Trees

I think that I shall only see
Warm and dark waters rushing angrily for me;

Catastrophe will come, upon whose hungry mouth will be fed,
Heaps of mud and garbage, in a roaring rage;

Aghast and all mad to lash back at sleeping innocents,
Fast as lightning, feeding death off Gaia’s breast;

Now I’ll never guess which time of the year is summer;
Feels like hell freezes over, by the last sunrise of the winter chill.

When it rains it truly pours, then come famine where families lay by mercy’s crackling…
At dawn come new age disease and pestilence;

Lungs all clogged with boils, souls cry for help with hunger;
Like toy soldiers, each one falls down…

Barren wastelands now slowly creeping;
An inch everyday, quenching the thirst of the devil.

Humans are the sentinels, sentient beings busy with everyday living.
Poems are made by fools like you and me,

But when will we ever learn?
Instead of groveling, we need to plant thee...

Still the choice remains, given by his grace and knowledge;
Only God can make a tree…

Message in a Bottle

New service and tools for Business Mobile SMS campaigns launched

From TheTMSway Ltd., the Hong Kong based company mobile content developer /provider that gave the world TMSFactory- the evolutionary self-service mobile marketing platform that lets local marketers and enterprise owners to conveniently create marketing and advertising offers via mobile phones, (including the likes of Blackberry and iPhone) comes the new zest to their line up that’s sure to raise the bar on strategic marketing and advertising campaigns a notch higher.

Dubbed as “Freemium” service, this update bases its new shortcode technology which allows real time interaction between media and mobile internet. This version offers simple tools in order for a client to build SMS campaigns which can be localized in over 160 countries and allow campaign output without Telco negotiations.

TMS Freemium Service allows marketers and content owners to create a mobile offer, create a mobile site using TMS free tools which includes: coupons, invitations, rewards and newsletters. Marketers are also given the option to use their existing mobile site. This service generates a unique shortcode associated to the mobile offer, which then can be displayed on media as (restaurant flyers, print ads, billboards, ads spots for TV and radio) thereby offering enterprise consumers ‘pull service’ real time in accessing a mobile offer with just a click, using the shortcode available at TMSearch.com.

“The Freemium service is an interesting way to start and appreciate the high value of media to mobile marketing” says Frederick Saurat, one of the founders of TheTMSway Ltd.

Also the SMS campaign builder, which is accessible via the “do it yourself” TMS factory platform, allows marketers to create SMS text ad with an option to embed a URL in the text that is linked to a mobile ad page. This also provides the tools to import a contact user’s base with the option create widgets to collect new user contacts. SMS campaigns can be launched in a number of targeted countries (TMSfactory provides the service in over 160 countries) conveniently and in real time, minus the Telco negotiation delays with a cost model based on CPC.

“This new updated version provides also a range of new tools and services like a free API to create TMS shortcodes and an interesting user-friendly tool to create and launch a localized SMS ad campaign” Frederick Saurat quipped further.

Message in a Bottle

Proverbs in conflict - the A and B side of everything

Proverbs are short pithy household sayings that have been handed down from generation to generation. They express truth in common sense and hit practical precepts.

I remembered to have read a book back in high school about these comical- conflicting advice, figured to share this post to get your take and maybe apply these wise words (whichever suits you) on your everyday dealings. Read on.

Actions speak louder than words.
but
The pen is mightier than the sword...

The more, the merrier.
but
Two's company; three's a crowd...

Opposites attract.
but
Birds of a feather flock together...

Great minds think alike.
but
Fools seldom differ...

Absence makes the heart grow fonder.
but
Out of sight, out of mind...

The bigger, the better.
but
The best things come in small packages...

Money Talks.
but
Talk is cheap...

Clothes make the man.
but
Don't judge a book by its cover...

Beware of Greeks bearing gifts.
but
Don't look a gift horse in the mouth...

A silent man is a wise one.
but
A man without words is a man without thoughts...

Knowledge is power.
but
Ignorance is bliss...

Two heads are better than one.
but
If you want something done right, do it yourself...

Too many cooks spoil the broth.
but
Two heads are better than one...

What will be, will be.
but
Life is what you make it...

Better to ask the way than to go astray.
but
Ask no questions and hear no lies...

Never do evil, that good may come of it.
but
The end justifies the means...

Cross your bridges when you come to them.
but
Forewarned is forearmed...

The only constant is change.
but
The more things change, the more they stay the same...

Variety is the spice of life.
but
Don't change horses in the middle of a stream...

What's good for the goose is good for the gander.
but
One man's meat is another man's poison...

With age comes wisdom.
but
Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings come all wise sayings...

It's the squeaky wheel that gets the grease.
but
The nail that sticks out gets hammered...

