Richard and Kahlan, who he also transports into the painting. With Livia's help, Richard finds the Book. At first unwilling to return them to the real world, James is forced to when Rahl discovers the painting and burns it, but he himself is unable to escape. Richard begins reading the Book to understand the magic of Orden.
21	"Fever"	Jonathan Brough	Nicki Paluga	16 May 2009	121
Darken Rahl raids a village where Jennsen is living, looking for the Boxes of Orden. Jennsen, pursued, throws them into a lake. When Rahl's soldiers find her, they beat her mercilessly causing her to lose her memory. As Jennsen is nursed back to health, Rahl convinces her that Richard is evil in order to obtain the location of the boxes. Meanwhile, Richard, Kahlan, and Zedd enter a camp which has been struck by a plague, created by Darken Rahl. In exchange for the Seeker's head, he will provide them with the cure. As Zedd sets about healing the sick villagers, Richard retraces Jennsen's steps to the lake and is able to retrieve the missing boxes. Believing in Rahl's story, Jennsen follows his orders to steal the boxes from Richard. She succeeds but Richard captures her and manages to restore her memory. Rahl is out of options, so he sends orders for his army to pull back and to have Cara and her sisters of the Agiel summoned, as Richard sets about using the magic of Orden with Kahlan's help.
22	"Reckoning"	Michael Hurst	Ken Biller & Stephen Tolkin	23 May 2009	122
Richard puts together the three Boxes of Orden, while Kahlan confesses him. However, Rahl's Mord'Siths find them just as this happens. In the middle of the confession, Cara, the lead Mord'Sith, uses her Agiel on Richard. This combination of the powers of Orden, Confessor and Agiel results in a magical explosion that sends Richard and Cara 57 years into the future. Meanwhile, in the ensuing conflict, Zedd is killed by his own wizard's fire, and Kahlan is taken prisoner by Rahl. When Kahlan learns from Shota that the only way for Richard to return is to replicate the magical combination of Orden, Confessor and Agiel, she decides to conceive a child with Rahl. Kahlan gives birth to a son, Nicholas, who grows into a merciless tyrant. In the future, Richard joins forces with Cara to destroy Nicholas. They meet up with Shota, who tells Richard about the magical combination required to travel back in time. Nicholas fails to deter Cara and Richard from returning to the present, where they save Kahlan and Zedd, with Richard finally fulfilling the prophecy in defeating Rahl. The Boxes of Orden are destroyed.

Metz Secret: GI Joe - Rise of the Cobra

2009-08-01T04:19:00.000-07:00

I cant wait to get to watch this movie as it comes out this August :) I was a big fan of the cartoon version as a kid, though this movie has gotten mixed reviews I am still hoping that it would have enough action to keep me at the edge of my seat :)

Here is the plot:
Set ten years in the future, the film is an origin story, showing the rise of the Cobra Organization. Stephen Sommers said, "For people who know nothing about it, it'll make sense. And to people who love this stuff, it'll show where they all came from." The film focuses on Duke (Channing Tatum) and Ripcord's (Marlon Wayans) induction into the G.I. Joe Team, providing the audience's point-of-view. Locations include the Arctic, Paris, Moscow, Washington, D.C., Australia and the Sahara. The G.I. Joe Team is based in the Pit, while it was indicated Cobra Island will appear.

Metz Secret: Testing out twitterfeed.com

2009-08-01T04:10:00.001-07:00

This post that I am making right now is to test if it has been properly set up with my twitter account and of course to see how it works :) Hopefully all works well. :) xoxo

For those of you with blogs or websites that are actively marketing their articles through twitter, I strongly recommend to try this site out :) It makes your work a lot less time consuming and thus less stressful :) xoxo

Metz Secret: I Love St. Ives Facial Apricot Scrub

2009-07-31T08:42:00.000-07:00

I started using St. Ives products again and one of my favorite products to use is their Apricot Scrub. I use the gentle formula for my face as I have sensitive skin. It has been about 9 months since the last time I used St.Ives' Facial scrub and now that am back on it, I can tell you that the results can be felt immediately. Best time to use the scrub though would be first thing in the morning and right before going to bed. So if you are looking for a cool product to use I strongly recommend to try this out. :)

FRESH SKIN

Brighten Up. Your face comes first, and when it looks great, you do too. St. Ives Fresh Skin products - formulated from ingredients you know, like apricots, minerals and olives - give you the power to uncover your best you - naturally revealing fresh, glowing skin.

Invigorating Apricot Scrub

Exfoliates to reveal smooth, radiant skin

From America's #1 Scrub brand*, this award-winning Apricot Scrub deep cleans, instantly leaving skin smooth and glowing.

Oil Free
Non-Irritating
Dermatologist Tested
100% Natural Exfoliants
100% Natural Extracts
Formulated without Parabens and Phthalates
Made without animal ingredients
Not tested on animals

how to use

Moisten face with water. Dispense product onto fingertips and massage over face. Rinse with water. Avoid direct contact with eyes. In case of contact with eyes, flush thoroughly with water. For best results use 3 to 4 times per week.

If you want to know more about St. Ives Products simply follow this link: St. Ives

Metz Secret: Magpie Viral Marketing

2009-07-29T17:25:00.000-07:00

Check this cool Viral marketing site that seems promising. Will be testing it out myself in the next couple of weeks for this blog of mine. :)

Magpie - Join the Conversation from Magpie & Friends Ltd. on Vimeo.

Metz Secret: 37 Questions

2009-07-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Marzie is at it again and as always loves to give me challenging tags which is amazingly fun to do :) I guess in more ways than one would expect I learned a lot from these questions about myself and my blogging friends :)

I am tagging all 21 blog buddies (listed at random) I have chosen for my list, have fun!
Paperkrafts*Makoy's Memoirs*The Colorful World of Shiela*Night Clicks*Spirit of Blogging*Money Ning*Ask Ms Recipe*Turn u Off*Life's a Pizza Pie*The Modern Mom*Lady Java*A Great Pleasure*East Coast Life*Random Thoughts*Xephan and Reema*iWalku2*Beyond Feron*Big Boys Have Toys Too*Sports Addict*Bioteck*Go Shopping Info*PCremix*Rhyan*Serradinho

1. How did you meet 7 ?
Ask Ms Recipe was a friend that I got to meet through entrecard. I enjoyed her amazing recipes and even until now she still cooks up a tasty surprise :)

2. What would you do if you and 15 had never met?
I wouldn't have been able t discover all those cool and neat games online which I am enjoying during my spare time :)

3. What would you do if 20 and 1 dated?
It would be a crafty tech surprise hehehe :)

4. Have you seen 17 cried?
Hmm I haven't really seen him cry nor has he written anything about it, he gives of a very well composed impression to everyone.

5. Would 4 and 16 make a good couple?
Nope I wouldn't think so hehehe :)

6. Do you think 11 is attractive?
LJ? Hmmm I think she is much more than just beauty on the outside, this girl has got a mean talent when it comes to graphics :)

7. What is 2's favourite colour?
Mark's favorite color is blue, though for some reason i think he likes pink just as much hehehehe :)

8. When was the last time you talked to 9?
I just spoke to LP last monday for the Music Monday gig :)

9. What language does 8 speaks?
Monica speaks English and Malay I think heheheh?

10. Who is 13 going out with?
Awww her wonderful babies if not busy going around from one adventure to another :) !

11. Would you ever date 17 ?
Nah, not likely hehehe though am sure that he is pretty cool guy ;)

12. Where does 18 live?
Manila i believe :)

13. What is the best thing about 4?
Mize is the warmest person to talk to and there is nothing but joy around her. The way she has strove to be a strong independent woman is something to be admired :)

14. What would you like to tell 10 right now?
Modern Mom, you are absolutely super :) !

15. What is the best thing about 20?
He is one gadget tech freak and I love it, whenever i need to do some tweaking in my system he has the answer :)

16. Have you ever kissed 2?
Blush, not sure if that would be appropriate hehehe guess it depends on where hahahaha

17. What is the best memory you have of 5?
Bono is a cool guy who loves to travel, I love seeing the shots he takes during his adventures :)

18. When's the next time you're going to see 1?
Mostly online but I would love to learn how he makes all those cool paper dolls

19. How is 7 different from 6 ?
Money Ning is extremely frugal and loves to save, Ask Ms R is a fantastic cook :) !

20. Is 2 pretty?
Mark is a looker hahaha :)

21. What was your 1st impression of 15?
Xephan and Reema are fun people to be with online and just as likely online :)

22. How did you meet 3?
Shiela? she is one of my entrecard friends that has continued to blossom :)

23. Is 5 your best friend?
Bono is one of my coolest friends, I met him through Marzie and will continue to inspire me with his networking skills.

