I was in bed last night before midnight, typing away on my mini laptop a blog post for my travel blog.

The table I bought for my parents but was never used came in handy to prop up my laptop while I prop myself up in bed with pillows.

I miss having a mouse though, I must remember to bring one.

Today, I read an article about the Orang Minyak (Oily Man). According to reports, a Malaysian village believes that two of such paranormal creatures were in their residential area.

This incident reminded me of my first encounter with what I believe was a weird version of the Orang Minyak.

I was still a kid then and we lived in a shop house. One afternoon, I was in the living room playing with a sewing machine, pretending that I was sewing. My father was having his afternoon nap and snoring away in his room.

While I played, I looked up at our front door. We had one of those sliding metal gates that form diamond shapes at each crisscross.

At the door, there was a dark human figure. I mean like black dark. It wasn’t wearing clothes but was dark all over. It looked like it was peeping in, with his legs behind the wall.

I remember staring at it really hard with all sorts of explanation running in my head.

The figure looked like it feel into a pot of tar. The edges of the figure wasn’t smooth like how a human head or skin would look from afar. The outline looked bumpy. I thought it was tar because a childhood friend has a duck farm and they use tar to get rid of duck feathers.

I rubbed my eyes, like they do on TV when they see amazing things. I half hoped it would disappear if I closes my eyes.

It didn’t. And was still looking in.

Then I screamed: “AHHHHHHH!” The figure dashed off.

My dad got out of his room, asking: “What happened?!”

My brain raced. He would never believe me if I told him I saw Tar Man. So I said: “There was a dog.” He went out to look but there was nothing.

Until this day, I believe that what I saw was supernatural. If it were me today, I would approach it and examine the hell out of it.

Seven of Swords

Briefly: A home move.

Full Meaning: Quite often this card signifies a home move. There is a restlessness that gives the feeling of wanting to move on. If it is not a house move, it could be a new relationship, or one that is a significant relationship, such as your first one, or it has been a long time between relationships, or one that proves important in the long run, such as one leading to marriage. However a small word of caution, find out all you can about this new person, for there could be something secretive about him/her.
This can also mean a significant happening or event at night, having to rush off somewhere, to someone’s aid perhaps, someone in hospital and/or a time to make quick decisions and act in a hurry, or alternatively you may act in haste during the night.
This card has also been known to indicate a robbery. It could be a thief in your home, or any other place where you keep valuables, such as a car or an office.
Overall, your life now has the potential to alter in some significant way. You could cut ties with your past, your family or friends and go off on your own path. These changes may be irrevocable and can close the door on your old life to make way for a total transition into a new way of living. Just be sure this is exactly what you want to do. You need to be firm and strong in your decision making now and in the near future.

Reading done on Oct 20, 2011

Full Meaning: Key Words for the Temperance Tarot Card Meanings
* Merging
* Balance
* Healing
* Blending
* Connection
* Chemistry
* Fluidity
* Moderation

So many of the Tarot cards (seemingly all of them to one extent or another), deal with balance and its importance in our lives. Yes, certainly the Temperance Tarot card meanings are about balance. But there’s more to it than that.

We have to be thoughtful in our appproach to this card because its meaning won’t hit us over the head like a ton of bricks. Rather, it’s a subtle card that whispers in our ear “come closer.”

As we lean in closer to hear with our spiritual ears exactly what Temperance has to say – we find we aren’t listening for words at all. What we hear is the tranquil waters running through our spirits. These are cleansing rivers that run through our energies, providing us with peace and healing. Imagine you are diving into the these crystal clear waters. Diving in is an act of connecting to our source and by connecting we find rejuvination in the rhythmic flow of healing waters moving through us. Mesmorizing, isn’t it?

There is a lot of power in this card, and the “flow” is the source of that power. The Temperance card is a call for us to recognize the flow in our own lives, and observe the nature of energy. When we pull this card in a reading it is an indication that a healing is in need or is taking place. It is also a sign that subtle shifts are or need to take place in order to gain that peaceful scene we see pictured in this card.

When we quietly and objectively investigate our life’s path we begin to see patterns. Temperance encourages us to take these patterns and find a good balance in our lives. Envision the flowing waters of this card and see all the imbalance drifting away in your life. When moderation is put into play, and we connect with a natural flow, then healing begins to occur at all levels.

The keyword chemistry is included here because Temperance deals with mixing the right ingredients in our lives in order to flow easily upon the path of our choosing. It takes a little time to balance the load just right, but once we do we experience some tremendous breakthroughs in our progress.

On a more day-to-day level the Temperance card often indicates a commitment to sobriety, a healing taking place, a need for emotional stability, and a need for self-love. Very often spiritual seekers will pull this card as a promise of new growth after they’ve experienced spiritual “drought.”

