JONG

BLAME IT ON FACEBOOK... 2010 First Quarter was AWESOME!!

2010-04-01T19:00:00.000-07:00

I have not made a new entry on my blog since late last year. Apart from work and other activities that kept me occupied, I also found it easier to update everyone with the stuff that has been going on via Facebook. If you are a blogger, you know that it is a lot faster and simple to upload photos and make wall posts (even by the minute) on Facebook as oppose to creating a single blog entry. So there. Blame it on Facebook.
For those who have no Facebook accounts (yes, they are near extinction but they are still around) and for those who have FB accounts but haven't opened them since Bush left the White House, here's my update for the first quarter of 2010.

According to my Chinese Horoscope, 2010 is another lucky year for me. In fact, luck will actually double. I have no Chinese blood though I love Chinese food, so I guess that would qualify me to adapt their belief system, especially if it's to my advantage.

It really has been awesome so far primarily for the following reasons:

1. Got a Lasik eye surgery. This means that my years of wearing contact lenses and glasses plus the cost and inconveniences that went along with it are finally over!

Nope, my eyes didn't turn blue.

2. Got an Ipod Touch and Canon Digital Camera (Thanks Kuya Caloy and Ate Agnes).

3. Got reunited with my FCA-55 Family. The first time was last February at Dad's Mega Mall. This was in line with our batch's First Anniversary.

Again, the perfect combination of GOOD FRIENDS + GOOD FOOD = GREAT FUN!

It was followed by our monthly get-together on the first Saturday of March at Deby's condo.

Kain at Kanta... yan ang bisyo namin.. hehehe.. at nadagdagan pa ng tarot reading session

4. Got to go to Hong Kong! No doubt the highlight of this quarter. I had so much fun! (Thanks Boss Popoy Taruc!)

The last time I went to Hong Kong was when it was still a British colony. I am not kidding. It was in the early 90s. Needless to say, it has changed quite a bit.

At the Hong Kong Airport

With my office mates/friends

I LOVE HK!

TEAM TARUC

My first purchase. The original dvd of "The Wizard of Oz" at Hong Kong Records, The Gateway.

THE MIRA HOTEL

This hotel is awesome. It has state-of-the-art facilities. We even have our own celfone assigned to our room. So even if the group splits up, we could check on each group's whereabouts anytime, anywhere.

The indoor pool... that we unfortunately weren't able to enjoy. We discovered that it was free for us to use it... but only learned that a couple of hours before our departure. Shoot!

The room has a Sony flat-screen LCD that functions as a multi-media system. I kept everyone updated via Facebook, of course. Check out the Bose Ipod dock. I contemplated on bringing that home.

IT'S HONG KONG-- EAT & SHOP!!!

We sampled their street food. Love the curry fish balls.

Genuine exotic dishes just along the side streets. Awesome!

We literally shopped till we dropped. Slept at around 1 am... when most of the stores closed.

THEN, THERE'S DISNEYLAND!!!

Even the train ride going to Disneyland Resort was exciting!

Disneyland really brings out the child in everyone.

We strolled along the streets of Disney and went inside every shop. Of course, the cameras went a-clinking.... hehehe

We had dinner at a Disney Resto. Took their sugar packs and toothpicks with Disneyland logo as I went out. hihihi

All that shopping got me nervous about my baggage weight. I packed till the wee hours in the morning. 20 kilos was the limit. Mine was 19.5. Phew!

Last minute photo ops...

Sad ako to go back home, I must admit.

But then again, I know I will be back. :)

5. Got to see Justin Timberlake and Timbaland live in concert!

I had no plans nor the extra resources to watch the concert. But hours before the show, my good friend and office mate Eryk gave me 2 tickets for this once in a lifetime world tour.

In a sea of humanity... there I was.

They were just sensational!

So there, my first quarter of 2010 in review. Feel so grateful for being lucky and being blessed by God.

"When I look around it makes me wonder. Am I worthy of the most amazing life that I've been given? Did not care before but now I'm older. I see things in a different light. My grateful thoughts I raise to heaven." -Basia (from her song "Prayer of a Grateful Housewife")

I MET A PINOY HERO!! Mr. Efren Penaflorida

2009-11-18T01:34:00.000-08:00

The Pinoys have again been given honor and respect by the international community via Manny Pacquiao's historic victory against Cotto. Indeed, the Filipinos can achieve world-class status in any field. This month, another Pinoy will make the Philippines proud by being a part of the CNN HEROES- Ordinary People Extraordinary Impact.

EFREN PENAFLORIDA

I have been voting for him multiple times online for the past months and have been asking friends to do the same. Yesterday, I received an email from my Uncle Eddie, who lives in the U.S. He told me that he has been voting for him too and asked me if I personally know Efren. I told him that I don't. Little did I know that I will get the chance to meet the Pinoy Hero face to face.

Me and Efren

He was right outside the hallway of our office having an audience and photo session with PCSO General Manager, Hon. Rosario Uriarte. Pagkatapos nila mag-usap at magpa-picture, talagang kinapalan ko na mukha ko at lumapit sa kanya at sinabing "Sir, pwedeng magpa-picture? Pang- Facebook..." hehehe

Me, Efren, Ate Lolit and GM Uriarte

I told him that I have been constantly voting for him. He thanked me and told me that I still have until tomorrow. So, people, VOTE!!!

We only have a day to vote. POWER VOTE NOW!!! Vote as many times as possible.
Click the link below to go to CNN voting page for Efren

VOTE EFREN!!!

BDAY CELEB: PART THREE- THE OFFICE... AND ONE JAM-PACKED SATURDAY!!!

2009-11-07T17:40:00.000-08:00

It was the Part Three of my Birthday celebration. And this time, it's with my officemates. I figured, they are the people I am with most of the week so I might as well have a mini-shindig with them too... besides, siguradong makakatim ako ng walang humpay na kantyaw pag di ako nag-blow-out.

THE FOOD

Chicken Platter (Cordon Bleu, Chicken Lollipop & Bacon-Wrapped Liver) at syempre ang walang kamatayang Pansit!

