Sunday recap

Oliver and I failed to watch the Tatakbo Ka Ba? Fun Run at the Global City early today. We content watching it on TV around 8am. After we had breakfast, we prepared to leave for Marikina. This time, we are going to check the Factoty Outlet Sale at the Riverbanks.

It was past lunch when we arrived at the Riverbanks because we have to fulfill some errands. We were both some kind of first timers to Riverbanks so it was like a short road trip for us. And the good thing is there was no traffic, thank God, it’s Sunday!

So, it’s a mall and similar to Pavilion Mall it houses several Factory Outlets like Mossimo, Guess USA, Nike, Gibi, Folded & Hung, etc. We went home with no plastic or paper bag, which means we did not, bought anything. And this gesture did not mean at all that the Sale was not worth it. It’s just because I find those outlets fit for the coming Holidays. We would definitely be back on Christmas time to buy our gifts for our inaanaks. I personally love the Guess items for kids; it would be perfect for Sam & Paolo.

After checking few more stores, we went out and wandered along the riverside. It’s gloomy, the raid just stopped but was still fortunate to capture the green background. Our Bea would love to stroll to this place; she would definitely enjoy the ground.

I had a quick photo op with this train, which was an attraction. I had no idea if this thing really runs.

the Riverland Express

By the way, we were able to see the biggest man made shoe at the Shoe Gallery but forgot to capture a good photo of it. Will probably have it next time. That ends Sunday, we went home early.

Tomorrow is a holiday and we have no plans yet. How about you?

Saturday recap

Our S & S was not a so busy day for us and here is a short recap of what have been.

Wake up a bit late yesterday, and then head to our direct selling biz but before doing so, we had a quick stop-over-breakfast at Madison Square, Pioneer. We chose Binalot over Lydia's Lechon because I was thinking it was too early to feast on something oily and sinful. And my fascination to Binalot dishes over the years never ended. I just love the idea of eating on “dahon ng saging”, which is the old-fashioned way of pack lunch during my parent’s time, and the salted egg and tomato make a perfect combi for these Pinoy classics.

One more thing that caught my attention yesterday was the all-Filipino theme of the place. Take a sneak peek.

http://www.binalot.com/

The all time Pinoy-favorites were brought to a unique intensity with its catchy label such as Anytime Inihaw na Baboy, Bistek Walastik, Bongga Longganisa, Tapa Rap Sarap, Viva Tocino, Sisig na Makisig, Fiesta Adobo, Pride Tilapia, Sinigang with a Bang, and No Bone Daing na Bangus.

I had the Bongga Longganisa, and Oliver had Anytime Inihaw na Baboy. P70/each.

Oliver asked if I want an order of leche plan, I refuse because I am saving some space for a Zagu All Natural Mango. I had a grande before Oliver dropped me home.

Since it’s month end, Oliver had to work while I stayed home the entire afternoon. He picked me around 7pm and went straight to Rustan’s. Guess what I got from Debenhams last day of sale??? I went home with these pairs –

I got the court shoes in light brown instead of black

and had this pointed court shoes in black.

I am the happiest, weee! Finally, I had a peaceful sleep. Thank you Honey!

Happy Friday Everyone

Today is Friday, and we all look forward to another long weekend...yey! Though I am not, sure what good this weekend will bring me, I am still excited and that’s it.

Ask me what I have in mind?

1. Saturday morning is Factory Outlet (GH) with Oliver of course, check new stocks. "Honey I need a new running shoes."

2. Saturday lunch will be at Sosing’s or at Wu Xiang (if there will be no rains).
3. Saturday afternoon (hopefully) will be at Marikina Riverbanks Factory Outlet Sale.

The sale will run from August 28 to 30. Outlets to participate: Gibi Shoes, Marikina Shoe Gallery, Reva, Sapatusan, Sugus Shoes, World Balance, Nike Outlet Store, Blues Brothers, BNY Hip Shop, Folded & Hung, Guess USA, Hammer Head, Mauve White & Lemon, Mossimo, Page Boutique, Yellow & Blue Boutique, and Converse.