24. Do you hate 12?
ECL??? Never hehehe I love her personality and the energy she brings to those around her and of course her adventures is a definite must follow!

25. Have you seen 18 in the last month?
Only online

26. When was the last time you saw 16?
iWalk is from another country and I have only seen her online, which reminds me I should drop her a line soon :) love her personality and her photos is simply breath taking. :)

27. Have you been to 5's house?
Nope, but I would love too :) even if just in pictures.

28. When's the next time you'll see 10?
When she has free time heheh MM is always so busy hahaha!

29. Are you close to 11?
I believe even though we only met online we are good friends :)

30. Have you been to the movies with 4?
Nope, she is in portugal and me philippines kinda hard to do that hehe But I wouldnt mind recommending a movie to watch :) !

31. Have you gotten in trouble with 8?
Monica? never, she is sweet soul and has a gentle heart, who would ever get into a trouble with her. No one would have the heart to do so :)

32. Would you give 19 a hug?
I wouldnt mind at all ;) !

33. When have you lied to 3?
never, that would be a bad thing to do.

34. Is 1 good at socializing?
Yup, you should see how many people this person talks to in a day hehehe :) and yet has time to make them wonderful paper dolls. :)

35. Do you know a secret about 8?
Hmm if i did I wouldn't tell ;)

36. Describe the relationship between 12 and 18?
Hmm Entrecard is where they met. :)

37. What's the best thing about your friendship with 9?
I always feel inspired whenever I read LP's articles. A lot of people do too :)

Metz Secret: Gloria Macapagal Sona 2009

2009-07-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

with the sona concluded and with many things mentioned and promised I decided to post what was said in our President's sona here for you to watch and review.

After watching the Sona, people are still a bit weary and word on the street is that they are worried that she might be planning something devious. For now, all we have are rumors and what is to come is still yet to unfold.

Metz Secret: Support for Corazon Aquino

2009-07-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

Here are the latest updates and fast facts about the Late Philippine President Corazon Aquino and her condition:

Corazon Aquino Cancer

On March 24, 2008, it was reported that former Philippine president Corazon Aquino is suffering from colon cancer. Her daughter, Kris Aquino, a popular television host in the Philippines, announced that her mother had been diagnosed with the disease two weeks earlier, after first noticing symptoms during the Christmas holidays. Corazon Aquino is known as force for democracy in the Philippines, having led the revolution that ousted former dictator Ferdinand Marcos. She has recently been a vocal critic of Gloria Arroyo, calling for Arroyo's resignation over corruption charges.

Fast Facts
1. Age: 75
2. President: 1986-1992
3. Hospitalized in March 2008
4. Cancer now at stage 4

Quotes:
1. Kris Aquino, daughter: "The result showed our mother is suffering from cancer of the colon. We know that the life of our family is already part of our country's history. It was our mother's decision for us to come out with this statement. Our mother, like all patients...needs time to rest. We respectfully ask she be accorded her privacy. We ask you for your compassion and prayers for our mom's recovery."

Please show your support and prayer by grabbing this yellow ribbon and posting it on your own sites and blogs.

Metz Secret: Restful weekend

2009-07-26T05:51:00.000-07:00

I had a very restful weekend this time but I have to say it has passed by so quickly. I guess it was true that time really moves quickly when things are going well. For now am looking forward to what will happen this coming week. Things have started to change around the office and at home. Same problems though keep on popping its ugly head once in a while, only to remind me that there are still many lessons yet to be learned. I just have to come around to facing them.

I learned something cool today to from one of the movies that I watched this afternoon. The world will tell you who you are until you find the strength to tell the world who you are. It really hit me hard after I heard it, I guess it was a wake up call for me to stop and consider where I am and to decide where I am going. I had to ask if I should go down the river and follow its flow or should I swim upward to find its source. Another saying that has caused me to ponder and have an epiphany is what a former mentor once mentioned to me - if you are seeking happiness follow your destiny, if you seek greatness go against it.

Overall I guess all I did this week was simply ponder and reflect on life. Was it productive enough for me? Maybe not. Till the next time.

Metz Secret: Partial Solar Eclipse in Metro Manila 2009

2009-07-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

The solar eclipse of July 22, 2009 is the longest total solar eclipse of the 21st century. The totality will last 6 minutes and 39 seconds but that’s in the ocean. The North Iwo Jima island in Japan will witness the totality closest to the maximum time. The Philippines will not be in the line of totality but if the weather cooperates, a partial eclipse should be visible here.

If the weather in Metro Manila is clear, the moon can be seen covering the sun by as much as half, or 49.5 percent, by Gabriana’s calculations. The eclipse can be viewed by residents in the metropolis from 8:32 a.m. to 11:01 a.m.

In Laoag City, 61.4 percent of the sun will be covered, 59.2 percent in Vigan City, 55.4 percent in Baguio City, 45.4 percent in Sorsogon, 36.6 percent in Cebu and 27.7 percent in Davao, according to Gabriana. (Source: Inquirer.net)

Caution: NEVER look directly at a solar eclipse even if it’s partial without any special filters!

There are a few websites that will have a live webcast of the total solar eclipse event.

The Philippines will get another chance to see a partial solar eclipse on April 20, 2023. I’d be nearing my 40’s then. The last time Pinoys saw a total solar eclipse was in the morning of March 18, 1988 in southern Mindanao. So when do we actually get another total solar eclipse? Well, don’t get too excited.

21st century’s upcoming total solar eclipses in the Philippines!

April 20, 2042 – Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, north Pacific – 04m 51s

April 11, 2070 – Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Philippines – 04m 04s

May 22, 2096 – Indonesia, Central Pacific, Philippines – 06m 07s

That’s 3 total solar eclipses in the Philippines this century. Let’s hope we’re still around to see at least the one in the year 2042.

Here is the path of the solar eclipse for this year:

Metz Secret: Angry at Smartbro

2009-07-20T05:23:00.000-07:00

I just got off the phone after arguing with a smartbro representative and her supervisor. They disconnected my service just because I was delayed for a month and a half of service. They did not make an effort to warn me about the disconnection and not only that I already informed them that I normally pay on the 21st of the month cause that is when my pay comes in. The previous supervisor said that it was ok for me to be a bit delayed and even stated that it takes about 3 months of delayed payment prior to disconnection of service. Nothing about these things were stated on the bill.

But that wasn't what really pissed me off, it was the lack of understanding and care for customer that they had. I had to escalate to the supervisor who also showed no care nor compassion until I resorted to complaining to the NTC board for the treatment they had shown me. It was so frustrating and annoying that I just couldn't help but write about it today. The supervisor even sounded condescending and arrogant - One thing that these companies that provide service to people should realize is that it is the clients who pay the bills that goes to their salary. We deserve respect and consideration - cause if we go to another provider they loose a lot more than they know. Respect your clients, regardless of who they are and your business is sure to grow, show no care towards them and watch your company go down the drain. There is already a court case filed against these big telecom companies in the senate - I suggest that they do not make things any more worse than it is for them.

Should you subscribe to Smartbro for internet service - 4 hours ago changed my mind about the company. Unless they show me something that would bring back my trust towards them, I would recommend that you try out somewhere else - there are other service providers that provide a better deal than what is provided by smartbro. They just had an advantage back then - quick internet installation - that was all they did that was impressive. Everything else is below average. Ask any Smartbro subscriber - we all have similar complaints and the customer service personnel isnt making a subscriber's life any better.

Smartbro if you get to read this I want you to know that unless you show to your clients that you care about our concerns, about what we complain about, then you shall not see any care from us. Service is what builds a lasting relationship between you as a company and your client - the lack of service will drive your clients away. That is a loss of money, am sure that right now you wouldn't want that to happen.

Here are more articles from other users:

Why Smartbro Sucks
Yugatech
Customers that Want to Cancel Their Smartbro and Smart Wifi Service

Simply typing Smartbro Sucks on Google search and you will see that there are millions of people that have similar complaints.

Here is the search result for your convenience: Smartbro Sucks

Is Smartbro really simply amazing???? That is for you to judge - but many of us have already voiced our concerns - will they listen - I hope so, before they loose all of us.

Metz Secret: Found 50 Pesos on the street today

2009-07-20T03:00:00.000-07:00

Yup that is what I found walking home from work today. It was a peculiar thing since I was thinking about money as of that moment hehe :) so I wonder should I keep it or spend it?That is what I need help in figuring out. Makes me wonder what other people would do with money that they have found. :)

Metz Secret: Sad day today

2009-07-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

I felt a little down today and because of that I guess that is why I needed to write about it. Though on a regular day I wouldn't really focus on negative thoughts for very long but today is an exception. I feel really bad and I need to let it out. Dark and dank are probably the best words to describe what I feel right now. Why do I feel that way is a long story as it is but one that is stemming from the need for attention and affection. I need to communicate and to share - an ear to listen to what I have to say is what I crave. Sigh is all that I can do.

