American Idol 10 - Chris Medina "Breakeven"

I have always been a fan of The Scripts and almost all of their songs from "The Man Who Can't Be Moved" to "Live Like We're Dying". And I have to say that one of my most favorites among these songs is "Breakeven". While the song speaks of the unfairness of love and how this seem unbearable yet moving to the eyes of the underdog in a relationship, the song can be interpreted the other way around. However, one person showed and expressed what the real emotions and incentives behind the song are through his heartfelt and amazing rendition that left me and the whole world speechless and tearful.

American Idol Season 10 is perhaps a revamped and ultimately different (if better, i'm not exactly sure) version as compared to the previous seasons. With the leaving of Simon Cowell and Kara DioGuardi and the addition of Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, the season is of different taste and persona than what it was once. I may not be a full AI fan but I do enjoy some of its quirky and jaw-dropping moments (especially the unforgettable performances of some of the contestants). From Kelly Clarkson to Kris Allen, the talent are unquestionable and without a doubt some of the best ever in the whole world. And with the start of this latest season, some contestants had already left an impression within me.

One of those people is Chris Medina. This 26 yer old barista from Illinois appeared on Jan 26's episode bringing with him his girlfriend Julia Ramos. Together for four years (two of which they were engaged), just two weeks before they were to marry, Julia got involved in a car accident that left her incapacitated with brain damage. Medina, instead of giving up his love for her, was able to found strength from it and made him love her more quoting "What kind of guy would I be if I walk out when she needed me the most". Watch the video below for his audition.

As Medina tried out for the show, he brought with him Julia and introduced her to the judges (where Steven Tyler even kissed her saying how Medina sang the song with so much love just for her). While some fans have expressed support for him (count me in!), others do think that this is a strategic appeal to compassion, if not pity, to the public. Either way, his actions and devotions speak for themselves.

Story: WISHFUL THINKING [Summary + Chapter List]

SUMMARY:

Jess Mago is living the sweet life. He is studying in one of the country’s most prestigious university, friends with two of the best persons he’d ever met and had almost everything he could ever wish for at the moment. Contented.

But within him lies a cloak-and-dagger sugar ache that he is unaware of. A devastating decay waiting for the right moment to make its presence known. What happens if that ache becomes unbearable? Inevitable.

Jess will realize that there is more to life than what it seems and that which appears to be is really not.

This is a story about how relationships and maturity marred with the struggles of everyday life and fate’s ever twisted mind can affect the seemingly pacific life of a boy on the brink of being a man. This is a story about the pleasures of unbridled desires and the pains of wanting something so close yet impossible to achieve. This is the story of how a single idea can affect multitudes of circumstances, leaving one person at the center of it all judged and amiss-ed. 

When we want something, we fight for it. Jess have to learn it the hard way. But what happens when wishful thinking seems more inviting than cruel reality?

CHAPTER LIST:

• Chapter 1: Just Another Ordinary Heartbreak 
• Chapter 2: White Lies, Priorities, and Acceptance 
• Chapter 3: The Calm Before The Storm 
• Chapter 4: The Rich Kid (Kai's Perspective) 

*Updates will be by the writer's convenience. 

Author's Note:

This story was something that came out from one of my works in a course I've taken a year ago. It started out as one chapter that I intend to leave just as it is. However, my muse reared its head and pushed me to continue it. The plot is banal and almost overrated and I have yet to pave its direction. Though I do have some plot that are quite interesting and hopefully unexpected. Some aspects I am planning to deal with will be quite deep and strange. I am a fan of cliff-hangers and unconventional writing so bear with me. I am a frustrated writer, somewhere between an amateur and an aspirer. So please if you see any point for improvement and appraisals, I am most grateful if you can share it with me. Thanks and have fun reading!

Wishful Thinking [C01]

CHAPTER 1: Just Another Ordinary Heartbreak

It was almost everyday I’d get my heart broken. 

Seeing them together, her arms around his back, his along her waist. The way she would smile as he gives her a look of adoration. The slight shift of his stance and the way she adapts to it seemingly as if they are one. It was a subtle yet obvious sign of ownership, a code of arms that binds them both in that so-called love. How annoyingly asinine. 

“Hey, stop it already. There’s no need to rub it off, you know.” I said, looking jokingly at them as if I was disgusted (which I really was).

“Awe. Someone’s getting jealous.” Kai said as he teasingly answered me in that sickly puppy-dog sort of way. 

I felt a flicker of embarrassment which momentarily disappeared. I hoped they didn’t noticed it.

