Goober Meanderings

Kapeng Barako and Vegetarian Coffee

2009-04-08T02:52:00.000-07:00

Somewhere along Silang --on km 53 Aguinaldo Highway -- is a quaint shop selling kapeng barako or local coffee. It's aptly called "Kapeng Barako". This is where you can find local ground coffee as well as coffee beans. They also sell decaf beans!

The owners are friendly and you only need to call out upon entering their store, "Kapeng barako please!" so they can prepare you a fresh cuppa, on the house! Now that's service!

You can also find an assortment of vegetarian coffee and "veggiemeat", cocoa tablea and powder, tea leaves, and even freshly picked tomatoes and other vegetables. I was also able to buy a tea steeper for only P150 - this sells for P279 in Robinson's. Oh, and before I forget, you will also find different brands of imported coffee, all selling for just P450. Their secret? They have relatives abroad who send them coffee and paraphernalia, thus the lower prices.

There are no places to sit so just browse around, have your free coffee and be sure to buy a pack of coffee. After all, they grow and roast their own beans, and there's nothing like locally made barako. Since the coffee is grown in their own land, the prices are hard to beat.

How to get there? En route to Tagaytay, make a right on the narrow road right across Discovery Country Suites. Make a right at the end of the road, where Amira's Buko Shop is. Be on the look out after that because the coffee shop is just around fifty meters ahead, to your right. You will also find another coffee place right beside Kapeng Barako which I haven't checked out yet. That will be our next stop.

Meanwhile, if you want to find out what else they sell before heading out to their shop, you may call Ailine de los Santos Dimapilis or Marcial Rojales Dimapilis, Jr. at 0917-738-9982.

CDR King Megamall -- the King of Bad Customer Service

2009-04-07T01:53:00.000-07:00

I guess the title says it all -- CDR King in SM Megamall tops my list (for now) of really bad or non-existent customer service.

It is unfortunate that we can get the cheapest gadget and gadget peripherals in this store. Apparently, they do not earn enough profit to train their customer service people. It's mind boggling and downright frustrating!

Upon entering the well-lit and relatively spacious store, you look around and after a minute, realize that there is no system in place. You spot about five uniformed staff walking back and forth behind the counters, busy trying to look busy, while ignoring the countless customers wating in a non-existent queue. And here's what takes the cake...when we and other customers asked what we needed to do, they told us to fall in line! Whaaat??? Uh, last time I checked, there WAS NO LINE!

There was also a marked disinterest, almost apathy, among all of the staff to really attend to their customers' need. CDR King, what is up??? At least a queue exists in their branch in Festival Mall, no matter how long it may be. But their branch in Megamall is the pitts! They ought to pay more attention to their customers and train their staff to do a much better job.

We ended up buying some stuff we needed at another store at a higher price. But hey, that's the price we pay for better customer service.

Canon Digital Cameras at LOWER-THAN-MALL PRICES!

2009-02-25T02:37:00.000-08:00

I love photography and digital cameras, and I found Canon models at LOWER-THAN-MALL-PRICES. Guaranteed BRAND NEW, with 1 yr. in-store warranty. If you're interested, I have some great ones for sale.

1. Canon Powershot A470 - P7,500
Mall Price: P8,495
Package/Box includes:
PowerShot A470 Body
AA-size Alkaline Battery (x2)
SD Memory Card SDC-32M
Wrist Strap WS-800
Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM
USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
AV Cable AVC-DC300

2. Canon Powershot A1000 IS - P12,700
Mall Price: P16,950
10.0-megapixel CCD Image Sensor
Built-in Optical Zoom Lens with Optical Image Stabilizer (IS)
DIGIC III Digital Image Processor
Enhanced Face Detection Technology
New Face Selector button
New One-touch "Easy Mode"
Intelligent ISO Speed Setting
Direct Printing and Sharing

Package/Box contains:
PowerShot A1000 IS
32MB SD Memory Card
2 AA-type Alkaline Batteries
AV Cable AVC-DC400
Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
CD-ROMs (Digital Camera Solution and User Manual)
Wrist Strap

3. Canon IXUS 80 IS - P13,700
Mall Price: P17,950 (sale P15,950)
8-megapixel CCD
New Face Detection White Balance
DIGIC III Imaging Processor
New PureColor II LCD
Motion Detection Technology
3x Optical Zoom Lens with built-in Optical Image Stabilizer (IS)
5 Tempting Camera Body Colors
AF Point Zoom
3-level Remaining Battery Power Display
Diversified Shooting Modes
High Quality Movie Clip & Time Lapse Movie Shooting
Compatible with SDHC Memory Card
40-meter Water-proof Case
Direct Printing and Sharing

Package/Box includes:
Digital IXUS 80 IS
32MB SD Memory Card
Battery Pack NB-4L
Battery Charger CB-2LVE
AV Cable AVC-DC300
Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
CD-ROMs (Digital Camera Solution and User Manual)
Wrist Strap

These high-end models are for orders only:

1. Canon IXUS 970 IS - P16,200
Mall Price: P20,495
10-megapixel CCD
New Face Color Function
DIGIC III Imaging Processor
New PureColor II LCD
Superior Optical Zoom Lens
Built-in Optical Image Stabilizer (IS)
Motion Detection Technology
AF Point Zoom
3-level Remaining Battery Power Display
Diversified Shooting Modes
High Quality Movie Clip & Time Lapse Movie Shooting
Compatible with SDHC Memory Card
Direct Printing and Sharing

Package/Box includes:
Digital IXUS 970 IS
32MB SD Memory Card
Battery Pack NB-5L
Battery Charger CB-2LXE
AV Cable AVC-DC300
Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
CD-ROMs (Digital Camera Solution and User Manual)
Wrist Strap

2. Canon IXUS 870 IS - P20,700
Mall Price: P25,495
10-megapixels CCD
New DIGIC 4 Digital Image Processor
Equipped with 28mm Wide-angle Lens
4x Optical Zoom Lens with Built-in Optical Image Stabilizer (IS)
Motion Detection Technology
Ultra-high Megapixel CCD Image Sensor
Enhanced Face Detection Technology
i-Contrast Intelligent Contrast Correction
Large PureColor II LCD Monitor
Supports H.264 Codec MOV Format Movie Shooting
Direct Printing and Sharing

Package/Box includes:
IXUS 870 IS
32MB SD Memory Card
CB-2LXE Battery Charger
NB-5L Battery Pack
AV Cable AVC-DC400
Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
CD-ROMs (Digital Camera Solution and User Manual)
Wrist Strap

I will only accept CASH payments since these are very discounted prices. Just SMS me at 0926-6333807 for details. Delivery is free within Metro Manila. Thank you!

Note: Some prices are subject to change without prior notice.

Our Malaysian Experience at Kopi Roti's

2009-02-22T02:43:00.000-08:00

Yeah, we had two mini foodtrips at MOA today -- the second one was at Kopi Roti for a light snack. We've eaten here already, and have eaten the buns several times in different locations. We're not exactly huge fans, but the coffee buns are tasty enough and filling enough for a snack. We also ordered their cold coffee (kopi tiam in Malaysia) and cold tea with cream (teh tarek in Malaysia) for me.

The funny thing was, there were only four tables inside and the two tables next to us were occupied by foreigners. There was a family that looked like they were of Indian heritage, and they had that distinct accent we hear from Malaysians. We actually felt like we were in Malaysia again, with OFWs as the staff. Hmmm...I'm missing my sis and niece in Malaysia.

Anyway, if you want an "aunthentic" taste of the Malaysian roti, kopi tiam and teh tarek, Kopi Roti comes close.

Lovin' Ferrino's Bibingka!

2009-02-22T02:34:00.000-08:00

Sigh...I just love food! After hearing much about Ferrino's Bibingka from a foodie friend, we finally decided to taste it at their branch in MOA. Hubby and I had it for our late lunch with some fresh fruit shake. Hubby doesn't usually like bibingka, but he actually liked this one -- surprise! We had the Super at P88/pc -- a 6-in. bibingka with some salted egg, butter and coconut shavings. I loved it! It's soft enough and tasty enough. I think I'll go back for more next time.

My Fave Frap

2009-01-17T20:55:00.000-08:00

Just a note...I love the Christmas Dark Cherry Mocha Frap* of Starbucks! It's my favorite frappuccino now -- too bad it won't last. I hope I get another taste before it finally says goodbye. Oh, I do miss their Peppermint Mocha from the previous years.

*Photo courtesy of absolutecousins.com

I scream for Ice Cream!!!

2009-01-16T20:29:00.000-08:00

Though we have been experiencing 18-21 degrees lately, summer is almost upon us and temperatures will rise by the second week of February. So what better way to prepare for the heat than by searching for the best ice cream brands in town!

I find myself craving for ice cream more now that I'm hitting my 40s --hmmm...the sweet tooth villain has come! So hubby and I have been trying out several brands the past months. And our top picks?

1. Blue Bunny Ice Cream - this one is available only at S&R, and through membership. Although the yearly rate could kill you at P700 for a gold member card, the ice cream alone is worth it! Of course, we also get cheap but good dog food there.

Their ice cream is super creamy and costs only P65 for 2 scoops! Now that's a bargain, considering that the Blue Bunny brand is not local. We love mint chocolate chip, blueberry cheesecake and caramel. We can't wait to try the other flavors!

2. Dairy Queen Blizzard - if it's served upside down, it must be good! We recently tried their new mint chocolate at their branch in Megamall and it is just divine! There were lots of crushed mint candies and choco chips that I just had a ball chewing. It was just soooo good and I can't wait to have it again. At P75 for the 9 0z cup, it's pretty much worth it.

3. Pagliacci, The Podium* - Just before you enter the Italian Restaurant, you will encounter their freezer containing one of the creamiest ice creams (oops! gelato!) in town. At P100 per scoop, you'd better be adventurous enough to try out their very Italian flavors like Mascarpone and Ferrero. We have so far tried their mint chocolate (yes, this flavor is a favorite, obviously), Ferrero and berry. But so far, my hands down fave is their After 8. It's rich chocolate ice cream with a hint of mint. Oooh, just the thought makes my mouth water!

4. Nestle Heaven - Upon a fellow foodie's exuberant recommendation, we had to try Nestle's newest creamy offering. We tried their Belgian Bliss flavor at P195/L. Wow! Our friend was right! It's so much creamier (60% more) than your regular local ice cream, and is filled with chopped Belgian chocolate. If you don't mind encountering several chewy, chunky and gooey stuff in your rich chocolate ice cream, then this is for you.

So, get ready for summer and start enjoying these decadent delights! I know I am!

*Pagliacci photo courtesy of Gimikainan

Kimono Ken-Afford!

2009-01-12T21:32:00.000-08:00

Finally, Japanese food at an affordable price! For the longest time, it seems, the words "Japanese food" and "affordable" could not share the same sentence. We tried out Kimono Ken at the Podium in Ortigas a couple of months ago and we have gone back.

The ambiance is modern-classy and not typically Japanese. Mind you, when you reach a certain age (like 40-ish), you place a high priority on the ambiance of a food place. My hubby is known for looking for well-lit restaurants with waiters who are fluent in English and wearing clean, crisp uniforms. Okay, that is whenever he is stressed out.

We loved their food, especially the Gyoza, as well as their rice toppings. Try it out some time! promise it won't bust your budget.

Photo courtesy of foodtriptayo.com.

