Thursday, December 11, 2008


Last night, I dined out with my girls Aileen, Rey and Paula at Bigby's Cafe to celebrate mine and Rey's December birthdays. It was fun! Bigby's gave us chocolatey treats (picture above) and sang happy birthday for us. It was nice!

Unexpectedly, their food came in huge servings, there were actually leftovers of our Food Trip Platter, Belly Buster and Chix Ahoy. And I thought we were giant eaters...

The food was great + super fun company = another unforgettable night!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008


I've heard a lot of fuss about the book but I never really had the chance to grab a copy and so I just waited anxiously for the film and yesterday was the day it hit the big screen. Already made plans with workmates weeks ago that we watch it on the first day of screening. Right after the clock struck 5:30, we cleaned our desks and headed straight to the mall, ate dinner and then bought tickets for the 7:30PM screening. We arrived at the cinema at 7PM and there was already a long line of excited viewers. I guess many shared our excitement cause when we entered the cinema, no seats were available anymore aside from the first row seats, so without any other choice, we placed ourselves there.

And then the movie begins....

The wait was all worth it!!! I fell so in love with the film, I fell so in love with the characters. It is a MUST SEE so you better do.

Among my favorite lines in the movie which left me dreamy are:

"I do not have the strength to stay away from you anymore."

"I'm only afraid of losing you."

"We can't be apart."

Edward: "And so the lion fell in love with the lamb."
Bella: "What a stupid lamb."
Edward: "What a masochistic lion."

So my readers, go and buy yourself a ticket. Now!

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Bloggers' Eyeball

To all Mindanao-Davao bloggers out there, check this out. . .

The DigitalFilipino.com Club is organizing a fellowship/networking event where e-commerce industry players and bloggers can catch up and exchange updates. This will be on October 21, Tuesday, 6 to 11 pm at the Pantawan Hall, Grand Regal Hotel, Lanang, Davao City.

This event is sponsored by our club member PAGCOR.

6:00 - 7:00 Registration and Dinner
7:00 - 7:30 Guest introduction / plugs Welcome Remarks - PAGCOR Branch Manager Arthur Malatag
7:30 - 8:00 Updates by Janette

DigitalFilipino Web Awards 2008
DigitalFilipino.com Club Updates (online workshop and other efforts)
Ratified.org Philippines Top 100 Blogs 2008 (blogs that had big moves in 2008)

8:00 - 8:30 - PAGCOR Updates by President and COO Rafael "Butch" A. Francisco
8:30 - onwards - Raffle, Networking, Games

Bloggers are welcome to attend this event for FREE!!!

To register, you can either go to Davao Bloggers Haven or DigitalFilipino.com.

Friday, September 19, 2008

I have this friend from the States who kept on telling me to read this Best Seller book for some time now but I never got to buy the book. And then, in one episode of Oprah, it was featured and of course the author himself was there, Mitch Albom. The book was made into a movie already and some parts of it were also shown in the show. It was that Oprah episode that pushed me to buy the book right away the next day. Luckily, the bookstore was on a one-month sale so I got it for a cheaper price.


I have always been a bookworm just like my mom. She has this wide collection of pocketbooks which she started collecting at Grade 5 and she has like hundreds of it, she actually had a pocketbook library in our old house. I can still remember when I was still in high school, we'd race reading her books and that's when I totally ruined my eyesight. Sigh.. When I got married, she gave all of her books to me, but unlike before, I haven't had the time to read any of them anymore.

Good thing that someone led me back to reading, my friend Reverie and Oprah. Reverie wanted me to read this book as I already lost my mom 3 years ago and according to her, this book is all about losing your mom and how you can give just about anything just to have one more day with her. I read and finished the book in 4 hours and I was glad I bought it. The story wasn't actually relatable to my relationship with my mom but it was moving and I would recommend it to those who haven't lost their moms yet so you could change whatever bad relationship you may have with her, before the time comes that you lose her forever.

The book inspired and taught me though on how to become a better and more loving mom to my child. I have realized as well that I have yet to experience more challenges in raising my kid that I should handle with much care so she may become a brilliant individual. One wrong move and it could damage her forever. Motherhood is such a beautiful thing but it is never easy. Nevertheless, nothing could ever defeat or weaken a mother's love. And that's what this book is all about.
"Never tell a child that something is hard...and never, NEVER, this child!"
- This is my favorite line in the book.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Che and I had lunch together again today. She wanted to buy cinnamon for Gian at Anniepie and since it's located in Ecoland, we decided to eat at the newly opened kabab resto which is also nearby, the Khash Persian Kabab. By the way, Khash Persian Kabab is the old kabab diner fronting Ateneo's Jacinto gate. They already transferred at Ecoland Drive at a bigger place, near the PhilHealth office. As usual, we ordered our favorite beef kabab with extra cheese of course. Lunch was great!

