tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34532149626117362032024-03-13T09:35:49.336-07:00nastysweetlet's walk together, or we can fly, soar to the depths of each others' hearts and minds, journeying towards that endless horizon of beauty, hope, despair and love...Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-70246545252518139132020-12-24T03:50:00.001-08:002020-12-24T07:07:45.037-08:00My Songs for the Year 2020<p>This year made listening to songs extra meaningful. Well, how could it not? when most of us are quarantined to eternity for the most part of the year..with the usual normal activities put on hold. Nothing keeps us company more than the songs and music we listened to, danced to, sung along to. And how this year still proved that musicians hearts and spirits will continue to thrive, pandemic or not. </p><p>And here are the songs on my playlist this year, the balm to a toxic year, providing inspiration to melancholy or simply reflecting our emotions as needed. </p><p>Thank you once again to the artists, the singers, performers, for your music, your passion, your creativity shared to millions of us. Some of these will go on to become classic hits that we will always listen to years from now, to make us smile once again or sigh or swoon long after the covid era has come and gone: </p><p>Dance Monkey - Tones & I<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q0hyYWKXF0Q?controls=0" width="560"></iframe>;</p><p>Like That - Doja Cat</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XEJLuJyxLDE?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>STUCK WITH U - Justin Bieber & Ariana Grande</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pE49WK-oNjU?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>NO TIME TO DIE - Billie Eilish</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BboMpayJomw?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>SAY SO - Doja Cat</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pok8H_KF1FA?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>death bed (coffee for your head) - Powfu, 7) Beabadoobee</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jJPMnTXl63E?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Break My Heart - Dua Lipa</p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Nj2U6rhnucI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p><br /></p><p>Flower - Yoon Mi-Rae</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EeRDblN7EDc?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Dynamite - BTS</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gdZLi9oWNZg?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p> I Give You My Heart - IU</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZKCFDExYUcs?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Better Weather - Leila Alcasid</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FvRTEuKDiMk?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Run - Joji</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K09_5IsgGe8?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Disco Man - Remi Wolf</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V1dtRs_vN6Y?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p> Supalonely - BENEE, Gus Dapperton</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rb6Scz-5YOs?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p> Be Kind - Halsey</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ePao0cTGG-o?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Summer Feelings - Lennon Stella (Feat. Charlie Puth)</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ciYqExAGO24?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>How You Like That - BLACKPINK</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ioNng23DkIM?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Roses- SAInt JHN</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2zToEPpFEN8?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Higa - Arthur Nery</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L2Rcjpc6vZ8?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>my future - Billie Eilish</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dm9Zf1WYQ_A?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Imahe - Magnus Haven</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-B_mRIowYxk?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Illicit Affairs - Taylor Swift</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MLV2SJKWk4M?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>KLWKN-Music Hero</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0gB02Dtqo8I?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Wake Up - Elaine</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6felvmHGdTg?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>In Silence - Janet Suhh</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Abwf_24f28I?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Blueberry Eyes - Max (ft, Suga of BTS)</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TzFRVk2ektI?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Ice Cream - BlackPink</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vRXZj0DzXIA?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Birthday - Disclosure, Kehlani, Syd</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pFtk274nHX4?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Positions - Ariana Grande</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tcYodQoapMg?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Kapalaran - Bea Lorenzo</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5rtH1J9mTU4?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>At My Worst - Pink $weat</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8CEJoCr_9UI?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><p>Ulap - Rob Deniel</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DNBMEkFU8Ew?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><div><br /></div><div>Life Goes On - BTS</div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-5q5mZbe3V8?controls=0" width="560"></iframe><div><br /></div>Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-56605499117134071922020-12-09T22:46:00.007-08:002020-12-24T03:11:13.225-08:00My Watchlist 2020 - Thank you for Keeping us sane<p>ah, 2020, one of the worst years the earth has seen for quite a while, at least for our generation, and this lifetime. </p><p>Despite its many challenges, notably the series of lockdown and seeming unlimited quarantine in effect in the Philippines, there were some bright spots and bits of inspiration thrown our way. Some of these include the movies, shows that have kept us company throughout our quarantined days. When most of us are left with no choice but to stay at home, to Netflix and chill as they say, or simply lounge in front of the TV (at least outside of TikTok activities & my usual socmed hours) - we have these entertainment, something to look forward to daily or weekly or every other day - to ward off boredom and also help us focus on important stuff by providing us with worthy diversion. That after coming off our binge-watch or after viewing these films, these shows, sporting events, our spirits are renewed and we benefit from a fresh perspective while at same time taking our minds away from the negative events.</p><p>Personally, here are those that were part of my watchlist this year. I am thankful for their production, for the entertainment, the inspiration and pure creativity, & passion and dedication of athletes that made this pandemic & catastrophic year somewhat tolerable:</p><p>1) CRASH LANDING ON YOU </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d-PUw-nRPeg/X-Ro9CjkcdI/AAAAAAAAWm4/fYK1HrH6S3QWKPgEuUw6rpicTzeGp2nrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/Petation-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="960" height="133" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d-PUw-nRPeg/X-Ro9CjkcdI/AAAAAAAAWm4/fYK1HrH6S3QWKPgEuUw6rpicTzeGp2nrQCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h133/Petation-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>2) IT'S OKAY TO NOT BE OKAY</p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8-uRc_7oVs/X-Rp7SJqvbI/AAAAAAAAWnA/nMCyXdrx1Vgc6eqsFM0Sc8k5UExpLWlkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s512/AAAABebRmaF0eZ82ybOzX8q6UIzBpE_HDgvQhmJwObs42sEpjVT0t2sJWlBNyUpqpKb6kQJg7227Kwx3eTt2A1MJSoTfvL0RCOaQ4g4j9d1xsDv0RkJynUzHPOIdDb5Bu_SifqElX1MJ1bCSmAUSoWGxB25MrdWmgJk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="512" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8-uRc_7oVs/X-Rp7SJqvbI/AAAAAAAAWnA/nMCyXdrx1Vgc6eqsFM0Sc8k5UExpLWlkwCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/AAAABebRmaF0eZ82ybOzX8q6UIzBpE_HDgvQhmJwObs42sEpjVT0t2sJWlBNyUpqpKb6kQJg7227Kwx3eTt2A1MJSoTfvL0RCOaQ4g4j9d1xsDv0RkJynUzHPOIdDb5Bu_SifqElX1MJ1bCSmAUSoWGxB25MrdWmgJk.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>3) THE PLATFORM</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo86nBDtEVY/X-Ru7ydJF0I/AAAAAAAAWnM/yQkD4PKYgpMHvAUUYDYVR20ZC5FR6uhFQCLcBGAsYHQ/s330/platform_thumb-49b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="330" height="121" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo86nBDtEVY/X-Ru7ydJF0I/AAAAAAAAWnM/yQkD4PKYgpMHvAUUYDYVR20ZC5FR6uhFQCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h121/platform_thumb-49b.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>4) THE OLD GUARD</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CAQ_mgxuBSQ/X-RvKWelCuI/AAAAAAAAWnQ/Y4DZkJcv4wE3s3yJ2bp0i5McGZj7a-f8QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/MV5BNDJiZDliZDAtMjc5Yy00MzVhLThkY2MtNDYwNTQ2ZTM5MDcxXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMDA4NzMyOA%2540%2540._V1_UY1200_CR90%252C0%252C630%252C1200_AL_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="630" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CAQ_mgxuBSQ/X-RvKWelCuI/AAAAAAAAWnQ/Y4DZkJcv4wE3s3yJ2bp0i5McGZj7a-f8QCLcBGAsYHQ/w105-h200/MV5BNDJiZDliZDAtMjc5Yy00MzVhLThkY2MtNDYwNTQ2ZTM5MDcxXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMDA4NzMyOA%2540%2540._V1_UY1200_CR90%252C0%252C630%252C1200_AL_.jpg" width="105" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>5) EXTRACTION</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q6X-YNhFf8I/X-RvnunJq4I/AAAAAAAAWnc/3cDKYSu2MM8o4MkDzX0fg2_buaioUruyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1280/maxresdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q6X-YNhFf8I/X-RvnunJq4I/AAAAAAAAWnc/3cDKYSu2MM8o4MkDzX0fg2_buaioUruyQCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/maxresdefault.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>6) HAUNTING OF BLY MANOR</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a6DChXjwjM4/X-RybWLspdI/AAAAAAAAWrc/9sieSPqvRH8D6UsNe8rZTF_YOeFIMKbWQCLcBGAsYHQ/s299/download.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="299" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a6DChXjwjM4/X-RybWLspdI/AAAAAAAAWrc/9sieSPqvRH8D6UsNe8rZTF_YOeFIMKbWQCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h112/download.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>7) START-UP</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CZymY9gJAOg/X-RwqDIAPII/AAAAAAAAWqM/doWQPedRGGcaMzpyUqDQp4_fS7egCoUeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1430/Start-Up-CP1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1430" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CZymY9gJAOg/X-RwqDIAPII/AAAAAAAAWqM/doWQPedRGGcaMzpyUqDQp4_fS7egCoUeQCLcBGAsYHQ/w140-h200/Start-Up-CP1.jpg" width="140" /></a></p><p>8) TACO CHRONICLES</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pVy1HmhHfxA/X-RwgkShx3I/AAAAAAAAWpg/sYj8oJJZW8EsQSkfpX4exTw9HaiOPx24wCLcBGAsYHQ/s512/AAAABaiJQzOvdbNegNI4YDYL5q8-lEM63QaKQRq68Dm0yPGI16LtslQQIcmKFeDWMJiNcwrwu41UWrCqLp6Zp1jPZHmqBi4YzOyeUWfWdJRExXJyH_TnRTpttRjwcEikZQ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="512" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pVy1HmhHfxA/X-RwgkShx3I/AAAAAAAAWpg/sYj8oJJZW8EsQSkfpX4exTw9HaiOPx24wCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/AAAABaiJQzOvdbNegNI4YDYL5q8-lEM63QaKQRq68Dm0yPGI16LtslQQIcmKFeDWMJiNcwrwu41UWrCqLp6Zp1jPZHmqBi4YzOyeUWfWdJRExXJyH_TnRTpttRjwcEikZQ.jpg" width="200" /></a></p><p>9) YOU - SEASON 2</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YDTC3E3syKQ/X-Rwfnlu3AI/AAAAAAAAWpU/_fp-mdhjyyEeal62qAsISdVJDOVu0q_GACLcBGAsYHQ/s326/220px-You_Season_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="220" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YDTC3E3syKQ/X-Rwfnlu3AI/AAAAAAAAWpU/_fp-mdhjyyEeal62qAsISdVJDOVu0q_GACLcBGAsYHQ/w135-h200/220px-You_Season_2.jpg" width="135" /></a></p><p>10) MONEY HEIST - SEASON 4</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iJR-ninFn-I/X-RwywNtCaI/AAAAAAAAWq0/F8B8N14KD4wqCkQApM53dq-2Ak63a1IXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/season-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="104" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iJR-ninFn-I/X-RwywNtCaI/AAAAAAAAWq0/F8B8N14KD4wqCkQApM53dq-2Ak63a1IXwCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h104/season-4.jpg" width="200" /></a></p><p>11) ENOLA HOLMES</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7_KV7vF1vMM/X-RwhK7Ui2I/AAAAAAAAWpo/UZuo42AOTYE_lExo-s0uoQDzsGi0weZKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s326/Enola_Holmes_poster.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="220" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7_KV7vF1vMM/X-RwhK7Ui2I/AAAAAAAAWpo/UZuo42AOTYE_lExo-s0uoQDzsGi0weZKQCLcBGAsYHQ/w135-h200/Enola_Holmes_poster.jpeg" width="135" /></a></p><p>12) ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9sBo8mMX2sk/X-R0K_d_g5I/AAAAAAAAWro/zwndN2luS0UYyM36o-0PnnQyHpLfUhEgACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/MV5BY2FkY2E1OTgtYmFhYi00NzczLThjYjktNDljN2ZiZGY4OGIzXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTkxNjUyNQ%2540%2540._V1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1381" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9sBo8mMX2sk/X-R0K_d_g5I/AAAAAAAAWro/zwndN2luS0UYyM36o-0PnnQyHpLfUhEgACLcBGAsYHQ/w135-h200/MV5BY2FkY2E1OTgtYmFhYi00NzczLThjYjktNDljN2ZiZGY4OGIzXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTkxNjUyNQ%2540%2540._V1_.jpg" width="135" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>13) LOVE WEDDING REPEAT</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2V3-sul85Bo/X-Rw0mD8oyI/AAAAAAAAWq4/g9f3CF1zs3oJbJmqlVeRbDoDn8mNGdipwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/MV5BZGEwZDNmNTktOGNmMi00ZmRlLTljYzItNWJkZDc2OTcxZmZjXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTMxODk2OTU%2540._V1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1383" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2V3-sul85Bo/X-Rw0mD8oyI/AAAAAAAAWq4/g9f3CF1zs3oJbJmqlVeRbDoDn8mNGdipwCLcBGAsYHQ/w135-h200/MV5BZGEwZDNmNTktOGNmMi00ZmRlLTljYzItNWJkZDc2OTcxZmZjXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTMxODk2OTU%2540._V1_.jpg" width="135" /></a></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p>14) ON VODKA, BEERS AND REGRETS</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWySz00GgNM/X-RwjibqQcI/AAAAAAAAWqA/2U5UGqGwr7US2mtFEwDmjKZvRwjOlNPsQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2000/MV5BNjM3MTJlNTEtNjlhYy00MjVlLWEyMGUtMDA5ZDBmZjlmYjhmXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNTI5NjIyMw%2540%2540._V1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1350" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWySz00GgNM/X-RwjibqQcI/AAAAAAAAWqA/2U5UGqGwr7US2mtFEwDmjKZvRwjOlNPsQCLcBGAsYHQ/w135-h200/MV5BNjM3MTJlNTEtNjlhYy00MjVlLWEyMGUtMDA5ZDBmZjlmYjhmXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNTI5NjIyMw%2540%2540._V1_.jpg" width="135" /></a></p><p>15) #ALIVE</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5gdKrq1QQj4/X-RwrXwtSmI/AAAAAAAAWqQ/1OsaIyLo4OQRzTgkXuMrO-DH1dJjOjfhgCLcBGAsYHQ/s259/download%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5gdKrq1QQj4/X-RwrXwtSmI/AAAAAAAAWqQ/1OsaIyLo4OQRzTgkXuMrO-DH1dJjOjfhgCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h150/download%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" width="200" /></a></p><p>16) REBECCA</p><p>17) THE SLEEPOVER</p><p>18) NARCOS MEXICO SEASON 2</p><p>19) SERGIO</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUetjf8IqCs/X-RwigjckjI/AAAAAAAAWp0/wpTsrSx9KecCYt6rXh54DmICnrYtm1rSACLcBGAsYHQ/s597/MV5BMDllYWUyYTEtZTJlMC00Zjk2LTk4NWUtMDA2ZDliMGNjNTE2XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTMxODk2OTU%2540._V1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="426" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUetjf8IqCs/X-RwigjckjI/AAAAAAAAWp0/wpTsrSx9KecCYt6rXh54DmICnrYtm1rSACLcBGAsYHQ/w143-h200/MV5BMDllYWUyYTEtZTJlMC00Zjk2LTk4NWUtMDA2ZDliMGNjNTE2XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTMxODk2OTU%2540._V1_.jpg" width="143" /></a></p><p>20) HINDI TAYO PWEDE</p><p>21) THE WORLD OF THE MARRIED</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U0aj1IVDAGU/X-Rwf9jqyfI/AAAAAAAAWpY/etXmU250YnwkjQ9EPVoRHi_Ydh0DKC8WwCLcBGAsYHQ/s450/5ea6f76de4b0261ea6b25332-1588000622908_s_300x450.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U0aj1IVDAGU/X-Rwf9jqyfI/AAAAAAAAWpY/etXmU250YnwkjQ9EPVoRHi_Ydh0DKC8WwCLcBGAsYHQ/w133-h200/5ea6f76de4b0261ea6b25332-1588000622908_s_300x450.jpeg" width="133" /></a></p><p>22) THE LAST DANCE</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-anp0MI_R6TA/X-RwwNUrktI/AAAAAAAAWqk/icNY1B-kitYRo8HnV-iryPSr_LKveqkLQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1280/last-dance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-anp0MI_R6TA/X-RwwNUrktI/AAAAAAAAWqk/icNY1B-kitYRo8HnV-iryPSr_LKveqkLQCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/last-dance.jpg" width="200" /></a></p><p>23) STREET FOOD ASIA</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TSfAxce2KpE/X-RwsBn_DkI/AAAAAAAAWqU/CUQ27qIZBNAHIleikC8jR1Y9l6AzTTgNQCLcBGAsYHQ/s273/download%2B%25282%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="273" data-original-width="184" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TSfAxce2KpE/X-RwsBn_DkI/AAAAAAAAWqU/CUQ27qIZBNAHIleikC8jR1Y9l6AzTTgNQCLcBGAsYHQ/w135-h200/download%2B%25282%2529.jpeg" width="135" /></a></p><p>24) STREET FOOD LATIN AMERICA</p><p>25) THE QUEEN'S GAMBIT</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mlg2ajKUJiU/X-Rwh8WAf-I/AAAAAAAAWps/LCa4mMlfUjoMm9Dwy8xV8kv00BjJpk8TwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1185/MV5BM2EwMmRhMmUtMzBmMS00ZDQ3LTg4OGEtNjlkODk3ZTMxMmJlXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMjM5ODk1NDU%2540._V1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1185" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mlg2ajKUJiU/X-Rwh8WAf-I/AAAAAAAAWps/LCa4mMlfUjoMm9Dwy8xV8kv00BjJpk8TwCLcBGAsYHQ/w135-h200/MV5BM2EwMmRhMmUtMzBmMS00ZDQ3LTg4OGEtNjlkODk3ZTMxMmJlXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMjM5ODk1NDU%2540._V1_.jpg" width="135" /></a></p><p>26) HI, BYE MAMA</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-02aWBLbwy8A/X-RwtICv8gI/AAAAAAAAWqY/Wk0iDpKX8b4QKiev0hf642dguwCMoLrjgCLcBGAsYHQ/s262/download%2B%25283%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="192" data-original-width="262" height="147" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-02aWBLbwy8A/X-RwtICv8gI/AAAAAAAAWqY/Wk0iDpKX8b4QKiev0hf642dguwCMoLrjgCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h147/download%2B%25283%2529.jpeg" width="200" /></a></p><p>27) US AGAIN</p><p>28) UGLY DELICIOUS </p><p>29) THROUGH NIGHT AND DAY</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EaLGVYa-CAQ/X-RwkCi2yWI/AAAAAAAAWqE/ezHoZkl1NLg7kLyY99qB4nRmIAFa-c0oACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/MV5BNTQ1MzM4ZGMtNGVkMC00MzRhLTkzZGQtM2NhNjhiYTY2NmEyXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNTI5NjIyMw%2540%2540._V1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1382" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EaLGVYa-CAQ/X-RwkCi2yWI/AAAAAAAAWqE/ezHoZkl1NLg7kLyY99qB4nRmIAFa-c0oACLcBGAsYHQ/w135-h200/MV5BNTQ1MzM4ZGMtNGVkMC00MzRhLTkzZGQtM2NhNjhiYTY2NmEyXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNTI5NjIyMw%2540%2540._V1_.jpg" width="135" /></a></p><p>30) THE CALL</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tk9MVFNT9gE/X-RwgJuWwLI/AAAAAAAAWpc/-uZDcWeFIO0OFGka5cEZFh30pgIfZdwKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s318/220px-Call_poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="318" data-original-width="220" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tk9MVFNT9gE/X-RwgJuWwLI/AAAAAAAAWpc/-uZDcWeFIO0OFGka5cEZFh30pgIfZdwKQCLcBGAsYHQ/w138-h200/220px-Call_poster.jpg" width="138" /></a></p><p>31) CHRISTMAS DROP</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-34ljmgknQyA/X-R2aDMPqCI/AAAAAAAAWr8/9z0l0c3AeiMZxL3AK6zH4zIRc43CUMEKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s308/Operation_Christmas_Drop_film_poster.