My childhood TV crush

I'm very sorry John Lloyd Cruz but you're not my first tv crush. Ironically, he was not a celebrity. Umm, maybe to some extent (because he appeared on tv) but not the showbiz type. I can still remember it, I was a freshman in highschool. The show was Battle of the Brains. Yeah, those were my type of tv shows when I was young. I would always long for Saturday morning when the show would air. I would answer the questions as if I was a contestant. And how I wish I were! It made me study more because I want to answer more questions correctly. I read, read and read to gain more knowledge outside what was taught at school. I felt proud of myself when I get them right but not the studio contestants, I feel so smart haha!

Anyway, back to my story about my tv crush. He was a contestant of BB, from De La Salle Zobel. Soshal di ba? That time I didn't know that there's a De La Salle school in Ayala Alabang. I only know about their Greenhills campus and Taft. He was a defending champion for many weeks. It was the first time that they had a cute contestant, beauty and brains! Haha. I was glued to the show even more. I will look forward to their time slot and no one can change the channel of the tv. Everytime he will get the correct answer, I would like to kiss him (more of the tv) hahaha!

But of course, it has come to an end. And since then, I haven't heard about him. I have had many crushes in school, then eventually I started working and my issues in life are more serious. Nyahaha. So I forgot all about him and the show. Then all of a sudden today, I don't know why but I thought about that guy. And thanks for Google, I was able to find him!

He's now married with 2 sons, both also studying at DLSZ. He's still good-looking with his dimple on his left cheek. And I'm happy to say that I'm more beautiful than his wife. Honest ha!! His wife looks older than him and without that pasosyal air.

Here's what I got from his LinkedIn profile:

He graduated with a degree in Applied Economics and Commerce. He was a University Academic Scholar, Most Outstanding Student, 1st place at DLSU Freshman Entrance Examination.

Hanep di ba?? Ang galing ko mang-stalk no? Hahaha! I even found out the FB account of his wife and I now where he now works! He actually started as an Assistant Branch Manager at BPI Family Savings. Then he moved to Globe, then went back to BPI as Product Manager, then now he's a Cash Solutions Manager for UBP.

Haay, feeling teenager lang sa kaka-stalk!

myB, if mabasa mo 'to in the future, wag kang magseselos ha. He was just a childhood crush. At may dimple ka rin naman! Mas maganda ang mga eyes mo. And I love you dearly! Mwah mwah! Tsup tsup!














 

Food: Ikkoryu Fukuoka

During one of our first dates as bf-gf, he brought me here, at their EDSA Shangri-la Mall branch. I was not really a ramen person. I find it not worth it to spend money on some bowl of hot noodles. Feeling ko pa kulang, hindi ako mabubusog haha! I'd rather spend my money on some good cut of steak.

But Ikkoryu Fukuoka made me a convert. I love sipping the hot broth, I love the noodles! It started our own ramen craze! Since then we make it a point to eat at the different ramen houses, we want to try them all! But it's always nice to come back to Ikkoryu Fukuoka.

As usual, I ordered Tantanmen. I forgot how they call it, it's new in their menu.

It was so spicy!! I was tearing on my first sip haha! But it was so good, I actually finished ALL of it! Broth included! For the first time we tried to have it with the very hard noodles version and it turned out great. Although I find Yushoken's version much creamier and with a more distinct sesame taste.

MyB ordered the Spicy Tobanjan Tonkotsu (sorry nahalo na nia before I can take a shot). He said it was also very spicy, of course hehe.

Happy happy tummies!!!

Happiness: ♥♥♥♥♥

Ikkoryu Fukuoka

Alabang Town Center

Food: KEI Japanese Restaurant

I've been craving for ramen since the rainy season began but never had the chance to have one. We bought a 3-seat recliner sofa so there goes our extra money, no expensive ramen for the meantime :-p

But well, since today is extra special (it's our 6th wedding monthsary!) we decided to have one. It was so thoughtful of myB to suggest to dine out today.

We've been seeing KEI Japanese Resaurant since we've been passing through the street every morning going to work. It's within our village (a good 2-minute drive from our house) so it's so convenient. So it's like hitting 2 birds in 1 stone- celebrating our monthsary plus ending our curiosity about this japanese restaurant in our village. 

As usual, I order Tantanmen Ramen so I could compare it with the others.

The bowl was so huge! Their menu didn't say it's good for more than 1 person so maybe 1 hungry folk can actually finish it off. It turned out the bowl is just thick and the soup is just too much giving it the impression that it's a lot. Well, if you like soup, there goes your money! 

My husband ordered Gomoku Ramen with lots of seafood:

He says he found the noodles not enough. He actually emptied this out! Good thing I was not able to eat all of my ramen so I gave it to him as well. 