The best things in life are free.
but
You get what you pay for...

It never rains, than it pours.
but
Lightning never strikes twice in the same place...

Everything comes to him who waits.
but
He who hesitates is lost...

Never too old to learn.
but
You can't teach an old dog new tricks...

Practice makes a man perfect.
but
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy...

Message in a Bottle

The Halyard Shanty - Hym of the Jolly Roger

Ready for starboard, to the mast, raise the dark flag and bid,

Riches and death need not be stained as it sweeps over the wave;
Empty hand the deck, our guns be in raise; the scimitar bared;
Sharpen swords and cannons be tilted ready, roll the balls to me,
Save the treasure, the sinister of my duties; to guard the key;

Never be lowered, the black flag we hold dear;
If the sea be denied us, we’ll just cut through the air;
Unshared will we leave our victory’s fiend,
Diana’s cool summers, the smell of the rose;
I claim not a portion, but I’ll ask what is mine
‘Tis time to toast to a victory, a cup of red wine.
Some fight ‘tis for riches, some fight ‘tis for fame;
The first I despise, and the last is a name.

I fight ‘tis for love, I long to see flow,
To the stroke of my sword, the limb of my foe;
I strike for the memory of long gone years;
I only shed blood whilst the other shed tears,
I come, as the lightning comes swift from above,
Over the face that I loathe, to the battle; aid my love.

Pray I may be cut at the back, but oh before I go…
Keep your fifteen men and your dead man’s chest;

While we drink up me ‘earties yoho…




Message in a Bottle

A gap in the balance: 3 libras- A Perfect Circle

Discovered 3 Libras from A Perfect Circle and the tune and lyrics certainly give the kick! Certainly a breather for the lost and incognito- romantic.

Check out the lyrics and the Youtube video below:


3 Libras

A Perfect Circle

Threw you the obvious, and you flew
With it on your back
A name in your recollection
Down among a million same.

Difficult not to feel a little bit
Disappointed and passed over
When I've looked right through
to see you naked but oblivious
And you don't.. see.. me

But I threw you the obvious,
Just to see if there's more behind the eyes
of a fallen angel,
Eyes of a tragedy

Here I am expecting just a little bit
Too much from the wounded
But I see,
See through it all, see through..
And see you.

Cause I threw you the obvious
to see what occurs behind the
Eyes of a fallen angel
Eyes of a tragedy

Oh well, oh well..
Apparently nothing.
Apparently nothing at all.

You don't, you don't, you don't see me
You don't, you don't, you don't see me
You don't, you don't, you don't see me
You don't, you don't, you don't see me

You don't see me
You don't... you don't
You don't see me at all

Message in a Bottle

Dreamcatcher

O dreamcatcher, do cleave it swift;
O dreamcatcher, the evening speaks.
O dreamcatcher, on this bed I lay;
O dreamcatcher, the sandman may envy.
O dreamcatcher, capture his dust,
As I close these weary eyes to end the day's demise...

Veil of memories, may they cover my eyes...
Dreams ill conjure, may I come to carve them and spit;
In your strands, the sands of time seeps...

When I run to the light; hear soothing music.
See applaud and gleaming faces, relieves my heart with feelings true,
Comforting hugs or a precious kiss where it may be a due,
Every step I take, snagging me to a growing window.

Prongs of memories I may live and let die,
Promise of success in valor, lest life's simple pleasures;
May they make me come clean, for each candle that burns,
I know I'll tread bitter waters or savor luxurious wines.

Like broken straws they may lie in wait, tonight underneath the spoils of my pillows...

Message in a Bottle

This is my promise: David Cook- Come back to me

Another inspiring tune from David Cook. "Come back to me" gives relevance to the afflicted and hurting...


Come Back to Me

David Cook

You say you gotta go and find yourself
You say that you're becoming someone else
Don't recognize the face in the mirror
Looking back at you

You say you're leavin
As you look away
I know theres really nothin left to say
Just know i'm here
Whenever you need me
I'll wait for you

So i'll let you go
I'll set you free
And when you see what you need to see
When you find you come back to me

Take your time i wont go anywhere
Picture you with the wind in your hair
I'll keep your things right where you left them
I'll be here for you

Oh and i'll let you go
I'll set you free
And when you see what you need to see
When you find you come back to me

And i hope you find everything that you need
I'll be right here waiting to see
You find you come back to me

I can't get close if your not there
I can't get inside if theres no soul to bear
I can't fix you i can't save you
Its something you have to do

So i'll let you go
I'll set you free
And when you see what you need to see
When you find you come back to me
Come back to me
So i'll let you go
I'll set you free
And when you see what you need to see
When you find you come back to me

And i hope you find everything that you need
I'll be right here waiting to see
You find you come back to me

When you find you come back to me
When you find you come back to me
When you find you come back to me

Message in a Bottle

A surge of emotion: David Cook's Permanent

One song from David Cook that moved me is "Permanent." Truly one good song to reflect and be inspired from.