4. Saturday night will be at Debenhams Blue Cross Sale, it will be their last day na! I hope to bring home those court shoes, sana may stock pa...
5. Sunday early morning, watch Tatakbo Ka Ba? GMA-7 Eleksyon 2010 Fun Run at the Bonifacio Global City. We fail to register here…
6. Sunday after breakfast – do No.2 list if this will be cancelled on Saturday.
7. or will spent Sunday with Oliver and Bea at Ecopark.
8. Monday will all be spent home, and prepare for another brand new week.

Happy Friday and Happy Long Weekend to everyone :)

NathanielS Buko Pandan

Last week our insurance agent handed me this cold box. I thought it was a frozen cake or any of its kind, and had even thought of it as a half-gallon ice cream. After he left, I was delighted to see this apple green box and inside is the plastic container with label Buko Pandan. Perfect timing for lunchtime, I can share some to my office friends.

NathanielS Buko Pandan, is very similar to our homemade buko pandan but its super creamy and not too sweet at all. By the way, I back read some articles from fellow bloggers and found out that NathanielS’ is proudly Kapampangan made. I would definitely love to visit their store and enjoy this delectable dessert again.

creamy, all cream...yum!

NathanielS
Km 69 Olongapo-Gapan Road, Dolores City,
San Fernando Pampanga

NathanielS
# 39 Talayan Street, Talayan Village
Quezon City

NathanielS (newly opened branch)
ITC Commercial Complex, Panay corner Timog
Quezon City

our Happy Dogs.

Last weekend gave us also the time to visit Shen Shen (our adopted golden retriever) at my parent’s house. Our Bea was ever excited to see her “Ate Shen”, and play with her of course. Though we wanted to bring Shen to our apartment back, we would always end up leaving her in Cavite. It’s very hard to take custody of too large breeds, and besides she’s not too adaptable to the hot weather. Maybe because of her old age too, she prefers the laid-back lifestyle too which is very opposite of our Bea who loves the limelight.

So, every time we have the chance to visit Shen, we ensure she gets regular grooming and pampering. And that Bea and her will get to bond during our entire stay.

Picture of two happy dogs!

how can you say no to them? so adorable...

We consider ourselves (Oliver and I) ever lucky to have them.

Coffee + Cam Whoring

Our Saturday night was at Summit Ridge Promenade, Tagaytay City coffee sipping, and cam whoring with the kids. We had some latte and croissants while enjoying the free wifi. It’s perfect while embracing the cold breeze. And I would always love going to Tagaytay to enjoy these pleasures. And of course, driving to Tagaytay would always mean happy times with my family.

Our Coffee and Cybershot bonding moments --

our little boy is a Manny Villar fan...

and he loves caffeine and jelly much.

while we love to pose and smile...

and collect camera moments time & time again.

Before we went home, we give in to the kids request to drop by at Mc Donald’s. Sam and Paolo had a great time much as we do :)

non-stop, one-two-three SMILE :)

It was an awesome night. How was your long weekend so far?

Sunday is...

…at the Blue Cross Sale of Debenhams.

I told you, weekend is not over yet. Yesterday night we were able to drive at Rustan’s Makati to check out the further reductions at Debenhams. I really want something from our last visit last week but prices were still higher then.

What makes me sleepless is this black court shoes. I love to have this, I really do Honey…hehehe. Its so flexi and cosy! And I still have my size :)

Black Court Shoes

Well, I went home without those shoes but was half-satisfied with these purchases. I got two new halter-top, which I got at 70% off. I had it in pink and in army green.

The sale will run until August 29, and I still have two more weeks to convince Oliver about those shoes, wish me luck :)

Busy Saturday.

It was a busy Saturday for us yesterday.

We, Oliver and I, started the day as early as 8am. By 9pm we were already on-board the Manila Ferry from Hulo station going to Escolta. After the 45minutes sailing from Pasig River we reached our destination and walk towards Ongpin. We did not ate breakfast at home because we intent to have brunch at Estero. By 10am, a bountiful and flavorful brunch was served. The set was - Seafood Vegetable Mix, Litid in Oyster Sauce, Fried Fish Fillet and Fried Rice. All in small order only which is P80.00 each.

