M's PHOTOLOG

Munch Time: Five Guys

2012-02-08T15:42:00.001+08:00

I'm no burger connoisseur and I don't really like eating burger patties in huge buns which I can hardly bite on (without creating such a big mess or leaving ketchup on my clothes).

Five Guys, however, caught my attention. The simple colors of red and white and the number of people going in and out of the restaurant would make you want to try some of their burgers.

We're more used to Jack in the Box and In and Out Burgers, this is something new and I think is worth trying while we're in California.

And OH MY GOD... this I must say tops my list. #1 Five Guys. #2 Jack in the Box. #3 In and Out Burger.

Check out their interiors - clean and simple. Red and white. If you've taken some Psychology or Advertising class, red is usually a color used extensively for brand development. Red is very much associated with activity, power, life and excitement. The visual experience or encounter of red has some effect on a person memory-wise. Check out Jollibee, Mcdonalds, Kit-Kat, Coca-cola, and so on.

What sets it apart from the usual fastfood chains? Five Guys offers complimentary peanutes while you wait for your order. The best of them all is their Cajun fries --- definitely, a must try! They're spicy, tasty and plenty!!! One order is x3 of our regular order of French fries here. They are just addicting! Their Cajun fries is a standout!

The Burger

The burgers come in foiled packaging which keeps the sandwich hot and served fresh. Their burger patties are thick and juicy, grilled with your choice of about a dozen or so free toppings (mustard, mayo, pickles, lettuce, ketchup, relish, A.1. steak sauce, BBQ sauce, wild onions, mushroom, etc.).

PHOTOS TAKEN BY MM YU-SARMIENTO

Much satisfied customers,

Five Guys Branch

100 Crescent Drive, Suite 7A

Pleasant Hill, California

Flinstones Gummies Plus Immunity Support

2012-02-07T06:12:00.002+08:00

Jon and my siblings know that it takes a lot of "water-gulping" before I can fully swallow a capsule (especially those that are bigger than normal or those with stinky/funky smell). The weather in the city is getting a bit strange. It feels more like summer on a winter season and the change of temperature indoors and outdoors is starting to take a toll on me. So... hahahaha I know it's weird and so child-like but I just bought myself some Flinstones Gummies (with Extra C).

Since I'm over 4 years (obviously), I need to take 2-3 gummies instead of just 1.

Supplement Facts

Sprout San Francisco

2012-02-07T05:50:00.000+08:00

Sprout San Francisco
Sprout San Francisco is located at the 1828 Union Street (between Octavia St. and Laguna St.), San Francisco.

Sprout San Francisco is a nice boutique which retails hand-picked natural, healthy and organic products perfect for your little ones. The store is very welcoming and it would make you want to buy and own every item in there. The colors are so refreshing and warm to the eyes. The prices can be a bit "eye-enlarging", too! Haha! But then again, anything and everything healthier and more organic are pricier than the standard ones.

This is such a cute and space-saving crib! It's a modern nursery furniture which can be converted to a toddler bed.

Munch Time: Pho Hoa An

2012-02-03T03:49:00.002+08:00

Finally, a break from the unhealthy and calorific foods that we've been taking in in this country.

Pho Hoa An is located along the Contra Costa Blvd. Pleasant Hill. It's a fave pho spot of people living in this area. The order takers can hardly speak in English though so you've to rely on what's written on the menu.

Fresh Spring Rolls. They aren't bite-sized rolls which I'm quite used to back home. They are huge! (If there's one thing I noticed here, everything is really served 2x the size.) It's good with the peanut sauce that comes with it (photo below). This order came out a few seconds right after we made the order. Fast and fresh!

Extra Large Noodle Soup. Jon and I were served with a huge bowl of noodle soup in front of us. Extra large it is! We thought we won't be able to finish it - but we did, surprisingly. Haha! We loved it! It's perfect for a cold weather. It has the basic spices and it has a fairly good amount of meat in it.

The complete meal costs us roughly $15. Not bad at all.

Munch Time: That Takes The Cake

2012-02-03T02:41:00.000+08:00

Sam and Rye brought me to one of SanFo's best cupcakery, That Takes The Cake. They were raving (and Sam craving for its Red Velvet) so yes, we made a stop at this quaint little shop at Union Street.

Real cute. They look like aprons but they're not! They're cupcake shopping bags! In case you feel like taking home some of those ole homemade fresh baked goodies from That Takes The Cake.

That Takes The Cake Menu Board

Red Velvet Cupcake - The cupcake truly tastes homemade. They're not just inviting to look at, they're pretty delish too! Check out how moist the cupcake is plus oohhh, the delish frosting on top. This cupcake can make you feel "gaga". This cupcake can bring a lot of action inside one's mouth.

Thanks for our take home cupcakes, Sam and Rye Fong! :)

PHOTOS TAKEN BY MM YU-SARMIENTO

To all those who've made a visit or who are regular readers of my blog, let me take this time to say THANK YOU!!! (I just saw this feature from Blogger.com.) Whether it's for the photos I put or the conservative entries I write about, you make me want to blog more!!!

Candy Baron at Pier 39

2012-02-03T01:18:00.002+08:00

Candy Baron at Pier 39

Check out the barrels of all the inidividually wrapped candies - from the salt water taffies, Pez, novelty gums, Nerds, licorice candies, to lollipops. You'd be completely amazed at the different kinds of candies made available by Candy Baron for you! Some of them, you don't really get to see much in the supermarket or common retail stores anymore!

I wonder if people really use these candies, pose with them before they consume. Haha! Would you?

Munch Time: In and Out Burger

2012-02-02T00:33:00.000+08:00

It's been a while since I've last gone to this side of the world and yes, I've heard the raves about In and Out Burger and felt left out of the loop so I knew I just had to try one of their burgers when I come back to the US. And so finally, I'm here!

Their business philosophy was simple, "Give customers the freshest, highest quality foods you can buy and provide them with friendly service in a sparkling clean environment."

Freshest - really crisp lettuce, grilled onions, freshly cut fires and tomatoes.

Highest quality - hmm... I don't know. I'm not really a fan or burgers but their patty was thin (80% bun and toppings, 20% meat) and not as juicy and flavorful as the ones I've tried in other places. It's a great cheap eat but In and Out definitely deserves a good rating for the fast food category.

Going Electronics and More: Fry's and Best Buy, CA

2012-01-31T17:05:00.003+08:00

Fry's Electronics

Every Fry's branch would usually have a theme, sciene fiction on Burbank branch, Wild West on Palo Alto or Alice in Wonderland on Woodland Hills for example. I guess this specific branch at Willow Pass road has a more rugged, container-type or warehouse type of look. The place is HUGE and is "place heaven" for all those who'd love to shop on IT or anything electronics. Although it shares the same logo with Fry's Food and Drug store, I learned that they are not affiliated with each other. Geek gadgets, Fry's is calling you!

