La.Pi.S WK#24: SILOGS

For me, the tap (este top) three tapsilog dishes in Manila are: 1) Pancake House; 2) Via Mare; and 3) a toss between Tapa King's Tapa Queen variant, and Max's. We used to go for Rufo's but the Tapa recipe they use now reduces the dish to one sorry-looking heap of oh-so-syrupy slices of beef. Remind me to go on one of those Leptovox diets, will yah?

Here's a photo of today's breakfast at Pancake House, during our (aborted) road trip to Batangas...Tapsilog always "taps" our silog preferences! Happy La.P.iS!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

CARE-AMBOLA

Allow me to share a proud Ilaw-to-Haligi moment.

Ever since we became a couple, Haligi spent a Yuletide day every year at Missionaries of Charity in Tayuman (maybe he felt his sacrifices as a mate to me weren't enough, hahaha!) That day would be devoted to servicing the orphans and elders in that institution, helping serve meals to them, entertaining them, or simply being with them.

This year, he decided to play it differently (and literally). He organized a series of charity billiard games, the proceeds of which, will be donated to the same institution he called home every Yuletide since 1999. In this manner, he is devoting time, effort and resources, both to something he loves doing, and to something he believes in, all in one go.

I am so proud of you, Haligi!!!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

MY WATCH-FUL EYE

Have you started your Christmas shopping? Are halfway through? Or if you are one of the lucky few--are you done already? Well, I haven't even started yet and I am officially on panic mode!

Believe it or not, I haven't even drawn up a list yet. I also have no idea what to get the Haligi, the Haligilet, and even myself (syempre, dapat kasama ako!). While I do have a general idea of what to get them/us, I haven't really been proactive as far as Yuletide shopping is concerned. Pathetic!

For the Haligilet, it would have to be something Cars-related. I found a few interesting pieces on the V-tech and Leapfrog sites. Hopefully, I would able to drop by that Pasig toy warehouse that everyone is talking about to finally get Haligilet his Christmas present.

For the Haligi, since he is very much into watches, I am planning to get him a replacement for his old Tag Heuer men's watch, which has been recently laid to rest due to "health complications". Looking for a timepiece for him is proving to be quite a tall order since he just received a hand-me-down men's Omega watch from his father. Now, how do I beat that?!?!

I am pinning my hopes on our Christmas bonus which has yet to be announced during our party on December 19th. If luck would have it, then maybe, just maybe, Haligi would get that watch. And while at it, I may even get one of those women's designer watches myself.

Keeping my fingers crossed!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

CONFESSIONS FROM BEDAZZLED TWI-HARD

I don't know what it is about the Twilight series, but my EQ level (and probably even my employment metrics) sank to its lowest because of the phenomenon. I completed all books from the Saga, including the aborted Midnight Sun novel, all in a span of a week (by and large, due also to my low EQ for Starbucks coffee!). I had a webstalking spree of all things Twilight and Edward-related--photos, videos, interviews and what-have-you. And, when some of my plurkmates did their reviews of the movie before my own viewing sked, I tortured myself--digesting plurk, after plurk, after plurk. It was thaaaat bad!

My Twilight date finally came last night, on the official first day of the Pinas run. Read more about here...

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

LP #33: PAGWAWAGI

Balikan natin ang Buri...

Para na rin akong nagtagumpay
Nang masaksihan ang kagandahang taglay;
Mistulang paraiso puno ng saya at kulay

Di malilimutan sa 'king tanang buhay.

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

WELCOMING WELLNESS

Working for a telco, the leading one at that, is no joke. It takes a lot of hard work, perseverance, patience, resilience, foresight, and occasional hours and hours of overtime. We are always on our toes. It is serious business.

Recognizing that employees in our company have been putting their hearts and souls into their jobs, our Human Resources Group sent out a special announcement eary this morning. What we received in our email accounts was indeed a welcome surprise. We were told that, as employess of the company, we would be entitled to a wide range of promos and discounts for the following health and wellness establishments...Just by presenting our company identification cards to the aforementioned establishments would entitle us to special discounts on products and services. Now how cool is that?!?!

What piqued my and my officemates' interest was the fact that some spas were included in the outlet line-up. With all the pressure that has been piling up this month, and is sure to come the next, my galpals (and honorary "galpal", A) are planning on a much needed rest and recreation activity--relaxing massages and steam showers included, in any of the spas in Manila. And with this welcome gift from our Human Resources Group, we will look no further. The search for the right spa has ended. Woot! Woot!

I must confess though, that I am a novice at spa services. Save for the gym treatments that I availed of many, many, many moons ago (yes, it has been that long!!!), my spa experience may be considered close to nil. I have not seen any of those luxurious spa massage rooms, sauna baths, shower columns, that may be considered as very commonplace nowadays. Pathetic, huh?