My New Velvet Confections Site

2008-10-28T14:34:00.000-07:00

I finally got my Velvet Confections site going -- also on Multiply. Please check it out at http://velvetconfections.multiply.com. This is where I will post my baked goodies, some for sale and some for personal consumption -- haha!. I will also review several cake/pastry places so you'll know where to get your sweet treats. Of course, this is highly dependent on budget -- it is expensive to eat out nowadays. So, do visit and leave me a note!

Latest Baked Goodies

2008-10-22T00:56:00.000-07:00

It will be almost a year now since I started baking last January. I'm very pleased with the many things I've learned about it and I'm simply thankful for the opportunities God has blessed me with.

I now bake Choco Brownie Overload (P70/box of 6) which you can order online or through text. They are extra gooey and have cashew nuts and white choco chips in them - a truly decadent delight. I accept a minimum order of 5 boxes per person.

I have also added new packaging for my cookies, and have recently delivered two of them to a friend for her to give as gifts to others. The cookies (PBO - Peanut Butter Oatmeal) in a large gift basket is P1,000 (100 pcs) while the same cookies in the smaller round anahaw box is P600 (500 pcs). They are unique gift ideas for the coming holidays.

Hubby is 41!

2008-10-21T23:41:00.000-07:00

God is good!!! He gave hubby and me another year together. It was a quiet October 20th for both of us and we just stayed home while I tried to finish his fondant birthday cake -- Caramel Cake. Since I forgot to buy blue food color, I ended up creating a lavender fondant (MMF or marshmallow fondant) cake and had fun with my new Wilton cookie and fondant cutters -- haha!

We did have dinner at the Old Spaghetti House in Festival Mall. It's just too bad our rice meals were lackluster. Word of advice -- just order the pasta (spaghetti) they are more known for. We ordered Chessy Cheesy Chicken (for me) and Pesto Crusted Chicken -- both new recipes. The rice was a disaster (soggy) and the pesto chicken was blah! However, we are thankful for the opportunity to celebrate together in a nice resto. We just wished we ordered pasta instead.

The next day, the church office staff gave hubby a nice simple eat-together. We enjoyed the hot and crispy turon (check it out at the QC Hall), Pansit Malabon, biko and ice cream. Oh, and I brought the cake. Thank you Tita Doe and everyone at the office for a nice and very sweet gesture to my ver y special hubby!

I painted the town (oops...I mean "house") RED!

2008-09-19T20:19:00.000-07:00

I am halfway toward accomplishing one short-term goal -- re-paint the house! After more than six years of being bright yellow, I decided it was time to change color and go crazy!

Here are just a few photos of the final paint colors. My original Violet Essence-Jolly Orange-Salad Green combo didn't pan out (the colors were out of stock) evolved into Vivid Rose-Burger Brown-Tasty Tan. I painted our entire tiny bedroom in 4 hours (with snacks in between), and finished off the stripes on our living room's main wall. We still have shelves to install and stereo speakers to re-arrange. I will paint the rest after our Baguio festival next week.

Have a colorful viewing!

Are you being "short-changed"?

2008-09-19T19:41:00.000-07:00

People have pet peeves, and it's normal. Mine usually have something to do with principles of life and common decency. One pet peeve my hubby and I often encounter is public establishments that do not give us our due change -- as in, "sukli".

We recently ate in Pinoy Don at the Podium - which we usually do when in our fave mall - and got a major disappointment when the waiter did not give us our exact change. I don't remember how much it was but it still stung. You see, it's not really the amount but the principle. I have already asked a few waiters if they would mind us paying them short of the exact amount we ordered. I mean, if they don't feel a pang of guilt when giving us our "short-changed" change, then I guess they wouldn't mind us paying them 50 centavos or P1.00 less than our bill?

Some other establishments that didn't give us our due change are Mile-Hi Diner in John Hay Baguio City, Cabalen at Festival Mall, and even a cashier at SM Sta. Rosa. What is up with that? They got a telling-to from me, in a very civilized manner, of course.

Do we still need to wonder why our country just can't seem to rise above corruption and poverty? Corruption starts at the very bottom. These unlawful practices should stop and and be stopped by those of us who encounter them. Not saying anything at all makes us guilty of the same crime by allowing such corrupt practices to be propagated. We are not being polite by not confronting the matter -- we're just being accomplices to the injustice. Is this really what we want to teach the younger generation?

Please, countrymen, do us all a huge favor and teach good values by putting a stop to "short-changing".

Signs of the Times

2008-09-12T00:07:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I went to one of our favorite malls, The Podium, to relax after watching a church concert. It's a higher class mall so it naturally smells better, looks better and feels better. With such standards, we expected even movie signs to be up to par. Oh well, were we mistaken!

Here is a shot of the sign in front of their cinema. Please tell me you notice what's wrong with it!

It should actually read, "Share a popcorn with your loved one."

I'm sure you can come up with some signs of your own. Here's another common one in restaurant menus: "ice tea". Duh, don't they mean iced tea?

In store windows: "Store Close". It should read "Store Closed".

If you're really into signs (and what they really mean), check out the book "The World's Stupidest Signs" by Michael O'Mara Books Ltd. in bookstores or at http://www.mombooks.com/html/humour.php.

Remember, "If you are satisfactory
please tell your friends
If you are not satisfactory
please tell the waiter"
(Sign in a Chinese restaurant)

Garage "SOLD"

2008-09-11T23:44:00.000-07:00

Yes! My garage sale was a success -- almost everything was sold (roughly 90+%). I'm thankful to Tess, Tony and the kids for allowing me to use their "garage" for my sale last Saturday. Ria (their 6-year old daughter) kept me company the whole time and always stayed nearby whenever someone would come in and browse. She also helped me cope with my boredom during the lulls in between sales. Gian (their middle son) and his classmates, meanwhile, distributed all my 600 fliers in the village after school. Now that really helped!

Most of the stuff you see in the photos are no longer with me (thank God!). I loved it that most of the people who came were in disbelief upon seeing the items in good condition and their selling price. I sold our 36-pc dining dishes for only P100, our Black & Decker iron for P30, a set of nice glasses (6-pc) and an 8-pc cup and saucer set for P35 each, good Tupperware pitchers for P30 each, etc. A lot of items I also priced at only P1-P10!

I told hubby that that was my 5th garage sale. He said he enjoyed watching me sell our stuff, since it was the first time he saw me "in action" in a garage sale. And since I consider myself a young "veteran" in the biz (as if...), here are some pointers I learned to assure success in any garage sale:

1. Clean the garage!

Just because it's a garage sale doesn't mean it should look like a messy garage. People are more attracted to a clean shopping place and will more likely stay longer and buy more.

2. Promote, promote, promote!

Aside from the 600 fliers we printed and distributed, I also placed an announcement in our clubhouse bulletin board 5 days before the sale. Two weeks before the sale is too early and people will tend to forget about it; 2 days before the sale may not give people enough time to even see the annoucement or prepare for the sale. Tess also helped me with a text brigade announcement to her friends and contacts within the village 3 days before the sale. Lastly, I posted a recycled streamer announcement the day before the sale, to make sure that people who received the fliers or saw the announcement knew where to go. Remember, your garage sale is only as good as the people who come and actually buy stuff.

3. Location, location, location.

It was a big help that Tess' place is located on the main road, 2nd house from the school near the village entrance. I didn't even consider doing the sale in our house because the location was not "strategic". Passers-by had the chance to see the streamer, just browse around and eventually end up buying stuff. I mean, who can refuse a used pair of Reeboks for only P10?

4. Create an attractive merchandise display.

I learned a lot about this from my stint at Cinderella's, but mostly from my personal experience shopping. I do know the psychology of product display (especially in supermarkets) and I applied it to my sale.

My used accessories looked very attractive wrapped inside new plastic bags. I also displayed glassware, decor and other fancy stuff together on a table to create more "bling" and more impact. Books were displayed on a rack lent to me and on a table facing the gate, by category and look. In other words, I tried to re-create a quaint store look to make potential customers take more than a second look. Oh, and I used sticker price tags to make things look a bit more "professional".

And another important tip related to this: always wipe and/or clean your wares before displaying. I, personally, would not take a second look, much less touch, dusty and dirty merchandise. Besides, you can only price an item so much when it looks old and dirty.

5. Price them low.

Remember, it is a garage sale! Price the items low enough for people to want to buy and be happy with their purchase. I have been to one too many garage sales and left disappointed because the used items were priced as if they were brand new! You are not doing the garage sale for profit -- the proceeds are just a bonus. And as my Papa said before, "kung napakinabangan mo na, ibigay mo na lang." I just took it a step further by selling the items at unbelievably low prices, as if I'm giving them away.

Another tip on this: let them name their price. This gives the buyer the "control" and he will be happier with an item he believes he priced himself. I placed the "higher-end" items on "Name Your Price, Best Offer." One lady saw my used luggage and asked how much I was selling it. I told her to name her price and she did: P100. She could not believe I gave it to her at her price. Of course, I do have a "ceiling price" in mind that I would be happy with.

6. Keep re-arranging the items as your display diminishes.

Since the items went fast, I had to get up many times to re-arrange the items. I kept bringing the items closer to each other, still keeping order in my display, so that my "store" would always look "full". I got rid of the "empty spaces" so that people who came later still felt they had stuff to buy that wasn't just a left-over.

7. And finally, don't bring the unsold stuff back into your house.

Unless the items unsold are of a high value (like my SLR camera and some paintings), throw or give the rest away after your sale. I'm a fan of the show Clean House on HGTV and this is one of their principles in garage sales. Once the clutter goes out, do not let it back in. My sis also said, be ruthless when de-cluttering. SO now, our house is de-cluttered once again and I have more space to move around in.

I do get rid of stuff at least once every year to make sure clutter doesn't pile up. I did not have clothes to sell at the garage sale because all of our used clothing went into donations. This is also a great way to de-clutter - just give stuff away. But be sure they are still good enough for you to use or wear when you give them away. I feel that it is not "polite" to give stuff that is very old, tattered or dirty. Would you want to receive stuff like this?

Hope the tips will help you with your future garage sales. Me, I'm happy. I not only made more than my expected amount, I also have less stuff to clean around the house.

The Day Our Sofa Went to the Dogs

2008-08-27T03:06:00.000-07:00

That's right...our comfy red sofa went straight to the dogs! Peanut claimed her "place" on the sofa the moment she came to us. She feels it's her second bed, right on my lap, that she snarls at Toepy whenever she (Toepy) gets near it.

And just yesterday...it was Beans! We let him inside the house (he has his own house in the yard plus the whole yard to play in) after he begged us with his cute "Beanchie-cuy-cuy" look on our window sill. We do let him in when he's not too filthy.

And just when we started to relax with our breakfast, he jumped on to the sofa and tried several positions on it, as if it was the softest bed on dog-earth! We were too dumbfounded to react right away -- Beans was just too huge on the sofa, but he looked so cute!

I eventually broke my own rule (again!) and allowed him to enjoy it for several minutes. Of course, I vacuumed the sofa afterward. Ako pa?

Rebond Blues Away!

2008-08-20T03:30:00.000-07:00

Yes! I finally got my hair re-bonded, for the first time ever!!! Let me allay your fears, cousin Alex :-). My hair is baby soft (ahem! cough..cough..) and longer by a full inch. Plus, I didn't spend a fortune but got a certified (L'oreal) and experienced stylist to do it for me - at home! Thanks to my friends and their friends, my hair is now less of a pain and more of an asset, though my expression hardly shows it (photo taken at camp). Sigh...

Fresh Calamansi Juice..in a bottle!

