ARTWORKS: Woman From Mars

It was the first time that I used a canvas in painting. (And some oil paint).

The experience made me a little obsessed with passion and focus. I never wanted any kind of disturbance during the process, and certainly, I had to shoo away important people in my life for an hour. (Yup, this simple art was only done for almost an hour and a half or less than that).

I originally planned to name this painting, "Woman from Mars", but when I was done, I felt unsure, I wanted to call it something like, "Hidden" but then, let's just stick to "Woman from Mars".

(c) OriginalAS/Anamarie Soya

Point-Of-View: Love and Differences

It was hard to imagine watching two people so into each other. You could see them happy together, their tastes matched with each other and their differences only made them more interested with each other.

But these were only the disillusions of love. Sometimes, we would always find our partner's difference as something unique about him or her. We would start to love that about them, because it was a sign of their individuality. Their difference made them want them more for we believed that we are in love when we accept them for their difference, for who they are.

Source: Decohubs.com

Of course, that is what really love is, but how long could your relationship flow smoothly with your differences?

Small differences are no big deal. It would not matter if he likes the color blue and you like orange, if he is too tall or too short for you, if she is too ugly or too pretty for you, if she is smarter in Physics than you.

What about the big differences? What if the guy is a Born-Again and the girl is a Catholic? What if she wanted financial stability at the age of 35 before getting married and he wanted to get married at the age of 25? What if he wanted to live in their own home, far from relatives while the girl wants to live in a compound close to her parents' house once they get married? What if she wanted to work abroad and he didn't want her to? What if he wanted to put up a business managed by him and his future wife and she just wanted to stay employed?

Source: Suitcasestories.com

You may have different religions or beliefs, difference attitudes or personalities, but there will come a point that both of you have to compromise. And when we compromise, it would be either one would sacrifice their own belief for the other, or both would not do what they plan to do so that it would not make one of them sacrifice their own belief.

But there will come a time when one of them should sacrifice and give up their beliefs, their personalities, their principles just to make the relationship work.

Would you do that for love?

Could you give up your religion? Your beliefs? All the little pieces of your puzzle that makes you whole when they are put together?

Could you? Would you?

And would you still love a person when they could not give you what you wanted? If they could not do what you want them to do? Would you still love them if they refused to adapt to what you believe in? To what your principles are?

Could you? Would you?

For how long? To what extent?

(c) OriginalAS/Anamarie Soya

Point-Of-View: Free Taste Fail

I am going to share one of my recent posts on Facebook.

Lately, I have been inactive with blogging here just because it is hard for me to use a smart phone in blogging (call me old fashioned, but when it comes to long typing, I prefer using keyboards).

And so, here's my FB post last October 2:

Had three shots today-- three shots of different flavors of this juice drink in a supermarket. The sales ladies were offering a free taste at their booth so I gave it a try. Looking like an interested customer for them, they gave me two more free tastes o f that juice's other flavors. 

Finally, I was pursuaded to choose which one to buy. I said I wanted the third flavor. To my disappointment, they said that the only available flavors are the first and second flavors. So, I reluctantly chose the first flavor. One of the ladies opened a cooler to get me a bottle of that juice flavor. And once again, I was disappointed to see some bottles of the flavor that I chose first. If I didn't pay attention to the cooler, I could have not noticed that. But I paid attention and saw that. 

I accepted the bottle they gave me. I thanked them and left. As I approached the supermarket's cashier, I left that bottle inside the basket I used.
I will never ever pay for something given to me like that. 😂😂😂

My points are: One, why would they ever give a free taste of a product or a product's flavor if they don't sell it? 

Number two, if their intention was to increase the sales of the two other flavors then why offer a free taste of the flavor that they claimed 'not available' because they ran out of stock. 

Number Three: Yes, it is a smart move to cheat on a customer or the target market if it will keep the business profitable. But don't ever get caught. It won't leave a good impression.

So, what do you think about it? Will you buy for the same style of marketing that I experienced from the two sales ladies?

(c)OriginalAS/Anamarie Soya

Image Source: Pinterest.com

Your Text Dramas

Cellphones used to be used for communication, but nowadays, they are becoming one of people's primary needs next in line to food, air, clothes and shelter because of their new features. Cellphones nowadays are not just used for calling or texting, but also takes the place of DVD players, CDs, TVs and books because they can provide the same such as music players, TVs, movie players and ebooks installed in your android phones.

But then, the main use of cellphones is for communicating. I know everyone experience the following with the cellphone activities (making calls or texting). Some occasional and some everyday cellphone drama. Let the gifs that you'll see around the internet give you the feels.

When the person you like doesn't text...

When you keep texting without receiving any replies...

When you keep on waiting for your call to be answered...

When you discover some his/her text messages with someone else...

When you read something that makes you happy...

When the person you are with keeps on tap-tapping that phone...

When you feel out of place or ran out of things to do...

When you don't understand how to use your new phone...

When you simply don't mind texting or texting back anyone at all...

When you are focused on playing games.... or maybe in explaining...

When you are enjoying spreading the news with everybody! (Or just texting everyone!)

When you like someone's reply...

When you are somewhere where you shouldn't be texting (work, meetings) but you really, really, have to...

When you received something no one should ever, ever see...

When you know you shouldn't send a wrong text... but you did.

School Get-Togethers and Reunions

One day you will suddenly get an invitation about the upcoming homecoming party, or a reunion outing with your old classmates. Of course, the first thing you will feel about the news is excitement. You will wonder how people you have lost contact with already look like? What happened to their lives since the last time you have been together? And the thrill doesn't just stop from there.

There will be a lot of contacting people, inviting one and another for a goal to have everybody's presence in the reunion. It will be fun, they said. So you should come, they said.

Anyways, there are a lot of conflict before the successful reunion happens. The following are things considered  in holding a non-school hosted reunion:



1. When and Where - The first and looong debate revolves around the question when and where the party will happen. All of you tend to have busy schedules at work or at college, projects to finish, work tasks that needs to be attended to. One may be available to come on a Sunday, the others may not be able to come. That's where the debate starts. Of course, the majority always win in this debate.