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="308" data-original-width="220" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-34ljmgknQyA/X-R2aDMPqCI/AAAAAAAAWr8/9z0l0c3AeiMZxL3AK6zH4zIRc43CUMEKQCLcBGAsYHQ/w143-h200/Operation_Christmas_Drop_film_poster.png" width="143" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>32) CHRISTMAS CHRONICLES 2</p><p>33) NBA BUBBLE GAMES</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CfiX2zOS5o/X-RwhO_Z4AI/AAAAAAAAWpk/iwf2gXYRMW0CxmFIPLC2HysCA67XFbfCQCLcBGAsYHQ/s594/GettyImages-1227884080-e1596438973135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="594" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CfiX2zOS5o/X-RwhO_Z4AI/AAAAAAAAWpk/iwf2gXYRMW0CxmFIPLC2HysCA67XFbfCQCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/GettyImages-1227884080-e1596438973135.jpg" width="200" /></a></p><p><br /></p><p>34) PBA (especially GINEBRA)BUBBLE GAMES</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtvCTXzjvF8/X-R2Jd6k31I/AAAAAAAAWr0/v5N6hCaFrEoB0qxGoUCDULwTLb_HsEt2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s415/pba-images4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="415" height="125" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtvCTXzjvF8/X-R2Jd6k31I/AAAAAAAAWr0/v5N6hCaFrEoB0qxGoUCDULwTLb_HsEt2ACLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h125/pba-images4.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>35) GINEBRA PBA FINALS GAMES (JANUARY & DEC 2020)</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_yD4igC_NAQ/X-RwvfaMvKI/AAAAAAAAWqg/gPIPuNNoonshFwtslxSV4UHm-QczarHxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/ginebra-vs-meralco-boost-carousel-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_yD4igC_NAQ/X-RwvfaMvKI/AAAAAAAAWqg/gPIPuNNoonshFwtslxSV4UHm-QczarHxgCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/ginebra-vs-meralco-boost-carousel-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-46203953660106314822020-11-23T01:48:00.008-08:002020-12-24T03:56:50.266-08:00Untested but RecoveredNow it can be told. I may have been infected by Covid-19 back in April but went
untested and now already recovered. <div><br /></div><div><b>Sore throat and mild fever</b><br /><div><br /></div><div>It was back in March 30th when my throat
started to feel clogged like I swallowed a bulb of garlic. I just got home from the office where I am still
reporting for work while the rest of our household are under mandatory community quarantine imposed by government. After walking home (public transports were already banned then) and bathing, pain in
my throat intensified like the beginning of a nasty cold. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am no stranger to sore throats
having suffered continuously from allergic rhinitis and the usual bouts of
tonsilitis yet that pain is somewhat different as if there's a wound inside my tonsils. I'm aware of the kind of virus that covid-19 is and how it usually attacks
the infected person's body from the throat so I took the necessary precautions -
gargling w/antibacterial solution, apart from taking warm lemon ginger tea
w/spoonful of Manuka honey throughout the day, all while consciously keeping safe distance from my
niece and my brother and sister who live with me. We already prepared for the
onslaught of the virus by stocking up on the vitamin c (Blackmores Bio-C to be exact) and other anti-infection
essentials apart from the health and safety precautions like washing hands thoroughly, sanitizing and all that jazz, so somehow I know I'm geared to face any contamination. </div><div><br /></div><div>But I must also
mention that prior to the government's announcement of total lockdown that initially begun on March 15th, I was already experiencing on and off fever that
begun in late February then another round of fever with chills in mid-March so I feel that my immune system is compromised.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Extreme headache</b></div><div><br /></div><div>On the next day, March
31st, woke up to a massive headache that I attributed to migraine. Thankfully, we work from home every other day during those weeks from March 16th
while Enhanced Community Quarantine is in effect in our city, and I'm not
required at the office that day while I suffered from one of my worst migraines in
recent years. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was already feeling a bit weak and just stayed in bed while
intermittently answering work emails and viber group chat. I still can perform some of these tasks even with a migraine because of my higher pain threshold being allergic to painkillers. I noticed this time though that the headache seems different as typically I have migraine attacks
during my period and I am not on my period then. Also, my regular
migraine headaches last a maximum of only 10 hours or less after I
sleep on it. But on that instance, my head throbbed painfully the whole day and
extended unto the next day, Wednesday, April 1st. </div><div><br /></div><div>Two days of migraine is not
normal for me with pain extending to both sides of the back of my head above
the nape almost covering the entire head. The following day, pain went down to my left cheek like a sinusitis. It is quite unbearable like someone is
punching you on your cheek. That sinus pain lasted for a day and then gradually
subsided the next day. When the pain went away with only mild tiredness left that's when I experienced loss of both my sense of taste and smell. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Lost sense of smell and taste </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>The lost taste and smell lasted for more than a week. I realized then that that
it could probably be covid-19 as that is the first time I had anosmia. It was a very disturbing feeling especially when I tried to eat and couldn't taste a single thing. Even coffee seems just like drinking warm water. All i did was feel the texture of each bite just to imagine the taste. Extremely infuriating and alarming is the lost smell that even if I put soap or shampoo in my nose I couldn't smell it. And the fear that I may have lost both senses completely and permanently. I consulted online w/a doctor from the DOH and
after asking me questions I was advised that my symptoms may indeed be covid-19, (that I may be PUI), but since I do not experience difficulty breathing and no fever, I was just asked to monitor
and contact them if my condition worsens. That was fine as I have no plans of admitting
myself into a hospital with health workers and emergency rooms already overwhelmed by severe
cases and I don't want to add to that. I must say however that even without fever I find looking around that everything seems to be in sepia color. You know that feeling of looking around you and the world appears in faded color of brownish hue, like you're walking inside an old film. As if I was high with fever although my temperature was normal. I do feel mild dehydration and my lips were dry for many days so I continue to
hydrate w/Gatorade or Pocari Sweat plus lots of water. </div><div><br /></div><div>Night times also seem to
be the hardest when anxiety levels were at a high fearing that I may no longer wake up as my breathing becomes more labored close to bedtime. There was also a feeling throughout my ordeal as if someone has a heavy hand clamped down on my chest. Those were so far the only worst
symptoms I can recall aside from the massive headaches, sinus pain and loss of taste and smell. </div><div><br /></div><div>I just worked on managing these symptoms - overloaded myself w/ vitamins especially vitamin
C, lots of fresh fruits, continuous daily regimen of lemon ginger tea and rested
early. I normally sleep past midnight but on those two weeks or so of having
that weird condition, I slept earlier than my usual bed time (while praying that
I wake up the next day). </div><div><br /></div><div>I also continued eating, not skipping any meals, even if I cannot taste the food,
just to maintain my daily nutrients. Somehow, I feel that my walk to and from
office (wearing mask of course and with limited contact to others, usually at more than one meter) helped in the form of exercise and I got a good dose of
vitamin D from direct exposure to morning sunlight. That may have helped me cope well the condition. </div><div><br /></div><div>Looking back on those days when pandemic was first announced
by the WHO, it may be safe to say I'm one of the lucky ones to have survived the
onslaught of the virus in my system, although not sure if there's any health complications later on. Others aren't as fortunate. It is always best to
continue being vigilant against this virus, even if we don't get tested yet be aware that we are always exposed to it. To maintain health and safety precautions,
with or without a vaccine, quarantined or not. </div><div><br /></div><div>I may have been infected,
untested, recovered, but I have learned that our health and those around us
should never be neglected and safety measures not taken for granted. </div><div><br /></div><div>And through it all it is best to keep the faith and be grateful to God that we continue to wake up and breathe easy. When somewhere, someone may have just breathed their last.</div></div>Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-77280699168032900762019-12-13T01:53:00.001-08:002019-12-19T19:50:35.554-08:00My 2019 Personal Top Song ChoicesAbout 20 days to go before we usher in the year 2020. Now time again to recap my personal top song choices of 2019. As usual, this list is once more a mix of genres, and always a reflection of different moods and moments that encapsulate this year. A lot of these songs have lorded the airwaves and made it to the top of other people's choices as well while some didn't quite hit mainstream yet somehow played itself into my bloodstream. Yes, music is always personal anyway. Some songs we keep hearing on the radio or streamed online and lodged itself on our waking moments, while there are those tunes we hear that speak to our hearts. These are the songs that personally magnified, enhanced or inspired my mood for the year. Songs that also fueled my emotions, worthy of belting out inside my inner sanctuary (a.k.a. bathroom or acoustic chamber). And it's wonderful how certain songs are also worth dancing to. here they are in no particular order..<br />
<br />
<b>1)Dancing with a Stranger - Sam Smith & Normani</b><br />
this song kind of set the mood for 2019. catchy but with the heartbreak-y undertones. Vocals of Normani & Sam Smith really take the music to another level. Perfect for those moments while you're swaying to its beat as silent tears fall from your eyes.<a href="https://youtu.be/av5JD1dfj_c"></a> <a href="https://youtu.be/av5JD1dfj_c"></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/I99qCuWx1mI"></a><br />
<b>2) Nights Like This - Kehlani/Ty Dolla $ign</b> - a song that is about pining for an ex whom you no longer can have. there is something about the tune- that's mid-tempo and just the right mellow R& B that fits Kehlani's voice just so well. <br />
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<b>3) bad guy - Billie Eilish </b>- this is the wunderkind of music. Who could have known she's only 17 years old yet making the kind of songs that just shake the status quo. Not the sweetie pop, none of those teen angst and sappy teenage love songs for this young lady. there's a bit of Lorde & Alanis in the vibe of her music. Always fun to listen to when you just don't know what she's gonna say next kind of song. <br />
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4) <b>Trip - Ella Mai </b>- she's gotta be the princess of R&B this 2019. The vocals that match catchy & jazzy tune of this song is really worth the sound trip (pun intended). I feel that there should be more of these types of song on the mainstream radio. And the music video intro with the turntable and vinyl playing = perfect.<br />
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<b>5) Shot Clock - Ella Mai</b> - I love the reference to basketball. Being a basketball fan, song definitely got my attention. Plus, it's always nice listening to Ella Mai's voice. This song is perfect for giving the ultimatum to your guy when he seems stuck in the status quo - and if you want to take the relationship further along or else let other guys take a shot. Love it. <br />
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<b>6) Find U Again </b>- Camila Cabello/Mark Ronson - a kind of groovv sound fit for partying at a club. even if the song is about pining for an ex that one can no longer have. simply catchy, the kind of vibe that makes you sway slowly, glass of wine or whiskey in hand with a hope that it cures your heartache. A song that lets you dance the pain away.<br />
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7) Señorita - Camila Cabello/Shawn Mendes</b> - this has gotta be another Camila year (and with a Time cover to boot!) and finally a culmination of the love affair between these two talented young artists. I like the Spanish vibe simply because I also love it when you call me Señorita. A song that you can easily dance to, something that just feels good and not let you overthink things. And I also love the vocals of both singers.<br />
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<b>8) 7 Rings - Ariana Grande</b> - this had me at the intro sampling of Sound of Music - 'my Favorite things' tune. Plus will always be partial to Ariana's vocal prowess. Each time she comes out with a song, there's always a great chance of it landing among my year-end songs of the year. This definitely makes me say 'I see it, I like it; I want it, I got it'., yeah, you got it.. also an ideal theme song for the Add-to-cart troops (read: online shoppers) LOL <br />
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<b>9) needy - Ariana Grande</b> - this young lady never fails to satisfy my musical cravings. And it's not only about her voice but the meaning of the song. in a world where people can often get criticized for being too needy, this song tells how it feels good to be needed and also how it's perfectly okay and normal to need someone. that craving we all feel for something and someone special. <br />
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<b>10) Good Thing - Kehlani</b> - the song pays homage to all the singles out there. Single ladies who aren't really looking for the other half (Yet!). Just simply enjoying what she has knowing she already have the best that life can offer. So let no one tell her that he's got something good to offer coz chances are, she's got better and she is the best. periodt. <br />
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11) Lover - Taylor Swift</b> - a relaxing tune from this artist of the decade- sort of coming back to her old days on this one and deviating from the rants of the past months. In this song you can actually picture yourself on a house by the countryside with you and your lover sitting on the steps of the balcony just enjoying a quiet time. Listening to the song seems to evoke an image of you and him spending the wee hours of the morning holding hands and having a sublime experience staring at the stars right after new year's celebration. <br />
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<b>12) hooked/ good lover - Jess Connelly</b> I just love the vibe of this song. a perfect backdrop to all that the heart wants to say. soothing, with a hint of R&B and a voice that matches the beautiful face of the singer. it's about enjoying the moment with someone and not caring at all if it's for keeps. I couldn't quite find the title previously but been LSS'ing on this song for weeks since late October to early December. We need more of these on the airwaves. I'm just hooked. <br />
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13) Sucker - Jonas Brothers</b> - this had me at the lines 'and you're making a typical me break my typical rules'. That kind of feeling when you're just too enamored with someone that everything he says is like a mantra for you to follow..yeah coz I'm just a sucker for romance.. and a sucker for this song. Didn't help that you got those cute brothers belting out those lines. But then I also like Halsey's cover of this song that she performed live on BBC Radio One. Either way this song definitely does not suck. <br />
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<b>14) Please me - Bruno Mars/Cardi B</b> - an R & B collaboration that also helped set the tone of my musical inclinations this 2019. Bruno Mars and his old soul, channeling the Motown vibe and perfectly molding it as his own. The soft, sensual vibe and ably lent with a rough around the edges rap of Cardi B just pleases me all throughout.<br />
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<b>15) Talk - Khalid</b> - okay, I admit being slightly more partial to some soul & R&B tunes and this one fit to a T when it comes to the genre. The lazy drawl of Khalid combined with some catchy beat and electric synths reminiscent of the 80s just makes you want to stop the talk and listen in rapt attention. <br />
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<b>16) Without Me - Halsey</b> - there is a raw emotion in the song that makes you realize how some of the best pop tunes often come from heartaches. This is clearly the case in Without Me, where Halsey sings about that relationship that clearly broke her heart. of that someone whom she helped who took advantage of her. Ouch. When someone sings about that, you can simply empathize or even enjoy the music. <br />
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16) Juicy - Doja Cat </b>- the song is not only juicy, catchy and flirty but offers a self-love kind of vibe. A kind of a playful song but with a deeper message - a message to oneself to flaunt your beauty and realize that you have what it takes. Yeah, that body confidence kind of thing. <br />
