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Internet Troubles

>> Saturday, January 30, 2010

Have you ever experience loosing your internet connection while you are on the act of saving a post (that you have been writing and tinkering with the whole day)? If you do, well, I am telling you, you are not the only one. That happened to me more than a dozen times already and all I can do is sigh and grind my teeth in frustration. Aside from the horror of those unsaved post, my internet provider also has this habit of serving erratic connections just when I need it most, sometimes my connection go to the extreme, to the point that I can't even open my own blog or my e-mail or Facebook, that's how bad their service is.

I was randomly typing keywords when I chanced upon an internet provider that has wild blue high speed internet, which has great specifications in a very affordable price. I was drooling (figuratively, of course), just thinking of the specs and unlimited service that satellite internet can give me. The fear of loosing an article that took hours and a lot of sweat to make, the fear of loosing connection while talking to an old friend which you just so happen to find in Facebook or Friendster, and the fear of going home without the internet connection that you really, really need will just be a part of history. All the nightmares, misery and disillusionment will soon be a thing of the past, you gotta love that!

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La Vache qui rit

>> Friday, January 29, 2010

Una sa lahat, ang hirap sabihin ng name nito ha, nakakawindang, hehe!

This is my husband's favorite, he eat this as is (pinapapak lang) or with bread (palaman), I think that's the reason why his father brought home loads of these goodies when he came from Dubai, he visited his brother last November and when he got back the next month, an entire box (bagahe) was full of cheese. We didn't laugh in front of him because we might offend him but we did laugh out loud when hubby and me were alone, imagine the trouble his father had gone through to brought home La Vache qui rit when you can easily buy it in the supermarkets, medyo mahal nga lang, hehe. Not that we don't appreciate it, because believe it or not, we do, we just find it a little funny.




If you're gonna ask me, it is best eaten with pandesal, promise! Lalo na kapag mainit pa yung pandesal kasi parang nagme-melt ung cheese at umiinit na din. Soft cheese na sya di ba pero kapag nasa pandesal na, parang mas soft pa sya, hahaha, don't mind me, nagmamadali lang kasi ako kasi manonood pa kami ng parada.

Happy Fiesta nga pala sa mga taga-San Roque!


Ratings:
5 out of 5



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True Blue Rodeo

I heard in the news last night that there's a rodeo here in Malabon, I don't exactly know where as the news wasn't exactly focused on the event but on those PETA warriors whose life revolve around commenting about animal welfare and heading demonstrations, I am not pro-animal cruelty but I do think that PETA is overacting most of the time. It's just my two cents, I don't wanna start a fight or debate or anything in between *grins*.

I haven't seen a real rodeo, I have watched snippets in TV and movies but I haven't actually witness a live event, it isn't exactly a popular sports here in the metro, most of the rodeos happen only in provinces which are, sad to say, super far from where I am, so imagine my surprise when I found out that there's a traveling rodeo show here in our city, finally, a chance to see a battle of brawn between man and animal. I would have resorted to begging if necessary just to be able to go, fortunately, my hubby understood and promised that he'll ask around for the exact location. Happy me!

It would be nice, if we have those extravagant rodeo shows like that of Houston, where ticketed seats are available around the arena and an explosive concert will surely follow after the rodeo so it's like hitting two birds in one stone, a rodeo show and a music concert in one, ain't that nice? I wonder if Houston Rodeo tickets are still available at the moment, gawd, how I wish I live near that area so I can watch a real bull-touting rodeo, I bet it will make my heart jump in shock and excitement. I checked out the ticket prices and the list of artists who will perform in the after-party concerts, the tickets are all reasonable but if you're gonna go and see the rodeo, I suggest you get the ones in the front row to see the real action clearly, I knew I would, and I saw that Rascal Flatts is one of the performers, it would be nice to listen to their music after a heart-pounding rodeo event. Phew, what would I give to see such a show...

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Marty's Cracklin'

I only blog when I'm finished with my household chores or when my son is asleep or when I can't sleep at night, but there are times that I am in the mood to blog or I really need to blog but slumber is almost taking over, and during times like that, my blogging buddy has my back. I used to depend on gummy worms, gummy colas and gummy bears to do that job but since Marty's Cracklings came into existence, my strong faith in gummy candies taper a bit, first Marty's seems to be available in every nook and corner while I have to go to the grocery store to purchase gummy candies, second, I almost always get these treats for free as my husband and mother loves them, too *grins*.


Marty's Cracklin' comes in two flavors - plain salted and salt & vinegar flavor, it also comes in regular-size and big party packs. I think, the small ones cost 5 pesos and the big ones (photo above) cost 20.


Ratings:
5 out of 5


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Random Ramblings

We visited grandma's house this morning and we were shocked to find it in such a mess, the people who were left to care for it were obviously not doing their jobs, I don't wanna sound rude or anything but some people are just after what granny had left behind and it's value but they don't really care, darn, those people are hateful.