After lunch, we passed by Annipie, which is just a tiny foodshop along Quimpo Boulevard, just beside Ecoland Terminal. It is my first time to be purchasing their cinnamon which, according to Che, in taste, can be equalled with the famous Cinnabon, much more cheaper though. Upon entry, you can already see this huge poster where all their uniquely flavored cinnamons are showcased. Just by looking at the pictures, you'd be left mouth-watering.

I ordered 1 niners box, 5 of the Caramel Crunch and 4 of the Choco Mocha. Each bun costs Php 27.00 so a niners box totals to Php 243.00. Their packaging is also nice. They would also give you a cup of syrup which you can drizzle on your cinnamon buns before pytting them in the microwave. You can definitely make a loved-one happy if you'd bring them some of these sinfully delicious buns which also smell really, really good.

In the office, I ate one and chose the Caramel Crunch. I gave the rest to my officemates. I drizzled lots of the syrup on top and put it in the microwave. The first bite confirmed how truly delicious it was. Super! The caramel wasn't too sweet, it was just right. And the bun was really soft, warning though, you shouldn't put it in the microwave for a long time cause it might turn hard. Maybe for just a minute or two and should be in really low heat.

My frist Anniepie Cinnamon experience was satisfying. Another favorite in the making.


Yesterday, Che dropped me a yahoo message and asked if I could accompany her for lunch as she was crying and had to go out their office to calm down. She fetched me from our office and decided where to dine. We spent quite some time to decide and then she remembered our favorite lunch date meal before, when we were still working together. Then, every payday, we'd treat ourselves to a descent meal and we always go to Blue Post Lanang and eat our very favorite Christopher Ribs.


Christopher Ribs is one of Blue Post's value but worth it meals. It's a very tender, grilled pork spare ribs with a very delicious BBQ sauce. It already has a big serving of rice and achara as side dish. A very delicious soup is also served with it as starter. All for only Php 100.00 only and it's very well plated, if I may add. The serving is more than enough to make anyone on a diet vomit after eating. As for me, whose diet is always forgotten, I always enjoy eating this meal without feeling any guilt after.

Aside from the yummy Christopher Ribs, I like so much as well the ambiance of the resto as it never is too crowded especially during lunch time and the dim lights makes it even more appealing to me. Can't wait for my next Christopher Ribs.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

I am just proud to be a Dabawenyo!


Last Monday, I watched The Beat at Q TV and they were featuring the most progressive and elite cities of the country but in that episode, they were only featuring those cities on their side of the country. They based their episode on the latest result of the Philippine Cities Competitiveness Ranking.

And according to the list, Davao was hailed the 3rd most progressive and elite city in the country. Bacolod grabbed the first spot while Makati is on the second. I just can't help but feel proud for Davao, feel proud for Dabawenyos.

Mabuhay and Davao!

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Pizza Hut Crazy

Pia and I are just crazy with pizza especially when it's from Pizza Hut. Then, we always order the Meat Lovers pizza with sausage in the edge but now, our favorite is their newest Sausage Pop N' Dip. I just enjoy eating the pops with the sausage in it and the garlic sprinkles makes it even more scrumptious because of the very appetizing smell. Plus, the cheese dip makes it even more enjoyable to eat.

For the pizza flavor, we're now addicted to Bacon Cheeseburger cause it's both cheesy and meaty. Just how we love our pizza. Now, the best part is since Pia doesn't like the pops so much, she'd rather eat the pizza, I get to have more of the pops. ^_^ Aside from the pizza, Pia also love their mango smoothie and I love their super tender, spicy buffalo wings.


Anyway, Pizza Hut has always been pricey but every dining experience there is always worth our every buck. And may I just add that their service is really excellent.

Mandarin Tea Garden

Last Saturday night, after a trip to the grocery, Pia declared she's hungry already and that she wanted to eat her very favorite siomai. I thought any siomai will do so I held her hand and walked towards Chowking which was the nearest resto that time but she changed direction and kept on pulling me heading to Mandarin. I said to myself, "Oh okay, so Mandarin's siomai's her favorite." That I should take note.

Once a waitress attended to us, she immediately ordered 1 pork siomai and fried rice and surprisingly, she said she'd just have water. That's a first. She usually grabs the menu and just point to anything she thinks is delicious. That time, I didn't bother ask her why the change...buti na yon at nang makatipid. ^_^

I ordered Curry Shrimp with Vegetables Rice and Humba Rice for Dennis. I usually order Crispy Spring Rolls and Buko Salad but I wasn't that much hungry at the time so I passed on it. I also usually order their Avocado Shake which is another favorite of mine but ordered Four Seasons instead.
Mandarin Tea Garden has always been one of our favorite dimsum-rice toppings resto. Their food is so tasty, fastly served, hot from the kitchen and cooked right where you could see their chefs do it. Another plus for Mandarin is their super hot sauce. We just love it! No Mandarin dining be complete without their hot sauce.
True to just what I described, our orders came within just minutes, so we digged in right away. Pia was obviously enjoying her siomai and we were enjoying our orders as well. Another plus plus for Mandarin by the way is that their prices are quite cheap. For that dinner, we just paid a total of Php 266.00. Very tasty food for a very low price and that's all it takes to keep us coming back.