Beef with Mushroom, Pork Asado & Fish Fillet with Tartar Sauce

LET'S EAT!!!

Eryk... a.k.a "Mr. Suave"... hehehe

GM Personnel came to join the party. First time I saw them attend anyone's party... I'm so happy they went to mine. :)

My good friend from PR Dept, Raymund.

Me & the "Ambulance Duo"

GLAD I ENDED MY BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR THIS WEEK WITH OFFICE BUDDIES. :)

ONE JAM-PACKED SATURDAY!!!

If I seem pious and vituous to a lot of people (bwahahaha!), it is because being saintly runs in our blood (again, bwahaha!). Last Saturday, my cousin Ate Baby celebrated her Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession. She has been a Dominican nun for 50 years and the family was there to witness her renew her religious vow.

She is currently a school administrator in one of the Dominican schools in Mindanao.

Then, a simple lunch was prepared by the convent for the guests.

Ate Mayet (her sister), Ate Baby & my Mom

Ate Agnes, Ate Marlene & Kuya Alan

Ang dami namin noh?... Kulang pa yan by 75%!!!

Me and my sisters

My nieces clowning around...

THEN OFF TO EASTWOOD CITY!!!

Tambay muna ng konti...

Starbucks muna for coffee and desserts...

THEN OFF TO THE FORT!!!

First stop, Mega World at McKinley Hill

Alfred took us on a tour of their showroom.

Beautiful yet pricey condo units... but all together, definitely worth one's money... that is, if you have the money... hehehe

Imagine your bedroom like this....

Wala akong pambili kaya nagpa-picture na lang ako... hehehe

THEN OFF TO SERENDRA!!!

We made dinner reservations at our favorite resto, ABE... well, san pa nga ba kakain ang mga Kapampangan?

Tambay muna ulit while waiting for the resto to open...

Micah & Diane designed their own cookies at Marta's Cakes... hayan may dessert na kayo later.

Kainan na ulit!!!

Binukadkad na Pla-Pla, Crispy Tadyang & Tidtad
(wala sa pic yung fave ko- Sinuteng Baby Pusit... di ko na naisip pang litratuhan sya, nilamon ko na agad... hehehe)

ANOTHER FUN DAY WITH MY FAMILY :)

AND SO, LIFE BEGINS...

2009-11-02T02:05:00.000-08:00

I don't have any big excuse as to why I haven't made an entry in my blog site for months. No, not the series of natural calamities... not the virtually telenovela-ish political scene... not even Aling Dionisia Pacquiao's stellar rise to fame.
I was just, uhm... how should I put it... oh yes, lazy.

Although I am not obliged to update anyone with what's been happening to me, I would do it just the same... whether you like it or not (well, you entered my blog site anyway... might as well read on).

* I haven't been practising my culinary and/or baking skills at home... for the same reason that I haven't updated this blog.

* My exercise regimen is a mess.

* Potato chips has been a staple nightly snack.

* I have been hooked on the new musical TV sitcom "GLEE".

* I think my pet beagle has AHDH.

*.... and, yup...

It's my Birthday!!!
NOVEMBER 4

I decided to declare this month - MINE! A series of intimate gatherings in celebration of my birthday with special groups of loved ones had happened and will continue to happen within the month of November. Of course, I have to start with my family.

BDAY CELEB: PART ONE - WITH FAMILY

My family gathered at Gateway Mall, Araneta Center in Cubao Quezon City.

at the Super Bowl of China (level three)

at may tarpaulin pa talaga ako with my dog, Will.

"BROTHERS & SISTERS... and NANAY"

not in this photo are Kuya Roland (sick) and Ate Arcel ( USA)

BAYAWS & HIPAG

MY NEPHEWS

MY NIECES

EAT! EAT! EAT!

MY CAKE

CHIKA! CHIKA! CHIKA!

Itong magkapatid na ito.. magkasama na nga sa bahay nila. Hanggang dito sila pa rin ang nagkakwentuhan.

Father & Son

UWIAN NA...

... and I ate my cake at home... hehehe

BDAY CELEB: PART TWO - WITH BEST FRIENDS

It goes without saying that this bunch is not complete. Several of my close friends were not present for valid reasons. Not around, and I dearly missed, were Ferdie Cruz, Randy Rendal, Agnes Samson, Jeca Balisi, Tracy Zabala, Tess Anastacio-Guadarama, Fe Cuay and Sidney Noel.

But as they say, the show... or in this case... the eating must go on. Hehehehe... And I was in the perfect company to accomplish the task-- Jig, Jana, Sandy, Inas and Carl.

First stop, buffet lunch at Somethin' Fishy in Eastwood, Libis.

We didn't have a lot of pics because we were busy clearing the buffet table.

Then, coffee and dessert at

Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf

STAY TUNED... MORE CELEBRATIONS TO COME. :)

Farewell and thank you, Pres. Cory...

2009-08-05T02:11:00.000-07:00

This is a simple tribute to the Mother of Philippine Democracy. A collection of quotes from a woman who has inspired an entire nation and will continue to do so with the coming generations.

I am not embarrassed to tell you that I believe in miracles.

As I came to power peacefully, so shall I keep it.

Freedom of expression - in particular, freedom of the press - guarantees popular participation in the decisions and actions of government, and popular participation is the essence of our democracy.

I would rather die a meaningful death than to live a meaningless life.

One must be frank to be relevant.

Reconciliation should be accompanied by justice, otherwise it will not last. While we all hope for peace it shouldn't be peace at any cost but peace based on principle, on justice.

Faith is not simply a patience that passively suffers until the storm is past. Rather, it is a spirit that bears things - with resignations, yes, but above all, with blazing, serene hope.

I just do whatever it is that I believe I should do, regardless of the risks to my life.

I guess my religious faith sustained me more than anything else. Family is also very important. If I didn't have children, it would have been too difficult. Even if you are strong, you still need people who would support you all the way.

It wasn't until we got over the self pity that we were able to accept suffering as apart of our life with Christ. A man or woman reaches this plane only when he or she ceases to be the hero.

I know my limitations, and I don't like politics. I was only involved because of my husband.

