It may not be politically correct, and it may piss off someone, but I'm gonna say it anyway:
MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!!!
Happy birthday to all whose birthday is 25 December too!
I just woke up (10:30!) from a night of food, red wine, singing, games, and Christian love. My mother is far away in Houston, Texas, but I still feel her love: I was not well yesterday, and she kept calling my cell phone to check up on me. (Cue "awwwwww".) Sadly, I was either asleep or busy when she called.
Anyway, we had a "formal" Christmas dinner (or noche buena). I especially liked the bottle of red wine, since I hadn't had alcohol for a while. Relax, I'm not an alcoholic. We then put the dishes and glasses in the dishwasher and proceeded to sing karaoke using our neighbour's system. I didn't have a solo - heck, I didn't want one - but I helped out with a few songs. My favourite piece that we sang was Aerosmith's "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing". Nobody could reach the high notes, but I think I did well. *Wink wink* Then, we played Guesstures, a version of charades. Ah, the red wine screwed up my ability to act out the words. Hahahahaha!
Eleven-thirty came, and we got ready to open the presents. I filmed my favourite toddler, J, as he opened my sister's present (a toy train). The C's went down to the basement to do their Christmas-present-opening tradition, and we stayed in the living room to open our presents.
I asked for either the Wanted DVD or the Forgetting Sarah Marshall DVD; I got the 2-Disc Special Edition of the former. Good enough, although I was really hoping for the latter.
I also got a nice picture frame from my boss. Hmmm... What picture shall I put it in there?
The C's gave me a dark blue Ralph Lauren sweater, a small Dior Addict perfume, and Case Histories by Kate Atkinson. Ms Atkinson also wrote When Will There Be Good News? that ended up on Stephen King and Time Magazine's best fiction/books of 2008 lists (#3 and #8, respectively). Now, I really wanted that book, but I guess Case Histories is a start.
My absolute favourite gift of all is my sister's: a Columbia Sportswear Company women's jacket that I really wanted (after the BlackBerry Storm, one-way plane ticket to Zurich, and an emerald ring, anyway) and needed (the horrible Vancouver snowstorm post is coming up!)!
When I was getting K's gift at Sportchek, I also tried on a few jackets and parkas to help me brave the terrible winter. A few of them fit nicely, but they were so expensive ($150 to $200). So I returned them to the racks and went on with my day. But I swore that I would come back for one of them tomorrow (Boxing Day - huge sales all over the country and a stat holiday too!). Thank God my sister recognised my need and got it for me. Thanks, Sisteh!
I'm gonna try and upload the pics and videos later. Stay tuned!
Overall, I had a great Christmas. With the early Christmas present (wink wink) and the early Christmas bonus (woohoo!), the presents and the familial love all around made for an absolutely lovely Christmas.
Happy birthday, Jesus!!!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
The Sound of Silence...
This blogger made a very good point: why are Mathew Knowles and Kelly Rowland silent regarding the management switch rumour?
Ms Kelly's publicist immediately addressed the rumours that her Miami home is in foreclosure. According to the "official" statement, the rumours aren't true and that Ms Kelly is selling her house since she's working and living in Europe. Which fuels the goodbye-Music-World-Entertainment-hello-19-Entertainment rumour, by the way!
However, there has been no official statement from either Ms Kelly's publicist or Mathew Knowles himself. I can only think of two reasons for this:
Seriously, Mathew Knowles is hindering Ms Kelly from being the superstar that she deserves to be. If you look at his management track record, then you'd wonder why Beyonce is the only domestic and international superstar. While Beyonce is talented and deserves her status, it is still not fair that Ms Kelly is not getting the proper career management that she deserves. The same goes for Michelle Williams and Solange.
It's favouritism and you know it!
So while I'm praying for the snowstorms to end (more on that later), I'll also pray for Ms Kelly to finalise leaving Music World Entertainment. Beyonce's dad's gotsta go.
Ms Kelly's publicist immediately addressed the rumours that her Miami home is in foreclosure. According to the "official" statement, the rumours aren't true and that Ms Kelly is selling her house since she's working and living in Europe. Which fuels the goodbye-Music-World-Entertainment-hello-19-Entertainment rumour, by the way!
However, there has been no official statement from either Ms Kelly's publicist or Mathew Knowles himself. I can only think of two reasons for this:
- It's not true, and Ms Kelly and Beyonce's father are electing to be quiet about it, hoping that it'll go away; or
- It is true, and all camps involved are electing to be quiet about it until all deals are finalised.
Seriously, Mathew Knowles is hindering Ms Kelly from being the superstar that she deserves to be. If you look at his management track record, then you'd wonder why Beyonce is the only domestic and international superstar. While Beyonce is talented and deserves her status, it is still not fair that Ms Kelly is not getting the proper career management that she deserves. The same goes for Michelle Williams and Solange.
It's favouritism and you know it!
So while I'm praying for the snowstorms to end (more on that later), I'll also pray for Ms Kelly to finalise leaving Music World Entertainment. Beyonce's dad's gotsta go.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Ms Kelly's Gotsta Go
Rumour has it that Kelly Rowland is leaving Music World Entertainment.
It's about freaking time!
I've been whining about the crappy treatment that Ms Kelly is getting from her management company. You know, when her sophomore solo album, Ms. Kelly, was pushed back and back, but Beyonce's sophomore solo album was released shortly (two weeks, according to rumours) after its completion. So when Ms. Kelly finally came out, it didn't sell well. Still, Kelly blamed her song choices for her album's failure. While it may have been a factor, her management's crappy, crappy, crappy treatment was also a major factor.
The good news is this: Ms. Kelly topped international - particularly European - charts. She's a megastar internationally, but is not the superstar that is Beyonce Knowles in the US.
So, according to Crunk & Disorderly, Ms Kelly was spotted meeting with Simon Fuller of 19 Entertainment. Could he be Kelly's new manager? Will Mathew Knowles let her go?
More importantly, can Kelly's new manager - regardless of who that is - help her US career take off? Let's wait and see...
It's about freaking time!
I've been whining about the crappy treatment that Ms Kelly is getting from her management company. You know, when her sophomore solo album, Ms. Kelly, was pushed back and back, but Beyonce's sophomore solo album was released shortly (two weeks, according to rumours) after its completion. So when Ms. Kelly finally came out, it didn't sell well. Still, Kelly blamed her song choices for her album's failure. While it may have been a factor, her management's crappy, crappy, crappy treatment was also a major factor.
The good news is this: Ms. Kelly topped international - particularly European - charts. She's a megastar internationally, but is not the superstar that is Beyonce Knowles in the US.
So, according to Crunk & Disorderly, Ms Kelly was spotted meeting with Simon Fuller of 19 Entertainment. Could he be Kelly's new manager? Will Mathew Knowles let her go?
More importantly, can Kelly's new manager - regardless of who that is - help her US career take off? Let's wait and see...
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Ah... The Joys of Listening to the DVD Audio Commentaries...
As part of my preparation for the DVD set release and the new season, I was re-watching Season 2 of LOST this weekend. I was listening to the audio commentaries as well.
Anyway, I was re-watching episode 2x16 - "The Whole Truth" - when Daniel Dae Kim (who was doing the commentary with co-star Yunjin Kim, and writers Elizabeth Sarnoff and Christina M. Kim) made a very interesting point.
In one scene, Jack had just stepped out of the shower. He found Locke shaving at the sink. (Thanks to LOST-Media.com for the screen caps.)
Daniel Dae Kim, who plays Jin-Soo Kwon, pointed out that Locke glanced down for a split second (see pic below).
Anyway, I was re-watching episode 2x16 - "The Whole Truth" - when Daniel Dae Kim (who was doing the commentary with co-star Yunjin Kim, and writers Elizabeth Sarnoff and Christina M. Kim) made a very interesting point.
In one scene, Jack had just stepped out of the shower. He found Locke shaving at the sink. (Thanks to LOST-Media.com for the screen caps.)
Daniel Dae Kim, who plays Jin-Soo Kwon, pointed out that Locke glanced down for a split second (see pic below).
Hahaha! I wonder why Locke did that... Was it scripted or what?!
Hehe.. I'm being naughty, but I swear I did not realise that until DDK pointed it out.
By the way, the DVD sets for LOST Seasons 1 to 3 are all available now. The Season 4 DVD set will be released on 9 December 2008.
And LOST will return on 21 January 2009 at 8/7 central for its fifth season!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Oh... My... Goodness
He's tall. He's scruffy. He sings ballads. He's been married for 12 years. He just turned 40. He's Australian. And he's People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive.
Booyah.
According to Nicole Kidman, "Women's jaws drop when Hugh walks into a room." So true. He takes my breath away every time I see him on TV or on magazines. The man is simply too hot.
Ahh... Shall we have one more look at the Sexiest Man Alive?
Booyah.
According to Nicole Kidman, "Women's jaws drop when Hugh walks into a room." So true. He takes my breath away every time I see him on TV or on magazines. The man is simply too hot.
Ahh... Shall we have one more look at the Sexiest Man Alive?
Saturday, November 15, 2008
No BlackBerry Storm for Rogers Wireless Customers By Christmas
I was at Metropolis at Metrotown with my mom on Remembrance Day (i.e. 11 November, Tuesday) when I saw a Telus ad for the BlackBerry Storm. I thought, "What about us Rogers Wireless subscribers who are obsessed with BlackBerry?" I couldn't find anything about the Storm on the Rogers Wireless website and there are no TV spots like the Telus ones.
Now I know why. I found an article on CellFanatic.com that almost made me cry: Rogers Wireless confirmed that there will be NO BlackBerry Storm for Christmas.
WAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!
I am so sad! I've been waiting for the Storm for a long time. And I don't want to switch to Telus just for that.
But she did say the Storm is excluded from Rogers' holiday lineup, didn't she? She didn't say it's not going to be included in any future lineup, did she?
Ah, there's still hope. Let's wait and see...
Now I know why. I found an article on CellFanatic.com that almost made me cry: Rogers Wireless confirmed that there will be NO BlackBerry Storm for Christmas.
"Saw your post and you’re right, the customer service representative made a mistake. As you know, I won’t comment in advance on what our holiday lineup has in store, but I can confirm it does not include the BlackBerry Storm." - Elizabeth Hamilton, Rogers Wireless Spokesperson to BGR
WAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!
I am so sad! I've been waiting for the Storm for a long time. And I don't want to switch to Telus just for that.
But she did say the Storm is excluded from Rogers' holiday lineup, didn't she? She didn't say it's not going to be included in any future lineup, did she?
Ah, there's still hope. Let's wait and see...
Saturday, November 8, 2008
A Trip to Oahu Next Fall, Anyone?
I am going to Oahu next October.
But of course, that is not for sure. What is ever finalised in my life?
A little bit of background: I've been planning to go to Oahu, Hawaii, since spring of this year. I hoped to be there this fall (October). Why? Because LOST films in Oahu and filming for Season 5 began in mid-August! But then, I got laid off and my practical side opted to put it off and go looking for a job.
I started in my new job last month, so I am eligible to take a vacation after 1 October 2009 (assuming, of course, I'm still employed there). I thought, "Hey, perfect. I can be in Oahu while they're filming the final season!"
Then, one of my favourite LOST bloggers and Facebook friend changed her Facebook profile picture to this... (I recommend that you look at the pic first before you scroll down.)
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Yep, the one, the only, Terry O'Quinn.
Now, I am more resolved in vacationing there next fall. I probably won't get to duplicate her experience. (What would I do if I met Foxy or Michael Emerson? Hmmm...) But what have I got to lose? I'll be in one of the most beautiful places on earth, I'll be able to take part in the Kos tour, and I'll be able to relax. Meeting any one of my favourite LOST stars would be the icing on the cake.
I just need someone to go with me.
Dude, I'm serious. I'd take either fellow LOST fans or friends who are supportive of my LOST addiction. Heck, I'd take both.
Will you go with me to Oahu next year?
P.S. I am dead serious. I will send Cerberus/Sayid Jarrah to kill all those who spam me or punk me.
But of course, that is not for sure. What is ever finalised in my life?
A little bit of background: I've been planning to go to Oahu, Hawaii, since spring of this year. I hoped to be there this fall (October). Why? Because LOST films in Oahu and filming for Season 5 began in mid-August! But then, I got laid off and my practical side opted to put it off and go looking for a job.
I started in my new job last month, so I am eligible to take a vacation after 1 October 2009 (assuming, of course, I'm still employed there). I thought, "Hey, perfect. I can be in Oahu while they're filming the final season!"
Then, one of my favourite LOST bloggers and Facebook friend changed her Facebook profile picture to this... (I recommend that you look at the pic first before you scroll down.)