Snapshots: People July 13, 2009

2009-07-13T08:25:00.000-07:00

BystanderInnocence

Street Vendor: Banana Cue

Anticipation: Krispy Kreme

Walking: Mizuno

I love taking shots and I do hope that you enjoy these photos just as much as it was for me taking them. :) Have a great week ahead - and do visit me at deviant art for more of my work :)

Snapshots: People July 3 '09

2009-07-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

The WatcherThe Passenger

The Smoker

These are just some of the interesting people I have seen today and just couldn't resist to take a snapshot. Some of these pictures were taken from my Cellular Phone and from my Digital camera from EZshot :) There is still a lot more to come - hope through my lens you get to see how much beauty is around all of us :) you just have to look :)

Much Rest is Needed

2009-06-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

I feel very exhausted by the end of this weekend. It was supposed to be a restful one since Philippine Independence but I had to do a wedding project. Aside from that I had to review a couple of emails and am not even half way through it. Am going to try to get some rest as I have another busy week ahead of me and this is going to be a very busy weekend yet again.

Here are two amazing shots that I think are the best for the week:

Am off to Kawayan Cove for Another Wedding

2009-06-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

I am at Shell Magallanes as of this post waiting for our head coordinator to pick us up as we prepare to go to another weekend wedding that we have to coordinate and by the look of things it is going to be a very interesting day for me and the people that people that will be involved with this event. Pictures from the wedding to follow. (hopefully i get to take some shots and that it doesnt get so hectic)

Till then
xoxo

Uber Stressed!

2009-06-08T10:18:00.000-07:00

I am overly stressed out today more than I thought I would be. I feel burnt out and depressed and highly emotional. The reasons why? Let me enumerate it:

My Father's Birthday is coming up close to his death anniversary
My sister's Birthday is coming up too which happened to be the same day that my dad was murdered.
Me and my habi's anniversary is coming up too a day before my sister's Birthday which is also the day that my habi's dad also passed away a year from now.
The office where I am at is constantly changing way too much in a time that is too short. I found it physically hard to adjust to their demands and the changes.
My mom is pressuring me to help her financially
Having a hard time manage the home finances right now and the taxes are due. Long overdue according to my mom who apparently didnt tell me that she needed help with it till the last minute.
I have appointments and clients to meet and talk to - lost some of their phone numbers and I couldn't seem to get to reach them.
I have a fever that comes and goes lately, not sure why, must be due to the schedule changes and the weather. It has been erratic lately, not that any of that too could be my fault.
Bills of all sorts and past balances that needed to be settled.
A migraine every time I wake up and the fact that when I fall asleep now I feel like I am never ever going to wake up again.
My heart has been pumping erratically lately and I am over due for a check up with my doctor.
I have over 20++ kids to manage in class for this week
I quite smoking and handling stress has been rather difficult to do lately. Finding a none food alternative has been rather a challenge.
My batch from last week hasn't updated me on anything till now.
I am fighting a battle against gaining weight and it has been a win and loose situation literally and figuratively.
I feel like my manager/s haven't really taken the time to talk to me one on one for my performance evaluation and that the only time that they would want to talk to me is when I have done something that is to their disapproval.
My sister and my mom haven't been really in good terms lately and have been an emotional roller coaster ride for me.
I just kicked out a crazy abusive tenant that literally was crazy and had maltreated those that were living with her.
Stress of trying to figure out where to get the money to pay off my mom's debts. It is huge!
Trying to find means to keep calm and composed. I feel like a volcano that is about ready to erupt and when I do I pray that no one is around or God help them.

Talk about a need for closure. These are the things that I am going through and it isn't fun at all. I have taught things to my class and now I have to swallow my own bitter pill. There are things that I know that I can handle right now, and for now putting emotional attachment to these problems will make things a little more complicated than it should for me. I have a meeting tomorrow with one of my managers, I just pray that things shall turn out alright and that I wouldn't have to walk around with my tail between my legs. I just do not want to get anymore added stress for things that is petty and menial. Cause my temper is boiling and the lid of patience that is keeping things intact is about to pop. I need to find time to breathe and just be me.

Rainy Start for the weekend

2009-06-07T07:55:00.000-07:00

I had a very interesting start of the weekend as i was very sick last Friday and it was raining cats and dogs outside. I decided to go out to get some meds and decided to document what was going on around the area where I live. Hope you guys enjoy the ride :)

My Weekend through Snapshots

2009-05-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

My Weekend started with the task of looking for a pair of Havaianas for my Habi's sister. We got one for her similar to the one to the left except we go the brown version of this one. We finally decided to grab it though on Sunday as we were still waiting for her decision. In the end though we decided to pick one for her. Luckily enough she liked it a lot :)
After looking for the slippers we decided to stop over at Burger King to try and find if we could grab some Iced Mocha. Unfortunately this branch in Glorietta, Makati didnt have it. sigh.
We ended up going to the Cinema Branch (G4) to find out if they had it there. I found out that they did so we fell in line. The line was ridiculously long and unfortunately by the time we reached the counter they ran out of the drink as well. We bought a Whopper and Fish Sandwich combo instead.
Since we were in the Cinema area we decided to check out what was showing. We looked at the digital posters that Ayala Cinema has up to see what time the movies were scheduled. We decided to go for Star Trek. It was a fantastic movie. I was a bit worried though that it may not be a good movie to watch since it was rated G. The original movie that we wanted to watch though was Angels and Demons but the line for that movie was even longer than the BK line. :)

Busy Week

2009-05-24T07:56:00.000-07:00

I had such a very busy week this May. I had to handle a wedding, company endorsements and call outs. I also had to figure out my financial budget for the next coming months. Including provision on added income. I had also discovered a means to get my book published through a local publishing company - but I have to pay a publisher's fee of 9,500 Philippine Pesos. I just wish there would be someone who would sponsor me for that as it would be a big help. Once that book has been launched and the publishing has been made I can start on the second phase of the story :) So far by the end of this week things have been looking up but only through hard work and patience. Keep on praying and believing. That is all that I keep saying to myself :) I know things will turn out well. As long as we keep breathing there is hope. :) Till the next time. xoxo

New Day - New Beginning

2009-05-03T19:25:00.000-07:00

I have decided to take a stand to control my mind and the reactive nature that it has. I have to take this chance to make a difference, small or great. I have lifted my concerns to the Higher Powers and I pray that things will get better soon.

I have also launched a new website business and am hoping to promote it to the world soon. Keep yah posted :)

Till the next time. xoxo

Crying a lot

2009-05-01T20:39:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling so low and depressed since yesterday. I try not to cry but inside it feels like a huge part of me is in grief. I could feel the tears so close to coming out. I can handle physical pain and ailments, but the pain of my heart, my emotion is harder to bear. What keeps me together, I dont know. I honestly dont feel all together. I feel lost and broken. I dont know what to do. I dont want to cry but I am afraid that in just a few moments I will break down and succumb to its need to let it all out. There is a cry for salvation, a cry to heal and fix what is broken. I dont know how to do it. I dont know how to mend a broken heart. Was I at fault, I guess I was, was it all my fault? I dont think so either. Can I forgive, I know I can, but can I be forgiven is an answer I dont have. Time will tell what is to happen next, but only to the Higher ups will decide what fate lays for me. Crying is all I have right now, it doesnt fix my heart, it doesnt solve my issue, but it is all I can do.

Stolen Life

2009-04-25T17:32:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since i last made an entry here in this diary log since I had encountered an incident that has almost left me feeling completely devastated. My best friend ACE (my acer laptop) was stolen from me, my bag with important personal documents were included as well. I was left feeling violated as this incident happened in my own home. I was both furious and depressed at the same time. Many have been telling me that I should be grateful that at least I have my life as many arent so lucky. But somehow it doesn't ease the emotion.

Right now am working on getting things replaced and my life back on track. Am grateful though that I have wonderful friends that are helping me out to get me started. Now I have a new friend that am getting to know bit by bit Hannah my new lappy (HP Mini 2140) has been proving to be a very versatile and talented little wonder. I have to admit am very pleased with her performance so far. I pray that me and Hannah will be together for a long time. Most especially when she came at a time when I needed her the most.

Am a bit worried to be honest about a lot of things lately since the inident. Mostly financial reasons, more specifically on how to pay for the things that I need to be replaced. Hannah herself isnt fully paid for yet and am going to try to pay my friend at least 5K Pesos a month to get the det over with. But considering the number of bills I get already that is quite a stretch. I have been trying to figure things out and praying that all goes well in the end.

