UNLEASH THE BOOKWORM. :)

                    Time to unleash the bookworm. :)

                     I like that introduction. :)) Oh yes, the Bookworm Me, and my addiction to books began way back when I was in the first grade. 

                     My brother gave me a gift that Christmas, which is the first book of the Harry Potter series. I started reading it the following day, and it only took me two or three days (I can't remember) to finish it. Then I clamor for the second and third and fourth and so on. But I didn't get to complete that series, as I got too busy with school works. Next thing I know, my brother started on a next series which is the Artemis Fowl, and he began collecting it, too. Soon, it was passed to me, since my brother was totally busy with his work. 

                     And so, until now, I still collect books and my dad gave me a bookshelf, which I call my "Mini-Library". Here it is:

                   Yeah, this is the evolution of my bookshelf. LOL. This was photo was taken last year, and it's not updated. I have new books this year, which consists of:

                                   My brother and I bought these at Fully Booked. We were given free comics, and we got four. 

                        It took a while before I got The Last Olympian. I took the chance to buy the Diary ng Panget 1 because it was the last one on the stock! Glad to have it. :D

                        I got Let It Snow from my friends, a gift for me on my 18th birthday. :) My brother bought the Diary ng Panget 3. :)

                        And of course, my newest collection of books (from Ghostgirl to Chico and Delamar's) fresh from the Manila International Book Fair. 

                       As of now, I still have a list of books that I need to save up money for. I am seriously having a hard time to choose what to buy first, since not all my series are complete. 

                       It's really nice to look at my mini-library and look at my collection, then I just find myself staring at them. Just by looking at all these books, I find it very relaxing and pleased from what I was looking. :)

The Manila Book Fair experience. :)

                         "When I read a book, I am sent to a different dimension."
   
                    True story. Creative minds and wild imagination starts to gear up when people read books. And with the inspiration brought by books, they, too can begin writing their own stories.
                    As for me, books are everything, so I grabbed the chance to take part in The 34th Manila International Book Fair. 

                     The 34th Manila International Book Fair is a five-day event, with the partnership of many bookstores and publishers all throughout the country. This book fair is very popular because of the big discounts on all books, from 20% down to 80%. I enjoyed touring around the book fair with my friend, and all throughout the day, I bought seven books. And, I can say that I'll be going back in that book fair next year. 

                   People crowded the fair, composed of children, teens and adults. The line of people in the cashier won't diminish, and it just gets longer and longer every minute. It was hard for me touring around since I chose the book fair to be my event coverage for our midterms in our Broadcast Journalism subject. Our professor would have graded it by this time, and I was wondering what grade I got.

                 It was also fun since I got a book sign from one of Wattpad's popular authors today, Ate Denny, on her book Diary ng Panget 4. :D 

                  You know, I can give you tips before you indulge yourself in the fair. :)

1.) Bring eco-bags.

               --Of course you need to bring bags for your books. I can assure you that you can buy many books! While I was there, two eco-bags weighed down on my shoulders. But it was worth it! :D

2.) Create a list of books that you will buy.
               --A list would be very helpful in buying books, and it will save time, money, and energy. But sometimes, there are books that gets your attention that aren't in your list so you have to decide quickly. :)

3.) You have to save money!
              --That is a must for events like these! The entrance to the fair is only 15 pesos for students and senior citizens, while 20 pesos for a regular entrance. 

4.) Be on time.
              --As much as possible, you must arrive in the fair on its opening time so you'll have a lot of time to explore and buy the books you like. There are some books that gets out of stock easily, so you must be on time!

5.) Wear comfortable clothing.
             --You should wear the clothes wherein you feel comfortable and free to move. (I'd recommend t-shirt, jeans, and rubber shoes.) 

There you go! :D It was my first time in that fair, and I swore to myself that I'll go back next time! :D

To get an overview of the fair, you can watch my video here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oW5qe0yBmg4

Thank you! :D

The Optimist Messenger. :)

        Perhaps you were wondering why I chose 'The Optimist Messenger' to be my blog address. Here's the story why.

                I will begin with the word 'optimist'. Just as I have described my blog, an optimist is someone who thinks positively. 'I was once a pessimist', I said. That is true, especially during my high school days. Paranoia engulfs me every time I committed a mistake. I can still remember that day when I failed a Math quiz. I wasn't talking to any of my friends that day, and I keep telling myself that I am so stupid and reckless and whatever. They keep on telling me that it was just a quiz, but that won't sink in, so they just leave me there. There are times when they get mad at me for being so paranoid and all. Everyday, I try my best to think positively but nothing happens. Today I go positive, the following day, there I go again negating all the thoughts that are supposed to be positive.
         
                As time passed by, I've graduated from high school and I'm entering into a new world again. This new world is what we call college. I told myself I need to change my ways because that would be embarrassing if I'll do same steps I did before. I'll seriously be a loner if I don't change that attitude. 

                I admit I went paranoid all over again during that Math preliminary exams on my first year (refer to 'Expect the Unexpected'). But I tried my best not to show my classmates my downed face. I can't let them see that.

               After the meet-and-greet and get-to-know-you first semester, we have moved on to the next phase of our first year. During the second semester, our professor required us to create our own blog. The first word that came to mind was the word 'optimist', remembering the words in the movie "The Secret". So I came up with the title, 'Optimist at Work'. 

               It took a while before I opened my blog again, because of all the busy stuff we're having. I just had the time today during our semestral break, and I miss blogging all the way. :)

               Now, for the blog address, I thought that it would be better if I'll add the profession that I've chosen. At first I wanted it to be 'The Optimist Journalist', but I don't want to be direct that I've chosen Journalism as my profession. I keep on thinking what are the other possible words that I could connect with the word 'journalist'. 

               Then I got it.

         I was writing an article about the forum we had just attended in school. It's all about the U.S.-RP Relations. Of course, it is our job to take down notes, and while I was doing my article, my notebook is open beside me. After an hour or so, I got tired, closed my notebook, and decided to take a break. I opened my blog to check on it. I noticed that my blog address is my email address, and I think that it should be changed to something different. Then I thought about the word 'journalist' again. I was looking around my room to find the right word, though I have no idea why I'm looking in my room. But scanning helped me find just the right word.

               The word I got was 'messenger', the one written on the cover of my notebook.

                          

             I got this notebook during at AIMS Makati, where we attended the Jaime V. Ongpin Seminar for Journalism. My friends and I liked the message on the cover (DON'T SHOOT THE MESSENGER), so we took a photo with it.