Best Buy

Best Buy is also a good source for electronics - TV, digital cameras, mobile phones, tablets, MP3 players and even appliances. They didn't have stock of the tablet we wanted when we visited the branch in Concord but the guy suggested we order and just pick up the items 2-3 days after. You also have the option to buy online and pick it up from the store. Their rates are quite competitive and for the specific tablet that we were looking for, it was selling at almost the same as or even cheaper than the selling prizes in Amazon.

Lucky Supermarket

2012-01-31T00:24:00.002+08:00

One of our favorite pastimes is to go to the supermarket - even back at home. Of course, since we're not really in our home country, we can't buy much for practical reasons. We have to consider food storage. And since most of the items are sold in bulk, that's just unnecessary for 2 people who'll be staying in only for 2 weeks.

But U.S. supermarkets are the best... lots of interesting items - new brands and new products - which are not yet available in the Philippines. One thing I noticed though, almost all are instant! It hasn't change. Almost everything are microwaveable.

Lucky Supermarket

We found some Beggin' Strips for the dogs back home!
(only if Toby, Suri, Prince and Spark can read my blog... SURPRISE!)

PHOTOS TAKEN BY MM YU-SARMIENTO

PAL Mabuhay Lounge's Famous Arroz Caldo

2012-01-30T02:58:00.004+08:00

Our Departure from NAIA 2, Manila

I'd like to highlight on one of the best arroz caldo (I know of), PAL Mabuhay lounge's. It's perfect with spring onions, garlic, diced hard boiled egg and a conservative amount of "patis".

Quoting this from Lakwatsero's blog post: "I am sure that the Arroz Caldo of PAL will always and forever be served in their lounge and will always and forever be a big hit because more than its exceptional appeal to every palate, it defines not only PAL but the country and the Filipino people – simple pero rock!"

Cinemark Pleasant Hill CA

2012-01-29T22:02:00.000+08:00

What's on Cinemark at Pleasant Hill CA? (125 Crescent Drive, Pleasant Hill, CA)

Jon and I didn't go to Cinemark to watch movies. We just grabbed some snacks since the restaurants around Century Downtown close at 10pm. Movie tickets were selling at about $15.00 each.

People were such popcorn freaks! The soda cup sizes were all so huge!

Jon, getting mustard, pickles, some relish and catsup for his hotdog. The most "real" (not so junk) food we found offered in the menu board.

$14.75 for our order of hotdog (missing Sabrett at home), nacho (missing buy-the-bucket at home) and pretzel bites

Munch Time: Som's Noodle House

2012-01-28T15:53:00.002+08:00

I would often hear of Som's from friends who are usual diners of hidden places in Makati. I've also had a taste of their specialty dishes from families who would take out their food for home consumption. This, however, was my very first time to visit the simple, hawker-style Thai restaurant in Makati.

You'd be amazed at the number and mix of people dining in the place. They really come to the place for its authenticity and the quality of food you get for the cheap price you're paying for.

Som's Noodle House is located at Alger St. Poblacion, Makati City (near Dog and Cat Hospital).

Bagoong Fried Rice (P120)

Chicken Sate (P150)

Seafood Green Curry (P180

PHOTOS TAKEN BY MM YU-SARMIENTO

"Toby, Sama?"

2012-01-28T15:04:00.003+08:00

Either you act like a stuffed toy or I pack you inside the luggage. Which do you prefer? Hmm... ! Sama, Toby?

Kong Hei Huat Tsai!!!

2012-01-26T00:42:00.003+08:00

Better late than never, Happy Chinese New Year to everyone!!! Let's not forget the real meaning of this tradition: to reconcile, forget all grudges and sincerely wish peace and happiness for everyone.

Therefore, here I am, wishing my families and friends good fortune, abundance of wealth and health, happiness and more harmonious relationships with people who matter.

Kong Hei Huat Tsai!!!

Jan. 23, 2012. Dragon Dance.

Munch Time: Crabs Week

2012-01-26T00:20:00.004+08:00

This week, my stomach has been filled with "crabs, crabs, claws, and more crabs... !"

It was Anthony's birthday last Tuesday and he treated us to Red Crab at The Piazza, Mckinley Hill. Their crabs were awesomely delicious and we had them cooked in 3 or 4 different styles. The sauce penetrated inside the crab shells. We were all eating the crabs with our bare hands (like we've never seen each other eat before)! KatCo surely knew how to eat in "kamayan" style. Haha!

King Crab is located along P. Guevarra (right across Petron, Everything at Steak). They say that this is one of San Juan's best kept secret - well, not really a secret now, especially if it has been in the same spot serving new and old generation of customers for over 14 years now. One of King Crab's more known recipes is the sotanghon with crab underneath (forget what it's called). Remembering the Cheers commercial on YouTube!

PHOTOS TAKEN BY MM YU-SARMIENTO

Munch Time: Cafe Puccini

2012-01-21T00:17:00.002+08:00

If you're looking for a good, authentic Italian restaurant (aside from Italianni's) and a cozy place where you can bring your special someone along, why not try Cafe Puccini at the Fort Strip? This is also a perfect place to bring in or invite your foreign friends and business partners who are craving for that taste of an Italian cuisine.

We were first served complimentary dishes - bread and dips (liver paste and tomato salsa) - as soon as we entered and sat down inside this fine dine restaurant.

Our orders... which filled two hungry stomachs that night...

The Pizza Puccini (photo below) was real good!!! I love the mix of arugula and the quick drizzle of cream of balsamic vinegar and truffle (or tartufo in Italian) oil.

We would definitely come back at Cafe Puccini if we feel like dining in an al fresco or opera-inspired ambience or simply, if we crave for a taste true Italian. We'd love to try their other specialties - risotto, pasta, steak and ravioli.

Cocorose London is in the Philippines!!!

2012-01-20T20:52:00.003+08:00

This brand of stylish, luxurious, foldable, and comfortable ballet flats from East London is now in the Philippines! Cocorose London is now selling at the Rustan's Shangri-la and Alabang malls. A pair comes with a compact travel purse.

The Cocorose Collection

Diffusion Line - Cap Ballerina (above)

Classic Elegance

Diffusion Line - Peep-toe

Convenience and functionality, coupled with style and luxury design.

Johnnie Walker Blue + Porsche Design Event

2012-01-19T22:10:00.000+08:00

"Johnnie, Johnnie... oh, Johnnie, you're raised the bar and went a notch higher... again!"

Johnnie Walker partners with Porsche Design to launch its luxurious and exclusive piece of iconic art collection - Johnnie Walker Blue Label Private Bar.

