Symptomatic Solicitude

2011-07-30T22:06:00.003+08:00

I just got home from a fun evening with my brother Ming, his girlfriend Seryl, Jenny, Ming's high school friend who eventually became one of closest girlfriends. Of course, she and Noy have become good friends, too.

It was spur of the moment, but Ming happens to be a very big fan of Periperi chicken, he can't wait for Seryl to try it. Seryl is a nurse who's leaving for Saudi in a few days, that's why Ming is in town, too. Jenny hasn't tried Periperi until tonight, and she liked it, too.

The mandatory after-dinner coffee took us to Caffe Firenzo after realizing the more popular places are just packed on a rainy Saturday night. I was instantly attracted to the serious ambience inside. It wasn't packed, but it wasn't empty either. There was an empty spacious "booth" lined with soft leatherette-covered couches that are neither too firm nor too comfortable. It was perfect for us.

I tried their Iced Latte and was happy with the robust Lavazza flavor. My companions are not big coffee drinkers but found themselves half-wishing they could drink more. The star of the evening was their Mocha Green Tea cake - it was so good we forgot to take a picture of it! It was light with the just the right amount of creamy mocha between slices of superb chiffon covered with friendliest luscious green tea crumbs. (I say friendly because I was never a fan of green tea except of its liquid form. Oh, and green tea latte just tastes like grass.)

Finally - a discreet, cozy and comfortable place that serves good coffee without the noise and hoopla. I'm happy I discovered it with people I just love.

I hope your weekend was delightful, too!

Soothing Sunday: Movie Date at Home

2011-07-10T21:25:00.004+08:00

This afternoon, Noy set the TV and his laptop up so we could watch Sherlock Holmes more comfortably together. We haven't had this much time together in a long time, so we decided to whip up a few simple dishes to munch on while we watched. He cooked kung pao pasta while I made corned beef pandesal.

Okay, I bought the salad because I was too lazy to prepare all the ingredients (not to mention expensive) - peaches, grapes, mandarin oranges, kiwi, and almonds. See the large chunks of onion on the corned beef? I was just too lazy. Buying the ready-made salad turned out to be a good idea anyway because Noy almost didn't leave any for me - he loved the strawberry vinaigrette very much! He can't stop telling me how much he loved it.

As for the movie, it wasn't the best we've seen, sadly. I actually fell asleep for a few minutes, what with the comfortable, cool, and cozy bed and weather! But the best part is I got to spend a few stress-free hours with the husband. I guess that's what Sundays are for, really.

Soothing Sunday: My Payag

2011-07-03T10:57:00.006+08:00

Good Sunday afternoon, everyone! It's a bright sunny day, just about the right time to start having a regular blog feature - the Soothing Sunday. I'm all about relaxing and just taking it slow on a Sunday (read: hospital duty barred forever!), so sharing anything relaxing on a Sunday is one great way for me to relax on a Sunday! This is so exciting for me, so I hope you'd all take some time to check my blog out.

There's no better way to start this feature than showing off one of my treasured things in this world - my payag. Payag is Visayan for "small hut". I asked my parents to build one in Mama's garden as a place for us to sleep in the afternoons. It started as a very small sitting room until we had enough funds to build a two-storey structure with a bedroom and a balcony. From then on, we stayed there more often that inside the house. We have breakfast there sometimes. The fact that the payag is surrounded on three sides by fruit-bearing trees and flowers and a rice field on one side is a real treat - the wind that breezes through is always fresh-smelling and definitely sleep-inducing.

Every time I come home to my parent's house in Aklan I always looked forward to having an entire day spent in my payag - reading my favorite book, pouring through old family photos, having merienda of kumbo (Aklanon for maruya, banana fritter) and fresh buko juice (just picked from one of our coconut trees), chatting with Mama, and of course, sleeping!

With that I'm off for some cheap airfare hunting - I wanna come home soon.

Have a soothing Sunday,

In the Heart of Coron

2011-05-28T14:32:00.008+08:00

I'm blogging about Ralph's Pension House in the town of Coron, Busuanga Island, Palawan, not because the owner requested me to, but out of sheer satisfaction that I feel is worth sharing to anyone who reads this.

Despite the fact that we're celebrating our fourth wedding anniversary by going on this trip, Noy and I decided to stay practical. The search for a suitable place to stay ended when I stumbled upon Ralph's website. I was convinced by the testimonies at trip advisor, and attempted to make reservations five months prior to our trip. Here's downside #1 - their boxbe thingie can be a big headache. I cannot download and read their messages because of boxbe. Two weeks to the trip Noy made a call to Mr Oscar Gutierrez - Mang Jun - the owner, and our account was settled in two days. If you'd like to avoid downside #1 then, just call - it makes everything clear - fast.

For Php 9,800, Noy and I got:

to & from airport transfers
3d/2n accommodations
meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner where applicable)
guided tour on days 1 & 2.

Airport Transfers and Other Transport Means

Ralph's hired a freelance driver to pick us up and other guests (staying in a different hotel) from the airport. We didn't mind the company at all - it was nice to travel with other people. The van was relatively old but it was clean and the airconditioning was sufficient.

For the afternoon tour on Day 1, we were brought to Mt Tapyas & Maquinit Hot Springs by a large, clean and colorful tricycle. For Day 2 tour, it was a banca that felt large because Noy and I were the only passengers. The bangkero, who brought his 8 year old son, also cooked our lunch on tour.

The van that brought us back to the airport was newer with more comfortable seats, but it was packed. It picked up a lot of people around town so it took almost an hour before we actually headed for the airport. I would have worried about the gates closing had I not known that the van driver worked for the airline company we booked our flight with.

Best thing #1 - Absolutely no ripoffs! Not a single driver asked for a fee.

The Pension House

The place is first and foremost...a house. We kept this in mind so we won't expect inappropriately - like room service and luxurious amenities. But the girls at Ralph's do try to be of service, and we appreciate it.

It used to be a house, it sits right in the middle of town near EVERYTHING (best thing #2), and it was obvious they have just recently expanded to accommodate more guests. We booked Kristian's room. It was on the third floor with a balcony offering the best view of Coron Bay in the entire house.

It was quite small and meant to provide just the basics - a large comfortable bed, cable TV, airconditioning & fan, and an appropriately sized bathroom. Water flow was less than adequate, but the water was clean. Here's downside #2 - not enough storage space. Our bags were on the floor and there was no place to hang our dry clothes. Hooks on the wall would have been okay just so our stuff won't get wet.

The entire house was clean. Hot and cold water was available 24/7 and anyone can make coffee anytime. Internet was okay - we had no problems. There was an hour-long power shutdown on our second night - the temperature was bearable but the mosquitoes were crazy! That's downside #3.

Mang Jun was a very hands-on business guy. He welcomed us, chatted a lot at meals, made us comfortable, asked a little about our lives in an attempt to practically know all of his guests. He's a guy who can and will talk about a lot of different things, which other people may find annoying. We didn't get that impression though. For us, he's simply doing what he can to satisfy his guests. That's best thing #3. Specifically, he personally brought us to his seafood suki so Noy & I could buy huge crabs for our families back home.

At the house, Roma and Angel happily volunteered to buy ice and pack our crabs for us. How's that for service?

Meals, Glorious Meals

I don't think I really need to expound on this. I've got pictures that will get you salivating in a bit -

However, here is downside #4: there was not enough rice on our first breakfast, so Noy had to buy some from the restaurant across the street. Other than that, we always had a little feast in the large and airy dining area.

The Tour

Best thing #4 would be Jordan - a freelance tour guide Mang Jun had booked for us. At 24, he's had quite an experience. He was very serious at first, but I guess no one ever resists our warm antics - he was like a friend in a matter of hours. He's very quick to offer a hand and take our pictures - he knew the best angles to take. He's a gentleman, and was very kind to just pull me by my life vest whenever I got tired of swimming. He insisted on setting the table for lunch even when told we won't really mind if he just placed the stack of food containers there.

