LOOK UP

I got two videos for you for my "Laid Back Tuesday":

This video called "Look Up" had gone viral because of the fact that "ALL OF US ARE GUILTY." As the world revolves, rotates, ages and spends its days and nights, it's undeniable that all of us, the sole migrants of planet earth, spend a lot of our time nowadays dealing with technology. Not just with your gadgets but basically, everything that we do, plan, use are all inclined to technology. We plan an event thru social networks, no need for tangible invitations anymore; we pick up messages worth sharing from quotes researched online and not in books of poetry; we communicate with family and friends far away from us via Skype that the word "snail" mail had to be included in the vocabulary instead of just the usual "mail" as it was used the first time...

As for my own opinion, any invention/innovation, if used beyond its purpose, is never good at all. I've been watching the series "Almost Human" and it features a world where technology goes out of control and ends up ruling over the earth. Needless to say that it's fictional and extreme, it is alarming since the future may end up like this. Yet, it shows a balance between the benefits we can get from an advanced technology (by making every police officer or detective, the star of the series, be partnered by another policeman, provided it's an android one) and the disadvantages of going by the book since it's programmed basing their decisions to ideology. The story may be a typical sci-fi one to some people.

The point that I'm getting at is this: just know the proper use of these inventions and you'll be good. There are two things that are constant in the world, TIME and CHANGE. As time goes on, you should be able to thrive by accepting change. But that doesn't mean you would allow change to just take over your life like that (snapping fingers!)!!! Know the difference between being driven by these changes and getting controlled by it that you end up inexistent.

This next video is all about appreciating the life that you are given.

I treat this video following up the "Look Up" video because I would like to remind you of the gift you are given by the Almighty above. Most often than not, engaging to gadget usage too much is a form of neglecting what we are given to enjoy. We forget how to really live. That being said, this touching video will serve as an awakening once again of how miraculous it is to be given a beating heart to share to others as we take our one and only single journey to life.

"What matters most is not the first,
but the final chapter of your life,
which unveils the details of
how well you wrote your story."

Related posts or videos worth watching for #laidbacktuesday:

1. AUTISM - a 15 minute awakening about this neurological condition
2. GIVING BIRTH THE KANDU WAY - would you consider giving birth at home?
3. WE ALL DON'T WANT TO BE JUDGED - watch this so you'd know that each and everyone of is carrying a load one way or another.

What's up?

Hey folks!!! Sunday is a day to kick back and relax with your family at home, prepare a home cooked meal or just chill. But it could also be a time to keep abreast of what's new and what's happening. After all, this is the only free day that you'd never feel guilty of indulging on shopping therapy, admiring art or spending selfishly.

Vintage dresses never go out of style. There's something sweet and darling about them. Today from 10am to 10pm, my entrepreneur friend is collaborating with Yoga Bambam for its opening party today. The event is open for everybody interested and it is up with the following offers for its grand opening event:

Free Trial sessions

Workshops 

Performances 

Yogi Market

Bring your own mat 

Bring your own BYOB we wont be serving alcohol

Bring some CASH for the Yogi Market

Cash Only to buy Yoga BamBam Classes

Come already dressed in your Yoga clothes

Come with your best smile.

Please don't miss an exciting event as this is a one time chance to mingle, learn and rediscover yourself thru YOGA. Here are some of the reminders from the event invite I got.

"If you want to join in a free trial class please book early as we are a boutique studio with just a few students per Teacher. 

PLEASE DO NOT SIGN UP FOR MORE THAN 2 CLASSES ON THE OPENING PARTY. 

Let other people also have a chance to enjoy a trial class.

PLEASE sign up on the Yoga BamBam MindBody online booking site before you arrive. The demand for classes has been huge, save time & create your own user login. You can also Sign in & login in with your smart phone.

We will have a receptionist at the Party who will be able to take your advanced booking for the weekly classes. A weekly class booking is ONLY guaranteed after you have paid with Cash.

To reserve a weekly class you can pay the receptionist at the Opening Party or pay the teacher directly before your class. 

Once again please sign up on MindBody before you arrive. 

If you sign up for a class then decide not to come please cancel and leave the space to another person. 

You have 2 'no shows' (signing up then not canceling if you don't come), please do let us know before we start to wonder if you belong in our caring studio.

We have the best Independent teacher who all have been chosen for their talent but also for their loving personality.

Here are the prices 

A drop in class is 250$

4 classes is 900$ during a 5 week period

8 classes is 1600$ during a 10 week period

Students may book a course with one teacher. 

You choose which course/ Teacher you want & reserve your course with for either 4 classes or 8 classes. 

Students may 'Drop -in' to all the the different teachers' classes if their is space.

