Oh yeah, it’s 4th of July!
Posted by roanne in 4th of July, Events on July 4th, 2009
*Listen to the Star-Spangled Banner by Whitney Houston & The Florida Orchestra*
I may not be currently living in the US, but most of my folks reside there. I only wish that the star-spangled banner will continue to shine through amidst today’s adversity.
Happy 4th of July America! 
Betsey Johnson will never say die to Fashion Designing!
Posted by roanne in Betsey Johnson, fashion on July 2nd, 2009
*Betsey Johnson clad in her 2007 Red Dress Collection*
The 66-year-old fashion designer is well-known for her vivacious, over-the-top whimsical dresses, and doing cartwheels on the runway at the end of her every show. 
Seeing more of Betsey Johnson’s eccentric yet creative designs makes me think of my childhood once more and Alice in Wonderland. I just love her spirit, and hopefully I get to grab a piece of her creation soon. xx
Gourmet Sandwich (Lemming) Diet
Posted by roanne in Food, Sandwich, Seattle's Best, Subway on July 1st, 2009
Okay, so it’s not because I look or feel fat anymore. I must admit I’m no longer a size 0 (I’m a size 2-3 in US or size 6-8 in UK, but heck XS in Mango still fits me damn well!), but I have another confession to make: my stomach totally rejects almost everything I eat or drink. But, it doesn’t mean I’m going bulimic. It’s another way for saying that my stomach wreaks havoc inside my body by storing unwanted pain and gasses that cannot escape! So seatmates, need not to worry ‘coz I’m not farting or burping every hellish second of the work day.
So, I still am befuddled on what’s wrong with it, even if I already did some tests and consulted with a doctor (I got UTI. Gastritis is a side effect). It’s getting annoyingly fastidious. And so, I started on a diet plan whilst taking pills my doctor prescribed me to combat those icky gastritic effects.
Dinnertime with Steak and Cheese c/o Subway
Yesterday, I had a quick stop to Podium to grab myself a gourmet bread dinner from Subway. I got myself Steak and Cheese in Parmesan Oregano bread. So, it obviously has steak meat and cheddar cheese with lettuce, black olives, onions, cucumber, pickles, tomatoes, chilis, and a whole lot more–all swimming in honey mustard sauce. Everything went well with my gastronomical and gastritic appetite. I’m thinking of getting another piece pretty soon. Roast beef or Chicken or Tuna or Veggies? Hmmm… I want ‘em all! 
Damage: Php 160/about $ 3.33/about € 2.36
Seattle’s Best Quattro Formaggi Panini with Soy Magic
Okay, so I just had a yummy, yummy Quattro Formaggi Panini I got from Seattle’s Best earlier. I paired it up with Soy Magic Chocolate Soy Milk drink (coz I miss it so much. I could’ve gotten strawberry if only they had one). Quattro Formaggi is made of rich yummy cheeses: parmesan, cheddar and Mediterranean jack freshly baked in Ciabatta bread. It’s really, really yummy. The blend of cheese is just perfect! Sad to say, my stomach was raving mad after I consumed about three-quarters of it. 
Damage: Php 175/ about $ 3.65 /about € 2.58
I’m not sure if it’s because of the soy milk or the cheeses. My doctor told me not to take something sour, spicy or salty, lest it would either cause hyperacidity (thus, hello gasses) should I take something sour or spicy, or worsen my UTI should I take something too salty. Heck, I had no choice. I don’t actually have a real, fool-proof diet plan in mind, yet I switched into something grilled or baked (less grease, more healthy). I can’t just eat fruits, nor drink sodas and juices (goodbye, Dr. Pepper for now!). That’s why, I opt for soy milk in lieu of the run-of-the-mill cow’s milk, since the latter is infused with more lactic acid which could also aggravate my stomach’s condition.
So there, it’s safe to assume for now that I’m lactose intolerant. So, goodbye milk and cheeses. I’m thinking of getting smoked salmon tomorrow. Something fresh and with less sodium (salt-free if possible).
But then again, it could be the chip’s culprit! A pack of Lay’s Potato Chips is included in my meal. Bleh, oh well.