It is true you cannot eat freedom and you cannot power machinery with democracy. But then neither can political prisoners turn on the light in the cells of a dictatorship.

National leaders who find themselves wilting under the withering criticisms by members of the media, would do well not to take such criticism personally but to regard the media as their allies in keeping the government clean and honest, its services efficient and timely, and its commitment to democracy strong and unwavering.

It is not I who have been consigned to the bedroom of history.

It's very simple, I just tell my sad story, and people weep.

I've reached a point in life where it's no longer necessary to try to impress. If they like me the way I am, that's good. If they don't, that's too bad.

The media's power is frail. Without the people's support, it can be shut off with the ease of turning a light switch.

I don't have any formula for ousting a dictator or building democracy. All I can suggest is to forget about yourself and just think of your people. It's always the people who make things happen.

Farewell and Thank you Pres. Cory...

He Had Me At HE-WOOF!

2009-07-26T05:11:00.000-07:00

For the past weeks I have been dreaming of having an DSLR camera (see previous blog entry) and a pet dog. My first choice pet is a chow chow but I have heard negative feedbacks about its temper and grooming. Also, it is quite expensive. The one I saw at SM Fairview costs P22,000.00. My next choice, a beagle. I remember, seeing one at Serendra last Mother's Day. Also, it reminded me of Snoopy and the Underdog.
So last Wednesday, I went online to look for one which could fit my budget. After hours of surfing, I came across this ad at Sulit.com.ph:

I took a closer look at the pup's photos and I knew that this is THE ONE.

I immediately contacted the owner that same night and asked certain details about the pup. We sort of sealed the deal in a matter of minutes. We agreed to meet up somewhere in Katipunan Friday afternoon. My good friend Perry was there to help out because I know I might have a hard time driving with a dog for a passenger.

I immediately fell in love with the beagle puppy the first time I caught a glimpse of it. He was even wearing a blue bandana around its neck.
After asking several questions about the pup and being handed with the papers and medical records by the owner, we went straight to the mall to buy the basic stuff that the puppy needed.
On our way there, we talked about the dog's name. Perry suggested "JONGLE" (jong+beagle). Uhm... NO WAY. Parang bisayang pronunciation ng "jungle". I wanted a name that is single syllable. I am a big "Will & Grace" fan. So I named him...

WILL

We of course took pictures right away...

Will is generally a happy puppy... well, sometimes too happy.
He loves to play.

He sniffs everything around him and likes to run, run, run. I think I've reached my quota of cardio exercise for the month. What I love most about him is that he doesn't bark even if all the other dogs around him are in a barking frenzy. He didn't even make a sound when we bathed him.

My nieces and nephews just adore him.

He moves around happily in his new domain.

WILL-come to my life...

CAM to me now....

2009-07-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

I was first introduced to (or at least was made aware of) the SLR digital camera during my Pastry Arts class last year. While I used the small digital camera that I borrowed from my brother-in-law so I could take snap shots of the pastries that we made, several of my classmates (namely, Kathie, Jeca and Pia) brought these big professional-looking cameras that I thought were only used in magazine pictorials. I wasn't that interested during that time but was of course impressed by the quality of pictures they produced.
The same thing happened in my culinary arts class. Some of my classmates were like Japanese tourists moving around the kitchen (uhm... Hyuri, Donna, Debbie and Dundee). Still not so interested.
It was the recent trip to Tagaytay that got me interested in SLR digital cams and, eventually, entertained the idea of possibly having one. The teeny-weeny cam that I used can only do so much and I felt then that I could have captured more stunning images had I used, let's say a Nikon D90.
So for the past week, I have been obsessed with having an SLR digital cam (and a pet dog, preferably a chow-chow or a beagle... but that's another story). I even asked an office mate who happened to be a professional news photographer about the unit I should have as a beginner and where to take photography classes. Needless to say, I also went online to get various info about it.
Having photography as a hobby is quite expensive. The price of the basic camera alone would range from P20,000 to P30,000 at least. So right now, I would have to put this particular dream on hold. (But of course, if a benevolent soul with a heart of a saint will surprise me with an SLR digital camera as a gift... it is very welcome...)
Yesterday morning,I saw a segment on the TODAY SHOW about the Oscar award-winning actor Joel Grey's other passion which is, well you guessed it... photography. He has been a professional photographer for a number of years now and he just released a coffee table book containing the pictures he took using his camera phone!

1.3 - Images from My Phone is a collection of photographs cut from diverse visual worlds: street art and still life, advertising and architecture, shadows and reflections, natural beauty and urban grit - and all taken using the 1.3 megapixel camera of Grey's Nokia 133 cell phone.

So, inspired by Mr. Grey's book (and as I wait for the universe to supply me with my very own SLR digital camera), I made some attempts to capture some interesting images using my Sony Ericsson K800i with 3.2 megapixel.

I just took shots of random objects that I found around the house on a rainy Friday afternoon. I gave them titles just because, well, I want to... hehehe.

"GREEN BULBS"

"WOOD & STEEL"

"RED ROOF"

"GREAT DIVIDE"

"KALEIDOS-ROOFS"

"CAT WALK"

"BETWEEN"

"CUNNING"

"DOGGIE BLUES"

SLR Digital Camera... can't wait to have one of my own...

"That which I seek is seeking me...
That which belongs to me will come to me..
It is done unto me..."

FUN FAMILY DAY AT TAGAYTAY HIGHLANDS

2009-07-05T18:08:00.000-07:00

I was really looking forward to the weekend because I haven't been to Tagaytay for quite a long time. I think the last time that I went to the place was when I was still teaching at CDSL for our yearly retreats (note: I miss going to retreats too).
It was really fun this time around because I was with my family... plus, the fact that we were going to unwind at the very posh and much-talked about exclusive residential and leisure place overlooking the Taal Lake--- THE TAGAYTAY HIGHLANDS.

The group met at a Shell Station along SLEX.

Diane... apparently bored.

Siomaing while waiting at Hen-Lin... hehehe

this was the same gas station where an entire ATM machine was pulled out and stolen... talk about desperation and determination.