For the side dish, we had their gyoza (sorry no photo!) and dynamite roll:

The waiter initially asked if it's okay that we have the gyoza fried, I wonder why. I suspected it was in a not so good condition and frying it will help conceal? It was good though. I ate 3 out of 4. We liked their dynamite roll! It has the right kick and crunch. It was by far the best one that we had tonight.

You know what they say that the best Japanese restaurants are those that serve only their specialty. Like if it's just sa ramen house or just a katsu one. If it serves a variety of japanese menu (ramen, sushi, maki, shabu-shabu etc), it means the restaurant is just so-so. Unfortunately, I find it true in KEI's case. Their Tantanmen is nothing compared to Yushoken or Ippudo. It's lacking the sesame-peanut taste. You can tell that the broth didn't undergo the 12-hour process. It lacked flavor. Plus the egg is not tamago but an egg-drop one. Reminds me of the chicken noodle soup that we make at home using those instant noodles where we drop an egg for extra flavor haha! If you want ramen, just go to those ramen houses not here. 

I think we'll still come back next time but to try their rice toppings or bento meals. While we were there, most of the delivery orders that they got are for those kinds so maybe those are their specialty. Definitely not ramen. The price range is okay too. Their ramen is just in the 210-260 range. 

Happiness count: ♥♥

KEI Japanese Restaurant

Gloria Diaz Street

BF Resort Village

Las Piñas City

Food: Starbucks

I initially want ramen. This freakin' typhoons/ monsoon rains really made me crave for hot spicy soup. But as we don't have a good ramen place in our office area, hot Coffee Mocha to the rescue! Yes, I had all of these for lunch =) Who's hungry? Lol.

I devoured the french toast as soon as I got it. So yummy with butter and honey syrup. I remember the time when I did this for my family. It became an instant favorite. Now, that sausage roll is a new favorite. I like it that the sausage is peppery and had enough kick. Perfect for this rainy weather. 

Happiness count: ♥♥♥♥♥

Starbucks

Cybergate Tower 2

Pioneer Street, Mandaluyong

MyB Episodes: Bed hoarder

For the record, I am a "neat sleeper". Imbento ko lang yang term na yan but what I mean is that I usually wake up in the same position that I slept at. I remember during one of our teambuilding, I had to share the bed with a teammate (girl shempre). The next morning pinagkakalat nya na kung ano daw itsura/posisyon ko nung natulog kami, ganun na ganun daw nia ako nakita kinaumagahan. Parang hindi daw ako gumalaw magdamag. She'll recount that incident every so often. She was that amused/amazed at me.

But now if you'll ask my husband, he'll probably tell you something like this:

Exaggg!

It has been more than a couple of times that he told me that muntik na raw sya mahulog sa bed kasi inokupa ko na lahat. I refused to believe it. I'm just not the type.

But when we analyzed it, it could probably be true. Ang sarap kasi ng may kayakap! And I'm addicted to his hugs hihi! So what happens is that I "follow" him wherever he "goes" in bed until he has no more space left to his left (I sleep on his right)! Crazy marital "issues"! Hahaha!

Note: photo from the internet.

South living

I've been a "North" girl all my life. I was born, raised, studied, lived in the Northern part of Metro Manila for more than 30 years now. But since I got married and we decided to build our home in the South, slowly I've been loving it here.

Though it's actually much closer to the business districts, I find the South area much more laid back. There's a certain vibe here that makes me want to stay more at home than go out. Or is it because I'm still knowing my way to the shopping malls? Haha. Unlike in the North where I exactly know the stores like the back of my hand.

I also love that the air here feels more fresh. Maybe because the factories are far far away in the provinces. Unlike in my parental place where there's a paper mill, a log factory, and a big brewery just around the corner. The water and air are so polluted.

But now I'll tell you what I like best living now in the South. This:

Yes! Seeing airplanes this big crossing the expressway every single day is so cool for my life! :-)

My Papa

Today is Father's Day and I would like to honor the man responsible for the being that I have become, my Papa.

He didn't reach college level. Parang hindi nga rin ata sya naka-graduate ng high school. My grandparents were so poor that they couldn't afford to send them to school, all 10 of them.

But based on their stories, my Papa was a smart kid. Honor student. It didn't matter that he had to walk 4-5 kilometers (1-way!) a day to get to his school. He was also a student athlete, sprint was his sports. Sya ang pambato ng school and even of their regional division. If I remember the stories rigt, he got scholarship because of this.

I don't know what happened along the way, why he didn't finish school. Must be because of their family's condition that he felt obliged to just work to help his family with the daily needs. He became a cab driver in Metro Manila. He's the best cab driver! He's honest with the fare and won't ask for anything extra. He is a very careful driver so you know you're in good hands.

When I was around four, he went to Saudi Arabia to earn more. He was the superstar driver! His employers liked him and will give him anything he wants. Except for long and regular vacation with us.