Now if any of the spas on that emailed list features the tasteful and luxurious steam and bath sets featured at Unlimited Showers (unlimitedshowers.com), then I guess my time has finally come. I would get that spa treatment now!

You see, Unlimited Showers is recognized as THE ultimate source of spa and bathroom fixtures and accessories, boasting of the largest collection of quality shower and hydrotherapy supplies possible. From shower stalls and other bath enclosures, to body jets and bath trays, Unlimited Showers is committed to providing its customers with the ultimate bathing experience, reinforced by competitive pricing and a superior customer service experience.

So, shall we, galpals?

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

SCREAM ALL YOU CAN FOR ICE CREAM

Looks like it's gonna be a cooolllddd December!EKS-OH-EKS-OH

A BIRTHDAY SHOUTOUT

One of the benefits of working for the country's leading wireless services provider, aside from the great perks--a fun working environment, great bonuses, overflowing coffee, comprehensive health insurance quotes and so much more, is having a very down-to-earth and humble man at the helm. And so today, on his birthday, the employees of our company banded together to come up with this...

Happy birthday, Sir Polly!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

WHAT'S IN YOUR LUNCHBOX? #1

Our company president's sumptuous lunch treat made me forget about my packed lunch today. But since, like most days, I am working late, the lunchbox-turned-dinnerbox became tonight's savior. Sorry CLA, you would have to wait.

Everyday, I thank the Lord for my heaven-sent angel, A, who continues to whip up treasures in our kitchen. Today, she packed this beef bounty in my lunch bag...

Caldereta!!! Served piping hot on a bed of rice, straight out of the microwave oven, this will definitely provide that needed fuel for extra hours of work!

What's in YOUR lunchbox?

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

OPLAN KALUSUGAN

Speaking of baseball, my officemates and I are now in the process of brainstorming for new fitness plans for the year 2009. While baseball seems to be an interesting option, we are seriously considering running, badminton, and bowling. I just hope my health condition improves tremendously in 2009.

Now wouldn't it be great if there were rooftop baseball, badminton, maybe even running courts like those featured in sheffieldbaseballclub.com, that we could gain access to? And I bet too, it would be doubly cool too, to watch favorite sports activities and competitions from VIP booths or decks like the Chicago roof top or Wrigley rooftop club. All of these are being featured in sheffieldbaseballclub.com, which revolutionizes game playing and viewing and takes it to an even higher level, by providing, top-notch food, beverage and sports entertainment services. Between you and me though, with these facilities, I'd gladly sit the games out! Hehehe!

I've heard of a couple of roofdeck courts but they have all closed shop since. While we do have existing badminton courts in the company, available slots are really few and far between. If only we had the likes of that sheffieldbaseballclub.com experience, our Oplan Kalusugan 2009, would definitely gain ground.

Wish us luck!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

LOVE THE GLOVES

In anticipation of the long weekend, our son couldn't help but talk about a long overdue visit to his grandparents' place in Batangas. You see, it's been over a month since we last went home to the ancentral abode and I bet it seems like forever for the Haligilet.

Who can blame him? There are definitely lots of things to miss. Well aside from the food (which I personally look forward to every visit--oh boy does it show, and how!), our little boy misses running in the yard, playing with his cousins, feeding our pet dogs and birds, riding his electronic car, and playing with his father's vintage cars, tanks and other boy stuff.

The toys, which were resurrected by my mil from bodegaland, are now on display in a small cabinet in Haligilet's old bedroom--the same bedroom which we occupy each homecoming. The Haligilet has particularly set his sights on the old his father's baseball collection which includes a a set of balls and a pair of baseball gloves.

To tell you honestly, I have never seen baseball gloves in my entire life since we never had boys in the family, and since baseball was never really a Pinoy sport to begin with. The only opportunities for a meet and greet would be via books, magazines and even websites like kidsportinc.com, a comprehensive exchange of kiddie toys and sportsware.

There are no accidents indeed. Thanks my and Haligi's entwined fate, I have now seen a baseball glove in the flesh, and my son, would soon have his taste of that outfield game.

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

SPREADING HEALTHY HOLIDAY CHEER

The Haligi comes from a family of doctors. His grandfather, a war veteran, was their town doctor for many years. His uncle, mil's eldest brother, is also a doctor. And this uncle's only daughter, is a doctor too. Additions are my brother in-law (sil's husband) who is an opthalmologist, and two other cousin-in-law--one, who's a dermatologist and the other, an ob gyne. In the future, we are looking at welcome additions to this family of doctors, as two of Haligi's teenage neices are now enrolled in medical school. Interesting (or even quirky), huh?

