j.LoUBOUTINS... RIGHT.

It's been a minute since j.Lo jumped back into the scene with her performance at November's American Music Awards. The show served as her "launch-pad," if you will, for her new single, 'Louboutins.' The thing is, I'm still trying to understand why Jenny-from-the-block is singing about Louboutins (from designer Christian Louboutin). She claims that the song is about love, and "all the questions we have about it." Yet the highlight of the song is obviously the red-soled shoes. Right, j.Lo.

If this is the direction that pop music is headed, then this has got to be the end. (Although arguably, the end had already come when Vitamin C burst onto the scene for a hot second.)

I feel like j.Lo has seriously opened the door for other ridiculous songs to infiltrate the airwaves. I have a feeling that Taylor Swift will come up with a teen-angst song about "love" and Manolo Blahniks, or Leighton Meester will channel her inner "xoxo, Gossip Girl" with a song about Jimmy Choos. And I'm sure the craze will only continue with blips about other luxe shoe brands: Bottega Veneta, Stuart Weitzman, Tod's... Maddening much?

The sad truth is that j.Lo is one of those artists who isn't a particularly good singer, but she somehow always comes out with a stupid song with a hot beat. So you can't help but fall into the trap of her catchy tunes much in the same way that you do with Beyonce or Lady Gaga (difference is, however, Bey and Lada Gaga can actually sing ---as much as I hate to even admit to that...).

While j.Lo's performance at last month's AMAs were nothing short of a hot mess, I'm happy to say that she redeemed herself with a performance of the forsaken song at last night's finale show of So You Think You Can Dance. Take a look:



Looks like Jenny-from-the-block has moved on up to the Upper East Side.

MOVIE RUN-DOWN...

In all honesty, I am NOT a movie-buff. Ask me about food, and I'll give you my schpeel any day. When it comes to movies? Eh, not so much. I mean I love movies, but I am not one to head out to the theater on opening night, nor will I wait in line just to attempt to get tickets to preview shows. I will, however, watch movies just because... either a friend wants to watch it, so I'll go watch it with them. Or I'll really-really want to watch it. Case in point: Watchmen, I really wanna watch. I can't really think of something that I don't really care about at the moment.

So here are three movies that I've seen in the past few weeks, and my personal take on each:

CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC
Forced to watch, or wanted to: I plead the fifth.
Grade: B+
Personal Take: So ok, part of me was curious. Anything that has to do with shopping on any level is reason enough for me to take notice. But in truth, I'd never read the book(s). What I know about these books is that 1) they are probably one of the most "important" books in the "chick lit" genre, and 2) they're supposedly extremely entertaining. I guess that would depend on the person reading, huh?

It was an OK movie. The whole "romantic-comedy" thing worked here. And, personally, I think that Isla Fisher is awesome. I've loved her since Wedding Crashers, and I recently saw her on Definitely, Maybe (uh, it was showing at the gym so I figured I'd watch it). She's easily becoming one of my favorite fun/funny actresses. B+.

HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU
Forced to watch, or wanted to: Reference previous review.
Grade: B
Personal Take: This one's based on another book... One that I didn't read (again), nor do I plan on reading it. (I don't plan on reading the Confessions books either, just PS.) I didn't know what to expect, although I did hear that the book wasn't really the "story-telling" kind. But they worked it out fine enough, and were able to muster-up a few story lines to help bring the book to life.

As usual, it focused mainly on the stories revolving love-lorn singles. Gag me. I say that only because I know that there are just as many single people who are out and about, and are comfortable with their "status." And that I'm totally cool with. But there are also some who are out there who can't seem to not stomp their feet on the ground and complain about how they aren't finding the one. Uh, patience is a virtue, don't go looking for it, yada-yada, blah-blah-BLAH. The "love-lorn" singles in the movie made me want to stab myself. But the pleasant surprise was that there was a story about a married couple who eventually broke-up, and decided it best to carry on with their lives to work on themselves... sorta. I kind of relate the story-line to Kirsten Dunst's character on Mona Lisa Smiles. So if you know, then you know. Anyway. B (It doesn't get the "+" because Isla Fisher was not involved.).

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE
Forced to watch, or wanted to: Absoultely WANTED to.
Grade: A+++
Personal Take: Fine. I am probably one of the last people on Earth to see this movie. OK, that's surely an over-statement. But really. I've been wanting to see this since it won "best movie" at the Golden Globes. So I finally saw it, and wow --- I was pretty floored. The story is/was genius.