Key Symbols Relative to Temperance Tarot Card Meanings:
This section focuses in on a few select symbols that can help us further define the Temperance Tarot card meanings.

Cups: The cups transferring the waters here are a symbol of finding the right mix, keeping in motion, and going with the flow. The cups and the water have also been thought as a biblical symbol reminiscent of Christ turning water into wine. The symbolism here is that we are able to transform any situation into something different by our tempering our thoughts and actions in such a way as to bring about the results we desire.

Feet: Feet are symbolic of a pilgrimage, and make reference to our spiritual walk. The right foot (consciousness) is dipped into the water which is symbolic of the subconscious. This is a signal that our analytical minds need to be hushed for a bit. The left foot (unconsciousness) is settled on land which is a signal to ground ourselves. Again – this card is all about balance. As we align our mind, body and spirit we begin to see amazing results in our lives.

Triangle: In Ancient Egypt the Triangle was seen as a symbol of intelligence and indicated the capacity for love. The Buddhists utilze this geometric pattern in the Sri Yantra mandala as a tool to invoke the energy of love. The triangle also deals with the love represented in the mother, father, child union as well as the holy trinity. As mentioned earlier, as a graphic representation of an inverted triangle, it symbolizes a vessel in which love is poured or carried. Additionally, this symbol has long been recognized as a sign of balance and creativity.

Key Questions Relative to the Temperance Tarot Card Meanings:
When contemplating the Temperance Tarot card meanings, ask yourself the following questions:

Do you go with the flow, or do you struggle with change?
What can you do to create more peace and balance in your life?
Are you on a life path that forks in the road? Are you torn between two paths?
What thoughts, beliefs or actions can you merge together to create harmony in your life?
What would it take for you to get just the right mix or find a happy-medium in your life?
Are you concerned about your health? If so, what steps can you take to strike a healthy balance?

Watch Encore on Youtube

Our music video opens with the image of a run down castle which suspiciously looks like a great place to live, not the lair of our Undead King.

Dracula, in his cage, tormented for centuries over the lost of his dark-haired love, Elisabeth. Camera focuses on his handsome face for a while.

Our present day love birds, Mina and useless-Jonathan, frolicking in the woods.

Useless John sees castle and flees. Leaving his fiancee, who decides to explore the pleasant castle, instead of running after the wimp.

Alas! The castle is not as hospitable as we first thought. There are wire cages in which Mina loses herself (literally, not mentally). Be thankful the wires are not electrocuted.

We see John turning around in circles. Perhaps lost because Mina has the map.

Mina finds the Count on his throne, after a bit of twirling about in the wire maze. He stands from his seat, says “Did you do something to your hair?”

John decided that he must go back! To look for his fiance, who must have gone into the castle instead of the castle grounds because NO ONE CAN RESIST A CASTLE!

Scene cuts between Mina/Dracula and Mina/John. I’d rather see Dracula, actually.

Mina finds herself unable to resist dancing with the spiked back Count. They choose an acrobatic ballet routine, perhaps something they had been practicing since 1066 but the moves are still in Mina’s limbs despite her reincarnation.

Jon is scared but he sings.

KISS KISS KISS KISS

Yucks

More synchronized dancing

Jon escapes the wired maze, singing, “She makes me sick. I die inside.” Does he dislike her independence or does he miss her so much that he feels physically unwell without her?

[empty image]

A bunch of flashes that I am too lazy to capture.

A dining scene, reminiscence of The Last Supper.

You damn flirt!

Waking to her senses, Mina flees!

Leaving the guests flabbergasted. Who doesn’t enjoy a 1066 bottle of red wine?

Last boss battle

Dracula glares, looking like the Black Swan. Jon, as usual, shrinks and flees.

They reunite!

PS I had fun printscreening the music video but the captions were harder.

Steam is the only game purchasing platform I am using now. I used to be a pirate because 1) I couldn’t find legal games; 2) Even pirated games were expensive.

Since I’ve discovered Steam and Steam Sale, I’ve not looked back. I’ll be celebrating my second anniversary with Steam this Christmas.

Song List

Lucy: 1, 2, 3
-Vampy Lucy

Sorci–Original character?: En Transe…ylvanie
-Everything is awesome in Transylvania

Jonathan (issuperhandsome): Encore (Blonde in the video is Mina)
-Sings about needing Mina. *gag*

The Angel: L’amour plus fort que la mort
-meh

Nine of Wands

Briefly: A time of waiting, of being patient while the crop ripens or the project matures.