2008-08-20T03:18:00.000-07:00

I'm the first to be skeptical about bottled juices that claim to be "all natural". Well, what do you know...I found one that's the real thing! It took my hubby's falling ill (the dreaded flu) for me to discover this bottled wonder, in Rustan's, no less. Desperate to find reasonably priced natural fruit juice, I went each shelf until I found this Squeezed 4 U - funny name.

You only need to fill 1/10th of your glass with this calamansi-honey concentrate -- tipid! I was pleasantly surprised that it did taste like the real thing, sans the effort and mess of squeezing the calamansi, taking the pits off, etc. We both love it and we highly recommend it. I can't recall the exact price, but it's around P160+. Not cheap, but not expensive either. Hmmm...I'm getting thirsty!

Seeing Clearly with Star Finder Optical

2008-08-10T00:16:00.000-07:00

I know, it sounds like an ad. And you can call it that, since I totally endorse this optical shop - Star Finder -- located on the 2nd level (counting the "basement" as 1st level) of Festival Mall in Alabang (and another near BF Paranaque). We usually take the entrance with Figaro, and from there head to the left (past NB and Bayo). Just a few short steps and you'll see their sign on the right with some Korean characters. I guess it's safe to assume that it is owned by Koreans.

My hubby and I had eyeglasses made and so went back a few times. We also went with our friend Tess on one occasion, who had glasses made but doesn't wear them now. I guess she just couldn't say "no" to her son who just started wearing them for kicks. Wait 'til his eyes start complaining!

Anyway, the whole point of this exercise is to commend the staff of Star Finder for their excellent customer service. They also gladly and gamely posed for my cellphone camera. Too bad I don't remember their names (memory gap, you understand). The lady third from left is the ophthalmologist (or optometrist?), and she was very efficient.

None of them did hard sell just for the sake of it (or a quota) and all of them assisted us as much as they could, even taking several frames out for us to fit. The trouble with other optical places (especially Sabater Optical in Festival Mall) is that (1) they only assist those they are "sure" will buy something from them, (2) they hesitate to let clients try on several pairs, and (3) they immediately keep the frames while clients are still selecting, as if afraid we'd run away with them. Duh? Oh, and they don't smile!

To cap off the excellent service, here are a few more "touches" that made our optical experience enjoyable: (1) friendly people, including the Korean guy who also assisted us, (2) efficient staff, (3) free candy on the counter, (4) helpful tips and advice regarding a few frames we selected, (5) mini screwdriver set on a keychain for each of us and (6) text updates on the status of our specs.

So, if you need to have specs made, you know where to go. Kudos to the staff of Star Finder!

Happy B-day Mini Cake

2008-07-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

It was the birthday of our friend Tita Doe last July 22. To give her some smiles on her special day (actually, the day after), I baked her a banana muffin topped with chocolate frosting and sugar decor. She was the one who took the photos with her camera phone (thanks, T. Doe!). I would have wanted it to be much bigger but I was not able to get a bigger muffin cup. Anyway, I had fun doing it (after baking several batches of muffins for sale) and wrapping it up in a special muffin clear box with ribbons. I had to be very careful with it, though, since the frosting tended to stick on to the clear plastic. On her next birthday, I hope to be able to give her something "bigger" - we'll see...

Just about food...

2008-07-14T20:02:00.000-07:00

I just thought I'd photograph some of the food we've had the past couple of days. Hubby and I love our version of Chinese Fried Rice. This, of course, is not unique, but it's pretty special since we usually cook this together. My arms tire easily so hubby does the heavy mixing. We got the idea from the Chinese fried rice we love to order whenever we are in Malaysia. Only this time, we made it tastier (eg. not just adding boiled chicken pieces, but actually cooking them in a barbecue marinade and then frying) and "busog sa sangkap" (fried dulong, chicken, egg, green peas, carrots and corn).

And then I baked banana muffins to try to sell at our friend's store. It turns out that our friend (Tess) sold it to our members after church. So, they got sold out before they even reached her store.

I also tried a chocolate chip cookie recipe, but added cashew nuts. They turned out yummy, according to hubby and Tess.

The only "problem" with baking all these stuff is...there's none left for us! I always end up selling them so I would usually find myself hungry afterwards and looking for cookies or banana muffins. Oh well...such is life with a business...

Hubby Bonding with Peanut

2008-07-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

Hubby would always say Peanut is "maka-mommy". I would agree simply because Minpins are known to be a one-person dog. Since she is a gift from hubby to me and I spend most times with her, that "one person" really has to be me.

So, these few times when Peanut would jump into bed to cuddle up to hubby are times that need to be photographed, even if it's just by a cellphone camera. Awwww...cute!

Craving Chocolate

2008-07-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

The sweet advantage of learning to bake is that I can satisfy my cravings without having to buy stuff at the grocery. As long as I have the basics (flour, baking soda, etc.), I can bake something sweet any time. And that's what I did!

Since I don't have any chocolate bar or cookies in the house, I decided to just bake some cookies last night. It's one of those experiments again, not for sale, so the appearance isn't as "presentable" as I would have liked. The good thing, though, is that it tastes good and I had my choco craving satisfied -- at least for the night.

Sleeping with Peanut

2008-07-02T20:24:00.000-07:00

I, along with my sis and late mom, are neat freaks and feel easily queasy in damp, smelly and dirty surroundings. Well, I can almost "see" my mom turning in her grave when we got little Peanut.

I remember telling my hubby that I will never allow an animal in our bed -- never! But when Peanut came, tiny as a rat, helpless and clingy, I couldn't help myself. I had to give in! She cried all night and only stopped when I placed her in bed, on our pillow. Yeah, don't tell me -- I was the one trained ;-).

Well, after 1 year and 2 months, Peanut has found her fave spots on the bed and the best one is curled on top of my huggie pillow (covered by our blanket), right inside my curve, her butt facing my face (farts and all).

So how do I manage with all the fur and other unmentionables? Let's just say I've mellowed down and just change our bed sheets more often. Sigh...

Bakin' Banana Bread

2008-07-02T19:58:00.000-07:00

I love banana bread! Since I began baking, I have been twitching and playing around with some recipes to come up with that one loaf that I really like. Well, I did it ;-)! I sold one loaf to our friend Tess (a.k.a. baking Gunea Pig) and she loved it.

Basically, I just wanted the bread to be more moist than what I usually taste, and with more nuts and raisins. So, I just added more milk, bananas and vanilla, then added cashew nuts, white chips and raisins. Hmmm...time to bake another one.

House guests are like fish...

2008-07-01T03:52:00.000-07:00

"House guests are like fish; they stink after three days." I can never forget this line both hubby and I heard from a couple we stayed with a few years ago in another country (see how vague I'm being?). No, they didn't think we were like fish, thankfully. We stayed with them a total of three weeks in their cramped apartment. You could say it was a unique experience .

We did what we could to make our "free" stay with them as painless for them as possible. We were, after all, indebted to them for accommodating us at a very inconvenient time in their life. We helped them set the table for meals, cleaned up afterwards and made sure we kept each plate, glass and untensil in its proper place - every single day. I was also requested one time to cook our famous adobo (chicken cooked in vinegar and soy sauce) and I didn't hesitate to do so. I also recall cooking another dish -- I'm just not sure what it is.

We tried to give them as much peace as we could by leaving their house and walking around town just to talk and pass the time. We didn't have a lot of money so we needed to save every bit of what little we had. Those were tough and lonely times for hubby and me. We would go into a grocery to buy the cheapest prepared meal we could find and share it between the two of us. We did this so that our hosts would not be burdened about feeding us every single meal. We were very aware of their circumstances -- they, too, were not of the higher income bracket.

When they went to a mall one time, hubby carried their baby's stroller up and down stairs, the whole time, while I tried to carry as many grocery bags as I could. Mind you, I do not carry grocery bags back home -- hubby carries them for me because he is, after all, a gentleman. He also knows my arms are not the strongest and I often drop things. We could almost read the minds of our fellow "Pinoys" whenever we bumped into them: "OFW din ba kayo?" I guess we did look like alalays (helpers), no matter how well we thought we dressed.

Looking back now, we did learn a lot from that experience. We learned to be grateful for every bit of grace extended to us. We could not take anything for granted, especially since we were on foreign soil. Everything we are and everything we own are given to us by grace -- they are not our right.

So if you ever find yourself having to stay over in somebody else's home, here are some very helpful tips:

1. Be grateful for the hospitality and favor extended, and say it, as often as need be. The homeowners cannot read your mind and as social beings, will always look for some sign of appreciation. So learn to say "thank you" as often as is necessary, and mean it.

2. Volunteer to do some household chores. Do not assume that your hosts don't need your help; and even if they don't, offer anyway. But be sure to observe carefully how they do things so you will not bungle up.

3. Do not abuse their hospitality. Do not hog their couch, toilet, TV or computer (and always ask permission before using any of their appliances or gadgets). Always take the least comfortable chair and leave the soft comfy sofa to them.

4. Do pick up the tab (or at least offer to) every once in a while. Pay for a day's grocery. Buy some fruits to add to the meal table. Offer to treat them to a cup of coffee. It need not be expensive, but the gesture is priceless.

5. Engage your hosts in meaningful conversation. Nothing comes across as more rude than you passing your hosts and ignoring them in their own home. And in today's text generation, it is a must that you place your texting habit on hold, especially during meal times.

6. And finally, never outstay your welcome. You will actually begin to stink like rotten fish and your hosts will be only to eager to throw you out.

This story does have a happy ending, though. Before we left the country, our hosts openly told us that they appreciated our stay and what we did to help out. And then they said that too often, house guests are like fish...you know the rest. They readily told us that we were not like their other house guests and that we were, in fact, the best house guests they have ever had! We sighed in relief and thanked God for His guidance and mercy. We didn't stink!

Doggie Heaven at Tiendesitas

2008-06-28T01:53:00.000-07:00

It was a good day to finally take Peanut on her first trip to Tiendesitas. It's a shame that there are no other "malls" that allow pets to stroll inside with their people. She was on her best behavior and did not tug at her leash the way she usually does in other places. She also was not not bothered at all by the puppies that barked at her from their steel cages.

I told her that she would meet some "friends" there, and that she did. She met a female brindle Dachsund and eagerly approached her to do her usual "sniff at the butt". It was funny that the little Dachsund's people did not know that this was a normal thing for dogs when they want to get to know each other. While we may be turned off by butt-sniffing, it's different in the dog world. I do believe I heard the handler say "Ay, bastos." Hmmm...dog owners and wannabes out there, please do your research before even thinking of having a dog. We owe it to them to treat them right.

Peanut also gamely approached two 6-month old Old English Sheepdogs (both photos) above being walked by their handler from the Avilon Zoo. That's the thing about MinPins - they're fearless! They are truly big dogs in small packages.

Meanwhile, two Chihuahuas in mini skirts became aggressive at the sight of Peanut, so she returned the same aggression. I only later researched that Chihuahuas are "clannish", meaning, they would rather be with their own kind. No wonder George (Golda's Chi) and Nicu (Brian's Chi mix) got along well and shut my little Peanut out.

And then I saw the Pug of my dreams (photo at left)...a cute black Pug pup with the flattest face I've seen on this breed so far. He took to me right away and basically told me to take him home. Sigh...I had to stay several minutes more and think of a name for him.

I then saw the perfect Chowchow for my Hubby. He keeps holding on to the name "Precatoria" (ask him about it) in case he gets another dog. But after seeing the photos taken of the Chow (left), he decided that "Precatoria" didn't suit him, but a Roman name. Duh? By the way, both the Pug and the Chow cost P18k -- cough, cough!

