New Reading List (CRL UPDATE!)

Perhaps what had made this Fall Semester so successful is the fact that I've learned to approach my professors with all sorts of questions - from the class material itself, to supplemental readings, and even discussing critical observations of the real world (these discussions were the favorites among myself and my professors). At the end of my semester, I've made it a point to talk to each of my professor to develop more academically focused reading list for me to have and to develop further as time passes on.

In some ways, there's an ulterior motive to this list: I hope that the readings will help me develop a focus in the field I'm studying (Sociology) for the sake of my final semester (research, internship, and thesis) and, if I'm daring enough, Grad School (wherever I may go since I've yet to really give this much thought). 

In the sake of fairness, these titles will also be a part of my (personally) infamous Comprehensive Reading List. These books, plus all the personal novels (and the like) that I want to read this year will skyrocket the number significantly. This will, in fact, force to reconsider my 75% goal that I always set for myself and perhaps consider a lower number (roughly 50-65%, if I'm fortunate enough). But the new and improved CRL won't be available for another few days (to add and even color code my reading list to account for the major changes soon to come).

In some ways, I do hope that you (the reader) will perhaps consider reading some of the books on my list and perhaps gain the same insights I've had from Flowers for Algernon (for example). Until next time, my fellow readers!

The Beginning of the End...

In the First Day (as well as the Second Day), I had expressed some nervousness (as well as some excitement also) at the prospect of being back in university after a year-long hiatus. Now, this semester is over and I'm quite enthusiastic as to know that this semester has been quite successful! I'm quite confident that I've completed all of my classwork with at least 2 A's and 2 B's (though the hope is that it's 3 A's and a single B and if I got all A's, it's a frackin' Christmas miracle of sorts). I say "at least" because I've yet to see my final grades! I've been too nervous to take a look ^_^" 

After meeting with my academic adviser to discuss the remaining courses and plans for the upcoming January Term/Spring Semester, I've deduced that I'm approximately only one year away from graduation! I couldn't believe (and I still can't) that this is my circumstance - although for this to be possible, I must keep overwhelming myself with 16-unit semesters and 32-hour workweeks! Still, I'm beginning to see the light at the end of this academic tunnel! 

I'm excited to make new progress and continue press forward with my academics - it seems that there is much more pressure, now that I feel that my life is finally coming together with a steady job, a soon-to-earned Bachelor's Degree, and even active love life of sorts! Life is finally starting to become more engaging and even fun now! :-D

"FAYUL!!!"

Does anybody remember that from RWJ's Equals Three?

*What's that? You say I'm "Fake & Gay"?*

*Well... you're Misleading and Bisexual!*

*...not really*

*MOVING ON!*

Well, I "fayul-ed" to say the least. My attempt to be controversial fell on blind eyes (I'd say "deaf ears," but you're reading this, not listening to me ranting xD)! Even friends who stumble upon my blog occasionally had not mentioned this post to me at all... which is a bit disappointing, since they know I'm usually conservative with this things. Never again will you see me give you another link to anything sexy (well, for the most part anyway). But perhaps I'm making this out be a mountain out of a mole hill. 

Anyhow, my sincerest apologies for such a late blog entry - work, "Rachel" (who's now my girlfriend!!!!), and laziness have all kicked my butt (metaphorically speaking). But how are you? Are you well and healthy? You seem to have gained some weight - are you eating a balanced diet? You seem to have some bags under your eyes - please try to rest as much as you can, OK? Tell me a story of your day - I'd like to hear what you have to say! Until next time, my dear readers!

Topics of Futures Past

Good morning, one and all! Or, as Wendy Williams would say... 

"How you doin'?" 

*Is it strange for me to know that?*

*What? You say it is?*

*Oh...OK*

 Anywho, today's post will a short list of topics to write about in the future. Right now, I'm at the final stretch of my university finals, so I'm not feeling mentally sharp at the moment. So, this little list will be something that you and I can look forward to in the near future. Without further ado (about nothing, that is), here are the key points of discussion that will be covered here:

1. My (epic) fail at being controversial 
2. The end of my '13 Fall Semester in university
3. My new (academic) reading list 
4. My New Year's Resolutions AND life-long Bucket List 

 (Don't worry about the colors - just adding a splash of life in an otherwise bland post :P)

Da Octopusss and Musical Vibrators

Da Octopusss is back!!!

<('.'<)  (^'.'^)  (>'.')>  (^'.'^)  <('.'<)  (^'.'^)  (>'.')> 

*It's the "Kirby Dance," in case you're wondering*

Well, not entirely. They've been releasing new material recently and, in short, I'm really excited! While it's still the same noisy eargasm as their eponymous debut album, their latest singles, Evilminded and GOATS, show the pair going into new directions and experimenting with their very distinct sound quite excellently. It's very promising and other fans of the duo are also agreeing with opinions such as mine. Obviously, Da Octopusss is hinting at another album (or at the least, an EP), but whatever plans they have, I can't wait to see (or rather, hear) what they have in store for us. Unfortunately, their latest single can't be embedded nor can they be found on YouTube, so I'll post links to their respective web pages over at their SoundCloud account:

Da Octopuss - Evilminded

Da Octopuss - GOATS

Speaking of music and "-gasms", friends a whiles back mentioned that there are vibrators that can vary in their intensity, based on the music that is playing at the time of its usage. To which I initially thought as preposterous - after all, such a thing only belongs in a Sci-Fi erotica novel...right? After some *cough cough* "research" *cough cough* (if it can even be called that - thank you, science!), it turns out, they do exist (clicking on here WILL take you there...so yeah...ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK)! Boggles my mind that they really do. Also, it's obviously an 18+ site, so there will be damages technological, psychological, and otherwise (yadda-yadda-yadda...). You have been warned - and I'm talking to you, kid (that fake ID isn't foolin' anybody)! 