Every year, the doctors in our family organize a Christmas mission for those who are in need. The mission comes in various forms. In may be a free clinic offering free vaccination and check-ups, a fund-raising bazaar, or a special medical mission at a remote barrio of Haligi's hometown. At times too, they solicit and make donations of medical products and samples, as well as used medical equipment like old dialysis sets and EKG machines to community hospitals. Whichever mission they choose, it is their form of payback for the many blessings they receive throughout the year.

With the advances in technology, Haligi's uncle wants to take the mission to a higher level. He was thinking of holding online auctions of the medical equipment and products they were able to solicit. The auctions and sales, would be something similar to the site, Medicalmachinesonline.com, which carries various used and refurbished medical equipment.

The line-up of their medical supplies include EKG/ ECG Machines, patient monitors, dental equipment, defibrillators, densitometers, blood analyzers, pulse oximeters, ultrasound equipment, stress test EKG's, autoclaves, power chairs/tables, electrosurgical units, anesthesia machines and so much more. Our uncle believes that selling that the medical products online would raise more funds and support for their Christmas drive. Just imagine, a medical mission accomplished, just with just a few clicks of the mouse button!

As early as the third quarter of this year, our doctor relatives already busied themselves with the soliciations. They plan to kick off their auctions by next week. Hopefully, they succeed in spreading healthy holiday cheer to more people.

Good luck to all our "family doctors"! Cheers!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

WEEKEND SNAPSHOT #17

We spent most part of Sunday at a wake. Our uncle (and wedding godfather) E's mother, passed away last Friday. She was 92. It's a sad reality that you only get to touch base with relatives during wakes. But I guess, that's better than not renewing ties with them at all.

While at it, I grabbed the opportunity to take a photo of the nice church that housed our Lola's remains.

How was your weekend?

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

SEASON'S GREETINGS, SEASON'S CLEANING

Have you come across the site trophiesales.com? I stumbled upon it while looking for trophy ideas for an internal communication campaign for employees. The site features a noteworthy selection of awards and plaques, ranging from sports momentos like basketball, golf and football trophies; academic awards; medals and pins--a wide inventory indeed, of competition symbols for every occasion, all at winning designs and prices!

Speaking of trophies, before this year ends, my teammates and I have agreed to do a bit of cleaning and rearranging in our group's conference room. You see, our shelves and cabinets are now jampacked with corporate awards and corporate plaques, tapes and reels of our audio visual projects, books and publications, all of which are symbols of our company's milestones and accomplishments through the years.

Hopefully, we finish this "remodelling" project in time for 2009. And who knows, our efforts may even earn us a trophy of our own.

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

SUNDAY'S SUKIYAKI

I didn't bank on having Sunday dinner at home since we spent almost the whole day out of the house. Luckily, I had some ingredients to whip up an instant Sukiyaki meal. I used this recipe from "pareng" Bobby Flay, and added a few tweaks of my own.

Ingredients
Sauce:
1/2 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup soup stock
1/4 cup mirin (I ran out of mirin at home so I just increased the amount of soup stock and sugar a bit)

Main Dish:
1 pound thinly sliced beef meat (I used sirloin sukiyaki cut)
1/4 cup sugar
2 medium onions, sliced
4 ounces yam noodles (which I replaced with vermicelli noodles)
1 cup sliced bamboo shoots (omitted)
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 cup soaked, rinsed and sliced shiitakes
1 cube tofu, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 bunch green onions, cut into 2-inch lengths (I used leeks)
2 leaves Baguio Pechay (I think this is referred to as Napa cabbage in the US)
2 tablespoons oil

Raw egg (Haligi's request)

Procedure:
1) Mix soy sauce, sugar, stock, and mirin together in a bowl. Arrange meat and vegetables on a large platter. Heat an electric skillet to 375 degrees F.
2) Add oil to the skillet and heat. Brown meat in the oil, adding sugar slowly. Move the meat to the corner of the skillet when well browned.

3) Add other vegetables, keeping each separate.

4) Add sauce and cover. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes. Uncover and turn all ingredients while cooking 2 minutes more.

5) Serve piping hot in small bowls with raw egg if you wish.

Oishi!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

CAR SHOPPING

Now that my sister D, has baby number 2 on the way, they are thinking of upgrading their other sedan to another SUV. This comes at quite an opportune time since A, my brother-in-law, is entitled to a renewal of his car plan next year.

Two SUVs would be very beneficial for their family since they will be lugging around tons of baby stuff in 2009. Sharing one car, while more economically sound, is currently out of the question at the moment, since D and A work on opposite ends of the metropolis, and since their son (and his escort Lala B) go to school and other extra-curricular activities every day of the week. Lucky for them, their gas consumption is subsidized!

