This day, aside from wedding related stuff - dry seal which we had it done in recto, mom and i just relaxed but still did some shopping in sm manila. It's really humid in manila so the best place to hang out is at the mall.
We went to Punchline @ Quezon Ave with the newly wed couple - Ronel and Mel, Kendz' new suitor, bunso, me and mommy. It wasn't that obvious how mom really did enjoy being there. She was really laughing so hard and loud with about any jokes those fantastic performer is saying. Very recommendable talaga to go there. JUST remember to seat at the back area hehehe. Baka mapagtripan ka.
6 days had passed and im already feeling the tiredness from running around but i enjoyed every minute of it especially that my mom is by my side :)
*I was suppose to go home today but managed to changed my flight to saturday instead. Monday pa sana but i think we need to pay extra na. Sunday naman was already full. At least I still have 1 more day to be with my famiy hehehe.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
5th Day in Manila
Mommy and I went to Strabucks at Bluewave in Macapagal Ave to meet our Bridal Car Supplier, Don Robert. I didn't know he's still young hehehe. The plan of getting jaguar for my bridal car was changed to Mercedez Benz hehehe. I don't think it will matter what kind of car I'll be using hehehe. It's just one of the want-to-haves on my list. Though like many others, im also the kind of bride who wants all the good things happening on her wedding. But im also the kind who can live giving up a few things. Anyway, since my coordinator had an emergency with his father, we have to ask Robert to go with us to change my money since I didn't bring any peso. The downpayment is with Grace kasi. After handing the payment to Robert and signing the contract, since we're already in the Mall of Asia, we had lunch at Max's, both my and Mom's favorite. Sarap talaga to the bones hehehe. Naempacho ata kami hehehe. After the delicious lunch, we tour around Mall of Asia. I was able to buy my Dad's tie, our bible, unity candle, bear that our flower girls will be using, and a gift for our male principal sponsors. Ikot ikot lang, naubos na oras. We got home almost 7pm and called Edward Teng's office right away if I could still drop by to do my first fitting, which they said I can, yeyyy. I tried on the gown, and it was absolutely beautiful even without beads yet. Mom kept on teasing me that it wasn't pretty and it was too simple hehehe. Well, I like it the way it is though she's right that it's really too simple :) Im still thinking if i'll be posting the picture hehehe baka wala ng surprise. :)
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
4th Day in Manila
At 7 in the morning, I'm up again ready to take a bath. Daddy, Mommy and me went to a tailor shop near our place to have my Dad's measurements for the suit. For those who doesn't know yet, he wasn't "back" to our home yet. But he's always welcome to visit us. And yes, he will be there on my wedding day. So, after the measurements, we went straight to Ninong Luis shop in Cubao. We wanted to get him to be our principal sponsor for the wedding. After an hour, we went straight to Megamall, had lunch at Kenny Rogers and bought my Dad's shoes for the wedding. From Megamall, we went to Ate Minnie's place in pasig. It was weird being there without Nanay and Tatay (they were in London at the moment with ate che. susyal!). We had a second batch of lunch because ate minnie cooked something for us. Answeet :) We went to the market of pasig to check on the giveaways that she was telling us. It wasn't on our must-be-really-nice list so, anythign was fine. We got a "divisoria" aura of the giveaways which i really can't describe hehehe. It wasn't that bad but it wasn't that nice either. At least it was cheap hehehe. We said our goodbyes afterwards to ate minnie and her beautiful kids, reine and raissa. Went to Richmonde Hotel to check on the bridal suit room they have. It was cheaper than other 4-star hotels so we booked right away. They don't require any deposit naman eh. From there, we went to Glorietta to meet my 3 sisters to watch a movie. We bought 3 tickets of Shrek and 3 of Spiderman. Kukulit hehehe. We had dinner at chowking before the movie. This is one moment in our life that I really appreciate and thank God. Life has been hard for my famiy but we managed to survive little by little. It's bittersweet to have Daddy around. I see the happiness on my family's face maybe knowing that in a way just for today, our family's complete. It has a way of bringing back the past but today is what's important in our lives. And each time I go home, as much as possible, even if I know that my 2 sisters were already tired from work, I always plead with them that we get together even once having dinner and enjoying. Because, for me, one time sure makes a lot of impact :) A happy memory that forever I'll cherish.
Monday, May 28, 2007
3rd Day in Manila
Vacations are meant for resting. But in my case, whenever I'm in Manila, I always see to it that I make use of all my time. If only malls were open at 6 in the morning, I would be the first one in line, having my breakfast at jabee or max's with my family. I never went to Manila and spend a day with my friends, and not because I don't like to. I never had more than 2 weeks of vacation in Manila. And since it's usually 3 days or a week at the most, I spend it all with my family.
So, for today, I woke up at 7 in the morning, which never happens in singapore, and was amazed to see my mom up and all set. We went to baste first to enroll bunso for her final year in accounting as she's taking her OJT. OMG, i didn't know that it feels different to see those digits in person than just sending the money to my mom. It's highway robbery! Hehe overreacting sorry. Anyway, it may be that expensive but at the end of each year seeing or hearing how my bunso was among the top of her class, it's all worth it. Thank God, final year na hehehe. It was really humid, and it's the first time that I've finished a bottle of mineral water in a few minutes.
From baste, we walk along Recto and checked on one store for invitation then we had our lunch at Goldilocks in Isetan. It was really heaven to see those food choices and always have the urge to order almost everything on the menu but settled for the chicken barbeque, porkchop steak and dinuguan. Mom had laing. We both had pineapple juice. Sarap! Yummmm! Grabe! Empatso ata kami. After lunch, Mom insist on me that we should check out the invitation supplier in recto who did bunso's invitation on her debut. Plan was to go to Unifair in Binondo for the famous supplier. But as we haggle, we managed to get a really affordable price per invite. And I was happy that they agreed to almost anything I specifically say. It was documented and a receipt was given to us though no contract was presented. Im just crossing my fingers and really praying that the invites would turn out ok. Im not expecting to get the best result. As long as it looks like an invitation, it's fine with me. Invitations and Giveaways were not really that important in our wedding. I mean, of course it should look ok, but as long as it is an invitation and it's something that has our name on it, it's fine. We are choosy on some things and we could let go of few. And something that will be thrown away after the wedding isn't something that we really want to spend much on. No offense to others. To each his own, right? :) Reality is, we've spend much on the big things hehehe kaya wala ng budget for the little things hihihi. Soooo, invitation - check!
From recto, we hailed a cab to divisoria on the lookout for possible giveaways. From tutuban mall, we walked towards Tabora. We were able to buy sinamay wine bags and butterfly for decorating the bag. I know that Divisoria is famous for almost everyone in manila. I wasn't aware that it will be a huge nightmare! Aside from constantly checking on your phone if it's still inside the front pocket of your pants, it was really crowded. When I say crowded, it's like rubbing your elbows to another person. Imagine being in the packed MRT in the morning only the sun's ironically smiling at you. Fun, huh! I forgot that the start of school is in June that's why every mom was outside bargaining for the ready made uniforms, variety of school supplies and school bags and vendors constantly making noise out of the big roll of plastic cover. But I did have fun because I was with my Mom. It was like the old days when she used to have me around whenever she goes to wet market. Alala ko pa those times that I am always excited going with Mommy buying new things for school. It doesn't matter if it's the cheapest notebook or if I'll be wearing something from Divisoria, as long as it's new, Im as happy as a bee. And spending the last few days of my school vacation removing the springs from my notebook and "sewing" it back, covering it with a plastic cover. Sharpening all my pencils and putting it in a pencil case. Putting every new school supplies inside my new but really cheap bag. From going down to the memory lane, we ride a jeep on our way home.
We went to the cake supplier at 6 pm, talk about the design and signed the contract.
So, for today, I woke up at 7 in the morning, which never happens in singapore, and was amazed to see my mom up and all set. We went to baste first to enroll bunso for her final year in accounting as she's taking her OJT. OMG, i didn't know that it feels different to see those digits in person than just sending the money to my mom. It's highway robbery! Hehe overreacting sorry. Anyway, it may be that expensive but at the end of each year seeing or hearing how my bunso was among the top of her class, it's all worth it. Thank God, final year na hehehe. It was really humid, and it's the first time that I've finished a bottle of mineral water in a few minutes.
