Santorini: A Gateway to Korean Food

So I haven’t written a blog in a long while. I have been incredibly busy with school. All hell ended a few days ago and as of now I am relaxing and not even thinking about other academic matters. This blog won’t be about my rants nor my dreams or goals. It would be about food.

I don’t wish to recall my stresses the past few months so here is a blog about Korean food. My schoolmates and I are fond of eating at this small Korean restaurant near our university for a year now. (I believe) We visited quite a few times already and I must say I haven’t grown tired of eating almost the same dish every time.

Santorini is the name of the restaurant. No, it’s not one of the famous tourist spots in Greece, it’s a Korean restaurant. When I heard of it, I never thought it would be a place serving Korean cuisine. I assumed it was some kind of Grecian food fair. At first, I thought they were offering Italian pasta. (Sorry I didn’t know Santorini was in Greece, it sounded more of an Italian city to me, until I’ve done my research that is) 

Anyway enough about that, let’s talk about the menu. I wasn’t able to snap a picture of it, but all I could remember is that they have Kimbap’s to Ramen, to Bulgogi to Spicy Rice Cakes etc. The price range is around 100 pesos to roughly 200 pesos. All these meals are a la carte and good for sharing. They also have canned soft drinks, bottled juices and specifically Banana Milk. The beverages are priced I guess between 25 pesos to 45 pesos. However if you are low on budget, they do serve free mineral water. Another free item they offer is the ever so popular side dish, Kimchi. They have it in radish and cabbage Kimchi, so if you want some, you need to let the helper know since not everyone likes it. At least you are given the freedom not to have it.

Now, I never came out this small food establishment not stuffed. Since a lot can be for sharing, my friends and I order a couple of dishes and eat to our hearts content.  I can say, it’s definitely worth the money since you get to taste authentic Korean food for I believe in somewhat reasonable prices. So here are the pictures of some dishes we ordered the last time we ate there.

 Cabbage Kimchi (left), Radish Kimchi (right)

Note: I prefer the Radish Kimchi since it's more sweet and less sour

 This dish is called "jjajangmyeon" or black bean noodles. When we first saw this on the menu we immediately wanted to try it since this is seen in almost all Korean dramas. I myself, was curious how it tasted like. It really couldn't describe its flavors but it came to my liking the first moment I took a bite. Now I am somewhat addicted to it. 

Another thing I am probably in love with is the so called "bibimbap". It consists of vegetables, strips of cabbage kimchi, white rice, egg, ground beef, drizzled with red chili paste plus a dash of sesame oil and seeds. I remember seeing this in a Korean drama also. All I can say is that there is a right balance of flavors and textures, adding to that, it never fails to satisfy me. A warning to those who don't fancy vegetables, this Korean dish has a lot, so I advice you order a different meal instead.

 Last but not the least, dessert! There is definitely more room for dessert every time we visit. Even if I feel full, I still find myself craving for sweets. Unfortunately Santorini does not serve Korean desserts like I guess "patbingsu" (it's like S. Korea's version of our own Halo-Halo) and the likes. 

Well I do wish they would so the whole experience would definitely be complete. Anyway, what they do have is Korean ice cream. (Melona, Binggrae etc.) I always and will forever order Binggrae's Oreo Cheesecake Ice cream. Not only am I a huge fan of cheesecake I am also in love with ice cream. Combine them and I have one of my ultimate favorite desserts. I wish they make these things locally though. 

All in all, I believe I spent around 300 pesos. We shared the black bean noodles and Korean pancake (which I sadly don't have a picture of). It's pretty pricey for me but the experience and the food is all worth it I tell ya. So if you want to try Korean food and live within UST or Manila, then drop by Santorini located at the busy street of Padre Noval. You may want to visit their Facebook page for more information. (Santorini Facebook page) Oh yeah, before I finally end things, additional information, the owners are pure Korean. I think. Anyhow, until my next blog! Annyeong!

Fall in L

Finally after a gazillion years moi is back! So I am waiting for my download to finish. I am downloading MS Office and as of this moment I am typing on WordPad because I want to write another blog (I remember I still have an unfinished blog about the Dream Kpop Fantasy Concert here in the Philippines last January 19). Alright let's get things started! 

I remembered this one occurrence or whatever you call it, wherein there was a guy who seemingly found me attractive. I actually have met him before, well we were just acquaintances though. Well, so I kinda said that he was not my type and that sort of made me look bad? Anyway, you see I am not saying the guy was ugly or anything like that (couldn't even remember his face that well) and I'm purely flattered someone actually likes me but that is it. I think I sounded harsh though (but I just said it plainly as far as I could recall, and I just shared it to my friend). Yeah, you'll be telling me that I haven't even given that guy a chance, but I already said he ain't my type?  I am sorry for that but maybe because I wasn't that interested in being in a relationship for now (not that I think it will get to that point) so I said that statement? 

The dating world does make me curious but not to the extent that I want to be in it just yet. Besides I don't think I am obliged to like him back right? (clueless girl here) I felt like I am forced to like him just because he likes me. I don't want that.  I am that person who wants things to go its natural way, or maybe I am just over thinking again. Meh, I don't think I made sense and was successful to get my thoughts across because I am just really clueless with romantic love and anything else related to that. I pity myself sometimes but hey, love will come to me eventually so I'll patiently wait. 