Gadgety Weekend: Skull Candy + Transformers
Posted by roanne in Movie Reviews, Skull Candy, Techie Stuff, Transformers on June 30th, 2009
Skull Candy TI Headphones
*My “skull” in classic black* 
Last Saturday, my feverish lust for getting a pair of smashing Skull Candy DJ headphones was finally fulfilled–and more than satiated! I was actually thinking of getting myself a GI in Winter or Desert Camo, or a very girly TI in pink fur. But, I gave in and settled for a Skull Candy TI in classic black.
Well, it ain’t bad coz I got my TI for a price of a GI (TI’s are normally a bit more expensive than GI’s). But, I won’t ever mind shelling out additional 10 bucks for a price of a TI if I’d be snagging this one Tokidoki–talking about coolness! 
*Skull Candy TI in Tokidoki for $89.99*
Oh well, it seems like I’m gonna look forward into getting it as soon as stocks are available in the Philippines.
T-T-Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
*Optimus Prime and Jetfire combined!*
I know, I know. The picture itself is worth a spoiler! My amazement goes to this scene from the much awaited Transformers 2. Shortly after getting my headphones with friend M, former office mates F, H, B, C and myself headed to Eastwood Cinemas to watch the robot-infused flick. Okay, so it was just weird seeing Megan Fox looking clean and hot throughout the movie (no unkempt hair look, not a single mote or stain in the face), whilst Shia and his ‘rents were all dirty and sodden.
But hey, the highlight of the story are, uhm, the autobots and the decepticons–particularly Optimus Prime and the Fallen.
**Missing plot spotted though. Whatever happened to the twin robots (Mudflap and Skids) undauntedly fighting against Devastator???
Michael Jackson Dead at 50
Posted by roanne in Celebrities, Events, Michael Jackson on June 26th, 2009
The world’s most renowned singer, the unprecedented King of Pop, was found dead early this morning.
The cause of Michael Jackson’s death is not yet clear, but it was suspected to be cardiac arrest as he collapsed from his rented home in Los Angeles, California. The news is quite shocking and disturbing, so as the startling reaction of million of his fans worldwide.
I will forever cherish his hits such as Thriller, Billie Jean, Beat it, Rock with you, PYT, Black or White, and many more. Truly, he made quite a mark in music history by his revolutionary style and rhythm that changed music forever.
It sucks that MJ has to pass away long before his planned London concert in commemoration with Thriller’s 25th Anniversary (his album Thriller has been dubbed as the best-selling album of all time). His consummate performances, unparalleled legacy and moonwalks will forever live in our hearts and minds. Adieu, Michael!
Celebrate the life of Michael Jackson
Feel like reminiscing Michael Jackson? Well, here’s a music vid of his most successful hit ever, Thriller.
Not viewable to Philippine users.
You can also check his MySpace Artist Page and Official Web Site.
Indulge in Art with Works from Hiyasmin De Guzman
Lately, it’s hard to know people who are both talented in traditional and digital art. Surely, I have a couple of friends I know who can wield a pen and bring a blank, livid canvass to life. One of them is Hiyasmin De Guzman.
Hiyas is a graduate of University of the Philippines in Diliman with a Degree in Fine Arts. She currently works as a graphic artist, drawing lovely female illustrations in their sexiest lingerie garb. I know, you may utterly hanker and request for one. But, let me show you first some of her artworks both traditional, digital and a mix of both.
Portraits of Lennon and Tolkien
An ode to my favorite Beatle, John Lennon. This was based on one of his famous photos. I used silver poster color on the back of an illustration board for this. I had a bit of fun working on this because I was painting the broader bits and smudging some parts with my fingers.-Hiyas
My homage to J.R.R. Tolkien. I made this as a Christmas gift for a friend, who was a fellow fan of the author. My reference was his photo on my copy of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. I actually drew an earlier portrait based on the same photo, but that was in charcoal and was given to another friend in high school.-Hiyas
Beary Project
*One of her Bear artworks for an MMS project*
Neil Gaiman’s Sandman-Inspired
This one is heavily influenced by Art Nouveau. I’m a big fan of Alphonse Mucha and was going through one of my Mucha phases when I drew this. The autumn-inspired wreath thing on the background was to add warmth on what started as a mostly monochromatic watercolor piece. That, and I felt like autumn suited Neil Gaiman’s Death better than winter.-Hiyas
See more of her Artworks
Explore more of Hiyas’ Artworks by visiting her online portfolio, http://hiyas.underthepillow.net/. You can also contact her at hiyasdg@gmail.com for inquiries and services.