From baste, we walk along Recto and checked on one store for invitation then we had our lunch at Goldilocks in Isetan. It was really heaven to see those food choices and always have the urge to order almost everything on the menu but settled for the chicken barbeque, porkchop steak and dinuguan. Mom had laing. We both had pineapple juice. Sarap! Yummmm! Grabe! Empatso ata kami. After lunch, Mom insist on me that we should check out the invitation supplier in recto who did bunso's invitation on her debut. Plan was to go to Unifair in Binondo for the famous supplier. But as we haggle, we managed to get a really affordable price per invite. And I was happy that they agreed to almost anything I specifically say. It was documented and a receipt was given to us though no contract was presented. Im just crossing my fingers and really praying that the invites would turn out ok. Im not expecting to get the best result. As long as it looks like an invitation, it's fine with me. Invitations and Giveaways were not really that important in our wedding. I mean, of course it should look ok, but as long as it is an invitation and it's something that has our name on it, it's fine. We are choosy on some things and we could let go of few. And something that will be thrown away after the wedding isn't something that we really want to spend much on. No offense to others. To each his own, right? :) Reality is, we've spend much on the big things hehehe kaya wala ng budget for the little things hihihi. Soooo, invitation - check!
From recto, we hailed a cab to divisoria on the lookout for possible giveaways. From tutuban mall, we walked towards Tabora. We were able to buy sinamay wine bags and butterfly for decorating the bag. I know that Divisoria is famous for almost everyone in manila. I wasn't aware that it will be a huge nightmare! Aside from constantly checking on your phone if it's still inside the front pocket of your pants, it was really crowded. When I say crowded, it's like rubbing your elbows to another person. Imagine being in the packed MRT in the morning only the sun's ironically smiling at you. Fun, huh! I forgot that the start of school is in June that's why every mom was outside bargaining for the ready made uniforms, variety of school supplies and school bags and vendors constantly making noise out of the big roll of plastic cover. But I did have fun because I was with my Mom. It was like the old days when she used to have me around whenever she goes to wet market. Alala ko pa those times that I am always excited going with Mommy buying new things for school. It doesn't matter if it's the cheapest notebook or if I'll be wearing something from Divisoria, as long as it's new, Im as happy as a bee. And spending the last few days of my school vacation removing the springs from my notebook and "sewing" it back, covering it with a plastic cover. Sharpening all my pencils and putting it in a pencil case. Putting every new school supplies inside my new but really cheap bag. From going down to the memory lane, we ride a jeep on our way home.
We went to the cake supplier at 6 pm, talk about the design and signed the contract.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
2nd Day in Manila
RONEL and MEL's WEDDING
St. Pancratius, Paco park
City Garden Hotel
Mommy and I woke up early preparing for Nel's wedding. The wedding is at 3.30 pm but we have to go to the salon for hair and makeup and manicure and pedicure. Grabe the price of both mine and mom's Hair and Make-up, manicure, pedicure is only the price of my manicure and pedicure in singapore. We had beef shawarma for lunch hehe. Sarap! We were done past 2 na! We took a tricycle, good thing the salon is just near to our house. Bihis na then dali daling umalis and took a cab on our way to Paco Park. Forgot to wear my CL pa. When we arrived, we thought it was already starting. Ngek, groom wasn't even there yet. Then it hit me, this was my second and would be my last to be a bridesmaid. The first one was in 97 pa ata on my cousin's wedding. Buti na lang talaga umuwi ako hehehe. Mom was one of the Ninangs. The wedding was not that organized because it was only prepared by the couple, but when I see the happiness on my friend's face, nothing makes sense and seem important on that day. Their love for each other shows on their faces. Saya saya. The wedding ended past 8pm. We had fun taking wacky pictures hehehe. Congrats, Nel and Mel. May God bless both of you.
St. Pancratius, Paco park
City Garden Hotel
Mommy and I woke up early preparing for Nel's wedding. The wedding is at 3.30 pm but we have to go to the salon for hair and makeup and manicure and pedicure. Grabe the price of both mine and mom's Hair and Make-up, manicure, pedicure is only the price of my manicure and pedicure in singapore. We had beef shawarma for lunch hehe. Sarap! We were done past 2 na! We took a tricycle, good thing the salon is just near to our house. Bihis na then dali daling umalis and took a cab on our way to Paco Park. Forgot to wear my CL pa. When we arrived, we thought it was already starting. Ngek, groom wasn't even there yet. Then it hit me, this was my second and would be my last to be a bridesmaid. The first one was in 97 pa ata on my cousin's wedding. Buti na lang talaga umuwi ako hehehe. Mom was one of the Ninangs. The wedding was not that organized because it was only prepared by the couple, but when I see the happiness on my friend's face, nothing makes sense and seem important on that day. Their love for each other shows on their faces. Saya saya. The wedding ended past 8pm. We had fun taking wacky pictures hehehe. Congrats, Nel and Mel. May God bless both of you.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
First Day in Manila
I was able to wake up early for the flight. Di naman excited hehehe. Check in early, had BK breakfast and went inside after. It's really different taking SQ than any other airlines. No long queues, you can check-in online if you don't have much luggage, you can choose your food and your seat online, systematic, and fast. Not to mention the FA's of SQ. They were all accomodating and provides really good service. This doesn't mean you can't do this on budget airlines right? FA's could be more "respectful" of the passengers. I had witnessed few experiences with budget airlines's FA's katarayans to some passengers. Although, I haven't experience it personally. Umbagin ko sila pag ako tinarayan nila hehehe.
I settled on my seat where the middle one is still unoccupied and the other with a pinay. The one who occupied the middle seat was an Indian. I said to myself, shoot, I hope wala syang amoy. I almost told the pinay na malas naman natin napagitnaan tayo and good thing I held my tongue. Turns out he speaks tagalog very fluently and been in and out of philippines for almost 16 years. Yes, I spoke to him because I'm not rude hehe. He said I'm really nice *righhhhttt* and that he can see the goodness in me *ngek*. When the plane landed, he asked for my no bec he said he wanted to treat me for a coffee just bec Ive been nice to him *yeah, right*. I told him, whenever I go to manila, Im always busy so I just asked him to give me his number. Hehe. That way, I did not just give away my number and save myself from headache, I have not been rude by acting violently. He may have pure intentions no. *ubo ubo* Eniwey, we arrived manila on time at past 1 but got out of the immigration at past 2. Super daming tao and naku ewan ko ba why it's taking so long for the immigration officers to stamped on the passports. I queued wrongly pa on the foreigners lane hehehe. Buti di ako pinagalitan. Saw my mom and bunso waiting for me :) We hailed a cab, went home and rested for a while then went to jabee for late late lunch. When you haven't tried jollibee for a long time and you're in front of the counter, lahat talaga halos gusto mo orderin eh. Kung pwede lang hehehe. Went to Divisoria afterwards. Bought few dresses for my sisters went home around 9pm. Grabe kakaikot lang ng divisoria yun ah. I had trouble sleeping because it was really humid. Had to take a bath with a COLD water which I've done like really really seldom??? Hehehe. I was preparing to go to bed when 'Nel arrives. He had dinner and we were teasing him that he's having wedding jitters hehehe. He went home past 1 in the morning and I dozed off to sleep after we consume half of the bottle of wine which Mommy got as a gift.