An uncle who's obviously thinking only of his and his family's welfare decided to demolished the place one item at a time without asking for his siblings' permission, he was left to take care of the property and not wreck it, my God, some people are just so selfish. His alibi for the mess - termites, I could actually believe him as I had seen how bad those pesky insects can be but for the love of God, demolishing granny's house isn't exactly the way to solve the problem. I could actually believe him if I didn't know that he have some ulterior motives, but what can I do, I'm just one of the grandchildren and as my father said, we don't have a say in the matter as it is just between them brothers and sisters. Oh, how I wish it is not the case...

Sorry for a post full of angst and deep breath, I just need to get it out of my chest, now that I did, I think it's time to post something yummy!

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Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookies

>> Thursday, January 28, 2010

I included these treats in my grocery list in an effort to stick to my healthy and fat-reducing diet, but as I am not a big fan of oatmeal, really I can't take its taste and texture, I don't know why, a childhood trauma perhaps *grins*.

I bought these at ten pesos each and I think it comes in four variants but I was only able to grab three, the grocery store might have forgotten to re-stock on the unknown flavor. The three that I had picked were Oatmeal Cookie Raisins, Apple and Cinnamon, and Honey and Nuts, you can distinguish one from the other through the packaging colors aside from their names *lol*.


I won't try to rate these products as I have a long-running battle with oatmeal and as I had deducted, the battle ain't over yet, so it just ain't right for me to review and rate it. My father love the cookies though, he even asked my mom to buy more at the nearby market and that just might give you an alternative idea on how it taste.

I suggest you try it on your own, so you'll know how it really fare. It's just 10 pesos anyway and you're pretty sure that it's one of the healthiest cookies you can have *grins*. I just wish I can take my own advice *sigh*.

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On Diets and Loosing Weight

It's no secret that I am trying to loose weight, I would love to tell the whole world that I am loosing those excess fats and I wish I could shout to everyone who would listen that my diet is a success, but sadly, I can't do such things, because as far as I know, I wasn't able to stick to my diet and as far as I can see, no flabs has been missing on my body yet. Gosh, I wish things were different!

Well, hubby indulged me from time to time, telling me that I had loose some weight and that I can't loose it all in a month's time but I think he's just pulling my leg in an effort to boost my self-esteem and so I will strive harder on sticking to the routine. Gosh, how I wish it's working!

At times like this, when I am the only one awake and I have these whirlwind of thoughts all to myself, bariatric surgery diet keep popping up in my mind. I heard that Sunshine Dizon had undergone bariatric surgery when she was younger and look how fast she can loose all that extra pounds when she wants to. I would love to be on her shoe but when my mind drifted to food and the thought of every little edible thing that I would take could be in liquid form, suddenly it's not as perfect as it seems to be. Gosh, I wish I am not me!

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Nissin Souper Meal

>> Tuesday, January 26, 2010

I spotted this when we last went to the supermarket and as I was trying to loose some weight and I kinda find it cute, I picked and buy one. It was kinda big and is good to share, hubby and I shared this one, actually, it's more like I tasted it and he ate most of it *lol*.



It was filling but it tasted different than the Nissin cup noodles that we regularly buy. I forgot the actual price but I think it is less than a hundred but more than fifty pesos.


Ratings:
3.5 out of 5



A double entry for both -
MellowYellowBadge
&

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My Thoughts on Housing Stimulus

>> Monday, January 25, 2010

An older cousin who works in the States for nine years now and who decided to stay there for good five years ago contacted me to ask my opinion on some things, but what struck me was his plan to get his own house. He's been living alone in an apartment these past few years, on his first years in the country he was living in with some relatives who had been there since we were kids but now that he's planning to settle down, he's thinking of getting his own house, a big one at that (or at least bigger than his current crib), as he wants to have kids, he's 35, by the way. He was telling me all his grand plans, he wants a house with a huge front and backyard where his wife can do some gardening and his kids can run and play all they want, he wants to build a tree house if the lot that they'll get have big trees at the back or he can just build a play house if there's none. He wants all the grandeur of a modern house and all the necessities and luxuries of an ancestral home, I was in awe. And then, our conversation drifted to his finances and the legalities of his dreams, he was not as enthusiastic on that part and he told me that he called me up because he wants to ask me a favor. Get ready for this, he wants me to study the Housing Stimulus, I almost choked, he told me that he believes in me big time and he wants to hear my opinion first before he go and plunge in, it seems like he wants to hear it from me first before he hear it from the lawyers *grins*. You might be wondering why he has such faith in me, well, I was well on my way to being a lawyer before I met my husband and chose to settle down than do battle in court.