So why am I bringing this up? 

1. If you happen have one of those "musical vibrators" and you stumbled across my this post - you're welcome!
2. You happen to read this post while simultaneously exploring your sexuality - you're welcome?
3. I am testing the waters here to see if I can get a reaction of sorts (hey, just being honest here). Thank you for your reaction (whatever it may be) - It's good to know that I'm getting some attention (although, this wouldn't be the kind of attention I want to attract constantly). 

And with that, this concludes this risqué blog post. It'll probably be the first and last of its kind here. Until next time, friends!

"One Sky, One Destiny"

"Thinking of you, wherever you are...There are many worlds, but they share the same sky - one sky, one destiny."

As I've posted something earlier this year, I have signed up for an Instagram account. For the most part, I've been quite lax with my activity, having developed a modest following and such, but I suppose I could put more effort into it. However, that's not the point. The point is that I try to interact with others and I feel that there are several people that I've taken a liking to, mostly because we are able to practically have exchange conversations through the comment sections. As I have more conversations and learn more about the other people that I follow, it always takes me by surprise that some of the people that I interact with are from different parts of the world. Scotland, the Philippines, Canada...the countries go on! Of course, I shouldn't be so surprised that this is the case - this is the modern age of the Internet, after all. So why does it take me by surprise that it does?

Perhaps it has to do that there is a personal connection (albeit a small, distant connection), since users that I follow and converse with regularly become more than just a clever user name and a series of random photographs. They become nurses, gamers, photographers, dog lovers, celebrators of life, and so much more! I guess this can be compared to the random strangers in our daily lives. Maybe that's why I'm always taken aback when I learn more about the people I follow or who follow me. They become a person, with hopes, fears, hopes, and despairs, (although the Internet always shows the best of us, never the worst of us). I can add a face, a personality, and perhaps if I'm ever lucky enough, a voice to those so far away from where I'm from. 

 

But it isn't just technology that connects us, as the quote reveals. There are some many things we share together. The sun, the moon, the stars, the skies, the world, the human condition. Only we forget to that we do, since it seems that we're always drowning in a sea of our own problems to remember that our lives are much more than the forever now. I know I'm at fault at this from time to time. Which is why I'm writing this now - I had to be reminded of those connections. The hope is that I (or rather, we) don't forget this simple truth and the we continually reach out and impact the lives of those around us, both near and far away.

Video Game Theme Music

Recently, I've been somewhat obsessed with listening to theme songs from various video games I have played over the years. They've been providing me with a refreshing break from the music I've been listening lately, which is currently Avenged Sevenfold and Nine Inch Nails. I amazed at how creative some of the music has been, and I'm a bit ashamed to admit that I didn't appreciate the music initially (or rather, took me so long to REALLY hear the music). So instead of me ranting, or telling a life story of mine, I thought I'd do something different and share with you 10 of the many theme songs (in no particular order) that I've been listening to lately. Enjoy!

1) Devils Never Cry by Testuya Shibata & Shootie HG: The harsh vocals & guitar, juxtaposed with the gothic/renaissance atmosphere of the music are something to behold here. 

2) Operation: Market Garden by Michael Giacchino: Anders' performance as the solo vocalist is just beautiful. The way he lends his voice to the music can allow us to shed solemn tears for our fallen heroes. 

3) Super Smash Bros. Melee Theme as performed by The New Japanese Philharmonic: Somehow, the epic theme got more epic-er.

4) God of War II Main Theme by Gerard K. Marino: Fun fact - the composer intentionally reduced the woodwind sections and doubled the brass sections to create the powerful, memorable sound GoW is known for. Also, everything is sung in Greek!

5) Throw It All Away (Shadow's Theme) featuring Everett Bradley: I thoroughly enjoy the industrial/hard rock feel of the music here (similar to Devils Never Cry). It'd be great to hear more of this type of sound in music more often. 

6) Fallout 3 Main Theme by Inon Zur: This orchestral piece can really captures the insecurity of living in a post-apocalyptic world. My only gripe here is that the piece is too short. 

7) Open Your Heart by Crush40: In a (successful) attempt to make Sonic Adventure more edgier and down-to-earth, prog-rock pieces like this theme song are found through the game.

8) Live & Learn by Crush40: The prog-rock attitude continues in this main theme song of Sonic Adventure 2. After this game, most theme songs of following Sonic games have been somewhat lacking, to say the least. 

9) Godot: The Fragrance of Coffee by Noriyuki Iwadare: There are no words to really describe this beautiful and jazzy orchestral interpretation. This is one of those pieces that should be played at a wedding somehow. 

10) Fly in the Freedom (Rouge's Theme) featuring Tabitha Fair: I hated this song as a kid, but as an adult, I really love this style of music (the problem is: I don't know what would this be considered! I'm thinking Jazz or Bossa Nova, but I could be wrong). Complex, elaborate, and sexy, Fair's vocals add to the music to create a song that's strangely memorable. 

"Rachel! RACHEL!! (WHERE IS SHE?!?!)"