Saddest Day of 2009 so far

2009-04-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

Today I feel like I needed to write this. I feel like I need to let this pain out. I am sick literally and yet the person that I counted on to be here for me isnt. I feel so lost and unloved and that isn't just the half of the pain that I feel. Easter Sunday wasn't what I thought it would be. It only gave me a lot of pain. I really don't have anyone to turn to. I feel so alone and I dont know what to do to make me feel better. I feel like I have lost focus of what I was supposed to do. I am questioning myself and my motives today. Am I living in denial, am I living a lie. Am I the reason why I am always alone? I dont know. I honestly dont know. I pray hard that things will work out but by the way things look Nothing seems to work for me. I question myself daily now, I am intelligent and strong willed but at this I feel that I am powerless against it. I am scared, very scared of what I am to find out from all this. The truth is painful, and emotional pain is harder to heal from than that which is physical.

Lonely

2009-04-07T09:15:00.000-07:00

Born of light yet raised in the Dark
Living a life but feeling like death
A rose but with petals black

Righteous and yet filled with sin
Armored however more vulnerable within
Laughing due to immense pain

Home although feeling lost
All together but not complete
Loved unfortunately by loneliness

Time to rest even for just a moment

2009-04-03T04:42:00.000-07:00

Holy week has finally come and I feel the vacation fever again. It is only during this time where I can actually get some decent rest and sleep. I get to catch up on a lot of things that I have been missing out on and people that I haven't spoken to in quite a bit. I can even finally find the time to get to job and roller blade across the streets of Makati without having to worry about traffic cause this city is going to look deserted once everyone has finally gone off to their out of town excursions. There is a lot of things that I cant wait to get to do. But like I mentioned first thing to do is to really get a decent amount of sleep. :) xoxo

Feeling Sick

2009-03-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

I have been working really hard for over the past couple of weeks. I also had a bit of a ride with the emotional roller coaster express. All that plus lack of sleep has become a formula for disaster for someone like me. It is pollen season and I cant seem to get over the sniffles, I feel fatigued and drained most of the time and smiling seems to be quite a hard thing to do most of the time. I have been feeling so low down that going out and partying has become a chore. I do hope that this coming Holy Week Holidays can help me recover a bit of my spark. I seriously need it soon.

Busy Little Bee

2009-03-18T09:33:00.000-07:00

Been so busy lately, been so swamped with tasks left and right. Emotions have been like a roller coaster ride. Full moon last week wasn't helpful at all. Brain feels electrified more than the usual and there seems to be a lot looming in the shadows - at least that is how it feels like for me. I feel like am being watched from a distance by someone. I try to ignore but sometimes I just have to turn around and look - paranoia maybe but I dont like the cold chilling sensation I get. The kind you get when you have a watcher around you snooping around and checking your every move.

I had a very interesting dream lately too. Thought I was fighting for my life yesterday and I dreamt that the weather was twisting in my command - rain starts to pour as I stretched out my hand. Waking up to a light thunder clap made me realize that it was raining hard in the real world. Did i just do that? I asked myself - Not likely (at least I hoped it was).

Dreams - that is all I have left as a sanctuary. I had several sessions where I almost wanted to sleep for good.

Well, that is it for now but dont worry, will try to write something about what is going on in my world and my head when I get the chance to again. xoxo

Down and out

2009-03-07T07:25:00.000-08:00

I had an argument with my mom today about financial issues that was just absurd. I feel that there is so many things that we could have worked on but getting along was not in our vocabulary. I feel that my family has so much to learn and that there needs to be a change - a huge change - but that can only be achieved through experiencing a traumatic experience that will affect all of us. I feel so tired and exhausted every time I have to deal with my mom and my older sister. They are emotional vampires and I hate to say it, but they are manipulators to a degree that is just beyond belief.

I want to rant about everything. I want to let it all out here and just show and tell. However, what is it going to change? Nothing will change unless something bad happens. I have tried talking with reason but it all seemed like a wasted breath of air. I pray a lot that things will not come to a point where there is only regret.

Our family has so much potential. Every single one has amazing talents but fate has its hands around our necks. Like a curse that just cant be broken. I feel trapped and confused. I feel consumed with rage and depression. A pit hole that our family has dug and now is filling in with earth with all of us in it. That is how it feels - along with all the pressure and pain that it brings. I feel nothing but despair. My eyes betray me for I still smile. But only those that hear and read these can they see what troubles my soul.

TESDA EXPERIENCE

2009-02-25T07:29:00.000-08:00

I have finally finished the week long Trainer's certification that started last week and I have to say it was rather stressful but admittedly I learned a lot from all of them. What I was most worried about though was the final assessment that we all had to go through today.

We were asked to come into the training facility at around 8:30 am to begin the process and it was so nerve wracking from the start as there was a lot of projects that we had to work on for the entire week that was required to be submitted during the assessment period. But thankfully all went well. Even though it was a long waiting process it was all worth the wait since I was able to pass it along with my team mates.

I guess there was a lot of things that I learned too aside from the training itself - I learned to be more appreciative of the environment and location of where I work. I also learned that people aren't what they seem and many will put on a mask to throw off one's momentum just to push us to perform a lot more than one would have expected.

At the end of all this I just can't wait to get back to work soon. There is just so much I want to do for the company that I will be introducing bit by bit. Till the next time. xoxo

Metz's Secret: Diary Log Feb 09, 2009 - Luna

2009-02-09T07:31:00.000-08:00

I have been acting all weird today. I pushed a student's mind today in class as I was teaching. I was so annoyed at how or why the person wasn't speaking up while everyone else was. So without any hindrance or a thought of caution I did what I shouldn't have done. I took what I saw in his mind and brought it out. I talked about who he was and the things that caused him to be that way. The student was so shocked at the mere accuracy of what I was saying and worse of it he just sat down in total disbelief as to what was going on at that particular moment. I knew that I had to turn things around quickly and fortunate enough for me being a highly skilled speaker "manipulative" that I am made him refocus his thoughts and rekindle those things that had made him go through with life by showing him the reasons why he is fighting to make a difference. At the same time using that to influence the class to divert their focus from what just happened. But again before the class ended my mouth and mind was just absolutely wicked today - I again twisted and played with someone's head again and a hunger to feed off the data that I saw inside their heads and blurted out without a care in the world demonstrating a point as to what I wanted them to focus on and revealed yet another person's private thoughts. I have to be honest this one was used rather effectively though as I saw the change in drive from passive to a fiery of determination to become much better than what she was now came from her eyes and her mouth.

I have to be honest with you, I dont care if people believe what they read here, but this is how my day was today. How I do these things is something of a mystery to me and to the people that know me. This is just icing on the cake - but this is as far as I go in revealing what talents I do have inside. As for the only reason why I mentioned it here is because I need to vent out a lot from inside - as the full moon Luna is making me go iffy the entire day and the main reason all control was lost from me today was that fact - that is why the they coined the term Lunatic from Luna - cause people a certain amount of us do go a bit crazy. :) Hopefully am more sane by the time I write the next post :) xoxo

Metz's Secret: Diary Log Jan 20, 2009 - Dream

2009-02-06T15:25:00.000-08:00

I had the weirdest dream today. I dreamt and heard and saw the word ALTRUANCE. It was so bad that I felt the compulsion to see what it meant and tried to figure out why that word echoed in my head even until now. But to my dismay nothing came up. a page of search results was all I got. Names such as John Kennedy, and another blogger with the same word on his article but nothing pointing towards the meaning of the word nor it's significance. Right now I feel a bit weirded out but i have to write about it for it still echoes with images in my head. I know this word isn't ordinary. The circumstances of my knowing it isnt ordinary either. Hope to find out what it means and soon.

Metz Secret Garden: Diary Entry - Trust

2009-02-01T22:13:00.000-08:00

Iam not feeling well today. I have emotional issues today because I dont know how to trust someone that has broken my trust in the past. I have forgiven but I cant seem to get over it nor forget. It has been that way for a very long time. I cant get over it. I just cant let it go because that hurt me so much. Especially after I gave my trust freely without compromise or question. I dont know what to think right now. I dont know how I am going to get through this. Is therapy going to work - I need help - I am intelligent and very rational but when it comes to emotions and love this is the first time for me. My personality is that I give people my full trust at the beginning but once broken takes a very long time to repair and that has to be done by the person who broke it. I dont want to be the one constantly asking what is going on. It hurts because I think about what the other person would feel if I would do something and I consder that - but I am not getting the same treatment in return. I feel that he has become very inconsiderate and uncompromising towards me. I dont feel the love nor the value of my presence and I feel unhappy most of the time. I can predict people's actions and so far I have not been mistaken. Maybe he was right i am too good but that is just me - I want something much better than this and I deserve more than this. I have to rememer what makes me happy. I want to be happy completely again. I feel so lost and exhausted and I have been crying a lot more now than I had before. Why do I keep up with it - LOVE - that is that. I am hurting today more than anything and today I admit it finally. It hurst to love someone so much and I dont feel that I am being loved the same way in return. I feel like I have no choice but I do. Am just choosing the harder option because I am praying that God will make a miracle with me and the person that I love. I need to heal and I need to be Healed.