Our dining in Estero could not be complete without the Seafood Vegetable Mix, I so love the visibility of seafood and veggie without the usual extenders. Oliver and I consume almost everything and paid only P300.00 for the entire meal including the two small ozs of Coke.

Right after eating, we went ahead going to Juan Luna to Divi shopping. It excites me every time we had the chance to shop at real bargain price. Our first stop was Divine Mart. Divine caters mostly factory overrun with brands like Old Navy, Gap, Mossimo and RL to name a few. I had a suki at the 3rd level but they were closed yesterday, and so we went ahead to a different store. Luckily, I scored a Mossimo shirt for P85.00 only. Oliver insisted that I bought two but I decided to get a single item only.

We moved to 168 Mall for a quick shopping, I got two blouses from my frequently visited store (Apt 8 and Juana). Oliver bought two shirts from Apt 8 too. Take a peek of my two new offices blousy.

blue blouse P200.00, and dark grey at P300.00

Past 3pm we were already back at the Ferry Station (Escolta) and have to wait for the 4pm ride. I took the liberty of taking photos of our loot while we were at the waiting area. I was able to capture a good shot of the Manila Post Office too.

Post Office, standing tall

And our pasalubong from Ongpin for ourselves, I am a Chinese deli fan!

Ube Tikoy Balls and Hopia Ube from Polland; the famous Eggtarts from Lord Stow's Bakery; and Hopia Monggo & Baboy, and plain Tikoy Roll from Eng Bee Tin.

So, that end our Divi shopping plus we bought some items to be sent over at Ilocos for the rice harvest like sako, and this big, big umbrella. You thought we already called the day. Nah, not so.

After an hour, we went to BPI’s Great Brands Sale at the Megatent in Meralco Avenue. Free Entrance for BPI cardholders and VIP parking too.

who says it's still recession??? Pinoy's are so sale fanatic.

We went store by store, and I was really hoping to get a pair of jeans at Levi’s. I did! I scored for a pair of jeans for P1,400.00 only. Thank you Dad for paying it…hehehe. I was eyeing this bikini top from Speedo with this super bargain price of P600.00 but I regret for not buying it. I can only wish we could still go back later :)

my new "Patricia"

The Sale was far better than the last one we attended last April. Giordano’s sale was the biggest, and their sale price starts at P199.00 to P299.00 only. Nike had a small sale too but prices were still bit higher so Oliver did buy anything at all. After two rounds of going around, we decided to drive home. What made me happy aside from my new jeans? These rice toppings from WCT Food Corporation. We brought home 2 orders and coffee buns from Kopi Roti too.

Siomai Toppings, P55.00 per order

I felt tired arriving home and went to sleep after eating dinner. Excited for next week, I’ll see this new Sam & Bea movie with Nanay, and will drive home south by Friday.

Thank you Lord for giving me a wonderful husband. Weekend not over yet :)

Ang Bisyo ni Dad...

Oliver being a shoe person, like me, had a number of collections to date. He fancies those shoes sold at People are People (brands like Sign and K-Bond), Gola Outlet, Linea Italia, Pedro, Shoe Salon, and Aldo. He just loves to wear something fashionable, and comfy all the time. And another thing why he likes to have more shoes, he wants to change shoes everyday.

Aside from this "bisyo", he also had a wide collection of baseball caps. He loves most those Nike Golf caps; he had three of them. Part of his collection was sent by bro-in-law, and from car show’s we attended.

Some of his fave, meaning the most used :)

How about you? What is your "bisyo"?

My something sweet.

I asked Oliver to bring home something sweet last night and he did. He brought me a pint of ice cream. Though I was thinking he would choose a chocolate flavored one, I was not at all disappointed with the cheese variant.

Bea and I enjoyed the bits of cheese in every scoop and I so love the fine ice cream creations. Half finished the pint last night, and will consume it again later tonight.