In order to NOT spoil the story for those who have yet to watch it, I will not go into details. But at the end of the day, it is one of the best "feel good" movies ever made. I especially love that it showcased Mumbai, and the truth about poverty in 3rd world Asia. It reminded me of the things I've seen in The Philippines back in the day. My heart was broken for all the hardships shown, but at the same time, I found redemption in the perseverance of others. (*cough*JAMIL*cough*)

I know the film wasn't exactly "Bollywood," but still. It has elevated the art of Bollywood-esque cinema, and has put the Indian (South Asian) "story" on the international map. After watching the movie, I am now absolutely assured that it deserved the Oscar for "Best Movie." A+++.

THE POST-OSCAR MONOLOGUES

Oh, the Oscars.

They've become one of America's most anticipated pastimes; somehow finding a place for itself on the shelf between baseball and apple pie. It is an event when and where Hollywood is propelled to the highest echelons of the American psyche, which says a lot despite this flattening economy that our world faces. The drivel that we hear on the news regarding the problems of our country (as well as others), and the poor economic state that it is bathing in, can pretty much put a damper on anyone's day. But that's why we have Hollywood. Hollywood takes us away from the somewhat paralyzing reality that is life, and in doing so it serves as a reminder that at the end of the day, life really isn't all that bad. And we have the characters (errr... the actors/actresses who play them) to thank for that.

Take, for instance, Anne Hathaway's character, Kym, in the film Rachel Getting Married. Annie H. climbs the ranks from princess to fashion mag flunkie to just-out-of-rehab-addict-whose-sister-is-getting-married-the-next-day. Talk about being in a shitty situation. Kym reminds us that life, in general, isn't so bad for most of us. Then there's Hayden Christensen's character, David Rice (in Jumper), who runs in fear of a group called the Paladins, who are out to rid the world of "jumpers" like himself. It doesn't help that his biological mother is a Paladin, too. Some life, huh? Oh, and you can't deny the shitty life of April & Frank Wheeler (Kate Winslet & Leo DiCaprio) in Revolutionary Road. I have nothing more to say about that.

But life in movies isn't always so tragic. There is the "silent" romance in WALL-E, which is shared between two robots. There is the redemption story of 27 Dresses, in which Jane (played by Katherine Heigl) - "always a bridesmaid, never a bride" - gets the last laugh when she finally ties the knot and has a long line of bridesmaids wearing each of the tacky gowns she had to wear for their weddings through the years. And finally, there is the story of Jamal Malik in Slumdog Millionaire... the Mumbai street-rat who is suspected of cheating on a national game show. Jamal finds atonement when he clearly justifies his answers by telling his story about family, life on the streets, and his lost love.

Movies take us out of our very own realities, albeit briefly, and help us to put things into perspective. From the stories as told by our screenwriters, from the perspectives shown to us by our directors, and from the emotions emanating from our actors we are able to get a sense of some of life's lessons: from the out-right simple ones to the most complex. Movies do not only entertain... they sustain just as well.

And so we have the Oscars --the night the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences crowns the crėme de la crėme of the film world. It's the one night of the year that turns the crappy sidewalks surrounding the Kodak Theater into a magical place. The red carpet beckons people from around the world to crowd around and try to steal a glimpse of their favorite screen stars. The pre-show becomes the most anticipated runway show; a melange of couture straight off the runways of New York, London, Paris, and Milan.

The 81st Academy Awards was truly something. In a mix of strange instances and surreal moments, the show still managed to entertain. There was definitely something for everyone.

Hugh Jackman served as host, which was definitely a big jump (not in a bad NOR good way) from the days of Billy Crystal. At times I felt like I was watching the Tony Awards (which Jackman has hosted in the past), and the song and dance numbers were reminiscent of that. Thankfully, Hugh Jackman is also prolific as a stage actor, and has had his share of roles on Broadway. The sheer fact that he can go from Wolverine to the lead in "The Boy From Oz" is genius. He did a fine job.

There were the filler musical numbers, which never really are at par with the Grammys or Tonys. These are the Oscars, after all, and the musical numbers - although cheesy at best - help to move the show along. Thankfully, each number wasn't as excruciating as they could've been, and none of them lasted too long for viewers to want to poke their eyes out. Beyonce (and, to a tiny extent, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens --why, oh why?) was obviously pulled-in to legitimize one of the performances. Again, Jackman pulled the numbers off as best as he can; his charm and talent winning the crowd over.

Then there were the awards: from best lighting to best screenplay to best actor. Each and every award meant something special to each and every film. Clearly, the audience waited nervously as the awards were called out for the actors. Leading the night was the Best Supporting Actress award. I was hoping that Taraji P. Henson would win. She is from "home," and graduated from my high school just a few years before I entered as a freshman. As of late, she's been turning out roles on the big screen, and is swiftly becoming a seasoned vet. The award went to Penelope Cruz, but I was still proud of Henson for bringing glory to the Oxon Hill/Ft. Washington area. The Best Supporting Actor award was awarded posthumously to the late Heath Ledger, and was accepted on his behalf by his parents and sister.