Friday, September 12, 2008

Sometimes, kids just say things unexpected from them and I've had a taste of these from my little girl, Sophia. She just utter words which are inappropriate for what she is trying to say and it just makes me laugh listening to her.

There was this one time when I was cooking and she was busily playing with her dolls in our living room. I caught her watching me, observing me in a way, but I didn't mind her that time. And then she told me:

Pia: Mommy, sabi ni Teacher Fretzy, children should help in the household chores daw.
Me: Okay, tomorrow, you wash our clothes ha. (kidding her)
Pia: Okay, I'll help ate.
Me: No, you wash them all by yourself. Di ba sabi mo sabi ni Teacher Fretzy, you should help.
Pia: Oo nga, ang sabi nya, HELP!

There was this one time also when I got home from work. She usually meets me at the door and give me a big kiss and hug. But that night, it was different, she excitedly opened the door for me and said, "Hello Stepmother!"

Last Sunday, we were at Maa and she thought we were going to pass by GAP since she's familiar with the road already (something about her which I find amazing, she's really good with directions.) I assumed she was really hoping we'd pass it by cause after some waiting, she asked me "Mommy, bakit di pa natin nakita yong carabao na may tattoo?" (Kasi di ba ang carabao sa GAP may nakatatak na GAP sa bandang puwet? She thought it was a tattoo.)

Lastly, late night conversations with Pia are always the best. We'd talk just about anything. She'd ask me what my dreams are, I'd ask her what's hers. I talk to her like an adult and I always enjoy every conversation we have. One night, she was thinking really deep, and I asked her what's wrong and she just said, "Mommy, pwede bang palitan na natin bukas ang name ko? Pwede bang iba na naman? Pwede Cinderella?"

These are just some of her funny lines. Innocent, senseless but sometimes, it also makes me think and say "oo nga naman."

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Eddy's Grill Station

Last night, on our way home, we passed by this grilling station along Vinzon St. in Obrero. It was the first time we saw it open since it only opens at 11 AM and we usually pass it by early mornings. And since we didn't know what food our helper prepared for dinner, we decided to try and buy some at the station.


It is just a small restaurant amidst houses and warehouses in a not so busy street of Obrero. However, when we went inside, there were actual diners having a peaceful meal and Tsinoys were also coming in. So I guess many know about this place. As we were checking their menu, I got a glimpse of their billboard which said that their house specialty is Honey Glazed Chicken and for only Php 150.00. And according to waiter Mory, whom I know from Rabio, the serving could feed a group of 3 already. So that's what we decided to order and added 2 orders of longanisa for Pia as she likes chorizos.

While they were grilling our orders, and they were grilling it fresh by the way which is a plus, I noticed that they have these lineup of pastries as well. Some cookies of all sorts were packed in 5s all worth Php 60.00 each. In their fridge were these beautifyfully-baked mini cupcakes of different sorts also. They had choco marble, banana muffins, huge macaroons, and more. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to memorize all their names. I didn't buy and try one though but this Tsinoy girl ordered a whole lot and while it was being boxed, she was picking one of each kind and ate them and she was obviously enjoying each bite so I guess they were delicious.


Grilling time didn't take much time as well, in less that 20 minutes, our orders were already neatly packed in foil with atsara as side dish to it. Now, after tasting the food, what I liked best about their spare ribs was that it was tender enough so you won't need to bite to the bone just so you could eat more of its meat. You can simply just your hands to release it from the ribs. It was also grilled just right, not overly done, not rare, just how I like it. But I would also have to say that the taste was not quite what I expected because it wasn't that "sarap to the bones" thing at all. But I guess, people have different preferences when it comes to their "inihaws."

Anyway, the station opens from 11AM and only until 9PM. It's located Vinzon St. and nearing Dacudao Avenue. For reservations or orders, call them at #224-0388.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

I was watching Without a Trace last night on C/S at RPN when one commercial caught my attention. I thought it was some testimony about a product but it was actually a feature on one of the great talents discovered in the show Britain's Got Talent. This man is a mobile phone seller and at first, I say this without any offense intended, I really thought that he was a"special child."


I really didn't have an idea what the ad was about so I was on my move to switch the channel, but on the next scene, he was already placing himself on the stage so I took a moment to see what he was about to do. The jurors, with Simon Powell in it, were asking first with some questions. Paul said he was going to sing the Opera, which is a difficult song I presumed, since one of the judges gave a questioning smile. And then Simon gave him a go to start.

The song's intro was a bit long and he was just standing in front without any movement at all, I really thought he was about to faint due to nervousness. And then he sang.....

I had goosebumps all over me!!! Apparently, the Opera is a song for tenors and he sung it with so much brilliance. I was tearing up while listening to him, I just can't stop myself. It was really touching, even the audience were crying. One of the jurors also cried. His performance was unforgettable...unexpected. While listening to him, I can't help but stop breathing every time a high note is being hit, wondering if he'd nail it. And he nailed all of it. Until now, I'm still not over the feeling he brought on me last night. Imagine, he was just a phone seller and now, he's already touring the world for concerts.