On the other hand, I think I did kinda reject some guys... I think. I just don't know how to accept another person's feelings okay? I always get misunderstood and I over think and panic. I think they also misunderstood my actions towards them? I really don't mean to. Trust me, I am one lost girl when it comes to that. Plus I think my head is still stuck in Fantasy World wherein you can find my dream boy running around the green meadows with his hand intertwined with moi. Ah yes, I still have my own little fairy tales going on in my mind. Say whatever you want but that is solely the truth.  

My close friend told me I have high standards, oh man, I can't believe I do either. How do you even make it un-high? So probably that was also one problem with me? If you can actually consider it a hindrance. I keep telling myself, "I am not some great girl to even dare look for a greater guy." But I do. It's really frustrating. I believe those pretty flower boys I admire so much, were the main reason I had high standards in the first place. Wishing you could meet someone like him. How could I possibly meet someone who is almost perfect in my eyes? My dream boy that I will only forever dream about. So I guess I just dream (oh yes very redundant) of the wonderful relationship with him and never got interested in Real Life Dating? Meh, what the heck am I saying. Anyway in short, swooning over pretty-perfect-talented-caring boys is not that healthy because it can lead you to have high standards for men and probably be alone the rest of your existence.

I should wrap things up before I continue to talk non-sense. I seriously think I was not able to express my thoughts well. Anyway, for those K-pop lovers out there this song truly fits having standards.Juniel - Pretty Boy ("Fall in L" is the name of her album where I "stole" my blog post title from XD)

Girly Rants

Uhmm… I always start my blog posts usually with what I am currently doing or feeling. So I will keep that I guess, unless I could think of something very creative to start off my very first paragraph. I doubt that though. 

Right now, it is raining outside. Well, it’s probably just drizzling but it’s been on for a few hours now. I am very cold, plus I have a runny nose. I also feel like I want to just lie in bed all day tomorrow. Of course, in my dreams I could. I need to refrain myself from doing so because I should be a responsible daughter and citizen. I should go finish my school tasks and not laze around nor procrastinate. However, considering the weather and my lack of motivation, I don’t think I could pull that off well over the weekend. I am obliged to pass two ‘projects’ next week and I need to study, since the Preliminary Examinations are coming up as well. Typical student problems.

Anyway, so I think I’d like to share what happened to me earlier today. So we had this class wherein the professor is teaching us on how to develop our personalities and proper grooming at that. Now, we were kinda thought how to put on makeup since we were at the ‘proper grooming discussion. We were required to fix ourselves up (which I am not accustomed to) and show up in our corporate attire. I never fix myself up whenever I go out. I seldom wear fashionable clothes as well; I just feel weird doing that okay? I don’t think it is necessary. I am trying to radiate the, ‘what you see is what you get’ aura. I am kidding. I guess I am acting this way because I am the only girl among the siblings (I have two brothers). I grew up loving animé and playing video games. I did have Barbie dolls here and there and people sent me those pre-teen makeup sets but, the girliness was just not strong enough to overcome my inner manliness…? Okay don’t assume just yet, I am still a girl. A boyish girl, it is different from a lesbian. I still prefer the opposite sex but I don’t go for skirts and all that. In short I grew up not liking to fix myself or make myself look pretty or dress myself up in girly clothes. I guess that explains why I don’t have a boyfriend yet? Haha. 

Although now that I am getting older… older… older… like needs-to-be-responsible-enough-older, I am dreaming of becoming fashionable, sporting those pastel colors and those puffy skirts and cocktail dresses with those cute pair of high heeled shoes. However, I am not that confident to even try. Plus I wear glasses and I could not afford contact lenses for now because having my very own costs more than the ordinary ones. I don’t know but I usually get the notion from other people that having glasses and wearing girly clothes don’t match at all. There was this one time we were having our P.E. class. I had this classmate come up to me and said that she overheard these two guys talking about me that they think I was pretty, but too bad I was wearing glasses. I don’t know if I should take that as a compliment actually. What the hell is wrong if I am wearing specs? Does it give off a nerdy aura? Does it hinder the ‘beauty’? What did they mean by that? People also tell me I look different without my eye glasses. I don’t know if I should feel bad about that too. It could mean something positive or it could mean something negative. Ugh. People. I have to stop there before I could completely forget what I am really talking about. So I still do want to try on those girly clothes on but I don’t know how to carry it well. I think my hiding masculinity would show through and ruin the outfit. 

About makeup… I have no idea how to put makeup on. I only learned about those bronzers, primers, moisturizers and all the rest recently. Except for BB cream though. I don’t know how to properly apply those things on my face and the right strokes and techniques. It is driving me crazy! Heck I can’t even put on a straight line with eyeliner. I was forced to somehow do all those procedures on my own for ‘proper grooming’. I needed to survive so I had to pretend I know how to beautify myself and add color to my very oh so pale skin. It was kinda successful but my professor said I still needed more. I just don’t apply too much because I think I will look like a clown… and I could possibly look like a clown. Since I have fair skin heavy application could lead to a miserable outcome. I see no advantages here. Haha! When she was checking me though I had to take off my glasses so she could see my makeup well. She said I really looked different with makeup this time. I don’t know what I should feel about that. I know she didn't mean it in a bad way but still, I am so unsure of how to take that in, as a compliment or something else… Oh my life.