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Yep, the one, the only, Terry O'Quinn.
Now, I am more resolved in vacationing there next fall. I probably won't get to duplicate her experience. (What would I do if I met Foxy or Michael Emerson? Hmmm...) But what have I got to lose? I'll be in one of the most beautiful places on earth, I'll be able to take part in the Kos tour, and I'll be able to relax. Meeting any one of my favourite LOST stars would be the icing on the cake.
I just need someone to go with me.
Dude, I'm serious. I'd take either fellow LOST fans or friends who are supportive of my LOST addiction. Heck, I'd take both.
Will you go with me to Oahu next year?
P.S. I am dead serious. I will send Cerberus/Sayid Jarrah to kill all those who spam me or punk me.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Benjamin Linus: When Bad is Oh, So Good
Benjamin Linus (played by Michael Emerson) made Yahoo!'s list of top ten TV characters we love to hate.
Duh. He should have won the Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in Drama for that. (Yeah, yeah, I'm still bitter about that.)
(Photo of Ben Linus in the final scene of "The Shape of Things to Come" was taken from Lostpedia.com)
Ari (Jeremy Piven) from Entourage, Janice Dickinson, Ugly Betty's Amanda (Becki Newton) and Marc St. James (Michael Urie), and Andrea (Jennifer Esposito) of Samantha Who? also made the cut.
For more of the sneaky, conniving, mean, and cold-blooded TV characters we cannot get enough of, click here.
Duh. He should have won the Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in Drama for that. (Yeah, yeah, I'm still bitter about that.)
He may be a pathological liar and a sociopath without a conscience, but when you're "Lost" on a mysterious island, you'd best stay close to Benjamin Linus because no matter what, he always survives. Ben has managed to keep his hands clean with his uncanny ability to get someone else to do his dirty work. And the genius of his manipulative methods is that he can justify anything, whether it is abduction, murder, torture, or brainwashing. When someone tries to go head-to-head with Ben, you know they'll lose, but just watching Ben play with their minds is a treat.
(Photo of Ben Linus in the final scene of "The Shape of Things to Come" was taken from Lostpedia.com)
Ari (Jeremy Piven) from Entourage, Janice Dickinson, Ugly Betty's Amanda (Becki Newton) and Marc St. James (Michael Urie), and Andrea (Jennifer Esposito) of Samantha Who? also made the cut.
For more of the sneaky, conniving, mean, and cold-blooded TV characters we cannot get enough of, click here.
The Official Countdown Begins...
Mark this date on your calendars: 21 January 2009.
I know I will. I, in fact, have.
On this day, I will not work overtime. I will eat my dinner shortly after I get home. I will do my BrainAge training early. I will be in front of the TV by 19:00, at the latest.
Because at 20:00, the three-hour season premiere event of LOST Season Five will begin!
It's official! DarkUFO reports that LOST will come back on 21 January 2009, at 8/7 central. Apparently, his source was the update on the ABC Inner Circle Twitter account. Who knew ABC had a Twitter account?
So, this is what's gonna happen in those three hours...
1. A one-hour recap special - Too many things have happened. I wonder how they can fit all that in one hour...
2. Episode 5.01 - The much-awaited "Because You Left". Who would be the centre - or centres - of the premiere?
3. Episode 5.02 - "The Lie." Wow. Who could be the central character(s) in this episode? Rumour has it that Hurley takes this one.
Another awesome news: for Season 5, LOST's regular timeslot is 21:00 on Wednesdays! Hmm... Will ABC move Private Practice to a new time/night? But, still. Yay, LOST is back on its old timeslot!
*Sigh* It totally made my day. I was so busy at work that I didn't know about this until I saw Doc Jeff Jensen's status on Facebook.
See y'all on 21 January 2009!!!
I know I will. I, in fact, have.
On this day, I will not work overtime. I will eat my dinner shortly after I get home. I will do my BrainAge training early. I will be in front of the TV by 19:00, at the latest.
Because at 20:00, the three-hour season premiere event of LOST Season Five will begin!
It's official! DarkUFO reports that LOST will come back on 21 January 2009, at 8/7 central. Apparently, his source was the update on the ABC Inner Circle Twitter account. Who knew ABC had a Twitter account?
So, this is what's gonna happen in those three hours...
1. A one-hour recap special - Too many things have happened. I wonder how they can fit all that in one hour...
2. Episode 5.01 - The much-awaited "Because You Left". Who would be the centre - or centres - of the premiere?
3. Episode 5.02 - "The Lie." Wow. Who could be the central character(s) in this episode? Rumour has it that Hurley takes this one.
Another awesome news: for Season 5, LOST's regular timeslot is 21:00 on Wednesdays! Hmm... Will ABC move Private Practice to a new time/night? But, still. Yay, LOST is back on its old timeslot!
*Sigh* It totally made my day. I was so busy at work that I didn't know about this until I saw Doc Jeff Jensen's status on Facebook.
See y'all on 21 January 2009!!!
Saturday, November 1, 2008
It's Already November???
Wow. It's already the 1st of November. I have to start Christmas shopping now.
So, it's been a month since I started my new job. It's great so far. It's overwhelming, because there are so many things to do in so little time. But I need to survive the probie period. It's not easy to look for jobs when the economy sucks.
I will survive the probie period. I will!
Ciao for now...
So, it's been a month since I started my new job. It's great so far. It's overwhelming, because there are so many things to do in so little time. But I need to survive the probie period. It's not easy to look for jobs when the economy sucks.
I will survive the probie period. I will!
Ciao for now...
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Official LOST Season 5 Promo Released
It's about freaking time.
The first official promo for LOST's season five has been released online. And it looks like The Swan and the Nigerian drug smuggler plane are back.
Or are they?
I think the theory that the Island moved to a different time (DHARMA Initiative's heyday?) may actually be proven right (or at least partially) in the end.
Enjoy the following clip, courtesy of DarkUFO. Thanks Dark for the code and the pic below!
The first official promo for LOST's season five has been released online. And it looks like The Swan and the Nigerian drug smuggler plane are back.
Or are they?
I think the theory that the Island moved to a different time (DHARMA Initiative's heyday?) may actually be proven right (or at least partially) in the end.
Enjoy the following clip, courtesy of DarkUFO. Thanks Dark for the code and the pic below!
I want to flash-forward to 2009 NOW.
Monday, October 13, 2008
I Want A BlackBerry Storm
I love my BlackBerry Pearl. Sure, it's not as good as the Apple iPhone. It's good enough for me and my needs, though. My Pearl works well by itself, as is my iPod Nano. And then I read this review by a working mom. Now, I'm just a working girl, but her review convinced me that having an iPhone is not an absolute requirement for living.
So, when I chanced upon this Yahoo! Tech article, I was really excited. I mean, a touchscreen smartphone with the things that I love about the BlackBerry (and more) and without the need to get rid of my iPod Nano? Fantastic!
Enter the BlackBerry Storm.
Of course, it's not yet released in the US, as per Verizon Wireless's page, let alone in Canada. I checked the Rogers Wireless website - nothing.
Hopefully it'll be released anytime after 27 December; I'll be eligible for an upgrade by then.
Oohhh... I seriously want a BlackBerry Storm!!!
So, when I chanced upon this Yahoo! Tech article, I was really excited. I mean, a touchscreen smartphone with the things that I love about the BlackBerry (and more) and without the need to get rid of my iPod Nano? Fantastic!
Enter the BlackBerry Storm.
Of course, it's not yet released in the US, as per Verizon Wireless's page, let alone in Canada. I checked the Rogers Wireless website - nothing.
Hopefully it'll be released anytime after 27 December; I'll be eligible for an upgrade by then.
Oohhh... I seriously want a BlackBerry Storm!!!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Freaking Out For Tomorrow!
I am starting on a new job tomorrow, 1 October.
AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
I'm excited, nervous, happy, and just plain freaking out. Can you tell?
Anyway, I'll be doing more of the same things, but the new company is in the manufacturing industry, so many things are gonna be new to me. And none of the messiest joint venture ever created to boot! (Y'all in [insert name of my former employer here] know what I'm talking about. *Wink wink*) I think I'll be more involved and busier here too.
The best parts? It's about half an hour away by bus - probably less if I get a ride from my bro-in-law since he works a block away. What's more? I'll have earlier hours, so I can get home much earlier! When I get home from work, I can focus on my writing/blogging. Yay! Also, there's a Subway, Wendy's, and Tim Hortons nearby.
The worst part? I can't be a night owl anymore. I have to get up every morning at five, and be at the bus stop by 6:40.
Why did I leave my previous employer? Well, it's laying me (and practically the entire finance department in the Burnaby regional office) off in the new calendar year, and I didn't want to wait until then. I know how much it sucks to go job-hunting in the middle of winter. That's the main reason anyway. (Harhar)
My last day was actually kinda sad. Even if I swore not to cry, I still did. I was so emotional that night. Thank God for the white wine that one of the district managers gave me last Christmas.
But in the end, I was glad. About a week after I got the news (a day later than the rest because I was sick on the day TPTB broke the news), I felt... kinda relieved. After the shock of getting laid off, I began to feel free. I had been unhappy since the beginning of this year (don't ask me why; it's too painful to remember), and I was itching to get the heck out of there. The news of the layoffs gave me a very good reason to go job-searching.
It was pretty quick too. Two weeks after I got the news - early morning of 27 August, to be exact - I sent out resumes for three postings (those posted by recruiting agencies on behalf of the companies) I saw on Monster.ca. By afternoon of 27 August, I've gotten a response from two of them: one was a more senior position that I didn't get, and the other one was a junior position that's similar to what I've been doing in the past two years. I spoke with the recruiter two days after. Ten days after, the recruiter e-mailed me to say that the controller wanted to interview me. On 11 September, I spoke with the controller. The interview went great, with a bit of bloopers (that never runs out in my life). The recruiter e-mailed me four days after the interview to tell me that the company was offering me the job. I had some reservations about the proposed start date, because I wanted to finish my major obligations to my previous employer. I accepted the job offer later that day - 15 September - and gave notice to my former boss. I got the official offer letter three days later.
It only took 22 days, from sending the resume to faxing the signed offer letter back to the recruiter. Wow.
Anyway, I hope this new job works out for me, and that I'll stay in this company until my retirement.
Pray for me, y'all!
AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
I'm excited, nervous, happy, and just plain freaking out. Can you tell?
Anyway, I'll be doing more of the same things, but the new company is in the manufacturing industry, so many things are gonna be new to me. And none of the messiest joint venture ever created to boot! (Y'all in [insert name of my former employer here] know what I'm talking about. *Wink wink*) I think I'll be more involved and busier here too.
The best parts? It's about half an hour away by bus - probably less if I get a ride from my bro-in-law since he works a block away. What's more? I'll have earlier hours, so I can get home much earlier! When I get home from work, I can focus on my writing/blogging. Yay! Also, there's a Subway, Wendy's, and Tim Hortons nearby.
The worst part? I can't be a night owl anymore. I have to get up every morning at five, and be at the bus stop by 6:40.
Why did I leave my previous employer? Well, it's laying me (and practically the entire finance department in the Burnaby regional office) off in the new calendar year, and I didn't want to wait until then. I know how much it sucks to go job-hunting in the middle of winter. That's the main reason anyway. (Harhar)
My last day was actually kinda sad. Even if I swore not to cry, I still did. I was so emotional that night. Thank God for the white wine that one of the district managers gave me last Christmas.
But in the end, I was glad. About a week after I got the news (a day later than the rest because I was sick on the day TPTB broke the news), I felt... kinda relieved. After the shock of getting laid off, I began to feel free. I had been unhappy since the beginning of this year (don't ask me why; it's too painful to remember), and I was itching to get the heck out of there. The news of the layoffs gave me a very good reason to go job-searching.
It was pretty quick too. Two weeks after I got the news - early morning of 27 August, to be exact - I sent out resumes for three postings (those posted by recruiting agencies on behalf of the companies) I saw on Monster.ca. By afternoon of 27 August, I've gotten a response from two of them: one was a more senior position that I didn't get, and the other one was a junior position that's similar to what I've been doing in the past two years. I spoke with the recruiter two days after. Ten days after, the recruiter e-mailed me to say that the controller wanted to interview me. On 11 September, I spoke with the controller. The interview went great, with a bit of bloopers (that never runs out in my life). The recruiter e-mailed me four days after the interview to tell me that the company was offering me the job. I had some reservations about the proposed start date, because I wanted to finish my major obligations to my previous employer. I accepted the job offer later that day - 15 September - and gave notice to my former boss. I got the official offer letter three days later.
