Our Family Adventure

Php118 Dinner

2012-01-27T23:56:00.004+08:00

This is sooo sulit for only Php118.00!

Chowking's Honey Garlic Chicken Bowl + 2pcs. buchi on the side. It's sooo addicting...believe it or not, I had it for 3 out of 5 workdays hala! my diet!

This is similar to fried chicken drenched in hoisin sauce. Somehow Chowking was able to maintain the crispiness of the skin kaya yummy.

Comfort food for the days when you seem to be down!

Not Giving Up!

2012-01-27T23:37:00.005+08:00

...because I was sad today (though I have somehow accepted... and learned to be contented for what was given), I decided to walk a little after my dinner to Burgos Circle and give Milk Tea another try. This time, I'm trying this much raved about - Serenitea's Wintermelon Milk Tea. I ordered the medium size with 100% sugar and black pearls.

My verdict: I actually liked it!

I should have gotten the large size. I didn't know it will be that good. I was disappointed kasi when I first tried a milk tea in Bubble Tea.

Now, I'm happy again! And maybe I should give "Happy Lemon" a chance too... what do you think?

.disappointed.

2012-01-27T09:27:00.001+08:00

Today, I just felt...

...disappointed
...unappreciated
...unfair!

I just had to let that out... I'm okay and still thankful though...

The Full Story

2012-01-26T09:22:00.014+08:00

This is the story behind this post.

My brother texted me and Papa Saturday afternoon asking if we wanted to visit Lola and Tita in Batangas the next day since Monday is a holiday. I said ok but asked if we can come home a bit early as Lawrence has work the next day. Yup! Isa siya sa mga dakilang empleyado (standing ovation). We left QC at 5past and got to Cavite to pick-up my SIL and nephews around 6AM. We took the Cavite-Tagaytay-Lemery route. I didn't notice exactly what time we got there, maybe around 9AM. This is the house of my Lola and Tita standing in a wide, wide space that Josh, my nephew and Enzo had lots of fun exploring. Walang ganito sa condo namin!

And Enzo had fun playing with the goats... ...and rabbits, too! Hubby forgot to take pictures of the chickens.

Kuya got coconuts from the tree. Look at Enzo trying to carry one (ah! bigat).
This is Lola, my Papa's mother with Miguel (brother of Josh)...
...and Tita Ellen (Papa's sister).
This is the facade of Basilica de San Martin de Tours. The largest Basilica in the Philippines and in Asia. The image of Nuestra Señora de Caysasay can also be found here. We went here in the afternoon before going to the market. Just look at how beautiful this old Basilica... wow! And the ceiling is amazing.
This is a clearer picture of the one I earlier posted where hubby's camera seemed to focus on the "blue light." The focus now is on me and Rafa. The "blue light" is still visible but it moved compared to the photo I earlier posted. Check it out!
This is the altar where Nuestra Señora de Caysasay is. Can you see that "blue light" hovering over the altar?
Church goers can touch the image through the stairs at the back of the altar.
Here is a clear picture of the altar. The altar is at the right side of the front of the Basilica.
This is just me and Rafa after saying our prayer.
Honestly, hubby didn't do anything on the pictures. No photoshop, whatsoever! Except for our pictures, I told him not to enhance anymore the picture where the "blue light" is visible. We cannot explain what happened. None of us are photo experts. Tita told us though that Nuestra Señora de Caysasay is believed to be miraculous. Simply amazing!

Glimpse of an Enchanting Weekend in Batangas (22 January 2012)

2012-01-25T10:08:00.003+08:00

Looks like a side view of a face. We were thinking it might be the Our Lady of Caysasay as she is dressed in a blue gown. Hmmm...

See how the camera seemed to focus on the "blue light?" Strange...

Good News, North Folks!

2012-01-18T09:17:00.015+08:00

My dad just shared with me that Forever 21 will open a branch in SM The Block. Yipeey! I so love the dresses, blouses, shirts and accessories I got there. For me, their price is reasonable and even comparable to the local shops we have.

Here are some of the fabulous finds I got from Forever 21 (I cant't find the other pictures as they are most likely stored na in the external hard drive):

Can you see the orange-black-violet-green striped skirt am wearing? That's my latest loot from Forever 21. I have another skirt (gray-black stripes) which you will see in the next photo. I so love these skirts. I don't mind hoarding them. Trust me, it is very comfortable to wear. I wasn't even planning to get a new skirt and was just looking for accessories to give to my son's teachers for Christmas when I saw it on a rack with a big, yellow placard that says "SALE." Just had to grab it for only Php350. Sulit na! I'm planning to get at least 2 more of this kind of skirt during my shopping spree next month. Yup, it's my birthday and since we are on a "tipid mode," I'd like to go shopping to revamp my wardrobe instead of the regular pig outs we do on birthdays hahaha!

The blouse, on the other hand, is a gift from our Ninang last Christmas.

This is the other skirt...nice noh? I forgot na how much I got this but it wasn't on sale. There's a similar black & white stripes which I regret not getting. The white shirt is also from Forver 21. It has a cute design in front. Sayang I can't find the other pictures that will sana show you the cute details of this shirt.

This is a brown dress from Forever 21. It also has a belt. I was even able to wear it in the office when I was preggy. I just took out the belt.

The checkered blouse I'm wearing here (background: Sofitel) is another loot from Forever 21. I have another checkered polo but I can't find a picture of it. When I bought this, my Papa even commented "checkered na naman!"

See my headband... that's from Forever 21. I wear it when I feel "girly" for the day.

The new branch, according to my dad will be located where "Our Home" used to be. I wonder when they plan to open?

Feeding the Piggy Bank

2012-01-16T19:29:00.003+08:00

We need to really fill our piggy bank (Savings). Just because we were eyeing (as in window shopping) for a new car, hubby finally look at how we were doing in terms of our monthly expenses vis-à-vis our savings. HA! He was a bit shocked of how much we are spending every month… ngayon lang nya naisip yun hahaha!

Most of the expenses are fixed and I really (for the life of me) can’t do anything about them. Unless I’m mistaken, then please leave a comment and share your tips with me. For example:

Yaya’s salary (stay-in)
*Maid’s ½ salary (sharing the cost with my mom)
*The maid is my mom’s. We just borrow her from Tuesday to Friday to help clean the house. We used to have one (my yaya’s younger sister) however, mas magulo pa ‘ata. Plus she was inexperienced and mostly rely on her Ate to help her. Dyus meh! I was sooo stressed having them together that we had to send her home na lang since wala rin naming natatapos sa house.
School Bus
Condo Dues
Cable
Gasul (almost every 2 months)
Rice (almost every 2 months)

Others are variable but amount have been pretty consistent, such as:
**Meralco (peg at Php2,500)
**Sometimes, it is lower. There are times na higher but mostly it plays around this figure.
***Water Bill (Php500)
*** Ewan ba, mataas talaga water bill sa condo namin!
****Globe Bills (Php1,300)
****Hubby & I are both under a 299 Plan. Kudos to hubby as in hindi tumataas bill nya ever ;) As for me, akin yung 1K a month…ewan ko ba! Maybe because I also use my personal phone for official calls and texts. If you think, pwede na ako dun sa Smart’s 999 Plan with a free iPhone noh? Last week, Globe offered me a discounted 299 unlimited call and text to Globe and Touch Mobile on top of my plan. I’ll see if it will make a difference and lower my bill further.
*****Gas (Php3,000/month)
*****It’s only recently that I have included this in our expenses.

Hubby was surprised that we were spending roughly Php13,000/month for grocery alone. But this will include Rafa’s milk and diapers. Imagine we are spending around 4K for 4 cans of NAN HW1 per month! That leaves 9K for the rest of the grocery. Next week, when we do our weekly grocery, we MUST limit it to what’s in my list – no to chips, cookies!

Also, we have started to just eat at home for lunch before doing our weekly grocery and be home in time for supper. Just like this Saturday when we went window shopping for cars. We left the house after lunch. We just had to stop-over S&R as Enzo was already saying he is hungry (around 5:30PM). Since we are on a tipid mode, we just bought 2 Baked Chicken Roll and 2 slices of Pizza to share among us - 5 adults & a kid. This is before we went to my uncle's wake then we went to Landmark Trinoma to buy the grocery. We went home right after and just enjoyed a home-cooked meal for dinner. We just stayed home the whole Sunday as our yaya asked permission to go malling in SM.

I do hope we can save quite a bit this 2012 compared to how we were in 2011.

Our 2011 Christmas Portrait

2012-01-11T10:04:00.001+08:00

Love@5 Years

2012-01-09T14:02:00.014+08:00

Can’t imagine that we have celebrated our 5 Years together as husband and wife which will only mean that we have been together as a couple for 13 Years. Hubby posted this on my wall:

“...to the one woman I will marry a thousand times over...happy anniversary =) love you!"

Syempre kinilig ako! Even after all these years, he continually gives a warm smile on my face. To which I replied:

“ waaah! now ko lang nabasa... thanks ney! ... and to the man I will say "Yes!" a thousand times over... Happy 5th Anniversary!"

And that’s true. I believe and trust that we are both right for each other. Just look at our kids – diba perfect combination – genes pa lang yan! Hahaha!

We decided to celebrate with an overnight stay at Edsa Shangri-La last December 30 (post celebration). We brought with us the 2 boys (sans the yaya) so imagine our hands were full but it was a fun stay especially for Kuya who enjoyed the swimming pool so much. And when we asked him if he wants to join a swimming or football class – he would excitedly say “swimming.” So we are still torn where to enroll him this summer.

I didn’t go swimming anymore to watch over Rafa. Hayz! I could have brought my swimsuit and alternate watching over Rafa with hubby. We actually got a go signal from his pedia that it’s okay but it was our choice (in the end) not to let him swim since he’s barely 4 months old.

Take a look at Kuya… all ready to swim…

Having so much fun with Daddy.

By the pool.

That night, we ate at the Heat. I consumed less rice (HA! I’m so used to eating less rice.) but devoured on the baked salmon, grilled salmon, baked lobster and the chocolate chip cookies. Those cookies are heavenly, I tell you. Not much pictures during dinner… remember, we have 2 boys with us.

The next day, we had breakfast at the Heat again. Thank God we were such early birds because we would have been lining up for breakfast. They’re jam packed that morning (31st) . We loved the Coffee Frozen Yogurt they served during breakfast yum yum!

Coffee Frozen Yogurt on top of my Peach Crepe
with pistachio and dark choco chips.

After breakfast, Daddy and Enzo went swimming again. Rafa and I went up early to our room as it was drizzling. Daddy and Enzo followed suit before 11AM as Enzo still wants to play at the bath tub. Seriously, when we buy our own house, we’ll have a bath tub installed.

And here is our yearly Anniversary picture. Oh! I have yet to post our yearly Christmas picture too (reminds self!)

my take on Milk Teas

2012-01-06T19:34:00.006+08:00

I know... again, I'm a late bloomer (just like when I started trying the frozen yogurt - circa 2010 -which eventually I craved for and still continue to love - White Hat's Kooky Hat please).

There is a recently opened Bubble Tea Place near my office so I told hubby over the phone that I will give it a shot. I'm not a milk person so there is a hesitation from my end. Hubby said to just order their bestseller. Fine - I ordered the Royal Milk Tea in M size (Php115.00).

...sip...sip...sip...

I can't taste the milk. Rather, it tastes more like the "tea bag you drop in a hot water" (kaya nga milk tea eh!). In short, di ko type! Hahaha! I'll have Starbucks anytime...

BUT I told myself that I will not have Starbucks on weekdays for the rest of the year. Once on a weekend is fine especially if I go out with hubby and Enzo (which recently is our bonding time). Unless someone cares enough to buy me a frap (Dark Mocha Frap please, twice blended with choco drizzle and choco powder), why not! (then calories are welcome).

Christmas is a time for Reunions (30 December 2011)

2012-01-05T15:30:00.005+08:00

Yes, Christmas is usually the best time to meet old friends. I would like to share my reunion with my college friends last December 30 at Conti’s Trinoma as it has been ages since I have been with them. Look at how much we have grown as a group (with our kids and partners). Parang class picture lang...It’s been 11 years since I have last seen Fresh (the pretty and ever-sexy one in purple). Yes, that long…college days pa! She came home with her hubby (in red). I have seen Lhiene (the glowing mommy to 2 adorable girls) during my bridal shower in December 2006… imagine! I have seen Cecile (the beautiful and ever-dependable friend to set up our reunion) who is with her hubby (in green stripes) and son and Ringo (the guy at the very back) who is with his wife-to-be (the very lovely fiancee in blue stripes) at Eshaan’s (Cecile’s son) dedication so imagine he’s 2 years old now. Sherryl (pretty in black) who is also a batchmate in IS is there as well. We all look straight from college HA!