However we advise students to book a block of classes to reserve their mat space as we only have 10 - 11 students per each Teacher. The courses at Yoga BamBam are semi private. 

We are a Home made studio and the Teacher runs their own classes & therefore has a personal investment in each students progress & well being.

Hope to see you soon."

My yogi friend Kristy had to go indoors though for the weather wasn't quite favourable to the outdoor stall so she moved on pound lane but is still offering these dresses for sale. Check it out! Yoga Bambam is located at 28 Pound Lane, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. 

Going down to Sai Kung leads to a friend's jewellery (SWAROVSKI) stall named after himself, CIRCLES by Jonathan Joni Valdez. Mother's Day is just a week away so you might be interested to drop by to find something for those superheroes called "MOMS". May it be your sister, friend, or your own, a wide selection offers just the right style for just about any femme fatale's taste. Sai Kung Sunday Markets cater to your needs at the right time. This May 11th however, DBAY will be featuring Circles by Jonathan in one of the stalls put up in the plaza. So don't let this opportunity pass.

Learn more by visiting their website: www.circlesbyjonathan.com

Not up for shopping but up for some adrenaline pumping event? Ride the ferry for an adventure and check out Lamma Island as it holds its annual Dragon Boat Races today to witness all strong teams as they meet up and battle to win the cup and beat Team Mushu from being last year's Champions! Afterwards, have a taste of the good seafood dinner at the island, I tell you, it's worth it.

Now, the following may not fall on a Sunday but on a weekend. Learn about it and plan ahead.

Another cool, fun and unique activity coming this May 23 is the EDMfreaks' event called, "Glow Hard or Go Home". Event details as per invite go:

EDMfreaks is super proud and excited to bring you THE MOST ANTICIPATED, UNFORGETTABLE EVENT OF THE YEAR! - GLOW HARD OR GO HOME EDM RAVE

EXPECT THE FOLLOWING ON THE NIGHT:
►Unlimited supply of glow in the dark paint
►French rising EDM star Morgan Kent 
►Free EDMfreaks special edition GlowHardorGoHome White Tee
►Rainbow Beer Pong
►Hundreds of beautiful ladies and gents
►Electrifying EDM beats all night


Date:::: 23rd May 2014
Venue:::: (To be revealed a week before)
Time:::: 11pm 'til late


••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
TICKETS
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
On Door: $250
Early Bird: $200
*Ticket come with 1 drink and 1 complimentary EDMfreaks white shirt.

Reserve your tickets online now: http://EDMfreaksGlowPaint.eventbrite.hk/

or go to our EDMfreaks Reps/PRs around you!

Tickets are limited so get yours quick and avoid the regret of missing out!

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
ABOUT THE DJ: MORGAN KENT
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
French young 18 years old Morgan Kent specialises in Electro house, Dirty Dutch and Progressive house music. From the age of 12 he was attracted and was led directly to turntables (pas sur pour platens). In 2010, he took part in a French national competition by "Fun Radio” and finished 43rd best DJ of France when he was only 14 years old at the time.In 2013 Morgan’s submission to Avicii’s world’s largest music collaboration ‘X You' was 1 of the 12951 that stood out and caught Avicii’s eyes, later became the melody bass of the track. Morgan Kent plays according to his motto "Music is noise that thinks”, being so ambitious and determined he is ready for new challenges; he has only one main goal: Always pushing his limits on stage!


••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
JOIN EDMFREAKS
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Have you been to our parties? Want to join this electric family? Find one of us on the event night or email your interest to info@edm-freaks.com!


Get ready to glow hard and live out your most inappropriate childhood finger painting dreams!

www.edm-freaks.com・www.facebook.com/EDMfreaks・www.twitter.com/EDMfreaks・www.instragram.com/EDMfreakshk

And last but not the least, a more daring week and month ender for artists by heart. Norm Yip invites everyone to see and appreciate Asian Men in his eyes as a fund raising exhibition showcases Asian Men at its boldest and finest.

The event invite goes:

This event is to raise funds for The Asian Male - 3.AM publication. Selected photographs from the book will be exhibited and shown for the first time ever. All photographs will be signed limited edition prints or artist proofs, making them a valuable addition to collectors of The Asian Male artwork. 

A sample copy of the book will be available for preview at the exhibition. You will also be able to purchase presale copies of the book.

GOLD PATRON
- purchase of $20,000 or more of artwork

SILVER PATRON
- purchase of $10,000 or more of artwork

BRONZE PATRON
- purchase of $5,000 or more of artwork

SUPPORTERS
- purchase of presale copy of the book The Asian Male - 3.AM

All Patrons will be acknowledged in the book.