On Day 2, we went to Siete Pecados, Twin Peaks, Kayangan Lake, Atyawan Beach, and Twin Lagoon. That's about the basics for first time travelers to Coron. We were done before 4 pm, so we stopped at another spot where there were a lot of fish to feed, so that was an extra 15 minutes or so of sheer thrill. Best thing #5: they make sure you enjoy!

We had a good time. There are a lot of other places to see, such as the shipwrecks and the other tiny islands, but that really depends on how long one intends to stay, not on the hotel or tour guide you'll be booking with. Will I come back to Coron? Definitely, hopefully with our families. Would I be staying in Ralph's still? Yes, because it's practical, comfortable, convenient, and I don't want to limit our families to commercial hotel food in "standard" portions. Will I recommend Ralph's to friends? Yes, but only to those who understand the differences between a hotel and a lodging house, and those who'd appreciate simple people and the simple things in life.

Something New

2011-05-16T14:21:00.001+08:00

Today is the start of something new. No more stethoscopes, no more white coats, no more pap smears. I'm shedding the old stuff because I've decided to turn my passion into a bigger, more profitable and hopefully fulfilling achievement, without shedding my knowledge and experience.

I'm nervous and I'm having palpitations. But I'm not sweating because it's just too cold out here.

I hope I make a good impression.

A Beautiful Day

2011-04-26T23:31:00.005+08:00

I'm 32 today, and I had a great day.

Finally had the chance to actually dine in Corniche. I have been dreamin g to do this since it first opened in December and I am just thrilled to have lunch there with my favorite person in the world.

I've been taking a peek at its interiors every chance I got, and it's undeniably chic. They have a lot of metal fixtures now, serving as dividers to softly delineate one area from the other. The pattern is just delicate, muting the hardness imparted by the shiny steel.

I love the entire modern updated feel of the restaurant, but I also love the fact that they contrast it every now and then with traditional cushioned heavy wooden furniture. There's a little bit of native flair from the wooden panels and bamboo-ish place mats.

The buffet counters go tres chic with convection warmers. Now we don't have to worry about getting food in a way that we won't burn or that the warmer doesn't topple over the side with the unconsumed contents. It's just so convenient and stylish.

Of course, food is still divine and plentifully varied. This and the most courteous and friendly hotel staff in the metro make for a splendid experience. I just wish it wasn't so expensive. =D

Noy wanted a massage so badly, so we headed on to Lotus Spa to try their signature massage. It's a combination of three massage types - lomi lomi, tuina, and one other type - that left us satisfied, as usual. It was nice to come in on a weekday afternoon; we were the only clients and we had everybody's attention.

We heard mass at the Greenbelt Chapel with my brother and his girlfriend. It was my first time to be in church with Seryl, and I think it was high time we spent some time out together. It was really warm as the church isn't air-conditioned, but we all had a lovely time nevertheless.

Finally, we had dinner at Big Buddha Roast Kitchen. We didn't really plan on going there, but since we were all craving for Chinese food it was a runaway winner. Moreover, the place was recently revamped and it definitely looked better inside and out. The menu was decidedly minimalist both in content and presentation. I was a bit sad that they didn't have Birthday Noodles so we got Crispy Noodles instead. We also had Hot and Sour Soup, French Beans with Pork, and Yang Chow Fried Rice. Everything was delicious.

Over sugar free ice blended drinks at Figaro, I thanked everyone for a wonderful day. I don't remember spending a birthday when everything went on as I wanted them to, and for that I think God rewards those who do not complain very much. Life is tough and it gets tougher when you least expect it. But if you let God be with you every single time, it gets better even when you don't ask for it.

Cheers!

Folk Food. Fearful Fun.

2011-04-16T21:36:00.001+08:00

When I learned that my Mom-in-law was going to celebrate her birthday at Balaw-Balaw in Angono, I reminded myself to munch on some Jollibee burger on the way there. If you haven't heard of Balaw-Balaw, you probably haven't been watching Andrew Zimmern's Bizaare Foods . The restaurant is famous for its exotic cuisine - Kamaru (crickets), Cow’s Balls Soup, Palos (fresh water eel), Bibingkang Abnoy (aborted duck eggs), Adobong Baboy Ramo (wild boar), Bayawak (monitor lizard), Sawa (python), Tapang Usa (cured deer meat).

As usual, Noy and I were late despite the place not being too far from Ortigas, so the family had ordered and eaten when we got there. On the table:

Inadobong Uok (larva of coconut beetles) - I ate one piece. It tasted like isaw that has not been cooked properly, with an exoskeleton. The sauce is tasty. I personally think the dish would be more acceptable without the crunchy covering of the larvae.

Nilasing na Palaka (deep-fried frogs that have been marinated in wine) - When they said it tastes like chicken, they weren't lying. It's delicious and crunchy. Had it been served in smaller pieces I would have munched away. Notice that only three frogs were left for us? It must be good.

Ulo ng Lechon - This one is sadly forgettable.

The other items were Pesang Dalag (mudfish in light soup), Beef Caldereta (Filipino stew), Ginataang Itik (duckling in coconut milk), and Laing (taro leaves in coconut milk). I felt bad there wasn't enough left to take photos of. I don't eat dalag, but the soup was really good. The vegetables in the soup were delicious as well, and that made me full already - rice, soup and vegetables. No Jollibee! The caldereta was not good at all, the itik was too rich, the laing was okay.

Which leads me to conclude that people come to Balaw-Balaw for the experience - more for the art and the house itself and not so much for the food that's supposed to satisfy the everyday hunger. The tall ancestral house is packed with artwork by its owner, Perdigon Vocalan, a painter and a sculptor.

One will see various religious art, paintings of people that look so real they seem to come out of the canvas, murals, really old household items and furniture that give an initial creepy hint, but later just take the breath away.

The stairs are stringent yet vulnerable-looking, and as one is led down the hall to the second floor, it almost felt like a vacuum sealed within the era of Spanish reign.

It's the ultimate venue for a horror thriller scene. It was dark, the sun-rays that filter through the multicolored capiz windows provide the only illumination.

A personal favorite is the sunken dining area adorned with huge jars. I could imagine it being a cocoon of sumptuous comfort food for the dwellers during its heyday.

If it tickles your fancy just a wee bit, or if you're looking for a quick change of dining scenery, give Balaw-Balaw a visit. Whatever your experience unfolds for you, I only have one word - feast. It's what it'll provide for your stomach and your senses.

The Groupon Bug Hit Me

2011-04-09T19:39:00.002+08:00

I am a sucker for discounts and I definitely shop more when the items I've been drooling over are finally on sale. So when the groupon announcements came flooding my email, I could not help but buy the really tempting ones that offer huge discounts on pampering services.

First, there was the "90-minute tri-hilot combi therapy full of indulgence worth Php1150" on sale at Php350. Outside, the spa place looked stylish and relaxing, what with the uber-prime location just outside Greenbelt 5. Inside, the entire place is no bigger than the average apartment. The reception area is also the place where the guests' feet are soaked in salted water prior to the massage. Naturally, those waiting for their turn or merely inquiring would look at you and your soaking feet.

The "deal" promised 3 kinds of massages - ventosa, dagay-dagay, and traditional hilot. I have a friend who once told me that ventosa therapy makes her feel good always because the glass-enclosed heat of the candles sucks all her bad energies away. True, but when done properly. My therapist was a clumsy one who dared ask me if I walked on the way there because I was perspiring.

Dagay-dagay uses a certain wooden stick to tease the soles of the feet to take away the tiredness. Whatever. It didn't really make a difference. I cannot even recall if the traditional hilot was good in itself. Why? Because the computer keyboard in the office beside my cubicle was being heavily used, the guest across me was snoring like there was no tomorrow and Noy's therapist kept on sniffling.