Where is not that much of a thing to debate about. Everybody are easy to negotiate with regarding with what place they want the party to happen. What matters most is if they can come on the date being set.

2. Theme, Foods, Contribution-- FUNDS! - Okay, no one can host a party without funds. Funds for decoration, funds for food, funds for videoke, party games and stuff. That is why the theme is discussed next, whether through text, meeting or internet. If the majority wants an Children's Party theme, then they will list all the stuff they will need like balloons, party hats, confettis, and add up the total expenses and divide it to the number of people in order to be able to come up with how much each one should contribute for the fund to spend for the party. Yes, the theme also decides what the attire for the party or reunion should be.

3. Invitation - Of course, the invitation is done first, but then, when all the matters are settled such as the details about when and where the reunion will happen, how much the fund should be (if funds are needed), then another round of invitation comes out. Why? Because they can convince more people to come by being able to answer their questions.Party details are big factors that people consider if they should come to the party or not.

4. Designation of Tasks - A party is impossible if only one person will do it. Therefore, when everything is settled, the class usually divides themselves with a specific task. One group may be assigned to take care of the foods, the other group for the games and the other for the decorations.

5. Preparation - It is not always the officers who are busy with the preparation but those who leads the event. The one who came up with the idea himself. He/she will be backed up by people who are, of course, available to lend a helping hand. The preparation always comes a few days or hours before the reunion. So all the buying, cutting, pasting, cooking starts here.

If it is a swimming outing type of reunion, the preparation will be not that big. Only a brief reminder to everybody about the meeting place and time, and what they should bring.


6. Party Time! - The party should happen according to plan. But most of the time, it doesn't happen because everybody are starting to have too much fun they forget about it.

What about reunions held at school?

1. Initiative - Someone has to initiate the homecoming party to happen. It is mostly the school who gathers or contacts the graduating officers from a certain batch.

2. Gathering - Meetings are conducted at school (or anywhere agreed upon). The gathering always result into designation of tasks and theme of the party.

3. Designation of Tasks and Invitations - Leaders for each batch will start contacting their fellow batchmates/classmates to tell them about the task designated to them regarding the party. Everybody starts to become and excited and will go spread the news to the others.

In this part, the assigned task is being discussed already. It takes days or months to be able to come up with how to do their task.

4. Funding - Funds is a must in this kind of reunion party. There will be alumni shirts to be sold too.

5. Checking Out - They have to share the proposed plan to the officers in charge of the event, get their approval before finalizing a plan.

6. Preparation -  The preparation begins days before the actual date of the homecoming. Everybody tries to beat the deadline at this stage.

7. The BIG Day - This is the day that everything planned should be acted upon. The plan always happens (because it is a more formal gathering), except on the last part of the party where all that everyone have to do is to dance and party.

It doesn't really matter how you plan, what matters is everybody will have fun!

(c)OriginalAS/AnamarieSoya

Image Source: Google Images

Featured: Dieter Can Sing

It's been high school since I've been listening to German eurodisco-pop, specifically Modern Talking and Blue System. Behind these bands is a Pop Titan, Dieter Bohlen.

Europe, especially Germany and Russia, knows who Dieter Bohlen is, and how they see him as the third greatest composer in the world.

I just featured this video, because Dieter has faced a lot of controversies, such as being unable to sing, using playbacks in their performances and yes, not using his own voice in every song he composes and performs but someone else's voice.

These videos are enough proof for me that Dieter can sing. Of course, let's admit it, he doesn't have that angelic voice like his past-duo partner, Thomas Anders, or other artists around the globe, but I know for sure that Dieter can sing. And these videos give justice to the fact that he sings even the high-pitched chorus  parts of the songs since the Modern Talking era.

And as a bonus, here's a wonderful acoustic medley of his Blue System songs.

Point-Of-View: A Graduate's Love Blues

College-- during the final stage of completing your education attainment goals, there are more advantages than disadvantages: higher allowance, more freedom to make your own decisions, open opportunities to work or meet new people, parties, enjoyable school's educational activities, being to different places and an acceptable reason to be in a relationship.

I am not saying that having relationships in high school is illegal, but of course, during those years, parents are more protective of you and on the other hand, you are younger and have little rational knowing on how to make a relationship work. While in college, of course, your parents may consider to let you have a boyfriend or girlfriend because you are older or of legal age (18 and above) which means you are more capable of making wise decisions regarding the relationship you are putting yourself into, although they are also expecting that you'll reach out to them somehow if ever there is more that you need to understand about relationships.

So, that's what exactly happened to me and believe me, I managed making my relationships known by my parents, although I have a feeling that this is a lot more serious than the earlier ones.

Everything worked so well, starting from courtship to dating and finally, meeting each other's parents.



Every relationship is smooth sailing at times, sometimes, experiencing storms or rocked by some corals; but then, two sailors working hand in hand can get through those.

Until that day came, when they announced about it. I never saw it coming.
No, actually, I saw it coming-- we expected it, we worked for it, we yearned for it.
Yes, I am talking about the announcement of our graduation day.

Of course, we want it. We built a lot of dreams for ourselves, for each other and for our own families that graduating can give.

But just thinking about after the graduation makes me worry sometimes

Of course, after collecting all your documents, you will have to find a job, you will have to go to interviews, and if you did not pass, go and hunt for jobs again.

If you pass? Of course, you will have to work according to the schedule they will give you (obviously) and sometimes, overtime is inevitable which might drive you crazy thinking, What? Let's just go out next week? Why can't we just have a date tonight?

Let's add meeting new workmates, getting along with them, going out with them for fun because you have to maintain a good relationship with people you work with. Oh no, how if he/she likes someone new?

After your working hours, finally, time to go home, but uh-oh! You might encounter a looong line of vehicles, a heavy traffic that may eat a lot of hours. Phew!

Then, at the end of the day, you will have to take care of yourself-- do the laundry, eat, clean the house or at least, help your parents with it. How many hours are left for you to have even a little chat or meet-up with your sweetheart?