Truth, I don't know that much about federal income tax credits for homebuyers as I am not, in any way, affected by it, I did not see the need to listen or educate myself about it, so I am basically at zero here. So, I looked around and I found out that the homebuyers tax credit is extended till 2010, it actually took effect last year to help those homeowners and non-homeowners at the peak of US recession and to accommodate more people, the government extended the deal up until the 30th of April. If you're gonna take time to understand it, it's kinda simple, really. If you're a first time home owner or hadn't own one in 3 years, you are eligible to receive an $8,000 tax credit, if you're single, which is my cousin's case at the moment, you have to have an income limit of $125,000, the income limit differs according to your civil status but the cost of the house or property that you intend to buy has to be on the $800,000 range whether you're married or not. If you are interested to know more, feel free to watch the video clip below -




As far as I can see (and understand), the housing stimulus is a win-win battle, it can help boost the economy and it can help people to have their dream houses. As you will hear in the video above, in every house that is built, one person gets to have a job and $60,000 goes straight to the local government, I think it is computed based on $800,000 range; while the taxpayer who have been dreaming to have their own house can grab the opportunity without the trouble of heavy mortgage and tax, it is such a sweet deal. Now, all I have to do is call my cousin up and tell him to hurry up, prepare the necessary papers and file it as soon as he can, this is one of those opportunities that he shouldn't let pass.

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Red Ribbon's Dulce de leche

>> Sunday, January 24, 2010

One of those stock photos that I have but, due to laziness and other unavoidable (or avoidable) circumstances, wasn't able to post, the reason behind this one - it got stuck under a warehouse-full of photos *grins*. This was my cake when I celebrated my -th birthday, no need to tell the real numbers *lol*. We (hubby, son and I) ate this with some lasagna and pizza, if I remember correctly, I don't do parties and grand celebrations, the simpler the better.



As this was taken a million years ago, you don't expect me to remember the price, right? But what I can't forget is how yummy this cake tasted - it really was a delight.

From Red Ribbon's website: Heavenly layers of white chiffon cake with custard cream filling, enrobed in luscious sweetened milk and caramel icing. Wrapped in fine toasted chiffon crumbs and laden with a frosted caramel crystal layer. Gloriously crowned with white cream rosettes and chocolate spirals. Prices are - P520.00 for a regular-sized one and P315.00 for the junior size.


Ratings:
5 out of 5


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The Perfect Choice

>> Friday, January 22, 2010

I've been working doubly hard as a blogger this past few days, it is not a secret that I begun monetizing this blog at the beginning of the year and I feel so blessed that writing opportunities came pouring in. More than my responsibility to pay for my newly-acquired laptop and my quest to help in the family finances, I am also trying my best to save some money to buy my husband a gift for our 9th wedding anniversary. I didn't give him any gift last Christmas as I don't see any point in buying him a gift which is technically from his own pocket, too. I am a stay-at-home mom, meaning I don't get to earn money on my own, yes I have a credit card but my husband pay for that, too, the money that I spend in the house, for our son and for myself are all coming from him thus I seldom buy him gifts, I only do so when I earn a little something on my own.

The truth, I already found something that I am sure my husband will like, like the usual guys, my husband doesn't like to accessorize much, he only wears our wedding ring and a watch as an everyday accessory, I can sometimes persuade him to wear a bracelet and necklace but that only happens when there's a special occasion, that is why I specifically want to give him a watch for our anniversary, aside from being practical, I know that he'll love a new one. In my weeks of searching, I finally found seiko diamond watches, it ain't cheap, I get it, but who said I am a cheapskate *grins*, I don't give gifts frequently but when I do, I want it grand and perfect. Kidding aside, I really, really think that my husband would love a seiko diamond watch, I haven't earned that much yet but as our anniversary is still a number of months away, I think I still have an ample amount of time to make it happen. Just need to shake that lazy dust off.

P.S.
I could post a photo of the watch that plan to buy and I almost did, but then I realize that hubby visits this blog sometimes and I don't wanna ruin my surprise, I know you folks understands.

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Lay's Original

Remember? I said I'm going to post another loot courtesy of Maggie's generosity, here it is *grins*, and to give a little love back to her, I made her blog the background when I took the picture. Ain't I sweet?



She, actually, called me up this afternoon to tell me that I am such a %^&*#! *lol*, she doesn't like me shouting to the world that she's rich. Well, I just want to confirm - Maggie is rich, bwahahaha! Luv you sissy!


Ratings:
4.5 out of 5
(I like the green one better, sour cream yata yun)

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Dreaming of Davao

I have a friend in Davao, actually, we are high school buddies but we lost contact since we graduated in secondary school, we reconnected a few years ago through Friendster, yes I used to be a Friendster afficionado *grins*. Her whole family transferred to Davao, as far as I know, her dad inherited a land and business there that's why her parents decided to stay there for good, she's, actually married with two kids now, how time flies, she was still into Mask Riders and Ultraman when we parted ways. So anyhow, she has been persuading me to visit her in Davao, she said that Davao is a perfect getaway destination, accommodations won't be a problem as her parents have a big house and she and her husband have their own house, too, she even told me that she will shoulder our food and travel expenses in Davao, so the only thing that's kinda holding me off is the flight expenses going to and from Davao, airplane fares don't come cheap these days. Oh well, I still have plenty of time before summertime (I have a son who study and husband who works that's why we can't just go and board a plane the minute we want and can *sigh*), time to save money fast *grins*.