Check out the lyrics and Youtube video below, featuring his American Idol 2009- Finale night performance.


Permanent
David Cook

Is this the moment where I look you in the eye?
Forgive my broken promise that you’ll never see me cry
And everything, it will surely change even if I tell you I won’t go away today

Will you think that you’re all alone
When no one’s there to hold your hand?
And all you know seems so far away and everything is temporary rest your head
I'm permanent

I know he’s living in hell every single day
And so I ask oh God is there some way for me to take his place
And when they say it’s all touch and go I wish I could make it go away
But still you say

Will you think that you’re all alone
When no one’s there to hold your hand?
When all you know seems so far away and everything is temporary, rest your head
I’m permanent
I’m permanent

Is this the moment where I look you in the eye?
Forgive my promise that you’ll never see me cry...

Message in a Bottle

More to lose: Chris Daughtry's version of Poker Face!

Chris Daughtry's version to the popsicle "Poker Face" rocks. The lyrics certainly come out and loop the message inside that rock head of yours. A combination of mush, crap and emotions will rendezvous in a rush.

Chris definitely has stolen this song and added with his enthrall- totally made it his own! Check out the lyrics and Youtube video below:

Poker Face
Chris Daughtry

I wanna hold em' like they do in texas plays
Fold em', let em' hit me, baby stay with me
Luck and intuition, play the cards with spades to start
And after she's been hooked I'll play the one that's on her heart

Oh, o-o-oh oh, o-o-o-o-o-oh
I'll get her hot, show her what I've got
(2x)

Can't read my, can't read my
No you can't read my poker face
(2x)

P-p-p-poker face, p-p-poker face
(2x)

I wanna roll with her, a hard pair we will be
A little gambling is fun when you're with me
Russian roulette is not the same without a gun
And baby when it's love, if its not rough it isn't fun

Oh, o-o-oh oh, o-o-o-o-o-oh
I'll get her hot, show her what I've got
(2x)

Can't read my, can't read my
No you can't read my poker face
(2x)

P-p-p-poker face, p-p-poker face
(4x)

Can't read my, can't read my
No you can't read my poker face
(4x)

P-p-p-poker face, p-p-poker face
(4x)

Message in a Bottle

The Idol

Tonight, not again...

Beneath those glittering lights...
When the veils are up...
Cast a face with all these people...

The songs i'll sing, will come mystical to these innocents; as if all a belying victim to the devil; all trapped lambs for the butcher.

Tonight, not again...
I'll drown my sorrows in the incense of liquor cocktails...
Savor the scent of women, whose laughter and company, a relief for the yoke;
then live each moment for only tonight...

I'll mutter pleasantries again, in malignant conversations with whom the twist of my tongue means cancer...
Then laughter... the best kept reprise for this hollow drifting log.

Tonight, not again...
I'll become someone who I know I'm not...

Jasmin Uy

Message in a Bottle

Find the right outsourcing firm in the Philippines

Some of the best resources for outsourcing services in Southeast Asia come from the Philippines. A lot of forefront companies from large markets such as UK, US, and Europe now make up the large bulk of customers for outsourcing firms specializing in the fields of manufacturing, banking and electronics. The country is declared as one of the best destinations for outsourcing and inbound call center primarily because the second language set is English and is spoken well by everyone.

Outbound call center services are frequently availed of and clients can select from a vast lot of company resources conveniently available online through websites. Clients can simply select the company they like and get background check right away at a touch of a button.

Recent developments in technology saw the ease and convenience for outsourcing in the Philippines as the country is well equipped with competent and skilled manpower; has the necessary infrastructure both in establishments and most importantly- communication equipment needed for fast and accurate delivery of information and transactions for both clients and their customers.

Philippines call center provide services at very competitive rates and most companies based in the country met language, IT, medical, legal, accounting and various more services to suit client needs.

Message in a Bottle

Of tongues and usurpers

It's not at all true sometimes;
perceptions conceived by the playful mind;
Succumbing to cancer,
words though fly a million miles...

Hidden behind the veil
Is a crack at the knife...
A drapery of acts;
A share of a thought or two;
All at the tip of a drummer boy's stick...

Plagued by the locust swarm...
Ran on over the edge amidst watchful eyes;
Happy smiles that turn red,
Prowling in the shadows...
Dull blades bent on infecting havoc in the back,
Lurking behind sweet conversations in front...