A rational mind will tell that it is not impossible to handle a relationship while working; while a crazy-in-love heart will just groan in a corner and ask, "How are you going to handle this now? I have such an insatiable hunger for love nothings and stuff like that."

Maybe, the best reply to it is, "Behave, Heart. Behave. Your relationship will be safe with just the right adjustment. Priorities first."

(c) OriginalAs/March21,2015

Point-Of-View: Fifty Shades of Grey Movie

Since I started blogging, I only made reviews about three movies-- A Fistful of Dollars, A Few Dollars More and The Good, The Bad and The Ugly-- all that came from The Dollars Trilogy. So now,  the fourth movie on the list is Fifty Shades of Grey.

As a reader of this book trilogy, I became interested when I heard it will be coming out in cinemas I wondered how the movie will be different from the book, or will it have any difference with what's in the book?

Unfortunately, I did not memorize stories that I read, therefore, I cannot state any observation whether there are changes in some details or dialogues in the movie as compared to what is written in the book (although I already read blogs that confirm there have been changes like the scene where Anastasia used "Stop" instead of "Red".)

So there, me and my boyfriend watched the movie together. Both of us stared seriously on the screen, sometimes we poke at each other, laugh at each other when the steamy scenes are on and we will awkwardly look away from  it (but only for a few seconds). As for me, the sexual detail of the film doesn't matter too much but the over-all output of it. But yes, I admit, the execution of the sexual scenes are steamy.

Our opinion varied. I focused on the cinematography, the execution of the scenes or the movie being a movie, since I already know the story while my boyfriend seemed to focus on the characters.

The first thing I noticed was how the scenes were cut. I frankly told him I don't like how the scenes were cut, I feel like there are parts of the book that are being taken away or not included. My guy just said that maybe they are trying to fit in all the scenes in the book in standard movie duration (from one to two hours), so some of the scenes had to be cut out to maximize the time. I just agreed on that. Maybe I felt like that since I read the whole book.

About the characters, not all of them or their characteristics seemed to be emphasized or given emphasis in the film. Of course, they shouldn't steal the spotlight from the lead characters but supporting characters just like Taylor are lovable in the books of E.L. James.

Other than that, the visual presentation gave me less amour from Christian Grey than the way I used to like him while reading the books. Jamie Dornan portrayed a very cold man in the movie and not how vulnerable Christian Grey have always been in my imaginations. I can't tell if he executed the character right or wrong; but he did a good job on the film (in my opinion). Dakota did a good job as well, in fact, she displayed more emotions into the film. She was good at delivery of Anastasia's emotions even through her facial expressions.

And yes, my admiration for Love Me Like You Do never changed. I really loved that scene when they were in Charlie Tango and that epic song played. I love the mixing of the song in that scene and the wonderful bird's eye-view shot as well over the bright city lights.

What about my boyfriend's point-of-view?

He haven't read the trilogy yet when we watched. He was quiet on the first parts of the film. On the Clayton's hardware store scene, he started commenting that Christian seemed to be stalking Anastasia, (so to those who have comments like this, you are not alone) then we proceeded into watching. Sometimes, he would ask me questions if this or that scene in the movie was in the book.

Then, when the bar scene came on, he just said, "Look at what alcohol do to people."

The next comment he gave was when Christian Grey showed Anastasia his Red Room of Pain. He laughed at the scene commenting that he's too expensive when it comes to making love. (Oh yes, his financial practicality never fades); it was as if he was trying to tell me "Did he have to buy all that to be able to make love?" He even asked me if Christian will murder Anastasia in the end. I said no. I also remember when he asked me on some part of the film that if Christian will not murder Anastasia, will she kill Christian Grey instead? I gave him a spoiler which did not discouraged him to watch further though.

And on the restaurant scene where Anastasia drinks with her mother, Christian Grey appears again, making my boyfriend murmur that he's really stalking Anastasia.

Until the film progressed and we reached the final scene of love making and Anastasia's confrontation with Christian; which resulted to letting Christian hit her six times.

We asked for each other's point of view and I just ended up saying, "Men shouldn't be sadists."
While he in return said, "Women shouldn't let men do sadist things to them."

Respecting each other's point of views, we played some arcade games before we went home happily.

Note: Edited for additional review/point-of-view

(c) OriginalAS/march152015
Copyrights for the images used belongs to their respective owners

POINT-OF-VIEW: You Are What You Post

Internet has been so helpful to mankind in different aspects. People around the world use it as a means of communication, you can also buy stuff online instead of driving for hours to the nearest or best shopping mall, you are also able to be updated with the events happening anywhere in and out of the country, and you also do entertaining hobbies like writing, watching movies/videos, listening to music and gaming online.

Of course, it is a part of our everyday life on the cyberspace to post. Post what? Anything! Some inspiring quotes, how your day went by, blogs, pictures, videos, your playlist- everything you like!

But just like what they say, consider this: Think before you click.

I am a part of this internet life since 2007 and I am unlike most of the internet users who complains all the time when something new happens (like the new look of Friendster years ago, how come the old Facebook was replaced with a new one that requires you to upload cover photos, etc...)

I love the changes that internet has. It means that people are starting to improve in terms of computer technology. More of our needs are being met by these changes. The hashtags just came to existence lately, around 2014 as far as I remember, and these hashtags help us locate posts about a certain topic much easier than bothering to go to Google to type for a keyword which will offer you millions of websites that has posts about the topic you are searching for. Hashtags on the other hand helps you find topics on a certain website. For example, if you want to find a post on Facebook about dogs, type: #Dogs on the search bar and there it goes.

Seems like I am drifting a little too far from what I really want to discuss about.

You are what you post.

But not exactly.

What you post actually influences what impression people can have about you.

Do you keep posting Biblical verses? Inspirational quotes and blogs? Then, your friends may see you as a religious person. Even if you do not talk about these topics too much personally, they'll have that impression when they notice that you post about religious stuff all the time on your social media account.

What people don't really understand is that they are what they post. Even if they try to be anonymous about it, it will always speak about themselves, their character.

