Yyyep, it's been a while. Going to post my Big Art Project Party post later, but for now, have a watercolor painting I had been doing near the end of preparations, just for kicks. And also because this was one of the most beautiful parts of One Hundred Years of Solitude that I read, because gosh, that book is so poetic and lovely and heartbreaking and historical.
That night, the guard brought down Mauricio Babilonia as he was lifting up the tiles to get into the bathroom where Meme was waiting for him, naked and trembling with love among the scorpions and butterflies as she had done almost every night for the past few months. A bullet lodged in his spinal column reduced him to his bed for the rest of his life. He died of old age in solitude, without a moan, without a protest, without a single moment of betrayal, tormented by memories and by the yellow butterflies, who did not give him a moment's piece...
- One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
***
Some details...
I'm really proud of how her skin came out. I admit I'm not an explorer when it comes to colors, because I'm uncertain of how things will come out in the end most often; but I can only describe how the leftover yellow in one of my brushes came out on her skin as a "happy accident" because I turned out really well.
I just regret the butterflies a little. I could've made them more intricate if I'd worked harder, but oh well. The random effect came out quite well.
I'm quite proud of how it all came out hehe. Here's to hoping I'll develop my watercolor skillz even more :)
Author's Note: I'm writing this all the way from the 28th of December of 2012. I decided to publish this on Valentine's 2013 because 1) It's more appropriate for then, 2) I'm posting way too much right now by my own standards. Hi, Future Me!!
First off, as of this moment, I have never actually been in The Mythical Friend Zone (ganda ko, 'noh?) mostly because I have no one to friendzone me. Studying in a Catholic all-girls' school makes it difficult for me to have any frequent interaction with members of the sex in preference. However, I like caring about other peoples' relationships way more than I should, as well as making things in general. So I did this, mostly inspired by Ramon Bautista, and partly dedicated to those who put their heart before their head and need a little picking-up. I wanted to be convenient, and maybe (just maybe!~) this will help me in the future. :D
I called it the Philippine Edition because most of the entries here and pretty Pinoy-centric. I'm going to break it down into some general parts, though, so you'll know how to modify. Sorry, international followers (naks!). :(
Enough babbling, let's do 'dis!
Quick disclaimer: This isn't meant as an endorsement for any of the companies/products mentioned here.
CHAPTER ONE: The Mixtape
Ahh, the Mystical Mixtape. No emotional crisis is complete without some good, ol'-fashioned musical therapy.
Alternatively, have this playlist of my own selection, which really isn't the place in case you're looking for songs to cry to. I sure hope it's cheery enough to get you out of that love-induced rut!
You don't gotta keep no other man down
For you to get up, there's no need to worry
Just don't give away your self-respect
'Coz it's all you got left
The rest don't really matter now anyway, honey!
The way to a man's heart is through their stomach, and the way to get over a broken heart is no different. Treat yourself!!! After all, who needs love when you have food?
Have an Ironic Red Velvet Cupcake from Cukay's! SUPPORT FILIPINO GOODS, YES?
Speaking of local goods, since you no longer have anyone to look thin for, go on a food trip in one of Quezon City's (and my) favorite food trip hotspots, Maginhawa St./Teacher's Village.
I've told you before that I neither am the most experienced nor most reliable person to approach when it comes to the Friend Zone. I just like to make things.
Here, however, are some sources that you should probably read up on.
Bakit Hindi Ka Crush Ng Crush Mo by Ramon Bautista, a true essential, and one of my inspirations for coming up with a Friendzone Kit in the first place. This book is by far one of the most effective and specific in pushing you to live a life beyond love.
Even more related literature to the above related literature:
Tales From The Friend Zone, starring Ramon Bautista and directed by Ra Rivera
Ramon Bautista's Formspring, lest you need more personal assistance
Marc Webb's hipsteriffic film (500) Days Of Summer might not seem like your type of "comedy" at a time like this, but if you watch it like how you read old entries from your blog and laugh at how dumb Tom (you) actually is (are), you can tell yourself, "Hey, I can be better than that!" and "Who cares if he/she loves The Smiths???"
Besides, watch this end scene over and over.
Guess what? THAT COULD BE YOU!
x x x
EPILOGUE: Penance
I'm sorry that I don't have much helpful advice to give someone who is friendzoned, aside from "Just get over it."
I wouldn't advise you to blame the other person, as that's gonna seem really selfish. As a feminist I've been taught not to feel resent towards the person who friendzoned me; not to the point of blaming myself, but not making an entire album dedicated to bashing the individual/s who broke your heart (ahem Taylor Swift ahem) and basically poisoning the well in doing so, either.
This may be easier said than done (especially on my behalf), but why mope around when you can be productive? :) Make good art, benevolent art. If you feel the need to be bitter, by all means, entertain that need, but be sure to cover up some names and make it even more general in the process. HAHA. Cheer up! Maybe it hurts, but there are always other fish in the sea - fish who will respect you for who are! Charot. Go forth, and get over it!
Simply put, the best revenge is to live an awesome life. (Bautista, 2012)