I cannot believe the entire crap costs more than a thousand bucks. They should definitely learn from Lotus Spa, which makes up for its lack of shower facilities by great service and truly relaxing ambience.

Not to be disheartened, I purchased another coupon from another groupon company. This time, it was "50% off on Prima Donna foot spa pedicure (hot stone, foot and leg massage and foot scrub)". The actual value was Php 680, and considering this was coming from a new and pretty-looking nail care place, I gave it a go and treated myself and Noy.

I was impressed by the interiors - plush furniture, comfortable pillows, colorful quirky walls ergonomically designed stations. I jut think the lighting could go a little more dimmer for a truly relaxing atmosphere. There already are lamps that should suffice for the therapists' use.

I have to give it to them for the technical qualities of the foot scrub and massage; they felt really clean and relaxing. After the scrub, my legs and feet were wrapped with plastic with the mint lotion on "for better infusion". They were rinsed, followed by the pedicure. More lotion was applied then they were wrapped again, this time with hot pink, warm electric booties. They were so cute; too bad I was too lazy to have pictures taken. The massage followed. After a brief rest, a hot stone bag was kneaded on my legs & feet.

My problem was that my therapist wasn't really happy to serve me. Her hands were heavy, literally and figuratively. At times it almost felt like she was nagdadabog. My toenails are heavily rounded and difficult to clean, and I think it almost tested her patience. Either I'm too tired to complain or I just didn't care, but I felt sorry for her because she's not happy with the job that she's been given.

I think the foot spa service wasn't a bad deal at all. But just in case Noy asks that we come back, I'll make sure that it's the middle of the day when the therapists won't be very tired and have had lunch, when they won't be clamoring to head home and catch up with their favorite telenovelas.

Here's to better deals,

Photo credit:
http://everythinginbudget.blogspot.com/2011/02/nail-spa-lounge-50-off-prima-donna-spa.html

Krazy Garlik

2011-04-02T19:01:00.000+08:00

We never really wanted to eat there. Sure, at around the time of its grand opening we were intrigued because Noy is such a garlic lover. The menu, however, was a great turn-off. Sure, we love good food, but we hate okay food that demands a lot from the wallet just because of its location.

It's in one of the poshest places comfortably accessible to the middle class - Greenbelt 5. As one steps inside though, the feel is one of those rather sleazy restobars. I am not an interior design expert but I do know what's appealing and not. It was just dark and cramped. So we decided to proceed to the balcony and dine al fresco. It was a lot better, but they should have provided cooling fans. Yes, we dined. Just because we love the friend who wanted to see us on a whim that day. Anyway. The waiters are good-looking, had good manners, and provided good service.

We just had late lunch so we suggested that we share a pizza and let the friend order a pasta for himself. We had Four Cheeses (Php 495) which in all honesty was good. The cheeses taste strong and full in the mouth, the garlic imminent in the background. The crust was not that crispy but I didn't really mind.

The friend had Penne Arrabiatta (Php 325) - a creamy concoction of spicy tomato, basil and parmesan which tastes overly spicy I didn't feel the garlic at all. I got full from all the water I needed to drown the scary red sauce down.

That was all we had, for which we were charged Php1k++. I know, it's a Bistro Group restaurant known for their expensive taste and good service. I appreciate the effort of putting up a place where garlic lovers can worship their favorite ingredient, but it just feels insufficient as far as creativity is concerned. The name is cute and believable, so we expected the menu items to be spectacularly garlicky different.

I may not have all the right in the world to be blogging about the restaurant after trying only two dishes. I may have to give it a go again sometime to try the other dishes but with the price, I don't think so.

My Weekends of March

2011-03-28T15:42:00.007+08:00

My weekends this month had just been a lot of fun. I had my first taste of a couple of places, but I also went to those I'm quite familiar with. There wasn't much money spent, but the experience was all so worth it. Best of all, I'm with some of the people I really care about.

It's summer already, so Noy and I went swimming with his family at their favorite place, the Parkridge Clubhouse at Valley Golf. It's so near the house where Noy grew up so it's become a part of his childhood. What I like about it is the fact that there's not many people around; in fact there were days that all three pools were ours to devour, like this particular Sunday.

The following weekend, we headed to Bulacan for an errand. My parents bought a house in San Jose del Monte that we are now leasing to a family who also once lived near us in Tondo. Of course the house has changed a lot on the outside, but that's inevitable. It's nice to know that Mama's mango trees are producing much fruit; we had so much fun eating them when we were kids and went home on weekends.

We stopped at the nearby National Shrine of the Divine Mercy for a visit. It's a popular place to devotees who are looking for solemnity and solace. It's a big church with a vast backyard containing a Rosary Park, Stations of the Cross with life-size statues, and many others. I have great memories of Christmas Eve masses in this open area behind the church - the cold wind, the starry sky, the beautiful singing of Silent Night - I remember being speechless with tears in my eyes.

I had to put my memories aside just like that because we were all hungry, and by some twist of fate we were led to the old Ma Mon Luk in Quezon Avenue. I know it's been there all along, but it really was my first time in a Ma Mon Luk.

I really have nothing to say except "Why haven't we been here before?". I felt sad knowing what I had been missing all along, but then I cannot blame my parents for not bringing us there thinking it might be expensive. I swear this is where I'm taking them to lunch the very next time they're in town. The food is just so good I bet Papa will have a lot of his own memories to tell us over lunch then.

If it's your first time in Ma Mon Luk too then by all means order the mami and siopao. You'll never go wrong.

Of course, the Ma Mon Luk Chicken and Fried Rice are also to die for. Did I mention it's not expensive? If you're not too picky with surroundings (not that it's dirty, but we have to admit the place is old and not air conditioned) then you'll get the best value for your money here.

The service is very efficient, too. Thank you, Manong.

Plus, the place itself is a story. There's a little old something for every one, even old photos of then-celebrities who ate there, like this ancient telephone that took much of our notice. So cool.

Finally, we spent one rainy evening in Tagaytay yesterday. It was SO cold! It definitely brought me back to those Sydney evenings when it was so cold my hipbone hurt with contact on the wall. We'd usually dine al fresco anywhere in Tagaytay, but I couldn't bear the chilly wind this time.

It was pizza and pasta night at Carlo's!

It was our first time at Carlo's so we tried the bestsellers - Pizza Capriccioso and Pesto Cream Penne (I hope I got those names right). The pizza is loaded with familiar goodness and has a homemade vibe to it - i.e., not too commercial. It tastes just right, without the sodium guilt. The pasta had the slightest hint of pesto in it. It's creamy, but not the choking kind. It's delicious and surprisingly light, so I could not ask for more. Another serving perhaps? But I was too full from the pizza. Gotta try their other delights when I come back.

I wish my brother were with us because I'm guessing he hasn't been to Tagaytay for the longest time. But it's great to see Noy and Sat, who took some of the great photos here so happy together. Sat is the reason why we went to Tagaytay yesterday. Here they are outside the Splendido clubhouse after the wedding reception Sat emceed.

Wish I have more weekends just like these.

I know it's just Monday but I'm wishing a great weekend already,

Gerard is Two!

2011-03-11T15:15:00.003+08:00

Our dear little Gerard, or Pong, is two years old today. I talk like I'm the mother, but really, it brings tears to my eyes to realize that he's growing up wonderfully.

Since he turned a year old, I've gathered a few of our most favorite pictures of him. I hope you enjoy looking at them as much as we do -

Snacking atop a Sofitel bed. Looking very comfy.

Playing with the curtain at a Sofitel balcony. Everybody loves this picture.

Posing with his Mama and Tata at a Megamall Christmas tree.
He always cranes his neck this way when he knows his picture is being taken.

Very curious at the Symphony of Parols show at the Ayala Triangle Gardens.

Dinner at the Landmark foodcourt. Pong loves soup ("baw").