Claimants simply listen;
Let loose the bolt to hasten the quasar of words;
Untie the knot to let everything pass unnoticed...

Playing along with the scheme;
Rolling the dice for the poker of retribution,
Of which will come sweet...

Usurpers lead on;
Unaware that claimants knew;
Culminates a grin, along with every clue...

Someday, perhaps...
When everything has died down;
Knitting father time;
Until then, should the dove perch;
Lest the truth be told...
Usurper tongues should be gripped in an Atlantean hold...

Jasmin Uy

Message in a Bottle

Go with Web Analytics, Go clicktrue!

If you’re in Singapore and looking for an SME partner online; then send the good vibes to clickTRUE Pte Ltd.- a subsidiary of SPH Magazines. This is one good Pay Per Performance online marketing company that can certainly lend a hand for specialized services such as: Online Media Planning, Search Engine Marketing and Optimization, Web Analytics Consultancy and Landing Page Optimization.

clickTrue- backed by continuous service to more than 100 clients spanning local and Pan-Asian markets; will help you get a grip and enhance your presence online!

To help you attain that, the company assigns a team of experienced specialists from various fronts online to be right by your side and assist you with your needs. Do check them out! You’ll never be disappointed.

Francis Magalona: A tribute to the phenomenal 3 Stars and a Sun advocate

"Bahay kubo kahit munti, may pula, Bughaw, dilaw, atsaka puti…There is a need to sow the seed, toil the soil and plod until your hands bleed; 'Coz this land is sacred, many a battle have been fought with hatred, don't tell me that you understand; It's been 400 years of tears for the brown man; Still and all the fight has just begun...3 stars & a sun!”

- 3 Stars and a Sun

"Every color and every hue, Is represented by me and you. Take a slide in the slope,Take a look in the kaleidoscope; Spinnin’ round, make it twirl... In this kaleidoscope world"

-Kaleidoscope world

March 6, 2009- Another dissident of Filipino nationalism in music passed away. I was saddened by the fact that one of my idols will go down the pit; but at the same time I am grateful that all his efforts in his call for unity and national pride through music are now widely recognized by Filipinos the world over.

More popularly known with names like: “FrancisM,” “Master Rapper” and as “The man from Manila” Francis revolutionized the merging of rap music and pinoy rock and produced a new genre in music appealing to everyone’s taste. Rich, poor, young and old alike were delighted with Francis’ mix of music. His stuff also brought in a new awakening for the youth on the roles they’ll have to play to make society whole.

Some of his songs (to name a few) were: Mga Kababayan, Man from Manila, Kabataan para sa kinabukasan, Ito ang gusto ko, Nilamon ng sistema, Mga praning, Meron akong ano, 1800-96, 3 stars and a sun, Baw-waw, to the ever popular Kaleidoscope. Francis M dominated the airwaves and earned the respect of artists and musicians and bagged the title as the Philippines’ Master Rapper. He also lent support to the establishment of new artists in both rap and pinoy rock and has since collaborated with fellow artists such Eraserheads etc. to raise the bar of OPM.

Several prestigious honors were given to him which included being cited as the King of Philippine rap and he was featured in international hip hop publications such as the All Music Guide to Hip-Hop: The Definitive Guide to Rap and Hip-Hop published back in 2003 by Backbeat Books, and making it to the May 2004 issue of The Source a U.S. based publication.

Among the awards given to him was the 2005 Pioneer Hall of Fame Award by Empire Entertainment at the 1st Annual Philippine Hip-hop Music Awards, the MTV Pilipinas Video Music Awards: Generations Award in 2006 in recognition of his career that has spanned decades and broken boundaries and for his music which continues to inspire generations of artists and music fans from the Philippines and abroad.

Above all this, he was given the ultimate award after his death though the efforts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts; He was given the Presidential Medal of Merit by the President of the Republic of the Philippines and cited “for his musical and artistic brilliance, his deep faith in the Filipino and his sense of national pride that continue to inspire us.”

I’ll say my salute and goodbye to you idol and couple it up with a grin, knowing that you’ll live forever with us through your music…

Message in a Bottle

The mystery of the stolen Tarsier and the Impostor-winner

Here's one story which i hope will bring a heads up among the organizers of the recently concluded Company Logo and Brand Icon contest held in Cagayan De Oro City- which I have known to be Shie Corporation, to probe deeper and review the wining piece Tarsier logo.

You've awarded the prize to an impostor and not the real artist who dedicated time and passion just to finish that masterpiece! I'm sure you're all serious professionals who will never tolerate "infringement" and thievery to stain your prestigious event.

An artist friend and colleague Darlene Sanguenza who frequently makes logos and illustrations on her free-time and posts them for sale at picture website www.istockphoto.com received shocking news that one of her piece was entered into the contest without her consent and much worse, under another person's name!