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<b>17) Kill this Love - Blackpink</b> - there's only a few K-pop acts I enjoy listening to as sometimes I find a lot of them almost mimicking each other. But Blackpink is among those groups that stand out most especially that they are a girl group when most of the success stories we see of Korean pop groups are males. This song initially didn't catch my attention but it is the kind that when you get to listen to the 3rd time or so somehow endears itself to your ears. Also helped that there's an EDM mixed with hip-hop and rap that perks up the ear drums. Nice to dance to and really a pick-me-up kind of song you just can't kill the vibe. So hooray to Lisa, Jisoo, Jennie and Rosé.<br />
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<b>18) Boy with Luv - BTS/Halsey</b> - now that we're into the subject of K-Pop, this group needs no further intro. And then collaborating with Halsey suddenly made it such a great hit. I kind of like how it combines the grooves that BTS is known for yet managed to insert something new into the mix - that somehow recaptures certain songs in the 80s or early 90s. Proof that music spans generations, genres and generalizations. <br />
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19) Harleys in Hawaii - Katy Perry</b> - I first heard this song sometime after my birthday this year. And it took me back to the summer days. Like literally rewinding the months from September to March-April days. All the mention of Hawaii of course would bring images of the beach and cool cocktails. There's that guitar riff at the start then sliding on to a faster tempo as Katy sings a sultry sonata for a loved one. Now if I can't yet fly to Hawaii and ride Harleys, I won't mind riding a Ducati in Makati, yes and with this song still playing in the background as we speed up on our own heart-shaped highway.<br />
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<b>21) Selos - the vowels they orbit</b> - this indie-pop rock band's song somehow wove its way into my consciousness as it constantly played on the radio mid-year. And I like how it playfully tackled a rather tricky emotion- jealousy. The song talks about the distress one feels on a love-triggered emotion that affects the mood big time. I love the part when the lead vocalist sang 'ipapaanod na ba sa alak, baka sakali may makita pang ngiti..' anyone who has ever felt jealous would so relate. <br />
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22) Circles - Post Malone</b> - a sad song but will always be drawn to the theme. As I said some of the best songs often are written when there's a painful or sad episode in life. And this one is about that relationship when you want the one you're with to just call it off as you're just both going around in circles. Yet no one is making the first move to say goodbye. When one doesn't want to be blamed for causing the break-up so you just go on and on in circles. and so that's how it got this song playing on loop <br />
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There are other songs I've enjoyed immensely throughout the year and some new ones just coming in. but these are just a shortlist of what I mostly listen to on Spotify or watched on YouTube or listen to on the radio. Songs that captured the attitude of the moment.<br />
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Until then.. let's keep on playing, singing, dancing and listening to music through 2020 and beyond!! <br />
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Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-37447624882706357372018-11-29T02:00:00.000-08:002018-12-13T00:58:31.798-08:00My 2018 Songs of the Year <br />
As we near touchdown 2018, and welcome in the new year, it's time again for my annual top songs of the year. The songs that pretty much made up most of my playlist, those I've listened to whether by choice or by circumstance (read: songs playing on the office radio) throughout the year. Here, in no particular order are my personal top songs of 2018 starting with the 18 most listened to, sang with, danced (okay, just swayed to) tunes:<br />
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1) <b>NEVER BE THE SAME</b> - <i>Camila Cabello<b></b></i> - <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ph54wQG8ynk" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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This song spearheaded the self-titled album of this pretty young singer/artist at the first quarter of the year. One couldn't help but catch your ear buds - this song speaks of that certain addiction to somebody. it just captures the kind of feeling you have for someone that can be both exhilarating but somewhat dangerous. Having 'nicotine' and 'heroin' on the lyrics helped inject (pun intended) more chutzpah to an otherwise young lady's sentiments.<br />
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2) <b>THE MIDDLE - Zedd ft.</b> Maren Morris & Grey - <a href="https://youtu.be/M3mJkSqZbX4"></a> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M3mJkSqZbX4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
Zedd may very well be our EDM artist of this decade. and the song is not exactly what you'd just push back to the middle of the pack and forget about. Because it emits enough melody and tune and that vibe to make you put it front and center of your playlist. Maren Morris' vocals also make this a perfect collaboration. As the lyrics say, 'I'm losing my mind just a little' being caught up in the middle of this song all year long.<br />
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3) <b>MEANT TO BE</b> -<i> Bebe Rexha ft. Florida Georgia Line <b></b></i> - <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zDo0H8Fm7d0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> The country drawl ain't no mistaking the influence of this singer but this is something that spans various genre. Meant to Be is just meant to be an ear candy, a perfect song to listen to while you're on a road trip or lounging about at home while waiting for some action. Something to prime you up for another romantic adventure notwithstanding the misfiring pasts love affairs. <br />
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4) <b>GIRLS LIKE YOU</b> - <b>Maroon 5 <i></i></b>- <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aJOTlE1K90k" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
As if the song isn't catchy enough, the music video also made it even more great to listen to while slowly swaying to the beat. Adam Levine would always have that sweet soft spot for the music lover in me.<br />
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5) <b>IDGAF </b>- <b>Dua Lipa<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Mgfe5tIwOj0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> One of those young, beautiful artists making headway with her songs this year is Dua Lipa. The song remains a perfect clap back to that good for nothing ex. Never mind that this singer totally ignored her own words and decided to still give a f*ck to her ex and now present lover. At least we can always have this song as shout-out to good for nothing jerks.<br />
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6) <b>FEELS SO GOOD</b> - <b>Honne fr. Anna of the North<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/y3HMf6geM0Y" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> The title says it all. It just feels so good listening to this song. Especially when you start the track and listen to the soft pouring of rain. And one couldn't help but relate to that special moment when the song says 'these are the moments I cherish..your kissing me goodnight..' just so good and helped me endure this rather blah year.<br />
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7) <b>BOO'D UP</b> - <b>Ella Mai<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6YNZlXfW6Ho" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> The British singer captivates with her voice and simple narration of songs mixing perfectly with the melody & that alt-R&B vibe. Boo'd up is that one song you would love to hear in the background as you slowly fall in love. <br />
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8) <b>CROSS YOUR MIND</b> - <b>Sabrina Claudio<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sU96xH6Qtys" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> The Latin beat of this song, especially when it was played in the background of a bar scene in Fifty Shades Freed is hard to miss. The young singer also has a very distinct vocal and a sultriness to her style that I love. This song (along with the Spanish version) is one of those pre-summer tunes that just made me sing and sway with it. <br />
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9) <b>CONSEQUENCES</b> - <b>Camila Cabello<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k73EBmeJ950" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> Again, Camila like I predicted in 2017 made some dent in the music industry this year. Also has won awards and have been recognized worldwide for her contribution to the art. I especially love how this song echoes anyone's sentiments with its simple depiction of a toxic relationship. Loving this song though certainly has no negative consequences. <br />
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10) CAPITAL LETTERS</b> -<i> Hailee Steinfeld<b></b></i> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pj6k-EFxqAI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> Another song in the soundtrack of Fifty Shades Freed that I enjoyed. Just the kind of upbeat feeling it gives you like a love you're always sure is spelled out for you right from the very start in BIG, BOLD Capital letters. It feels like a romp, a romantic getaway somewhere in the beach or in a European villa.<br />
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11) <b>THE WEEKEND</b> - <b>Sza <i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PALMMqZLAQk" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> Forbidden love, perhaps? or a case of being a spare tire. but hey, Sza's vocals is enough to get you in the mood to sing along to this song. and somehow takes you into the shoes of that side chick while making sure to remind you how special you are - one that is reserved only for the best moments and not on dreary weekdays - that is, the weekends. With lyrics that say 'you're like 9 to 5 and I'm the weekend', because, well, why not? <br />
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12) <b>BEST PART</b> - <b>Daniel Caesar feat. H.E.R.<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iKk6_2-AAGc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> Both artists really are the best partners. The song is perfect, and even talks about two of my favorite drinks - coffee and water 'You're the coffee that I need in the morning and 'you're my water when I'm stuck in the desert'. Definitely an ode to a best love affair. <br />
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13) <b>AGAIN</b> - <b>Kehlani<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rNaFB-IoXaA" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> Any song that reminds me of that on again-off again relationship is bound to make it to my top songs year-end list. Especially when you got that music and vocals vibin' together. Kehlani is just one talented young lady also meant to stay in the music industry for a long time. I just wouldn't mind listening and singing to this song, again and again..and again.<br />
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14) <b>LOST IN JAPAN</b> - <b>Shawn Mendes<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SAWzXkV3hHo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> Even that remix version with Zedd is up there. Love this young guy's music. and how I would want to be a part of that narrative of getting lost in Japan. Wish I could however say those words in real life, 'all it takes is one flight, we'd be in the same time zone..' when you're in a long-distance relationship it's easy enough to relate to this song. now if only I can just book a flight and hotel to Japan easily like he does in this song, then it would be much better.<br />
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15) G<b>OD IS A WOMAN</b> - <b>Ariana Grande<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kHLHSlExFis" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> Because Ariana is also an angel of God. Love this ode to womanhood. The song, by its mere existence really just proves how more relevant women are this year and how these kinds of song, while challenging certain status quo, is made to actually just prove reality. <br />
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16) <b>NEW RULES</b> - <b>Dua Lipa<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k2qgadSvNyU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> As mentioned, the singer may have broken her own rules in this song, but who cares? rules sometimes are made to be broken anyway. but all that aside, this beat just make you want to set the rules as far as listening to music is concerned. and by that we mean, the rule of listening hard, loud & with a choreograph to match.. like 1, don't pick up the phone while I'm enjoying the music. <br />
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17) <b>FAKING IT</b> - <b>Calvin Harris feat. Kehlani & Lil Yachty <i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5mPflmNE4ag" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> Those bass grooves right from the start is ear-catching. And you won't even have to fake listening to it because this simply is just too good to not pay attention to. The emotional vocals of Kehlani give it a great lead. this is one of those songs that set the tone in 2018. Of collaborations that turn into fine art.<br />
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18) <b>ALL MY FRIENDS </b>-<b> Snakeships feat. Tinashe and Chance the Rapper<i></i></b> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I3mrYxPLSH4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> This song was actually officially released back in 2015 but have started to pick up on PH radio airwaves only at the onset of 2018. Now you can't say that is wasted as what the singer's lyrics suggest of their friends in the song. because any chance a song gets back into the airwaves is never a wasted opportunity. 'All My Friends' meshes contemporary rap, R & B and pop beautifully. can't help but take me back to those moments when at a party and everyone's already drunk and you suddenly feel like you just want to roll in bed to spend alone time with your loved one. <br />
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Rounding up my top songs for 2018 are these runner-ups to the foregoing top 18 list. these aren't actually 19th to number xxx because any of these songs can easily substitute for each of the 18 songs listed above. <br />
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Especially when I am inclined to listen to music based on my moods. What can be top 5 for me this week would have a different top 5 lined up for next week. That's just how music-filled this year was for me, or any year for that matter. these are the songs that made up my days, the de facto background music to certain moments, the tunes that inspired, evoked emotions, and over-all kept me company even on sleepless nights: <br />
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SOMETHING'S GOTTA GIVE - Camila Cabello</b><br />
<b>BELONG TO YOU - Sabrina Claudio</b><br />
<b>ONE KISS - Dua Lipa</b><br />
<b>BEAUTIFUL - Bazzi feat. Camila Cabello</b><br />
<b>WITH YOU - Mariah Carey</b><br />
<b>'DI NA MULI - Janine Teñoso</b><br />
<b>HIGH - Dua Lipa</b><br />
<b>CALL OUT MY NAME - The Weeknd</b><br />
<b>DANCE TO THIS - Troye Sivan ft. Ariana Grande</b><br />
<b>2002 - Anne Marie </b><br />
<b>SANGRIA WINE - Pharell ft. Camila Cabello</b><br />
<b>FINESSE - Bruno Mars ft. Cardi B</b><br />
<b>LET ME GO - Alessia Cara, Hailee </b><br />
<b> THRU THESE TEARS - LANY</b><br />
<b>WAKE UP IN THE SKY - Bruno Mars, Kodak Black</b><br />
<b> THANK U, NEXT - Ariana Grande</b><br />
<b>TOO GOOD TO SAY GOODBYE - Bruno Mars</b><br />
<b>CALLING ALL MY LOVELIES - Bruno Mars</b><br />
<b>NO TEARS LEFT TO CRY - Ariana Grande</b><br />
<b>FEELS LIKE SUMMER - Childish Gambino</b><br />
<b>SOLO - Demi Lovato, Clean Bandit</b><br />
<b>SATIVA - Jhene Aiko</b><br />
<b>LOVE LIES - Normani, Khalid </b><br />
<b>IN MY BLOOD - Shawn Mendes</b><br />
<b>BREATHIN' - Ariana Grande</b><b><br />
DELICATE - Taylor Swift</b><br />
<b>WRITTEN IN THE STARS - John Legend + WENDY</b><br />
<b>WITHOUT ME - Halsey</b><br />
<b>ALIEN - Sabrina Carpenter, Jonas Blue</b><br />
<b>WOMAN LIKE ME - Little Mix, Nikki Minaj</b><br />
<b>PERM - Bruno Mars</b><br />
<b>LET ME - Zayn Malik</b><br />
<b>KATHANG ISIP - Ben & Ben</b><br />
<b>BUWAN - Juan Karlos<br />
IN MY PRISON - IV of Spades<br />
MIDNIGHT SKY - Unique Salonga</b><br />
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And I say to all these artists, recording studios, composers and everyone who made these songs, and the producers who released them- keep playing, singing, writing, streaming & distributing them. Grateful to them all for bringing music to our 2018 and making the year special with those voices, beats and tunes.. now thank u, next..<br />
Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-65022058862197657932018-07-30T20:42:00.000-07:002018-07-30T20:42:33.951-07:00Red Blood MoonOh, look at the moon, shining brightly <br />
in all its crimson red glory.<br />
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most of the time it comes out rather shyly, <br />
unmindful of its beauty <br />
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but once in a while it shows the blood <br />
that glows from within.<br />
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As if to say, let's talk..<br />
will be with you as you walk<br />
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Red, shimmering, like the ember<br />
of a love that never left<br />
a testament to forever..Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-29915711547928336702017-12-19T23:21:00.000-08:002017-12-25T19:25:23.827-08:00My Personal Fave Songs of 2017 This has been a music-filled year for me. Or should I say, music made me survive 2017 thus far and on to the remaining few days of it. Here is a rundown of the musical themes, the hits and tunes that filled my waking moments, and possibly yours too throughout the year. A lot of new artists here not on my previous years' list. Though there were a few holdovers from last year and a couple of those from 2015 or so. Let's just say, the music I've grown to listen to these past several months and weeks have evolved to include new tastes and preferences. And thanks to my niece, too for her amazing taste in music that also have rubbed off on me somehow, introduced me to other genre. Music after all spans generations and can best be enjoyed for its artistry and sentiments whatever your age, whatever the situation, and wherever you are.<br />
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Here, in no particular order of preference. I actually listen to each song depending on my mood so what could be no.1 this week for me may be different from the no. 1 next week or the weeks prior. Here goes.. <br />