       I created my blog with the most positive features. Inspiration is the main concept of my blog. In every thing that I post, I want everyone who opens my blog to be inspired to achieve their dreams. My profession, Journalism, is never easy. One can lay their life on the line to fight for the truth. Despite this fact, I still pursue my dream to become one, because I chose this path, and I really wanted to be a professional journalist someday. 

            A journalist should have a positive-thinking mind, despite the hardships that may come his/her way. Everything will be fine if you know what you say is right and true.  

           Truth prevails, I say. If journalists find the truth about you, please don't shoot the messenger.

           Whatever profession you choose, things can get ugly, but don't lose hope. Don't think negatively, problems can be solved. Find ways on how you will get the right answers.

           You should bear in mind that you must always be The Optimist Messenger. :)

Truth Prevails. :)

               Hi! I have just finished creating my first short story. I entitled it "Truth Prevails", because the truth must always be told, even if it hurts. 

I hope you enjoy my work :) 

                Truth Prevails
                By Nicole Manano

                I was there when it happened. I know why he was wounded on his right shoulder. I know why he was furiously running after that girl. I know why that girl's smile is beyond reach. I know her story. I know why. 

                It was late afternoon that day when this happened. I was walking home from the store, where I bought a pack of sweets. On my way home, I passed by a street scattered with broken window glass and two delivery guys blaming each other about who broke it. 
               
               I carefully walked on the other side of the street. I picked one jelly bean and began humming when I saw a girl running with a fierce look on her face. She bumped onto me, and my sweets scattered on the road. She didn't stop to apologize, but continued running instead. Not for long, a guy followed suit, with anger that washed over his face. I know him. He was never good.

                The distance between him and the girl was not that far. They were like kids playing tag in the outskirts of town. I secretly followed them because I can't hold my curiosity. I heard the guy shout the girl's name, but the girl did not respond. I stood behind a car, and to my surprise, the girl held my arm and told me to be quiet. She was not afraid of that guy who was never good. I know the reason why. They were friends once, and the guy liked her but she denied him. I didn't understand her story.  But we transferred to another place, and hid behind a wall. She wasn't speaking at all, but she knew me. 

                We were back on the street with the shattered glass. The delivery guys were gone. 

                I heard footsteps stepping on candies nearby. My sweets. We just made a roundabout. I heard the guy coming. He was catching his breath, desperately looking for the girl again. She covered my mouth, and walked backward, inch by inch. I was walking back, when I accidentally stepped on the broken glass. She gave me her phone, and told me to call the police. I did what she said. But everything was fast. She picked the glass and made a run for the corner.Just in time, the guy appeared, and stabbed him with the glass deep in his skin. The guy howled in pain. The girl was so furious that the glass went through his right shoulder, and fell on his knees. I stood there in shock, and I dropped her phone. 

              Just in time, the police came and arrested the guy and didn't even questioned the girl and placed handcuffs on the delinquent. I looked around and saw that people have gathered to see what was happening. 

              Some were shocked and some were not. Some were scared and some were not. They know who this guy was.

              The guy fainted, but medics came to give him first aid, but he'll live, they say. But the police.. they must have known everything. The girl must have told them the complaints. 

              She began walking, leaving the blood-spattered broken glass on the gutter. She looked satisfied and contented that they guy was arrested. The smile on her face reminded me her story. 

              She told me once before,  "He was never good. This society doesn't approve his presence here either. I'm his only friend, but I think he'll lose me soon. I know now why they are against him. I was wrong for not believing in them in the first place." 

              He was new in town. I know they were friends before. People were telling her to stay away from that close-minded guy. She doesn't know why he's called that way.
              Some girls said he won't stop bugging their lives, and they are frustrated of that person. She never listened, she knows he was nice. But one day, she tried observing him, and found out the truth. She was one of those girls. Now she knows why he keeps on telling her that many people are after him; outraged boyfriends, furious friends and angry mothers. 

              After that, she spread the word about his identity, showing no signs of fear.

              I am the only one whom she entrusts me with her story, that is why I know every detail. 

             Today, his victim, is a girl with no lover. But she was able to save herself. While I was scanning the crowd, I saw those girls, and they are amazed by what she did. 

             She walked away, and my gaze followed her, and I saw her buy a pack of sweets again, with a big smile on her face. 

....

             I was there when it happened. I know why he was wounded on his right shoulder because I created that wound. I know why he was furiously running at me, because I told everyone about him, about his deepest secret, but I'm not afraid, because that is the truth. The truth needs to be told. The smile on my face won't fade away while I went home eating my jelly beans. 

I just know what I have to do.

I know and I need to stand up for what is right. 

The truth must always prevail. 

A VISIT TO THE RADYO NG BAYAN, DZRB =))

               Opportunity comes only once.

               

               But opportunity will knock again if it is destined for you.

                

               Alas-singko imedia ng umaga. Naririnig ko na yung alarm ko, pero pakiramdam ko nananaginip lang ako. Eh hindi pala, oras na talaga para gumising kasi pupunta kami ngayon ng mga kaklase ko sa isang radio station. =)) Ginising ko na din si Kuya kasi ihahatid niya ako, baka daw kasi maligaw ako, di ko pa naman gamay ang Quezon City. Umalis kaagad kami ni Kuya dahil ang appointment namin kay Sir Alan ay 7:00 am. Sa sobrang pagmamadali, di na kami kumain, kaya pagkababa namin somewhere, nag-Jollibee muna kami. Nabusog talaga ako ng sobra. Nakarating kami doon ng 6:45. Proud na proud ako dahil dumating ako 20 minutes before the time. Dapat ganun talaga ang mga journalist, dapat on time.  :D Pinapasok naman kami agad nung guard at naghintay kami doon sa lobby. Dumating naman yung isang kaklase ko ng sakto 7:00, at hinintay naming yung iba hanggang 7:30. Umalis na din si Kuya kasi may pupuntahan siya at may tatlo na rin akong kasama.

                Umakyat na din kami, at nakita kami ng professor namin na bo-broadcast na. Hello po Sir Alan Allanigue! :D Tinawag niya kami sa loob at pinapanood naming siya na mag-on air, LIVE. Nakaagaw pansin sa akin yung malaking tarpaulin sa likod ni Sir, nakalagay, “RADYO NG BAYAN”. Nakakatuwa kasi nakita namin kung ano ang ginagawa sa loob ng isang radio station. Mga last 1 minute na ata nun nung pinasulat sa amin ni Sir yung mga pangalan namin at na-broadcast pa kami sa radio. Tuwang-tuwa kami at kanya-kanya kaming text sa mga nanay at tatay namin na na-broadcast kami sa radio.