Please rsvp at nwy@normyip.com or on the facebook event.

Exhibition continues until 28 June by appointment only.

Information: nwy@normyip.com
T: +852 25406267 or +852 68388948

NOTE: Online fundraising will be held through the Indiegogo.com platform. More details forthcoming.

Mr. NORM YIP

Norm Yip is a known photographer and teacher of the said art. Once, he needed a model for his Photography (specifically, LIGHTING) students to capture hair movement. Alejandro, one of his assistants asked if I could do it to help out and in return would be given a copy of whatever his students could come up with. I did and here's one of those shots:

2010

AUTISM

Sharing this with only one intention - to create awareness.

COPORATE ATTIRE? No Problem!

The changing seasons always make us busy with how we are going to pimp our closet treasures accordingly. But often, when corporate attire is called for, we are almost clueless of which goes with what or if we even have the pieces to put together in the first place. Don't fret as this post might help you of the colours to choose, accessories to consider and the match up you might just be needing to understand.

HELP IS ON THE WAY!!!

Here are certain factors to consider when putting up a corporate attire. 

1. Find time to shop. 

Most of the people I know have tons of shirts, bags and earrings but no straight cut dress for semi formal engagements. These people choose not to go to that part of the department store/mall and waits for the last minute (usually if the occasion/event is tomorrow already) to look for an outfit and expect to get the perfect one this way. 

Change that habit.

It will only bring disaster to you and your pocket for sure. Because of lack of time, you get stressed out, you panic and you end up choosing and purchasing out of despair. Maybe it is just a silly thought for you to get ready without that big day yet but it does help when you have a dress or two ready for such office meetings. If you're going to reason out with me that it seems like it's pointless to buy what you don't need at the moment, well, those two pieces won't hurt than seeing 10 kinds of short shorts you already have or an over flowing collection of tanks that you don't even use anymore or you've outgrown already.

2. Don't mistake a corporate look with a Sunday look. 

The dresses may look similar because of the preferred length which is below the knee but not all. Usually, Sunday dresses are too colorful or has the tendency to be too "spring-y". They are sleeveless and usually looks too laid back. Monotones are much better to wear in the office than those that may look like everything about the dress is scattered or too loud. Of course monotones are not limited to a classic black. You may infuse your own flavor by focusing onto a single colour. You don't want your boss to be lost in translation with the attitude that your choice of dress says. Monotones suggest focus and composure. These are good qualities of a worker, what more of a leader.

See how sunday dresses impose loudness.

Here is an example of a monotone yet fun style.
You give that honest personality (perky and stylish - open to bright ideas),
yet you maintain composure and discipline if you'd notice the cut;
the shoe/bag colour that compliment the dress and
very simple accessories to match

3. Make a good impression.

Have that neat hair cut, check!

Nails done, check!

Confidence, check!

Attire - ???

How does that look like?

EXACTLY LIKE THIS!

Yes! A dork!

So, if you don't want to look like this, make sure you have made a good research of what truly looks good on you. Be aware of the body type you have. Accept it without any hesitations. This would actually make you feel good about yourself. Then, figure out the cuts that would flatter your assets. You have to remember that dressing up is another expression of your own self. Don't dress up for somebody else, dress up for yourself. Put your own personal touch with the classics. That will surely catch your bosses' and colleagues attention that you are daring and are willing to take risks. You are clever but you're spontaneous. Like this image below entails. Everything about this attire is full of attitude. The overall appearance is subtle but every single piece is bold and confident.

4. Always choose DECENCY above all else.

There may be dresses that truly make you feel really good about yourself. But toss over that little black dress and the sleeveless ones because they are not actually corporate material. If you really are not so confident with wearing dresses with sleeves that tends to shade up because of the sweat you build up during a meeting, opt for cuts that give your armpits space to breath keeping you refreshed. Though I'm not 100% sure with that much height from the beige heels presented here, I still like how the arm hole was cut and the hue truly is a decent choice to consider complimented by the dark brown tote bag and the maroon ring.

5. Be efficient and competitive.

We are living in a competitive world. Ladies are continuously challenged if they can conform to the demands of the corporate world. But everyday is an opportunity to show your superiors what you've got. Of course, you cannot throw away everything as far as not minding your ability to carry yourself (superficial appearance) despite under great pressure. With industrial cuts and designs, you are sure that you're in the running to be the best employee of all time. Both of these images below combine efficiency with style. With confidence and skills needed to land the job, your promising career would unfold right before your eyes if you fashion these outfits to your office.

6. Avoid wearing revealing clothes.

Unless you work in a fashion magazine or you are "the" boss, never wear sleeveless tops and dresses and/or above the knee bottoms and dresses. Never give an impression that you are using something else to land a job or it's yourself that you're selling, not your skills. It's always better to keep that integrity intact and avoiding this tells everybody, "You mean business!"