Full Meaning: This card has a picture a robust man leaning on a wand with another 8 wands stood up behind him. This is a time of waiting, of being patient while the crop ripens or the project matures. We need to understand that stability arises out of wisdom and patience. Haste and immaturity do not assist our plans at a time like this. We need to develop the sense of endurance and being in it for the long haul. We must persevere and be able to see that nothing of value or no-one of merit arrives prior to the right time. If we can maintain our steadfastness during the period before fruition, then the harvest will reap a healthy profit. It may be time to do things that represent protection, such as battening down the hatches, fixing the fences or the gate or door and ensuring that all is safe within the home. Perhaps we need some other financial protection such as a nest egg, a new savings project or even some insurance of some kind, whether personal or for our belongings. Trust in the old saying that ‘all comes to those who wait’.

//Reading on Oct 20, 2011

Full Meaning: Some Knight of Wands personality traits:
* Bold
* Wild
* Brash
* Cavalier
* Raucous
* Energetic
* Impatient
* Charming
* Rebellious
* Surprising
* Audacious
* Exuberant
* Determined
* Opinionated
* High spirited
* Uncontrolled
* Strong willed
* Unpredictable

“I am the Knight of Wands and this is my story.

I have my own ideas about how creative and spiritual ideas should be handled, and I’m not shy about letting my opinions known. It’s not that I’m always right in my vision, but I do have the best way to get to the goal. I’ve usually got the best short cuts too!

I have no time for methodology or pragmatism. If you want to do things the dinosaur way (traditional, old-fashioned) then I am going to blaze a trail without you.

But, if you are stalled and need inspiration, I’m the vibrant young man to call. I will give you the jump start you need. Hold on tight though, it will be a wild ride!

As the Knight of Wands, I am a double fire. My family crest is the fire of wands, and my station as knight also corresponds with fire. Some people say this makes me double trouble, but I disagree. Yes, I can be combustible at times, but only when I’m not being listened to, when I feel disrespected or misunderstood.

I’m audacious in my mannerisms. I’m fearless too, and will confront anyone with either the tip of my lance, or my sparkly smile depending on which side I need to play. I enjoy taking people off guard. Not in a mean-spirited way – I just like to see their reactions to my sometimes shocking behavior. To be sure, I am the life of the party, and love to have fun.

My father, (the King of Wands) tries to keep a short rein on me, but this tactic rarely works. I always want to bust out and conquer, or devour new territory. When dad does let me loose, I am the most powerful tool in his arsenal because I am swift, bold and sometimes ruthless in my execution (I often take people by surprise). I’m also strongly motivated to get my way, this makes me very effective in my tasks.

My bright auburn hair is a physical trait of my passion, and nobody can resist my crisp, emerald eyes. I’ve been told I have sharp features, pointy nose and jawbone. I have no problems courting and wooing because I’ve got striking looks and charming words. In fact, I have a silver tongue and a remarkable gift for persuasion.

When you see me in the cards, I’m going to shake you up. I will make you move, I want to shift you into a new paradigm. Just pay attention to where I’m taking you because there is no telling where we will end up on the trail!”

Some symbols the Knight of Wands wields

Armor: The symbolic meanings of armor deal with protection, preparation, and strength. Most Tarot deck renditions depict all the knights in full armor (knights typically represents action and strength). The armor indicates a need to protect ourselves when engaging in activities referenced in a reading.

Lizard: With symbol meanings of renewal, vision, enlightenment, and rebirth, the lizard makes its appearance on the male court cards in the suit of rods. The lizard (or salamander in some renditions) suns itself on these cards to signify the importance of vision in the midst of action. In fact, in ancient times (particularly in alchemical lore), it was believed that the lizard renewed its sight by looking into the sun. A symbol of demure perspective in the face of monumental physical force – the lizard is a tiny reminder that big results come from small, conscious efforts. See other lizards skittering across the Tarot cards.

Mountains: Seen on many of the cards, mountain symbol meanings deal with triumph, challenge, attainment, and realization. Mountains also represent timelessness and an endurance that is infinite. When those mountains peak out of the cards into our attention, we may consider the vastness of our universe, and contemplate our place within it. We may also want to consider the heights to which we are climbing, and what the realization of our goals may mean for us and those around us. Note, these mountains have also presented themselves as pyramids to my eyes. If you see pyramids as a key symbol in the Knight of Wands, it may indicate industry and creative productivity. It may also indicate a need to honor your creative side, and focus on artistic skills.Climb other mountains in the cards.

Some questions the Knight of Wands asks:
Do you need a change of pace?
Hop on my horse and let me take you for a high speed ride. Together we will joust through whatever blockages you might have.
Why do you care what they think?
Follow my lead, be as outrageous as I am. Blaze a trail, be a rebel. Success never favors the timid.
Have you lost your creative voice?
I can boost your confidence and give you the voice of authority in your spiritual and creative endeavors.

Weapon