There are posts more annoying than those coming from people who are bragging. These posts are those coming from people who embarrass, degrade, discriminate or bully someone else.

Actually, I don't know what is the need to post these. If you are angry with someone else, you can deal with it personally, talk about it, solve it and make a compromise. People who lash out their insults to another in social media are nothing but cowards. They cannot face their enemy so they stab them on their backs.

Being always online, I see people posting sex videos. Even if I do not watch them, the video's thumbnails and descriptions give the detail or give a clue on what the video's content is.

If it were a clip from a movie, I might have just let it pass. But mostly on Facebook are not from movie clips, but from real people. Where is your respect with someone else's body? Where is your respect with that person? Where is your concern with people? Why not just approach them? Tell them what can be the consequences of their mistakes than traumatize them by posting it on social media? And for lovers, oh, for Pete's sake! Where is your respect to your other half? And self-respect as well? Do you even think that that video will impress everybody like, "Wow! He's having *** with such a bombshell" etc, etc.

It is just annoying. I have to say it. Oh yes, I am what I post. I display my concerns about things that I observe. But I try to in the most subtle way that I can.

Let's have a little re-cap. I already discussed two annoying things that I encountered online: sex videos and hate posts.

Now let me tell you about an additional to the list.

Bashers.

Of course, it's okay to voice out what you hate. (In fact, I am doing it right now.) But brothers and sisters, there is no need to exaggerate or emphasize your hate for that person/thing/movie/book, etc. Just state out your opinion about it if you want. Say why you don't like it, example: I don't think this movie's really that hot.
But do not go to the point like: This movie's such a trash! Do not watch it! Even the actors look like toads.
I know, that's a much more subtle statement that I gave as an example of bashing, but please, that attitude won't do any good but trouble with those who are against your point of view. No one respects a basher, remember that. Do not honor yourself by proudly saying you know how to fight for what you think is right because you are wrong! In this world, not everyone will love what you love. Not everyone will think that your favorite movie is the best in the world. Not everyone will think that classical music is boring. Not everyone see things like you do and you have to respect that.

Anyone who you think is acting wrong or bashing should be approached with respect too. You don't have to go down to their level to prove them wrong. Treat them kind to show them that's how they should treat other people too. Do not motivate them to act like a basher by acting like them. Imitation, as they say, is a form of flattery.

Other than that, feel free to post to your heart's content. Just make sure you can accept the consequences to it. And brace yourself for people who do not know how to be human and kind, and turn into machines when they are behind their social media accounts. Not everyone will like you after all because.... "You cannot make everybody happy, you're not a Nutella jar."

Image Source: weheartit.com

(c) OriginalAS/march102015

POINT-OF-VIEW: Happy Women's Month in Philippines

Last March 8, women around the globe celebrated the International Women's Month. Philippines on the other hand celebrate the month of March as Fire Prevention Month and Women's Month.

Women (and being a woman) are celebrated around the world-- their role, their contribution to the family and society, their mark on history and their importance-- when this day of the month comes.

Here's my previous Facebook posts for all the women/girls around the world:

It's so nice to be a girl-- to play styles with your hair, color your face with lipstick and make-up like the way you paint the town red in your presence with your friends and family, but the happier when you face the challenges with make up or not, doing the things that make you happy and the things you are passionate about.
It's so nice to wear clothes to be beautiful, but the happier it is when you wear what you are comfortable with.
It is so nice to be soft knowing that your have your loved-ones to help you out, and so nice to be brave and strong to defend your loved-ones in their weaknesses and darkest times.It is so nice to wear high heels, but the happier when you wear flats and you still feel tall and proud of being who you are.
It is so nice to be a true friend, a loyal best friend, an understanding girlfriend, a supportive sister, a loving wife, a nurturing mother and the best girl for the job in whatever profession or career you are taking.
You don't have to be too much of a feminist to be a real girl-- a real girl needs a man, not for money, not for power, not for confidence nor any kind of conveniences, but because she has a good heart that sees men not as evil creatures nor competition but people who can be her friend, her father, her brother, her teacher, her best friend, her lover. Just believe in girl power and leave the judgment about men alone to men, for they know themselves better.
It's so nice to be a girl especially if you love yourself for who you are, if you love people for who they are, and you live the moment the best way a girl can. Your role is hard to ignore in history. Maybe you haven't written yours yet, or maybe you are starting to make a mark on history today; but keep in mind you are here on earth to learn, no need to rush or impress people or the society.
In spite of all what other people think, how they judge you, it doesn't matter but your own happiness and the good things that you do. Yes, you are just a girl, but its the nicest feeling that a girl can have, to be her real lovable self. ‪#‎HappyWomensMonth

Point-Of-View: Blue System's "Twilight" Album

Many may have question marks popping over their heads when they hear a band named, "Blue System". It is more of a Eurodisco-pop group than just a band.

Whoever knows the songs "Brother Louie" or "You're My Heart, You're My Soul" by Modern Talking should know its composer, Dieter Bohlen (who is also part of the guitarist and back-up vocals of MT).

And when MT split up in 1987, Dieter, who moves on in pursuit of his music career dreams, formed a new group called "Blue System". The group has rocked Germany and Russia as well, and other countries (mostly European) with its familiar Modern Talking disco-feel, only more masculine and sexy.

Dieter's husky voice made me feel awkward at first, the very first time I heard it. But I got more interested to listen to all the songs, its sexy words (some are too sexy), the naughty, or pleasant, or heavy, or playful, or strong appealed sound... oh, later on, I am already hooked on most of their songs!

So, in this blog, you will experience Blue System music and my point-of-view about one of their albums that I liked: Twilight.

1. Magic Symphony - "I hear a symphony of love, I see the stars, the moon above. I hear your heart, I feel your touch deep down inside."

The very strong, attention-grabbing introduction of violin mixed with synthesized beat. It is like classical music with a modern disco twist.

BS style is very like Modern Talking, except that it sounded more masculine and most of the themes are sexier, but not this one. This is more of an old fashioned classic orchestra meets the upbeat contemporary disco.

