In My Screening Room: Miss Potter

   This movie review has been long delayed. If I'm not mistaken, I have seen this movie 2 or 3 years ago. I thought I made a movie review about this. Anyway, going on, as I mentioned before, and as stated in a social networking page, I love arts and crafts. I do miniature polymer clay art, paper cut and art, drawing (traditional and graphic). Still, I regret not pursuing a course in Fine Arts during my college days, because I chose a Science course over it. So, here I am doing what I love, and what I enjoy the most. Drawing!

The movie is entitled Miss Potter. (Sorry, Potter fans! This is not related to Harry Potter he!he!). The main actress of the movie, is Renee Zellweger (I love her Bridget Jones movie). This movie is about Beatrix Potter. If you are familiar with the chilldren's story, 'The Tale of Peter Rabbit', then you may have heard of her. She is the creator of it. Beatrix Potter is not the usual English lady in her time. While other ladies are busy socializing, and doing just about a normal thing a lady does during her time, she is not. She's a woman who's drawn into arts. She draws, and paints. In the movie she is portrayed past the usual marrying age, so she considers herself a spinster. (In this case we are in a similar state he!he!he!). I won't spoil the movie for you. I really enjoyed watching this movie. I like how they execute, and inserted the beautifully made illustration in this movie. There's also a bit of drama on the story line. I also like the lesson in the movie, just follow your dreams. Also, if there's a single person who believes in what you do, that really makes a difference. Be not afraid, and continue reaching for the stars.

I have also posted the trailer below for you to be able to preview the movie. And yes! I have a copy of this movie! (Pls. see the photo taken from my fb page).

The Complete Peanuts Family Album

  Today after work, I went to Fully Booked, one of my favorite local specialty bookstore. I made a reservation for this book. It took me less than a week to get this book. I already have 2 hard bound Peanuts comics strips. (Celebrating Snoopy, and Peanuts Classic Treasury Full of Timeless Comics vol.1). The hard bound books that I've mentioned are quite expensive, but as a Peanuts collector and fan, they are worth it. Aside from that I have the cheaper comic books which are the facsimiles. This is another best post-birthday gift for myself. For me, this is one of my happiness!

We are all familiar with the top characters in Peanuts namely, Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Woodstock, Lucy, Linus, Schroeder, Sally, Peppermint Patty, Marcie and Pig Pen. But we are not familiar with the other lesser known characters. Who appeared in the Charlie Brown and Snoopy show, tv specials, and in the strips. Some information about the book I posted below based on the back cover.

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Includes all 70+ beloved characters of Charles M. Schulz  in strips across the decades.
●First appearance strips for each character.
●Features on beloved Peanuts holidays, including Valentines day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
●Rare and never before seen art.
●Official character sketches and model sheets.
●Vintage memorabilia and collectibles.

This book is a must-have for all Peanuts fans.

Peanuts TV Specials (Pt.1)

   I have started watching TV specials of Peanuts online. As you can see I'm really enjoying it! I don't remember this being aired in our local tv channel when I was a kid... or maybe I have just missed it. I really like watching the cartoons. It's not only the story that I'm after but also I love seeing the drawings. What makes me like the cartoons even more is that its not only humorous, but it has depth in every story. It's not your usual cartoons wherein its only entertaining. For example today I have seen the episode entitled, 'Why Charlie Brown, Why?' The episode tackles about the realities of life, about cancer. It's not a fantasy cartoon. It is the truth. It's the real thing.

This is just the part one of my blog post. This is a short blog post about each and every episode that I have seen. I'll just write a short description on each episode, based on what I have understood. Sometimes I get so fixated on the drawings only, that I realized I watched the whole episode without understanding the story. I love to copy one of the scenes in some of the episodes that I have watched. They are in my mini-Moleskine sketchbook.

So without further ado, here are the episodes that I have seen. These are the cartoons that were shown in the U.S. and not in another country. I think they also have a Peanuts French produced cartoons, I read that these episodes were not shown in the U.S.

Peanuts cartoons

1. A Boy Named Charlie Brown - We are introduced to Charlie Brown here who thinks he is a failure. Here we also see Snoopy, as a fighter pilot (his dog house is his plane, we all love this! right?). Here we also get to see Lucy runs his sort of Psychiatric kiosk, and Charlie comes for to her for advice, but he's just tortured by Lucy telling him all his faults/mistakes/deficits which made Charlie feel even more bad about himself. Then he joins a spelling quiz bee, and he represents their school. Here he tries hard to be the best. Linus, has separation anxiety with his blanket, but soon finds it. Charlie loses the quiz bee. He has no desire to go to school to show his face, but Linus gave him a real good advice, the truth is the world did not end when he lose. So life goes on for Charlie again, and he tries to kick that football, but still didn't hit it.

2. You're A Good Man Charlie Brown - this tv special was made into a Broadway musical. I've been wanting to watch this for a long time and I'm glad this year I was able to see it. I guess, everyone is familiar with the 'Happiness' song. That song was familiar to me because Lea Salonga (A Disney singer, and a Tony awardee from her perfomance in Ms. Saigon), recorded that song in when she was still a kid. This episode is about Charlie Brown's life musings, and of course about the 'Little Red-Haired Girl' which I can so relate, ah! unrequited love. We get to see here that Lucy likes Schroeder but he doesn't seem to care, and is gets annoyed. Also we get to see them writing an essay, about, 'Peter Rabbit'. Lots of happenings here, anyway in the last part Charlie Brown noticed that his crush, 'The Little Red-Haired Girl', nibbles her pencil just like the way he does. So he comes to the conclusion that this day has not been a bad day after all. Closing song is the Peanuts gang sing 'Happiness' song all- together.

