The Prince of Tennis DVD

Last week, I’ve been indulging myself with another favorite manga/anime-turned-to-live-action that is Tenipuri. But now it’s called Wang Qiu Wang Zi in its Chinese drama rendition. And it’s a TV series! Unlike the one-arc Japanese movie that only made me want for more. XD

I loved the Japanese movie when it came out back in 2006 (not to mention Hongo-kun looked as if he was born to play Ryoma). So when I first learned about the Chinese drama, I was like “Ehhh?” because I’m sooo used to seeing the Japanese cast in the Seigaku jerseys. So when I saw the jackets donned by people other than them, prejudice started kicking in.

Anyway, I’m glad that I decided to try and watch it. I must say they did an amazing job in coming up with a fun cast who managed to stick to the original characters while at the same time putting more personality into their roles. Like the hot-tempered Kaido getting a little twist in his personality (which I find really really cute hahahaha!) And like what I’ve plurked before, the plot is a more realistic version of the story. Even though I already know the general story, it’s amusing to watch their own take of the scenes. More lessons. Less emphasis on their special moves. No exaggerations. Their school life has got more airtime hehe! ^^; That’s why you get to see more character development. And they’re in a university, which adds to the realism. And everyone is simply fun together.

Well, the DVD has Chinese subtitles so I guess the DoReMii fansubs will have to do for now. I just want to own the series (because it deserves to be owned mwahahahaha!!!). After all, actions speak louder than words! ^_^

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Sony Alpha DSLRA350K 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera

Photography is probably one hobby of mine that I have overlooked (or forsaken) simply because I don’t have the proper materials to seriously practice it with (biking is another). When I was in high school (10 years ago), I used to carry around with me a simple film camera and I would take pictures of people and our school randomly. I must have consumed at least 4 rolls of film (36 shots each) at that time. These photos became handy when we were making our yearbook. And that camera wasn’t even mine!

Even though I took photos randomly, however, my shots were done with precision. A bit tilted, perhaps (due to shaky hands), but I made sure I’ve captured every scene from an excellent angle. And I found myself enjoying the challenge of discovering that particular angle. Now that I think about it, I actually think I have the knack for this craft. Of course, I would never make such claim without proof.

A photo of our high school building taken using the simple film camera I borrowed

I may have the natural instinct but I’m certainly lacking big time in the technical department. As a novice in photography trying to rediscover this old inclination and catch up with the latest available paraphernalia, I’ve started reading online guides and browsing through the different camera models. DPReview.com is a good stop. I find it comprehensive and useful. It’s got a glossary of technical terms, which is very helpful especially for starters like me.

But what really got me interested in delving deeper into the science of photography was after I plurked that “I want a real camera.” I had a nice chat with Javie, who happened to share the same thoughts as me regarding photography. And I realized that if I wanted  a real camera and get serious in this craft, then I should take at least a crash course in photography and learn the basics so that I could have the best-buy camera available in the market.

I have expected these cameras to be expensive. After flipping through the pages of DPReview.com, I was able to establish some rough comparison between brands and models in terms of specifications and price range. And so I’ve settled for Sony Alpha DSLRA350K, which in my opinion, is good enough for a starter like me. A 14.2-MP DSLR camera with 3.8 MP/cm² pixel density for a price range of $500 to $700, I honestly think it’s a reasonable buy. I just hope it’s available in local stores here.

But of course, I would appreciate it so much if you could recommend a better option.

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Nokia E55 (Red edition)

I’ve always wanted a Nokia E51 but now I want this.

One improvement of this sweet blood over the E51 is that it’s got stereo speakers! I may be wrong on the assumption that the E51′s are not  (since I never bought it–good thing I haven’t yet) but it’s never been pointed out on its data sheet and other specs sites. For the E55, it’s clearly indicated “Stereo” so that’s enough assurance at least. The keypad looks weird but I think I’ll get used to it. It comes in black, white (which are both pretty and sleek), and RED! (Note: This is not a product review so expect me to be whimsical. This is a wishlist after all.)

It’s not out in the market yet and I hope by the time it reaches the local stores here, I’ve already saved up enough money to buy it. (Just like when I got my Nokia 6680.)

Another thing to look forward to… ^_^

View specs at GSMArena.com

Download data sheet here.

By the way, did I say it’s red?

[EDIT]

Nokia E52

I think I’ll get this one instead when it comes out. It’s almost identical to the Nokia E55 except for the keyboard. And that color looks elegant too!

View specs at GSMArena.com

Download data sheet here.

[/EDIT]

Silver Swarovski Crystal Red Ruby Birthstone Necklace Earrings Jewelry Set

I’m not so fond of jewelry. When I go out, just a pair of earrings (plain studs or cute dangles) will do. White pearls when going to church; silver horseshoes for casual gimmicks.

But when I do buy one, I make sure I’d feel really good when I don them. Something that sets me apart from the rest. Just like a rare find. Something that would catch others’ attention and make them have a second look. If it fails, I’d feel good, anyway. Doesn’t need to be expensive but can look like one. So I don’t really care what it’s made of as long as it’s got charm. My satisfaction is what makes it priceless.

What I particularly like about this ruby set is that it’s got that dainty lady-ness written all over it. The deep red color depicts a headstrong profound character yet the slender figure spells elegance and vulnerability. They’ll look good on a light-colored dress.

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Jewelry box to keep it in.

The Catholic Youth Bible, Revised: New American Bible

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