Welcome, my Tweeting Toyboxers! Now that I’ve regrouped and reintegrated my abandoned Twitter and WordPress.com posts into the Toybox, I can now relax with a shiny new entry. This time, we’ll curl, crunch and focus on extreme workouts! From my hybrid “J200XC” to the web-based “BodyRock.Tv” to the highly-anticipated sequel “P90X2″. So, without further ado, let’s rock the show…

Part 1 of 3 > J200XC > My Extreme Hybrid Program

Whew! This morning, I completed Day 126 of “J200XC”, my second 200-day hybrid program. For the dirty details of my uphill path through “P90X”, then my first “J200X”, then my current “J200XC”, feel free to peek at my #1-ranked Toybox post: “From P90X to Insanity” (25 July 2010). Meanwhile, here’s a little taste from my “Exercise” page.

Started February 2011, here’s my next “J200XC” 200-Day Hybrid Program, based heavily on Chalene’s programs. Yup, after 2 rounds, I got tired of Tony’s “P90X”, and replaced it with Chalene’s “ChaLEAN Extreme”. Interestingly, I decided to bring back Tony’s 90-minute “Yoga X” on a weekly basis as the most intense-yet-invigorating stretching session from any fitness program, hehe. Then in May 2011, on Day 63, I decided to replace Beto’s unsatisfying “Zumba” and bring back Tony’s kick-ass “Kenpo X” and “Kenpo Cardio Plus”. Nice.

Consequently, here’s the PDF file for “J200XC”, Version 2. As always, feel free to peek inside.

Haha, but what I didn’t mention was that I couldn’t wait to use my new dumbbell set! So instead of another boring Kenpo Cardio Plus routine, I decided to do ChaLEAN’s Lean 3-40W. Wow, much more intense with a pair of 35-pound instead of 25-pound dumbbells! I can also load it up to 40 pounds! Basically, I ordered the Cap Barbell 40-Pound Dumbbell Set (Amazon) plus four Champion 10-Pound Standard Flat Plates (Amazon) to combine them into the most-affordable and adjustable 80-pound dumbbell set for under $105 USD (free shipping). If I choose to, I can also buy additional plates. Nice!

Here are my new plated dumbbells (black, Cap Barbell and Champion) as they compare to the old hex dumbbells (gray) I’ve had for years before P90X.

Then after my morning workout and stretch, I tossed together a tasty bowl of cereal. Actually, this bowl combines several tasty high-fiber cereals (General Mills’ FiberOne, Kashi’s GoLean, and generic Frosted Shredded Wheat), plus a handful of dried fruits on top. Hehe, fiber is getting tastier every year, isn’t it?

Part 2 of 3 > Body Rock > The Home Workout Movement

BodyRock.Tv. Have you ever heard of this website before? I certainly didn’t. That is, not until a few weeks ago. While browsing YouTube, I accidently stumbled upon one of Zuzana’s many workout videos. From there, I found her website and daily videos, put together by Zuzana and her husband Freddy. Wow, extreme home workouts for free!

While I haven’t done a true BodyRock workout yet, I’ve tried a few exercises that didn’t need specialized equipment. Consequently, the biggest obstacle is my lack of BodyRock workout gear, such as an interval timer, dip station or sandbag. So, to compensate for an interval timer, I assembled my own 21-minute electronica-dance music MP3, with the familiar high-pitched beeps between 50-second “high-energy” clips and 10-second “rest” clips. Yup, last weekend, I improvised a full 21-minute interval workout with the help of my newly-minted mix, hehe. Sound intriguing? Feel free to test-drive the “BodyRock-Mix-2011” MP3 (about 20 MB).

Hopefully, I can incorporate a handful of Zuzana’s exercises into my next “J200X3″ hybrid program. Actually, her “Fierce Friday Workout” (01 July 2011) demonstrates exercises without any specialized equipment. So that’ll be a great start.

Meanwhile, her “Just Did It! Workout” (15 July 2011) demonstrates exercises with a pink fitness ball. Hmm, as more and more accessories and expenses are required for her workouts, the tougher they’ll be to incorporate. I’ll just have to improvise or ignore them, hehe.

Part 3 of 3 > P90X2 > The Sequel to P90X

A-ha, coming soon! “P90X2“, the highly-anticipated sequel to “P90X”. Here’s a taste from the Beachbody website.

Currently in development, P90X2™ is the sequel to Beachbody’s best-selling workout program, P90X. With P90X2 workout, P90X grads can get even stronger, more flexible, and more ripped. This program is designed for maximum intensity and efficiency. In fact, this completely new 90-day program features cutting-edge workouts so intense, we only let you do them 5 days a week.

The original “P90X” Extreme Home Fitness Program released in 2004.

The sequel “P90X2″ with Muscle Confusion 2 coming in 2011.

Need I say more? More fitness balls? Well, I guess it’s yet another thing to incorporate into my next “J200X3″ hybrid program starting in October 2011. Extreme indeed.

Ah, from Angels to Devils! More specifically, a 5-day Utah hiking trip that conquered (1) Zion National Park’s strenuous “Angels Landing”, (2) Bryce Canyon National Park’s breathless 8000-foot elevations, and (3) Arches National Park’s dehydrating “Devils Garden”. Wow, such an awesome, inspiring and unforgettable trip! Here’s the day-by-day breakdown…

• On Tues, May 3rd, picked up my brother from McCarran Airport.
• On Wed, May 4th, drove several hours from Las Vegas to Zion.
• On Thurs, May 5th, conquered “Angels Landing” and drove a couple hours to Bryce.
• On Fri, May 6th, conquered “Bryce Point” and drove five hours to Arches.
• On Sat, May 7th, conquered “Devils Garden” and “Delicate Arch“.
• On Sun, May 8th, drove seven hours back to Las Vegas.
• On Mon, May 9th, dropped off my brother at the airport.

At this point, it’s probably not too worthwhile to describe the granular details — the random road-trip discussions, the last-minute fuel-or-lunch stops, the endlessly colorful small-town landscapes, the wide-and-wild spectrum of breakfasts and burgers, even the laid-back lend-a-hand hiker culture, let alone the drenching sweat-and-awe of the actual hikes themselves — because it’s pretty difficult to convey unless you’ve experienced them yourself!

Nevertheless, from our combined 800+ photos, here are just 50 photos spanning across these 3 stunning National Parks. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words, right? Enjoy!

See the photos >>

Yup, IBM. If the proposed acquisition (announced on March 22nd) closes by the end of the month as planned, then I will officially become an “IBMer”. Not bad. Intimidating? Yeah. Terrifying? Sure. But it’s a tremendous opportunity as well. To explore the bright blue bubble.

What does this mean for my readers?

Sadly, while I may not be fully closing the lid on my anime-oriented Toybox blog (launched in November 2006), I feel it’s time to move onto the next phase of my extracurricular life in April 2011. To think that IBM will be celebrating 100 years (in June 2011) is not only mind-boggling, but the timing in my life feels significant. Another sign of change. Don’t worry, I won’t stop watching anime (“Mushi-Shi” is my current series), but I’m also aiming to “travel lightly”, experiment and explore territories beyond anime. (Almost like the travelling Ginko in “Mushi-Shi”, hehe.)

What do I mean by “travel lightly”?

Haha, if you’ve ever survived a barrage from one of my Toybox mega-posts, you’ll know what I mean. Not only did the gathering of 100-plus images consume endless hours, but also the composition of the prose and the construction of the code. While presenting the final masterpiece was rewarding, I no longer have the blocks of time and energy to spend. The days of pulling a heavy wagon have drawn to a close. And the days of carrying a simple backpack have begun. In other words:

• a new WordPress @ xjaymanx777.wordpress.com,
• a new Facebook @ www.facebook.com/xjaymanx777, and
• a new Twitter @ www.twitter.com/xjaymanx777.

Why diversify?

By freeing myself from a heavily-centralized self-hosted “wagon” of computer files and folders, I can leap lightly from site to site with a simple but liberating “backpack” of ideas and expressions. Free to pursue and explore exotic new territories along my technical path. At least, that’s the theory.

We’ll see what the bright blue bubble offers…

Update 1 of 1 > The Forces of Blue

Updated on 16 April 2011: Yup, it’s finally official. This past Thursday, IBM officially closed on our corporate acquisition (April 14th). Hence the “new hire process” begins. FAQs. Forms. Photocopies. Photos. Badges. Bands. Blue. Waves upon waves of blue yet to wash upon us, hehe. Next week, I’m polishing my technical skills by taking a two-week certification course. Today, I even stopped by the nearest tailor shop to alter and refit my oversized navy-blue suit. Yup, lost about forty pounds in four years. But it should be ready to pick up before the celebratory company meeting and taking of badge photos. Cool.

Meanwhile, on the extracurricular side:

• Still watching the breath-taking anime “Mushi-Shi“.
• Finally finished “Star Wars – The Clone Wars” Season 3. Wow, too amazing! Action. Effects. Storytelling. Even the CGI acting. Just keeps getting better and better! Can’t wait for Season 4 later this year! Not to mention a still-untitled live-action series, haha.
• Still crushing through my “J200XC” 200-day extreme fitness program. Today was Day 48, P90X’s Yoga X. Wow, almost 25% complete already! But I wonder how I’ll deal with an upcoming 6-day hiking trip. Probably easiest to pause “J200XC” for a full 7-day block so I can resume the weekly pattern when I return. Yeah.

Well, that’s about it for now. May the Force be with you!

What’s up, y’all? Insane yet? For my latest Toybox installment, I’m going to switch it up with a mini-cast follow-up of my last mega-broadcast. We’re going to leap over “P90X”, dig under “Insanity”, and jump into my own hybrid hysteria of “J200X”, haha. Yup, it’s going to be short but sweet. So let’s turn it on, tune it in, and pump it up. Let’s go!

Part 1 of 5 > From Zero to P90X Graduation

If you remember my article “From Zero to P90X” from my last mega-cast, Blog 221 > Panties, Punches & Power90X, I wrote the following personal goal.

My next goal? To conquer this 90-day round of P90X in 25 more days. After that? Well, since fitness shouldn’t stop after 90 days, probably another round of P90X. Or maybe the “Insanity: Total Body Conditioning” 60-day program. Yeah, you heard me: Insanity.

Well, guess what? Despite a hurt back, I finally conquered and graduated “P90X” on 21 July 2010, just a few days ago. Nice! To celebrate this unreal achievement, here are a few photos to illustrate my physical transformation. First, here’s Day 07 of 90, when my 5′ 10″ frame weighed a slim but toneless 145 pounds.

Next, here’s Day 87 of 90, when I toned up yet trimmed down to 134 pounds. Autumn-chan quickly noticed the greater definition in my abs, shoulders and biceps!

Finally, here’s my third day of rest following my “P90X” graduation. Showing off a little, hehe.

While I completed the “Classic” (instead of the “Lean”) version of the program, I still kept a “lean” objective in mind. I wasn’t as intent on “bulking up” my muscle mass as much as gaining tone and endurance. And wow, it pretty much worked!

Part 2 of 5 > P90X Program, Calendar & Worksheet

Ah, “P90X”. In case you’re interested in the program, here’s an edited screenshot from Beachbody’s P90X.com website. Muscle confusion!

Here are the various pieces of the program. Honestly, I didn’t really need the “P90X Nutrition Plan”. Just use common sense.

Next, here’s the PDF file for the “P90X Calendar”. The calendar covers 13 weeks or 91 days for the “Classic”, “Doubles” and “Lean” versions of the program. Feel free to peek inside.

Finally, here’s the PDF file for the “P90X Worksheet”. For the first few weeks, I didn’t bother to jot down my repetitions or weights. But I have to admit, once you keep track of what you did before, it really pushes you to beat your numbers for next session! Bring it! Then write it down!

That’s it! Just 90 days of muscle confusion and muscle definition, hehe. Oh man, that 15-minute “Ab Ripper X” session really burns and builds your abs!

Part 3 of 5 > P90X+ Plus Calendar & Worksheet

Ah, now here’s something for “P90X” graduates like myself: “P90X+” or “P90X Plus”. I haven’t seen all of the sessions yet, and I’m still not used to the different stage set or different presentation style. Maybe I just need to watch them more, hehe. In any case, here’s the PDF file for the “P90X+ Calendar”. While the calendar only covers 12 weeks or 84 days for the various versions, we can assume that the 13th week is another “Recovery” week like the others. Feel free to peek inside.

Next, here’s the PDF file for the “P90X+ Worksheet”. Once again, don’t forget to bring it, then write it down!

Yup, another 90 days of muscle confusion! Will I decide to endure this program? Or another?