Yes, my Papa was unlike the other fathers with high-paying prestigious jobs. Yes, my Papa was not with us during my formative years. Yes, my Papa was not able to shower us with Disneyland trips whenever we liked it.

But my Papa taught me the value of independence. That I should not rely on anyone for my financial needs. That to reach my dreams I should study hard and work hard for it.

My Papa taught me honesty and integrity.

My Papa taught me the value of hardwork.  

My Papa taught me the value of friendship. He doesn't have many friends, but I can see that many people have high regard of him. They respect him.

These are the things that money can't buy. And I am glad that I have my Papa as an inspiration. I am so proud of you Papa. I love you very much!

MyB Episodes: Passive for now

MyB has been experiencing lower back pains for a week now. We rushed him to the emergency room last Tuesday as he really was having difficulty getting up from the bed. After urinalysis, x-ray and some pain killer and muscle relaxant prescriptions, he was released from E.R. 

He returned to the hospital the next day for his x-ray results. MRI was recommended. Today he just got back from his appointment with the orthopedic surgeon. Verdict: normal sign of aging!

With the kind of work that we have, we're very susceptible to back pains. The doctor advised to get up from the desk (at least every hour), stand up and walk around for a few minutes. When the doctor learned that he just recently married, he also advised him to take "passive action" for now.

Me: What does it mean?

MyB: Ikaw daw muna magtrabaho. Woman on top! Eh sinabi ko kasi pine-pressure nako nila daddy na magbigay na ng apo kaya panay panay tayo.

OMG. 

Buti na lang hindi ako kasama ng pumunta sya sa doctor kundi, I died of embarrasment perhaps! At kung ako naman ang may back pain next week, alam nyo na! Bwahahaha!!!

Beauty: Facial Care

After my lunch, I went to Facial Care. My appointment was actually at 3pm but since I don't know where else to go (Glorietta/SM is a far walk), I just decided to wait at their reception hall. After 2 hours and 1 glass of hot calamansi juice, I was finally ushered to my treatment room! I was attended by Bernie, she has been my therapist since 2009! 

I am a loyal client of Facial Care since 2009. It started when I have an acne problem that I can't get rid of no matter what facial wash or facial regimen I follow. Then I realized I really need professional help.

Their services (not to mention their rates) are comparable to Belo's. In fact, when Kris Aquino had a falling out with Vicki Belo, she went to Facial Care for her skin care. So I know I'm in good hands.

After just a few sessions/weeks, I was already able to notice the result. My problematic pimples has slowly diminished and has been manageable. In no time I have healthy skin again!

From their anti-bacterial facial, I switched to seaweed facial then got a couple of other treatments as well to complement it.

Their treatments are not cheap though. Umiyak talaga ang bulsa ko that time! By with the results, I know it was all worth it. I got the succeeding packages only whenever they have promo, mostly during their October anniversary. Either buy 1 take 1 or with other free treatments (ie. I once bought their diamond peel package with free lasertones!). That way you get much worth for your bucks.

Food: Green Tomato

I went to Makati today. I've been waiting for this for 2 weeks. Hopefully soon I'll be able to tell you about it!

Anyway.. my meeting ended at around 11am. It was still too early for lunch and I don't know where to go. Oh actually, I initially wanted to try Ukkokei Ramen Ron at Pasay Road. MyB and I have been meaning to try it for the longest time. But either we're too late for lunch/too early fir dinner or we just can't find a parking space! 

And since I felt guilty that I'll try it this time without myB, I decided to just walk towards GT Tower (where my next appointment is) and if I see something interesting then that's it. 

Later I realized that I made a long walk (from Gil Puyat then Makati Avenue then Paseo Roxas then Ayala Avenue) when I got to GT Tower. Nawili ata ako mag-sightseeing ng buildings haha! I could have just made right turn to HV Dela Costa for thr short cut to GT Tower. Anyway, it's okay as I'm not in a hurry and it was my first time to roam around that side of Makati anyway.

When I finally got to GT Tower, I just thought of trying whatever they have in their cafeteria, kahit Mini-stop okay lang. I was actually craving for some siomai.

So imagine my surprise when I saw Green Tomato! MyB and I used to go to their EDSA Shangri-la mall branch or their kiosk at Philamlife Building. Needless to say, I went to Green Tomato for lunch today.

I ordered Spicy Anchovies. It was late when I realized that what we usually order here is their Shrimp and Anchovies pasta. But it's okay, Spicy Anchovies is tasty as well! It was too spicy for me though. I was not able to take a photo since I got hungry already when I smelled the newly-cooked pasta hehe!

Happiness count: ♥♥♥♥

Green Tomato

GT Tower 12th Floor

Ayala Avenue Makati City

Movies and TV: iFlix

I used to watch some US tv series (Grey's Anatomy, House, Sex and the City, F.R.I.E.N.D.S) when my work schedule was still bearable. I'm not a movie addict but I watch sometimes in a cinema when my favorite actors have a movie. But most of the time, I rely on internet downloads (sshhh!).