It’s nice to be able to meet-up after all those years and have a chat. I wonder when we can do this again?!

For the love of Greens!

2012-01-05T15:03:00.005+08:00

What a shocking news… I know! People who knew me personally know I’m not a veggie person. I can eat in a restaurant and not even take a look at the salad section. But I’m trying to eat healthier this year plus I recently discovered a really yummy salad at Uncle Cheffy’s – their “Uncle Cheffy’s Salad.”

I swear (and for someone who is not a veggie person to love this dish!) this is sooo good that I can eat it everyday. Though it’s still not that healthy because of the crispy pork belly in it (to die for literally!). They top it off with their Dijonnaise dressing yum! Yum! It’s Php230.00 for the regular serving. But you can order the large serving (Php 450.00) and still finish it off.

Another dish to consider while you’re already at Uncle Cheffy’s is their “Panizza.” I go for the simple one – Cheese Cheese and Cheese (Php475.00). Others liked the East Meets West (Php495.00) – a combination of parmaham, salami, kesong puti, salted eggs, tomato, mango and 3 cheese. Or you can have half orders if you wish to try both.

We also ordered their “Surf and Turf Platter” (Php1,750.00) which is good to share. This is a combination of chicken leg, lamb breast, beef and pork ribs, cream dory, salmon, tuna belly, garoupa, baby potatoes and a big bowl of rice.

When I met with my former colleagues after Christmas and ate at their Burgos branch, we also ordered their “Spaghetti Alejandro” (Php 350.00) and I liked it too. Their something unique in it’s taste.

I have yet to go back again and be able to try their “Garlic Studded Pork Belly Lechon” which I have heard good reviews as well… we’ll see…

I have the sweetest boy...

2012-01-05T13:18:00.005+08:00

When I came home last night and I was ready to join my boys in bed (who are all fast asleep), hubby woke up and shared a touching story about my eldest. He said they were doing his assignment (tracing shapes) earlier that night and told his daddy that "Heart (pointing to the shape) is love and love is mommy!" Aawww... Do you agree, my boy is such a sweetie pie? My ears were clapping... my heart was doing flip flops...

And to you, my first-born son: "You will always hold a special place in my heart where only you and you alone, my boy, can fill in. It is with you that I have first experienced the joys, the pain & the fear that comes with motherhood. But through our journey together, I would like to believe that you have made me a better mom... more equipped now in rearing your younger brother. Everything with you is a first that I will forever cherish and remember.

I'm happy to be your first true love. In the future when you find another girl to share your heart with, I'll be contented knowing I was your first and that I have showered you enough love for you to share. I love you, Kuya!"

...and my heart continues to do flip flops, I tell you. Tanggal lahat ng pagod mo.

On an entirely different matter, I have yet to upload our photos from our overnight stay at Edsa Shangri-La to celebrate our 5th Wedding Anniversary (wood). oh! And my reunion with my college buddies last December 30. Stay tuned...

From my family to yours...

2011-12-25T01:37:00.003+08:00

Looking forward to 2012!

2011-12-21T14:20:00.008+08:00

So much to look forward to... and with much anticipation I guess.

We have to be frugal this coming year and more discerning (the term!) when it comes to our expenses. We cannot simply splurge and splurge and splurge like we did in 2011. Our battle cry for 2012 is "Save! Save! We must!"

With the projected expenses for the coming year - tuition fee by 2nd quarter (nanay na talaga ako!) and Rafa's 1st birthday party by 3rd quarter - we really must monitor how we spend in 2012. Less unnecessary dine-outs, I suppose pwede fastfood (but that's not healthy!). And if we "want" to buy something, we need to think not only twice but thrice if we "need" it at that moment. Better yet, postpone buying it for a week or so and see if the desire to have it is still there by then.

Except for a few items we badly needed to get already. Like a new, no-frost refrigerator which we are getting this January. Napapagod na si yaya mag-defrost every 2 weeks hahaha! We also needed new cooking pots and electric stove (in case and we usually do ran out of gasul!). A smaller, wooden laundry basket we can put inside the washroom so we can take out the big, aluminum-type "trash can" we are currently using which was given to us by my BIL (as it's not working already and so as to lessen the clutter in our small abode). Also, a desk & chair (with storage spaces for the small toys) for Enzo so he has a place to work on his assignments. We saw something similar in S&R and I hope it's still there when I get the moolah to buy for it.

Some "wants" on the list is a new bag. I wanted to get the Petit Noe but I know it's impractical so I'm eyeing this Michael Korrs bag. Let's see if I have enough bonus to justify the splurge. Cheaper than Petit Noe for sure! And something I can use everyday in the office. Sige, i-justify pa! ;p

An out of town trip, maybe Boracay again. Oh! and a divider for our sala. I'm still visualizing if it will occupy too much space.

So 2012... I am sooo ready for you!

2011: the year that was...

2011-12-21T13:04:00.004+08:00

2011 has been a blessed year to our little family with the arrival of bunso, Rafa. There is really nothing more to ask. We are thankful to the Lord for giving us our heart's desire. Late last year, hubby and I were already discussing about having baby #2 as we believe this is the gap we wanted for our kids. Honestly, I don't want to be 35 and still be caring for an infant. I want to enjoy them as toddlers already when I reached that age. I'm turning 33 next year, I'll have a 4-going-5 toddler and a baby-going-1. Not bad huh?! Thinking of baby #3... hahaha! No more (for now) but we're not punctuating that statement with a period. God might have other plans and I'm still within the age range that I'm okay to still be carrying another baby. But with the difficulty that goes with the pregnancy as I get older, I'd like to stick with my 2 boys. And with our plans to bring the boys to Disneyland on Enzo's 7th Birthday (year 2014 - I'll be 35!), that just might be the case for good. Note to self: must SAVE! SAVE! SAVE!

Going back this 2011, early January, we were able to go to Nuvali. I didn't know I was pregnant already this time. It took us the end of the month before we decided to take the pregnancy test and voila! It wasn't as easy when I had Enzo in 2007 (I was 28 then!). I had bouts with nausea and GDM on my last trimester. That wasn't fun. But I had to be strong for the little boy. And now looking at him (at 3months), I'm still in awe that we were gifted with such a precious little angel.

We weren't able to travel for 2 years now (cancelled our Bohol trip last 2010 because Enzo got sick boohoo! then I got pregnant) but we plan to make up for next year. Though we were able to enjoy summer as we enroll Enzo to Futbol Fanatics. He surely had a blast and we'll do it again this coming summer of 2012. We also enrolled Enzo in school for Junior Nursery.

We did get a few gadgets this year so materially, we are also as blessed. And grateful for that.

Rafa turns 3!

2011-12-09T15:34:00.004+08:00

I have several drafts on my folder which I hope to be able to post really soon...

The candle-blowing was done the night before Rafa's actual 3rd month birthday. I requested for an early morning shift as I will be bringing Enzo to his pedia in the late afternoon due to fever. So I asked hubby if we can celebrate Rafa's 3rd month that night. We met up with hubby at SM Megamall then dropped by S&R to buy the "Original Cheesecake." This cheesecake is sinfully yummy I tell you and it's worth every penny (Php 999 something).

Since it was hubby who was in the picture for Rafa's 2nd month, it was my turn this time.

At 3 months, he's very engaging already and loves being talked to. The Lolo taught him "kruuuuk-ya" (the word they use to call chickens in the province when it's feeding time) and you'll be amazed how Rafa seems to copy it. He also smiles a lot now. And he is able to sleep through the night and just waking up to feed then sleep right after.

Rafa's 2 (07 November 2011)

2011-12-05T13:45:00.004+08:00

Rafa's 3rd month birthday is coming up in a few days and I have realized I haven't posted anything yet about his 2nd month birthday. As of his last check-up (November 5), he weighs 5kilos and is now 57 cms longer.

We just ordered Choco Overload Cake and Pancit Bam-I from Conti's. Since the Pancit Bam-I we ordered during Enzo's 4th Birthday last October was such a hit, we were only able to taste a little of it and it was yum! yum! yum! As we are still craving for it, we opted to order a small bilao this time (just for us!).

Presenting... the "boys" of my life!

Up next... Rafa's 3rd month birthday!

Welcome to the Christian World, Rafa! (20 November 2011)

2011-11-28T14:22:00.028+08:00

Bunso's baptism was held last November 20 at Santuario de San Antonio Parish. I really wanted to have his baptism before I go back to work. We initially wanted to have the baptism at Twin Hearts (where kuya Enzo was baptized) but we decided to avail of the merienda buffet in Kamayan considering the number of guests we are inviting (but if only we knew that only 89 pax of the 130-140 we have invited actually made it that Sunday, we could have gotten another restaurant... oh well... on Rafa's 1st birthday na lang). Going back to the reception venue, the only branch who has this promo is the one in Megamall and Glorietta. So we opted to just celebrate it in Makati.

Here is our family picture. HA! Ang payat ko dito ;P This time, I insisted to hubby that we will hire a photographer so that we could have family pictures. No regrets naman as the one I got - Jorem Catilo is sooo good and I looked nice in the pictures (no violent reactions...this is my blog!). I was trying to get Ging Lorenzo but she wasn't available on our date.

This is Rafa's baptism attire which I got from SM (for less than 500 bucks). I almost got the same one used by Enzo as I was looking at that design before opting to get this.

Of course, my boys have to change attire during the reception. This matching shirt and onesie I bought from Googoo & Gaga. The shirt of Enzo is a little bit wide on his neck (size is Toddler medium) and Rafa's onesie which is for 6-12 months (I believe) fits him just right at only 2 months. They look cute together. Oh! And they have matching shoes to boot hahaha!

Below is the cake I ordered from Belle of French Kiss. I also got from Belle the mini-cakes we gave as giveaways to the godparents. Plus we have availed of a photobooth to serve as souvenirs for the guests which was a hit (syempre Pinoy tayo! We love photo ops hahaha!). Now, am thinking what souvenirs we can have for his 1st birthday... maiba naman!

Now, it's time to plan for Rafa's 1st birthday... ooopps not yet! Maybe by April or May of next year...

Welcome Bunso to the Christian world!

Finally! a movie date

2011-11-26T08:15:00.005+08:00

...with the hubby ALONE! Since my maternity leave is almost over (got back to the corporate world as of this time), we decided to go out on a quick date. We opted to watch Twilight's Breaking Dawn on a weekday while Enzo is still in school. Besides we can't bring him along to this movie.

Sidenote: We also watched Happy Feet 2 later that night (8:05PM showing) even on a school night. Pasaway, I know! Ok lang since he's only Nursery.

Back to Breaking Dawn... Love it sobra! I can't wait to watch it's second part...

And I finally got a well-deserved break with hubby (even for a short while lang) and Edward (Cullen hahaha!).

Surprisingly Good!

2011-10-25T09:08:00.013+08:00

Last Sunday (October 23), hubby & I went with Enzo to attend the "Ecotreelogy" activity for his school's 44th Foundation Day. I thought there will be a film showing but instead, there was a stage play composed of games for the kids and 3 stories revolving around saving the trees. But that should be another post. Let me share with you instead where we had our lunch - Red Kimono at UP Ayala TechnoHub. It was surprisingly good even for someone who is not fond of Japanese food especially the raw kind.

This is what I order:Chicken Katsu Curry

This is just okay. I ordered it so that Enzo will have something to eat and the curry (which is served separately naman) is an interesting twist to the rather ordinary Chicken Katsu. But the curry sauce wasn't that spicy.

Yakiudon

This noodle dish I love! Hubby likes it too. We liked it that much that even there is only little leftover, we still opted to take it home harharhar! I'm going back even just for this ;P

Hubby's order:

Katsudon

Hubby likes it. Hubby shared it with me and I did like it too more than my Chicken Katsu order. The sauce is a bit sweet.

Salmon Shots

Hubby likes this too. I didn't taste it so I'm not sure how good it really is. It looks yummy though, don't you think?