Part 4 of 5 > Insanity Program, Fit Test & Calendar

Ah, “Insanity”! In case you’re interested in the program, here’s an edited screenshot from the Beachbody.com website. Max interval training!

Here are the various pieces of the program. Like the “P90X Nutrition Plan”, I probably won’t need the “Insanity Nutrition Plan”. Just use common sense.

Here’s the PDF file for the slick “Insanity Welcome”. It’s going to push you beyond your utmost limits! To dig deeper than you ever have in your life! Feel free to peek inside.

Next, here’s the PDF file for the “Insanity Fit Test”. Like a minimalist version of the “P90X Worksheet”, this test will track your progress so you can beat your numbers for next time!

Finally, here’s the PDF file for the “Insanity Calendar”. The calendar covers 9 weeks or 63 days.

That’s it! Just 60 days of maximum interval training! Yup, maximum! Will I dig deeper into this program? Or yet another?

Part 5 of 5 > J200X Program Calendar

Haha, yup, you guessed right! Yet another program. My own “J200X Extreme Home Fitness” 200-day program, fusing together “P90X”, “P90X+” and “Insanity”, even the in-built programs of my “ProForm” treadmill! In fact, here’s the PDF file for my “J200X Calendar”. The calendar covers 29 weeks or 203 days, but feel free to stop at 200 days, hehe. Talk about insane!

Why fuse together “P90X”, “P90X+” and “Insanity”? Well, after watching the “Insanity” sessions for several weeks, I noticed the lack of weight training amidst all of the insane cardio. Instead of being integrated into a balanced calendar, the weight-training add-on seemed like a late after-thought. Too bad. Hence, I decided to spice it up with “Insanity” while retaining the classic weight-integrated “P90X” program. Cool, huh?

When will I start “J200X”? Hmm, maybe in a couple weeks, in early August? Hehe, we’ll see. I still need to recover from “P90X”! Otherwise, that’s it for now. Did you survive the insanity? The hysteria? I told you this Toybox mini-cast would be short and sweet! Nevertheless, thanks to Autumn-chan, Tony Horton, Shaun T, and of course, my Tumbling Toyboxers. Thanks for sticking around!

Till next broadcast. Peace. Out.

Update 1 of 10 > Jillian Michaels

Updated on 28 July 2010: But wait, here’s an update! After watching Jillian Michaels’ workout videos over the last few days, I decided to fuse her programs with “J200X” too! Here’s the updated PDF file. Feel free to peek inside, hehe.

Update 2 of 10 > TurboFire Program & Calendar

Updated on 29 August 2010: Oops, here’s another update! Amidst my ongoing workout explorations, including Shaun T’s “Hip Hop Abs”, and Chalene Johnson’s “Turbo Jam”, I ultimately stumbled across Chalene’s “TurboFire” (released June 2010) just last weekend. Wow, after surviving the longest HIIT 30 class (replacing P90X’s Plyometrics for Day 23 of my J200X), and watching or testing all of the other classes, I’m impressed! Here’s an edited screenshot from the Beachbody.com website. High-intensity interval training (HIIT)!

Here’s the PDF file for the “TurboFire Class Calendar”. The calendar covers 20 weeks or 140 days.

While Chalene’s “TurboFire” HIIT cardio is just as intense as Shaun T’s “Insanity” max-interval cardio, I must admit that “TurboFire” and its choreograph-intensive dance-kickboxing mixes make it 9x more fun! Probably 9x more likely to stick with over the months and years too. Makes you wonder why Shaun T didn’t take advantage of his “Hip Hop Abs” dance background to make “Insanity” more fun, doesn’t it? So, of course, I decided to fuse the best elements of Chalene’s 140-day program (HIIT, Fire and Stretch) with my 200-day “J200X” as well! Can’t wait to start Day 29 tomorrow, haha. Here’s my updated PDF file, Version 7. As always, feel free to peek inside. Enjoy!

Update 3 of 10 > Banished Jillian Michaels, Insanity & P90X+ Plus

Updated on 10 September 2010: Well, after taking another look at Chalene’s “Turbo Jam” workouts, I decided to “banish” Jillian Michaels and maintain a Beachbody-only hybrid program after all. Chalene’s “Cardio Party” and “Turbo Sculpt” are definitely more intense and fun than Jillian’s “Banish Fat” and “Trouble Zones”! Meanwhile, Chalene’s “TurboFire Stretch 40″ serves as a much better yoga and stretch session than Jillian’s “Yoga Meltdown”. Sorry Jillian. Go Chalene! So I simply replaced the PDF file above with an alternative Version 7. Enjoy!

Updated on 17 September 2010: Haha, it was inevitable! Several nights ago, due to my “P90X” soreness, I began to wonder about my long recovery breaks. Maybe they’re too long? Maybe I should shorten the breaks between “P90X” weeks? Meanwhile, I’ve known that Shaun T’s “Insanity” totally lacks the long-term fun and enjoyment wielded by Chalene’s just-as-insane “TurboFire”. Lastly, Tony’s “P90X+ Plus” add-on seems to lack the presentation power of his original “P90X”.

Consequently, with Day 45, I switched gears to my revised “J200X V8″, banishing both “Insanity” and “P90X+ Plus” as well as shortening the recovery breaks between “P90X” weeks. In essence, I focussed on my two favorite programs, sprinkling “TurboFire” days into “P90X” weeks, and sprinkling “P90X” days into “TurboFire” weeks. Nice! Here’s my updated PDF file, Version 8. As always, feel free to peek inside. Enjoy!

Update 4 of 10 > J200X Version 8 Rocks!

Updated on 15 October 2010: Ahh, this morning, conquered Day 75 of “J200X-V8″ with a full Fire-45 “TurboFire” workout! In fact, by completing a full 30-day period with Version-8, I’ve confirmed that this “P90X-TurboFire” Version-8 hybrid is indeed the perfect mix, that to add fire to “P90X” — the best strength-training program — “TurboFire” is the best cardio-kick-boxing counterpart. For me. Finally.

Now, I haven’t overlooked the occasional customer reviews that “TurboFire” is too hard to follow, too fast, too dancy, or only for trainers and experts. Even for “P90X” graduates. I mean, come on, unless you have a legitimate medical issue, that’s pure pessimism. Starting in 1999, I weighed an obese 210 pounds, and stuck with the treadmill over the next 11 years till I dropped to 145 pounds (Blog 221). But I still lacked overall tone and endurance. So I graduated from my first round of “P90X” just three months ago at 135 pounds, and tested my first “TurboFire” (HIIT) session two months ago. Even now, in October 2010, I still love “TurboFire”! But am I an expert? Haha, I wouldn’t call myself that, let alone a trainer. I’m just a regular guy who challenged his own comfort zone, wanted to push his own limits, and didn’t give up.

After “P90X”, I was skeptical of “TurboFire” too. Too dancy? Too girly? But guess what? There are several tips and tricks to get into it. First, I ignored my manly insecurities. If I can get into “P90X – Yoga X”, then I can give choreography a try, right? Second, along with my regular workouts, I took a week to familiarize myself with “Turbo Jam”. This “starter” or “prequel” program prepared me for Chalene’s trademark moves. Third, I gave myself another couple weeks to watch a few “TurboFire” classes every day during breakfast or dinner. To steadily get a feel for the pace, rhythm and expectations before integrating them into a regular hybrid schedule. Finally, when I felt ready, I dove into it! Over time, I began to realize that the so-called “dancy” kick-boxing choreography is exactly the psychological distraction to help you forget the clock!

When you look at the clock, it usually means you can’t wait for something to end. This is the downfall of Shaun T’s “Insanity”, which is why its uninspiring repetition is utterly devoid of fun. Meanwhile, trying to remember Chalene’s brilliantly mixed “TurboFire” punches, kicks and leaps keeps you guessing, but guessing better and better, as you get swept up in the energy, like a concert fan in the crowd trying to learn the lyrics of his favorite song but is having fun anyway! Before you know it, the session is already over. And you’re dripping with sweat!

So far, so good. Day 75 of “J200X-V8″. Just 125 more days to go. Feel free to check out my daily progress on my Exercise page. Yup, my “P90X-TurboFire” Version-8 hybrid rocks! That is, until Tony Horton releases his sequel P90X:MC2 in 2011, haha.

Update 5 of 10 > TurboFire Review!

Updated on 06 November 2010: Heyyy, guess what? Just a few days ago, on Day 94 of “J200X-V8″, my TurboFire review finally appeared on the Beachbody.com website. Unedited. Nice! Just look for the title “A guy’s review” by xJAYMANx from Las Vegas, dated October 27, hehe. Otherwise, feel free to enlarge my screen capture below. I gave 5 of 5 stars, of course.

Update 6 of 10 > J200XC Rocks Harder!

Updated on 24 March 2011: Yup, I did it! After starting way back in July-August 2010, I finally completed my first “J200X” 200-Day Hybrid Program last month on 17 February 2010. Nice!

But wait! Shortly thereafter in late February 2011, I started my new “J200XC” 200-Day Hybrid Program, based heavily on Chalene’s programs. Yup, after 2 rounds, I got tired of Tony’s “P90X”, and replaced it with Chalene’s “ChaLEAN Extreme”. But interestingly, I decided to bring back Tony’s 90-minute “Yoga X” on a weekly basis as the most intense-yet-invigorating stretching session from any fitness program, hehe.

Consequently, here’s the PDF file for “J200XC”, Version 1. As always, feel free to peek inside. Enjoy! I already finished Day 25 this morning, haha.

Update 7 of 10 > J200XC Version 2 Kicks Ass!

Updated on 02 May 2011: Ah, too bad, “Zumba”. After Day 62 of J200XC, I decided that despite its good sweat, Beto’s Latin-based “Zumba” dancing didn’t really push or engage me as fully as I’d like.

So on Sunday, Day 63 of J200XC, I replaced “Zumba” as follows: (1) “Zumba Cardio Party 50″ with Tony’s “P90X Kenpo X 60″, (2) “Zumba Sculpt & Tone 45W” with Tony’s “P90X+ Kenpo Cardio Plus 40″, and (3) “Zumba Flat Abs 20″ with Chalene’s “TurboFire Stretch 10″. In fact, on Day 63, I specifically crushed “P90X+ Kenpo Cardio Plus 40 + TurboFire Stretch 10″. Ah, yes, I think Kenpo more functionally and physically kicks ass! Consequently, here’s the PDF file for “J200XC”, Version 2. As always, feel free to peek inside. Cheers! Till next time!

Update 8 of 10 > J200XC, P90X2 & Body Rock

Updated on 17 Jul 2011: Welcome, my Tweeting Toyboxers! Now that I’ve regrouped and reintegrated my abandoned Twitter and WordPress.com posts into the Toybox, I can now relax with a shiny new entry. This time, we’ll curl, crunch and focus on extreme workouts! From my hybrid “J200XC” to the web-based “BodyRock.Tv” to the highly-anticipated sequel “P90X2″. So, without further ado, let’s rock the show…

More @ Blog 229 >>

Update 9 of 10 > From J200XC to J200X3

Updated on 06 Nov 2011: Yup, on Thursday, 29 Sep 2011, Day 200 arrived! I completed my “J200XC” hybrid workout program with a morning of “TurboFire’s Core 20 + Stretch 40″. Woo-hoo! Then on the following Monday, 03 Oct 2011, I began my third 200-day hybrid: “J200X3″. Today, on 06 Nov 2011, I already reached Day 35 of 200, hehe.

Scheduled to be completed May 2012, my next “J200X3″ 200-Day Hybrid Program brings back Tony’s “P90X” on an equal footing with Chalene’s “ChaLEAN Extreme”. Furthermore, I realized that the deliberately slow-paced weight-training in “ChaLEAN Extreme” was actually less effective than the faster-paced weight-training in “P90X”. By doubling or tripling my pace and reps in “ChaLEAN Extreme”, I was able to achieve the same gratifying muscle “soreness” that I rediscovered in “P90X”. Yup, I know, I changed my mind. After 3 rounds, “P90X” rocks after all! Consequently, here’s the PDF file for “J200X3″, Version 1. As always, feel free to peek inside. Rock on! Till next time!

Update 10 of 10 > Adding P90X2 to J200X3 Version 2!

Updated on 28 Dec 2011: Although I’m almost halfway through my “J200X3” 200-Day Hybrid Program (scheduled to be completed May 2012), I decided to revise Version 1 by adding some of Tony’s new “P90X2″. Yup, after watching most of the “P90X2″ sessions, I was admittedly impressed!

Here’s the PDF file for the “P90X2 Calendar”.

Plus, here’s the PDF file for the “P90X Worksheet”.