Metz's Secret: Diary Log Jan 28, 2009 - SCARED

2009-01-28T07:07:00.000-08:00

I have been feeling scared for no apparent reason since Sunday. I dont really know what is causing it and this is not making my week any easier with all the tasks that I have to do and prepare for. I admit that this is definitely something out of the ordinary for me and nothing really happens for no reason. I have taken time to figure it out. So far I have come up with absolutely nothing.

On the lighter side Empty Streets 1027 got a very good review yesterday and that made my day. I started dancing again and this is because I need to loose weight. I love dancing and it is a good and fast way to loose all the unnecessary fats while having fun at the same time. Admittedly I have gained a lot of weight over the holiday season and now am really fighting to get it off. I also am fighting the urge to buy cigarettes as the first step to quitting. The nicotine withdrawal has been gradual but I am feeling its effects on my body and throat. I felt a bit feverish and had some very weird dreams. Quitting for some people is easy and for others it is not. For me am in the latter group. Smoking is like a hook with a very irresistible bait and once you bite you get reeled in pretty quickly until you finally get trapped. I feel like am slowly clawing my way out of the box that it has trapped me in. Hope to get through this without incident. Concentration is what I had difficulty with after I started this process of quitting and it is a drag. Keeping my energy up too has been a struggle. But with dancing and music it has started to get a little easier. Loss of appetite seems to be the result of my quitting and I havent eaten for two days literally and by the time I finally got to eat I couldnt finish my first plate. Hope things start to stabilize though. Anyways I have to get back to work now. ;) till the next time. xoxo

Metz's Secret: Diary Log Jan 20, 2009 - TIRED

2009-01-19T08:36:00.001-08:00

I just started a new class and things are looking good so far, started a new tutoring class with a korean student trying to get into an international airlines company as a flight attendant, coordinated a wedding in shangrila makati last saturday, and had 4 student passers endorsed to a particular company from last batch. So many things are happening and so many things yet to do. That is becoming quite a factual thing for me. Makes me feel tired of life once in awhile, makes me feel like I need a long break - cant say no to the people I work with and most especially my boss. Cant go and run away and hide as there are many people depending on me to be there for them. SO much TO DO and YET so LITTLE TIME. Sometimes I imagine myself cloned and was wondering how that would work out but apparently too many mes would be rather disastrous. We'd be agreeing to disagree on a lot of things. Facts of life I guess is that you have to learn to live it and love it so it wont be so much of a hassle.

Dont get me wrong though as those of you that read the rants and raves I have. You have to understand that when you meet me in person you will see and hear a very happy and perky and active guy - this website/blog is my place of sanctuary a place where I can freely speak my mind and express my feelings without care of reprimand or abuse. A lot of bloggers are like me and a lot of people like me keep a journal. I prefer to go public with mine - it is the freedom of having no secrets that seems to be rather enlightening and liberating at the same time. What people say of course are important to a certain degree but from the experiences that I have encountered in the last 28 years of my life is to learn to look for the inner voice that source of inspiration and bliss. I have learned to follow that through my writing and blogging. Empty Streets 1027 has fast become quite the success and hopefully as the year progresses it starts to produce much more than what I had expected it would and could produce. Sooner or later I will be creating it's counterpart on it's own domain and server which is I hope to be just as successful or even more but that in itself is a dream that I am going to see become a reality.

I know, I know, I talk too much and have been told that several times. I rant and rave a lot too sometimes but I try to do it with style when am infront of people. Diplomacy definitely can go a very long way especially when you are trying to get what you want out of life. Unfortunately when it comes the stress in life there are just some things that one person cant handle on our own. Lesson learned today for me is that I have to learn to be less stiff with the things am putting on my shoulders and sometimes just learning to go with the flow. Problems are problems if one keeps on looking at it and no matter how you look at it it wont solve the problem. That is what my dad used to say to me. Didnt get him before - took me 28 years to figure it out. When all he meant was to simply ignore it if you cant handle it and the solution somehow will come up anyways if not its definitely a good sign to move on.

Anyways am still awake waiting for my habi to come home from tagaytay and it is a bit late. Better try and make something healthy to eat and drink while I wait. Till the next time. xoxo

Holidays Over

2009-01-09T04:33:00.001-08:00

The holiday season has finally come to an end at least for the time being but for some reason am a bit relieved that it is - kinda getting bored. :) Though in truth I have been working non - stop too with the number of weddings that me and my habi have been coordinating since the start of xmas all the way to the days after new year.

A lot of things have been nagging in my head and most of it is in improving the businesses that I already have and of course the blogs are a part of that business. I have done a surmountable amount of tweaking (pardon my redundancies) with all of my blogs and have even considered reviving one of my old ones that is still in its infancy stage. I was also pleasantly pleased to have noticed that my main site Empty Streets has been given a very good pagerank by Google and for that am so grateful. Especially after a year of writing and marketing what I have written from there.

Many things still bug me though. Some in a good way and some in a bad way. I have to deal with them one at a time and some I definitely have to come into terms with.

Overall, the year of 2009 is a promising yet weary year for a lot including myself. Right now all I want is just to make my mark no matter how small a dot that might be. Hope a lot of people are doing alright if not all and I hope that those that aren't do feel a little better as the new year progresses. Till the next time. xoxo

Finally time to Breathe

2008-12-12T21:07:00.000-08:00

It is a saturday afternoon and I just finished dropping some cards in Entrecard.com and am still thinking about what to write about next on my Marketing 411 site of which am still officially stumped since I would like to feature so many things. But I guess now I have finally decided to start talking about business opportunities and how to's in Marketing 411 - making articles called Business Opportunities you can market from home sorta series.

I also have to really take this moment to rest and relax as tomorrow is going to be another hectic day as I have to handle another wedding in Tagaytay Highlands. I'll be featuring the story most likely at my main site Empty Streets and hopefully everything turns out well.

Xmas is definitely fast approaching and I still have a ton of shopping to do not to mention I am gearing up for a contest over at Empty Streets where I will be giving out prizes that am sure a lot of people would like to have. It is a way for me to start the new year with a bang I guess hehehe. I am so excited though of what the new year has to offer. A lot of bad things have happened but a lot of good things came along and fixed the bad so the year of 2008 was really quite fruitful if not a crazy roller coaster ride.

I also hope that my kids. the people and training in Excel Asia Services will get a job and hopefully my training was good enough. The call center industry is definitely booming here in the Philippines, and there really are a lot of job opportunities available. But if you feel that you need help in terms of English skills and of course Call Center Basics simply drop us a note and I'll give you the full details as to how you can avail of this training.

Anyways, I have got to go grab something to eat before I start writing my sports article for Empty Streets today. Till the next time. xoxo

Puzzled

2008-11-27T17:53:00.001-08:00

I have been maitaining 4 blogs out of the 8 blogs I have. And normally the traffic has been quite decent but this week is a puzzle, a lot less hits for today and I just cant seem to figure the numbers out. Oh well lets just hope with Googles upcoming Rank Evaluation we all get a good score. Praying for all of my blogging friends at this point.