7. Choose an attire that you are comfortable with.

Being nervous is understandable. To avoid further stress, don't wear anything that will constrict your blood flow depriving your brain of oxygen therefore, there is a risk for those ideas to sip out of your hold. Make sure you can breath from that tailored dress and wear comfortable shoes.

Since this weekend is all about contract meetings 

for most of my team, I hope this may help you.

If you wish to add up more information and attire,

please feel free to leave a comment down below.

AMY AND DEREK'S CONTEMPORARY

If you lost everything but your mind, heart and health,

what would be your reason to wake up every morning with a smile?

Watching this had really put a sting in my heart.

There are a lot of people I know that are very capable and are very much alive that don't use what God had made them to be. What's worse, they spend time, money and effort on wasting their lives on drugs, bad habits and just simply becoming idle. For my No-tears-Thursday, I would like to remind everybody of the purpose we have as we were molded into living here on earth. I cannot tell you what is yours as I am figuring out my own too. But never give up on finding it. Most often than not, the ones that we give so much time to is probably what you are made for all along. You're just not realizing it. It usually comes with a great degree of satisfaction afterwards.

You see, God had made some to create, to write, to judge, to drive, to win, to strive, to dance, to clean. There are those who excel in singing, carpentry, molding, carving, building and preaching. Who would you go to if not for the policemen that ensures security, doctors that helps us maintain our health, accountants that keep us sane with finances, farmers that ensures we get supplied of nourishment, or simply that barista who knows how you want your coffee and gets it ready for pick up so you won't be late at your 9am meeting?

God loves variety. God gave you innate talents, God made you able to a capacity, to a level, that only you could do. You are unique, you are worthy and most of all, you are important. No matter where you are, no matter what you do, do it for the glory of God. All of what we are good at gets to a point of being neglected, getting misused and abused and the worst of all, to a point when you realize your potential but you choose not to share it. Avoid letting this happen. Do not allow yourself to become STAGNANT and USELESS. Do not be too DEPENDENT on excuses, fake sources of satisfaction and short-term happiness. Never hail PROCRASTINATION. We just have one life and wanting less makes it more meaningful.

All of us have our own backpacks to carry. Excess baggage would only keep us from living the life we are ought to live. Choose simplicity above all else. Material possessions like money, fame and status will never give you eternal happiness. A guilt-free conscience would. Never JUDGE. All of us are different from the unique DNA structure we carry to the unique finger print we own; from the hue we prefer above all else to the words we choose to live by; from what ticks us to move to every decision we make; but all of these are weaved into only one purpose... so serve the purpose you were made for... no matter what the challenge is.

Related posts:

1. TEARS OF JOY - a video clip from Jimmy Fallon's show that made me crack up so much!

2. GET INSPIRED - read and get inspired by these humble Filipino talents that I personally know and look up to.

3. 2MONTH TRAGEDY - effects of tragedies in the Philippines 

CHARLIE BROWN CAFE

the whole gang

Charlie Brown Café holds a great number of seats to welcome those who would like to have the "Peanuts" experience. It is a café that looks like a little museum of Peanuts protagonist Charlie Brown and his friends from the comic strip by Charles M. Schulz.

Charles M. Schulz star in the Hollywood Walk
of Fame which is next to Walt Disney's

I have seen this being visited by a lot of Hong Kong residents and I thought their pictures looked so inviting on Instagram and Facebook. I was not fond of Charlie Brown when I was growing up but I know how popular it had been that it was ranked the 8^th in TV Guide’s 50 Greatest Cartoons of all time along with Snoopy.

Out of curiosity, I invited the same crew that went with me at Mui Kee for a little get together as it had been 3 months from the last time we have seen our good friend, Sky. I was feeling a little energetic now than during my first trimester. My husband was also out of town so there's nothing much to do except to spend time with friends. So what the heck! The so-called “Wednesday group” invaded Ko Pah Mansion situated at 58-60 Cameron Road, Tsim Sha Tsui for a new and exciting experience!

mini fountain shot with Fern

On arrival, massive Charlie Brown decors are everywhere. The stairway was lighted up with the remarkable glass panel that amazed all of us. As you reach the first floor (Here in Hong Kong, the ground floor is considered the first floor and the first floor means being on the second...) you will be greeted by a mini fountain of Charlie Brown. There was also a section where an overhead projector shows reruns of the animated series of the loved cartoons. 

Looooved the interior, what can I say? Unique, different above all restaurants that I've been to here in Hong Kong and most of all, it was fun. The ambiance was light, the organisation was neat. The whole place seemed big enough to accommodate kiddie parties and they actually have party menus that you could check out when interested.