A short stop at CROSSWINDS TAGAYTAY

Here, soon, a house shall rise... but for now, pine trees... hehehe

Ging, Nanay and Ate Gina (who appears to be smelling something... hhmmm..)

TAGAYTAY HIGHLANDS

Nanay and me

HIGHLANDS RESIDENCES

Highlands China Palace

"MANO PO 10" cast: Me, Ate Gina, Nanay, Ate Marlene, Ate Agnes

Highlands Club House

The Gym

The Dining Area

Me and my Casenas Pamangkins (JR, Ging, Brian)

My Lunch!

TIME TO BOWL

THE CABLE RIDE

Diane and Me

Niko and Micah

Bridge to the Pool Area

Wish I brought my board short so I could enjoy the pool...
oh well... pa picture na lang...

MORE PICS!!!

A mannequin chef... who bakes and cooks better than I do... huhuhu

Enjoying the view...

GROUP PICS!

DINNER TIME!

The day was also in celebration of JR's birthday and his first year wedding anniversary with wife, Pia. (According to her, magpaparamdam daw sya sa hangin... hehehe... uwi ka na Pia!). It's been a year... but it's as if it was just yesterday...

THIS IS THEIR WEDDING MUSIC VIDEO:

LET'S EAT!!!

A Chinese Food Fest!

Whatta fancy Fruit Plate!

It was a fun family day!
We should do this more often!.. hehehe

ONE SATURDAY with FRIENDS, FAMILY and CHARICE

2009-06-28T04:58:00.000-07:00

I was expecting a busy yet fun day last Saturday... and I was right. The much-awaited FCA 55 get-together finally happened. Although, most our classmates were not around (but promised to be present on next month's meeting), we still had a great time.

BUFFET ATTACK!

FRIENDS AND FOOD!

TRANSFORMERS PHOTO OP!

Then, to our "headquarters"... Deby's condo unit... hehehe

Ate Agnes and I had to leave early because we were going to watch the first major concert of Charice at SMX, Mall of Asia.

But of course, we had dinner first... yup, kainan na naman... at HOLY COW!

Kuya Alan, Ate Marlene, Ate Gina and Ate Agnes

Salad and Calamari

Cheese Sticks with Garlic Dip (I looooovvvvee this!)

Rockefeller Oysters

Pasta (don't know the name... didn't order it)

Now, THIS was my meal!

Grilled Pork Chops and Beef Steak with Onion rings and Mashed Potatoes

About to make them disappear... hehehe

on our seats inside SMX

I didn't take a lot of pictures during the concert because I wanted to enjoy the musical experience... besides, I'm pretty sure it will be shown on TV (there were TV cameras all over)

Charice... opening with "And I'm Telling You"

Christian Bautista sang "The Prayer" with Charice

the finale... "Note To God"

MUST LOVE DOGS... and a massage

2009-06-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

I was at my sister's house in Marikina this weekend. Ate Marlene, who is  the third eldest member in the family, decided to cook up a feast of scrumptious dishes for... uhm... well, no reason. She just fed us. That was it.
This occasion (or non-occasion) gave me a chance to get close to the most cherished members of their family--- their dogs. I was a bit intrigued because I have heard my sister mention that these cuddly creatures cost an ample amount of money to maintain. Their shampoo cost P800 and their toothpaste P300. There were times when I used shampoo and toothpaste strictly on sachets... hence, the intrigue factor.
I'm not really a dog person (I mean, dogs are okay as long as they don't smell and they don't see me as a meal) but, somehow, I found this group of canine quite endearing...

MEET THE CANINE CLIQUE!

This is NEMO

... a cocker spaniel

well... okay, he's a bit camera shy...

Princess, another cocker spaniel, seems to love the camera

Me carrying Princess with my niece, Diane

The seemingly scary wolf-like member of the group, BLUE

She is a Siberian Husky

okay, I was not strangling Blue. I was just trying to make her look at the camera (Note: No animals were harmed during the photo shoot).

Now, this one is just adorable... Smoochie!!!

... a snorting Bulldog

Smoochie isn't a fan of the flash of the camera though...

I was already sweating at this point because Smoochie is a darn heavy pooch!

I also loved this non-canine addition in their family...

The Massage Chair!

I was cynical at first because I thought that it's the same thing that I saw inside the malls. You know, the ones that just shake and vibrate. But this one is different. It's actually a bit scary. It's as if there's an actual person doing the massage.

ahhh... but it was like fifteen minutes of heavenly bliss...

THE FINAL DAY... THAT WON'T END

2009-05-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

(IMPORTANT: To fully appreciate the contents of this week's blog entry, you are advised to turn your speakers on as it contains several videos. Also, if your internet connection is slow and takes time to load the videos, it would be best to click the pause button after you hit play to allow the video to fully load so you can watch it without interruptions.)

The class was extra special last week. Yes, It was the final session for FCA batch 55. It was bitter-sweet but, being the positive bunch that we are, we focused on the festive side of the moment. Everyone was excited about the class picture and the graduation party scheduled that afternoon.

But of course we still had work to do...

Chef Gerd was the last Chef mentor for FCA 55

We grabbed every opportunity to take pictures with our friends

PER GROUP ... one more time

GROUP ONE

Dundee, Hyuri, Lani, Jackie, Tita Myr & Deby

GROUP TWO

Jun, Jane, Jiji, Mommy Brij, Donna & Joya

GROUP THREE

Jay, Dang, Jane, Liezel, Jong, Grace & Dave

GROUP FOUR

Mae, Kuya Toto, Emily, Ditas, Agnes & Denley

MORE GROUP PICS!!!

FCA 55 FINAL MASTERPIECES... well, for now anyway...

Beef Stroganoff

Spaetzle

Beef Wellington

Baked Tomato

Potato Gratin

Green Asparagus Sauteed in Butter

Horseradish and Smoked Salmon Crushed Snapper Fillet

AFTER ALL THAT WORK AND FOOD, WE WERE READY FOR OUR CLASS PICTURE...
NO WAIT... CLASS PICTURESSSS!!!

WE WENT STRAIGHT TO FRESKA TO PARTY!!!

OUR GRADUATION CEREMONY

WE HAD OUR VERY OWN GAG AWARDS

THE WINNERS...