The private event was held in a luxury club at the Fort Strip, Prive.

The event had a private guest list but overall, it was attended by socialites, loyal customers of the scotch whisky drink, media, employees of Johnnie Walker in the Phils., its management, including the managing director and ambassador of Johnnie Walker Blue. The event was hosted by none other than, Rovilson Fernandez.

So you might be wondering, what is all the fuzz about? What is Johnnie Walker really launching aside from its already known exquisite blend in a bottle of Blue... here it is, THE PRIVATE BAR.

The Private Bar is made of brushed titanium with a luxurious leather interior. It is called "The Private Bar" because it has motion sensors which opens through a perfect 180 degrees. A bar has 3 bottles of Johnnie Walker Blue Lablel, 4 illuminated crystal glasses and chilled water. Ever wonder how much a bar costs? I heard it's at around 100,000 Great Britain pounds. You do the computation.

Johnnie Walker also offers another kind in its collection - The Chiller. It has a single bottle of Johnnie Blue, encased in sophisticated dark blue leather (bottom part) and brushed titanium (top part). The top cover serves as a chiller, thus, The Chiller.

You can also have your bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue engraved with a name on it (for only less than P8,000). Perfect gift for businessmen, clients, men, fathers, friends and loved ones.

PHOTOS TAKEN BY MM YU-SARMIENTO

Promo: Ristorante Bigoli's Pic-A-Pasta Photo Contest

2012-01-16T09:51:00.002+08:00

If you're craving for Bigoli's pasta... or simple just any good 'ol pasta... join this contest now! Have a nice "little fill" of Bigoli when you start craving for something Italian. You might be one of the 5 winners to have that "pasta supply of the year" award! That's free pasta once a week or 4-5 free pasta dishes for a month!

Promo period is from Jan. 13-March 31, 2012.

Definition from Wikipedia: Bigoli is an extruded pasta in the form of a long and thick tube. Traditionally they were made with buckwheat flour, but are more commonly made with whole wheat flour now. Traditionally, duck eggs are used for the pasta. It closely resembles bucatini. Bigoli is a term used in Venice, whereas the term pici is used in Tuscany for a similar sized pasta without the hole in the center; often, the terms will be used interchangeably.

Visit Ristorante Bigoli at the ff. branches:

Bigoli Eastwood: G/F Eastwood Citywalk 1

Tel No: 4210416, 4210453

Bigoli TriNoma: 4th Level (near Cinema 7), TriNoma

Tel No: 9015742

My First Confinement

2012-01-15T18:08:00.005+08:00

I was sorting our old photos at iPhoto and found this image.

This just reminded me of my very first confinement in a hospital (-aside from that when I was still an infant, of course). This image brought back a lot of both wonderful and traumatizing memories for me but it was definitely an unusual experience and something worth sharing.

FAMILY was a big factor in the recovery --- having both the Sarmiento and Yu families in one room and having even extended families of both sides visit me in the hospital.

Munch Time: Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

2012-01-11T20:53:00.001+08:00

Hanging out with Jon and Cole for some coffee cups at CBTL!

If it's not the (usual) Today's Brewed Coffee, I'll have one of my favorite tea lattes in CBTL - Chai, African Sunrise, English Breakfast or Peppermint!

Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf branch at Rockwell Business Center, Ortigas

Malcolm's Burger Turns 1!

2012-01-11T20:23:00.003+08:00

Buy 1 Take 1 promo is applicable to all burgers ONLY! This promo is not applicable to rice meals and other sandwiches.
This promo is valid for dine-in and to-go orders ONLY!
Customer can get 2 different burgers! Pay for the price of the burger with the higher amount.
This promo is not valid in conduction with other discounts/promos.

TWO DAYS TO GO!!!

Are You Ready for a Twosome?

2012-01-06T12:40:00.001+08:00

2011 Holidays In a Snapshot

2012-01-04T14:05:00.000+08:00

 2011 Holidays in a Snapshot (... and a lot of others in between ...)

The holidays can become a bit routinary for me but last year's was a bit different. First is the fact that I'm already married, which means holidays for both Jon and I will be busier and we'll have more people and loved ones to please and celebrate it with.

I never or I am not complaining that it has become routinary. I've never really envisioned Christmas in a different country or place since that also goes to say that I'll be away from family and friends. If only I can bring everyone to a cooler place, that would be just perfect. Or (wishful thinking), how about winter in the Philippines? The holidays for me is when family and friends who've migrated or stayed in a foreign country come home to visit and spend holidays here. It is the best time to gather people, reunite and catch up with loved ones. Amid the gift-giving, I'm already grateful for just that.

December 2011. Business Operations Christmas Photoshoot for Org. Email Blast.

 

12.08.2011. Christmas Party with Grade School friends - AkzTol at Kaingin.

12.12.2011. Annual Christmas Party with La Familia. This time celebrated at the Co-Residence and catered by Elarz. Receiving my Beabi exchange gift from Kim Cheng.

12.15.2011. Christmas Dinner with Noel, the BizOps Team and e-Leadership Team at Blackwood, Piazza, Mckinley Hill.

12.16.2011. Business Operations and Business Center Christmas Party at the 12th Floor Pantry, IPC.

12.16.2011. After Christmas Party or Drinks at Draft, Fort Strip.

12.21.2011. Christmas dinner with my "super seatmate", Shar at Jozu Kin, Ronac Arts Center.

12.24.2011. Annual tradition of opening of gifts with the Sarmientos at home.

12.24.2011. Christmas Eve celebration at the 10th Street with Uy (Yu, Go, Ang) and Shaw Families.

 

12.25.2011. Christmas Lunch with the extended Sarmiento family at Pasig.

12.26.2011. Lunch with Achi, Wilmer and Jon at Akazaka, Tagaytay Highlands.

12.25.2011. Annual tradition of the Uy cousins to watch at least one MMFF movie. Segunda Mano night.

12.30.2011. 6PM mass then Christmas Eve dinner with the Gan side.

12.30.2011. Christmas Eve with GMA friends until 6 in the morning. Shar, Estee, Regi, Apum, Cincin, Miong, Ng, Ba, and Nor with Russia, the schnauzer.

12.30.2011. Jon and I, on our very first Christmas Eve together. Firewors with tissue paper! :)

 

12.31.2011. Ending the year right by pampering ourselves in a spa buffet at Nails and Beyond, Banawe branch.

12.31.2011. Brunch with my HS friends, Bcrew, at Mary Grace, Serendra.

Editing done through Instragram and Picnik applications. 

Others by Sara Sarmiento.

Happy New Year to all the Chuvacosmo followers and readers.

May you have a blessed 2012! 