As news of her piece winning one of the event's categories broke out and the P40,000 php prize that went into the hands of the "supposed" winner, all she could do is sit by a corner and grit her teeth in disbelief with the unfortunate event that went her way.

Abruptly after thinking things over, she got hold of the impostor's contact details and tried the subtle ways to remedy the problem (even bargaining with cash) but seems like this guy's stone deaf and stayed tough despite her pleas for no formal complaint has been filed yet, and im sure no one from the event has known about this person's activity until now.

What Darlene wants is to get back her piece of artwork, get the proper acknowledgment and the appropriate punishment for the impostor who maybe by now is laughing behind your backs for his ill gotten luck!

Message in a Bottle

Cutting- edge mobile marketing campaign platform tool for business and enterprises to be launched in beta!

Hongkong- Marketing and advertising nowadays can be done via mobile phone! Presenting TMS Factory, the newest self-service mobile platform for business and enterprises will be soft launched in beta this coming February 08, 2009 online. It is the newest innovation with the aim for the quick, easy access and distribution of marketing materials such as enterprise ads, promos, product information, interactive coupons, rewards and discounts and other promo contents to the desired audience via mobile phones minus the costs and hassles!

Now enterprises will gain a broad reach with their desired campaign areas at a touch of a button- with even worldwide distribution at half the cost!

TheTMSway Ltd. Developer of TMS Factory (www.tmsfactory.com), enabled the platform tool with a variety of functions such as: a library of retailer templates, email marketing, barcode technology and SMS banner services to raise the bar of marketing and advertising in an untraditional and user friendly manner.

“We’re thinking that in this market recession period, providing a platform to create and distribute mobile coupons from anywhere and accessible anytime really makes the cut” David Jacka TMS co- founder quips.

“With the product, mobile pains will be eliminated making mobile marketing easy and accessible to everyone. But we are continuing to make TMS Factory even faster, more robust and with more options. We’re now working on the version 2 with more libraries, more services and more analysis via TMS Analytic.” TMS co-founder Frederick Saurat added.

TMS Factory is very easy to use and can be customized according to the user’s preference and needs. Using the said application will not require professional IT development skills. All that a user simply needs to do is just ‘drag and drop’ desired items and tools needed in the planned campaign and send it.

1D and 2D barcodes (QR, Datamatrix and EZ) along with the TMS media widgets associated on the platform allows a cross media access to mobile campaign. This way enterprises will gain instant visibility thru emails, web, print media, social networks and TV.

Last September 2008, TMS Factory mobile platform was launched in alpha and met success at the TechCrunch50 Conference held at San Francisco California, USA.

The platform’s beta launching online this coming Sunday is also highly anticipated as it paves the way for enterprises to minimize costs in marketing and advertising campaigns while enhancing their capability to reach a broad spectrum of consumers.

TMS Factory with official website: www.tmsfactory.com will soon open to serve both local and international markets and as an opening salvo, great deals and big discounts await the first 500 clients that sign up.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

About TheTMSway Ltd.

TheTMSway Ltd. is a mobile tools and applications development company with the goals of reinventing and bridging the world’s businesses and media with the billions of digital consumers.

With headquarters in Hongkong and the Philippines, TMSway Ltd. is the first company in Asia to revolutionize a cutting-edge ‘media- to- mobile’ platform that’s fully integrated with mobile applications and pull direct marketing concepts for the mobilization of product information and services, entertainment, advertising and media.

The company provides diverse mobile solutions using the worldwide SMS services, 1D and 2D barcodes technology and TMS codes solution to maximize media and advertising dissemination.



Contact Details:

TheTMSway Ltd – IT Headquarters (M. Media Corporation)
4/F Pag-ibig Corp. Tower
Mindanao Ave. Cebu Business Park
Cebu City, Philippines 6000
Tel: 6332 232 8922
Email: luida@thetmsway.com

TheTMSway Ltd. – Hongkong
5/F On Lan Centre
11-15 On Lan Street, Central, Hongkong

Contact Person:

Luida Cabataña
PR and Communications
Tel. 6332 232 8922
Email: luida@thetmsway.com

To know more about TMS Factory and other exciting products, read:

IMB Social Application

TMS Factory- The Evolution

Message in a Bottle

Writing Exercise: My imaginary take on the 2010 Philippine presidential race speech

The Philippine election season is nearing. Trapos (traditional politicians) will once again be in the spotlight. To be expected will be the mudslinging, character assassinations and dirty politics that follow the perverted golden rule – He who has the gold (and the guns, and goons) rules!