An Interesting Wednesday

2008-11-26T18:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had an electrical fire in the office and all training classes were suspended as apparently the heat was spreading throughout the building. Eventually everyone was evacuated. Today is stressful and I am waiting in anticipation for my kids that I have endorsed to a company. Having my fingers crossed. Nervous and excited all at once, oh well. :)

this week isnt as it seems

2008-11-04T09:09:00.000-08:00

I thought this week was going to be easy but as fate would have it I needed to given a rather almost impossible challenge at work today but thankfully enough my work family was very supportive. I cant blame them though - no one was skilled for the task asked of them from their clients and it required someone with a strong technical background and viola - that was me. Right now I just want to focus on other things aside from work during my evenings as this is my only way to keep my sanity for as it is having a heart condition and stress isnt really a good thing. I even smoked a couple of sticks of cigarettes today which didnt really mix well with my internals. I felt like a walking time bomb was inside of me. Even my Habi got mad at me today and felt unhappy with me huhuhuhu. But I love my habi lots and so does my habi love me too. Anyways it is about 2:00 am and I have class (I think) tomorrow and a couple of things to write about as the weekend hits not to mention the daily topics for Empty Streets and of course the new facilitators Guide due this Thursday - Whew somebody say PRESSURE!!!!!!!!!!!!! i am going to need a drink by the end of the week and I am about to go broke but am praying that I get payed by someone that owes me a lump sum for a project I did and I pray that God will grant me favor this time for that as I hate being a bit tight on the budget :) till the next time. xoxo

Bday Today

2008-10-30T01:46:00.000-07:00

It has been quite a fun day and stressful day today. Interviews going on a bday celebration and social obligations plus work and reports to do it is a like an emotional roller coaster ride and the day isn't over yet. :)

Busy week

2008-10-28T20:47:00.000-07:00

It has been a rather busy week this time around, a lot of pleasant surprises and stuff that makes me a bit paranoid. But all is well. I can't even write a proper article but that is a good thing cause I hate being idle for too long. So till I get my act and schedule all sorted out I should be able to get the articles rolling soon. :) so till then xoxo

Busy Weekend

2008-10-25T09:30:00.001-07:00

It has been quite a busy weekend, bills had to be paid today and at least I got some cash to pay them off, cant wait for the next 2 weeks as there will be another set of bills lined up due for payment as well, sigh.

I also have pending articles that I need to write and accomplish and just as I am planning to write them I have to attend to a wedding event tomorrow. So you guessed it, no rest for me, not in the long run at least.

I did get to spend time with my habi, and we had a fun time walking around the mall shopping for stuff and eating at teriyaki boy in glorieta and we also got to check out books in power books. i was also so happy to find that I have my power book card as well so now i can start earning points and getting discounts as I get to enjoy my favorite reads. I also got to buy Ben 10 Season 5 and the Bee Movie on DVD. I just can't wait to watch them all. Oh well time to rest as always :) xoxo

Thursdays Can be Quite Interesting

2008-10-23T07:57:00.000-07:00

My day today has been quite interesting. I had to talk and teach about technical stuff today with my class at the same time focusing on the quality aspect of their communication skills. I had to also keep in check my canker and the tiny lump that i have at the side of my neck of which both are now getting quite better. I also had an interesting conversation with Deeg and Naomi about personality styles and they had me utilize my profiling specialty. I have to admit that this may be a skill that I truly excel at with a very high percent hit rate though at times it does make me feel a bit uncomfortable. I always like having a bit of an upper hand with people, things and most especially situations and with people knowing what I can do can rather blow my cover of being a bit innocent and naive :) guess in more ways than one they are starting to see how deep the water really is inside my head and sometimes once people get in they might drown... Sigh

Anyways at least a major highlight for the evening was actually getting to have Mom give me a massage, and that helped me feel a little bit better compared to this morning. I have to also try and keep a timeframe of dropping Entercards till 1 am as my hubby has placed a strict time limit to how long I can stay up over the weekdays :) till the next write up - xoxo

A highly adrenaline filled day

2008-10-22T08:31:00.001-07:00

I had just gotten home and boy all i felt was the emotion of utter exhaustion after going to a meeting with executives for a call center to discuss company curriculum and crossing our fingers and praying that they get us as a permanent partner. Things looked well though as me, Gold, Naomi, and Jaime blended cohesively together as a team in the board room. I think we did a good job and gladly enough all of us felt the same way.

Prior to that though I had a rather interesting day with class today, as the class had to be taught grammar structures: Tenses, Subject Verb agreement, and prepositional phrases. Tomorrow I have the tech profiling assessment test I have to deliver not to mention in-depth troubleshooting to teach as well as grammar lessons checkpoints to make. With that in mind there is definitely going to be a fully packed day as always.

I guess as the week progresses I am finally starting to see the fruit of my labor through the performance they have demonstrated thus far. I just hope and pray that by next week they are ready to perform just as well during the interviews and that they get through and beat the interview system of this rather obnoxiously difficult call center. Fingers crossed - till the next post I have got to get back to driving traffic and dropping electronic cards for my main website - Empty Streets

Hard Day Today

2008-10-20T04:43:00.000-07:00

I just started with a new class today and it was a bit stressful, I thought of what to do and finding the right formula to get them hired at the same time focusing on their grammar can be quite taxing. I found myself seated on my chair exhausted and that isn't a good thing since as a trainer I should be sitting on the chair and trying to help them all improve. However all this has to be done within 6-7 days. Sigh!

I started out with teaching them vowel sounds and the TH sounds but by the third half of the day I decided to take a breather and simply focus on teaching them how to self correct by teaching them to identify the things that their team mates need to improve on. Mostly diction and enunciation as a lot of them are a bit too shy or timid to even speak out. Getting their cooperation wasn't really hard though minus a few that were a bit hard headed.

My older sister though was in training today as well and according to my co-trainer she seems to be doing alright except for the fact that she does speak in tagalog progressively but at least manageable. Hope she lasts the training and gets a job soon since she desperately needs it.

I also got my third paycheck from the company I work for today. I was surprised with the amount though I have to admit it can be a bit far off compared to what I would usually earn in a call center. But that is fine since I have a day job and get paid just as much as a regular employee would have minus that bonuses. The most difficult task right now for me is making sure that the number of kids from this class I have should be close to 80% to make up for the lack of passers from the last class (last class was good but the results were frustrating making me feel like a complete failure). All i can do for now is try harder and be smarter. There is a way to break the system for the interview process in CVG and I'll have to do everything I can to make it happen.

Aside from the stress the people at work are very accommodating and fun to be with thus in more ways than one minus the politics which is present in every office makes the experience quite fulfilling. Jamie even got to teach me new stuff and remind me of how things should be done in the office. I may also not mention it a lot but many people in the office do inspire me in more ways than one.

Overall Mondays felt like a regular Monday and it was both hectic and fun. Which reminds me I have a couple of deliverables I have do today for the office and for my websites Empty Streets and Marketing 411.

For now I have to say good night. xoxo

A New Training Week

2008-10-19T08:14:00.000-07:00

I have a new class for A call center again this week and it seems that there is going to be quite a challenge that I have to face as the company that I work for have been required to hit a number. I have yet to find a way to find break the system of the company that my kids have to work so hard to get in. Working in a head hunting firm does have it's challenges and hopefully I get to meet them all. Till the next log xoxo

Metz is my Nick and this is my Secret Garden

2008-10-19T03:37:00.001-07:00

ever wanted a place to run away to? this is mine and now a week before my 28th bday I have created this site to make way for my world to be revealed bit by bit to all of you. Stay tuned :)

Weekend Errands

2008-10-18T03:51:00.000-07:00

It's the weekend again and as always still thinking of ways to keep myself busy. Never really have time to rest as much as one would like to but I guess that is how things should be. Been Working on my other sites Empty Streets and just reformatted ESDL gearing up again for blog and website reviews. It may take a couple of days to getting back into the writing rhythm but at least all is well.

Next week is going to be quite a busy week for me as I'll be handling a new class (am teaching english now for call center agents hopefuls.) My track record for hiring has been great so far except for the last class that I had. It was the most stressful one for me since the company I worked for had assigned me to try and see if I can train non-native English speakers english in 5 days. I crossed my fingers but I guess that didnt work out well. However, am not one to let that pull my spirits down, admittedly though i was rather frustrated.

I am also looking around for prospective ways to earn off the net that is why my focus on my home webpage has been rather feverish and quite taxing. One good thing to report though is that the fruits of my labor is finally paying off. Traffic has increased and there have been several new hits and referrals everyday.

Many people fail to realize though that in order to succeed in this kind of thing requires a lot of work and patience. SEO marketing and all that linking theories to get on the top mark tends to be quite a drag for those new in this type of business. And like everyone that has started doing this sort of thing there isnt a get rich quick scheme anywhere. Hard work, patience and luck is all that most people have, thankfully enough one gets to know a group or a person that knows a thing or two.

Anyways it is almost time to get back to the virtual world as the next set of articles for my sites need to be written today. Till then...
xoxo

Stabbing Pain

2008-08-13T03:43:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday I didn't get to go to work. I felt weak and harrassed. It was that day that I decided to finally call it quits from the company. Am going to go to the office on either Thursday tomorrow or Friday just to submit my resignation letter and just bust away from the place. It was bad enough that they put me down physically from shifting schedules every week. But to bust me down emotionally telling me that I was a failure at my work that the people I taught didnt learn a thing from me was crossing the line for me. I've done so much and yet so little was recognized. Being placed in the corner pocket. I cried not because of misery but because of anger and frustration. Now am looking for a day job, had enough of working for a night shift and working so hard. I have always worked smart and ensured that work was enjoyable for me and the people I work with, but for some reason it just wasnt enough and found that there were people that couldnt take how i smile or how light work is for me that they had to smother me with their incompetence and pin me for something unfairly. Right now I just want to close my eyes and forget. Maybe it is all just a bad dream. Maybe I'll wake up to something better. Right now I know my priorities, it's to find a good place to work. One that respects my talent and ability to innovate without fear and only increasing performance in mind... I pray that everything will be alright.