Munch Time: Seryna

2011-12-29T19:31:00.000+08:00

at Seryna, Little Tokyo, Chino Roces Ave., Makati

I wonder how chaotic it would be like to be in Seryna on a weeknight or far more, on weekends. We went to Seryna on a work day Wednesday and the place was full. We made a reservation (Jon, not being his first time, knew how busy the place can get on lunch time and made sure we get seats) but lost it when we were a few minutes late. We were lucky enough to be seated after a few minutes of waiting. The servers were kind enough to insist in getting us more comfortable seats for four (where we'll all be seated together and not in separate tables).

Seryna's Lunch Combo Meals (P350/meal)

Mackerel Lunch Meal

Tempura Lunch Meal

Seryna's version of Chirashi, Kaizen Lunch Meal

The place has been around for a few years but its number of patrons continue to grow just by sheer word-of-mouth. Customers leave the place satisfied with feeling of best value for their money. Their lunch meals are certainly a "patok" for Japanese expats, businessmen and working men around the Makati district.

Photos above are unedited, except that of the collage.

More Photos of Seryna by Sara Sarmiento

Chuvacosmo Pick: Royce' Potatochip Chocolate

2011-12-28T19:13:00.003+08:00

The hype on Royce can be a bit overrated but it is "delish" and a bit addictive. The concept of dipping potato chips on chocolate is nothing new, however. Our great, great grands may have done this before and it could have already existed decades ago. It's literally the brand you are eating and munching on.

Sweet on Salty: Royce' Chocolate Covered Potato Chips

Chuvacosmo Pick: Erica's Homemade Bacardi Rum Cake

2011-12-28T11:02:00.002+08:00

This is my sister-in-law's recipe and version of the Bacardi Rum Cake - one of the moistest and yummiest homemade ones I've had.

We finished it in 2 days. It's a perfect dessert cake for the holidays and it's something great to prepare for gift-giving.

Chuvacosmo Pick: Lovin' Our Sperry Top-Sider Shoes

2011-12-26T00:50:00.000+08:00

Sperry Top-Sider Men's Navigator Driver and Women's Montauk Slip-on

I'm no sneakers person. I just usually wear flats, some fit-flops or a 2 or 3-inch heeled pair of shoes. I just usually wear my youngest sister's pair of Converse if I really need to be in some rugged and comfortable pair but this one, I cannot resist in buying. It's not only comfortable, but it's also fashionable, too. Nothing bulky for my long "chicken" legs and slender feet, at least.

2011-12-09T11:18:00.001+08:00

Moonleaf Tea House

Chuvacomso Pick: Baumkuchen

2011-11-24T22:11:00.001+08:00

The origins of Juchheim date back to the year 1909.

Juchheim remained faithful to the fundamental policy of using only pure, genuine ingredients and never using unnecessary additives.

Interesting to see how it's being made to perfection... and now, to read about its history and tradition in Germany and Japan.

Known as “Der Konig der Kuchen” (“The King of Cakes”) in Germany, baumkuchen is a very special cake and is also used as the symbol of the German Confectionery Association.

Welcoming Tyler Ongsue

2011-11-23T23:27:00.001+08:00

Our very first photo with Tyler Vincent Ongsue at the nursery of MMC.
The grandparents and dad of Tyler --- with the "yayos" and "yayas" (rest of us).

Proud Papa Kenneth!

... and of course, the responsible dad. "Balato lang ito!" The very first dad wipe!
Auntie B, here's a proof!

Welcoming Tyler to the world. Congratulations Ely and Raq!!!

Sam and Rye Fong

2011-11-18T20:38:00.005+08:00

I must say, this is one of the most wonderful prenup video that I have viewed and would definitely not get tired of watching over and again. I don't know if it's because I know Sam personally or if it's because of the thought that love can actually grow or find each other from childhood years but for whatever reason, this video give me goosebumps.

Video 1: Prenup Video - Reinterpreted Love Story of Sam and Rye Fong

Sam and Rye, I hope it's okay that I share these 2 links from your wedding. (Magpapaalam ako sayo Sam after this! Haha.) I've sent you, Sam, my personal greeting thru Kat and it's so unfortunate that I couldn't be there to witness the atmosphere of love that you and Rye both radiate when you're together (and just by merely watching you both in these videos).

Video 2: Same Day Edit Video

Again, a BIG CONGRATULATIONS to you both and with lots of love, best wishes to a wonderful marriage!!!

VIDEOS BY MAYAD STUDIOS

Will You Do The Same to Win a Subaru Impreza?

2011-11-16T21:54:00.003+08:00

The Subaru Challenge 2011 at Ngee Ann City (outside Takashimaya)

Are you up for this challenge?

The winner will receive a grand prize of a Subaru Impreza WRX 2.5 MT Hatchback worth S$92,800, additional titles and cash prizes.

The Last Man Standing

Chong Kiat Chi won the grand prize. He had his palm on the car for 75 hours and 36 minutes (approximately 3 days).

PHOTOS TAKEN BY MM YU-SARMIENTO
SINGAPORE 2011

My Version of Tropical Fruit Salad

2011-11-14T17:49:00.001+08:00

Ok. I wasn't ready and I just felt like surprising everyone at home so I made an impromptu Tropical Fruit Salad! :) Missing some of the most important ingredients - kiwi slices and buko shavings. Next time. Christmas is near! ;)

"Parang ang hirap eh noh? :) HAHAHA!"

I'm getting requests from family and friends that I make for them also! It looks good "daw" from the photos. That's what the s95 can do! ;)

Squid Ink Pasta/Black Pasta

2011-11-09T21:37:00.000+08:00

Chef Sarmie's Squid Ink Pasta/Black Pasta

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

And of course, wherever there's food, there's Tobias!

Chuvacosmo Pick: Einstein Bros. Bagels Cream Cheese Spread

2011-11-09T19:22:00.000+08:00

Einstein Bros. Bagels is a bagel and coffee chain in the United States. It has over a hundred branches in the U.S. and could be an ordinary morning stop for the locals there... ohh, imagine freshly-baked bagels and hot cup of good coffee to go with it.

Too bad it would take us extra cash and it will be such an effort for us to buy and try out the other flavors since we're like in the other side of the globe. I wonder if it would be possible for us to distribute this brand here in the Philippines and if there would be a market for it. (Meron kaya nito sa Duty Free or S&R?) Most Filipinos are much satisfied with local brands such as Kraft and Lady's Choice spreads to go with their "pandesal".

Thanks for these Chet! :)

Munch Time: Pizzasta's Chicken Pork Adobo

2011-11-09T17:54:00.001+08:00

Pizzasta is located at the 2nd floor of Resorts World (inside the casino, same side as Republiq and where the other restaurants are).