“Don’t worry, Jess, we’ll find you someone.” Karina pacified, pointing a disapproving stare to her boyfriend, and to me with little shame in her deep brown eyes.

I took a deep breath and said “Right... like I haven’t heard that before,” resignation seeping from my voice.

“Oh suck it up. Its not our fault that you don’t seem to like any girl we’d point to you.” Kai pointed out. 

“That’s because he’s a gentleman Kai. He’s not like you who’d snatch any girl who offers herself to you. I mean, if I haven’t tamed you, you’d probably be switching between girls faster than superman fighting off crimes.” Karina fiercely interjected, all the while looking at me knowingly.

“Uhmm... thanks Kar, I think. Anyways, I have to go. My class starts in five minutes and I still need to walk like a mile to get to the building.” I lightly laughed as I picked up my bag, grabbed my lunch leftovers and stood up to get going. I was getting uncomfortable at the direction the conversation was going. Luckily, Kar saved me from the rest of it.

“Sure sure Jess. Meet up later after class at the main campus office, okay?” Kar worriedly asked as he and Kai started to gather their things as well. Kai was just looking alternately between me and Kar with that confused knot in his eyes.

“Okay. See you guys later.” As I turned to go, I caught a glimpse of them looking at me, Kar with a somber look on her face and Kai with a deep-in-thought gaze. Then the looks were quickly masked and they turned to each other, giving each other a peck on the lips. For me, it was more like French. 

I couldn’t help but feel scared and with a burst of intuition, I suddenly had this feeling that something either majorly good or bad will happen later the day. 

Looking back, they were walking the opposite way holding hands. With all things said and considered, I couldn’t help but feel alone.

---

Advanced Systems Design. My final class for the day. Oh, how I hated my course. Its already a year and a half and I’m still having second thoughts about taking Computer Science. I mean, I was dubbed the smartest person in our block (really, I was!) and I gladly accepted the recognition ( I didn't say I was that modest), but this was just too much. Our professor’s voice was like a lullaby pulling me to the depths of oblivion. The university should have training for professors in "How To Not Be Bring 101" to avoid becoming energy-sucking lifeless teaching drones. 

I wasn’t listening though. I was thinking of the first day I had stepped into the campus. It was the first day of classes. It was also the first time I met Kai and Karina.

<flashback>

I was lucky enough to get a scholarship into one of the most famous and most prestigious universities in the Philippines. I belonged to a lower middle class family (gosh, need I define it?) and being a student here is somewhat a far-fetched dream of mine. But here I was, wearing my worn-out clothes, amidst the so-called ‘high-class’ student body. I was scared yet exhilarated at the same time.

After walking around and exploring the campus, I went to find my room. Insanely enough, it was located at the other side of the five hectare campus so it took me around 15 minutes just to get there ( I got lost and had to ask directions from someone as well). At least I got some exercise.

The room was beyond my comprehension. It was air conditioned and equipped with high-tech gizmos that I don’t recognize or didn’t know of. Located at the center of the ceiling were wi-fi enabled LCD projectors that seemingly connects to the built-in computer at the right side of the room. There was also an OHP atthe far left, near two large aircon units. I was confounded and I felt inadequate.

I randomly took a seat in the middle of the class. There were only a few people, mostly quiet and alone as well. Guess everyone’s experiencing first day fright as well. At least, I’m not the only one feeling it.

After a few minutes, the room started filling up. When it seemed as if it was time, a guy (a foreigner, I take it) walked in, followed by who I assumed was our professor (because she was the only one carrying a laptop, a stack of brown paper, and some cables hanging out), and sat beside me. I barely acknowledged him.

So the class started and since it was our first day, the prof droned on about the university; the different places around, the rules and regulations, special information and other school trivia. She also welcomed us to being part of the university. After which, she started explaining what to expect about our course and about her subject. It took the whole period, roughly an hour and a half, to finish everything. By then, I had learned and absorbed a lot so my mind was fully loaded and ready to explode.

While readying to get out of the room to get to our block’s next class (I learned that as first year, we get to stay in a section or block until we can enroll on our own during the latter part of the year), the guy who sat beside me turned to me, grinned and held out his hand for a handshake.

“Hi, I’m Kai. Nice to meet you.” He drawled out in that full American accent of him.

I was dumbfounded. I didn’t react for a few moments. Such a straightforward approach, something I'm not used to. When his grin started to falter, I quickly composed myself and took his hand. 