Mezhal

Nightmares

2008-08-11T02:49:00.000-07:00

I woke up from a bad dream today. It has been three nights in a row now or should I say four since the nightmares started August 8, 2008. Some weird thing to happen after a supposedly lucky day. It feels like time is running out but as to what I cant even tell. It is like something from inside of me is struggling and that these dreams are the representations of those that I may have buried deep in my psyche and chose to simply ignore. Is it because of my trip to bangkok and wishing I wouldn't go? Is it because of the business and the responsibility to make it work? Is it because of the work that I have to do and how unhappy I have been with it for the past months? Burning out is what I feel about a lot things and the pressure is definitely on me for there is a lot of expectations that I have placed on myself and expectations from others as well that i have to fight to meet. Life as it is isn't easy, but it can seem to be easy if everything falls into place. Timing is definitely the ruler for this and I pray that My Guardians from above keep on watching and guarding me throughout all these. I pray hard for this...

Mezhal

Diary Entry: August 7, 2008

2008-08-06T22:31:00.000-07:00

Giving out a quiz today for my class, got to work just in time before the buzzer in my phone rang. Been a rather hectic morning of waking up on the wrong side of bed. My Training is somewhere around the world and all we have for today is a long quiz. Guess the best side to it all is the fact that I have to give the quiz and not the other way around. Then again I have to hold that thought back a bit since I'll be the one checking their work later on.

So far all I have been up to since last night was dropping cards for my other website Empty Streets to help market the site and the posts. Especially the Entrecard contest that we launched. So far not that much has been happening. I read in one of the websites that I paid a visit to using Entrecard that its a 50/50 thing when it comes to online businesses. 50% of the time you'll be writing your posts, while the other would be spent on marketing the website. Reminds me of the novel I wrote of which am still waiting for word from the local publisher Anvil. I asked a friend of mine about that and all he said to me was "welcome to the publishing world"..... Sigh is all i could do for now.

I also had to pay the bills today, meralco bills are such a drag... At least in a way the bill only amounted to Php 1, 315 which by foreign standards is cheap, but with the salary line here in the Phil, that would be quite a load for most families. Aside from that I have a Smartbro bill to take care of and by the end of the month my Globe telecom bill too. I also just gave my mom her monthly allowance, which if you ask me is like paying rent, so by the end of the day or should i say the start of today i really had my sigh moments. Hubby is also sick at home and still insists on going to school today, though I doubt that he could make it and if he did I am not too confident that he'll be absorbing the lessons for today.

I made a new friend though last night through blogging, actually since last week, Mariuca The Genie Princess. I also got to know her because of Entrecard, and I have to tell you she is really nice and the way she writes is an easy read. I loved the Malaysian singer she had introduced through her webby, Dewa is the name, and the song on her website was just so addictive. A sad love song but one that just if you listened to it even if you don't understand the words touches and transcends to your soul.

My sister's website is doing well too. Gawk is the title and this is where she gets to do her ranting and raving and of course her reviews. She's the second half of the Empty Streets contributors. She writes poetry so well too as is evident at some of the works she has published in her other webby Still Waters.

Just to Side track, right now what is on my mind is getting more pesos to cover the bills. Been trying to close the deal with the company that I made the website for: gctravelandtours and hopefully i get paid this Friday, most especially now that they are receiving inquiries and bookings due the website. I also applied for a loan from Citifinancials and once approved I'll be making a series of investments but as to what and where is still a big question. Eventually it'll come.

Another source of concern for me is my Bangkok trip, aside from my hubby worried about it, how about the budget for shopping and accommodations. I know it's going to be a trip of a lifetime, or then maybe not, but i cant back out since my friend Henry got the tickets through Mabuhay miles months ago and made me pinky swear to fly with him and his lover. I really don't know what to expect once i get there. But I am planning to make it both fun and beneficial. What people would commonly coin as "business and pleasure" - though i think it'll be mostly business for moi.

I guess it's time for me to sign off for now till the next post. Cheers,

Mezhal

Recycling and Reclaiming

2008-08-05T11:49:00.000-07:00

I have started the Empty Streets Family and for months now been working diligently and fervently at improving and maximizing how it is and marketing it as a package and a one stop shop magazine. But along the way I lost touch with the reason why I started it in the first place. I started it because I wanted to find a place of sanctuary within the pages, a place where i can be me without any barriers nor pretense. Here I finally reclaim what is originally me without sacrificing that which has already been established. In the Shadows this page might stand but at least with it I know it is a place where I take a stand.

With Sincerity of heart

Mezhal

Tiesto Live In Manila

2008-05-04T16:42:00.000-07:00

I know, its a been a bit delayed but I guess excuses don't count. What's important is that it got here on the page finally. Shots of the DJ sensation Tiesto. Everyone that partied that night would definitely love to thank the one's responsible for bringing him here: Folded and Hung, Motorola, and of course Alchemy.

PS. If you want to check out more of his latest hits and song must haves, check out http://partymusiccentral.blogspot.com/ See yah there. XOXO

Beating the Heat

2008-04-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

With the onset of heat and unbearable humidity, this summer can truly be a living hell. Fortunately for us there are a lot of things that we can do to overcome the sticky heat.

1. Hydrate - Drinking plenty of water is a must to ensure that your body doesn't fall victim to dehydration and a possible heat stroke. Waiting for your body to feel thirsty can put you at risk.

2. Eat foods that can cool you down - Vegetables and fruits contain water of about 90% of their weight. They are sweeter and tastier most especially in these summer months. Perfect reason to enjoy a big fruit bowl or ceasar salad. It also helps keep your calorie count down ;). Juices and fruit punches are a definite must have as well.

3. Water Spritz - Evian has this and it works wonders to help not only instantly moisturizing your skin but it also helps cool you down as well. A little spray on the face and on the neck does wonders at keeping cool.

4. SPF Protection - a lot of people fail to do this just because they feel they don't need it cause they live in the city and are not on a beach. Wrong, for it is in the city that our skin gets the most sun damage. And walking around with a flapping envelope trying to cover half of our face doesn't really cut it. Always make it a habit to put on sunscreen of at least an SPF 15 to ensure that none of the harmful UV rays gets to your skin. Aside from getting uneven skin tone, think of skin cancer to get you convinced.

5. Sun glasses - Not only do they give you a cool look it also ensures that your eyes stay cool as well. Though do try to avoid buying the cheap sunglasses that does nothing but make a fashion statement instead invest a little money and purchase something that is sure to give you that much needed protection while giving you an image uplift. Protecting your sight is definitely worth its weight in money.

Hope these five tips become a habit as the heat starts to sizzle. Take it from me, I grew up in the sands of Saudi Arabia. ;)

Club Government Parties - A Must Attend Soiree

2008-04-10T00:29:00.000-07:00

Of course with a new spirit comes a new purpose and here club government aims to please. Here are the must be seen events of the month.

HENRY LIM AND JOSH DIERON BIRTHDAY BASH - A Grand Mega celebration that you musn't miss as we celebrate with our Esteeemed Royalties of the Government. Wear your designer clothes with pride as we decide who's in and who's out.

Mariah Album launches in the Government - All Mariah fans must definitely see and be amazed as Club Government Launches her latest album E=MO2

Come party with us as on a regular basis cause we guarantee a major event every week. :) The party life never ends here at Club Government.

Thursdays:

MASH UP THURSDAY LAUNCH PARTY Thursday May 1

DJ MARK NICOSIA!!

GIRLS GET IN FREE (Mash Up Thursday will be held every first Thursday of every month, EVERY OTHER MONTH) Next one after May 1 will be July 3

Fridays:

JUICY FRUIT FRIDAY

BRAND NEW FRIDAY!! 42 & BELOW presents JUICY FRUIT

It's going to be juicy and it's going to be Fruity!! The HAPPIEST music in the METRO by our top dj's Steven Love, Brit, and Don Catch the GOVERNMENT DIVAS perform every Friday!!

Saturdays:

SKIN!

A brand new WORLD CLASS CLUB GOVERNMENT has a brand new Saturday!! SKIN presented by BACARDI and FOLDED & HUNG Come and see why Saturday is the sexiest night of the week! See the newest gogo boys and gogo girls @World class Club Governement!