The lyrics, in terms of comprehensiveness, is a little bit mixed up. It doesn't form one exact story, but then, we can safely assume that it is about love, being in love and how it feels like (the chorus got that very well-said).

A very catchy song. No wonder this is one of the best of Blue System.

2. Love Me On The Rocks - "Are you ready?" 

Nadja sings as an introduction to this sexy, Eurodisco hit dominated by high-pitched piano and beats.

The music video shows that BS is in Russia, and I tell you, the song really fits. It gives me the Russian-feel, or as if I am in Russia. I always had the impression of Russian's hard and strong personality and this song has it.

The lyrics are sexually suggestive, not advised for parents to let your kids sing this. That's why it really seems to suit well played on discos.

3. Save Me - "Don't look back and don't look sad."

A different sound, but has the beats and high pitched piano that Love Me On The Rocks has. This horror-like-themed song can be sexually suggestive (because of all the sound of a gasping person), upbeat but relaxing (weird description, isn't it?)

Lyrically speaking, the song tells a story of a man who plays with love. He just goes to disco, go partying, and play around with girls. Save Me is such a dangerous word. It seems like what he says to lure women, or either to help him find a woman who can save him from whatever making him act like that.

4. Nobody Makes Me Crazy Like You Do - "Nobody makes me crazy like you do. Oh baby, I just can't say no to you. Oh, everybody needs a little love to live."

This started to balance the songs in the album. Twilight started out with heavy music, intense and wild suggestions. Now this song seems to shine like a sun behind the dark clouds.

It is a very cheerful, playful song about falling in love.

5. Madonna Blue - "Today we could been so good together. Love makes the world go round."

Next to the light twists in the album. Lighter than Nobody Makes Me Crazy Like You Do. In fact, its way too romantic. Romantic and the type that you'd love to listen at on sunset summers, especially that guitar plucking!

The lyrics are declaration of love for a girl that BS calls Madonna Blue.

6. Call Me Dr. Love (A New Dimension) - "Wake up, don't dream of me. Wake up! Wake up!"

The heavy beats and playful mix are back. This song is (lyrically) about being a lover, as usual with songs of BS. Other than that, it has a very orchestra feeling. Yes, it's the same classic-meets-modern-disco single. It's a very encouraging song, a manly motivation that he should be loved. The lyrics are just mere descriptions of how he meets girl, where he lives, how he lives and that the dreaming or just plain infatuation should stop and should be put an action to it, like making the first move.

7. Little Jeanie - "When you take my love, baby, how I cry for you."

This song has a less appeal or attraction to me. It isn't that heavy or light like the previous songs. More of the modern kind of Eurodisco music that we hear today than in the 80s.

8. Carry Me, Oh, Carrie - "A love enough for two, oh, babe for me and you. Carry me, Carrie.Carrie, take me home!"

The intro seems to water a dry flower into a full bloom. In other words, this one is a cheerful, light song. It makes me feel so hopeful with love, so in love and  totally good vibes!

It seems like the exact feeling when you realize that you have fallen in love. (I know it sounds too opinionated but then, this is a point-of-view blog and not that serious review thingy ha!ha!)

9. Big Yellow Taxi - "Feelings, they're hardest words to say. But my feelings grow stronger, babe, everyday."

Another upbeat, cheerful, and source-of-good-vibes song! All about love and wanting to give your best because you love that girl, and not even that good-story-telling taxi driver can keep you from wanting to go home.

10. Everything I Own - "If we should lose love, the pain is in my heart, is in my soul."

The playlist ends with the last on the list, the heavy beating single, Everything I Own. It sounds like a break-up story where the guy is ready to sacrifice, give away everything he's got to have the girl back.

THE WHOLE ALBUM:

Album Cover: Cool color, cool mixing. It's a 5/5 for me. One of the best album covers that Blue System has. Neat, simple, and attractive.

Tracklist: Cool arrangement. It doesn't make you feel too overdosed with heavy music or light music because the arrangement makes the two kinds of songs in this album balanced.

Songs: Not all of it is catchy to me; but that doesn't mean I consider this album a junk. Guess what? I love it!

My Top 5 Favorites:
1. Magic Symphony
2. Carry Me, Oh, Carrie
3. Save Me
4. Madonna Blue
5. Everything I Own


Sources:
Video -Youtube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQvwcC2Il9s)
Lyrics - Metrolyrics.com

POINT-OF-VIEW: The Age Gap Issues of Teenagers

Well, teenagers— we tend to be experimental, confused, in search of a role model, be daredevils, cowards, freaks, digging deep to find our who we really are, whatever adjective you may think of that equalizes to trouble-makers.

Any kid who reaches the point of being a teen becomes more aware and conscious about their environment, specifically about themselves. I tend to call this a very emotional era among all the stages of human life, because anything can happen! You experience being a kid and being an adult at the same time. Now that really makes us confused.

The older people confuse us sometimes, they tell us we are too young to do anything fun, experimental, daring and harmful; but we are old enough to do anything boring or fun, safe and right.

There is nothing bad in obeying the elders. As they say, they have been there and done that, so they know what they are talking about, they are guiding us so we avoid ending up in a miserable life. But there are some point that they bully, underestimate, intimidate, discourage or worse, abuse teenagers. Of course, teenagers have the right to stand on their ground, but can be too afraid it will be interpreted as rebellion or talking back to the adults. Of course, threats can affect and traumatize teenagers. Sometimes, teenagers may be tempted too by the adults to do some unacceptable things, due to their influence. Why? Because we grew up in a mindset that adult people know better than us!

We hold nothing against adults, really, just some adults who take advantage of their authority, position or whatever they have that they can use to abuse, belittle, and step on teenagers. We teens love adults who know how to listen, how to have fun, who understands and at the same time, who really care about us.

Teens do not just get problems dealing with the adults, but also with the younger ones or the kids. In this tale, 90% of the “Bad Guy” title always goes to the older ones, of course, the teenagers. Why? It is a simple and redundant explanation that our parents give us— we are the older kids so we know what is right or wrong better than these young rascal siblings of ours. We shouldn’t slap them or beat the hell out  of them, but when these little monsters do that to us, our parents just say that we should just forgive them about it. You know, we always ask, “Where’s justice?”