                Pagkatapos ng newscast ni Sir, kumain muna kami nila Sir at nagkwentuhan. Enjoy na enjoy ako feeling ko nakikita ko na ang future ko. Pangarap ko kasi talaga ang maging broadcast journalist, gaya ni Sir. Kaya naman pagkatapos kumain, dinala naman niya kami sa Master Control at masaya kaming nag-observe doon. 
               

Ang nasa console na noon ay si Mr. Sel Baysa, isang miyembro ng Radyo Patrol team ng ABS-CBN. Iniwan kami doon ni Sir Alan, at kinabahan kaming lahat dahil pagkaalis niya, sabi ni Mr. Sel na iinterbyuhin niya daw kami. Isa-isa. Nagulat kaming lima at kanya-kanya kaming, ‘hala…’ pero naeexcite kami ng sobra! :D

                Ako. Kami. Iinterbyuhin. LIVE. ON AIR. Naririnig ako sa buong Pilipinas. HELLO, PHILPPINES!

                Dapat talaga maayos ang mga sagot namin dahil nationwide ito! Iisa lang naman ang tinanong niya sa amin kung ano mas pipiliin namin: maging broadcaster o writer. Halos lahat sila sabi writer, pero dalawa lang kami ng kaklase ko na nagsabi maging broadcaster.

                Nung tinanong ako, sabi ko, ‘para po magamit ko ang boses ko’. HAHAHAHA! Nakakahiya! Okay, bat di ko natandaan na naririnig ako ng buong sambayanang Pilipino! HAHAHA =)) Exposure sa boses ko. Tapos yung kaklase ko, ang sagot niya, ‘..para po maipahayag ko sa ating mga kababayan..’ di ko na alam e, napakahaba ng sinagot niya. Natawa na lang ako. HAHAHA =))

                Habang iniinterbyu ang ibang mga kasama ko, lumilipad na naman yung utak ko. Naiimagine ko, balang araw, ako na rin ang magiinterbyu sa mga susunod sa yapak namin.. na minsan akong umupo sa silyang ito.. tapos biglang sisingit sa utak ko na, “Finals week ngayon.” Okay. Tama na muna ang daydream. Pagkatapos noon, nagpapicture muna kaming lahat, kasama ang susunod na broadcaster.

                Dumiretso kami sa office ni Sir Alan noon, at binalita ang lahat ng nangyari. Bahagya siyang natawa dahil narinig niya daw kaming lahat. HAHAHA! Medyo namamasa pa yung kamay ko mula noong nainterbyu ako.

                MAY NAREALIZE AKO. Nainterbyu na din pala ako ng GMA News, ni Ms. Tricia Zafra noong papasok ako sa school. Akala ko hindi fresh ang itsura ko dahil napakainit talaga noon. Nagpaload ako nun sa isang stall at pawis na pawis na ako. Tinanong ako nung tindera ano daw tinanong sa akin. Basta!

                Narealize ko lang na nainterbyu na ko sa TV, nainterbyu na din ako sa radio. EPIC! :D Exposure na talaga ito. HAHAHA =))

                Anyway, pagkatapos nun, nagsiuwian na kami at kanya-kanya kaming GM at kanya-kanyang palit ng cover photo at profile picture sa FB. And, of course, super duper maraming salamat kay Mr. Alan Allanigue na binigyan kami ng pagkakataon na makapunta doon :D

                Para sa akin, sobrang nainspire talaga ako, kaya I’ll do my best! :D Pero ngayon, back to reality muna at focus sa finals! :D

                Kaya natin ‘to! :D 

STAR CITY =)

            Extreme adventure. For me. Hahaha =)
            The last time I've been to Star City was when I accompanied my friend to her field assignment there. It was just last year, and we didn't get to have a ride-all-you-can time. But, last two weeks ago, my block mates and I get to have this moment now. :D
            It was a cloudy afternoon that day, and my friends and I had just finished watching at the Aliw Theatre. We all went out to eat, then we proceeded to Star City. It was a big discount for us, so we used all our time to enjoy. Plus, we needed a break after one big hell of a week. My friends and I began riding on the not-oh-so-dangerous rides, taking up time. Next we came to this ride called Blizzard, and I thought it's just a simple roller coaster where there are not much "obstacles". The line of students is so long that you might refer to this as a rattlesnake if you're looking from above. I hear screams from teens on the ride, and I thought they were just overreacting and it's not really scary. But when we came closer, I have seen that there is a very steep part in the middle portion of the ride. I took a big gulp. I realized that I wasn't speaking anymore, and my friend elbowed me, telling me that I was getting anxious. When I looked at her, she was laughing and telling me that she wanted to leave the line. I laughed with her trying my best to look upbeat, despite the fact that the butterflies in my stomach are really punching my stomach. 
             When it's time for our turn, I paled. My friend was scared to her bones, and I can't identify if she had gone pale or not because she's white. I told her, "Are you sure you can do this? We can back out if you want." I was assuring her that 'cause I think I can't do it either. So much for the teenagers who were screaming their lungs out earlier. The ride began in a very slow motion, but my hands are getting clammy and I kept my eyes closed. When I opened my eyes, we were a second away to the steep part, then when it came, I felt like I was really falling. I instantly screamed with my friend. We went back to the starting point, and I'm ready to go down from this shocking ride, but unfortunately, it'll have another round. Great. I hate going to that steep part. But on the second time, I wasn't that scared anymore and instead I shouted saying, "WOOO!!" It was fun! :D
             When we got off, my hands were shaking and I don't know why. Anyway, we proceeded to the Bump Car. My friends were laughing at me because I couldn't move an inch. At first I have moved for maybe 20 seconds but then I didn't get to move again. They kept on bumping me, and me not bumping them. It's kind of annoying, I felt like a loser. Hahaha. I should learn how to drive this summer. :)) 
             The line of people in the ride Viking didn't decrease from the time we got there, so just moved on to the next ride. And that would be, the Star Frisbee. 
              Looking from afar, you would think that Star Frisbee is not a scary ride. But once you got there, you'll think twice. That's what I felt when I got there and decided not to push through. But my friend won't let me go, and that left me with no choice, and I acted bravely. My other friend told me that she was going home and made a run for it. Great, she left me alone. 
              It had stopped drizzling already when the ride started. When we were choosing for our seats, my fear is SERIOUSLY getting in the way. Trying to stay brave is one of the hardest things to do, especially when you are not brave enough. So, I took my seat and the seat belt is too tight that I felt like I was forced to get my stomach in. At first, I told my two friends sitting beside me that it's not scary, psh. Swing you there, and swing you here. But that swinging has gone too far. It went higher and higher until I felt like I can kiss the sky any minute now. All I ever did was close my eyes, 
as I feel the world spinning and turning. When the ride was over, I was very dizzy and I still feel like I was there, thinking "I'm gonna die" and "What made me decide to go on that ride". 
             After that, we went straight to the Surf Dance ride, but when it's our turn, the ride closed because it was raining once again. So we just decided to have a little break and eat. My friend, who said she's going to go home, came out of nowhere and joined us. She's really crazy. 
            Anyway, while enjoying the food, we shared our experiences there and it was fun, and I cheered myself for facing my fear of my heights. Achievement of the day! And I felt pleased with myself. 
             After we ate, we strolled in the amusement park while waiting for the night. Why? We wanted to get a ride to the Ferris Wheel, and they said that the best view is during at night. When it's already 7:00 o'clock, we lined up there, and we are the first in line. When the ride opened, we hopped in and slowly we were going up. I was totally amazed by the view; traffic lights on the road, people come and go, malls and beautiful facades of buildings cooled my eyes. It was a very beautiful Manila skyline. I tried to stand up but seasickness washed over me. I hastily took my seat again. 
             We all went home after that. I told my mom everything what happened and she smiled and laughed with me. After sharing everything, I ate, took a bath and went to sleep. It's a long day indeed, and very enjoyable! Unfortunately, when I got to bed, that feeling when I was riding in the Star Frisbee came back again and closing my eyes feels like I was seriously riding on it again. But I shook that thought away, and went to a deep sleep. :D
    