Enough of that! The Filipinos deserve better. In less than 400 words, write a speech announcing your own candidacy for the country’s highest post on a platform of ‘change’. Be convincing and inspirational. In short, do an Obama.

Here's the shot on my part:

The country’s boon or bane lies in your hand

Change… One word that’s abrupt, clear, yet so hard to achieve. I’m sure most of you gathered here today will agree that it is what the country needs and what better time to realize it than now!

Let me remind you that with your hand, you were given the power to direct the course of our nation- a right that’s clearly been taken for granted, maligned with apathy, greed and power today. Remember, it took decades of bloodshed and burden on our forefathers so we can enjoy what we have now. Remember, all the hardships and lives lost in the “hand me downs” of corrupt ruling- where poverty is the pestilence and money is reeled in as the cure. If you’ve sold your vote, then it’s as good as you’ve sold yourself, your children and their coming generations to the yoke.

Haven’t we learned from the pages of our nation’s history? How many more EDSA’s we’ll have to go through in order for us to see the adverse effects of our dirty politics and those deceitful in power. Given the current predicament of our country, it is not at all a reason to accept money in exchange for your “little” vote. Sure, you’ll get a fill for your empty stomach, but what is lurking behind the intention to buy your vote? ... Too hungry to even ask why?

Remember that when a corrupt mind is at work, what millions he lost now to buy your vote, he will simply regain and multiply once he’s at the seat of power!
Like a crab nibbling on the fat of the land, the more ruthless he will become with every bite, to get more from you.

I will not say more of the past administrations; you already know who’s who so I leave it up to you to do the accounting.

Open your eyes to your Television… Hear the growing number… wanton cries of the hungry and the oppressed…can these things be measured through the seam of a 1 Piso coin?

I will not promise and I cannot promise you anything, but in the premise of change I’ve climbed up on this podium to speak my mind. I come to you now not only as a candidate but also a friend who’s willing to walk with you in the path and heave my contributions to end our dire… Friends, good afternoon.

Message in a Bottle

All About the Iron Wagon

Love cars? Prowling the net for useful car infos?
Check out All About the Iron Wagon helpful blog about car basics, infos and more!

Get the latest and help on money saving car care and maintenance tips, vehicle consumer trends and research, car safety, insurance, equipment and gadget repair, mods and customs, laws and the buzz in the world of motoring today.

All About the Iron Wagon focuses on helpful information that matters most to the well being of both the car and motorist. Give it a peep and discover!

Message in a Bottle

Writing Exercise 46- Wordplay

This one's from Mark:

Visit http://wordsmith.org/anagram/ and enter your full name to generate a list of anagrams. Now choose one of the anagram results as your title and use it as an inspiration for a poem, short story, or essay. Word count should not exceed 350 words.

Read my piece taken from my anagram below:

Am Van Jig Root

Am Van Jig Root, the fabled root of the south
Is most sought after by men for it’s favored broth
Just a sip or two from its boiled stock, is like mana from heaven
And will leave you with a bull’s rage

An aphrodisiac to some, the most effective cure to others
Such revered is this herb, lest it could only be a myth
For no one has seen it…

In stories of the old, of legends and folklore;
You’ll need to climb mountains and dare deep crevasses to prune it, exactly at the sun set.
Legend has it that if you do have gotten hold of one, you must never take your eyes off from it;
Lest the moment you let it out of your sight, It will vanish to thin air.

Many have tried to find the Am Van Jig Root
Rich and poor, young and old alike;
Some on horses and mules, others on monstrous machines,
They bring plows and wonderful tools;

Gallant looking they are at first as they took on the mountains;
One minute proud, but weary cord tired faces at the last.

Once a foolish youth did the inevitable, the herb he tried to find;
A drunkard’s challenge, by the village inn;
Out of folly and merriment, a bet out of too many a sip
To the bartender he made a truce
Such is the lot, he drank whilst he did not paid;

He made the journey one dawn’s crisp air,
With nothing but himself along, which was too drunk to even care
He looked back to see peregrine cold faces,
As he took the strides...

Days went by, with no news of his travel
Without a mumble, heads bowed thinking it was failure;

Then came a dawn after a hundred suns
The boy did return, now a ruggedly clothed old man
With a grin he gave, to the awe agape bartender; the herb

How he did it, A secret that beats the hell out of you and me
But one thing I will do share... that old man here is me…

Message in a Bottle

Writing Exercise- Strictly Dialogue

This dialogue exercise evolved from a previous one by Luida. It involves writing something that is made up ENTIRELY OF DIALOGUE, but in short story form (NOT MORE than 350 words). That means, you absolutely CANNOT adapt the format of a play (e.g. JUAN: Good morning...). Also, you absolutely CANNOT use speech modifiers (e.g. ...said Juan, Juan said...).