About the title, sorry, but I couldn't help myself - I just HAD to! You understand, right? =3

Side note: I meant to write this MUCH sooner, but life (school, work, and even "Rachel" herself) manages to overwhelm me daily (parts of these recent posts have, in fact, been written at work!) Also, "Rachel" is a She Wants Revenge song.  

To begin, Rachel and I first met through a mutual friend. Whenever I meet new people, I try to be more outgoing/friendlier than my usual self, mostly because I've been told I can come across as a cold, distant, or a dick in the past. So like with anyone new in my life, I gave her a simple handshake, a friendly smile (the hope is that it's warm and welcoming, not awkward and creepy - I should practice smiling more), and just like that *snaps fingers* we became acquaintances, though we both took to liking each other almost immediately. It was obvious: we smiled at each other and looked around for each other. Like, a lot. Though, I didn't do a thing about it. Mostly because I felt like I needed a much needed break from chasing girls (the masquerade incident still lingers in my mind) and I realized (after said incident) that this year just wasn't my year and I decided to accept being single for a few months more (this was about a month and a half ago, if I recall correctly). A couple of days later, I'd give up that resolution and asked our mutual friend if Rachel was seeing anyone (I'd eventually learn that Rachel had asked the same of me). 

After that, it became incredibly easy. At first, we mostly communicated via Internet (which worked great for us - our bizarre schedules and geographic distances would make it difficult to go out for coffee or frozen yogurt or whatever us kids are supposed to do for a meet up these days). Soon enough, we exchanged numbers and we began messaging and (eventually) calling each other. And to elaborate, before we exchanged numbers, I had asked her out on a date. But as I reflect on it now, I would have liked it more if I could have asked her out in person, but I had no way of meeting her in person to do so: the wacky schedules, remember?

Thus, our one date became a series of dates; our acquaintanceship grew into a friendship, which, in turn, maturated into a romance;  and I'm left in the center of it all, wondering how all this came to be. 

So there you have it: the simple story of how I met your mo--err, my girlfriend. It's, in no way, this passionate, Hollywood movie-type of thing, nor this boy-meets-girl kind of story (it's its own thing, I've come to realize), but I'm still amazed to have found somebody who likes me for me, and who I like for who she is. And she is someone I didn't plan to have in my life (at least for a few more months, that is). That alone makes her all the more special to me.

Why Listening to Coldplay Doesn't Make You Gay...

"You want to know how I know you're gay?...You like Coldplay!" 

- From the 40-Year-Old Virgin

*There was another instance hinting that listening to Coldplay hints that a person gay in the TV show Bones, but I couldn't find the quote (sorry!).*

To begin, I really don't understand why or how this idea came to be or exist. It just sounds so absurd (and a little bit ignorant, to be humbly honest). Now, I don't exactly think that a random person will just say, "HAHA! YOU'RE GAY FOR LIKING COLDPLAY!!" whenever a song or two (or in my case, all of their studio albums) is played, but it's the thought that counts. And in this case, the thought propagates an unrealistic truth correlating one's sexual orientation to that same individual's taste in music (I seriously have to stop writing these blog posts after studying for my classes - I'm gonna alienate all of you someday, I can feel it). Otherwise, I'd be gay at least twice over. At least! Because I like Coldplay and I'm quite confident I'm not alone with this admission. 

Every album presents a new element to the band, all the while shifting their musical direction in grander and elaborate ways with each subsequent album Coldplay releases. For example, Parachutes (their first album) has an atmosphere akin to small and private jazz club-type setting - the music is simple and emotional (look to Yellow, Trouble, Sparks, We Never Change, and Everything's Not Lost, for example). A Rush of Blood to the Head adds hints of orchestration and soundscape to their repertoire (Politik, Amsterdam, Clocks, Daylight to note some); while X & Y shifts the band to arena rock-type of style (White Shadows, Fix You, and Speed of Sound). With Viva la Vida or Death and All of His Friends, Coldplay becomes an Art Rock band, adding layers upon layers of music and ambiance (Viva La Vida, Strawberry Swing, Lovers in Japan, 42, and Cemeteries of London, to note some); while Mylo Xyloto (the only album I'm conflicted with) capitalizes the current electro-pop rock movement of the airwaves (Paradise and Princess of China). So with this in mind, is it really gay to listen to a band that's musically complex, being able to make life all the more tragic, romantic, and exciting? I think not.

"Look Ma, I'm Drunk!"

Man, oh man. Where to begin with this one?

Fun fact about me: I love liquor. Especially the hard stuff. Jägermeister, Captain Morgan, Jim Beam, Powers, and so on. I don't mind beer, but it has to be the good stuff. Blue Moon, Shock Top, Dos Equis, Newcastle, and such. As you can tell, I've been drinking quite a bit to be able to tell you all of this information. The irony of it all is that I have a very low tolerance for alcoholic beverages. This is so because I really don't drink that often. But I wish I could drink more. Like a lot. I just don't have enough free time to build up a tolerance to alcohol. And don't worry, I'm not an alcoholic...although, because I do recognize that I enjoy imbibing, does that make me an alcoholic?

Moving on, now that I think of it, my experience as a drunk also happened to occur immediately after the night I met the girl at the masquerade. After the incident, we (friends and I) decided to meet up with people who were at Bar Sinister, an underground gothic bar/club out in Hollywood. It was on the way over there that I had too much to drink and I didn't realize it until I stumbled out of my friend's car. 