It only took 22 days, from sending the resume to faxing the signed offer letter back to the recruiter. Wow.
Anyway, I hope this new job works out for me, and that I'll stay in this company until my retirement.
Pray for me, y'all!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
When Life Starts to Overwhelm You...
... Sometimes, writing/blogging has to take a back seat.
I've had to sort out some things in my life ("career," finances, et cetera). I will start writing again soon. Hopefully over this weekend.
Ciao for now.
I've had to sort out some things in my life ("career," finances, et cetera). I will start writing again soon. Hopefully over this weekend.
Ciao for now.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
2008 Emmy Awards Watch: Creative Arts Emmy Update
Out of six Creative Arts Emmy categories LOST is nominated for, it won only one:
Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (One-Hour)
Lost • Meet Kevin Johnson • ABC • ABC Studios
Robert Anderson, Production Mixer
Frank Morrone, Re-Recording Mixer
Scott Weber, Re-Recording Mixer
Congratulations!!!
I'm glad that the Best TV Show Ever won one Creative Arts Emmy award this year. This is much better than last year, when it lost both the Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing - Drama award to Dexter and the Outstanding Sound Editing award to 24.
You can look at all the Creative Emmy Awards winners here. The ceremony will be aired on Saturday, 20 September at 8 PM EST on E! (in the US).
This year's Primetime Emmy Awards will be aired on Sunday, 21 September at 8/7 central on ABC. The Red Carpet presentation will be aired on E! at 6 PM PST that same night.
Let's hope and pray that either Michael Emerson (for Outstanding Supporting Actor - Drama) or LOST (for Outstanding Drama Series) wins.
Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (One-Hour)
Lost • Meet Kevin Johnson • ABC • ABC Studios
Robert Anderson, Production Mixer
Frank Morrone, Re-Recording Mixer
Scott Weber, Re-Recording Mixer
Congratulations!!!
I'm glad that the Best TV Show Ever won one Creative Arts Emmy award this year. This is much better than last year, when it lost both the Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing - Drama award to Dexter and the Outstanding Sound Editing award to 24.
You can look at all the Creative Emmy Awards winners here. The ceremony will be aired on Saturday, 20 September at 8 PM EST on E! (in the US).
This year's Primetime Emmy Awards will be aired on Sunday, 21 September at 8/7 central on ABC. The Red Carpet presentation will be aired on E! at 6 PM PST that same night.
Let's hope and pray that either Michael Emerson (for Outstanding Supporting Actor - Drama) or LOST (for Outstanding Drama Series) wins.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
The Numbers Popped Up In Fringe!
I was semi-watching Fringe last night when I heard a few instances of The Numbers (i. e. 4-8-15-16-23-42).
Wow!
Anyway, the 90-minute premiere was good enough for me to tune in next week. Yay.
Just pointing out the Mysterious-Numbers instances...
I gotta get back to my job-interview preparation. (Please pray that it goes well!!!)
- Flight 627: 6 + 2+ 7 = 15
- Four: At some point I heard a character mention the number 4
- One hundred and eight: The Steig guy was passenger 108 on the plane
Wow!
Anyway, the 90-minute premiere was good enough for me to tune in next week. Yay.
Just pointing out the Mysterious-Numbers instances...
I gotta get back to my job-interview preparation. (Please pray that it goes well!!!)
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Female Musicians Join Voices for Charity Song
Fifteen female singers - including Mariah Carey, Carrie Underwood, Natasha Bedingfield, Sheryl Crow, Beyonce Knowles, and Mary J. Blige - recorded "Just Stand Up," sales of which will benefit cancer research.
All sales, as in 100 per cent.
Rihanna, Fergie, Miley Cyrus, Melissa Etheridge, Ashanti, Keyshia Cole, Ciara, Leona Lewis, and LeAnn Rimes round up the 15 singers who recorded the song. It was conceived and produced by Antonio "L.A." Reid, along with Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds. "Just Stand Up" will be available on the radio and iTunes on 2 September 2008.
These 15 singers will perform the song live three days later during "Stand Up to Cancer," a TV special to be aired simultaneously on ABC, CBS, and NBC. Jennifer Aniston, Lance Armstrong, Meryl Streep, and Reese Witherspoon, among others, are expected to appear on the fund- and awareness-raising program.
Founded in 2007, Stand Up to Cancer is a program of the Entertainment Industry Foundation that calls on entertainment-industry people and platforms to help fight cancer.
For more information, go to the official website of Stand Up to Cancer.
All sales, as in 100 per cent.
Rihanna, Fergie, Miley Cyrus, Melissa Etheridge, Ashanti, Keyshia Cole, Ciara, Leona Lewis, and LeAnn Rimes round up the 15 singers who recorded the song. It was conceived and produced by Antonio "L.A." Reid, along with Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds. "Just Stand Up" will be available on the radio and iTunes on 2 September 2008.
These 15 singers will perform the song live three days later during "Stand Up to Cancer," a TV special to be aired simultaneously on ABC, CBS, and NBC. Jennifer Aniston, Lance Armstrong, Meryl Streep, and Reese Witherspoon, among others, are expected to appear on the fund- and awareness-raising program.
Founded in 2007, Stand Up to Cancer is a program of the Entertainment Industry Foundation that calls on entertainment-industry people and platforms to help fight cancer.
For more information, go to the official website of Stand Up to Cancer.
Flowers Made My Day
I've been depressed since last Friday - well, even more depressed than usual - but this nice woman made my day today.
I was walking home from the bus stop when a nice elderly woman approached me. She was pruning a plant and wanted to give me some flowers, rather than wasting them in a compost pit. She led the way to her house and cut a segment of the plant. She cut several branches filled with a few flowers. She cut the buds on top and the leaves, and handed them to me. I thanked her at least twice and went on home.
Thank God for camera phones for these snapshots:
So, thanks to the nice woman who lives at 6985 198A Street. You brightened up my bleak life, even for a brief time.
I was walking home from the bus stop when a nice elderly woman approached me. She was pruning a plant and wanted to give me some flowers, rather than wasting them in a compost pit. She led the way to her house and cut a segment of the plant. She cut several branches filled with a few flowers. She cut the buds on top and the leaves, and handed them to me. I thanked her at least twice and went on home.
Thank God for camera phones for these snapshots:
So, thanks to the nice woman who lives at 6985 198A Street. You brightened up my bleak life, even for a brief time.
Monday, August 11, 2008
LOST Scoop from Doc Jensen!!!
EW.com's Jeff Jensen reveals the title of the LOST Season 5 premiere in his latest column.
What could it be???
Of course, he doesn't just give the answer right away. He gives three false titles before he finally reveals the Season 5, episode one title. He also recaps Comic-Con 2008 (including his cameo in the introductory video at the LOST panel) and says a bit about the LOST Book Club at ABC.com.
Could the Season 5 premiere be...
"The Sacrifice"???
In Doc Jeff Jensen's own words:
Is it? Is it?!
You can scroll down, or read the full article here to find out.
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"Because You Left".
Can we expect a Jack-centric premiere, since he was the reason (i.e. his stubbornness, his insistence, etc.) they left the Island, which resulted in the horrible events that Jeremy Bentham/John Locke told them?
We shall wait and see....
What could it be???
Of course, he doesn't just give the answer right away. He gives three false titles before he finally reveals the Season 5, episode one title. He also recaps Comic-Con 2008 (including his cameo in the introductory video at the LOST panel) and says a bit about the LOST Book Club at ABC.com.
Could the Season 5 premiere be...
"The Sacrifice"???
In Doc Jeff Jensen's own words:
What do you think of that for the title of season 5, episode one? I kinda like it. It evokes the price paid by Michael and Jin to help save their friends — and the price paid by Ben to save the Island. And it might suggest some kind of thematic context for the death of John Locke/Jeremy Bentham. I also like ''The Sacrifice'' because it links to a Russian film about death and survival set against the backdrop of apocalypse, directed by Andrei Tarkovsky, who also directed an adaptation of Stanislaw Lem's Solaris, long suspected of being a Lost source text, despite not being part of the current Lost Book Club. All to say, ''The Sacrifice'' would make for fitting title for the first episode of season 5...
Is it? Is it?!
You can scroll down, or read the full article here to find out.
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"Because You Left".
Can we expect a Jack-centric premiere, since he was the reason (i.e. his stubbornness, his insistence, etc.) they left the Island, which resulted in the horrible events that Jeremy Bentham/John Locke told them?
We shall wait and see....
Thursday, August 7, 2008
What Was Josh Thinking?
Josh Holloway must be filming a movie when this was snapped.
Either that, or one timeline/"flash" in LOST Season 5 will show Sawyer like that. Kinda doubt it, though. Still, he looks hot with the tattoos.
And here's another Josh who needs both a stylist and a brutally honest friend: Joshua Chasez, a.k.a. JC Chasez - the former *NSYNCer and current judge in Randy Jackson Presents: America's Best Dance Crew.
JC, I love you, but what the heck were you thinking? *Sigh* Why don't you set up your own record label, finish The Story of Kate, release it, and focus more on your music? It should keep you from choosing clothes that don't emphasize your good features (the beautiful blue eyes, the slim bod, et cetera). (Do I sound like Stacy London? Sorry, too much What Not To Wear.) And can you grow your hair already?
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Must be a slow news day.
Either that, or one timeline/"flash" in LOST Season 5 will show Sawyer like that. Kinda doubt it, though. Still, he looks hot with the tattoos.
And here's another Josh who needs both a stylist and a brutally honest friend: Joshua Chasez, a.k.a. JC Chasez - the former *NSYNCer and current judge in Randy Jackson Presents: America's Best Dance Crew.
JC, I love you, but what the heck were you thinking? *Sigh* Why don't you set up your own record label, finish The Story of Kate, release it, and focus more on your music? It should keep you from choosing clothes that don't emphasize your good features (the beautiful blue eyes, the slim bod, et cetera). (Do I sound like Stacy London? Sorry, too much What Not To Wear.) And can you grow your hair already?
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Must be a slow news day.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Need Your LOST Fix?
It's been more than two months since Season Four ended. Filming for Season Five is starting in about two weeks. Of course, January / February 2009 is so far away.
I bet y'all miss LOST.
I found a post on the Lostpedia Blog about websites full of LOST-related humour. The one I've seen so far is Lost ROFL. It has clever and hilarious avatars, images, videos, et cetera. This is one of my favourites:
I bet y'all miss LOST.
I found a post on the Lostpedia Blog about websites full of LOST-related humour. The one I've seen so far is Lost ROFL. It has clever and hilarious avatars, images, videos, et cetera. This is one of my favourites:
Ain't it cute???
I'm not that talented with graphics and stuff, so I just look for this kind of LOST humour all over the Internet.
Click here to find more links to funny stuff, fan-made or otherwise, about LOST.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
There's A New Multiply Community Member
Me!
I now have profiles on the four major social networking sites: Facebook (see my badge on the right), Friendster, MySpace, and Multiply. Whoo.
If only my best friend joined Facebook, then my Facebook experience would be complete... (Har-har-dee-har-har)
I'm very lonely on Multiply, by the way. I only have one contact. :(
If y'all have a Multiply profile - especially if you're either my co-worker, classmate, family member, org co-member, online buddy, etc., at any time in our lives, please add me!
I now have profiles on the four major social networking sites: Facebook (see my badge on the right), Friendster, MySpace, and Multiply. Whoo.
If only my best friend joined Facebook, then my Facebook experience would be complete... (Har-har-dee-har-har)
I'm very lonely on Multiply, by the way. I only have one contact. :(
If y'all have a Multiply profile - especially if you're either my co-worker, classmate, family member, org co-member, online buddy, etc., at any time in our lives, please add me!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Entertainment Weekly's List of 25 Unforgettable TV Exits
EW.com lists the 25 unforgettable TV swan songs. Of course Charlie Pace's death is one of them.
As y'all know he drowned at the end of Season 3, after speaking with Penny Widmore. It's that dratted Mikhail: he detonated his stupid grenade and flooded the Looking Glass station's communication room.
Anyway here's what Entertainment Weekly says about it:
Gosh, I miss Charlie! Do you think he'll appear in Season 5 or 6?
Anyway, check out the photo gallery if you like.
As y'all know he drowned at the end of Season 3, after speaking with Penny Widmore. It's that dratted Mikhail: he detonated his stupid grenade and flooded the Looking Glass station's communication room.
Anyway here's what Entertainment Weekly says about it:
''So much for fate.'' Those are Charlie's last words — at least in this dimension. Confident that he'd beaten Desmond's prophecy of his death by drowning, he turns to see the eye-patch-wearing Other he thought he'd killed blow up the substation's window. As the seawater rises to submerge him inside the Looking Glass station, Charlie slams the door to protect Desmond and scribbles a note of warning to him that the people the castaways think are coming to save them are not their friends. Charlie might not have beaten fate, but he beat his demons, as the heroin-addicted rock star finally had his redemption.