I settled on my seat where the middle one is still unoccupied and the other with a pinay. The one who occupied the middle seat was an Indian. I said to myself, shoot, I hope wala syang amoy. I almost told the pinay na malas naman natin napagitnaan tayo and good thing I held my tongue. Turns out he speaks tagalog very fluently and been in and out of philippines for almost 16 years. Yes, I spoke to him because I'm not rude hehe. He said I'm really nice *righhhhttt* and that he can see the goodness in me *ngek*. When the plane landed, he asked for my no bec he said he wanted to treat me for a coffee just bec Ive been nice to him *yeah, right*. I told him, whenever I go to manila, Im always busy so I just asked him to give me his number. Hehe. That way, I did not just give away my number and save myself from headache, I have not been rude by acting violently. He may have pure intentions no. *ubo ubo* Eniwey, we arrived manila on time at past 1 but got out of the immigration at past 2. Super daming tao and naku ewan ko ba why it's taking so long for the immigration officers to stamped on the passports. I queued wrongly pa on the foreigners lane hehehe. Buti di ako pinagalitan. Saw my mom and bunso waiting for me :) We hailed a cab, went home and rested for a while then went to jabee for late late lunch. When you haven't tried jollibee for a long time and you're in front of the counter, lahat talaga halos gusto mo orderin eh. Kung pwede lang hehehe. Went to Divisoria afterwards. Bought few dresses for my sisters went home around 9pm. Grabe kakaikot lang ng divisoria yun ah. I had trouble sleeping because it was really humid. Had to take a bath with a COLD water which I've done like really really seldom??? Hehehe. I was preparing to go to bed when 'Nel arrives. He had dinner and we were teasing him that he's having wedding jitters hehehe. He went home past 1 in the morning and I dozed off to sleep after we consume half of the bottle of wine which Mommy got as a gift.
Manila, here i come!
My good friend Ronel is getting married on Sunday and for the past weeks, in as much pleadings and numbers of calls and sms i got from him, i decided not to go because cebupacific and jetstar's fare both gone up to SGD 500+++. Even if i love my friend that much, there's no way im spending that much just to go to manila for a few days vacation. Sorry 'nel hehehe. But last night when I got another sms from ronel again, i showed it to ffg, to which ffg said why not i use his miles. Woah! Singapore Airlines! It's been three years since the last time I take SQ to Manila. Of course I decline at first, medyo hinayang din ako kasi I'll be staying in manila for a few days lang. Ffg insist. Sayang daw dahil it will be expiring this month na. Wopeeeeeeee. Kahit biglaan, I give in hehehe. So, tomorrow, my flight will be at 9AM. Will be in manila and i'll be on leave from blogging until thursday. Yipeeeee! I'll be able to do some wedding stuffs din like invitation and kung ano ano pa. Tenchu ffg! You're the best! Muah! Btw, SQ's fare was SGD 599 including taxes. I paid only SGD 99 since his miles isn't enough for the whole trip. Alright!
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Went to Bugis to buy some chocolates to bring home to manila. Got dizzy. Bugis was really crowded. So went to McDo and rest while I was waiting for cuz. Thanks for the notebook from thailand cuz! Muahness. Good to see you again :) I miss our friday gimmick. :)
From Bugis, went to Starbucks city hall, and decided to drop by and meet the girls. Good thing i dropped by kahit sandali lang. It's good to see them again. Super saya pa rin and walang sawang kwentuhan at tawanan. Though ffg and I have to leave early, still, it's all worth it. Oh, and of course, tenkyu tenkyu tenkyu soooooooo muchhhhhhh Tin for the Hoodie! Will be posting the picture of the hoodie next time. Love love love it. Muah! Kat and Chard, super congrats! And to Jen and Fred, forgot to congratulate both of you! God bless!
From city hall, we went to sommerset to find some late late dinner. Then went to my happy place - Que Pasa. Had a glass of white, red for ffg, and the yummy yummy beef stew. Then went home and prepare my things to bring for tomorrow. Shucks, it's already 2 in the morning!
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Went to Bugis to buy some chocolates to bring home to manila. Got dizzy. Bugis was really crowded. So went to McDo and rest while I was waiting for cuz. Thanks for the notebook from thailand cuz! Muahness. Good to see you again :) I miss our friday gimmick. :)
From Bugis, went to Starbucks city hall, and decided to drop by and meet the girls. Good thing i dropped by kahit sandali lang. It's good to see them again. Super saya pa rin and walang sawang kwentuhan at tawanan. Though ffg and I have to leave early, still, it's all worth it. Oh, and of course, tenkyu tenkyu tenkyu soooooooo muchhhhhhh Tin for the Hoodie! Will be posting the picture of the hoodie next time. Love love love it. Muah! Kat and Chard, super congrats! And to Jen and Fred, forgot to congratulate both of you! God bless!
From city hall, we went to sommerset to find some late late dinner. Then went to my happy place - Que Pasa. Had a glass of white, red for ffg, and the yummy yummy beef stew. Then went home and prepare my things to bring for tomorrow. Shucks, it's already 2 in the morning!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Stammtisch, Bukit Timah
From the cruise, we went home and rest a bit and went to Bukit Timah by 6pm to meet ffg's friends. Stammtisch is a swiss/german restaurant owned by a germany chef and is personally serving most of his customers. They brought us here so we could try the cheese fondue which is my first time to hear and try. When I asked Barbara, she said that the interior of the restaurant looks like a typical swiss restaurant. The place is really cozy and not like those fine dining restaurants.
Stephan ordered a bottle of white wine for us and it was really delicious. I drink mostly red and the white in insomnia is really bad compared to what we've had here. It was gloriously good. Recommended for first timers hehehe. I heard from Stephan and ffg that the bottle was a bit expensive. Stephan paid for it, though. I think it was $70+. For the food, we ordered 2 sets of Cheese Fondue@SGD24+++ each set. For a group, the price is already worth it as it's heavy and you'll feel full after 5 to 6 dips of bread on the cheese. Im not much fan of cheese but this one I really loved it. Nicole suggested that the swiss way to eat fondue is to dip the bread into the Kirsch (Swiss drink which tasted like tequila - nicole ordered separately and asked me to try it) then dip into the cheese. Kirsch drink is only @ SGD 9+++. She and Stephan was also suggesting that next time we should try the Rivella, also a swiss drink which is like a soda. I heard they were selling it at SGD 5.50+++. I saw from most of the diners' table were pork knuckles. Hmmm, next time i'll order that. I hope I could bring my some of my friends here :) Of course we tried the sausages. Ffg and I had the grilled bratwurst sausage. A nicely browned foot long sausage with rosti potatoes and onion gravy with a bowl of salad for only $19 :) This is faarrrr better than the ones in Marche or the Vilage now. They get the meat and sausages from a Swiss Butchery, a gourmet butcher in Greenwood Avenue.
This is one experience I'll definitely blog about and let friends tried it. Although a bit expensive, one time experience is not bad. Sometimes it's good to try different kind from the usual that were having everyday.
To go there, we alight at the Newton MRT and took a cab to 6th avenue. The fare costs us only SGD 5+++. Although, you can take a bus 66, 170 which is 14 stops away from the Newton MRT. The address is 6th Avenue Centre #01-04 805 Bukit Timah Road. Dinner is from 6.30 to 10.30 and they are close on Mondays.
Stephan ordered a bottle of white wine for us and it was really delicious. I drink mostly red and the white in insomnia is really bad compared to what we've had here. It was gloriously good. Recommended for first timers hehehe. I heard from Stephan and ffg that the bottle was a bit expensive. Stephan paid for it, though. I think it was $70+. For the food, we ordered 2 sets of Cheese Fondue@SGD24+++ each set. For a group, the price is already worth it as it's heavy and you'll feel full after 5 to 6 dips of bread on the cheese. Im not much fan of cheese but this one I really loved it. Nicole suggested that the swiss way to eat fondue is to dip the bread into the Kirsch (Swiss drink which tasted like tequila - nicole ordered separately and asked me to try it) then dip into the cheese. Kirsch drink is only @ SGD 9+++. She and Stephan was also suggesting that next time we should try the Rivella, also a swiss drink which is like a soda. I heard they were selling it at SGD 5.50+++. I saw from most of the diners' table were pork knuckles. Hmmm, next time i'll order that. I hope I could bring my some of my friends here :) Of course we tried the sausages. Ffg and I had the grilled bratwurst sausage. A nicely browned foot long sausage with rosti potatoes and onion gravy with a bowl of salad for only $19 :) This is faarrrr better than the ones in Marche or the Vilage now. They get the meat and sausages from a Swiss Butchery, a gourmet butcher in Greenwood Avenue.
This is one experience I'll definitely blog about and let friends tried it. Although a bit expensive, one time experience is not bad. Sometimes it's good to try different kind from the usual that were having everyday.