You see, my friends, getting drunk just sneaks up on you. I was so certain that I had reasonably spaced out my portions of alcohol (a serving of whiskey every 15 minutes, with water and food in between servings), but that wasn't the case. In fact, I was having a serving of whiskey every 5 minutes, and in 15 minutes, I had enough alcohol in my system for two people. So by the time we got to Bar Sinister, I was gone (drunk). 

My experience as a drunk was pretty much existential. It felt like an out-of-body experience. My body lost all control of movement, struggling simply to maintain balance. Time and space just went out the window for me. My friend and I spent a good 15 minutes wrestling in the parking to help me become acclimated to the sensations that I was feeling and help me regain some hand-eye coordination. Of course, that 15-minute training session felt like it had gone on for an hour, but it was a much needed 15 minutes. I regained some control of my body and after that, it was an uphill battle to regain complete control. 

I spent the next 2 hours at Bar Sinister in a simultaneous state of euphoria and anxiety. While I relished the sensations of what the alcohol was doing to me: the misplaced courage to dance and be social and the feeling of weightlessness. I was also frantically pacing about the perimeter within club, as well as ascending and descending the single flight of stairs that were strangely there, all the while obsessively retracing my steps and eyeing my wristwatch, trying not to lost track of time. I'm certain I can across as a madman to some, while being normal with other people. 

In reflection, I don't ever want to cross that line again of being buzzed and being flat-out drunk. I found it to be an unpleasant experience altogether, despite doing my best to make the most of it. It's just not for me, plain and simple. 

Next post will be about why listening to Coldplay is not gay...Until next time!

Side Note

Going back to the previous post, "Been A While..", I mentioned that one of the topics of discussion was to talk about my stolen Teggy, Ophelia. As it turns out, I already wrote about it! So lucky for you (but mostly for me - this saves me some time :P) , that's one less item on the agenda to write about :-)

As of now, here is the list of topics for upcoming posts (taken from the previous post):

• My first experiences as a drunk
• Ophelia (my Teggy) being kidnapped (read about it here!)
• Why listening to Coldplay doesn't make you gay
• Finally, "Rachel" and how I found her

That is all. Until next time!

Been A While...

...Since I last posted here. School, work and "Rachel" (the other girl I started seeing) have been my focuses in life lately, and at times, I simply want to shut down for the purpose of reflecting my life in recent weeks. So, in reflection (but mostly because there are things I said I would talk about), here are the topics of discussion for the following blog posts: 

• My first experiences as a drunk
• Ophelia (my Teggy) being kidnapped
• Why listening to Coldplay doesn't make you gay
• Finally, "Rachel" and how I found her

So, there you have it. Four tales of my convoluted life story (albeit a good one).

P.S. Does anybody read these? Or am I this digital madman, crying futilely to the perceived skies above me? I know you at least visit (the stats don't lie, so ha!), so say hello and leave a comment (just don't say I'm gay for listening to Coldplay)! Until next time!

Dumped by the Masquerade Girl

Just after a short month (give or take a few days) from meeting "Sophia" (fake name, remember? =3), we have decided that the timing of our meeting was off. Or rather, she decided all of this and relayed her decision to me. It come out of nowhere, but I'm surprisingly fine with this decision. I knew that this was it was bound to happen, though much later than what I had anticipated. We simply didn't have time for each other. Our messages, phone calls, and pretty much any attempt to communicate with each other were far and few in between. 

In fact, because of our demanding schedules, we didn't see each other since the masquerade party! So this is why I'm not at all bothered by the decision to not try to see each other. Oh well - life moves on, though I've some great news: there's actually another lovely lady that I've begun to see consistently! She's actually the real reason why I'm more happy than bummed than Sophia - it's because I've already on a several dates with her already ;-) 

Things are looking up, people!

The Girl At The Masquerade

First off, let me just say I've had a difficult time writing (and rewriting) this post through out the past few days. Most of the problem was just simply finding a way to tell you (the reader) what had transpired at the masquerade without revealing much sensitive information. Also, I am highly suspicious that certain people will eventually discover this blog post (unless by the time they found this post, I will have written at least another 50 to 100 more, I hope) and will be upset (or not, depending on who it is) at how I have worded all of this. Life, my digital friends, is complicated. Moving on!

The masquerade was, overall, an exciting, new experience for me. At times, I felt uncomfortable, due to wearing wearing a suit and tie (it was a very formal event, though I think all masquerades are. I'm just more of a jeans-and-Tshirt kind of guy). Also, the plague mask (what I wore for the event - pretty much had to be hand-made so I could wear my glasses over the mask) got me too much attention (or at least it felt that way to me). 

Anyhow, as the night went on, talked to people, getting a brief picture of who they are. Many, like myself, are upper-classmen, though many attended different universities not my own. Furthermore, I was intrigued by other's academic interests/studies, and I found the exchange of ideas to be fascinating, even if the discussion itself wasn't comprehensible at times. Also, there was dancing (which you already know, isn't my thing), but I didn't mind too much this time around. The night, overall, was an amazing blend of intelligent discussions couple with brief dances with beautiful women. 

At the end of my stay, as my time there drew to a close, I bid farewell to those I had the pleasure to speaking with in conversation. I had also removed the plague mask - it felt nice to see again. After that, as I was heading out the main entrance, I was stopped. I turned around and saw that it was a lone woman, wearing an elegant beige and black dress. She was petite, short, and (perhaps it was her jewelry and headress) beautiful. Her mask accentuated her blue eyes all the more, and her outfit allowed her pale complexion to be that much more outstanding. She smiled, and I saw glints of metal attached to her teeth - braces. 