Have a taste of his performance by clicking on the link below:

Friday, September 5, 2008

The Thank You Girls

This morning, right after logging in my yahoo messenger, Paula was excitingly telling me to click the link of her YM status which directed me to a blog about a Davao-made Indie film titled "The Thank You Girls." She said she saw the trailer that morning and it was hilarious and most importantly, 80% of the film was taken in Davao. I read the blog ang checked out the trailer and indeed, it'll be one heck of a laught trip and I just can't wait to watch the entire film.

The Thank You Girls, is a homosexuality-themed film, written and directed by Charliebebs Gohetia, that tells about gay beauty contestant veterans from Davao City who got tired of losing beauty competitions there. These queens of the backstage decide to travel to Cagayan de Oro City in hopes of conquering the grandest competition of beauty, personality and brains in the province. They are so confident that they will conquer the competition as they are city dwellers and that gays in the province will never stand a chance against them. Are they correct in assuming such or will they go home in tears?

The movie uses Bisaya/Cebuano as its primary language combined with variations of gay lingo but there are subtitles, of course. It also introduces very catchy and witty lines, in English and in local swardspeak. Take these lines as an example:

"Question: Another question for you Ms. Adora Gracia. For you, define darkness.
Answer: Well, that is a very enlightening question indeed. And if I were to define darkness, it’s sitting right beside me."

"If God knows, God knows!"

"Ako and babaeng bawal hawakan dahil baka di mo na kayang bitawan. Ako ang babaeng inosente sa tingin pero hayop ang dating."

This one's my personal favorite:

"I may never be a real woman, I may never be a real sister, I may never be a real mother but who knows, I may be your long lost father."

The Thank You Girls is Produced by Brooklyn Park Pictures in cooperation with Bicycle Picutres and Alchemy of Vision and Lights. For those who do not know, Alchemy of Vision and Lights is a Davao-based film and television production company who has done a lot of contribution already in promoting Davao through films. More and more of these works will boost even more Davao's economy and tourism.

According to sources, The Thank You Girls will have its premiere here in Davao on Monday, September 8 and the regular showing will be on Wednesday, September 10. For a teaser, just click on the link below.

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x64mfi_the-thank-you-girls-teaser_shortfilms

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Megan and Ala-Megan

Now tell me if you agree with me....Don't they just look alike?


I could just bet that if I'm going to send this to a celeberity look-alike photo contest, I'd simply win. I can still remember when Lyra and I are still working together, I always tell her that whenever I see Megan Young on TV, she reminds me of her. And I'm pretty sure she likes it everytime I say that. ^_^ Anyway, tonight as I was checking out Lyra's avatar on yahoo, I searched for a picture of Megan as well, paste them together and thus this post. I simply wanted to share to my readers my thoughts on both ladies.
By the way, I created a poll "Do Megan and Lyra Look Alike?" for this post so do not forget to vote before you leave my site. ^_^ Cheers!!!

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Parade of Babies

In less than a year, too many babies were born whom I adore so much. Born from my friends and siblings, these cuddly babies are really close to my heart, like they are my own. Good thing since I have decided I won't be having one of my own anymore, at least they're here to satisfy my fancy on caring for babies as I really miss doing so. This is a parade of my loved and adored newborn babies.

This is Sean Nathan Borja, turning 1 year old this November. He is my officemate's (Ben) first born son who often visits our office so I always get the chance to cuddle him. He recently went to our house cause according to his parents, he likes airplanes, and since we live nearby the airport runway, it was his chance to see a moving airplane real close. But the moment he arrived at our place, he drifted to sleep so when the first airplane took off, he missed his chance. No other planes flew after that. Next time I guess, baby Sean. You are always welcome to come to our house, no worries, you'll always have our laundry basket to play with.

This is Janus Clark Guarino, my best friend Irene's first born son. Born last January 3, 2008 and I was his first visitor. Of course, I drove to Tagum just to see him. The last time I saw him though was during his baptism last February and now he's all grown up. Just knowing that he's growing healthy and obviously, a happy baby, is what's important to me though.
This is Isabel Nichole Rochefort, my sister's second born and first baby girl. I haven't seen her ever since she was born last April as she lives in New York but seeing her pictures is more than enough. I just love my nieces and nephew. I just can't wait to see you baby Isabel. I simply adore her big eyes. Love you, love you.
This is Jessica Nichole Calcena, my good friend Ate Doris' first born baby girl (ambot lang pud kaha kon modungag pa sya isa). Born last June, she's turning to be a very healthy, chubby 3 month old. We had lunch today and according to her mom, it was a wonder that she's awake because she usually sleeps during daytime. While we were enjoying our lunch, she was enjoying her moment at the couch as well. I can't get enough of her dimple.
This is Joaquin Hendrik Sebastian, another best friend's first born. He was born at Mount Alvernia, Singapore last June 20 and according to his dad, he will be a future rakista. Never got to see him as well but in due time, I will. Such a cutie baby with his really charming smile.
Finally, my bro's second born, Cindy, who was just born 2 weeks ago. And since they live in Isulan so I still didn't have the chance to see and cuddle her. But then again, she'll grow up fast and then we could have our "lablab" moments already. I can't wait to see you baby Cindy.