Gosh, I miss Charlie! Do you think he'll appear in Season 5 or 6?
Anyway, check out the photo gallery if you like.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Michael Emerson's Mother Calls Him
There's a funny clip going around about Michael Emerson. As you can remember, he was recognized by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for his fantabulous performance as Benjamin Linus in LOST.
Emerson's mother phoned him to congratulate him for... LOST's nomination in the Outstanding Drama Series category. Apparently, his mother was unaware of her son's nomination in the Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series category! Harharharharharhar...
Sadly, for some weird reason, I can't embed it here. You can go to DocArzt's post, to DarkUFO's post, or to the link provided on the clip. Enjoy!
Emerson's mother phoned him to congratulate him for... LOST's nomination in the Outstanding Drama Series category. Apparently, his mother was unaware of her son's nomination in the Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series category! Harharharharharhar...
Sadly, for some weird reason, I can't embed it here. You can go to DocArzt's post, to DarkUFO's post, or to the link provided on the clip. Enjoy!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
LOST: 4th Year, 8 Emmy Nominations
The morning that we've been waiting for has come and gone. The following are LOST's nominations for the 2008 Primetime Emmy Awards, as well as the other nominees:
Outstanding Cinematography For A One-Hour Series
Lost • The Constant • ABC • ABC Studios
John Bartley, A.S.C., C.S.C., Director of Photography
The Others: Battlestar Galactica (Stephen McNutt), Breaking Bad (John Toll), Dexter (Romeo Tirone), Mad Men (Phil Abraham), Rescue Me (Tom Houghton)
Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing For A Drama Series
Lost • There’s No Place Like Home (Parts 2 & 3) • ABC • ABC Studios
Henk Van Eeghen, Editor
Robert Florio, Editor
Mark J. Goldman, Editor
Stephen Semel, Editor
The Others: Battlestar Galactica (Julius Ramsay), Boston Legal (Philip Neel), Breaking Bad (Lynne Willingham), Heroes (Scott Boyd), Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles (Paul Karasick)
Outstanding Music Composition For A Series (Original Dramatic Score)
Lost • The Constant • ABC • ABC Studios
Michael Giacchiano, Music By
The Others: Family Guy (Ronald Neal Jones), House (Jon Ehrlich & Jason Derlatka), Little People, Big World (Joey Newman), Pushing Daisies (Jim Dooley), The Simpsons (Alf Clausen)
Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series
Lost • ABC • ABC Studios
Michael Emerson as Ben
The Others: William Shatner (Boston Legal), Ted Danson (Damages), Zeljko Ivanek (Damages), John Slattery (Mad Men)
Outstanding Drama Series
Lost • ABC • ABC Studios
The Others: Boston Legal (ABC), Damages (FX), Dexter (Showtime), House (FOX), Mad Men (AMC)
Outstanding Sound Editing For A Series
Lost • The Shape Of Things To Come • ABC • ABC Studios
Thomas deGorter, M.P.S.E., Supervising Sound Editor
Paula Fairfield, M.P.S.E., Sound Editor
Carla Murray, M.P.S.E., Sound Editor
Maciek Malish, M.P.S.E., Sound Editor
Lloyd Jay Keiser, Sound Editor
Joseph Schultz, Sound Editor
Jim Bailey, Foley Artist
Cynthia Merril, Foley Artist
Alex Levy, Music Editor
The Others: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, ER, Smallville, Supernatural
Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (One-Hour)
Lost • Meet Kevin Johnson • ABC • ABC Studios
Robert Anderson, Production Mixer
Frank Morrone, Re-Recording Mixer
Scott Weber, Re-Recording Mixer
The Others: Battlestar Galactica, Boston Legal, Burn Notice, Dexter
Outstanding Special Class - Short-Format Live-Action Entertainment Programs
Lost: Missing Pieces • ABC.com • ABC.com / ABC Studios
Damon Lindelof, Executive Producer
Carlton Cuse, Executive Producer
Barry Jossen, Executive Producer
The Others: Battlestar Galactica - Razor Featurette #4 (Sci Fi Channel.com), Friday Night Lights: Spotlight on Austin (NBC.com), Sarah Silverman Program Nugget (Comedycentral.com), 30 Rock: Kenneth The Web Page (NBC.com)
Finally... LOST is back in the Outstanding Drama Series race. I was afraid that Grey's Anatomy's immense popularity would knock LOST out of the final list of nominees. Phew! Also, I totally rejoiced when I saw Michael Emerson's name in the Outstanding Supporting Actor nominee list. Woo hoo! He absolutely deserves the nomination. I'm just curious why Henry Ian Cusick isn't nominated for "The Constant"... Or Sonya Walger for her guest spot as Penelope Widmore; she was good in "The Constant". Heck, even Alan Dale probably should have been nominated.
And why in the world isn't LOST nominated in the writing and directing categories???
Yeah, well. That's life...
But I'm glad there's a category for mobisodes/webisodes. I didn't even know there was one.
Let's see how LOST fares at the ceremonies on 21 September at 8/7 central. Keep your fingers crossed and/or hands clasped in prayer.
Outstanding Cinematography For A One-Hour Series
Lost • The Constant • ABC • ABC Studios
John Bartley, A.S.C., C.S.C., Director of Photography
The Others: Battlestar Galactica (Stephen McNutt), Breaking Bad (John Toll), Dexter (Romeo Tirone), Mad Men (Phil Abraham), Rescue Me (Tom Houghton)
Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing For A Drama Series
Lost • There’s No Place Like Home (Parts 2 & 3) • ABC • ABC Studios
Henk Van Eeghen, Editor
Robert Florio, Editor
Mark J. Goldman, Editor
Stephen Semel, Editor
The Others: Battlestar Galactica (Julius Ramsay), Boston Legal (Philip Neel), Breaking Bad (Lynne Willingham), Heroes (Scott Boyd), Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles (Paul Karasick)
Outstanding Music Composition For A Series (Original Dramatic Score)
Lost • The Constant • ABC • ABC Studios
Michael Giacchiano, Music By
The Others: Family Guy (Ronald Neal Jones), House (Jon Ehrlich & Jason Derlatka), Little People, Big World (Joey Newman), Pushing Daisies (Jim Dooley), The Simpsons (Alf Clausen)
Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series
Lost • ABC • ABC Studios
Michael Emerson as Ben
The Others: William Shatner (Boston Legal), Ted Danson (Damages), Zeljko Ivanek (Damages), John Slattery (Mad Men)
Outstanding Drama Series
Lost • ABC • ABC Studios
The Others: Boston Legal (ABC), Damages (FX), Dexter (Showtime), House (FOX), Mad Men (AMC)
Outstanding Sound Editing For A Series
Lost • The Shape Of Things To Come • ABC • ABC Studios
Thomas deGorter, M.P.S.E., Supervising Sound Editor
Paula Fairfield, M.P.S.E., Sound Editor
Carla Murray, M.P.S.E., Sound Editor
Maciek Malish, M.P.S.E., Sound Editor
Lloyd Jay Keiser, Sound Editor
Joseph Schultz, Sound Editor
Jim Bailey, Foley Artist
Cynthia Merril, Foley Artist
Alex Levy, Music Editor
The Others: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, ER, Smallville, Supernatural
Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (One-Hour)
Lost • Meet Kevin Johnson • ABC • ABC Studios
Robert Anderson, Production Mixer
Frank Morrone, Re-Recording Mixer
Scott Weber, Re-Recording Mixer
The Others: Battlestar Galactica, Boston Legal, Burn Notice, Dexter
Outstanding Special Class - Short-Format Live-Action Entertainment Programs
Lost: Missing Pieces • ABC.com • ABC.com / ABC Studios
Damon Lindelof, Executive Producer
Carlton Cuse, Executive Producer
Barry Jossen, Executive Producer
The Others: Battlestar Galactica - Razor Featurette #4 (Sci Fi Channel.com), Friday Night Lights: Spotlight on Austin (NBC.com), Sarah Silverman Program Nugget (Comedycentral.com), 30 Rock: Kenneth The Web Page (NBC.com)
Finally... LOST is back in the Outstanding Drama Series race. I was afraid that Grey's Anatomy's immense popularity would knock LOST out of the final list of nominees. Phew! Also, I totally rejoiced when I saw Michael Emerson's name in the Outstanding Supporting Actor nominee list. Woo hoo! He absolutely deserves the nomination. I'm just curious why Henry Ian Cusick isn't nominated for "The Constant"... Or Sonya Walger for her guest spot as Penelope Widmore; she was good in "The Constant". Heck, even Alan Dale probably should have been nominated.
And why in the world isn't LOST nominated in the writing and directing categories???
Yeah, well. That's life...
But I'm glad there's a category for mobisodes/webisodes. I didn't even know there was one.
Let's see how LOST fares at the ceremonies on 21 September at 8/7 central. Keep your fingers crossed and/or hands clasped in prayer.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
What Flavour Shake Am I?
Oh, this is interesting...
You Are a Chocolate Shake |
 You are a total hedonist. You are drawn to pleasure. You are an expressive, over the top person. You're naturally dramatic. You're the type of person who always chooses quality over quantity. Life's too short to not have optimal experiences. You're proud of being picky. |
LOST Panel at 2008 Comic-Con Confirmed
The schedule for the 2008 San Diego Comic-Con is complete! Here is the bit for the LOST panel:
Friday is also Star Wars Day! Yay! Not only that: TheOneRing.net is hosting a panel about The Hobbit at 10:00 to 11:00. Yay!
Entertainment Weekly is also hosting a panel entitled The Visionaries: Showrunners in the afternoon.
Unfortunately, I can't go to Comic-Con because I haven't gotten my Canadian passport (hehe) and work will be crazy that time. Oh well. Thank God for my favourite LOST sites; some are attending Comic-Con and will be live blogging. I hope ABC releases the LOST panel audio as a podcast later on again...
12:00-1:00 Lost— If the most recent season finale was any indication of things to come, you will not want to miss this panel. Co-creator/executive producer Damon Lindelof and executive producer Carlton Cuse will discuss season 4 of Lost, leading up to the season finale. They will answer your questions and maybe even offer up some surprises of their own. Hall H
Friday is also Star Wars Day! Yay! Not only that: TheOneRing.net is hosting a panel about The Hobbit at 10:00 to 11:00. Yay!
Entertainment Weekly is also hosting a panel entitled The Visionaries: Showrunners in the afternoon.
1:45-2:45 Entertainment Weekly’s The Visionaries: Showrunners— Carlton Cuse (Lost), Damon Lindelof (Lost), Josh Schwartz (Chuck, Gossip Girl), Bryan Fuller (Pushing Daisies), and Josh Friedman (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles) are the television producers who are changing the face of television with deeply immersive entertainments marked by distinctive, cutting edge storytelling. They have also been at the forefront of bringing "genre programming" or "cult TV" to the mainstream. Prepare for a candid conversation about creative integrity in a commercial medium and the future of broadcast TV in an increasingly digital world. Spoiler Alert! Upcoming plot developments may be teased. Moderated by Entertainment Weekly senior writer Jeff Jensen. Room 6CDEF
Unfortunately, I can't go to Comic-Con because I haven't gotten my Canadian passport (hehe) and work will be crazy that time. Oh well. Thank God for my favourite LOST sites; some are attending Comic-Con and will be live blogging. I hope ABC releases the LOST panel audio as a podcast later on again...
Monday, July 7, 2008
Todd Bertuzzi's Back In Canada!
A Canadian team signed my favourite NHL player, Todd Bertuzzi. The Vancouver Canucks? No. (I wish.) Toronto Maple Leafs? No. Ottawa Senators? No. Montreal Canadiens? Non. Edmonton Oilers? No.
Calgary Flames.
According to the Flames GM Daryl Sutter:
And here's my favourite part:
I am not a Calgary Flames fan, but I rooted for them when the Canucks did not make the playoffs last season! And I respect Jarome Iginla: During the NHL Awards after Tampa Bay Lightning won the Stanley Cup, Iginla was the only one who thanked God in his acceptance speech. Plus he is a good player and a nice guy. Not to mention, he's kinda hot.
I hope Bertuzzi stays healthy next season so he can improve his stats.
Welcome back to Canada, Bert!
Calgary Flames.
According to the Flames GM Daryl Sutter:
“Todd is a proven scorer with the ability to play both wings. He expressed to us that he wanted to play in Canada and that desire along with signing him to a one year deal was important to our philosophy. He wanted to play on a good team and it fit our money."