Then I heard about iFlix! It's an internet streaming service that promises 10,000 hours of entertainment! I saw movies, tv series, even stand-up comedies from Comedy Central!

You can set up a free trial good for 15 days. I've tried it and was able to watch a few F.R.I.E.N.D.S episodes, a movie and some Comedy Central stand-ups. I don't know if it's just because it's free trial so the library is not that up-to-date. I was looking for Grey's Anatomy, House, and other 2012 movies but I can't find them. Maybe when you're having the paid subscription you'll get accessed to their whole library? I hope that is the case.

What's good is that subscription is so cheap! Mas mahal pa kape sa Starbucks! For Php 129 per month you'll get to enjoy movies and tv shows etc! And I read that you can cancel it anytime you want, no holding period. And you can connect up to 5 devices!

Go try it! Just go to www.iflix.com! Enjoy!

Beauty: David's Salon

I've been wanting to go to the salon since last month. We girls should really have a hair treatment at least once a month. But since I'm kurips, I want to wait for an occasion so I could maximize my nice hair, two birds in one stone! 

We're supposed to attend a wedding last June 12. And we're supposed to go to Malabon for my father's birthday the day after. Sakto! I don't want to spend too much though. I want to have a haircut plus hair spa for only 1500 php. Kuripot talaga hahaha! 

I tried David's Salon in Robinson's Pioneer. I was just supposed to inquire and then compare with the previous salon that I went to last March. Whichever is cheaper wins! Haha! So imagine my happiness when I was told that David's Salon has a hair spa for 699 php and hair cut for 200 php only! Tumataginting na 899 php ang total bill! Hooray! 

At hindi lang yan, may free pa na bottled water and this yummy dried fruits! Ansaveh, healthy! 

The hair stylist is nice. And I like what she has done to my hair. The only downside is the assistant who did the hair shampoo. Pati mukha ko ata gustong sabunin! Baka libre facial? :P Other than that, it was a good experience. 

Happiness count: ♥♥♥

David's Salon

Robinson's Pioneer Mall

Mandaluyong City

For the book lovers out there

I am a book lover. And I mean, the printed ones. It's just unfortunate that I don't have the time to read as much as before. I've also accumulated a lot of books that I haven't even read that I just donated/gave away to friends and officemates.

Once it cross my mind to buy a Kindle or Kobo just so I could read anywhere, anytime. But aside from I cringed when I saw their price (they're affordable, mind you!), I can't seem to turn my back against paperbacks. Nothing can compare to the scent of new pages... ah, heaven!

I came across this Facebook post. I know it's not the same as today but still, it made me love and appreciate the printed ones even more!

https://www.facebook.com/Tenthandfourth/videos/342953712577550/

MyB Episodes: Vulcan salute

I was trying to do the Vulcan salute. It's synonymous to "Long live and prosper". If you're not a Star Trek fan, it is done like this:

It was so frustrating because I can't seem to make my pinkie and ring finger get together! It was like I was having arthritis and having difficulty with my hands. So imagine my happiness when I finally did it!

Me: Yehey!!! I can do the Vulcan (as in Vul-kan) salute!
MyB: It's Vulcan (pronounced as "Val-kan").
Me: Basag trip ka ah!!!

Ikaw na ang Star Trek fanatic!!! Ang perfectionist ng asawa ko grabe bawal magkamali! 

Photo courtesy of http://en.memory-alpha.wikia.com/wiki/Vulcan_salute

MyB Episodes: Si Giripit at Si Giripat

I saw an old joke and decided to try it to myB.

Me: Naglalakad sa bangin sila Giripit and Giripat. Nahulog sa bangin si Giripat. Sino ang natira?
myB: Sa bangin sila naglalakad? Edi kanina pa sila nahulog dalawa!
Me: Grabe, ni-analyze mo naman mashado.. Joke to, joke! Wag mo i-spoil ang punchline! Ulitin ko ha.
Me: Naglalakad sa GILID ng bangin sila Giripit and Giripat. Nahulog sa bangin si Giripat. Sino ang natira?
myB: Si Giripit!
Me: Naglalakad sa gilid ng bangin sila Giripit and Giripat. Nahulog sa bangin si Giripat. Sino ang natira?
myB: ....
Me: Na-gets mo na?
myB: Oo. Kaya ayaw ko na ipa-repeat.
Me: Killjoy ka!!!


Ang hirap ng analytical and sanay sa high quality deliverables na asawa, pati jokes niq'quality control! Nyahaha!

MyB and Car Racing and more!