I talked to my husband about our (my bff and I) plan and I think he will soon agree, he is a little hesitant as he doubt we can find a local Auto Transport, he wants to use our own car when we travel around Davao as he doesn't want to incur too much trouble to my friend and her family and he thinks he can drive more safely if he's using his own. If that's the only problem, I think, I can do something about that and as I have said I still have ample of time to prepare.

Current status: Dreaming of Davao

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Caffe Molinari (Caffe Mo)

The last time my bro visited his alma mater, he asked me to follow him as he needed someone to bring the documents that he'll get in the university to our house coz he just took a half-day leave. It was a Friday morning and tatay happily took the responsibility to pick up my son and nanay delightedly took the responsibility to take care of him while I'm gone, I presumed I was obliged to go, so I go *grins*. Mahirap talaga kapag walang work, messenger na lang ng pamilya ang labas, tsk... tsk..., not that I'm complaining, may libre naman food eh *lol*.


It's 3 kasi he had a friend with him, and for the love of me, I can't seem to remember the name of these drinks *lol*, blame it on aging... blah... But I would be happy to go back to Caffe Mo and when I do, I'll jot down our orders and keep the receipt. By the way, we also had some porksilog (I forgot to take some pictures as I was busy making chika, hehe).


Ratings:
4.5 out of 5




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A Piece of Toast

>> Thursday, January 21, 2010

Just my luck, as I was preparing some buttered toast for my dinner, our trusted (not anymore) oven toaster broke down, geez, just when I needed it most. I have mentioned time and again that I am trying to slim down and though I didn't succeed in sticking to the after six routine I am slowly taking out rice in my diet, at the moment I only eat a cup of rice during lunch and I substitute it with bread at breakfast and dinner. I'm not really strict in what I'm taking in just as long as it's not that much but it seems like time isn't on my side, January is almost over and I don't think I have shed enough to reach my goal in time, so I need to be more focus. Mind over matter, I know I can do it.

Anyways, as my oven toaster decided to rest, permanently, I am looking at a site with toaster oven reviews on different brands so I can decide on what kind to buy next. My last toaster served us well but there's no harm in looking for a different and maybe a better one right? I am hoping to find a classy-looking piece that will do what my old one did - make yummy toasts, if I can find one that is energy-efficient and will fit in my budget, that would be just great. I am not a tightwad or something but at times like this, one can't help but be practical.

For the meantime, I'll just dunk that bread in a hot mug of coffee...

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Cheetos

One of my loot last Christmas season courtesy of Maggie, this is one of the consolation prizes in the games that she and her husband (who is my brother) prepared. Sosyal talaga ang loka pati pabitin ganito nakalagay, next ko ipo-post yung nakuha ko Lays sa pabitin, hehe. Next year kayo ulit taya sa games ha para exciting ulit, kasi ipapaglaban ko talaga ng patayan ang games kapag ganito ang premyo, bwahahaha. H'wag nyo na ipapasa kay nanay ha, mababalik na naman sa Oishi yan, hahaha.



What can I say, I love Cheetos! Medyo maalat pero kung iinom ka ng maraming juice o kahit malamig na tubig lang, solve na, hehe.


Ratings:
5 out of 5


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Eyes, Eye Problem, Eyeglasses

My eyes are not what they used to be, they haven't been the best pair as love of reading started when I was young and I think a slightly overused pair of eyes is the result and though I had tried wearing eyeglasses when I was in college, I decided not to until such time that I can't function without one anymore, I just feel heavy when I'm wearing spectacles. These past few weeks, my eyes are showing signs of tiredness and fatigue, I tried eye drops but it only gave temporary relief, I think the longer hours of staring at the laptop might be the cause and I guess, old age is really taking its toll *sigh*. I was debating with myself whether I should get that long overdue eyeglasses now or not, I know that I need a pair now more than ever but after all the spending last Yuletide season, I just can't push it in in our budget, getting one would cost me at least 2-4 thousand and I could very well spend that amount on other necessary stuff. I was torn between blindly buying the eyeglasses, it will solve my eye problem but it will surely leave a big mark on our finances or just let it be for the meantime though my eye problem might worsen, what to do, what to do?

Fortunately the undecided me had a runabout with an Examiner article entitled Cheap eyeglasses are a reality. Check out Eric's review of Zenni Optical (an uncanny title, I agree, but you must admit that it is direct to the point *grins*), would you believe that there's an $8-worth of prescription eyeglasses, if someone had told me that a few days ago, I would surely think that he/she was pulling my leg but after checking out the Zenni Optical website, well, let's just say that I am a convert of sorts *grins*. Their prices ranges from 8 to 40 dollars with additional charges on bifocal lenses and glare-coating, which are both very affordable, too. You can purchase as many eyeglasses as you want and all you have to pay is the $4.95 shipping fee, no extras and no limits. You must be wondering how they are able to sell their eyeglasses at such a low price, well the answer is simple, Zenni Optical manufactures their own eyeglasses overseas and they're selling it direct to consumers, no middleman to hike up the price but as it travel from the lab to your doorsteps, getting your order may take at least two weeks before it reach you, if you're in a hurry I guess you don't have a choice but if you can wait for a week or two, the savings you'll get will be worth it.