I do hope someday, someday I could fulfill my goal of becoming girly at least; knowing how to dress myself appropriately and how to fix myself properly. I’ll be really happy if I could and show those people that I can look decent. 

 Uh so I can’t think of anything else to talk about… so good bye for now!

Busy Bee

I am tired. Just tired. These past four days (Dec. 26-29) I was pretty busy. Pretty busy dancing here and there.

So, I can’t quite remember if I mentioned that I do cover Kpop dances and I am part of a cover group. I am too lazy to scroll down my old blog posts. Haha! Anyway, so my original cover group is called Mackerz. Yes, it is a pretty weird and funny name for a cover group. I’ll explain it maybe some other time? When I feel like it. Now I was asked by someone if I could be part of an Afterschool cover group. I agreed, of course with the permission of my friends (Mackerz). I always wanted to cover AS dances.

I’ll fast forward everything and start off with December 26. It was the day before the competition of the AS group I was in. We had not much time to practice and crammed most of our routine that time. So we practiced for five hours and then I also subbed for an SNSD group (most of my AS group mates were also in that group). I had to learn other dance routines and it was crazy but I was able to manage.  Subsequently I had a difficult time going home because it was rush hour and I was commuting. Almost all the jeepneys were full. It took me an hour before deciding to ride the train. I dropped off just one station away were I was from. It was kinda waste of my money but I needed and wanted to go home. It took me fifteen long minutes before I was able to find an almost full vehicle. I grabbed the opportunity and hopped in. I got home like late in the night. I think I was more exhausted trying to get home than practicing, now that I think about it.

December 27 came. I wasn’t sure if I actually felt nervous or what. I can’t remember. Anyhow I came to the event in the afternoon since I vowed to myself I shall not spend money eating there at the place. I needed to save every penny I had left. So I ate lunch at home. Moving on, we performed at around 5:00PM. That was when the nervousness came. I believed I wasn’t prepared but I had to dance in front of the judges like I have been practicing our routine for weeks. Gladly I was satisfied with my performance in general but I think I could have done better.

I went home early because again I did not wish to eat there. I rather eat at home where it is for free. Haha! Also, I was not expecting for us to win at all considering that we only practiced the performance for a day.

At home I ate and then watched Yoochun’s drama “Missing You”. They actually delayed an episode if I am correct. I was watching the 14^th episode that night but it should have been the 15^th if it wasn’t for the holiday break. I was like spazzing and preventing myself to shed tears. Anyway enough about the drama, (I’ll save my rants and thoughts about this drama for another blog post) later that night I received good news that we won the ‘Female Group Category’ which was a total surprise! I mean, I don’t know how that happened but I was thankful anyway. The next day we had another practice. I don’t want to push through anymore since I felt so bushed already… but I choose to do it so I needed to stick to my decision.

December 28. I went to our rehearsal and struggled a lot. I wasn’t that familiar to “The Boys” of SNSD. I always get my steps wrong and I was always unsure of what I was doing. I really got disappointed in myself. I wished I came more prepared but I just wasn’t.  On the bright side it was easier to go home compared to last time. Then I watched the next episode of ‘Missing You’ trying to hold my emotions in. It was a very heart wrenching episode okay. I slept like 12 midnight even if I know I needed to wake up early the next day.  

December 29. I think I was more anxious that day than I was last two days ago. It was my first time to cover SNSD seriously. What I mean by ‘seriously’ is that I’d be dancing to their songs a lot longer on stage. So I was covering Seohyun that time. I was freakin’ nervous… like crazy because I really ain’t prepared for this. As a result, I miserably failed on stage. I forgot a lot of the steps, got lost on stage.... I messed up period! Oh I was more disappointed afterwards. I wish I could rewind everything and start all over. Huhu. On the lighter note, the event was fun. I was just not such a fan of big crowds though. I had eye candies around the event just to make myself feel better. I won’t tell who of course! Haha! Who knows they might be reading this. (I wish! XD) I can’t classify them in the ‘crushes category’ because I don’t see them often (unlike my school crush) plus I only look for them when Kpop events come! So I guess they would stay as eye candies? Blah, I am not sure. My friends were also there to join me that time so I was more comfortable. We had laughs and we caught up with each other at least. Although I was sad because I had no money to buy fulfilling food!!! I did not want to spend too much.

We ate breakfast at KFC but when lunch came I only ate a stick of somewhat dry and cold BBQ. I did not buy that, my friend just gave it to me. Thank you for that! I also consumed half a cheesecake with my other friend. Then afterwards I drank milk tea. My stomach got temporarily full at least. That is the result of having no money or not wanting to spend too much. Haha!

These past four days were really crazy! I don’t think I would dare do that again! I don’t think I could anymore. I am happy I survived though! Until next time!

Here is my performance in my Afterschool cover group (I am the one who did the Kahi tap dance):

A Cold Sore Before the "End"

(My title doesn't make sense at all. Haha!)

            It is about quarter to eleven in the evening and I am still awake and hungry. Tomorrow is also the last day of classes before the official start of our Christmas break. So right now I am not sure what I am feeling. I don’t want to rant about my grumbling tummy nor share my excitement about the upcoming holidays. 