We went there to gather over dinner. But the menu would give this café a little bit of a disadvantage as the food is in a typical presentation. I believe it got a lot of potential since their coffee actually was good enough. We were almost going to ditch Charlie Brown Cafe for another visit at Mui Kee but again, for the sake of satisfying our curiosity, we all agreed to try whatever was in the menu since the website informed us that they serve meals. Here are what we opted to eat.

Fern's BBQ Sauce Chicken Salad in Pita Bread

Sky's Mini Burger Platter

Known for its cakes, pastries and Italian coffee, I needed a meal to nourish me and my baby, so I wasn’t able to try any of those. I had an order of bolognese and I didn't expect such huge serving. I was happy that their food is cooked without using MSG (or so it said in the menu) and that all their ingredients and condiments are organic (like what was told so in the menu yet again). So for those who are looking for a place that serves a healthy meal, you can try it here. Good for the kids too considering this fact. Get ready with a budget of HK$90-150. But I would go back for it a little much later. 

My Traditional Fusilli Bolognaise

Earl's Charlie Brown Hotcake

Chicken-a-la-king Rice
FERN's additional dish. Hahaha!

It's like their own version of the Hall of Fame

Cakes and pastries are all made up with organic condiments. 

The cafe is open daily from 8:30am to 11:30 pm but it extends up until 12:30am during Friday, Saturday and Holiday Eve. It doesn’t require any reservation since it follows a first come first serve policy but for kiddie parties and similar events, you can contact them thru 2366-6315/2366-6325. The café honors self service. Don’t worry because the place is actually quiet and because we were excited and my friends and I were taking a lot of crazy pictures, we were “ssshh!”-ed by a couple who, we think, were having a serious moment.

I mean it’s far from being crowded at least for now. If you are to visit Hong Kong for the first time, include this in your itinerary if you would be spending time around Tsim Sha Tsui area. This is the best place to unwind after a whole day of shopping spree to relax and have a moment to breathe.

Here are some lists of the beverages being served just so that you'd have an idea of how pricey it is than a usual Starbucks Coffee. It might be because it's all organic, ... or so they say.

 

came up with an awkward pose but happy for everybody's presence

All of what I write could both be an encouragement and discouragement
but it's always up to you on how you could rate it up.
Tsim Sha Tsui Station, Exit B. Check it!

RELATED POSTS:

1. MUI KEE - a true gem along the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui for those who love to eat.

2. D' TALIPAPA - an exciting eating adventure in Boracay

3. WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN EATING? - some socially acceptable bad eating habits

PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE

"HOW TEMPTATION WORKS

It helps to know that Satan is entirely predictable. He has used the same strategy and old tricks since Creation. All temptations follow the same pattern. That's why Paul said, "We are very familiar with his evil schemes." From the Bible, we learn that temptation follows a 4-step process, which Satan used both on Adam & Eve and on Jesus.

STEP 1:

Satan identifies a desire inside of you. It may be a sinful desire, like the desire to get revenge or to control others, or it may be a legitimate, normal desire, like the desire to be loved and valued or to feel pleasure. Temptation starts when Satan suggests (with a thought) that you give in to to an evil desire, or that you fulfill a legitimate desire in a wrong way or at the wrong time. Always beware or shortcuts. They are often temptations! Satan whispers, "You deserve it! You should have it now! It will be exciting.... comforting.... or make you feel better."

We think temptation lies around us, but God says it begins within us. If you didn't have the internal desire, the temptation could not attract you. Temptation always starts in your mind, not in circumstances. Jesus said, "For from within, out of a person's heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, eagerness for lustful pleasure, envy, slander, pride and foolishness. All these vile things come from within. James tells us that there is a "whole army of evil desires within you."

STEP 2

is DOUBT. Satan tries to get you to doubt what God has said about the sin: Is it really wrong? did God really say not to do it? Didn't God mean this prohibition for someone else or some other time? Doesn't God want me to be happy? The Bible warns, "Watch out! Don't let evil thoughts or doubts make any of you turn from the living God."

STEP 3

is DECEPTION. Satan is incapable of telling the truth and is called "the Father of lies". Anything he tells you will be untrue or just half-true. Satan offers his lie to replace what God has already said in His word. Satan says, "You will not die. You'll be wiser like God. You can get away with it. No one will ever know. It will solve your problem. Besides, everyone else is doing it. It is only a little sin." But a little sin is like being a little pregnant: It will eventually show itself.