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<b><b>1) Versace on the Floor - Bruno Mars</b></b> - this is perfect for when you're trying to get all cozy and intimate with that special one. Relatable for sexy time, I guess. And even if I don't own any Versace dress at the moment, I still enjoyed this song. First heard this latter part of 2016 but really caught mainstream this 2017. And the belated music video featuring Zendaya is smoking too. What can I say, I just love Bruno Mars :D <br />
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2) Here - Alessia Cara </b>- this girl knows when to channel the very emotions and sentiments that I feel at random moments. This song may not be all that current but it's part of my 2017 playlist nonetheless. Reminds me of those past days when I would attend parties but don't really have my mind and heart on it and wishing I'm just at home, sipping some hot cocoa instead of going to some event full of people I'm not really that close with. Glad that I get to choose which party to attend to now, even if it's just a party of 4 or 5 close ones or a party of 1 consisting of just moi. <br />
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3) Havana - Camila Cabello & Young Thug </b>- this young lady filled the airwaves this 2017 and turned me into a 'Camilizer' especially with this song. Not really that much meaning but it's very catchy and something in it just kept me swaying especially to the beat of the piano. The girl indeed has gone places even after separating from Fifth Harmony. Just hitting the right notes while the sun shines and singing ooh-na-na along the way. And who could forget her performance at the EMAs that was among the best, if not the best, of the night. Suddenly I have images of Cuba just listening to this song, oh to be at that part of the Caribbean seas .. <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qa0cxAaN8as" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>4) Too Good at Goodbyes - Sam Smith</b> - Oh, this song just ripped through the heart. And went mainstream exactly at that time when goodbye is becoming a personal option. Not to delve too much on that though but this song is like a variation of a blog I wrote years ago - about being a veteran of goodbyes. And rightly so. Coz nothing is ever permanent in this life. And sometimes it's best to be a bit guarded maybe to protect oneself from the constant aches and pains of bidding someone or a lot of people adieu. <br />
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5) What Is Love - Frances</b> - This may not be familiar to a lot of you but I find this haunting melody both sad yet oddly cathartic. Knowing that by acknowledging that there are certain nuances about love that is not all bed of roses. Plus I love this when it played in that Fifty Shades Darker. That movie sure knows how to put together a good soundtrack. What is love? All I know is it doesn't have to hurt. Really. <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AXlkOb4caLk" width="480"></iframe><br />
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6) Shape of You - Ed Sheeran</b> a feel good song of 2017. Those beats mixed with Sheerans voice. This one about carefree love. Just enjoying that meet and greet portion and where it leads later on. I'm in love with the song of you, Ed! More, please. <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JGwWNGJdvx8" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>7) That's What I Like - Bruno Mars</b> - this guy's been a mainstay of my top songs of the year from way back I can remember. And he really knows how to groove the way I just like it. Nothing can go wrong when you have 'champagne on ice' on the lyrics. <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PMivT7MJ41M" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>8) Stay - Zed ft. Alessia Cara</b> - the jam that I want playing in the background specifically during date night. When you just need to stay in the moment with that special one, not letting go. From the intro to the extro - you just got to sway to the beat and take a minute to absorb this one particular music. Alessia is another great artist that should be creating more songs in the coming years. <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yWEK4v9AVKQ" width="480"></iframe><br />
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9) Despacito - Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee </b>- ah, that Spanish guitar riff at the intro. This transports me to Puerto Rico - long before the island got devastated by that strong cyclone this year. Something about Spanish songs and beats keep me on my toes and make this soul dance. And I like the original version better although I have no complaints about Bieber joining the fray. This may very well be the soundtrack of 2017 - meaning we need to take it slowly. To share that common goal of just enjoying the moment together and let the feeling take us to our favorite place or if you may, tus lugares favoritos. <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kJQP7kiw5Fk" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>10) 24k Magic - Bruno Mars </b>- what can I say but Bruno is just so active this year and almost all songs in that album is just pure joy to listen to. That swag, that passion, that magic that you want 24 hours. Just because. <br />
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And here are the rest of the songs I've listened to, sang to, danced to, streamed on Spotify or watched on Youtube and played on the radio this year. I would have wanted to describe each song and how it influenced my year or kept me company but this post is already quite long so I'll just post their music videos here so you may catch snippets or listen in full and if you want and sing/dance/hum along with me. Until 2018! .. <br />
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<b>11) Issues - Julia Michaels</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9Ke4480MicU" width="480"></iframe><br />
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12) He Like That - Fifth Harmony</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lCmJC8y3Epk" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>13) How Would You Feel - Ed Sheeran</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZZMZiBCRX4c" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>14) Beauty & The Beast - Ariana Grande & John Legend</b> - <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/axySrE0Kg6k" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>15) I Don't Wanna Live Forever - Taylor Swift & Zayn</b> - <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7F37r50VUTQ" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>16) Back to You - Louis Tomlinson </b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-HjpL-Ns6_A" width="480"><b></iframe><br />
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<b>17) Thinking 'Bout You - Dua Lipa</b> </b>- <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PLDIhqMWH00" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>18) Bad Things - Camila Cabello</b></b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QpbQ4I3Eidg" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>19) Redbone - Childish Gambino</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Kp7eSUU9oy8" width="480"></iframe><br />
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20) Something Just Like This - The Chainsmokers & Coldplay</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FM7MFYoylVs" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>21) Feels - Calvin Harris ft. Katy Perry, Pharell Williams <br />
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<b>22) Fetish - Selena Gomez</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/STO4-8vkG0U" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>23) The Scientist - Corrine Bailey Rae</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W2oAIiVL0HE" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>24) OMG - Camila Cabello</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Fb4BqNm_9g4" width="480"></iframe><br />
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2<b>5) Find Yourself - Before You Exit</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VxbPqcR4LYM" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>26) Perfect - Ed Sheeran w/ Beyonce </b> - <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/817P8W8-mGE" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>27) Look What You Made Me Do - Taylor Swift</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3tmd-ClpJxA" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>28) New Rules - Dua Lipa</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k2qgadSvNyU" width="480"></iframe><br />
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29) I Like Me Better - Lauv</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BcqxLCWn-CE" width="480"></iframe><br />
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30) Feel It Still - Portugal. The Man <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pBkHHoOIIn8" width="480"></iframe><br />
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31) What Lovers Do - Maroon 5 ft. SZA</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5Wiio4KoGe8" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>32) Down - Fifth Harmony ft. Gucci Mane </b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XNWlrawfRAI" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<b>32) 24k Magic - Bruno Mars</b> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UqyT8IEBkvY" width="480"></iframe><br />
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And that wraps up my 2017 personal favorite songs. There are just so many I've listened to all year and this is not even half of it but these songs are the shortlist of what spoke to my soul & soothe the ear as well as the feelings on some occasion. Cheers to a better 2018. Let's all keep the music playing.. Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-51704069516084629602016-12-08T01:01:00.000-08:002016-12-08T06:00:57.413-08:00My Top 16 Personal Favorite Songs of 2016It was a kind of wild 2016, well just mildly wild, if there ever was such a thing. If this year was a painting, it would be one giant abstract. Yes, pretty much also explains the kind of songs that influenced me and my moods this year – a cornucopia of beats, emotions and lyrics that range from the melodramatic to psychedelic with a hint of angst or celebration or joy and all of the above.<br />
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With about 25 days to go before final touchdown of the year, I now present my pick of personal favorite 16 songs of 2016:<br />
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16) <b>SIDE TO SIDE by Ariana Grande ft. Nikki Minaj</b> - there’s something in the beat that’s catchy and bitchy at the same time. Something that describes my mood on most parts of each grueling month of 2016. Always will love Ariana’s vocals while Minaj lent the proper swag to an upbeat yet pretty chill song. ‘Ive been there all day…”<br />
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15)<b> CHEAP THRILLS by </b>Zia – The title of the song is simply what it is. A cheap thrill. Entertaining stuff once more from a great artist, Zia. Song talks about no costs to having fun as long as you enjoy what you do, you don’t need dollar bills or money especially when you love the one you’re with.<br />
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14) <b>STARVING– Hailee Steinfeld featuring Zedd</b> – oh to have that kind of affection for someone. The all-encompassing feeling of having that one who exceeds every boundaries you set for your life. What made me like this song is partly on the line that says ‘I didn't know that I was starving 'til I tasted you<br />
Don't need no butterflies when you give me the whole damn zoo’. That feeling of being overwhelmed by someone that has changed you forever. <br />
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13) <b>HEATHENS – Twenty one Pilots</b> – song caught my attention while watching the movie Suicide Squad. Very apt for the times especially with the many murders and killings in the Philippines in the past few months. These lines from the song got me hooked ‘You'll never know the psychopath sitting next to you,<br />
You'll never know the murderer sitting next to you.’ And realizing that all you and your friends are heathens because you need to adapt to the situation, be a little weird when you have to coz there are a lot of psychos in our midst. <br />
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12) <b>NOBODY'S BETTER – Z feat. Fetty Wap</b> – there's something in the beat that gets to me. And the exchange of lines between the male and female singers. Pretty much explains how some guys think and how most girls also feel for them to remain secure in the relationship. Where the guy often says what you see is what you get in trying to explain his shenanigans, and the girl saying that she needs a little bit of honesty.<br />
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11) <b>RISE by Katy Perry</b> – this is a mantra to survive the year. Katie Perry is like a motivational speaker in a song. Always challenging you to rise and keep up to the challenge. To keep on keeping on. I especially had this as my imaginary background music when faced with a kind of tricky situation as I often find myself in this year. I also dedicate the song to my fave basketball team, Ginebra that paved the way for their being champions this year after 8 long forgettable seasons.<br />
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10) <b>7 YEARS – Lukas Graham </b>– this has been a song that enjoyed quite a lot of radio airtime this year that I couldn’t help getting LSS’d. The singer’s voice was a mix of a melancholy with a touch of a boy band ruggedness. And I love how it touched on the passage of age and time, albeit a simplistic view from adolescence to adulthood to eventual senior moments. And the piano intro..<br />
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9) <b>WORK FROM HOME by Fifth Harmony</b> – this simply is a beat to enjoy. And when you thought the song is about working one’s ass off it actually sings about how you’ll work on that relationship with your man. The kind of effort one puts in to make it all fun instead of all work, work, work.<br />
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8) <b>DON'T LET ME DOWN– Chainsmokers ft. Daya </b> – this group may very well be the artist of the year for me. With their songs as ubiquitously playing on the radio or on hangout joints as frequent as a Duterte cuss word. Don’t Let me Down is the song that exactly means what it says on the title. About crashing and hitting a wall and holding on to that someone who you will beg and expect to not let you down. As in “I need ya, I need ya, I need you right now Yeah, I need you right now..” Yes, I do need this song to not let me down in times when there are less reasons to find goodness in the world.<br />
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7) <b>WORTH IT by Fifth Harmony</b> – these girls are rocking it this year. And the song is like an affirmation of what you deserve from life and from those you love. Song caught on latter part of 2015 and went on to start the year. That’s why I love this song that went ringing in my head for some weeks during the early part of 2016. Definitely listening to it is worth it.<br />
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6) <b>PILLOW TALK by Zayn Malik </b>– when you think of pillow talk and that eyelashes of Zayn, damn! But this is the kind of song that may be trying too hard to be sexy and sensual but came out just a wee bit cute. But I still love it. Especially the cover of Jojo during one of her live performances. There’s a part in the song that describes the bed in less than innocent terms and which somehow got me hooked in listening and singing to it. <br />
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5) <b>TILL THE END – Jessie Ware</b> – first time I heard this song playing was on the movie Me Before You. A surprisingly beautiful love story and one of the best movies I watched this 2016. It was playing as a background during a wedding scene and I got hooked on it. Turns out it’s by a favorite British singer- Jessie Ware whose sultry voice lent the perfect vibe to the melody. I especially adore the part when she sings ‘and And even when it's raining I don't see the clouds again.’ Captures the essence of being so in love with that person that all the crazy and negative things around don’t matter as long as you’re with him. <br />
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4) <b>I HATE YOU, I LOVE YOU - Gnash ft. Olivia O'Brien</b> – this is such a sweet sad love song about having the kind of love that is largely unreciprocated yet even if you hate the feeling you still love the person. Love singing the chorus especially when the feeling matches the frustration one gets when there is conflict in the relationship. <br />
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3) <b>SECRET LOVE SONG – Little Mix ft. Jason Defulo </b> - there's always something about songs that sings of keeping behind closed doors that gets me. An ideal song for belting out with all the pent-up emotions of a love that's real but hidden. Plus I love the range of vocals of this mix of female singers. Powerful voices that each sound has its own character. There's something about the over-all theme of the song that just speaks to the heart. When there are secrets hard to reveal. <br />
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2) ALL I ASK - Adele (collaborating with Bruno Mars) - afte having us at Hello last year,she brings us all we can ask for in a love song. The Adele melancholy vibe. I especially love the part about making memories that we can use. It's like speaking of a time spent with someone we may not have forever that a one special moment or night spent together can be a beacon to light us during darker days even when both have gone their separate way. Oh, the Adele effect and add to it the artistry of Bruno Mars who helped co-wrote this song with her. Also love Bruno Mars' live cover of this on BBC Live. The feels! This is all I ask for in a love song. <br />
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1) <b>CLOSER - Chainsmokers ft. Halsey</b> - I just couldn't stop singing and listening to this song this year. Like hey.. And could well relate to the part of '4 years no call, and now I'm looking pretty in a hotel bar..' after seeing your ex after no communication for well, 4 years. and then picking up from where you left of. A dance music that is part electro-pop and part club music that has an element of the brooding ambiance lent by the female vocalist. It has made it to my top choice of 2016. I just love how it brings me closer to that feeling of not so long ago just by listening to it. a blast.<br />
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Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-2032733226472461922016-10-19T06:50:00.000-07:002016-11-02T20:54:15.998-07:00GINEBRA 2016: From Kangkong to KAMPEON! After 8 loooooong years, my favorite PBA team, Ginebra is on its way to reclaim the throne - the championship title that has eluded them for so long.<br />