                Anyhow, I am still up this late because we have this video project that needs to be passed tomorrow afternoon. The footage is pretty long so it is actually taking a lot more time rendering than me editing. I know I presented myself to do such a task so I really don’t feel so burdened about it however my drowsiness as of the moment is telling me to sleep on it instead. That’s why I am writing another blog just to keep me at least half awake.

                I’d be honest… After finishing the last paragraph above I fell asleep waiting for the video to finish processing. I couldn't continue since I needed to go to school. So I am writing this not on the same day. 

                Moving on… Earlier this week I got one of my worst nightmares, having a cold sore on my upper lip. It is like a ‘tradition’ for me to get it at least twice a year. I had one last April as well. My mom said it was because I lack Vitamin C, if I am not mistaken. It is true I always forget to drink the needed supplements every day and I don’t get to eat fruits with Vitamin C that much either, so I kinda agree. I am not so proud of it though. Besides the slight sting and the minor swelling it also looks kinda gross from up close. Although now, it is not that noticeable unless you really stare at my face for how many minutes long and besides it’s halfway healed. Why am I ranting about this… well, I just want to.

                Having one is just frustrating okay? It is like I never ever got away with it. EVER. I guess I should really look out for my health in order to prevent it. It is not easy having a cold sore or "mini" wound. I can’t eat comfortably because if I stretch out my lips too much I get that feeling that it might bleed. When random people see it they would wonder why and assume. It throbs a little even if you don’t touch it at all.

                Subsequently I shall talk about other things rather than my cold sore which I am sure no one is really interested in. 

So people are buzzing about the “End of the World” thing which is said to happen today December 21, 2012 (this was uploaded the day after I actually forgot to post this XD). My friend asked me what I would have done if it did occur. My answer was straight. “I’ll tell (insert name of my crush here) I like him.” Why did I think of that first? First reason, it’s because I would have been probably in school that moment in time and better if I tell him the truth since I’ll die there anyway.  Yes, he goes to the same college as I do. Next, I guess I said that not really thinking much. Last reason, I truly don’t have the courage and a brave soul to do so, but because of the “possible yet impossible” prediction, it might push me to spill my feelings towards him. I don’t know this guy at all. We have no mutual friends. He was just some person I saw along the hallway last 2 years ago. Up to now I haven’t made any move. I just steal glimpses at him when he passes by or indirectly smile at him, whenever he’s around.  

                I must be crazy having a crush since the second semester of my first year in a university and did not do anything (or probably some people could relate?). Although I am not that desperate to have a romantic relationship with the opposite sex right now so I guess that’s why I stay glued at my seat and simply observed them (my crushes) from a far. I dream of having one but it is not my top priority or then again maybe I am just stubborn. Well I can’t figure out the real reason so for now I’ll let it be.  

                  He’ll be one of those motivations I need for me to attend school whenever I don’t wish to. He would also be someone I will look forward to see almost every day of the week.

                Enough about that though… and I guess I’ll end it here. I won’t be sharing anything else and save that for another post. I really have a lot in mind but I can’t seem to find time to put it all into words and create a blog post out of it. Until next time… Au revoir!

Roller coaster

It has been long since I have written a blog post and I am dying to let my feelings out as well as my thoughts. A crazy emotional roller coaster ride. That is how I could describe the past few weeks that went by. I never felt so many strong emotions, both positive and negative, all in a short span of time. I am not such an outspoken person so I keep things to myself and it seriously ain’t helping. I don’t know if it just me or people are just being difficult when there is actually a way to make things easier. I think I am about to explode sooner or later.

As of now… I am just longing to see my closest friends and tell them all my resentments and rants. However I just have to suck it up and carry on with my life.

Now more on my ‘crazy emotional roller coaster ride’… I am not quite sure why but at present it seems to me like almost everyone around me are emotionally unstable at the moment. Again maybe it is just me who thinks so. It is really driving me nuts, like seriously. I am not sure how to get along with them. I also don’t know how to react properly at some situations anymore. I think too much. I complicate things when it shouldn't be. I feel so weak right now. I am so lost and I don’t even know the reason. I am bothered by little things and care too greatly on what other people think of me. I don’t want anyone hating on me, but the hell you truly can’t please everybody. I kept on reiterating that to myself but it is not working. People abuse my kindness. I let them get away with it. People are too insensitive and blind to deal with existing issues. I let them go on being like that anyway. Ugh. I am totally clueless as what I should really do right now.  I can’t even express myself so profoundly.  Just to sum things up my ‘camaraderie’ is hiding from me. I seem to get ticked off so fast now. I seem to get so paranoid about things so easily. I am wishing that all of these would be over soon. I need a break. A break from everything.

I don’t know if I am actually making sense with this post. If not, then it just goes to show how confused I am. Anyway, I’ll find something more interesting and light to talk about when I find the time. I guess I’ll see you guys another time.  

Back to School?

After a few weeks, finally I am writing again on this deserted blog. I have wanted to let out my thoughts since the first day of the second semester began. 

