Sayonara, 2012!

Hey guys! How is it going?

Well, it's been a long time since my last post. I have actually no time of updating this personal blog. It would be rather boring reading my post about my training - what else would I publish other than my ATC training, right? Things there are on a routine basis - wake up early in the morning, listen to the lectures, memorize everything, and then comes the wave of exams which happens every week. Yes, every week... pretty daunting, right?

But I know that everything is going to be worth it once I finish this. I made a decision and I am very happy about it, despite the stress and other factors. But you know what? I am actually enjoying it. I met new set of friends coming from different parts of the country with little or no idea about the nature of our future career.

So yeah, my new year's resolution would be simple: update this more often - more of chronicling the 'behind the scenes'. Ha!

Happy New Year, everyone! Have a blast!

The Tale of the Techie Traveler: The Cyberzone Experience

It's more fun at Cyberzone! Oppa!

Finally, SM Lanang Premier, the 46th SM mall of the country, opened its doors to the public a few days ago and boy, I can't contain my excitement when I first entered this gargantuan mall.

Tagged as Mindanao's first premier mall, it houses new flagship stores like Forever 21 and other amenities such as Bowling Center, IMAX Theater and the SMX Convention Center. More so, stores are bigger compared to the first SM Mall of the city and as I explored the third level, I took notice of Cyberzone.

We Are Infinite: A Movie Review

The Perks Of Being A Wallflower
Starring Logan Lerman, Emma Watson and Ezra Miller
Written and Directed by Stephen Chbosky

Despite being a straight A student, my life in high school was never awesome. No wait, I sort of hated it. Sometimes I get bullied emotionally (thank God I was never beaten physically). Sometimes, I let them copy my homework in Chemistry, Calculus or Physics in exchange of not bullying for at least a month or two... but it actually didn't work. Often times, I was accused of being a teacher's pet because I was just being participative in the class.

Reading and watching The Perks Of Being A Wallflower made me realize that I wasn't alone of experiencing this kind of ordeal so to speak.

That feeling.

I do not know. I had a lot things in my mind right now and I want it to write it on my blog. But apparently my hands won't allow me to do such. It feels weird. I can't consider this as a writer's block... Maybe hands' block perhaps? I do not know. I just feel anxious lately. I only have six days remaining before I leave Davao for good. I know this is just part of reaching my dreams of becoming the country's air traffic controller. Manila is definitely not my comfort zone; everything there is fucking chaotic, dirty and expensive. Not that I'm complaining though. Add the fact that it's going to be my first time to be away from my parents. I would definitely miss them.

Hmmm, I do hope that I'd do good on our training. I would do my best and I will not let them down.

Game face: ON.

PS: I still have to write something for my travel blog. Blogging at the last day of September via my iPad. By the way, I am loving this blogging app! Very convenient and spending $4.99 for it is worth it at all.

Test post

Trying out if I could blog and post photos via my iPad.

The IMAX Experience

Nothing beats the feeling of watching a great movie with your family or friends at the cinema. I have already seen the developments of it for the past years. From 2D to 3D cinema and this time, IMAX. I was fortunate enough to be one of the few Davaoeños who first tried this one-of-a-kind movie experience.

Bonchon Chicken Introduces Winning Team Meal

BonChon, the global phenomenon that has united discriminating diners worldwide in their love for its super crispy chicken secret, now offers another winning reason for its fans in the Philippines to come together.

As tribute to the “teams” of families, friends, and work buddies who make up its most passionate customers, the new Team BonChon Group Meal provides a variety of BonChon best-sellers for sharing. Enjoy a medium box of BonChon’s globally raved about chicken glazed in its signature soy garlic and spicy, the much-loved classic Korean noodle dish Chapchae, 2 sides (fries and/or the famous Kimchi Coleslaw), 4 rice, and 4 regular drinks – a great value at PhP645.

Just in time for the launch of the new Team BonChon Group Meal, BonChon further celebrates the spirit of team and of winning as a proud sponsor of the UAAP games. What a winning combination!
The new Team BonChon Group Meal is available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery in over 22 BonChon stores in Metro Manila and Davao. For more information, like the growing Facebook community (BonChon Chicken Philippines) or log on to www.bonchon.com.ph

So, this is it!

Finally, the long wait is over. CAAP sent me an SMS last week. It was good news.