Red Velvet Mini-Cake by Figaro

2011-10-24T11:26:00.009+08:00

Hayz! One word to describe it - disappointing ;(

I was initially excited to see a Red Velvet mini-cake in Figaro (Ayala TechnoHub branch). It's Php129.00 and much more expensive than the slices of cakes offered in Starbucks so I was expecting it to be at par at least. But it wasn't.

The cake seems to have been sitting in the refrigerator for weeks already. It was too dry. There seems to be a caramel filling that I'm not really able to distinguish. The sames goes to their cream cheese frosting. Sayang ang Php129.00 ko, in short!

The Red Velvet Quest

2011-10-17T14:43:00.010+08:00

I got intrigue with this cake after reading this post and this post by Mommy Fleur. The red color is truly enticing plus the cream cheese frosting is quite different from your usual frosting so I wanted to give it a try.

My boss in my new company always order the Red Velvet cake in Segafredo. I must try that too when I get back to the office!

So when I saw this post at Dessert Comes First and hubby told me his folks are visiting us, it was an opportunity to grab this treat.

Cucay's Red Velvet Cake (Php660) for a small round cake (7") is a bit pricey but it was worth the price and the travel too. The small cake is packed, moist and the cream cheese frosting is evident. Unlike the Red Velvet Cupcake by Frostings which I tried earlier that seems to have an ordinary "just plain sweet" frosting. Though the cream cheese frosting is a bit too sweet but I love it that way. I shared a portion to my parents and another portion to my BIL. The rest have been wiped out in 2 days. I could easily wipe it out in 1 sitting but I have to restrain myself hahaha!

I have also tried the Red Velvet Cake by Cheesecake Melliza. My friend was the one who took a picture... sayang I could have posted it here. But Cukay's so far is the best among this three I've tasted.

Watch out as I try to explore the other versions available in the market - it is truly that addicting! Kainis I'm watching pa naman my sugar hayz!

Sunday Dinner at Bon Chon, Katipunan

2011-10-17T13:20:00.008+08:00

Finally, last night hubby & I with my in-laws were able to sample Bon Chon's. I used to work near Greenbelt however when they opened a branch there, I have just moved to a new company in Bonifacio Global City. Tsk! Tsk!

Yesterday, my in-laws visited us and we wanted to go to St. Clare plus I'm dying to try this Red Velvet Cake - Cucay's at Eastwood Mall. It was almost dinner time when we left Eastwood Mall so we decided to try the Bon Chon's branch in Katipunan (across Ateneo).

We ordered the "Mix & Match Rice Pack" (if I remembered correctly?!). Php145 for a 2-piece chicken (thigh & drumstick). Drinks are included in this combo. We got 2 orders of the original flavor and another 2 orders of the hot & spicy so we can try both.

I love the flavor and how crispy the skin is but there's not much flavor on the chicken meat itself. Pwede ba chicken skin na lang? Harharhar!

I also ordered their "Calamari" (Php 125) for Enzo as I'm not sure if he'll like the chicken as it's not the usual fried chicken he loves. He did eat the chicken as the skin was crispy.

Here is one of Enzo's wacky moments. I had to change his shirt as he probably had a big bite of chicken he couldn't swallow and threw up a bit. His dad took a picture of this tambay at Bon Chon hihihi! He got his looks from me (syempre! am the mom) but he has his dad's personality hayz! ;p

Rafa's 1st Month Birthday (07 October 2011)

2011-10-12T14:00:00.004+08:00

Rafa's 1st Month Birthday fell on the same day of Enzo's 4th Birthday. This is when Enzo had his celebration in school and since we gave his Goldilocks' Rocky Road cake to his teachers, we had to order another cake for Rafa's birthday. We ended up with Chocolat's Chocolate Hazelnut cake which is sinfully "chocolatey."

Rafa's cord fell off last October 6. Just like his Kuya whose cord took exactly a month before it fell off. He had his first bath that day. Rafa is heavier now, weighing 3.5kg and 51.6cm longer. And because he is thriving, his pedia has not given him any vitamins yet. He also had his first nailcut last October 8.

We also noticed that he has more head control now and is able to stay awake longer than his first few days, first few weeks. Looking forward to more of your milestones, bunso.

Ciao for now as Rafa is finally sleeping... I will join my 2 boys for some needed nap time! ;p

His Thomas cake

2011-10-10T18:13:00.015+08:00

One word to describe French Kiss' cake: Amazing! Look at these details... there's Thomas, Gordon, James & Percy. I think Ms. Belle forgot to add Toby but I didn't brought it up anymore. The design really made up for it already.

To our first-born son (but will forever be a baby in my heart), mommy & daddy only wish for your happiness and good health and hopes you will be a loving and helpful brother to Rafa. We love you!!

Happy, Happy 4th Birthday Enzo!

2011-10-08T05:12:00.005+08:00

Birthday banner courtesy of his school and
Goldilocks Rocky Road cake

my "labor of love" - spaghetti, Krispy Kreme M&M mini-donuts,
and Purefoods nuggets

candle blowing with his classmates at Section Masaya

Say Cheese! (01 October 2011)

2011-10-06T16:01:00.003+08:00

This was taken during the 1st birthday of baby Gab, daughter of hubby's cousin. And they have recently ventured into photobooth. Just wanted to upload this pic as we look nice here...look at my face... payat pa ako!!! Wait 'til I get back to work harharhar! Sayang that we could not bring Rafa to the photobooth as the party was held outdoors and it was raining and I didn't want to risk it. After all, he is only less than a month.

Oh! and to my baby Enzo... advance Happy, Happy 4th Birthday! We love you very much!

brotherly love!

2011-10-03T07:28:00.005+08:00

Kuya is at this stage where he seeks our attention more but I have no doubt in my mind that he loves his baby brother. Our pedia said that it is how we respond to Enzo's demands that will define his relationship with his brother in the future.

Ikaw na...

2011-09-19T05:55:00.001+08:00

ang assuming at magaling! HA! Geez... insecure ka?

Really?! Who do you think you are?

Happy, Happy Birthday Ney!

2011-09-18T14:20:00.004+08:00

To the most patient, caring, giving husband (guy) who continue to make me laugh every single day (even after a CS delivery when I should not be laughing :p) - Happy, Happy Birthday! We love you very much... ney, kuya Enzo & baby Rafa

Rafa's Birthing Kwento

2011-09-16T08:10:00.011+08:00

I don't think I was able to blog about Enzo's birthing kwento way back in 2007. In fact, it took me awhile to start blogging again that time.

Here goes my birthing kwento (the second time around!) while it still is fresh from my mind:
We have scheduled my CS delivery on my 39th week as my OB said MMC does not allow them to perform elective CS earlier. We chose September 23 (Friday) as it is the Feast of Padre Pio. Both my OB and Endo doesn't think I'll make it on that day hahaha! Well, I guess they were right all along.

September 6 (Tuesday)
I still continue to report to the office even if I'm on my 37th week already and ready to pop. Sayang kasi ang maternity leave! Besides, I was thinking I'll give birth on the 23rd or at least that week. My shift is from 12noon-9pm and I go to the office (from Quezon City to Bonifacio Global City) by commute as in tricycle-jeep-MRT-Fort Bus. Around 7PM, right after having dinner, I felt this dysmenorrhea-type of pain. It wasn't too painful and just tolerable. I was even thinking that maybe I just needed to do #2. The pain did not go away. I remember when I was about to give birth to Enzo in 2007, I felt the same kind of pain around Thursday (early morning) then it disappear in the morning. I did not anymore go to office that Friday as I barely slept. We even went to my OB that Saturday for my check-up and a non-stress test as I have mentioned that I have only felt the baby move a few times. My water bag broke Sunday morning and I delivered Enzo by CS delivery that Sunday morning. So it made me think that I might not be able to make it on the 23rd and give birth the week of September 5. It's a good thing that I have turned over most of my tasks as early as August so I decided to just send a few emails in case I did go into labor. I left the office at past 9PM as I waited for my in-laws to pick me up so they could bring me home. The pain is still there (but still tolerable). When I got home, I fix our hospital and baby bag so we are ready to go in case I go into labor that night. We decided to bring Enzo with us if we will need to go to the hospital early that morning as he might throw a tantrum when he wakes up and we are not beside him.

September 7 (Wednesday)
I remember not being able to sleep well and when I woke up, the pain (though still tolerable) is still there... geez! Around 3AM, I woke up again because of the urge to pee and realized that the pain is still there. Though there was no bloody show or breaking of water bag, I woke up hubby and we decided to go to MMC already. With Enzo in tow, we arrived at MMC around 5AM (I guess?!) We went straight to the new labor/delivery room. I underwent a non-stress test to see how my contractions were. They were consistent so they need to perform an IE (even if I dreaded this procedure!). I was 2cm dilated already. The resident OB explained that what they are trying to avoid is for my previous scar to rupture when my contractions become intense. With the consultation with my OB, the resident advised me that my CS operation is at 8AM that day and I will no longer be allowed to go home. Ha?! Hubby was allowed to enter the operation room and at 8:40AM, baby Inigo Rafael Luiz a.k.a. RAFA was born. Sayang we missed the September 8! Come to think of it, Enzo was born October 7, Rafa on September 7... just saying. Rafa was 37weeks & 1 day. He was 6.5lbs and 48cms long.

Rafa had to stay at NICU and I wasn't able to feed him because he has a high respiratory rate. According to my son's "wonderful" pedia, Dr. Clemente, this usually happens on a CS delivery. Buti na lang it wasn't pneumonia that would require a longer stay at the hospital. We were worried that we might go home without our bunso. I was able to breastfeed him Friday, September 9. We were actually allowed to be discharged already that Saturday but we opted to stay until Sunday and see if Rafa can be discharged too. Thank God that by Sunday morning, Dr. Clemente advised us that he can also be discharged yipeey!

We are now home. I'm on my 10th day of maternity leave. Enzo is adjusting well and he is even very protective of his baby brother. Although he keeps asking if there is a baby sister on my tummy... what?! Rafa, on the other hand, has been very behaved and "hindi iyakin." We are very blessed!

Let me share a few pictures from the hospital...

our eldest waiting at the 5th floor lobby of MMC

first daddy & son picture

first glimpse

first family picture

such pretty flowers from the office

Enzo's 4th Birthday Party Preps

2011-09-10T20:22:00.003+08:00

Just a quick thought, I'll be able to push through of having Enzo celebrate his 4th birthday in school since that would already be a month after giving birth. The school discourages big parties so I will only be cooking spaghetti and cocktail hotdogs or chicken lollipops. I will just buy cupcakes or Krispy Kreme's mini-M&M donuts and order a cake from Goldilocks for candle blowing.

Then will have another salo-salo that weekend in the house. I already fully paid his Thomas cake courtesy of French Kiss Pastries. Depending on how I will love his cake, I am also planning to get Rafa's baptism cake (and maybe cupcakes too!) from them. I was thinking of ordering the following: Conti's baked Lasagna, Amber's Pancit Puti, Lumpiang Shanghai, Barbeque, Pichi-Pichi, Puto courtesy of Lola Rose, Elarz Lechon and Blue Bunny Ice Cream. Oh! I'm getting hungry now hihihi!

World meets baby Rafa (07 September 2011)

2011-09-09T15:07:00.001+08:00

Inigo Rafael Luiz a.k.a "Rafa" was born at 8:40AM (though hubby insisting the time was 8:38AM) via CS delivery at Makati Medical Center. He weighs 6.5lbs and 48cms long...

Baking Experiment 1: Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies (03 September 2011)

2011-09-05T06:12:00.006+08:00

Just so I could document my first-ever baking experiment last Saturday, September 3. This is my first-ever batch of Chewy Chocolate Chip cookies based on the recipe I found at the Martha Stewart website (see link from an earlier post). I swear they are chewy and oh so yummy! My family can even compare it to a Mrs. Fields cookie... wow! Depending on how I recover from my CS delivery, I wanted to try again the recipe for my son's 4th birthday this October but I will still need some kitchen stuff: baking pan, 2 mixing bowls (at least), spoon and spatula for now.

Baking 101

2011-08-30T09:02:00.004+08:00

Hopefully (during my maternity leave), I will be able to finally try my hand at baking. I've always wanted to bake but we can only get a mini-electric oven as we don't have a big space in our condo. I got confused with the temperature that I thought I will not be able to bake some cookies in the mini-oven as the temperature is at 250 while most recipes I saw in the internet calls for a 375. 250 meant for Celsius pala (ngek!) while 375 refers to Farenheit harharhar! Thanks to the S&R saleslady who explained to me.