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Despite the heartaches of past PBA conferences, the agonies, the cursing of the fates - (or at biased officiating, actually), I remain steadfast on my own fanaticism. This is the only time I allow myself to be a true-blue fan in all its essence. Since 1986 and now 20 years after, my adulation for the team has <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rNyXphYkYZg/WAXAkdPt0hI/AAAAAAAABFk/BmZAyak_sjkyJ9Yk6hUK8W84T_z6gX45wCLcB/s1600/jaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rNyXphYkYZg/WAXAkdPt0hI/AAAAAAAABFk/BmZAyak_sjkyJ9Yk6hUK8W84T_z6gX45wCLcB/s320/jaw.jpg" width="246" height="320" /></a></div>never wavered. Through players & coaching transfers, I remain a fan, almost loyal to a fault. <br />
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Have gone through a lot of almost wrist-slashing moments when players would have sub-par performances in the past years or whenever referees' bad calls will result in losses. The cursing and banging of the hand against any hard, solid surface (like my niece' boom box for instance). Those losses were indeed painful.<br />
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After that 2008 championship, the struggle has become real. More so for us Ginebra fans who not only had to contend seeing past favorite players move on to other teams or retire, of coaches we've come to love that were transferred to other teams or got sacked & the many knockout games that resulted unfavorably for our team. But most especially had to endure the endless mocking and insults thrown our way by fans of other teams. Even by some of those not really into basketball but just for the heck of it felt it's their right to throw shade at the Ginebra fans because they cannot understand how a team that seemed to have seen the last of its better days and which almost always got itself kicked out of contention every PBA season should still command such attention and adoration. And how win or lose, and despite being branded <b>'Kangkong'<i></i></b> by haters the fandom could not be shattered. The support is genuine, the faith in the team always shone through, even during the worst game days. The same faith that has also sparked an out of this world applause and cheer whenever a crucial win is secured.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-42cF9qFVcuA/WAXApz87arI/AAAAAAAABFo/gFYEdrvOhKYQl7Mlz6UPZ8313zXwBLbHQCLcB/s1600/jong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-42cF9qFVcuA/WAXApz87arI/AAAAAAAABFo/gFYEdrvOhKYQl7Mlz6UPZ8313zXwBLbHQCLcB/s200/jong.jpg" width="200" height="170" /></a></div><br />
Some would never get it. But most die-hard sports fans especially bonafide Ginebra fans will not find it strange that we've held on for so long. That's just how we hold on to life, mostly.In never-say-die fashion as what we've come to know Ginebra since Jaworski days, who after getting hit and stitched on during a game still returned from the hospital to lead his team to a come-from-behind win.<br />
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That's just how it is. If Ginebra is known as the never-say-die team, the fans are known for being never-say-die fans. We'll always be around. We're always around even those agonizing times when we've been mocked as our team became a perennial participant in the haters' imaginary 'Bora Cup' aka 'Boracay cup' - with reference to teams going on an early vacation usually off to the beaches in Boracay after being booted out. <br />
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And now - back to the present 2016. Our mighty team Ginebra is back in the Finals. They almost had a chance back in 2013 but got swept by Alaska so this new opportunity at being king and ending the 8-year title drought is what we've fervently hoped for. The time is just soooo ripe! <br />
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Since the conference started, I already noticed their game improving tremendously. There's a certain sense of mission, a fluidity to their game that was missing in past months, a renewed passion in how the players move that got the fans excited. Before the eliminations ended, I told my brother that Ginebra is playing like they're finals-bound. The level is just ahead of the other contending teams. <br />
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We saw the never-say-die spirit of the team back in harness, even right at the start of the conference. With their main big man Slaughter out due to injury, that did not discourage them and they played even better right from the first game, with renewed enthusiasm shown by the other half of the twin tower- Japeth. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5NNNT0ERnwE/WAXAyS9L3OI/AAAAAAAABFs/CMd9CVxR8eEa61qqtVoGMToOdmpzgUOwgCLcB/s1600/index.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5NNNT0ERnwE/WAXAyS9L3OI/AAAAAAAABFs/CMd9CVxR8eEa61qqtVoGMToOdmpzgUOwgCLcB/s200/index.jpg" width="173" height="200" /></a></div>And then came Brownlee - we saw his first game, suffering from cramps yet would ask to be fielded back in to fight off cramps and the jetlag. He was in and out during that game but we noticed that the heart is right there. That attitude that wore off the whole team. We saw it on the rebounding prowess of the rookie, Scottie, in the purpose-driven moves of Sol & Devance' leadership that inspires his team.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CraGB_FLaJU/WAXA5bndytI/AAAAAAAABF0/ClwmImMWLAgmTi7M-Z3nJDCvk8pe9vdlQCLcB/s1600/mercado-073016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CraGB_FLaJU/WAXA5bndytI/AAAAAAAABF0/ClwmImMWLAgmTi7M-Z3nJDCvk8pe9vdlQCLcB/s200/mercado-073016.jpg" width="200" height="133" /></a></div>And how we saw that spirit with the way LA Tenorio also came out with his resurgence of sorts reminiscent of 2013 when he almost won the MVP award.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zPERvAD66T4/WAXA_JfdNqI/AAAAAAAABF4/5uFqSC8sB2gqZGJMDCO5Ta8yqKkVxhAvwCLcB/s1600/late.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zPERvAD66T4/WAXA_JfdNqI/AAAAAAAABF4/5uFqSC8sB2gqZGJMDCO5Ta8yqKkVxhAvwCLcB/s320/late.jpg" width="320" height="213" /></a></div><br />
We saw the same never-say-die spirit rubbing off on Coach Tim who in just 3 conferences has really whipped up the team into an instant title-contender. The way he was reacting in the sidelines, turning from mentor to fan on every spectacular play of his team even if it is by his design or by fate's own design.<br />
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And then there's the holdovers from the last 2008 title- Mark & Jayjay Helterbrand. Both have shown signs of slowing down but their hearts and passion to win the game and win it for the fans are always there. Despite playing in probably the last phases of their careers, from the bandana brothers of yore to the 2016 Ginebra's own version of the <i><b>'Titos of Manila'</b><b></b></i>, they are still our '<b>Fast and Furious'</b> the 'id' of the team, its heart and soul made more evident by their scintillating performance during the Finals' Game 4. They are as hungry as the fans to win this title now.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zJDE_A8ZbWs/WAXBD5BzooI/AAAAAAAABF8/fPhe7T7dKBYDvcNa2KuXhmdXHeA-N5gGACLcB/s1600/caguioa-helterbrand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zJDE_A8ZbWs/WAXBD5BzooI/AAAAAAAABF8/fPhe7T7dKBYDvcNa2KuXhmdXHeA-N5gGACLcB/s320/caguioa-helterbrand.jpg" width="320" height="207" /></a></div><br />
So this Oct 19, in Game 6, as the balloons or confetti fall down, and that old familiar Gi-ne-bra chant echoes down the halls of the coliseum, and champagne corks and beer cans start to pop, I know my own tears will fall along with the legions of fans. To wash down all those years of pent-up emotions and frustrations - as our team Ginebra again replicate the struggles of life and teaching us lessons along the way - to not give up despite the odds. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3v5_niLVSjI/WAXBJWgI83I/AAAAAAAABGA/W32gpqAz2-YRSeuxvfzfWiF4oH89meODACLcB/s1600/ginebra-kings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3v5_niLVSjI/WAXBJWgI83I/AAAAAAAABGA/W32gpqAz2-YRSeuxvfzfWiF4oH89meODACLcB/s400/ginebra-kings.jpg" width="400" height="273" /></a></div><br />
And being happy and aware that any one special moment of triumph and pure joy will always be greater than any long years of hardship and disappointments. We know we'll never take it any other way. this has got to be it. <br />
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And all because our own 'Kangkong' has now become Kampeon'. From chumps to CHAMPS! <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ow4p89yona4/WAhFHq87xpI/AAAAAAAABGQ/YwwZmPn4ojQeqqYeF_CR2DMn9Oa59VceACLcB/s1600/640_gma_2460_2016_10_19_22_50_37_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ow4p89yona4/WAhFHq87xpI/AAAAAAAABGQ/YwwZmPn4ojQeqqYeF_CR2DMn9Oa59VceACLcB/s400/640_gma_2460_2016_10_19_22_50_37_1.jpg" width="400" height="286" /></a><br />
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Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-39150512557839907772015-11-12T09:30:00.000-08:002015-11-13T22:59:17.430-08:00My 15 (actually 16!) for 2015 (My Songs of The Year) This 2015 has been one heck of a roller-coaster ride of emotions for me - all about never-ending changes and sometimes recycled relationships. Of musings about the past, splashed with a few moments that awaken the senses. Somehow, these songs blasting on the airwaves, with most becoming my year's personal anthems, have made it to my top tunes to listen to and made 2015 quite interesting (whereas the word is not even the apt description that comes to mind but what the heck).<br />
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This, in the age of the #feels and the #hugotLines, and some fifty shades of everything thrown into the mix. Some of these songs may have not reached mainstream and others you may not be too familiar with (no, you won't find anything Nae, nae or twerk it like Mileys in here) yet these were the songs that are part of my playlist all-year round and hope you would enjoy these as much as I did. - and possibly feel the same emotions evoked by each beat and lyrics. I know there are still a few weeks to go before 2015 leaves us forever but I already compiled the songs that captivated my mind, heart and ears at least up to this 11th month.<br />
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<b>15) Hotline Bling - Drake </b> <br />
that sort of hypnotic beat just would be hard to get rid off your ear once you listen to it a few times. Drake seems to come up with those repetitive lyrics and chorus lines but still manages to catch the attention. Just forget the rather awkward dance moves on the video and this is sure to be a good enough song to listen to while you're bored and kind of pissed off. Most especially for guys who just couldn't stand it when their girls start to go out more 'and wear less'. It's like he realizes that what he can do, she can do better. Hah!<br />
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<b>14) Chandelier - Sia </b><br />
This may very well be an ode to suicide disguised as pop art. But there is a certain artistry that draws you to this song. And no one can deny the talent that Sia has. The music video is catchy enough with the brilliant dance moves but the real deal is in the way both lyrics and beat were put together to match Sia's compelling voicals. When talking about depression in the song doesn't sound depressing. And the line in the song '1-2-3, 1-2-3 drink' caught my attention forever.<br />
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<b>13) Sugar- Maroon 5 </b><br />
Oh, Adam Levine. He is like that guy whom you wouldn't mind having in your squad. And on your wedding date for that matter. This is one catchy tune that you can just enjoy singing and jiggling your head over and over while you listen.<br />
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<b>12) Blank Space - Taylor Swift</b><br />
This is the decade of the blond young Taylor, most definitely. This song was already playing on most of our radio before year 2014 ended but somehow still crossed over to feed our musical senses in early 2015. I just love singing and listening to this song. Never mind that she's a decade or so younger than me but this girl just cannot be denied her stardom and artistry. Most of her songs are pretty easy to relate to but what got me hooked in this is the first part 'I can make the bad guys good for the weekend', with those kinds of lyrics, it would be just hard to keep that off the charts.<b> </b><br />
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<b>11) Hello - Adele</b><br />
<b> </b>A late addition to my playlist of 2015 but yes, better late when it's this good. Adele went on a brief hiatus from the industry and this song is like a great big shoutout to the world that says 'Hello' I'm still here and I'm going to be on each and everyone's ears by the time this year's ove'r. "Hello from the other side"- that's been my staple lyric while at bath..much to the annoyance of my niece and sister. But I'm most definitely going to nail this in full, you'll see. I really love Adele and can't wait to listen to more songs from her new album. this is just one hello.<br />
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<b>10) Meet Me In The Middle - Jessie Ware</b><br />
What is it about British singer-songwriters? They're just all over the place this 2015. And definitely giving us those songs with the most feels. Jessie Ware is no exception. This bluesy piece, is perfect in its sensual beat that goes well with the singer's sultry voice. Hands down making it to one of my favorite songs in the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack. Come to think of it, my 2015 is full of the fifty shades stuff and more "Meet me in the middle,<br />
<i>Tell me something<br />That could change my mind<br />I couldn't let it be known,<br />This it is every time I refuse to say goodbye.</i><br />
<i> </i>Oh how I just love the Brits especially when they're singing songs that match my mood.<br />
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<b>10) Lay Me Down - Sam Smith </b><br />
The voice is haunting yet soothing at best. Always ringing in my ear. I could listen to Sam Smith all day. Lay Me Down is that song you just want to hear while holding that glass of rose` and lost in perpetual melancholy<b> </b>after realizing that the love of your life may be gone forever. And you're just stuck wishing you could lay down with him just a bit longer. Sigh!<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Can I lay by your side?<br />
Next to you, you<br />
And make sure you're alright<br />
I'll take care of you<br />
I don't want to be here if I can't be with you tonight</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Get the drift?? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's not just all about the bass for Ms. Meghan Trainor. This song is definitely one of those songs you wouldn't mind playing in your ear each day. More so when it features my favorite John Legend. The lyrics is something to ponder on as well. Like loving someone as if it's the last chance you're going to have in the world, before it's all gone. It shows the importance of caring for the people while you're with them because as the song says 'we're not promised forever'. So I'm gonna love you, like I'm gonna lose you. I'm gonna hold you like we're saying goodbye.. This give us the major case of the 'feels'.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>8) One Last Night - Vaults -</b> this is another one of those songs in the soundtrack of Fifty Shades of Grey. Part of my morning playlist especially during the months of February to May 2015 and had this on while getting ready for work. This song somehow carries the same sentiments as Like I'm Gonna Lose you. I'ts like having that one last night to hold on to, make something last even in just your memories. Electropop from another British act to raise the spirit up a notch.</span></span><br />
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<b> 7) All That - Carly Rae Jepsen</b><br />
This song reminds me of some of the 80's love ballads. It is so retro I love it, complete with the synthesizer mix that was ubiquitous back in that decade. You could almost forget that this is the same gal who gave us Call Me Maybe. And I like this one much, much better indeed. It's about being there for someone. To be all that someone needs and more. As I write these words, I can still hear that faint distinct melody and lyrics ringing in my ear oh so quietly..<i>"show me if you want me if I'm all that.."</i><br />
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<b>6) Rather Be - Clean Bandit </b><br />
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The intro got me hooked from the get go.. "Oh, woah'.. sang in semi-hum and moan.<b> </b>can't quite place the emotions this song bring but I really love how it takes me into a different location inside the head each time. That kind of song.<br />
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It's a pretty good beat to dance on to. And it is something that tells your loved one that even if you're a thousand miles from comfort, wherever you may be, even amid squalid surroundings and not so ideal situation, as long as that special one is with you, there's no place you'd rather be. Ah, love! and the sound of travel.<br />
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<b>5) Style - Taylor Swift</b><br />
This was also Ms. Swift's year as last year was and I think the year before too. But yes, we don't mind. If she spawns these kinds of songs year in and year out then we don't care if she perennially comes out among our top songs list. And style is just so that. Definitely captured that sentiment of mine mid-year. It's like getting back to that old habit - yes, the habit of hooking up with that someone from your past that you just can't get away from. Because the two of you just never go out of style<b>. </b><br />
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<b> 4) Uptown Funk- Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars</b><br />
This got me singing in swinging in all the right places. That beat is just amazing and yes, Bruno Mars will always be Bruno Mars. Someone I also wouldn't mind hogging my Top songs of the year annually. This song is perfect when you're feeling the vibe, just want to feel good, and happy about the world. Like the effects of vodka or marijuana perhaps. No haven't tried the grass but vodka buzz is nothing new. So this would be one of those songs that can play each year and will keep sounding new to the ear. I just love it's beat. And the music video contributes to the LSS too<br />
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<b>3) Earned It - The Weeknd</b><br />
First time I heard this was in February of this year, and it made me anticipate the movie Fifty Shades then. This is probably among the most popular tunes in that movie's sound track along with Beyonce's re-mastered Crazy In Love and my no. 1 song of the year. The lead singer's voice is definitely worth listening to and I especially am mesmerized by that part of the lyrics when he sang 'you make it look like it's magic. coz I see nobody, nobody but you', for such is a feeling when you're utterly infatuated with someone where you don't mind being used a little, knowing that you yourself earned that right to be used or abused as you please. Of course, with reference to the book and the movie about a sort of abusive relationship with romantic underpinnings. This is like the perfect caption to the movie's narrative if there ever was one. but the music is a stand alone entertainment and I love it.<br />