Actually, I rarely see teenagers hang-out with little kiddos. Most of the teens hang-out with people 5 years older than them and about 2 to 4 years younger than then. I did not use any survey results to fish out this idea from my head, just mere observation. So, the question is… why.

It must be because kids and teens have a very wide gap about their interests. Adults have already surpassed the stage of being a teen, so there are big chances that teenagers can relate themselves more to adults than to kids. Furthermore, teenagers often set a goal to be a better adult, they act like an adult and try to make mature decisions, so who else should they hang out more with but people their age or adults!

But there are some adorable teens who hang out with little kids, mostly their siblings or cousins. These are the kind of teenagers who seems to be not in a hurry to grow up, either matured enough they bond a lot with little kids to babysit them. This teenager-kid friendship is fun and at the same time, troublesome. Little kids do not easily understand teasing and get easily upset when a teenage picks on them. Yes, teenagers can be mean like that to the youngsters but sometimes those teasing are just for fun, just to have some laughs. Can’t these little kids just take a joke? At the same time being in this kind of friendship opens both to discovering happy activities or some new computer game to play together. Competition may be inevitable!

Another trouble between kids and teens is the case of envy or jealousy— whether it is for the attention of the parents, gifts, or who always gets other people’s favor. Well, teens tend to think that everyone should be treated fair, older or not. While kids just don’t bother their selves thinking about that. Oh, the bad kids are too busy being selfish and the good kids are too busy with appreciating what they have and having fun.

Yes, teens do not just have issues against adults or little kids. Sometimes, we come to the point that everybody seems to hate us! Why does one teenager’s mistake affect all of us? One teenage pregnancy and we will suddenly see or hear comments that teenagers nowadays are this and that and blahblahblah. Sometimes I wonder why some cops or security guards always give dirty looks on us teenagers like we just came to the mall to start trouble. People, you are free to voice out your opinion, but do not apply that opinion to all of us. Some teenagers are making their mark on history for excelling in their academics or winning in the Olympics. Some teenagers are earning big being writers, some are bloggers, some are photographers, artists, musicians, singers, inventors… So hold your reins a bit and do not have this impression that teenagers are that bad in general. There are some good guys too.

Besides each one of us makes mistakes. Everyone just keep on putting teenagers on the hot seat because they are easier to control. They are younger, with less authority and power to fend themselves or talk back to the adults. Well, I hope you won’t think this is some rebellious message, but I am just trying to make everybody understand that we teenagers know what is right or wrong, but sometimes, we slip up too. Sometimes, we get confused or curious we forget what is right or wrong. Sometimes, we misinterpret the lessons or advices that our parents give us. Sometimes we face so many problems that we do not know is we should face it like an adult, or like a child. If we are to act like an adult, then we solve it on our own. Then we will be scolded for making the wrong decisions and that we should have consulted an adult’s advice. If we are to act like a child then we’ll come running to our parents and ask them to solve our problems for us. Then we will be scolded for being unable to make up our minds, to decide maturely or for being unable to avoid getting in trouble in the first place. In this stage, we always try to figure out how to show everybody that we are ready to be adults without giving adults the impression that we are being show-offs and disrespectful.

We shouldn’t hurry up being adults, but then, there is a pressure, and of course, that is what everyone expects from us, so how are we able to have some fun? We have fun like kids we start being called immature, we have fun like adults we start being called wild.

And a shout out to all the teenagers out there! We live in a world run by people’s standards— do not live among these, but live with hope, love and peace. With these, you can never go wrong. You will never think of hurting someone else because of love, you will never do anything out of insecurity because you have peace, and you will never stop being kind being in times of trouble, you always have hope in your heart. Do not be afraid to ask your parents. Just soften your approach and keep it respectful when you ask them things or tell them how your day went by. Sometimes, it is not always the adults that should always try to understand, but we should understand the adults too— why they don’t have time for us, why they are so strict… Whenever our parents are unable to help us, you may have reliable people to talk to, some adults like your aunts or uncles, your professor or your friends’ parents. You also have your friends and especially a God to pray your thanks, apologies and fears to.

Find little kids who are not just good enough, but also those who needs your love, care and guidance at an early age. Your little quirks, knowledge and what you learned at school and from the adults can change their lives into something better. Hang-out with the adults who supports you on your way to your dreams, those who will guide you about what  life may have in store for you. Find those adults that will influence you to be a the best adult and citizen you can be; those who understands your flaws and are willing to help you smooth it up.

Do not be afraid to stand your ground when you are being stepped upon. But choose your battles wisely. Every mistake doesn’t take you up to the next higher stair, but it builds a lower stair close to it so that you can climb on the next step easily. So never lose your hopes and don’t give up on your dreams! Always allocate some time for your loved ones, for your heart's desire, for being helpful and for being productive too. You got a lot of good possibilities (and opportunities) ahead of you!

The teenage dilemma seems to be an endless case. I don’t really know how to explain everything that will satisfy both parties— the teenagers and adults. But I always see to it to think positive and that nothing can go wrong if teenagers, kids and adults work together for everyone’s good. The Adults give guidance and care to the teenagers, and bonds and love the little kids; the Teenagers give respect and listens to the Adults, and give guidance and help to the little kids; and the Kids give respect and fun to the Adults and Teens in return for their love, guidance and help. All works together if we do not keep the gap growing, isn’t it? And the gap doesn’t grow when all of us stay close together.

(c) AnamarieSoya

Image Source: Google Images
Video: My Chemical Romance - Teenagers © 2007 WMG

FEATURE: NBS D-I-Y Calendar 2015

Another cool thing that I got to start the new year, 2015, with is this cool calendar from National Bookstore.

I actually forgot to inquire whether there is a required purchase bracket in order for you to get this free calendar; but one thing for sure is you don't need a Laking-National Card to have one to hang in your living room or bedroom.

My apologies if it was too late for me to post this. I don't think NBS is still giving away these calendars that must be only given to customers until supplies lasts.