“Hello. I’m J-Jess. Nice to meet you too.” I answered in perfect English. Our family maybe dirt poor compared to the rest of the student body but I grew up learning as much as I can. English was just some of the language I can speak (guess how many languages I know!). 

He unexpectedly pulled me into a one arm back-patting hug, an American gesture I later found out, and right there and then, we became friends.

<end of flashback>

I smiled foolishly as I remembered that day. I still can’t believe that he was my friend. We were on either end of the spectrum but we managed to break the barriers and become close friends, almost brotherly.

Kaiser Philippe Montag, or Kai as we call him, is, and always will be, a full-fledge American boy-next-door playboy. He’s the epitome of perfection. (And god, I hate him for that.) He was from the US of A and had lived all his life there. But his father’s relationship with a Filipino woman led to his family (Kai, his father and his older brother) moving to little old Philippines. Turns out, he decided to go to college here instead of being left out alone in the States.

His father was the CEO of an IT company based in America and the sudden move, although risky, brought new opportunities for the company as they open their first branch here in Manila. This was one of the reason he decided to take up ComSci; to follow his father's footsteps. His older brother was an engineer and is also currently on the final processes of establishing his own firm. 

Simply put, Kai is loaded. Seriously loaded. Not to mention that everyone vies for his attention, guys or girls, to the point of being pathetic just to win his friendship. Everybody likes him, wants to be him, and wants to be with him. I hated him back then, and until now. Just kidding, he’s my bestest friend <insert sarcasm here>. Either way, I was thankful to be his friend. Really I am.

I broke out of my reverie when the recorded bell tune rang. My last period for the day is done. Finally. As I walked out, I bade goodbye to some of my blockmates who I can actually say I like and tolerate. Then I made my way to the main campus office.

---

While making my way to the office, I saw Karina a few steps in front of me. Kai was a student assistant. Aside from being utterly handsome and rich (gosh, can he be any more perfect?), he was also insanely smart (yup, he can be 'perfecter'), perhaps smarter than me. And because of that, he also managed to grab on to a scholarship and become a student research assistant handpicked by the campus director himself.

I quickened my pace and, in a few seconds, was directly behind her. Kar didn’t seem to notice me, so I surprised her by hugging her from the back. 

“HEY WHAAA----“ She flailed but after realizing it was me, laughed and gushed loudly.

“OMG Jess. You jerk. You scared the hell out of me. I thought I was being molested or something.” She relaxed in my arms but I didn’t make a move to remove them from around her.

“Hahaha... Kar, no one would dare to do that. Not unless they want to be hospitalized for an eternity.” I smirked. hugging her a little too tight. Then, with my arms around her, we walked slowly, dragging ourselves towards the main campus building. As we stopped by an alcove just in front of the office door, I tried to think the first time Kai and I met her.

<flashback>

After the third period class of our very first day, Kai and I went to check out the cafeteria around campus (amazingly, there were a total of 10 of them scattered around campus). It was lunch time and I was hungry, and it looks as if Kai was too.

Along the way, we talked about ourselves. You know, the basic get-to-know questions. People were gawking over him. The university, having a good percentage of foreign students (Americans, Europeans, Africans, Australians, fellow Asians), was well known for having a diverse collection of students. And yet, it seems as if they were seeing Kai as having a race of his own.

We found our way towards Food Fantasy, one of the university\s numerous café houses which caters a wide range of light snacks, blended drinks and wholesome desserts. When we got in, we found a vacant table by the side. Then Kai abruptly turned to me.

“JJ, I’ll treat you.” He said and walked towards the counter. I was shocked, angered and humiliated all at the same time. I mean, here was a person I just met, someone who I don't even feel that close yet, and he does something totally arrogant and unexpected like this. Not that I care (at least free lunch) but a guy has his pride, you know?

It was a good thing there weren’t anyone near us and the only person who could’ve witnessed the scene was a rather beautiful girl with long black hair sitting two tables to my right. 

I looked at her and noticed that she was looking at me. She smiled then I did. 

“Hi.” I said, blushing crimson knowing that she just witnessed what happened.

“Hi. Cute boyfriend you’ve got there.” Pointing his lips towards Kai.

I paled as the words left her mouth. I couldn’t talk back. What did she say?

The fear and hesitation must’ve showed in my face when she hastily added, “Oh sorry. Didn’t mean to scare you. Don’t worry, it’s not a problem for me. Surprisingly, our university supports -”

I still can’t reply back, not understanding what she was saying. I darted my eyes towards Kai. He was already paying for the food. The girl at the counter was shamelessly flirting at him.