Can I survive this?

          Can I survive this course that I chose? Well, I hope so. The reason I chose this for a title was because of our writing activities today. It was hard to create articles and you had been only given an hour to write. I can feel the pressure and the stress earlier, and my head is throbbing already, but that didn't faze me. My goal and determination tells me that I should continue and give my all. But, at that moment, I can visualize how things are going to happen in the future once I have achieved my goal. While I was visualizing, I noticed that some of my classmates were just staring at their paper. Others look at each other and give a quizzical look to one another. Others give the 'i-need-reassurance' look. There are also others who just laughed, thinking about their work. Then I noticed that I myself was staring at the window, and thought that will I act this way someday? Jeez. 

           I know all of us were finding a hard time to create articles but I can see that all of us have that determination. Despite the noise, the cold room, and the pressure from our professor, we still managed to create the two articles. Right now, I have realized why our other friends shifted to another course. I think they have also visualized that this is going to happen. LOL. But for me, I'll take this as a challenge. I believe I can do it, not only me, but my classmates as well.

P.S.

I wanted to write some more but my classmate has just informed me that we have a quiz tomorrow that I can't even remember. Ok gtg. :)) 'Til next time! :)

Expect the unexpected :D

           Hi again. :D This favorite college experience of mine occurred last year, during our first semester. I really wasn't expecting anything like this, but it was the best and the most unexpected thing that has ever happened to me during my first year in college. :D
            It's a very uneasy day for me, and for most of us as well. My hands got clammy each time I think of my first preliminary exams in Mathematics in my alma mater. As I was sitting in the train, I keep on reading my notes, troubled that I might forget the formulas and other Math terms. My mind was playing tricks on me when I got out of the train, that I might fail my first exam. Great, very helpful, Mind. I got more nervous. As I got to school, I saw everybody studying, asking questions and answering Math problems. I sat down, then opened my notes again. Some of my classmates approached me and asked some questions. Unfortunately, our professor always arrive early, so we always got less time to study or anything. He told us to fix our chairs with one seat apart. As I looked behind to see if I was lined correctly, I got flummoxed which line to follow, because it was a crooked one. Fail. I ignored it and concentrated on what was happening again. Our professor said to prepare ourselves then keep our notes. If I'm not mistaken, he also mentioned that we should pray. When he said that, I made the sign of the cross and prayed silently while he was giving out the test papers. Our professor used the wise style in test papers. He gave the two sets of exams alternately. Set A for the first column, then Set B for the second column then Set A again for the third column and so forth. In this case, cheating can be avoided. Then I prayed again once I got my hands on my test paper. I got Set B. 
            At first I told myself that it was easy, but I got over extra careful (hahaha) with the answers and my solutions. My seatmate keeps on bugging me for reasons I can't remember. Jeez. When I was finished, I keep on re-checking my answers and solutions and getting crazy and paranoid all over. Then I'm done. I sat there, in my seat, still a little troubled, having that feeling that I might fail or I have a wrong computation. I looked around to rest my mind for a while, and I was shocked to find out that everybody's still answering! Then I got this paranoia again. I can only count in my fingers who are already done, but still.. I didn't re-check anymore, I got lazy and just told myself good luck. 
            After a few minutes, the papers must be passed now. Our professor collected it by set and I still got time to check again my paper, I'm really nervous that I also thought that I might have skipped a number or something, but every item has an answer. I took a deep breath, then passed my paper as my professor asked for the next set. I let out a sigh after that.
             The following day, our professor announced the scores. That mini-heart attack. I really hate moments like this. My heart was palpitating. I don't aim for the perfect score, I only aim to pass. There were only 30 items in our exam, but it was an average one, there are easy items and hard ones. He mentioned the students in our class who got high scores and the highest ones got 29, and those students who passed, but didn't get a high score. I was waiting for my name, but there was nothing. My heart palpitated even more when I WASN'T CALLED. I wanted to go home and cry, well I actually wanted to cry at that moment, knowing that I failed, but I held myself. I can't cry in front of all these people. It's just an exam, they would say, but it means a lot to me. I never failed an exam nor perfected a Math exam before, but this moment? I hated myself for being so stupid and reckless and all that. After all those re-checking and studying in the train, I just failed. Shame. How am I going to tell my mom about this? "Mom, I failed my first exam. Sorry." Hey, I can't just do that! And it wouldn't be as easy as that either! I was choosing the right words how to tell my mom about this. I looked away, at the window to compose myself. My seatmate was chatting me, telling me her happy moments with her boyfriend, but none of her words seemed to get in my head. I just keep on nodding, but my mind was really flying. There were times that I smile at her, to show her that I'm not upset at all.
            Our professor was telling my other classmates who failed, well including me I guess, better luck next time, do our best and stuff. I didn't listen. That must have taken 5 or 10 minutes when our professor said, "The one who got the highest score is..." Those words caught my attention, then my heart was racing again. He smiled to all of us and mentioned the same words. I told myself, "Woah, who is that? Someone got a perfect score! I wonder who's that genius." I looked at my classmates, but all of their eyes are on our professor, so I just followed their gaze. 
             My professor smiled again. Could he just stop smiling and tell who that student is? Then he looked at me, and his face looks like he want to burst out laughing. He shifted his gaze fast then looked at my other classmates. But I got that one percent of hope, though I'm not assuming. After maybe 30 seconds or whatever, he mentioned the student who got the perfect score. And it was me. 
             I was too stunned to speak at first, I almost jumped in my seat and got my eyeballs wide asking myself if this is just a dream. If I'm not mistaken, I said, "What?! What's the highest score?!", forgetting that it was a perfect score. I mentioned this to my seatmate and to my professor who didn't even hear me because of all the shouts of my classmates. I can't even hear myself that well. My other seatmate was shaking me, telling me that I did great, but I was still culture shocked. My heart is still racing but I'm starting to accept that now. :D I calmed myself down, and I really felt that tinge of happiness that my classmates were still shouting for me. They, too, must have been stunned by that announcement our professor made. They weren't expecting that either. Then he called me to get my paper there in front, and my classmates shouted even more, congratulating me and telling me I was good and many more. I thanked them as I passed by. I feel like a famous actress walking on a red carpet. But I still can't believe it. :D 
           Our professor congratulated me too, and he told me I did great. I keep on thanking him even when I'm already seated down. My classmates calmed down too, but there is still that stunned look on their faces. My classmates who are near me get to see my paper. They were saying all the praises I couldn't even remember. I was so happy. :D Then the class was dismissed. Before our professor left, he told me this: "Do well on your midterms, okay? You did great today." I smiled and thanked him again. He smiles and leaves the room. 
           Those words of my professor really mean a lot to me that I still can remember that until today. :D My classmates were asking me how I did that, I told them I just got lucky, which I think it really is. From that day on, when there is really a hard item on our homework our professor gives, they ask me. But I'm not really a Math genius. In fact, when I was in high school, I always get a low grade in my quizzes, seat works and exams. I'm telling this to my classmates every time they tease me, but they wouldn't believe me, so I just stopped explaining. They won't listen. HAHAHA :)) 
          Really, this is something that I can't forget. One of my best moments. :D While I'm typing this, I still can't help but smile. :)) I'm still thinking I was back at that day, and having that mini-heart attack, about wanting to cry and go home, then change my mind all of a sudden. This experience really suits that title that I gave, "Expect the unexpected." :))) 