I was looking at recipes online and I'd like to try this one first from Martha Stewart: (seems quite easy)

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed light-brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups (about 12 ounces) semisweet and/or milk chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda; set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter with both sugars; beat on medium speed until light and fluffy. Reduce speed to low; add the salt, vanilla, and eggs. Beat until well mixed, about 1 minute. Add flour mixture; mix until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.
Drop heaping tablespoon-size balls of dough about 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
Bake until cookies are golden around the edges, but still soft in the center, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from oven, and let cool on baking sheet 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack, and let cool completely. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week.

Birthday Wishlist for Kuya

2011-08-29T22:16:00.014+08:00

My baby... yes I'm referring to Enzo is turning 4 in a little over a month. Geez! Time flies sooo fast...he's now even in preschool.

Here are my "Birthday Wishlist" for Kuya:

1. RL polo - I bet he will look adorable in this striped green polo...

or this plain orange polo. Such cool colors!

2. Converse shoes - How I wish Kuya and Bunso can have matching pairs... cuteness overload! This will be a perfect match for the striped green polo above teehee! Well, his rubber shoes are usually in red and blue colors so the green one will be a welcome change.

3. Shirts - He's taller (99cms) and bigger (heavier at 17kgs) now and have outgrown most of his shirts ;p

4. Matching Pajama set - He has already outgrown his pajama too!

5. Mr. Bean underwear (size 4 na pala!) - I bought a Simpsons' underwear in Landmark, Trinoma... they're sooo affordable and comfy!

6. Socks - gray or black for school

7. Wii games - Super Mario Galaxy 1 will do as well ;p

24 Days to go!

2011-08-29T17:46:00.002+08:00

Woah! Just realized my scheduled CS delivery date is sooo near already.

I have started preparing our hospital bag. The baby bag is ready some weeks ago. Rafa's clothes and other baby stuff are neatly arranged on his new cabinet drawer. Just really waiting for the day. I'm nervous and excited to see our Bunso. I know this is my 2nd CS operation already but of course, I still get nervous. I just continue to pray for protection and guidance to my doctors hihihi!... a speedy recovery... and most especially, a healthy and normal baby.

at 35weeks & 3days...

2011-08-26T08:50:00.002+08:00

...I am on leave today, August 26. This is the 2nd day that I have been the one bringing Enzo to school. Yesterday, I woke up at 5:30AM to prepare and bring him to school. Then I waited for 2 1/2 hours and brought him home before leaving (again!) for my 12nn-9pm shift. I got home a few minutes before 11 last night. Whew! What a day that was... I was sooo sleepy in the office.

I don't think I'll survive another day like that especially now that I'm sooo heavy with Rafa. Maybe if I wasn't pregnant. So for today, I asked permission to go on leave. Besides I have to see my Endo again as her assistant is not sure if they will have clinic next week. I bet I will endure another long wait at the Clinic this afternoon hayz!

Meet our Lil Prince

2011-08-14T22:15:00.009+08:00

My OB asked me to undergo a "non-stress test" and a "third trimester ultrasound." The last ultrasound we had was back in June as we wanted to finally know the gender. We didn't have it in MMC then as we opted to try Healthway but never again... the pictures of that ultrasound weren't as clear and the OB is sooo late grrr! That should be another post.

I guess because I'm a GDM on insulin that she has to make sure my baby is doing fine. I'm also glad we did the ultrasound as I was able to assure myself that he is doing ok and growing.

Here are the ultrasound pics from last Saturday's ultrasound (Aug. 13) at 33weeks and 4 days:

Rafa was very cooperative. He was opening and closing his hands.
Look at his pouted lips hahaha!

Yup! He is definitely a boy teehee!

First Day @ Junior Nursery - Section Masaya (21 June 2011)

2011-08-06T20:42:00.010+08:00

Enzo up sooo early for school. He even wakes up now at an earlier time since he has to ride the school bus. They pick him up between 5:40-5:50AM so imagine I had to wake him up as early as 5:15-5:20AM.

Early dismissal time on his first week of school. I took a leave for 2 days to witness this milestone. Hmmm... maybe on my maternity leave, I can bring him to school again on some days.

Since Daddy also went on leave during his first day
and brought Astroboy (the car), we ended up in Starbucks in Trinoma hihihi!

4th Birthday Preps

2011-08-06T17:54:00.005+08:00

Wow! It's been awhile since I last visited my own blog... and there was even a time I thought I lost this blog already as when I searched it, Google says "Blog Not Found." waaah!

I'm almost there now... on my 32weeks & 4days. Had to monitor my blood sugar on my 28th week then just this Tuesday, August 2 I had to have insulin injection (4units) every night before my bedtime snack. I cried when I found out but realized it ain't that bad. And I'm also on medication for my UTI and due for another urinalysis this coming Tuesday. Oh well!

Hubby & I decided to have my CS on Friday, September 23 (Feast of Padre Pio) - my 39th week unless Rafa has something else in mind. Besides am considered full term by Tuesday, September 6 (wow! that's a month from now...).

Going back on the topic of my post... am also preparing now for my eldest 4th Birthday. He wants Thomas as theme so I have, in fact bought Thomas Birthday banner, Thomas party hats and Thomas loot bags. I have paid the downpayment for his Thomas cake from French Kiss. We'll only have a simple merienda. So just have to buy what goes in the loot bags for the kids who will be there on his birthday, paper plates and cups and spoons & forks and order the food.

We are mostly decided to have him celebrate his birthday in school. It will only be snacks during their recess so am thinking chicken lollipops, spaghetti, cookies or cupcakes and a Goldilocks birthday cake perhaps. We need to buy re-usable containers before I give birth.

So I hope my recovery after 2 weeks goes smoothly and I'll be able to bring these stuff to his school come recess time. But the simple merienda over the weekend will have to push through.

Hope to be able to blog more often now especially when I go on my maternity leave... Ciao for now!

Futbol Summer Camp Day 3 (16 April 2011)

2011-04-21T09:07:00.013+08:00

Let me share with you Enzo's 3rd day at the Futbol Summer Camp last April 16.

...enjoying the stretching exercises they do in-between!

We're done with the 3 sessions and only have 2 more sessions left. It has been truly a fun summer camp for the little one.

I can blog :p

2011-04-14T13:15:00.006+08:00

It seems I can blog from the office hihihi! Let me focus this post to our 2nd bundle of joy (whom we will refer to as Bunso) since I haven't blog much about my pregnancy. I am now on my 16weeks & 2 days. According to Babycenter.com, I will be able to start feeling my baby move. Honestly, I believe I felt my baby even before the 16th week mark however, it wasn't very distinct. Maybe in the next few weeks, the moves will be more distinct and I can share the experience to hubby and kuya Enzo. I am currently taking Clusivol OB and Iberet (for my Iron requirements). I can't take drinking Anmum so I hope the vitamins will compensate for the lack of my milk intake. I'm sorry Bunso but mommy has really been picky during this pregnancy unlike when I was carrying kuya Enzo. Although I still stay away from Starbucks and just a few sips of soda from time to time. Oh! I still munch on junk food... bad mommy! But I do try to force myself to eat healthy. Foods I love to eat (meaning I can tolerate) are: Segafredo's Baked Bolognese (which I can actually eat everyday and not get tired - that's how yummy I think it is or because I am preggy but a bit expensive for me to eat everyday), mentos (for those days I feel I am about to vomit!), sweet & salty tamarind (there was a period I was craving for this), apple mango & bagoong (or indian mango will do), and The Sandwich Guy's Cheesy Baked Potato (I wonder if it's bad to consume a lot of potatoes... and cheese for that matter?). I am actually due for my mothly check-up already, most likely after the Holy Week so we can hear again the heartbeat. So far, kuya is excited about the baby and he never fails to kiss mommy and my tummy goodnight, every night. He has always been a sweet boy! We are both excited to know the gender of Bunso so I can already sort the baby stuff I still have. Or buy new ones in case we are having a little princess this time. And buy a new drawer for his/her stuff. Hubby says I might be having another boy. I'm not sure... I wish for a baby girl this time. But another boy is still okay. In fact, the name we'll call him is sooo cute. I know I mentioned in my blog before that if we will be blessed with a girl, we will call her "Bella" for short. Yes! inspired by the book Twilight. But I'll just divulge the full name when we finally found out the gender. Maybe I am having a girl, my symptoms from this pregnancy are way different when I was carrying Enzo hihihi! But the Chinese calendar says otherwise. Maybe late May or early June we can know by then.

Update on Bunzo

2011-04-09T11:38:00.002+08:00

... I am now 15weeks & 4 days, about 3 1/2 months now. We also have decided on a boy's name as well as a girl's name just in case.

Beckham buddy

2011-04-09T11:14:00.006+08:00

Last Saturday (April 2), we went with Enzo for his trial class in Futbol Fanatics. We were not sure if Enzo would enjoy the activity but he ended up having sooo much fun.

... looking such a pro! :)

...huddle time... hey Enzo! listen to your coach!

...lining for his stamp for a job well done!

...sooo pawis yet he had so much fun!

We ended up enrolling him for 4 more sessions every Saturday. Next year, we can attempt for the full 10 sessions.

Guess what?

2011-02-06T21:29:00.005+08:00

Positive pregnancy test last January 29!

Bunso's 1st ultrasound at 6wks, 1 day (February 5 - same time we had Enzo's 1st ultrasound in 2007, Enzo then was only 4wks, 4 days. Amazing coincidence, I know!)

Fish Feeding @ Nuvali

2011-02-06T21:01:00.015+08:00

With less than a month, I will be turning 32. My age is out of any months in the calendar. Hubby says, “it’s okay, you’re still in Lotto!” grrr… But I don’t really mind my age now unlike when I was younger and single. I think it is my family that makes me feel complete. Financially, we are better off now than when we were just getting started. Our combined salaries then would have been lower than what hubby is earning now. But we survived then… with the weddings costs then I got pregnant at once and delivered via CS plus Christening and 1^st birthday party. Whoa! That’s a lot and we survived. Sometimes, I think that even if I quit my job now and rely only on hubby’s income, we should be okay. It’s just a matter of spending within your means. Except we might not be able to afford to send Enzo to Ateneo harharhar!

-oOo-

On another note, hubby gained the confidence in driving (or is it really me who gained the confidence to let him drive?!) so we are able to use now my parents’ car to bring us to nearby malls. Maybe next time, I will be brave enough to let him drive in EDSA (maybe on a holiday!). Enzo named “his” car – Astroboy. Technically, it is my parents’ car which my brother used until he was able to get their own car. It is really an old but reliable car which even survived the wrath of Ondoy.

Our only problem is the parking in our area. So we still park the car in my parents’ house which is some blocks away from our condo. We still end up hailing a cab on our way home.

-oOo-

Last Sunday, January 9, we went to Tagaytay, Caleruega, Nasugbu and Nuvali, Sta. Rosa. We were supposed to go with hubby’s cousins that Saturday however, Enzo is a bit feverish that Friday night so we begged off. My in-laws offered to bring us that Sunday. My parents also went with us. It is Enzo’s 3^rd time in Tagaytay. The weather that Sunday was cool but rainy.

Here are some of our pictures in Pink Sisters.

Then off we went to Caleruega. This was our 1st time there.

Before we proceeded to Nuvali in Sta. Rosa, we dropped by Rowena’s to buy buko pies/buko tarts. I swear their pies/tarts are way better than Collete’s.

Enzo had the most fun in Nuvali and enjoyed the fish feeding and boat ride a lot. The fish food is Php15.00/plastic while the boat ride is Php30.00/person with a capacity of 12 pax. 2 years old and below are free of charge.

We treated the lolos and lolas for lunch at Pig-Out since hubby was recently promoted. It’s always a plus points for me (and I guess for any moms or dads out there) when restaurants have activity sheets and crayons to keep my son occupied while we enjoy the food. Though their rice platter is small especially when you compare it with those offering unlimited rice these days. I think we ended up ordering 2 additional platters of rice. But the dishes we ordered are all yummy!

Their bestseller Crispy Pata (Php549.11). Though the skin is not that crunchy anymore.

Flavorful Adobong Spareribs (Php433.04 ) which hubby loved!