This calendar is big, noticeable, neat, clean and clear--  you can scribble notes at when you got an important activity on a certain date that you want to mark on the calendar.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

1. National Bookstore directory
2. Each date has a picture of one of the products/supplies/books that you can find in National Bookstore
3. (My most favorite feature) It has D-I-Y (Do-It-Yourself) activities on the top of the calendar every month. These D-I-Ys will surely set your creativity on fire, make beautiful memories and a great way to bond with the family, especially the kids.

WHY YOU SHOULD CLAIM IT: Everybody needs a calendar! Yes, this one's not the type you can bring anywhere, but for the creative minds out there, this will make a great calendar that you can design and personalize each month, inspiring you to look at it every now and then, which also helps you to remind yourself looking at the marked dates in it for important appointments, isn't it?

(c) AnamarieSoya

FEATURE: Mercury Drug Suki Day Book 2015

There is something about journals. If you have the spirit of being a writer, you might have these urge to own pens, notebooks, specifically journals.... anything that you can use to jot down your thoughts, scribble important notes or record an important day a.k.a diary.

Well, in this blog post, Mercury Drug's journal for the 2015 is featured.

Just for 30 Mercury Drug Suki Points, you can claim this cool 70th anniversary journal!

It has a white carton case, containing the red hardbound journal. The pages are clean with a bit of rough texture, which is really good for writing (smooth papers always cause some ink scattered or smeared here and there).

This journal has the features like any other ordinary journals; but then, its difference from the other journals are very interesting, helpful and... cool! (Is it inappropriate if I use the term "cool" to it?)

SPECIAL FEATURES:

1. History of Mercury Drug
2. Mercury Drug's different programs, products and services
3. Mercury Drug directory
4. Different Health trivia along the pages
5. Discount tabs on the journal pocket for every purchase of different products from Mercury Drug

WHY YOU SHOULD CLAIM IT: Because it is a handy well-made journal, informative and keeps you updated about the nearest branches of this drug store. And you will have more savings on your purchases from Mercury Drug because of the Discount tabs that comes along with this journal.

(c) AnamarieSoya

POINT-OF-VIEW: MY CATCHY LIST - TOP 6 (JANUARY 2015)

So today, this will be a sort of stripped-off-the-diary kind of blog. I just want to feature this six songs that's so catchy that they have been stuck in my head for a long time. These are in random order.

My catchy list (random order):

* Love Me Like You Do - Ellie Goulding

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=725WlG1idPc

"I'll let you set the pace."

(Something 80-ish because of the nostalgic feeling it gives me. Oh, it has a very strong arrive to my ears!)

* Uptown Funk - Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPf0YbXqDm0

"Don't believe me, just watch."

(Always.My.Last.Song.Syndrome. It gives me a summery feeling!)

* Blank Space - Taylor Swift

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-ORhEE9VVg

"So it's gonna be forever, or it's gonna go down in flames."

(Actually, the whole lyrics are great!) ^_^

* Uptown Funk - Fifth Harmony

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBtOWai3zbg

"Say my name, you know who I am, I'm too hot!"

(Just can't get enough of the "Uptown Funk", okay?)

* Rawhide - Dezperadoz

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O26VZozdunc

"My heart's calculatin', my true love will be waitin', waitin' at the end of my ride."

(Love the original one too. But this version gives a modern twist and a rock blend to the country song!)

* Honesty - Billy Joel 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuFScoO4tb0

("You can't comfort me with promises again."

Of course, there should be something mellow to balance this too upbeat list hahaha! :D )

POINT-OF-VIEW: CHRISTOPHER PIKE

     A taste of adventure, suspense, and some deep philosophy— get it from Pike, bookworms.

     One of my favorite novel writers is Christopher Pike. His stories saw teenage life in a much serious matter in comparison to my other favorite writer, R.L. Stine. (Although you should take murders seriously, of course!)

     When I like light teenage characters, I read Fear Street or some other teen books. When I want more matured-thinking teenagers, I go to Pike’s stories.

     There is something about his stories you’ll love. Yes, it isn’t as time-friendly as you think. I usually take a day or two to finish one book but after you read one, ahh, you feel intrigued you want to re-read it again, but then again, you will get scared that you’ll get more intrigued and do it again. He always leave me like that with his stories— intrigued, puzzled, wondering. I kept on asking myself things related to the stories he wrote. A lot of what ifs. And for me, a great writer should leave me like that with his every story’s ending— stunned. Having all the details but still curious. It was like being inside a deep hole and being put down a long rope but I still couldn’t get out of it. That is Christopher Pike’s stories, in general, for me.

     How I started reading Pike’s stories are as intriguing as those books, I do not remember when but it was on my college days, of course. I just grabbed a book of his and read and then I liked it!

PEN NAME: Christopher Pike

REAL NAME: Kevin Christopher McFadden

ADDRESS: Los Angeles

PERSONAL TIDBITS: He like Astronomy (No wonder!) and meditating. He seems to have a close bond with his family. (Condolences to his dad who just passed away). He also got his pen name from a character in Star Wars.

HOW TO STAY IN TOUCH WITH HIM: Check out his Facebook page. Someone else Admins the page but Pike himself takes a visit and uses the page personally to keep in touch and update his fans. (Believe me!)

GENRE: Adult, Teen and (some) children's books, Non-Fiction, Suspense, Thriller, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Horror

SERIES: Remember Me, The Last Vampire, Chain Letter, The Final Friends, Thirst, Spooksville, Alosha and Witch World (Most of his works are stand-alone stories.)

MY FAVORITE SERIES: Remember Me

HOW I’LL DESCRIBE HIS WORKS IN THREE WORDS: Enlightening.Thrilling.Intriguing.

HIS STORIES IN GENERAL: Always has in-deep and philosophical realizations from his characters.

ABOUT REMEMBER ME: Amazing series. It took me, literally, two years to decide reading the two Remember Me books that I bought. But then, I have to find the third book. It gives readers an insight about life and death. That's intriguing? It's more intriguing to be a traveler, to be a soul using someone else's body!