“- and it's not as if someone will try to hurt you. By the way, he’s really hot. What a catch.” I heard the girl say. She followed my gaze and saw that I was looking at Kai. Then I realized what she meant.

When I got my voice back, I said, “No no no no. You’ve got it all wrong. I’m not gay.” I was quick to deny.

“Oh. Damn. Uhm, sorry. Gosh I feel stupid. Its just that I assumed. I mean, it looks as if he was... It was really sweet and... You guys look so cute togeth-” She was blushing deep red and gushed with her words.

“Its okay. Its okay.” I said to calm her. Wow, talk about miscommunication. She blushed immensely and I tried hard not to chuckle.

When she calmed down, she said, “I don’t usually do that. I mean when I saw you guys I immediately assumed that you were, you know, together. Of course! Silly me! It's just the first day of classes so you two couldn’t have possibly known each other for that long. Or are you guys like childhood friends?” She was pacifying herself.

I was about to answer when Kai suddenly popped out of nowhere and stood beside me. I jumped as I didn't notice him approach.

“So who’s the pretty lady you’re talking to?” He asked me, while surreptitiously trying to sneak a look at the girl a few seats from us.

“Oh yeah... Wait. I don’t know your name. Um. I’m Jess and this is Kai.” I offered my hand.

She gladly took it and answered, “Nice to meet you. I’m Karina.” She winked at me and I blushed. Kai looked at me and just grinned.

I forgot I was mad at Kai.

<end of flashback>

Kar’s voice returned me from my trip down memory lane.

“You’re lucky you’re a good friend. Kai would’ve been royally pissed if it were some other guy.” It was normal for us to be close and physical like this. Aside from Kai, Kar was my other best friend (at least that’s how we see it). It's funny when people would usually confuse us as a couple. Others would tease us about Kai being jealous but we just laughed about that, seeing as how close all three of us were.

“Oh please. I could beat Kai any other day.” I huffed my chest acting tough and proud. 

“Yeah right. He’s just got a soft spot for you.” She laughed as we stopped just a few feet away from the doors of the main campus office.

Everyone knows that when it comes to fighting, Kai never backs down. He was a master of almost all martial arts forms (muay thai, karate, aikido, judo, kung fu, jujitsu, kendo, wushu, krav maga, capoeira, eskrima... the list goes on). He’s got the body of a powerful man, mad skills enough to almost kill anyone and the resources to descend hell upon someone. I’m just glad I will never get to his bad side (or that’s what I at least thought so). 

“Yup. And I got him wrapped around my fingers.” I jokingly added. 

I didn’t notice someone exiting the office and creep behind me. I was smiling when that person whispered into my ear, “Is that so JJ? Well, let’s see who’s gonna be wrapped around something when I’m through with you.”

My smile vanished and I tensed up. I immediately backed away from the guy but he caught me in the waist. Dear god, I’m dead.

“HAHAHAHA. That was too damn funny.” Kar, who was in front of me (obviously had seen what was coming) and watching my reactions the whole time, suddenly burst out laughing.

I knew it was Kai. I could smell his faint cologne. And if the voice didn’t give it away, the sturdy bulging arms wrapped around me did. I gulped. I’m seriously dead.

“K-Kai. Didn’t n-notice you there d-dude.” I stammered, knowing full well what’s coming next.

“Apparently. Now what was that you said again?” His arms tightened around me, almost leaving me breathless but not quite. His voice was serious, deep but with a trace of sick humor and delight.

“Oh. Nothing. I didn’t say anything. K-Kar, would you please stop laughing and get your neanderthal of a boyfriend off of me.” I looked at her with pleading eyes.

“But JJ, we all know what you really want.” He smiled at me angelically. Crap.

“Kai, please get your arms off of me. I can’t breathe.” I was in full pleading mode. This is so not good. I was starting to feel something inside and it scared me. 

Kar seemed to noticed it and stepped in. “Come on Kai, let Jess go. Besides I want to be the one in your arms."

“But JJ haven’t answered my question yet. So what was that again JJ? Who do you have wrapped in your finger?” Kai tightened his grip on me and I started to feel dizzy. I knew what was coming and I was panicking.

“It was no one man. I was just kidding.” I was starting to hyperventilate and was literally shaking. I can’t seem to breathe right. I was losing focus and the next thing I know, everything turned black.

---

“Jess, you okay?” Kar’s voice was soothing to my ears. It was caring, sincere and full of concern. I remembered my mom. 