Problem solved!

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Selecta 3-in-1 w/Nips

>> Tuesday, January 19, 2010

We had this the afternoon of New Year's day, the kids were asking for some ice cream and the nearest store (that was open that day) only have this in stock, tell me about choices *grins*. Good thing the other kids present were not that particular in their ice cream flavors, my son only eat chocolate-flavored ice cream, when he was younger he only eat it plain, fortunately he's trying to broaden his ice cream palate by trying other flavors as long as it doesn't involve fruits *grins*.




I had my fill of strawberry ice cream as the kids kinda left that part alone while the adults were all coughing, sneezing and suffering from tonsilitis, so I had it all to myself *devilish laughter*. If I had a choice I would prefer another brand or at least a different variant, but as I didn't I contend myself with what's available *lol*.


Ratings:
3 out of 5


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Supermom and Superfruit

*** This is a sponsored post.


In the olden days, while the father works and provide for the family, the mother has to make sure that there's always food on the table, that the house is clean and always in order, that the children are well-dressed, well-versed, and well-mannered. But in our age and time, a mother's responsibilities bordered on no limits, she has to be stronger, wiser, better. We don't just clean our house, we make sure that it's up-to-date, comfortable and has the necessities, even luxuries, of our days; we don't just cloth our children, we turn ourselves into fashion gurus in order to follow, buy or make the latest trends; we don't just teach our children the basics of reading and writing, we encourage them to go into music or sports or any extra-curricular activities that may broaden their horizon and increase their chances to fare well in this world; we don't just teach them the good and the bad but we make it our profession to show them what is good and illustrate to them what is bad, we teach them manners, etiquette, ethics, and principles; and we don't just put food on our tables, we forced ourselves to let out the chefs and cooks inside us to prepare the tastiest, prettiest and healthiest meals for them. Gawd, I sound like an activist of sorts *grins*.

But seriously, as time passes away, we, mothers, tend to be a little strict and a little more focus on what our family will eat and consume, and it has never been more evident than this 2010 - it is all about getting fit and healthy and living a good life this year. One of my most recent discoveries in my quest to make my family slimmer and healthier this year is the mangosteen juice, not everyone is familiar about the juice but most if not all love the fruit - it's reddish purple in color, it smells sweet and the white flesh taste citrus-y and tangy like a peach. I could eat mangosteen as is but as my son is not a fruit eater, as I have mentioned in this blog a dozen times or more, I need to be more creative, good thing, he is a juice drinker, he doesn't eat orange but he drinks lots of orange juice (the powder and concentrated ones), he doesn't eat pineapples but he drinks the pure juice (ice cold), get my drift? So, when somebody introduced me to mangosteen juice, I instantly gave my nod of agreement and now that I have done some research about it, I am literally a fan.

Do you know that mangosteen is considered as a superfruit? Meaning it is yummy and tasty, it is rich in nutrients, it is a strong antioxidant and it has the potentials to lower human diseases. Now that I have peaked your interest, I suggest you try the Xango brand, it is the only known juice supplement in the market that utilizes the whole mangosteen fruit, giving us consumers all the xanthones, a powerful, biological component of mangosteen, while maintaining it's flavorful taste. It is a product of long and continuous research and is safe for everyone. You just have to give it a try!

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Wedges and Slice

>> Monday, January 18, 2010

While hubby was buying some tools in the hardware (forgot the name) in SM San Lazaro, baby and I decided to roam around that floor, and that's where I saw a sign saying 23" pizza slices for 65php, and as I am a curious human being and such a sucker for food, I decided to give it a try. I bought a slice, yes only a slice as it is my first time to try it. But, as the lady crews focus more on chitchatting than doing their jobs, hubby was by our side even before the pizza was heat up, so I ended up taking it home. The good side, I got to take a picture and I was able to post an entry for both Mellow Yellow Monday and Ruby Tuesday.




It's actually a thin crust Pizza Capricciosa, they also have other pizza variants which I can't seem to remember at the moment and the prizes does depend on what type of pizza you're gonna order. The pizza could have been good had they didn't sprinkled that much dried oregano on top, it's not rave-worthy but who said everything in life has to be *grins*.