"I've been stalking you, Sebastian..." she says playfully. "I've noticed you since the moment I saw you...I've been keeping an eye in you."

With that, she extends a delicate hand towards me. She expected a handshake, but instead (in a gentleman-like fashion), I kiss the back of her hand softly. "I'm (for the sake of anonymity, let's call her Sophia - her real name is just as lovely though). It's nice to meet you, Sebastian." But there I was, dumbfounded and speechless. How do I respond to that?! It was strange being told that I was being watched, especially from a pretty lady like her. I stupidly told her it was nice to meet her also and we went our separate paths - I went out the main door and she returned to the party. My friends, who were with me when all this transpired, told me to go back to her - a girl that hot (their words, not mine) does not tell you that just to say hello. She wants the "D" (again, their words).

They had a point. There was an opportunity and I, like an Oakland Raiders wide receiver, completely fumbled the chance to get her phone number. So I rushed back, hoping to find Sophia quickly before I'd lose sight of her.

It didn't take much time to find her and exchanged our phone numbers. We briefly discussed a day and time to call each other, and with that, I returned to my friends, ready to go home. Exhausted, but happy.

"Life in Technicolor II"

The other day, I was listening to Coldplay's Viva La Vida or Death & All His Friends (and no I'm not gay - more on that later), though it was on shuffle. When Life in Technicolor began to play, my friend at the time told me that there was a second version - WITH WORDS!!! Then he explained that the can be found in the Prospekt's March EP (which I never looked into that EP). Of course I looked it up in YouTube, and sure enough, there were words. Surprisingly, there was also a music video and, in short, I found it amusing and clever. Instead of me telling you what it is, you should see it for yourself!

Stuck In An 80's Bar

Last night my brother, his girlfriend, and myself (among others) traveled out to Pomona (where the Glasshouse and Fox Theater can be found) to celebrate a friend's 24th birthday. In an ideal situation, we wouldn't travel so far to celebrate, but instead have a BBQ party of sorts closer to home. Since that wasn't possible, Birthday Boy found a bar-club hybrid out in Pomona that was hosting an 80's themed night (hence the title of this post). The club promised free admission (before 10pm), cheap drinks ($3 domestic, $5 not-so-domestic), and a good time. How could we say no?

Upon entering, my ears were bombarded by the sounds of Blondie, Depeche Mode, Animotion, and their friends; my eyes struggled to see in the darkness, for the only sources of light were the dimly lit dance floor and faint lighting emanating from two projectors simultaneously broadcasting various clips from 80's pop culture (Transformers, The Terminator, Voltron, and Star Wars were among the many clips I recognized). Like any other club, as the night grew older, the venue become boisterous with the lives of our young, modern society. 

Although the dance club scene isn't really my atmosphere, I did my best to take it all in - the people, the music, the recognizable video clips - sometimes, with a beer in my hand. I did my best to mingle with others, to dance with my friends, and just have, overall, a good time like the flyer promised. Almost immediately, however, that promise went out the window, only to be trampled by passers by and streetcars (it's overdramatic but you know what I mean, right?). My brother had inadvertently almost got into a fight with a drunken fool all to eager to prove himself to the two beautiful women he was with (I would later realize his intentions with the reassurance of my brother and our friend). 

He was a white male, approximately 5'6" in height, 265lbs., about 26 years of age, with a goatee for facial hair. He wore a black T-shirt, cream colored khakis, and black Chucks (Converse). I know because I ingrained the image of him in my mind's eye. I wanted to knock off his stupid peddler's hat and punch his drunk face in. Though, this isn't about me; this is about my brother. Even now, we don't know what exactly happened that provoked the guy. All we know was that we (our group) were navigating the dance floor to find space to for us to dance. Then, he happened. He kept shouting at my brother, trying to intimidate him, but my brother knew he was drunk. In fact, my brother's exact words were,"Go away, you're drunk." But instead, he edged closer to my brother. It was then that his two ladies, myself, and my brother's girlfriend got involved to split them up. Though my brother walked away, the other was still looking for a fight. We go our separate ways and we evaporate within the crowd. 

That incident tarnished the remainder of my stay at the dance club. I couldn't shake off the incident, and I kept replaying the whole thing in my mind. It had all happened too quickly - how did it all begin? What could I have done, if anything? I couldn't let go, and I began to withdraw from the environment. I couldn't enjoy the music and I didn't want to dance anymore, so all I could was just watch the clips. I soon realized that the clips repeat themselves every 45 minutes, I just didn't notice the pattern sooner. My night was tarnished, shot to hell. 

Some time after it had happened, my brother and I managed to have some time to ourselves, while the others were off dancing or socializing. Through my phone's built-in notepad, I expressed my anger, concern, and dissatisfaction of how it all went down, killing my feel-good feelings I had built up until then. I told him how I would have lost my temper on that poor fool had he tried to throw a punch, swearing to make sure that the copious amount of alcohol he consumed wouldn't be the real reason why he will black out. My brother, in turn, reassured me that nothing had, in fact, happened. And if something had occurred, he would finish the fight before it even really begins. My brother had already sized up the guy, and realized that the guy didn't truly have what it takes to fight ("for survival," as he put it). Lastly, he knew that he was drunk, stupidly fighting under the power of "beer balls," or as I call it, "liquid courage." He couldn't win. He wouldn't be able to. At the end of our messages, he simply asked for me to forget about him and enjoy the rest of our stay at the club. Truth is, I couldn't let it go. 