MyB loves cars and car racing. He is a Formula One fanatic. Throw him a question and for sure he knows the answer. He’s like a walking Formula One encyclopedia. He loves it so much that I once gifted him with Gran Turismo PS3 game. I won the Best Girlfriend Award because of that, haha! And because I’m so exposed to anything Formula One related because of him, I feel like I know the sport too. For one, I know that Lewis Hamilton and Nicole Scherzinger of Pussy Cat Dolls were once an item, haha! They broke up because Lewis is still not yet ready to settle down and wants to focus on world championship. They said if you are married, somehow your race will be affected. You’ll not be as daredevil as you used to be, of course you have to be careful because you know someone is waiting for you after the race. You tend to slow down, hence good bye podium finishes and world championship.

Aside from Formula One, he is also a follower of the endurance racing or 24 Hours of Le Mans. He also plays this on Gran Turismo as well :P This is like Formula One but the race goes on for 24 hours straight. A driver will race for two hours before a relief driver can take over during a pit stop while they eat and rest. Three drivers share each competing vehicle. Imagine! It will really test the endurance not only of the driver but also of the car.

Imagine my surprise when I saw McDreamy competing in Le Mans! Yes, Dr. Derek Shepherd err, Patrick Dempsey! Apparently, he has a team called Dempsey Racing and the last weekend’s race was his fourth try already. His team won 2nd place in the GTE-Am class! They drove a Porsche 911 lang naman! Ironically, he died in a car accident in Grey’s Anatomy, nyahaha!



Source

 

 

MyB Episodes: My most embarrasing moment

Something embarrasing happened today.

My husband likes to tickle my tummy whenever he gets a chance. Sometimes, instead of using his hands, he will tickle me using his mouth! Especially if he hasn't shaved yet. It's the worst thing ever! Mamamatay talaga ako sa kiliti at kakatawa! Daig ko pa ang kiti-kiti n hindi alam paano ang gagawin or saan pupunta! 

Anyway, today he found a chance to do it again. And he was able to pin me in such a way na wala akong takas! Walang awa :( Na-experience ninyo na ba yung sa sobrang kiliti mo wala nang lumalabas sa bibig mo na sound ng tawa? Ganun na ganun ang nangyari sa akin! At eto ang pinaka-matindi, sa sobrang tawa ko hindi ko na talaga napigilan na mapautot ng malakas! 

Me: PPPPPPRRTTTTTTTTTT!!!

MyB: *shocked* then... BWAHAHAHA!!!

Nakakahiya!!! Kahit pa sabihin na asawa ko na sya, hindi pa rin cool na mautot sa harap nya no! Grabe!!! After nun, sya na ang tawa ng tawa. At ako naman ay naiyak sa hiya! Hahaha!

Sabi nga nila, malalaman mo na mahal ka talaga ng isang tao kung sa kabila ng mga nakakahiyang pangyayari sa buhay mo eh tanggap ka pa rin nya. Buti na lang yung utot ko walang amoy! Pero hindi ako makakapayag na naisahan nya ako dun! Gaganti ako one of these days! Bwahahahaha!!!

Food: Coco Hut Fried Chicken and Fish

After the eye doctor visit at Makati Medical Center, we decided to have lunch at IHOP at Alabang. But the hot weather made us decide to have lunch at Army Navy instead so we'll be able to park in a covered area. When we got at Commerce Building, myB asked if I like to try Coco Hut instead. We've been curious about this restaurant for the numerous times that we eat at the nearby Army Navy so we decided to try this out instead.

The place has the look and feel of Army Navy but with coco lumber instead. The chairs were just a little uncomfortable since it has no back rest. But otherwise, I like that it's roomy and the air-conditioning unit is enough to take off the summer heat.

Obviously, their specialty are fried chicken and anything fish. I was very tempted to try their Poorman's Fish which is just our very own GG fish - galunggong! It looks so tempting in the photo with all those leeks and chili with coco squash and spicy vinegar sauce. But I can't resist anything with egg so I opted for their Tapa Ala Pobre all-day breakfast meal served with garlic rice, sunny side up egg and achara. MyB got their Cream Dory Set which is battered deep fried dory served with coco squash and tartar sauce. I also ordered their signature Teamarind (tamarind iced tea) drink.

Unfortunately, I didn't like the tapa meal. The garlic was so toasted that it made the tapa and rice bitter :( Nothing special with their tamarind iced tea either. It got bitter after a few sips. MyB's dory meal is okay, nothing special but I liked it better my own meal.



Happiness count: ♥♥



Coco Hut Fried Chicken and Fish
Commerce Center East Asia Drive
Muntinlupa City

Food: Kichitora of Tokyo

If you still don't notice it yet, we love ramen. And we have this goal to visit all the ramen houses here in Metro Manila hehe! We had to run an errand in Makati and so when we got hungry, where else to go? Off we go to Glorietta 5 for Kichitora of Tokyo.