Ratings:
2.5 out of 5


A double entry for both -
MellowYellowBadge
&

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Blogging and Dining

Finally, I was able to cajole my son into taking his afternoon nap, I have been waiting for him to sleep so I can do some blogging. I was cleaning the kitchen and dining room the whole morning up until my baby got home, I did some cooking - Burger Steak, in case you wanna know and then watch some TV with him. I was forcing him to sleep already as I want to continue my cleaning task and do some quick updates on my blog but he won't budge, he just can't sleep, fortunately, after three hours of storytelling, slumber took in. I would have continue my chores have I not seen the clock, it's almost five o'clock in the afternoon and an hour from now, I would be cooking dinner so I decided to ditch the cleaning galore and go straight to blogging. The life of a mother... phew!

Oh anyway, before I go on doing my Mellow Yellow Monday post, I just want to ramble a bit, you all know by now that I was just currently crowned as a kitchen diva, I used to be an elusive cook *grins* and now that I spent most of my time making my humble space pretty and neat, I regret the days that I wasted money buying stuff that were not really needed and were just wasted and now gone, how I wish I invested on some dining room furniture to make our family time (while eating) more enjoyable and fun. I wish I had invested on quality kitchen equipments and wares, as well, heck, I also wish I had taken care of our old oven (it wasn't old and rugged then, but it is now), I found out that it now cost a fortune, my goodness, it's no wonder everyone who has an oven and knows the basic of baking is plunging into home business. Oh well, rambling is up, back to work.

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Lumpiang Ubod

>> Sunday, January 17, 2010

Mother dear bought this from the market last weekend, I'm sorry but I have forgotten to ask how much it costs, and now that I remember, my mother is nowhere to be found, I just called them and only brother dear is home... mukhang nag-date sila ni tatay, hahaha.




What can I say, it's not the best Lumpiang Ubod ever but as I haven't eaten any in a very longtime, it didn't take much time and effort for me to finish three pieces *lol*, partida di pa yan ganun kasarap sa tingin ko, hahaha.


Ratings:
3.5 out of 5


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Thoughts on Getting a Franchise

>> Saturday, January 16, 2010

*** This is a sponsored post.


My husband and I were talking the other day about having another business, something that is ours and ours alone, unlike what he is handling at the moment, a family business with all the comfort and discomfort of raising a family *sigh*. As I am a stay-at-home mom, we thought of having a business that I can handle, something in my field or at least something that I am comfortable with. So, we kinda decided on exploring franchise investment, preferably a food franchise because as, attested by this blog and the other, I am a food junkie, so it might be easier for me to take care of that. We haven't decided on what to get as we have to do lots of research and plan our every move, though a franchise investment sounds really cool, it involves a lot of work and tons of money. What's good about it though, is that you don't have to invest money, effort and time on marketing and making your brand public as it is already known and recognize, I mean, you wouldn't invest on something that you haven't tried and seen yet right and most business do not go into franchising deals until they're well-known in their market. Back-up and help is, also, at your fingertips because training and hands-on help are almost always part of a franchise package, even the staff hiring can be done for you. The materials and equipments also comes in most franchise package, and you can be sure that those things that the company will give you are not mediocre in quality, as your failure to deliver to your customers would mean bad publicity for them, too. Then what's keeping us from jumping in the bandwagon? Money and good location - two of the major factors in getting a franchise.

We need money, as in lots of it, in order to initiate and close a deal, franchises go to as low as 100 thousand to as high as millions depending on the brand and size of the business. A good location is also important as most companies do not allow franchise if they feel that the location you have will not work for the business. Aside from that, one should be very, very sure of the step that he/she would take because I haven't heard of anyone who succeed with half-bake decisions and aspirations. And I don't want to see if I could be the first one *chuckles*.

We may not be ready and sure now but I am still happy that we're making progress one day at a time. I am so loving 2010.

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KFC

>> Friday, January 15, 2010

Taken in one of our mall trips, I think this was our brunch. Father and son had the original fried chicken while I had the hot and crispy one-piece chicken meal, an extra rice for each of us just in case we want more; we also tried the new flavor of fun shots, there's two new flavors - the smoky BBQ and sweet chili, we chose the last one; and a bucket of crispy fries. I also ordered a Cookies and Cream Krushers but it was brought on the table a little late that's why it's not included in the photo op *grins*.





As usual, it was a good meal, I don't think you can ever go wrong with KFC, with the exception of their shrimp surfer *grimace*, good thing they took it out of the menu.


Ratings:
5 out of 5
(I'm in a good mood *grins*)


Made specially for:
&



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Mommy's Leche Flan

>> Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Another loot from school courtesy of my brother, I think the teacher's chorale did some caroling around the school area to raise some funds for the Ondoy victims (teachers and students) and on one house or establishment they were given Mommy's Leche Flan, one for each chorale member I think. If you're wondering if my bro has a good voice, then wonder no more because I'm telling you he doesn't, he's just that thick *lol*. Ssshhh... it's just between you and me, okay.

He brought it home on a Friday, if I remember correctly, and I was there so the moment I laid my eyes on the plastic bag he's carrying, I followed him like a vulture until he finally shoved it to me *lol*, I didn't bother to put it on the ref nor we bother to plate it, we just ate it straight from the canister, armed with a fork. Look at the photos, can you blame us?