3. Happiness is a Warm Blanket Charlie Brown - This episode is about Linus and the separation anxiety that he has again with his blanket. His sister Lucy decided that he must part with his blanket, especially their grandma is going to visit them. We get to see here Snoopy chasing Linus blanket. I like how Linus explained to everyone, and make them understand how each of us has his own 'security blanket'.

4. It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown - This is about Linus believing in the Great Pumpkin. Actually, never heard of that, only the Santa Claus and elves thing. Snoopy was mistaken by Linus as the Great Pumpkin. Linus never quit believing about the Great Pumpkin until the end.

5. Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown - I like this episode. Very cute! They write each other a valentine card, Charlie Brown expecting he will get a lot brought his own suitcase. But in fact he never got one. Sally pines for Linus. Linus has his eye set on their teacher Miss Othmar. We see Snoopy and Woodstock eating chocolates that was thrown by Linus out of disappointment.

6. She's a Good Skate, Charlie Brown - This is about Peppermint Patty and her ice-skating skills. We see that Marcie tried hard making Peppermint Patty a dress for the competition. Snoopy can do some stuffs here make a nice costume for Peppermint Patty, and even be a dj in the competition. We also get to see Woodstock and his humming skills, he's a bird after all he!he!he!

7. Chaos in the Classroom - Marcie is chosen here as a traffic patrol. Peppermint Patty filled for her when she fell asleep on the classroom.

8. You're the Greatest Charlie Brown - Here Charlie Brown enters the Decathlon. We get to see Marcie tries her hand in sports but we know she's not really that sporty. We see Snoopy here as the 'masked marvel' joining the competition together with the egotistic, Freddie Fabulous.

9. You're not Elected Charlie Brown - Sally has her frustrations with her locker she can't open it. She doesn't want to go to school. Charlie Brown says he will help her. Linus thinks Charlie Brown is fit to be a candidate as a school body president, but Lucy thinks there's a better candidate and that's his brother Linus. Linus becomes elected as the student body president.

10. The Wright Brothers at Kitty Hawk - Charlie Brown and Linus visits Linus cousin Dolly. They meet the Wright brothers here. Snoopy and with woodstock tries to fly too. Peppermint and Marcie were shown as mechanics here.

11. You're in the Super Bowl Charlie Brown - We get to see Snoopy here as a coach and woodstock and his fellow birds are his team. Charlie Brown and Linus liked the same girl Melody, and they decided to get his attention by entering a contest kicking a football. In the end, Melody won because she's in fact a good kicker.

12. Why, Charlie Brown Why? - I've just seen this episode today. This is a touching episode. I like this one. It shows Linus friend, Janice getting bruised easily. At school she said she's not feeling well, Linus said she should go home of go to the school nurse. Charlie Brown and Linus noticed that Janice has been gone for days, they decided to visit her to the hospital. I like this episode because it shows life's realities. It also shows the soft-side of Linus, he cried on the way home after visiting Janice. It hurts to see a loved-one suffering. Janice has cancer. It also is an informative show. Janice explains to Charlie and Linus the tests that she has undergone, and the treatments that the doctors gave her. Linus promises when she gets better she will push her in the swing, like Charlie does for her sister Sally. Spring came and Linus sees Janice. They go to the swing. Janice said she has a surprise for Linus. In the end, we see Janice cap, fell and her hair has grown again. I like the message of this that even if someone has a cancer there is hope.

So that's all for now. I'll just post next time if I ever get to watch other Peanuts cartoons online. Hope you check it out also!

My Birthday... Happy Today!

  I thank God for its another year for me. Praise God for another birthday! It's been a year of laughter, sometimes sadness, but overall it has been a wonderful year for me. Thank God for all the provisions that He has given me. I got a stable job, my bible mates at work, and a few true friends in my life. Thank you, and you know who you are.

For my birthday cake today, its peaches and mango symphony cake from Red Ribbon. I wanted to have a Peanuts themed cake maybe this Christmas I will have it. I also got a Charlie Brown 'Good Grief', pullover from Vans. Perfect for the cold days. My mom gave me a bottle of vitamins, and my aunt a special gift. Thank God for my family! I think I'm quite satisfied with my Peanuts collections. They remind me about life's realities, and to not give up even in trying times. That's why I like Charlie Brown, and I'm reminded of myself through Marcie, and I'm like Snoopy who has an active imagination. I'm also like Linus who still has insecurities, I also see myself in Schroeder, who loves music, and cranky at times like Lucy.

I'm happy because this life of mine is a reminder that God loves me. That He created me, and He gave me life. I am not perfect but my prayer, as always is may I do His will for me. That I may be a good follower of His. Even if i fall, and fail may He guide me always and protect me with His rod and staff, from the enemy. You are my life's song, Lord!

Yes, I still pray for my future partner even if I'm not that young anymore. I pray that we will find each other in God's perfect time. If He has another will for me, may I be contented in my life, whatever state I'm in. Soli Deo Gloria!

Celebrating Snoopy

  This October another collectible item came out in stores. The name of the book is "Celebrating Snoopy". I was not aware that something like this was available on the market. Our fb group was just talking about this. Someone posted a photo of this in our Charles M. Schulz and Charlie Brown fb fan page. I knew already that I should get a copy. So this book is kind of a present for myself on my upcoming birthday. Always love yourself!

I got this from an upscale specialty bookstore in my country, Fully Booked. What I like about this bookstore is that you can order hard to find books from them and they will get it for you. They also wrap (free book jacket) your books by request for free. Anyway, this book is a bit huge, and thick. It is hard-bound and it comes with a book jacket. This book features strips about Snoopy. You will know his evolution, from his first appearance in the year 1950, up to his last appearance in 2000. This book costs around $75. It is really pricey but for me a Peanuts fan like me, its worth it. If you are a Snoopy fan, or cool Joe, you should definitely grab one. All who got this book, were definitely Celebrating Snoopy!.