To go there, we alight at the Newton MRT and took a cab to 6th avenue. The fare costs us only SGD 5+++. Although, you can take a bus 66, 170 which is 14 stops away from the Newton MRT. The address is 6th Avenue Centre #01-04 805 Bukit Timah Road. Dinner is from 6.30 to 10.30 and they are close on Mondays.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Four Blind Mice
Four Blind Mice is one of James Pattersons great books. It's full of suspense, will keep you guessing though some of the murder scenes are a bit graphic. I've finished the 400 page book in just one day because it's really that interesting and im so glad I took this book with me on our cruise.
The main plot revolves around a team of ex-Vietnam Ranger villains who are hired assassins with a twist. The wheels of justice move more quickly in the military than the rest of the civilized world, evidently.
Other good and must-read books from James Patterson's collections that I've read were:
- 3rd degree
- when the wind blows
- maximum ride
- the lake house
- sam's letter to jennifer
Alex Cross returns in the most harrowing case of his career—one that risks the life of his closest friend and partner, John Sampson.
Detective Alex Cross is on his way to resign from the Washington, D.C., Police Force when his partner shows up at his door with a case he can't refuse. One of John Sampson's oldest friends, from their days together in Vietnam, has been arrested for murder. Worse yet, he is subject to the iron hand of the United States Army. The evidence against him is strong enough to send him to the gas chamber.
Sampson is certain his friend has been framed, and Alex's investigation turns up evidence overlooked-or concealed-by the military authorities. Drawing on their years of street training and an almost telepathic mutual trust, Cross and Sampson go deep behind military lines to confront the most terrifying-and deadly-killers they have ever encountered. Behind these three highly skilled killing machines there appears to be an even more threatening controller. Discovering the identity of this lethal genius will prove to be Cross's most terrifying challenge ever.
On his visits home, Alex must confront another, more harrowing mystery: what's the matter with Nana Mama? As he explores the possibility of a new relationship with a woman who offers him new hope, Alex must also confront the fact that his beloved grandmother is only human.
The return of Alex Cross in Four Blind Mice also marks James Patterson's arrival at dazzling new heights of mind-bending suspense, explosive action, and lightning-fast plot twists. It is sure to be acclaimed as the best novel yet from the author the Associated Press says "writes thrillers as if he were building roller coasters."
The main plot revolves around a team of ex-Vietnam Ranger villains who are hired assassins with a twist. The wheels of justice move more quickly in the military than the rest of the civilized world, evidently.
Other good and must-read books from James Patterson's collections that I've read were:
- 3rd degree
- when the wind blows
- maximum ride
- the lake house
- sam's letter to jennifer
Alex Cross returns in the most harrowing case of his career—one that risks the life of his closest friend and partner, John Sampson.
Detective Alex Cross is on his way to resign from the Washington, D.C., Police Force when his partner shows up at his door with a case he can't refuse. One of John Sampson's oldest friends, from their days together in Vietnam, has been arrested for murder. Worse yet, he is subject to the iron hand of the United States Army. The evidence against him is strong enough to send him to the gas chamber.
Sampson is certain his friend has been framed, and Alex's investigation turns up evidence overlooked-or concealed-by the military authorities. Drawing on their years of street training and an almost telepathic mutual trust, Cross and Sampson go deep behind military lines to confront the most terrifying-and deadly-killers they have ever encountered. Behind these three highly skilled killing machines there appears to be an even more threatening controller. Discovering the identity of this lethal genius will prove to be Cross's most terrifying challenge ever.
On his visits home, Alex must confront another, more harrowing mystery: what's the matter with Nana Mama? As he explores the possibility of a new relationship with a woman who offers him new hope, Alex must also confront the fact that his beloved grandmother is only human.
The return of Alex Cross in Four Blind Mice also marks James Patterson's arrival at dazzling new heights of mind-bending suspense, explosive action, and lightning-fast plot twists. It is sure to be acclaimed as the best novel yet from the author the Associated Press says "writes thrillers as if he were building roller coasters."
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
A Moment in my life
There are moments in our life that shatters us and somehow made us change most of our perspective in life. We cry 'till there were no tears left hoping that it will lessen the pain or make that moment go away for a while. But God always gives us choices to make. To see things either in a way that could make us more miserable or still look forward with what could be in for us in the future. We may look back only if we're strong enough not to let this affect how we see things now. It's always difficult to be positive when you're hurting. I always say that. It's always intricate to put into action now what you've advised to others. It's not easy and it's never been.
I couldn't blog about what im facing now but im definitely looking at it optimistically. At least, that's what Im trying to do now. It's hard but I know this will pass. Im holding on to God's promise that He never intended us to get hurt. He might took away few things that matters to us, but you'll know that this may be for your own good. I hope I'll remain strong. I hope I won't let my weakness get into me.
I couldn't blog about what im facing now but im definitely looking at it optimistically. At least, that's what Im trying to do now. It's hard but I know this will pass. Im holding on to God's promise that He never intended us to get hurt. He might took away few things that matters to us, but you'll know that this may be for your own good. I hope I'll remain strong. I hope I won't let my weakness get into me.
Monday, May 07, 2007
The Phantom of the Opera
The plan of watching a play or opera in Esplanade has been long overdue. It remains a plan until Cuz Eram was nice enough to take care of the booking for us. So on the 3rd of May, all 9 of us, went to Esplanade. Went home, change on a nice dress (i love to dress up and this is one occassion that i don't want to miss hihihi), went to City Hall and meet ffg. Quarter to 8, we were already at the esplanade and calling cuz because they were still having dinner somewhere. It was a first time for me to watch an opera and honestly, I was never a fan. It was a fabulous experience, though. And it always give me great pleasure and excitement doing things the first time. *hope no one will interpret this in a 'green' way hehehe*. For a first timer, it was indeed great to start off with Broadway’s longest-running musical - The Phantom of the Opera.
The Esplanade Theatre's interior was really beautiful and very elegant. It has four levels and our seat was located on the fourth at the circle 3 with a clear view of what's going on on stage. They don't allow photos to be taken even on mobile phones but I managed to steal a few shots hehe. 10 minutes to 8, they were already closing the door, and the opera started at exactly 8pm. Neat! Never been to any show that started exactly the time they print it. Although cuz and the rest didn't managed to get on time, they were still able to watch the next scene. It was really different to watch it on stage than watchin it on a big screen. The musical started off slow, like a gentle giant waking up. It was really breathtaking. All the stage props were amazing. Candles rose out of the stage when the Phantom was rowing his boat with Christine in it. And it all looks so real. The dungeon was magnificently constructed, the shadows giving it an eerie and menacing look. The ballet dancers were splendid. The costumes are all colorful. The grand staircase at the Masquerade scene is really something. I didn't know or notice that they used mannequins until Novyta told me :) I was actually thinking where did they get those extras. I love the songs. It'll make you fall in love over and over again. The actors are great. Although there were scenes that I got a little bored, but hey it's my first time. It was one hell of an experience. It was really fab.
Andrew Lloyd Webber's THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is the heart-wrenching story of the mysterious "Angel of Music" who lives beneath the Paris Opera House. The hideously disfigured Phantom falls in love with the young singer Christine, devoting himself to creating a new opera star while exercising a reign of terror over the Opera House's occupants.
The casts, as I've done my research on the internet and not wanting to shed that $25 bucks for the booklet, did a fantastic job. Brad Little being The Phantom, Rebecca Pitcher as Christine, John Bowles as Raoul, Ana Marina as Alternate Christine, John O'May as Firmin, Anders Sohlman as Andre, Pauline Du Presis as Carlotta, Jackie Rees as Madame Giry, David Rogers-Smith as Ubaldo Phangi, Nadia Komazec as Meg Giry, Andre Strijdom as Reyer, James Skinner as Passarino, David English as Auctioneer/Lefevre, Rouel Beukes as Joseph Buquet, Sebastian Zokoza as Don Attilio, Sean Andrews as Marksman, Ben Kaslauskas as Slavemaster (In 'Hannibal'), Matthew Overmeyer as Soldier, Chris Wright as Porter/Tin Soldier, Mons Botha as Princess/Mirror Bride, Sophie Viskich as Wild Woman (in 'Hannibal'), Jennifer West as Wardrobe Mistress, Hamlee Louw as Madame Firmin, Nomasande Webu as Innkeepers Wife (In Don Juan Trumphant), Simon Pryce as Lionman, Donna-Maree Dunlop as Gauloise, Deborah Annable, Sarah Bakker, Marianna Baltadano, Mietta Gornall, Catherine Leppingwell, Maggie Purr as the Ballet chorus of the Opera populaire, Sharyn Winney as Ballet swing, Kurt Hapt, David Sommerville, Deborah Caddy, Amy Holder as the Swings, and Sharyn Winney as Dance Captain.