Primarily I just wish to “rant” about my class schedule. I currently have three laboratories in one week. What do you mean by laboratories you ask? Well, since I am an HRM student there is this special part of my curriculum wherein we are required to take two culinary-related courses (International Cuisine and Catering) for six hours, one on Monday and another on Friday. Then the other lab is a course that will teach us about Microsoft Opera (a computer system for guest reservations and booking in hotels) which we will attend for five hours at least. Three hours for the laboratory and two hours for the lecture.

I will be trying to survive those for this semester. Last time we had two food and beverage laboratories (Cafeteria Operations and Beverage Management) and I couldn’t even handle those well.  I am not sure if I am great enough to juggle three. It’s crazy I tell ya! It will be crazy like before, coming soon! On the lighter side though, on Tuesdays, my dismissal is earlier than the usual and then my class the next day starts in the afternoon. Compared to my last class schedule, this semester is beneficial. I could catch up on my sleep for those days with early departures from school. I could also do deadly projects during those days.

So I cannot really decide on what I should feel about this semester, if I could actually say the statements above are considered rants. One thing is for sure though; it will be much more challenging than the previous sems since this is one of the crucial periods in my whole college life. I don’t know what is ahead of me but I’ll just brace myself. I have to do good, just keep my grades fairly high and learn a lot which I should not simply forget after the academic years ends.  

Moving on, generally this week has been a slight headache here and there. Professors gave their orientations, “warned” us about our future killer projects and events. Commuting stresses were forever present; trying to get along with people with different personalities… What’s new? Seeing cute guys around the campus probably spiced up my week a bit, still I won’t see those guys often; actually I might not see them at all. There are thousands of students in the university; there is a one in a million chance I’ll see them again, unless fate is nice to me and will give me another glance at the ‘eye candies’.

I guess I wanna share this guy I came across with last Tuesday, November 6 to be exact. He was an Engineering student; I can’t make a confident estimation what year he was in, maybe fourth year or the same as my year (third year)? Anyhow, so we were leaving school already since classes ended and we were walking along this roofed-pathway near the building of the Engineering students and there were these two men (he was with a friend I think) who popped out of nowhere (well not really) and came strolling towards us. I usually notice guys, who “stand out” from the crowd, someone my eyes drift to first. After that he’ll be the only person my vision is focusing on (the people around him would all be a blur). So the cute Engineering student my eyes captured, had fair skin, somewhat brown artificially dyed hair, he was chinky-eyed and well, tall. I was not sure if I was actually smiling because I saw someone ‘probably my type’ or I was talking to my friend about something cheerful and my grin was plastered on my face. I am not certain what I truly looked like at that moment. I don’t know if I should be glad about this because he was beaming back at me (or am I hallucinating?). Maybe I seemed weird or maybe the feeling is mutual? I wanna believe the latter but then I am afraid to assume. Although for the sake of experiencing all those giddy chills down my spine again (after a long time) I suppose it was the latter? I hope so.

Now that I am done with that… Wait, that pretty much sums up what I want to say… Kidding! Well, seriously though I don’t have anything else to say (sleepy as of the moment). So I’ll just have to wrap things up. I’ll see you guys on my next blog post. Right? 

More than just K-pop

(My Jay Park sketch on-the-making)

Korean pop or more known as K-pop is a genre of music in the Southern part of Korea, which consists of (according to wikipedia) electronic pop, hip-hop, dance and R&B.

 I for one have been a fan of this kind of music ever since my second year in high school, roughly five years and counting. It was introduced to me by my friends during the latter part of my first year but I was not attracted to it until well, the next year. What is the reason for that? I used to be an Anime and J-pop fan. I more addicted to those before K-pop came knocking on my door. I grew up with those action-packed, lovey dovey, mythical, school-oriented, friendship-related animated stories since I was like six years old? (around that time perhaps) Anyway, along with an anime series is a set of Japanese OST songs to go along with it. So of course I instantly became a fan of J-pop. However I was only familiarized with their “Idol World” when I was twelve just when I was about to fly off to the “Korean Idol Scene”. It was a pretty late realization, I only knew of Arashi, News, Kat-Tun and the others that time. I became a fan of JDoramas or Japanese dramas (mostly live-action series of manga stories) within the time my interests were transitioning from the Japanese culture to the Korean culture. It is safe to say I was addicted to both cultures at the same time but when my third year of secondary schooling came I became a fully converted K-pop fan.

Now, I did not really forget the J-pop domain until now but I am not as updated as I was before. I still appreciate the genre but I am fonder of the Korean music scene now. So what basically pulled me in to K-pop? First of all, I fell in love with those freakishly handsome (talented) pretty boys… okay maybe I am exaggerating a bit but there are really some pretty boys and girls you are subjected to drool upon once you have laid your eyes on them. Maybe for some, boy and girl groups were in the past, oh yes they are, but in this part of Korea it apparently ain’t over. Currently though, the industry is no longer flocked by pretty boys alone but charismatic manly guys as well along with time, the entertainment slash music industry is inevitably changing gradually. Second would be well, their catchy songs I cannot understand, similar feelings towards J-pop. Amazingly even if I barely know the language, I love the songs they produce. I am accustomed to foreign language and its appealing beats since my J-pop era anyway, so what else is new?