STEP 4

is DISOBEDIENCE. You finally act on the thought you've been toying with in your mind. What began as an idea gets birthed into behaviour. You give in to whatever got your attention. You believe Satan's lies and fall into the trap that James warns about: "We are tempted when we are drawn away and trapped by our own evil desires. Then our evil desires conceive and give birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Do not be deceived, my dear friends!"

- The Purpose Driven Life, Chapter 26, pp. 203-204

This is the best part in this book.

I knew this while I was studying way back during my primary years.

I admit that reading it again gives more impact to my heart

as the words ring out differently considering

the experiences I've had and have encountered.

Back then, it was just about gaining knowledge,

getting informed or mainly for guidance.

Now, all I could feel is it's worth sharing once again to be kept reminded

on my own and for all of you.

Related posts:

1. LET'S TALK ABOUT DYING - it is actually an inevitable event in all of our lives. There's no exemption so why is it still a taboo to so many people?

2. FOR OUR OWN GOOD - IGNORANCE is never an excuse

3. SOMETHING TO PONDER ON, EVEN ME - talks about the differences between Religious Maturity and Spiritual Maturity

NO MAKE UP SELFIE

I've witnessed a lot of people (mostly women) putting up their #nomakeupselfie 's on Facebook and as I've read about its campaign, I admired Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for continuously donating millions to breast cancer awareness campaigns.

Some people find the gesture questionable; some people find it senseless; some people find it vain. But I tell you this, people always have a lot of things to say in just about whatever. Probably, people who don't get why I write sees me the same way.... that I have "a lot" to say. Besides the reason of creating awareness, inspiring people and sharing knowledge, I get to express myself and perhaps in my own little way, I could help anybody out there or maybe just simply brighten somebody's day. Those are enough good reasons for me.

So.... selfies for breast cancer.

I wasn't actually going to do this but, a friend of mine, Jen, nominated me as one of the candidates. I took flattery to good use and had dug on the best #nomakeupselfie ever. And I found this photo of mine taken early in the morning while I was due to serve my day job. As a performer, I hail these no make up days to give my face some rest and my pores a breather. My view of this campaign is just simply baring it all. Just like when the time comes, that life would be taken away, you can never bring anything with you in the after life, can you? I mean, whether heaven or hell truly exists, I don't think you'll be judged by how beautiful you were but I know we'll all be judged with how much beautiful smiles we gave to strangers, how much beautiful words we were very much willing to give our neighbours and how much beauty we have created with our time. No need to be negative about the deed nor towards the people who participate to this campaign. If you're not up for it, don't do it. Stop there. No need to voice out negativity about it in your status nor people who participate need not hear cynical commentaries from you. It's a practice not only for the people who have cancer but it may awaken something in you too. Because there's nothing to be afraid of in baring it all unless you were wearing a mask the whole time. True friends will appreciate how you truly look. Actually, they wouldn't mind. So I encourage you to keep it real. It could be in this form or other stuff. So, I conform to Jen's nomination and I am putting this up for my own entry to the campaign.

Let's stop being ignorant about breast cancer. Help raise #breastcancerawareness.

100 Happy Days

I was intrigued yesterday of what this is about and I researched on it the actual website. Upon reading how the challenge goes, I thought, 71% is just an awfully great number that accounts the people who couldn't be happy for 100 straight days. In my mind, "You're kidding me!" 100 days could never be enough since I always find myself just murmuring a "Thank You" in just about anything. Sometimes, my friends tease me as "Miss Earth" already for doing so. Ha! I am just aware that I have only one life to spare here so why not spend time in finding what's good in people rather than gossip, wait for the bigger picture of a circumstance rather than being cynical about your limitations of understanding why it happened or admire the kind of person you are rather than following society of becoming how they want you to be? But yet again, what I'm saying would always be hollow if I won't go for the challenge itself. So this project will be set in a different blogging website. I will share it later today where and for my Do-it-yourself Monday, have a rain check of what makes you happy too. It wouldn't hurt anyway to try.

Other interesting posts:
1. DAY 1 - As the day ended, I have started documenting.

2. RUSELL PETERS - Watch for laughs!

3. 10 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT HONG KONG - Share me yours.

ARIEL REONAL

"The life of a performer doesn't stop on

what we can do or what we've done.

Just like life in general, it's a continuous learning process

so we keep on growing."

- ARIEL REONAL

Being in the limelight is no joke. 

And for this multi-talented achiever, 

he  thought that time was catching up with him, thinking his ultimate dream

would remain almost impossible.

Until he got the call.

Ariel had been performing all his life and every time you'd get an experience of his show, it's almost as flawless as how he sounds and alive as his soul. This gentleman has the velvet voice, owns a good stature, and is a world-class performer. All of these mixed with his charms and coated up with his confidence, he remains to be one of the most successful bachelors in the industry.