Yummy Grilled Tuna Belly (Php388.39 ) which I loved!

We were unable to bring Enzo to Ocean Park last year. I am hoping we can bring him this year. When? My birthday is actually coming up but I am decided to only celebrate at home by ordering spaghetti from Amber (which I have been craving for lately!), pitchi-pitchi with cheese, Elar’s Lechon or KFC bucket and Brooklyn Pizza (which I missed the most when I left AIM!).

Christmas 2010 Family Portrait

2010-12-30T21:36:00.004+08:00

Ever since we had Enzo in 2007, we've always had our family picture taken on Christmas Day at hubby's parish, San Ildefonso here in Bangkal, Makati City. This is our "Christmas 2010 Family Portrait."

Flower Anniversary Celebration

2010-12-29T23:00:00.021+08:00

Our 4^th Year Anniversary was spent on a weekend at Sofitel. We decided to splurge a bit as a consolation for our cancelled Bohol vacation. We left the condo early thinking we can at least enjoy the hotel facilities even if we will not be able to check-in early. Luckily, there was an available room at the 5^th floor so we were able to check-in as early as 11AM.

There was only a hassle on guaranteeing our overnight stay. Since I know that my credit card might not be accepted due to recent charges made on the card, I specifically asked the Reservation Officer if they are accepting BPI EPS. The girl said yes and even offered that they also have a BPI ATM machine within the hotel premises. Great! So when my credit card did not work (as I have expected) and when I was about to settle the room accommodation with a BPI ATM card, I was told by the Front Desk Officer that their machine is only for BdO. What?! She told me they have a BPI ATM machine downstairs. Fine! However, that machine is unable to make transactions. What?! I was really pissed off already but controlling myself as I do not want to ruin our stay. I demanded to be allowed to check-in already so that we can go out and find a BPI ATM machine nearby. If that Reservation Officer advised me when I called the day before that they cannot process BPI EPS then I would have made the withdrawal before going to the hotel. That’s my point!

Thank God there is a nearby BPI ATM machine that can actually dispense some cash harharhar! We decided to eat in Jollibee (as Enzo is demanding!) so we can splurge later on the dinner buffet offered at Spiral. But since the Jollibee branch there only have breast and wing part which hubby doesn’t like, we moved to KFC where we were able to finally grab our lunch. We headed back to the hotel by 1PM.

After some photo ops in the hotel, we finally let Enzo swim in their brrr… cold… freezing cold pool! But the lil boy had a blast and it was harder to get him out of the water. Then we took a quick afternoon nap.

Thank God that we made a reservation at Spiral that afternoon. We were even told that we will be on the waitlist already. We went down a bit early for our 6:30PM reservation and surprise! Surprise! They were able to include our reservation in the lay-out of the restaurant so we don’t have to wait anymore for our turn. As they say, “The early bird catches the worm!” And guess what time our dinner ended? 9PM harharhar!

We woke up early the next day to have breakfast so that we still have time to go for another swim. We were done with breakfast and swimming before 11AM and had our mini-family pictorial at the hotel room 533 and the hotel grounds. Nice pictures huh?!

This is why I told hubby I wanted to get married on the month of December. The mood is sooo festive and happy. Thanking God for those 4 blessed years of being together. There might have been bumps along the way but I’m happy and thankful that there weren’t really any rough roads for us. Plus we are blessed with this wonderful kiddo – who’s talkative yet inquisitive, naughty yet charming, temperamental yet sweet and lovable and he’s only 3!

It's Christmas time once again...

2010-12-11T20:58:00.003+08:00

... Christmas is just around the corner literally... the crowded malls sum it all up. I just wanted to wish you ALL in advance "the Merriest Christmas ever for you and your loved ones!"

... 4 days to go and we're celebrating our 4th Year Anniversary. We are reserved for the weekend at Sofitel Philippine Plaza. To hubby, "Happy, Happy Anniversary!"

... 2010 has been very good to us and our little family and we look forward to a brighter, blessed 2011!

mine at last!

2010-11-20T08:00:00.004+08:00

Got this finally after weeks of waiting for stocks! Though it was not what I first intended to buy (a long handle, small size in Bilberry color) but love it nonetheless... come to think of it, it's way better than the one I was eyeing...

And that Citibank promo with Longchamp is tempting, should I apply?

Oh! Yes, hubby spoils me...

am still kickin guys...

2010-11-01T11:47:00.012+08:00

So sorry for those who still continue to drop by my blog and continue to find no new updates from me...

I have started my new job last October 11 and I cannot anymore access social networking sides... name it - Facebook, Twitter, Multiply, Blogspot, YM, Gmail chat...

So yeah, it does get lonely in my new job... I miss my AIM friends because I have a different shift from most of my other colleagues and I eat my dinner at 6PM alone... but the pay is way way better... so I guess, am still adjusting!

Enzo, by the way, turned 3 last month and here's a few pictures to share on our Jollibee party. It wasn't really planned... but the lil prince had a blast!

Toy Story cake by Goldilocks

loot bags

game prizes in theme...

Enzo & Jollibee

the candle blowing

family picture

on my toes...

2010-09-29T17:20:00.003+08:00

I am literally on my toes... just too many things on my plate now. Will blog again when I am settled. For the meantime, here's a preview of how it has been and of what is bound to happen soon enough...

- cancelled our much anticipated Bohol trip due to Enzo's bout with gastroenteritis. Our only consolation was that no hospitalization was required.
- moving to a new workplace in a week's time. Mixed emotions - excited yet nervous!
- preparing for Enzo's 3rd birthday party in Jollibee with only 2-weeks lead time...

Ok, ciao for now!

13 days to go

2010-09-01T09:42:00.002+08:00

... before our much awaited Bohol vacation!

*excited*

My Frozen Yogurt Adventure (Yoh-Gurt Froz)

2010-09-01T09:34:00.002+08:00

I had this a few days ago... this is actually cheaper than The White Hat & Red Mango with already 3 toppings of cherries (or was that strawberries?), cheesecake and butterscotch. The serving, in fact, was quite huge but I was sooo disappointed... geez! The yogurt is sooo bland, I miss that sourness you expect in a yogurt. I should have just ordered again from The White Hat my current fave, the Kooky Hat!

My personal ratings: 1/5 spoon!

My Frozen Yogurt Adventure (The White Hat)

2010-08-17T15:36:00.004+08:00

Today, I had this Italian frozen yogurt with red cherries and homemade cheesecake for toppings from The White Hat. The regular plain yogurt is Php90.00. One topping is additional P20.00, two toppings like mine is Php35.00 and three toppings (if you can't get enough) is Php45.00. I love it more than Red Mango really. Although Red Mango is a little cheaper. The sourness in this yogurt is distinct enough for me to know I'm eating a yogurt. The toppings I got also go well with the plain yogurt, you see!

My personal rating: 5/5 spoons!

before he turns 3!

2010-08-16T09:35:00.010+08:00

Look at him now...

A picture with his "current" fave toys... Woody and Buzz and he even memorized the lines from the movie already geez!

This is his current loot from lolo Jun... Mario & Luigi!

Recently, he does this... he says "What do I want?" with matching hand action (like in the pic)... really it amazes me where he gets it?

This red Superga sneakers, on the other hand, is courtesy of my in-laws. He is spoiled well... loved!

A closer look... he is heavy at 15kgs. as of his last check-up. But he doesn't really look fat, just heavy. I guess because he eats with so much "gusto" and I'm happy that he loves eating vegetables even the ampalaya tops we mixed in Monggo. Though he also loves Jollibee chickenjoy and KFC chicken and anything fried chicken.

32 days to go...

2010-08-13T09:49:00.002+08:00

Yes, I have been counting the days... I only pray for 2 things now...

the weather will be a fine, sunny day and
PAL is back to normal operations and will not be affected by the looming strike!

bye bye mosquito!

2010-08-11T16:00:00.005+08:00

I got this idea through one of my n@wie sis, Con who used to sell these Skeeter Guards which are patches that prevent mosquitoes from going near you. You can stick it either at the back of your shirt or on top of the headboard of your bed. Unfortunately, she does not sell it anymore so I had to find a similar product in time for our Bohol trip this September.

This is what I saw in Ace Hardware... Buzz Away. It's only Php 129.75 per box of 5pcs. I only hope it is as effective as Skeeter Guard was.

I'll check first if I have a few Skeeter Guard left in the house and I won't need to buy anymore.

I also saw this Citronella wrist band which purpose is also to divert these mosquitoes away from you. I believe this is even less than P50.00.

My Frozen Yogurt Adventure (Qoola)

2010-08-11T13:48:00.003+08:00

Sorry for the blurry photo as I am only using my iPhone.

Oh oh! This is quite addicting huh?

After lunch today, I decided to try this Canadian frozen yogurt in Greenbelt, "Qoola."

The staff asked me if it's my first time there and I said "yes." She gave me a sample of all their available flavors - Original, Raspberry, Strawberry-Banana (no sugar added) and Chocolate. Tip: the Original and Raspberry flavors are on the sour side while the Strawberry-Banana and Chocolate flavors are on the sweet side. For me, their Original flavor is more sour in taste than that of Red Mango. But since, I'm not such a yogurt person, I ended up with Strawberry-Banana.

Their price is per gram (Php75.00/100grams) so I was very careful not to get so much and pay too much. Though I was able to get more toppings - white chocolate chips, chocolate chips, Oh Henry and cashews. I ended up with 115grams which costs me Php86.25. Not bad! But I would have gotten more if I had known I would love it hahaha!

My personal rating: 5/5 spoons!

My Frozen Yogurt Adventure (Red Mango)

2010-08-11T08:42:00.004+08:00

I know... I know... I'm sooo outdated!

You see, am not really fond of yogurts so when the buzz on the different frozen yogurts sprouting everywhere and anywhere, I didn't budge. Until yesterday...

Hubby wanted to have his haircut and a scalp treatment that would take about an hour or so. And since I've already checked Landmark for Enzo's swimming attire and swimming diapers (which will be for another post), I decided to give it a try. I have been telling hubby a few days ago that we should try all the frozen yogurts and see which is better.

My first try is the "Red Mango" in Trinoma. Their newly opened store (near Max's) wasn't as busy as their stall near the Toys 'R Us. And their glass door should be fixed as it's hard to push/pull it haaay!

Hmmm... I tasted first the original frozen yogurt without the 2 toppings I got. It wasn't too sour as I was expecting yogurts will be which I like really. And the toppings I got which was recommended by the staff was "blueberry" and "cheesecake." It was a very nice combination and I wasn't disappointed for someone who isn't fond of yogurts! I like it so far!

Hubby had a few bites and he wanted to try it again... maybe this Thursday before we go to the supermarket for our weekly grocery.

Their small (4oz) Original Frozen Yogurt is Php80.00 and one topping is an additional Php20.00 or two toppings for Php30.00.

I think this is a good alternative to my Starbucks addiction, a lot healthier too!

My personal rating: 4/5 spoons!

I'm a convert!

2010-08-05T16:24:00.003+08:00

It's not that I don't like the Hainanese Chicken Rice when I first tasted it in Singapore. I remember ordering it at Jurong Bird Park but my experience then was forgettable. It's either it wasn't really good or we came straight from the airport and I was still dizzy. Yes... though I love to travel, I am not a big fan of airports and airplanes thus, gives me air sickness. Hubby says it's all in the mind... whatever!

So anyway, the big boss invited me and my other 'female' boss for lunch at the Manila Polo Club. My 'female boss' requested for the Hainan Chicken as she said it tastes good and almost authentic to the Singapore version. She frequents Singapore as her sister lives there and she loves chicken rice. And since they both ordered the same thing, I decided to give it one more try. And I wasn't disappointed. The chicken is boneless and I so love their sauces. I'm a convert now! Their Hainan Chicken is Php250 and very filling.

I don't have a picture as I am with the bosses and shy to take a picture of my food but it was appetizing.

Enzo's Bohol Checklist

2010-08-04T16:31:00.003+08:00

We need to bring the following:

- Huggies swimpants (check!)
- new swimsuit bought at Landmark for only Php339.75 (check!)
- small "salbabida"*
- Buzz Away*
- Dr. Edwards* (around 6 small bottles)
- 2 Nestle fresh milk*
- 2 Chuckie
- 4 Red Ribbon bread* (for his breakfast)
- 6 8oz. Avent
- 2 water bottles (buy a new one without straw*)
- milk powder dispenser
- biscuits and cookies (check!)
- medicines: Sunblock, Advil, Dimetapp, Prox-S, Opigesic, petroleum jelly, Betadine and thermometer (new battery) (check!)
- 3 short sleeves shirt & 2 pajama
- 7 extra shirts & 3 shorts
- Crocs & Sanuk sandals
- 4 Drypers for night time & 10 Huggies Pull-ups for day time (check!)
- Buzz & Woody

* - to buy!
Did I forget anything? Will go back to this list when I start packing.