In My Screening Room: Walt Before Mickey

   "Dreams don't come true without a lot of failure and hope." - Walt Disney

I just finished the movie today. I chanced upon this movie while browsing at Netflix. When I saw this I knew that I should watch this. Movies about animators and cartoonists really fascinates me. I enjoyed watching my favorite cartoonist Charles M. Schulz documentary before, so I'm sure that I'll enjoy watching this movie too! I was right! This movie is about the life of Walt Disney. I know I need not elaborate who the man is for every child and grown-ups know who he is. We grew up watching his films. Every girl's dream is to be a princess like Cinderella, Snow-White, or if you're an independent, strong-willed woman, why not be Mulan! Every child wishes to go and visit Disneyland someday.

 My sibling and I grew up watching Mickey Mouse, and Looney Tunes. I didn't know that it has a connection with Walt Disney. I included in the photo that I posted here some of our prized children's books, by Walt Disney. We have Alice in Wonderland (I like it so much that I cosplayed before wearing her popular nanny like blue dress at work), Snow White, Pinocchio, Dumbo, and Peter Pan. We still have the book after all these years. I am also a fan of Mickey Mouse. I own a Mickey Mouse watch, I bought it when I was still teaching in a language school. Until now I still have it. You can read the story about it from my previous post. Walt Disney gave a new life to these classic fairy tales that I have mentioned. These are the stories that gave us hope and inspiration. Stories that became our very own world when we're still a child, and the story that we come back to as grown-ups. It's like home, so familiar to all of us. I also included in the photo below my drawing of Mickey Mouse! 

I will not be a spoiler. This is a good family movie. It teaches lots of values too! I like how it shows the importance of helping one another as a family, and having friends, people you can trust around you. It also shows that not everyone will support you, and what you believe. When everything else fails, just don't stop dreaming and believing in yourself. Like a line from one of the Disney movies, Cinderella, which has also a live action movie, quoting, "No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing. A dream that you wish will come true!"

I am also including here a music video from the said movie, sung by Jaden Chase (a song that fits the life of Walt Disney perfectly). I also posted the lyrics below. So if you haven't watched this movie, I suggest you watch it now. I rate it Two thumbs up! 

I

I've Got A Dream

It's gonna be one of those times, when your minds gonna give out your hearts gonna lay out. reaching every era colors, theres fire in the eyes, of those you inspire. It's gonna be one of those times, when they tell you to give up, but you know that you can't stop. reaching every step of the climb, when your much closer to what you desire. You don't need to for no gold, you just watch it all unfold. But you've got a passion, make it a vision, turn it into your own. But you've got a feeling, make it a blessing, turn it into your gold. I found the stength inside a sea, found the better part of me. and i'll never let it go, I've got a dream. It's gonna be one of those times, when your hands gonna give out, your hearts gonna take out. reaching every one your your steps, beating you to the magic, back at it so quick. It's gonna be one of those times, when your eye's gonna give out, your soul's gonna lay out. Reaching every one of your dreams, putting them on the table, and know that your able. You don't need to for no gold, you just watch it all unfold. But you've got a passion, make it a vision. Turn it into your own. But you've got a feeling, make it a blessing, turn it into your goal. Found the strength inside a sea, found the better part of me. and i'll never it it go, I've got a dream. I've got a dream that i'll make it, I've got a dream that I'll reach it. With my head held up high. I've got a dream that i'll make it, I've got a dream that I'll reach it. With my head held up high. But you've got a passion, make it a vision. Turn it into your own. But you've got a feeling, make it a belssing, turn it into your goal. Found the strength inside a sea, Found the better part of me. and I'll never let it go, I've got a dream.

Peanuts Movie, A Reply and My Snoopy Watch

  As promised here's an update! I have seen the Peanuts movie just last week. I bought my own dvd copy, since my workmates have deleted a copy of this movie from their files. Anyway, its good that I have my own copy since, I'm a Peanuts fan! I rarely watch movies on cinemas now because they are a bit expensive, and you get to watch them only once. If you have your own copy, you can watch it comfortably in your own space.

This movie was released on 2015. It is not the same as with the Peanuts animation shown before on tv. This one is a 3d version. This is a new story, and while this is a new story, it remains faithful to the strips of its creator the late Charles M. Schulz. His son Craig and Bryan, his grandson co-wrote the story for this movie. What I like about the movie is that they remain faithful to the old animation. The elders and the teacher in the movie, never spoke a word but only that famous sound, like a garbled, blowing of a light-horn. The voice actors was also done superbly! Kudos to the talented child voice actors chosen for this film. The dvd, comes with additional bonuses, it also included Meghan Trainor's music video and behind the scenes, for the OST 'When I'm Dancing'. In the music video Meghan's family was also included. Just like this Peanuts animation, a family affair! Bonus clips from the movie is also included in the dvd, as well as my favorite part. How to draw a few Peanuts characters!

Last Thursday, after searching for any Schulz family on the social media. I just wanted to tell them about me as a fan of their father and his works. I have found the social media of the eldest son, Sir Monte Schulz. I know that he's a writer. From one of the member's of our fb group page (a Charles Schulz,and  Peanuts fan page), I was told that he was one of America's best pilots. The Red Baron and Snoopy thing, his father got that idea from him. I wrote a message telling him that I'm one of the billion of Peanuts fans, and I posted a photo of few of my related Peanuts memorabilia. Like my Vans Peanuts sneakers, comic books, apparels, and dvd. I received a reply yesterday morning, a short thank you. Well, that reply was enough for me. To be able to communicate with any of Schulz's son is an honor. Thanks to the wonders of  the internet.