It's been quite a while :))

        Yep, the title says it all. :)) The very last time I updated my blog (before I posted my article about photography) was February. I was really busy the following month, the Finals Month, we'd say. I am always tired when I get home, and I multitask a lot. Plus! I get to sleep late most of the time, then wake early in the morning. A family friend of ours came to visit one day, and she told me I got thin. Well, I AM thin, I really don't get fat, even if I eat a ton. I just have a fast metabolism, that's all. HAHAHA. Anyway, that's what she noticed of me. I also got big eye bags during those times that I might pass for a horror booth. LOL. :)) 
       Many things happened here and there; excitement, fear, agony, happiness and many more. I slept on the train most of the time on my way to school, but if drowsiness doesn't drop by, I just bring out my notes to study. Every time I arrived in our room, it was a total mess. Others doing work, chatting for group activities, while others--well, they play pranks on our other classmates who are really busy. I am one of the victims, sad to say. LOL =)) Despite these crazy moments, we still manage to control ourselves, and the time. 'Control ourselves'? That sounds like we're  mental patients! HAHAHA! Just kidding! :)) Some of us just turns weird because of too much work. :)) But we enjoyed the busy life. :D 
        During the last month of classes, sickness has planned to stay in me. I got pneumonia by that time, and I got really terrified that our family doctor might take on a surgery, but, my doctor is the best, and healed me with medicine only. No need for surgery. :)) Despite that sickness I got, I still go to school, I don't like being left out of anything, especially lessons. Anyway, a month felt like a year to us, we did so many videos this semester, and I get to see my face acting and making drama stuff. Jeez. I'll post the videos later. :)) 
        The last thing that I would want to talk about was that Hawaiian dance. Seriously. Of all the dances that we could dance. :(( This is really not meant for me, remember when I said I danced like a robot? Yeah. This includes swaying hips and stuff like that; that doesn't suit me at all. HAHAHA. But I have to! This will serve as our final exam for PE, so that left me no choice. No matter how much I groused, I must continue. I really envy the boys' steps, they were easy! I just wished I was boy. Great. Anyway, here's a picture of me and my buddies during that day we performed. :))

        The other thing that we were grousing about is our costume. It's a skin-toned leotard! It's a very awkward feeling. I was really envious on the boys' costume, they look like Poseidon in The Lightning Thief with his summer getaway look. But, despite these complaints, we won the 2nd place! :)) But I have to admit that I like the steps, though it REALLY doesn't suit me. HAHAHA!

        My favorite part of the month was when we created our Photo Essay. :)) I was planning to post that here too, but I think maybe I'll have it next time. :D I really like that. :)) Oops, it's midnight again. :)) I gotta sleep now, I got a big day ahead tomorrow! :D I hoped I had filled the last month out. :D I guess I'll continue again 'morrow. :)) Good night!

Money, anyone?

MONEY, ANYONE?

Nicole L. Manano, A-105

                Money, money, money. Everywhere we look, money is always there. In negotiations, transactions and business, money is used. Nowadays, the value of money continues to go up and all things get more expensive. But money isn’t “money” in the olden times yet. It went a long process before money came about in the modern times. In the Money Museum at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the evolution of money is displayed step by step.

                In the ancient times, when money is not yet known, natives use shells for payments to buy goods and other products. As time goes by, the form of payment changed to metal then to porcelain. Every time, the mode of payment differs and it improves, making the products more expensive each day. During the time when Chinese traders came in the Philippines, jade was already used. Then time passes, natives and traders alike use jewel and then gold for payments. In the Money Museum of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the real gold used during that time was preserved there. It was still perfect to the eyes, and karats were also mentioned.