DUNDEE
VIAJERO AWARD

LIEZEL
PANAWID-GUTOM AWARD

GRACE AND JAY
LOVE TANDEM AWARD

EMILY
LUBOG-LITAW AWARD

DEBY
HIGH-ENERGY AWARD

LANI
HIDDEN TALENT AWARD

AGNES
BALOT AWARD

DANG
STRIKE-A-POSE AWARD

HYURI
TURISTANG HAPON AWARD

WHATTA SURPRISE!

I was given a surprise token of appreciation by the class...

.... muntik na akong maiyak... huhuhuhu

.... but enough drama... LET'S PARTY!!!

FCA 55 is not just a batch of culinary arts students... As the weeks went on we became a family... Though we might not be able to see each other week after week like we used to, we are assured of a deep, loving friendship from each other... wherever we may be...
and this we shall always treasure and remember..

"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born."
~Anais Anin~

FCA 55... IN MY LIFE

2009-05-24T01:39:00.000-07:00

We concluded our Fundamentals in Culinary Arts course yesterday with a graduation celebration (of course, we have another course to take but, hey, it gave us another reason to party! hah!). It was fun, wacky, full of surprises, thrilling, festive and you won't be able to see any of them here...hehehe... well, not right now anyway. I'm still waiting for my classmates for their photo contributions (Dundee, Hyuri and the rest of you guys, pakibilisan please! Now na!... hehehe).

In the meantime, I would like to capture the spirit and the essence of FCA-55 by way of this short music video. As Kuya Toto suggested, this could be our batch's theme song...

(SPEAKERS ON PLEASE)

I miss you guys...

A VEAL and A VIDEO...

2009-05-16T06:48:00.000-07:00

I just thought I should give this blog entry a little twist... READ ON... and WATCH (note: TURN YOUR SPEAKERS ON).

COOKING METHODS THREE

THE DISHES

OSSO BUCO MILANESSE with GREMOLATA

POLENTA

ROASTED RACK OF PORK WITH RED WINE ROSEMARY SAUCE

POTATO PUMPKIN GNOCCHI

COQ AU VIN

BOUILLON POTATOES with PARMESAN and CILANTRO

PAN FRIED LAPU-LAPU FILLET with ARAGULA ONION RELISH

OVEN ROASTED TOMATO COMPOTE

WANNA SEE HOW IT ALL HAPPENED?

THEN WATCH THIS!
AGAIN, SPEAKERS ON!

HAHAHAHA!!! It was a fun day!

LOVIN' EVERY BIT OF IT...

2009-05-10T19:55:00.000-07:00

GGGGRRRREEEEEEAAAAATTTT to be back!

I was so happy to attend my Culinary Arts class and be reunited with my friends again. But sadly, it was our last session with Chef Manoj. Yes, in the past I have mentioned how the man scares the hell out of me but he is undoubtedly one helluva mentor too. He does not only guide us through the process of coming up with exemplary dishes but he exposes us to the pressures and demands of Culinary Arts as a business as well.

Me and Chef Manoj

Our Chef-assistant Mark

Last Saturday was no different. True to form, Chef Manoj once again treated us to a session fraught with nerve-wracking thrills and tensions.

Chefs at work

Ate Agnes, bakit mo naman kinakarir ang yelo?... akala mo naman ikinagaling mo na yan at nagpa-picture ka pa...

The Grilling Trio

Group 4 with their new blocking... The Pyramid....hehehe

Habang ang mga tao sa kaliwa ay abala sa pagluluto, yung mga nasa kanan abala sa pagpapa-picture!

So, true to form, the FCA 55 class flashed their pearly whites and posed for every camera in sight.

At nakisali na rin si Chef Manoj

Si Debbie, naka-quarter turn posing na pang Miss Earth... quake... hehe

Isang malaking pagkakasala kay Jay ang ngumiti sa litrato... pansin mo?

Yan ang smile!

Si Dang may hawak pang knife... talagang scary sya... well, even without the knife...

Petiks time muna ang group 3... taranta-mode later

Talaga naman, kahit salamin ay hindi hadlang sa pagpapa-picture...

ASIAN COOKING 3

Pork Stew with Mixed Vegetables

Pak Gui

Lapu-Lapu with Vietnamese Lemon Sauce

Vegetable Samosa with Tamarind Sauce

Crab Rice

Vietnamese Fried Chicken

Sweet Mustard Pork Stir Fry

Stuffed Tomatoes

Nasi Ayam

Vietnamese Spring Roll with Chili Dip

Steamed Fish Fillet with Sesame Oil

Braised Pork

EVERYONE, ENJOY THE BUFFET!

LUNCH TIME NA!

After that, DESTINATION: STARBUCKS!

Pati sa pila... go camera!

Mother's Day Celebration was done at ABE (Serendra, The Fort).

There were supposed to be more pictures (especially the group shots) here but something went wrong with my sister's cam so what was left were the photos taken from my camera phone.

At Starbucks with my mom on my left.

I had my fave Starbucks beverage, Green Tea Frap. My mom asked what was I drinking... sabi ko "Buko Pandan".... hehehe

Here are my fave dishes at Abe (the other dishes we ordered were pretty run-of -the-mill). Their appetizer, Sinuteng Pusit, will really whet your appetite.

Crispy Tadyang

Pinaputok na Pla-Pla

Despite its flaws, I love my life. :)

SANA DALAWA ANG PUSO KO...

2009-05-05T03:33:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in a man's life when he has to make a life altering decision... a crossroads of sorts wherein the outcome could forever change the way he looks at life and at himself. Arduously, he contemplates on the results of each option. As the universe conspires and awaits the unraveling of that intricate cosmic selection, he stops to meditate and, like a serene prayer from a sage buddhist monk, he asks himself the question: "Saan ba ako sasama this Saturday? Sa office outing sa Subic ba o sa Culinary Arts class ko na Pasta ang topic?!"

Ah, yes! I was unfortunate to be burdened with that predicament. It would be the first time for me to go with my office-mates in a different setting. And, in a strange twist of fate, the topic that my entire class eagerly waited for, Pasta and Rice, fell on the same date as the outing.