And here's my favourite part:
"Additionally, our captain, Jarome Iginla, was a strong supporter of Todd and wanted him on our team.”
I am not a Calgary Flames fan, but I rooted for them when the Canucks did not make the playoffs last season! And I respect Jarome Iginla: During the NHL Awards after Tampa Bay Lightning won the Stanley Cup, Iginla was the only one who thanked God in his acceptance speech. Plus he is a good player and a nice guy. Not to mention, he's kinda hot.
I hope Bertuzzi stays healthy next season so he can improve his stats.
Welcome back to Canada, Bert!
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Markus Naslund Signs With the NY Rangers
New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that the Blueshirts have agreed to terms with Markus Naslund, the former captain of the Vancouver Canucks.
A native of Ornskoldsvik, Sweden, he was Pittsburgh Penguins' first round choice, 16th overall, in the 1991 NHL Entry Draft. He spent 12 years as a Canuck, as one of the greatest players to wear a Canucks jersey. His many accomplishments on- and off-ice are enumerated here and here.
The Vancouver Canucks' General Manager Mike Gillis issued the following statement:
Who would be next Canuck captain? Could it be any of the following:
A native of Ornskoldsvik, Sweden, he was Pittsburgh Penguins' first round choice, 16th overall, in the 1991 NHL Entry Draft. He spent 12 years as a Canuck, as one of the greatest players to wear a Canucks jersey. His many accomplishments on- and off-ice are enumerated here and here.
The Vancouver Canucks' General Manager Mike Gillis issued the following statement:
“As an organization we would like to thank Markus Naslund for his 12 exemplary seasons in a Canucks sweater. Markus is one of the greatest athletes to ever represent the Canucks both on and off of the ice. His on-ice success sees him leave the organization among the club leaders in almost every offensive category.
We are very grateful for Markus’ commitment to our community, our fans and our team over the years. Markus and his wife Lotta have given generously of their time over the years to many worthy causes including; Canuck Place, BC Children’s Hospital and the Canucks for Kids Fund. We wish Markus, Lotta, and their three children the best of luck in the future.”
Who would be next Canuck captain? Could it be any of the following:
- Henrik Sedin;
- Daniel Sedin;
- Sami Salo;
- Ryan Kesler;
- Willie Mitchell;
- Taylor Pyatt;
- Alexandre Burrows;
- Brendan Morrison;
- Mattias Ohlund; or
- Roberto Luongo?
Whaddya think?
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Naveen and Michael Make Top 10 Supporting Actor List
Continuing my Emmy 2008 watch, I read on The Tailsection that Naveen Andrews (Sayid Jarrah, my second-favourite hitman in fiction) and Michael Emerson (Benjamin Linus, my favourite antagonist at the moment) have been listed as two possible Best Supporting Actor nominees.
Just re-watch "The Economist" and "The Shape of Things to Come," and you'll know why.
Here is the complete Best Supporting Actor shortlist:
The name Zeljko Ivanek caught my eye: he played Juliet Burke's ex-husband, Edmund Burke, back in Season 3!
Here's the complete Best Supporting Actress shortlist:
Sadly, no LOST actress is in the list, but I've always been a fan of Sandra Oh and Chandra Wilson (well, since Grey's Anatomy first aired, anyway). So I hope either actress wins it!
Stay tuned for more Emmy Awards 2008 and/or LOST news.
And, oh, Happy Canada Day!
Just re-watch "The Economist" and "The Shape of Things to Come," and you'll know why.
Here is the complete Best Supporting Actor shortlist:
Naveen Andrews, Lost
Bruce Dern, Big Love
Christian Clemenson, Boston Legal
Ted Danson, Damages
Michael Emerson, Lost
Zeljko Ivanek, Damages
T.R. Knight, Grey's Anatomy
William Shatner, Boston Legal
John Slattery, Mad Men
Blair Underwood, In Treatment
Jake Weber, Medium
The name Zeljko Ivanek caught my eye: he played Juliet Burke's ex-husband, Edmund Burke, back in Season 3!
Here's the complete Best Supporting Actress shortlist:
Jane Alexander, Tell Me You Love Me
Candice Bergen, Boston Legal
Rose Byrne, Damages
Jill Clayburgh, Dirty Sexy Money
Sharon Gless, Burn Notice
Rachel Griffiths, Brothers and Sisters
Christina Hendricks, Mad Men
S. Epatha Merkerson, Law and Order
Sandra Oh, Grey's Anatomy
Dianne Wiest, In Treatment
Chandra Wilson, Grey's Anatomy
Sadly, no LOST actress is in the list, but I've always been a fan of Sandra Oh and Chandra Wilson (well, since Grey's Anatomy first aired, anyway). So I hope either actress wins it!
Stay tuned for more Emmy Awards 2008 and/or LOST news.
And, oh, Happy Canada Day!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Am I Burned Out?
You Are 90% Burned Out |
 You are extremely burned out. You work too hard, and you're not getting the results you deserve. It's time for a life change, as soon as you can manage it. You're giving away most of your energy to something you don't even enjoy. |
*Coughcough*
Yeah.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Join the Blogathon Vancouver 2008
I saw this article from yesterday's 24 Hrs: it's about a Blogathon being organized by Rebecca Bollwitt of Miss604.com.
On 26 July 2008, bloggers have to post to their blog every 30 minutes for an entire day (24 hours). According to the Blogathon wiki, "...the idea is to give 24 hours of your time so that your readers can pledge/donate to your cause of choice to keep that steady stream of content going." Readers or sponsors can donate to the charity of the blogger's choice.
I'm not sure if I can participate in the Blogathon, with my wacky sleeping habits and the dedication of my friend's son. That's why I'm spreading the word now. Although I can probably try the mobile blogging feature of Blogger.com...
If you're interested in the Blogathon Vancouver 2008, go to the Sign Up page. Go to the Blogathon wiki and Miss604.com for more information.
On 26 July 2008, bloggers have to post to their blog every 30 minutes for an entire day (24 hours). According to the Blogathon wiki, "...the idea is to give 24 hours of your time so that your readers can pledge/donate to your cause of choice to keep that steady stream of content going." Readers or sponsors can donate to the charity of the blogger's choice.
I'm not sure if I can participate in the Blogathon, with my wacky sleeping habits and the dedication of my friend's son. That's why I'm spreading the word now. Although I can probably try the mobile blogging feature of Blogger.com...
If you're interested in the Blogathon Vancouver 2008, go to the Sign Up page. Go to the Blogathon wiki and Miss604.com for more information.
Friday, June 27, 2008
LOST: 2008 Primetime Emmy Award Winner?
Apparently, last year's Primetime Emmy Awards nominations were leaked, so now the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences is releasing the finalists for Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Drama Series.
The top 10 comedy series finalists are...
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Entourage
Family Guy
Flight of the Conchords
The Office
Pushing Daisies
30 Rock
Two and a Half Men
Ugly Betty
Weeds
The top 10 drama series finalists are...
Boston Legal
Damages
Dexter
Friday Night Lights
Grey’s Anatomy
House
LOST
Will LOST make the final list of nominees? Of course, I'm biased. It will and it should! But will it win? Doubt it.
I would love to see LOST win Outstanding Drama Series this year - not only because Season 4 was just so darn awesome, but also because it's the best darn thing on TV. (That, of course, is arguable and subjective - but whatever!)
Experience has taught me to expect the worst (as in, LOST won't even be nominated) but hope for the best (LOST will win an Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series). I'll just have to wait for the official nominations to be announced on Thursday, 17 July 2008 at 05:40.
Anyway, whatever happens to LOST's Emmy prospects, it's great that the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films recognized LOST's brilliance by honouring it as the 34th Annual Saturn Awards Best Network Television Series. It bested Heroes, Pushing Daisies, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Journeyman, and Supernatural. Booyah!
Not only that: Matthew Fox won the Best Actor in a Television Series award, Michael Emerson won the Best Supporting Actor in a Television Series, and Elizabeth Mitchell shared the Best Supporting Actress in a Television Series award with Summer Glau (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles). The LOST actors could have swept (well, almost) the TV acting awards if Evangeline Lilly beat Jennifer Love Hewitt (Ghost Whisperer) for the Best Actress in a Television Series trophy.
Lastly, Cloverfield - written by Drew Goddard and produced by J. J. Abrams & Bryan Burk - won the Best Science Fiction Film award.
The nominations will be announced on 17 July 2008 at 05:40, while the awards will be handed out on 21 September 2008 at 8/7 central on ABC.
The top 10 comedy series finalists are...
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Entourage
Family Guy
Flight of the Conchords
The Office
Pushing Daisies
30 Rock
Two and a Half Men
Ugly Betty
Weeds
The top 10 drama series finalists are...
Boston Legal
Damages
Dexter
Friday Night Lights
Grey’s Anatomy
House
LOST
Mad Men
The Tudors
The Wire
The Tudors
The Wire
Will LOST make the final list of nominees? Of course, I'm biased. It will and it should! But will it win? Doubt it.
I would love to see LOST win Outstanding Drama Series this year - not only because Season 4 was just so darn awesome, but also because it's the best darn thing on TV. (That, of course, is arguable and subjective - but whatever!)
Experience has taught me to expect the worst (as in, LOST won't even be nominated) but hope for the best (LOST will win an Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series). I'll just have to wait for the official nominations to be announced on Thursday, 17 July 2008 at 05:40.
Anyway, whatever happens to LOST's Emmy prospects, it's great that the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films recognized LOST's brilliance by honouring it as the 34th Annual Saturn Awards Best Network Television Series. It bested Heroes, Pushing Daisies, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Journeyman, and Supernatural. Booyah!
Not only that: Matthew Fox won the Best Actor in a Television Series award, Michael Emerson won the Best Supporting Actor in a Television Series, and Elizabeth Mitchell shared the Best Supporting Actress in a Television Series award with Summer Glau (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles). The LOST actors could have swept (well, almost) the TV acting awards if Evangeline Lilly beat Jennifer Love Hewitt (Ghost Whisperer) for the Best Actress in a Television Series trophy.
Lastly, Cloverfield - written by Drew Goddard and produced by J. J. Abrams & Bryan Burk - won the Best Science Fiction Film award.
The nominations will be announced on 17 July 2008 at 05:40, while the awards will be handed out on 21 September 2008 at 8/7 central on ABC.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Who Are You Running For?
The 17th Annual Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure will be held on 5 October 2008. I donated last year, so I received the following e-mail today:
This year’s participants have been working hard to fundraise for the Run. Can they count on your support again? If you’d like to sponsor your favourite participant and help them reach their goal, click here to find their personal page and make a donation. Making a donation is fast, easy and secure. If you’ve already sponsored someone, thank you!
If you don’t know anyone participating in this year’s Run but would like to support the Foundation, click here to make a general donation and sponsor our Virtual Runner.
Your donation will fund research in all areas of breast cancer including education and prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and after-care supports. Find out how your gift is helping the Foundation lead the way in breast cancer research by clicking here.
Thank you very much for your ongoing support!
I helped raise over CDN $27 million "towards creating a future without breast cancer." Naks! I'll also donate this year; not only will I help fund breast cancer research, but I will also get an income tax deduction!
To learn more about the Run, please go to the CIBC Run for the Cure website or to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation website.
Evie and Dom in Buenos Aires
Aha!
DarkUFO posted this video where Dominic Monaghan (the late Charlie Pace) and Evangeline Lilly (Kate Austen) were separately interviewed by an Argentine entertainment (I think) reporter. I actually didn't finish the entire video; I paused it after Evie's segment.
So, is it true then? Are Evie and Dom back together and engaged? I totally hope so!
DarkUFO posted this video where Dominic Monaghan (the late Charlie Pace) and Evangeline Lilly (Kate Austen) were separately interviewed by an Argentine entertainment (I think) reporter. I actually didn't finish the entire video; I paused it after Evie's segment.
So, is it true then? Are Evie and Dom back together and engaged? I totally hope so!
It Ain't Jacob's "Shack"
When I see or hear the word "shack," I always think of Jacob's cabin (Jacob is a largely unseen character introduced in the third season of Entertainment Weekly's 8th best show for the past 25 years - i.e. LOST).
But I chanced upon this New York Times article regarding a surprise fiction bestseller - a Christian novel entitled "The Shack" - written by a former office manager from Gresham, Oregon, USA. According to Amazon.com's product description,
Interesting.
Apparently, God is represented by an African-American woman; Jesus, by a Jewish workman (like Roger Work Man, hehe); and the Holy Spirit, by "an indeterminately Asian woman" named Sarayu. While some conservative Christian leaders and bloggers have attacked the novel as "heresy" and "deeply troubling," others initially disliked it but eventually liked it. One reader even said, “It brought God alive in a way that I think few books in literature ever do."