The ending part was great. Audience shows their appreciation by giving the casts a round of applause from the time each cast was introduced, although no standing ovation :( But if i were to ask, I would give them much appreciation than just applauding. It was really beautiful and you can't say that it is an easy work. Oh, I just learned that Sarah Brightman used to play Christine. Wala lang. We took picture from my camera phone afterwards.
The first act lasted for 1 1/2 hour with an intermission of 20 minutes. It ended around 11 pm. After the show, we had dinner at the Gluttons Bay where we saw Brad Little having his dinner too. If it were only me and ffg, I'll come up to him and ask for his autograph. Sayang, dxo band was there with us nashy ako hehehe.
The show will still be aired until the 20th of May so you still have time to catch up.
The Esplanade Theatre's interior was really beautiful and very elegant. It has four levels and our seat was located on the fourth at the circle 3 with a clear view of what's going on on stage. They don't allow photos to be taken even on mobile phones but I managed to steal a few shots hehe. 10 minutes to 8, they were already closing the door, and the opera started at exactly 8pm. Neat! Never been to any show that started exactly the time they print it. Although cuz and the rest didn't managed to get on time, they were still able to watch the next scene. It was really different to watch it on stage than watchin it on a big screen. The musical started off slow, like a gentle giant waking up. It was really breathtaking. All the stage props were amazing. Candles rose out of the stage when the Phantom was rowing his boat with Christine in it. And it all looks so real. The dungeon was magnificently constructed, the shadows giving it an eerie and menacing look. The ballet dancers were splendid. The costumes are all colorful. The grand staircase at the Masquerade scene is really something. I didn't know or notice that they used mannequins until Novyta told me :) I was actually thinking where did they get those extras. I love the songs. It'll make you fall in love over and over again. The actors are great. Although there were scenes that I got a little bored, but hey it's my first time. It was one hell of an experience. It was really fab.
Andrew Lloyd Webber's THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is the heart-wrenching story of the mysterious "Angel of Music" who lives beneath the Paris Opera House. The hideously disfigured Phantom falls in love with the young singer Christine, devoting himself to creating a new opera star while exercising a reign of terror over the Opera House's occupants.
The casts, as I've done my research on the internet and not wanting to shed that $25 bucks for the booklet, did a fantastic job. Brad Little being The Phantom, Rebecca Pitcher as Christine, John Bowles as Raoul, Ana Marina as Alternate Christine, John O'May as Firmin, Anders Sohlman as Andre, Pauline Du Presis as Carlotta, Jackie Rees as Madame Giry, David Rogers-Smith as Ubaldo Phangi, Nadia Komazec as Meg Giry, Andre Strijdom as Reyer, James Skinner as Passarino, David English as Auctioneer/Lefevre, Rouel Beukes as Joseph Buquet, Sebastian Zokoza as Don Attilio, Sean Andrews as Marksman, Ben Kaslauskas as Slavemaster (In 'Hannibal'), Matthew Overmeyer as Soldier, Chris Wright as Porter/Tin Soldier, Mons Botha as Princess/Mirror Bride, Sophie Viskich as Wild Woman (in 'Hannibal'), Jennifer West as Wardrobe Mistress, Hamlee Louw as Madame Firmin, Nomasande Webu as Innkeepers Wife (In Don Juan Trumphant), Simon Pryce as Lionman, Donna-Maree Dunlop as Gauloise, Deborah Annable, Sarah Bakker, Marianna Baltadano, Mietta Gornall, Catherine Leppingwell, Maggie Purr as the Ballet chorus of the Opera populaire, Sharyn Winney as Ballet swing, Kurt Hapt, David Sommerville, Deborah Caddy, Amy Holder as the Swings, and Sharyn Winney as Dance Captain.
The ending part was great. Audience shows their appreciation by giving the casts a round of applause from the time each cast was introduced, although no standing ovation :( But if i were to ask, I would give them much appreciation than just applauding. It was really beautiful and you can't say that it is an easy work. Oh, I just learned that Sarah Brightman used to play Christine. Wala lang. We took picture from my camera phone afterwards.
The first act lasted for 1 1/2 hour with an intermission of 20 minutes. It ended around 11 pm. After the show, we had dinner at the Gluttons Bay where we saw Brad Little having his dinner too. If it were only me and ffg, I'll come up to him and ask for his autograph. Sayang, dxo band was there with us nashy ako hehehe.
The show will still be aired until the 20th of May so you still have time to catch up.
Friday, May 04, 2007
A Sad Goodbye
today is the day that you'll say goodbye. im so sorry that i can't be there to even see your beauty for the last time. now, there'll be no more "next time, i'll visit her" or any planning of some sort for me. is it our fault that we never make a way to see or visit you? but i know you'll understand. not that we don't want to see you, we regret that. we just thought that it's best to keep the shield around us so we won't be reminded of the pain of the past. i know you'll be happy now where you'll be going. bye 'la. totoo pala. those who've caused you pain were the ones that's so hard to let go of. maybe this sadness that i feel isn't just because you're gone. maybe this is because i was hoping somehow that before you go, someone will take the responsibility of saying sorry. maybe this is because i know that he's all alone now and no one will accept whatever things he do but you. maybe this is because i'll miss whatever memories you installed *atleast in me*.
i like to be nostalgic at times. reminisce the memories - the good ones - that is. reminds me of the things that makes me look forward to something even at a young mind. like the weekly visit to your house that daddy and i did back then. growing up in a very small lair, and almost everyday of nothing grand to eat, with a one peso in my pocket as my biggest treasure, going to your place is really one of the best ones that i always look forward too. you have the grandest house in mayon, with a garden and numbers of beautiful dogs. your air conditioned room with lolo's picture hanging on the wall. with beautiful headboard and martha-stewart-like pillows and bedsheet. of course, your kitchen that never runs out of anything to eat. and not just anything but those you only find in the rich people's kitchen. fruits at the dinner table. box of goldilocks cake that i only had a slice whenever there's a really special occassion. chocolates. juice. lechon. and whenever we visit you there, you always go out of your room and head to the kitchen to prepare these grand foods for us. i remember the time i kept a few chocolates in my pocket just to give it to my mom. you have this chair that's only meant for u, placed at the corner of the dinner table near the window where you can see your garden. and when it's time for us to go home, you always give me money even if it's only enough for me to buy candy for all my kalaro, aside from the food and supot ng makopa that daddy picked for me from your tree. i always keep a big one peso coin and give it to you in exchange of five pesos. whenever you have to go to albularyo's and daddy and i go with you, we don't eat at just any place. we always eat at aristocrat or maxs. and whenever you walk out of the house, you're always at your best. always wearing the shade of brown dress. the way you plant your kiss on my cheeks is something that reminds me of you. all my memries of you that i kept in my heart were those that made me smile and somehow make myself believe that i am really your apo. and whatever happens in the past years, i threw some of them. it's like now that you're gone, i felt like reminiscing what just happen months ago not decades ago. and i prefer it this way. i cried so much when i heard from mom that you're gone maybe because i've nurtured that memory inside me for a long time. you see, it's not just a memory with you in there, but memory filled of times that im bonding with daddy. it's one of the best times of my life :)
paalam 'la. i know you're happy where you are now.