Yesterday, I also received my Snoopy watch. It was shipped from overseas. It is a China made watch. Everything is China made these days, since labor is cheaper there. Anyway, the distributor of that watch is from a company in China. They have a website, just click on this: Floraltime. The watch came in sort of metal box with a Snoopy design, and a Chinese character. There is also an imprint of Peanuts Worldwide. It comes with a price tag it is 208 RMB, equivalent to a thousand bucks here. There is also a seal of authenticity, and a brochure but its written in Chinese. The watch dial is not that large, and the strap is thin, leatherlike, with a Charlie Brown and Snoopy comic strips dialogue design. I posted it in our fb group, and a member 'liked' the photo it asking me where did I buy it.

It has been a great week. Whenever I feel blue, Peanuts is one of the things that lifts me up. I like my Peanuts toy figures, I often look at them. They are so cute! Like a line from a song says, "Happiness is anyone, and anything at all. That's loved by you!"... - (You're A Good Man Charlie Brown)

Arts and Other Stuffs, Things I love

   I have been a long-time member of deviantart  (an online site for any forms or art/and photography). 7 years to be exact. I love music and arts. I have a collection of drawing and sketch books, aside from my calligraphy, and hand-lettering books. I bought a glass-pen recently. It is China-made even so its not that bad. I bought it in a local arts & crafts store called The Craft Central. I have tons of art stuffs. Faberr-Castell connector paint, watercolored pencils, and pitt artists pens (Faber-Castell 24 pitt pens that I bought for a thousand bucks). I usually buy Faberr-Castell because even if they're a bit expensive, they're of good quality. For my drawing pens. I also have Faber-Castell Ecco Pigment pen (just tried it), Zig Drawing Pen, and Uni Pin Fine Line pens. Out of all the waterproof and drawing pens that I mentioned I really like the Uni pens. I even ordered a set of drawing pens. I like how they glide smoothly to my Moleskine mini-sketch notebook.

I almost took a Fine-Arts course wayback in college, I already passed the exam in Fine-Arts major in advertising design, but I chose a Science course (pre-med) instead. Still, my love for the arts didn't die. Aside from drawing, I have a few graphic drawings, I also do paper cut and crafts, polymer clay art (I like to do miniature food art, and cutesy stuffs). I already finished my Inkvember dare. The words were given by a Geeks Under Grace member in fb. You can check them out in GUK's fb page and in Artists for Christ, also another fb page group.

I admire local comics artists, namely Harvey Tolibao who owns his own studio and who's working for Marvel, Pol Medina of Pugad Baboy (Pig's Den). My brother likes his work, mostly its about local Filipino modern culture, and politics comics strips with humor added, I also like the works of Ariel Atienza, a Christian Artist who did an amazing Christian comics entitled His Story, his works before were featured in a US based newspaper, he is also one of the founding members of Komikon. Thanks to him this local comics convention is huge now. I also like his compiled works "Hand Drawn and Quartered and Other Tell-Tales", another Christian artist that I have known is Rommel Estanislao his strips ('Kokoy Kolokoy') have been appearing in a local newspaper, he is also a good polymer clay artist. He's been a guest in local tv shows featuring his works. I have met them all personally since I've been attending local comics convention before (for about 3 years, started in 2010).

I also admire foreign comics artists, like Grant Snider, Debbie Tung, Marcie Wilson etc. (You can read my previous posts about the foreign comic books that I bought before). I like their works because they show the life of an artist, poet and introvert. They exactly know my world!

If you want to check out my deviantart page. Advance thank you for visiting. Here's the link: My Deviantart Page

More Peanuts!

 

Nope! Even if I love peanut butter, and nuts this is not about food. This is another ode to my most favorite comics strip characters, Peanuts by the late Charles M. Schulz. This week, my order of Peanuts character toy figure arrived. The character figures here are similar to the ones included in the 'Peanuts Busy Book' kit. The only difference is this one no book is included. The products came from China, and as we all know almost everything comes from China now since the labor is cheaper there compared to other countries. The figures are just fine, they're not that really perfect but they all look similar to the Peanuts characters. The character figures comes in a set of 12 pieces. We have Shroeder and his piano, Lucy, Linus, Sally, Charlie Brown, Peppermint Patty, Marcie, Snoopy and his doghouse, Woodstock on a bird bath and Franklin. I am very happy because Marcie is included here, and I can relate to her character most since, most often when I like someone, it is unrequited. Just like Marcie's feelings for Charlie Brown. Charlie sees her only as a friend. Anyway, so much so for the drama. The photo that you see here, I'm the one who arranged the figured and the background is my idea. I just did a bit of editing on the background title. As if the world conspires with what I love. Vans released their Peanuts merchandise just this year.

Next, is the Peanuts Classic Treasury Full of Timeless Comics volume I. Aside from the four facsimiles that I've got (More Peanuts, But We Love You Charlie Brown, Good Ol' Charlie Brown, and Go Fly A Kite Charlie Brown) I also purchased this. I bought this on a regular price so its quite pricey. Anyway, as a bibliophile, I got this. This one is a hardbound and the best comics strip of Charles M. Schulz is compiled here, from 1950 to 1975. Even my facebook page has a touch of Peanuts. My cover photo is Charlie Brown's cafe kiosk in Singapore (I took that photo when we passed by the cafe before). My facebook cover is none other than Marcie. I wear glasses also, just like Marcie. I'm happy now with a few of my Peanuts collections. (sneakers by Vans, toy figures, and comic books). I often visit the fb page of fellow Peanuts fans, 'The World of Charles Schulz featuring good ol' Charlie Brown'. I like the characters in Peanuts, maybe because my personality is similar with its creator, the late Charles M. Schulz. This is a part of my happiness. Certified Peanuts fan here!

The World of Charles M. Schulz ft. Charlie Brown

   As a geek we are all passionate about something, be it a hobby or an interest. These days I'm going 'gaga' over Peanuts. I have also seen a documentary about Charles M. Schulz. Peanuts comics strips is very familiar to all of us. My older brother and I had a toy before from Fisher Price, a photo viewer which includes Snoopy and the Red Baron clip. The Fisher Price viewer was a gift from the US from our late aunt who is a doctor. To date, Peanuts is the most successful comics strip worldwide. It has been around the time of my grandparents up until now. In our local newspapers, Peanuts is included in the weekly newspaper comics strip corner. A musical entitled, 'You're a Good Man Charlie Brown' was made, and it has also a tv animation special. The comics strip is also published in 75 countries worldwide, translated into various languages. Recently, a movie was made based on the original strips.

