Actors of Hollywood

In no particular order, these are the actors I particularly enjoy watching on the big screen. In other words, my favorite actors! And by no means does that mean there aren't any other actors I like-- there are plenty. Just that these are ones that I reeeeaaallly like, that I'll watch without any rational explanation. You get me? I'll end up mentioning some of my favorite movies in the process too. Mind you, these are movies I have seen. There are, I'm sure, plenty of movies that are awesome and I just haven't seen them yet. I'm a movie buff but a young one nonetheless.

Anthony Hopkins
What can I say? Anthony Hopkins is so inspiring on so many levels. He's intelligent, cultured, versatile, and one hell of an actor. He's an actor with a strong presence. He draws you into the movie before you can even realize that you're unable to take your eyes off of the screen. I have yet to see all of his movies, but the ones that I have seen have been terrific.

Movies to see: Fracture, Meet Joe Black, The Edge.

Joaquin Pheonix
I discovered this actor with Gladiator (one of my favorite movies, if you ever ask me). Simply fell in love with his character in the movie and ever since then I admire his talents. I don't know what really to say, only that he's not your typical Hollywood actor. He has raw talent that doesn't feed itself only on looks and charm. And I am so glad that "rapper beard dude" was a prank.

Movies to see: Gladiator, Walk the Line.

Russel Crowe
I could not mention Joaquin Pheonix without mentioning Russel Crowe. Yes, I also came to notice him in Gladiator. (Forgive me!) There's no doubt this actor has talent and presence, but I also can't omit the fact that his voice is divine. The perfect example of how a deep but gentle voice can melt your heart! If you're a gal like me, that is. Anyway, silliness aside ---Russel Crowe has such a stage presence and is a great storyteller as well.

Movies to see: Gladiator, A Beautiful Mind, Robin Hood*
*Robin Hood isn't really my favorite at all. But I thought why not mention it since it's.. recent?

Tom Hanks
This guy is such a sweetheart. Maybe it's because I grew up with his movies since Forrest Gump that I like him so much. 'Don't know. All I can say is that Tom Hanks is almost always good. Not only is he a great actor, but a great producer of movies and mini-series.

Movies to see: Forrest Gump, Catch Me If You Can, Cast Away.

Matthew McConaughey
Most know this Texan guy for being the lady charmer of romantic comedies, but there's two sides to every coin! I like him for both, although I admit I've watched quite a few chick flicks because of him. His charm and looks are hard to resist, being so laid back and confident. Movies that I mention here are just my personal favorites.

Movies to see: Contact, Wedding Planner, A Time to Kill* * Haven't seen "A Time to Kill" yet, but according to my dad it's a good movie.

Jude Law
OK, to be honest -- I was itching to put him up first. But I resisted! Anybody who knows me well enough when it comes to actors will know I am crazy about Jude Law. But aside from being a perfect combo of genetics and, in my opinion, a could be royal for being so physically perfect, he is also a wonderful actor.

Movies to see: Alfie, Artificial Intelligence: A.I., Gattaca, The Aviator,
Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow*

Leonardo DiCaprio
I think it was when he started doing movies that played in the 40s and 50s that he really won me over. He has such a passion for acting-- you can just see it in his eyes. He's dedicated to his roles and really makes an effort to live in the mind of each. And it all comes out as being effortless. That's true talent right there.

Movies to see: Catch Me If You Can, The Aviator, Revolutionary Road*, Inception.
* A beautiful movie in a sense that it is a piece of art and the actors are amazing in it. But be sure you have something that will definitely cheer you up afterwards, because it's quite the sad story and may catch you off guard.

Will Smith
What's not to like about Will Smith? He's versatile not only in his comedies but also in his more dramatic films. I don't remember when I started as a fan of Will Smith-- it just sneaked in unnoticed, honestly. Though no doubt it has been quite a few years since! For me, he's another talented actor (and musically too!) who has worked very hard to get where he is now and it's a treat to watch.

Movies to see: Hitch, Pursuit to Happiness, Men in Black, I- Robot, Seven Pounds*
*A gut wrenching movie that left me disturbed for a couple days. So I have mixed feelings about this one.