As usual Mommy's/Dolor's didn't disappoint. Can't wait to have a rerun or a re-eat *lol*.


Ratings:
5 out of 5

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Keeping It Healthy

*** This is a sponsored post.

I am a big meat eater, if you're gonna classify me, yes I will, still, belong to the omnivore category as I also like veggies but I am (in estimate) 75% carnivore and 25% herbivore *grins*. I do love meat, a lot, but not all kinds of meat, I do stay away from the unusual ones like horse and goat meat, I prefer the taste of beef, pork and chicken. And my love of meat can be proven by the list of my favorite foods - Sizzling Steaks, Ox Tail Stew, Pork Barbecues, Chicken Kebabs, and Shawarma just to name a few. I have been eating meat since time immemorial and though I don't think I can live without it, I did acquire a preference to Natural Meats, if you have been using natural meats in your recipes, I bet you know why I prefer its taste, and if you haven't tried natural meat yet, I suggest you do this very minute.

Natural or organic meat is in its essence a counterpart of organic produce (vegetables and fruits), non-use of chemical pesticides, insecticides and herbicides is followed in growing organic vegetables while organic meats are produce through non-use of antibiotics and growth hormones and the cow, for example, are pasture fed and reared with vegetable feeds, no synthetic chemicals are injected or ingested. The result is a healthier meat for us consumers plus it does taste better than the commercially-breed ones. As with other organic products it may come with a heftier price tag but the end result, in taste and health, is sure to be worth any price.

If you're ready to give it a try, I suggest you visit Niman Ranch's website, they have beef, lamb, pork, poultry and other specialty products all made organically for you.

Remember folks, health is wealth!

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Pinoy Street Foods (Seasonal): Puto Taktak

Napapansin nyo ba na medyo naghahabol ako ng post? Maii-stock at masasayang kasi ang mga pre-Christmas photos ko kapag di ko minadali eh kaya continuous blogging muna until maubusan ulit ako.

Another Pinoy classic - Puto Taktak, it is purple-colored galapong, or ground glutinous rice, cooked in bamboo tubes in special steamers and served with niyog, or grated coconut, and sugar - as defined by Pinoy Cook.

with flash

without flash

The last time we had one, it cost 8 pesos each, there's actually 10 pieces on the photo. It is best paired with tea or salabat (ginger ale).


Ratings:
4 out of 5


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Of Beds and Vacations

>> Tuesday, January 12, 2010

My father recently bought a new property in Bulacan, somewhere in the midst of resorts and food shops *grins*. Last Christmas break, we decided to have a sleepover and a mini swimming party for the kids, you know to let them enjoy a little without the extra cost and for us adults to have time to chat and gossip, laugh and enjoy, and be free of the city-stress even for just two days. We went there on the 26th, yep, right after Christmas and stayed up to the 28th, it was a zany two days I'm telling you, it would have been the perfect family destination (personally speaking) if my son didn't suffered from blisters from bed bug bites on skin, gawd it wasn't pretty. Well, it is partially my fault as I didn't bring our own mattress, knowing that the house has been empty for years with just minimal cleaning from the owners. I knew that the house had undergone major cleaning and frantic designing courtesy of my mom, so I was super confident that nothing can go wrong, I guess, the bed bugs were as stubborn as my mom *grins*. I'm not sure yet but I think the bed bugs could have surrendered or have been totally eliminated by now, as my mother wage an all out war against them when she saw what happened to my son. Come to think of it, I kinda pity those poor bugs *lol*, my mother can be such an OC sometimes.

My son together with his cousins have been bugging me to go back, they're all cajoling and begging me to bring them because my insane and crazy siblings told their lot that I'm the only one who can bring them there as I don't have a regular work, imagine that! For their information, I have work... I am blogging...

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Biko

Biko, puto and other kakanin (rice cakes) have always been a part of our New Year's Eve feast, if you are a Pinoy, I guess you already know why, and if you're not in the know, let me explain why - the food that I had mentioned are all made of glutinous or sticky rice and it's a common belief among Filipinos that serving one on your table as you welcome the coming year will basically help your family to bond and stick together. See the logic? Eat sticky/glutinous rice-made cakes and your entire family will get to stick together the entire year (not literally, okay *grins*).



My nanay had it made in small servings para you can grab and eat fast, there's no need for a plate and utensils. And she got what she hoped for, everyone were dashing and picking it piece by piece, muntik na nga wala matira nung kainan na talaga eh, hahaha.


Ratings:
5 out of 5

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Some Wine for the Lady

*** This is a sponsored post.


If you'll ask me, if there was something missing in our Christmas and New Year's Eve feast, I would immediately answer you with a yes, we missed out on the company of some fine wine this year. Yearly, we would always have some wine or bubbly in our table, mostly given by friends and business tie-ins but as my mom passed the management of the business to his younger brother, gone were the days of loots and freebies. And because we were so accustomed to having the wine ready, no one in our family bothered to purchase one *grins*. But we're not that downtrodden, we know that an upcoming family event will satiate our thirst...