In fact, I was impressed enough to finally replace Chalene’s “ChaLEAN Extreme” with “P90X2″, hehe. Sorry Chalene! So according to my new Version 2 calendar, the “P90X2″ sessions don’t replace “ChaLEAN Extreme” until Day 78. But since I’m already at Day 87 (28 Dec 2011), I’ll catch the next “P90X2″ session on Day 92 (02 Jan 2012), hehe. Can’t wait to try out the foam rumble roller and medicine balls! Happy New Year!

Panties? Punches? Power90X? That’s right, my Tantalized Toyboxers! For our latest mega-broadcast, we plummet into a splashing plethora of poorly-protected panties, penetratingly-precise punches, and perfectly power-packed repetitions, ranging across scantily-clad “Agent Aika” original anime and live-action shows, to humor-sprinkled “Gokusen” and blood-stained “Crows Zero II” high-school films, to unbelievable Jackie Chan and Jet Li martial-arts classics, to the heart-pumping and body-building “P90X” exercise program. So what are we waiting for? Let’s go! Let’s start the mega-cast…

Part 1 of 3 > From Stockings to Panties

Guess what? I’m going to talk about anime. Yup, I know. Despite my unexpected and inexplicable sensation earlier this year, that “Anime [is] starting to feel fake“, I still enjoy it. Even if I’m sustaining only 60% of my watching pace compared to previously-obsessed years, I still enjoy it. In other words, at around this time, at the halfway point in the year, I’d previously reach 25 anime titles. But this year, I’ve only completed 15 titles. Not too bad. But not shocking either.

Agent Aika (OVA 1-4, 1997) [11]. Having said that, which anime am I going to discuss? Well, the classic “Agent Aika”, of course! Yup, on 01 April, I completed my 11th anime title of the year. The first four OVA episodes. In a nutshell, a very amusing “Charlie’s Angels”-style spy-transforming roller-coaster ride with lots and lots of upskirt panty flashes to satisfy your eye-candy appetite, hehe. In a smaller nutshell, a thrilling and panty-flashing 3 of 5 stars! So where are my first 10 titles? Ahh, I guess I’ve been too caught up in live-action, Asians, and Aki Hoshino to remember. But I also guess that’s why I’m mentioning “Agent Aika”. This anime has a live-action version too. Stay tuned below!

To celebrate your satisfied appetite, here are 18 delicious images ranging from 1000px-to-3600px from the “Agent Aika” anime. Enjoy!

What do you think? Not bad, eh? Next, we switch gears to the “Agent Aika – Live Action” (2007) extra from the “Agent Aika – Complete Collection” (1997-2008) DVD. Yup, on 01 April, I completed my 7th Asian live-action title of the year. Only three episodes lasting several minutes each. But still a rather amusing ten-minute ride through panty-flashing Japanese entertainment. Well, amusing enough for 3 of 5 stars, haha.

Ahh, so here’s what you’ve been waiting for. Starting with the DVD menu, here are over 50 panty-thrilling shots of the first episode “TRIAL 1″. Beware of the fake porn-laced subtitles!

Welcome! Here’s the “Agent Aika – Live Action” menu.

Ah, the stereotypical corporate conglomerate headquarters!

Hmm, pink undergarments…

The women’s locker room?

A woman changing?

Ahh, of course, a woman changing into the typical “Agent Aika” enemy uniform!

But who is this mysterious woman?

Let’s take another peek to find the answer.

A very revealing peek at her stockings…

Could she be Agent Aika herself?

Or perhaps a corporate spy? From a rival porn corporation?

Let’s find out. Shall we?

Ah, yes, the typical enemy uniform’s white stockings and panties. Feel free to enlarge, haha.

Nice view? Let’s follow her… and her thoughts.

Spy: “Ouch, these panties are itchy. But gotta smile, gotta smile through it…”

Spy: “Is that it? Is the data room for their latest porn release?”

Spy: “Quietly. Quietly. Smile through the itch…”

Spy: “Yosh! The data room!”

Spy: “Quietly. Quietly. Smile through the itch…”

Spy: “What a boring porn data room…”

Spy: “Quietly. Punch her in the head. Quietly. Punch her in the…”

Spy: “Yosh! You never saw that coming, dork, did you?”

Spy: “Hmm, let’s see what you have beneath your panties…”

Spy: “Hehe, a stun gun? Nice!”

Spy: “Okay, now. Where’s their latest porn release?”

Spy: “Think. Think. Smile through the itch…”

Spy: “A-ha! Their entire porn production library!”

Spy: “Hehe, let’s take a little peek at you…”

Spy: “Hehehe, kinky!”

Spy: “Huh? Is that dork waking up?”

Spy: “Stun! Nightly night, dorky!”

Spy: “Yosh! Their entire porn production library!”

Spy: “I’ll be rich!”

Spy: “Ahh, better keep it in a safe place…”

Spy: “Crap! More dorks! Stun!”

Spy: “Oh crap! The security alert!”

Spy: “Where? Which way to go?”

Spy: “Wait! Need more ammo. Need more ammo…”

Spy: “Crap! Let’s go left…”

Spy: “Oh crap! Let’s go right!”

Spy: “Let’s take the stairs!”

Enemy: “She went up the stairs! Ignore the itch!”

Spy: “Need more ammo. Need more ammo…”

Spy: “Ahh, found some…”

Spy: “Found some more…”

Spy: “Umm…”

Spy: “Umm, where…”

Spy: “Oh crap…”

Spy: “Where the crap am I?”

Haha, to be continued…

Stay tuned for “TRIAL 2″, folks!

Haha, enjoyable? Mindlessly amusing, huh? Did anyone get the panty-shot count? Twelve? Thirteen?

Part 2 of 3 > From Kicks to Punches

Ready? Let’s say “goodbye” to the wonderful world of stockings and panties, and let’s say “hello” to the ultra-physical world of kicks, punches, bruises and blood. While I’ve completed 15 anime titles, I’ve also completed 17 Asian live-action titles so far. Actually, while my watching pace for all live-action titles (including science fiction) is identical to last year, my pace for Asian-oriented live-action titles has shot up to 140% (from 12 to 17 titles) compared to last year! Not shabby at all. So, without further ado, here’s my Asian live-action list… so far.

My 17 Asian Live-Action Titles-Seasons in 2010… So Far

June 2010

• [17] +++++ Once Upon a Time in China II (Wong Fei Hung II: Nam yi dong ji keung; 1992) – Finished 29 Jun. Double wow! Jet Li and Donnie Yen are spectacular, 5 of 5 stars!
• [16] +++++ Once Upon a Time in China (Wong Fei Hung; 1991) – Finished 19 Jun. Double wow! Jet Li’s classic is amazing! Such an international epic during the Westernization of China. Despite 2 1/2 hours, punches 5 of 5 stars!
• [15] +++ Rush Hour 3 (2007) – Finished 13 Jun. Yup, Jackie Chan, entertaining 3 of 5 stars!
• [14] +++ High-Kick Girl! (Hai kikku gâru!; 2009) – Finished 05 Jun. Not too bad, but too much slow-motion nonsense, 3 of 5 stars!
• [13] +++ Crows Zero II (Kurôzu zero II; 2009) – Finished 01 Jun. Beware of Shun Oguri, entertaining 3 of 5 stars!

May 2010

• [12] ++++ Tai Chi Master (Tai ji: Zhang San Feng; 1993) – Finished 28 May. Jet Li’s mesmerizing 4 of 5 stars!
• [11] +++++ Gokusen – The Movie (2009) – Finished 17 May. Aww, Yukie Nakama is back for a nostalgic 5 of 5 stars! Check out the official movie website!
• [10] +++++ Dae Jang Geum (K-drama, 2003) – Finished 13 May. All 70/70 episodes (including my self-defined Season 3 with 20/20 episodes). Aww, such a joyful conclusion to an incredibly and emotionally epic 5 of 5 stars!
• [09] ++++ The Legend of Fong Sai-Yuk (1993) – Finished 08 May. Jet Li’s mesmerizing 4 of 5 stars!

April 2010

• [08] +++ Twin Dragons (Shuang long hui; 1992) – Finished 25 Apr. Not bad, a wild roller-coaster ride with two Jackie Chans, 3 of 5 stars!
• [07] +++ Agent Aika – Live Action (2007) – Finished 01 Apr. All 3/3 episodes, several minutes each. Mindlessly amusing and panty-flashing 3 of 5 stars!

March 2010

• [06] +++ The Princess Blade (Shura Yukihime; 2001) – Finished 27 Mar. Ehh, didn’t go anywhere, but entertaining 3 of 5 stars.

January 2010

• [05] ++++ Iron Monkey (Siu nin Wong Fei Hung ji: Tit Ma Lau; 1993) – Finished 31 Jan. Donnie Yen’s fun 4 of 5 stars!
• [04] +++ The Warrior (Musa; 2001) – Finished 17 Jan. Ehh, despite Ziyi Zhang’s beauty, still only 3 of 5 stars.
• [03] ++++ Jumong – Special (2007) – Finished 11 Jan. Aww, reliving the series with the actors, saddest clips, bloopers, and random behind-the-scenes laughs. Awesome 4 of 5 stars!
• [02] +++++ Jumong (K-drama, 2006) – Started 20 Sep 2009. Finished 10 Jan. All 81/81 episodes, including the 80-min finale! Such a spectacular and spellbinding journey through ancient wartime Korea, 5 of 5 stars! Check out the wallpapers on my previous Blog 218 > Endless Jumong!
• [01] ++++ Ran (1985) – Finished 09 Jan. Akira Kurosawa’s classic blood-stained re-interpretation of Shakespeare’s “King Lear”, 4 of 5 stars!

Japanese films. Yup, I’m sure you’ve noticed quite a few Japanese, Korean and Hong Kong titles, haven’t you? First, let’s start off with the Japanese posters and wallpapers. Here’s the mediocre film, “The Princess Blade” (Shura Yukihime; 2001). Yumiko-chan is pretty cute with a blade, but that’s about it.

Next, the three-season high-school J-drama finally gets its film finale, Gokusen – The Movie (2009). Yukie-chan captivates the stage once more as the indomitable “Yankumi”-sensei, haha. If you enjoyed the first three seasons, as well as the anime version, then don’t miss this! To celebrate, here are a few posters and wallpapers ranging from 1000px-to-3300px. Fight-ohh!

In fact, here are a few spoiler shots of Yukie-chan with a cameo appearance by Shun Oguri (from “Crows Zero II” below). Pretty cool, eh? Nope, no blood this time, hehe. But feel free to enlarge.

Speaking of Shun Oguri, here’s the blood-soaked star of the fist-flying gut-bashing sequel, Crows Zero II (Kurôzu zero II; 2009). While I gave the sequel only 3 of 5 stars, the gang-battle scenes are stylishly intense! For some “crows” background, here’s my brief review of the original “Crows Zero” two years ago: Blog 168. Meanwhile, here are 12 intense posters and wallpapers ranging from 1000px-to-1500px. In a word, intense.

Next, from fist-flying punches, we come to high-flying kicks! Here’s the third 2009-released Japanese film I’ve seen this year, High-Kick Girl! (Hai kikku gâru!; 2009). Rina-chan is definitely intense! Sadly, with the over-extended slow-motion emphasis on the martial art of karate, the repeated scenes felt like a stuttering burden or distraction from the overall flow of the story, which seemed to lack depth or substance too. Strip out the slow-motion, and it could’ve been a briefer but more-dynamic experience. Oh well. At least, we have some colorful posters and wallpapers! I especially “get a kick” outta the Spanish title “La Luchadora” (I believe that translates to “The Fighter”), haha.

Hong Kong films. Ahh, Japanese films from the irritating to the intense! What’s next? Hehe, Hong Kong martial-arts films, of course! Let’s begin with Jackie Chan’s Twin Dragons (Shuang long hui; 1992). Not bad, but not particularly spectacular either. Although the idea of seamlessly featuring two Jackies might just be intriguing enough to try out! Why not?

Okay, you caught me. I admit it. While it isn’t a Hong Kong film, Rush Hour 3 (2007) features Jackie Chan’s martial arts, doesn’t it? Sadly, despite the entertaining romp from Los Angeles to Paris, the sequel had the slight taste of stale bread. But at least, it was stale French bread, haha. Alas, here are several posters ranging from 1500px-to-3000px to soothe whatever needs soothing.

A-ha! Now let’s talk about a genuine Hong Kong masterpiece, Once Upon a Time in China (Wong Fei Hung; 1991) featuring the legendary Jet Li. I definitely loved the dramatic 19th-century cultural juxtaposition of Chinese traditions struggling against intruding Western ideologies and technologies. Not unlike Jackie Chan’s comedy film “Shanghai Noon” (2000) where a Chinese Imperial guard must struggle with “Wild West” Western laws and outlaws. But Jet Li’s classic film wields a more serious, searing and spectacular perspective, also wielded by its just-as-spectacular sequel, Once Upon a Time in China II (Wong Fei Hung II: Nam yi dong ji keung; 1992). Wow, can’t wait to see “China III”, yeah.