The good old days

Mobile Suit Gundam Wing brings such nostalgia! I was so addicted to it. Good times, good times, those were... The "golden age" as they say. I'm only surprised that I actually prefer the english voices for this one. At least now I can watch it in chronological order. 

Yes, my blog layout is stupid and cuts the video off. Just click on it to see it in YouTube.

I'm sorry but this is too awesome for words

http://www.lackadaisycats.com/exhibit.php?exhibitid=328

Online graphic novels that you need to check out!

The Meek

This is a graphic novel that left me wonderfully surprised and I'm embarrassed that I discovered it only last year. The course of the story seems effortless, yet when you read it-- you can tell the creator put a hell a lot of work into it! In my opinion this could be a movie. It's just that deep and intricate. Besides, the artwork is top-notch. (AND IT'S IN FULL BLOWN COLOR MAN) GO READ IT!

Lackadaisy

First thing first. The 20's. Awesome period. Second: CATS. Two things I love all in one comic. You may be thinking: Cats? Furry comic? What? Noo! -- But seriously. Tracy Butler is so good at drawing these guys that I found myself forgetting they were cats -- they have such personality and wit that it's like reading a comic that has people --- only far more amusing than ever. And she has the period down to every detail, it's amazing! All in all, you HAVE to give this comic a try.

Johnny Wander
You know those little episodic comics you're used to reading in the newspaper with the little jokes in them that make you laugh? Well, Johnny Wander is one of those, only BETTER and more epic. The characters are the very creators and their social circle, as they chronicle the many bizarre and amusing things that happen in their lives. There hasn't been one strip that hasn't made me laugh out loud. Or giggle. :-3

Roza: The Cursed Mage
Once again, here is a comic where a lot of work/LOVE was put into it. A great spin on the fantasy genre! I don't know what else to say, for I feel like I'll be repeating myself over again. D: Might I mention it's also in color! (although the most recent pages aren't. but they are still awesome!) It's a story with just enough humor and adventure to keep you reading.

Phoenix Requiem
This story is played in the Victorian era, but with a supernatural twist!  Yet again, an artist that is so kind in coloring her pages. (We are so spoiled!) Suspense and romance are its main focus. As you can see as the list grows longer I find myself more at a loss at what else to say. AAH. NO. FORGIVE ME.

The Dreamer
This is a webcomic that normally wouldn't be to my liking because of the art style. Yes, I am normally not a fan of the whole classical american comic art style. But this is such an original concept that it won me over. The story is about a 17 year old girl, high school senior who starts having vivid dreams about a man called Alan Warren, a soldier that served during the Revolutionary War in 1776. Full of adventure, romance and war, what more could you want? And what better way to learn some good old american history?


Ok, I must retire. I could put up some more comic recommendations but I think it'd be pushing it tonight. Check out one of these guys and tell me what you think! Ta-ta! ;9 (Click on the banner to get to their respective website!)




EDIT: 

Hanna Is Not a Boy's Name
It slipped my mind to mention this one. LAST ONE TONIGHT I SWEAR. This comic is pure awesomeness. It has a great, quirky personality with a wonderful sense of humor. Vampires, zombies-- supernatural galore -- it doesn't take itself too seriously... at first. Then the story gets really interesting! I particularly love the coloring technique, which is very free spirited. And the artwork and panelling. AND EVERYTHING. Anyway, just feast your senses.

I'll mention some more comics tomorrow perhaps...

INCEPTION

Listening to: "Starry Eyed" - Ellie Goulding
'Finally I saw it last Friday and boy oh boy... Batman: The Dark Knight was good, but INCEPTION was beautiful! Not everybody will like it... but I adored it. It's everything I like all in a movie. What could be better?!

[fangirling]
I haven't been so addicted and in love with a movie in quite a while. I was all smiles and giggles after the movie -- it left me with such a "I'm pumped, ready and inspired" feeling. I can't wait till it gets released on DVD! I SWEAR I WILL BUY IT -- WHO CARES ABOUT HOW MUCH IT COSTS! >:D

I'm so in love with the movie that I feel like going to the scary depths of fanfiction.net after so many years not reading it, to feed on my addiction. And of course I reaallly want to draw fanart~ And I end up watching interviews of the cast, haha.