I had lunch with Ate Doris today at Kangaroo Coffee Company located at Tionko Avenue fronting Sunburst Chicken. She was inviting me for how many times already to try this cafe since it's one of the newest here in Davao. Today was our chance, good thing she didn't have work because of USA's Labor Day.

Anyway, we headed straight to the cafe after she fetched me from the office. Luckily, it wasn't at all that crowdy and so we didn't have a hard time looking for a parking spot. The place ain't that big but my first impression was it was really clean but not scenty though. Since it was a self-service cafe (I never really liked self-service restos), we searched for something interesting to order in their wall menu. Now, my second impression would be, it's too pricey! Very expensive, really.

Anyway, I ordered Baked Penne, a creamy red sauced penne pasta with lots of cheese at Php 140.00 and a slice of New York Cheese Cake at Pho 135. I had four seasons juice to go with it. All in all, my orders amounted to a total of Php 333. I enjoyed my pasta cause it was really creamy, but I did not even finish 1/4 of my New York Cheese Cake. It was fluffy, airy and not so good-tasting. Oh well, I guess I'll have to try their other pastries if there's anything I'd like.

By the way, if you're interested to taste one of the most expensive coffee in the world, you might as well try their Kape Balos which is their Civet coffee (Kopi Luwak), the type coming from Alamid's poops. But then again, it's worth Php 300 a cup (eh kaya nga most expensive.)

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

August 23, 2007 at the SM Parking Lot C, we sang and danced to the groove of Earth, Wind and Fire's timeless music. We sponsored the ticket validation system for the concert and so we got to watch it all for free. We served as validators for the night and right after everyone has entered, we transferred near the stage and enjoyed the music and danced with it for the rest of the concert.

Some of their famous songs are September, After the Love has Gone, Let's Groove and Boogie Wonderland. All were sung in the concert. The crowd was enjoying their music and lots of oldies yet groovies were there. I still had fun, despite the fact that it was really tiring validating tickets.

Later, after the concert, our boss treated us at MTS for some drinks and there, he let us try a very delicious dish which is named Dinakdakan. It was our first time to try it and we loved it.
For more pictures of the concert, visit my multiply site via http://luvtristan.multiply.com

Monday, August 18, 2008

Last Sunday, we just stayed at home the whole day and did nothing but watch TV and eat. Maybe due to boredom, Pia busied herself with drawing. She just loves to draw and I'm actually happy with it cause I really didn't have the talent in drawing. But sometimes, it just irritates me when she makes a mess of our house with all her drawings. Inuubos nya double-sided adhesive tape namin just so she could post in our walls her drawings. Oh my! Still, whenever she makes new "masterpieces," as we call it, it still makes me really proud.


Anyway, I was really amazed last Sunday at what she was able to come up with. She just took a clean bond paper from her school folder, got herself a sharp pencil and crayons and sat in her table. I was just observing her because I noticed that she was sitting there for over 5 minutes already and she still has a blank sheet. And she was thinking really deep, both hands on her forehead and so I asked what's wrong and she stubbornly replied, "di ako makaisip nang i-drawing." Ehehehhee. But after a while, she started sketching already so I left her alone.

When she finished drawing, she showed it to me and this were what she came up with.



When I was her age, I really could not come up with this. What amazes me more is that when she was drawing all these, she didn't have any magazine or books to copy from, she made it all by herself. I wonder where she got all these ideas.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

I just turned on the TV to watch ASAP and I was just in time for Gary Valenciano's performance giving tribute to his 25 years in the industry. All these years, listening to Gary sing never fails to give me goosebumps. His music is indeed timeless and I just can't get enough of it.


He is releasing a new album, Rebirth, celebrating his 25th year which is a collection of great selections of his songs for the last two and a half decades. I just can't wait to get one! I love all his songs especially the movie theme songs and his spiritual songs. Aside from the really deep and touching messages of his songs, his voice and the ways he sings them completes the entirety of its moving effect on the listeners. It just leaves you dreamy and at times, in a state of nostalgia.



Thursday, August 14, 2008

Kebab Lunch @ Cafe Med

Che, one of my best buds since college, scheduled a lunch date with me today at our favorite kebab diner infront of Ateneo College. Unfortunately, we've been dining there for years now and I still don't know the place's name.. :"> We met around 12 and headed to Jacinto St., where the place is. To our dismay, they're no longer there! According to the nearby stalls, they already transferred to Ecoland. Such disappointment and to think we were really craving to eat their juicy kebabs.