We've heard raves about this thin crust pizza which is only available at the Resorts World. We ordered their bestseller (with a thumbs up logo in the menu), CPA - Chicken Pork Adobo with Laguna Cheese Pizza. It's P320 for a 12" inch pizza.

Condiments Section

Chili Flakes

Munch Time: P.S. Cafe

2011-11-09T16:47:00.009+08:00

P.S. Cafe has long been hailed as one of the most unique and comforting venues for diners. Enjoy the details such as its rattan aesthetics, high ceiling, fresh plants in huge vases, colonial and warm floor tiles which all adds up and complements each other in bringing us a whole new modern experience for comfort food dishes.

We've been warned that there's usually a long queue or we have to call for reservations before coming here but it was at already past 1PM so we were lucky enough to be seated in just a few minutes of waiting.

P.S. Cafe has 2 branches in Singapore. This branch is the one located in the 2nd floor of Palais Mall, just along Orchard Road (past Thai Embassy). If you were to bring a date somewhere in Singapore, here's a perfect place. Enjoy it with chilled wine over dinner.

The menu is quite restricted but delicious, and the service is brisk. Two of our dishes below are only served and available during lunch time.

Truffle Fries

Crispy Soft Shell Crab Sandwich (side dish: salad)

Tandoori Chicken (side dish: roti)

P.S. Crispy Garden Burger (side dish: fries)

Random Thoughts

2011-11-09T13:27:00.007+08:00

1. Stop being too judgmental. You don't know half of what or how we are doing now.

2. We know our limits and we're not splurging. We save and we live to enjoy our hard-earned money.

3. We value our families more than anything. We love our friends just the same. We do not backstab or talk about other people like we don't have personal stains and dents.

4. I have always been the cheerful, jolly, and optimistic kind of person and I hate it when people have everything (even the smallest things) to complain about. I'm not going for negative vibes.

5. Learn to trust people. Learn to trust, more especially, your own kind/breed.

6. We have ambitions and we will strive for them. We have goals and we will work hard to reach them. So no, we will not live to be complacent.

7. Not everything will go your way so learn to adapt and adjust. Don't be spoiled brats.

8. Envy is sin. It will never make you happy.
9. You can never blame anyone, not even your parents, for your future. Only you are responsible in creating your life's path. God gave you freedom to do something about that. Make it meaningful.
10. If you want something (kung may gusto ka), say it (sabihin mo) or do something about it. Things won't work for you and not everyone can read minds.

Enjoy life! Live HAPPY!

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

2011-11-09T12:13:00.005+08:00

Nov. 2, 2011. Our Last Day in Singapore.

Ticket Redemption and Entrance to Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Titanic Sails into Singapore - October 29 2011 - April 29 2012

Boarding Pass, Exhibit Ticket at S$24.00 and a Newsletter

The boarding pass will allow you to take on a character as one of the real passengers of Titanic. I play the character of Mrs. Samuel L. Goldenberg (Nella Wiggins). I was traveling with my second husband, Mr. Samuel Goldenberg and we were both from Paris, France. We were avid dog lovers.

Jon with a photo of the number of construction workers who built the "unsinkable" ship.

The Titanic

See a few photos of personal artifacts recovered from the wreck, including documents, travel bottles, jewels, chinaware, clothing and much more. Tools and other parts of the Titanic have also been recreated, recovered and preserved.

A Postcard

Along the hallway of the First Class Cabin

There were stars in the skies (just wasn't able to capture it in this photo). Imagine yourself being outside the ship - air being cooler as the ship nears the iceberg. Temperature dropping down quick.

Reading these real-life quotes from the passengers gave us goosebumps.

MQ, Jon and I had a quick experience of what it's like to be near the iceberg and to somehow experience how passengers could die of hypothermia. 10 seconds of touching this big block of ice already numbed my hand.

This brings a human element and the reality that Titanic was more than of Jack and Rose's romance. There were other people in that ship.

"We have lived together for many years, where you go, I go." --- MQ and I (Aww...!!!)

This pair of boots had a real owner.

This one too! That's real gold in there.

Owners of Macy's Department Store were also passengers of Titanic

History came alive through this exhibit and the story of Titanic forever lives on.

Remember the boarding pass we have on-hand? This list will actually help you determine your fate - if you survived or not. One of my realizations upon seeing this list is that there is not much difference, in terms of having power and a good social status in life, from past and present. A big number of first class passengers survived. A large number of workers and third class passengers died.

This had a good placement, as it was seen in the wreckage.

This didn't disappoint! The exhibit was really moving and it made you want to live in those olden days - sophistication and elegance. The exhibit was worth every dollar we spent to be here! Too bad we couldn't take photos on the beautiful replica of the grand staircase but it was amazing to just see it in person.

Munch Time: KFC Zinger Double Down

2011-11-08T20:52:00.000+08:00

KFC's newest sandwich... Zinger Double Down!!!

This, I must say, is a horrifying addition to the fast food market.

You want to get scared? The Double Down burger with original recipe chicken contains 1939kj and 22.3g of fat. Thinking twice if you'll grab a bite of this?

Two chicken breast fillets serve as buns. It has bacon, a layer of cheese and mayo in the middle. All at the price of P120!

Other meal options: ZDD with fries and drinks at P150; ZDD Full Loaded meal at P220

Munch Time: Food Opera at ION Orchard

2011-11-08T20:31:00.001+08:00

Check this out. Our friends couldn't decide on where to eat and going to an outdoor hawker center wasn't an option for us that night so we decided to stay indoors and dine in a more upscale hawker place, Food Opera. Food Opera is what we'd call the "food court" in Manila - only more experiential and with a vast selection of unique dishes to choose from.

Food Opera at ION Orchard, Singapore

Singaporean Chili Crab

Cereal Prawns

Fried Buns

This is our version of Singaporean "pan to".

Food all wiped out in less than 30 minutes!

BURPPP!!!

The Newly Renovated Floors of Rustan's Shangri-La Plaza

2011-11-07T22:36:00.000+08:00

Rustan's in Manila has always been synonymous with luxury retail department store. The newly renovated Rustan's in Edsa is redefining it for you. You'll just be amazed at the look of their newly renovated floors - 2nd and 3rd - with the basic elements of a great shopping experience considered - brand experience, store space, design and atmosphere.

Munch Time: Tomo Izakaya

2011-11-06T16:34:00.001+08:00

This was our very first food stop reaching Singapore last Oct. 29, 2011.

Arrived in Singapore at 8:30pm > checked in and went to our hotel room > checked out the Halloween event at Clarke Quay and made a food stop at Tomo Izakaya.

Dinner at Tomo Izakaya, Clarke Quay (River Valley Road)

In Japanese, tomo (toh-moh) means ‘friend’ and izakaya comes from a combination of I (ee) and sakaya (sah-kai-ya) which means ‘to stay in a sake shop’.