The highlight of the night came as the awards for Best Actress/Actor were announced. For each category, five previous winners were called on stage. Each of them gave a personal exhortation on the merits of each nominee, which added a touching sense to the evening. Anne Hathaway was almost in tears after Shirley Mclain strongly told her that there are sure to be more nominations in the young actress' future. In a pool of talent that included Hathaway, her The Devil Wears Prada co-star Meryl Streep, Titanic-veteran Kate Winslet, Melissa Leo, and Angelina Jolie -- Kate took the top honor. In a genuine gesutre, she reached over to Angelina as she walked up the stage, and extolled on the virtues of her co-nominees --especially the ever-so-grand Meryl Streep. The Best Actor award was presented in the same way, with Sean Penn winning over heavy favorite, Mickey Rourke.

The biggest winner of all: Slumdog Millionaire. The win was befitting for the little movie that could; truly a "David & Goliath" story in the making. The journey of the movie would make an interesting movie itself! I personally love that it brought glory not only to those who made the film, but to Mumbai, and the people of India.

In general, this year's Oscar show was a sure hit compared to last year's. Aside from Jack Black's not-so-funny exchange with Jen Aniston, Ben Stiller's take on Joaquin Phoenix (it was funny for a minute, but then got old), and the uncomfy Jerry Lewis moment, the show rocked. Some of the speeches were a tad bit long, but it's the Oscars for sobbing out loud.

One thing's for sure: James Franco's laughs and smiles during the Pineapple Express-esqe presentation were hilarious and contagious. He's got my nod for future blockbuster star.

(Photo from www.drafthouse.com)

5 THINGS...

...I currently have an obsession with curry: Indian, Thai, Japanese, etc. My latest foray in curry-cookingdom: mussels cooked in coconut milk/green curry. I didn't follow a recipe, and totally just went off instinct. Surprisingly it turned out well. Recipe will be posted soon.

...I am officially a big fan of Anne Hathaway, and she's a budding style-icon in her own right.

...Weathered/textured shoes are awesome. Shoes with character are the best ones.

...Kate Winslet, Sean Penn, & Slumdog Millionaire: Phenomenal.

...I know I mentioned that I was into this song sometime last December, but it's officially being released now so I had to give it props (ahahaha):



(Video from music.aol.com)

THANKSGIVING (Partie Un)

In fine Thanksgiving holiday tradition, this year was long-awaited. There definitely was much to look forward to, especially in the weeks leading up to it. As usual, the days prior to Thanksgiving drudged along ever-so-slowly. Long days at work, compounded with tons of errands to be done on the weekends, seemed to make the holiday seem so far from reach. But in the blink of an eye, it passed just as quickly as it came.

My holiday started last Wednesday when our offices closed at noon. Not that I could relish in the time off since I had a laundry list of things to do. My to-do list had included a number of things including packing for road the trip to The Bay, picking up the rental car, and somehow slipping-in a hair cut. Once that was done, I had to get ready for the concert.

Oops. Did I mention that I had tickets to see NKOTB at L.A. Live! (Nokia Theater) for last Wednesday? Yes, I know. I had already seen them once at Staples. But Lesley and I went to see the show one last time. They ended their U.S. tour in L.A. last Wednesday night before heading off to Mexico and Europe. For those who care, the show was a good time. We had orchestra seats, and had an awesome view. The theater was packed, and the crowd was mixed --more so I thought than it was at Staples just a month before. We laughed along with those who were screaming seriously, reminisced with the old songs, and grooved with the new ones. Jon (Knight) got a birthday serenade from the fellas and audience, and everyone got to "hang tough" during the encore. Fun times, most definitely. (But if you want to hear my deeper insights on the audience, then drop me a line. Hee.)

Here's a clip from my camera (the encore number, "Hangin' Tough"):



We got in after a late-night stop at Norm's on Pico, so the next morning we were off to a late start. I scooped-up Lesley around 10:30AM on Thanksgiving morning, and we headed off to The Bay. Traffic was practically non-existent, except for that strip along the Grapevine (which is so annoying). We made it to Fremont after about 5 hours.