Thank you Dad for the delectable midnight treat!

Great Brands Sale

BPI is sponsoring another grand sale today until Sunday. This is the same as the Big Outlet Sale, which I have attended twice. For more info, click flyer below.

We have no plans of going there yet everything might change overnight.

Happy Shopping Everyone!

Our Sunday breakfast.

How was your Sunday Breakfast? This is ours, pinoy na pinoy may pandesal na may tapsilog pa :)

Dari Creme Lite, and wheat pandesal from Pan De Amerikana

sunny-side-up, and Beef Tapa from Mahogany Market

I look forward on another long weekend on Aug 21-23 even though I am not certain what good it will bring me.

Its Joey Pepperoni.

Yes, it was! We had our Friday night dinner at Joey Pepperoni Pizzeria (Pioneer Branch). I was a little surprised that Oliver had no violent reactions at all when I told him so about this dining spot. Though parking was a little hard, we managed to get a slot right away.

The Pizzeria was full the time we arrived and it’s as we waited for another 10minutes before finally we got a decent seat. You have the option to dine outdoor too, but since the climate is changing we did took the possibility of rain shower any moment. I ran over their menu back in the office so that gave me the idea of house specialty, and affordable yet delicious serving of food.

We skipped the Antipasti (appetizers) and Zuppe (soups), and went ahead to order the Mafia Meals (set meal). I had Meal 1 – Panini, Pasta, and Single Serve Drink. You can choose between Tuna and Sausage for the Panini (Italian Sandwiches), and choice of Carbonara, Meat Sauce and Pesto for the pasta sauce. Another thing, you can choose your pasta too and I had penne for my Carbonara. Oliver had Meal 5 – Pasta, 2 Bread, 3 Mozzarella Sticks, and Single Serve Drink. He chose Carbonara Penne for his pasta. And I had two of his Mozzarella Sticks, it’s as we had an appetizer without ordering it separately. Since it is our first time to dine at JP, we ordered for Joey’s signature Pizza (size 12”). I was not impressed with the thin crust pizza at all, and it was all pepperoni (What can I expect? hehehe). We half finished it because I got full also with my Panini. And I missed ordering for Dolci (dessert); I was even salivating for their Frozen Cappuccino Mud Pie. Overall, the food is great and very affordable. Take a sneak peek.

Joey Pepperoni signature pizza and house blend iced tea

Meal 1, my plate.

I wanted to go back next Friday or probably on Saturday to enjoy their “Pasta All Day Promo” (see flyer below). Would also like to try their white pizza, Quattro Formaggi (Four Cheeses), and of course their selection of Dolci.

Aside from JP's Pasta All Day Promo, you get 25% off on all Pizza order all-day. So, you see, we did a little over our P500 bucks during our Friday dinner. It was awesomeness!

JOEY PEPPERONI PIZZERIA
G/F RFM Corp. Center Pioneer cor Sheridan Sts.
Mandaluyong City, Philippines
(632) 631-1688 or (632) 631-8101, loc 7903
Click MENU here.

Footnote: Sorry for the poor reso, I had it taken with my camera phone only :)

A Surprise Party for Jing!

I was supposed to attend a birthday party tonight but decided not to come. The party is for Jing’s 29th birthday, and her sister Ahre was the one who gave it. I find no significance at all in celebrating the 29th because traditionally it should be on the 25th birthday. Anyway, they may have reasons for celebrating such.

Hey, did you notice the invite? Read between the lines ---it’s a Potluck party! What’s your stand on this? Mine is unscrupulous for some reasons. Though we are now observing the westernized culture, potluck is still not acceptable especially for people who are not so closely related. We do potluck during occasions where we just want to get together and make merry.

I do not want to sound bitter..lol! I wish Jing the happiest birthday :)

it's a parteee!

Hot and Sour soup

Hot and sour soup is a Chinese recipe, made with tofu, pork, dried mushroom, red vinegar, egg, hot chili, soy sauce and a whole lot more. I consider it, as an appetizer every time will have one. It is reputed to be good for colds so it’s perfect for Oliver. Have one and enjoy the classic oriental recipe cooked a little differently.