 My late aunt also has a comic book of Charlie Brown entitled, 'But We Love You Charlie Brown'. I've been looking for it for a year or two now, but its not included in the box that my late aunt had packed which contains all her old books. Thankfully, I was able to acquire three books from a popular bookstore in my country. They are the best works of Charles M. Schulz compiled in a book. It is really a classic. Truly heaven sent when I went shopping yesterday. I splurge at a Vans store here. Just in time they are featuring Peanuts sneakers and slip-ons, plus other apparels. I bought two sneakers. (You can see it in the photo here), socks and a shirt. I also bought the dvd of the latest Peanuts 3d movie, which includes an instructional video on how to draw Peanuts characters. I'll just update you if I have acquired new Peanuts items. I also joined The World of Charles M. Schulz, an fb group page. It is a haven for all the Peanuts fans/collectors. (The caricature drawing a photo of Mr. Charles Schulz and Snoopy I got from one of the members from that fb group page, we don't know the artist but there's a signature. So if he/she reads this I'm asking permission to post).

I also recommend that you watch Mr. Charles M. Schulz documentary video. From A & E Biography, entitled Charles M. Schulz: A Charlie Brown Life. I'll just include here some important facts from the documentary that I have seen.

Charles Monroe Schulz was born in November 26, 1922 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was an only child of Carl and Dena Schulz. His father was a self-made man and owns a barbershop. When he was only 2 days old, his uncle renamed him 'Sparky'. During the Depression era, reading comics strip is one form of entertainment. Charlie knew he had a talent that other kids don't have, and that was drawing. He used to get high marks in schools, and was accelerated to another level, but there came a time when he was not performing in school the way he used to and none of his teachers ever asked him why. One time his art teacher asked him to draw in groups of 3 anything, and Charles filled that paper. He sent one of his works to Robert Ripley before (he drew their dog named Spike), that drawing was published. From then on he knew he wanted to be an artist. He was afraid to go to art school, so he enrolled in an art correspondence school that his mother suggested. He became a student at Art Instruction school, wherein he also worked as a teacher. Charles or 'Sparky', was drafted to military, in time he was promoted as Staff Sergeant. So his dream got postponed, but he never stopped drawing. Eventually, he became a cartoonist, and he was hired by a Catholic magazine to do lettering for the comics pages called Timeless Topix. He then went on to have his own comics strips called Lil' Folks. Lil' Folks was not that successful, after it was dropped, he developed a comic strips, which will later on be called Peanuts (the name of his strip was from the suggestion of the president of United Feature Syndicate), even Charles doesn't like the name. But as they say the rest is history. Who doesn't know Lucy? who is crabby and forever critical, Linus, has a security blanket and its more than a prop, it is part of a language. Schroeder knows Beethoven, Pigpen is known to move the earth if not the heavens, and lastly Charlie Brown, wherein everybody has an opinion why Charlie Brown is Charlie Brown. He is the picture of a person going through daily life of suffering but is proud and resilient and he carries on through life, through thick and thin. Also, we must not forget Snoopy, who has a vast imagination just like his creator Charles M. Schulz.

If you have read Peanuts for a long, long time. I'm sure you already know what kind of person its creator, Charles M. Schulz is. Why I like Peanuts? The creator is a Christian, and I can relate to almost all of the characters of the Peanuts gang. Especially Charlie Brown, and who wouldn't forget that very popular scene about unrequited love and the taste of Peanut butter. Also, that little Red hair girl that he mentioned in his comics strip, it is the girl that he likes in real life. The girl's name is Donna Mae Johnson-Wold. Well, just like me he never got together with his first-love. But I'm still looking on the bright-side! Just like Charlie Brown.

A Comics-ful Week

  This week I had a lot of good find and good buys. I'm happy because all of the comics that I ordered are all with me now. I have received all the Peanuts related children's books (available locally) and comic books as well. (Will do a separate post on that). The first book that I have waited for a long time was Grant Snider's work. (I have been a long time follower of his page). All his best works compiled in a book. He has this facebook page, Incidental Comics. The comic book title is The Shape of Ideas. The reviews on amazon.com were mostly positive. I like how he depicts the journey of an artist (poet, writer, cartoonist), all beautifully illustrated and shown in the book. The book is hard-bound and it is a great coffee table book. I like Mr. Snider's work. The way he draw and illustrate a person is nicely done. The price of the book is less than 1000 pesos.

The second book that I got was entitled 'Introvert Doodles' by Maureen Wilson. From the title alone, you probably know already what the book is all about. If you want to know something about the introverts you can start by reading that book.  The drawing skill of Ms. Wilson may not be like other artists who has a clean drawing lines and proportionate body shape. That's right! Her art is doodles. Reminds me of younger artists drawings. Her comics are on point.  She has a facebook page also, Introvert Doodles. I'm also a follower of her fb page.

Lastly, a local comic book entitled So Asian Comics. I like the design. I just saw their advertisement online, I ordered and voila Got it already! I just find this comics unique because it showcases the Chinese and Filipino-Chinese life. That's another reason why I want to acquire a copy of this. A Chinese culture enthusiast here! It was truly a packed comic-ful week.

Reading is truly an adventure!

