What I’ll need:

• After photos of Raven Symone. Lots of them. For inspiration.
• My Fitness Pal App. To compute calories.
• Running Shoes. Exercise extreme.

Since I don’t want to flood this blog, follow my virtual food diet diary here.

When I was in highschool my baby sisters (who were literally slobbery and sticky babies then) said that I was Raven from the That’s So Raven Show. At first I couldn’t see how, but when my mom, dad and some of our family friends said the same thing. It must be true.

So my first TV twin is the lovely Raven-Symoné Christina Pearman. When she was fat.

This is her now:

I would need to really start running. Like REALLY start running, to keep up with her. *Sigh I’m starting to miss the perks of working at a BPO with cheaper gym fees.

Moving on.

I went to buy DVDs at Ruins a couple of weeks ago with Phoebe and Gela. Gela and I started talking my TV show obsessions and she said; “You should watch The Mindy Project, you look like Mindy.” I saw a couple of episodes on TV. The thing is – I wasn’t a fan of Mindy Kaling. So yes, I was pretty hesitant. Nevertheless, I gave it a try and then I realize the fictional Mindy and I do have a lot in common aside from the physical similarities.

So who do you think looks more like me? 

What’s amazing though is that I can watch serial killer movies without getting scared but if it’s something supernatural, I’m out in 2 seconds. Well except for Paranormal Activity and the Blair Witch Project. Those ‘documentaries’ were just so silly, amusing but silly.

In light of this, I have decided to compile a list of my favorite thriller movies.

1. SAW Series

This franchise is probably the most gruesome of all. I guess the reason why I like it is the thought that had been put in creating the film. It’s not just about a mad man hacking people to death - on contrary - Jigsaw had a playful mind and a creative way with putting his murders into action. They were carefully planned and was not just for the sake of satisfying his sick mind. If you recall, all the people involved had their own agendas which Jigsaw thought would be a good idea to correct.

2. The Final Destination Series

I admit it was kind of getting too old after the third movie but for some reason you just had to watch it. At first you think you know how they would die, the trail of freak accidents go on and on, but the writers wanted to keep us on the edge of our seats and it’s a different story every time.

3. The Silence of the Lambs

Another brilliant film. It wouldn’t have won 5 major academy awards if it wasn’t. Anthony Hopkins really outdone himself with the role of Hannibal Lector despite the fact that he had roughly 15 minutes of screen time. If you asked me, the two whole hours you spend watching this movie is definitely worth it.

4. The Butterfly Effect

This is where I found out that I love Ashton Kutcher. He fits well in every role he plays! The movie is surprisingly good. At first I wasn’t expecting much after my friends told me it was about time travel, but clearly that wasn’t the only message Eric Bress wanted to portray when he wrote this. It teaches us of the consequences of our actions and how they affect the people around us. The second movie was terrible though, I thought it was a glorified porn flick. So much sex and not that much of a plot.

5. Scream Series

I’m a Courtney Cox fan. I absolutely love her on Friends and Cougar Town, she’s just one of those actresses that can actually pull off comedy. The thing is, with her roles in sitcoms, it’s hard to pry away from the fact that she is Monica Gellar. So yes, while I was watching the movie, I couldn’t help but think that she is Monica Gellar. Nevertheless, the series was a good franchise. After the flop of the second and third movie, the fourth sequel was definitely unexpected and is my favorite.

6. When a Stranger Calls

Camilla Belle is one of my girl crushes. (I have a thing for brunettes; Mila Kunis, Natalie Portman and Kat Dennings) As far as I’m concerned she did great in her role as Jill Johnson. This movie is not of Oscar quality but it sure is entertaining. It’s not gory but your heart will drop at every turn.

7. House of Wax

I have to admit that I wanted to watch this movie because of Chad Michael Murray and Brian Van Holt. It wasn’t as scary as I thought it was, it was raw and twisted in all sorts of ways but very interesting. I was actually expecting a remake of the 1953 classic, but I guess I was wrong. Nevertheless it was a good watch.

8. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

Tim Burton’s work has always been dark and sinister. This movie is probably the most sinister of all. What I loved about this film aside from the fact that Johnny Depp is in it, is the exquisite cinematography and attention to detail. What else would you expect from Tim Burton? Amazing that man. Just simply amazing.