Anyway, it has even outsold Eckhart Tolle's "A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose" and has hit #1 on the trade paperback fiction bestseller lists of the New York Times, Borders Group, and Barnes & Noble, among others. The NYT article attributes the book's success to word-of-mouth marketing (which is one of the most effective ways to market a debut book, self-published book, or both, according to Writer's Digest).
I haven't read this book, as I only encountered this title today. I will probably add this to my reading list for the year. So I can't say anything about it yet, except that it's nice to see a Christian novel hit #1 on the bestseller lists.
Have you read this book? How did you find it: "deeply troubling" or "one of the most remarkable books" you've read? Lemme know, will ya?
But I chanced upon this New York Times article regarding a surprise fiction bestseller - a Christian novel entitled "The Shack" - written by a former office manager from Gresham, Oregon, USA. According to Amazon.com's product description,
Mackenzie Allen Philips' youngest daughter, Missy, has been abducted during a family vacation and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in an abandoned shack deep in the Oregon wilderness. Four years later in the midst of his Great Sadness, Mack receives a suspicious note, apparently from God, inviting him back to that shack for a weekend. Against his better judgment he arrives at the shack on a wintry afternoon and walks back into his darkest nightmare. What he finds there will change Mack's world forever. In a world where religion seems to grow increasingly irrelevant "The Shack" wrestles with the timeless question, "Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?" The answers Mack gets will astound you and perhaps transform you as much as it did him. You'll want everyone you know to read this book!
Interesting.
Apparently, God is represented by an African-American woman; Jesus, by a Jewish workman (like Roger Work Man, hehe); and the Holy Spirit, by "an indeterminately Asian woman" named Sarayu. While some conservative Christian leaders and bloggers have attacked the novel as "heresy" and "deeply troubling," others initially disliked it but eventually liked it. One reader even said, “It brought God alive in a way that I think few books in literature ever do."
Anyway, it has even outsold Eckhart Tolle's "A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose" and has hit #1 on the trade paperback fiction bestseller lists of the New York Times, Borders Group, and Barnes & Noble, among others. The NYT article attributes the book's success to word-of-mouth marketing (which is one of the most effective ways to market a debut book, self-published book, or both, according to Writer's Digest).
I haven't read this book, as I only encountered this title today. I will probably add this to my reading list for the year. So I can't say anything about it yet, except that it's nice to see a Christian novel hit #1 on the bestseller lists.
Have you read this book? How did you find it: "deeply troubling" or "one of the most remarkable books" you've read? Lemme know, will ya?
Friday, June 20, 2008
The Top 30 "WTF?!" Moments in LOST History
LOST is notorious for its "WTF?!" moments. From the first inklings of the Black Smoke Monster (a.k.a. Cerberus) to the identity of the man in the coffin, the LOST writers have pulled the rug under the fans so many times.
Now, this blogger listed his top 30 "WTF?!" moments in the best show ever. Check out #23 on the list:
#23: Richard Alpert doesn’t age
Episodes: “Not in Portland,” “The Man Behind the Curtain,” and “Cabin Fever” (Seasons 3/4)
Why it’s a “WTF?!” moment: When Richard Alpert first showed up in the episode “Not in Portland,” he appeared to be nothing more than DHARMA’s smooth-talking recruiter. Of course, that’s before he appeared a few episodes later in Ben’s flashback — looking like he hadn’t aged a day from the early ’70s to the present day. Oh, and by Season 4, we spotted the seemingly ageless Alpert back in the 1950s, visiting John Locke as a child. Does Alpert really not age, or is he traveling through time somehow? It’s a mystery yet to be revealed.
Here's another one:
#8: Ms. Hawking knows all about Desmond’s future
Episode: “Flashes Before Your Eyes” (Season 3)
Why it’s a “WTF?!” moment: Desmond’s consciousness hopping around through time in “Flashes Before Your Eyes” was a “WTF?!” moment in and of itself, but even more bizarre was his encounter with jewelry store clerk Ms. Hawking. When Desmond tries to change his past and buy an engagement ring for Penny, Ms. Hawking informs him that he will do nothing of the sort. Instead, he will break Penny’s heart, enter the boat race to prove her father wrong, and end up stranded on the Island where he will push the button for the next three years. History, it seems, has a way of “course correcting.” How Ms. Hawking knew about Desmond’s future — or even that Desmond’s consciousness was traveling through time — remains a mystery.
The moment in the top spot shouldn't be a surprise. It still tops the last scene in the Season-Four finale! What's the number one "WTF?!" moment in LOST up to the Season Four finale? Read the entire article to find out.
Now, this blogger listed his top 30 "WTF?!" moments in the best show ever. Check out #23 on the list:
#23: Richard Alpert doesn’t age
Episodes: “Not in Portland,” “The Man Behind the Curtain,” and “Cabin Fever” (Seasons 3/4)
Why it’s a “WTF?!” moment: When Richard Alpert first showed up in the episode “Not in Portland,” he appeared to be nothing more than DHARMA’s smooth-talking recruiter. Of course, that’s before he appeared a few episodes later in Ben’s flashback — looking like he hadn’t aged a day from the early ’70s to the present day. Oh, and by Season 4, we spotted the seemingly ageless Alpert back in the 1950s, visiting John Locke as a child. Does Alpert really not age, or is he traveling through time somehow? It’s a mystery yet to be revealed.
Here's another one:
#8: Ms. Hawking knows all about Desmond’s future
Episode: “Flashes Before Your Eyes” (Season 3)
Why it’s a “WTF?!” moment: Desmond’s consciousness hopping around through time in “Flashes Before Your Eyes” was a “WTF?!” moment in and of itself, but even more bizarre was his encounter with jewelry store clerk Ms. Hawking. When Desmond tries to change his past and buy an engagement ring for Penny, Ms. Hawking informs him that he will do nothing of the sort. Instead, he will break Penny’s heart, enter the boat race to prove her father wrong, and end up stranded on the Island where he will push the button for the next three years. History, it seems, has a way of “course correcting.” How Ms. Hawking knew about Desmond’s future — or even that Desmond’s consciousness was traveling through time — remains a mystery.
The moment in the top spot shouldn't be a surprise. It still tops the last scene in the Season-Four finale! What's the number one "WTF?!" moment in LOST up to the Season Four finale? Read the entire article to find out.
Evie and Dom to Marry?
I gasped in shock when I turned to page two of today's 24 Hrs tabloid this morning. The paper's celebrity gossip page reported that Evangeline Lilly and Dominic Monaghan (Kate Austen and the late Charlie Pace, respectively, in the best show ever) are getting married!
That is interesting. I wonder who the source was.
If this item were true, I'd be very happy for them. They are perfect for each other and they'd make beautiful, creative, talented, and athletic babies.
I hope it's true!
Evangeline Lilly and Dominic Monaghan are reportedly set to marry. The actors - who split briefly earlier this year - are said to be planning a quiet ceremony in Hawaii, as a tribute to LOST, the hit TV show on which they met. A source said: 'Evangeline and Dominic have been spending a lot of time together... and are very excited about the future.'
That is interesting. I wonder who the source was.
If this item were true, I'd be very happy for them. They are perfect for each other and they'd make beautiful, creative, talented, and athletic babies.
I hope it's true!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
I Need Retail Therapy
This week sucks. I don't want to get into details, but I totally hate this week. That's why I need to go into a store and go buy something.
Like Best Buy or Future Shop.
Yeah, that's my idea of retail therapy: either electronics store, online music store (i.e. iTunes), or - the best of all - a bookstore.
Anyway, I've been wanting to get a Nintendo DS Lite, so I'll probably get one. I'll get the cobalt-and-black DS Lite because my niece already has a red-and-black one. Why do I want one? Firstly, Carrie Underwood, Liv Tyler, and America Ferrera have it, so I want one. (Hehe.) Secondly, I tried playing the Dogz game on my niece's DS Lite and I got the hang of it quite easily. It's so much easier to learn than my nephew's PSP. Thirdly, the games function of my iPod Nano isn't so good; the Click Wheel is so freakin' sensitive that it makes playing a game difficult. It eventually gets annoying.
It's not gonna rain tomorrow, so I'll probably go to Best Buy and get a DS Lite. What games should I get? Hmmm... I wonder if there's a LOST game. Hehehe...
Like Best Buy or Future Shop.
Yeah, that's my idea of retail therapy: either electronics store, online music store (i.e. iTunes), or - the best of all - a bookstore.
Anyway, I've been wanting to get a Nintendo DS Lite, so I'll probably get one. I'll get the cobalt-and-black DS Lite because my niece already has a red-and-black one. Why do I want one? Firstly, Carrie Underwood, Liv Tyler, and America Ferrera have it, so I want one. (Hehe.) Secondly, I tried playing the Dogz game on my niece's DS Lite and I got the hang of it quite easily. It's so much easier to learn than my nephew's PSP. Thirdly, the games function of my iPod Nano isn't so good; the Click Wheel is so freakin' sensitive that it makes playing a game difficult. It eventually gets annoying.
It's not gonna rain tomorrow, so I'll probably go to Best Buy and get a DS Lite. What games should I get? Hmmm... I wonder if there's a LOST game. Hehehe...
Sunday, June 15, 2008
NKOTB is Back... Why?!
I'm watching MMVA 2008 right now (Gossip Girl's Chace Crawford and Leah Miller are giving out the Best Video award to... Hedley!). And I think the just-reunited New Kids On The Block are closing the show.
Yeah. Ew.
OK, I can't lie: I loved *NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, and 98 Degrees. But I never really liked NKOTB and Menudo. Especially NKOTB, although they were one of the first boy bands.
I must admit: I loved it when Spice Girls reunited for a Greatest Hits album and a reunion tour. And I have to admit that I liked Joey McIntyre when he released a solo album featuring "Stay the Same" ('coz that was a good song!).
But New Kids On The Block?!
Aren't they way too old to come back? I mean, Donnie Wahlberg is a decent actor, and Jordan Knight and Joey McIntyre are decent singers. But to come back as a boy band? Why? I scoured the Internet but I can't find any valid reason for their comeback.
At least, the Spice Girls reunited temporarily to (in my own words, because I can't find their official statement) celebrate Girl Power and the 10th anniversary of their shot to fame. That was great. But why is NKOTB coming back? Is it permanent? Or is it going to be a one-time thing to make their fans happy?
Well, the Spice Girls did it (a successful comeback, if only for a while). The Backstreet Boys did it - well, sort of. Will NKOTB do it?
If they can match their old success (I doubt it, though), then maybe an *NSYNC reunion is in the can. Heck, if there's a super boy band that deserves a comeback, it's *NSYNC. But, oh, of course, Justin Timberlake will nix it. I doubt if he can be bothered by a clamouring from their fans. He couldn't even bring himself to record one last new song with the rest of the guys for their "Greatest Hits" album.
Anyway, I hope, for their sake, NKOTB's comeback will be as successful as Spice Girls and Backstreet Boys'.
Oh, look at that: MMVA is done. And MuchMusic is airing an encore presentation (already?). Time to watch Game 5 of the NBA finals. Go Boston!
Yeah. Ew.
OK, I can't lie: I loved *NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, and 98 Degrees. But I never really liked NKOTB and Menudo. Especially NKOTB, although they were one of the first boy bands.
I must admit: I loved it when Spice Girls reunited for a Greatest Hits album and a reunion tour. And I have to admit that I liked Joey McIntyre when he released a solo album featuring "Stay the Same" ('coz that was a good song!).
But New Kids On The Block?!
Aren't they way too old to come back? I mean, Donnie Wahlberg is a decent actor, and Jordan Knight and Joey McIntyre are decent singers. But to come back as a boy band? Why? I scoured the Internet but I can't find any valid reason for their comeback.
At least, the Spice Girls reunited temporarily to (in my own words, because I can't find their official statement) celebrate Girl Power and the 10th anniversary of their shot to fame. That was great. But why is NKOTB coming back? Is it permanent? Or is it going to be a one-time thing to make their fans happy?
Well, the Spice Girls did it (a successful comeback, if only for a while). The Backstreet Boys did it - well, sort of. Will NKOTB do it?
If they can match their old success (I doubt it, though), then maybe an *NSYNC reunion is in the can. Heck, if there's a super boy band that deserves a comeback, it's *NSYNC. But, oh, of course, Justin Timberlake will nix it. I doubt if he can be bothered by a clamouring from their fans. He couldn't even bring himself to record one last new song with the rest of the guys for their "Greatest Hits" album.