“W-where am I?” I squinted my eyes, noticed that I was laying down and tried standing up.

“Don’t move. You might faint again. Just relax first.” Kar held me back and settled me back in.

“What happened?” I ask with a little confusion. My mind’s not fully functioning yet.

“You fainted.” Kai, who was standing just behind Kar out of my sight, appeared in my line of vision and answered me.

“Oh. Wha-“ I was gonna asked why but then I remembered. Oh shit. 

“Do you remember now?” Kar asked worriedly. She noticed that I seemed to be getting my bearings back.

“Y-yeah.” I didn’t know what to say. So I looked around and saw that we were in one of the rooms in the university clinic. Kar was sitting on a chair right beside my bed near my head and Kai was behind her.

“Are you feeling better now?” Kai asked me, getting my attention quickly.

“I feel fine. Just a little woozy.” I managed to squeeze in a chuckle.

Then suddenly, Kai spoke loudly,” What happened dude? You scared the hell out of us.” His voice was angry yet there was something there that I can’t seem to identify.

“Kai relax.” Kar firmly stated.

“But Kar, he freaking fainted on my arms. I didn’t know what could’ve happened. It might’ve been my fault.” His voice withered by the end of the sentence. 

Seeing that Kai was actually blaming himself for my fainting, I quickly answered, “No no no, It wasn’t your fault. I’m just tired or something.”

Kai looked at me than started to open his mouth but quickly shut it again. He scrutinized me for a minute then abruptly stood up.

“Kar, come with me. Let’s go ask the clinic doctor if we can get JJ out already.” He grabbed her by the arm and they immediately exited the room.

I was left there alone. Again. I was puzzled by Kai’s reaction. Then I realized that seeing me like that which could’ve either been his fault or not, he just needs to let out some air.

After laying down the bed for what’ve been like around 30 minutes, Kar came back in and told me to stand up. 

“Kai’s already starting his car. The doctor said we could bring you home now. But you need to have someone with you for quite a while so we decided to just hang out at Kai’s house. You can take your rest there. And since its Friday tomorrow, you could just sleep over at Kai’s house.” Kar was acting all serious and mom-like that I just had to tease her.

“Yes mom. I’ll do as you say. Dad’s waiting so let’s go.” Then I laughed seeing her flustered face.

“Well, I know you’re back to normal then.” She playfully smacked me at the back of my head as we walked out.

Before reaching Kai's car, which was parked in a rental parking space a few blocks away from campus, Kar pulled me into a tight hug.

Then she whispered, “He knows.”

TO BE CONTINUED...

A/N: So that’s the first part of my story. Interpret it as you wish. It is not yet done though obviously. It’s just the start of it. There’s gonna be more to go. Please tell me what you think of it by commenting below. This is really different and I find it quite weird yet exciting writing something like it. Hope you get my drift.

NEXT CHAPTER : White Lies, Priorities, and Acceptance

Saturday S17 Soiree - EK Trip

After three years in DLSU, we (me and my S17 friends) finally had the time to go to Enchanted Kingdom. What started out as a random plan on a fateful trip at the LRT became a reality when after approximately a week and a half of shotgun preparations and on-the-spot invites, at most ten of us where able to come.

The day started off fine with everyone being on time. Seriously. We had overcame the so-called Filipino time in which usual meeting happens like an hour late of the agreed time. So for example, if let's say we are to meet at 10am then most probably, most of everyone will come around 10:30 or 11am. Anyways, everyone was able to come on time (which was 10am). AJ, together with Ivan and Tolits, arrived first via AJ's car. They were followed by Heidz, Shau, Vali, JR and Tricko who came via commute from ATC. I arrived shortly via personal car with Jon (who leaves a subdivision away from EK) following. 

So what did we do upon arriving? PICTURE TAKING!. Lots and lots of picture taking. 

Vali, Heidz, Me, Shau, Tricko

Ivan, Me, JR, Shau, Vali, Heidz, Tolits, Tricko (with AJ holding the cam)

Yeah! We were the first ones in the park so there weren't much people yet

The gates opened around 11am and fortunately we were the first in line. Upon entering the park, picture taking again ensues. Since we were early, there weren't many people yet so we have at most an hour to enjoy a few of the rides. First stop was the Dodgem which was EK's version of bump cars. Can I just say? IT WAS SO SO BORING. As in the cars were slow, the controls were awful and the time was barely three minutes. We didn't even get to enjoy it fully. Anyways, we then went to one of my favorites, the Anchors Away which is basically this big swinging ship. Since the best seats are those on both ends, we decided to take them with me, Shau, AJ and Vali on one end and the others on the other end As seen in the pic below. Heidz and Ivan, who were scared rode in the middle.