I'm also totally crushin' on Joseph Gordon-Levitt. At first glance he really isn't my type, but he is so frikkin' hot in Inception, gawd! Now I shall finally watch "500 Days of Summer" because of him. He seems cute beyond belief in that movie! *drools*
[/fangirling]


Sorry peeps, I just HAD to get that out of my system! Even with the rambling I don't think it will be out of my system very soon. And in honor of this post I am making a movies label. I am actually quite the movie buff -- I really need to make a list of the awesome movies I've seen over the years! D:

I could ramble on more about how hot JGL is, the movie and its beautiful cast, but I will spare you innocent bystanders, heh. NOW GO WATCH THE MOVIE IF YOU HAVEN'T!

Late update (John Mayer alert!)

OK, I won't be able to mention much in detail at this very moment, but I'll try and mention the basic details. ...And before I say anything else, I must announce one thing:

I found out last night on my twitter (something I go to very rarely when I'm seriously bored) that John Mayer will be playing in West Palm Beach on Sept. 11th! And there's still seats available! (sadly not front row, though.) It was already past midnight when I saw the video-message from JM. I almost thought it was a joke. My dad was already asking me once again to go to sleep and I seriously didn't think I would be able to because I was so excited. West Palm Beach is only a 2 hour drive from Miami!

Even though the ticket's pricy, I reeeeaaaalllly want to buy a seat anyway. (This is coming from a stingy person when it comes to spending money.) Who knows when's the next time I'll be able to go to his concert!

Honestly, that made my night yesterday. /o/

Now, onto more boring things:

• I've been in Miami for almost 2 weeks now. Still in a motel with my dad until we have found and decided on a temporary apartment. That aspect has been a bit of a pain.

• I've finished my registration for MDC and already chose my classes. They're all in the afternoon! I mean, my classes. I can't see myself waking up who knows how early to go to a class starting 7AM or 8AM after this long vacation.

• Don't have a purchased car yet, because I still have to do the DMV exam. I think today I'll pay for the DATA course online (drug and traffic awareness course)... Yesterday for the second time, I learned a little bit on driving in my dad's car. We went to one of those big empty parking lots, but even so, I felt so nervous driving. Maybe 'cause my dad made such a darn serious examiner. I also realized yesterday that I still have a lot more to read on the DMV handbook. -_-

That's pretty much all I can tell you for now. I'm also trying to get rid of a cold I caught from my dad (which he hasn't gotten rid of yet haha). I miss Brazil, but I'm also liking the change. I can definitely see myself getting excited if I hear any people speaking portuguese here, though. Which already happened a couple days ago at the Apple store. :D

I'll try to post more soon.

Update

I’m terribly behind on this blog, it seems. So that I don’t drag out my thoughts aimlessly here, I’ll mention some things that have been on my mind:

1. College life and the idea of my registration going wrong. See, I registered ages ago, like at the end of last year, I think. But there are still some loose ends to tie (college leveling test, registering for classes, etc) , which I can only do once I’m in Miami. And since I love to worry about possible scenarios, I can’t help but think something’ll back fire. I know there’s no point worrying, but what if I can’t register for the classes I want or need? What if there’s a space limit? What if a ton of people are going for computer animation as their major?! Ah well... time will tell I suppose. >;p
2. Packing and ridding of junk. See, my dad wants to be completely mobile. In other words, we’re getting rid of pretty much everything we have except for things I wish to take with me to Miami and vice-versa for my dad. We’ve sold a lot of furniture already, thankfully. But there’s still a TON of stuff that’s just been hiding itself in the house and UGH I can’t wait to be over with it. I dread tomorrow and the amount of stuff I’ll have to go through. The good news though is that today I got my whole room pretty much wiped out -- that is, rid of junk. At least it isn’t as crazy-messy like it has been recently.
3. Dragging on the topic above, I have this second suitcase which I’m suppose to use to figure what I can fit with things I feel I really want to take... and I had to go through it all again today (meaning I had to take out everything in that suitcase out) -- and it lead me to realizing I’ll have to ship all of my heavy books and comics in a box to Miami, while the other half I can take with me... IF I’M LUCKY and it doesn’t weigh too much. Seriously I can’t believe how much I have! Even with all the bazillion books, papers and other things I got rid of -- it’s still a lot!
4. Also, on the topic of college: On videojug.com I discovered a fellow called Harlan Cohen, where he gives tips and advice regarding college. I found him so likable and funny that when I went to his website I found out he was also an author of several books, one of them being a guide on college life (“The Naked Roomate”) I immediately told my dad I wanted to buy once I was in the U.S.. Check out his two websites: The Naked Roomate and Help me Harlan!
5. Oh, I might as well mention when I’ll be in Miami. I’ll be arriving during the first week of June, staying at a short term apartment until we find a long term rental that is to our liking and fits our budget. That may also be hindered/influenced by the possibility of Cristina coming to live with me in the late Fall of this year or the beginning of next year. Even though that has been a known possibility, my dad isn’t too keen on the idea now. We’ll see what happens in a couple months! We haven’t chosen a short term apartment yet -- hopefully me and me dad’ll have that done and over with finally tomorrow.
6. Once in Miami I’ll start going to math review classes at the college. I don’t consider myself a total ignorant about math, I’m actually not that bad -- but going through almost six months without studying a whole lot of math (I honestly tried but it’s darn hard without no one pressuring you!), it tends to become a blur, even the things you use to be good at. So I need that  “refresh” button pressed in my brain!
7. Uuuuh, I’m tired. I could talk about a lot of other things, but it’s gonna get late and I still need to get my bum in the shower. I’ll just finish this post saying I discovered this awesome web comic this morning and could not stop reading (unless I was forced to). It’s called Hanna is Not a Boy’s Name. This title doesn’t say everything, but it says great humor, which you’ll notice once reading it. At the beginning that may be what it seems, just humor -- but upon reading more it’s got a great set of characters and an interesting story. Not to mention humor!! (Sorry, I like things that make me laugh.) So check it out and see if it’s your cup of tea. It also has rock-your-socks artwork and awesome coloring. Hmm.. I should make a post on all the web comics I love and recommend. That’s be fun!

My cake!

 

Yes I actually made this!  The white covering is whip cream made from the pack - the semi made from scratch kind -- where you add the powder from the box and mix in cold milk really fast with a whisk. I've tried this before and I failed terribly but this time for some reason I managed to get it right! Maybe my determination was greater, lol. Your arm really hurts when you're doing it, though. All in all I'm just so happy I managed to go about my wishes to have a cake for my birthday and actually be the one who made it without burning it! I made the cake the day before.

Cake and music .-.

Listening to: "Stardust" - Michael Bublé with Naturally 7

So I was looking up tour dates for either Michael Bublé or John Mayer since I thought: Hey, since I'll be in the US now, I should take advantage of the perks! These two guys are the only ones possibly capable of making me stand in a huge crowd for hours, I think. Yes, they are completely different but I love them!

Anyway, for the bazillion locations that there are on both websites they only have TWO CITIES in Florida. Seriously, that is so cruel! And then when I thought I found something close by -- Tampa, for a John Mayer concert -- it's for September and I'll be busy with college already.  AAAAH. No fair! ;3; The only other option was a MB concert in Jacksonville, which is like more than 5 hours drive from Miami, according to Google Maps -- plus it's in July, which is shortly after I arrive from Brazil -- so that's already a no-go.

But... there will be other times, years to come -- I guess. It still sucks though.

My birthday's tomorrow. I made a cake this afternoon-- a chocolate cake. And I didn't burn it!! I swear, the very few times I've tried making a cake, I've always managed to burn it. Sadly, when I was making the frosting, I used the wrong type of butter/margarine and instead of becoming creamy it became a mix between sugar, milk and curd-like butter... so that part didn't work out. BUT! There is always hope in getting whip cream tomorrow morning, or if not -- I have ice-cream in the freezer! Either way, what's most important is that the cake wasn't a disaster! At least as far as appearances go.

Cleanin', PMS, responsibilities...