Hopping from one car dealer to another may prove to be quite grueling for my sister's five-month-old tummy, so I suggested that they just browse through online car exchanges before finally deciding which vehicle to buy. You'd be surprise at the wide selections of autos that may be found in these car sites--the likes of carconnection.com, as they contain comprehensive line-ups of cars in every make, model, color and shape.

D and A tell me that carconnection.com's brand selection includes prestigious ones like the Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ferrari, Ford, GMC, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, etc., on top of the reliable Japanese staples of Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, and Toyota. From SUVs, to pick-ups, to sedans, and even to offroad machines, carconnection.com proves to be a one-stop shop for all your vehicular needs. The site likewise contains a rich selection of photos, tips, insurance options, and even reviews to guide people in the basics of car purchasing.

Happy surfing and shopping, D and A!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

La.Pi.S WK#23: GO GREEN

Over at Cyma, we never fail to get a load of this....A medley of greens, sundried tomatoes, candied walnuts, feta cheese and that secret Greek dressing, the Roka Salata is a the perfect beginning to a Mediterranean meal. Opa!

Cyma Green Taverna
Ground Level, Greenbelt 2
Ayala Center, Makati City
Tel: (02) 729-4837

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

RUN FOR A CAUSE

What's cooking this weekend? My officemates, setting aside work and all those over-the-air tools and issues that need attention for awhile, are running for a cause. And poor me can't join them. Huhuhu! I swear--once I get my health issues out of the way, I will join something like this... Sigh...inggit sa opismeyts!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

IT IS FINISHED

This hectic week, that is.

After a long and grueling Friday, my officemates and I decided to have dinner at a nearby Chicken Inasal outlet. It was also a send-off, of sorts because dear old UP Boy, A, is taking a week-long vacation at toot-toot! Anyway, we all rode in T's car and we were off.

I was pretty anxious during the car ride (and maybe T was too!) because we've had not-so-pleasant road trips every time we rode together in Bogart--her pet name for her set of wheels. One time, we had a flat tire. The next, the radiator conked out because of overheating (I made blow-by-blow plurks on this predicament, actually). And the most recent one, which not even the best self defense products can prepare us for, was an incessant oil leak. The damage was so bad, that Bogart had to be towed all the way from Makati to Paranaque where he was given much needed CPR. :)

Luckily, the ride last night was uneventful; the inasal meal, great; and the company, fab! Thank God for Fridays!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

THE DAY

Today will probably go down in history as one of the best Fridays on earth, especially for those in the US. TGIF indeed!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

TWELVE FOR TWELVE

I'm still undecided, but the 2009 Coffee Bean and Teal Leaf planner looks interesting...

Just like the Starbucks planner quest, the procedures are pretty simple:

1. Get the CBTL card;
2. Have the 12 spaces stamped to get a limited edition commemorative journal. But that's not all. You also automatically get to contribute to any of the 12 CBTL-partner charitable institutions;
3. For planner junkies like me, you can go back to Step 1 to embark on another planner quest. You get to make another donation too--all in one go!

And I thought was so over planners. Not!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH
(photos courtesy of Spot.ph)

HOORAY FOR HOLIDAYS!

Let's do the BANANA DANCE!!!

Malacanang declares Dec. 1, 26, and 29 non-working holidays

Manila (19 November) -- In line with her "holiday economics," President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declares today Dec. 1, 26, and 29 as non-working holidays Dec 1, a Monday, is nearest to Nov. 30, Bonifacio Day which falls on a Sunday this year.

Aside from these dates, the Palace released the list of upcoming holidays for the remainder of 2008, pursuant to Proclamation 1463, which President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed last Feb. 18, 2008.

Regular Holidays: Dec. 25 (Thursday) – Christmas Day; and Dec. 30 (Tuesday) – Rizal Day.

Special Non-Working Holidays: Dec. 31 (Wednesday) – last day of the year.

The declaration also allows families to have long weekends. (PIA)

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

BRING ON THE BLING-BLING

There is no doubt that Christmas is here. Even these cutie patutie Melissa numbers are testament to it. May yours, like these feet candy, be merry and bright!
EKS-OH-EKS-OH

BARBECUED BLISS

A family trip to neighboring Greenbelt Mall is always pure joy because it is home to one of our favorite grills--Reyes Barbecue.

The Haligilet especially loves eating at the place because he is simply fascinated by the dumbwaiter installed at the outlet's second floor! Similar in some ways similar to an elevator, the mechanism is used to transport the Reyes dishes from the kitchen at the ground floor, to the dining area at the second floor, so that the grilled delights are kept piping hot.

Reyes Barbecue is a food stall chain in mall food courts offering pork, chicken and seafood barbecues using the famous Reyes family heritage and quality standards at fast-food prices.