The pet shops were the only fun place for Peanut and me. IF I had a ton of cash, I would've gotten Peanut a travel bag, some sweaters (for Baguio), a new harness, some toys, a back-pack for me to carry her around, not to mention all the pups I could find. I don't agree with the current system of keeping pups in their cages too soon. They need to be with their dam and litter mates for their first 2 months (at least) so that they will be well-adjusted and will not have the bad habits that usually form when they are stuck in cages for many months (like soiling their own space).

Anyway, it was relaxing to see so many pups and I went home with their images swimming in my head until I fell asleep.

A Buzz from the Chief Justice

2008-06-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

What a thrill! My hubby got to invite Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, Reynato Puno, to speak at their Men's Conference in Tagaytay (theme was "More of Jesus"). As my hubby will blog about soon (visit his site compassionateconsiderations@wordpress.com ), Justice Puno was his "classmate" at the Haggai Institute in Singapore a few years back and was his groupmate (with all the Filipino attendees) as well. The short of it is, I tagged along on the first day of the conference just to see and hear Justice Puno speak. At the end, after the "official photos", hubby introduced me to him and as we shook hands, he pulled me forward and gave me the "beso-beso". And I was the one privileged to receive it -- just meeee!!! Oops, allow me to gloat for a while.

Unfortunately, I don't have photographical proof of that beso - just witnesses who went green with envy --haha, kidding! I will post our group photo, though, as soon as my hubby gets hold of them.

I felt a thrill because such an esteemed man is so down-to-earth! It was really a privilege to have met him, if even for a short moment. I will pray for him.

"Beso-beso" with Chief Justice

2008-06-21T02:43:00.000-07:00

"Beso-beso" with Chief Justice

2008-06-21T02:41:00.000-07:00

"Beso-beso" with Chief Justice

2008-06-21T02:40:00.000-07:00

Do you smell something?

2008-06-19T02:55:00.000-07:00

It's almost 10 pm, I'm tired, sleepy, and missing my hubby who is in a conference in Tagaytay. As I try to think of what to write here, I remember the comforting aromas that I look for in these "tiring" times.

I love the scent of my hubby -- fresh from a shower or straight from a day at work, it doesn't matter. His scent comforts me in a bad day and assures me of his love for me -- and that's just his scent!

I love the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. While I don't particularly like Starbucks, I do love that I smell their coffee a mile away. It gives me the feeling of freedom -- the freedom to just "sit and talk awhile" over a nice steaming cup of coffee. I can almost see the swirling steam...

I love the smell of freshly baked bread (especially one with butter). It brings back memories of my mother -- her care and attentiveness toward us.

I love the smell of fresh linen. I can almost fall asleep just thinking about it.

I love the smell of a freshly lit matchstick. I know, it sounds a bit weird, but I do enjoy the "phosphorical" smoke (ahem..cough..cough) -- it brings me comfort, especially in the little girls' room (haha!).

I love the smell of "imported goods". You know, that very distinctive scent when you open a balikbayan box from the US (I don't know about other countries). I've always associated this smell with the love of my aunt and grandmother whenever they send us their Christmas package.

I love the smell of a brand new car. Need I say more?

New Packaging for Cookies

2008-06-13T19:53:00.000-07:00

I just recently "expanded" and "professionalized" my baking operations (sounds major, huh?) by re-designing my Velvet Confections logo (to fit the new packaging and market) and re-designing its packaging. I'm also happy to announce that you can now get my Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies and Healthy Oatmeal Cookies at Ming's Garden (Silang, Cavite, en route to Tagaytay) and Rowena's, also along the road to Tagaytay. I promise you'll love it, as my husband says.

Chef Jomel

2008-06-13T19:29:00.000-07:00

We had the pleasure of having our young friend Jomel stay with us again for one night two weekends ago. Hubby wasted no time in assigning him to cook "tinolang manok" (chicken soup with green papaya). Jomel did not hesitate at all and confidently cooked one of his masterpieces. He claimed that his tinola is to die for, since he's Kapampangan. Well, I must agree with him -- haha! At the end of the meal, hubby had to admit that Jomel's tinola was better than his. Oh well, no matter -- I like hubby's tinola too...mwah! Thanks for the treat, Joms!

My 2nd Cake!

2008-06-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

I baked a caramel cake with buttercream icing for our friend Tess’s 41^st birthday (oops! She may not want me to say this). I made two mid-sized cakes just as a contingency, in case one turns out funny. The caramel swirls and “flowers” were made of caramel sauce mixed with confectioner’s sugar, cooled. It was a “guess-what-will-happen” design since I wasn’t sure yet how the random caramel drippings would look. I think it looks quite artistic, if I may say so myself.

I baked the cake toward the evening since the whole day was packed with activities. Tess didn’t know that I would still be able to bake her cake. When it was done, hubby thought of pulling a prank on her. He sent here an SMS saying that we have a problem and that we wanted to talk with her and just cry to her if she was still awake.

Naturally, being the friend that she was, she said that we can go to her house and she immediately sent her kids inside so we could talk in their yard privately. She also called up hubby’s phone just to find out in advance what the problem was. Hubby gave her a very convincing answer in a very serious tone, while trying very hard not to laugh.

We decided to just park our car outside her house while we waited for her to come over. She rode in the back, already asking where we were going to talk. And then we sang “happy birthday to you…” and laughed. Needless to say, she got the surprise of her life and kept telling us we were “pangit” – haha! She liked the cake and we all ate it in their yard. I hope we made her happy that night despite the prank.

Buko pie, anyone?

2008-06-03T19:31:00.000-07:00

I love a good buko (young coconut) pie. Unfortunately, a lot of “fake” buko pies are being peddled along the roads of Los Baños and Tagaytay at a not-so-cheap price and people not in the know end up buying them. We, too, were victimized once and we ended up biting into a hard, plastic-like flour mixture underneath the crust topping. Ugh! We threw out the whole pie.

The good news is, there is a very good buko pie and it can be found in The Original Buko Pie store, also along the Los Baños route. Many stores along the same road claim to have “the original”, but only one store really makes it fresh and worth your money. And we were blessed to have a church member give us two boxes of The Original two weeks ago. Even my hubby, who isn’t a buko pie fan, loved it. I am now craving for it as I write. Do have it cold with a good steaming cup of brewed coffee.

System on Low-Batt

2008-06-01T01:08:00.000-07:00

After several weeks of silence, I'm back in front of our PC named Gigapooh. I still find myself tired and a bit unmotivated after all the youth summer camps, trips, chores and other activities these past couple of months. Summer is at its end and my hubby and I realized that...we need a vacation!!!

Some might wonder why, when the camps we've been to were located in resorts by the beach or were equipped with a nice swimming pool. Well, people, that was work! We hardly had time to even pose by the pool and pretend we just came from a refreshing swim. However, we did enjoy serving and being among friends and the tireless youth. Why, we even learned some of their lingo! Let's see..."astig" (though this is not new), "emo", "ngarag" (I still don't know what this really means), and others I can't recall right now.

So, now that our camp clothes have been washed, the house is back in a semblance of order, the dogs are rested, and my baking projects back on track, it's time for me to update my sites, upload some pics, and reflect through my blogs. But before I do all these, let me just pause for a while, take a deep breath, and recharge my 39 year old batteries.

Plumsky is here!

2008-04-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I have a habit of naming our furniture, appliances and other things after we purchase them. It's also our way of remembering the grace given to us by God every time.

So who's Plumsky? She's my brand new Kitchen Aid Artisan Series stand mixer! Her color is Deep Plum (violet and other shades of this are my faves), hence, the name. Cute, huh?

My hubby's high school classmate ordered her for us from the US after I saw it in the Kitchen Aid website (www.shopkitchenaid.com). It was offered as a promotional item so the price was a steal! I am very grateful for Eugenio for this huge favor to me.

I have been dreaming of and waiting for this mixer since I began baking last January. I guess it's the ultimate heavy-duty mixer for all bakers out there. I can't wait to bake a vanilla chiffon cake and whip up some light buttercream frosting. Yum!

My First Cake!

2008-04-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

I am absolutely thrilled! I was finally able to bake and decorate my first real cake two weeks ago. It's a simple chocolate cake with a choco fudge frosting and white melted chocolate for the decoraion. Since I don't have exact settings on my oven, I just try to adjust as much as I can.

The cake turned out better than I expected. It just needs to be baked at a much shorter time, though, so I'll apply this adjustment to my next one. It was a two-layer cake with frosting in between layers and all over the cake. I gave it as a thank you gift to our friends Tony and Tess for their generosity and kidness toward us.

Soon I'll be mixing away in my new mixer. That's my next story.

Kwentong Bacolod

2008-04-25T01:51:00.000-07:00

I am finally able to squeeze a few minutes of blogging after a hectic week. I feel like I am just beginning to recover from the trip and from the packing, unpacking, laundry, cooking and a baking business on the side. It's challenging without a helper, but I'm okay.

Our friends' (Tony and Tess) eldest son, Al, attended summer camp in Bacolod for the very first time -- and he's a virgin in many ways too! It's just too bad that I can't seem to find our photos which I know I already uploaded a couple of days ago! Pahabol na lang later.

His mom came along too, and this is nothing new to us. Part of the fun of serving in youth camps is traveling with friends and meeting a lot of new people. We've been to many camps together and we already know how it's like to share a room (my husband, me and Tess), so we have no worries in that area. But for her son Al, everything was brand new.

It was Al's first time to ride a plane (not the tool used for shaving wood) and he ended up at the last row, right before the toilet. Hmmm... not a very aromatice experience! He didn't mind it at all, especially since we also met a former youth camp staff in the same place, and a flight attendant at that. She recognized us but I hardly recognized her because she had her hair up and she was fully made up. She was thrilled to see us, I'm sure, because she immediately gave us drinking water even befor the plane took off!

After some stories with her, she proceeded to do her duty of demonstrating the flight safety rules, complete with facial expression and cool gestures of the hands. Tess was so absorbed in her demo (which she hardly ever is) that we thought she had plans of being a Lola Flight Attendant! "Announcing the launching of Lola Airlines! The airline for geriatrics, complete with wheel chairs, canes, and spare false teeth. Enjoy our special massage with White Flower for that amoy lola experience."

Anyway, back to Al. Because we knew the flight attendant, we were able to request for photos taken in the cockpit and with the rest of the crew. As Al would say, "astig!!!!" He needed those photos to prove to his friends that he really rode a plane. And why not? We also took photos of him and ourselves crossing the tube, by the plane, walking through the airport, and going to other places we used to ignore. We got to experience traveling in a new light. Aaargh! I really wish I could find those photos!!!

Al enjoyed his Bacolod camp experience despite the fact that everyone spoke to him in Hiligaynon. He would just give them a bewildered look which, I guess, they took as confirmation. He got along with his camp "brothers" and ate as much rice as they did. As my hubby would say, "gabundok ang kanin."

But the icing on Al's cake was winning the Best Bed Award (it was neat and tidy for the first time in his entire 15-year life) and the Mr. Congeniality Award. Friendly!!! He was the perfect gentlemen and danced with every single female camper on the dance floor. No wonder the girls voted him Mr. Congeniality! He did his mother proud!

Go ask Al to tell you more of his stories. I'm sure he'll be happy to oblige. As for the three of us adults, we enjoyed our "ago-go" (known as ice candy in our world) courtesy of Nonong, the good food served by the CICM staff and their friendly smiles, the airconditioning from 12:30 PM - 2 PM and 8 PM - 6 AM (tipid), and the friendship of Terence and family and Boyet and Rizza. We all gained a few pounds from being fed soo generously and we will now try to lose those pounds here -- mahal na ang bigas.