Yes! I'm a Geek

Before you make a negative comment or judgment towards me. I'm proud to say I'm a geek. If you're a nerd and a geek, you'll be scorned for sure. In today's society being a nerd or a geek has a negative connotation. A nerd is depicted as a social outcast, a bookworm, has his/her own world, and wearing an eyeglasses. A geek is not to be confused with a nerd. From an online definition, a geek does not have to be smart, someone who is an enthusiast about something. This really defines me, because aside from being a Chinese culture enthusiast, I also enjoy reading comic books (I used to attend comics local convention since 2010), I like to collect books/comic books, (I am also a fan of Peanuts, and I admire its creator the late Charles Schulz) and I love to do all sorts of arts and crafts (I do miniature polymer clay art - food, and cute things, I also draw, traditional and graphic, I do paper cut and crafts).

Another revelation, I'm an introvert, (the test that I took when I was still in college still haven't changed until now). I'm an INFP. If you want to know what personality type are you just take the 16 personalities or the MBTI test found online. There are a lot actually, but I like the 16 personalities test better. My friends say you can really change, but I still find social connections draining (especially when I'm around a lot of people). I love being at home, guess you could call me a homebody too! Never enjoyed night outs and parties even before (discos, night clubs, I had a chance to go to this kind of places before through the coaxing of my friends, and former students.). Click on this -> 16 Personality Test

I guess these times its really not that easy to find someone who has the same interest like I do. You guessed it right I'm more visible on the online world, than in the real world. I enjoy interacting with fellow geeks online of the same faith. I always post and check my social media page. Of course I maintain my blogs (I have three, food, Chinese culture, and religious blog), aside from this personal blog of mine.

You can visit my deviantart account to see my all my works. My Deviantart Page. My interests varies. I also enjoy reading poems. I'm also drawn to English literature. I like Jane Austen, and I was a former member of the Jane Austen Society in Australia. I didn't renew now my membership with them. I also like music. I tried learning a Chinese instrument which is the erhu. I can play a bit of piano and electronic keyboard (I studied in Yamaha music school when I was still in highschool, I took guitar and organ lessons there). When I was still a kid, I had voice lessons at Ryan Cayabyab music studio. I was fortunate to have The Company's member as my voice teacher, Ms. Annie Quintos. I have made home recordings in YouTube. I also tried recording in a studio before. They tease me at home, I'm called 'Jack of All Trades, Master of None'. Meaning I never really bec!me an expert in any of those things mentioned above.

Also, You know what, I learned from the past is if you like someone to be your friend, or if you like someone, you got to accept that person for the way he or she is. Because being a true friend means accepting and loving the person just the way he or she is.

Below is the MV of Rhett and Link.. about Geeks and Nerds. It's a cool rap song! Really epic! Check it out!

Welcome to my Geekdom! :)

Oldies but Goodies Songs

   I decided to update this blog of mine after a long hiatus (It's been almost 3 years). I don't really mind sharing my personal blog now (before I was kind of hesitant to post it. Its just a private blog). Well, time flies fast and 2017 is almost over. This morning I downloaded some of my favorite classic love songs sung by Jo Stafford (The Nearness of You, and I'll Be Seeing You), the amazing duet of Celine Dion and Frank Sinatra, 'All the Way', and Deborah Kerr's version of 'An Affair to Remember'. I almost forgot I also downloaded my favorite classic groovy song, 'Can't Take My Eyes Off You' by Frank Valli.

I like to listen to these classic songs when I'm relaxing or drawing. Music nowadays are mostly noise, and mostly got a bad lyrics. For me, the way I judge if its a good song, its not only by melody but also by its lyrics. If both are good then its really a good song. I hope you also enjoy listening to these kind of songs. Enjoy!

Here's the list of my own classic playlist.

1. I'll Be Seeing You - Jo Stafford
2. The Nearness of You - Jo Stafford
3. La Vie En Rose - Jo Stafford
4. All The Things You Are - Jo Stafford
5. Blue Moon - Jo Stafford
6. Can't Take My Eyes Off of You - Frank Valli
7. An Affair to Remember - Deborah Kerr
8. All The Way - Celine Dion and Frank Sinatra

My New Samsung 'Smart' WB30F Camera

       Finally, my birthday wishlist is almost going to be complete! Well, because I made each one happen. he!he!he! Anyway, the material things I can fulfill, but there's a wish that I cannot fulfill, only in His time that wish can come true. I thank GOD for giving me 'blessings' so I was able to buy all these material things. But of course, He knows my heart deepest and real desire. Still, waiting on you Lord! 

       Anyway, after work I went to the mall to buy some things, and then I went to the department store in the electronics section, immediately I checked out the Samsung kiosk, where the cameras are displayed. The digital camera that I bought today is quite the closer to the price of the digicam that I bought 6 years ago. It was also a Samsung camera. I've had good memories with it and Samsung is a trusted brand. I like Samsung, because my phone is also Samsung.

      I'm not really a techie person. I dare not to buy a new pc or laptop, I'm just glad that a relative of mine gave me one, and it's also a good brand. I buy when I 'really' need, or when that 'gadget' is giving already giving up on me. Like my phone, it's still in good condition, so I'm not planning to change it at the moment. Maybe if I can swap my phone I will. 

      Anyway, here it is. Excited to use it tomorrow, for our YoungPro church meeting. 

      

My Chinese Songs Cover Version

       Since I'm posting about one of my hobbies and passion in life, let me also share with you some of my Chinese song recordings. Pardon, that this is not recorded professionally in a studio unlike my other two local songs, which is also included in my YouTube video page. 

      I've been singing Cantonese songs since my college days, mostly songs by Vivian Chow. She is my most favorite Hong Kong artist. Other recordings of mine included songs by the late Ms. Teresa Teng, which I know is a must that I learn her song because she is one of the well-respected and admired artist in the Chinese scene and all around the globe. Also, I did covers of contemporary singers like Penny Dai and Rainie Yang, Charlene and JJ Lin's duet, and also a cover version of Wang Lee Hom's song.

     Anyway, here's a sample of my recorded songs. Thank you for checking out my blog and thanks also for checking out my YouTube videos.. 謝謝! xiexie!