Sometime later, we all went home, with exhausted bodies and for some (mainly me), exhausted minds. After driving home by myself, I cautiously open the two doors that lead me to the living room, careful not to make too much noise. I couldn't help but to play some music on the stereo. With that in the background, I collapse upon the living room sofa. My mind revisits the night - the good, the ugly, the aftermath. I reflect on the incident one last time. Then, I let go. My breathing became heavy, eyes marred with tears, and mucus runs down my nose. Now I know what had bothered me - it was the feeling of powerlessness, of physical weakness, and the reality that I can't defend those around me when they need protection. I felt that let my brother down, but it was really me. I let myself down. I ended up crying myself to sleep. It's been a while since that's happened. 

"True Facts About The Dung Beetle"

A friend share this video with me. Thought I'd do the same for you ;-)

Unrewarding Workdays

The past few work days, as the title suggests, have been very unrewarding. What I mean by this is that work has been busy (thanks to everybody trying to cash in on the lottery for the most part) and I've been on my feet for almost 8 hours at time. What bothers me is that, after the day is done (paperwork and at all), it seems like the revenue I've earned that day didn't really justify the amount of work that I've had for that said day. For example:

A slow, leisurely shift = A lower amount of revenue

A busy, fast-paced shift = A higher amount of revenue

Unfortunately, the past few business days have been more like this:

A busy, fast-paced shift = A lower amount of revenue

I'm hoping this trend at work will end soon. I like having good work days - makes me feel like I've truly earned my wages there.

"Dude, Where's My Car?"

Six days ago (last Tuesday on Sept. 10, 2013), my car was stolen approximately between 12:55 to 4:15 in the afternoon. I say this because I was at work at that time (luckily for me, it was only a half day, as opposed to working a full shift), and it wasn't until 4:15 in the afternoon that I realized that my car was missing! "Just up and gone," as my coworker had phrased it. 

After the initial shock of realizing this, I immediately searched the area where my car was at, desperately looking for shattered glass. There wasn't any. Then, because I had parked in a public lot, I had contacted the towing company in charge of that specific, hoping that my car was towed rather than stolen. Unfortunately, they didn't tow my car. Next, I contacted the city police department, again hoping that my car was in their possession rather than stolen. Again, no such luck, so I had to fill out a stolen vehicle report. Filling out the report wasn't that difficult at all (not that it should be, but the stress and shock of losing a car can interfere with the report), since I was very detailed on how my car looked like (describing pre-existing damages, stickers and decals, and such), as well as giving other pertinent information.

For almost a whole day, my car was missing. I was informed by a sheriff in San Dimas (should give you an idea of the area where I live) that my car was found in that city. Which I thought as bizarre, since a car like mine (it's an Acura Integra LS - without the V-Tec) usually ends up in Pomona, El Monte, or even in Los Angeles! But it was found in the whitebread town of San Dimas (again, bizarre). I spoke to the sheriff on the condition of the car (usually cars like mine and Honda Civics are stolen only to be scrapped for parts) and all he could tell me that my car was in "fair condition." Crap. I thanked him for the news and the following day, I picked up my car.

When I reclaimed my car, my heart was pounding. What will be there? What will be missing? were some of the thoughts running in my mind. I was lucky to realize that most of my engine parts and all my tires were all there! However, what was stolen were all of my personal belongings and such, and as far as my engine goes, only my intake valve (and air filter) were stolen! I sound happy, but it's more like surprised. After all, if the jerks who my car paid more attention, they should have seen that my distributor and gas filter were in excellent condition, as well as some small parts such as spark plugs, some tubing/hoses and electrical wiring. All they saw was that flashy intake valve. So that's the reason I was surprised that my car was in excellent shape: It was still drivable! My mechanic later told me that I was lucky to have my car back in this condition. Lucky, indeed.

So, here is a list of what has been stolen (more or less from what I remember):

Car-Related:

• The Intake Valve (as well as its Air Filter)
• Oil, Filter, and even the cardboard for the oil change! (They were some desperate dudes.)
• Jumper Cables
• Hydrolic Jack
• Fluids (Brake, Transmission, Power Steering)
• Surprisingly, not the Radiator Fluid

Personal Stuff (Materialistically Speaking):

• Car Radio and the sound system (such as the amp, though speakers weren't taken)
• My CD collection
• She & Him - Vol. 1,2,3
• Nine Inch Nails - Hesitation Marks (Deluxe Edition, too...)
• Sara Bareilles - The Blessed Unrest
• Fuel - Something Like Human
• The Strokes - Comedown Machine 
• Rob Zombie - Hellbilly Deluxe
• Julien-K - We're Here With You
• DragonForce - Valley of the Damned
• Ender's Game (the book, though this was for a friend)
• Paperwork (Registration, Insurance, misc.)

Personal Stuff (Sentimentally Speaking):

• My Spirit Ghost (it's a little good-luck charm - I called him Frederick)
• My Rubber Band Ball (and I worked so hard on it, too...)
• My Piggy Bank (no coins yet, so that's good)
• My Las Vegas Keychain (I never went to Vegas, but it came with the car's keys)

Hell of a Long Week...

Man, as the title says, I've had quite a long week.

In short, here's what had happened:

1. My car was stolen (and it was found one day later)!
2. I met a girl (fingers are really crossed here)!
3. I got drunk (not one of my finest moments...)!