Enjoying his first toy car ride. We were surprised at how he knew how the thing works.
It was a delight to watch him drive around in delight.

A tender moment with his Tata on a rainy January morning.

This photo is so endearing I wanna hug them both every time I see this.
(photo by Saturn Labanda)

Loving the sands of Jawili Beach.

At the beach eager to help us pick up firewood.
He looks so macho carrying these two coconut tree stalks that are larger than him.
(photo by Saturn Labanda)

Posing before a Nativity scene at the Sampaguita Gardens. So cute with that smile.
(photo by Saturn Labanda)

What's in a Sandwich?

2011-02-26T15:48:00.008+08:00

Noy and I had our first date at Wendy's in Robinson's Place Manila. We were young, idealistic college students who did not want to bother our parents with extra expenses, like a date.

Because it was a first date and I was happy just because we were finally going on a real date, it really didn't matter what he ordered given our small budget. Nevertheless, I teased him that we should share a sandwich because it's symbolic of our future together. I know it was crazily corny, but he did order just one sandwich, lots of fries and drinks. It was a shrimp sandwich, the one I, a seafood lover, had been yearning to have back then (not that I don't want one now) and one that he is allergic to (as he is to most other seafood).

We ate in silence - me picking on the shrimp patty, and Noy tearing off portions of the bread that lost a patty part. We kept the date short because it was finals week. Noy slept through the night without an itch or a flare.

I forgot about the whole thing and the fact that I never really wondered why Noy's annoyingly sensitive immune system didn't overreact that day. Until thirteen years later, when I saw this picture of a Wendy's Shrimp Sandwich on the walls of the very same Wendy's store where we had our first date.

There it was, the shrimp sandwich that showcased the beginning of my journey to married bliss. It taught me that in a relationship, one must stay true to the other. It does not always equate to exclusivity; it's also about revealing fears and worries and weaknesses to the other. Build the relationship upon this trust until you have something strong, tangible and long-lasting.

I don't have a perfect relationship with my husband, but we try to be perfect for each other everyday. He might have swallowed an anti-allergy pill right after our first date, or perhaps there really wasn't enough shrimp on the patty to trigger a reaction, I might never know. Whatever happened that day, I am grateful for the love that I found over a shrimp sandwich - soft on the outside, tender and crisp on the inside. It's perfect.

Believe.

2011-02-24T21:16:00.005+08:00

It's no secret to family and friends that my brother Neil was having a hard time passing the Bar Exams. He flunked three times and now has to take a refresher course in order to sit the exam again. That would mean another thousands of expenses for my retired parents and me. He's a casual employee at the Public Attorney's Office in Kalibo, and earning a meager salary which couldn't even suffice for his medications - he's a diabetic on insulin - without benefits.

For years he - we - have been waiting for this appointment to finally become a permanent employee with full benefits. We were praying and hoping and waiting fervently for this one big break. I prayed everyday. I prayed hard when sadness took over greatly; I prayed harder when I was on the verge of asking WHY.

One night, I just stopped praying. I got tired of praying.

Then, he broke his right pinky a month ago. It was a bad fracture. I had to buy him tickets so he could be treated here. Why not in Kalibo? Because I felt he was already prey to some doctor who seems not to be earning enough there. But that's another story.

The surgery was successful, thanks to my good med school classmate and now an orthopedic surgeon Reg, my good friend and mentor - diabetologist Julie, and Reg's friend Kenneth who agreed to do the anesthesia for free.

Nevertheless, there was the hospital bill to pay. It wasn't a comfortable sight withdrawing that amount for a sudden circumstance. I kept telling myself it was just money and I'll earn it back in no time. I was reciting this mantra on my head as I was going down the stairs to the cashier when Papa called to inform us of the good news - the appointment came. My brother takes his oath on March 7th.

Ate Ging, my cousin who stayed with my parents since before we were born, waited with me at the hospital during the surgery. We were just talking about our dream of my brother finally becoming successful. Now this news at the most opportune time. It was overwhelming we had to cry. People must have thought we lost someone at the OR because we were just crying.

I still can't believe it. I almost gave up. I was just about to give up.

I'm so glad God didn't give up on me.

You don't have to give up either. God hears. God listens. Just believe.

A Prayer for Healing

2011-02-17T16:30:00.003+08:00

No, I don't have cancer. But I do have certain things in my life right now that are beginning to get out of control. It feels so awful sometimes that it feels almost as if I'm physically sick.

I'd previously deal with it under the sheets. Literally. I'd blame the world for my many misfortunes and cry and cry until my tears run dry. It was very cowardly and did not really solve the problems. But hey it made me feel better even just for a while.

One Sunday several months ago someone was handing out leaflets to mall-goers, Mama and myself included. I accepted one but I never really read it. Not until Mama told me much later that she was praying the prayer printed on the leaflet every night and it always made her feel at peace.

So I did the same, recite the Prayer for Healing each and every night, from the heart, especially during times like these. It's deceptively brave, it makes me feel much better, and yes, it does solve problems (in myriad ways).

Prayer for Healing

Dear God,

You said, Come to Me all of you who are tired and heavily burdened and I will give you rest.

I come to you today... right now. Please touch every pore, every fiber, every cell of my body. Touch my mind, my heart and my spirit. Fill me with hope. Teach me to believe that with God, nothing is impossible. Help me to believe that nothing happens by chance and everything that happens has a reason.

I trust that no matter what, You will fight for me. I only need to be still. I need not fear anymore. Help me, heal me, hug me, be here in my pain. Blessed pain, holy pain. Blessed pain, holy pain.

I accept Your will, but touch every part of me that needs healing. Heal my body, heal my heart, heal my mind, heal my spirit, heal my pocket, heal my memories. I have come to You with my burdens. You will give me peace, You will give me rest, You will give me healing. And this I believe -

I believe that I am healed.

I believe that I am whole.

I believe that I can now live life to the full.

Mother Mary, Regina Rosarii, intercede for me to Jesus, your Son. I ask this in the Name of Jesus - the Great Healer, the Great Provider. AMEN.

The original prayer only refers to first person (the person actually praying) but Mama prays a second version after praying for herself. She replaces the ”I” with “his/her”,” they”, and so on; so in effect she's praying for her family, friends, even for strangers. It's short and easy so one could always pray this whatever the situation may be. It’s powerful, inspiring, and invokes all who read it to have a renewed sense of faith in God and belief in the Blessed Virgin’s intercession.

May you be inspired too,

Hitting the Bird's Eye

2011-02-03T16:10:00.005+08:00

Tired of the usual fried and grilled chicken Sunday lunches, Noy and I ventured last weekend on eating at the newly opened Peri-Peri at the SM Megamall. It's still chicken, but it's Portuguese, something we haven't tried before. The name peri-peri (correctly spelled piri piri) is a Portuguese term to describe the African bird's-eye chili, which is featured in the restaurant's signature hot sauce.

And boy, does the sauce deliver. There are two bottles of different types on the table. I like the oil-based one because it's lighter and more pungent. The more textured one tastes like Tabasco, only more raw, and quite harsh it almost burns.

But the big big hit here is the chicken. Whether hot and spicy, mild spicy or lemon and garlic-basted, it's succulent and tender. The flavor of herbs and spices where it was marinated in for a long time bursts in the mouth with every bite. And because, it's spit-fire grilled, it's less fatty and wonderfully cooked through to the bones - no bloody insides here. I thoroughly enjoyed my chicken.

While the sidings are a tad ordinary, they are equally flavorful and enjoyable. What's especially notable about Peri-Peri is the fact that their portions are huge, but it wasn't mentioned anywhere in their extensive menu that they do. If you're a big-portion person who's looking for an amazing value for your money, this is the place to go.

So much so that I had to come back to taste the pasta platter. For this set meal, one has to choose between Alfredo or Bolognese; both are just as yummy and plenty as the chicken and sidings.