Classic Savory's Hot and Sour Soup. P195.00

For a quick recipe, click here.

Happy Birthday Ana.

It was Ana’s birthday last Tuesday. We were supposed to visit her and give her a small salo-salo. But eventually, we cancelled the plan and instead send her wishes not greetings. We felt than Ana was still on grief about losing her baby two weeks ago.

Dear Ana,

Worry not, free yourself from anything that holds you from coming back. Get well soon and take care.

Ana dear, we miss you.

My January! turns one.

It is also yesterday when my blog, “January is my month!” turns one.

Happy Anniversary and Thank You for being a good listener to my thoughts. And for joining me on my life’s journey.

my blog

Paalam, Tita Cory.

Yesterday despite the heavy rain, Oliver and I joined the thousand of people who awaited the funeral procession as our final respect to former Pres. Corazon C. Aquino.

Pres. Cory, or Tita Cory, to many of us died of cardio-respiratory arrest at 3:18am of Aug 1, 2009. Her son Noynoy immediately had a presscon regarding her Mom’s death; and that the family requested the public to give their family sometime for them to be with their beloved mother. Part of Noynoy’s message last Aug 1.

She would have wanted to thank each and every one of you for all the prayers and your continued love and support. It was her wish for all of us to pray for one another and for our country.

“Hinihiling po ng aming pamilya ang kaunting panahon para makasama namin ang aming mahal na ina."

Initially, Tita Cory’s body was brought to rest at Heritage Park then later that day was brought to De La Salle Greenhills for public viewing. Aug 3, her body was transferred to Manila Cathedral. The funeral procession from Greenhills to Manila took 5 hours. I even recall how Che was telling me how people really cheer for Tita Cory when the convoy passed at Ayala Avenue. I only seen the footages through the late night news that day, and it was overwhelming. It was like Ninoy’s funeral procession too when people went out the streets to mourn for the late Senator.

Again, that event happened yesterday during the funeral march from Manila Cathedral to Manila Memorial Park in Paranaque. She may be no longer in power but those supporters who came from different walks of life to witness her funeral cannot measure her charm. Cory Aqunino is a phenomenon, an icon of Philippine democracy. Moreover, I am proud to be part of this Philippine history.

From Tita Cory’s funeral procession, I captured some memento to keep me reminded of her fight for democracy.

This was around 11:30am, upon our arrival at Osmena Highway near Cash & Carry (Buendia). The public was starting to build up, and that Buendia flyover was already full of people waiting for the funeral. Oliver and I joined the huge crowd for the big wait.

The spirit of Edsa suddenly went back. And I was happy that Oliver remained patient nor he complained even if we haven't consumed anything yet. Would you believe that we content ourselves with a P20.00 boiled nuts and ampao (rice crispies).

And I considered myself so lucky to have this timeless photo during the event.

There was a heavy downpour but nobody wants to move out from the line-up. Everyone was in high spirit, cheering for Tita Cory’s name,

while our Philippine flag was proudly waved, and everyone raised with a Laban sign. "Ang sarap maging Pinoy!"

After almost 5 hours of waiting finally the funeral procession came. Aboard was Tita Cory’s casket placed on bed of flowers with four dignified military men as safeguard.

Coaster No. 1 (red coaster) shortly followed it. This is where the first family was. I saw Kris Aquino and Boy Abunda side by side. Jiggy Cruz (Tita Cory’s grandson) was holding a white cardboard with message “We Love You! Salamat”. Two buses followed, and personalities I’ve seen were Alfredo Lim, Mikee Cojuanco and husband Dudut Jaworski, Tingting and Peping Cojuangco, and mostly the Cojuangco and Aqunio clan.

There was no doubt that how the Filipinos loved Tita Cory. It was exceptional and I am not certain if this will happen again in our nation. The funeral took almost 8 hours to Paranaque. We were able to monitor the military honor given by the service men, and the final blessing of Bishop Soc Villegas on TV. I am so speechless and teary eyed when its time for the family to say Goodbye to their beloved Tita Cory. I went crying too. It is as if I was there witnessing all these as it happens.