Tomo Izakaya

I love the lighted tables. It adds on to the sophisticated feel and ambience of the place.

This restaurant won best decor for this year's Halloween event in Clarke Quay. This main branch of Tomo at Clarke Quay also won an award for best interior design. Their other branch is located at the Esplanade Art Center.

Look at the servers. They were also in their Halloween costumes! This one though, as my friend would say, looked more like of a "taong grasa".

Sapporo - S$36 for a jug/pitcher

Our Food

Me and my friends with Jack Sparrow (also one of the servers). He doesn't like me! (Look at his face! Hahaha!)

Food was great. Place was chic and stylish. You definitely get the experience of comfort and authenticity of what Japanese food is like in what you are paying for. This was a perfect place for us to hide and chill in the very busy place at Clarke Quay that night.

Hearing Mass at Singapore

2011-11-06T13:12:00.001+08:00

One of the wonderful things that we just recently discovered that we love to do is to hear mass in different places of the world. Each country, each chapel/church has a different way of celebrating the Eucharist.

I forgot to jot down the name of this chapel but it's an old chapel in the city of Singapore. There were a lot of people - from different races and origins. The chapel was filled/jam-packed! We were encouraged to sit instead of just stand up (like how we usually hear mass in MTQ). There were ushers and usherettes to guide you and ask others to make space. And yes, "masikip siya" + the wooden thing which we had to kneel on didn't have a cushion + the place does not have air-conditioning. But this brought us a good experience. You'd just be amazed at how religion or such a solemn place can unify and bring people together.

The mass lasted for about an hour and a half. We got too spoiled with the 45 minutes mass in MTQ. But this had "the production". Even the choir did a procession.

Jon wanted to have a picture taken with St. Francis Xavier. Xavier! :)

Outside the church with my sister, mom and brother.

Outside the church with my husband, sister and mom.

Flying To and From Singapore

2011-11-06T12:30:00.002+08:00

MQ and I at the NAIA Terminal 1. It's been a while since we've last departed from this terminal. Though it's been labeled as the worst airport in the world for 2011, I'd say it's not that bad for a 3rd world country like ours. It's old and most of the details are damaged (cracked paints on counters, stained ceilings, dark toilets, stained carpets), but it serves its purpose and surprisingly, we went through the immigration and customs queue fast enough.

Flying To and From Singapore through SQ

Manila to Singapore

Singapore to Manila

Aside from the hot towels served to us right after boarding, we were also given blankets to be used for the entire flight. We also had newspapers of The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times and The Strait Times.

Beverages Menu

We ordered ourselves a glass of Singapore Sling.

And of course, our own seatback TV. During flight, movies like The Smurfs, Friends with Benefits, Horrible Bosses, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows were showing. The kids can also play video games with their Nintendo-like remote control.

Overall, Singapore Airlines is full service quality airline. Service wasn't bad at all for an economy flight.

Candylicious Eat Happy

2011-11-03T21:07:00.000+08:00

Enjoy these photos. The place, Candylicious, is just visually mesmerizing.

Lotsa flavors of jelly bellies! Oh so colorful!

Check out these mini carts. I don't think the size is enough for all the candies you could possibly shop around this heavenly huge store.

Without a fail, the store exudes a happy place.

The catch: "If there's no candy in heaven, I'm not going."

"Eat happy!"

Happy Halloween chocolate balls!

Starbucks' Customer Visit Receipt Survey

2011-10-19T10:25:00.000+08:00

We happen to pass by the Paseo Sta. Rosa branch of Starbucks from our drive home from Tagaytay. After placing my order for a hot cup of caramel macchiatto, I receive an unusual long receipt from the cashier and a greeting of "Congratulations!" from the barista. It's my second time to be luckily selected in this survey/promo. All I need to do is answer an online survey and I get a free tall drink from Starbucks on my visit. How easy is that?

Munch Time: Tootsie's Tagaytay

2011-10-17T14:43:00.001+08:00

Sharing with you a newly discovered Filipino treasure in the relaxing land of Tagaytay Ridge, Tootsie's. We were so glad that our usual Filipino restau was full at that time, so then, we gave ourselves a chance to check out this place. Gladly and with much content, it met and even more, exceeded our expectations. I'd definitely come back for Tootsie's and try their other dish offerings.

Tootsie's offers a home-style way of cooking Filipino dishes. Innovative and unique, you'd notice that most of their dishes have a personal hint and testimony from the members themselves. You'd also see a couple of personal favorites from their menu.

Kansi Bulalo (P465) - This is like sinigang and bulalo in one!

Chicken Lia (P175) - This is real good and special. It's a family's version or way of cooking chicken the Ilonggo way.

Adobong Kangkong (P145)

Inihaw na Maliputo (P160/100 grams) - It's a grilled seasonal freshwater fish found only in Taal.

Sago't Gulaman

Munch Time: Sinfully by Makati Shangri-la

2011-10-17T11:34:00.002+08:00

This will definitely make you drool.

Here's a sinful sweet spot located at the 3rd floor of Greenbelt 5.

If you’re looking for a perfect gift on Christmas or for your loved ones at any special day of the year, here’s a perfect patisserie which can help you solve that.

Sinfully in Greenbelt 5 lures you to the place not only by the sweet scent of its freshly baked pastries but also by showing off kitchens where chefs and chocolate experts whip up and intricately design drool-inducing chocolate creations. Their chocolates are being made in gorgeous shapes and colors, with much elaborate details in each piece. You’d think twice eating a piece and would just probably want to save and store them in one place for forever!

When words are not enough or when words cannot fully express your message, Sinfully also offers emoti-cakes in flavors of lemon cheese and chocolate. Prices start at P380 and up. For orders, dial 02 8138888 loc. 7463 or visit their store at Makati Shangri-la's Circle Event Cafe. You may also call 02 7296626 to order from their Greenbelt branch.

They also have chocolates crafted to your zodiac sign. Perfect for birthdays!

They also have calendar chocolates baked to help you mark special events. It's a choice between rich cheesecake or lush chocolate cake topped with berries!

Munch Time: Cobo Bubble Tea and Snow Ice

2011-10-05T14:30:00.001+08:00

This is already my nth time to write about milk teas and there’s really not much that sets each other brand apart – except that other toppings/add-ons are available in the other or that the other milk tea brand tastes more authentic than the rest. I’ll always have my top 3 or 5 favorites – Happy Lemon, Saint’s Alp, and Cha Time - to name the top 3 but trying out the new bobba/milk tea stores sprouting in the metro will always leave some curiosity for my thirst and in my taste buds.