Listening to: "U Can't Touch This" - Glee Cast
Yes, Glee is addicting. When it first came out I didn't like it much. I thought the humor was strange and the story was too full of typical stereotypes and sometimes plain cheesy. But then I watched some more episodes with a bunch of friends who already liked the show, and of course it's contagious! I think it's simply one of those shows that people either love or hate and sometimes it's just a matter of growing on you. Which was my case. But I always liked Kurt even when I didn't like the show, though! Now I am once again hooked after the break they took and have been downloading episodes online, lol. I'm also loving even the cheesy parts of the show because it just makes me laugh. Besides I always loved music. And this show has made me like songs I normally wouldn't ever listen to.

Actually, I wasn't planning to start this post with a Glee introduction, but since some people may notice my choice of song, I dunno -- why not mention it? I am hooked on that song ever since ... well, what -- yesterday? I always liked the original song and to have the Glee dudes do it was really fun to watch and now I can't get enough of it. It's just the song to cheer me up and get you moving!

Which brings me to mention my recent PMS. For the last 2 or 3 days I've been all sour and no fun. Well, at least let's just say I've had no enthusiasm these past few days. Right now, at this very moment, I feel fine. But this morning and through the afternoon, I was all frowns and all I could think of was the things that were bothering me. Mostly responsibilities and basic self organization.

I'm not addressing a lot of things I should be -- studying, errands for my dad, getting rid of things at home, etc. And organization is something that is terribly lacking for me. I use to be such a neat freak when I was a kid, the kind that has a panic attack inside when someone starts moving something out of its "designated" place. But as I got into the teen phase, say... at 16? I'd say I lost my knack for organization at 16 or 17. And it's so sad, because I really do strive to be neat! I want to be neat. My nature is to be attracted to neat, clean environments. I mean, heck -- I'm an anti-germ freak, for sure. So being a neat-freak seems only natural. Alas, it remains a struggle for me to keep my things organized! Like I hate dust with a passion but I still let it accumulate on my desk.

...So I lament my flaws but get annoyed when my dad insists on me making To-Do lists for myself. (Yes, I'm a hypocrite like everyone else!)

I hope I survive with my place in Miami until December, when Cristina might be moving in. She's definitely better at keeping things organized. I can't count how many times I went to her house and watched her clean her room, top to bottom.

Writing dilema

 I just had an epiphany. I was listening to a podcast that discussed writing and its different aspects, and one of the topics was "researching" and that's something I have always sucked at, so I listened. And they stated one of the most obvious things -- you have to read lots and lots. And then I thought: Damn, this is why I can't find the urge to write anymore! I haven't been reading anything! DUH.

I felt like hitting my hand on my forehead -- you know, the typical "of course! why didn't I think of that" gesture.

It's so obvious. But the book I have yet to finish is a book where well... I don't have the courage to finish. When I want to read it, it's nightime, and that's the worst time to read it because chances are I won't be able to relax and fall asleep after it. I guess you must pay the price for liking freaky suspense stories and Dean Koontz.

Mommy

There was a time when I avoided talking with my mom. Why? First, it felt just down right awkward to me. Second, I felt like I could never relax because it seemed like I always had to be careful about what I said and how I said it. So I avoided her; I didn't look forward to talking to her. I guess it may seem shameful coming from her very own daughter -- but that's just how it was... how I felt.

I won't say were chums or buddies. But I've finally gotten myself into a regular routine where I chat with my mom almost everyday. Online, of course. See, I figured out how to make myself feel comfortable: just act as friends. You know, the friend with whom you have casual conversation, light stuff. And if it ever gets into serious mode just shrug it off and act cool.

Don't get me wrong. I love my mom a lot! And I even miss her once in a while. But with the separation that occurred many years ago and my mom going her own way (a long way away across the globe) it's like gravity -- you drift apart if you do nothing about it. And for quite a while I didn't. But I've gotten over most of my bitter feelings and all that's left really is the annoyance when your mom still thinks you're a child. That will go away in time, maybe... if I'm lucky.

So, summing up what I wanted to say in the end: I'm enjoying the chats with my mom, however casual they are (I actually prefer it that way, haha -_-;; it must be a teenager thing) and I am happy to see that it's cheering her up. Even my dad, who talks to her on the phone nearly every day (they still work together) noticed her cheerfulness boost. 

Next barrier left is opening myself up to her about deeper issues which I don't see doing for the time being.

I felt a pang of "I miss you" when she FINALLY sent me some pictures of her and Mo (my sister). I swear, she took forever. I started to wonder if she didn't want to show herself or something! 