i like to be nostalgic at times. reminisce the memories - the good ones - that is. reminds me of the things that makes me look forward to something even at a young mind. like the weekly visit to your house that daddy and i did back then. growing up in a very small lair, and almost everyday of nothing grand to eat, with a one peso in my pocket as my biggest treasure, going to your place is really one of the best ones that i always look forward too. you have the grandest house in mayon, with a garden and numbers of beautiful dogs. your air conditioned room with lolo's picture hanging on the wall. with beautiful headboard and martha-stewart-like pillows and bedsheet. of course, your kitchen that never runs out of anything to eat. and not just anything but those you only find in the rich people's kitchen. fruits at the dinner table. box of goldilocks cake that i only had a slice whenever there's a really special occassion. chocolates. juice. lechon. and whenever we visit you there, you always go out of your room and head to the kitchen to prepare these grand foods for us. i remember the time i kept a few chocolates in my pocket just to give it to my mom. you have this chair that's only meant for u, placed at the corner of the dinner table near the window where you can see your garden. and when it's time for us to go home, you always give me money even if it's only enough for me to buy candy for all my kalaro, aside from the food and supot ng makopa that daddy picked for me from your tree. i always keep a big one peso coin and give it to you in exchange of five pesos. whenever you have to go to albularyo's and daddy and i go with you, we don't eat at just any place. we always eat at aristocrat or maxs. and whenever you walk out of the house, you're always at your best. always wearing the shade of brown dress. the way you plant your kiss on my cheeks is something that reminds me of you. all my memries of you that i kept in my heart were those that made me smile and somehow make myself believe that i am really your apo. and whatever happens in the past years, i threw some of them. it's like now that you're gone, i felt like reminiscing what just happen months ago not decades ago. and i prefer it this way. i cried so much when i heard from mom that you're gone maybe because i've nurtured that memory inside me for a long time. you see, it's not just a memory with you in there, but memory filled of times that im bonding with daddy. it's one of the best times of my life :)
paalam 'la. i know you're happy where you are now.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Sad Moment :(
I received an SMS from my MOM asking me to call them and saying that my Dad's at home and that my Lola passed away. When I called them I was frantically crying and I can't help it. :( Every memory I had with her seem to came back in an instant and it's just so painful to know that it's been a very very long time since I last seen her, since my parents separated, we stopped seeing her too. This is the part where I really hate myself being away from home. Receiving bad news like this. First, it was my Inang then now my Lola. I know they're already old and maybe it's really time to end their suffering. I just feel really sad being away from them. Not seeing them at the last moment. It's too painful for me to bear :( May GOD take care of her.
Lola,
Im sorry that I may not be able to go to your funeral. I know you'll understand. This is really hard for me. To know that you're already gone and I can't do anything about it. I thought you'll still going to make it to my wedding. I thought you'll still see your first apo get married. You haven't even met Rommel. It's too painful for me to bear it now. When was the last time I see you? Back when you were still in Kanlaon? Yes, that time when my parents were still on the verge of separating. You were bed-ridden already that time. But you still manage to plant me that famous kiss of yours on me. You know the way you hold my face smelling my cheeks first before kissing me? I've got lots of memories that up to now I can still remember because they connect me to you and to my dad. It's funny because I just had a thought of you just last week because I was reading this novel about a grandmother and her apo and they were really close to each other. I lost my Inang a year ago. And now you. Just few months before my wedding. :( But Im sure you're happy now that you'll see Lolo again. I don't want to see you suffering from whatever sickness. It's just sad that I wasn't able to see you or say goodbye. I love you, 'la. Take care. Come at my wedding on september. If you see Inang, ask her to go with you too.
Love,
Me
Lola,
Im sorry that I may not be able to go to your funeral. I know you'll understand. This is really hard for me. To know that you're already gone and I can't do anything about it. I thought you'll still going to make it to my wedding. I thought you'll still see your first apo get married. You haven't even met Rommel. It's too painful for me to bear it now. When was the last time I see you? Back when you were still in Kanlaon? Yes, that time when my parents were still on the verge of separating. You were bed-ridden already that time. But you still manage to plant me that famous kiss of yours on me. You know the way you hold my face smelling my cheeks first before kissing me? I've got lots of memories that up to now I can still remember because they connect me to you and to my dad. It's funny because I just had a thought of you just last week because I was reading this novel about a grandmother and her apo and they were really close to each other. I lost my Inang a year ago. And now you. Just few months before my wedding. :( But Im sure you're happy now that you'll see Lolo again. I don't want to see you suffering from whatever sickness. It's just sad that I wasn't able to see you or say goodbye. I love you, 'la. Take care. Come at my wedding on september. If you see Inang, ask her to go with you too.
Love,
Me
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Sam's Letter to Jennifer
My fondness of reading usually lies on the authors that hit the "best seller" portion of the bookstores but mostly i always read the novels of those i have a good first impression on. I got 5 or more novels from David Baldacci and James Patterson, my John Grisham's novels are complete, i got all of Mitch Albom's books. Ive few books of the same author and Im just saying that it's how my reading personality is. Although, it's not sensible to read a novel from the same author over and over again, you'll find it addicting to read one after another of the same author. It's like reading someone else's diary. Like for instance John Grisham who's well known for his courtroom drama stories, or Nicholas Sparks for his emotional love stories and a lot more. You'll get bored eventually because no matter how different their stories are, they always end up having the same plot. But it's normal. Because if you're an author you have to stick to a certain identity so readers will know you for what you write.
One of my favorite authors is James Patterson who's well known for his murder mysteries novels. I grab a copy of "Sam's letters to Jennifer" just because James Patterson wrote it not because of the summary of the story. And yes, im that fanatic. After reading it, I was totally amazed that he really can write love stories. Galing!
The book was about Jennifer who writes a column in a newspaper. Lost her husband, had miscarriage, and now that her grandma Sam is sick, she thought she was about to lose her too. When she's about to give up, she found hope. And Sam have found a way to talk to Jennifer even if she's in a coma.
I love the short, quick chapters that Patterson uses to keep the story flowing. I love the fact that scenes change quickly so that the reader never gets bored. And I love the characters that he has created: Jennifer, who needs love again so badly and is so scared to look for it again; Brendan, who loves so freely and completely with so much to lose; and Sam, who accepted what she could not change and found the strength to accept love when it was offered and never regret it. Sam's Letters to Jennifer is two beautiful love stories wrapped into one.
One of my favorite authors is James Patterson who's well known for his murder mysteries novels. I grab a copy of "Sam's letters to Jennifer" just because James Patterson wrote it not because of the summary of the story. And yes, im that fanatic. After reading it, I was totally amazed that he really can write love stories. Galing!
The book was about Jennifer who writes a column in a newspaper. Lost her husband, had miscarriage, and now that her grandma Sam is sick, she thought she was about to lose her too. When she's about to give up, she found hope. And Sam have found a way to talk to Jennifer even if she's in a coma.
I love the short, quick chapters that Patterson uses to keep the story flowing. I love the fact that scenes change quickly so that the reader never gets bored. And I love the characters that he has created: Jennifer, who needs love again so badly and is so scared to look for it again; Brendan, who loves so freely and completely with so much to lose; and Sam, who accepted what she could not change and found the strength to accept love when it was offered and never regret it. Sam's Letters to Jennifer is two beautiful love stories wrapped into one.
Friday, April 27, 2007
For One More Day
For One More Day by Mitch Albom is the story of a man who gets the chance to spend one more day with his mother, who died 8 years earlier. I bought it just last friday and was done with it by wednesday. Besides the fact that this book is only 197 pages long, you will be wrapped up from start to finish with the story that evolves around love and family. Mitch Albom was known for his books that doesn't need you to read so many pages and getting lost in the end. His was short but will really hit you straight right into the core of your heart. Mine, that is. This story will make you value more your family especially your Mom. It was for me, like the Five People You meet in heaven story. Still, it's as good as the first two. :)
There's always time in our life that we really screwed up so badly that we can't think of anything to straighten the mess up but to run away from it. I'm guilty about that. The thing is we can't run away from it. It's always best to face it no matter what because in the end everything will always be different from what you've had in that part of your life. It's only up to you to make that difference. It could make the matter better or worst depend on how you face it. Oh, I'm not good in anything about life. I'm still learning to swim and trying my very best not to drown. I guess with blogging, ive been leaving a few crumbs behind so when I look back, i'll know that at one point in my life, i look at my life straight and positive amidst of the chaos im into. But isn't it great that each day, you wake up to a brand new day not knowing what's in store for us, be it good or bad? That each day you tried your best to think of something different just to make things around you easier? I hope i'll be like this everyday. So I won't have to look back and think of the "woulda" and "coulda" in my life instead look forward to the brand new day.
