batalla épica

World numero uno, Rafael Nadal beat Fernando Verdasco in the Australian Open semi-final. The two Spaniards (both lefties) went at each other for 5 hours and 14 minutes, the longest in the tournament's history.

It was one of the greatest tennis battles I've seen. The classic match was filled with long rallies, stupendous winners and tremendous athleticism from both players. And although you expect nothing but the best from Nadal, Verdasco proved that he is definitely in the same league. The latter produced 95 clean winners and was the only player to take sets off from the mighty Iberian.

Nadal will meet Roger Federer, who is seeking to tie Pete Sampras' record of 14 grandslam titles, in the finals. Nates, made it clear who he's rooting for. I, on the other hand, will put my money on Rafa. He's most definitely drained, tired and sore but I believe in his unbelievable tenacity and amazing skills.

And with shots like this, he certainly deserves it.

Verdasco could've thrown a sink at Rafa and the latter would still find a way to send it back to him!

the 44th president

"All are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness."

** photo courtesy of Reuters

slumdog millionaire

What does it take to find long lost love?

A. Money B. Luck

C. Smarts D. Destiny

Slumdog Millionaire is an enthralling story about going to one's destiny. Jamal Malik- a boy from the slums- is playing on the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire and is only one question away from the jackpot. How can a young man, with no education, possibly know the answers to the questions without cheating? And thereby hangs a tale.

Refreshingly believable, wonderfully acted, visually stunning and charged throughout with tense drama (and brilliant soundtrack to boot) wrapped up with a predictable and still great "happy ending"; the film will take you on a roller coaster of emotions that will leave you on a high!

gitara

I come from a musical family. All of us can sing. And by sing I don't mean just carry a tune. Our house is never quiet when we are home. Songs belted out occur sporadically. And the tunes range from Burt Bacarach to Britney Spears, Mariah Carey to April Boy Regino, and The Beach Boys to The APO. I enjoyed music so much, I even dreamed of playing an instrument.

My parents bought me two guitars. Once when I was 14 and the last time just before High School graduation. Both guitars ended up broken without me even learning how to play a single chord.

Whilst in Cebu, Ketty and I visited a guitar factory in Mactan Island. The name of which seemed to escape my memory. And with a camera in my hand, I started clicking away. By the way, I learned from one of the makers that they air dry the wood for 5 years before they use it to make a good product. I didn't think the process is painstaking and ardous at all.

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24: Day 7

Monday nights at 9 on Sky1.