Needless to say, I had to make a choice and I chose the outing. Mind you, it wasn't an easy choice. Yes, I could always take a make-up class (which I would have to take with another batch) for that session I missed but it makes a whole world of difference when you take it together with your classmates... *singhot*...

So I made my choice... but did I make the right one... see for yourself...

Syempre, sa parking lot pa lang may picture-an nang nagaganap...

Hayan po si Eryk, may cerebral palsy siya...

And off we went!

Finally, we're on Subic grounds!

Lunch at Feng Huang Restaurant

By now, you would have already noticed that Eryk is a pain in the butt...

I should have known that this innocent game of PUSOY would set the tone for this outing.

Yep... I thought I would be basking under the summer sun while splashing away on the beach. But nooooo.... The Outing turned into Gambling. It was my first time to enter a casino... okay, several casinos. I had sun burn from the blinking lights of the slot machines.

We weren't able to take pictures inside as it was prohibited. (Although Jana and I tried to take a snap shot with her camera phone but we immediately figured that there were probably security cameras around. Baka naman kwelyuhan kami ng mga sikyo habang kinakaladkad kami palabas... yes, a Ted Failon moment would have transpired.)

KULITAN MOMENTS

Jojo and his version of a half-body photo

Malou, antok na u?

Then a taste of Subic Night Life at Pier One

Mga laasheeng...

Me and my soul-sibling, Jana

Next to Malou, I looked like a PBA player... hehehe

NYEEH!!!

Atty. Vince, Froi and Jojo

Before we left more pictures!!!

Sige Dennis, lumayo ka pa sa amin... akala mo kakulangan ka? Hah!

It may not have been the traditional summer outing but we still had fun. It was primarily because of the company that made the trip fun and worthwhile.

Meanwhile, somewhere in Katipunan, this was happening...

Ganyan ba ang ginagawa nyo pag wala ako?!!

Dundee at Dang, hwag nyo ngang ginagalaw ilong nyo!... Alam nyo namang kinabit lang ng Elmer's glue yan e...

Nakakahiya naman kay Chef Sean... tsk, tsk,tsk

Puro kayo pa-picture!

uuuhmm... Chef Sean, bakit pati naman ikaw e naki-posing na rin?...

Make them work!

Okay, break muna...

Sige Dang magpa-cute ka... parang gustong ma-discover nito ah... may career pa si Pokwang noh!... hehehe

THE PASTA AND RICE DISHES I MISSED...

Notice that there are no captions/labels... remember, I wasn't there... huhuhuhu

With a heavy heart, I accepted the fact that I missed one important culinary experience in the company of my good friends/classmates, but life has to go on...

So, the following day, life moved on... big time!

It was our baranggay fiesta and Ate Agnes decided to celebrate the college graduation of her eldest daughter on the same day. She needed my other sister, Gina, Hyuri and me to help her with the cooking and presentation. We did everything non-stop in a little over six hours (Nanalo na si Pacquiao, nag-celebrate na sya at malamang nakatulog na... kami hindi pa rin tapos magluto).

We went to battle in full gear... hehehe... not really, we wore our jackets after we were done cooking.

There were more dishes but I was too tired to take pictures of them. And for some dishes, there wasn't much left to photograph. My big hungry kapampangan family attacked the buffet table like a pack of wolves.

Our satisfied clients... hehehe.

What can I say... it was a jam-packed weekend!

SEXY CHEFS!!!

2009-04-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

I had obviously nothing to do today so I came up with this short video clip to spread laughter to all (to prove my point from my last blog entry which I did this morning... again, nothing to do..). Also, this is to showcase the other side of the FCA 55 boys... hehehe. So everyone, turn your speakers on full blast... watch and enjoy!

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

NO SCHOOL... SO WE LAUGH!

2009-04-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

With the global recession grabbing all of us by the neck and with the perennial socio-political and economic chaos that has plagued our third-world country for eons, it is a phenomenon how Filipinos could saunter blissfully through life with smiles on their faces and with little worries (except may be how to get all the chores done before their favorite telenovela starts). According to a study, Filipinos are the second happiest and most optimistic people in Asia. Indeed, in the midst of any situation, we try to look for the lighter, funny side of it. We have the innate ability to stare adversity at the face and make fun of its outfit.
There is no denying that laughter has become an indispensible coping mechanism for most of us (but of course, second only to PRAYERS). Below are some quotes from famous personalities (and some random photos of happy times with friends and family) that emphasize the significance of constant levity in our lives.

Laughter and tears are both responses to frustration and exhaustion. I myself prefer to laugh, since there is less cleaning up to do afterward. ~Kurt Vonnegut

At the wedding of my nephew JR with wife, Pia

Mirth is God's medicine. Everybody ought to bathe in it. ~Henry Ward Beecher

The Madagascar Four

The most wasted of all days is one without laughter. ~e.e. cummings

At our office Christmas party

What soap is to the body, laughter is to the soul. ~Yiddish Proverb

With my soul-sister Jig

Laughter gives us distance. It allows us to step back from an event, deal with it and then move on. ~Bob Newhart

Subic with co-teachers

Laughter is an instant vacation. ~Milton Berle

Bread Baking Buddies

Laughter is the shortest distance between two people. ~Victor Borge

My Pastry Arts Crew

A laugh is a smile that bursts. ~Mary H. Waldrip

FCA 55 Family!

I am thankful for laughter, except when milk comes out of my nose. ~Woody Allen

I made this video a year ago. It generated a lot of positive responses from its viewers on YouTube. So go ahead, watch and LAUGH!

(Perhaps many of you are wondering why aren't there any culinary entries/photos this week... Well, school is off today to make way for the graduation of the diploma students. So there.)

HOT ! HOT! HOT!

2009-04-18T19:06:00.001-07:00

It was like an episode right out of "The Top Chef". Our Week-Eight instructor, Chef Manoj made our Asian Cooking 2 session more interesting by giving it another twist ( I don't want to disclose the 'twist'... I might spoil the excitement for his future students). I could mention though that we were virtually on our own. No explanation about the ingredients nor about the methods were given. We had to figure out and work on the dishes by ourselves with minimal assistance from Chef and his assistants (in fact, Chef Manoj was out of the kitchen half of the time).