Anyway, I hope, for their sake, NKOTB's comeback will be as successful as Spice Girls and Backstreet Boys'.
Oh, look at that: MMVA is done. And MuchMusic is airing an encore presentation (already?). Time to watch Game 5 of the NBA finals. Go Boston!
Saturday, June 14, 2008
B'Day Pics
Finally!
I got my camera USB connector from my brother-in-law. Woohoo!
Here's a few of them:
I got those from the Metropolis @ Metrotown store of Old Navy on my birthday. Cost me $108. No, I'm not kidding. I just smiled when I saw the total bill.
My sister gave this to me. She must have realized how much I spend for my iPod media. Har-dee-har-har. It was a great gift, actually, because I spent it on my first TV episode purchase (the June 3rd episode of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart; watch the episode too, if you want to know why I bought it) and my first movie rental (August Rush).
And my favourite: caramel highlights! I used to be a hair-colour virgin, but weeks before my birthday, I thought, "Why the heck not?" It's something different. I probably won't get highlights all the time, though. Too much chemicals.
Y'all can go to my Flickr photostream, if you want to see the other B'Day pictures, as well as the other pictures.
I got my camera USB connector from my brother-in-law. Woohoo!
Here's a few of them:
I got those from the Metropolis @ Metrotown store of Old Navy on my birthday. Cost me $108. No, I'm not kidding. I just smiled when I saw the total bill.
My sister gave this to me. She must have realized how much I spend for my iPod media. Har-dee-har-har. It was a great gift, actually, because I spent it on my first TV episode purchase (the June 3rd episode of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart; watch the episode too, if you want to know why I bought it) and my first movie rental (August Rush).
And my favourite: caramel highlights! I used to be a hair-colour virgin, but weeks before my birthday, I thought, "Why the heck not?" It's something different. I probably won't get highlights all the time, though. Too much chemicals.
Y'all can go to my Flickr photostream, if you want to see the other B'Day pictures, as well as the other pictures.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
I Am So Moving To...
Zurich, Switzerland!
This Swiss city topped Mercer Consulting's The World's Best Places to Live 2008 list again. It got a Mercer score of - drum roll, please - 108. Yes, one hundred and eight. (Apparently, the base city, with an index score of 100, is New York.) According to the article's footnote, the survey identifies "cities with the highest personal safety ranking based on internal stability, crime, effectiveness of law enforcement, and relationships with other countries".
Here are the top 10 best cities:
1. Zurich, Switzerland - Mercer score: 108
2. Vienna, Austria & Geneva, Switzerland - 107.9
4. Vancouver, B.C., Canada - 107.6
5. Auckland, New Zealand - 107.3
6. Dusseldorf, Germany - 107.2
7. Munich, Germany & Frankfurt, Germany - 107
9. Bern, Switzerland - 106.5
10. Sydney, Australia - 106.3
Wow, three Swiss cities! That's one more reason for me to want to move to Switzerland in the (near? far?) future. Yay!
Toronto ranks 15th (it's the Numbers, man!), Ottawa 19th, and Montreal 22nd, while Honolulu, HI, USA is 28th. Baghdad is still the lowest at 215th overall, as well as in personal safety.
On the other hand, Luxembourg has the highest personal safety score. Calgary, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Vancouver rank 22nd in the personal safety rankings. US cities Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Lexington, San Francisco, and Winston-Salem share the 53rd spot.
Sadly, Manila is in the bottom fifty of the personal safety rankings. Expected, but still somewhat saddening.
Click here to read more on this year's rankings.
So... Should I save to get my own condo here in the Greater Vancouver region, or to move to Zurich, Switzerland? Burnaby/New Westminster condo or Zurich? Hmmm... Tough choice.
What do y'all think?
This Swiss city topped Mercer Consulting's The World's Best Places to Live 2008 list again. It got a Mercer score of - drum roll, please - 108. Yes, one hundred and eight. (Apparently, the base city, with an index score of 100, is New York.) According to the article's footnote, the survey identifies "cities with the highest personal safety ranking based on internal stability, crime, effectiveness of law enforcement, and relationships with other countries".
Here are the top 10 best cities:
1. Zurich, Switzerland - Mercer score: 108
2. Vienna, Austria & Geneva, Switzerland - 107.9
4. Vancouver, B.C., Canada - 107.6
5. Auckland, New Zealand - 107.3
6. Dusseldorf, Germany - 107.2
7. Munich, Germany & Frankfurt, Germany - 107
9. Bern, Switzerland - 106.5
10. Sydney, Australia - 106.3
Wow, three Swiss cities! That's one more reason for me to want to move to Switzerland in the (near? far?) future. Yay!
Toronto ranks 15th (it's the Numbers, man!), Ottawa 19th, and Montreal 22nd, while Honolulu, HI, USA is 28th. Baghdad is still the lowest at 215th overall, as well as in personal safety.
On the other hand, Luxembourg has the highest personal safety score. Calgary, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Vancouver rank 22nd in the personal safety rankings. US cities Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Lexington, San Francisco, and Winston-Salem share the 53rd spot.
Sadly, Manila is in the bottom fifty of the personal safety rankings. Expected, but still somewhat saddening.
Click here to read more on this year's rankings.
So... Should I save to get my own condo here in the Greater Vancouver region, or to move to Zurich, Switzerland? Burnaby/New Westminster condo or Zurich? Hmmm... Tough choice.
What do y'all think?
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
It's Not Too Late to Get LOST
Yahoo! TV listed LOST's Season 1 DVD set as one of the "shows to add to your DVD rental queue".
Just a warning: major addiction to LOST is highly possible. Watching the DVD sets for Seasons 1 to 4 is highly recommended to anyone who hasn't seen an episode or has stopped watching for whatever reason.
Am I doing a major rewatch for the first four seasons? Heck, yeah! I'm also watching Grey's Anatomy Season 3, as I barely watched that season.
The Season 4 set in DVD and Blu-Ray will be available in North America on 9 December 2008.
You probably have plenty of friends who insist you should be watching "Lost." Well, there's nothing better on the tube right now, so why not take their advice? Anything is possible on "Lost." With flashbacks, flash forwards, multiple mysteries, time jumps and characters that could be killed off at anytime, you never know what to expect next. Where are the survivors of Oceanic [F]light 815? Jump in with the Season 1 DVD and come up with your own theories. And if you become hooked, Seasons 1-3 are available now on DVD but you'll have to wait until December for Season 4.
Just a warning: major addiction to LOST is highly possible. Watching the DVD sets for Seasons 1 to 4 is highly recommended to anyone who hasn't seen an episode or has stopped watching for whatever reason.
Am I doing a major rewatch for the first four seasons? Heck, yeah! I'm also watching Grey's Anatomy Season 3, as I barely watched that season.
The Season 4 set in DVD and Blu-Ray will be available in North America on 9 December 2008.
Trevor Linden Hangs Up His Skates
My all-time favourite Vancouver Canucks forward Trevor Linden is retiring, he announced today. Incidentally, today is the 20th anniversary of the 1988 National Hockey League Entry Draft, where he was drafted by the Canucks.
I've only been a hockey fan for six years, but I completely fell in love with Linden (as well as Todd Bertuzzi) the first time I watched a Canuck game on TV. He was a good leader for the younger Canucks. I love that he stepped up when Markus Naslund, a good captain as he is, wasn't being captain-y. I think it was in Round 1 of the 2006-2007 playoffs, when the Canucks were battling Dallas Stars. His pregame speech before the March 15th game against Dallas Stars led to the team beating the Stars in a big way. He's pretty hot, too.
His retirement is expected, but I'm still kinda sad.
I don't have the time and the energy to list all his accomplishments, on and off the ice, but y'all can see all of them in the official press release in the Vancouver Canucks official website.
There is also a feature article on the website on the 16 most memorable moments in Linden's career. (Of course, I love the number - it's the Numbers, man. *Wink wink*) This is my favourite moment, although I didn't see it for myself:
I've seen this picture so many times, I feel like I was there!
Anyway, Linden will review his career in a one-hour special on June 23, 2008, at 9 PM on Sportsnet Pacific. I am totally watching this with at least one box of Kleenex.
Thanks, Trevor, for everything! Love yah!
“Today is an emotional and exciting day for me as an athlete and a person. It closes one chapter of my life, my playing career, while opening up another which I am very much looking forward to. The game of hockey has been good to me and I would like to thank my family, former teammates, coaches, managers, support staff and the incredible fans that have been so generous in their support of my career.”
I've only been a hockey fan for six years, but I completely fell in love with Linden (as well as Todd Bertuzzi) the first time I watched a Canuck game on TV. He was a good leader for the younger Canucks. I love that he stepped up when Markus Naslund, a good captain as he is, wasn't being captain-y. I think it was in Round 1 of the 2006-2007 playoffs, when the Canucks were battling Dallas Stars. His pregame speech before the March 15th game against Dallas Stars led to the team beating the Stars in a big way. He's pretty hot, too.
His retirement is expected, but I'm still kinda sad.
I don't have the time and the energy to list all his accomplishments, on and off the ice, but y'all can see all of them in the official press release in the Vancouver Canucks official website.
There is also a feature article on the website on the 16 most memorable moments in Linden's career. (Of course, I love the number - it's the Numbers, man. *Wink wink*) This is my favourite moment, although I didn't see it for myself:
3. INFAMOUS
It is one of the all time great hockey photos and it captured everything about Trevor Linden and the effort required to play for the Stanley Cup. It’s the famous picture of an exhausted Linden, eyes closed and grimacing, with blood on his jersey and his arm around Kirk McLean at the end of Game 6 of the 1994 Stanley Cup Final. Linden appears to be leaning on his netminder as if he can barely stand up after the pounding he’s taken throughout the playoffs. It’s impossible to see that photo and not hear the words of the legendary Jim Robson: “He will play. You know he’ll play. He’ll play on crutches. He will play and he will play at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night.” Boy, did he ever.
I've seen this picture so many times, I feel like I was there!
Anyway, Linden will review his career in a one-hour special on June 23, 2008, at 9 PM on Sportsnet Pacific. I am totally watching this with at least one box of Kleenex.
Thanks, Trevor, for everything! Love yah!
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Four for Four
It's been more than a week after "There's No Place Like Home, Parts 2 & 3" aired, but my head is still spinning. It was a freaking amazing roller coaster of an episode and I can't wait to re-watch it on CTV.ca.
Anyway, I've never written a recap for LOST episodes, except for "Through the Looking Glass" and "The Beginning of the End" - that is, if you count those posts as recaps. And I have no interest in becoming a regular recapper for LOST.
Back to the finale: I may not write regular recaps for LOST, but I still have favourite moments, especially in the finale. You know, the gasp-worthy, mind-bending, and/or head-spinning moments? Yeah.
So I present - drum roll, please - my four favourite moments in "There's No Place Like Home, Parts 2 & 3". Yes, I said four (it's the Numbers, man!).
But, first, the honourable mentions:
Sawyer jumps out the chopper and swims back to shore, sans shirt.
These are actually separate scenes, but they are obviously related. I was very happy that Sawyer chose to jump out of the helicopter to reduce the cumulative weight. (Speaking of which, I didn't like Lapidus when he commented on Hurley's weight because that was just mean.) Sawyer is alive and exuding sexiness when he came out of the ocean without his shirt. This video confirms most fans' theory that the favour Kate did for him had something to do with Clementine Phillips, who is Sawyer's daughter with Cassidy, whom Kate met while she was on the run.
Hurley interacts with dead characters (Charlie & Eko, among others).
Not only does Hurley have regular chats with Charlie, but he also plays chess with Mr Eko! In the finale, our dear drug smuggler/fake priest/Island church builder (almost) is invisible to Sayid and to the audience. Will Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje come back for a quick pop or two? Or are we just going to see Hurley talk to an imaginary person, a la Dave? But I must wonder: why do the dead characters interact with Hurley? Is this going to be important next season?
Charlotte may have been born on the Island, and Miles knows about it!
While Daniel was taking a break from bringing the survivors to the ill-fated freighter, his girl Charlotte and sarcastic ghost buster Miles had a very interesting conversation. After hearing that Charlotte was going to leave on the raft, Miles wonders why she wanted to leave after all the time she spent "trying to get back" to the Island. Charlotte plays innocent, and then Miles remains mysterious about what he knows. Later on, Charlotte tells Daniel that she would stay on the Island and implies she may have been born on the Island. Is she grown-up Annie? Or is she someone else altogether? And how on earth does Miles know about it?
"Whoever moves the island can never come back."