Lastly would be a deeper reason, you see in the Korean music industry, you don’t simply get signed with a record label. It is not that easy to get in to the limelight, getting there is no joke at all (I guess it goes for any wannabe artist). It is like college, they ‘train’ you for your future work place. Same goes for those aspiring singers and dancers. There are these number of entertainment companies like SM Entertainment, YG Entertainment and JYP Entertainment (the ‘Big Three’ as some say) to name a few, who recruit talented Korean boys and girls (the companies also hold auditions) to train those ‘chosen ones’ as performers on the music stage.  This has been a long practice for who knows when, although now they do get non-Korean people. Now, I for example, get in the first round of auditions, I have to survive several more. Afterwards if I get through, I will get more training in both dancing and singing for how many years, based on how good you are probably… Some become trainees for eight years, some for only a few months. It really all depends on the company. If they think you are ready then to the stage you go. My point here is, training is difficult, you have to compete with hundreds of people and you really have to standout if you want to get picked. It comes with sleepless nights, all sorts of injuries and for a few, home sickness. If this is your ultimate dream, then you have to test your limits and better if you surpass them. I am just simply awed by their determination. Seeing those successful idols on stage, they wouldn't be there if they lacked passion. It is what fuels them to endure those long hours of training. It seems that for them, it’s not just performing, it is an art, and it’s their life. It is not all about the glamorous side of K-pop.

To those who still can’t comprehend, why I love K-pop and the Korean culture I guess, you just have to respect me and those who enjoy their music and their way of life. K-pop is more significant to me than others think. Because of K-pop I was able to discover myself, see skills and talents I thought I never had. I joined dance clubs and such but my dream of becoming a dancer was not so clear when I was younger but with the help of K-pop (by dance covers and cover groups) I was able to perform on stage and prove myself I do kinda have future with dancing. It boosted my confidence. I am a shy person but when on stage I am different. It is like in those movies where you have two identities; I meant that in a good way. I also stumbled upon photoshop, I never knew I could gain skills in that area. I may not be the best photo manipulator out there but I am happy to be one. I was also introduced to writing. I would not have had put up a blog if I was never familiar with writing. Because of fan fictions (I might elaborate this more at another post) I was enticed to write. Now I enjoy it and it became one of my hobbies (I also dream of publishing my own story someday). I have been doing portraits of K-pop idols too. I never knew I can do (its the picture above). I used to draw like lame anime figures but I never realized I could sketch out real people. I could probably make that as my part-time job? Today, I could use those self-honed skills and talents for other things like school works and such. These people who I idolize also inspired me to strive harder and not to give up. One day I will reach my dream, I just have to believe in myself. All those hard times they went through are now in the past, and I wish to be successful like them someday in a different field most likely.

It is not just, K-pop, it was actually one of those events in my life that molded me to become the person I am today. I am thankful for finding this genre.

I respect the interests of other people; I hope those people do the same. I am not turning my back on my nationality. I never did. I am just embracing another culture similar to how we welcomed American culture especially their music in to our lives. In terms of the music, the only difference is that we understand the language that is why it is more loved. The fact that people don’t understand Hangul or Korean doesn't mean no one has the right to listen to it. As if I am reading a book nobody is familiar with and for that I become an outcast.  I did not forget I am a Filipina, I still love OPM, I still love English music; it is just that now, I am not as informed of the new stuff as I was before K-pop. I hate it when people make fun or ridicule K-pop in a bad way. They barely know the culture they don’t have a right to be so judgmental. Yes, we also make fun of the ‘out-of-this-world’ concepts and sounds but not to the extent that it offends others. We don’t mock it so profoundly. I have experienced situations like this, but I just let it slide trying to understand that probably these people are not so open to new things or that their simply narrow-minded. I just don’t want to argue with those people, it will be just a waste of time; they won’t listen to what I have to say anyway. I have been branded as “K-pop” in school, although still a few people know of my interest, that is alright, but what breaks my heart is how they deliver it, they say it out loud in such a negative way or maybe I am just overreacting? I don’t know. I just feel like an outsider when people call me that (I am mostly pertaining to their delivery). It just saddens me that there are some insensitive people around me. Call me weird, call me “K-POP” but I will not turn my back on it. I might not be as crazy about it as I was before, ten years from now, but I will never forget it. As I have said earlier, it has been part of me and I can’t remove what has been within me for all these years. It is like I am killing a portion of my soul.   

    

Like what we Filipinos say “Walang basagan ng trip.” Respect my interests and I’ll respect yours. It is my life. That is all I and probably other K-pop fans are asking for. I’ll do what I wish that does not affect others’ lives negatively. I love Korean pop. If you still don’t understand why, then you have to read everything from the start. This is Mackie, signing out. :)    

Silent

So here am again with my 3^rd blog, procrastinating from studying my last two exams for tomorrow, to talk about me being a quiet prim being.

At school, I am typically one of those people who talk less which results to not being that noticed or remembered. I am not that girl who tells little significant or insignificant stories that happened to me yesterday or any other day to anyone I see most of the time. I am not that someone who has a lot of things to say. I just don’t share what I have in mind that often. I do so when I feel like it. Probably because I am shy, yes I am a shy person that is why I usually vent out my feelings and thoughts through writing so I won’t explode into bits of bazillion tiny particles. Maybe another factor would be is that I am just not a good conversation starter. I am usually the one who ends it simply ‘coz I have nothing else to say or I don’t know how to continue it. I don’t even know why I actually pursued HRM wherein supposedly I need to do a lot of talking and interacting with people. It was sort of a stupid decision. However it is not too late to practice good communication skills, so there is still hope for me.