Of course, the complicated and "showtime" stuff was still done by

Chef Manoj.

Each group discussed the dishes assigned to them and started working.

Well, I also had my share of work like the rest. Liezel and I worked on the Sweet and Sour Pork (By the way, welcome back Liezel! She will be leaving the country again this week for Macau... I'm beginning to hate her. hehehe).

After that, Jay and I worked on the lamb for the Lamb Shawarma with Yoghurt Sauce.

I was also in charge of grilling the pita bread. Each pita bread should be grilled for 5 seconds on each side. I thought, "Hey, this would be easy." The griller in Kitchen 1 was already crowded so Lani, Jack (who worked on the kebabs) and I transferred to Kitchen 3.

I had no idea that the griller in Kitchen 3 was the portal to hell. It was extremely hot! Ironically, instead of having toasted fingers, my hands felt raw long after I finished grilling.

There was very little socializing and chit-chat that went on among the groups during the session because the class was given a time limit. All the dishes should be finished, plated and must be piping hot by 11:30. But of course, that didn't stop us from intermittently striking a pose for the cameras.

This is Dang... the official class mascot.

The Group Three Girls

Kita mo itong si Dang... dinadamay pa si Chef sa kalokohan nya.

At exactly 11;30, all the dishes were set and were up for Chef Manoj's critique. Needless to say, we still have a lot to learn about plating (Chef Manoj commented on one dish as having a "Jurassic Park" theme... ouch!). He also mentioned that the food we presented were warm but not hot (by top food critics' standards, that's unacceptable).

But then again, I think we did a pretty decent job but we have to learn from our mistakes... trite but true.

ASIAN COOKING 2

Chicken Teriyaki

Lamb Shawarma with Yoghurt Sauce

Pineapple Fried Rice

Seafood Kebab with Hummus

Yellow Rice

Sweet and Sour Pork

Chapchae

Pajeon

Pandan Chicken

Chicken Kabsa

Salt and Pepper Chicken

Chili Crab

With all that food, we were bound to have a bountiful plate for lunch.
This was mine.

Hindi ako nabusog... para ngang gusto ko pang mag-dessert ng isang platitong biko at ginataang bilo-bilo pagkatapos e.... Hihihi

HESUS NG AKING BUHAY

2009-04-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

I made this video and posted it on YouTube two years ago. I just felt that it is appropriate to share it with you guys during the season of Lent.

Have a blessed Holy Week.

THE CALM BEFORE THE SOUP...

2009-04-04T22:47:00.000-07:00

It was the day that FCA55 dreaded. Our first encounter with Chef Mike Oberle. Horror stories abound with regards to his temper and his class management. We collectively held our breaths and wonder if all of these things were true.
Well, let's just say that he did not disappoint.

CHEF MIKE OBERLE

At first, he started off quite okay. He mentioned that looks can be deceiving and that we shouldn't be afraid of him. He narrated personal stories about his wife and his mother-in-law which were very amusing. He also explained how we should respect food (citing an onion as an example) because of the time it takes to grow and the work done by the people behind it. He even cracked jokes. I thought... "Hey, this guy is not as scary as I thought... He is actually kinda cool."

He then asked the class to start working...

Group 4 with their signature group blocking...

While Chef Mike was out smoking, we even had time for the peremptory picture-taking...

Hindi po sila members ng Legion of Mary... classmates ko sila... hehehe

O di ba, ang saya namin?

But some strange thing happened during Chef Mike's cigarette break. There was an immediate and unexplainable transformation. He came in almost entirely a different person. It was like a scene from Jekyll and Hide. He started banging pots on the stove, shouting at the helpless and hapless student-assistants and generally scaring the hell out of us.

All that time, I kept a safe distance from him (no less that five meters away) so I wouldn't be the object of his ire... because, heaven forbid, had he scolded me or made a sarcastic comment about me in front of the class I know that I would fall into a coma. Well, either that or the class would find me at the corner of the kitchen sobbing profusely on the floor and curled up in a fetal position.

THANK GOD, Chef Mike gave us a 45-minute break...
I contemplated on having a quick psychiatric therapy session.

Instead, the class dealt with the ordeal the best way we knew how...

PICTURE-TAKING!!!

hehehe... Wala talaga kaming kupas...

Then, the cooking and the terror continued...

The boiling soups on top of the stove I believe was a metaphor of sorts...

... but then again, in the end, the products were satisfying.

THE SOUPS

BEEF CONSOMME WITH CELESTINE

HERBED FISH QUENELLES

CREAM OF TOMATO SOUP

SEAFOOD WITH VEGETABLES

MINESTRONE SOUP

CREAM OF PUMPKIN SOUP WITH CINNAMON FOAM

LENTIL SOUP WITH VEGETABLE BRUNOISE

FRENCH ONION SOUP

HUNGARIAN GOULASH SOUP

After he was done with the plating and presentation, Chef Mike went back to his jolly, friendly persona.
What's up with this guy?!

Hay naku, kumain na nga lang tayo...

Ate Ditas, hindi ka naman gutom ano?

Si Ate Agnes kasi gutom... siya lang nakatingin sa ibang side...

I usually want my picture taken with the Chef instructor but because of the delicateness of this particular situation (i.e., I don't want to have recurring nightmares of Chef Mike), I just decided to stand beside Clark (a.k.a "The Assistant with the Twang") and have my picture taken with him instead.

[A short side story: While Chef Mike was unleashing his wrath, Clark sauntered up to me and jokingly asked, "Are you guys having fun yet?". I mumbled an answer which I can't remember at the moment. My reply was probably nothing interesting and I'm pretty sure it was something idiotic. Ito kasing si Clark walang kaabog-abog na nagi-English e! Nakakadalawa ka na ha. Hmp!]

Because it was not enough to have soup for lunch --- even if you have all ten different kinds of them, the class went to Eastwood to have lunch...
at magpa-picture.