9. Secret Window

Yes another Johnny Depp movie. In this film you’d be lost if you don’t pay attention. At first you’d think that it’s about him stealing material but then it gets more complex. It doesn’t climax until the very end, which keeps you glued until you find out who the real killer is. Oh the joy of getting into the mind of a deranged writer.

10. Se7en

Another creative serial killer movie. You’d find this film to be disturbingly clever and highly shocking. I kid you not when I say that this is one for the books. David Fincher has created a timeless classic.

After re-reading this entry and seeing how remarkable I find Jigsaw and Hannibal Lecter, I’m convinced that I always look for a good back story on thrillers. It’s not about the morbidity, but it’s about the reason why these serial killers choose to do what they do. I can’t wait to see more creativity from writers and directors today.

The cinematography was amazing. Everything from the costumes to the locations, the animals to every little detail was spot-on. For something that happened during the great depression, the vibrant colors brought light into the scene.

What touched me the most was the compassion Jacob had for the animals. Being a former Veterinary student myself, I understood that feeling. Jacob was played by Robert Pattinson and let me tell you I wasn’t expecting much, after all I only knew him as Cedric Diggory and that sparkling vampire on that wretched movie that was poorly written by some hack. Yes, I hate Stephanie Meyer and her work.

The story revolves around the circus life. Now I understood the phrase “running away with the circus” that actually happened at one point – children running off with the circus. Sadly, it wasn’t all about the sparkly lights and the colorful tents. It was a hard life. This movie shows us how it really was. How money controlled everything. How the hunger for money could change a man.

After Jacob’s parents die in a tragic car accident, he had no where to go. He took a chance and stowed away on a train. Little did he know that his life would take another turn. He immediately hit it off with Camel, one of the circus’ men, who hooks him up with a job and offers to introduce him to the ring leader; August.

August is a more complex character. He was definitely a paranoid schizophrenic in my opinion and was terribly obsessed with his wife, Marlena.  She was the only one who could calm him down in an episode of insanity. Christoph Waltz did an excellent job on this role and I must applaud him for his performance. However complex he may be, August was a sinister bastard that I had him on my list of ‘most hated characters’ number one of which is Joffrey Baratheon from the Game of Thrones. I couldn’t bear to see his cruelty towards the animals and it broke my heart every single time he would hit Rosie (the elephant) till she bled. Yes, I really have a soft spot for animals. He would feel remorse after but it didn’t change the fact that he was a heartless bastard.

I would like to say that I am not a big fan of Reese. I find her ditsy and sloppy as an actress. To me, she was the perfect Elle Woods but in roles like this, she just didn’t make the cut in my book. Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon? Are you kidding me? There was absolutely no chemistry! It was by far the worst I’ve seen. I couldn’t even see the chemistry between her and Christoph Waltz for crying out loud. I guess, she’s really built for rom-coms or chick flicks. I wished they had Scarlett Johansson for this role.

Despite the disconnection I felt between the bizarre love triangle, I loved the movie. It’s brutal and heart-breaking but like almost all movies, things work out in the end. I have reason believe they have Disney-fied this story. I don’t really think a story made during the great depression would have such a happy ending.

A lot of people think it’s odd and I’m constantly getting frowned on when I express my love for this really awesome reality TV family. Then again, there as a time that I was a big Paris Hilton fan. So I guess the life of the rich + famous does fascinate me.

Why? Let me point it out;

1. It’s just fascinating to see the glitz and glamour of their life. They can afford to buy houses in any state they want, they drive the coolest cars (Yes, I’m a Range Rover fan) and they can travel to any place they wanted to in a snap. Basically it’s fun to see where they spend their millions.

2. Compared to watching the Hiltons. I find the Kardashians classier. They know how to carry themselves and how to behave where and when. Sure, they had their crazy moments but, they’re the good kind of crazy.

3. I just love their style. I don’t care if their lashes are fake or that they use hair extension and wear ton of make up. They’re gorgeous and they have excellent taste! Hell, I think the K sisters would do better on Fashion Police than the current team headed by an old hag who has nothing constructive to say whatsoever. Sorry, I really hate Joan Rivers. I think they should get someone on that show who has an actual fashion sense.