Unfortunately, I'm currently out of time (since I've got class in 15 minutes) and these three topics of discussion are lengthy.

Don't worry, I'll dish later :P

Have a great day!

Reading and Falling Behind

Once again, I've edited my Comprehensive Reading List, CRL for short (as always), for what seems like the 10th time this year. My book count, over this year, has jumped exponentially from 51 or 52 (pretty much somewhere in the low 50's) to a new total of 68. As of now, I'm at approximately 63.63% of accomplishing my goal of this year. It's been such a hard trek in trying to read as much as possible. The cool (and annoying part) of this is that I'm more likely to go down on my progress than go up. This is so mostly because I add books than cross them off, but I'm doing my best to read two books for every one that's added. So, that's a good thing. =D

However, that's not where I'm falling behind actually. For one of my classes that is studying social changes on a macro level (this meaning across a lengthy period of time - in this case, human history), we have to read this textbook called Social Transformations: A General Theory of Historical Development (Expanded Edition) by Stephen K. Sanderson. Our professor warned us that this book will be a challenging read, since the book was written for Sociology grad students, not undergrad students. And reading this book is, well, pretty damn hard. In one of my earlier sociology classes, my professor pointed out that many books academic books are written with a specific lingo or lexicon that seems to shut out any other curious minds outside of that particular field (in other words, she argues that academic books should serve to enlighten everybody, including the everyday man, instead of a select few). 

Anyhow, reading this book makes running in water an easier task to perform. I was supposed to read chapter 1 by Saturday (yesterday), chapter 2 by tomorrow (Monday, which I haven't) and chapter 3 by (Wednesday, which probably won't happen) if I'm going to fully comprehend the lectures and classwork that I'm expected to complete effectively. Hence, I've fallen behind already.

The Fault In Our Stars & Hesitation Marks (100th Post!!!)

The Fault In Our Stars...just wow. I spent almost all of my free time reading all of it. While it sucks to admit that I didn't tear up (which I thought I would), the love, the loss, and the side effects of dying were truly, deeply felt. I really appreciated the wry humor that had emerged from tragic situation, revealing the very human side from a very inhuman disease. For some reason, Hazel seriously reminded me of Juno from...Juno. At some point, I put Ellen Page's face to Hazel, for that reason alone. Perhaps I'm thinking too much into it, but John Green did an amazing job revealing just how very differently people with diseases are treated differently. This was most obvious with girl's mother at the mall, as well as Hazel and Augustus acknowledging the myriad eyes watching them at the airport. Kaitlyn, Lidewij, and even that little girl at the mall were outstanding (as far as social norms go) by not treating Hazel with unnecessary sympathy and pity. All in all, The Fault In Our Stars was an amazing read. I'm quite happy with myself for buying the book.

In other news, I've got my hands (rather ears) on the new Nine Inch Nails' album, Hesitation Marks. My quick review is that the band is definitely heading in a new direction. However, I will say that my first impression of the album is fairly positive. Musically, it doesn't sound as post-industrial as his other band How to Destroy Angels, nor does this new material sound remotely similar to any of his previous work. Lyrically, still the same Reznor we've all always known. Hence, it's safe to say that album is a reflection of the band going in a new direction. 

Also, I realized that this is my 100th post!!! Wow, I didn't think I'd spend so much time here. For a while, I debated on terminating this account and beginning a Tumblr account, but out of laziness (I'm being honest here), I've decided to stick with this quaint Blogger account. Thank you for your love, support, and constant reading. Here's to another 100 posts. Cheers, mates!

"The Fault In Our Stars"

I finally finished reading Robert Ellis' The Lost Witness yesterday. Though it wasn't an "edge-of-your-seat" thriller kind of book (though honestly, I don't know what that looks like), I'm looking forward to reading John Green's The Fault In Our Stars now. I honestly have no idea what this books is about. Like at all. When I stumbled upon the book, it was first featured as "this month's book club reading" at a store, I immediately dismissed it. The Fault In Our Stars didn't really capture my attention at the time. Now friends, fellow bookworms, and even some YouTube personalities were positively responding to how well the story was written. Thus, I impulsively bought a collector's edition the book at a Barnes and Noble (I know, I know - though in my defense, I knew that I would be able to find the book there: the collector's edition of the book was just icing on the cake). So here I am, telling you that I'm about to read the book, while the book is sitting to my right, just waiting to be read. Life is funny like that.

The Second, Sleepy Day

Good morning! Today's my second day at university. I must say, I've been hanging in there. Still nervous, but I'm starting to adjust to the schedule. I've been already assigned an essay and extensive reading, but it's nothing I can't handle for now. The lack of sleep is annoying, but bearable. As you can already tell, I'm still sleepy. Well, I've got class in a few minutes so I've got to go. I will write something in a day or two. Cheers, friends!

First Day!

Right now, I'm approximately 40 minutes away from my first class for this new Fall Semester. I'm ecstatic and nervous about this. I've been talking about being eager to go back, and now that I'm in... I want out! 

Not really :P

If anything, I'm just nervous that I'll be taking on 16 units' of classwork along with 32 hours' of work at my station. It's gonna be quite a busy semester for me this Fall. Wish me luck! =D

College Textbooks...

WHY U SO EXPENSIVE???

Ugh. Today I visited my university to find my classrooms and assess the costs for my textbooks. The total cost of my books this semester just made my heart sink. Approximately $800 (with taxes included) will go to purchase my required tomes for this Fall Semester. $800! And here's the kicker: all of these books (except for one) are used! Used! What the frack, man?! 