                Eventually, the Spaniards came in our country, and everything around us changed, even the form of payment. During their time, in the Galleon trade, they used their own currency, the reales. This currency of the Spaniards began the use of money in our country, and different styles and perspectives were used by the Filipinos of that time to create their own currency. In the time of war with the conquerors, the Philippine Republic had their own money. They have the resistance currencies, and in the various provinces in the Philippines differ from one another. Here are the provinces that used these currencies: Cagayan, Palawan, Mountain Province, Apayao, Ilocos Norte, Iloilo, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte and Negros.

                 When President Manuel L. Quezon is seated as president, the Philippines’ coinage also took place during the 1930s. There were coins that merge the United States and the Philippines, and medals too. In this period, the heroes that played a major role in the country’s historical background had their faces engraved in the Philippines’ currency. Until now, some of these heroes’ faces were still present in our currency. They are Andres Bonifacio, Apolinario Mabini and of course, our very own Dr. Jose Rizal.

                All throughout the years from the time of the Commonwealth, the improvement of the Philippine money also took place. It came in different forms, styles and shapes. Each coin and paper bill has a symbolic or historical account which reminds the Filipinos the wonders of the Philippines and the heroes and people who risked their lives for their country. As time goes on and on, bit by bit, the value of money increases. Before, there were paper bills for 10 pesos, 5 pesos, 2 pesos and even 1 peso, but today in the modern times, these paper bills of small amount of money were disregarded. Today, 2 peso and 5 peso bills are no longer present, but the 10 pesos and 1 peso were created as coins. Last year, the new set of Philippine paper bills and the new 1 peso coin were already issued. It changed to a new perspective and theme, but the colours still remained. Today, Philippine paper bills improved and had a more different theme. In the back of each paper bill nowadays, the Philippines’ natural wonders were designed, and it came to a new era.

                But, money is not just a mode of payment that people use all around the world. In our country, every part and design of the Philippine paper bill has its own symbolical meaning. Through these designs, our money is beautified in every detail. Here are some of the paper bills parts. First, we have the lacework design which is composed of criss-crossed line on the right side of the paper bill. It is in various colors and it is traceable even at the intersection. Next we have the vignette, which is distinct and sharp, and it has a varying color tone which gives a vivid look to the picture that makes it stand out of the paper. Then there is the portrait, and it appears life-like. Usually, the portraits in the paper bills are pictures of our selected Philippine presidents, and on the back page it shows the different wonders of the Philippines, heroes, and other historical events that shaped the Philippines’ background. These parts of the money also tells us the story of our country in only a single bill, and it is important for us to look back at all these events, because these also helped us Filipinos from what we are now today, and it also defines what Filipinos are really are.

                This collection of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is a very remarkable collection because they have traced the beginning of money from the time of the Chinese up until the present. These pieces of evidence show the improvement of money, the changes it undergo, and the different historical remarks that are embedded and printed on every single coin or paper bill.

                Money is meant to be spent, but money is also wisely kept. 

(This article is one of my write-ups that I passed for our final exams. It's been quite a while since I last updated my blog, so I think I'll start tonight. I hope you enjoyed it!)

Can I take a shot?

Can I take a shot?

By Nicole Manano

                                Frederick R. Barnard once said that, “A picture paints a thousand words.” This quote has become very popular, and the meaning of this quote is easily distinguished from its words. Every picture that we see always contains a hidden message. This generation, pictures have become part of our lives now. Most of us take pictures to serve as memories; others take it as a hobby and passion, while others take it just to have fun.

               

 

        Since pictures are very famous today, these are also used now to earn a huge amount of money. Before, photography is only a hobby to most of us, but presently, it has become a job too. In photography, we can see different images of life, look deeper into the depths of nature and find beauty in every object there is. Photography is a very marvelous hobby or passion, and we get to learn more about it. As a student, I have photography as one of my subjects and I myself am fascinated when I started taking shots and see the beauty that lies around me.

                This is my first shot, and it’s kind of fail though, but I got a good mark. As the time goes by, I learned to take shots better, and it improved somehow. This vacation, I started to take pictures of nature and many others. As I have mentioned earlier, photography finds beauty in every object there is. Nature is the best and most common object of photography, because it has many hidden wonders.

                Monochrome setting is one of the best features that revolve in the world of photography. People often say that using the monochrome setting brings out the ‘drama’ in a photo and it becomes unique and more alluring. Black and white objects will show more details if this setting is applied. This setting goes well with the Rule of Thirds, a concept in photography that the object is not in the center of focus, but it is on either side, just like this one. This concept is one of my favorites, that is why almost all of my shots are in the Rule of Thirds.

                There are some pictures that make one think, “How was that picture taken?” I’m sure this has popped in your mind, too. Photographers do all positions to take a good angle or shot of their object. If they have to kneel, they’ll do that; or if they have to lie down, they’ll surely do it. As for me, I didn’t lie down, but I just crouched and my camera almost touched the ground to get a good shot.

              Before, when I don’t have enough knowledge of photography yet, I always use the Automatic or the Auto mode. But since my classes with photography began, our professor told us to use the Manual mode from that day on, and I also found out something on the internet, just a short message saying: “You are not a photographer. You just have an overpriced camera.” I was hurt at first, because as I’ve said I am an auto user before. When you use the Manual mode, all your photography skills and knowledge will pay off, and will surely pave your way to be a photographer.

                Photos are really amazing; one can make a reverie out of it, or earn with it. I once depended on the thought that the quality of the photos depends on the camera use, but my professor told me that it is depended on the photographer, and that explains a lot. The truth is, I only practice taking shots because of school matters, but the longer I practice, photography has become my passion too. And every shot I take, I always make sure that these photos can create a thousand words. 

Hi. :)) This is MY 'talumpati' in my Filipino subject. :)) It's in Filipino, and I hope you'll like it. :)) 

(c) Copyright reserved: 2013

MGA LIBRO LABAN SA PELIKULA

                Noong hayskul ako, napapabilang ako sa grupo ng mga taong mahilig sa libro. Araw araw wala kaming kasawaan sa pagkukuwento ng kung anu-ano na tungkol sa mga libro. Grabe din ang aming tuwa kapag ginagawan ng pelikula ang mga librong kinagigiliwan namin. Ngunit kapag napapanood namin ito, nagpapalitan kami lagi ng mga komento kung mas maganda ba ang libro o ang pelikula.