We first wanted to eat here a few months ago but unfortunately it was being renovated when we first went there. So when we found ourselves again in the Glorietta area and craving for ramen, naturally this was first on our list.

I make it a point to get Tantanmen ramen if it's available. This is so I have a single point of comparison among the ramen houses that we have visited hehe. Kichitora don't have the exact Tantanmen ramen, but they have what they call the Tan Men which is with the same spicy sesame taste, so that's what I got. MyB decided to try their best-selling Paitan Ramen, which I can't help but associate with our local papaitan dish haha!

We enjoyed their ramen. The Tan Men can compete well with Ippudo's or Yushoken's Tantanmen. The broth is very tasty too, one that can be achieved only if the broth is prepared meticulously for at least 12 hours. It was so good that I thought this is another Japanese brand, so I was surprised to know that this is actually Filipino brand (but with a Japanese chef).



Happiness count: ♥♥♥♥



Kichitora of Tokyo
Glorietta 5 Second Floor
Makati City

Food: New Zealand Natural Premium Ice Cream

I've been hearing about the New Zealand Natural Premium Ice Cream early last year. They said it's made from the freshest milk from cows which are grass-fed in the unpolluted New Zealand. I've been meaning to try it since then but I just didn't have the opportunity to be at Megamall (their only branch before) then.

When we're looking for some dessert last Friday after our ramen fix, I researched what's in the area and was so happy to find out that they already have another outlet in Glorietta 2! We ordered their best-seller Hockey Pockey (with butterscotch) and the one with caramel (sorry, I can't remember its name!). You get to choose if you want it in a cup or in a waffle cone. As expected, they both tasted yummy! Something that you would like to have over and over again. For something that's of good quality, it's not that expensive so you will definitely won't regret having it again. The staff was very polite too, we had great service!

So if you are looking for other dessert place, you want might want to try this place. What's great is that you can find their ice cream tubs at some supermarkets too! And maybe next time I will try their cake as well :)


Happiness count: ♥♥♥♥♥



New Zealand Premium Ice Cream
Glorietta 2 Ground Floor (across Landmark)
http://www.nzn.com.ph/

Food: Hokkaido Ramen Santouka

After some quick errand last Friday night, my Hubby and I went on to get some ramen fix. I suggested another Japanese restaurant but unfortunately it was closed for some kitchen renovation that night (of all nights! boo!). So the next best choice for us is none other then Hokkaido Ramen Santouka in Glorietta 4. If I remember correctly, this was our 3rd time there. So it's kind of obvious already that we like it there.

Whenever we eat at a ramen house I usually look for Tantanmen but the closest that they have is the Kara-Miso Ramen (which my Hubby ordered that night) and I already had that before so I had Shio Ramen instead. Their ramen has generous servings of shredded mushrooms, shallots and char siu (pork belly). It even had a plum fruit on top to complete the look!

I think it's good to have "plain" ramen for a change. If a plain soup base turned out great in itself, it speaks a lot about the quality of their product, would you agree? And I was right, it's very creamy already, I sipped more of its soup before I started eating the noodles. I just had to add a few drops of the chili oil (can't stay away from spicy!) and I was in ramen heaven. After a while though, it got really salty which I think is expected since it is salt based.

We also ordered some gyoza as a side dish and additional tamago (which is the perfect marinated soft-boiled egg that I was looking for) and a couple more of nori. Overall I think Santouka is one of the best ramen place we have here in the Metro so go visit once you have a chance!



Happiness count: ♥♥♥♥



Hokkaido Ramen Santouka
Glorietta 4 Ground Floor (facing SM Makati)

Food: Kenji Tei Ramen House

All those hair pampering made me hungry so what do you think we're having? Ramen, of course! My hubby initially thought of going to Yushoken in Molito but since we still have some errands to do at the mall, it's not a good option. Good thing the first restaurant that we spotted is a ramen house so off we went there. Presenting, the Kenji Tei Ramen House.

Like any other ramen house, the interiors are simple. But what I like here is that it doesn't look so cramped. If you have baby strollers or shopping carts, you won't have to worry about the space. But look, is it just me being hungry or their ceiling really looks like ramen noodles? Lol!



 

I had the Spicy Negi Ramen while my hubby got their Negi Itame Ramen. It doesn't look appetizing in this photo, but I actually like the broth, it's comparable to the other more popular ramen houses. It's not that creamy but it can do. Their regular size I think is the same size you'll get at the other competitors but with a cheaper price. I also find their chashu slices thicker than the others, so yay. My only complaint would be that of the tamago. It's just plain boiled egg. I'm looking for those ajitsuke tamago from other ramen house, I like it soft-boiled!

If you're used to having choices with your noodles (soft, medium, hard?), here you'll only get the hard one. No problem with us since we usually choose that anyway. This place is definitely worth a try.