For both visits, we availed of their promo - add Php 49 to your chicken meal of choice and get unlimited servings of drinks and soups - all equally superb. This is an awesome deal I probably won't get tired of. Oh, and try their Cafe Latte - surprisingly heartwarming.

Are you still reading? I thought you're already checking out their website, where you'll find they have a lot more to offer, like rappas, quesadillas, and intriguing entrees. I myself can't wait to come back and say Ola! to wonderfully filling good food again.

Mama's Flowers

2011-01-26T11:52:00.001+08:00

I can't help writing about Mama and her beautiful garden every time I come back from a vacation back home. Her flowers are just breathtaking.

This time, I was lucky to have my brother in law, Saturn, around for a fresh photographic take of Mama's flowers.

Sometimes, I still couldn't figure out she has managed to grow a garden full of pretty little delights. Before every trip home I look forward to what changed during the time I was out - what orchid varieties are in bloom now, what replaced the gumamelas that lined the walkways, what was growing around the grotto, if the fruit trees have produced sprouts yet, and so on. There's just always something new, something pleasurable, sometimes surprising. Like this lemon shrub that's managed to bear fruit. I can't wait to harvest and have a taste of this home-grown treat.

Click here for more photos by Saturn Labanda.

AI 2011 Begins!

2011-01-21T10:30:00.005+08:00

It's inevitable, American Idol fans and non-fans will compare the previous judges with Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez. As an AI fan, I honestly think that the new judges are credible and worthy of the job because they themselves are icons of the world music scene, the details of which are unnecessary here because we all know who they are.

As I devoted two precious hours of my time last night to watch the premier, I found myself wanting for more. The contestants are always the same highly diversified group - from the deathly boring to the insanely uncontrollable crazy - with really good singers in between. The very Pinoy story-telling of miseries and difficulties of a number of contestants is still there, and yes they do get to Hollywood! I particularly liked the story AND singing of Melinda Ademi, whose family moved to the US from Kosovo as war refugees. It was heartbreaking but not too cheesy.

Also a personal favorite is Devyn Rush, a New York singing waitress. She's got an awesome, soothingly powerful voice. I like the fact that she's cool and down to earth and takes the praises AND criticisms of the judges calmly, unlike the others who go overboard on screaming. I'd definitely see how far she goes into the competition.

Going back to the judges, I think they were great. Steven Tyler is the man of the hour. He is a pro at saying NO creatively and shows great appreciation for the truly talented. He sings with the contestants and gives out animal-like sounds when he's not liking them. It's funny and gives the show a fresh vibe despite the routine format.

I was never a J Lo fan. Sure, I watched her movies, but I never really liked her songs and dancing, and sometimes her outfit. But tonight slowly made me come full circle. I love her! She looks amazing, she speaks from the heart, and she knows what she's doing. Although she has difficulty rejecting semi-talented contestants for now, it's expected that she will learn how to deal with them as the show progresses. Here comes the comparison part: her compassion is so much like Paula Abdul's, but she doesn't talk like her blood reeks of sedatives. J Lo's comments are clearer and more direct to the point.

It was weird to see Randy in Simon Cowell's place in the panel, but currently it's the best arrangement possible, I'm sure you'll all agree. He's the same truthful, sometimes painfully constructive guy, and the way he'll handle the entire judging panel is yet another exciting thing to look forward to this season.

American Idol is on Star World Thursdays and Fridays live at 6 pm with a primetime episode at 8pm.

Just Discovered

2011-01-20T13:18:00.001+08:00

I thought I knew the place very well.

It's a favorite family r&r place, summer and otherwise. Everything is simple and left just the way they should be, just the way the "resort" owners let their guests - mostly families - be. We get pure clean fun without worrying about tips, loud tourists, looking swimsuit-worthy or keeping sand away from the carpet.

The waters are particularly huge at this time of the year.

After an awesome wave-crashing session we strolled down the beach just for the heck of it. For years I've always wondered what was beyond the bend of boulders that gradually replaced the white sand. Or the second basin that catches what came forth from the third. And fourth. And fifth. And sixth.

For every wave of panic the sea throws at my face, a cover of fear washes away with the withdrawing water, and a surge of calm rushes through my soul.

Which made me think: If one is on loose sandy soil, what makes him strong enough to battle the waves? To stand proudly but serenely? Be battered yet beautiful?

And then, something so great comes out from something so little.

When there's really nothing left to give but the very heart and soul, it becomes so powerful it destroys all hindrances to greatness.

So everyone truly gets a part of the wonderful gift.

Photos by Saturn Labanda

have a wonderful discovery yourself,

Sango!

2010-12-30T22:30:00.005+08:00

The Sango Burger store in Shangri-la has been there for the longest time but I haven't actually tried it yet. Dinner prior to my brother's trip back home to Aklan made for the perfect reason to try it; he and I are burger lovers.

Noy was quite disappointed at the slightly expensive price of the burgers. Not that there's anything new about that. =D Check out the menu:

We ordered the bestsellers - Master Burger with Cheese, Teriyaki Burger, Chicken Teriyaki Burger, and Yakiniku Rice Burger. The teriyakis taste great, the master burger was disappointing, but the rice burger made me think twice about not coming back to Sango at all.

As far as this first visit is concerned, I'm making this conclusion to myself that their burger buns need to pack in more bread; same goes for their patties. The meat is there, the flavor is there, but there's just not enough substance to it. At some point I was even reminded of the greasy burgers sold on the streets. The special sauce that went with the master burger tasted like liver spread on tomato sauce to me. Sad, but there. Too much hype on reviews and word of mouth just killed me. I must emphasize though that I'm making these statements just because I think they are overpriced. Had the price been about 50 pesos less it would have been the other way around.

Nevertheless, their rice burger is commendable. It's meaty, it's juicy, flavorful and filling. I wouldn't mind paying 160 pesos or so for this treat.

I would come back also to try their teriyaki on rice. I bet it would be a lot more satisfying on rice than on their buns.

The honey dew melon shake was too sweet, but would be great for kids.

Sango isn't exactly a bad choice if one would really crave for a different-tasting burger. I hope they'd look into customer feedback also so that they'd improve their products so that people would get more value for their money.

Excited for new year's,

A Delish Bright Night at Ayala Triangle Gardens

2010-12-13T09:06:00.013+08:00

Makati regulars might find this a little less exciting but for us who work elsewhere, the Ayala Triangle Garden's Symphony of Parols is truly an exciting treat. The entrance from the Makati Stock Exchange building bedecked by multicolored parols and lights hanging from the trees which create a mysterious curtain-like welcome to revelers. When the show starts and people come inside to have a better look, the magic begins.

After a certain period that we were awed we were able to capture the latter part on video -

but here's a more complete excerpt:

Wasn't that great? You have to be there to truly appreciate it though. It starts at 6 to 8 pm (at 30-minute intervals) every night until December 23rd.

Oh, and there was an orchestra playing when we were there. I'm not sure if that happens everyday, but that would be awesome because they play so well couples couldn't help but snuggle together and sway to the soft vibrant tunes.

We even saw an elderly couple on a date! The lolo was wrapping his arms around lola the entire time, but when we remembered to take a picture he wasn't anymore. I hate arthritis! But don't they look sweet, nevertheless? =)

The Ayala Triangle Gardens also recently has put up an array of restaurants for everyone to enjoy. Collectively called the Restaurants at Ayala Triangle Gardens, there is something for everyone to enjoy from appetizers to desserts, frozen yogurt and of course, coffee. I am excited to see Kanin Club (modern filipino + asian) which I only came to know about in Paseo de Sta Rosa. There will also be a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf cafe soon so I guess I'll be here quite a lot of times while waiting for Noy to check out of duty. Check out the restaurants here and find out what tickles your fancy most!

And so I've been hearing a lot about how Chicken Bon Chon will change the way Filipinos eat chicken, so we decided to give it a try.