I am now qualified to train as an Air Traffic Controller at Civil Aviation Training Center in Parañaque, Metro Manila. I know that I'd be away from home for more than a year, but I know I can do it. And yes, I am slowly reaching my dreams. Gosh, I didn't expect this! To be honest, I did not expect that I'd nail the exam, pass the medical exam (thank God I am not color blind) and nail the interview (got a Very Satisfactory rating).

This is it! The pressure's on me, actually. I am carrying my uncle's surname. I should study hard. I swear, I won't let him down. I know this requires intense mental discipline. Well, knowing my attitude, I do not settle with mediocrity, I always strive hard to be on top... in a good way of course!

I know I can do it. If my uncle did it, kaya ko rin to. One year Renz, just one year, and everything's gonna be worth it. Say good bye to my senyorito life... ugh, well... temporarily. This is going to be a fun and exciting journey!

This is Renz, now ready to serve the Philippine airspace!

Of Black Stilettos, Unlimited Ammo and Lousy Script

Resident Evil: Retribution
Action / Horror / Sci-fi
Directed and written by Paul W.S. Anderson
Starring Milla Jovovich, Sienna Guillory and Michelle Rodriguez

Poster source

The fifth saga of Resident Evil continues from the last scenes of Afterlife. Once again, Alice is recaptured by Umbrella Corporation after her escape from Arcadia, a cargo tanker that was meant to be the safe haven for what was left for the humans.

Retribution continues the story of Alice (played by Milla Jovovich). We all know that soon after the virus infected Umbrella Corporation's underground facility aptly named The Hive, everyone died but her. Apparently, the T-virus bonded to Alice at the cellular level, allowing her to acquire superhuman skills. But that's not all, Umbrella Corporation experimented her by extracting her DNA and create thousands of Alice clones (as seen from Resident Evil: Extinction). The virus spread like wildfire all over the world causing the human race on the brink of extinction. Since the first RE movie, the story remained simple and the script was meh. Thanks for that, Paul W.S. Anderson!

We Remember Nine-Eleven

I originally published this two years ago on Facebook. We remember the darkest days of humanity. No words can describe how that day went.

* * *

9:00 pm, Philippine Time.

I was only 11 at that time. I was about to go to sleep when a disturbing video of a burning skyscraper caught my attention. I was really curious and decided to watch CNN with my parents. I poked dad's right arm and asked, "Pa, ano yan? Trailer ng action movie? (Pa, what is that? Is that a trailer of an upcoming action movie?)"

"No, hindi yan trailer (No, it's not a trailer)."

I was shocked; I thought I was dreaming.

Photo source

The North Tower was a burning inferno. The 93rd to 99th floors were severely damaged and floors below and above them became inaccessible. I could still remember people waving their clothes from the windows of their offices as smoke continued to rise from the building. The impact of American Airlines Flight 11 made it to the mainstream media across the globe. Some speculated that it was just an accident. New York had already experienced this kind of accident back in 1945 when a B-25 Mitchell bomber plane crashed between the 79th and 80th floor of the Empire State Building. Then the speculation abruptly changed to an act of terrorism when at exactly 9:03 AM, a Boeing 767-300 jet United Airlines Flight 175 crashed at the South Tower.

The Oppa Gangnam Craze

I wasn't really that updated about the latest craze in the realm of K-Pop (Korean Pop). Hell, the only K-Pop group that I listen is SNSD or Girls' Generation! I'm a fan... errr, well not really. Until now, I still have the hard time who Seohyun or Yuri is and I still have to Google Hyoyeon's face. Well for me, it's Yoona and others.

Going back to the topic, I got really intrigued about this latest dance craze - the "Oppa Gangnam Style!"craze. At first, I didn't mind about it until some of my friends posted the actual music video on Facebook and Twitter. Out of curiosity clicked it.

AND THAT MOMENT CHANGED MY PERSPECTIVES IN LIFE.

Anya at 11 Months

Last Sunday, ma, pa and I went to my aunt's house to visit my cutiepatootie niece. I think everyone of you here knows her. I even wrote a blogpost about her last May. She cute, yeah but she's cuter when she cries. It's so easy to make her cry. MEANIE UNCLE.

When the Halls Bled Black, Red and White

Hola! How's everybody?