42 days to go...

2010-08-04T13:19:00.005+08:00

and I pray for a good weather such as this to welcome us on our family vacation...

We ended up booking at Dumaluan Beach Resort as finally I was convinced that Dumaluan Beach is a lot quieter and beach is also nicer, they say. But I should keep in mind that the food in the older Dumaluan Resort is cheaper and better than here. We should try their grill restaurant there.

I was thinking of having our lunch on the 15th at Bohol Bee Farm as they said food is okay here and it's our treat for hubby's 31st birthday. Any feedback on their menu?

The tour guide, Mang Johnny (referred by hubby's officemate) is suggesting we do the Panglao tour upon arrival since check-in time is still at 2pm. Then he said we can have the Countryside tour the next day. I was thinking of skipping the "Hanging Bridge" and "Butterfly Garden." I was also told by Mang Johnny that the Loboc cruise and lunch is Php400/head... hmmm... but I heard reviews that don't expect much on the food. But it's also one of the highlights in Bohol aside from the Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers encounter.

Lapit na...

the boy's shoes

2010-08-02T17:10:00.009+08:00

Remember this post last April 15? I was tempted to get this (photo on the right):

The original one I saw is in blue. But when hubby saw this pair in red, he preferred that. The size 10-11 is still a bit bigger for Enzo while the size 8-9 is almost small for him now.

Then I remember he has this Crocs in size 10-11 which is still kept in the cabinet as it still is a bit big for him. This is actually a gift from hubby's officemates.

This one I love since it's Enzo's current fave. My in-laws were supposed to get him a new pair but since the size is not right, we were thinking of getting him something else like a rubber shoes from Nike or this sneakers from Superga at the ground floor of Greenbelt 4.

The classic design in electric blue is nice and hubby wants the adjustable strap instead of the lace. Oh and they even have a Mickey Mouse design but it costs twice as the classic one.

I realized boys don't have much option (in terms of fashion) compared to girls where there are a lot of cute stuff in pretty colors but boys do have the most expensive options hahaha! Which is why I'd like to have a baby girl next time :)

finally gave in...

2010-08-02T10:46:00.009+08:00

to having his haircut after almost 8 months!

He had his haircut last December 2009 before the January wedding of hubby's cousin. We wanted to keep it long just like Bret of ABS-CBN's PBB Teen Clash 2010 but his is way too thick and rashes have been appearing when he gets sweaty. So off we went to Cuts for Tots in MOA. He was, in fact, not feeling well due to fever and cough but we pushed through.

See the shapes lined up on the bed, that's Thomas... he is imagining that's a train even if he really has that Thomas the Train set we bought him.

This WAS his hair then...

And this IS his hair now... though he is still recovering in this picture. Oh! And he has the same pose as Bret (just realized now!).

Revisiting my 2010 Plans

2010-07-28T10:53:00.003+08:00

Back in January, I wrote these:

... have my hair cut. I need a fresher look (I mean short!) - done
Now, I want to have my hair colored... something deep red/burgundy.

... read at least 2 books this year. How about Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows and Twilight? I was only able to watch the movies "Twilight" and "New Moon" over the holidays and I liked it. So the book might be a good read. - in fact, 4 books as of January (the twilight saga)
I still have to read Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows though I've reached my quota already.

... go out with hubby at least once a month. Imagine we were only able to watch 3 movies last year hahaha! Will try to still catch Avatar on the big screen.
- January (Avatar)
- February (no movies for this month, just a dinner at Max's)
- March (hopefully Alice in Wonderland) - We did watch this!
And also watched Toy Story 3, Eclipse... I wonder what else?

... update my wardrobe by adding at least a piece every month.
- bought 2 already!
- got 2 blouses for my birthday so I'll wait 'til May before purchasing again
Haven't bought anything since May huhuhu :( I need a new blouse or dress and slacks.

... save up for Enzo's tuition!
I vow not to touch my Paluwagan for this purpose. I plan to save 20K more for this to cover for 2 school years if we enrolled him in Claret (see previous post).

... lessen my visit to Starbucks to twice a month huhuhu! (a must!)
This can be done!

... go to Manila Ocean Park
and Zoobic Safari too!

... go to Enchanted Kingdom - going on Saturday, March 6

* update as of 05 March 2010 (now updated as of July 28, 2010)

What the future holds?

2010-07-27T13:37:00.004+08:00

Enzo will be 2 years & 10 months come August 7. He'll be 3 by October. Imagine that!

By June 2011, he'll be 3 years & 8 months and all ready for school. If you ask him if he wants to go to school, he will gladly say "yes." One of the schools we are considering is Claret School of Quezon City, which is located inside UP Village. They are accepting applications for admission by August. When I inquired over the phone, the staff said Enzo will be in "Junior Nursery" by next year. Tuition fee is reasonable and much lower compared to progressive schools. I'm not that convinced yet of progressive schools as I came from a traditional school and I turned out okay. Plus my boss' wife (who's a teacher) told me that what is important is how my son will enjoy the school setting whether traditional or progressive. And that not all schools that claim to be progessive are really what they claim to be and there are traditional schools which integrate the progressive approach to their teachings. Hubby & I are planning to visit the school by end of August to check their facilities. I was told that for Nursery level there will only be around 10 kids per class which is a good ratio and they do have grade school and high school already if I intend to keep him there or perhaps move him to Ateneo by Prep.

Another school we are looking at is Miriam College Child Study Center, which is located in Katipunan, Quezon City. Browsing through their website, Enzo will probably be in First Step given his age. Then they have Nursery and Kinder. Tuition fee is a bit steep, almost double than that of Claret. The savings I could have if I enroll him in Claret, I could already use for the next school year and even will even help us prepare if we're going to enroll him in Ateneo by Prep. And when he graduates from Kinder, I would still need to find him a good school when he enters Grade 1. I'll ask hubby. He might still want to compare the facilities they have.

If we'll afford to send him to Ateneo in grade school, I'm still wondering maybe I can send him to Philippine Science High School afterwards. Well, we'll cross the bridge when we get there besides I still have to consider how my son will fare in school. I don't want to pressure him. He doesn't have to be an honor student as long as he studies well, enjoys school and pass his subjects (no red marks please! 80 is okay).

But first, where to send him for preschool? Will update you when we do visit the above schools and let you know what we decide. I have downloaded the application form of Claret... teehee! excited!

and he said...

2010-07-20T11:43:00.003+08:00

"What's that, mommy?"

"Later, not yet finished Toy Story 3!"

"Just wait!"

"E N Z O Enzo!" (when asked to spell his name)

These are some of his favorite tag lines these days. He can really speak now in sentences and of course, I am amazed. Geez, he can even sing that song from Toy Story "You've got a friend in me." *cuteness!*

He's really a big boy now that he can express what he wants, tells us "stories" of what he did for the day... haaay! But when you asked if he's a big boy? He'll answer "NO! baby" and gets his pillow and suck his thumb and make that baby sound hahaha!

my Blogging Tools

2010-07-13T12:02:00.005+08:00

Was going over Anton's blog and read his latest post and was excited about the Flip Ultra 120 HD - one yummy gadget I have been dreaming about since reading about it in Daphne's blog.

Here is my own Top Blogging Tools:
Blog Hosting
For me, that would be Blogger since I am not really a professional blogger and this is free so it would suffice. I have started blogging, I think in late 2005 to document my preparations for the wedding. I was influenced by a yahoo group I belong to. So I really started with blogger and still quite happy about it. Although I am not that techie, Blogger is relatively easy to use. I have not updated my first blog - december16.blogspot.com after the wedding since I got pregnant and lazy. However, when I gave birth to our son, Enzo, my desire to write/blog was ignited by my desire to be able to document my son's milestones and our own family adventures.

I have tried Livejournal recently and in fact, have an existing account with them but this particular blog is the one I update the most.

Digital Camera
Hubby bought the Nikon D40 last January 2008 (about 2 months after I gave birth) and if you see pictures here that is clear and crisp and nice and pretty, then that was taken by the D40. But for those times that we are caught unprepared for photo ops or those times, we don't feel like bringing the camera bag, my iPhone 3G (8G) saves the day.

Video Camera
None :( so that Flip Ultra will be very useful teehee!

Desktop
Yes, I used the desktop in the office to update my blog. ssshh! Trust me, I do it on my spare time.

Photo Editing, Watermarking and Hosting Tool
Hubby takes care of enhancing the pictures. He has this software from Nikon called Picture Project. Watermarking? Hmmm... never thought about that since I'm only doing this to document my son's growing-up years and our family's adventures so I don't think there is a need for it. Hosting Tool? I don't have that much pictures yet. I just really upload the pictures after saving them on my computer. That's it!

condo make-over

2010-07-08T16:34:00.006+08:00

Aside from "trying" to save for our upcoming Bohol birthday treat, extra moolah (if any) will have to cover for the following items we needed for our small abode:

1. either a new foam/mattress for yaya or a sofa bed to perk up our living area... and add a few throw pillows.
2. rechargeable light with fan (since it's rainy season and we are prone once again to brownouts!). The little prince perspires easily.
3. new curtains (what we have now are the curtains we've had since moving in to our condo in December 2007). Maybe something in the shade of light green and white/silver-y for our bedroom so it will be soothing to the eyes. Yellow seems okay too but our old curtain is already in the shade of gold. And our bedroom has a shade of light green. Will be needing at least 4 or 5 for the bedroom. And 2 for the sala. I was thinking of getting a yellow and brown shade or peach perhaps. That would be nice.
4. new dining chairs (4) with back rest. The "ghost" chairs are nice but way expensive so maybe in summer-y colors would do. I tell you they are about to give up hahaha!

And add to that our own wishlist whoa!

the movie that was...

2010-07-08T11:00:00.003+08:00

As I have written here and since I don't want to miss it on the big screen this time around, we reserved through sureseats.com using my BIL's account for the movie Eclipse last July 2, 6:10pm showing at Glorietta 4. See I missed watching the first 2 films before I got hooked with the books so I promised myself that I will catch Eclipse on the big screen.

I still like the book better really! I guess that always happens to books turned into movies type. With one exception I can relate to, The Lord of the Rings. And the movie is a bit dark. What I mean is that it's not crisp! There were funny moments that the moviegoers find amusing such as the dialogue of Jacob "I'm hotter than you!" woot! woot! He is, by the way but I am still a Team Edward teehee!

So, we'll be waiting for the said 2-part Breaking Dawn movie. I hope this is closer to the book as they will have more time...

First Face Painting Experience (03 July 2010)

2010-07-06T10:02:00.003+08:00

His first ever face painting (at 2 years & 8 months) is a Spiderman. He loved it that he even lined up for another one which is Winnie d Pooh (though I was unable to take a photo this time).

We attended last Saturday the 1st birthday party of my boss' granddaughter at Wack-Wack Country Club.

our first movie date (26 June 2010)

2010-06-28T13:27:00.007+08:00

...was Toy Story 3 last Saturday, June 26, 2010.

We have been planning to let Enzo watch in a big screen when Shrek was shown but we ended up missing that one :(

Hubby & I told ourselves already that we might end up wasting the Php510.00 tickets if Enzo insists of going out of the movie house. Prior to this day, we have been telling Enzo that we will watch in a biiig TV and that the lights are turned off. It's also a good thing that he knows the characters such as Woody, Buzz, Mr. Potato Head & Mrs. Potato Head.

We intended to watch the first showing since I plan to pass by the grocery afterwards. We first bought tickets for the 12:40PM showing at Cinema 5 in Trinoma then we went to McDonald's for lunch. Enzo almost finished off the 1-piece chicken hihihi!

We entered the cinema around 12:20PM or so and we were all excited. I am more anxious I guess whether or not Enzo will really watch the film in full. But guess what?! We finished it and Enzo was so so so behaved. I'm proud of my baby! He's really a little boy now...

I highly recommend the movie as well as it literally brought me to tears hahaha! Watch it folks!