The first and the second song is Cantonese and the third and fourth song is in Mandarin.

My 'All About Chinese' Books Collection

       Most of those who knew me and also who are connected to me 'socially' online will know that I really like Chinese language, culture, arts, almost anything that is related to it. Anyway, this afternoon I collected all my Chinese books, (I put them somewhere around the house). I wanted to keep them all together, for safekeeping just like my Christian books, which are neatly arranged and safely tucked inside a small cabinet. Before, I said that this hobby of mine was my first love but I corrected it and said it is just my second love, because GOD should always be the first. :)

        Anyway, took a shot of these books, which I've been collecting since, I was a teenager (highschool days) and a few given to me by my friend and Filipino-Chinese friends/acquaintance. My collection ranges from history, novels, philosophy to language books. Also, included in my collection is the mainstream history and culture of the Filipino-Chinese, which is also a part of the Filipino culture.

          I remember my former 老師 laoshi (teacher), in mandarin language. He told me that it's a rarity to find someone like me who has a passion like this. He's also the one who encouraged me to continue doing what I love, and that someday I'll able to contribute something to the society.

        Here's a peek into one of my passion and interest. I listed the titles below. I categorized them.

History/Culture:

1. China Lonely Planet Guidebook

2. The Chinese Mestizo in Philippine History - author: Edgar Wickberg

3. The Chinese in Philippine Life (1850-1898) - author: Edgar Wickberg

4. The Ethnic-Chinese as Filipinos (part II) - edited by Teresita Ang See

Foreign Novels

1. The Good Earth - author: Pearl Buck

2. Falling Leaves - author: Adeline Yen Mah

3. The Joy Luck Club - author: Amy Tan

4. The Hundred Secret Senses - author: Amy Tan

5. The Kitchen God's Wife - author: Amy Tan

Language:

1. Say It in Chinese - Foreign Language Press Beijing

2. Learn Chinese Efficiently with Super Pinyin (phonetic) vol.I - edited by Jose Averia, English Translated by: Tinna K. Wu; Pilipino Translated by: Francisco G. Co

3. Easy Chinese Phrasebook and Dictionary - by: Wendy Tung

4. Speak Fujianwa (Fookien/Hokkien) Easy - by: Betty Lee

5. 300 by: Joaquin Sy

6. Niubi The Real Chinese You Were Never Taught in School - by: Eveline Chao; Illustrated by Chris Murphy

7.Teach Yourself Cantonese - by: Hugh Baker and Ho Pui-Kei

8. Chinese Flashcards (vol.I) - Tuttle Publishing

Local Literature:

1. Tsapsuy: Mga Sanaysay, Tula, Salin atbp. - by: Joaquin Sy

2. The Best of Tulay (Voices: Mga Tinig) - edited by: Teresita Ang See, Caroline Hau and Joaquin Sy

3. Weaving A Dream (Reflections for Chinese-Filipino Catholics Today) - author Ari Dy, S.J

Comic Book:

 1. Stories of Love - Illustrated by: Huang Qingrong; Translated by: Shen Siqin

Other books:

1. Chinese Zen - prepared, compiled and translated by Thomas Sy 

2. Love Poems from Ancient China and India - notes by Prem Jesus Jesswani, Ma.Carolina Chua and Ajit Mansukhani

Song of the Moment: 爱一点 (Ai Yi Dian) Love A Little OST "You Are My Lucky Star"

       I just finished watching. "You Are My Lucky Star" movie. The film is about a comics artist or cartoonist Sophie, and about a secret agent named David/William. It stars, Chinese superstar Zhang Ziyi and Mr. Musicman, Wang Lee Hom. I watched the Chinese version since I can't find an English subbed, anyway the movie is funny so I enjoyed watching it while I'm on a 'sick leave' from work.

      This movie is a prequel to "Sophie's Revenge", starring Zhang Ziyi again. I recommend this film also. I think I both like the film, and each is a favorite of mine, in the same level.

      I like the OST of the movie which is sung by the lead actor and actress. The meaning and melody is also good so it's a thumbs up for me.

     I really don't encourage you people to love a little, because when you love you should not be selfish. Just love away! I included the English translation of the song. Enjoy!

Love A Little

 The wind blew and moved the windows, as well as the leaves sounding the surrounding,
As people’s dreams are loitering, into a farther and farther place.
The moon in the sky exposed half of its legs,
Looking to the ground and seeing that there are those who aren’t able to sleep,

 The clouds cover the light, extending the night,
as the winds gently blew pass your hair.
The night shut both of its eyes to be silent without a word,
And I know that you are listening to my thoughts,

 I wanted to say that I will love you, a little bit more,
Always right next to your ear,
trusting that you love me too, though it may be little.
Yet, it is only you who never realized this.

 I wanted to say that I will love you, a little bit more,
always right next to your ear.
In this I also trust that I will love you forever without change,
and I know that you surely will end up realizing it.

 The wind blew and moved the windows, as well as the leaves sounding the surrounding,
As people’s dreams are loitering, into a farther and farther place.
The moon in the sky exposed half of its legs,
Looking to the ground and seeing that there are those who aren’t able to sleep,

The clouds covered the light extending the night (the night becomes extended)
The wind gently passes through your hair (your hair)
The night shut both its eyes and remained silent.

You know that I am listening to what you’re saying,
I want to say that I will love you, a little bit more,
Always right next to your ear,
While believing that you love me too, even if it is little;
It is probably because you never detected this. discovered/found/realized/detected.

 I wanted to say that I will love you, a little bit more,
always right next to your ear.
In this I also trust that I will love you forever without change,
and I know that you surely will end up realizing it.