Finally, since I couldn’t find any decent large-scaled posters or wallpapers featuring the other Jet Li films I’ve seen this year, like Tai Chi Master (Tai ji: Zhang San Feng; 1993) or The Legend of Fong Sai-Yuk (1993), here are a couple of web-popular Jet Li photos. I think Kris-chan will get a kick outta these. If she hasn’t already, haha. Feel free to enlarge.

Sorry, no panty shots this time. Itchy or otherwise.

Part 3 of 3 > From Zero to P90X

Are we there yet? Last but not least, let’s leap from the cinematic world of kicks, punches, bruises and blood, to my personal odyssey from obesity to agility, from pudgy to power. Consequently, here’s the article I posted elsewhere on 11 June 2010, republished below. Enjoy!

From Zero to P90X

By xJAYMANx

Hi, You may not believe this, but 11 years ago, I weighed 150% of my present weight. In other words, I’ve lost 33% (70 pounds) of my total body weight (210 pounds) since then. How was that possible? Well, my transformation hasn’t been a “walk in the park” by any means. I stumbled along the way. I fumbled to find a routine that worked. But finally, something stuck. To help guide the way, I’ve attached my recorded daily weight over the last 11 years.

Disgust & Decision in 1999-2001.

• Let’s rewind back to May 1999. Back then, at 210 pounds, my weight category not only exceeded “overweight” (Body Mass Index of 25-29.9), but reached “obese” with a staggering BMI of 30.1. To get a better idea, try to visualize a 38- or 40-inch waist on a 5′ 10″ frame.
• Suddenly, that month, reality smacked me in the face. Whether or not a family event or comment triggered it, I don’t entirely remember. But just as suddenly, I cut back on the multiple servings of junk food and sweet drinks per meal. From that alone, I slashed 20 pounds over the latter half of 1999.
• At the start of the following year, January 2000, I finally invested in a top-notch heavy-duty treadmill. Yup, I started walking. Together with my smaller meals, walking on the treadmill (while watching DVDs) trimmed away another 20 pounds over the next two years.

Fear & Focus in 2001.

• Without warning, in Oct 2001, an in-law’s heart attack and recovery shocked me into getting a physical checkup for the first time in probably ten years. Guess what? Despite dropping 40 pounds from my maximum, the results of my blood test were horrible — hemoglobin A1c, triglycerides, cholesterol and so on. Terrible. If I didn’t do something, I’d live a diabetic life. If you don’t know your numbers, I suggest you find out too.
• Consequently, by refocusing on my eating and walking habits (as well as recording my weight every morning), I shed another 10 pounds, down to 160, by the end of 2001.

Anxiety & Apathy in 2002-2007.

• Unfortunately, from January 2002 through July 2007, a series of traumatic job transitions and family issues caused my health routines to waver and falter.
• Across these five years, my weight swung down and up three times, as low as the 150s, and as high as the 170s, like a tedious roller-coasting ride.

Confidence & Compliments in 2007-2010.

• Finally, once these external issues resolved themselves and faded away in March-April 2007, I concentrated on my physical health and image again. Without tracking them before, I planned my breakfasts, lunches and dinners to hold no more than 1000 calories each. Not only that, I dusted off the treadmill, found some good DVDs, and started walking on a near-nightly basis once more.
• Out of nowhere, in July 2007, a flattering compliment from a female friend encouraged me, inspired me, and ignited the brilliant idea to walk even faster. For example, in August 2007, my average walking speed maintained a decent 3.5 mph (3 miles in 51 minutes). Over the next five months, I sprinkled in more and more 5-7 mph bursts until I elevated my treading average to 4.5 mph (3 miles in 40 minutes). By the end of December, my weight dropped down to 150, my lowest ever since college.
• With even more compliments over the next two years, from January 2008 through March 2010, I accelerated my running average to the same 5-7 mph as my original bursts, taking non-tread breaks on the stationary bike, depending on how I felt. Yup, I’d burn a typical 600-800 calories in about an hour. For two years, this nightly routine stabilized my weight between the low-140s and high-140s. That is, until it dropped even more in May 2010.

Pride & Power in 2010.

• In May 2010, I finally attained my personal goal of 140 pounds (BMI of 20.1), a 33% loss of my total body weight. By comparison, my high-school-senior weight was a toneless 135 pounds. Wow.
• How did I reach my goal? Well, I’ll tell you: P90X. Or Power 90 Extreme. No joke. I think I first heard of the “P90X: Extreme Home Fitness” 90-day program back in 2007 or 2008. Back then, still in my running phase, I’d laugh and say, “Who wants to see a bunch of sweaty guys working out?” But somehow in 2010, I outgrew that excuse and dove into the program. I mean, if ordinary folks can do it, why not me? So I dusted off my P90X discs, and started “Day 1″ (Chest, Back, Abs) in January.
• Despite my weight loss, I discovered the hard way that my body retained very little muscle tone. Yup, I needed to recover. In fact, I actually avoided “Day 2″ throughout all of February. But I wouldn’t let any more lazy excuses distract me. So in March, despite my nightly run, I returned to P90X every few days or weeks, to endure “Day 2″ (Plyometrics), “Day 3″ (Arms, Shoulders, Abs) and “Day 4″ (Yoga). By mid-April, I carved out a daily 5am routine, and stuck with it. Daily. As I write this article in June, I’ve started “Phase 3 of 3″, completed “Day 65 of 90″, and sculpted myself into the best shape of my life. With 25 days to go. Unreal.

Fitness Beyond 2010.

• Nowadays, I sidestep fast food in favor of my own home-cooked rice-based dishes. With one or two fruits between main meals, my breakfasts, lunches and dinners hold no more than 700 calories each. My closet of snug 38- and 40-inch-waist pants has shrunk to a wardrobe of loose 30-inch-waist slacks.
• Not only that, my body enjoys improved muscle tone, enhanced flexibility, and higher endurance. While playing racquetball several weeks ago, I defeated an unbeatable 6-foot-tall college-aged friend for the first time. Even though he was out of breath after an hour, I stood ready for another hour. Like I said: Unreal.
• My next goal? To conquer this 90-day round of P90X in 25 more days. After that? Well, since fitness shouldn’t stop after 90 days, probably another round of P90X. Or maybe the “Insanity: Total Body Conditioning” 60-day program. Yeah, you heard me: Insanity.

Not bad for a guy who used to swallow two quarter-pound burgers, 20 chicken nuggets and a large soft drink, all in one sitting. Yeah, if I can overcome my fears and excuses, you can too. How far can you go?

Yup, that’s the article. And like I said: No joke. Unfortunately, due to a minor injury recently, I’ve had to pause my progress at Day 80 of 90. So close! But rest assured, in a week or two, I’ll be up and running again. But whatever happens, whether I choose the “P90X” path or “Insanity” route, it still feels unreal. To celebrate, here’s an edited screen-cap of the P90X website, plus 11 high-res 1900px wallpapers. Got it? Like “P90X” developer and trainer Tony Horton says, “Bring it!”

Heyyy, for more “P90X” content, here are a handful of links to check out!

• P90X Wallpapers and Banners
• P90X Girl
• P90X T-shirts
• P90X Torrent
• Insanity Torrent

How far can you go?

Well-well, there you have it, my Tireless Toyboxers! Did you survive the mayhem? Thanks for splashing through my mega-cast of poorly-protected panties, penetratingly-precise punches, and perfectly power-packed repetitions! Plus special thanx to Aika-chan, Spy-chan, Yumiko-chan, Yukie-chan, Rina-chan, Shun Oguri, Jackie Chan, Jet Li and Tony Horton!

Did anyone get the panty-shot count? Twelve? Thirteen?

Till next broadcast. Peace. Out.

Final Flashback

Agent Aika-chan: “Quietly. Quietly. Smile through the itch…”

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 1024px

Konnichiwa minna-san! Greetings, my Tingling, Trembling and Tumbling Toyboxers! Well, enough of the pompous pleasantries. Let’s get to the point. Are you ready? Ready to withstand another soul-smashing tsunami of spellbinding anime, American sci-fi, Hong Kong classics, Japanese comedies, and Korean epics? Ready to digest rock bands, canine menaces, cute costumes, and mouth-watering waves of food-food-food? Ready to battle an unimaginably monstrous mega-cast equaling fifty or more mere-mortal posts? Not yet? Then please leave the battlefield, hehe. But if you are, better polish your psychological shield and sharpen your cultural sword! Prepare to engage! On with the show!

From Autumn to Halloween

Ah, yes, from Autumn to Halloween, let’s navigate through the next 18 days of September and 31 days of October. Alas, a 49-day odyssey through overstated subtlety and understated ecstasy. Abandon hope all ye who enter here!

13 September 2009
Sunday. Somehow, got up 730am. While doing the laundry, worked on Blog 217. Chat too, lol. Napped 1230-230. More chat, lol. Replied to blog comments. Then back to work on blog. Tread w “True Blood” 5/xx. Even more chat, blog, etc.

14 September 2009
Monday. Home. “Ouran” 1/26 (finally started it). LOL, boy is a girl! Opposite of “Maria+Holic”, hehe. Finally installed the magenta ink I received today. Gahhh, when I uncapped it, it splattered! Damn! Luckily, the lemon degreaser I used on my foos table was able to clean the ink from the carpet and my skin. Gah. Tread w “True Blood” 6/xx. Worked on Blog 217 again. While I chatted till 1030pm, lol.

15 September 2009
Tuesday. For lunch, decided on “Burger King” in the Outlet Center food court. Oops, we parked at the wrong end, so we walked-talked across the mall, hehe. But it was fun! Home. “Ouran” 2/26. Near tears! Already? So soon in the series? Tread w “True Blood” 7/xx. Worked on Blog 217. Then sketched a cute little doodle based on our discussion, hehe. More blog work till 11pm.

15 Sept | Burger King | Enlarge

15 Sept | Burger King | Enlarge

15 Sept | Burger King | Enlarge

16 September 2009
Wednesday. Hehe, decided to wear my pink shirt w black striped tie. Why not? Left at my usual 4pm. “Ouran” 3/26, lol. Later, 8:30pm chat. Then skipped my tread-run to finish Blog 217! Hey! Finally done! At 10:45! But we continued to chat till midnight.

17 September 2009
Thursday. Heyyy, visited Kris-chan’s “Bento Bako Weekly“, lol. Left 4pm. Home. Heyyy, Guiness is back! “Gundam Wing” 21/49 w dinner. Napped 6-7pm w Guin, aww. Hmm, Lois’s Facebook comments; offended by my Blog 217 statement about “one girl’s pain, is another’s panic, is another’s pleasure”? Later, tread w “True Blood” 8/xx (still too slow). Then 10pm chat. Till 11pm, hehe.

18 September 2009
Friday. Then after her meeting, 12:30 lunch at TGIF! Mmm, Jack Daniels appetizer sampler and mozzarella sticks! Vanilla cheesecake plus free vanilla ice cream! Haha, photos too, lol. Otsukaresamadeshita! I said it right! Asked her to “Kabuki”? Nahhh, we were still too full from TGIF. And tired, lol. Hugs. Ah, home. Guiness! “Gundam Wing” 22/49. Napped 6-8pm? Tread w “True Blood” 9/xx. WTF? Sam the dog? Dumb. Revealed too late in the series. Should’ve happened in the first few episodes. Forget it. Forget the show. Chat 10pm-130am! Happy Birthday!

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

18 Sept | T.G.I. Friday’s | Enlarge

19 September 2009
Saturday. Wow, got outta bed 10am! Then as usual, let Guiness outside into the backyard. Sunny! “Gundam Wing” 23-24-25/49 (finished [36] first-half of season; 4 of 5 stars!). Ah, groceries! Through her influence, bought tons of fruits (apples: 3 granny smiths, 3 fujis, 3 braeburns; group of 7 bananas, 7 peaches or nectarines) and veggies (celery and lettuce), not to mention, generic low-sodium vegetable juice, lol. Right after that, decided to get a car wash, finally. Napped 3-5pm? Chat, lol. Then 6pm dinner. Since “True Blood” failed, tread w “Trinity Blood” 1/24? (again). Yup, stopped the “True Blood” crap, lol. But wait, after browsing through my Amazon lists with DivX players, decided to check my DivX player. Heyyy, the “Jumong” SRT subs work on my newer (exercise-room) player! Nice. Thank you Amazon! More chat. Till 1am, hehe.

Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995) [36] and [40]. As of 19 Sept, my 36th anime title-or-season of the year. First half of 49-episode series, 4 of 5 stars. As of 13 Nov, completed the second half of the series, my 40th anime title-or-season of the year, 3 of 5 stars. Overall 3 of 5 stars.

Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995) | Enlarge 3000px

Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995) | Enlarge 1024px

Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995) | Enlarge 5300px

Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995) | Enlarge 1024px

20 September 2009
Sunday. Whoa, up 730am! Finally applied Soft Scrub Bleach to the shower tiles. For breakfast, had an apple, banana, pecan spinwheel and yogurt, lol. Did more soft-scrubbing to the shower. Then with her hard-drive situation in my mind, decided to back-up my iMac’s Windows XP files (19GB) to my WP Passport portable USB drive. Followed with some blog comment catch-up. From 1-3pm, watched my Netflix of “In the Mood for Love” (2000) plus extras. Wow, 5 of 5 stars! Maggie and Tony remind me sooo much of her and me! Uncanny! I mean, how did I avoid watching this? Since I already watched “2046″ before, how? After meeting her, must be fate? Later, chat while she was studying at the library. Meanwhile, during our chat, ordered “Battle Angel”, “In the Mood for Love” and its sequel “2046″ on Amazon, lol. Lunch w “Ouran HS Host Club” 4/26. She finally left the library at 7pm. Watched more extras from “Mood for Love”. Then tread w “Jumong” (2006) 1/81 (started, 1st half hour). Later, study/chat, hehe. Till 12 midnight.

In the Mood for Love (2000) | Enlarge 1200px

21 September 2009
Monday. Home. Dinner. Celery and lettuce for salad, along w my leftover roast beef sub. “Ouran HS Host Club” 5/26. Napped 6-820pm? Tread w “Jumong” 1/81 (2nd half). Afterwards, chat 10pm-12midnight, hehe.

22 September 2009
Tuesday. Heyyy, wore my blue shirt and purple-blue-striped tie! So I left around 4:30pm. Well, at home w Guiness, I got her call at about 5:20pm, while she was at the parking lot, lol. Basically, she wanted to tell me in private what happened at her meeting. Wow, awesome! That’s the news she wanted to share w me. Dinner w “Ouran” 6/26. Then later, 6-645, chatted w her while she was in class, lol. Tread w “Jumong” 2/81 (1st half). Ah, bills bills bills. Hehe, another chat 920-11pm.

23 September 2009
Wednesday. Around 4pm, my car engine slowed way down. Light indicator: “Service Engine Soon”. Damn, maybe the air intake duct again? Damn. So took the local roads from work, down Warm Springs, all the way to Gibson, then Henderson Nissan dealership at the Auto Mall. Like before, tightening the air intake duct took a quick 15-minute fix! Wow! Dinner w “Ouran” 7/26. Napped 6-7pm. Then around 7pm, she called! She finished her exam! Congrats! Told her it was nice to hear her voice. Tread w “Jumong” 2/81 (2nd half). Later, chat from 915 to 11pm, hehe.

24 September 2009
Thursday. Happy Birthday, Joel! Yup, last night, sent him an Amazon gift email, lol. During my morning commute, noticed the 630-640am sunset in my rearview mirror, aww. Yup, early to office, 640am! Home. Guiness! “Ouran” 8/26. Chat, during her class, lol. Sorries over my earlier behavior! Meanwhile, I continued work on my web “triDocs”, lol. Tread w “Jumong” 3/81 (1st half). Chat from 9pm-11pm.

25 September 2009
Friday. Came to work early, at 645am. Because I arrived early, left early, at 3:45pm. Home. Guiness! “Ouran” 9/26. Later, chat 530-6pm. Tread w “Jumong” 3/81 (2nd half) from 830-930pm. Chat again till 1030pm. Hmm, did she fall asleep? So after an hour, around 1130pm, I wrote: “Sweet dreams.” Aww.

26 September 2009
Saturday. Up 6am. Because of air intake duct issue earlier this week (Thurs?), took the car to Henderson Nissan. Also decided to do the intermediate maintenance ($331.99, ouch). Waited from 8-10am, but did some web “triDoc” work. Afterwards, groceries ($108), including tons of veggies (2 celery stalks, 2 lettuce heads, 3 tomatoes, bag of carrots, container of grape tomatoes) and fruits (10 nectarines, 10 fuji apples, bag of 12 granny smith apples, bunch of 10 bananas). Whoa, 40+ pieces! Hehe, chat from 11:30-12:30. Whoa, napped from 12:30-3:30. Three hours! “Ouran” 10/26. Then intermittent chat throughout the day, as she studied. Later, 530pm tread w “Jumong” 4/81 (1st) since I was going out soon. Then 7pm, sent a bye-bye hug and signed off chat to take a shower, get changed and head to Coley’s “Beatles Rock Band” party! Wow, 730pm till 130am! Six hours! Not just Coley in his orange Sgt. Pepper’s costume (as John Lennon?), but also Vu, Bliss, Sam, Thomas, Andres, Edward, and of course, the cute Kate! Not to mention a dozen or so of Coley’s Asian students, lol. Funny that we rotated through the Beatles songs at least 2-3 times before we got tired of it about halfway thru the night, enough that Vu switched it back to regular “Rock Band”, haha! No complaints from me! Wow, I probably sang about a couple dozen songs! Including “I Am the Walrus” a couple times w Kate, haha. Not to mention, my favorite grunge tunes like “Man in the Box” (Alice in Chains) and “Alive” (Pearl Jam)! Loved singing “Wonderwall” (Oasis) too, but failed “Jane Says” (Jane’s Addiction), haha. Too high! My throat was scratchy and dying by then! Luckily, at my desperate request, Bliss and Kate saved me on that “Jane Says” song, aww. Vu and Kate left about 1230am, but I finally left 130am. Wow, home by 2. Bed by 230am. Whew.

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

26 Sept | Saturday Rock Band | Enlarge

27 September 2009
Sunday. Somehow got up at 730am, lol. After a mere 5 hours of sleep, lol. Grocery shopping. Tons of fruits (10 bananas, 10 nectarines, 10 oversized Fuji apples, bag of 12-13 Granny Smith apples), lol. Laundry day. Called to tell my parents: “Happy 40th Anniversary!” But left the message instead. Oh well, lol. Put together a new Excel spreadsheet and line chart of my various savings and credit account balances. Interesting! Not great, but not as bad as I thought. “Ouran” 11/26 (aww, almost cried) and 12/26. Napped 1230-215pm. Heyyy, opened my last two-pack wrap of Strawberry Frosted Pop Tarts! Wow! While I still have some left at the office, my 3-year Pop Tart phase is drawing to a close! Chat from 230-430pm. Heyyy, Mom and Dad called back! Wished them a Happy Anniversary, talked for a bit. Till 5pm. Later, chatted from 630-8pm. Tread w “Jumong” 4/81 (2nd half). Even more chat, lol. Till midnight. Aww.

28 September 2009
Monday. Heyyy, didn’t wear my elbow pad for the first time in weeks! But then, garage, 7am “Service Engine Soon” again? Headache too. Texted them, asking to pick me up. But they were tied up. In fact, I decided to skip the shuttle and stay anyway, in case it was a quick fix. Which I expected. And which turned out to be the case. Done 830. Work 9am. “Ouran” 13/26. Napped 530-730pm or so. Chat 8-930pm while I uploaded “Rock Band” photos, hehe. Thus no tread.

29 September 2009
Tuesday. Home. Guiness! Texted her: Good grape luck! “Ouran” 14/26. Hey, for easier image-copy-pasting w my web-help project, installed Office Enterprise 2007 on my iMac’s Virtual XP. Also moved files from XP to iMac to make some room for disc burning. Tread w “Jumong” 5/81 (1st). Chat from 930-1030pm.

30 September 2009
Wednesday. Early to work, 645! Chilly for the first time! Got texts from Lisa: She may be picking up Guiness tomorrow night! Home. Guiness! Another huge salad dinner again, mmm, w “Ouran” 15/26. Followed by nap 6-7pm. Tread w “Jumong” 5/81 (2nd). Chat from 845-10pm.

30 Sept | Guiness the Menace | Enlarge

30 Sept | Guiness the Menace | Enlarge

30 Sept | Guiness the Menace | Enlarge

30 Sept | Guiness the Menace | Enlarge

30 Sept | Guiness the Menace | Enlarge

30 Sept | Guiness the Menace | Enlarge

30 Sept | Guiness the Menace | Enlarge

30 Sept | Guiness the Menace | Enlarge

30 Sept | Guiness the Menace | Enlarge

01 October 2009
Thursday. Whoa, got to work early, 645am? Then to celebrate Melanie’s b-day, 12 noon lunch at “Kabuki”! Sat in the bright sunny patio, met her friend and Muay Thai fighter Patti, ate colorful sushi “Sunkist” (Patti) and “Firecracker” (Melanie) which made my salmon California rolls look sooo plain, lol. Afterwards, walked two feet away to the “Yogurtland”. I didn’t get anything, but the do-it-yourself process was intriguing! Hehe, took final photos, then about 1:30pm, drove Melanie and myself back to the office. Yup, back to reality. Home. Lisa already at the house to brush and bathe Guiness. Mmm, my 3 Oreo+Cheesecake blizzards! Plus ordered Papa John’s pizza plus Cinnamon Pie! Mmm. Somehow I even took a mini-nap before Lisa inevitably left w Guiness about 7pm. Awww, his last day! Super-brief chat w LovelyDuckie-chan, lol. Tread w “Jumong” 6/81 (1st). Then chat 930-11pm.

01 Oct | Kabuki with Melanie & Patti | Enlarge

01 Oct | Kabuki with Melanie & Patti | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day at my House | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day with Papa John’s Pizza | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day with Papa John’s Pizza | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day with Papa John’s Pizza | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day with Papa John’s Pizza | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day with Papa John’s Pizza | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day with Papa John’s Pizza | Enlarge

01 Oct | Guiness’ Last Day with Papa John’s Pizza | Enlarge

02 October 2009
Friday. Wore my elbow pad again, bahhh, lol. At 12 noon, lunch at the “Galanga” Thai Eatery. Wow! Tasty Pad Thai and Peanut Curry. Delicious! Finally decided on Outback Steakhouse, since she wanted “quiet and cozy” and hadn’t visited it before. So I suggested it and we got there about 5:30pm, lol. Nice chat. Until the check came. Apparently I lost or misplaced my credit card! I was so flustered! But after calling to ask the “Galanga” place, she calmed me down and reminded me that I used my card to order pizza yesterday! Whew, felt so much better. We finally left 7pm or so. Dropped her off at her car at the office parking lot. Home. The neighbor’s wife found and gave me the foosball score markers for the table, lol. But told her I already bought new ones from Amazon. Then I asked her and her kids to take a look at my cleaned-up foosball table (one kid said “Whoa!”). Later, realized her markers weren’t complete anyway. Oh well. Napped from 7:30-9:30pm. Then we chatted till 10:45pm. Thus no tread. Finally went to bed at midnight or so.

02 Oct | Galanga Thai Eatery | Enlarge

02 Oct | Galanga Thai Eatery | Enlarge

02 Oct | Galanga Thai Eatery | Enlarge

02 Oct | Outback Steakhouse | Enlarge

02 Oct | Outback Steakhouse | Enlarge

02 Oct | Outback Steakhouse | Enlarge

02 Oct | Outback Steakhouse | Enlarge

03 October 2009
Saturday. Happy Tsukimi (based on an earlier chat), hehe. Up 8am! Somehow felt like searching for “In the Mood for Love” wallpapers and other images. “Ouran” 16/26 (whoa, moved to near tears). Heyyy, a surprise discovery, downloaded “Clone Wars – S2″ episodes 1-2! Grocery time from 11:30am-12:30pm, tons of fruits, veggies, even a couple of Asian DVDs (“Forbidden Kingdom” [2008] and “Memoirs of a Geisha” [2005]), hehe. Chat while having lunch, salad and slices of leftover pizza, hehe. While we chatted throughout the day, each did our respective house-cleaning, lol. I did my laundry, vacuum, washing Guiness’ intensely smelly blanket, the same one knitted by my Mom, lol. Finally moved out the various plastics bins to keep Guiness out! Yup, my anti-Guiness defense walls (around my iMac desk area, and at my bedroom door), haha. Meanwhile, we chatted and chatted all day. Then at around 7:20pm, she decided to call my cell. And we talked and talked. Fortunately, we picked up our Gmail chat at 9pm, lol. And we chatted and chatted all night, as I moved myself and my work laptop from the couch to the kitchen table, back to the couch, then on the floor, lol. Chatted till 12 midnight! Thus no tread.