On the menu are pork barbecue, boneless chicken barbecue, grilled liempo and grilled pusit which all come bundled with java rice, java sauce and achara, at prices ranging from P120.00 to 160.00. For the light eaters (not applicable to us!) there are also chicken BBQ wraps (ala shawarma), vegetable salads, the good ole "kilawin" dishes and sotanghon soup.

Reyes Barbecue stems from the esteemed family of Mama Sita, matriarch of the Reyes clan of Aristocrat fame. That oh so familiar sweet and spicy peanut-based barbecue sauce always keeps us (and most probably, all of you) coming back for more. Our Reyes staples are as follows:

Grilled pusit for the Haligi...

Grilled liempo for me and my fatty liver... And sotanghon soup for the Haligilet...When available, Haligi also orders a couple of sticks of those Chicken Booties (aka Chicken Ass) while I've always loved their eggplant salads. Due to my current health condition though (read as high levels of ROBERT Uric Acid), I have decided to give this up. And I'm actually having withdrawal symtoms! Hehehe!

I'd have to say that Reyes Barbecue is an interesting family hangout to experience great grills. The medley of savory meats, fresh seafood, and interesting barbecue alternatives kept hot off the grill by that unique dumbwaiter service is a nice way to spend a lazy day at the mall. It is pure barbecue bliss.

REYES BARBECUE

Dela Rosa Carpark 2
Dela Rosa Carpark 2, Legaspi Village
Telephone: (63 2) 817-1053

Fort Bonifacio
31st St. Bonifacio Stopover, Fort Bonifacio Global City
Telephone: (63 2) 856-1215

Glorietta 4
3rd Level, Food Choices,
Telephone:

Glorietta Resto Row
Park Square Drive,
Telephone: (63 2) 752-8482

Greenbelt 1
Paseo de Roxas cor. Legaspi Street
Telephone:

Paseo Center
Ground Level,
Telephone: (63 2) 892-8182

RCBC Plaza
3rd Level, RCBC Plaza, Ayala Avenue
Telephone: (63 2) 753-5455

Shangri-La Plaza
Lower Gound Level,
Telephone: (63 2) 637-2484

Timog - Quezon Ave.
Quezon Ave., cor. Timog Ave., Paligsahan
Telephone: (63 2) 410-4482

Tomas Morato
100 Scout De Guia St., corner Tomas Morato
Telephone:

TriNoma Mall
2nd Level, M2
Telephone:

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

LP #32: MADUMI

Anyo ko man ay madumi

Sa palaro't pasyal naman nakararami;

Dulot ko'y labis na tawa't mga ngiti

Para kay Haligilet--aking kasama lagi.

(TRANSLATION)
My gashes, bruises and tarnished color
I proudly carry like medals of valor;
For my promise of happiness I will honor
By being with Haligilet as he explores every corner.

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

MANNA FROM HEAVEN

In the mood for Korean?Read on...

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

BATHROOM BATTERY

A few months ago, while a housekeeping "trainee" was under our employ, I got the shock of my life when I discovered our bathroom sink vanity battered and bruised along with the bathroom sink. It was a scene out of the movies--broken tiles, a dilapidated vanity, and the bathroom sink hanging by the pipes as if bowing its head in defeat. Our bathroom lay in utter ruin!

I was aghast at how our bathroom furniture suffered such fate in the hands of a ninety-pound earthling. It was just too much stress for one day that I had to take a moment to regain my composure. I did this too just so I could avoid giving the "trainee" a piece of my mind.

To her credit, our housekeeper (younger sister of Haligilet's then Yaya M) had nothing but apologies. She tells me that she had just taken the initiative to clean the bathroom--the ceilings, the tiles, the toilet, the sink and the vanity, when the unexpected happened. The sink collapsed when she was cleaning the bathroom mirror. And you might ask why? Because she was stepping on the darn thing! (Himatay!)

Luckily, our ever efficient building maintenance personnel were on call 24/7. They were able to make a few interim adjustments while we planned for a more comprehensive bathroom repair (which by the way, has been scheduled to this December). Just imagine Haligi's wrath, if that scene greeted him after a hectic day at work!

With the bathroom repair in the offing, it would be a great opportunity to browse through bathroom furniture sites, the likes of PremiereVanities.com, which contains a vast collection of over 400 bathroom fixtures like single vanities, double vanities, linen cabinets, vanity sets , and even bedroom vanities, all available for order, online! The site also holds occasional clearance sales of its interesting line up of bedroom and bathroom pieces, all at affordable prices.

With styles ranging from contemporary, to antique, to traditional, the huge selection of vanities being offered by PremiereVanities.com are guaranteed of the best choices and prices compared to other websites and showrooms. Premiere Vanities likewise helps narrow down searches by grouping their collections according to style, size and price range to fit what the varying requirements of the customer. Be it be petite sized to spacious ones, the site is sure to have the bathroom vanity to suit your need. Icing on the cake is its efficient customer service staff who are just phone call or email away.