Aranilla-Interior Nuptial & Bio-Heart Reunion (25 June 2010)

2010-06-28T09:46:00.006+08:00

They were my barkada in high school and we remain friends in spite of the distance and lack of communication. Except for Iris who resides in the US and can't come home, the Bio-Heart was reunited once again. Yes! Bio-heart from the TV show Bioman which was a hit during our younger years. Abby (the blushing bride) is my closest, bestest friend in high school. Though we went our separate ways when we went to college, I have always treasured our friendship. And though we don't see or hear each other often enough, I know I have a good friend in her. And same goes to Jan (the pretty and ever sexy bridesmaid), Shar (my pretty kumare) and Iris (the one missing in action teehee!).

(pics from left to right: Yellow 4 (Jan), Pink 5 (Abby),
Green 2 (Shar), Red 1 (me) and Enzo)
...this pic reminds me of our high school group picture!

like the happy old times...

And to the newlyweds...
I wish you a blessed married life. Look back to this day (your wedding) when trials come for you to remember why you married each other in the first place and how happy you have been that day. Congratulations & Best Wishes!

dessert haven

2010-06-24T11:34:00.007+08:00

Parvati, that is!

They are located at the ground floor, Mindanao lobby of Trinoma (near Gourdo's and Conti's which is on the outside). I read they just opened last month. We have passed by this dessert place a couple of times but never really checked it out until last night. From a distance, it seems like a cafe of some sort. But were we surprised?!

We were introduced by the nice waitress to an assortment of desserts from different home bakers. Wow! And some I have even read in blogs like the "Supreme Brazo Bars" by Ces Lopez. I was aching to try this but since her kiosk is located at the Alabang Town Center, I never had the chance. Maybe now I do! They also have this Japanese ice cream I read about. And there's really more. Maybe next time, I can ask for their list of products so I can share with you.

According to the waitress, one of their best sellers is this Frozen Brazo de Mercedes by Fiona. We almost left without buying thinking we can definitely try this next time... but we couldn't resist this...

A peek inside. Sayang! It is almost melted but this is sooo heavenly and not too sweet either, maybe because of the ice cream and graham-based(?). Even hubby who was never a fun of brazo de mercedes loves it! This individual box is Php180.00. They have 8x8 for Php600.00 which you can give as a birthday gift.

Look at the melted ice cream... but it still is sinfully yummy! Two Thumbs Up, as they say.

And oh, they have a sample of the Cream Cheese Brownie by Mark's Baking and it's also good!

As their tagline goes, "Parvati - where home bakers and dessert lovers meet..."

food pics at Toho Restaurant

2010-06-17T13:22:00.011+08:00

Last Sunday, after visiting Tatay at the Manila Memorial Park, we ended up with an early dinner at Toho Restaurant in Parañaque. I have been introduced to this restaurant by hubby's family. Food here is yummy at an affordable price so you could always bring a big group here and spend less. I have eaten here a couple of times already since marrying hubby in 2006. Here are the food we ordered that night which I think cost MIL around Php2,600.00 and we were a big group:

Pictures from left to right: Yang Chow fried rice, Beef "camto," Pancit Canton and Sweet and Sour Pork. They also ordered Sweet and Sour Fish but hubby wasn't able to take a photo of it.

Fried Chicken. Mango shake for Enzo but he preferred Coke geez! And it doesn't really taste like a "fresh" mango shake.

But special mention goes to their "Spicy Squid." You must try it. I love it! I can just have it with rice and I'm absolutely satisfied... a certified yummy treat!

Date with my boys (14 June 2010)

2010-06-17T11:05:00.018+08:00

We went to EDSA Shangri-La last Monday. Hubby ended up not rendering overtime anymore. It was a lot of fun and we should do it really more often.

He rode the carousel... and loved it (for the first time!). I believe this is his 4th time already but it was the 1st time he did enjoy riding it... or maybe because the horse wasn't moving up and down?!

Then we let him play at Gymboree for 1/2 hours (Php180.00). I "heart" Gymboree because I can let my son wander without worrying he'll fall and hurt himself. He can even go on the slide on his own now. Of course, I was nearby worrying a bit but proud at the same time. It's hard letting him be on his own but I know this is how he'll learn in the process.

Up and down... up & down again... and he went to the slide a couple more times after that...

After Gymboree, Enzo was saying "pizza, pizza!" I think he overheard us earlier that we are planning to eat pizza hihihi! Off we went to Green Tomato for our snacks. I "heart" Green Tomato. It's now on my list of must dine-ins. I should have this list up on my blog soon.

We had their 9" Four Cheese Pizza (Php 205.00). Their crust is really thin and crunchy. There's a pesto in it so it's not your usual "Four Cheese Pizza."

We also ordered a single serve of this Sausage Pasta (Php225.00). This also did not disappoint us. Enzo ate more than half of the bread included in this pasta and their Chocolate Truffle Ice Cream (Php70.00) in between.

Total bill amounts to Php583.00. Included in the bill is 1 bottled water and service charge as well.

We'll definitely go back here...

long and busy weekend...

2010-06-11T17:33:00.002+08:00

I'll be on my way home after I post this... with a "little" heavy heart... haaay! If you know my other personal blog, that's where you'll read bits about it.

On to happier things... though it's a looong weekend, it will be another busy one. We are off tomorrow to my parent's house to hear anticipated mass. Come Sunday, there will be a family get-together on hubby's side since it is my in-laws anniversary + I think the death anniversary of hubby's lolo. I'll blog where we dine-in as I was told food is yummy.

Hubby is rendering overtime on Monday so that will just leave me and Enzo on our own.

Okay, gotta go now as I need to pass by the grocery pa... CIAO!

random thoughts

2010-06-09T15:40:00.008+08:00

Our dream of at least one trip a year since we got married has been coming true for us so far...

2006 - Cebu on our honeymoon
2007 - gave birth
2008 - Boracay
2009 - Cebu (again with lolos/lolas)
and this 2010, we're off to Bohol (finally!). Even my brother's family will be going with us with my 2 nephews that equals to riot but fUn... FuN... FUN!!

I was able to book 6 adults (including the lolos/lolas) + 1 child for only, let me type that again ONLY Php8,680.00. Wowowee! We're leaving on hubby's 31st birthday but it's also an advance 3rd birthday celebration for the lil boy meaning, we will no longer have a big party for him on his birth date. Of course, I will still cook spaghetti and get him a Goldilock's McQueen cake. At least, we are able to pamper the lolos/lolas who have generously showered Enzo not only with material gifts but more of their time and unconditional love and support to our family. I bet it will be a lot of fun. I'm leaning on booking at Alona Tropical but not yet guaranteed.

--ooOoo --

I sooo like this! Something to bring to work to perk me up hahaha! Since it cost a bit, not as much as an LV but we're saving for the family trip and all, this have to wait for a little more time... how about December hon? kidding...

--ooOoo--

And this I can't miss. I'll have hubby get tickets for July 2.

SOON!

2010-06-04T14:42:00.003+08:00

Teehee! Sooo excited plus my brother's family are going with us so that equals to a lot of fUn... FuN... FUN on hubby's 31st and Enzo's advance 3rd birthday!

scary!

2010-06-03T09:58:00.003+08:00

I first read about it yesterday in Chuvaness' site and thought nothing of it until I saw the news last night... it was for real! It IS scary!

I got the picture and there's more of it here. Come to think of it, if you were unlucky, the world can really swallow you whole and I wonder, will anyone dare to find your remains in this pit? Scary thoughts...

gloomy day

2010-06-02T14:55:00.002+08:00

No, am not complaining. I even welcome it... after weeks and months of scorching heat.

I'm just curious... is it officially the rainy season yet? Rains started pouring yesterday, June 1 and it still is as gloomy as yesterday. I hope the rains bring forth new blessings for me and my family.

--ooOoo--

My back has been hurting again ouchy! It happened to me last year and it took about 2 weeks or so for the pain to disappear. Now, I'm in pain again.

--ooOoo--

My hopes are up again but am getting a bit tired, it's been months without success...

late Merienda at earle's Delicatessen (15 May 2010)

2010-05-27T13:50:00.010+08:00

A bit of a late post but anyway... we were with my in-laws for a quick stroll at the mall 2 weekends ago. We ended up at earle's Delicatessen for a quick bite. It is somehow new in Greenbelt 1 area. Honestly, restaurants in that row tend to pop up and disappear without you realizing it.

There were 4 of us and we ordered 3 different sandwiches split in half. The sausage on your left is the Cheese Smokies Sandwich (Php93.00) while the one on the right is the Hungarian Sandwich (Php 96.00). Hubby & I shared the Cheese Smokies while my in-laws shared the Hungarian. It is up to you whether you'd like to put catsup or mustard on your sausage as it is self-service.

We also ordered this Chicken something sandwich (Php 128.00) which was again split in half so we could share. Sorry I forgot the specific name. This sandwich is about 11" so you could really split it in 2 and be filling enough. A 12 oz. Peach Iced Tea is Php25.00. I love the iced tea! Total bill is Php417.00 inclusive of VAT and no service charge.

There were about 2 more diners during our visit that late Saturday afternoon. And oh! they don't have a high chair :( and seats are limited so it's usually packed on a weekday lunch when there's office.

Enzo & me at Greenbelt 5. Enzo doesn't want to walk but when he's inside a toy store, he would want to explore on his own geez!

CdO's Pastel

2010-05-20T14:05:00.004+08:00

This are soft buns with yema filling. Warning: it's super sooo sweet but super sooo yummy!

And my officemate said you can only buy this in Cagayan de Oro. But surprise! Surprise! There is a kiosk in SM Makati every Friday and weekends that sell these buns. It's Php177.50 for the big box of 12 and Php90.00 for the small box of 6.

If you haven't tried it yet, I say GO, GO, Go tomorrow (Friday) at SM Makati!

Early Dinner at Tsoko Nut Batirol (14 May 2010)

2010-05-18T12:03:00.009+08:00

Since we opted to skipped watching a movie last Friday, I was tempted to try the Tsoko Nut Batirol at SM Makati after hearing hubby's rave reviews of their signature Batirol. Though we did not order Batirol during this particular visit as I feel like trying their Chicken Embotido and I wasn't disappointed.

Hubby ordered the Pork Steak (Php 115.00). The pork itself is soft and it was flavorful enough. I would say it was good enough. Hubby, in fact was able to finish it off... all of it.

And my order Chicken Embotido (Php 130). I truly enjoyed my dinner. I love embotido. It's one of those that I really love but cannot have all the time. I usually able to enjoy this during birthdays, fiesta. I even used to order from the mom of my officemate who cooks really yummy embotido however, she got sick then and had to take it easy. So I do miss embotido. And this one is good and love the cheese sauce. Something unique as I am used to pairing with our reliable banana catsup.

There was a minor booboo when my order was served. As the lady behind the counter punched Chicken Roll and I insisted that I specifically ordered for the Embotido. They, however, did not give us any headache and just replaced it. One thumbs up for great service.

Instead of the Batirol, we shared their Pine-Orange juice (Php135.00). This tastes like your Del Monte Pine-Orange in can. You can share it with 2 or even 3 people if you intend to have just 1 glass each so it's value for money.

Lastly, we had the Tablea Cake (Php95.00). Well, I had eaten a better version of Tablea Cake in Chocolat. This one is a disappointment that we did not even finish it off... imagine?! I love desserts, you know...

The cake itself is too dry that it felt like too "crumby" if you know what I mean. So I don't really recommend this one as it's not really that cheap and not to enjoy it.

Total cost is Php 475.00. Not bad really except for their not sooo yummy dessert. I would like to go back and try the Batirol or just go back for the Chicken Embotido.

Do I book now?

2010-05-17T09:34:00.002+08:00

Alona Tropical it is! As recommended by my high school barkada whose hometown is Bohol.

But my dilemma is to book now with PAL's existing promo (Php1,000/way to Visayas) or wait a little more (maybe until June) if ever there will be cheaper promos by then. What do you think? Should I already grab the Php2,000/head?

Alona Tropical Beach Resort

2010-05-14T13:17:00.008+08:00

Alona Tropical Beach Resort was the first resort I was looking at. Rates are reasonable. And it has a pool (Isis Bungalows doesn't have one.).