When we got to the Bernales' condo, the majority of the guests were already there. Final touches were being placed on the food, and the table was being set. I swooped in to do my part and help where I could. The table was beautifully set, and the menu items were amazing. Among them: rigati (tossed with olive oil, parmesan, peas, and sun dried tomatoes), baked salmon, honey glazed ham, haricots verts w/garlic and onions, mashed potatoes, stuffing, tossed salad, and a nicely-prepared bird --which was tender and juicy. To add a little ethnic flair we had Philippine empanadas, puto, and a yummo "pandan"-flavored cake. To add to the dining experience was an array of appetizers (including sweet potato fries dipped in ranch dressing, fried mac 'n cheese balls dipped in marinara sauce, and cheese/chicken stuffed "purses"). A red velvet cake and pumpkin cheesecake topped everything off. Mind you, all of these things (save for the Filipino dishes) were made from scratch by our hosts, Lenore and Allan, and my sister, Tes. Their work was simply magical that night.

We had great conversations, and there was a lot of catching up done among the majority of us who all grew up back in MD. Libations flowed (I actually drank for a good portion of the evening; I didn't eat until very late), songs were performed via Amelie's "Magic Mic," and we played "drunk" charades and poker (while I continued to perform songs throughout the rest of the night; don't ask).

After putting stuff away, and cleaning up, we vegged out before passing out. A much-needed end to a super long day. But what Thanksgiving doesn't end that way?

---

To come... Partie Deux -- lazy 'Black Friday,' The Slanted Door, Lime, Patio Filipino, and Corso.

SO WHAT IF I SAW NKOTB IN CONCERT?!

I am embarrassed to admit it, but last week I went to see NKOTB in concert. Go ahead. Gasp. Laugh. Make fun, snicker behind my back. Whatever you need to do --just do it. I will take it. In fact, I probably deserve it. NKOTB is the last group I would have expected myself to see in concert, but for some strange reason it was already written that I, Wendel Jay Damaso Ladringan, would go to an NKOTB concert at least once in my life.

But my going was a total fluke.

Let's rewind. Back in 1989, I had just finished my last year at Oxon Hill Middle School (in Maryland), and was preparing for my freshman year at Oxon Hill High School. That Summer, while all of my friends were probably hanging out and doing fun things, I got to go to work with my mom. She, along with many of her close friends, worked the evening shift at a processing center just across the Potomac River in Alexandria, VA. I, along with some of the other kids of my mom's friends, went into work each night, doing whatever kind of stuff was legal enough for kids (as young as we were) to do. The lame thing was that while my friends would go into work like 2 or 3 nights out of the week, my mom decided that I would have to go 5 nights of the week. She wouldn't have it otherwise, and I couldn't throw a tantrum about it or else she'd shoot me "the look," and it would be all over. I hated every minute of it. I hated going into the office at 4PM, and not going home until midnight. It wasn't fair on so many levels, but it was absolutely fair in my mom's eyes. My only consolation was that I had complete control of the car radio on the quiet drive home. I remember one night, for the first time, I heard a song called "Please Don't Go Girl," which featured an almost baby-sounding kid on leads. The group, I later found out, was called New Kids On the Block, and the song sort of became my solace during that boring ass Summer that I had to go into work with my mom each night of the week.
NKOTB then...

NKOTB now...

Soon enough, the craze over this "boy band" started to pick-up, and more of their songs were hitting the airwaves. While I appreciated the songs (for the most part), there was something annoying about the New Kids. All of a sudden they were everywhere. Their songs played on loop on several radio stations all the time, and their images were plastered all over the malls. It was a bit much. For the most part, me and a few of my friends were not on board, choosing to instead follow the music and careers of Janet Jackson, Paula Abdul, or whoever else was "in" back in the day. The New Kids were more for my younger sister and brother's wave of friends. But for some strange reason, I knew their songs... sort of how I somehow know songs by Celine Dion, but find her completely annoying.

And I sort of knew the personas of each of the guys: Joey was the "baby" of the group, Jordan was the "star," Donnie was the "bad boy," Danny was the "muscle," and then there was Jon -- the "quiet/shy one." I mean even if you didn't follow them, you definitely knew who they were, and what they sang.

They were going strong for a good couple of years, then all of a sudden the madness just stopped. I, personally, didn't really know what happened. But by my freshman year in college, the New Kids were headed towards "extinction." Just as quickly as they had brushed onto the scene, they were out. After graduating college, I remember both Jordan and Joey Mac embarking on solo careers along with the teen pop boom (Backstreet Boys, N'Sync, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Mandy Moore, etc.). Donnie was already making movies and TV shows, with a memorable part in The Sixth Sense. But I had no idea what Danny or Jonathan were up to, nor did I actually care.

Then in 2001, I remember coming home from work and plopping in front of the TV to watch Oprah (something I did every day for a good few months straight), and she featured Jon and Jordan on a show about anxiety disorders. I remember the feeling I got when I saw that show: shock. I had no idea that Jon had been suffering from anxiety, and seeing him on the show really made me feel for the guy. It seemed somewhat painful to be him at that moment, and I instantaneously started to feel bad about thinking all those lame things I thought about the New Kids, or NKTOB.