On top row: Jon, Tricko, JR, Tolits; On bottom row (cut off by cam): Heidz, Ivan

Once done with the ride, we waqnted to go on the Jungle Log Jam but it was closed yet so we detoured towards Space Shuittle, the only roller coaster in the Philippines that can do a respectable loop-the-loop. Since there weren't many people, we were able to ride fast. We paired up (I was with Shau) while Heidz, Ivan, and Tolits decided to sit this one out (bunch of chickens haha!!). Anyways, so we were there excited and afraid. For a few minutes (more like three), the ride was one and we came out with our necks painful, and our tummies rumbling and doing cartwheels. We met up with the chickens (haha peace) and decided on lunch.

Jon eating Fish and Chips

AJ, Me, Shau done eating

Once lunch was done, we geared oput towards Jungle Log Jam, one of EK's wet rides. The line was so short we were able to ride with no waiting at all.

Us waiting in line

Us boarding the ride

Shau, Heidz, Me going down

Needless to say, after the ride, we were all WET. 

Us sporting our wet look

After Jungle Log Jam, we went off to Rialto, which is basically an interactive movie or something. It was kind of boring. More like a much improved version of a massage chair with a movie to watch.

While waiting at Rialto

After Rialto; From left to right: Shau, AJ, Heidz, Tolits, Ivan, Tricko, Me, JR, Vali (with Jon holding the cam)

After Rialto, the group broke off into two with Me, Shau, Jon, JR, and Vali heading off to ride Flying Fiesta which is basically an overgrown circular swing while the others rested and cam-whored. After the ride, we met up again and decided to try out the Triassic Tag which is EK's capitalist Lasertag. Eight of us, excluding Heidz and Shau, were separated into two groups with Me, AJ, Jon, Tolits in the black team and Tricko, JR, Vali, Ivan in the red team.

Black Team

Half of red team

Shau and Heidz cam-whoring

After the very tiring and satisfying game, our team, the Black team, won! We managed to get out with the most number of lives left (Aj = 13, Me = 12, Jon = 5, Tolits = 0). After the game, we headed out to finally try the ever famous and most in-demand ride the Riogrande Rapids. In this ride, you basically CANNOT NOT GET WET. And none of us escaped the water's clutches. For the rest of the day, we rode Jungle Log Jam and Riogrande Rapids once more. By the end of the day, around 6pm, there were already a lot of people (freaking field trip) so we decided to go home. But of course, no day is done without having a final bout of picture taking.

After changing/drying out our wet clothes

Preparing to leave

JUMPSHOT!!!

Another jumpshot

Final groupshot for the day

So the day ended and we all have to go home. JR went home the earliest around 5:30. Jon sided off with his parents. AJ, Ivan, Tricko, Vali, Tolits, Shau, Heidz all rode AJ's car (and they fit!) while I commuted. 

The six of them miraculously fit in AJ's car

All in all, it was a very fun day filled with hilarious moments, bonding, and memories. Here's hoping for a part two hopefully with more people coming.

gLeek upd8 - Gaga over Karofsky, Bieber-proof, Glee Club News

S01E20's "Theatricality" is a testament of how Glee going gaga over Gaga leads to wonderful performances such as the almost-identical "Bad Romance" and the stunning reinvention of "Poker Face". This time, the pop icon is again lending her soon-to-be-released single "Born This Way" in an upcoming eppy.

Max Adler, who plays Karofsky, a gay bully who terrorized Kurt throughout the show

Centered over Max Adler's character Karofsky, the track will be used as the focal song of a March/April episode that tackles gay bullying and out-of-the-closet struggles. Murphy stated, "I love that that song is anthem. This show is by nature optimistic, and I think a character like Karofsky could turn to booze or pills or alcohol and kill themselves or do something dark. But I also love Max and I love that character and I sorta want that character to have a happy ending. So I don't really know what that's going to be, but I do know we're going to do a whole episode that's about that song." The episode will air sometime between the release of the single in February and the release of Gaga's full Born This Way album in May.