Initially, I was thinking of getting just 1 room, the "Poolside Suite" which I was told is good for 4 pax but can still fit 2 extra person (Php5,500). Extra mattress is Php 500 each. That's roughly Php 19,500 and less 10% for low season rates = Php 17,550. But hubby wants a separate bathroom since there will be 6 of us.

So, if we get 1 "Deluxe Room" inclusive of breakfast (Php3,460/room/night) and 1 "Poolside Suite" exclusive of breakfast (Php5,500/room/night) is roughly Php 24,192 (already less the 10%). Breakfast is 250 per head. Roundtrip transfer is Php 1,400.

I wonder if they can have queen-size bed in the "Deluxe Room" so we could stay there and the grannies will stay at the "Poolside Suite" instead.

Hubby is leaning on the ISIS Bungalows and it appears relatively cheaper than Alona Tropical plus I have read rave reviews of their Thai food. Confusing?

Isis Bungalows

2010-05-14T11:29:00.014+08:00

Hubby & I will be up late Saturday night (technically, Sunday morning) and try to avail of PAL's midnight sale. I wonder if local destinations are also up for sale - Bohol or Caticlan? If not, then we might end up getting their existing promo to Bohol which costs about Php2,000 roundtrip per head. So, am back scouting at the net for good deals on accommodations. I found this:

Isis Bungalows "aircon rooms" (Php2,000/room/night)

With a queen-size bed. Though there is no cable tv & ref. :(

This, on the other hand, is their "Standard Bungalow" (Php3,000/room/night).

It has a king-size bed and cable tv but no ref.

Or this "Deluxe Bungalow" (Php4,000/room/night)

This has cable tv & ref.

Initially, I was thinking of getting 2 aircon rooms and 1 standard bungalow which will cost us roughly Php21,000 for 4 days/3nights. I'm waiting for the reply of the manager how much is the extra charge if we request TV for the 2 aircon rooms and ref for the standard bungalow.

Now, I'm thinking of getting 1 Deluxe Bungalow for the grannies and 1 Standard Bungalow for us which will roughly be about Php23,100. This one, at least, will have TV on both rooms and a ref at the Deluxe Bungalow we could share. I will just request for 2 extra mattress for the Deluxe Bungalow.

Roundtrip transfer is Php1,200 for a van. Breakfast is not included in the rates and it's Php180 per set. A choice between American or Filipino. What do you guys think? Haaah! tempting...

Up next: Alona Tropical

quick note

2010-05-11T10:07:00.002+08:00

I was teeny bit surprised but happy upon realizing that Filipinos really went out to cast their vote last Monday even if it means waiting in line for minimum of 2 hours and for many, even more... I'm proud of all of us! We rock!

My 1st Automated Election Experience (10 May 2010)

2010-05-11T09:21:00.008+08:00

... was exhausting and irritating (at times) but comforting when I was able to cast (141st vote successfully scanned by that PCOS machine) my vote after 3 grueling hours. whew!

I was with my mom (take note: She is a senior citizen.) at the polling place by 7:30ish. And this is my number - 94! And the number that was being called at that time is 25 huhuhu! Plus senior citizens (and pregnant women I think) are given priority. Which is why I said my vote was the 141st.

The one in stripes (orange) was my mom being verified by the teachers huhuhu!

This, on the other hand, is the view from where I was standing and waiting. Another whew! moment. This is at the Tandang Sora National High School.

This is where I got my number - from the volunteer in pink. You have to verify first that your name is in that list (attached to the window).

The view of the ground floor. I was already at the 2nd floor waiting for my number to be called.

See the empty chairs here. This was taken early in the morning. What was taking long is the verification. I guess if there are more teacher volunteers per polling place or at least 1 teacher assigned per precinct then it would have been a little faster and easier.

Now, we are simply awaiting for the last vote to be counted. It seems the trend is leaning for a Noynoy-Binay victory but I'm still hoping Mar will pull a miracle and win the VP race *crossed fingers*

My take...

2010-05-06T14:30:00.003+08:00

Yes, I'm voting for Noynoy... and Mar... and Herbert as Mayor for Quezon City where I am registered.

My personal views:
- Though his credentials might not be as outstanding as his counterparts, Gibo, Villar but really how far can credentials go... look at PGMA? Gibo? But was Gibo able to deliver when Ondoy struck the country? He could have been "our hero" then but his presence was merely felt (by me at least).
- I have this belief in Noynoy that he is not corrupt (and I pray that he does not succumb to power when he eventually wins and prove me wrong in the end).
- As he said in one of the interviews (or was it a debate?) that he does not promise a miracle and that it would take a long process but at least, it's the reality. I mean you can't change everything overnight. It would be a work in progress. And he knows it. And he seems up for the challenge.

I wonder, will election even push through on Monday given these "talks" lately?

College Friends Reunion (02 May 2010)

2010-05-06T08:03:00.004+08:00

It was sort of just a mini-reunion... the others were really not around last Sunday (Ailiene who resides in the US, Fresh and Miles who resides somewhere in the Middle East...). The last time I saw these guys were in December 15, 2007 during Enzo's baptism. Except for Cecile whom I've seen after that. Fast forward to last Sunday, it was the blessing of Al and Cecile's first-born son, Eshaan (the baby on the left). He is now 8-months old.

Though it was short, I enjoyed spending time with them as it has been years plus the yummy food at Henry's Grille.

See a glimpse of my LVoe, it's only the second time I was able to use it and I am loving my Neverfull. You can't really compare it with any other non-designer bags (aside from the obvious fact it's freaking expensive though I got it way way cheaper compared to prices here in Manila = 14K savings imagine!), the texture... the smell... it's addicting hahaha! No hubby, I'm not insinuating anything as I am still enjoying the Neverfull.

few updates to share while I'm bored at work

2010-05-04T15:55:00.003+08:00

... that actually sums up my Tuesday, May 4th!

I had an interview last week. But I don't want to dwell much on it until it's offered, I just get disappointed that way and I lose focus. All the other applications I had in the last four months went nowhere I guess. I was hopeful with a few but it didn't prosper.

Together with my brother (sister-in-law and nephews, Josh and Miguel) and my mom, we went to Batangas for the fiesta last Saturday, May 1. My dad went ahead of us as it was my Lola's birthday last April 28. It was actually last minute planning on our part.

After a tiring trip to Batangas arriving already past 11pm (and we we left Quezon City at 5:30am), we attended the blessing of Eshaan, my college friend's son the following day. It was a Muslim ceremony as his husband is a Muslim. The officiant said a prayer and cut the hair of Eshaan (who's only 8-months old). Ceremony and reception was held at Henry's Grille in Teacher's Village. The place is small and can accommodate maybe 60 pax. Good enough for an intimate gathering. Worthy mention is the food as it was surprisingly yummy. I specially like the "Russian Salad" and "Chicken Cordon Blue." And I got to see my college friends, Ceejay, Ringo and his girlfriend Pipoy, Joanne and his hubby and baby Diwa (2-months old) and even our department head, Ms. Vene who I've heard is now with Ateneo. I'll try to post some pictures when I get a copy of the photos in Facebook (waiting to be tagged as hubby didn't bring his camera).

While Monday was declared holiday, hubby had to render an overtime so Enzo and I just stayed at home and played and slept.

20 minutes to go before 5PM and I'll log-out. I hope I will be more productive tomorrow.

Long weekends: coming up!

2010-04-28T14:07:00.004+08:00

It's true! It's true! (jumping in joy)

Two long weekends to look forward to. If Enzo is a lot, lot better by Saturday, we are attending the blessing of Eshaan (my college friend's son) on Sunday. I will finally meet her son whom she gave birth to August of last year and I can have a chat with my college buddies whom I haven't seen for such a looong time. Then we will proceed to my folks' house after lunch to be able to hear mass. We have skipped mass for 2 weeks now. Then I still have a Monday to rest and sleep and sleep and sleep... yup, I lacked sleep. Blame it on PBB hahaha! And oh... I don't like that Shey really (my opinion!). Since we have only 1 tv in our condo and it is in our bedroom, I let the yaya watch it with us. I am only able to get 6 hours of sleep at the most. I need more...

Another long weekend will be due to the presidential elections here in the country. I will exercise my right (to vote) come May 10th. If hubby's dad or brother can bring us home that Monday then I can vote first in the morning and we'll go straight to Makati afterwards since hubby is registered there. Or hubby will have to go alone as it might be difficult to commute that day. Whom am I voting, you wonder?

Let's Rock!!

2010-04-27T11:22:00.004+08:00

Me and Enzo are addicted to Plants vs. Zombies.

I first saw this computer game a few weeks back from my nephew. I didn't bother then as I thought it is just one of those computer games. I was sooo wrong!

When hubby brought home his laptop this weekend, we tried playing it and I got hooked really bad. It's sooo addicting! Even Enzo insists on watching us play "Zombies" (as what he would say). He even knows "sunflower," "sunlight," and "let's rock!"

So, should I finally have my iPhone jailbreak so I can install this game? What do you think?

silence

2010-04-26T13:57:00.002+08:00

For those wondering why I have no updates since my last post, well... I was on leave since Thursday and only reported to work today. Nakaka-miss pala ang Makati :)

Seriously though, my lil boy IS sick. IS because he still has cough today but at least his fever was gone by Saturday morning. But his cough is pretty bad. I was just relieved to hear from my mom that he was able to sleep through the afternoon today without any incident (of coughing really hard to vomit that sticky phlegm).

We sensed something off last Tuesday night as we felt he was a bit feverish 37++ C. (but not yet 37.8 C. that would warrant a dose of paracetamol). He would normally be at the 36 C. range. He has low-grade fever and cough by Wednesday so, hubby who was supposed to go on leave for a job interview stayed home to watch over Enzo. By Thursday, we were both on leave as we wanted to bring him to his pedia. Diagnosis was it's viral and to continue with our medication. On standy was ibuprofen for his fever if it doesn't resolve by Friday. I am a bit hesistant about ibuprofen as he might have allergic reactions to it but since Calpol don't seem to work anymore as his fever stays within the same range even after an hour of taking it already. By Saturday, I gave him Advil for 3x a day for 2 days. We discontinued after the first day as fever was completely gone by Sunday. His cough still persists and his medication for it is for 5-10 days. We are on our 6th day. Hope he gets better sooon.

Shutter Island shattered our brains!

2010-04-19T08:48:00.005+08:00

Literally...

Hubby didn't like it although he was the one who suggested to watch it after seeing the trailer. He find it too disturbing hahaha!

I'm okay with it. You know me... I'm the suspense/thriller type of moviegoer. And I like Leonardo DiCaprio. He was one of my Hollywood crushes way, way back (with the likes of Brad Pitt, etc.). He was good in this movie. The director was also good. I didn't know what's real anymore until the end of the movie. Though I'm not sure if one will be awake the whole time if there was no horrific sound effect which kept playing throughout the movie hmmm...

Well, it really is disturbing and sad. I dare you to watch it...

Remember this?

2010-04-16T11:28:00.004+08:00

We were able to watch "Remember Me" when it was shown in the cinemas. I just forgot to blog about it. I like the movie and I even have crying bouts... silly me. It was focused on the family dynamics rather than being a love story, which I first thought it was. I mean just look at the poster!

Ha! And I still refer to Rob Pattinson as Edward Cullen instead of Tyler. Wishing that he is not that vulnerable. I guess that's the difference. He still looks like my Edward Cullen but vulnerable.

I suggest you get a copy of this movie if you were not able to watch it on the big screen. You'll get your dose of Rob Pattinson while waiting for The Eclipse.

Hubby wanted to watch "Shutter Island." We initially wanted to watch "Clash of the Titans" on 3D but due to poor reviews, we opted not to spend much on it and regret later on. Remember we are trying to save this year. I'll post next week if we end up watching a movie tonight.

I'll end this post with a quote from the movie:

Ally Craig: I have my dessert first.
Tyler: Is that a political statement? A medical condition, perhaps?
Ally Craig: I just don't see the point in waiting. I mean, what if I die while eating my entree?
Tyler: Is that probable?
Ally Craig: It's possible. What if I choke? What if an asteroid come hurling down onto the restaurant?... I'll tell you what, if you swear on your eternal soul that I'll make it through my entree, then I'll wait. But before you answer, consider that if something does happen, you'll have to live the rest of your life knowing that not only did you lie to me, but you denied of my one last indulgence. Are you prepared to shoulder that kind of responsibility?

LOVE IT! And yes, we live in the moments...