But I got over it. I still felt bad for Jon, but I totally got over it. And again, they sort of slipped away from the limelight. In the years that followed, I would hear random things about Donnie being on Boomtown, which didn't last too long (but was a good show, to his credit); Joey played 'Fiyero' in Wicked, and was also on Dancing With the Stars; and Jordan had a quick stint on The Surreal Life. But again, all these things came and went so quickly that I just didn't get to pay them any mind.

Fast forward to 2008. So I heard that NKOTB was coming back with a brand new album, and were going on tour. I didn't even think much about it at the time. One of my roommates, who was (is) an avid fan, sent a bunch of us an email asking who would be interested in seeing their concert at Staples Center in October. I was so not one of the people who bit; I was not the least bit interested. But soon enough, two of my roommate's friends had to back out at the last minute, and she was out two tickets. She asked me if I wanted to go, but I still wasn't interested. But since I was just coming down from a high after seeing Janet Jackson's concert at Staples, I decided to do her a favor and take one of the extra tickets. I remember the day the concert came, I was so not in the mood. I didn't want to go. But I kept my word, and went with the gang; five of us in all: Anna, Lesley, Maria, Alex (thank goodness there was another guy), and myself... symbolically (they pointed out; the fans that they are) "perfect" since there are five "new kids." Great. All I needed was alcohol to get me through the night.

So there I was... one of a few guys (actually, there were a lot more than I expected) amongst a sea of 30/40-something-year-old women who were still hard-core fans of NKOTB. I actually found them to be endearing, and I started to get feelings of nostalgia about "the good old days" when we were young, and life was simpler. I remembered those nights I'd go to work with my mom, and I'd listen to "Please Don't Go Girl" on the car radio. Once the lights dimmed, and the video-tron started to go off, the Staples Center became ablazed with screaming fans jumping up and down, clapping their hands, shouting from the top of their lungs... and then it started. The guys came out with the same old swagger, but with so much more maturity. Goosebumps actually started to form on my arms. I couldn't explain the phenomenon.

They started the show with their new single, ironically entitled "Single," which they actually do with Ne-Yo on their album. It was the perfect song to start the evening, and the moment Joey Mac started with the vocals, the crowd went wild. Like clockwork, Jordan and Donnie filled in the additional main vocals, with Danny and Jon doing their parts. The concert then took a life of its own from that point on, and the gang went through all of their old hits, with new songs performed in-between. They still had it. Their energy level was totally high, but not oozing with too much teeny-bopper annoyingness (which I remember from back in the day). To their credit, they were pretty awesome for guys who are in their mid to upper 30s. Aside from aging very well (the Knight brothers both aging extremely well actually), they were hittin' their dance steps, and singing their notes, and performing much to the delight of their devoted fans.

I couldn't help but feel sort of proud. The whole experience was a throw-back to my generation of youth. The whole time I kept thinking about how my generation had the best toys, the best TV shows, the not-so-best clothes and hairstyles, but definitely the best music. And I have to admit that NKOTB was definitely a part of that. I felt that the guys made their comeback at the right time; doing things on their own terms, and doing it out of their love for their craft - not so much for the fame.

As a guy who easily came to appreciate the Backstreet Boys and N'Sync, I couldn't help but realize that those boy bands that came later would be nothing without NKOTB. NKOTB came about at a time when my generation needed something like them most. They were (are) the Beatles of my generation, and that was evident that night at Staples Center.

I actually left the concert with a new-found respect for the guys, and a deeper appreciation for their contribution to pop culture. I also caught the VH1 Behind the Music special on them, and that's where I really got to figure out what the guys experienced during their hey-dey. To know that it wasn't cake-walk for them, and to see how much they've accomplished on their own (getting married, having kids, starting their own companies) only added to my new-found respect. I think this time around, NKOTB has actually "arrived." They definitely have nothing to lose.

While I still can't believe that I went to their concert, I'm glad that I did. I honestly feel like those who missed out, really missed out on something special. It was an opportunity to re-live those days when we could be absolutely care-free, and the memories that it brought about totally made me sit back and smile... a lot.

So there. I am now a fan. Admitting so is the first step (by step... HA.).

MISS JANET: ALL NITE (DON'T STOP)

I'm still reeling after going to Janet Jackson's concert this past Wednesday at Staples Center. In all my years of being a fan, I always missed her concerts for one reason or another. I wasn't going to make that mistake again. From what I remember of her past concert videos and TV appearances, I was a little shocked that this concert was less theatrical in terms of heavy sets, out-of-control lighting, and super-big costumes. Instead, the stage was minimal, using videos and just enough lighting to make the point that something cool was about to take place. And that's exactly what happened. There weren't any over-the-top outfits or costume changes, nor were there things flying from the ceiling, or too many little things going on all points of the stage. Instead we had only Janet and her dancers, which was all we needed.