And the things in my life that I so much hated doing but did it anyway for the sake of following my Mom *beside the fact that she's scary at that time not doing what she ordered you to do and the fact that im just a good kid hihihi*, none of it makes me regret where I am now. She had helped me make my life easier and without all the things she has done for me, I wouldn't probably see the goodness of my life even if im a product of a broken family. And the most important thing she'd ever done to me or to us, is standing up for us for about everything in this world even at times what she think is right for us makes us hate her. I lavyu mamee!
There's always time in our life that we really screwed up so badly that we can't think of anything to straighten the mess up but to run away from it. I'm guilty about that. The thing is we can't run away from it. It's always best to face it no matter what because in the end everything will always be different from what you've had in that part of your life. It's only up to you to make that difference. It could make the matter better or worst depend on how you face it. Oh, I'm not good in anything about life. I'm still learning to swim and trying my very best not to drown. I guess with blogging, ive been leaving a few crumbs behind so when I look back, i'll know that at one point in my life, i look at my life straight and positive amidst of the chaos im into. But isn't it great that each day, you wake up to a brand new day not knowing what's in store for us, be it good or bad? That each day you tried your best to think of something different just to make things around you easier? I hope i'll be like this everyday. So I won't have to look back and think of the "woulda" and "coulda" in my life instead look forward to the brand new day.
And the things in my life that I so much hated doing but did it anyway for the sake of following my Mom *beside the fact that she's scary at that time not doing what she ordered you to do and the fact that im just a good kid hihihi*, none of it makes me regret where I am now. She had helped me make my life easier and without all the things she has done for me, I wouldn't probably see the goodness of my life even if im a product of a broken family. And the most important thing she'd ever done to me or to us, is standing up for us for about everything in this world even at times what she think is right for us makes us hate her. I lavyu mamee!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
French Dinner ala Central Grove
Last night, my housemate Vinh prepared a french dinner for us. French were known to be so specific about their food. They like to spend much time preparing their food. I didn't know that French people doesn't like eating at fastfood like McDonalds. Vinh's personal reason was that it wasn't prepare the way food was prepared at the restaurants or hawker centers. He said his brother-in-law was worst. If it's american, he won't it eat it. If appliances are not european made, he won't buy it. I didn't know this kind of "culture", if you can call it, until I spoke to Vinh. Interesting.
Now to the dinner part. It broke my heart this morning when I learned that the pictures I painstakingly took last night wasn't in the SD card. I don't know what happen but everytime I took a picture, I viewed it afterwards. Oh well, what's lost is lost.
Our dinner started at about 10pm and we had smoked salmon for appetizer, french bread and a Wolf Blass 2003 White Wine. We forgot how long it has been there but the wine was still good. Though it wasn't advisable to keep wines for that long especially leaving it there lying around with poor temperature because some wines could taste like vinegar. That's why it is important for people who love wines to invest on a wine cooler. This is a good site for Proper Wine Storage. Half hour later, Vinh served us the "saumon en papilotte" or salmon on paper. For this he uses a foil instead of paper where he put the salmon, garlic, mushroom, pepper, salt, basil leaves and cream and baked it until it was cooked. It was really easy. After the salmon and salmon appetizer and main dish, we rested for a while. It was like eating in a restaurant! A 5-course at home! Vinh served the cheese, which french was really known for loving cheese so much. The day before, we asked him not to buy the really smelly cheese hehehe. Not yet anyway. He bought a square cheese instead and whew it was smelly. Yuccckkkk! I was the only one who wasn't going to try the cheese so I gave in. I took a bite *super small size*, closed my eyes and swallowed the cheese. Mmmmm, it's good hehehehe. I tried another one, this time much bigger than the first, waaaaaaa it's really good. Just don't smell it hehehe. He said it was like durian. Don't try to smell it first. Eventually you'll get used to the smell. Durian, a really big no. But with cheese, this is OK. By the time the dessert was served, all were already full. But we still did devour Vinh's amandine aux poires. Baked pear with egg, sugar, almond, butter. He put vanilla ice cream beside the sweet dessert and the taste complements each other. Yummy. We end up our meal with a cup of black coffee. Everyone was really full especially me. I end up vomiting on our toilet, hehehe.
Dinner was perfect. First housemates dinner since Ally's replacement, Edward, arrived. Yeyyyyy! Merci, monsieur Vinh. Tres Bon! Je ne parle pas francais. Hihihi.
Today's High: Learning something about french's culture and food. Bonding with housemates.
Now to the dinner part. It broke my heart this morning when I learned that the pictures I painstakingly took last night wasn't in the SD card. I don't know what happen but everytime I took a picture, I viewed it afterwards. Oh well, what's lost is lost.
Our dinner started at about 10pm and we had smoked salmon for appetizer, french bread and a Wolf Blass 2003 White Wine. We forgot how long it has been there but the wine was still good. Though it wasn't advisable to keep wines for that long especially leaving it there lying around with poor temperature because some wines could taste like vinegar. That's why it is important for people who love wines to invest on a wine cooler. This is a good site for Proper Wine Storage. Half hour later, Vinh served us the "saumon en papilotte" or salmon on paper. For this he uses a foil instead of paper where he put the salmon, garlic, mushroom, pepper, salt, basil leaves and cream and baked it until it was cooked. It was really easy. After the salmon and salmon appetizer and main dish, we rested for a while. It was like eating in a restaurant! A 5-course at home! Vinh served the cheese, which french was really known for loving cheese so much. The day before, we asked him not to buy the really smelly cheese hehehe. Not yet anyway. He bought a square cheese instead and whew it was smelly. Yuccckkkk! I was the only one who wasn't going to try the cheese so I gave in. I took a bite *super small size*, closed my eyes and swallowed the cheese. Mmmmm, it's good hehehehe. I tried another one, this time much bigger than the first, waaaaaaa it's really good. Just don't smell it hehehe. He said it was like durian. Don't try to smell it first. Eventually you'll get used to the smell. Durian, a really big no. But with cheese, this is OK. By the time the dessert was served, all were already full. But we still did devour Vinh's amandine aux poires. Baked pear with egg, sugar, almond, butter. He put vanilla ice cream beside the sweet dessert and the taste complements each other. Yummy. We end up our meal with a cup of black coffee. Everyone was really full especially me. I end up vomiting on our toilet, hehehe.
Dinner was perfect. First housemates dinner since Ally's replacement, Edward, arrived. Yeyyyyy! Merci, monsieur Vinh. Tres Bon! Je ne parle pas francais. Hihihi.
Today's High: Learning something about french's culture and food. Bonding with housemates.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Life is so ironic
That, my friends, is my YM's status today.
"we may not fully understand the reason why some things happen and when it does, that we have to be strong and always be positive inspite of the pain we felt, but GOD never fail to put something good for you at the end of it all. He's the only one who knew that reason so when this painful moment knock into our door it is ok to be weak at times but always know that GOD never want to hurt us. It might be something that we encounter because of our own doing but it's always something that makes us stronger in the end. No better words can alleviate the pain but let's not forget that there's no mountain that is too high that we can't climb."
"we may not fully understand the reason why some things happen and when it does, that we have to be strong and always be positive inspite of the pain we felt, but GOD never fail to put something good for you at the end of it all. He's the only one who knew that reason so when this painful moment knock into our door it is ok to be weak at times but always know that GOD never want to hurt us. It might be something that we encounter because of our own doing but it's always something that makes us stronger in the end. No better words can alleviate the pain but let's not forget that there's no mountain that is too high that we can't climb."
Friday, April 20, 2007
Hapag ng Pagasa
Tonight, as we watched the Probe, they feature a certain painter, Joey Velasco who shows his outstanding paintings. One of the paintings was the "hapag ng pag-asa" where he painted the Last Supper replacing the apostles with the streetchildren. Normally my reaction to this kind of thing would be different. But his paintings are remarkable and shows nothing but pure love with Jesus' face beside an innocent child. He's truly an author and a painter. It's really a wonder how God works for people to see that there's more in life to be grateful. His talent is one thing. But the way he uses it in accordance to what GOD really wants is huge.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Que Pasa
During my lets-party-all-night-long-every-week days, I'd go for more-noise-kind-of-party. I love dancing so much and partying all night during the weekends. I'll go on a ladies night on a wednesday and go home at 4 or 5 in the morning then sleep at most for 2 hours then come to work. I do smoke but occasionally. And that occasion is every week :) I think it's true that you'll get over the hype in time. I still do go out at times. But now, I can't stay in a bar with much noise and too much smoke that long. And so I hang out now *sometimes* to this kind of bars where you can relax and drink and dine and not much noise around. This may still count as clubbing or partying but socializing with friends sometimes is ok hehehe.