Well, I decided not to join the SEx (Soccsksargen Experience) Tour 4.0 because (i) I need to rest; and (ii) I have to be at UP Mindanao to attend the opening ceremony of Dula 2012 (UPMin's annual intramurals) and the cheerdance competition.

Cheerdance played a significant role in my life. Without it, my college life would not be THAT awesome (see also: studying everyday is dangerous to your health).

Tech Review: Blackberry Bold 9790

Several weeks ago, I was asked to review a Blackberry Bold 9790. It was my first time to try BB and I believe it won't hurt if I give it a try. *wink*

The Blackberry Bold 9790 is slimmer and sexier than any other Blackberry phones in the market. Trust me, the older versions were bulkier and thicker. This particular Blackberry smartphone is aesthetically pleasing - easy to handle and very stylish. The keyboard is ergonomically designed. It is easier to type long messages on this phone than any other touch phones in the market. There’s just the right mix of rubber and plastic to make grip and style reach an equal standing without looking cheap. *Thumbs up*

This smartphone features a 5.0 megapixel autofocus camera. It can also capture videos with a maximum resolution of 640*480 pixels. There's nothing special about its camera and when shooting at low-light environment, the quality is meh.

Crazy with Donuts and Pizzas

My grandmother usually spoil me with either donuts or pizzas when I was young. After school, she would always bring me to the nearest donut or pizza houses. I cry whenever she doesn't buy my favorite food. Spoiled brat!

These two are just one of my comfort foods. Nom nom nom! But just last Thursday, Go Nuts Donuts unveiled their newest meal - pizza donuts!

Rejected UPCAT Essay Questions

I was really surprised when I found out that UPCAT comes with a new part - the essay part. Six years ago when I took the UPCAT, we were only required to answer four subtests - English, Math, Science and Reading and Comprehension. It seemed that the administrators are curious to know what's inside the minds of the future Iskolar ng Bayan.

I was browsing the trending topics on Twitter when I came across with this hashtag: #RejectedUPCATEssayQuestions

It really made my day (or night, whatever)! Whoever created this is a genius. I salute you mate!

Here are some of my favorites:

Twenty Two

One. 'Papa' was the first legit word I've muttered. My parents got very happy by it. Oh, the simple joys of life.

Two. I ruined a show. It happened during a dance presentation of a big company held at the gymnasium of Ateneo de Zamboanga University. The moment I saw the Ninja Turtles and the Tom and Jerry mascots (those were my favorite cartoon characters, by the way), I ran at the stage and danced as if there's no tomorrow.

Three. Was so fascinated with insects! My grandfather used to catch big grasshoppers. Grasshoppers were my first 'pet' actually.

Four. Time for school. Didn't cry when my mom left me inside the classroom, thank God. I wasn't really sociable during that time and I only had a few friends.

Five. My old Chinese teacher forgot to turn off the fan, causing her wig to move. So, the rumors were true! "Oh my, look! Lau sher (Chinese for teacher) is bald!", I cried. Lau sher was so embarrassed and mad that she ordered me to step out of the classroom and stand for hours under the scorching heat of the sun. The following day, I had fever. Good thing, I didn't die due to heat stroke. Apparently, my Chinese teacher died a few years later.

Six. I went to school late, as always. And then I realized, I left my bag at our house. I only brought my lunch box. I cried because it was so embarrassing. My teacher laughed because she thought that it was the cutest thing in the world. Screw you, bitch.

Seven. Joined the impersonation contest of the Linggo ng Wika. I impersonated Jose Rizal, the country's national hero. I won first place, by the way

Eight. First communion. It was my first time to receive the alleged body of our Savior. "That doesn't look like a human flesh!", I jeered. "No, no, you have to open your eyes for you to see the Lord," my Christian Living teacher said. "My eyes are already open. Do I have to open my third eye, then?"

Nine. An old vendor of our school canteen scolded me because I didn't give her the exact amount. I cried. Minutes after, my mom approached the old, grumpy lady together with some of my batch mates - they were 50 of them. They became my instant friends... for that day only.

Ten. Told my long-time crush that I crush her. Expectation: "Awwww, thank you, that's so sweet of you dear!" Reality: She slapped my right cheek. Ouch. Yes, I didn't know that I was THAT ugly.