J did all of her hits, opening with Pleasure Principle, and then ending with Runaway. She added some of her newer hits in-between numbers, or as part of medleys, and the crowd bought it. I pretty much stood up and danced the whole night; hardly ever sitting down except for those brief moments when videos were flashing across the screens, or when J sang her string of ballads. After the opening number (PP, then segueing into Control, What Have You Done For Me Lately, & Feedback), she asked Los Angeles, "Do YOU want THIS?!" And from there, we knew what to expect. She did a snippet of You Want This, and then the rest trickled through like clockwork: M.I.S.S.You Much, Come Back To Me, Let's Wait Awhile, Again... All Nite, Escapade, Love Will Never Do... If, Rhythm Nation... all of her best, with a dusting of her lesser known tracks.

Things really started for me when she did All Nite (Don't Stop), one of my favorite dance tracks. The strumming of the bass in the beginning, and then the quick-paced beats that follow, gets me worked up all the time. The feeling came back again later on in the show; I turned to my friend and said, "I think I smell IF..." And sure enough she sang it, and went right into Rhythm Nation. It was over at that point, and the crowd went crazy.

Anyway. I'm glad I finally got to see Janet in concert. I almost missed out again, but friends of mine couldn't go at the last minute, and thankfully they thought of me. I was on those tickets like a hungry hostage!

It wouldn't have happened any other way.

Here's a video of J's All Nite (Don't Stop). Again, this is my favorite post-The Velvet Rope Janet song/dance routine ever. I'm still working on solidifying my list of favorite Janet tracks, but until that's finalized know that this will definitely be one of them.

PHELPS, COFFEE & HALF OF A CRUMBS CUPCAKE (?!)

Michael Phelps is the golden boy... literally.

He has definitely been the face of U.S. Olympics during these Beijing games; if not one of the definitive faces of the Olympics in general. Probably the coolest news footage regarding Phelps in the last few days was from the recent scrimmage game for the Baltimore Ravens. After the Ravens' game (back in Maryland), the crowd remained in the stadium to catch Phelps' race on the big screen. Watching footage of this gave me goosebumps, and it was really cool to watch the crowd rooting for Michael with signs, pom-poms, and jumping up and down. This morning, on The Today Show, they even showed a couple of the Ravens' players say notes of well-wishes to Michael. It was definitely one of the cooler media-moments of the games.

I haven't been more proud of being from Maryland. And it's great to have these "hometown" heroes/Olympians: Phelps, Dominique Dawes, Elise Ray, Courtney Kupets, Kimmie Meissner, etc. Just goes to show that "home" is just as star-filled as any other place in the country.

Rock on, Michael Phelps! I'm sure that Baltimore, and the rest of Maryland, will give you one hell of a homecoming... (!!!)

---

I have to make mention of my Monday morning breakfast, which consisted of a cup of coffee & half of a red velvet cupcake from Crumbs. Don't ask. Just let me bask in my moment of Monday morning gluttony.

THANKS, POPE BENEDICT XVI

This has been a special week/weekend for Roman Catholics in the United States. Barring all of the scandal that has enveloped the Catholic Church in the U.S., and the somewhat "lax" faith practices of Church members (myself included ---at times--- I must poorly admit), Pope Benedict XVI's visit has been one of great spiritual awakening for many. His message of faith, hope, and charity is one that the country has been in need of for quite some time.

I have to admit that I was a little skeptical about Pope Benedict's election to the Papacy. But that skepticism was spawned more so from a sense of "unfamiliarity." I had grown-up in a world that was accustomed to having Pope John Paul II as the spiritual leader of Catholics, and I guess a part of me just figured that he would never leave. That was purely my innocence mixed with a greater sense of personal ignorance. Like many, sometimes I find it way too hard to veer off the path of familiarity. Losing John Paul II a few years back was something that I couldn't comprehend, nor did I allow myself to care too deeply about the situation at the time. Truth is, however, I did (do) care.

Pope Benedict's election was one that flew over my head. He came almost as quickly as John Paul II left. And I think that I didn't allow myself to be fully open to his election. I even went as far as making fun of him with friends; saying that he looked scary, and that he probably was super mean or something. But after watching all of the news accounts of his visit to the East Coast, and listening to his more-than-personal messages during homilies and other speeches, I must say that I feel horrible for feeling the way I did about him. And I wish I was home for that Mass at Nationals' Stadium, and I wish I was at Yankee Stadium in NYC right now (I am watching the Mass on Fox News as I type). Needless to say, I would like to be in an audience of the Pope one day.