As for our stay at the Business Inn, that's another long story. Go ask Tess or Al about it.

SEP Bacolod

2008-04-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

It has been four days since I last checked my site, and I am sitting on a bench in our hotel room here in Bacolod. Thank God for Wi-Fi! It's also great that Business Inn offers this service for free. We need to get ready for our dinner date with Rizza and Boyet in a Japanese resto so I can't stay long. More updates and stories about SEP Bacolod will be posted here when we get home tomorrow. Of course, I'll also post some photos. Meanwhile, God bless!

Rebonding Issues

2008-04-10T17:48:00.000-07:00

I must say that the hair rebonding technology is one of the best things to happen to women's hair. Before rebonding came along, we used to have our hair straightened or relaxed. Straightening made my hair springy, brittle, and not at all "touchable". I wonder what kind of toxic chemical they used then. Relaxing made my hair nice and straight for a day. After shampooing, forget that you ever went to the salon the day before! What a waste of time and money!

Whoever came up with the rebonding technology is some kind of hair genius - serious! Imagine altering the molecular composition (or arrangement) of your hair - from frizzy to downright straight. It's amazing! I know several ladies who had low hair-esteem before rebonding, and then start swinging their heads confidently after.

I haven't tried the procedure simply because I have been wearing my hair short for many years now. It saves on shampoo and combing, although I used a lot of gel to style it. I am seriously considering it now, though, since I've decided to try to grow my hair again. I don't have a lot of patience anymore so it's a feat for me to just wait it out. And this brings me to the top three salons I inquired at yesterday.

I decided to ask three salons in SM Sta. Rosa if my current hair length can be rebonded and if so, how much it would cost. First stop was David's for Rever.

I personally like the service of this salon and I've tried those in Festival Mall and Paseo De Sta. Rosa (plus others I can't recall) a few times and their service is good - plus, they give good shampoo, massage, haircut and coloring. But I was sorely miffed by their branch in SM Sta. Rosa. When I asked my rebonding questions to the receptionist, she simply looked at me, hesitated a moment, then told me my hair length is alright for rebonding and that it would cost me P4K. Whaaaat? My hair length hasn't reached my chin yet! My hubby reacted violently as well and made sure the receptionist heard it.

So off I went to Ricky Reyes Salon and asked the same questions to their receptionist. My hair got the same cursory glance and I was hit with the P5K rebonding cost. Uh-oh! No way, tooth decay! I'm on a tight budget, remember?

Last stop was Ystilo Salon. This is a much younger salon than the two I've mentioned, but it has been receiving good reviews. I asked the same questions with a nice smile and their receptionist did what I had waited the other two receptionists to do all along. She called their senior stylist who approached me and checked out my hair. He lifted the back to see how short my hair was in that area. After only a few seconds, he told me that my hair cannot be rebonded yet because it was too short at the back, ergo, my scalp will get burned. Finally, some professionalism! They then told me that it would cost P4.9K once my hair length reaches chin level.

Now that I know the going rates of rebonding in the top salons, I can start saving for it. I am just thankful that Ystilo Salon was very professional and was not just after another "sale". A burned scalp is not worth the rebonding trouble. Kudos to their staff and management team!

Try Karate Kid

2008-04-08T23:03:00.000-07:00

Despite a limited budget, hubby and I make it a point to eat out every now and then. This pleasurable activity is also enjoyed by my sis and niece. One of our fave eating places nowadays is Karate Kid in SM Sta. Rosa.

If you want no fuss, semi-Filipinized Jap food that tastes great and is budget-friendly, this is the place to go. I'm sure there are branches of this franchise in other malls -- we just haven't tried them elsewhere.

I love their newest offering, the Fish Katsu which tastes really fresh, comes hot and crispy, with rice, a side dish of mixed veggies and your choice of tartar mayo or wasabi mayo sauce. I tell you, their portions are huge for an asian fastfood offering. The photo of the dish is a realistic depiction of what they serve you. They beat Tokyo Tokyo anytime. I also love their red iced tea which, according to them, is real brewed tea with fruit. It's my fave iced tea so far and I'm beginning to crave for a bottomless order in this heat!

Hubby loves their Chicken Yakisoba and Gyoza. The Yakisoba is almost good for two people and is sooo tasty! It comes with grilled chicken bits and veggies so the whole dish is well worth your hunger. The Gyoza tastes better than those we've tried, even in Japan. I don't know, maybe their chef just got our tastes spot on.

We've also tried their rice bowl toppings and california maki and they don't disappoint. Perhaps they can try making the maki a tad bigger to fill us up, although I doubt it will fit my mouth in one go.

And while sampling their food, we enjoy our usual people watching, especially the kids who always fall for the huge Karate Kid statue. They never fail to dip their tiny hands into the rice bowl of Mr. Karate Kid and pretend they're eating from it. Cute!

I must also commend the manager of the SM Sta. Rosa branch for being friendly and professional, and for still honoring our expired free meal ticket. It was a great freebie at P200, which gave us two full meals plus iced tea. Not bad for a couple on a tight budget.

My Niece Turns 12!

2008-04-08T21:06:00.000-07:00

Time really zooms! My niece Eunice, who was a cute "siopao" at six months old is now hitting the roof of tweendom. In our Purple Wedding photos, she was just three years old!

How I wish hubby and I could celebrate with her and her mum in KL. They had lunch (and yummy dessert) at Secret Recipe in The Curve. I love this place! It's classy and not crowded at all -- plus, it's close to IKEA! And that particular branch of Secret Recipe is our favorite. Now if I can only actually taste the American Brownie I asked them to order for me...

My sis sent me text messages about this birthday lunch plan, as well as her gift to Eunice, a couple of days ago. So, I'm in on the surprises. Since I don't think Eunice will get to read this before she gets her surprise, I guess I can divulge it here -- it's a Yamaha C40 guitar!!! Cool!

My niece got interested in playing the guitar during their visit here last December. I have a guitar that looks so much like hers (now), but it's not a Yamaha -- boohoo! My envy aside, she picked up some basic chords pretty fast from her mom (who plays the guitar much better than I do), and I guess she got bitten by the guitar-bug. I guess she'll be strummin' away tonight!

Eunice also plays the piano and is continuing with her lessons. Her mommy dearest is also taking (or should I say "continuing") piano lessons at the same school.

Have I mentioned that my niece is also a chess geek? She's been winning school and inter-school tourneys left and right! I never took a liking to chess, so I'm hardly a candidate for a chess playmate. I'd rather play Equalizer with her (great game for practicing your Math). Anyway, I'm just happy that she is given many opportunities to grow and develop her skills and talents. Later on, she will start using and recognizing the giftings God gave her.

She does Math in her head (like her Aunt Goo), reads a lot of books, likes solving Sudoku puzzles (I do crosswords instead), loves licking peanut butter off her spoon (yuck!), goes for wrestling in bed (I'm too old for that, please!), writes her own songs, poems, and stories, loves to sing (she and her mum know the latest songs and artists), loves to tell jokes, and runs around after me just to pester me -- he-he! That's my niece!

So, here's to a very happy and blessed birthday. God loves you and will always be with you. I love you very much, my little big niece!

Other Blog

2008-04-03T00:43:00.000-07:00

I have been busy lately writing Christian articles which I have not been able to do in a while. You may view them on my blog site http://purplethoughts.wordpress.com. I also have this link on my home page links.

The challenge I face whenever I try to write an article is not uncommon. Sometimes the experiences I go through are too painful for me to pen, but then again, writing about them can be therapeutic. It is also sobering to realize every time that I am completely under God's grace and mercy -- especially when I write articles. I am an empty and useless vessel without his divine inspiration.

So I am somewhat relieved that the "ice" has broken and I am able to express myself again in deeper ways. I praise God for his never ending patience with me.

Update on Lady

2008-03-30T16:27:00.000-07:00

Lady has a new home! She was adopted by a certain Mr. Chan from our village. Now why do I get the feeling that he is actually the "owner" of Lady? Anyway, we're just glad not to see her tied to the same old tree.

Puto Bumbong All Year Long!

2008-03-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

Everything purple seems to be good, at least for me. I love the color, ube ice cream, grapes, and of course, puto bumbong! Hubby and I have found two great places to find (and eat) good and tasty puto bumbong.

Our favorite can be ordered in El Rancho, a Western style open eating place inside John Hay in Baguio City. It's freshly made, comes in bigger portions the usual Christmas roadside buy, and may come with a steaming cup of batirol (hot cocoa) for only P75. Now that's a great deal in my book!

Peanut sings "My Hump"

2008-03-28T15:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, the title is right; but no, Peanut doesn't really sing BEP's My Hump. I was just taken aback when one night as I watched TV on the sofa, Peanut started humping my arm! After the initial shock, I got amused as it looked really funny. And then I had to put her back in her place.

This humping of a female dog is not unusual at all. It is a learned dominance behavior and she was simply trying (just trying) to establish her dominance over me. Of course I didn't agree to that because hubby and I should and will always be the alpha "dog".

I noticed that she would also try to dominate Toepy (our senior dog). It is true that a Miniature Pinscher is a big dog in a small body, and she believes that without question. She feels that since we let her sleep on our bed (yeah, if Mama were alive, she'd have a fit), she is the "favored one".

It is quite a challenge to care for a minpin and any handler should have a strong enough personality to train one. For those of you who plan to get one, beware! They are certainly super cute and cuddly as puppies, but they can become little tyrants when mature.

Our good old Toepy has challenged Peanut's assertion many times and has "humped" Peanut as well. The old gal won't give up her dominance without a fight!

So, if you ever catch your female dog humping a person or another dog (male or female), don't be alarmed. Just gently but firmly put her back in her place and show her who's the boss. She'll soon get the message and will no longer be singing "My Humps" all the way up your arm.

New Look

2008-03-25T23:01:00.000-07:00

After writing about coffee, my site screamed for a more "appropriate" look. If you've read my previous blog, I wasn't exactly ecstatic about Starbucks, but I can't deny the appeal of its logo and overall look. Who knows, I may still change this when I find something else. In the meantime, thanks to Starbucks for this very "aromatic" look.

You may also want to try Melitta Hazelnut Coffee. It was given by a friend who knows about our coffee habit, and it's actually good. Just be sure to use a paper filter and just the right amount of coffee (1 heaping tablespoon for every 2 cups of water), otherwise, you'll get that "lasang lumiliko" that hubby got initially. Now, for that cup of coffee...

Lady's Homeless Again

2008-03-25T21:04:00.000-07:00

Well folks, the old Lady was returned yesterday afternoon after she was adopted just the other day. So we brought her some food again last night as we walked all three of our doggies. She barked after us again when we started walking away.

Apparently, she barked incessantly in her "24-hr new home" so she was booted out. I found out that she barked for the same reason: she simply wanted company. Whenever the kids who adopted her would leave, she would loudly call them back. For a dog who has been missing her "people" for several weeks, it is understandable that she needs compassion from people badly. An abandoned dog does not relish being tied down, petted and then left behind. I guess it is the same with abandoned kids.

So, if there is anyone out there who has a heart for an old Lady and enough love, time and resources to take her in, please let me know. For now, she stays in the village clubhouse with the security guards, still waiting for a kind soul to adopt her. I pray she will have a nice warm home soon.

Why I Make Mine Brewed

2008-03-23T23:05:00.000-07:00

I love brewed coffee; the smell of a fresh brew, the fist sip, the works! I even love the whole process that goes into brewing a good cuppa joe.