The place was packed at 9 pm, so we were forced to eat al fresco. It's not my favorite thing because I really hate cigarette smoke, but Banapple and Bfast were a lot more packed, so al fresco it was.

I had the wings (they only sell wings and drumsticks), Noy got bulgogi while my brother in law Sat got the drumsticks.

I didn't like the bulgogi much but the chicken! Oh my gosh the chicken. It's light, it's flavorful, it's fantastic. No gravy needed. The sauce is completely new as far as my limitly experienced palate is concerned, but it's definitely a winner. It sticks so well to the chicken but not on your hands. I wiped it off once and there's hardly any stickiness or smell left on my fingers. Now I know why a lot of people always request this as pasalubong from their friends coming from Singapore.

However, we were slightly irritated by the slow service and the feeling that we were being served by a service crew that isn't well-trained to handle various reasonable customer requests. But knowing that it's a flagship store and people just couldn't help but try this world-renowned chicken thus the huge crowd, we have got to just shrug it off. Like Sat said, the chicken made up for the 10 minutes it took them to give him a glass of Royal Tru Orange. After all, we didn't have enough of that delicious chicken so we're definitely coming back for more.

See you guys there!

Have a deliciously bright Christmas,

Corniche

2010-12-01T15:03:00.005+08:00

One of our favorite dining places on earth just got revamped. Palm Court Cafe is now Corniche.

I am positively drooling over its lavishly simple interiors and lush luxurious ambience. I can almost taste its gloriously mystifying offerings.

How I wish it's our fourth anniversary now! =D

Rediscovering a Starry Romance

2010-11-26T13:44:00.012+08:00

Noy and I were back to the 27th floor of the Diamond Hotel after three years, this time to celebrate a career booster =)

This top floor of the hotel has been converted into a posh events place now aptly called the Constellation. Aside from the spacious hall (formerly the Galaxias Ballroom where our wedding reception was held), which can be divided into five smaller rooms named Aquarius, Gemini, Libra, Sagittarius and Capricorn, the Constellation also boasts of several areas which are a luxurious first in the Philippine hotel industry.

There's Pisces, the culinary studio with an ultra-modern open kitchen perfect for small gatherings.

photo from the Diamond Hotel website

Aries is the open coffee and beverage bar which greets guests at their first step into the 27th floor. I think it's an ideal place to hold pre-dinner cocktails at a wedding reception.

As if these weren't enough, Diamond thought it best to build an executive boardroom for business meetings that require a sweeping view of the metro. Leo is apparently equipped with lavish functional furnishings that's guaranteed to bring out the best out of any meeting attendee.

photo from the Diamond Hotel website

I have quite a few though of the events hall where the PSO Fellowship Night was held. It was at this fellowship night that I got inducted as an affiliate member of the society. While Galaxias was differently grand on its own, this has a cleaner, more monochromatic look which is all the rave now. The interiors had an Asian feel to it, what with rust as the main color and the thatched wood-adorned ceiling.

At the center ceiling of the hall and the corridor outside, there are solidly sweeping structures reminiscent of stars twinkling at a distance.

The idea is deep dark rich, at the same time vibrant and energizing.

They have definitely lived up to the times with modern audio-visual facilities that move at a click of a button. Even the attendants' garb were beautifully revamped. I could not resist posing with this friendly girl who served us drinks. I think her bronze dress is just pretty.

The only thing that didn't change was the fact that the food was still the same superb quality and flavor that guests just love, the same warm gracious service and the spectacular view of Roxas Boulevard and the bay. These photos don't give that justice, but don't take my word for it. Check out the constellation now if you're looking for a perfect venue for that event you are planning.

By the way, did I mention how cool the restrooms were?

I couldn't quite believe this was the same room

but I'm happy about this transformation. My starry romance place just got a whole lot better.

Society Savvy

2010-11-25T14:28:00.004+08:00

Hear ye hear ye! I am now officially an affiliate member of the Philippine Society of Oncology!

We were just gearing up for the society's 26th Annual Convention when the good news came. It's even quite unexpected because it's been months since I applied for membership, and I'm so happy that I was accepted. It truly is the fruit of that long and hard labor I did with my staff at the 10th midyear.

I, my fellow clinical trial doctor Jam and former CECAP Project Manager Paul were the three inductees for affiliate membership. There were three other fresh medical oncology specialists who were inducted as fellows. It was great to see all members of the board and the PSO Officers line up to congratulate us. It felt good to belong.

The keynote speaker for the annual convention was Mr Tony Meloto, Chair of Gawad Kalinga. He did a very well said speech on the talent, wisdom and greatness of Filipinos. It was inspiring to hear him talk about how much more we could be greater than what we are now, if only we'd fight really hard against corruption and crab mentality. As such, the PSO is planning a huge project with GK, and already I am looking forward to being part of this project. Beyond building houses and painting fences, I am envisioning a bit of pap smear-ing here and there, and some hard core clinical work, too.

This is quite a feat for general practitioners like me. But to quote Mr Tony Meloto, "Despite what’s happening around us, you can look forward to better times ahead if you do justice to your talent and you use it well to build a just and caring society." When your goal is to be of service of others without taint of malice or self-gain, I believe everyone is entitled to a certain niche where this goal may be worked on and channeled to be of real value.

Super thanks to my bosses, Dr Cecilia Llave and Dr Jean Anne Toral for the support and guidance, my hardworking staff, and of course Noy, without whom I won't believe in myself the way I do now.

Cheers!

Army Navy

2010-11-22T14:20:00.007+08:00

It was nice going on hiatus. Especially when there's a refreshing new take on the classic burger. At Army Navy, they call it the Bully Boy - three perfectly juicy patties on lettuce, tomatoes & onions between sesame-studded kaisers. If that sounds a little gluttony for you, go ahead with the classic or double patty. No matter how many patties you have, you get the same simple, no fancy frills goodness with every bite. It's so pleasant-tasting you won't imagine they actually eat THAT at the barracks.

If you're tired of the usual tomato sauce-laden burrito then it's a good idea to try one at Army Navy's. They put all the good stuff in that delectable flour tortilla - rice, spanish beans, meat, onions, tomatoes and cilantro - without tomato sauce. Instead, they serve it with salsa on the side, with a slice of lime. This version gives the burrito a zesty twist that's too exciting to pass up on.

Of course, there are onion rings and fries. The slices are thin, crispy and tasty. No the best in town, but delightful nevertheless. Especially when you wash everything down with a huge glass of freshly brewed Libertea. Again, everything is simple - no extra flavors, no weird add-ons. Just plain wholesome ingredients with natural flavors.

Have you noticed the cute names they call their menu items? Aside from Freedom Fries, they also have Starving Sailor and Fearless Fried Chicken. Army Navy dining areas are studded with trivia-filled hangings on the wall that are nice to read while waiting for your order. I am not going to share it here because I'm saving the thrill for you, who probably lives near an Army Navy store so there's no reason for you not to check it out now, what with the unique interiors that's clean and shiny.

Oh and by the way, they're generous on the condiments, so smother on the mayo baby! Don't forget to try some Army Navy sauce to tickle your senses some more. It's the bomb!

Two Thumbs Down

2010-10-26T14:52:00.005+08:00

One death in a 24-hour duty is almost an ordinary thing at the time when I was working as the only doctor in a 50-bed secondary hospital in a province south of the metro. Adult deaths are more common and tolerable. The death of a young patient, however, is vigorously stirring. The death of two babies in a row shatters me to pieces.

Two years ago this week, I spent the second half of 72-hour shift resuscitating newborns. One, a premature baby boy, had been intubated for a day after developing pneumonia. He kept me awake for most of my shift due to decreasing oxygen saturation every two hours or so, but he was a fighter. A little tap on the foot to make him cry usually did the trick, but at 9 am the following day he didn't even grimace. He kept his eyes closed and maintained bluish-gray skin despite all our efforts to make him go pink again. The parents themselves told us to stop; they've finally realized it was time to let go. It was a pain to even look at the clock to document the time of the baby's death.