Mula noong nagsimula ang paggawa ng pelikula na hango sa mga libro, dito na rin nagsimula ang pagtatalo ng nakakarami sa atin kung ano ang mas maganda, ang libro ba o ang mga pelikula. Sa mga mahilig magbasa ng libro, mas pinipili nila ang libro dahil dito, kumpleto at buo ang mga detalye ng kwento.  Sa iba naman, mas maganda daw ang panonood ng pelikula dahil nakikita nila ang mga mukha ng mga karakter sa kwento at mas makulay daw ito kumpara sa pagbabasa. Para mas maunawaan natin kung ano ba talaga ang mas maganda, talakayin at ipagkumpara natin ito at saka natin husgahan.

                Ang Harry Potter, Hunger Games, The Lightning Thief-- ay ilan lamang sa mga libro na sumikat at pumatok sa mga bookstore sa buong mundo. Ayon sa mga palabasa ng libro, kakaiba ang kwento ng mga ito at mapapaisip ka talaga sa mga susunod pang kabanata. Para sa kanila, sa libro gumagana ang imahinasyon ng mga mambabasa at marami ka pang matutuhang mga salita na pwedeng makadagdag sa iyong bokabularyo. Isa pa, buo at malinaw ang mga detalye na nakasaad sa libro, walang labis at walang kulang. At habang tumatagal, paganda ng paganda ang kwento at ito ay tatapusin mo talaga hanggang dulo. Ang tatlong ito din ay mga dugtungan, kung kaya’t pwede mo agad bilhin ang kasunod na dugtungan, at maaari mo na ilulong muli ang iyong sarili sa pagbabasa. Ngunit, ang pagbabasa ay matagal kumpara sa panonood, maaari kang umabot ng isang buwan o hindi mo na lang matapos ito, pero nakadepende pa din ito sa bilis ng taong nagbabasa.

                Ang tatlong librong ito ay ginawa ring pelikula dahil sa angking ganda ng mga kwento. Dito na papasok ang mga mahilig sa mga palabas. Ayon naman sa kanila, mas mabilis ang kwento kapag ginawa nang pelikula ang mga ito, at isa hanggang tatlong oras ang tinatagal nito kumpara sa pagbabasa. Maliban doon, ang mga kwentong ito ay binibigyang buhay ng mga bigating artista sa mundo ng pelikula, gaya na lamang ni Logan Lerman at Josh Hutcherson na kinatitilian ng mga babae. Ang isa pa sa mga dahilan nila ay may biswal na at hindi na kailangan pa ng imahinasyon. At ayon din sa kanila, may ‘kilig factor’ daw ang mga ito, dahil kapag nanonood kayo, di maiiwasan ang mga hiyawan sa loob ng sinehan. Ngunit, minsan nakakainis din ang mga pelikulang ito na hinahango mula sa libro dahil iniiba ng direktor ang kwento, o di kaya pinapalitan ang eksena. Halimbawa na lamang sa palabas na Lightning Thief, maraming tinanggal, binago, at pinalitan na eksena sa palabas, kung kaya’t maraming mga tagahanga ang nadismaya pagkatapos ito panoorin. Balita pa nga na ang mismong sumulat ng libro ay hindi pinanood ang palabas. Sa Hunger Games naman, yung mismong awtor ang producer ng libro, at siya rin mismo ay may mga binago. Maganda naman ang kinalabasan ng pelikula, ngunit sa nakakarami, hindi sila nagagalak.

                Dahil sa aking pagkama-usisa, hinanap ko din sa internet kung ano ba talaga ang mas lamang, ang pelikula ba o ang mga libro. Sa site na www.wisegeek.com, sinabi doon na, ‘Why are books better than movies?’ at sa http://cassandrajade@wordpress.com na mas lamang daw ang mga libro. Isinaad doon na kapag nagbabasa ka ng libro, ikaw rin mismo ang magiging direktor, producer, cameraman, stuntmen, waterboy, utility, propsmen, lahat yan, IKAW! Ikaw rin ang makakapag-isip kung gaano kagwapo at kaganda ang bida, at kung gaano ka-chaka ang mga kontrabida. Sa pagbabasa, ang isang tao ay nagiging malikhain. Bottom line, ikaw ang filmmaker, kapares mo ang sumulat ng libro.

                 Nabasa niyo na ba ang akda ni Balagtas na Florante at Laura? Ang akda ni Huseng Sisiw na Ibong Adarna? Ang tanong ko lamang ay kung naintindihan niyo ba ang binasa niyo? Tagalog nga ito, ngunit nakaka-nosebleed na Tagalog. Pero nung pinalabas na ang mga ito sa teatro, naintindihan niyo na hindi ba? At mapapa-“ahhh yun pala yun!” kayo. Isang halimbawa na din dito ang mga akda ni Shakespeare kagaya ng Romeo and Juliet, na kapag binasa mo ay wala ka talagang maiintindihan dahil Old English ang ginagamit dito, ngunit nang ipinalabas na ito, saka lang natin naintindihan. Ito naman ang mga kagandahan ng pelikula na di mo aakalain na kasing gwapo pala ni Leonardo diCaprio ang Romeo na nasa imahinasyon mo. Ang isa pang advantage ng pelikula ay mas madali mong matatandaan ang bawat eksenang napapaloob sa isang pelikula. “Ah oo, siya yung nagsabi ng ‘sakit ah? Kapal kasi ng muka mo!’” (A Secret Affair Movie) Hindi ba?

                Ngunit may mga pagkakataon na nagkakapareho ang libro at ang pelikula. Isang magandang halimbawa dito ang komiks. Dahil habang nagbabasa ka, nakikita mo na ang eksena. Kagaya na lamang ng mga nabasa ko na Slamdunk at Doraemon. Dito, kung anong nabasa mo ay siya ring kilos sa drawing, at siya rin ang mismong eksena sa palabas. Kahit gaano man kalalim ang kanyang litanya, makita mo lang ang drawing, maiintindihan mo na. Katulad ng ‘kapow!’ ‘kaboom’!  na wala naman sa talahanayan, ngunit makita mo lang ang drawing, alam mo na, na may sinuntok o sumabog. Kahit bata, maiintindihan yun.