Before we get close and personal, let me give you a taste of how you can totally be at loss once he opens his mouth and sings. 

Just click here.

A WALKING TIME-BOMB

Graduated as a scholar from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, ARIEL PLANTADO REONAL, earned a degree in Mass Communications, Major in Broadcasting. This offered him a kick start into entering the life of an entertainer, slowly gearing up the skills that promisingly made him righteous in his chosen craft. He had learned a lot in getting exposed to the biz thru the opportunities his course had brought to him. And in applying what he had learned when he would actually take a part as one of the actors, every so often, pushed his talents further. Not mentioning that he can sing and can dance at that point. He had learned a lot about the popular broadcasting companies while doing on-job-trainings.

Until then, he learned of Repertory, Philippines and chose to acquire further training and honing of skills by joining the group. This paved a way for him to invest in himself, developing a special way of seeing life maturely and responsibly. Until he had become one of the theatre managers there.

Since then, he had been in a lot of variety shows, drama series and concerts and did not stop until he nailed every single one of them. He even did voice overs for a number of radio stations, represented the Philippines in MTV Asia-JVC Sound Education in 2003 (held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) and was able to attend the "Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts London" Master Class in Manila under Dee Cannon, April of 2004.

On the side, he had done print ads, special events, corporate shows and advertisements. Countless jobs and offers were given to Ariel and as much as he can, he would get himself educated of how it truly works. Until the words, "inferiority complex" were out of his vocabulary.

JACK OF ALL TRADES

With how Ariel loves life, he remained open to all opportunities. He remains prepared and he gives more than 100% of his time, effort and focus. Here are some of what he had achieved so far:

with REPERTORY PHILIPPINES:

1. DISNEY'S "Cinderella" as Herald
2. DISNEY'S "Aladdin" as Jafar
3. Ensemble in "The Sound of Music"
4. "Once Upon a Mattress" as Jester
5. Ensemble in "ANNIE"
6. the Blue Faun in "SLEEPING BEAUTY"
7. Pepe/Alphonse in "THE BOYFRIEND"
8. "Blood Brothers" as Sammy Johnstone
9. the original General/Exile in "Miong"

with the TANGHALANG PILIPINO:

1. as Basilio/Juanito in "El Filibusterismo"
2. Ensemble in Ryan Cayabyab's "Ilustrado"

with the COMPANY OF PLAYERS (Philippines):

1. as Luis in "West Side of the Story"
2. Ensemble in "Great White Way 3"

with ATLANTIS PHILIPPINES doing "Jesus Christ Superstar" as Simon Zealotes and cover Jesus.

with the NEW VOICE COMPANY PHILIPPINES as one of the ensembles in "CHESS".

with the CHASE INTERNATIONAL PHILIPPINES being a storyteller for the musical,
"Once on this Island"

Those theatre and performance credits were presented in the Philippines alone. These roles had harboured into Ariel and had helped him in becoming more versatile and flexible in terms of acting out the right character for the role. He had explored how to internalize an act and you can expect that he'd be able to portray it smoothly.

one of the Chinese soldiers during the
Mulan Segment for the Golden Mickey Show,
Hong Kong Disneyland

Considering this much of roles he had done, his career had not yet gone full blown until he became in demand abroad too. He established himself in the Philippines quite well that he felt driven to audition for Disney alongside young people and without him expecting anything, he pursued it. He even expected worse saying, "I was so surprised. I auditioned with other younger people whom I thought were more deserving."

Humility was the steering wheel for this lad into pushing himself to the limits. When he got the call from an HR representative telling him that he did good in the audition and that they'd be more than willing to offer him a contract, he was about to do a show for another production (like any other veteran treating any audition, they go, they audition and just forget about it afterwards hoping for the best and just continue doing what they have to do - meaning, "not totally depending on it"), so he just asked them to e-mail him all the details if they may. The rest is history.

Right before he had left for London this March, he had remained doing shows for the Golden Mickeys, a theatre show that can be seen in Hong Kong Disneyland hosted by none other than Mickey Mouse himself. And there were atmosphere shows in whom I get to work with Ariel and truth be told, this jack of all trades can make the audience dance and the kids, shriek in delight during the High School Musical Launch and Cars show. This line of work had its nuances with the theatre shows he had done back in the Philippines as the setup may surprise you everyday. The moment your mind is set to a role, it might change once he got to cover somebody. So, at some point, he had some feelings of giving up or getting burnt out but "Wake up! You can do it! You're almost there!", is what he'd always tell himself.