4. The Kardashian siblings are vocal. They don’t go around sugar coating issues they have about each other. Sheer honesty, that’s what it is.

5. Despite the fact that they are painfully honest to each other, the Kardashians siblings know how to kiss and make up after a big fight.

6. Contrary to what people think, they didn’t just get their millions from their dad’s riches. Sure, the business started with family money but they work together as a family in keeping their business empire.

7. Another thing I admire about them is their strong family values. Despite their busy schedules, they always make time for each other, they look out for one another and they give each other full support on any endeavor. Family is always first, no matter what.

8. Watching their reality TV series, you realize how human they actually are despite their millions. They struggle with the same things anyone would. Love, friend drama, work issues, weight issues, health, you name it, they got it. Proves to show that money can’t buy all the happiness in the world, but it sure can lessen your depression.

9. People point out how the Kardashians have “no talent”. I don’t see the point though. Do you need talent to run a business, live luxuriously and make millions?  I don’t think so. If you’re going to rant about celebrities not having talent, why not start with those who are actually the music or movie industry who are completely useless? As far as I’m concerned the Kardashian clan can be quite entertaining with their crazy quirky ways.

10. It amazes me how much I could relate to most of the issues the three sisters have, especially about each other. It’s good to know that I’m not alone on how I feel about certain things.

At the end of the day, no matter how weird you may think I am. I’d still love Kardashians no matter what scandal or issue they have gone through in the past or may go through in the future.

Everything is on this plate. You have your greens, your bacon and of course; the potatoes. The mayo mix of the salad is what balances out everything and the crunch of the bacon is just the added umpfh you’re looking. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory and I kid you not when I say that you will want to marry this salad. It’s the best appetizer on the menu.

There’s more to tea houses than just the tea and yakult. You must explore their snack options. My favorite tea house snack would be Chicken Chops, that are available in Serenitea.

I tried Chicken Chops after a middle-aged couple recommended it. It was after my shift at the Call Center and I was waiting for Robs who said we should have Milk Tea for lunch. If you’ve been to Serenitea’s branch in ATC, before they renovated, you’d know that there are only two tables and the place was in the middle of a busy junction. Plus, it’s crazy hard to get a seat there with the super long lines. It’s like everyone has gone milk tea crazy. I was lucky enough to grab a seat as soon as I got my order. 15 minutes into waiting this lovely couple approached me and asked if they could share a table. Mom if you’re reading this, I know you said I shouldn’t talk to strangers but they were really nice and they were not luring me with kittens. They came all the way from Laguna just to go to S&R’s big sale. They stopped by  ATC for a little shopping and snacking. Noel was really interested in my camera, since he had a Nikon too. I gave him tips on how he could take good food shots and that’s when his wife, Lisa tells me that they’ve been planning to start a food blog of their own. Cute right? It was really nice meeting  fun couples like them and I must say, their taste was impeccable. Pretty classy people, with sophisticated taste but then again most southerners are classy and sophisticated.

This snack is something out of the box. I have never thought of deep frying tea leaves and snacking on them. It was the perfect blend of salty and savory. The tea leaves gave the chicken this subtle flavor that you will definitely look for when you sink your teeth in a piece of plain breaded chicken. I must say, this is definitely addicting. Sadly the snack option is not available to all branches. If you’re lucky the one closest to you offers it.

I can’t wait to go on more foodie adventures and meet more awesome people like Noel and Lisa.

I, for one love love love Yoh-Gurt Froz, the Fro-Yo bar inside Hobbes and Landes. Now that’s legit Yogurt.

One day, my best friend, Emily and I decided to visit Pergola to walk Rusty (her beautiful male Cocker Spaniel) and have dessert after our hearty lunch at my place.

We got cups of Golden Spoon’s poser yogurt. Yes, that’s what I call yogurt that is actually ice cream. Emily got vanilla topped with all sorts of nuts and frozen berries, I got chocolate topped with peach and cookie dough. I have committed a grave mistake with the peach, that fruit was stone hard frozen that I couldn’t bite into it till after I have finished the entire cup of ice cream yogurt fake yogurt.

Golden Spoon is pretty pricey for a frozen treat and not really that satisfying.