Anyway, ever since I was young I was not fond of talking (I could not remember though if I talked a lot when I was in nursery or kindergarten or preparatory school or my early elementary days). I am more of a listener. When in a conversation I seldom say what’s on my mind or show a valid reaction whatsoever. I commonly do an “Oh really?” or “Oh, is that so?” or maybe a short “Ah~” worst a simple nod or smile. That does not sound enticing to move on further with our convo does it? When I was a kid, my brothers and I used to hang out with our cousins. I was the only girl in the circle; my female cousins were already in abroad, so I kinda don’t have anyone to spend time with excluding my mother of course. I end up “bonding” with them. Since I am a girl, I could not understand most of the discussions they had. So as a result I keep my mouth shut. Then I guess hypothetically that is another reason why I am so quiet.

During my elementary days, I have encountered a person who told me behind my back I was boring.  What made her say that? Well, we had this year-ender party at school celebrating the upcoming festive holidays early before school ends for the time being, to give way well…for the holiday break. Now, I was asked if I could be the host in our class party. Of course I was honored to do so. I mean, no one ever requested if I could host… Host a party… For someone who is pretty silent, a hosting job won’t really be fit for that individual. Unfortunately that was me. So that person told my other classmates that I was not the best person for the task. True she is (since I don’t speak a lot), but along with those words, she added the reason why. It was because I was boring. Just because I don’t talk much it is equivalent to being a boring person? I seriously did not get it that time, I was young and naive.  Maybe she just prefers those people who are talkative like her to be qualified as hosts? 

So that puzzled me up to now… Am I really dull? My silence is a disadvantage? Do my friends just put up with me and pretend that they enjoy my company but in fact they don’t? Do I seem too serious just because I am not chatty? I haven’t heard anyone say they enjoy my company… well I don’t question them about that anyway but when other people are asked to describe this or that person they say, “It’s  fun being with him or her.” or “I always laugh or have a good time with him or her."  I never heard someone tell that about me. It kinda saddens me now that I think about it, although as I have said I really haven’t asked anybody regarding that and I don’t think I will any time soon. Also add the ugly truth that I don’t know humor. It was and still is not in my vocabulary. People usually notice humorous people don’t they? To spice up their tiresome lives perhaps? So I guess that was the main reason why I was called boring purely ‘coz I don’t know how to make or say jokes. Probably my soft, low-toned voice is also a culprit? Screw my life then. I’d be one of those “Forever Alone” human beings. Haha, okay okay I am exaggerating already but you get the point. However that is not the only existing basis of having a good relationship with others right?

I had a friend who told me my silence was comforting which was touching. I just wish it was the same for others. I am afraid that they might feel awkward since they are not used to not having exchange of dialogues. If only I could tell them that I do feel sane whenever I keep quiet and that I am not accustomed to a lot of talking as well. It is my way of relaxing from a stressful day or merely my “yoga” for every single day, but of course I would sound weird trying to explain myself when they weren't asking for it.  

I also experienced those times (many many times) when I do get the chance to talk, people coincidentally  don't listen... so what is the point of talking if no one is listening to what you have to say anyway? I'll just embarrass myself. Haha. 

Recently though I am trying my best to start and keep conversations running smoothly. I still have not gotten the hang of it, but I hope I will soon, although I could not and will not remove that part of me being quiet. It is my method of reflecting on a day to day basis actually and a way to appreciate life.   The shy part, well I really have to lessen that in order for me to get a decent job in the future. Up to this day it is still unclear to me if I, a silent female individual, bring joy to those around me. I guess I’ll just not think about it too much.  It got me thinking, doesn't it add mystery if a girl or boy speaks less? Wouldn't that intrigue you to know more about the person? One last thing, if I do talk a lot when I am with a person that someone is awesome that he or she can turn, even a quiet girl like me to be talkative. Haha. 

They Caught Me

                “You’ve never opened your heart to me, not even once I feel like I’m looking at a wall, you know that?"  No, no I will not talk about my love life here, I don’t even have one. *sigh* Anyway, that is an excerpt, the translation by the way, from a song I am currently addicted to. It is “Catch Me” by the popular group, TVXQ or Dongbangshinki aka “Rising Gods of the East” in English.

 A little information about the group: they are formerly a five-member Korean boy band from an entertainment company named SM Entertainment; the boys debuted around 2003 and are already nine years in the industry going ten next year. The original lineup was Kim Jaejoong, Kim Junsu, Shim Changmin, Park Yoochun and Jung Yunho. After a controversy between the company and three of its members (Jaejoong, Junsu and Yoochun) that led to a court trial, the five split up. TVXQ is now left with two members (Yunho and Changmin) and continued performing as a duo while the rest formed the trio group, JYJ.