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<b> 2) Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran </b><br />
this may very well have made it to the top but came undone when our country somehow made this their national anthem. But yes, it does deserve a top spot in every music lovers' heart, with the artistry of Ed Sheeran backed with additional dancing talent as shown on the music video. The pure kind of love that this song offers is a refreshing alternative to all the heavy breathing, melancholy-filled, sultriness, the hooking-up with your ex- songs and sado-masochism tendencies that seem to characterize most of my favorite songs this year. It's a song that makes you want to raise your head while you listen to the first line even as you busily type away on your keyboard at work or reading something on your cellphone. And just makes you smile at the recollection of such a pure love that can very well last at lifetime, or at least until you're 70..<br />
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<b>1) Love Me Like You Do - Ellie Goulding</b><br />
Okay, this is very well the love theme of the year. And again! from the Fifty Shades soundtrack. Told ya! This is something about recognizing the dark side of your loved one, you have your qualms about the relationship but then would still want him to love you like he does. In his own way, the way that he's used to. It's about not putting on blinders when you're infatuated but this is more of the acceptance of your partner's flaws but still realizing that you want him after all. Because you know that he is both the cure and the pain in your life yet choosing to live with it. Viva la Cincuenta sombras de Grey, and hail, to the British invasion that rocked our music world this 2015.<br />
<span style="height: 1px; left: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: absolute; top: 0px; width: 1px;"></span>Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-2222514694702247162015-06-20T00:13:00.001-07:002015-06-20T19:39:11.978-07:00Happy Papa's Day!I couldn't recall ever having written a real tribute to my father or to 'Papa' as we call him. Well, his character left my young mind with the impression that he wouldn't really like it that much. He's not really the emotional type or one who'd feel comfortable having accolades thrown at him or his personal attributes spoken or written for the public eye. Maybe it's the Sagittarius male side of him that shuns any overt display of emotion or he just wants things as simple and uncomplicated as possible . Nonetheless, and on the occasion of Father's Day tomorrow, June 21st, I feel it's only fitting that I wrote a few things about him that I know made an impact on me. He was after all taken from us at a young age of 60 (from a heart attack) and I was still in my teens then. And he was also out of the country for a few years then stayed in the province months before he passed on, so those last few years with him have been an on again off again relationship with our father. Still and will always be the primary male personality in my life.<br />
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But I will often look back with fondness of those bits and pieces of kid's memories while he was with us. Will always love his sense of humor, his playful way with words to coax us little kids to comb his hair and rub his back while he tries to take a nap, and often me and my sister would exchange helpless glances at having our play interrupted after lunch. Now, I realized that it's probably Papa's way to keep us quiet and make us take our mandatory kiddie siesta because only a few seconds of combing his hair, both my sister and I would fall asleep before he does. Well played, Papa, well played. haha.<br />
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I also recall his protective ways in the simple things - like buying 'taho' one morning. While my sister and I were rushing to go out with our glasses to buy taho that one sunny morning of long ago, Papa then stopped us from our tracks and asked us not to buy anymore and to return our glasses at the pantry. While mildly disappointed at missing our favorite morning treat, Papa then explained that he saw one of the neighbor's kids poked a finger inside the taho container, licked his fingers then poked the licked finger back at the soy inside. That's when Papa decided that we shouldn't buy our taho that day. I would always look back at that morning with a smile, Papa and his endearingly sweet way of protecting us. Oh, how he would have raised a fuss at what we put in our mouths these days!. Sorry, Papa! but that's another story and yes, thank you for saving us from that icky bacteria-infested finger of the little neighbor. hahaha.<br />
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And I could also associate morning coffee with him. He used to drink his coffee in this very large transparent mug and my sister and I would often take turns in drinking the last remaining 1/8 portion of his coffee. this we often referred to as our 'tira-kape' moment. He would call us and ask who wants that last part of his coffee and Leslie and I would come rushing to him to finish off the mug's content. Whoever gets to his side first wins the much-coveted coffee part. It's amazing how a simple thing as that can evoke one of the sweetest memories of my childhood. Up to this day, the way I prepare my own cup of coffee is reminiscent of the taste of how Papa makes his coffee.<br />
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And there are the poignant moments that I saw of him and Mama. With the two of them dancing sweetly to the sound of the music playing on the stereo. Both my parents love music so much and how they make it their unspoken ritual to dance to the soft melody. The memory of him and Mama dancing in our living room is still very much alive here in my mind. <br />
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The songs he sings. The baritone voice, who can best the likes of Matt Monroe, Perry Como, Jack Jones. During parties (company gatherings or family get-togethers), he would be asked to sing and deep inside my very young mind, I felt every excitement hearing his voice. To this day, not even any of my brothers can hold a candle to his voice. Sorry, Mario, Mike and Bingo, but even your church choir experience is no match to Papa's voice and I'm sure you all would not disagree.<br />
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And that ampalaya moment. I remember one time when we only have ampalaya for lunch. To make the meal more enjoyable, he asked us to eat one portion of the bitter vegetable then drink water after. He advised that when one eats ampalaya, the water would taste differently and good. And that's how he made eating ampalaya such an exciting and tasteful experience for me. And to this day, I'm thankful that he did so as I'm sure I'm one of the few kids in our lifetime who enjoyed the bitter gourd growing up and beyond. Who knew such bitterness can lead to such a lifetime of sweetness. <br />
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Papa also is a man of few words. He is the kind of father na 'makuha ka sa tingin' type and my brothers & sister know that we shouldn't do anything to cross him when he's having a bad day. While he writes eloquently and can probably put up one chapter of book in writing us letters, when he speaks, you better listen. He doesn't want to repeat instructions, he seldom raise his voice but you can very well hear him when he talks. He is strict but not in the suffocating manner. It's more of just keeping us grounded and well-behaved. Because when it all comes down to it, he is also the kind of man who wants to have fun with family, with Mama and with his children and friends. As shown in these pictures. Too bad, I can't find our old album where he carries me so this only has my brothers with him and Mama.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gujiHrGGcZE/VYURryE8yOI/AAAAAAAABAc/HybVUy1sWP8/s1600/Picture%2B039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gujiHrGGcZE/VYURryE8yOI/AAAAAAAABAc/HybVUy1sWP8/s320/Picture%2B039.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Papa with Mama and my brothers Mario, Mike and Bingo</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Papa (3rd from left) at a party in our cousin's house. Having a beer with film stars and Mr. Eddie Garcia. My uncle was a scriptwriter in the movies and celebrities during their events were a common sight. </td></tr>
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I would always remember the letters he wrote us, his advices, the wit of his essays, the metaphors of his writings. Too bad I lost a lot of his letters sent to me while he was away in the Middle East. I would have loved to reread them now. And maybe find a way to reconnect with him as there will always be a space inside this heart that would forever remain blank with his passing.<br />
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Papa, you will forever be missed and celebrated too!. Happy Father's Day!! Send my regards to the Greatest Father up there too! <br />
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<br />Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-45908048729994287142015-05-20T02:26:00.004-07:002015-05-20T02:27:32.848-07:00Realization - May (or may not) Rhyme with ConfusionThere is that feeling that suddenly speaks to your thoughts making you realize things that once never crossed your mind.<br />
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Perhaps lost in previous sentiments and emotions - that part suddenly awakens. Makes you rethink of the mistakes (charged to moments of brief craziness) or may not even be termed 'mistakes' when it evokes certain feelings of happiness, fun and experiences that help you build those bizarre but memorable memories to last your lifetime.<br />
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It's when you reach a point where those things that used to affect you barely even registers as a blip in your sense's radar if at all. It's as if you have become someone new or somebody deleted portions of your brain and emotions that would otherwise succumb to the longing, or the anxiety, the stress or whatever other emotions that once make you decide that living is akin to sweet torture.<br />
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But it can only be a matter of time when you may realize that this realization or 'epiphany' may just be a repression of emotions and sentiments given the circumstances. And that a month or two from now things may be different and it would then be up to you to realize this or if it sets you up towards more dumbfounding things.<br />
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And yes, it now occurs to you that the mere realization that you've reached a point of realization may soon lead to more confusion and ultimately a lot of wild, sensational (though not necessarily unwelcome) emotions.<br />
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<br />Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-28372748101084192092015-05-04T22:07:00.000-07:002015-05-04T22:07:39.739-07:00Shadows At Midnight<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">There it was, as
I lay awake again</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">A figure hovering
in the dark</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">“What could that
be?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">This question I
always ask.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">It certainly
looked that way,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">An image of him
I see</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">But how? When he
is far away,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Over the land of
the rising sea.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Still, rather
than conjuring scary images</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Of restless
souls and ghouls that creep</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">I know this
sight I now behold is just the power of his thoughts, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">of longing to be
with me despite our distance so I smile and just fall back to sleep..</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">(This is a poem I wrote more than 5 years ago. Whew! can't believe this year's almost halfway since I lost posted. I probably would be actively blogging again. Let's see where this leads).</span></span> </span></div>
Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-5334206875584986972015-01-21T20:53:00.003-08:002015-01-21T21:01:51.479-08:00The Lighter Shade of NormalAfter the long holidays, we're back in the groove, some of us with a bit of fog in the head.. But nothing beats getting all your mind cleared of the clusters of yesterday by looking ahead to the future..<br />
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And as we traipse back to the real work week, and normalcy resumes following the first two weeks of January that I have termed as merely 'dress rehearsals to 2015 (with the long holidays of Christmas, New Year Holidays and the Papal visit), it would be awesome if we are equipped with something to chase the fuzziness of our days, clear our minds - to make us view the future in high resolution minus the headaches, something lightweight, like this:<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">ZERO GRAVITY: Ultra-Light Eyewear by Sprinto<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">SPRINTO
launches “Zero Gravity”, <span style="background: white;">its newest, lightest
and classiest optical frames collection </span>- one of its many collections
brought to Manila. Sprinto, an international brand currently endorsed by Azkals
top player Phil Younghusband and America’s Next Top Model Alumni Allison
Harvard, was introduced to the local market more than 5 years ago - in the
process having proven itself a maker of cutting-edge eyewear that can be both
beautiful and functional.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0.1pt;">The Zero Gravity Collection features weight-optimized lenses and
ultra-light frames that can finally make the headaches caused by heavy
spectacles a thing of the past. The secret to these incredibly thin and
lightweight frames is Sprinto’s commitment to investing on <span style="background: white;">high quality source material and progressive
technology, resulting to products that are </span></span><span style="background: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">rimless,
screwless, hingeless, and virtually weightless, <span style="letter-spacing: .1pt;">with an overall reduced weight of more than 50%, in comparison to regular
frames in the market.</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">One of Sprinto’s
best-selling line of products, the Zero Gravity Collection features all the
perfect eyewear for the professional on-the-go: lightweight, flexible, perfect
for all day, every day. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">For more information on Sprinto, follow them on Facebook
and Instagram @sprintoworld. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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And this is my lighter shade of normal..</div>
Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-53710843200558343112014-12-22T18:10:00.000-08:002015-01-08T18:34:59.441-08:00I Never Think Twice about Eyewear - SPRINTO <span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">A few years back, I posted about how I love wearing sunglasses. Not only does it hide the glare of the blazing heat from the sun but also masks what my eyes don't want to reveal - sleepless nights, the sadness within, perhaps, or the twinkle in my eyes for a remembrance of something naughty. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">Really, I never go out without sunglasses, even if it's a bit cloudy - and also, there is nothing handy than the perfect eyewear even while at work - not only to make one look more professional but one that is both functional and comfortable and yes - very, very stylish. That is why having the right eye wear is always a must. Which led me to discover something great this holiday. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">SPRINTO
Unveils Holiday Gift Collection</span></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bzz98C_A3Pc/VK83tlOvidI/AAAAAAAAA70/-I-zckv0Cvk/s1600/sprinto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bzz98C_A3Pc/VK83tlOvidI/AAAAAAAAA70/-I-zckv0Cvk/s1600/sprinto.jpg" height="71" width="200" /></a></b></div>
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This holiday season, Sprinto unveils its Holiday Gift Collection which
features all their trademark, bestselling eyewear that come in handy with a free
stylish gift bag ready for your holiday gift-giving.<br />
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Sprinto, currently one of the country’s top eyewear brands, made a splash in
the international market more than 5 years ago, having proven itself a maker of
cutting-edge eyewear that can be both beautiful - and functional.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rTp2TgWsDAc/VK87InOD8OI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/8XfUwApI9sM/s1600/sprinto1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rTp2TgWsDAc/VK87InOD8OI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/8XfUwApI9sM/s1600/sprinto1.png" height="320" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">functional, comfortable yet very stylish. Sprinto shades are one of the best</td></tr>
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Sprinto’s bestsellers include: Zero-Gravity Lenses, which are
ultra-lightweight and functional, perfect for working professionals; Earth
Basics, a 100% PureWood Collection crafted from the finest woods available
including zebra wood, lacewood, ebony, to name a few; and high-strngth
Polycarbonate Frames & Lenses, which are perfect for the more high-impact,
adventurous bunch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-na13BRlYt6Q/VK87GCAGKiI/AAAAAAAAA8I/AWRfI6F64i0/s1600/sprinto2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-na13BRlYt6Q/VK87GCAGKiI/AAAAAAAAA8I/AWRfI6F64i0/s1600/sprinto2.png" height="217" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">perfect accessory for your daily travels. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mT921ZgLcyw/VK87JyBl0YI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/iIHrAIvgEyM/s1600/sprinto3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mT921ZgLcyw/VK87JyBl0YI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/iIHrAIvgEyM/s1600/sprinto3.png" height="320" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool shades in very chic designs</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KARQRcDCtmw/VK87KZxC8oI/AAAAAAAAA8c/u0cwlOt-dpc/s1600/sprinto4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KARQRcDCtmw/VK87KZxC8oI/AAAAAAAAA8c/u0cwlOt-dpc/s1600/sprinto4.png" height="228" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this is one sexy pair of sunglasses</td></tr>
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Featured eyewear from this holiday collection come standard with iDefine
Polarized Lenses for visuals that are brighter, clearer and higher-contrast.