I have to remember that embracing change comes at every level of life. And I have to remember to trust in His promises for us. I have my moral convictions, but I do not shove my faith down anyone's throat. And I am OK with that.

Thanks, Pope Benedict XVI, for reminding me to lead by example and by faith.

THE RETURN OF MISS J

At work the other day, some of my co-workers were talking about Rihanna and how she's "the new Beyonce," meaning that 'B' is pretty much a done deal. Somehow the conversation shifted to Janet Jackson. Mind you I wasn't really participating in the conversation since I was pre-occupied with something else (I could care less about Beyonce... and more so about Rihanna...). But a co-worker's comment changed that all in the span of seconds. One of my boys in the office said, with much conviction, that "Janet Jackson is done." All of a sudden the blood rushed to my head, adrenaline starting pumping through my body, and I retorted almost instantaneously - "Janet Jackson is NOT done." I must've said it with just as much conviction back because the rest of the team said, "DAMN!" in response to my sudden outburst.

That was followed by moments of silence, but after a few... the offending co-worker asked me, "So you don't think Janet Jackson is done, Wendel?" I totally laughed to myself when he asked.

Anyway. I am, obviously, a fan. And I will be the first to admit that J may never hit the same success she did with Rhythm Nation or - to a lesser extent - its follow-up, Janet; both of which are my personal favorite albums. The Velvet Rope was ok, and I only have a couple of favorites each from All For You, Damita Jo and 20 Y.O. But that being said, despite her less-than-stellar follow-up albums, she is one of those stars that will never be done. (Think Prince, Madonna, even her bro - Michael... despite his weird-ass self...) Even if her newer albums may not rock like her past ones, she is still "Janet Jackson." She still has amazing tours. She still performs like no joke. She is still the music icon. And eff all them new bitches that come on the scene. Ask any of them, and they will all count J as one of their idols.

So to those doubters, and esp. to my co-worker (although I forgive him highly), Janet Jackson is NOT done. WHAT!

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The other day I accomplished so much: watched Jumper, bought two pairs of jeans (at separate places), bought new glasses (see photo), worked-out, went to Mass, and then studied a little for that forsaken exam tomorrow morning.

Jumper wasn't bad... I actually liked it. I'm returning one pair of jeans (eh). And I love my new glasses. They're an updated version of an older pair that I used to have. Wanted to keep the same general look, but a little sleeker with the thicker arms and squared frames.

And I forgot to forward my clock an hour. Boo.

BURNT LUMPIA & OTHER STUFF

I wasn't feeling that great this morning, so I played one of my "sick day" cards. Nothing out-of-the-ordinary took place today, but I did get to tune in to Kababayan L.A. on LA18 (channel 18). Ironically enough, the episode was laden with post-Oscar news: winners, losers, and fashion - as expected.

However there was a brief portion of the show dedicated to bloggers... Filipino bloggers to be specific. The owner of Burnt Lumpia was on the show talking about blogging, and all that good stuff. As usual, Janelle So had her list of somewhat weird questions (I always think that her questions are a little strange...) to ask, but thankfully I think the guy totally knew what she meant. I didn't really pay attention because I went on my laptop to access the site. It has since been added to my growing list of readables. So check it next time you get a second.
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"EH" #3 of the day: Tonight, Diddy will be on TV. A Raisin In the Sun will show on primetime, and I am not going to watch it. I'm sure Phylicia Rashad will be phenomenal, as will Audra McDonald. But I'm just not at all sure about Diddy. Emmm.

"EH" #2 of the day: Uh, Ryan Seacrest just asked Jessica Alba (during the red carpet outside the Kodak yesterday, actually) if she'll be breast feeding... and both she and Cash looked somewhat horrified.

"EH" #1 of the day: I got shat on by a bird as Ning and I were walking into Vons. Thank goodness grocery stores have those 'wipes' available for you at the entrances. If it weren't for them, I'd be funkin' up bird style. Gross.

YUM SOO-SHEE

Last Wednesday, The Mobley (the in-house cafeteria at work) had their bi-weekly menu of sushi available for lunch. I usually never get their sushi, even though they've contracted some real-deal sushi company to come in and pre-make the rolls prior to the big lunch rush. Every other Wednesday people line-up for a dose of the not-so-spectacular maki rolls. Those who are more daring go for the side of seaweed salad, too. For some strange reason, I decided that I would get sushi there for the first time ever. Needless to say, it will be my last.

I honestly see no difference between the sushi served at work, and the sushi that's pre-packed at the grocery store. Granted, Bristol Farms serves up amazing pre-packed sushi for a grocery store, but they are the sole exception. I got a combo spicy tuna/salmon roll from The Mobez, and I (1) inhaled it in like 2 minutes, and (2) was not even close to satisfied.