As coffee enthusiasts, hubby and I have tried several brands over the years. Of course, we've also gone to the popular and not-so-popular cafes just to relax and treat ourselves to a cup or two. As a result, we've come up with the following coffee critiques (take note: the following are opinions and not facts):

Starbucks - we love the coffee aroma that permeates the place, but we don't exactly relish drinking their stronger brews. We find most of their brews, including their house blend, bordering on the acidic, and it's no longer comforting to our palate. A friend of ours usually orders a small cup of their house blend, gets a cup of warm milk, and then mixes them to come up with two milder blends. It's not only more suitable to her taste, it also gives her an extra cup of coffee for the price of one. Their decaf house blend, though, tastes like water downed regular, and I don't appreciate it at all. Trivia: Did you know that Starbucks regular coffee contains 166 pts. caffeine while their decaf has 8 pts.? If you want to know which brews suit your taste, take their Coffee Taste Matcher. My coffee preferences apparently include these: Yukon Blend®, Caffè Verona®, Italian Roast. I've tried their Yukon and Verona and they were to my liking.

Figaro - aaah, the ambiance is woodsy and gives the place a rather "clubby" feel, if there is such a word. The decor caters to the more mature and sophisticated crowd, and the subdued yellow lighting is not for the rowdy and noisy yuppies and Koreans that frequent Starbucks. It's also proudly Filipino-owned! The coffee is just to our liking -- not too mild yet not too strong or acidic. Their food selection is also tasty and their sandwiches go well with the coffee. For more coffee trivia, check out this link. You may also check out the history of coffee and other facts here.

Seattles Best - their coffee is sort of midway Starbucks and Figaro. The house blend can be a bit strong without the acidity. Their branch in Caltex SLEX is our favorite because it serves all-day breakfast!. Their pancakes are good and filling, and their pastas are tasty as well. I do have an issue, again, with their decaf blend -- if possible, it tastes even more water downed than the same at Starbucks. I have brewed decaf coffee at home and while the caffeine is taken out (most of it anyway), the strong taste remains. This is what I have been looking for in these posh cafes and I have yet to find a great cup of decaf. We will stay away from their branch in SM Megamall because of their poor service and poor coffee.

These are our usual coffee hunts and have only occasionally tried Gloria Jeans and other similar cafes. We'll see where we end up one of these coffee days.

When brewing at home, we prefer Folgers Classic Roast. Of course, now I drink decaf and Kirkland suits my decaf palate fine. It's exorbitantly priced, though, at P800++ in Shopwise. If anyone is a member of S&R, do buy me a can of this since (check out photo below left) it's only P500++ there, tax-free. And I'm already out, so my system is just making do with Nescafe Instant Decaf -- ugh!

Whoever you are, oh kind soul, I'll pay you back, no worries.

So these are my coffee fast breaks. At least now you know why I make mine brewed.

Lady Luck

2008-03-23T19:23:00.000-07:00

Looks like luck is smiling upon Lady -- more of a blessing, really. Our friends' kids have indicated their desire to adopt her. After feeding her for two days and giving her a much welcome bath, she now has a home. Thanks to our friends!

Now all she needs is to gain some weight, get regular exercise and a date with our Beans!

Lady wants to know...

2008-03-20T03:56:00.000-07:00

Last night was a night like all the rest (why do I sound like a music CD?), with the exception of a 10-hour power outtage in our entire village. After a long hot day of touring houses we cannot afford to buy (again!), all my hubby and I wanted to do when we got home was to take a nice cool shower and watch the American Idol rerun (since we didn't think we'd be home in time for the 6PM show) in our soft red couch.

But, alas, that was not to be with no electrical power so we just took a quick shower (thank God our water supply was still aplenty) and hied off to our friends' house just a few blocks away to have a nice galunggong and radish salad dinner. My hubby likes his GG hot and crispy, preferably with condensed milk on steaming hot rice. However, we did away with the sweet sticky milk and had cold Coke and Dalandan Soda instead. 'Twas a hot, humid and candle-lit affair as we shared some anecdotes of the day.

Just as we were winding down, our friends' kids excitedly informed us that there was a big black dog running around close to their house. It was obviously far from home and was causing a ruckus among the other caged dogs in the neighborhood. They also said it looked like Beans (our 2-year old black Labrador Retriever), so, being the dog fans we are, my hubby and I looked out the gate (remember that there were no lights everywhere so the village was bathed only by the light of an almost full moon) and saw the silhouette of what seemed like a Labrador Retriever. Upon closer inspection, the wagging rudder-like tail and the boxy head gave it away - it was, indeed, a lost labrador.

She (it was close enough for us to determine its gender) poked her wet snout through the gate, perhaps picking up the salty scent of fried leftover GG, and begged to be let inside. She is perhaps 5 to 7 years old as we saw in the white fur around her snout, and is also very thin because her ribs were very visible even in the dark. Poor girl!

We ended up feeding her and giving her a tabo (dipper) of water to quench her extreme thirst. She was obviously exhausted from running around for days (or maybe weeks!) so she just lay by our feet, the sweet and friendly Lady lab. We did take her back eventually to the village guards who informed us that they picked her up just that afternoon but that she managed to escape.

Why do people get dogs, purebreds or mongrels, and treat them terribly? It's something that really irks me no end.

A neighbor who just moved in two houses away has two puppies, a yellow lab and a dachshund, trapped in a very small steel cage all day. They never leave that cage -- they eat, pee, poo and sleep in it -- all day! Only a flimsy tarpaulin covers the top of the cage so they are exposed to every imaginable element. Worse, the puppies' only interaction with humans is with the househelp, who feeds them and douses their cage with water every now and then to flush out the refuse. I know this because I see them everyday from the window of our 2nd floor room.

For all of you animal lovers out there, please let me know where I can report such animal abuse. I have checked our SPCA and other related websites but they don't deal with these cases the same way ASPCA does it in the US. We also don't have enough animal shelters to take in all these dogs.

I'm sure Lady wants to know why she is now tied to a tree and left alone without her people. I would adopt her in a heartbeat if we had a bigger home and budget to support another pet (we already have three dogs). Apparently, our village has a rule (which I have not heard about yet) that restricts each home to two dogs only. We've already violated it with our third dog.

I'm sure Lady wants to know if she will ever have a nice warm place to go home to every night and people who will feed and treat her right. After assuring the village guards that she is friendly and just needs to be petted and loved, she stopped calling us back (she barked incessantly the moment we left her) and settled in with her temporary handlers.

I'm sure Lady wants to know why we didn't take her home with us when we saw her again tonight. She remembered us and yanked at her leash to get near us. It broke my heart to leave her again. If anyone knows someone who wishes to adopt a mature and friendly black labrador, please let me know. We will try to make arrangements for her adoption if her owners do not claim her anymore.

'Til then, Lady wants to know...when?

Tagaytay Trippin' (on a budget...or not!)

2008-03-18T00:43:00.000-07:00

Being just 20-25 minutes to Tagaytay, we frequent this area pretty often. And with the temperatures climbing fast again, the cooler climate Tagaytay offers is a welcome respite. In fact, we will be heading there tomorrow to show some friends around.

So, if you ever plan to go to Tagaytay, here are some highly recommended establishments to visit:

Ming's Garden (pictured above right) is a favorite place and is usually our first stop en route to the cool city. My Aunt who came to visit from the US, marveled at the abundance and variety of flowering plants in the garden. I began to see what I took for granted as something beautiful and inspiring. Do order their chicken adobo flakes, tapsilog and suman sa lihiya. The suman comes in a pair lavishly slathered with macapuno and panucha syrup. Yum! It goes well with their brewed coffee. Their choco banana walnut is also scrumptious! I hope they keep this up because some people may not agree with my views! These goodies don't come cheap, though, so be ready to fork out at least P200 per person (without any drinks), or just have suman and coffee for around P150, which we have many times.

Another stop is Ponderosa Leisure Farms. There is no entrance fee but you do need to be accompanied, though, by an accredited sales agent or broker, like our friends Tony and Tess Santilan from Maritone Realty (Tess is in the photo with me above, left). While we haven't bought property there, we like to daydream that we have and simply enjoy resting in their gardens or taking another look at their model homes. Be ready, though, for the harsh reality check

afterwards: "God, ba't mo kami ginawang mahirap?!"(God, why did you create us poor?!)

If you end up not buying property there (because you simply can't make enough money in your lifetime to afford even a pot of land here), at least take lots of photos, like we did on the left and below. It's all part of the fun!

Once you reach Tagaytay, heading toward the restaurant rows, you may want to stop and spend one night in Discovery Country Suites. It's a 7-room mini-hotel with significantly more than the comforts of home. Each room has a unique theme and comes with welcome cookies and milk (watch the calories!). Though their rates are upscale (it's a budget buster to the nth degree), the whole place is worth it and they are filled to capacity even on weekdays. So be sure to book early -- and save even earlier!

There is also Boutique Hotel and you may get more info on this by clicking on the link. I must admit that hubby and I haven't stayed in either hotel, but we love to check out new hotels, camp/conference sites and restaurants along with our broker friend Tess. I like the fact that you get to choose the type of pillow you want (goose down pillows!!!) as well as the organic toiletries you prefer. Of course, they also offer in-room WiFi access, wall-mounted LCD TVs, IPod -ready docks, king-sized beds and breakfast for two. Watch me salivate...pant..pant...

Another favorite eating place is Antonio's Grill and since we need to watch our budget (or "budjet" with a silent "t" a la French) we usually order their chicken inasal with sinigang na gulay. The sinigang comes in a huge bowl (more than enough for four people), piping hot and super asim (sour)! It's great for a bad cold and it won't bust your ever decreasing budget! I always order the pakpak (wing), which I love, and is the cheapest in the menu at less than P100.

For chocoholics!

2008-03-14T23:26:00.000-07:00

For some odd reason, I suddenly have the craving for anything chocolate! I say "odd" because I've never been a chocolate fan -- ever! -- until last year. I wasn't even tempted by chocolates as a kid!

The craving just started kicking in around 11 months ago, little at a time, and now it's full blown. Sigh... and I thought I was the exception! I do eat in moderation, though, for weight and throat issues, but even my ice cream flavor preference now should include chocolate.

So, so stave my chocolate cravings during the lean times, I've come up with a cookie recipe that includes, you got it, chocolate! The photo above shows my White Chip Chocolate Cookies. They're chewy and sweet! Hubby eats this with a glass of milk - like the chubby kid does it in the Oreo commercial. Just one cookie is enough for me to get through several hours -- hahaha! And for those of you who need a scrumptious choco-cookie fix, you may order them at P12.00/pc. I use good quality cocoa so the cost is well worth it!

Another twist is this Banana Cupcake
with Chocolate Frosting, shown in the photo on the right. The frosting is gooey and topped in the center with Nips. Yum! Just like the cookies above, these taste better cold, so it's best to store them in the fridge. These cupcakes go for P10.00/pc. (plain) and P16.50/pc. with chocolate frosting.

Of course, I had to bake some brownies, right? I used some leftover Toblerone (dark) as "chocolate chips" and the brownies turned out to be sinfully dark -- and yummy.I don't take orders for this yet but I'll be sure to post updates soon. Check out the photo below. Watch out all you chocoholics out there! I'll be baking up a storm!

Our New Baby

2008-03-07T17:30:00.000-08:00

It's funny how, after getting a new pup, one wants to get another one, then another one... For those who don't already know, hubby and I got another pup last June. Her name is Peanut and she is a black and tan Miniature Pinscher (min-pin for short). We got her when she was just a month and a half old and she looked more like a rat than a pup.