So with no other choice, we thought of other options and since we were really in the mood to eat kebab, we remembered this huge billboard along Bolton bridge where a certain mediterranean resto showcased their kebabs. Good thing I remembered the name and location of the diner so we hurriedly drove to Chimes. It's both our first time to try Cafe Mediterranean.

Upon entry, I already liked the setup of the place, it was simple and cozy. They decorated colorful paintings in the walls and they had these lamps in the ceiling which aren't lit at that time though since it was mid-noon. I also like their dark-colored tables which looked really simple but eye-catching.
And then, unnecessarily, 3 waitresses came to our table to take our orders. Eh? ^_^ At first look on their menu, my immediate impression was it's expensive but then we stayed to try what they have to offer. Che ordered grilled beef kebab with pita bread and I ordered the grilled chicken kebab with pita bread as well. We ordered the small sizes at Php117. I got shocked at how expensive their drinks were though, Che's iced tea is worth Php 79 and my mango juice (the typical mango juice) is worth Php 72. Whoa!

However, the cooking was real fast. In less than 15 minutes, our orders were already served. I must say my chicken kebab was real tasty and I loved the hot sauce on it. I enjoyed my meal but I wasn't that satisfied and we were still hungry. And it lacked the cheese we usually put on our kebabs. They don't serve with their kebabs kasi. Maybe they should try it.
To conclude my first visit at Cafe Med, nice place, tasty food but a little too expensive for their serving.

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Seven years ago exactly from today, Dennis and I exchanged marital vows by civil wedding in one of the courtrooms of the City Trial Court. We were actually on the tidying stage for the church wedding at that time, matter of fact, everything was all set...but then, we just decided to arrange a civil wedding one month before the Church rites because we believed it is equally as important as that of the Church. And without everyone's knowledge, except my mom's and Dennis' parents, we vowed in front of Hon. Jose Emmanuel Castillo that we be together forever as husband and wife. I can still remember that right after the rites, I cried heavily and hugged my mom so tight...I got really sad thinking I'd be leaving my mom already. Still, that day is one of the best days of my life.

For seven years, Dennis proved to be the most loving, sweetest, most understanding husband to me and the greatest dad to my daughter. He never failed to put a smile on my face when I get pained or stressed even. He is always patient with my tantrums and "kamaldita." He willingly embraced the kind of life I wanted to live. He accepted me for who I am which really amazes me because Dennis and I are truly OPPOSITE from each other. He accepted everything about me, my family, my friends, my life's drama. When I get really hurt, he need not say anything to console me (he's never good with words anyhow, hehehe)...his tight hugs and long kisses are enough to assure me everything's going to be alright.

We've had crazy moments, teary moments, challenging moments...but there was never a tiring moment for us. Of course, married life is not always bed of roses, of course, we've had our share of fights but then again, it's when working things out no matter what true love is proven. They say it's when a couple reach their seventh year, when all challenges pour quite heavily. I'm crossing my fingers on this. We've spent our first seven years as happily and as sweet as we can and I wish that the next seven years and the years after that will be spent equally as happy and loving and sweet as the previous years.

And with all these, I am endlessly grateful to God that he gave me Dennis, my bestest best friend....who, after seven years, remains my favorite part of the day...

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

My New Toy!!!


It's going to be our 7th Civil Wedding Anniversary this August 10th and as his gift for me, though I'm not really into playing electronic games of any sort, he got a me brand new, deep red PSP today!!

I got really excited when he told me throught text that he wouldn't be going to his supposed meeting tonight because he wanted to buy me a PSP. He was excited himself as well. For sure, he'll be playing the games more often than me. As for me, I'll be enjoying more the music I'll be loading in it.

The package we bought already included a 4 MB memory and a 10-N-1 super kit which already has a multimedia and multifunctional base, soft pouch, PSP2000 Gallus, car adoptor, data and charging cables, comfort buttons, screen protector, component cable (which can actually be used in our tv...yahoo), and earphones. The store filled my 4 MB with games and were nice enough to give me tips on how to manage files that I would like to load on my player. They even gave me sites where I could download converters.

Surely enough, right after we left the store, Dennis was already playing God of War. Hehehe. See, he bought it for me so HE could play with it. Hehehe. What's more, when we got home, si Pia naman ang nakakita and grabbed it right away. The two of them played with it until it ran out of battery. At last, nahawakan ko na!!!

Kwentong Hebi


May kwentong Hebi ka ba?

Hebi is a really cheap junk food na sumikat ever since kabataan ko pa. It's made of prawns and then, it sells for only .50 cents. 'Til now, it's still selling in the market and I'm sure kids now also love it. On my recent grocery visit, I got myself a whole bag of Hebi and apparently, my Dennis shared the same craving for it.

Now, to proceed to my kwentong Hebi. This is another childhood story of mine. When I was still a grader and we were still living in Kapalong, I was really close to this girl neighbor of mine who is 3 years older than me. I call her Niknik. Their house is just beside ours so every day, I'd go to their house and play with her and her siblings.