In other news, Glee creator Ryan Murphy revealed to Perez Hilton that the show will not dedicate an entire episode to Justin Bieber contrary to the rumors that circulated weeks ago. Murphy added that no other tribute shows will be done for the rest of the season (which is understandable since the first half had been loaded with them). However, a small part of a big episode will include one of JB's songs, as Sam sings it to woo back Quinn. Trouble in Ken and Barbie's paradise? Hell yeah. Though I doubt it will last long with Sam's ultra cute lips (and mouth), Bieberfied hair and irresistable green eyes.

The ever lovable Kristin Chenoweth will also be coming back. Can't wait.

Glee Club News:

• Will/Emma: With Carl out of sight, the green-eyed monster might just make its way to Emma. Holly Holiday is back like sex-on-wheels (literally, she's the new sex education teacher) to spice up Will's otherwise pathetic lovelife while he turns the tables against Emma.

• Puck/Quinn/Sam: The Barbie couple is still going strong, or are they? See previous paragraphs for an idea on how Valentine's will go down for the two. However, I wouldn't rule out Puck just yet.

• Kurt/Blaine: Valentine's Day just oozes love in the air and I can't wait for these two to finally have some luvin'. As Darren Criss dished out to E!, "We're definitely going to start seeing some layers to the two of them. The pink elephant in the room will finally be addressed, let's put it that way." Oh la la, KLAINE is on demand.

• Artie/Brittany: Ah, my comfort couple Artie and Brittany will continue with their asinine, funny and cute-tastic relationship for the Valentine's Day episode. And oh yeah, Artie's bringing on the slow in slow motion.

gLeek upd8 - "Glee Super Bowl Episode"

Wazzup fellow gleeks? Already missing your daily Glee fix? Well, worry no more (for at least two weeks) cause Glee will be officially back on Jan 25 (AXN) and/or Feb 6 (ETC/JackTV), take your pick. Contrary to the previous season's mid-season hiatus (which lasted until mid-April last year), this season's second half will return early this year. Hell yeah!! So what should we look out for this coming episodes? Trust me, our wait will be worth it!

S02E11 is entitled "Glee Super Bowl Episode" which will be aired directly after SuperBowl XLV (in the US, duh!) so that means a day later for us folks here in the Philippines. (Tip: download madness) Anyways, the episode will be centered on a local football championship taking place in McKinley High with a supposed to be 'thrilling' half-time show while Sue's (oh how I love her!) Cheerios take on a cheering competition. Below are some pictures:

Here's our glee club boys plus Rachel geared with the school's football uniform. (Ouch, Rachel is in for a tough game)

Go girl power!

Glee members in their zombie costumes performing a mash-up with MJ's  "Thriller"

Oh oh, Kurt and Blaine meet-and-cheer with the parents.

Yep, they're bringing in the big guns.

Sources say that this episode will be the MOST EXPENSIVE episode yet (more so than the acclaimed Lady Gaga episode back in season 1) not only within the show but in television history as well (complete with fire breathers, jugglers, and bicycle motocross exhibitionists). The viewers will be treated with a mash-up performance of Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and another yet-to-be-unnamed song. And since the Black Eyed Peas is the actual Super Bowl's half-time entertainment, then its only natural for the kids to perform one of their songs as well (rumor has it, this specific song will be sung by our very own Charice). Gleeks should also expect songs of Lady Antebellum and Katy Perry. (Any idea people? I'm betting on Katy's "Fireworks" or perhaps "Hot N Cold".) Lea Michelle told Broadwayworld.com, “It’s definitely Glee-ified.” Oh yeah baby, another unexpected ending, dare I say. (totally stumped with "Furt's" ending, but I was expecting that to happen)

Recurring guest stars include Gwyneth Paltrow (looks like Holly Holiday's steaming up the Schuester as the sex education teacher) with a cameo by Katie Couric (one-on-one with Sue).

If I Got Insomnia And Die – A Very Glee Christmas (Dec. 23)

Kurt (Chris Colfer) and Blaine (Darren Criss) from Fox's Glee

Darren Criss and Chris Colfer actually made me feel that goosebumpy feeling you get whenever you see your favorite boy-girl loveteams on screen. I mean, for a boy-boy *ehem ehem* tandem, they were very cute and adorable. Anyways, after rewatching all ten episodes of Glee, you just notice stuff you didn’t the first time you watched it. And the second time ( and third and fourth and fifth ad infinitum) definitely were enlightening seeing as I realize more stuff like those singers and dancers in the background, what they were wearing, the puns they make and so much more. Ain’t it obvious I am very much a GLEEK?

