HOLIDAY

I love holidays. Who doesn't? Well, most people I know (especially students) welcome holidays with open arms. Me too.

Sometimes I think I work too hard, even on weekends, that before I realize it's a Sunday, the day is already over. Now today is Monday but surprisingly, it feels like a Saturday. And I love it. I could just sit and watch TV- or even just sleep. Oh yeah, and catch up on my blog. Although yesterday I've already done my quota of food-tripping and movie marathon so I think I'd catch up on my novels today. Just so when the office resumes, I would have something to submit. Cool plan.

So yeah, I better start enjoying the extended weekend treat.

A New Genre

I made my first adult screenplay last August. It took a long time before I actually agreed to write the concept. I was never really big on the idea of adult movies but there are times when we heed a certain call. I needed the cash, and the opportunity to earn was just there- all I had to do was write- and I did- but very carefully.  

At first I had sleepless nights. I kept thinking about the impact- like- what would others think about me as a writer- that I gave in to what was going on the market. But then, I checked all the other established writers of today and learned that they too- had- at one point in their lives, passed by that stage of having to write adult movies if only to fill empty pockets. It's called 'survival.' Not that I'm trying to justify what I did. Well, I'm just saying that sometimes, we need to bend a little, stretch a little, just to make it through the rain. An artist needs to live too. 

NOTE: I just finished writing another adult film. Parental guidance is recommended. 

CONFESSION

I have a confession to make. I am a terrible blogger. I mean, I can go on days, weeks, months (sometimes even years) without blogging. I tend to forget that I have a blog. To think that I go online on a daily basis. I envy those who spend time pouring their thoughts and sharing their experiences (with photos) on their blogs and sometimes I ask myself - why can't I be like them? Why can't I blog regularly? Well, I'm trying. I keep trying, believe me. 

Maybe if there was internet and blogging when I was a teenager, I could have done a lot more. I was an avid letter-sender when I was young- I spent more money on stamps than on food. And another confession: When I was younger (so much younger - yes- when I was still in school), I spent most of my allowance on books and movies than food, clothes and shoes. But no regrets. It helped me A LOT. 

Now, if I could only remember to blog on a regular basis..... Oh yeah, I already included 'blogging' as a MUST on my planner.  

TRUST GOD

Trust GOD. I know I do- with all my heart. I've been through a lot of things lately but I am keeping my faith that everything happens for a reason. That someday I will find my answer and understand His wisdom. Because right now, I simply trust His will. 

And everything that I do, I offer it to Him. 

To God be the glory!

DVD Marathon

I finally had the chance to have a DVD marathon after days of (seemingly) non-stop writing. Not that I'm complaining (writing can drain the blood out of me), of course not. It is fulfilling. I'm just saying, of course everyone deserves a break sometimes- even just for several hours. And when I'm not writing- I'm either reading books or watching films (no, I'm not a geek- this is normal for me).

Started with The Priest since I missed the theatrical screening (busy, remember?). The beginning of the movie reminded me of Sleepy Hollow- I don't know why.  But it was entertaining in a weird way- I guess because Paul Bettany displayed some hardcore shit. Hanna was next. It was like a kill fest, I ended up baking some leche flan just to keep the balance (weird, I know right). The Contract was surprisingly good- I couldn't believe I missed that movie in 2006. I love John Cusack as always (he should do more movies, Hollywood).

I'll be watching Your Highness in a little while. Don't disappoint me, James Franco.

Latest Novel

I crapped this photo from a group shot released by Bookware Publication. It's my latest romance novel. Oh yes. How very timely. I cannot decide though if the girl looks like a mash-up version of Marian Rivera & Kim Chiu or Jessa Zaragosa.

Remember, don't judge the book by its cover. Seriously!

Remembering The 1995 World Youth Day

How time flies. About this time, sixteen years ago, the largest Papal gathering in Roman Catholic history (current world record holder) happened in Manila. More than 300 thousand Catholic youth from around the globe travelled to the Philippines just to attend the 1995 World Youth Day. The Rizal Park or Luneta saw about 4 million people during the last mass headed by Pope John Paul II. 

And I was there. 

I saw how millions prayed and showed their faith to God. It was the most amazing experience. 

And I will never forget this song "Tell The World of His Love" because it brings back a lot of wonderful memories and good feelings. 

Another song that played a role in the 1995 World Youth Day is "Shine Jesus Shine."

This year, the World Youth Day will be held in Spain (August 2011).

VIVA SR STO NINO!

Today, we are celebrating the 799th year of our Sto Nino Festival in Kalibo, Aklan. Our Ati-atihan Festival, though not being highlighted that much compared to other events- is actually the 'Mother of All Festivals.'

Yes- we started it all.

I remember my grandmother telling me before that even during the Japanese occupation- our town continued to celebrate the traditional Sto Nino Festival. Yes, not even the World War II was able to stop the Aklanons in giving honor to the Child Jesus. 

A few years ago, a friend of mine made this comment while we were strolling the town plaza amidst the drums and street-dancing.

"This is why we Aklanons are such good dancers. Even the kanto boys can dance!"

Which was true. Find anyone who grew up in Aklan, especially in Kalibo- beat the drums and you could see him/her swaying... or at least moving to the beat. Add a lyre and you'll see some dance steps.

It comes out naturally- you know- our dance skills. Most of us grew up surrounded by drums and lyre. It is part of our tradition and our culture. We dance to honor our Sto Nino. We could dance everyday for two weeks and it's not even enough. 

Viva Sr Sto Nino! Viva! Hala Bira! Hala Bira! Viva!

I practically grew up chanting 'Viva Kay Sr Sto Nino Viva! Hala bira' while street-dancing. It was already a way of life- we do it every third week of January (third Sunday). 

I feel bad that I cannot join my family and friends in celebrating our festival this year. It breaks my heart that I am here in Manila and they are in Kalibo- keeping up with our traditional Ati-atihan Festival. 

I may not be there to see the 799th festival. But I promise to be at the 800th Sto Nino Festival in Kalibo.

And that's a vow.