And do note, that savings are humongous, since shipping is free for those residing in California, and tax-free for those who live beyond the area. They also honor a 30-day return policy, testament that they treat customer satisfaction seriously. Expect major markdowns too, this coming Black Friday!

Now if only they could ship to Manila!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

THE WIZARD (FROM) OZ

This January, me and my best friend RAO, will be celebrating our birthdays. Ever since we became best buddies in college, we've always made it a point to celebrate our birthdays at the same time. It's a shame that we haven't been able to do it the past few years, now that she is based in Oz.

Since it has been a long time since we've celebrated our birthdays together, RAO is thinking of treating me to a long overdue visit to Australia. So now, I've been told to surf for cheap flights to the land down under. Yipeee!!!

The possibilities are indeed limitless! There's a whole lot of airlines to choose from--Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Jetstar, United Airlines, and many, many more! And I just couldn't contain my excitement as I explored the wonderful tourist destinations and food outlets that Australia had to offer, just by browsing through travel.com.au, a premiere travel site that contains everything there is to know about Australia.

I really hope and pray that this trip pushes through especially since our other best friend, A, is also pushing-OZ next year. It would be a wonderful reunion! Calling on Wizard (from) Oz--do your stuff!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

LACKLUSTER

What ever happened to the Manila Hotel?

The thought of being reunited with one fo the country's oldest and (formerly) elegant addresses was pretty exciting for me. Little did I know that I was in for disappointment.

The carpets reeked of an old musty smell, some of the walls had cracks, and the varnish, oooh the varnish was of an old kakaders brown coat.

Here are some Manila Hotel photos from my camera's memory stick. See it to bilibit!









EKS-OH-EKS-OH

DE.NEED.TO.DECLUTTER

My cubicle is a mess.These CDs, folders, event checklists, and the requisite calendar to keep my life in check, are testament of how I've been busy, busy, busy this year!

Before this year ends, I hope I can do a bit of decluttering. I hope I can get rid of all the excess baggage and undesirables (literally and figuratively!) so that I can greet the new year on a clean slate. Some of the stuff that I have, I would probably freecycle (aka donate). Others I will surely throw away.

I can just imagine my stuff landing on those salvage yards, the likes of Houston junkyards, where heaps and heaps of junk and trash are aggregated to serve the varying needs of the second-hand market. You'll be surprised at how these junk yards can help you source that item that you've long been looking for--that salvageable gadget, that hard-to-find auto spare part, that missing engine link, and so much more. And lest you be misled, this is not just one measly yard we're talking about. Houston junkyards actually refer to a network of over 250 vendors ready to service your varying needs.

And the main and most significant difference between junk yards then and now, is the fact that they aren't selling junk anymore! You can find that second-hand car, gadget, engine in tip-top shape! Indeed someone else's trash can be transformed into someone else's treasure.

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

SURE SEATS

Our humble business is doing better than expected. It began by serving interior requirements like chairs and carpets for some offices in the commercial districts of Makati and Pasig. Thanks to my partner who has been patiently "babysitting" our enterprise, the business has grown slowly but surely since then.

Now, my partner and I are thinking of expanding. We were thinking of also supplying classic restaurant chairs and commercial bar stools like any of these...

These we stumbled upon at AffordableSeating.net which boasts of a wide selection of stylish, comfortable, and high-quality restaurant seating and furniture. The furniture collections featured on the site range from wood to metal chairs, conventional seats to swivel barstools, as well as tabletops and bases in interesting designs, shapes and colors.

Why restaurant furniture, you might ask? Well you see, I still have this dream, if time and resources permit, of owning a small cafe someday, either here or in the province. So while that still remains a dream, this is as close as I could get to having that become a reality. And I'm positive too, that while a stretch and a far cry from our services, dining furniture will prove to be a welcome addition to our line of products.

Wish us luck!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

WEEKEND SNAPSHOT #16

This weekend, my son, Haligilet, had his scheduled haircut. His Lolo (Filipino for grandfather), who was busy rummaging through our piles and piles of used cds, DVDs, magazines, books and clothes (I've started my "post-spring" cleaning, you see), volunteered to take him and also wanted to have a haircut himself. Lolo seemed to have unusual interest with our piles of junk because apparently he had come across AbundaTrade.com and its business model of trading recycled CDs, DVDs and you books for a brand new item like a coveted gadget, or even a great Christmas present for the Haligilet who was about to have his haircut.

And so, their conversation went like this:

Haligilet

I will have my haircut today, Lolo!

Lolo

Ok, I will accompany you because I will have a haircut too!