Be ready with your full energy meter if you're going to work with Ariel.
I get to experience it  in Cars and High School Musical show.
I had to always be keeping up.
- Kyte

PREMONITION

He was part of Miss Saigon and had experienced playing the part of Thuy/ensemble under CAMERON MACKINTOSH LTD. (LONDON) PRODUCTIONS for its UK Tour in 2001-2002, then 2004-2006. If that still doesn't convince you, he also worked for the same project for IMG ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT (SYDNEY) in 2001 as the club owner and Thuy all the way back to the Philippines with SAIGON COMPANY OF THE PHILIPPINES perfecting the mentioned role.

Miss Saigon (Dublin) with Niklas Anderson, Kingsley Leggs, Irish President Mary McAleese, Nicky Adams, Joanna Ampil, and Leo Valdez. — atThe Point Theater, Dublin, Ireland.

So you see, it had been waiting all along. I have no doubts that he will soon move from being part of the ensemble to landing a lead role. For Ariel, every role is a starring role though. Being in the West End is his ultimate dream and he is more than thankful that it's happening. The actor answered, "Zenaida Amador" as the persona he's looking up to in the industry. The legacy that she had left being the mother of Repertory Philippines had left fire in Ariel's heart to always aim for excellence with every chance that he will get. He doesn't know yet, but he's about to become like her.

HE KEEPS IT BALANCED

Ariel in Maldives for a holiday

Because of moments backstage with Ariel, I had always looked up to him as a mentor. During in-house auditions in the workplace, he'd be more than willing to give you a pointer or two to remember when you're up there in front of the bosses. I remember him saying, "Mean what you sing out to them. They should be lost not only with your voice but with the way you deliver."

As we had shared some moments too battling the lake while training for the Dragon Boat Festival here in Hong Kong under Team Mushu, I have seen how hard he strives to keep himself healthy. Everything about Ariel is "healthy". No vice at all! But he allows himself to have a great time when possible. Being part of a 15-time champion dragon boat team last year, he keeps everything in balance by injecting play in its aftermath. He knows how to party too.

He loves exercising and if I may say, he loves the feeling of getting pumped up by any physical activity. He loves to run and joins a lot of marathons here in Hong Kong. Sweat is his friend as this helps him to stay grounded, constantly making him realize that all there is to compete with is his own self.

Also, I remember him inviting us young people to travel one time during a gym session, since he was eyeing Maldives that time. All of us (which I think, were more than 10 that time), agreed on it. Ending, only 2 or 3 of them went. So, on a more personal note, I know that when it comes to learning by the means of travel and adventure, he'll go for it.

Here is the dream team that he will be leaving this year. I'm sure they would miss you a lot and it would be hard to find a replacement with that much power and motivation you had contributed to the team.

Team Mushu Dream Team 2013

WHAT WE MAY HAVE IN COMMON WITH ARIEL

You may have the same answers with our featured artist or you may just find him more than interesting with his own. We have asked Ariel of these for a more fun part of the interview.

1. If you'd be in a musical movie and will have a leading role, who would you like to work with?

A. Anne Hathaway (Les Mis)
B. MADONNA (EVITA)
C. Julie Andrews (Sound of Music)
D. Other: Please specify ____ - CATHERINE ZETA JONES

2. Which Disney role would most likely describe your own personality?

A. Flynn while singing, "I had a Dream"
B. Woody "You got a Friend in Me"
C. John Smith "Pocahontas"
D. Other: Please specify - QUASIMODO

3. What do you do in your free time?

A. Facebook
B. Listen to music
C. Watch movies
D. Other: Please specify - D. ALL OF THE ABOVE

B.      4. In which would you rather spend money on?

A. Food
B. Travel
C. New gadget
D. Other: Please specify ____

A       5. Who for you is an epitome of confidence?

A. Robert Downey Jr.
B. Martin Nievera
C. Mark Zuckerberg
D. Other: Please specify

6. For fun time, you prefer doing:

A. KTV
B. Beer pong
C. Dance Battle
D. Other: Please specify - Something more on the SPORTS side like bowling swimming, hiking,
                                          running.

A       7. Best asset:

A. Eyes
B. Sense of Humor
C. Wheels
D. Other: Please specify - Hair

Related posts you might be interested to read:

1. THE HEAT IS ON - blog post talking about Lea Salonga and how Miss Saigon changed her life.

2. ELA LISONDRA - another Filipina who's ready to make her dreams come true with Ariel in being one of the cast of Miss Saigon, 2014

3. I'D GIVE IT ALL FOR YOU - one of Ariel's pieces. Click on to have an experience of his voice.

4. TEAM MUSHU - joining the dragon boat for the first time.

5. BORACAY 2013 - a place to be in for a holiday trip

Credits to:

JOEL GARCIA for being the photographer of the
head shots for this post.