Two weeks from now, we will celebrate grandma's (mother side) death anniversary, every year since seven years ago, we would always toast to her name, to celebrate the life that she had and fruits of life that she had left. And every time, we celebrate her anniversary with a potluck event, this year the wine is on us. My mom gladly handed me the job of perusing and choosing the best wine, quality and cost-wise. I did some online searching and I decided to buy california wine, I found an online site that has a list of almost 500 Californian vineyards and it has the biggest wine library in the US. More than that, the wine producers and vendors on their list sell wine at a much lower price than that of the regular liquor stores and groceries, if you purchase six bottles or more, you'll get the wine delivered to your doorstep free of any charge, one more thing, there is no transaction fee, that's like less than five to ten percent charge, ain't that a bargain?

Another glass for me please...

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Purefoods TJ Hotdogs

One of our all-time favorite Noche Buena and Media Noche treat, it's hotdog, need I say more? As in you can never go wrong with hotdogs, kids and kids-at-heart love it. I don't know about other kids but mine only eat Purefoods hotdogs, may it be the party-size or the extra big ones. Even at children's parties, I always end up eating his share when it's not TJ. Choosy pa eh noh?


The photo above was taken last New Year's Eve, we decided to grill the hotdogs together with the pork BBQ, the ones with slanted cuts were also dip in the barbecue marinade while the one with cross marks were grilled as is, the way my son like it.


Ratings:
5 out of 5
(pinaglihi ko ang anak ko dyan eh, hehe)

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The Magic of Spices

>> Monday, January 11, 2010

*** This is a sponsored post.


Truth, I just recently discover the art and science of cooking, I never actually thought of learning until we moved out of my parent's house and live on our own. This blog is an active testament to my love of everything dine-in and take-out, in our first few months of living away from the sumptuous meals and grand life that only my mother can give, I substituted decent meals with fast food and cafeteria treats, I seldom cook as I am scared of making mistakes and failing. But as I blog about food, I often passed by other foodie blogs that talks about cooking and the happiness and delight it can give to the cook and the ones he/she cook for, the range of yummy and mouth-watering dishes and recipes are endless and I can't help but be enamored, that's when I started to spend a little more time in the kitchen. I spend hours asking my mom about recipes and some more on looking online, I even created a recipe blog to document my journey and the baby steps I am taking, after almost seven months, I can say that I am doing good, I am not yet a master but I am slowly getting there *grins*.

One of the most important trick that I learn in cooking is using and playing with spices and seasonings. A pinch of salt will make your recipe tasteful but if you can add pepper, basil or rosemary to it, it'll be a whole new story. If you make a deviled egg, the usual combination of egg yolks, mayo, mustard, salt and ham bits can be enough but a sprinkle of paprika on top will add a tang to it. If you're trying to cook some good 'ol spaghetti for your kids, the usual ingredients of ground meat, spaghetti sauce and salt could be enough but a little pepper can make it more exciting, then add some dried oregano and you'll have Italian pasta. If you had been drinking lemonade for the whole summer and wanna try a different taste, you can try adding some basil leaves and you have a twist on your classic drink. That's the magic of spices, it can turn an ordinary dish into something special if you just know how to use and play with it.

Are you ready to add that zip on your homemade dishes? I can help you with that, try Pendery's, they have a gigantic assortment of spices and seasonings in affordable prices plus they offer it on different sizes, too, you can take as much or as little as you need and afford. If you crave for some gourmet food, salsa and other sauces then you're in luck as Pendery's also have that and more in their product list, you can even download their catalog for easy browsing even when you're offline. Pretty nifty eh?

Happy cooking!

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Homemade Chocolate Bars

>> Sunday, January 10, 2010

A gift from one of my brother's students last Christmas, I think, it is homemade and I am pretty sure that whoever made those, he/she is pretty adept in chocolate-making because it tasted superb. I wouldn't mind another batch *lol*.




It was on the dark-side of chocolates, but not that much, not too sweet or too bitter, just the way I like it, it has nougat, nuts and raisins, and I loved it much. Mas marami pa nga yata ako nakain nito kesa dun sa binigyan eh, hahaha.


Ratings:
5 out of 5
(syempre para bigyan ulit kami, if ever mabasa n'ya ito, hahaha)


A comeback post for:
MellowYellowBadge

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About Me

I am a wife to the sweetest person on Earth and a mother to the cutest baby boy in the planet. I love reading literary books but I have an addiction in contemporary/renaissance romance novels. I am a video game aficionado in the truest sense of the word. I love to travel the world, if and only given the opportunity. I don't know how to cook (but I'm slowly learning) so there's a fascination with take-outs and dine-ins. I could go on and on but I guess you had enough *lol*.

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