I really had no plans of actually "buying" her -- I just wanted to see her. When hubby saw her (and me fawning, I guess), he decided to get her for me and so began my little love affair with our new pup. When we accompanied her breeder to the vet, little Peanut was so frightened on the vet's cold metal table that she crawled under my left arm that was on the table. She stayed there and there was no turning back! She had me at "ngiork".

She's now a healthy and bouncy 9-month and has recently become an adult with her first period. Our big Beans (black Labrador) wouldn't leave her and kept tailing her. Since it's virtually impossible for them to mate (the thought actually horrifies me), I was able to breathe some.

She's a true terrier ("pinscher" is German for terrier) and has boundless energy. She leaps so high and canters like a little dear. I'll upload some videos as soon as I can.

So here's to our little Peanut!

Cookies For Sale!

2008-03-04T22:45:00.000-08:00

I finally did it! I'm in business!!!

My business is called "Velvet Confections" and it's just all about the yummy baked stuff we all dream about when we're stuck in our little corner on a dull day.

For now I'm selling my Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies for P50.00 (tub of 8 pcs.) and P90.00 (tub of 15 pcs.). But I only accept orders that are placed at least 3 days in advance (1 week in advance during the popular holidays), and paid in cash. Moolah is badly needed in my one-woman, small-oven operation. Also, I don't deliver anywhere farther than QC ( I live in Laguna), and it had better be no less than five large tubs for me to make the trip.

I've been receiving good reviews on these cookies from friends, family and acquaintances. So have no fear! It's good and very nutritious.

What's New?

2008-03-04T21:09:00.000-08:00

I'm turning 39 in a few months' time and guess what...I'm into baking! The "passion"came to me at the start of the year, and it hit me so unexpectedly. So, you will be seeing some photos of the stuff I had begun to bake in the following months -- and maybe some stories as well. Meanwhile, I have cookie orders to complete within these 2 weeks. My Peanut Butter Oatmeal cookie recipe turned out to be a huge success, especially with my hubby! As you can already guess, I have my hands full (in cookie dough), what with only 3 cookie pans and one teeny-weenie oven!! But I feel totally blessed! Here's to a very good baking year!

My Birthday Wish

2008-03-04T20:20:00.000-08:00

It’s the day before my 37^th birthday and thoughts are racing in my head. Along with my long mental list of impossible (in this lifetime, anyway) and not-so-impossible wishes, I toyed with ideas on how I would like to celebrate 37 meaningful years. And yes, although the phrase “meaningful years” does sound a bit cliché-ish, it seems to be the best way to illustrate a life that did have (and still has) meaning. After all, a life without meaning or purpose is no life at all.

And so I ended up thanking God. And God opened up an entire list of a totally different nature – a list of people I am most thankful to (not just thankful for). This is nothing new, but it caught me slightly off-guard, especially when my mind was dead set on daydreaming and fantasizing.

We are all living on borrowed time, and I am made aware of this everyday. So before my time is up, I owe it to God and everyone I love to send my birthday messages of gratitude.

For all of you who mean the world to me… here goes.

I thank you, my “Ate”, for being the kind of person you are. You are strong, highly principled and unyielding in your faith. You have served as my model of godliness, servitude and sacrifice. I don’t know how you do it, only that you have allowed our greatest strength, Jesus Christ, to live in you and through you. You have always believed in me and said that you have faith in me. You continue to live out Philippians 2:4-5 in your life and I am blessed because of it. How I wish that more people can have someone like you as a sister! What we have is special and will transcend this lifetime.

I thank you, my precious niece, for coming into this world and into our lives. Like your mom said, you are a miracle. Thoughts of you bring me much joy and gratitude because you are a smart, lively and beautiful girl. God has wonderful plans for you, and I look forward to seeing you grow more and more in His awesome love.

I thank you, my aunt and “lola” in distant shores. You thought of me more than 7 years ago even when many years and miles separated us. You thought me worthy enough of your time and resources and honored me with your presence on my wedding day. Thank you, for thinking of me, your niece and “apo”, and for loving me even from a distance. To know that I still have family in the midst of loss has been a great comfort to me and “Ate”.

I thank you, my friends and dear neighbors. You have stuck by me and my husband and have supported us in more ways than I can ever recall. God sees your work and your hearts that care for us, especially in times of great need. You welcomed us into your lives, not just emotionally but physically as well. Thank you for always keeping us in your thoughts and prayers – and in your many plans, meals and numerous coffee breaks.

I thank you, my friends and mentors. Your lives have guided me and my husband and your continued support and expressed love spur us on to fight the good fight ‘til the end.

I thank you, my college friends, now my lifetime friends. Although our lives have taken different paths, our memories keep us close. Thank you for the many mini-reunions we’ve had and the many more get-togethers we will soon have.

I thank you, my young friends. Your lives, ‘though fewer in years, have enriched mine. God has given you to me to teach me to love more, care more, serve more and pray more. I may not have children of my own, but I have not missed out because of the many experiences we have shared and the many opportunities our Lord has given me to serve you.

I thank you, my brave friends in the field. You are an inspiration and a light in a very dark world. You have taught me to get down on my knees for your cause and the cause of an endangered world. Your knee bends have strengthened and sustained mine. I appreciate you and keep you in my petitions.

I thank you, my friends and “Connections”. You have given me the chance to share my life with my fellow servants from all across the globe. I discovered a love for writing that I never fully realized I had. You became the answer to a prayer and desire to reach out to more people.

I thank you, Mama and Papa. You may no longer be with us physically, but the many memories and lessons you have left continue to guide me in my walk. I will see you again, and it will be like we were never apart. How I miss you and long for that much awaited reunion!

I thank you, my parents-in-law, for raising a wonderful and God-fearing man, and for entrusting him to me. You have always been supportive of me and our friendship, and I know that you desire the best for us always.

And I thank you, my very precious hubby. You are a gift to me from heaven, prepared especially for me even before I was born. We were created for each other and our marriage is built on the best foundation – Jesus Christ. Thank you for being my best friend 22 years ago, and for loving me so well ‘til now. You are the man of my dreams and the love of my life.

God has been good to me. I have more gifts than I can ever unwrap in a lifetime!

And so on my 37^th birthday, this is my wish: May our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, continue to bless you all and grant you the desires of your hearts (as He has mine) in His name.

I love you.

JOJO (“Sheila”, “Ate Sheila”, “Tita Sheila”, “Tita Jo” or “Ate Jo” to some of you, and “Wifey”J)

Written 05/01/06

Musings on Tiendesitas

2008-03-04T20:12:00.000-08:00

People have been buzzing about the latest and hippest hangout in town – Tiendesitas. It literally means small stores. Friends have been inviting me and my husband to this place for weeks and I must admit that I have been very curious about this place myself. After all, it is located in Ortigas (mall central), right in the middle of the posh and exclusive villages of Manila.

My husband and I, along with some friends, finally got the chance to visit the place last Sunday afternoon, after a very early start from Sta. Rosa (way south) to Pampanga (way north) to attend church. Why we went to church many miles away is another story.

My husband and I were anticipating a very enjoyable experience in a much hyped up place. Well, we were in for a very rude and disappointing awakening.

While parking is free, it was a nightmare to find a vacant spot. It is obviously a favorite of the rich and famous so all the huge and imported vans came in full force. You’d best have a driver on hand if you don’t want to start off your Tiendesitas experience on an irritated note.

Thank heavens the cool December air was present! The crowd and barbecue smoke emanating from the big food tent at the hub were enough to turn us off and decide not to go back next time. My eyes smarted from the smoke of the barbecue pits and my hair and clothes literally smelled of coal-roasted meat! The place is, in my opinion, a glorified Divisoria and Greenhills in one. I say “glorified” because the whole structure is made to look like a compound of open Indonesian wooden cottages that, without the commercial trimmings, would actually resemble a beach resort in Bali.

Looking through all (and I mean “all”) the stalls and merchandise found me wanting. There was really nothing new, and certainly nothing that Greenhills and many other malls didn’t have to offer. Most of the prices were standard (and not lower, as one would expect in a “tiangge” atmosphere, no matter how posh), and some were even what I would consider exorbitant. They are just lucky to have attracted the A (as in “affluent”) crowd.

Perhaps the only unique thing among the plethora of stalls and merchandise was the pet area. There were enough dogs, cats, fish and birds on display (and for sale) to keep the kids and their nannies entertained. The presence of more than one pet grooming station was also a plus and a great excuse for pet owners to show off their Shi-Tzus and Chihuahuas in their multi-colored leashes and designer outfits. Legally-blondes-with-dogs Elle Woods and Paris Hilton have definitely left their mark. Did I sense some competition in the air?

As I sat on one of the benches in the food tent, I observed a food stall buzzing with activity. It sold Vigan Empanadas (small meat pies) and okoy (fried shrimp cake). This stall had the longest queue of hungry folks and some even stood in line for close to an hour just to get a taste of the delicacy, prepared and served by mestizas who looked like they could just be shopping instead of slaving over a hot stove. The price also seemed very reasonable, at 3 pieces of empanadas or okoy, or a combination of both, for only P100.

Naturally, I was more than curious and I have heard many times that the food is best where the queue is longest. It makes perfect sense. I had also observed that the food pieces were quite large and those who happily sat and ate theirs seemed more than content. So I asked a friend’s son to stand in line (which he did for 50 minutes) to buy 3 pieces of okoy.

You could imagine my anticipation (it had been almost an hour) and my stomach acids churning at the prospect of a great snack! I happen to enjoy food and I especially love food that can be dipped in vinegar (the commercial variety). Okoy was one of them.

As I bit into the crispy okoy, I had to stifle a groan of utter frustration and disappointment. Where was the shrimp? The batter hardly had any taste, was overdone around the edges and soggy at the center, and the much anticipated shrimp was almost imaginary! Was this what people waited an hour in line for? The vinegar dip that came with it was the organic type (I forgot what it is called) and one I particularly did not fancy.

It was unfortunate that my friend and I didn’t order the empanada. Maybe that was what the hungry mob was really hankering for. Maybe the okoy was just to add variety to their food offering. I don’t know, but I certainly questioned people’s tastes as I strove to eat as much of the okoy as I could to wash down some of the buyer’s remorse I was beginning to feel.

I was also shocked at the P75 kamansi (beef and jackfruit in sour broth) I ordered in another stall. It came in a small (handful) styropore bowl and didn’t have much of the jackfruit or broth in it. Another stall sold suman (sticky rice/cassava cake wrapped and cooked in banana leaf) which quite a number of people were also waiting to order. When the supply finally came, my friend and I approached the stall only to find out that each piece cost P22! For a native snack, that is quite expensive. We left that stall in low spirits and emptier stomachs.

Maybe I ordered all the wrong things. Or maybe Tiendesitas is just not the place for me. I immediately sent my husband a text on his phone (he had left for a meeting) to let him know that it was not a good idea for him to try out the food on his way to pick me up.

It was good for me to finally see the place and have the Tiendesitas experience, if only to finally satisfy my curiosity. But give me the mall anytime! I’m older, wiser (I hope) and more careful with the hard-earned cash entrusted to me. I will go where the food is good and reasonably priced, where the merchandise is affordable to most, and where I can roam and shop in a clean, well-lit, air-conditioned environment.