Happiness count: ♥♥♥



Kenji Tei Ramen House
Alabang Town Center Ground Floor

Beauty: Regine's Salon

I've been sporting a long 'do for a few years now (has it been 6 years?) and I don't really know why but I just can't find myself cutting my hair. Usually, I just ask to trim the ends just to take away the ugly split-ends and fly-aways but I've never really gone above my shoulders. Then we planned the wedding and as everybody would tell, it's easier to style a bride's hair that's long so I still kept it that way.

But at the onset of this year's summer season it really felt so hot (and it's only getting worse I tell ya!) that all I wanna do is tie my hair up. Also, it's not helping that my hairfall is on its maximum level that it scares me every time I wash or brush my hair. So I told myself, I really need a low maintenance hair now - something short that will not need much styling and more trauma to my hair.

Enter the Regine's Salon in Alabang Town Center. It's the same salon that has a branch in The Link Building in Makati. I think they also have one in Ortigas but I've never been there. And since I'm now a "south girl", I'm happy to know they also have a branch in ATC. Saved us some toll fee, hehe!
My hubby was kind enough to go with me and he came prepared- he downloaded a couple of tv series on his phone to watch while waiting! :) And it's my first time at ATC! But I'll be reserving another post for that hehe!

We got there a little past 10 in the morning and I was only the 2nd customer in line which is a good thing since I didn't make a prior reservation/appointment. I asked for a haircut and I was immediately ushered to the wash area to get my hair shampooed. I just told the stylist that I want something short since it's summer and he just went chopping my mane. Since my hair is kinda dry, I also requested some hot oil treatment.

Overall I'm happy with the service, the stylist and the assistant were both very efficient and polite. I even had a back and arm massage. The salon itself is not that posh and flashy, unlike the new ones you'll see in the Greenbelt area. But somehow it has this homey feel to it. I like that it's something that will not make you feel intimidated. While I was there, they had at least 5 more old customers. They know each other already. That means good since they've already established a loyal clientele, it says a lot about their brand right?

So anyway, if one of these days you'll need some salon service, you might want to try them and see for yourself.



Happiness count: ♥♥♥♥



Regine's Salon
Alabang Town Center Service Town

Movie: The Theory of Everything

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I have never heard of this film until Eddie Redmayne was given the Academy Award for Best Actor in a Lead Role recently. My husband recognized him as the actor who portrayed Stephen Hawking, apparently a world-renowned British physicist, also being called as the “modern Einstein”. I like biographies/bio-documentaries and physics used to be my most favorite science subject in high school, so it’s enough reason for me to be interested in this movie. Plus it reminded me of “A Beautiful Mind”, a story about a mathematical genius but with a not-so-perfect personality. Somehow it’s a humble reminder to us that really you can’t have it all.

It’s based on the memoir “Traveling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen” by Jane Wilde Hawking, Stephen’s first wife. They met while in the university, an astrophysics/cosmologist nerdy student smitten with the pretty literature girl. But at the age of 21, Stephen was diagnosed with a motor-neuron disease (remember the ALS ice bucket challenge?) and was given 2 years to live. He then became recluse and won’t see Jane. She however, has already fallen in love with him and won’t take the disease as a hindrance to their relationship. They eventually got married and even had 3 kids. My husband and I were at awe how he managed to have kids, when he can’t even lift his jacket onto his head. I am more surprised when he and Jane divorced and he got himself a new wife in the person of his nanny-nurse Elaine. Surely, that thing down there is not controlled by the same nerves that control our motor skills.

His health has deteriorated so much through the years, now he is permanently stuck in his wheelchair and can’t even talk without a voice synthesizer. But no, he’s not the type of person who will just give up on life. He wrote his international best-seller book “A Brief History of Time” using the computer with a built-in voice synthesizer.

With all of these, it’s easy to say that this movie is about Stephen- his genius, rise to fame and his struggles with his disease. But more importantly, I think this is the story about love. Cliché as it is but love really conquers all. When you love someone, you tend to look beyond the imperfections. You will try to make it really work, you will defy all odds. For this, I salute Jane. It’s hard to see someone you love lose his ability to walk and talk, and still have that affection that goes beyond the physical traits. It takes a very strong person to do that. Stephen is strong to rise above his disability, but I think Jane is the stronger person character-wise.

How about you, how far would you go for the person that you love?



Happiness Count: ♥♥♥

Mr. Grey versus Mr. Darcy

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Stumbled upon this photo from Instagram and all I can say was, Heck yeah!

In case you don't know, Mr. Darcy is from the novel Pride and Prejudice. I've read the novel and watched the movie adaptation too. It was the film I first saw Keira Knightley. The last scene in the lake was one of my favorite scenes ever! Watch this in YouTube so you know what I'm talking about. Even up to now when I watch it I get so kilig ! And you know what? I even named my then brand new HP laptop (which I scored during the Black Friday Thanksgiving sale in the US!) as.... Mr. Darcy! Haha!