These frames go through a multiple-step process to create one-of-a-kind pieces
that solidify Sprinto as the leader in sustainable, cutting-edge eyewear.<br />
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For more information on Sprinto’s Holiday Collection, follow them on
Facebook and Instagram @sprintoworld.<br />
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#IWEARSPRINTOLoida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-24711927217206203152014-11-18T04:45:00.002-08:002014-11-18T04:45:59.350-08:00My Top 14 Songs of 2014 I know that there are still a few weeks to go before 2014 becomes part of our memories. But I'm just about ready to name my top 14 songs of the year. These songs made my own list - some for personal reasons, some for sentimental reasons and others for their ubiquitous beat that just entrenched their lyrics and beat to my ears the whole year-round, well almost. A lot of young ones in this list (my soul probably is getting younger by the minute). All young singers, except for maybe one or two artists whom are my perennial favorites. So here they are in countdown fashion 14 to the Top 1:<br />
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<img height="259" src="https://img2.blogblog.com/img/video_object.png" width="320" /><b>14) I'm Not The Only One - Sam Smith</b> that unique voice, a blend of the soulful with just a hint of the raspy.. one couldn't help but gravitate to this song. And especially when you understand where the lyrics are heading to. chorus: <i>"You say I'm crazy Cause you don't think I know what you've done But when you call me baby I know I'm not the only one" ..</i>Ouch! that would hurt a man's ego, right?
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a pretty good song to listen to, while you're holding a glass of chianti or yes, probably Jack Daniel's (it's an ode to a contemporary love affair, where the predilection to stray is no longer just a man's specialty , but also the woman's).</div>
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<b>13) Human - Christina Perri</b> - this song was released back in 2013 but only caught on in early 2014. It touches the heart, that melancholic style of voice of Christina Perri. It has become a personal favorite too. I just love how it latched on to the sentiment of the moment.. yes, my moment in mid-2014. About doing almost everything for the one you love but that one can only endure so much because one is after all just only human. Just thinking about this song just makes me want to sing along.. "your words in my head, knives in my heart.."<br />
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<b>12) Love Never Felt So Good - Michael Jackson & Justin Timberlake </b>- this song recorded by the great MJ and released posthumously this 2014 and reworked as a duet by Justin Timberlake brings back the charm of the Motown era . This couldn't get more sentimental than that. Will always love Michael Jackson's songs & paired with an equally admirable artist in Justin Timberlake with enough nostalgic rhythm to evoke certain raw emotions - then it's bound to make it to my list of top songs to listen to this 2014 and beyond.
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/-2U0Ivkn2Ds?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><b>11) Say Something - Christina Aguilera & A Great Big </b>
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<b><b>World </b>- </b>though this was actually released latter part of 2013, it sort of caught wave in the PH early in 2014. When you can hear the melancholic drawl on almost every radio stations. This song was particularly reminiscent of that moment in my life when I've about called it quits with my present relationship. That I'm just waiting for that someone to say something and we'll either bid permanent farewells or to give the relationship another heave-ho. Yes, that pretty much sums up the sentiments of this song, exactly as it unfolds in my on-again, off-again love affair.</div>
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<b>9) Happy - Pharell Williams</b> - this artist is a personal favorite. and this song is one of those really catchy tunes of the year. it's like telling all those trials to go f--k off. That no amount of problems can prevent you from clapping your hands in elation to a moment of happiness. That no matter what happens, we can all try and be happy. Can be a nice mantra too for the turbulent times.
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<b>8)</b> <b>Problem - Ariana Grande</b> </div>
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be big and indeed, she has struck gold with most of her songs this year. Definitely no problem with this young diva's career in 2014. And this song's lyrics has really tugged at my persona for some reason.</div>
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clubbing in the heat of summer. personally reminds me of those evenings briefly spent inside those clubs in The Fort and Bonifacio Global City (think Prive' and that other one in W Building) while attending some events. It's one of those songs that mesmerizes you with a voice paired with a pumping, eclectic beat that makes you sway your hips while holding a glass of wine or thump your feet mildly in your semi-inebriated state, totally basking in the glory of a carefree evening surrounded by bright lights, and beautiful people.</div>
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I think my soul is getting younger each day. I gravitate to these new songs of emerging new artits. Like, what?? No Mariah on this year's list? No Beyonce' or Alicia Keys? No Rihanna, even or Adele. Well, the reason probably why I groove to these types of songs aside from their being regular airtime fare of most radio stations I listen too (and yes, partly influenced by my niece), but it just seems so carefree. </div>
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<b>5) Talk Dirty To Me - Jason Derulo</b> - the almost whistle-like with a bit of drums intro is quite an earful and you just couldnt' help but turn your head around to the source of those beats. Then you hear the naughty lyrics and so it just sort of grows on you. For one single moment while listening to the song you wonder if talking dirty is really the option. Or the only option.<br />
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shake off all those negative things in your life and if the lyrics were a photograph, it would be one big tongue sticking out at your haters. it's also about being chill in the face of annoying people or irritating problems. And I definitely would want to shake-shake-shake to the melody. Taylor Swift is simply genius.<br />
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Come on set the tone If you feel you're falling Won't you let me know Oh-Oh-Oh-Ooh-Oh Oh-Oh-Oh-Ooh-Oh".. sooo caatchyyy! and something that makes you want to fall in love however nerdy-looking Ed might be in his MTV. The music speaks of a mixture of different genre & possibly a combination of different era too. it's something I can't quite put my finger on, but I'm just gonna sing to it.. or possibly dance a little too.
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2) <b>All of Me - John Legend</b> </div>
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sigh! Can't help but always swoon to this sone whenever I hear it. And make me think of all things candlelit, rose-scented, champagne, soft </div>
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</b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b> </b> <b>1) Almost is never enough - Ariana Grande and Nathan </b></div>
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This is also for couples who just aren't able to make that one final commitment (like us, perhaps?) It's about trying hard but possibly trying not too hard enough. But more than anything else, I also love duets since the 70s duets up to this 21st century duets. It had me at the piano intro.. And Ariana Grande is just so grand in this one. We know that she's got the vocal chops, she's also got the makings of a true pop icon, complete with her pony tails, can sing dance hits, collaborate with equally great artists. But in this song, you also see how she has that old soul in music, and the vocal range </div>
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that can match the greats (do I hear a young Mariah??). Showcased in a perfect blend with the wonderful voice of Nathan Sykes, I wouldn't mind listening to this song for years to come.</div>
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Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-1062750054975145032014-08-23T22:17:00.000-07:002014-08-23T22:17:04.066-07:00Magic SlateBeing in a state of forgetfulness could work both ways.. It is never easy to realize that you cannot recall certain things. And, yes, short-term memory loss can be annoying like entering a room and totally forgetting why you went in there to begin with, or where you may have placed your mobile phone. <br />
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I am able to posit this after what happened in the last few months, involving a person close to me. I don't want to dwell on the actual medical conditions that she had or what caused this in the first place. I can only write about my observation on such a case. Or rather the state of not remembering certain things.<br />
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While a major loss of memory can be a life-debilitating condition, on the upside, it can be a balm to ease the weary soul. Especially when our memories are too full of hurts and pains caused by other people. And that losing a big part of our memory may serve to purge us from the bad feelings that ultimately may lead us to a more relaxed state. We may forget how easily we are irritated by things that people do or do not do for us, expectations that were unmet no longer affecting us as they did previously..Unhampered by past hurts, we can start anew, possibly able to recall only those pleasant things or focus on the good things that we can see at present and feel with people around us who should be in our memories forever, and not those that shouldn't be even part of our lives to begin with.<br />
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But it is frustrating to really not recall a part of our life, our id, what made us who we are as years wore on, because all the heartaches, the sorrows and pains of the past are all part of what we are, who we have become. But are we the better persons for it? Or are we merely holding on to those grudges and pains caused by others to feel alive? When in fact being alive should mean just being in the moment. Fleeting as it was, each moment should always bring us a new set of memory, something that in time we might forget ever existed. The realization in this situation is that we can just make the most of our present set up, just enjoy the company of people we love and who love us. That each second that passes will no longer be relived nor remembered makes it even more important..<br />
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When we're faced with such a condition, that's the only thing that we should learn to accept & live in new range of mindset. devoid of any memories, but just living in the moment and totally forgetting the hurts, pains and our bad feelings about things and other people.<br />
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If I should experience a similar situation, I hope someone would redirect me to this blog and remind me of it and how to deal with it. A perpetual magic slate of the mind. Just always open to new things but forever in tuned to lasting, true love. Never holding on to the doubts, nagging worries, the heartaches and headaches..and just being carefree souls that we should be..Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-54659507582317896332014-02-20T21:51:00.002-08:002014-02-20T21:51:54.979-08:00Almost but not quite..It was almost bliss, those past few weeks before the first month of the year had reached its penultimate climax. And then time lurched us back to reality..of putting on hold what we started oh so intensely.<br />
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We almost ended it..in fact, yes, I had ended it months back.. or so I thought..<br />
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but our connection it seems does not recognize such a word as goodbye..for how many times have we bid each other adieu? often to wind up together when time and schedule permit. always picking up from where we left of..<br />
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Somehow we have been inured to the pain of breaking away from the tight embrace, only to succumb to the longing when the occasion to meet calls..<br />
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It gets tiring at times, we're like a yo-yo spinning madly, away, then back up again to the hands that hold us close.. swinging here and there yet always wounding our way back, fast and firmly held by the strong grip in a tight knot.<br />
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I often pride myself to be a veteran of goodbyes, yet I can never get used to the constant farewells - the let's keep in touch, see you sometime soon again scene's. Scenes that we often played up to the last minute. And why we must always part after those intense moments is beyond me but I guess that is part of the attraction of whatever it is that we have..That I get the feeling we wouldn't want it any other way..that it would destroy the magic we share if we have a 'normal' thing like others have - of constant togetherness, washing the dishes together, or the taking out of garbage.. maybe it's not our thing.. this union is never like that and never will be like that.<br />
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But still we have love- the connection, whatever.. and that whenever we are together the heaven is just a breath away..then we head back to our routines. Yes, it may just be our own kind of heaven - almost..but not quite. .Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-76832797748065309512013-12-26T23:03:00.001-08:002014-01-02T20:23:29.096-08:00My 2013 Songs of the Year (SOY-so good)In no particular order, I now recap the songs that made it to my top list this year. With 2013 just several winks and a couple of red-eyes away, I again list these songs that made a great impact on me this year or songs and music that I can largely relate to throughout this rather challenging year.<br />
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1) <b>Girl on Fire (Alicia Keys) </b>-apart from being one of my all-time favorite artists, Alicia Keys will often find her songs among my top list. This song in particular is like a personal mantra this year - something I would sing to myself to get fired up especially when things get a bit hectic, bleary and when catastrophe strikes. The song is like an impetus that pushes us forward from our low point and reminding us there's always something that will give us that break to make our mark and own the world<br />
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2) <b>Treasure (Bruno Mars) </b>- the beat is an eclectic mix of the 70s Motown with a touch of the 80s or something..it's like straight out of a psychedelic dream. I would say that 2013 has been one airwaves full of Bruno Mars hits & his wavy curls. I especially like the theme of this song - giving that warm feeling of a special guy that makes you feel extra special too. <br />
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3) <b>We Can't Stop (Miley Cyrus)</b> - long before Miley created that scene at the AMA when she twerked and twisted with Robin Thicke, and long before Wrecking Ball made an impact, this song has become a sort of back-to-my-late-teens theme. It's just a great party music, it's catchy, you can dance, sing to it and it's like flashing that good 'ol dirty-finger and wagging the tongue at the bad times & the nosy people. Lyrics that make you want to just forget about all troubles and have fun that nobody can stop - it's my mouth I can say what I want to stuff that gets me..And my fave line in this song..'Remember only God can judge us, Forget the haters cause somebody loves ya'. So I just couldn't stop myself from liking this song.<br />
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4) <b>The Way (Ariana Grande)</b> - well, these artists are getting younger by the minute. But they seem to have an old soul. And the music especially of this song, smacks of the early 90s. I love the beat and it keeps playing in my ears for several weeks and before I know it, I'm singing along each time I listen to the song. This girl is bound to go places with her vocal range. While this song is an all too telling reminder of the excitement of young love..ahh, the way..<br />
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5)<b> Royals (Lorde) </b>- who'd go wrong with a line that says 'in the torn-up town, no post code envy..' well, this song leaves a haunting impression in the mind. It's fresh, the singer's a fresh new artist. When I first heard this song I didn't know she was only seventeen-years old. There was something in the beat that is both bouncy like when you're alone waiting for someone in the club, and then you feel like, sort of hoping, that the one you're waiting don't appear, like you want to wait forever..that's how the vibe of it feels like. And it's also a shoutout to those who feel they have to keep going w/the trends or who's in, who's famous. Hell, we are not 'royals', so what? We live by our own set of rules and love according to our hearts<br />
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6) <b>Blurred Lines (Robin Thicke w/ Pharell Williams)</b> - 'Everybody get up' -that's how this song got my attention. And of course, it is a naughty song if you relate to it closely enough. There is something a bit of a Motown-y in the song that I like too.. and of course, the sexy Robin Thicke, and Pharell, and the kind of fun that the song promises a good girl like me.. and because I know I want it..<br />
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7) <b>Roar (Katy Perry) </b>- for the past 3 years or so, this girl has been roaring her way on top of the charts and always her songs often make it to my own personal annual list. This song is especially a great pick-me-upper. Something that would make it an inspiration when someone's treating you really bad and you just got to growl your way back to good mood. So whether you're waging a personal battle - maybe trying to get back into shape, or doing a massive makeover, whatever, or even trying to bounce back off a heart break, this song is perfect.<br />
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8) <b>Get Lucky (Daft Punk)</b> - again the voice of Pharell is sensual in this one. and the beat is like a mix of 70s, 80s and 90s. How solid the music can be. No matter if the song may be about getting laid or possibly just a romantic notion of spending overnight with someone special, there is something in the rhythm, the blend of voices, and the lyrics that catches on over and over..it's as if I'm listening to the song in my head before sleeping, and in my dreams the tune just keeps on ringing and up until the waking hours..The kind of song that just never leaves easily - something that grows inside the soul. Now, who wants to get lucky?<br />