Written 12/20/05

Manners and Handel's Messiah

2008-03-04T20:02:00.000-08:00

It was a rainy Tuesday evening in the middle of December and the air was nippy, as if signaling the quick arrival of Christmas. My husband and I just managed to park our van into a very tight spot, the only remaining slot in the entire unlit parking lot of the University of the Philippines’ Abelardo Hall (College of Music). Students in their semi-soaked jeans and old folks dressed to the nines all piled into the crowded lobby, hoping to catch a seat in the old and tiny auditorium.

I have to give credit to our dear ole’ university – despite its age, the auditorium did not have that typical musty smell we would come to expect in any old room or edifice. But then again, maybe the extremely cold breeze (yes, it sure felt like one) from the air conditioning system killed all existing bacteria in the room and froze all my nasal hair and any olfactory capabilities I may have possessed. I was thankful to have brought a wrap and beret.

My husband and I were excited. It had been a while since we had the chance to watch an excellent choir perform excerpts from Handel’s Messiah. In fact, we never had the chance, as a couple, that is. It was also an opportunity for us to celebrate Christmas through song.

The auditorium was quickly filled to capacity. It’s amazing how there seems to still be much interest in listening to a choir perform Christmas carols in such a “formal” setting. Maybe people wanted to be reminded of the real reason for the season. Or maybe it was the extremely friendly ticket price that drew everyone in.

After a very entertaining spiel from the Dean of the College of Music, the choirs started to perform their Christmas carols. From the youngest choir to the most professional and world renowned one, my husband and I enjoyed quality singing and performances from our very own university chorales. The rousing Hallelujah Chorus was the much awaited finale and was given the encore it fully deserved. We were proud to be U.P Alumni!

The choirs were all accompanied by a full orchestra, also students of the College of Music. Need I say more? It was a professional performance given at a very reasonable price to anyone who cared to come and watch. And this brings me to my observations for the night.

While the concert was open to everyone who had a ticket (which meant a lot of college students and even some very young children) and no dress code was imposed, I still expected a certain level of decorum and behavior during such an event. I guess such expectations would naturally merit some disappointments.

Admittedly, some of the solo performances were a bit dragging, especially to the younger and uninformed set. One solo even caused some uneasiness. Exposed and informed as I am, I still had to stifle a giggle at the performance of the male alto. Seriously, wouldn't a full grown man in a dark blue Barong Tagalog (Filipino male national costume) singing in a soft feminine voice (falsetto all the way) create some cognitive dissonance? I’ll say!

But stifle my giggles, I did. The rest of the crowd was not as subtle. I almost dreaded the solos, which were interspersed between the chorale numbers, because these were taken as cues to take a restroom break or to simply leave. Thank heavens for dim lights! I certainly hope the performers did not see the bobbing heads and moving figures in the dark as they belted out their arias.

And then there was that unmistakably irritating noise of crumpling plastic bags. Ugh! The rustle lasted a whole 10 minutes before I mustered a look behind me. Two old ladies (perhaps U.P Professors?) were busily rummaging through their plastic bags for some peanuts! I knew they were peanuts because I smelled them and was practically salivating! Was I mistaken in assuming that eating was not allowed during a classical concert? I did not see any signs but I assumed that proper decorum dictated it.

I was very hungry and wished I had brought my cookies. At least mine came wrapped in aluminum foil – not as noisy.

I am always amazed by this growing insensitivity toward others. Perhaps the sound of crumpling plastic did not bother the two old ladies, but in a very quiet crowd with only a soprano singing to the accompaniment of a harpsichord, that same sound can become a reverberating noise. None of our “looks” in their direction had any effect and the rustling sound went on for 2 more arias.

And then there were the random comments given at the most inopportune moments and delivered at higher-than-appropriate decibels. Whispering is a lost art, that is, unless a secret is being illegally shared!

Manners matter. They do because they involve others. Placing ourselves in another person’s shoes certainly helps remind us to be considerate.

My husband and I enjoyed the evening despite the unpleasant surprises. It was a privilege we are grateful for and the message of Christmas resounded in our hearts (and ears!) as we drove the long way home.

Finding my blog identity

2007-01-31T00:22:00.000-08:00

After months of struggling with what I really want to blog about, I came to the conclusion that I need not think too hard. The materials were already ready and waiting to to be "published" from my Starbucks journal -- and the materials are adding up really fast!

Being a staunch believer in excellent customer service and common (or maybe not) courtesy, I always have an opinion as to how a place -- usually a public establishment like a restaurant or hotel -- could be better run. And I have had many opportunities of late to express my opinion and give some friendly advice to people in the industry. I will need to backtrack, though, as some notes date back a couple of months.

Here's hoping some folks from the service industry will stumble upon this and learn a thing or two about how their people can truly make a difference in their business and in the industry as a whole.

Paradise in Boracay Tropics

2006-12-08T22:45:00.000-08:00

We have stayed in many hotels, including the faux-hotels, but Boracay Tropics Resort Hotel, located in Station 2, Boracay Island, Aklan, breezed to our top five favorites. I have stayed there three times this year and each time was great!

It's in the details, I'd always say. The "little" touches create the best impact and leave the most lasting impression. I take my hat off to BTRH's owners Bert and Cely Sarabia for their diligence, class and Christian values. These are evident in their staff members' high morale and sunshiny smiles, their hotel's elegant rooms and facilities and the efficiency of their hotel's operations. If you'd like to know more about the Sarabias and their grand oasis, do check out www.boracaytropics.com.

My hubby and I love the rainforest showerhead in every bath and the bidet in every toilet. This is Asia, after all, and (1) water is scarce in many places, thus, a shower is a luxury, much more a rainforest shower and (2) we do use a tabo -- a plastic dipper to wash our behinds with in the absence of a bidet. These two amenities are sadly absent in a lot of hotels -- even major ones here and overseas -- we've stayed in. My sis even brings her own miniature tabo when checking in at hotels. Who knew?

The bath towels are lush, clean and smell of Downy. I may be wrong, of course. It could be Vernel. And the beds! Firm mattress, crisp white linen (I didn't get to check the thread count) and enough fluff on the pillows to give us a good night's rest without the stiff neck in the morning.

Best of all, its just that feeling of clean all around. You know it, smell it and feel it the moment you enter any place or establishment. And the friendliness of the staff just adds that sweet icing to our very comfortable stay. Aaaah, paradise indeed!

Nicked again by a bad pedicure!

2006-12-06T22:55:00.000-08:00

Aaargh! I can count the number of times I have had a salon pedicure -- ten fingers will cover it. Yup, that's how seldom I've availed myself of the luxury. It's not just that I don't trust the way salons do it -- it's that they haven't done it right a single time for me!

Oh yeah, my toes would look all glossy and immaculate, but @#*^%! A digit or two would swell the next day and my foot (whichever one is infected) would be in pain for about a week. What irks me even more is that the pedicurist will never admit to nicking my toe or cutting out my ingrown nail!

I thought my favorite facial place, aptly called "Let's Face It" (where I had my pedicure), would be different. Well, I guess I now know why they didn't call the place "Let's Nail It".

Jollibee's free-bee and good food

2006-12-03T21:50:00.000-08:00

You know what I love about Jollibee? It's local, it serves relatively good food (never mind the fact that it's fastfood junk) and it gives me a free newspaper with my breakfast meal! Super! That means hubby and I have to order a second cup of coffee -- not free -- so we can peruse the pages of our free daily.

I also love the fact that they tweaked their fries to finally make it as crunchy as its competition (you know, McDonalds?), that they have more variety to offer (imagine getting palabok fiesta!) and that their fried chicken is the best! Yo, Chicken Joy! Their longganisa is tasty without the dripping fat and their pancakes are fluffier than McDonalds'. I'm getting hungry...

What I absolutely can't stand is their super sweet spaghetti. Since when did an Italian tomato-based original become laden with saccharine? Eyeuwww! Do kids really eat this stuff? Parents, do watch out that our kids don't get diabetes so soon with all the sugar added to their meals.

Jollibee's staff have been friendly and courteous so far so there's another perk. Keep it up, guys! Buy Pinoy!

Bukidnon's rolling hills & carabao's milk

2006-12-02T21:45:00.000-08:00

I never knew carabao's milk can taste so good -- and so fresh! I guess the thought of drinking a horned black animal's milk put me off but the fresh air and verdant rolling hills of Bukidnon convinced me to take a sip.

Hubby and I spent two days at the Philippine Carabao Center in the heart of Bukidnon. The center sold, what else, but carabao's milk products. My taste buds agree with some new found friends that carabao's milk does taste fresher and lighter than cow's milk. I also didn't experience the usual tummy twirl after drinking a whole glass-full (it's called lactose intolerance). For those whose stomachs can take a beating, I highly recommend sampling all the center's freezers have to offer, including the super rich chocolate milk, soft milk candies (pastillas) and of course, the fresh milk.

I also enjoyed inhaling the fresh air, sans the refuse of carabao from the adjacent farm, and marveled at the utter lack of "urban development" for miles. If those hills were in Manila, they would've been leveled and sold to the real estate developer with the highest bid.

Anyhow, kudos to the PCC and the Bukidnon local government for keeping it's hills alive with the sound of moo-sic.

Cagayan de Oro's damp hotels

2006-12-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know, Cagayan de Oro (or CDO) is a city in Mindanao, the 3rd major island south of the Philippines. My hubby and I travel within the Philippines quite a bit, mostly to serve and train church workers. It can be a very rewarding experience wrapped in less than sterile conditions. CDO is not a clean place and I found it necessary to check the soles of my shoes every now and then just to be sure I didn't step on something undesirable.

We stayed at Nature's Pensione -- a "faux" hotel, which my sis and I coined to refer to hotels with less than 1-star rating. It's dark, damp and all corners of the room unsuccessfully hid water stains that never saw the light of day. The beddings were 60 degrees off the white scale and the towels felt rough and worn to the core. And to think this was even a recommended hotel!

What I really ask myself many times is this: Why are most smaller hotels in the Philippines this much short of clean? Hubby and I even checked out another hotel nearby, just to see if we had better options, and ended up even more disappointed. No offense to our Chinese brothers but they are not exactly known for their cleanliness, right? I forgot the name of this Chinese-owned hotel but it was made to look grand outside (which is not surprising) and was priced much higher -- but looked even more seedy and damp than Nature's Pensione. The carpets were green (what's with the green carpets???), old, dirty and heavily stained on all corners. Yuck!!!

I wish I took a photo of the rooms. But then again, I think I know why I didn't bother.

Toepy & Beans

2006-11-23T21:14:00.000-08:00

We don't have kids - we have pets. Two dogs, one black the other white. Toepy is our white (with some black spots strategically located to give her a "panda look") furry mongrel and Beans is our black labrador retreiver.

Toepy, having been with us for almost five years now, is fiercely loyal and has the mentality of a chihuahua. She follows us everywhere in our tiny home, gets easily startled, feels abandoned whenever we walk two feet away from her, longs to be carried (as if she does not weigh 15 kilos!) and actually hangs on to every word we say to her. She absolutely hates competition, for our attention, that is, and ruthlessly guards her dark aquamarine bed like a fortress. Who does she guard it from?

Beans. Yup, just a year and three months old and weighing in at a hefty 25 kilos (we guess). He came into our lives with the zeal and excitement of a gnat on my bare leg and expected everyone to feel the same -- even Toepy. You guessed it -- she hated him.

But that's all history now and they play like your typical cat and mouse -- Toepy being the cat, of course, the alpha dog, and Beans being the submissive mouse at the growling reprimand of his master dog. But the playfulness remains, as long as it's on Toepy's terms.