Friday, July 10, 2026

FMM: It's her turn (around)

Gosh, this is such a shocker.

I've been doing Friday Magic Madness for decades, and it's just today that I discovered that Bonnie Tyler has never been featured!

Sacrilege.

But as they say, better late than never.

So, as a tribute to the iconic Bonnie Tyler, here's the song that she's best known for.


"Total Eclipse of the Heart" truly eclipsed many songs it was pitted against, and rightfully so. The song is well-written, beautifully sung, and is so memorable. In fact, it's so memorable that, 43 years later after its release, people still know and sing this song.

Bonnie and this song will never be eclipsed.

Thursday, July 09, 2026

Eclipsed

Today, they delivered the sad news that the 80s singing icon has gone to that great music hall in the sky.

Yes, Bonnie Tyler has passed on at the age of 75.


Any kid of the 80s will know Bonnie Tyler. Her song, "Total Eclipse of the Heart" wasn't just popular, it's iconic!

She's truly one of a kind, and she, and her voice, will be sorely missed.

Wednesday, July 08, 2026

The Godfather

No, this isn't a post about the Marlon Brando film.

It's about...

Me!

Yup, after many, many outings as a godfather to my friends' kids, I'm now - and for the first time - a godfather at a wedding!

Last Sunday was my first foray as a wedding godfather, and the lovely couple is my art director - Kat, and her new hubby, Laurence!


It's a different feeling when you're now acting as a second parent to a married couple. While I'm not equipped to give them marriage advice, I'd probably give out sound and good relationship advice.

Better get ready for this new responsibility.

Tuesday, July 07, 2026

Herring Aid

"Golden Girls" was an iconic show in the 80s. 

While we were just young kids back then, we were able to appreciate the very adult - and super old - humour. The quips and quibbles of Dorothy, Rose, Blanche and Sofia would elicit giggles and laughs. My favourite would be Rose's St Olaf stories.

Just like her story about the Great Herring War in St Olaf.


What's great about this clip is seeing Dorothy and Blanche break character and just laugh at the silliness of Rose's story. It's this kind of comedy that's a joy to watch.

I've seen this clip more than a hundred tines, and I'm still laughing each time.

Monday, July 06, 2026

Werther's or not

When my parents came back from Bicol, aside from their usual pili pasalubongs, there was one thing they brought home that caught my eye.

Werthe'rs Original!

This caramel candy is a fave since we were kids. Among the many caramel candies, this one really has the rich, creamy caramel taste that feels indulgent, yet light. 

Apparently, Dad saw it at the Duty Free store at the airport and couldn't resist buying one. Good decision because not only did he bring home a bag of candy, he brought home decades worth of childhood memories.

That's sweetness in more ways than one.

Sunday, July 05, 2026

It's a Homer-run!

As a grade school kid, my fascination with Greek Mythology and stories was prominent. 

I've written about this factoid on this blog before, but I'd spend hours in the library reading Edith Hamilton's "Mythology" and Homer's "The Odyssey."

That was decades ago, and it's been a while since I've held those 2 books.

So, it's exciting that one of those 2 pieces of Greek literature is now a film. By Christopher Nolan, no less.


Judging by the trailer, it looks like "The Odyssey" will be a must watch for me. 

I'm sure it'll bring me back to my childhood, and I'm all for it!

Saturday, July 04, 2026

Lifting the Weil

While we were in Changi a few weeks ago, one of the duty free shops had the full collection of Byredo's "Night Veils" collection.


It's supposed to be a darker and richer iteration of a brand that's more known for brightness and effervescence. That's why it was interesting to see - and smell - the line.

Yup, it's a departure from the usual Byredo scents. Despite that, they work. My fave among the lot is the Vanille Antique, which I eventually bought for Ate.

You've got another hit here, Byredo.


Friday, July 03, 2026

FMM: Chic Times

Chic is so famous for their hit song "Le Freak," people forget that they have another song that's as catchy and danceable.


"Good Times" was a hit song from the group that hey released in 1979. It has some similarities with "Le Freak," but overall, this song feels more chill and boppy rather than dance-y.

It's always a good time when you listen to it.

Thursday, July 02, 2026

Nuggets of cuteness

This series of shorts suddenly popped up on my feed.


Now, I'm hooked!

It's so simple and cute. And it's a good break from all the craziness on the net.

We need more feel-good content like this.

Wednesday, July 01, 2026

That's practical

After "The Devil Wears Prada 2," here's another film whose sequel comes more than 2 decades after the release of the 1st one.


"Practical Magic" came out in 1998, and yes, I watched that film in 1998. So, it's exciting to see the same characters and actors reprise their roles after 28 years.

Hope the sequel is as magical as the original.