OMG. Do you know what a Gleek is? Apparently, it's an ammalgamation of the words Glee and geek (big duh!!!). They are geeky fans of Fox's musical dramedy series Glee. And take note though that it does not only apply to Glee fans only. It also works with other shows too... There's Glost  if you are a Lost fan and Ghuck if you are a Chuck fan. Hmm, what about Grey's Anatomy? True Blood? Supernatural? Hmm, Grey's Anatomeek? True Bloodeek? Supernaturaleek? The last one doesn't seem to sound right. From comments i've read, gleek can be anything from a glee band geek to someone you spit on through your teeth. Sheesh. Anyways, I digress.

So what does Glee have to do with my day before Christmas Eve experience? Let’s just say my pre-stored tv series and movies were my companion on my quite annoying bout of sleepless nights. This is the worst case of insomnia I’ve ever had. I think I am a full insomniac now. Only able to sleep from around 4am to 11am and wide awake the rest of the time, I seriously need some body clock resetting. Just last night, I finished the whole season 2 of Glee (see?) and three additional movies just so I have something to do. I’ve read all of my books and trust me, there were around 25 of them, so it left me with having to watch whatever I feel like to. It was like being stuck in between show choir heaven and featherless hell. Not to mention that the Internet was beyond my grasp (i hate those internet usb modem thingie. they never work right in mountaineous regions).

Anyways, insomnia is pretty dangerous if not treated or regulated early. Of course there are medications that can be taken and the more preferable alcohol but my ever beloved relatives just told me to drink one tablespoon of honey before going to sleep and increase intake of banana. Doesn't seem to sound that difficult and I quite like the honey part. For more information on insomnia, its causes, manifestations and treatments, go here and some tips to help you sleep here.

Anyways, this left me time in between to make my family’s Christmas Eve menu which I gladly take the initiative to decide and plan. My mom gave me full power over the kitchen and just basically let me loose. As such, I decided to stick with the classic Filipino Spaghetti and Roast Chicken ala Kynneth. Haha. My recipe? Just grab whatever was available in the cupboard and our store and mix and cook to my hearts content. Of course, I did so with professional finesse and homey touches. Really, I did. I also had time to plan for New Year's. So far I have pork barbecue, chicken macaroni salad, buko fruit salad, roast pork, and the all around never absent pancit. Hopefully we have enough funds for them. Haha.

Pancit or pansit is a classic Chinese-inspired Filipino dish that is traditionally served in celebrations such as fiestas, birthdays, holidays and pretty much any kind of get togethers, It got its name from the noodles used which is called pansit bihon noodles. Other variations include pansit canton, miki or miswa.

Pre-Christmas Jitters – Grades are Gay (Dec. 22)

This year’s christmas was kind of underrated. At least for me. It didn’t have the same level of cheer and spirit as compared to the previous christmases I had. Which is kind of sad though understandable and inevitable. Hmmm nope, not really inevitable, more like effortless.

Grade Consultation Day. Not much to say except perhaps that I managed to once again make through one hell of a trimester with at most slightly flying colors. Not to brag or anything but as a way of coping up with disappointment, I tend to think of the worst case scenario so that once the grades are out, at least my comparison level is not that high. In the case of that dreaded XALGOCOM (Algorithm and Complexity – Masters), I was totally okay for a measly 2.0 to 2.5 and I was damn prepared for it, but my ever hopeful mind and demanding future outlook (whatever that is) managed to grab myself a 3.0. Which is a feat by itself already. I was so glad that I was able to achieve passable if not excellent scores in all my courses:

2nd Term, AY 2010-2011 Grades from MLS

And as a grand total, I managed a 3.4 term gpa and a consequential 3.4 cumulative gpa. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not boasting or anything, It’s just that it helps when you realize that sometimes even though that you think you’re not good enough, that you’re just a mere pushover compared to others, you are actually great. Great in the sense that specifically, you may not be excellent in details but when it comes to a general perspective, you are indeed a well-rounded achiever. Much more than what you think of yourself. And it helps that people notice it and appreciate it.

However, this term’s consultation day was somewhat bland and a bit of a letdown. For one, not much happened (which is somewhat good, I think) and I wasn’t able to celebrate with my friends (other things to do, more important business to attend to). Second, nobody seems to be in the mood for celebrating... it was just that: we passed the term, merry chrsitmas to us. Finally, I myself didn’t feel the spirit of christmas touch mine. I don’t know. It maybe because we were too used to it already. Or perhaps, we realized that this is technically our last christmas as undergrads of DLSU. Or maybe things were getting old and there’s not much use riling things up just to have it pop back to your face.