Paalam, Tita Cory. I know you are now happy with your beloved Ninoy.

Clip from Tita Cory's Funeral procession.

Goofing on Sunday.

It was already Sunday, and still there were a number of heavy downpours throughout the day. All of us, at home, were too sluggish to go out. Sam wanted us to drive at Summit Ridge to have a good tasting coffee, and enjoy the free wireless connection. Maybe, if the rain had stopped a bit we could have pushed and give in to her request. We content ourselves watching anything on TV; and feasting over Crispy Pata, Lechon Kawali and Beef Caldereta. No questions on how big our appetite can be.

Late afternoon, I decided to play with the kids. We had some story telling, and while doing so I played with my cam. Voila! We had a small photo shoot and Pao was very comfortable to smile and candidly pose for me. Sam gave me a lively stance. Che and Bea eventually joined us –we had nothing but all fun!

siblings, Sam and Paolo

say cheese!

cheery!

I wish we can do this more often, I only wish Indang is just a 30 minutes drive to Mandaluyong :)

Foggy Tagaytay.

After a month, finally we had time to visit my family in Cavite last weekend. Oliver, Che and I woke up early last Saturday to drive upland; and enjoy the cold breeze and foggy surroundings. We decided to use the SLEX to avoid traffic, and the bumpy Aguinaldo Highway.

In less than an hour, we reached Sta. Rosa exit going to Tagaytay. Something caught my attention along the highway near Paseo de Sta. Rosa –Contis is now in Nuvali! This is great! We can now enjoy delectable breakfast and brunch. I am planning of visiting soon probably on my parent’s anniversary.

As I told you, I love road trips. In addition, I love early morning drive going to Tagaytay. I like those side stops. We had a few last times: Santa Rosa highway for the boiled Japanese corn, Mahogany Market for the fresh beef, and Le Coeur de France, Robinsons Supermarket for freshly baked bread. I would definitely not get tired of seeing Tagaytay and its beauty.

all foggy and cold...

Oh! By the way, Bea was with us. She was too sleepy the whole drive so I was not able to get a good photo of her.

Overall, it was a fun-filled weekend for us! I hope all of you had a good one too.

Is it Goodah!!!

Last Friday night, Oliver and Che arrived a bit late in Limketkai to pick me up. My stomach was already complaining, and nothing was specific on where to dine. It’s like going around town, back and forth. We first thought of Liberty Center and its KFC branch but eventually decided not. Then we drive to Mandaluyong and thought of Ben’s Burger in Barangka Drive but eventually passed. I had thoughts of Yellowcab, or Shakey’s or going back to Secret Recipe but none of those places were so inviting. Then, I asked Oliver to drive at the new Madison Square in Pioneer. I was thinking Yoo-hoo BBQ but eventually give up when I saw the huge crowd. We drive further to Pioneer Center, and almost dined at Chowking but really it’s not what I want. Then, I remembered this fast food at Shaw Blvd which was a frequent dining place way back my Piltea days. Goodah!!! The home of “si” foods for me.

I was excited to taste the old set I used to eat at Goodah!!! but had forgotten its name. It’s like deep-fried spareribs, crunchy and tasty –Ribsi! I ran through their wall mount menu and placed 2 order of Miti Ribsi with egg (for Oliver and me), while Che had a combo of Goto and Tokwa. I enjoyed how they cooked the Ribsi and pairing it with vinegar was perfect. Oliver was satisfied with their serving, and Che had enjoyed her hot goto too. We all shared the generous amount of tokwa dipped in vinegar and soy sauce. It was a quick dinner but went home filled and satisfied. We would definitely go back to try their other dishes like Pares, Litsi, and Tapings.

Pagkaing good for every-all!

Goodah!!! – Pioneer Branch
Caltex Gas Station,
Pioneer St., cor. Shaw Blvd., Pasig City
Menu here