Final Fantasy is my Newfound Addiction.
Posted by roanne in Final Fantasy, Games, PSP Slim on June 23rd, 2009
You can say I’m too old and too late to finally welcome Final Fantasy into my gaming life. Well, it all started out when I finished playing Final Fantasy Crisis Core in PSP. Actually, I’m playing it all over again. The game has indubitably kickass storyboard, and Fine HD graphics particularly some videos (see first and last vids, but you need to finish the game in order to see the latter one ), so there’s no question to it that it’s worth all the heed. Oh yes, I’m yet in love again to adamantly follow this whole FF saga.
Why yet in love? It’s because I first stumbled upon Final Fantasy when the computer technician who fixed my PC then (now totally dead) included two Final Fantasy VIII videos. They seemed like music videos with its theme Eyes On Me by Nobuo Uematsu. There it mainly featured two protagonists of the series, Squall Leonhart and Rinoa Heartilly. The mesmerizing video somewhat arrested me. I researched stuff about it online, and downloaded pics and wallpapers to boot!
Yet, I didn’t play it on PS, nor PS2. I just thought it was too time-consuming, and I was all eyes then on Diablo II Expansion, Sim City 4 and Generals–which are mostly PC games.
Good thing, Sony launched PlayStation Portable, so I got ahold one. There came FF in my PSP. At first, I tried playing Final Fantasy Tactics, but I got sick of it and so I ditched the game instead. Then just recently, I tried out Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core, and the rest is history!
Now, I got acquainted with Cloud Strife, Tifa Lockhart, Angeal Hewley, Sephiroth, Genesis Rhapsodos,
Aerith Gainsborough and of course, Zack Fair. I found the story morbid (esp. at the end), yet totally engrossing!
I also did watch Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children on Animax.
I bet my arse FF 8-14 is as exciting as this one!
What’s New? Final Fantasy Dissidia on PSP
*Dissidia Covers Released by Gamestop*
Final Fantasy Dissidia is another FF franchise by Square-Enix, makers of all-time Final Fantasy series, and will be available on PSP. The story goes like this:
An endless battle continues between Cosmos, goddess of harmony, and Chaos, the god of discord. Both are symbols, and form an equilibrium.
The world was consumed by Chaos when the destroyers broke the balance. The only hope lies within the 10 warriors summoned by Cosmos.
The game features heroes and villains from the past Final Fantasy installments (I-XI). The release date is set on August 25, 2009, but you can pre-order the game through Game Stop, Amazon and Best Buy.
Feel the jitters? You can visit official website here for a sneak peek.
Belgian Food Pt 3: Steaks and Frites @ Brussels Grill in Brussels, Belgium
Posted by roanne in Belgium, Brussels, Brussels Grill, Food on June 22nd, 2009
Here’s my third installment on my Food Adventures in Belgium. Check out Part I and Part II!
Recounting my tour in Brussels, I am reminded with three things: buildings, shopping and food! After the long hours of walking and exploring the center of Brussels (will blog my adventures courtesy of the “red” bus soon! xx), we finally settled down in Brussels Grill for our very early dinner.
Steaks, Fries & Sauces Galore!
*Brussels Grill sign beckons us to dine in!*
*Appelsiensap (Banana Yogurt Drink) I ordered*
*My Mixed Steak (Beef, Pork, Veal & Lamb Skewers) with Green Pepper and Bernaise Sauces and salad as side dish. Guess which is the Green Pepper and the Bernaise one? *
*Mixed Steak without flash*
*Colleague M’s Rib-eye Steak with Green Pepper Sauce and coke with hint of lemon and salad as side dish”
*Me getting excited finally devouring my steak *
Verdict?
Overall, I wasn’t really amused on my steak, in spite of how savory it seems to look like. The beef and pork part, though medium-rare, were thick and rubbery. Good thing the veal and lamb were soft and easier to consume as usual. Originally, the steak comes only with one sauce, but I requested for an additional one (charged though). The green pepper sauce was a great choice, ‘coz I just love it! 
It really, really tastes good. On the other hand, I found the bernaise sauce a bit too sour for my taste.
I haven’t asked M in depth about his steak, but it seems he enjoyed it well. The bottled banana yogurt was sweet and refreshing. Moreover, I just recently discovered that coke tastes quite good with a hint of lemon in it!