Featuring DJ TONY PAVIA, DJ BAM DEL VALLE, and surprise GUEST DJS!!

With all these goodies lined up, I seriously doubt that you'd want to miss out on all the fun and happening events. I cant wait to see you guys there, XOXO.

Club Govrernment - Party Ultimate

2008-04-09T02:56:00.000-07:00

As was expected, the new and reinvented Club Government had truly taken partying to the next level. Henry Lim and his team of exceptional extraordinaires have truly outdone themselves and provided a mind blowing extravaganza for us all. Words couldn't be enough to express the feeling and emotions that have permeated across the floor of this party wonderland. Music by Micheal Hsu definitely brought down the house and good vibes was all that spread across the dance floor. If you missed out on this mega event, dont be sad for there are definitely a lot more to come. Just make sure your on the next fun ride. ;)

DJ Michael Hsu (Taiwan) - Mix master that blew all our minds away :-)
Henry Lim (right) and friend - You'll never find a club where the people are as warm and welcoming as Club Government.

Lights, Lights, and More Lights - Its a total sensational experience. :)

Till the next party session boys and girls. :)

Club Government - Reinvention

2008-03-29T01:10:00.000-07:00

1 Week Left till the revolutionized and reinvented CLUB GOVERNMENT Reopens It's Doors.
Friday, April 4, 2008 "Soft Opening" Attire: Seductive White and Silver. DJ Brit, Steven and Don will rock the house with their Fabuloush Party Mixes
Saturday, April 5, 2008 "Grand Reopening Party Mega Event" Attire Opulent Black and Gold. DJ Bam Del Valle and Asia's Top DJ Micheal Hsu(Taiwan) will get the party grooving till day break and maybe even more ;)

Here's a some clips to remember the old Government by made by various fans of Club Government:

Laser Dancer

Material Girl Coolai @ Government

kyliethon

from martiniaddict

So much memories, so many things have changed... Anticipation is ever growing and all we can do is sit patiently until the time to step into the promise land - "Government reinvented"

For more fun memories please visit Club Government's Official Website - www.kokunevents.com

See yah all there ;)

This Summer's Destination - Boracay

2008-03-27T23:51:00.000-07:00

There is nothing that can compare to the fun and party life offered by one of the best beaches in the world. Can't wait to head there by mid summer. And what better way to entice you all to join me than with this:

Nothing beats the real thing and I do hope you find the time to come visit. ;)

A different point of view

2008-03-26T02:05:00.000-07:00

Ayala park side walk during Holy Week. There is and sense of serenity and peace early in the morning. It is hard to believe that after the holidays are done this place is busy with tons of office workers and vendors.
Starbucks 6750. A popular hot spot for coffee lovers trying to get a breather from the busy metropolitan.
Serendra escalator heading down to the main shops. This shot just places things into an interesting angle. There is a kind of realization that happens when things are placed into perfect synchronicity. Otherwise am just talking jibberish :)
Chelsea in serendra, lovely for the food and perfect for a get together. The foutain in the background gives it a bit of the modern twist to this supposedly elite metropolitan hotspot.
Sometimes it makes me wonder how dogs see their meals. The color makes things a lot more palatable. Guess this is something I have to be grateful for. The Gift to see the world in full colour.

Makati avenue in a rainy Holy week. Peaceful, Serene, and absolutely mind blowing. Who would have ever thought that this could ever become a place of reflection.
Cloud formation across my former office. It reminds me of a bad nuclear or volcanic blast. How our minds associate objects with events is quite a wonder.
A bustling office space. Nothing serene here in this place. Stress is abundant and there is a lot to keep track of in this hectic world. Reminds me of a doll factory.
View from the top. The dolphin park of Glorietta. Showing it in a way that is in what i'd call as surreal brings things into a different light. Blows my mind away how things can change when we change a simple aspect of how it is viewed.
The Rock. Bonifacio High Street's main attraction. Sometimes I cant help but feel that things such as this has an emotion of its own and here its crying. Maybe I'll catch it in a good mood someday.

Amazing things can happen in our daily travels and sometimes all it takes it to look at things in a different angle and a different light to bring out it's beauty. What blows my mind away too is how convenient it is to have my motorola l72i is with it's pictures. The best things in life is definitely within arms reach and what's best about it is how easy it is to spot. All it takes is for one to stop and take a deep breath and look around.

Club Government - A Unique Party Extravaganza

2008-03-25T22:16:00.000-07:00

Chilling before the gates of Club Government Open. All excited and anticipating the fun and action inside this place of euphoria.
All five of us gathered together and ready to party. Drinks are on the house, and these are the days where we believe that the best things in life are truly free.
Smoke break outside close to wasted. With all the fun and action happening inside, its always a good idea to take a breather. This is sorta like our lunch break. :-D
In the sense of true partying, me and my friends on the ledge and loving every moment of it. Strom lights and all. Music is so hypnotic and entrancement is all one could feel on the inside.
All partied out and as Mother would say, this is the place to get Wasted. And like good little kids we did! :)

If you want more details about getting here and finding out what is instore for this party wonderland simply point your browsers to - Club Government

Partying will never be the same again :)

tagaytay road trip

2008-03-24T15:18:00.000-07:00

View from the top - This is what you can expect to see from our weekend getaway Tagaytay. The site itself is quite breath taking.

From Manila there are several fun stop overs such as this Caltex gas station that provides tourists the much needed pee break. :) (looking for a tree is so not my thing :))
Once in tagaytay you would be pleased to know that there are several sights and sounds to see such as the cafe lupe that over looks the Taal lake and its notorious volcano (Dormant and sleeping)
Of course no trip would be fund unless you travel with people that you know you will have fun with. And just in case you will be a big bunch, having a van is definitely a handy a thing to have (thanks to Doris for the van - you are definitely a hot mama)
Adventures and activities are just as endless, here you find my friends having fun at the tattoo parlor we found beside Cafe Lupe. (I also got a new tattoo, but wont be showing it off till it's healed :))
Finally to top things off, beer, beer and more beer. Its definitely a summer get away for the metropolitan people. We were literally freezing our butts of by the time the sun disappeared. The temperature made the san miguel light seem like flavored water - we didnt even feel the bunt after 6 0r 7 buckets. :)

Makati Market Experience

2008-01-29T15:49:00.000-08:00

Velasquez Park Organic Market

I always love to spend my weekends lazily lounging in coffee shops and writing stuff that catches my fancy. There are days though that I would change my routine and head off to a place that would be filled with sights and sounds that are guaranteed to delight you. One of my favorite city get aways is actually within the city itself. Velasquez park in Makati, right beside the Makati sports club. It's popularity isn't just because the park is quite serene, but it offers a weekly event that has now become a ritual for more than just the residents of the area.

Every Saturday, an organic market is set up early in the morning till 2 in the afternoon. Most people would think why would something so simple be so popular? Simple really, it's different to see a market like place in the busy business district, aside from the fact that they give the term market a classy feel. Once you step into the arena you will be overwhelmed with the number of people and things to see. The food offered by the various vendors range from traditional filipio cooking to european quisine (my personal favorite are the sushi packages and mango puree), so one thing you should ensure is to have an appetite when you drop by the place. But food isnt the only thing you can see here, decorative plants, accessories, food utensils and other goodies are abound in every corner of the market place. One thing most people would think is that since the place is in the business district and in Makati to further intimidate things that the price would be jacked up. To tell you frankly, the main reason for it's popularity isnt just because its a fun place to be at, to everyone's surprise the prices themselves was just as pleasurable. Everything is so reasonably cheap if not affordable. There is even a place where the family and friends can sit in and dine unless of course you prefer to lay a blanket on the grass and have a real picnic which can also be quite amusing and fun.

Overall this is a place to spend intimate and fun times with family and friends. It allows provides people in the city a temporary getaway from the hussle and bussle of city life. Stress doesn't exist within the confines of this grassy wonderland. So when you have finally decided you need a quick break, come and pay a visit. It'll help ease the tension out for sure and fill you up quite nicely.

A FUNctional Shopping Experience

2008-01-14T14:25:00.000-08:00

During the seasonal christmas shopping rush I had bumped into a cool novelty shop in my search for gifts to give that are both meaningful and easy to personalize. The shop I found in the Glorieta activity center is called "FUNctional" and it caters to stationary items from cute notebooks to pens. I particularly loved the items (ballpens to notebooks) as they are the only shop in the mall that sells them thus their uniqueness value and they allow you to purchase items as a combo gift pack based on what you want to give. The prices are quite remarkably cheap too. It was the perfect shop especially when your looking to give a ton of people something worth giving and useful. Because of these factors I highly recommend this to be on everyone's permanent shops to visit for gifts. Happy shopping