Your piece should be made up entirely of sentences in quotation marks. And your piece must reveal something about the characters, the setting and the conflict/plot only through dialogue. A tip: One way to distinguish each character is to make them sound unique in their lines of dialogue, that way your reader won’t be confused who’s saying what.

Below is my piece, about soldiers trapped in a war.

Defeat and Malaria
(341 words)

“Get up soldier, for Christ’s sake, gather your remaining strengths and belt the enemy until the last round of your ammos!”

“I’d surely fight any day with you sarge, but this damn fever’s creeping in my gut. I’m getting weak with every passing minute, here.. aghh… Do you see my fuckin’ hands? God I’m too damn weak to even raise my rifle… slim chance support will get here. It’s all hopeless sarge, better to be holed up in this damn trench than be butchered above.”

“Do you hear yourself saying that soldier? I can shoot you here right now for uttering that… You used to be a ruthless soldier George, who’ll never think twice to fuck up fear into the enemy’s gut…. think soldier, how many battles we’ve won for home, sure as hell I am not gonna go down here without a fight!... Sam... Go up there and man the machine gun!, Damn mortar rounds are now dropping and the skinnies are inching us by the left flank…Don’t just stand there, maybe this’ll make you… I am not gonna think twice to shoot soldier, so do as you’re ordered!”

“Sarge… Aghh… Sergeant Buck! We’re all gonna die here, I’m telling ya…fighting this stupid war that’s not even ours to fight... we’ve been herded to the slaughter.”

“Get a hold of yourself soldier and fight, support’s gonna be here any minute now so we’ll have to hang on tight.”

“Really sorry sir, but ill just be here and wait for my time as with the others…We’re a brigade when we came here…now we’re reduced to a handful…The enemy was not even upon us then… Aghhh…stupid fever’s eating us one by one…”

“Goddamit soldier, don’t make me shoot you! Do as I say or ill have your head on a platter!”

“This is madness sarge…might as well shoot you to get through your fuckin’ brick head…give me a reason to shoot you… I just want to die in peace, can’t you see that? now go and leave me here to die... please…”

Message in a Bottle

Writing Exercise- Personality sketch in 200 words

Imagine a life cut short into 750-1500 words. This is a writing technique called the personality sketch, which is commonly used for feature writing in paperbacks but has gained popularity in more mainstream media such as newspapers, magazines, periodicals, etc. Here’s an example of a special section published in the New York Times featuring the lives of people who died during the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Choose a person that you know (or create one using your imagination) and write a glimpse of his or her life, personality, idiosyncrasies, etc. Personality sketches usually use anecdotes, direct quotations, physical description, etc., but for the purpose of this writing activity, we can be more “creative” or “imaginative.” Write as you please, and introduce us to that person in no less than 200 words. :P

Below is my piece about a local musician's alterno life.


Julian Sev

Julian was a musician by the core, living and struggling in daylight at a local fast food chain and traversing the now diminishing city bars at night.

For years the downside of the local music industry has gotten into his thoughts and that earning a lump sum from it is always impossible. Sometimes he earns and sometimes he won’t, still he shrugs off that it’s another day to live by.

A musician’s life here in Cebu is uncertain, that he knows now, for no matter how hard he tries and just how focused he is, it’s always a struggle. The next best thing he thought his band could do is to move to Manila and gamble their chances for a break there.

“He’s always spending his time with his band after work and come home drunk on late nights. He just doesn’t have time for us anymore; I think he already has forgotten his duties with our children! I heard he has a relationship with some woman he met after a gig and that he’s now into drugs. That I don’t know if I’ll believe or not. It’s his stupid belief that someday his music will get him and his band far, but the way I see it all their efforts are in vain. It may even be a miracle if we’ll have a decent meal tonight.” His wife Sheree sobs.

Before the band, Julian Sev in his mid- 20’s and a father of 2 great kids, used to be just a reminiscent young man, an engineer by profession and an idealistic family man who always maintain a balance between his hectic schedule of work and quality time. His life made a 360 degree turn when he started a band along with Ernest and Neil. They took on the local music scene thinking that they’ll get somewhere…

Message in a Bottle

I'MB Social Application: Enjoy easy access to media and mobile services anytime, anywhere

Ladies and gentlemen, enter I'MB, another first of it's kind social application offering from TMS Factory that gives convenient access on media to mobile services and is based on the social media F.F.F. rules.

With the application, you can enjoy quick and easy access from just about anywhere: From social networks, to desktop widgets and through mobile phones.

Here are a few tees as to why this product rocks:

I'MB provides an Ads on Demand (AOD) service which can be personalized and offers access to a feed of targeted client promotions and coupon collection directly on your mobile phone! So much for push spamming.