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9) <b>When I Was Your Man (Bruno Mars) </b>- now this song is something I imagine my guy (ex, I guess) is singing wherever he is right now. It captures the kind of raw emotion of a man who regrets not treating his girl the way she wants it to and realizing only too late that they can no longer be as she already found someone else. Boo-hoohoo. It's sad but it can also be a lesson to guys out there. After all, ladies, women out there are just simple creatures with simple things to make us happy (you believe that, do you?) Some of us dig flowers (though I personally don't care much about flowers. I'd prefer that you gift me w/ a book), or holding hands or inviting them for a dance. It's melancholic enough and especially the acoustic version that I love. The way Bruno Mars sang this, it captures the essence of how exactly a guy feels post break-up. or at least shown us women how a guy must have felt after they broke our hearts and vice-versa.<br />
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I'm sure there are other songs now playing that you may have listened to more and there are other that some annoyingly played on and on, but when it comes to 2013's biggest, these are the songs that largely filled my music buffet table. And I can't wait for more songs to listen to in the coming year. <br />
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Ciao!<br />
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Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-29041017262051599592013-11-19T19:11:00.001-08:002013-11-20T00:05:07.165-08:00Super Typhoon - a Tale of Trauma & Triumph A thousand blogs and news articles have been written about super typhoon Haiyan (known in the Philippines as 'Yolanda') and more stories would spring forth days, months, even years after, about this deluge that hit our country on the morning of 8 November 2013. And possibly more than a thousand untold stories of the losses and the survivors' tales.<br />
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It has touched our lives and even lives of citizens across the world in ways unimaginable, much like its strong winds that only previously can be comparable to a movie writer's imagination. For such is the force that it brought Leyte, Samar and other provinces where it mercilessly stormed its deadly path.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">satellite feed of Haiyan's approach to Philippines</td></tr>
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I still shudder on realization how those of us here in Manila, the Philippine's capital were spared by Haiyan's mighty winds. It just wafted and blew a mere speckle of its strong winds that fateful Friday night. Still, even as we're several kilometers away from where it made its 6th and last landfall somewhere in Mindoro (or was it Palawan, I'm now not so sure), I heard the frightening howl of the winds and we felt some of it too although very mildly compared to those provinces that were directly hit. I also heard the tin roofs of neighbors' houses banging as if at anytime the wind would pull it off its trusses. But the beating of my heart then was louder as I already heard snippets of news reports that several houses in Leyte were already destroyed and I can only utter a silent prayer that the typhoon doesn't change its course and proceed to wreak same havoc in our city. By then I am already well aware of its strength. In fact, even a week prior to it's reaching the shores of Guiuan, Samar Province, I am already shuddering at the possibilities and well aware of its very strong winds. If only people there were also as paranoid as me, probably there would have been more survivors. <br />
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Though I am no weather expert, seeing and reading news of the impending cyclone to hit our land was already at the top of my mind and most especially when reports come not just from our own weather bureau (PAGASA) but also reports corroborated by foreign meteorologists. I worry that we might lose the roof of our home in case it hits Manila. I know that those meteorologists and typhoon-watchers were closely monitoring what they fear is a really monster storm considering that it had been topping their scales of how they normally gauge super typhoons. If there probably was a stronger word than 'super' I guess that would have been more appropriate to describe those ominous clouds. Yolanda's diameter is even scarier as I watch satellite feeds of its approach.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AFP Getty Image- survivors wander around the rubble</td></tr>
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So when I saw how badly devastated those parts of the provinces in the Visayas were, I am no longer surprised. Still that knowledge did not prepare me for the trauma it has caused to the psyche. Imagine the countless unidentified corpses, the despair, hurt and pain of our countrymen who not only had to battle the surging seas that washed ashore and destroyed lives and homes, but also the, hunger, thirst, inequities and human indignities suffered post-Haiyan. The unimaginable suffering and pain they all had to go through and I know that if I have a similar experience I'm not sure I could even learn to smile again. At least not for a very long time if at all.. <br />
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And then there were the blame games (both by government vs. local officials of the badly hit towns and vice-versa), the bashing of the government by some quarters over the seemingly very slow & poorly coordinated relief and retrieval operations that only add to the nation's trauma. Still, there is a glimmer of hope. For after international media aired the devastation and continue to chronicle and broadcast/write about the plight of our brothers and sisters in the Visayas, the whole world suddenly took notice of our simple Philippine archipelago. Suddenly, it's as if the storm brought together the whole world to rally behind our countrymen, to send support, offer prayers and just encourage us to go on and rise above the catastrophe. That alone signified that after all the trauma of this horrific typhoon, there is a triumph of the human spirit. This triumph is even made more evident with the way some of those who survived the giant storm surge still manage to smile and you still see the children after emerging from the rubble grinning, waving at correspondents' cameras, some even playing a basketball game amid the ruins. It is amazing that somehow there is still hope and that their spirit is still left untouched by Haiyan. The way they are also clamoring for help, queuing up to get to better lands, or ride on the rescue plains to move and rebuild their lives somewhere show a true fighting heart, and an even stronger spirit that is still very much willing to live and not let the destruction of monster Yolanda totally wipe them out or reduce their souls to rubble. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USAID soldiers carrying relief goods for Tacloban City victims</td></tr>
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One can only conclude that after all these trauma a most refreshing victory follow. A triumph brought by love for one another (freely given by Filipinos to its countrymen and outpouring of support and concern by citizens of other nations toward the Filipinos and to our whole country). Triumph trumps trauma after all.Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-13863582521141651422013-07-14T22:25:00.000-07:002013-07-14T22:26:28.864-07:00A war withinThe mind and heart once more waging its battle. All weapons drawn..The mind just would not put up with the inconsistencies anymore even if the heart is willing to plead its case. It is ready to take the bull by the horn and splatter its insides all over where it will no longer cease to operate.<br />
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You see the mind discovers things not normally seen by the heart. It sees a lot and is poised to take action. When pain is just too much and it knows it can kill that pulsating blob, it has to cut off that part so as not to infect the whole being. Just like that scene in the movie World War Z..however painful, even if the part of the arm is severed, it has to be done to avoid the whole zombie virus from infecting the person.<br />
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And the heart somehow understands this predicament..it is somewhat willing to get parts of it cut even if it is rendered almost inert, almost incapable of what once had it beating so powerfully, so musically..it is even prepared to die than be the 'undead'.. for the mind has spoken, telling (no, demanding) that the heart relent this time. no excuses, no sentiments to offer as shield to the brain's firepower..<br />
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But of course, even if the heart does not wish to live a life like a zombie, it still would not just let go of the part that plays the pulsating rhythm so easily..at least not without a fight.<br />
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Whichever would prevail? Either one could win and another to lose or both can lose or win at the same time.Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-53957550994029174882013-06-27T20:22:00.000-07:002013-06-27T20:22:04.066-07:00Parables or Possibles Parables have their purpose. Sometimes you are reminded of it when faced with a certain situation in life. When we are forced to make some tough choices.<br />
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There is one that particularly comes to mind at this stage. The parable of the wolf with the chunk of meat in his mouth. He walks along the bridge and happens to gaze at his reflection on the water. Being the animal that he is, he is not aware that it is only a reflection. What he focused on is that there's this other wolf with a bigger piece than the meat he currently carries in his mouth. <br />
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Well, since this is a parable, the writer is free to incorporate a human nature on the part of the beast. The nature of greed and/or dissatisfaction. So what happens next is that the wolf realizes that there is another animal like him with a bigger meat in its mouth so he suddenly lets go of the what he got in between his teeth and jumped through his reflection on the water. And as he splashed on the raging river lost the piece of meat he has to the strong current..<br />
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That story puts a pretty strong premium on how greed often makes us lose more than what we had hoped for. And that not appreciating what we have while it's within our grasp results in undesirable consequences.<br />
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So now how do I face this situation? Do I need to be reminded of that parable or am I after all really looking at the real possibilities of what life can be? for me, for now and in the future?<br />
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This is my dilemma.Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-50105627247485291482013-04-21T20:09:00.005-07:002013-04-21T20:29:39.239-07:00Never-Say-Die is Timeless Ah, basketball. When ever did I started getting hooked in watching this game? Something about the interplay of all the participants, each with his own role in the team & the fast-paced action culminating in the entering of a ball to a ring atop a rather lofty pole.<br />
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Yes, I am a basketball fan. But more importantly I am a fan of Philippine basketball, notably the PBA. My first glimpse of the game was back when I was too young to fully comprehend what it's all about. All I recall then was the running to and fro, the shooting of the ball which somehow mesmerized my impressionable mind back then. I chanced upon those games on TV waking up in the middle of the night to go downstairs to pee, probably just 5 or 6 yrs old I do not remember. My parents were both watching, the lights turned off and only the glare of the TV set (black and white then) illuminated the living room. So after taking a pee I would always walk by my parents and sit behind my father (me, in my semi-awake state) and just stared blankly on the TV screen at the jumping, running men with a lone ball as their toy. There were many nights like that and to this day I can still vividly recall that comfortable feeling of just sitting behind both parents as they watched basketball (come to think of it, I now wonder why they are so silent watching the game). PBA Games were on delayed telecast then as I they weren't showing the games live and possibly the programming on TV confined to Marcos propaganda but that's another story. <br />
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Both my parents were Crispa fans & back then I somehow had a glimpse of Philippine basketball rivalry between Crispa and Toyota days. And then other childhood activities took over and I stopped watching for a few years. Until Ginebra happened..<br />
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Suffice it to say that spanning almost two decades now, I have been hooked on the Ginebra San Miguel brand of basketball. And to think that I grew up almost a Crispa fan and never a Jaworski fan because of my parents but somehow fate would intervene and I developed a fondness for the Jaworski magic that soon transcended into the Ginebra spirit as we know now. <br />
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After taking a hiatus from watching PBA games because of pressing 'childhood' matters, I again started to take notice of the PBA games (and yes, the colored TV was already in vogue and President Marcos has since been deposed) in 1986. There were certain problems of personal and family nature that happened then and what kept me going in those dark days (I was still very young & in pre-adolescent stage so I was probably depressed for all the wrong, petty reasons) was my renewed interest in watching PBA games and the kind of play that I saw Ginebra dish out. I was never aware then that Ginebra is beginning its crowd-darling status. All I know was during those rather depressing moments or what you may simply call the 'emo stages' of my life, I was entertained watching the team play. It became my rallying point too whenever I see the Ginebra team of old rally from 20 points down until they emerge as winners. All trepidation in life, all the depressing situations washed away by watching my favorite team subdue their opponents. Every behind-the-back pass of Jaworski to a streaking Dondon Ampalayo, a 3-point shot by Loyzaga, or a courtside 'nakaw play' was my elixir to ward off any misgivings on the existence of good life. Watching Ginebra win is like a signal for me that yes, I too can take on anything that fate throws at me.<br />
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The way the whole team carried on the creed of never-say-die for many years now continued to get me hooked on Ginebra that even if the older players were since replaced by younger, more athletic guys, my fondness for watching the team play has never waned. Each win, each obstacle the team faced and hurdled with fortitude only served as an inspiration to carry on despite the challenges. At the height of my growing fanaticism then with Ginebra, I even composed a poem for them during my teens. I might post it separately here and dedicate to the throngs of their followers.<br />
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Watching Ginebra play is like a diversion for me - to ward off loneliness when the boyfriend is far away working abroad, a balm to a weary mind whenever life's situation is less than ideal. It's like an unseen brother's consoling hand to a sister whose heart is broken - well, at least almost that kind of effect just to give you an idea. As a die-hard fan of the never-say-die team, it is often hard to explain this devotion. It's like trying to explain to others why you love someone when the mere definition of the feeling doesn't even come close to the actual feeling so it's best to leave it unexplained. <br />
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And once more with Ginebra facing a gigantic task tonight to beat a strong team, their attempt at victory will again be foremost in my mind as well as in the minds of the thousands of Ginebra fans in the land (and some Filipinos overseas, my boyfriend included). It is a challenge that we will face alongside the team - and their win tonight to enter the next level of the playoffs would be like a fresh mango shake taken on a sweltering midday sun, a bit like crushing all those jellies at Candy Crush Saga (he he, well not exactly but close) and almost synonymous to the elation brought by a budding summer romance - exhilarating, inspiring and yes always unforgettable.<br />
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Because even as black & white TVs have become relics of the past thanks to the Flat Screen LEDs, and social media and the internet has taken over most of our conversations or the iconic voice of Joe Cantada now replaced by the amusingly funny in-his-own-way but sensible type of game commentary of Mico Halili , the never-say-die spirit lives on. Because like our pursuit to happiness & our constant battle with life's struggles the Ginebra's formula of conquering the odds will forever be timeless. Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-57131290453427632222013-04-03T02:30:00.000-07:002013-04-04T01:05:07.835-07:00Waiting Shade<br />
During summer here people rush to find cover or the nearest waiting shed outside to escape punishing heat<br />
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When rainy season starts, people rush again to find cover from heavy downpour.<br />
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Common denominator: THE waiting shedLoida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3453214962611736203.post-3001798754320367392012-11-10T22:32:00.001-08:002012-11-20T01:48:26.095-08:00CHANGES & CHANCESA lot of changes..yes, we are often faced with it. In our daily lives but more so now when thinking about certain situations in my life now. We just had to deal with it not because it is inevitable but because we just have to. And most of the time, there are no reasons or hidden meanings, we just have to pass through it.<br />
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But more than these changes that we know are likely to happen anyway and one we could not dictate or demand to not happen, somehow there is a change we need to make to survive. And that is to change our attitude. Our perception about change bears changing. While not exactly welcoming each change that comes our way with open arms, we should change how we react to it and in so doing open up ourselves to better chances.<br />
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It's all about how we handle the change, how we manage to remain calm, poised while being alert to opportunities at the same time. For any change we should try to offset with all the chances. Chances we need to take so that whatever is no longer the same would somehow still continue to feel the same. Change should not chain us but charge us into making a brighter tomorrow.<br />
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Changes - only exceptional people go through it much stronger, though not exactly unscathed, still are much better off than when things stayed the same..Loida T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01915428297722410477noreply@blogger.com