New Year, Just Live, Smile, and Love

      I was thinking of the proper title to put here. I'm turning this personal blog into a public blog, which is the usual for most blogs, meant to be read by the public. Well, only a few people or maybe, you can really count by your fingers, those who had the chance to access this blog of mine. You can say now, you can read my 'heart's musings. Like the comment of my churchmate, he says that I'm always an 'emo' person. Well, maybe, the 'feeling' thing is really the dominant trait in my personality. Hello, Myers-Briggs personality test again! Leaving that aside, let's just say I am a person that has a high emotional quotient, I'm more in-tuned with my feelings. Looking inward an introvert.

     Enough of that explanation. So this is the second day of January 2014. I'm really looking forward to a lot of things, and of course I'm expecting that I will make new friends this year. And my plans, will push through with the help of some people. By the way, I want to share an artwork of mine, showing a cartoon 'me', welcoming 2014. Yup, I like to draw, to those who knew me, I almost took up Fine Arts wayback in College but chose a 'Science' course instead. So, I'm just re-awakening this passion of mine.

     Like what I have written in my spiritual/religious blog. I can say that we all have problems, hardships in life and tough times are inevitable. Rich or poor, class A, B and C people. Life like's that. It's just a matter of perspective. Like the lesson that I've learned in a Japanese movie, Midnight Sun, where the protagonist has a rare kind of disease, they call it XP, where exposure to the sun can actually endanger them and can also kill them. She said that she will continue to live her life, until the day she dies. If we think of our problems, and worry over it, what good does it do to us? Will it be solved immediately? We're just putting a lot of burden on ourselves. Like in the bible, Jesus said, "Why worry for tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself" (Matthew 6:34). Our Master have taught us that, so who else should we trust and believe? Echoing what the Apostle Peter, "To whom shall we go?" 

    

In closing, let us be thankful for we were able to behold a New Year. Some people may be pessimist

about looking forward to a New Year, like what's there to look forward to? But for me, everyday is a promise of hope from GOD, not only a promise, but also a gift. Let us be thankful for every tomorrows. And this new year just continue living life, enjoy and never be afraid to love. We may have experienced of getting hurt in the past but, don't lock your heart. To love is to be vulnerable like what C.S Lewis have said. If you have never really loved at all, or have taken the risk to fall in love, then you certainly don't know how it feels to be human.

     Love is for the brave and courageous.

(Below is my cover version of a song about LOVE, with an excpert on 1 Corinthians 13. The song speaks about love, that it is not like a thing that you replace if its not in fashion anymore. It is also about a person telling someone to not doubt her love for him because it is genuine love. That even if they grow old, physical appearance change, she will still love him, unconditionally. Forgiving that other person even if he did a wrong thing or hurt you. That is what true love is all about.).

Pag- Ibig

Ang pag-ibig, hindi parang cellphone
'pag naluma, papalitan
Ang pag-ibig, hindi parang damit
'pag may bagong uso, papalitan

Kung sabihin kong mahal kita
Yan ay totoo sinta
Wag na wag kang magdududa
Hindi kita binobola

Panghabang buhay ang pag-ibig ko sa'yo, o sinta
Kahit na ika'y pumangit, hindi kita ipagpapalit
Panghabang buhay ang pag-ibig ko sa'yo o sinta
Kahit na ika'y makalbo, hindi ako magbabago

Ang pag-ibig, hindi parang pagkain
'pag pinagsawaan, pamimigay nalang
Ang pag-ibig, hindi parang pusa
pag maingay, ililigaw nalang

Kung sabihin kong mahal kita
Yan ay totoo sinta
Wag na wag kang magdududa
Hindi kita binobola

Panghabang buhay ang pag-ibig ko sa'yo, o sinta
Kahit na ika'y tumaba, hindi ako mangangaliwa
Panghabang buhay ang pag-ibig ko sa'yo, o sinta
Kahit na magka-wrinkles ka, iki-kiss pa rin kita.

Love is patient, love is kind, it does not envy, it
does not boast, it is not proud, it is not rude
It is a not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it
keeps no record of wrongs
Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the
truth
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes and
always perseveres.

Panghabang buhay ang pag-ibig ko sa'yo, o sinta
Kahit na topakin ka, iintindihin kita
Panghabang buhay ang pag-ibig ko sa'yo, o sinta
Kahit na may kasalanan ka, iiyak ako
pero papatawarin kita

Song of the Moment: This Time

          I saw this Korean music video posted on a social site by my office mate.Good thing I checked out the video! I cried while watching. The video was really touching, and I can relate to the feelings shown in this video. What I like about this video is that it is presented in a unique way, sort of animation and comics strip style. The story line is also cute! It is a fantasy too. The story is a about a designer who owns a mannequin and then the mannequin became alive.

          I really like this song because the meaning of the song is really beautiful. Eventhough we've been hurt before, I know we can love again and trust someone who will love us truly, and stick with us through the good and bad. 

         Here are some of my fave shots from the MV.

Here's the English translation:

This Time

I promised myself that I will never fall in love again. I pledged this words in my heart.
Looking back at the memories I sealed.
Now I have broken my promise.
I let go of all the pain and tears.

The moment that I first saw your eyes.
Your smile lifted my courage.
As I rest on your shoulder, my heart feels warm.
I want to be with you forever.

Maybe this time it's different, my love.
I can trust you with my heart.
You and I, this feeling and passion,
will never change in this timeless world.

I hope we can remember this.
I love you baby, and I need you baby.
Without you I will forever drown in tears of sorrow.
Please don't change everything,
I will be the same.

I sincerely trust and love you but,
my confidence fades without you.
As the night shadows me,
and the day lights up.

If I do not see you, 
I might cry again.
The days of sorrow and sadness,
shadow me.

I have tried very hard to avoid,
men breaking my heart.
I hope you will not be part of 
sorrowful memories.

Open your heart,
hug me with love, forever. Baby.

You are the one and my last hope.
If I live in a world without you.
Darkness will fall and tears shed.
Please take care of my heart, my love.