This photo was conceptualized, directed and shot by Atty. Debbie...
ang galing di ba?... hehehe

As you can see, wala kaming pinipiling lugar...
pinilit pa namin yung janitress na kunan kami.

We had, more or less, a two-hour lunch at Something Fishy. So for those who were not around, rest assured... pinag-usapan namin kayo! Bwahahaha!

TERROR IN ASIA...hehehe

2009-03-28T04:32:00.000-07:00

Yeah... this shot gives a picture of a tired chef-wannabe trying to force a smile on his lips after an unexpectedly taxing and intense Asian Cooking session. Chef Manoj was the chef-instructor this time and he gave us a sampling of his real mentoring style.

CHEF MANOJ

It was nerve-wracking the moment he opened his mouth. He treated us right away to an impromptu class recitation. He randomly asked questions about the topics we discussed since day one. Needless to say, I was panicking inside. He fired a succession of questions at the class. Dundee was the first one to get shot (CHEF: "What's in a Ceasar Salad Dressing?" DUNDEE: "Uhm, Mayo?"... and down went Dundee). I was moving slowly from one place to another, at the back of the class, hoping that he wont see me. He then asked the class to enumerate the 7 Mother Sauces. "Mother of God, please help me.", I pleaded within.
My prayer was answered. I was not called. During that moment, I was clueless. I wouldn't know a tomato sauce from a soy sauce. I wouldn't know a Hollandaise sauce if it walked up to me and played the flute!
Lesson of the story: Always come prepared (not only with your camera) and ready... especially when you are with Chef Manoj.

Don't get me wrong though. Chef Manoj is an excellent mentor. Meron nga lang talagang "sindak factor" that will keep you on your toes.

di ba, Jay?.. "Good Afternoon.." ..hehehe

The Chef Assistants

Clark and Direk Boyong

Clark

I asked this guy "Papano ko ba icru-crush yung bawang. Yung blade ng kutsilyo ba gagamitin ko?". He explained, in grammatically correct English with an American twang, the methods of slicing, chopping and crushing. I was impressed and confused... well, confused for the most part. Hindi ako prepared lalo na sa accent... Pag-alis niya, dinikdik ko na lang yung bawang.

Direk Boyong

parang si Flash kung kumilos... ang bilis!

A celebrity in his own right, of course, the class didn't pass on the chance to have a photo op with him.

Direk Boyong and Me

The Class really worked!

I had no chance to go from group to group and take pictures like I did before(na naka-pose pa na pang-magazine). Aside from the fact that there were lots of things to be done, I was also afraid that Chef Manoj might give a dagger look if I took pictures (I mean, literally, look at me and throw a dagger... hehehe).

Pero syempre, nakasingit pa rin sa picture-taking. Kami pa?!.. mga sabik sa camera!

The Ladies of Group Three

Chef Manoj introduced us to the basics of proper plating. In the past, we usually had the buffet style. He showed us how it should be done on a single serve.

Ate Agnes appears to be listening... pero iniisip na nya kung pano nya babalutin yung pagkain nya.

PLATED ASIAN DISHES

ASIAN COOKING 1

NASI GORENG

PLATED

TONKATSU

SHISH KEBAB

PLATED

BARBEQUE PORK SPARERIBS-INDONESIA

SHANGHAI FRIED RICE

PLATED

BEEF BULGOGI

PLATED

CHICKEN BIRYANI WITH CUCUMBER RAITA

PLATED

JAPANESE SESAME FRIED FISH

PLATED

LAMB KOFTA

SPICY EGGS

Syempre, ang ending namin STARBUCKS!

Liezel won't be with us for the next three weeks. She will be traveling around Asia. PASALUBONG! Have a safe and happy trip, my friend!

POACH TRIP...

2009-03-21T18:21:00.000-07:00

Before anything else, to my fellow FCA-55 students,especially for those who were not there with us at Starbucks, please get in touch with me via our email or Friendster account for the details of the after-school activity that we are going to have this Saturday, March 27. You may also text me (I think I gave most of you my number.).

NOW, WE BEGIN...

FOOD!!!!!

POACHED FILLETS OF LAPU-LAPU with Mushroom and Vegetable in White Wine Sauce

BRAISED BEEF ROULADES

POACHED CHICKEN WITH CREAM SAUCE

PORK EMINCER WITH BUTTON MUSHROOM

BAKED POTATOES

JACKSON POTATOES

FISH AND CHIPS

GRILLED VEGETABLES

ROSTI POTATOES WITH CHEESE

RISOTTO WITH MUSHROOM

Yeah... you probably guessed that we enjoyed our lunch last Saturday... hehehe. We took up Cooking Methods 2 and it was primarily about POACHING.

And who was the master chef in charge this time?...

Imagine a Canadian version of Alec Baldwin...

... with a sense of humor to boot
(the "30 ROCK-funny" kind of Alec Baldwin)

... who can speak Tagalog with flawless Pinoy twang

... and he can cook!

Meet Chef SEAN!

Chef Sean and Me

Chef with Dang, Liezel and Anne

Me again with Chef, this time with Dang and Liezel

(Hindi ako aware na wacky photo pala ang gustong mangyari ng mga nasa likod ko... ako naman, parang graduation pic ang pag-pose ko at pang-valedictorian pa!)

and more group pics!...

Ang ganda naman ng blocking ng Group 4... pang-magazine...

Guys, we have to work so we can eat!

Chef Sean, you start...

we follow...

Guys, pahinga na?...Di pa tayo tapos! Trabaho!...hehehe

Dundee, tama ba namang mag-solo while munching those chocolate chips?

Now, let's pause for a while and give a special tribute to Ate Gigi

ang tagal na nyang nagsumamo at nagmakaawa na magka-solo pic dito sa blog... hayan, Ate Gigi, Mabuhay ka!... hehehe

KAINAN NA PO!

After-school at STARBUCKS

We had discussions about the activities that the group plans to have in the coming weeks...

while everyone listened attentively to Jun, notice how Dang savored every bit of her beverage (oblivious much?... hehehe)

in the meantime, amidst the brainstorming, Ate Agnes decided to meditate...

It was fun. .. great food with great company.