Here’s a new milk tea place at Scount Grandia corner Tomas Morato (beside Citibank), Quezon City.

Cobo Bubble Tea and Snow Ice

Their vast choices of flavored drinks and pica food to choose from.

Their drinks come in 2 different sizes! Not much difference on the price.

I ordered their Rose Tie Guanyin (without milk) 22 oz. and was satisfied with the drink!

Interesting add-ons to your snow-ice or bubble teas. There's a lot to choose from.

I recommend you check it out for yourself!

Munch Time: Wendy's Baconator

2011-10-01T15:15:00.002+08:00

Check this out. KILLER!

Wendy's Baconator has 2 4oz. beef patties in a bun, 2 slices of American cheese and six strips of bacon with the basics, mayonnaise and ketchup in one foil wrap. A burger costs 236 Php. It's still being sold here in the Philippines but you wouldn't find it in their menu so you've to do a special order and wait for 10-15 minutes for your Baconator to be served.

Wendy's can be found at the lower ground floor of Shangri-la Plaza Mall.

Random Stuff: Windows Theme and Citibank's CBTL Promo

2011-09-19T11:48:00.000+08:00

I love my desktop wallpaper! (Illusions by Josh Sommers)

Where to get them? Here! These are free and downloadable themes for Windows 7. You can install the pack and run them at anytime from your Control Panel.

Here's a visit to the UP Ayala Technohub in Commonwealth Avenue. It's a vast land of cybertech hub with dining areas for its employees and for families who'd want to visit the place on weekends.

After a visit to the switch store in UP Ayala, Jon, Cole and I took a break and had upsized coffee mugs from CBTL. If you have a Citibank card, you get a free upsize! That simple! Promo is until December 31, 2012.

My Fake Eyeglasses

2011-09-14T12:16:00.000+08:00

Guess what I found after sorting my stuff from New Manila home. My fake glasses! I got this when I was still teaching in Xavier School and wanted to look more like of a serious teacher. Hahaha. The lenses don't have any grade. Now I can still use it anytime I want to look nerdy-like.

Social Sites

2011-09-08T13:11:00.002+08:00

You'll hear less of me on Facebook and more of me on Twitter. I'm addicted!!! Follow me! Username: SarmientoMM. I'm also on Instagram! Username: mmyusarmiento

Thanks!

Munch Time: 2nd's at the Fort

2011-09-08T13:05:00.002+08:00

Again, forgive me for the quality of these photos. Used my my phone camera for these.

At the 2nd's, Fort

2F of Quadrant 3 (beside Agave Mexican Cantina), 9th ave., Fort Bonifacio High Street

This was my 3rd attempt to dine in this place and luckily, it was still open at 2pm. Jon, Erica, Cole and I had a late lunch at this place. The interiors remind me so much of Ponti (chairs, ambiance and colors) but this was way more classier and luxurious in look. The place may look intimidating (especially with the huge entrance door) but this place doesn't actually have a dress code. The interior of this restaurant has a good acoustics but in the early afternoon, the AC couldn't beat the heat. Why 3rd attempt? They're always full in peak hours (lunch and dinner hours). Make sure you call and have a table reserved. I do not suggest you do walk-ins! (For reservations: +632 846-5293)

Our opinion. Food was so-so! It's a lot different and presentation is excellent. They obviously use some quality ingredients in their dishes but the others were priced expensively.

Random Stuff: Promo Weekend and Other Cool Stuff

2011-09-01T23:50:00.001+08:00

Spent another weekend spending for home furnishings with dad. After 10+ years, we were able to convince dad to go back and visit Megamall so he can buy mattresses from Forty Winks and check out other home items from SM Home World. It was a long weekend (assumed not much people would be around) and it was only 10 AM then so he agreed to go. “Mukhang natuwa naman siya”. He was amazed at the car park lights hahaha! I think he did some overspending and some impulsive buying, seeing all the various and cheap items you can find in SM Homeworld. Shempre came with it was dad making “chikahan” with the sales and cashier people. A funny comment dad made: “Ano meron? Bakit parang may parade?” He was surprised to find out that SM has over 3,000 employees.

Then we even got this… P100 GC for every P1000 worth of purchase receipt! Redemption until August 31, 2011.

By 11 AM, we were afraid to make Papa stay in SM and see the crowd. You don’t want him losing his temper. So we headed off to Eastwood Mall. Shopping continues… and like SM, they also have a promo! Ano ba yan! We never win naman.

Oh, and check out some of the cool items below.

Toothpaste Dispenser from Japan (bought in Hong Kong)

It’s not an electronic machine and it doesn’t need batteries but it dispenses a fair amount of toothpaste from the tube. No waste toothpaste! We got so “aliw” with it that it makes us want to brush our teeth more often than we do now.

Granite Ice

The 3 granite cubes you see below replace natural ice (ice made of water) and can be reused.

History of Granite Ice: In Sweden, for hundreds of years, the locals have been cutting small cubes out of soap-stone and using them for precisely the same reason as our Granite Ice - to cool their favorite drinks without diluting them.

Munch Time: The Original Domino's Pizza

2011-08-29T01:36:00.001+08:00

The comeback of Domino's Pizza!

The original franchise is back and is now delivering in the metro. They say that Angel's Pizza has taken or has replaced Domino's but thank God Domino's is not completely out. Whatever happened to that, I'd leave it to them to worry about but as long as Domino's is back, we're all good.

As Domino's would want to advertise themselves "New and Improved because We Were Terrible" - perfectly bold and humble of them, the quality of its pizza (especially of its crust) has indeed improved! The crust was less greasy and crispier.

Domino's Pizza Branches:

Silvercity, Tiendesitas: 576-3030

Makati: 754-3030

Alabang: 553-3030

4 Steps to Preparing Your Pizza: Order Placed, In Oven, Being Made, Ready

It lets you know how long you'd still have to wait for your orders to be ready.

Extravaganza 7"inch Pizza

Baked Spaghetti

I honestly like the old one better. I feel like it's more oven-baked, sweeter and cheesier although this is also as good, if you enjoy your pasta with more of the tomato taste on it.

Sealed and tied with a ribbon by Domino's Pizza! Love the new and blue packaging - as compared to the white carton box!

The Menu

Munch Time: Cafe TeaTap

2011-08-23T10:42:00.000+08:00

Kozui Green Tea is now in P. Guevarra, corner Wilson Street. It's located at the G/F of the Barrio Fiesta building.

Young entrepreneur and Kozui owner Anthony So has decided to expand his business and branch out this "wonderful, zesty place for green tea and more" to a place nearer Greenhills area and call it, Cafe TeaTap. '

Wilson is indeed the mecca for all kinds of milk teas. Cafe TeaTap adds to the long list of milk tea brands made available in Wilson - Serenitea, Bubble Tea, Cha Time, and so on. So go Cafe TeaTap, bring in the competition.