Anyway, I look sooo different in those pictures! It feels so strange to look at me back then (It feels like such a transformation every time I look at pictures of myself that are a year or two old. In this case, these are from when I went to Germany.)

New layout on writing blog.

Check it out.
Maybe this will inspire/motivate me to write something.

Oishii Kankei - A Delicious Relationship

Listening to: "Walking On A Dream" - Empire of the Sun


     Oishii Kankei is a josei manga I stumbled upon by chance -- or rather, by pure curiosity. It seemed so different from what was out there on onemanga.com, under the category of romance... that I could not help but want to check it out. 

Oishii Kankei tells the story of Fujiwara Momoe, known dearly as Momoe-chan, who lived a life of luxury and affection. She grew up going to eat at the best restaurants with her parents and eating the best food. Momoe always loved to eat the delicious food!


But one day her father dies of a heart disease (most likely because of all the over-eating) and Momoe is heart broken. When she starts to live on her own, while in attempts to support her mother and herself, she can't bare the taste of her own cooking -- for the she never had to cook before. 


One day she walks into a local French restaurant and finds no problem in recognizing the dish with just a taste, for she has had it several years ago, and is immediately swept away by it.  Momoe decides to take a job there as an apprentice under the guidance of the chef, Oda-san, for she is now determined to become one herself.


Feelings of love blossom in Momoe, as she falls for Oda Keiji . But her feelings are not answered, as the chef only considers her as an apprentice-- and an annoying one at that! 


This is a story about Momoe and what she goes through, not only in love, but also in becoming a chef, and in many other aspects of life.

THE STORY: Being a josei manga (manga for women), the story has a more realistic approach, which makes it more interesting to see where it will go. 

Oishii Kankei has a nice, steady pace. It doesn't rush its way into things. And in every romance, there's drama, there's laughter, there's tears-- a good amount emotion for a decent story. Although there are some who may find the pace dull-- I did not. Plus the story really isn't that predictable. All the cards are up for grabs, truly. Just like life in many ways!

THE CHARACTERS: For some reason, I find the characters to be very endearing in this series.
Every character in Oishii Kankei has their own personality and quirks -- pretty much all of them are nicely fleshed out, which makes them pretty human. What I liked about these characters is that they weren't entirely predictable and thank god one-dimensional. They surprise you, and show you new sides of them as the story progresses. Yet they aren't too complex to the point where you find a hard time relating to them. 


THE ARTWORK: Oishii Kankei has a very feminine art style that not everybody will like. But I think it has its charm.
Yes, it's girly. I even thought that it reminded me a bit of Sailor Moon (just a tad), but this is the first very feminine art style that I have found that can make the men still look like real men and not totally sissy looking. I personally find the artwork very sweet, charming and pretty. The lines are very thin and delicate. They flow easily, creating a light, fleeting feeling to the whole thing. And, well... I honestly found myself drooling at the detail of the hair sometimes, because it just had so much flow and paid attention to every strand of hair! 


GOURMET CUISINE, COSTUMERS AND FOOD FOR THE HEART:
Despite being mainly a drama, Oishii Kankei focuses on cuisine as well.
I can't think of much else to address, other than the fact that there is the theme of cuisine. But not to the point of over-kill. The story manages to balance it out fairly well, and hey!-- you get to know about a dish or two.


OVERALL: Oishii Kankei was a great find for me. It just has the right pinch of romance and it's not overly indulgent about it. 
It's a story that has a good balance between romance, humor and drama. A great set of characters and decent artwork as well. This isn't a manga for everyone, once again -- but for those romantics at heart, I think this will serve as a home-run. 


Oishii Kankei is written and drawn by Makimura Satoru and can be found to read online at OneManga.com. It currently has 24 chapters available and is still ongoing. Happy reading!


(Click on images for larger view.)

Not much of a chatterbox anymore

I was looking at the posts from the years back and all I can say is... I was sure talkative! I also talked about pretty much any random thing. I don't seem to do that anymore. Maybe I should! That way I'll post more often, I think. 


I want to blog, but I keep on thinking I have nothing substantial to talk about. I'm always talking about the same dull things.