Mr. Darcy is the epitome of a gentleman, aloof romantic hero. He is a man who puts other people's needs above his own. He will not take advantage of anyone. He is someone who will offer you marriage because he loves you and not because he wants your body.

Now, I've also read the 50 Shades of Grey (I was given an e-book :-p) but somehow I didn't have the ardent desire to watch the film. I even ditched the Grey movie in place of a local indie film. Uhm yeah, I will still watch it given the chance, but only if someone offers it for free :-p

Hands down, between the two men, I will still choose Mr. Darcy over Mr. Grey. A million times over. :)

Movie: That Thing Called Tadhana

I've been seeing posts about this movie in my social media feeds but never really entertained it. Then one day, I got myself into an elevator with two young officemates talking about the movie. Then a gay officemate told me sadly, "Sad ako ngayon, sold out na tickets nung Tadhana movie dito" (our office building is beside a mall with a cinema). So it really made me curious that I had to research what's the fuss all about.

The movie made its debut in the Cinema One Originals Film Festival last year with mostly sold-out screenings. It even won a Palanca award even before it was filmed. It's that good I guess. And with the catchy title and relatable hugot lines, no wonder it has left such impact on its audience. At the get go, you’ll think that this is your typical rom-com plot --- a heart-broken girl meets a boy, her knight in shining armor (or in this case, a knight with an extra luggage space). The scenes are not cinematically ground-breaking but instead mirror the normal life situation, combined with very honest dialogue lines and lots of swearings (when you’re in grief you swear, okay?).

I’m sure by now you already know about the hugot lines from the movie. I won’t be surprised if you even memorized them and posted them in your different social media accounts. Heck, I won’t be even surprised if I hear “Where do broken hearts go?” as the cellphone ringtone of every affected individual. So let’s say I’m giving yourself a break from reading more of those hugot lines and instead tackle other areas in the movie which caught my attention.

The dialogues. And I'm not just talking about the famous hugot lines. Hearing the two main characters talk just like ordinary people makes it so real and somehow you feel that you are part of the conversation. "Tange, di pa start!", "Bakit pa kasi ako nabuhay", "Ahh burgis...", "Pakita mo abs mo", are just few of them which stuck to me. I remember how my friends and I would talk or bash each other.

Videoke is the answer. You're happy? Let's sing and celebrate. You're sad? Let's sing and cry. We're Filipinos, we're born to sing. Misery loves company. Why is it that when we're sad, we tend to watch more sad movies? And speaking of broken-hearted, who could forget Popoy and Basha and their epic love story in the epic movie Once More Chance? Not to mention that it stars the dashing John Lloyd Cruz, who is the real-life boyfriend of Angelica Panganiban.

Speaking of Angelica, this character is so her! I think she made some of the lines herself (the "Tange" part was an adlib as the camera was still rolling even after the scene). She deserved the Best Actress award. JM De Guzman was also good in this movie. So subtle, so cool.

I could talk and talk here more about what I think about the movie, but I'd rather leave it at this. Sure, this movie is a refreshing take on what seemed like a typical plot. It has no pretensions, no promises. And I guess, aside from the catchy dialogues, this is what made it tick.



Happiness count: ♥♥♥♥

Food: Ramen Yushoken

The day after our big event, we went to a happy place... a ramen house! And finally, we're able to taste what every ramen fanatic has been raving about... Ramen Yushoken!

I remember someone said that in Japan, you'll know that a place will offer an awesome dining experience if (1) the line is long you have to be on wait list, (2) their menu is short, meaning no variety (either all ramen or all katsu or all sushi, etc). It is so because they just have to offer their specialty. So most probably, you won't see sushi platters in a ramen house, and vice versa.

That is exactly Ramen Yushoken. Although on our very first visit, we're luck enough not to be put on wait list (as we arrived a little past 11 in the morning, still early for lunch) and I think that is because the other customers before us arrived in groups of 4 and above. The two of us can be easily accommodated in their bar section and need not wait on tables to be vacated. I was hesitant at first because I want to be seated with a "proper" table but I thought if we wait, it will take us a while to be seated. I want my ramen fix already!!

I always order Tantanmen (or the equivalent spicy ramen) so I could easily compare each version hehe! Hands down, theirs is the best Tantanmen ramen I've had! It doesn't matter if it's spicy, I've been slurping the broth up to its last drop!

Service is impeccable, there's always someone to assist you. I also like it that they serve you your own pitcher of iced cold water. It saves time when you had to get their attention for a water refill. The place is small though, I wish they will expand given the demand. We will definitely be back!!!



Happiness count: ♥♥♥♥♥



Ramen Yushoken
Molito Lifestyle Mall
Madrigal corner Commerce Avenue
Alabang