04 October 2009
Sunday. Hmm, restless sleep. Not really dreaming, but waking and falling back to sleep, thinking about her. Ah, finally found time to replace the ceiling air filter. Dusty! Fiddling and fixed the main light timer. Vacuumed the dust off the exercise-room treadmill and fan. More dusty! Aww, chat during lunch. Napped from 1:30pm-3pm. Heyyy, from 4-5pm, watched my downloaded “Clone Wars – S2″ episodes 1-2 of 22 episodes (?). After that, decided to watch one of the DVDs I bought yesterday, “Forbidden Kingdom” (2008). Not bad for a second viewing! Till 7:30pm. Tread w “Jumong” 6/81 (2nd) and 7/81 (1st) till 9pm. Yup, two half-episodes, but still 1.25 miles treading plus interspersed biking. Aww, followed by chat from 9pm till 11:30pm.

Forbidden Kingdom (2008) | Enlarge 2800px

05 October 2009
Monday. Based on last night’s chat, wore my blue shirt and blue-purple diag-striped tie, lol. Heyyy, radio station FM 107.9, “The Alternative” began its commercial-free Mondays. Sweet! “Ouran” 17/26 w huge bowl of salad again. Ham shreds and ranch dressing, mmmm. Chat. “Jumong” 7/81 (2nd) and 8/81 (1st) till 9pm! Wow, 2 miles, 360 calories! Even more chat till midnight, lol.

06 October 2009
Tuesday. Left eye was a bit red, runny nose, allergy? Left 4pm, left eye bothering. “Ouran” 18/26. Nap 6-8pm. Chat. Tread w “Jumong” 8/81 (2nd). She went offline 1030 (fell asleep?). Resumed till 11pm. Hmmm, Vacation Mondays? Again?

07 October 2009
Wednesday. Left 4pm, eye bothering. Vons, green and red grapes, lol. “Ouran” 19/26 w huge salad & BBQ meat, lol. Nap 7-8pm? Brief chat. Tread w “Jumong” 9/81 (1st). Eye bothering less. Chat till 11pm?

08 October 2009
Thursday. New clock alarm setting at 4:27am. Still somehow got up 4:30-5am. To work 7am. Left 4pm. She says she won’t be online tonight? “Ouran” 20/26. Overnapped 8-9:45pm. Brief chat before run. Tread w “Jumong” 9/81 (2nd) from 10 to 10:40pm. Then chat after run, 10:40-11:15pm.

09 October 2009
Friday. Second morning of new alarm: 4:27am. Early to work 6:30am! Dark and gloomy! Haha, 5:30-7:30pm Outback (appetizers+soup) dinner again! Afterwards, during drive back, she said she liked my voice (so I sang ABC’s), dropped her off at office parking lot. Nap 8:30-10:15pm (?), overnapped. Emails. Replied. Fallen for her. Tread w “Jumong” 10/81 (1st, 2nd). Two miles, from 11:30 till 1am.

10 October 2009
Saturday. Up 9am or so. Thinking of her all night. Laundry. Small bathroom, soft-scrubbed the tiles. Chat 10:30am (?) till noon. Lunch chat till 12:30pm. Groceries 1:30-2:30pm. More chat till 3:30pm. Nap till 4:30pm. Finally decided, Fettucini cooking! My first time! Boiled water, add salt, pasta, oil, stir for 15 min. Classico Italian Sausage sauce in microwave. Pics. Done 5:30pm! Mmm, ate tasty bowl. We chatted briefly till 6pm. Intermittent connection. Tread w “Jumong” 11/81 (all), 7-8:15pm (?). Two miles, 360 cals. Replied to emails. Chat from 9:30pm-12:15am. Wow.

10 Oct | First Time Cooking, Fettucini Pasta | Enlarge

10 Oct | First Time Cooking, Fettucini Pasta | Enlarge

10 Oct | First Time Cooking, Fettucini Pasta | Enlarge

10 Oct | First Time Cooking, Fettucini Pasta | Enlarge

11 October 2009
Sunday. Up 9am or so. 8am? 9am? Brief chat 10:45-11am. Bills! Lunch time. Mmm, fettucini leftovers. Saved some for Monday, hehe. Watched extras for “Forbidden Kingdom” DVD I got last week. Till 2:30pm. Chat 3-4pm. Watched “Battle Angel” anime DVD 4-5pm (finished [37]; 3 of 5 stars). Sentimental (manga) but still lacking. Afterward, 5:30pm, watched “Densha Otoko” (2005) film (from Netflix) w my big chicken salad. LOL, funny, condensed version of series! So I stopped after the first 20 min to save for later download, save it to watch w her. Planned to mail it back to Netflix. Burned “Haruhi – S2″ DVD. Added Amberlin and Butterfly Boucher to my iMac’s iTunes list. Amberlin amazing. Tread w “Jumong” 12/81 (all). Two miles = 360 cals. Random biking = 200 cals. So 360+200=560 plus 280 (another 50%) = 840 cals. Chat 9:45pm till midnight.

Battle Angel – OAV (1993) [37]. As of 11 Oct, my 37th anime title-or-season of the year. Two-episode OVA, 3 of 5 stars.

Battle Angel – OVA (1993) | Enlarge 2000px

12 October 2009
Monday. No radio, no 107.9, instead played one of my burned Amberlin CDs in my car! “Ouran” 21/26. Download of “Densha Otoko” film done! Burned to disc. Mailed out “Densha” Netflix DVD in the morning? Then watched first 20 min again, lol. Browsed, searched Amazon. Ordered new Philips DivX player for living room! Tread w “Jumong” 13/81 (all). Two miles, bike, 350+350 cals. Chat 9-9:40pm.

13 October 2009
Tuesday. Left 4pm. “Ouran” 22/26. Napped 6:30-8pm. Tread w “Jumong” 14/81 (all), bike only, 14.5-15 mph = 700 cals. That night, no chat. Tried something new: Set my bill reminders on Google Calendar. Till 11:30pm.

14 October 2009
Wednesday. What the fuck! On my way from my car to office door, pulled out my keys and realized I lost my key fob! Dammit! Fuck! Not in pockets, not in car. Heyyy, the fob was found a couple hours later! Left 4pm. Vons groceries, got more grapes, 6 lbs! “Ouran” 23/26, big salad w turkey coldcut slices. Set up new DivX player, 7pm. Tread w “Jumong” 15/81 (all). This time, something else new: Decided to lower tread grade/slope to 1.5% (instead of 7.5%), in case I run w her in a couple months. Tread 1.25 miles = 200 cals (instead of 225 cals w 7.5%); bike 25 min = 300 cals. Chat 9-11pm. Added more bill reminders to my Google Calendar.

15 October 2009
Thursday. Home. “Ouran” 24/26. Napped 6:30-8:15pm. Tread w “Jumong” 16/81 (all) at 1.5% slope. Tread 1.25 miles = 200 cals. Bike = 50-60 min = 600-700 cals. Bike 12 cals/min. Chat 10-11pm or so.

16 October 2009
Friday. Early to the office: 6:30am! I left 4:15pm. Long day. Crashed into a nap 6:30-8:30pm. Text, pix, chat till 9pm, lol. Tread+bike w “Jumong” 17/81. Two miles! Tread: 1.5% grade/slope, 2 miles @ 7.5 mph = 17 min = 300 cals = 18 cals/min = 150 cals/mile. Bike: 10 miles = 38 min = 500 cals = 13 cals/min = 50 cals/mile. Total time = 55 min over 75 min period, 9:15-10:30pm. Aww, more chat 11:30pm-1:20am.

17 October 2009
Saturday. Up 9:30-10am. Chat. Breakfast w “Gundam Wing” 26/49 (starting 2nd half; while 1st half, 25 episodes, was [36]). Added Amberlin tracks to my home laptop iTunes, yeah! Awesome band. Groceries at 1:30pm. Removed my closed Borders credit card account from my list, confusing! Wow, at 2:30pm, after her meeting, she visited my house! We watched the Japanese film “Densha Otoko” (2005) while laying on the floor against the pillows and couch. Ate grapes. Sooo comfortable as she lay her head against my shoulder. Sooo adorable when she napped for a few minutes. Or when she sat up and recognized one of the plazas in Tokyo, lol. Watched it from about 3-4:30pm. She left about 5pm. But after she got home at 5:30pm, we continued to chat a bit online, aww. Salad dinner w “Gundam Wing” 27/49. Journal catch-up. Tread w “Jumong” 18/81, from 8:15-9:30pm. Tread: 300 cals = 2 miles = 17 min. Bike: 470 cals = 10 miles = 35 min. Chat from 9:30-10:40pm. Napped till midnight. Dozed off again. Overnapped till 1am, bah. I think I waiting for my Trend Micro to finish updating?

Densha Otoko (Film, 2005) | Enlarge 830px

Observation. Having seen both, I still think that the “Densha Otoko” (2005) TV drama starring Misaki Ito is significantly more entertaining and emotional than the “Densha Otoko” (2005) film. Significantly.

Densha Otoko (TV Drama, 2005) | Enlarge 1430px

Densha Otoko (TV Drama, 2005) | Enlarge 1000px

Densha Otoko (TV Drama, 2005) | Enlarge 1600px

18 October 2009
Sunday. Up 9am. Laundry! Extended monitor! Yup, decided to bring my HP desktop monitor to the kitchen table to attach to my Dell laptop, lol. Breakfast w “Gundam Wing” 28/49. Chat 11-11:45am. Continued chat, hehe. Mmm, big chicken salad lunch 1pm-1:40pm w more “Gundam Wing” 29/49. Chat resumed, lol. Napped about 4:30-5:45pm, during which she sent me a Pocky pic from her iPhone, lol. Brief 7:30pm chat. Tread w “Jumong” 19/81, from about 8-9:45pm. Tread: 2 miles = 300 cals. Bike = 500 cals. Total = 800 plus 50% more cooling-down burn = 1200 cals. Even more chat from 10pm till 12:30am.

18 Oct | Seafood City Pocky | Enlarge

18 Oct | Seafood City Pocky | Enlarge

19 October 2009
Monday. Up 5:15am. Breakfast w “Gundam Wing” 30/49. To the office 730am. Home. Dinner w “Ouran Host Club” 25-26/26 (finished [38]; 5 of 5 stars, aww, touching ending!). Tread w “Jumong” 20/81 (all; bike only) (finished my self-defined “Season 1″), from 7:15-9pm, 735 cals. Chat.

Ouran High School Host Club (2006) [38]. As of 19 Oct, my 38th anime title-or-season of the year. Full 26-episode series, 5 of 5 stars!

Ouran High School Host Club (2006) | Enlarge 1700px

Ouran High School Host Club (2006) | Enlarge 4000px

Ouran High School Host Club (2006) | Enlarge 3200px

Ouran High School Host Club (2006) | Enlarge 4700px

Ouran High School Host Club (2006) | Enlarge 3000px

Ouran High School Host Club (2006) | Enlarge 3500px

20 October 2009
Tuesday. Fuck! Woke at 4am the morning because of a god-fucking cramp in my right-leg calf muscle! So instead of 5-5:30am, got up at 4:30am, trying to massage and shake the pain away. Breakfast, shower, dressed, got ready, left 7:45am, arrived 8:15am for our company’s User Conference! UC Day #1. Yup, as greeter and room monitor. Fortunately, my leg ache faded in a few hours. Occasional texts between my cell and her Yahoo IM, hehe. Long but interesting day. Till 5:30pm. Home 6pm. Big salad dinner w “Haruhi – S2″ 2-3/14 (“Endless Eight”) till 7:45pm. Wow-wow, opened my email to see Apple’s brand-new 27-inch iMac! Damn! Worked on journal. No tread, to rest my calf muscle. Wow, watched first 20 min of “BSG – The Plan”! Wow! No chat that night.

20 Oct | User Conference | Enlarge

20 Oct | User Conference | Enlarge

20 Oct | User Conference | Enlarge

20 Oct | User Conference | Enlarge

21 October 2009
Wednesday. Up 5am, dressed up by 6:30am. Breakfast w “Haruhi – S2″ 4-5-6/14 (more “Endless Eight”, lol) till 8am. Then left for the User Conference. UC Day #2. Since I’d be there for only a half-day (half-vacation), actually decided to go with blue shirt (no tie), black slacks, and black blazer w brass buttons. Slick! I mean, both Mary and NaTasha complimented me, hehe. Saw Kelly (from IBM) again, haha. We couldn’t figure out what was so funny during our Training class back in March! Nice to see her again. Stayed from 8:30-11:45am. Then left to pick her up from the office to go to Borders. But first, we visited the Apple Store to see the new 27-inch iMac and wireless touch-mouse, wow. Then walked back to Borders. Finally found an open table. Nice long lunch (with fruits? grapes? plus a couple pastries from the UC, lol). Yup, Apple plus Borders from 12noon-1:30pm. Back home 2pm. Random chat from my Yahoo at home to her Yahoo at work, hehe. Napped 4-4:20pm. More chat till her 5pm class. Dinner w more “Haruhi – S2″ 7-8-9/14 (wow, finally ended “Endless Eight”!). Brief chat. Tread w “Jumong” 21/81 (all; started “Season 2″). Tread: 2 miles = 300 cals. Bike: 500 cals. From 8:45-10pm. Plus peeked at the first 5 minutes of my downloaded “Blood – The Last Vampire” (live action), wow.