Enough about that and more about the song... the duo recently came back on September 24, 2012 with a new album and title track called “Catch Me”. They both released the album and music video on the said date and made their live performance just this October 5 in a Korean music show. The song seems as if it is a combination of an orchestral-ish, electro pop, dubstep-ish and pop sound (sorry for the bad description, I really don’t know much about music and its genres). Anyhow, the moment I heard the song though I got disappointed because it was not what I expected after watching the teaser video released a few days before. I was like, “Aww, I thought it would be a very upbeat song.” Although, man, after listening to it a few more times, it instantly caught my heart and got stuck inside my head. It was some sort of virus that spread like crazy. It was very "catchy". The chorus definitely was my favorite especially the “Kajima~” part sang by Yunho. It was just so full of emotion, even though I could not understand it like hell, how it was sang kinda delivers the message. (His voice also improved a lot comparing to their Keep Your Head Down era, I am so happy for him!) Changmin's strong, high-note-hitting, voice meanwhile, was flawless and lovable as usual. Well, the song in general was seasoned with sentiments and their powerful voices add to the impact, it is just something you can and want to sing along to.

On to the music video, disregarding the intro sequence the whole video was simply stunning. They were on minimalistic sets, we can usually see other Korean groups do but what made it unique and what spiced the place up was the dance routine. The ever so awesome choreography (they refer to as the Dragon Dance or Hulk Dance) was something different; it had this Interpretative, Krumpin’, Poppin’ and Hip-hop sides to it. It was very creative actually, who would have thought such moves can be put to this song. I bet it was difficult to achieve such a routine, it requires a lot of teamwork from the duo and their backup dancers (who I ever so adore for their awesomeness as well). The choreo is no joke, with all those carrying, slanting and crazy formations a normal person would really get tired even before the chorus starts. I could have probably fainted if I tried to dance it. These people are very very uber well-trained professional performers and they make it look like it is no sweat. They were feeling the song from start to end (I am also referring to their recent live performance). Overall the music video was both enjoyable and awe-able.

Next would be the lyrics of the song. It is something I can vaguely relate to considering the fact I had no boyfriend yet whatsoever, if I refer to my school crush then maybe but not quite. The message is frank. If you don’t ‘catch me’ I will be gone forever, if you don’t tell me not to go, if you don’t beg me not to leave, then good-bye. It seems as if a boy is saying take me or else or if you don’t love me then it is your lost. It is now or never. A very powerful meaning probably those guys who are friendzoned can say "Catch Me" is the best song for them.

TVXQ’s comeback from a year and a half break was worth waiting for. The title track and the album really caught my attention. Their almost perfect live performance was something to bow down too. They are back, half of the Kings are back. I bet if the five of them reunited, they will be unstoppable. In the meantime, these two senior idols will rule the industry for the time being. I am Mackie, a Cassie, a Korean pop lover telling you to ALWAYS KEEP THE FAITH!

Here is their official music video and practice clip (the live performance is hyperlinked at the 3rd paragraph)... Don't forget to breathe! ;)

*Note: If you have seen the live performance of "I Don't Know" please I beg you to help me burn their outfits especially Changmin's. They look as if they were taken out of a manga not really fit for performing; their outfits are too distracting in my opinion. Haha, sorry I just had to let this out. 

Music Video

Dance Practice

That List...

                Today is the 6^th of October, 2012. A normal but not so normal Saturday since this is the weekend before our Final Exams. I am currently a college student on my third year as a Hotel and Restaurant Management major at one of the top schools here in my country. Moving on, I should really be studying right now, however my lazy side took over. Now I just want to sleep and theoretically regain my energy from those oh so sleepless nights cramming all those projects and homeworks and struggling to finish them before the deadline.

                I promised myself I would do better this semester to try and get back that title, “Dean’s Lister”. It was a privilege I received during the first semester of my first year in college up to the first semester of my second year (pretty short-lived). Shocking, because I used to have grades like 76, 77, 78 and the “shoot that was close” 79. (I never had a failing mark though) These numbers were present on some or maybe most of my report cards back in Elementary (that was around 4^th grade to 6^th grade) and especially in High School. Anyway, l lost that “title” for some reasons; one clearly would be because of my laziness. I was too sluggish to do this or that and I procrastinate a lot too. As a result my average lowered a few points. A few freaking points! I still could have been in that list; sadly that was what fate brought me.

I just wanted to keep the title to make my parents proud. I mean I had no awards whatsoever back in my early days, academically speaking that is. I had recognition from drawing contests and such but that was seldom. It was like a huge gift to them. The looks on their faces when they knew I was on the list, that I was allegedly one of those smart or studious people at my college, was just priceless. Well, I just don’t believe I am that smart, I mean come on, all those years of being an average student to a Dean’s Lister. Who knew I was capable of becoming one? I felt as if it was a joke at first.

These academic titles weren’t much of big deal to me when I was younger. As of now though, I really won’t mind if I do get my name on that displayed list again or not. (Seeing my performance for this semester, I don’t think I will) I’ll just do my best and study well enough and just acquire good grades and skills which could appeal to my future employers. I know my parents will still be proud of me once I graduate from college. I guess…

Wish me luck on my Finals week!

P.S. I would like to credit the following for the resources/textures/pngs I used for my background and header: hellotherelily, sodust, SweetSoulSister, sodust again, mellowmint, aulxdayz, crazykira-resources, 99mockingbirds and to the others I couldn't find the URLs.