Eleven. I was the Vice President of the class. Everyone in the class hated me, including my class adviser. Truth is, they're just jealous.

Double Trouble: The Healing Movie Review

The Healing (2012)


Starring Vilma Santos, Kim Chiu and Martin del Rosario
Directed by Chito S. Roño

_______________________

This story that I'm about to tell you happened when I was in sixth grade.

We were in the middle of the most solemn part of our recollection when Rica (not her real name) went outside to pee. When she was about to finish washing her hands, her guy classmate suddenly appeared at the door.

"Hey John (not his real name)! What are you doing here? This is not the male's comfort room, it's at the other side," my classmate cheered.

John didn't respond; he was just staring at her.

Rica thought John was just pulling a prank on her. "Huy, ikaw ha! 'Wag kang magbiro ng ganyan!"

Once again, John didn't give a response.

Rica poked his right shoulder. "Alis na nga ako, tinatakot mo lang ako."

When Rica went back to the conference room, he spotted John with his circle of friends. He seemed happy. She thought John was just joking.

She approached her and asked, "Ikaw ha! Tinatakot mo lang ako sa CR kanina!"

"Huh? What are you talking about?"

"Diba, nandun ka kanina, 'di mo nga ako kinikibuan eh! Akala ko may galit ka sa akin!"

"Uhm, di ako lumabas kanina. I swear! I'm not lying!"

The two went silent.

One Step Closer

I didn't expect this at all.

I NAILED THE CATS 6 (Comprehensive Air Traffic Service) Course entrance exam!

I should get a new laptop powered by Intel Ivy Bridge!

Technology nowadays changes faster than the speed of light. Today, a technological firm announces its fastest computer. Tomorrow, a faster computer or gadget will be announced by either the same or different company. The technology of today now completely relies on the fast-paced lifestyle of majority - multitasking.

BPI Express Link Mobile

Executives and business owners will now have an efficient cash management system with the use of their mobile phones and the BPI ExpressLink Mobile system!

Sometimes, company officers are not around, most probably due to their busy schedule or because of their out-of-town trips. BPI launches an innovation which allows them to check their transactions through a mobile app!

Even if they are not around the office, they can still pay the wages of their employees, utilities and other necessities. Anywhere, anytime. Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has also partnered with BIR, SSS, Pag-IBIG and PhilHealth to allow electronic payments and submission of payment files online. Talking about innovation and convenience!

BPI ensures the convenience of the ELink users and the system's secured.

BPI is working with Ateneo de Davao University, Citi Hardware, Davao Golden Hardware, Davao Toplas, DMI Medical Supply Inc., Focusinc Group, Iluminada Farms, Lyra Group of Companies, NetXpress, Phoenix Petroleum and Sonic Sales & Distribution Inc.

The Day When I Butchered My Hair

A good head of hair is often called a crowning glory. Aside from giving us physical protection from heat and pressure, our hair defines our personality; who we are as a person. Some people whom I personally know even spent millions... lol just kidding... a LOT just to maintain their desired hairstyle. Talking about vanity. But truth is, your ugly when your hair's a mess (in a bad way) no matter how symmetrically perfect your face is.

SOCIAL SUICIDE

Just recently, I made a huge mistake...

Second Half of 2012 Begins Now

Hello! How's everyone?

Cheers for the positivity!

Well, the first half of 2012 has already passed a week ago and I must say that it has been an awesome year so far.

Here's a quick recap of events from January to June:

Meet the Crying Baby

Meet Anya, the baby who always cries whenever she sees my hideous face.

I don't know but I have this superhuman ability - I make babies cry in less than three seconds. Often times, when a baby stares at me, I stare back and look straight in his/her eyes, and the next thing you'll know, you'll hear a loud, guttural cry.

The Many Faces of Iya Villania

Iya has been my favorite TV personality since high school (I always watch her segment on MYX). On screen, she exudes optimism and I am a bit curious what it feels like to be with her in person. Last Saturday (May 12), I was fortunate to be part of the Bioessence Gold press conference. Iya Villania and Nikki Gil were Bioessence's latest endorsers.

Google Mapping Craze

I first encountered Google Maps back in 2007. Some of my high school classmates uploaded a few satellite photos of their house. I initially thought that they owned their own satellites. Funny but true. Then, an old friend of mine told me that they used Google Maps. I never thought that Google would actually have that kind of feature because I thought it was just a search engine. No more, no less.