In front of their house is this mango tree which we really loved climbing. We would make it our "tambayan", both of us. And our most favorite thing to do while relaxing in the branches of the mango tree is to buy lots of Hebi, open all of it and pour all its content to a big cellophane and ate it like there's no tomorrow or like there'll be no more Hebi tomorrow. I miss Niknik and I sure miss that old mango tree.

Last week, I went to Sarangani for a client visit and stayed there for 4 days and 3 nights. On our last night, my boss decided to treat me and Aileen for dinner in GenSan. After thinking of several choices, we finally decided to dine at Shakey's Pizza (I guess bossing was in pizza mode that time.)

We weren't that much hungry at that time that is why I couldn't really remember how we came about with our orders. First, we agreed to order a platter of carbonara and as I continued checking out their menu, I got to this page where they were featuring a new Grand Slam Pizza, their 18-incher pizza with four flavors (Hawaiian, Ham, Bacon and Supreme...I'm not quite sure with the last one though.) The waitress recommended it so bossing ordered. She warned though that it'll take 45 minutes to cook the pizza. We didn't mind since the carbonara will be served first so we said okay.

She served the platter of carbonara first with its basket of garlic bread which is truly yummy, I must say. The platter was huge but amazingly, we finished it up to its last string of pasta.


Since 45 minutes is quite a while, we just chatted while waiting. Later, the manager approached our table and placed a curved stand in the center. I assumed it was for the pizza but wondered what is it used for. And then the pizza came and that's when I understood the stand's purpose. It was super big!!! The size was truly unexpected. How in the world are we going to put this in our stomaches especially with the fact that we just ate a platter of carbonara?

I was only able to eat 2 slices and I gave up. My tummy just couldn't take any more in. Aileen was giving up already also. Result, more than half of the pizza was boxed and brought home. ^_^

Sunday, July 27, 2008


I just finished my first round of night time exercise with Pia dancing to the beat of Shaun T's Hip Hop Abs. It was totally fun! I never thought that exercise could be this fun. You see, I am very lazy when it comes to exercising which led to my so overweight body now. Like they say, regret is always in the end. But then, with Shaun T's Hip Hop Abs, I believe I can get my old body back. ^_^ (Sana lang di na ako tamarin uli.) I also hope Pia's enthusiasm in doing the exercise with me would get me going each night as I plan to do each 30-minute workout every single day. I'm crossing my fingers.

For those who would like to get a daily dose of fun exercise and who are into dancing, this program of Shaun T is perfect for you. It's fun, exciting, totally effective for the abs (I really felt my abs contract after my first 1o minutes), and enjoyably danceable. Go and get one.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008


I love prawns!!!

Yesterday, I was craving to eat one of my favorite dish which is batter-coated prawns or more know as camaron rebosado. And then I remembered I have prawns in our fridge so I hurriedly searched the net for the camaron rebosado recipe and pleaded Dennis that we pass by the grocery store so I could purchase the rest of the ingredients which are almost all baking aids.

I just love to cook and my biggest fan is my husband. Whatever I cook and serve on the table, maskin kabalo ko na walay lami, he would always say "Lamia Lab oy!"

Now, this would be my first attempt in cooking camaron rebosado but the procedures are real easy so I didn't really have a hard time preparing it. And this time, I can now conclude that the best marinating ingredients for fried food are only salt, pepper, vetsin and calamansi juice. For just about 30 minutes only since the calamansi juice is real strong.

In fairness to me, my camaron rebosado looked like it came from the restaurant! ^_^ I so love myself...

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Yesterday, before heading home from our Sunday family day, we passed by the new Merco at Cabaguio Avenue. I invited Dennis to grab a bite first before going home since we haven't had our lunch yet.


Upon entering, we noticed that they used a reefer van for this branch which they just fully painted in white so it looked really clean. And they installed these red lamps above the tables which looked very attractive against the white walls. It was a tiny diner but several families were coming in and out so I guess, Merco is a part of their lives just like it has been with mine.

As a kid, I could still remember that my parents would bring me and my siblings here every chance they get to treat us with pizza and ice cream. Then, feeling super rich na kami when we dine at Merco. It has been one of Davao's best for many decades now and even until present, it has never ceased to satisfy Davaoenos. Many still comes back for more of their pizza, ice cream shakes, sandwiches and lots more. What I love most here though and I don't think I'd stop loving it, is their German Hotdog which, despite the fact that it's so simply prepared, but is so juicy and tasty. And I love it best with their tomato catsup on it (dunno what brand it is though.)

Yesterday, after enjoying our family-sized Four Seasons Pizza, German Hotdog, and Strawberry and Mango Ice Cream Shakes, I shared to Dennis and Pia my childhood memories of this place and how it became part of my family. And now, I'd still like it to be part of ours.