After work, Jess and I decided to walk across the street to the Bev Hills library to study for the CPSM exam. We sat there dutifully studying for over an hour and a half, and the whole time you could hear my stomach growling and turning and doing all sorts of not-so-cool things. When we were done, we had to eat. We stopped at Sushi & Kushi Imai on Wilshire, right on the border of Bev Hills and mid-Wilshire. I've driven by this spot so many times before, but never been. Jess had been once and said that their happy hour was great. We missed happy hour, but were starving anyway so we went. Needless to say, it was great... Jess ordered this "crunch & crunch" thing which was basically a shrimp tempura roll nicely arranged with wonton bits and tempura shavings all over. It looked like a big sushi cake or something. To compliment that, she ordered a stuffed avocado with mushrooms and something else... scallops maybe? Looked amazing. I got a spicy tuna salad --spicy tuna on a bed of mixed greens with fresh slices of avocado on top. I also ordered a baked crab roll, which was OK. It was nothing remotely close to Kabuki's BSR (or something like that) or Roku's baked crab roll, which is still one of the best (if not the best) that I've had. All in all, the experience was good. I would definitely go again, especially for happy hour.

The service lagged a little though, but it was definitely busier than I had expected. It was dimly lit; pretty standard stuff much like the other Japanese places I've been to out here. But it was cozy, not cold like the new Sasabune. Since it was packed, it was a little loud, but not overly so. The sushi bar looked somewhat chic, and it gave balance to the rest of the area -- basically a v-shaped open space filled with tables. Definitely a keeper.

Incidentally, during lunch yesterday Jess and Justin stopped through the new spot made by the Sushi Roku gang of restaurants -- Luckyfish -- here in Bev Hills. It's one of those kaiten places --"conveyor belt" sushi. Not exactly my bag, but I'll try it since it's by the Roku gang. I'll let you know how it goes. Looks like we won't have a sushi shortage ever. Then again, this is L.A.

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Totally unrelated to sushi... but I feel like this is worth of mentioning; at least for my fellow Filos. Those of us who grew up in the 80s are more than familiar with Philippine stars Sharon Cuneta and Gabby Concepcion. They were a totally cheesy love-team that, for purposes not completely known to me, ended up getting married in real life. (The world of Philippine cinema is known for doing this ---which is absolutely dumb, I think.) So they had a story-book wedding; a ceremony and reception that royal weddings are made of. And then, as they usually do, they got divorced. Sharon went on to be one of the country's best stars, while Gabby had his share of fame before going on to father two more kids with two other women. (Not judging here...!) Now he's supposedly here in the States.

Anyway. Sharon and Gabby had a daughter, Maria Kristina Cassandra (sp?) - more popularly known as KC. She was the chubby little girl that pretty much grew up in the shadow of her mom. She wasn't absolutely pretty, but not at all unfortunate either. She wasn't super into showbiz, too. Some children of actors in The Phils totally get immersed in showbiz the minute they can walk and talk. But not so much KC, even though she did dabble with theater. Eventually, the little girl grew up... went to Paris for school... watched as her mom gave birth to her younger sisters... and eventually came to reconcile with her once-estranged father. Needless to say, the little duckling (not 'ugly' duckling, 'cause she honestly was never ugly to me) has blossomed into a swan.

Uh... this is her now:

Wow, right? She's gorgeous! She may be a spittin' image of her dad, but as a female she carries the look well. Ahahaha. I'm pretty impressed, and actually can't wait to see how far this one goes in Philppine showbiz. She's got an international look that may work in Hollywood. But is the talent there? Abangan ang susunod na...kabanata!

OVERRATED

I'm sorry, (and this is going to be one of the most absolutely random posts ever) but I have to get this off my chest. I honestly do not think that Kimberly Locke is all that. Sure she can sing, but I don't think she can SANG. Even when she was on AI I totally felt like she was full of hot air. She's loud, and has a bellow-y (is that a word?) voice, but in no way is she out-right amazing. The thing is, they are playing the shit out of her on the easy listening station --- her Christmas songs, to be exact. And on these songs, she is not impressive. Even though they're also playing the shit out of Clay Aiken and Josh Groban, I have to admit that I'd rather listen to their ho-ho-ho tunes as opposed to Kimberly's.

I honestly shouldn't be listening to the easy listening station, but it's the Christmas season and they're playing carols. It gets me in an effin' festive mood, but when I hear her songs it makes me angry... her's and Gloria Estefan's songs. They're not that great at all. Well, their Christmas songs, at least, suck.

OK this was mean, and I feel bad cause I posted her picture.

Whatever. I felt bad for a second. Now, not so much.