After familiarizing myself with Google's then newest feature, I instantly fell in love with it because I found it interactive and informative.

Anyway, fast forward to 2012.

Three weeks ago, Kuya Avel of GenSantos.com invited me to attend the Mindanao-leg of Google Mapping Summit which was held at STI College in General Santos City.

I immediately responded to his invitation. Good thing GenSan is only three hours away from Davao City.

Confidence Level: Asian

I always believe that I have a great voice.

Yes, seriously.

Back in 2002, my adviser handpicked me to represent our section for our school’s singing contest. Together with my partner, we practiced almost every day. We sang Regine Velasquez’ Ulan. The contest went smoothly but we didn’t win, unfortunately. I even blamed my partner for our loss because she didn’t hit the right notes. Good thing she was a sport; I wasn’t.

Thesis the moment, my final test!

Exactly a year ago, I finished my undergraduate thesis. I can still remember the moment when I finally got the approval of my thesis adviser.

I never thought that I would finish my undergraduate thesis and graduate on time.

Failure

Time flies so fast.

Three years ago, when all of my classmates threw all their pens, books and laptops in celebration of the much-awaited summer break, I on the other hand did not utter a single word.

Because Turning Off The Lights Isn't Enough

It all started in Sydney, Australia.

Sydneysiders turned off their lights for an hour not just to conserve electricity but to raise awareness about the continuing destruction of mankind to our environment. Global temperature had continuously risen causing severe storms and extreme weather patterns in the past few years. Some marine and terrestrial species of animals are on the verge of extinction which will destroy our ecosystem.

Then after a year, several countries followed this global movement, including the Philippines. This year, Earth Hour is not just about turning off your lights for an hour; it's more than that.

Bauhaus PH

Looking for some avant-garde inspired fashion brands? This newly opened boutique at Abreeza Ayala Mall is perfect place for you.

Bauhaus is a boutique originating from one of the world's bustling cosmopolitan cities, Hongkong. It has become a favorite of Filipinos when it comes to shopping. The store has six fabulous clothing brands from its in-house labels Tough Jeans, 80/20, Salad and Twistedmind to other brands such as Cheap Monday and Superdry.

Bauhaus guarantees its customers that their products are of high quality and creative. The store likewise continues to cater a wider range of customers as it offers an extensive selection of attractive brands and items that are truly great for everyday wear, travel and club wear.

These are the six core brands of Bauhaus Philippines:

Celebrity Account

Excluding the members of the introvert and anti-social communities, everyone dreams of becoming a celebrity. We all know the perks of a celebrity - unlimited supply of products from sponsors, TV appearances, movie projects, commercials and a whole lot more. But not all of us are lucky enough to reach that star.

Photo credit

Celebrities are known to influence people in many aspects and it can be discerned from the number of their fans. And in today's time, it is very possible to communicate with them through their social network accounts such as Twitter. Many of us think that having millions of followers is a blessing (most especially for bloggers because millions of followers literally translates to millions of bucks!). But for celebrities, it's the opposite. Allow me to show you some consequences of having millions of followers online.

Pampering Thyself: The Beauty of Freelance Work

Last Sunday, I went to the nearest mall with mom and dad. Mom did her weekly grocery thing while dad and I hung out at a food stall near the grocery. Then, I checked my dollar account to see whether the checks have already validated.

FINALLY.

The long wait is over!

Sh*t People Say in UP Mindanao

I spent my college years at the country's premier university and it was such a privilege. Aside from knowing the true meaning of service and excellence, I have also experienced a lot of things inside the youngest campus of UP.

Photo taken during my graduation last April 18, 2011. Photo by Sam Sanchez

UP Mindanao is one of the most diverse places that I've been to (aside from Imperial Diliman) - people come from different places and walks of life (never mind the countless number of flora and fauna species that thrive within the 204-hectare campus).

 Inspired by Shit Girls Say, here's my personal collection:

Because I'm an avid fan of Patty Laurel

I have been an avid fan of Patty Laurel since 2007. One cold morning of May 2007, I was browsing some random blogs when all of the sudden, I landed on Patty’s blog. Her blog's tagline was: Come, waste your time with me. What a catchy tagline. I didn't know that she was a celebrity back then (it was later when I found out that she was the host of Breakfast Club, a defunct morning news show of Studio 23). All I know was, she had a cool blog and I got glued by her posts. Her posts were funny and wittily written (aside from the fact that she's pretty).