After a few tears, I got back to seeing other patients. In the afternoon, a pregnant lady was rushed to the ED complaining that her baby was moving a lot less since that morning. We did a stat C-section, and out came a lifeless baby with a familiar facies - that of one with Down's Syndrome. This baby girl never let out a cry; she was plump and weighed appropriately for her age, but she was practically lifeless. Since she was a niece of a friend, I tried my very best to resuscitate her even when my thumbs hurt very badly from pumping two hearts - hers & of the baby boy who died earlier. After an hour, we stopped our futile efforts. I stared at the clock in disbelief - an hour ago we were recording her time of birth; now we're writing down the time of her death.

photo from Touching Souls

There it was again, the cold feeling on my palms and soles. My sore thumbs went numb and my legs felt like jelly. I was tired and sleepy and hungry - I do not another emotion or status, least of all sad or devastated or frustrated.

I sat slumped at the OR floor and cried. Really hard.

What I Need Right Now

2010-10-19T11:01:00.004+08:00

There are days when I feel bad without me knowing why. There are days when I feel bad AND I absolutely know why. And then there are days when I don't feel bad but I'm not happy either, and usually it happens on a rainy day like this.

Typhoon Juan is slowly moving its way out of the country but it was so hard to get up this morning because it's cold and the bed looks so invitingly warm. This isn't even my bed I'm talking about since I spent Monday nights in the apartment in Tondo where I grew up. Why I do is another blog-worthy subject I'm writing about soon.

View Larger Map

Speaking of Tondo, it's great to reminisce about rainy days when we'd wake up early and wait for the am radio announcer to say that classes have been suspended. Then, my brother and I would hop in my parent's bed, bury ourselves in the thick sheets and go back to sleep. Mama would whip up a breakfast of sardines with misua and daing na bangus. The smell of the frying fish would wake us up so Mama didn't have to call us to eat.

I know it's a weird combination, but it tastes really good anyway that I find myself trying to cook both dishes whenever it rains and I have bangus in the fridge. I like my daing na bangus cooked a little bit more than in the photo here so that it's crispy. I like anything fried crispy for that matter.

The rest of the rainy day was spent in bed still, where we'd play board games or watch a scary movie. It's quite sad that I don't remember Papa in this childhood memory. He worked in a hospital and it didn't matter if Storm Signal Number 3 was hoisted over Metro Manila; he had to go to work. Papa was a hardworking man.

Anyways, he'd usually be home in the afternoon, just in time for Mama to serve either Chicken Sopas or Arroz Caldo or Champorado.

Usually it's Arroz Caldo since it's the easiest to cook in terms of ingredient availability. We like ours a little thin and unadulterated - just chicken and lots of kasubha.

Mama makes the best sopas using native chicken these days. Back when we were kids, it wasn't so bad with regular chicken either. She cooks the shell macaroni in the water where the chicken was boiled in. Mama puts just the right amount of cabbage and carrots, with a little butter, so that the vegetables float in the soup. Each bite and sip was heaven - no chicken cubes attached!

Champorado wasn't always present in our rainy day specials, but when Mama made a pot it was always a delight. She was fond of Ricoa powder, which tastes just as great as the tablea. She didn't serve it with tuyo or dilis so I personally prefer to have my champorado without anything on the side until now. A big swirl of evaporated milk is all it takes to make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

So today that I'm neither happy or sad, I'm deciding to have any of the above, preferably in Tondo where I grew up, where cold rainy days are embraced by good simple food, smothered by my family's love and care.

photo credits:

http://tigabaluarte.blogspot.com/2010/03/daing-na-bangus.html
http://www.mykitchencooking.com/2008/03/misua-recipe.html
http://www.filipino-food-lovers.com/?p=88
http://www.shaicoggins.com/chicken_sopas_recipe/
http://www.maxschicken.com/index.php?/menus/31

Charging is Rewarding

2010-10-10T17:33:00.000+08:00

This Citibank Promo has been going on for sometime now. Noy and I have used our charge slips mostly at Shell, but it was only this afternoon that we realized how wonderfully practical it is.

We headed over to the newly re-launched Rustan's Supermarket in Shangri La Mall after learning that SM Supermarket isn't putting Colgate Palmolive products in its shelves anymore.

We needed just a few items really because we've done some shopping at SM already. Not being so familiar with the promo mechanics, we gingerly asked the checkout girl if we could use one of our older charge slips. The ink fades in these charge slips, and it's wise to use them as soon as possible. It turns out checkout girl Joan is very accommodating one. She told us not to be shy about using these slips because it helps a lot. She even encouraged us to use one more charge slip, so much so that we paid for these

with just this-

- a staggering Php3.25 for two loaves of bread, lettuce, and a big tube of Colgate professional clean toothpaste.

Some things do live up to their words.

photos from 1)the Citibank Philippines website and 2) taken by my|phone t23 duo.

p.s.

Come visit the new Rustan's Supermarket in Shangri La Mall after it was hit by

fire in April. It now has a deli and hot dishes area which serves a lot of delicious meals on the go or for dining in. There are a lot of other new food stalls too!

photo from heart 2 heart online.

my|new|phone

2010-10-07T11:07:00.004+08:00

I swore I'd never buy anything on impulse again. Ever. Unfortunately my husband hasn't made that promise yet. So when he saw this ad somewhere last week -

- we ran to the nearest store that had one still on stock at around 7 pm, and he bought the phone for me. Apparently a lot of people have queued up just to buy this phone. Actually, they just took 500 pesos off its SRP. But it's still cheap, considering that most touch phones sell for Php 5000 up.

It's packed with features for its price. I am most happy with the fact that it's dual SIM, because I have been wanting to have a Globe SIM (Im currently locked to Smart) because my work people use Globe. My Smart plan offers free calls, but not texts, to Globe and I always exceed the monthly cost of my plan because of the huge amount of Globe texts I make everyday.

The my|phone T23 duo is a full touch phone, and it takes some getting used to. Im not a touch phone fan but I believe I just need to get the hang of it before I fully enjoy it. The T23 duo has all the usual, useful stuff - camera, bluetooth, music player and FM radio. It has room for an 8 GB SD card, which I'm really hoping I'd be able to buy pronto.

What sets this apart from the other phones I think is the Pinoy feature, which includes services like my|faith, my|country, my|love, my|negosyo, and my|java. I am loving the my|faith feature because it sets a reminder for the angelus, morning and evening prayers, and the rosary. I can even upload all entries of the 365 Days with the Lord! I've never seen a phone which gives so much emphasis on faith. my|country has fun stuff like mga bugtong, salawikain, pinoy trivia. all these can be enjoyed if one has a memory card installed already. the phone comes with a CD containing all these great fun accessories.

Usability wise, I'm feeling this phone will not give me much of a headache. While first time touch phone users like me will find scrolling up and down quite annoying at first, finding the right amount of pressure and flick is key to efficiency. Everything else is easy to find and use. Battery life is admirable and charging is USB-based so I could bring just the wire when traveling.

I just do not like being asked when I'll send a text or call using what SIM every single time, but I guess it comes with the fact that I am using two numbers from a single phone. The T23 duo is also not wifi ready so internet surfing for me remains confined to the laptop. Other than these, I am enjoying this fruit of self-containment which has luckily has resulted to a lot of husband pity. I just love Noy =)

p.s. my|phone Q19i duo will be on sale on october 8th only. check it out here.

Some Vanity Secrets, and the One

2010-09-30T15:24:00.008+08:00

With so many beauty and bath products these days, it's so hard to choose from a vast array of both local and imported products since most of them look, smell and feel so tempting. A year or so ago I've decided to veer away from makeup after receiving strong(!) confirmation from friends, colleagues, and strangers that my skin does look great these days. One acquaintance even asked me how much I paid for an intravenous glutathione session. I gasped, and admitted I used glutathione CAPSULES two months before my wedding and stopped. From then on it was just Vaseline. Really.