Haligilet

But that can't be, Lolo!

Lolo

Why not?

Haligilet

Because you have no more hair!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

WEEE FOR Wii!!!

I'm almost done with my Christmas list and yet, I have no idea what to get the most important recipient--Haligi!!! What do you get someone who's happy with a couple of beers, an eight-ball keychain, a cellphone car charger, or even a crooklock?!?! Oh yes, it's so easy to make my husband happy and yet trying to look for a present seems to be the biggest stretch of all! Oh, what to do?!?!

While I've always been reluctant to usher those game consoles into our home, I am now actually considering getting him either the Nintendo DS or maybe the Nintendo Wii Sports, bundled with a whole range of Wii games, including the hottest addition to the Nintendo family--the Wii Fit!

So if you'll excuse me, I would have to busy myself with another "game"--the whole Wii price comparison routine. Hopefully, I can find a great deal. Wee!!!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

THREE-PEAT

Mission accomplished...EKS-OH-EKS-OH

La.Pi.S #22: STUFFED

This is one of the more important reasons why I love going back to Tagaytay...The wonderful English pies of Bag of Beans, that cozy little restaurant with along the Tagaytay National Highway, with batibot chairs and bamboo shades, are testament that great things do come in small (zesty) packages. To read more of my Bag of Beans experience, you are welcome to visit here.

Happy La.Pi.S!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME (AWAY FROM HOME)

Entering Mom & Tina's Bakery Cafe is like coming home. Their interiors remind you of home-cooked meals and great family gatherings on lazy afternoons. It is comfort food haven.

Read more...

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

GLOBAL WARMING

...at the office!

Our airconditioning ain't working and it sucks big time! You see, today of all days, I chose to wear a sweater! In a tropical country such as ours, "sweater weather days" are few and far between and I guess my climate radar failed me today. So me and my pits will have to pay the price. Poor me. Huhuhu!

Despite this, however, I am still dreaming of a chance to wear any of the stylish women's coats I came across the web recently--if not here in this hot country, hopefully somewhere else!!!












These spiffy coats, I stumbled upon at Stylehive.com, an online style club featuring people all over the world, who go gaga over shoes, bags and ready-to-wear wares in every color, shape and style. Part social-networking club, part pop-culture lab, Stylehive.com provides fashion fiends opportunities to share, discover, purchase and even create style trends, via a host of channels--Stylehive's entertainment blog, lookbook, and forum. A classic case of birds of the same (fashion) feather, flocking together!

So whether you're a shopper, a designer, a retailer or even just a webhopper like me (yeah right, maver!), Stylehive.com is indeed the place to be. Trendspotters, unite!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

TWI-HARD

I've been bitten. And I want these...











EKS-OH-EKS-OH

SOLE FOOD

Over the weekend, Haligi bought me a pair of Lenas as a reward for my recent Quill triumph. And the pair greeted the Malindis, when they arrived at my doorstep yesterday. Mine are happy feet indeed. Great combo, huh? Pang high tide and low tide! :D

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

WHO'S PLAYING SANTA NOW?

As Christmas draws near, both Haligi and I are reminded of our childhood and fond memories of our personal experiences involving that jolly old man in a red suit.

Here's one of mine...Haligi and I remember patiently writing to dear old Santa, asking for our "flavor/s of the year." Our Christmas wishes came in every form and figure--the latest Barbie doll or robot, an Atari or a Game & Watch, a bike, a dog, a trip to Disneyland, a watch (which is Haligi's passion, probably since birth, hehehe!), a new pair of shoes (yes, I started young, hehehe), and so much more. And while we both had our share of hits and misses during all those Yuletide celebrations, we both agree that the Santa experience made our childhood truly memorable.

Now what if the roles were reversed? What if Santa wrote to US? Interesting, huh?

Designed by lapandletters.com, this unique Yuletide concept of letters from Santa is a novel idea approach to Christmas, giving the holidays a more interesting twist. What makes the idea doubly meaningful is that recipients also get to receive souvenirs or premium items that come bundled with these Letters from Santa. This Yuletide gimmick also pledges a portion of payments to partner charities. The spirit of giving is indeed alive!

I'd love to try this out with the Haligilet in the years to come. Any other takers?

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

HAPPY BIRTHDAY D!

This Sunday, my sister D turns a year older! As one of our birthday presents for her, her husband and I, together with her officemates, cooked up a surprise at her work area yesterday.

The plan was simple. Under the pretense of an impromptu shopping date, I was to take my sister out, right after work. This, hopefully, will give her officemates some time to decorate the office. The sweet fellows finished in the nick of time--filling up the place with streamers, balloons and some wholesale flowers sourced from Dangwa, the flower capital of Metro Manila.