In the Orchid, Ben officially hands his leadership over to John Locke. Then Ben goes self-sacrificial and goes down to the bowels of the Orchid to turn the "frozen donkey wheel". Off-Island, he employs Sayid to kill those he wants dead for whatever reason. In the last scene for Season 4, Ben tells Jack that the Island won't let him come alone and that all of the Oceanic 6 and the man in the coffin (even Walt?) have to come back together. He also tells Bearded Jack he can help him get the rest of the survivors together and probably to convince them that all of them need to go back. You'd have to wonder: why is Ben doing this? What are his intentions? Is he using the survivors so Ben himself can go back to the Island? How does he know that the Island wants all of them to go back anyway?
On to the four favourite moments...
4. Michael dies, and Jin may or may not have died, when the freighter explodes.
In "Meet Kevin Johnson" Michael tries to commit suicide a few times, but is unsuccessful. Then Tom meets with him and tells him that the Island won't let him die. Eventually, Michael tries to delay the detonation of the C-4 explosives. When the liquid nitrogen runs out, Michael suddenly hears the Whispers, and sees Dead/Undead Daddy Christian Shephard, who tells him, "You can go now, Michael." Then BOOM! Yes, it was kinda disappointing that Darlton brought Michael back just to kill him off. But his death was sacrificial, just like Charlie's. It was a heroic death and must be important for the last two seasons. Besides, he told Sayid he was on the freighter to die.
Jin, on the other hand, was left behind on the freighter's deck. We didn't really see what happened to him - he could have died or he could have jumped into the ocean just before the freighter exploded - but I'm truly hoping that he's alive, just like Sawyer. Actually, if he were alive, Sun would have more motivation to go back to the Island. For storytelling purposes, I think Jin should live. *Wink wink*
3. All off-island survivors (i.e. Oceanic 6, Jeremy Bentham, and possibly Walt) have to go back to the Island, wherever/whenever Ben moved it.
When Jack screamed, "We have to go back," back in the "rattlesnake in the mailbox scene" in Season 3, not all of us thought everyone who left the Island have to go back. I'm only assuming Walt has to go back as well, as this is one consequence of Michael's death and the Oceanic 6's lie. Anyway, how would the Six come together if Sayid took Hurley to a safer place, if Sun plans to ally herself with Charles Widmore, and if Jack and Kate & Aaron had a bit of a falling out? And how would Ben help Jack get everyone together? Lastly how are they going to bring Jeremy Bentham's body back to the Island without arousing suspicions, at least with the police, etc.?
2. Penny and Desmond reunite and share the most spectacular kiss in all of primetime television's 2007-2008 season-ending kisses.
The scene where Frank spotted The Searcher echoes the last scene (before the montage) of "Exodus, Part 2" back in Season 1. Only this scene has a different outcome from that of Season 1: the survivors, with Desmond and Frank Lapidus, are actually rescued by the boat owned by a very prominent and popular recurring character - Penelope Widmore. For those with keen eyes, you might have noticed one of the guys in the last scene in Season 2, the ones in the Arctic/Siberian/Antarctic listening post or tracking station. No, not the one who looks like Jack; it's Henrik. Then Penny and Desmond see each other. Understandably, they run towards each other, and then they kiss. They are finally reunited! (By the way, I was crying so hard during their reunion moment. Gah, I'm such a girl!)
But...! We know from "The Shape of Things to Come" that Ben pledged to kill Penny as revenge for Alex's murder. Now, Desmond and Sayid had become friends while they were on the Island and on the freighter. Sayid is Ben's hitman, and Desmond loves Penny so much that he'd probably kill whoever tries to hurt her. Is there going to be a showdown between Desmond and Sayid in Season 6, or even 5?
1. Jeremy Bentham is John Locke.
So, the very last scene for Season 4 reveals that the man the Oceanic 6, Ben, and Walt are calling Jeremy Bentham is actually the Man of Faith and the new leader of the Others - John Locke. Why he left the Island and began telling everyone, especially Jack, that they need to go back to the place they were so eager to leave is still unknown. He did tell Jack that horrible things happened after they left and it was Jack's fault for leaving. What horrible things happened exactly? Did anyone die? Was there really a sickness? Was there a faction in the Others' camp? Did the rest of the survivors and the Others merge, or did they become enemies? And how was it Jack's fault?
While I'm on the subject, this was slightly spoiled for me. No, I didn't go to DarkUFO's Spoilers section and I didn't read Lostfan108's synopsis of the finale. But in the Addicted to LOST application on Facebook, someone posted the spoilers on the app Wall, even if there's a note right under the text box that no one should post a spoiler on the Wall! I saw the first line ("JOHN LOCKE IS THE MAN IN THE COFFIN" or something like that), and immediately scrolled up. Then DocArzt posted a video that turned out to be a foiler (not his fault, though - he was punk'd!). I was, like, "No, Locke's not the man in the coffin." So I was still surprised in the reveal and it still blew my mind, just as Darlton intended.
Why is the last scene of Season 4 my most favourite moment? Because it raised a lot of questions for me (see above). These questions, in turn, will keep me from severe withdrawal from LOST. I'd be in the Lostpedia and The Fuselage forums, theorising about Seasons 5 and 6. The more fodder for theorising, the better.
So, yeah.
Season 4 has concluded, and the eight-month wait has also begun. See y'all in the forums and Lostpedia, and all the other fan sites/blogs.
Anyway, I've never written a recap for LOST episodes, except for "Through the Looking Glass" and "The Beginning of the End" - that is, if you count those posts as recaps. And I have no interest in becoming a regular recapper for LOST.
Back to the finale: I may not write regular recaps for LOST, but I still have favourite moments, especially in the finale. You know, the gasp-worthy, mind-bending, and/or head-spinning moments? Yeah.
So I present - drum roll, please - my four favourite moments in "There's No Place Like Home, Parts 2 & 3". Yes, I said four (it's the Numbers, man!).
But, first, the honourable mentions:
Sawyer jumps out the chopper and swims back to shore, sans shirt.
These are actually separate scenes, but they are obviously related. I was very happy that Sawyer chose to jump out of the helicopter to reduce the cumulative weight. (Speaking of which, I didn't like Lapidus when he commented on Hurley's weight because that was just mean.) Sawyer is alive and exuding sexiness when he came out of the ocean without his shirt. This video confirms most fans' theory that the favour Kate did for him had something to do with Clementine Phillips, who is Sawyer's daughter with Cassidy, whom Kate met while she was on the run.
Hurley interacts with dead characters (Charlie & Eko, among others).
Not only does Hurley have regular chats with Charlie, but he also plays chess with Mr Eko! In the finale, our dear drug smuggler/fake priest/Island church builder (almost) is invisible to Sayid and to the audience. Will Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje come back for a quick pop or two? Or are we just going to see Hurley talk to an imaginary person, a la Dave? But I must wonder: why do the dead characters interact with Hurley? Is this going to be important next season?
Charlotte may have been born on the Island, and Miles knows about it!
While Daniel was taking a break from bringing the survivors to the ill-fated freighter, his girl Charlotte and sarcastic ghost buster Miles had a very interesting conversation. After hearing that Charlotte was going to leave on the raft, Miles wonders why she wanted to leave after all the time she spent "trying to get back" to the Island. Charlotte plays innocent, and then Miles remains mysterious about what he knows. Later on, Charlotte tells Daniel that she would stay on the Island and implies she may have been born on the Island. Is she grown-up Annie? Or is she someone else altogether? And how on earth does Miles know about it?
"Whoever moves the island can never come back."
In the Orchid, Ben officially hands his leadership over to John Locke. Then Ben goes self-sacrificial and goes down to the bowels of the Orchid to turn the "frozen donkey wheel". Off-Island, he employs Sayid to kill those he wants dead for whatever reason. In the last scene for Season 4, Ben tells Jack that the Island won't let him come alone and that all of the Oceanic 6 and the man in the coffin (even Walt?) have to come back together. He also tells Bearded Jack he can help him get the rest of the survivors together and probably to convince them that all of them need to go back. You'd have to wonder: why is Ben doing this? What are his intentions? Is he using the survivors so Ben himself can go back to the Island? How does he know that the Island wants all of them to go back anyway?
On to the four favourite moments...
4. Michael dies, and Jin may or may not have died, when the freighter explodes.
In "Meet Kevin Johnson" Michael tries to commit suicide a few times, but is unsuccessful. Then Tom meets with him and tells him that the Island won't let him die. Eventually, Michael tries to delay the detonation of the C-4 explosives. When the liquid nitrogen runs out, Michael suddenly hears the Whispers, and sees Dead/Undead Daddy Christian Shephard, who tells him, "You can go now, Michael." Then BOOM! Yes, it was kinda disappointing that Darlton brought Michael back just to kill him off. But his death was sacrificial, just like Charlie's. It was a heroic death and must be important for the last two seasons. Besides, he told Sayid he was on the freighter to die.
Jin, on the other hand, was left behind on the freighter's deck. We didn't really see what happened to him - he could have died or he could have jumped into the ocean just before the freighter exploded - but I'm truly hoping that he's alive, just like Sawyer. Actually, if he were alive, Sun would have more motivation to go back to the Island. For storytelling purposes, I think Jin should live. *Wink wink*
3. All off-island survivors (i.e. Oceanic 6, Jeremy Bentham, and possibly Walt) have to go back to the Island, wherever/whenever Ben moved it.
When Jack screamed, "We have to go back," back in the "rattlesnake in the mailbox scene" in Season 3, not all of us thought everyone who left the Island have to go back. I'm only assuming Walt has to go back as well, as this is one consequence of Michael's death and the Oceanic 6's lie. Anyway, how would the Six come together if Sayid took Hurley to a safer place, if Sun plans to ally herself with Charles Widmore, and if Jack and Kate & Aaron had a bit of a falling out? And how would Ben help Jack get everyone together? Lastly how are they going to bring Jeremy Bentham's body back to the Island without arousing suspicions, at least with the police, etc.?
2. Penny and Desmond reunite and share the most spectacular kiss in all of primetime television's 2007-2008 season-ending kisses.
The scene where Frank spotted The Searcher echoes the last scene (before the montage) of "Exodus, Part 2" back in Season 1. Only this scene has a different outcome from that of Season 1: the survivors, with Desmond and Frank Lapidus, are actually rescued by the boat owned by a very prominent and popular recurring character - Penelope Widmore. For those with keen eyes, you might have noticed one of the guys in the last scene in Season 2, the ones in the Arctic/Siberian/Antarctic listening post or tracking station. No, not the one who looks like Jack; it's Henrik. Then Penny and Desmond see each other. Understandably, they run towards each other, and then they kiss. They are finally reunited! (By the way, I was crying so hard during their reunion moment. Gah, I'm such a girl!)
But...! We know from "The Shape of Things to Come" that Ben pledged to kill Penny as revenge for Alex's murder. Now, Desmond and Sayid had become friends while they were on the Island and on the freighter. Sayid is Ben's hitman, and Desmond loves Penny so much that he'd probably kill whoever tries to hurt her. Is there going to be a showdown between Desmond and Sayid in Season 6, or even 5?
1. Jeremy Bentham is John Locke.
So, the very last scene for Season 4 reveals that the man the Oceanic 6, Ben, and Walt are calling Jeremy Bentham is actually the Man of Faith and the new leader of the Others - John Locke. Why he left the Island and began telling everyone, especially Jack, that they need to go back to the place they were so eager to leave is still unknown. He did tell Jack that horrible things happened after they left and it was Jack's fault for leaving. What horrible things happened exactly? Did anyone die? Was there really a sickness? Was there a faction in the Others' camp? Did the rest of the survivors and the Others merge, or did they become enemies? And how was it Jack's fault?
While I'm on the subject, this was slightly spoiled for me. No, I didn't go to DarkUFO's Spoilers section and I didn't read Lostfan108's synopsis of the finale. But in the Addicted to LOST application on Facebook, someone posted the spoilers on the app Wall, even if there's a note right under the text box that no one should post a spoiler on the Wall! I saw the first line ("JOHN LOCKE IS THE MAN IN THE COFFIN" or something like that), and immediately scrolled up. Then DocArzt posted a video that turned out to be a foiler (not his fault, though - he was punk'd!). I was, like, "No, Locke's not the man in the coffin." So I was still surprised in the reveal and it still blew my mind, just as Darlton intended.
Why is the last scene of Season 4 my most favourite moment? Because it raised a lot of questions for me (see above). These questions, in turn, will keep me from severe withdrawal from LOST. I'd be in the Lostpedia and The Fuselage forums, theorising about Seasons 5 and 6. The more fodder for theorising, the better.
So, yeah.
Season 4 has concluded, and the eight-month wait has also begun. See y'all in the forums and Lostpedia, and all the other fan sites/blogs.
Now, excuse me while I re-watch the finale.
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