Ugh, I also was looking at some of my really old "drawings," like back in 2005, and I felt myself cringing at the sight of it. Thankfully I've improved. Which brings me to thinking that I haven't posted any drawings in ages.

I like drawings dudes and faces in that 3/4 perspective, if you cannot tell. Mind you, I drew this on one of my good drawings days, where I'm not rejecting everything I sketch. Oh, and using markers is so much more fun than a pencil!

Time went by slowly

Listening to: "La belle dame sans regrets" - Chris Botti

I think I only have come to love jazz so much because of the influence from my dad, when he use to be really into it. Jazz is the epitome of class and luxury, if you ask me. When you listen to it, you can't help but think of a quiet, relaxing, chic restaurant.. or a lifestyle. 


I spent most of today playing the Sims 3. I know, some people can't fathom what is so fun about such a game. But I've always been attracted to the idea of creating little people and seeing them interact, and just managing it all. I liked management games ever since I was little.


It was really disorientating, this morning, to come back from the airport after seeing Cristina off, and going back to sleep for another 2 hours or so. I swear I woke up thinking: Huh?


I don't have much to talk about at the moment. Just felt like posting something.

It'll surprise you .o.

Listening to: "You're so Fine (Hey Mickey)" - B*Witched
Forgive me, guys, but this song never fails to cheer me up! And it makes you want to dance in a silly way. So kudos to Mickey! /o/


I have come to notice that ever since this new year has started, now that I'm out of school and doing different things (kind of), many good and unexpected things have happened! Even without doing anything, I find myself pleasantly surprised. Nothing extravagant has happened -- it's the little things that make you smile more.


• A very good and close friend of mine, Cristina, who is now living in São Paulo, is coming to visit, and is arriving, coincidentally, today. Despite it only being, say... a month since I've last seen her, I miss her tons and I can't wait to see her! 


• A couple of friends that I use to hang out with last year at school and the year before don't seem upset at all by the fact that I have been terrible in keeping in touch with them, and they still would like to see me! *o* 


• People like me, despite me being me. (OK, this one's stupid, but it still never ceases to surprise me!)


Just little trivial things like that!


P.S. If you're wondering what manga this is on the banner, it's Bakuman. Awesome stuff, READ IT!

Michael Bublé *heart*

You gotta love him.

FMA - Blood and Heartstrings

[You can skip this part, if ya like]
OK, so as I thought of writing up this post, I kept asking myself: What anime/manga would you recommend to anybody? And I've thought of some, but they all have complicated story lines (go figure!), so I wanted to avoid those being the first ones.


But alas, I couldn't! In order for me to get this flowing, I need to be passionate about it, right? And those are the intricate stories. Then again, I don't have to give away much of the story, but gaah!-- whatever, I'm just a indecisive person. Anyway, I have others that are not so intricate and more like light entertainment, but... I can't decide! 


So, remember when I said I'd start with the ones I've completed? I take it BACK. Yes, because I can. Here goes! Oh, and don't complain to me if you know about this one, just like a bazillion others. :3 At least it's not Naruto~ (I can't warm up to it, sorry!)
[/end ramble]

"The world isn't perfect. 

But it's there for us, doing the best it can. 

And that's what makes it so damn beautiful."

- Roy Mustang

Full Metal Alchemist is the story of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who embark on a journey to restore the body parts that they have lost while playing with life and death, by using alchemy in an attempt to bring back their mother from the dead -- which resulted in failure.

The story sounds pretty straight-foward, but like many journeys, it's a hell of a long ride.

FMA is written and drawn by Hiromu Arakawa. It currently consists of 24 volumes, 22 of them published in the US at the moment.

THE STORY: Just like my title says, FMA is a story of blood and heartstrings.

Blood is staining our canvas, while the heartstrings are constantly being pulled. Full Metal Alchemist has a rich story, and a vast variety of issues being addressed. We see human evolution, as cities grow... and the government becomes corrupt. We see religion being questioned, morals being explored-- ultimately man being put to the test.  

Too metaphorical? FMA has many metaphors. It's a story that may make you question your values, your perspective on things, and the raw emotions we experience. With a very big cast of characters, you get to see the big picture and the narrowed down. Despite the story being mainly revolving around Ed and Al, FMA takes us to many others, and gives us a deep look on their stories as well-- and how they are also part of this intricate tale.