22 October 2009
Thursday. Ah, arrived at 7:30am to an empty office building, hehe. Due to the User Conference. Left work 4pm. Dinner w “Gundam Wing” 31/49. Napped 6:30-9pm. Chat till 9:40pm. Tread w “Jumong” 22/81. Tread: 11 min, 1.3 miles, 200 cals. Bike: 45 min, 12 miles, 600 cals. Then chat 11-11:20pm, hehe.

23 October 2009
Friday. Breakfast w “Gundam Wing” 32/49. Office at 7:30am. Later, Outback w her, 5:30-6:30pm. Mmm, coconut shrimp, French onion soup, salmon! Back home around 7pm. Brief chat. Napped 7:15-9pm. Up a bit. Then napped again 9-11pm, lol. Thus no tread. But some work on typing up journal. Meanwhile, for the past week, still listening to Battlestar Galactica (BSG) soundtracks (since 10/18), Plumb (since 10/18), Amberlin (since 10/17) on all 3 of my iTunes (iMac, home Dell laptop, and work Dell laptop), hehe. Journal-typing till 2:30am. Bed about 3am.

24 October 2009
Saturday. Up 9am. Chat. Breakfast: Bagel, apple and anime. “Gundam Wing” 33/49. Decided to skip Lowe’s (thought of canned air and multiple sockets). Vons groceries (got multiple-socket surge protector). Continued chat 11am-3pm. “Gundam Wing” 34-35/49. Cleared out the numerous blog items in my Google Reader, whew. “Clone Wars – S2″ 3/22(?). Bills bills bills! Tread w “Jumong” 23/81 from 8:30-10pm. Chat till 11pm. Then decided to watch “BSG – The Plan” (4 of 5 stars) from 12-2am! Not perfect but not bad at all! Afterwards, browsed through Amazon for glass L-shaped desks till 3am, lol. Hmm, instead of using the kitchen table (for the past month)?

Battlestar Galactica – The Plan (2009) | Enlarge 1000px

Battlestar Galactica – The Plan (2009) | Enlarge 990px

Battlestar Babes in Maxim (Nov 2009) | Enlarge 950px

Battlestar Babes in Maxim (Nov 2009) | Enlarge 930px

Battlestar Galactica Promo Shot | Enlarge 1900px

Battlestar Galactica Promo Shot | Enlarge 3000px

25 October 2009
Sunday. Up 9:30am or so. Checked Gmail and cleared more from Google Reader. Otaku Dan asked where I’ve been, lol. Chat. “Clone Wars – S2″ 4/22(?). Cooked fettucini! My 2nd time in 3 weekends! From 11:30am-1pm cooking! Ah, saved some pasta for tomorrow’s lunch. Some grapes too, of course. Nice call w the parents. She left about 1:40pm to do her groceries. Meanwhile, did some more Amazon browsing for external hard drives and headsets, hehe. Decided to continue “Haruhi – S2″ 10/14. Chat 5pm till treadmill. Tread w “Jumong” 24/81 (2 miles = 300 cals) from 6:30-8pm. Back to chat, hehe. Till 10:30pm. Hmm, why have I been using my kitchen laptop more often than my iMac?

26 October 2009
Monday. Left 7:05am. But halfway to work, realized that I almost forgot my fettucini lunch! So drove back home by 7:25am. Then drove back to work by 7:45am. Gahhh, annoying! Then 11:20am lunch downstairs. Mmm, fettucini w Spicy Tomato & Basil, but I think I like Italian Sausage better. Hehe, while I heated it up, NaTasha was surprised that I cooked it myself. Nah, not the sauce, just the pasta, lol. Left 4:30pm. Dinner w “Haruhi – S2″ 11-12-13/14. Almost done. Then tread w “Jumong” 25/81 (2 miles = 300 cals) till 9:30pm. Brief chat till 9:45pm. Created her “To-Do List” and my “To-Watch List”, lol.

27 October 2009
Tuesday. Breakfast w “Haruhi – S2″ 14/14 (finished [39]; hmm, okay, not bad but failed expectations, 3 of 5 stars). Whew, getting cold! Left 4:15-4:30pm. Wow, freezing outside! Even texted her, lol. Dinner w “Goong” 1/24 (started; not too bad, Kris-chan recommended it). Tread w “Jumong” 26/81 (2 miles = 300 cals). Hmm, laundry my 80′s shirts for Melanie’s Halloween Party? Chat. Sweet. Warm.

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009) [39]. As of 27 Oct, my 39th anime title-or-season of the year. Season 2 with 14 episodes, 3 of 5 stars! Can I hit my typical target of 50 anime by the end of the year?

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009) | Enlarge 5800px

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009) | Enlarge 5000px

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009) | Enlarge 5000px

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009) | Enlarge 5000px

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009) | Enlarge 8200px

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009) | Enlarge 8200px

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009) | Enlarge 6400px

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009) | Enlarge 2000px

Observation. The infamous “Haruhi 2 – Endless Eight” arc. What’s the big deal? When you strip away all the impatient whining and restless ranting of short attention spans, it is incredibly unique. I remember an episode of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” which follows a similar premise, looping through time for 17 days. But with the “Star Trek” episode “Cause and Effect“, you never get the feeling of “endlessness” depicted in this 8-episode “Endless Eight” sequence. Genius? Tragedy? Insanity? Or dare I say, esoteric art? If you’ve seen a favorite film at least 8 times, and have always found something new, then maybe you shouldn’t whine so much, hehe.

28 October 2009
Wednesday. Up 8:30am. Vacation Wednesday! Jaw still sore but okay. Like I said, felt like an over-extended muscle that just needs time to heal. Then 9am chat after I sent a text to her. Around 11am, took out all the house trash! Worked on journal. Needed to catch-up. Hmm, leverage journal for my blog too? Chat. More journal. Lunch w “Goong” 2/24. Still not a great K-drama, but okay. Ahh, Amazon, intriguing DVD binders? She left 4:45pm for her exam. Browsed Amazon for knitted beanies? Ah, ordered the classy-looking leather-ish DVD binders! Since spending $50 to store 150 DVDs in binders is cheaper and more compact than $100-150 of cases to store the same amount! Napped 6-7:30pm. Hehe, her call woke me up. Decided not to tread. Instead, cleared iMac hard-drive space and virtual XP space, burned Asian dramas to DVDs, cleared more XP space by moving these files to iMac space. Ah, she was back 9:45-11pm. Ordered a brown beanie to match my brown jacket and brown moccasin shoes. Plus ordered my 3rd Lasko portable electric heater. Nice.

29 October 2009
Thursday. Happy Birthday, Jeff! Heyyy, found a decent table on my neighbor’s curbside! So why not grab it? I was looking at tables on Amazon anyway, lol. Ah, back to work. Home. Ah, Lisa had already stopped by, took her books and ivory coat. Laundry: olive bed sheets. Dinner w “Goong” 3/24. Halfway through, napped around 7:30-9:30pm. Must’ve finished “Goong” afterwards. No chat. No tread again. But played w my foos stats on Google Docs till 1:11am, lol.

30 October 2009
Friday. Brrr, another cold night and morning. Hmm, should I wear a black outfit for the Halloween office lunch? Matrix style? With my air gun? Nahhh, maybe not. Just blue jeans. Especially when I’m going to be running around and printing. In prep for the office move, extracted my personal 20-inch Dell monitor out of my cube and carried it to my car. Haha, Paul jokefully shouted, “Stop thief!” Noon. Halloween lunch! So I went downstairs to check it out. Pizza! Kids kids kids! I passed out candy. Took photos too, haha. Relaxing after-work chat. Aww. Till 6pm. Home. Cleaned up the curbside table. Moved my laptop and monitor onto it. Chat 8:45-10pm. Done 10:15pm. No tread for the 3rd night straight.

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

30 Oct | Halloween Friday Office Lunch | Enlarge

31 October 2009
Saturday. Up 5am! Happy Halloween Saturday! Breakfast w “Outlaw Star” 6/26. Readied for Melanie’s math study at Barnes & Noble by Seafood City. Yup, location was my suggestion since I was in the mood for Jollibee Filipino food. Especially if she was paying, hehe. Arrived at Barnes & Noble by 9am. Found Melanie, met Brad. Surprised how much geometry, trigonometry, algebra, calculus, probability and statistics I still retained! (But not matrices, lol.) Impressed Brad too. Dozens of math problems till noon, wow! Most of which I just looked at for a few seconds, before finding a solution or direction! Afterwards, Melanie paid for our Jollibee lunch. Mmm, ChickenJoy, Palabok, Shanghai Rolls (lumpia)! Lunched 12:15-1pm. Including food photos, lol. Then we finally left. Groceries 1:30-2:30pm. Afterwards, checked emails, torrents and Amazon. Browsed for desk chairs? Napped 4-6pm. Chat till 7pm. Salad dinner w “Outlaw Star” 7/26. Brief chat. Then tread w “Jumong” 27/81 (2 miles = 300 cals, bike = 500 cals) from 9-10:30pm. Wrote an email to Kris-chan about 11:30pm. Another chat till 12:30-12:40am. Started filling my new DVD binders (received them yesterday?), plus DVD burning. Till 1:10am. Stayed up till 3am. But due to Daylight Saving, actually 2am, lol.

31 Oct | Barnes & Noble Math Study with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Barnes & Noble Math Study with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City’s Jollibee with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City’s Jollibee with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City’s Jollibee with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City’s Jollibee with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City’s Jollibee with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City’s Jollibee with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City’s Jollibee with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City’s Jollibee with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City’s Pocky with Melanie | Enlarge

31 Oct | Seafood City with Melanie’s ALIAS Fight Wear | Enlarge

From Goong to Jumong and Beyond

Ah, this time, from “Goong” (2006) to “Jumong” (2006), let’s weave our way through my week-long email exchange with Kris-chan, author of her “Bento Bako Weekly” column. Why? So we can see how much I was disappointed by “Goong” yet utterly amazed by the epic “Jumong”!

Goong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 1024px

Song Ji-hyo in Goong (2006) | Enlarge 1024px

Song Ji-hyo in Goong (2006) | Enlarge 1024px

Song Ji-hyo in Jumong (2006) | Enlarge 1200px

Anna Tsuchiya, Song Ji-hyo’s Japanese look-alike? | Enlarge 1024px

27 Oct 2009

Kris-chan @xJAYMANx: In case you’ve been wanting to buy any of these. They do have Jumong. I just ordered Goong/Palace. ^_^

xJAYMANx @Kris-chan: Hey, thanx! Actually, it’s a coincidence since I started downloading “Hana Yori Dango” last night. I even peeked at the first 5 minutes of rich kids and limousines, lol. Seems to be very “Ouran Host” like! Hey, I might’ve mentioned I already burned “Jumong” and “Goong” to disc. Oh man, “Jumong” was exactly what I was looking for to continue my “Damo”-style craving for ancient wartime dramas. Awesome, already up to episode 25 out of 81. Makes my nightly treadmill runs sooo much easier, lol.

Kris-chan @xJAYMANx: Oh, well, I have (most of) it burned, too. But it’s a good show, a fantastic production. And it was on sale. I kind of just wanted to support the distribution company, so they’ll keep licensing that sort of thing over here… By the way, when will you have a column again? I miss them… Speaking of columns, I missed my Girl G33k blog this week, because I ran off to get married. ^_^ I did get a Bento Bako out, though! I made an indirect reference to you, lol. You and your silly Moon Phase.

28 Oct 2009

xJAYMANx @Kris-chan: Haha, Kris-chan, r u crazy? If I’m supposed to believe u got married, I’m also supposed to believe that u still needed to get your blogs and articles out? What kind of priorities do u have, hahaha. Yeah, Skip Beat is still on my list, but haven’t moved in that torrent direction yet. Though I do have a question: I’m planning to download the Korean “Boys Over Flowers” after I download the Japanese “Hana Yori Dango – Season 2″. Have u compared the two Asian versions yet?… Oh yeah, congratulations! I think… ^_^

P.S. Heyyy, Kris-chan, just finished “Goong” episode 1 last night. A little slow, but not bad… Now I see where “Jumong” got some of its locations and archery scenes from, haha. “Jumong” is way cooler, like “Goong” injected with a shot of “Lord of the Rings”, hehe.