Sleepers Over


We, me and my girlfriends Aileen, Lyzel and Fojie, have so long planned that they sleep over at my house and we'd do a movie marathon. This has been planned like forever but was never able to push through due to reasons I could no longer remember...^_^

Last Friday, July 19, was Fojie's despidida party and we agreed that they'd sleep at the house afterwards and we'd watch Prom Night. Rey decided to come along as well. So after getting drunk at Light Repast, we headed first to Star Mart's Coffee Plus to get some hot coffee and by 2:30 AM, we went home.

Since our house is not that huge, they had to sleep at the sala where the space perfectly fits 4. I prepared mattresses and pillows and lent them sleeping clothes cause they didn't bring any, eeeewwww. ^_^

That was 3 AM already and since they're still in the mood of watching a movie, I played Prom Night and placed myself in the couch to join them. Fojie was the first who drifted to sleep, I guess she didn't like what was playing. All the rest watched until the end so that was almost 5 AM already. That's when I transferred to our bedroom to get some sleep at last.

I couldn't get much sleep though since Dennis kept on waking me up to check if my sleepers over are awake already or hungy maybe. So I would get up and peek as quietly as I can so that I wouldn't wake them, in case they aren't yet, and so I could go back and get more sleep. By 9 AM, I finally got up and prepared food for brunch. We had chicken adobo, scrambled eggs, and fried bulinao. And for dessert, we had Cookies N' Cream ice cream...yep, ice cream in the morning. ^_^ Ice cream addicts.

They left for home around 2 PM after playing some songs in our videoke. Videoke addicts too.
It was just their first sleep over at my home and I wouldn't really mind if it ain't their last cause I really always love having visitors.

I grew up in the province and at a time where in our municipality (Maniki, Kapalong), the trisikad has not been even discovered yet, thus people has to walk wherever they want to go. Then, my favorite playmate was my Manong Raddy (my older brother), and I was kinda boyish then so wherever he'd go, I'd kept following him. What we most love doing together was catching huge frogs in our neighbor's pond...we'd let go of the frogs though.


I have to say we were lucky as kids cause we got to play all kinds of games which kids of these days no longer do (I don't think they even know how to play those kinds of games.) Our favorites were bulan-bulanay, dakpanay (habulan), taguanay (taguan), patintero, piko, holenay (marbles), tumbang preso, taguanay tukog sa yuta, palupad tabanog (kites), and syempre, playing shatong or syatong (chato in Tagalog).

This blog is all about how to play what I really miss playing....shatong!

Number of players: 2 teams with at least two players but you can play it as singles as well

Equipments:
* lots of open space (land) so you can dig an elongated shallow hole
* 1 long stick (about a foot and a half long and at least half an inch in diameter)
* 1 short stick (about 5 inches long and at least half an inch in diameter)

Mechanics:
THE CHANCE OF THE OPPONENT TO PLAY BASE. At the start of the game the base player places the short stick horizontally across the hole and position the long stick in the middle of the short stick and hits the latter as strong as he/she can to the direction of the opponent. If the opponent is able to catch the short stick, the base player loses the chance to advance further with the game and give the base to the former.If the opponent is unable to catch the flying short stick, he/she then collects the short stick and positions himself/herself to where it landed and throw it to the long stick placed horizontally on the hole. Hitting the long stick will give the opponent the chance to play the base.

MAKING A SCORE. If the opponent unable to get the two chances: catching the short stick and hitting the long stick, the base player then advances to the next stage of the game. The short stick is placed across the hole. The long stick dug in the hole positioned at the center of the short stick and hit the latter towards the opponent. The opponent gets the chance to play the base if he is able to catch the flying short stick. If not the opponent collects and positions himself/herself where the short stick landed and throw it to the base player. The base player then hits the short stick. The count starts measuring the distance where the short stick landed using the long stick if it is hit single, if double the short stick is used for the measurement. Hitting the short stick triple counts double the measurement. If the short stick landed near the hole and could not measure one count of the long stick, the opponent gets the chance to play the base.



THE CHANCE TO MAKE MORE SCORES. Advancing the game to another stage, the short stick is placed on the hole in slant position. The base player hits the tip of the short stick making it fly up on the air then hit it again to the direction of the opponent. The higher the short stick flies, the better the chance to hit it double or triple. The opponent will get the chance to play the base if he is able to catch the flying short stick. If not the count measuring the distance where the short stick landed is instituted using the principle of single, double, triple hit. If the short stick landed near the hole and could not measure one count of the long stick, the opponent gets the chance to play the base.

THE PUNISHMENT: While holding the sticks (the short and the long) one in each hand, winner will bat the shorter stick as far as he/she can. Loser then will shout SHAAATONG.... while running from the base to where the stick landed. If the loser takes a breath before reaching the destination then back to the base again.

DETERMINING THE WINNER. The sum of the measured distance in advance stage of the game determines the winner. The player who gets the least score will get the chance to enhance his/her vocal chords shouting shaaaaaaaaaaaaaatoooooooooooooooooooong.

One of these days, I'll surely teach Pia how to play this game so she'd experience how enjoyable it is.



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