IN HIS WRITING: Pike is a very detailed writer. That's how you understand the plot so well, At the same time, that's why the twists get so twisted in your head! He is critical, philosophical and knows how to dig deep into his characters and their feelings to express it in the stories he wrote.

MY SUGGESTION: Should I suggest that he write something lighter? Something less mature? Nah. I think, I already love his varying style! I salute this guy!

MY TOP FIVE CHRISTOPHER PIKE SUGGESTIONS:

1. THE MIDNIGHT CLUB

          Five friends. Five stories. One destination— death.

2. DIE SOFTLY

          Why is it hard to read who she really is from her face?

3. STARLIGHT CRYSTAL

          Is it a travel through space or a travel through time? A love distanced by space… or time?

4. REMEMBER ME 2

          If given a second chance, you must remember what the chance is for. At least, try to remember...

5. GIMME A KISS

          What is real and what is what you just made up? Figure out before you forget what the truth really is.

P.S. I only suggest those what I liked best from what Christopher Pike books I have already read.

Sources:

Christopher Pike’s List of Books Series and Personal Tidbits: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christopher_Pike_(author), The Midnight Club, About The Author (all of his other books must have some details about him and his astrology and meditating hobbies) and https://www.facebook.com/ChristopherPikeBooks

POINT-OF-VIEW: R.L. STINE

     There is something about the way he writes— it’s exciting.

     Thrill, horror, suspense. For children and teenage stories that revolve around these genres, it’s R.L. Stine you should try to check out. Well, my pure point-of-view about his works are here.

     The mastermind behind the Fear Street and Goosebumps series knows how to blend everything in one pot— terror, suspense, psychos, monsters and mystery. The mixture for a bloody spell that will leave you hoodwinked on who’s the real culprit and what will happen next?

     As a child, I grew up very fond of books. And it was a little too late for me to find myself holding a Goosebumps book and reading it. I forgot my first one, but hell, I really loved it. It made me read one Goosebumps after another! But since I cannot always pull my parents to buy me every series, the Goosebumps habit wears off. That is also when I started reading thicker books like Roald Dahl’s, Enid Blyton’s… Oh, by the way, on my first year in college, I can finally roam the shopping malls alone so definitely, I had my freedom to buy books too. That’s when the Goosebumps habit returned.

But hey, I started to fall out-of-place with Goosebumps. When I found my first Fear Street book, that’s when I realized that it is simply because Goosebumps is not for my age anymore! Funny that it’s too late for me to realize that!

     So that’s when my Fear Street adventure began. And oh, boy, I loved it more! Until my collection grew and it keeps on growing! (And I’ll keep it growing!)

     Since it is all about R.L. Stine, I made an easy to read review about him!

PEN NAME: R.L. Stine

REAL NAME: Robert Lawrence Stine

ADDRESS: New York City (Near Central Park, The ABOUT THE AUTHOR parts of Fear Street books say so)

PERSONAL TIDBITS: He is married to Jane and has a son named Matt. This writer has no idea where his ideas come from, but know for sure he has more scary stories to write!

HOW TO STAY IN TOUCH WITH HIM: Check out his Wattpad and Twitter accounts! (Yes, I'm his follower too!)

GENRE: Adult, Teen and children's books, Non-Fiction, Horror, Suspense, Thriller, Mystery

SERIES: Goosebumps, Fear Street, Fear Street Saga Trilogy, Fear Street Super Chiller, 99 Fear Street: The House of Evil, Cataluna Chronicles, Fear Street Seniors, Fear Street Nights, New Fear Street, Cheerleaders, The Baby-Sitter I-IV, Halloween Night (Other works are stand-alone stories especially those from Point Horror)

MY FAVORITE SERIES: Fear Street Series

HOW I’LL DESCRIBE HIS WORKS IN THREE WORDS: Thrilling.Exciting.Surprising.

HIS STORIES IN GENERAL: Has psychos, murder, terror, suspense and mystery. Too redundant eh?

ABOUT GOOSEBUMPS: The series are  children-friendly(or maybe, I should have second thoughts about that, eh? Can every children take the scare?) My favorite Goosebumps is about this boy who has a doppelganger.

ABOUT FEAR STREET: My favorite series! I love how he created the world of Fear Street and how the characters in it relate (or not)with each other and with the places in Fear Street that they have been. Fear Street is all about the mysteries in this place and the people in it. Too many interesting myths, histories, beliefs, plots and of course, characters! 

IN HIS WRITING: He's my super man of thrillers. Stine definitely knows how to keep me hooked in a book. Maybe, these really fit on what age bracket you belong(KIDS = Goosebumps, TEENS = Fear Street)Even if some the themes in his stories seem similar,(the fact that there's always this person who wants to kill the other…) the difference in the twist is totally a great adventure ride.

MY SUGGESTION: Maybe, he should try to put more magic in the mysterious world of Fear Street, eh? Mostly are about murders. Why not something like "The Sleepwalker" where there's a hypnotist, “The Secret Bedroom” where there is a restless ghost and her ghoul parents... Those kinds of magic are what I am talking about.

MY TOP FIVE R.L. STINE SUGGESTIONS:

       1. SWITCHED

          Two girls tried to see if a Fear Street legend is true and will add excitement to their lives. Is it really true or some kind of hallucination that you can switch bodies with someone else?

      2. THE BABY-SITTER III

          She still thinks Mr. Haagen is still after her. Or maybe, she’s still after their memories, eh?

      3.THE SLEEPWALKER

          What with all the sleepwalks? Is it caused by a witchcraft or some unconscious guilt?

      4.  THE FIRE GAME

          A little playing-with-the-fire isn't that harmful eh? Not until it starts to back fire...

      5. THE SECRET BEDROOM

          What’s behind the door? Will Lea stop the urge to find out or let her curiosity kill her? Literally kill her.

P.S. I only suggest those what I liked best from what R.L. Stine books I have already read.

Sources:

R.L. Stine’s List of Books Series: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R._L._Stine

Personal Tidbits: Fear Street: Switched, About The Author (It can also be found in all of his other books)