Feel like trying out Brussels Grill? Visit them at the following addresses: Read the rest of this entry »
Happy Father’s Day on Sunday.
Posted by roanne in Personal Moods on June 20th, 2009
I haven’t spent much time with a dad when I was young. So, I’m pretty much biased with the maternal side of the family. I grew up living with my grandmother, my mom and my aunt beside me. But hey, it doesn’t mean I don’t have any ideas on how to make Father’s day special!
Albeit I won’t be celebrating that day, unlike the rest of you who have a dad by your side, I actually was able to spend a little time with my biological dad during his birthday. So yeah, it’s my father’s day. I gave him a perfume as a gift; I thought he’d like it anyway. My dad’s not really much of a charmer. He’s more like a busy bee, notwithstanding all the heat and pressure from everyday work. In other words, he doesn’t dress up, nor care about his appearance. To be honest, I’ve been curious if he’s actually using it [the perfume]. But heck, that’s one great perfume that anyone won’t resist.
My sheer optimism is just funny, I know right. But, for those of you who are still befuddled on what to give to your dad this Sunday, here are some ideas:
Give your dad something he loves
There are three vanity pieces that are omnipresent in every man’s wardrobe: comb, texturizing wax/gel and perfume. Men go ga-ga with how their hair looks, amongst everything else. So, try giving your dad one of these.
If you got a corporate dad who always dons his killer power suit, then give him a tie. I don’t know, but coat-and-tie-donning men are fond of collecting neckties. Every design and every color counts. Make sure it’s something unique, meaning it doesn’t exist yet in his wardrobe.
If you’re dad is into sports, then this is easy-peasy. Give him something he uses at play. If you have the budget, why not give him a golf club so that it’s gonna remind him of you once he scores a par. Or, give him a pair of golf gloves, if you can hardly shell out big time for a club. It doesn’t matter whether it’s grandiose or el-cheapo. Clichè as it goes, but it’s the thought that always counts!
Give something he doesn’t really love, but would appreciate
Now, this is something that I’m guilty of. I know my dad is pretty much tied into his blue collar business, so he couldn’t care less about work and care nothing about his looks. It seems a bit awkward should I give him a gift certificate for a pamper session to a spa or a set of toiletries for men (beauty and skin care). So, I resolved into giving him a perfume. I believe that’s something he can appreciate without over-assuming if he reeks (since I didn’t give him a deo then. lol).
Give him anything ‘personal’
Quite simple. Just give him a warm hug and greet him a “Happy Father’s Day”! Or, for a sweeter note, you can write him a poem, draw him a portrait, or give him a card with a letter filled with thanks and I love you’s. xx
New Strain : On AH1N1 aka Swine Influenza Virus
Posted by roanne in Personal Moods, Philippines, Swine Flu on June 18th, 2009
News Update: World Health Organization denies the existence of this new strain.
I started to be a bit more concerned about this new type of influenza strain, not because I’m sick today, but because I just saw it over the news earlier that AH1N1 has mutated into a newer virus strain. I know, public officials, particularly the Department of Health in the Philippines, blatantly discourages feigned Swine Flu scares in the public via text messages, instant messages and e-mails amassed.
For somehow, this one isn’t just one of the forwarded rubbish schmooze or “chismis” about AH1N1 spreading across the metro, specifically speaking about the mall you usually go to which is just a few blocks away from your office. But of course, there’s no surprise if that’s true, ‘coz it certainly is possible and plausible. After all, cases of AH1N1 here in the Philippines have risen dramatically from 1-2 a day to 30-50 a day. Not to mention, the World Health Organization just declared AH1N1 going pandemic, affecting 76 countries across the globe (about 36,000 cases and over 150 deaths tallied).
Going back to this unfamiliar AH1N1 strain, this was recently discovered in Sao Paolo, Brazil. It’s been named as A-Sao Paulo-1454-H1N1 by the Adolfo Lutz Bacteriological Institute after examining samples from a patient in Sao Paulo, which compared it with the H1N1 strain samples from California.
The aggressiveness and severity of this virus subtype has yet to be found, but certain speculations include having the virus mutated into a more ferocious strain that could be as deadly as the 1918 Spanish flu, which killed tens and thousands of people worldwide.
Read the rest of this entry »