This is, by far, the most I've paid for books. For the most part, I've only paid 300 on average for books. This, as you can see, is an anomaly. 

"No Excuse."

Ugh. Today was simply...sub-par. I didn't feel productive, efficient, or even have the drive to perform the tasks that were present at work. Fortunately, this type of day hasn't been occurred in the past few months (which is amazing, considering I deal with all types of people - mainly those that are angry and stupid, but still people nonetheless.) With school coming up soon, I probably won't have a day like this for a good while =D

Ender's Game and CRL

Ender's Game is the 41st book I have completed for my Comprehensive Reading List, or CRL as I call it. As I have mentioned a few times throughout the year, the goal is to read 75% of the 67 books I have listed on that list. As of now, I'm at approximately 61.19% (or 61.19402... to be exact). If I didn't add an additional 10 books to the list, I'd be much closer to accomplishing my goal of reading 75% (I'd be only 2 books away, instead of 10 away at the moment). But I'm cool with it! I made this list to be fluid, being able to add and remove books whenever I wanted. There have been times where I removed a book or two because I felt that I didn't take away anything from a book or reading it felt like a waste of time. I still have roughly 3.5 months before the year is over, so I'm hoping to get really close to that magic number.

Ender's Game was a fascinating read. There were times that I had to be reminded that Ender was a boy of nine years, even though he had the maturity of a young man. I can understand why this book was met with much friction, especially from mothers and school teachers. Events that transpired among students aboard the Battle School seemed illogical for children to commit and attempt, ranging from humiliations, bodily harm, and even murder. "Children should be children, not be forced to be adults at such a young age," I guess is the main argument. However, a book like this can have us reflect our actions and behavior toward others and ask ourselves, "Were my actions justified? Or was I malicious and excessive?" While the characters involved (with the exception of Graff, of course) and overall plot was nowhere near morally ambiguous, the actions of certain people were. I've read somewhere that some branches of the military actually recommend reading Ender's Game for its philosophical implications, especially knowing that many soldiers can and will commit actions that we, as civilians, won't ever comprehend unless we were there in combat also. Maybe somebody can confirm this for me? I personally can't wait for the film adaptation to be released. I'm very confident that some scenes that transpired in the novel will, without a doubt, be altered considerably. I don't mind this at all, as long as the core message of the novel stays the same, which we should always hope for in adaptations. 

Next on my reading list is Robert Ellis' The Lost Witness, which I don't know what the novel is about or what to expect. The book was given to me by a friend since he didn't have time to read it and he knew that I have a collection that is constantly growing. I'm hoping it's a good read! 

A Little Sad Today

I feel like I've lost a friend today...

But I can't understand this feeling...

I wonder why I'm feeling this way...

In Two Weeks' Time...

...School begins anew for me. I am pretty excited and nervous. I will be taking on 16 units' worth of class materials, all the while juggling work, some social life, and sleep (if any). It's just not this upcoming Fall semester that will be like this. If anything, my remaining semesters will be like this, pushing myself to the limit in hopes of accomplishing and meeting all the requirements for my undergraduate degree. 

So, while school is not in session, I'll be trudging along with work and life, before the black hole that is my academic life sucks me in and drags me down to oblivion. I'm feeling quite happy now, but I don't think I'll so optimistic at the end of December. But, to end on a happy note, I now know how to handle and reduce the murkiness of the upcoming semester =D

"The Easy Day Was Yesterday"

Sunday was great! Some plans fell through (like seeing my mechanic and going to the movies), but, what matters most was that I had a relaxing Sunday. I'm really gonna enjoy having my Sundays for the next few months, before I'll have to work on them again.

Moving on, running on Sunday morning was both a blessing and a curse. I learned that my state of being physically unfit is staggeringly frightening. As I have posted earlier, reading Max Brooks' The Zombie Survival Guide has inspired more to improve my fitness altogether. So Sunday was my first day of training, but I didn't pace myself. It wasn't until the second half of my run that made me struggle the most, revealing just how unfit I really am. You couldn't believe how relieved I was after my run. However, tomorrow (on Tuesday), I will run again, even if my body hasn't really recovered at all today (Monday). I hope to improve drastically over the next few months (until late December or early January, I hope). Then, I'm going to attempt Parkour! 

Day Off Tomorrow

Finally, after some lengthy weeks (and extensive hours), I finally have a day off. Although, if I could gripe about this, I'd like to have a whole week off, considering all the time I have sort of have lost due to losing one co-worker and training two others. If I had a whole week to myself, what would I do? I haven't thought that far ahead as far as time off. However, I do have somethings tomorrow planned namely:

• Begin the first day of my training regimen (I know where I stand health-wise and I have set up some personal goals - more on that later).
• See my mechanic (my car needs a new engine mount, transmission mount, air filter, and a new spark plug - nothing too demanding, I hope)
• Spend time with my family (watch Pacific Rim, if it's still in theaters, or Elysium, since it was just released this weekend).
• Have dinner with my dad (I miss that man).
• Go on a hike with my best friend (he's been inviting me I feel bad for not going along - tomorrow, I'll make it up to him).

Of course, there some other things to do, like catch up on my YouTube channels, knock off a few items off my Netflix queue, and do some gaming/errands (not in that order), but they are not as important as the other things that I have mentioned earlier. Tomorrow's gonna be a great (but busy) Sunday.