THE CHARACTERS: Characters, for me, are a big deal. The story can be pretty lame, but if the characters really stick with you-- if they really leave an impression on you, it makes it all worth reading. 

The characters of Full Metal Alchemist are so terribly developed. With so many, you get to see a wide batch of personalities, and they go through so much growth and emotion! And not just the "good" ones, but the so called "evil-doers" as well-- they also have their shining and humbling moments. If someone asked me who was my favorite character, I couldn't tell them. I found myself bonding with almost every character, even the crazy ones. There was something so human about them. And anybody who can bring human-like characters on paper and bring them to life, deserves a medal in my book.

THE ARTWORK: Another important factor for me. Alas, if the story is really good, then I can deal with poor artwork. Thankfully for FMA, that is not the case. 

Hiromu Arakawa's art has clean and strong lines. The tones are very intense at times, where the black and white's strong contrast make a statement. Every scene has an atmosphere, especially when there's suspense involved. I personally really enjoy her character designs. They have a more realistic style to them, making it easier for each one to be unique. And the variety of expressions she is able to portray-- the many emotions she expresses in her characters with just their eyes-- for me it's dazzling. I don't know, call me silly, but it ain't easy to do that! Her attention to detail is also great.

DARK ACTION, HUMOR AND EMOTIONS: Full Metal Alchemist is a shounen manga, which means some sort of action is mandatory, and this story definitely doesn't lack that.

You'll see a lot of confrontation, a lot of bloodshed and a lot of tense moments. The story is ultimately quite dark and somber, and overall serious. But despite that, you'll find an endearing humor can be found in FMA. Sometimes even hilarious scenarios. I know I've laughed plenty in it! There are many funny moments to be found-- and just the right amount.

OVERALL: I definitely recommend Full Metal Alchemist to all those who like a rich and well woven story that only gets more and more exciting.

Although for those who don't like action, FMA may not be your cup of tea. But look, I'm a girl who's a total romantic at heart. I read silly shoujo mangas too. Yet I've learned to love series such as Full Metal Alchemist, and have come to like the thrilling action scenes. But hey, that's just me. It's up to you to give it a try.

Full Metal Alchemist is published in the US by Viz Media-- $9.99. But if you don't have the means of spending money, OneManga.com has the most up-to-date chapters. Happy reading! 


(P.S. Click on the images for a larger view)

For all you cat lovers

OMG, this so cheered me up. :D Please, watch them!

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_AbfPXTKms&feature=related
- The boxes part is to die for!
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzzjgBAaWZw&feature=related
- The stalking cat is kinda creepy, in a sweet way.
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdhLQCYQ-nQ&feature=channel
- The mystery of the box. I'm loving this guy.

Check out everything else Maru (the chubby one)!

I can't think of a title

Listening to: "What I Do (feat. Plies)" - Chris Brown

I had the idea, that while at the festival in São Paulo, I'd make a record of each day, but ha ha! How naive of me! I always arrived exhausted at the hotel, only having the energy to take a shower and go to bed. So yeah... It was a nice festival, and I felt like it had ended too soon-- but I was also glad, in a way, knowing I could rest a bit more. Despite all the devotees I didn't know, I was able to see a few familiar faces. I could have sworn there was this one guy who I've seen at Badger before. During the festival, I got diksha.

AAH! Mosquitos are eating me alive! Or they're trying too...

Um, I got to visit a friend in SP after the festival, Cristina. Her boyfriend was there too, but for some reason I didn't mind at all. Don't get me wrong, I like him, but there was a phase of mine where I couldn't stand them being together all the time. I barely had any time with her. But that chapter has passed.

My dad and I are starting to make plans for the move to Recife (yet another city!) that'll happen in a few months. And then we plan to go to Miami in June or July. I've been trying to find an apartment in the Kendall area that's close by the campus I'll be going to, but prices are high. Darn suburbs! >;3

Since I never seem to post any of my designs ( I am so stingy ) and since the day that I shall actually use them like I planned will be way too much in the future (as in never, maybe?), there's no big harm, I guess. I lost my nice ones from my old computer though. (Lesson learned: Always make backups!)