D's officemates drew inspiration from stacks of magaziness and online albums, as well as from the photo galleries available at bloomsByTheBox.com, a site which showcases the finest quality and greatest selection of wholesale flowers, wedding flowers and floral supplies available online!

The "asalto" was truly a success! It, however, made me realize how much I missed spending time and making memories with my sister.

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

LP #31: KINAGISNAN

Ito ang aking kinagisnang ilaw at gabay
Sa aking pighati at tagumpay;
Buong tapang hinaharap ang buhay
Salamat sa aking kalasag at karamay.

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

CHANGING LIVES AND LIVELIHOOD

Our trip to San Pablo was a fruitful one. With us was GSM Association (GSMA) representative, Jesse Moore, who came all the way from London to know more about the Smart-Hapinoy partnership. Hapinoy is the first and only sari-sari store chain in the Philippines.

Through the partnership of Hapinoy (a project launched by Microventures, Inc,) and Smart, and via the credit facilities provided by microfinance institutions (MFIs), microentrepreneurs are given merchandising assistance and training, as well as access to goods and services at best prices. They are likewise provided with additional business opportunities such an e-loading business and even a mini internet enterprise.

The GSMA is the global trade association representing the interests of over 850 GSM mobile phone operators and over 180 manufacturers and suppliers worldwide. Just recently, Hapinoy received a grant from the GSMA aiming to provide resources for the computerization of at least twenty Hapinoy stores. The GSMA package included computer stations, internet connectivity, barcoding equipment, and even a new inventory-keeping facility and point-of-sale (POS) system. The grant likewise covered the provisioning for web hosting services, including a web hosting blog to benefit all Hapinoy members.

The computerization project aims to improve the productivity and efficiency of Hapinoy stores. It also envisions a community that is up-to-date and truly connected via user-generated information, photo galleries, news bulletins, and special forum exchanges.

The road to making this project a reality was one challenging one. Online studies, articles and web hosting reviews, like those featured in webhostinggeeks.com served as springboards for this dream project. And thanks to the GSMA, the dream is now a reality.

Hopefully, by taking it one sari-sari store at a time, there will be no more poor. This is empowerment at its finest.

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

PAYDAY SALE ALERT!

Falling way behind your Christmas shopping sked? Have no fear, another retail therapy event is here!
It's time to practice credit and cash material handling again with another weekend sale coming up. And if this info ain't enough, get a load of the schedule of Yuletide Bazaars this November and December here!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

ASK AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE

PLDT recently announced it will offer a free directory for its postpaid landline subscribers. Called AskPLDT 101-811, which allows a subscriber to quickly get important information-- breaking news, daily horoscope, jokes, thought for the day; PLDT promos, shopping mall sale events, latest shopping trends; news and entertainment, TV and movie schedules; and even home and lifestyle tips such as cooking recipes, do-it-yourself tips, school tips, first aid tips, car maintenance, FOR FREE.

A first of its kind in Pinas, AskPLDT 101-811 will equip subscribers important info on hospitals, churches, restaurants, hotline numbers, as well as travel info, weather, public advisories, foreign exchange rates, and more.

Any questions? :)

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

ON A ROLL

What a way to start the week!

The caffeine gods must have decided to reward me for my Starbucks loyalty because look at what I got this morning...But that's just icing on the cake, the cake being this...
Two down, one more to go. Woot! Woot!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

WHY DIDN'T WE THINK OF THAT?

Lola C has finally settled in the South. This came after years and years of convincing to have move into my Aunt's place.

Lola C just wouldn't agree to leaving her home and the memories she marked with my late Lolo R--even if it meant living alone at eighty-something. To manage the situation, my maver and all her siblings took turns travelling all the way to Cainta just to make sure that Lola was alright. My Uncle E, who lives in the States would also take care of her "remotely"by making frequent overseas calls and by requesting his in-laws to pay Lola a visit. It was quite a stretch for all of us, to tell you frankly.

Now, if we had known that there was a mechanism like a medical alert that would help us monitor our Lola's actions and whereabouts, then things wouldn't have been so bad. A medical alert may come in the form of a GPS tracking bracelet, an emergency button or even a fall monitor.

That's water under the bridge now. Since Lola has finally agreed to live with my Aunt, we wouldn't be needing the medical alert mechanism, at least for awhile.

EKS-OH-EKS-OH

WEEKEND SNAPSHOT #15

As mentioned here, my teammates and I ended our week with a bang. We bagged seven citations at the 2009 Philippine Quill Awards. The Philippine Quill is our country’s most prestigious and relevant award for business communicators.

Here's my favorite souvenir shot. Can you spot me in the sea of black? No, I ain't the dude in orange. :)
Have a great week ahead!

EKS-OH-EKS-OH