                (Ngayon) Lahat naman tayo dumaan sa pagkabata na ang mga nakagisnan nating mga kwento nila Snow White na isang prinsesa na kumain ng mansanas, Hansel and Gretel na magkapatid, at Humpty Dumpty na basag na itlog ay binigyan ng panibagong twist. Ang hindi ko lang maintindihan ngayon ay kung bakit kailangan baguhin ang tema ng mga fairy tale. Una, si Snow White na hindi makabasag pinggan, ay natuto nang humawak ng espada. Si Hansel and Gretel ay naging Vampire Hunter. Si Humpty Dumpty naman ay naging kontrabida sa buhay ni Puss and Boots. Nawawala ang orihinal na kwento ng mga ito at nagugulo ang isip ng maraming kabataan sa panahon ngayon. Sa mga susunod na henerasyon, sinong fairy tale karakter naman kaya ang susunod? Ang Seven Dwarfs ay tatangkad na din sa wakas dahil sa magic beans na binigay ni Jack? Ganda no?

                Magkakaiba man ang ating tingin sa mga libro at pelikula, ito ay parehong nakakapagbigay aliw sa atin, bata man o matanda. Iba-iba man ang ating piliin, ito ay parehas na nakakapagbigay kulay sa ating mga buhay. Isa rin itong patunay na ang tao ay may kanya-kanyang interpretasyon sa nabasa o sa napanood nila. Ang tao din ay malikhain, sa paraang pasulat man o pa-pelikula. Wala itong pinagkaiba sa komersyal sa telebisyon na, “gatas na choco, o choco na gatas?” Ganun din ito, ikaw, ano sa palagay mo, libro o pelikula?

                

Korean Pop!

Korean Pop, also known as K-Pop has influenced me for the past 2 years. Until now, I'm still an avid fan of different k-pop groups. Because of this addiction, I already knew how to write Hangul, speak a few Korean words and eat Korean food. HAHAHA. Well, this addiction also has advantages. When I was in 3rd year high school, my circle of friends got gaga over this. At first we were only four, but this virus spread, and we end up with 23 of us in a group. We all have this 'biases' and we fight over them. HAHAHA. Our bonding became stronger, and we never get tired of hearing the same old story everyday. :D Anyway, to be specific, I love the groups SNSD, Super Junior, Big Bang, Exo, Miss A, Infinite, DBSK, Wondergirls, and 2ne1! :D They are so great. :D

Girls' Generation is my most favorite k-pop group among all these. :D They are all very pretty and talented. They are nine in a group and my favorite is Yuri. :D She looks like a Filipina. :D 

See? :D Recently, they had a concert here in the Philippines, but sadly, I didn't get to watch it. I was too busy doing all the needed requirements. Great. 

This is her latest photo from their latest album, I Got A Boy, and I really love the lyrics of that song (though I don't understand it)! :D 

"AYO GG!" =)) 

On the other hand, my favorite k-pop group is Super Junior. :)) Avid fan since 2010. :)) I really can't forget that day when my friends and I have this k-pop quiz wherein we have to memorize the names and faces of each member. :)) We also did the same to SNSD. :)) Anyway, we chose our bias and I chose:

YESUNG!! <3 He's really cute. :)) ahahaha =)) As you can see, he's really adorable. He has a very amazing voice and I go gaga whenever I hear him sing. :)) Sad to say, he'll start his military service this year. T.T I will never get to see him perform. So sad. I even tried tweeting him on Twitter, but he never replied. T.T Guess he's too busy to reply to millions of tweets from his beloved fans. :D

"Your Eyes". That is my favorite song that he sang with Kyuhyun. :DD I get to memorize this song with a friend and we sing it together like a boss. :)) hahaha =)) 

YESUNG/YURI. \m/

Preliminary exam :D

I placed a big smile on my face when I saw this: 

This is one of my major subjects! :D Well, I got a prize for this. :)) Total happiness! As I mentioned, I felt relieved when I saw this. :DD

I was called last, so I thought I got a failing grade.. T.T well, I got mistaken. :D

Not just my ordinary day :))

I am just one happy human. HAHAHA! Yeah, I really can't explain my happiness last Saturday. Well at first, I got really scared because of my preliminary exams. My professor called me last. Great. Butterflies keep playing on my stomach. Only a few people got a high score, and here I am, my hands are getting clammy and my mind is totally flying. Lastly, my name was called. My professor handed me my test booklet... nervous... terrified... YES! :D I got 95! :D First happiness for the day! :DD I was totally recovered from my paranoid feeling. HAHAHA =)) 

Next thing that happened to me is also a very memorable one. My friend treated me on a ride in Star City! :D We went to Snow World and we really had fun! :D Sadly, we can't take pictures inside. It was too cold, and I'm feeling hypothermia already. At first, I thought that it was not that cold, I was only thinking that I was in the classroom. BUT OH NO. I made a mistake. IT WAS REAL COLD, and the air is salty. I don't know why it has to be salty. I can feel my lips dry and its like my insides are frozen. Ouch. But, my friend and I can't be unfazed. We still went on and rushed to the slide! I wanted to punch the coach there because we held us back first before the go signal. And when he strike the go signal.. I took a deep breath.. and! I failed to go on sliding! I was held back by something lumpy on the surface. Great. The others are already sliding while I'm still there. FAIL! But, I carried myself and at last, I was already sliding. I got that mini-heart attack when I was sliding; I feel like I'm about to fall off my sliding board--and I don't want that. NOBODY wants that. On the end, I slid beside my friend and said hi. HAHAHA! After that, we rushed to the exit because we can't take the coldness of the area anymore. We hurriedly went outside, looking for coffee. Sadly, we didn't find any coffee. >:) Funny, eh? Our hypothermia only faded when we ate and drank water. I sighed with relief and we went home.

Lastly, (this is the best part) I told everything what happened to me on that day to my mom. I told her I bought earmuffs for the Snow World which was very effective, bought a gun key chain and a baller. Well, she was really happy hearing my funny stories everyday. HAHAHA =)) After that, I went online to tell the whole world that I just got home and I enjoyed a lot. HAHAHA! As I was surfing the net, there was a knock on the door. Mom opened the door, and it was my brother holding a big rectangular box with a label of 'Samsung'. I asked him what's inside, and he said it's a new monitor. I really got confused by his answer because our monitor is still working properly (only the internet has a really big problem, low horsepower hahaha). When he brought it out, he said that, "This is a monitor with a keyboard." Well, it took me a minute to process what he meant, and then I realized that he bought me a personal laptop. Pure happiness again! This day is so great! :D Well, I took a picture of it. 

Here it is! :DD And I'm using it now :D Oh, gotta go :DD See ya!