It also has a Friends Recommendations feature that offers to make and ask recommendations among friends about products, trips and travels etc.

And since not all the people from your circle may not be online all the time, I'MB provides a free SMS 3.0 service that spans worldwide! In here you can send free SMS text or SMS video to friends whenever, wherever.

For more info about this exciting product, visit: mobitms.com now and take advantage of cutting edge mobile advertising.

Watch out for I'MB's first version which is set to be launched in interactive social communities; Friendster and Facebook very soon!

Message in a Bottle

How to be invisible online? Get a Globe Prepaid Visibility Kit!

I was kind of excited when I got that 2,500K visibility prepaid kit from globe as I thought it was true to its word and so I opted for one over a regular line figuring it will end my woes for paying monthly bills because I couldn’t find the time.

Prior to this, I got a call from a client who wants me to write for him online during my spare night time hours. Figured I’d just decline for the reason that I don’t have internet connection at home but the client (bless him) helped me by paying for the connection set up.

I even endorsed to him that I’ve selected the globe prepaid kit for the reason that it has the fastest connection (promising 1.8 mbps) and because it was prepaid, it was the most convenient for me.

All’s well that ends well- or so I thought. I got my butt down to the bank to get the money from the client and proceeded right away to the service center and bought the kit. Installation was smooth though in my laptop and encountered a problem with my PC ,but I sorted it out after a razzle.

Then after the process, the dreaded signal came in which was Low service (I think) then GPRS. I don’t know if this is great but it was a snail paced connection completely the opposite of what was promised.

Talk about installation problems, their national customer service hotline by the way did not help me either. I called in at almost midnight and was picked up by a staff and was asked a couple of questions.

I was guided on the installation process and to figure out where did I went wrong and then abruptly my call was cut! I called a couple more times with different personnel taking my calls but the same thing happened. My calls were answered courteously though, but why was it suddenly cut off? I figured to quit calling and decided to figure out the problem on my own in the morning.

Damn’ I’ve been a victim of marketing! Eventually, I’d have to go every now and then to the corner store to load my kit, much to the seller’s surprise as I emptied her load as well. On the bright side though, I helped out increase the load seller’s earnings and I got to work wherever I want but still the connection remains numb at 5 pesos per 15 minutes.

SLOW-slow- slow. I think it took me hours to download and watch the videos that were sent by the client for me to view and be acquainted with and it was a hassle on my part as well as I’d have to research for more sources online to write his articles and it ate up my day!

Regrets aside, I may have to check up my PC for upgrades or anything that can help ease my problem out on the sidelines, but if given the choice, I would've returned this kit and have a cup of coffee instead! I really can't live with this one right now...

Latest update though on the product- If I'm not mistaken Globe has re-branded and added eye-candies including adverts to the kit and now names it "Tattoo Prepaid Kit" sell it at the low price range of Php 1, 800! Tsk tsk... I'll lend my advice to you in 2 words lest you experience what i've had with the kit....BETTER BEWARE...

Message in a Bottle

TMS Factory- The next evolution of marketing and advertising

I was out prowling the net just to pass out a boring Sunday, when I found this site: http://www.tmsfactory.com and the TMS Factory media to mobile platform.

Figured just have to share with you enterprise owners the good stuff which can land you an audience on a personalized level, among your targeted clients worldwide and lend effective results for your marketing and advertising campaigns.

They’re introducing what is probably the next step up the ladder of evolution for marketing and advertising- not through websites or online clichés but through mobile phones!

TMS factory is a media to mobile platform that can mobilize websites and marketing campaigns. This is a great venue for enterprise owners and marketers to reach out to a broad client spectrum as the platform is Telco- independent (No more of those slow and expensive phone networks) and it is capable of connecting to all mobile operative service (OS) including iPhones and Blackberry throughout the world. With TMS Factory, businesses can shift and recourse their modes for marketing strategy and since ads are disseminated through mobile phones, give a more effective personalized approach to clients.

The program through the aide of Premium service, gives TMS Factory the advantage of making mobile versions of websites and ad campaigns that’s set on how you want your ad to appear. It also is Self-service where you are given the option to select widget templates from TMS Factory’s huge library collection composed of interactive, multimedia, downloads, services, microformats, and data templates to your taste. Now how’s that for starters!

Using the platform, you can easily create mobile offers using the hassle- free drag and drop navigation. What’s more is that TMS Factory can also provide links on the created offers for the convenient access of your customers to the business site.

This sure is a great marketing tool that’s very practical, straight, effective, and easy to use. Yet it will not burn a hole through your pockets as against the conventional advertising methods of today. Why not pay a visit at TMS Factory blog to learn more of this exciting advantage.