Since that day, I’d always read her blog. Even if she didn’t update it on a daily basis (or weekly basis), I’d still reread some of her posts. She is actually one my inspirations in blogging. She even replied to some of my comments and most recently, some of my tweets. *blush*

Heh. Fanboi on the loose.

Celebrating Single Awareness Month

February always reminds me (and hopefully not 'will forever remind me') that I am [still] single. I'm turning 22 this year and I haven't had any serious relationships EVER. As in, SSB - single since birth. As in, NGSB - No gelpren sins bert.

Photo credit

Just recently, a lot of my Facebook friends posted something about Valentine's Day, also notoriously known as SAD - Single Awareness Day. It goes something like this:

Jeepney Rides Are Fun... or so I thought.

Whenever dad's not around, I commute. I prefer riding a jeep because it's an inexpensive way to tour the city... unless if you live ten boondocks away from downtown.

Jeepney rides are fun! (Photo credit)

But sometimes there are some reasons why I sometimes hate commuting. No, it's not about how small or old the jeep is, it's the people whom I share a seat inside!

Here are some nosy people that I hate to be with inside the jeep. You might as well encounter some of them in one of your future rides!

Real Happiness

One time, I was walking at the mall when I saw a bunch of kids sitting at a coffee shop. They were either holding iPad 2 or PSP, I don't know... It's too far to tell, but I'm telling you, these kids were surely enjoying the benefits of today's technology.

But if I were given a chance to remove all the technological benefits brought about by today's gadgets, will these kids enjoy their life? Probably not, unless if they don't think superficially.

Instant Fashion Photographer!

I never dreamed to become a fashion photographer. No, it is not because I'm not fashionable (FYI I have a good sense of style... not HAHA!) or what. But seriously, it's not THAT easy to become one.

Food Junkie

I love food more than anything else.

Nomnomnom.com

More than myself. More than my friends. More than my dogs. And more than traveling.

Okay, I was just kidding with the last part.

Why Davao Tagalog is Funny and Equally Amazing

DISCLAIMER: This particular post is just a collection of stories about Davao Tagalog  (personal insights of the author included). The "how-to-speak-Davao-Tagalog-101" was originally written by Mr. Ian Garcia sometime in '98-99. I do not own that part, as well as the Nay Pruneset story (I can no longer trace that particular blog written by someone named  Weng).

For years, Davao has been known to be one of the most diverse cities here in the Philippines; having been tagged as a melting pot of cultures. True enough, a number of indigenous tribes settle in the mountainous region of the city and a number of people from different points of the country settle in Davao City for good. And because of that, the city has been home to numerous local languages of the Philippines - Tagalog, Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Chavacano, Ilokano, Bikolano - you name it.

If the Filipino language is a composition of all the dialects and languages in the Philippines , you might as well say that the language we speak in Davao City is the real Filipino language, and not Tagalog.

Adventures and Misadventures of an Iskolar ng Bayan

"Time's up! Please pass your booklet followed by your answer sheet".

UPCAT was indeed hard. The exam literally squeezed my brain up to the last drop of wisdom and knowledge. Several hundred hopefuls, including me, made their way to the atrium of UP Mindanao after the entrance exam. Mom saw me and excitedly waved her hand to me. I honestly do not know what to say to her. I was afraid that I might fail her. I didn't finish the math subtest because, holy kabaw the number-letter combination went complicated after number 21 (there were 60 questions). But she just smiled, knowing that I will make it.

Five months after the exam, I passed UPCAT... and I didn't expect it! From that moment, I knew that the next four years of my life would be more exciting. It took me days before it finally dawned on me that I'm going to brand myself as an Iskolar ng Bayan.

Welcome, Dragon!

We finally bid good bye to 2011 last night, of course WITHOUT a bang.

2011: The Year That Was

I must say that the previous year has been good to me and to my family as well. It's my favorite year so far, but I can sense that I will own 2012. Heh. >:)

Looking back, 2011 has taught me a lot of things - from making decisions on my own to discovering that there's indeed more to life in traveling. True enough, I have known and understood myself better in 2011.