Munch Time: Saint’s Alp Teahouse

2011-08-12T22:27:00.002+08:00

Here’s another milk teahouse that’s different from the other milk tea places I’ve been. Name it – I must have tried, gotten a sip of it for once or so. After getting a sip of the Matcha Nature with MatchaAgra, I thought “nobody does it better that Saint’s Alp!”

Saint’s Alp is a new place to-go-to along Katipunan. It is located in the 2nd floor of the new, white building where Peanut Butter restaurant, Bonchon and BDO are all opening up. It is beside the KFC building (across Gate 3 of Ateneo). As long as you find your personal kind of drink, you’d surely come back for more of this.

What will make me come back for Saint's Alp? It's quality over quantity. Period.

Their bestsellers were the Iced Sumiyaki coffee and the Taro (Green) Milk Tea. I ordered for the Matcha. I didn’t like anything with milk on my drink. This totally didn't disappoint.

A sip on their matcha drink reminded me of Kohikan (one place I miss the most in Promenade). Their Sumiyaki coffee reminded me of UCC – only Saint’s Alp was cheaper in price, but not in quality. What makes it better is you can take your drinks with add-onds. (Check the photo below.) Agar, which stands for flavored firm gelatin, is a trademark of Saint’s Alp. Ok, agar!

Local franchisees were at the place when we visited. They were a group of young people who've discovered this place in New York. They were “ma-PR” enough to ask us if we enjoyed our drinks and from where or how we heard of it opening in Katipunan. They were actually very nice and professional entrepreneurs!

Random photos in Saint’s Alp. We were just playing around with my s95!

Letter Complaint to LTO

2011-08-11T23:34:00.003+08:00

To whom it may concern:

My husband has been waiting in LTO Taguig for more than 3 hours already and still, he hasn’t been accommodated nor was he able to get what he went there for --- an updated LTO record in their database and a printed CR (car registration) from "not encumbered" to "encumbered".

For your information, he has come back and forth your office for more than 5x already and he has been told that his CR will be processed in 3 weeks. Surprised at the given duration to process such document, we didn’t mind and we came back after a 3 weeks/a month, as we were advised. From those 5x that we went there, LTO Taguig office was offline twice and for the rest, he has been told that the transaction has not yet been processed/completed. Now this pisses us off.

How long are we supposed to wait for this simple transaction/request from LTO?

If other people are passive about it and if they are okay with this system, we are not. Most of us aren’t okay with it and we cannot tolerate your staff being so lazy and unprofessional about how they are supposed to do good customer service. A lot of people are waiting in this office, only to see your staff “making telebabad” on the phone and cleaning their desks (cleaning their desks during office hours, when there is a long queue???). Tell us if we can’t expect the completion of our request within the given time instead of wasting our time, making us file absences in our own companies just to take care of this personal matter. Please be more considerate with the people who value their time.

We are very pissed and unsatisfied with how LTO Taguig office processes their documents. I hope your management does something to improve LTO’s process and system.

My Own Parable of The Good Samaritan

2011-08-11T23:05:00.002+08:00

My car underwent cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

My Own Parable of The Good Samaritan (only my story doesn't involve violence and people who are unwilling to help.)

I hurried to my car but I couldn't start my car (the Jewish traveller who got beaten up). I knew something was already wrong with my car battery so I called up Motolite Express Delivery (02 - 370 66 86) I called up Caloi (priest) and he came to help me but he didn't have a jumper with him. He, however, kept me company. Then, I saw Jo (Levite) and she called up her friend from Motolite to give us a discount. It was cool actually, we were offered a 35% discount. We waited for an hour but the rider got lost and he didn't know where Mckinley Hill is so I cancelled my order. Then, there came an angel sent, Tumao (the Good Samaritan) who had a jumper with him. He helped me and did a jumpstart on my car.

It worked! My Yaris was revived from unconsciousness. Hahaha.

I was able to get home and I called Motolite once again. I was satisfied! They came in less than 30 minutes with hassle-free and very convenient purchase and payment services. I got a Motolite Gold NS600 and it cost me P4,400. I was able to trade in my GS battery for P260. I asked the driver of the more expensive ones. WHOA. Car batteries for BMW and the like can cost owners P7k+!

Munch Time: Jacob’s Shawarma

2011-08-07T18:16:00.001+08:00

Jacob’s Shawarma is located along Sapphire St., Ortigas Center (near Robinson’s Galleria). It is open for 24 hours from Mondays to Saturdays.

The Interiors

I’ll let the customers’ writing on the walls do the food review/bloggin’! Personally though, it was a different feast or taste of shawarma for me. Not the usual kind I’d have. This tasted more authentic. The pita bread was thicker. The meat was less oily and it didn’t have any soy garlic sauce. I’d recommend this for the health buffs out there but I’d personally still go for Food Channel’s shawarma.

Blinking Owl Eyes at HSBC, Fort

2011-08-07T17:48:00.002+08:00

No idea how this was done and since I was driving and it was at night time, didn’t really get a chance to see what this was all about. Thought the cartoons were from Ice Age or it was for some eco branding ad.

Someone tell me how those blinking eyes were done. Galing!

Seen outside the HSBC Building at Fort, Bonifacio 5th Ave. (where Secret Recipes and Zhu are located).

New Car Park Building of SM Megamall

2011-08-04T09:35:00.000+08:00

As of yesterday, here's how the construction of the new car park building in SM Megamall has developed. Fast and indeed, it was a smart move.

While I don't know why Megaworld can't fix the car park problem in Mckinley Hill. Pati entrance, nagtatraffic. We're in queue for about 20 minutes and there's a longer line behind me. Sira na naman yun machine.

MINT

2011-08-04T00:36:00.004+08:00

Guess where we made a visit at and what kind of place this is...

My Favorite Room!

It's a school but it's no ordinary school. This is very non-traditional and it touches on the artsy creative skills of students and catches up with technology of the modern times. It comes with a daring, innovative concept of college education.

Quick Facts about MINT:

1. MINT stands for Meridian International.

2. Its CEO and President is Baltazar Endriga (no wonder and it came to me at no surprise), a graduate of Harvard University, a CPA and a magna cum laude in Accountancy at UE).

3. MINT was inaugurated in December 2010.

4. MINT is located at the Commerce and Industry Plaza of Mckinley Hill, Taguig City (near Piazza).

5. MINT offers 2 specialized courses: Applied Arts and New Media, and Theater Arts and Communications.

Here's something the kids would love going to school for! Imagine, iPad 2 units as part of your tuition and as required by your school! That's iPad 2 for everyone! No need to come up with an excuse to have your parents buy you one!