I used to go to emerald hill with friends but usually at Ice Cold Beer only. They are selling 3 beers for 20 dollars. They also sell San Mig Light :) It is way cheaper than going to other bars. I usually come to ICB just for the chicken hehehe. It's good. And the pizza too. When a friend of mine invited me for a wine at Que Pasa and tried their tapas or beef stew with the bread, my thought was that Ill go back there next week. Since I am not much of a beer person, Que Pasa has been my favorite place now. Im not a wine expert. All i know is i can drink one and tell the difference of what's good and what's not on my taste buds. I first started with a cabarnet sauvignon and with its fruity taste, since then it's the only one I always take whenever I go out. Only then when we brought vinh's sister and brother in law to Que Pasa that Ive known that wines are known for the places they were made not by the flavor of it. He was french and his father owns a winery in france. The first bottle he ordered was really good. Forgot where it's from but it costs about 100 bucks per bottle. It's not strong and has a fruity taste. And meant for the ladies who doesn't want to taste the alcohol. Maybe next time, I'll try to write down the kinds of wine Ive tasted and blog about it :) Oh in Que Pasa, you can order wines per glass and it's not always by the bottle. It's cheaper though to order a bottle if there are 6 persons sharing. You can get the $60 bottle so it'll be like $10 each only. Their glass is at $13 for the one on their "bottle menu". I was actually thinking of copying this idea for our wedding hehehe. If you get the premium ones, expect to pay more moolah of course. And don't forget to order the tapas, it's the best to go along with your wine. Yum!
The ambience outside is ok too. A bit bright Ill say. But inside is really cosy. It's like you're being transported to a winery. The wall is decorated with really big bottles of wine and an old place feeling. The other side was the wall filled with empty bottles of wine. Ive never been to their "upper deck", though. Try it once :)
for me to hangout especially when you're a wine lover.
I used to go to emerald hill with friends but usually at Ice Cold Beer only. They are selling 3 beers for 20 dollars. They also sell San Mig Light :) It is way cheaper than going to other bars. I usually come to ICB just for the chicken hehehe. It's good. And the pizza too. When a friend of mine invited me for a wine at Que Pasa and tried their tapas or beef stew with the bread, my thought was that Ill go back there next week. Since I am not much of a beer person, Que Pasa has been my favorite place now. Im not a wine expert. All i know is i can drink one and tell the difference of what's good and what's not on my taste buds. I first started with a cabarnet sauvignon and with its fruity taste, since then it's the only one I always take whenever I go out. Only then when we brought vinh's sister and brother in law to Que Pasa that Ive known that wines are known for the places they were made not by the flavor of it. He was french and his father owns a winery in france. The first bottle he ordered was really good. Forgot where it's from but it costs about 100 bucks per bottle. It's not strong and has a fruity taste. And meant for the ladies who doesn't want to taste the alcohol. Maybe next time, I'll try to write down the kinds of wine Ive tasted and blog about it :) Oh in Que Pasa, you can order wines per glass and it's not always by the bottle. It's cheaper though to order a bottle if there are 6 persons sharing. You can get the $60 bottle so it'll be like $10 each only. Their glass is at $13 for the one on their "bottle menu". I was actually thinking of copying this idea for our wedding hehehe. If you get the premium ones, expect to pay more moolah of course. And don't forget to order the tapas, it's the best to go along with your wine. Yum!
The ambience outside is ok too. A bit bright Ill say. But inside is really cosy. It's like you're being transported to a winery. The wall is decorated with really big bottles of wine and an old place feeling. The other side was the wall filled with empty bottles of wine. Ive never been to their "upper deck", though. Try it once :)
for me to hangout especially when you're a wine lover.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Ally's Farewell
Ally, our housemate, left today for Hong Kong. He got a better job and a better pay, I guess. It was really sad to know that whenever you find the right and perfect housemate saka naman aalis. BUT living in a foreign land is like that. People come and go in your life. Hmp, I don't want this to be really dramatic pero I'm really sad to see him go. It is one the many reasons why I opt for a guy to live with us. It's much more sentimental and too emotional if i ever get close to a girl. Higher expectations pa. We'll really miss you, Ally! *sniff*
So, last night, we had a farewell dinner for Ally at the Tapas Tree in Clark Quay. At first, it was suppose to be 4 of us only. Then it became 9. Ally brought her sister - kiki, Vin invited 3 friends - Kaoutar, Bertrand, SiWei, Lorena. United Colors of Benetton! Ally and Kiki from Mauritius. Vin, Bertrand and SiWei from France, shempre noypi, kami ito, and Kaoutar from Holland *she said she's a moroccan*. Everyone had a blast. All of us enjoyed the night, i think i did. All we do was laugh at *mostly* Vinh and Rommel's jokes. A fabulous evening.
We had sangria, bread with butter, calamare, salmon, squid (something), gambas and seafood paella! Sarap! The food is great! After our dinner, Si Wei has to go back home and the rest of us went to Que Pasa in Emerald Hill. Oh yeah, everyone's feeling a little spanish-y, ole ole! We had one bottle of Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon which is a little strong but gets ok once you consume half of your glass. Went home afterwards to drink and drink and drink some more! We finished around 2 in the morning since most have to work. Vinh, Ally, Rommel and me was left in the living room talking about anything. Too bad we never do this thing often. We have to find a reason to do things like this with friends when you really don't need to. And Im glad we had the dinner farewell. We get to meet another set of friends and we truly appreciate each other as housemates. Maybe we could visit Ally either in Hong Kong or Mauritius :) See you, Ally!
I did enjoy the company of Kaoutar. She's really pretty but she's way cool to be with. And we love taking pictures of all the detail of the events hehehe. She said Im her soulmate because finally she found someone with much enthusiasm when it comes to photos. I always tease her after our pictures were taken, she was like "how is it? how is it?". And she's so funny how she can relate with Vinh and Rommel's green jokes. Lucky you, Vinh!
Today's High: reminiscing last night's blast
Today's Low: saying goodbye to a good housemate/friend, stuck with what im doing at work
So, last night, we had a farewell dinner for Ally at the Tapas Tree in Clark Quay. At first, it was suppose to be 4 of us only. Then it became 9. Ally brought her sister - kiki, Vin invited 3 friends - Kaoutar, Bertrand, SiWei, Lorena. United Colors of Benetton! Ally and Kiki from Mauritius. Vin, Bertrand and SiWei from France, shempre noypi, kami ito, and Kaoutar from Holland *she said she's a moroccan*. Everyone had a blast. All of us enjoyed the night, i think i did. All we do was laugh at *mostly* Vinh and Rommel's jokes. A fabulous evening.
We had sangria, bread with butter, calamare, salmon, squid (something), gambas and seafood paella! Sarap! The food is great! After our dinner, Si Wei has to go back home and the rest of us went to Que Pasa in Emerald Hill. Oh yeah, everyone's feeling a little spanish-y, ole ole! We had one bottle of Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon which is a little strong but gets ok once you consume half of your glass. Went home afterwards to drink and drink and drink some more! We finished around 2 in the morning since most have to work. Vinh, Ally, Rommel and me was left in the living room talking about anything. Too bad we never do this thing often. We have to find a reason to do things like this with friends when you really don't need to. And Im glad we had the dinner farewell. We get to meet another set of friends and we truly appreciate each other as housemates. Maybe we could visit Ally either in Hong Kong or Mauritius :) See you, Ally!
I did enjoy the company of Kaoutar. She's really pretty but she's way cool to be with. And we love taking pictures of all the detail of the events hehehe. She said Im her soulmate because finally she found someone with much enthusiasm when it comes to photos. I always tease her after our pictures were taken, she was like "how is it? how is it?". And she's so funny how she can relate with Vinh and Rommel's green jokes. Lucky you, Vinh!
Today's High: reminiscing last night's blast
Today's Low: saying goodbye to a good housemate/friend, stuck with what im doing at work
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