29 Oct 2009

Kris-chan @xJAYMANx: Heh, well, my Bento Bako post I had been working on for over a month (along with the one going up next week). But yeah, I’ve been really busy with getting that together, and wedding crap, and haven’t been watching much anime lately…so I haven’t had anything to review anyway! I just finished the AIR movie though, so maybe I’ll get that up for next week. ^_^ My priorities are…well…. I mean, the wedding didn’t take much work, since it was really small. And I didn’t work on either website during the days we were gone. I did the Bento Bako post well before hand… I tried some Japanese food for the first time. Turns out I don’t like salted plum rice balls (when they say salted, they mean SALTED). I liked the curry sauce (it was actually kind of sweet in a way), and I LOVED the Tamago (egg omelet). I didn’t eat any sushi (I don’t like fish), but I did eat some veggie Maki-Zushi which was really delicious.

I was talking about the Skip Beat manga, lol, but the anime is good, too. I hope it gets another season. I thought there was going to be a live action from Taiwan but…I haven’t seen anything about it since I saw an announcement about it. I wonder if it was ever made, or if it’s going to be? Because I’m ready to drool over some hot Asians again… And I’m sorry, I don’t know anything about Boys Over Flowers; I haven’t seen the live action, or the anime, or anything. It’s certainly something I plan on getting to eventually, though. Just threw the anime on my Netflix list… Yeah, Goong is a little slow at times. It probably could have run a bit shorter and been OK. But the production value is so high, you tend to forget the pacing… I’ll get to Jumong someday, too. I was just way overwhelmed by the number of seasons and discs there were, so it will have to wait some time, until my Netflix clears up… And thank you! I mean, things don’t really feel any different, because we’ve been together for so long, and have been living together for 4 years or so. But now we can get a tax break. ^_^ How is your autumn of Autumn coming along?

30 Oct 2009

xJAYMANx @Kris-chan: Happy Halloween!… Ah, no worries! After 5 years together, my ex and I had a small wedding too. In Vegas. Not as small, but small. Did u eat those onigiri correctly? Just teasing, but when I take a bite of rice, I only bite a little bit of the salted umeboshi to balance the rice. Little bit of umeboshi at a time, not all at once. Otherwise, saltiness can be too intense, hehe. Mmm, onigiri. Simple yet tasty. Especially when Autumn-chan makes them. Hmm, if not sushi, have you tried California rolls? Those are just as tasty too. Yeah, up to “Goong” episode 3. Still pretty slow. Especially when the characters are sleepy after their ceremony, lol. Well, I think the production value simply enhances what’s already there. In this case, it might actually enhance the slowness. Just as high production value would enhance the action in a action-based series. This might be bad advice, but if u downloaded or burned the first episode of “Jumong”, just watch the first 15 minutes to get a taste. Can’t hurt. Then u can drop it, continue, or do what u want after that. I won’t bother u again, lol. Ah, Autumn-chan. She’s been swamped by both work and classes, so I’ve been supporting her as much as I can, while trying not to be selfish with her limited time. Which can be frustrating. But understandable. Not just me, she thinks she’s selfish too. Eventually, when her last semester ends, she should be more free and flexible. Otherwise, we chat almost every night. Plus telling her “Osaki ni shitsureishimasu” (I’m finally pronouncing it to her standards) or telling each other “Oyasumi”. Which is always comforting… Haha, hot Asians… ^_^

Kris-chan @xJAYMANx: Yes, Happy Halloween! Will you be doing anything? I don’t know that we will, but I have a costume anyway, which I can just wear around the house, lol… No, no! I totally only took a little bite of the plum with some rice. I chewed it for a couple of seconds, then spit it out. It was VERY salty. The rice itself was salty too. I’ve had regular plums before, and I liked them. I guess something about the salt and the tartness of the plum just didn’t work for me… Isn’t a California roll sushi? What I basically mean is, I don’t like seafood… Well, I hope Goong doesn’t disappoint you! I’m afraid it will likely remain at that slow pace. It annoyed me on occasion, but it didn’t turn me off. I still really enjoyed it; it’s a lot better than most of the stuff on TV here, at least… Haha, no…I’m afraid to even glimpse at Jumong. If it’s that good, I might abandon everything else and just absorb myself in it, which would be bad, lol. So I’ll wait until I have the time to devote to it.

When Scott and I were first dating, I was still in college. We only saw each other on weekends. I would drive out to see him (we lived about 40 mins away in different cities) after classes on Friday, and stay until Sunday, then go back to school. I don’t think we talked just a whole whole lot during the week, because he worked all day, and I had classes, then homework, and sometimes theatre crap. So I get the being busy thing… What does “Osaki ni shiklajdiohjdisdi” mean? I’ve heard “Oyasumi” …that’s goodnight, right?… And yes, hot Asians! They make everything better. ^_^

31 Oct 2009

xJAYMANx @Kris-chan: Konnichiwa, Kris-chan! Happy Hallow’s Eve! Still 11pm in Vegas. Nah, too dead tired to do any trick-or-treating. Instead, woke up early to help a software coworker at 9am study for her math exam (her last of several exams, applying to be a teacher when she leaves our company soon). Man, I can’t believe how much trigonometry, geometry, algebra, logarithms, statistics and calculus I still retain from high school Mathletes, AP Calculus and college, haha. Melanie and her friend Brad were shocked at how I could look at a graph, function or equation for 2-3 seconds and guess correctly. Several dozen problems for 3 hours. Flew by. My brain hasn’t been so math-fried in ages, lol. But enough about my math skills…

Maybe it wasn’t the best or typical onigiri? Who knows? Typically, California rolls are made with tasty crab meat. Mmm, unfortunately, I guess you wouldn’t really know. Ahh, seafood. I miss Red Lobster’s salmon and lobster… No worries, I’ll stick with “Goong” for now. While still mixing my Netflix’s of unfinished “Gundam Wing” and “Outlaw Star” along the way. Still treading to “Jumong” episode 27. So while it makes exercising fly by much easier, it never really drowns out all other shows or anime either, lol. I mean, I can ship you a disc copy of the first 12 episodes as an early Christmas present, if you’re willing? Somewhere in Texas, right? Free of charge.

Ah, yes, “oyasumi” is “good night”. A little bit different from “konbanwa” (also “good evening”). While “konbanwa” is more for greeting, “oyasumi (nasai)” is more for departure, like the end of the night, before going home or going to bed. Meanwhile, “osaki ni shitsurei shimasu” (“excuse me for leaving before you”) is typically said when leaving the office earlier than other coworkers. And their reply would be “otsukaresama deshita” (literally “you must be such a tired person!” but translated as “thanks for your hard work!”).

01 Nov 2009

xJAYMANx @Kris-chan: P.S. Well, I gave “Goong” another shot w episode 4. While the brotherly intrigue is getting deeper, I think it’s time to switch gears w “Hana Yori Dango” (Japanese version) anyway. Sorry. I’ll come back to it in 3-4 weeks (since “HYD” S1+S2 has 20 episodes plus a film)! ^_^

Kris-chan @xJAYMANx: Aaaaah! I hate math… I am SO terrible with numbers. It’s funny, because my mother is a math teacher, and my father is all into science (he’s a uh…chemical engineer maybe?), but I’m AWFUL with both subjects. I don’t remember any math from high school or college, and in HS, I went all the way up to AP Calculus, and was taking some Calc in college too (it was a class called uh…business math or something… it was the next one up from Algebra, and I had to take it). Much, much better with books (fortunately my boy is excellent with numbers). ^_^ But that’s awfully nice of you to help your coworker study.

Maybe the onigiri was off. Who knows… Anyway, totally against sea food here. Only fish I eat is tuna fish, out of a can, and mixed with boiled egg, relish, miracle whip, and a touch of mustard. I’ve thought about giving salmon a try, since I hear it’s very good for you. But there’s no way I’d eat it uncooked. Anyway, I had an opportunity to try new food, and I’ve been wanting to try Japanese for a while, so I ordered various things to taste. Scott hates that kind of food, so I can only ever order it in for myself… I’m sad you’re not enjoying Goong like I did. But I can’t deny its slow pacing. Haha, you don’t have to send me any Jumong! I promise I’ll get to it! It’s just that my Netflix currently has 426 DVDs in its queue. I’m going to start the Beserk anime tomorrow morning… By the way, been meaning to say, feel welcome to add me to your Facebook, Netflix, or whatever you’d like.

Oh! I’ve seen “osaki ni shitsurei shimasu” translated in manga and anime. Usually as “I’m leaving first.” It’s one of those funny sayings like “Please take care of me,” when a character visits someone else’s house. Unfortunately they don’t explain those sayings very well, so the cultural aspects sort of pass me by most of the time. I kind of just assume that the Japanese are exceedingly polite (which they do seem to be).

02 Nov 2009

xJAYMANx @Kris-chan: Thanx Kris-sensei, although I feel bad for Melanie since she didn’t take calculus or probabilities in high school. So she’ll have a really tough time, even if the passing grade is 50% of 50 questions… Ah, as a Filipino, I grew up on seafood. Mmmm. So it’s not a big leap to enjoy Japanese dishes… What?!? Umm, 426 in your Netflix queue? Actually, here’s an idea. In case the 81-episode “Jumong” is too large a main course, what about the earlier Korean TV drama “Damo” as a 14-episode appetizer? Many of the same historical, stylistic and cinematic themes are presented in it. And much quicker to enjoy, hehe. If you enjoy this Korean appetizer, you’ll definitely be ready for the full course, haha.

While I rarely check my Facebook or Netflix pages or friends, there’s nothing stopping you from adding me either. I have an inkling that you’ve already verified the existence of my accounts… Ahh, I’m sure you’ll get the hang of the Japanese culture. For me, after watching anime and Japanese drama on Jap-audio and Eng-subs, almost non-stop since 2006, you can’t help picking up the sayings and holidays and foods. Even the mentality. Both the good and bad. Both admirable and repulsive. Fortunately, it prepared me. As if I was meant to meet Autumn-chan. ^_^

P.S. Would you mind if I reprinted excerpts or entire sections of this email discussion in a future blog post? Anything I shouldn’t mention? That is, if I ever make another blog post, of course.

“Ja ne!”

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 1024px

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 700px

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 1280px

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 1280px

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 1280px

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 900px

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 900px

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 900px

Jumong (Korean Drama, 2006) | Enlarge 900px

LG ad featuring Song Il Gook from Jumong (2006) | Enlarge 900px

LG ad featuring Song Il Gook from Jumong (2006) | Enlarge 900px

LG ad featuring Song Il Gook from Jumong (2006) | Enlarge 900px

In fact, due to the overwhelming international success of “Jumong“, not only has Hawaii declared a “Song Il Gook Day”, “Jumong” is aired in Iran with ratings of 70-85%! Unreal. I’ll even make the following recommendation: If you only see one Korean drama in your lifetime, then let that drama be “Jumong”. I mean, if “The Lord of the Rings” film trilogy was toned down in special effects, yet stretched out into a day-to-day yet emotionally-wrenching 81-episode epic odyssey, wouldn’t you watch it too?

So my Treasured Toyboxers, did you survive? Did you withstand the soul-smashing tsunami of spellbinding anime, American sci-fi, Hong Kong classics, Japanese comedies, and Korean epics? Did you digest the rock bands, canine menaces, cute costumes, and mouth-watering waves of food-food-food? Did you battle the unimaginably monstrous mega-cast equaling fifty or more mere-mortal posts? You did? Then I applaud your strength and stamina! Likewise, let’s thank the glorious girls who graced our gleaming mega-cast. Thank you, Maggie, Kate, Bliss, Melanie, Patti, Lisa, Alita, Hermes, Misaki Ito, Haruhi Fujioka, Tricia Helfer, Grace Park, NaTasha, Haruhi Suzumiya, Song Ji-hyo, Anna Tsuchiya, Kris-chan, Duckie-chan, and of course, the adorable Autumn-chan.

Till next broadcast. Peace. Out.

Photo 2530a by xJAYMANx | Click to enlarge

December 24, 2007. Vegas. My house. While clearing out the orange bedroom, I thought it would be a great space for a photoshoot. Skinny me (lost 20 pounds in 5 months) with my favorite Tomb Raider (H&K Super P8) airgun, lol. A great photographic way to end a memorable year, eh?

Photo 2543a by xJAYMANx | Click to enlarge

Photo 2546a by xJAYMANx | Click to enlarge

Photo 2530d by xJAYMANx | Click to enlarge