For my face, I wash with Dove white beauty bar and Olay Total Effects facial wash at night.

I moisturize with Myra E with SPF 15 on weekdays and Olay Total Effects with SPF 15 on weekends. Before it was just Olay all day all night, weekdays and weekends, but when I noticed that my skin was getting a little too white already, I stopped using it for a while. Then I discovered Myra-E, which is great because I don't have to put on a separate sunscreen (saves me time and money), but I still missed the powerful moisturizing effect of Olay, so I came up with such schedule and now Im happy =D

Okay so now the things that I felt made my skin look great aren't very secret anymore.

During a trip to Watson's to replenish my supplies, I noticed these pretty things sitting brightly on an otherwise drab corner. The pretty things happened to be bath and beauty products with the brand name One. The salesperson told me it's a US-based company whose products are formulated by a Filipina. The philosophy is right-on environment-friendly, but they take pride not just in their formulation but in the eco-friendly packaging. The girl was more than happy to show me their unique products, which really caught my eye, not just because of the cute packaging but in their very forms and names.

"Blast from the Past" for the anti-aging soap. This one has an invigorating berry scent.

This "hair biscuit" happens to be solid shampoo. It's applied to the hair several times, lathered up and rinsed. I'm intrigued, but opted not to buy this one since I'm being very careful about what I put in my thin hair. A lot of people in the US are so fascinated with this product it's been featured a lot in print and on TV.

The hair conditioner is solid, too. Perfect for travelling. Look ma, no spills!

Their bestseller is this hand and body lotion named Cloud 9. It has a soothing sweet scent. It's rich and creamy yet very light on the skin.

Another cool product is the lotion massage bar. This one, with red monggo-like seeds on its surface, named "Oh my gosh!" is supposed to melt one's stresses away, but I went for the smoother, calming one in blue packaging. It's supposed to erase my scars and stretch marks away. We'll see.

Other try-worthy products are the shea body butter in yummy variants, lip butter balm, and the after-shower skin conditioner. All products are quite pricey for my local taste, but after several tries I think it's fair enough. The more important thing is that these are all-natural products inside and out. The tin containers are very cute and would definitely serve another purpose after the product is consumed. It's also nice to be doing something good for the planet while keeping a naturally pampered body.

Be naturally gorgeous,

New Favorite

2010-09-17T10:48:00.003+08:00

No, we aren't exactly tired of our favorite spa place. It's just that someone told us this place is very good in terms of the price and ambience. Noy and I were both very tired that day and were just looking for this chance to relax a little - he from a very long list of patients, me from a very tall pile of clothes ironed.So off we went to a branch located at the Somerset Millenium in Aguirre St., Makati.

The moment I stepped inside, I already felt I was in a different place. It was so relaxing to sit on batik-printed easy chairs and stare at the colorful upside-down umbrellas on the ceiling. The indirect lighting on the wooden plank floor was just right - not too dark and not too bright. The place is quite small and the beds are separated by curtains only, but I didn't sense privacy and personal space issues here. Everything is quite simple - no overbearing furniture and decor, no superlative fragrances that almost hurt the nasal mucosa. And it works just fine.

My attendant was very professional. She had firm sure strokes. She knew where to place more attention to. I hate to compare but I liked the process here better than our favorite place, where I stumbled upon hurried attendants who couldn't seem to wait for my session to end. I even had one attendant who kept chomping away at a sandwich while she was kneading my arms. I have nothing against eating on the job, but they take breaks in between, don't they? I would really love the full attention of my attendant who's supposed to make me feel relaxed because I paid good money for it. Over at Lotus, the attendants take their jobs seriously. Mine at least does. She spent a lot of time with my foot and head, which I enjoyed tremendously. I even heard Noy snore at one time, but he doesn't remember falling asleep during the massage. No sense of hurry + careful defined attentive massaging = true relaxation.

On the downside, they don't have showers. The attendants just put powder on those areas massaged with oil. This shouldn't matter if you're headed home after the massage.

Did I mention that Lotus offers affordable prices for its services? The combination massage was Php100+ cheaper than in our favorite place. I think I should stop calling it our favorite place because I obviously have a beginning obsession with this new one.

Have a relaxing weekend,

photos from the Lotus My Massage Place facebook page.

8 to 5

2010-09-08T11:11:00.002+08:00

I used to criticize "office" people - those who worked the "normal hours" of 8 am to 5 pm, with an hour-long break. Such a short time compared to doctors who worked 24, 36 or 72 hours with unpredictable breaks and sleep. Some have none. While the office people strutted in their air-conditioned posh cubicles in designer clothes and shoes, we, the doctors could not even take a shower or lunch in peace because there will always be calls in between patients. The sad part is that we get equal pay as the office people, sometimes lower if the patient could not afford to pay cash.

Now that I've shifted gears to research, I'm required to work during the "normal" office hours. For the past two years that I have been doing so, I realized that the number of hours doesn't really matter sometimes. It's quite tiring to wake up at exactly the same time everyday and develop a certain routine.

Sometimes I miss just working my ass 72 hours straight and sleep the entire day the following day. I hate worrying about what to wear to the office and I miss my comfortable scrub suits and sneakers.

The boredom is pretty stressful, too. Before it was various sorts of ailments - from malingering to dengue fever, from breech deliveries to gunshot wounds, from diazepam overdose to fatal cerebrovascular bleeds - now it's just the computer and pap smears. I miss the adrenaline rush of the emergency room and the thrill of the operating theater.

I'm not complaining. I'm just reminiscing. And harboring new found respect for the people who did an 8 to 5 all their lives.

Dr Juice

2010-09-07T16:13:00.005+08:00

It's quite hard to believe that this little stall in Makati

serves sumptuous dishes like these -

Noy frequents this place for lunch because it gives him a chance to eat fish without worrying about fish bones, or about the fact that it's not paksiw. I love paksiw na isda, especially if it's bangus or sapsap. Noy thinks it's still raw (but he eats sushi!).

In this light, I find Dr Juice quite a blessing because my husband gets to eat food other than pork, beef or chicken. I like the fact that they serve brown rice. The weekly menu list is quite impressive; some of the items sound a lot foreign to me, although when Noy describes the dish it turns out it's just a fancy name. Nevertheless, it's a good alternative to the jolly jeep.

Last week, he took home Mixed Seafood Etouffee to me - a medley of squid, fish fillets and shrimp on a bed of celery and spicy sauce. It was yum, but his Cream Dory in Parsley Cream Sauce is yummier. The portions are huge; I was really really full by the time I bit on the last morsel. At Php 80-85 per serving (with either white or brown rice) it's quite a steal.

Dr Juice is located along Salcedo Street, Makati. It's on the left side of the road if you're walking from Makati Med to Greenbelt.

MO: Mellowly Outstanding

2010-09-07T10:40:00.011+08:00

Last weekend proved to be a relaxing one, what with an invitation to spend Friday night at Mandarin Oriental Manila. It was my first time to step foot at MO, and I have always been intrigued at the fact that a lot of people rave over it when it definitely looks old from the outside. MO is indeed old, but experienced, or mellowed, is the proper term I should say. The service is impeccable, something attainable only from worthwhile experience and learnings.

The lobby is quite small but elegant. The reception desk personnel were warm and accommodating, the welcome mango drink refreshing. Noy requested for a room located at the highest possible level, to which they gladly complied.

On our 10th level room we found a large bed and the usual amenities, but this was more comfortable and thought-of.

Someone brought a fruit plate in just moments after we got settled.

The bathroom showed signs of just how old the hotel is, but it's pleasant and well-appointed.

Noy especially liked the black and white tiled floor while I loved the signature seashell design everywhere in the hotel, evident even in the towels.

While the toiletries aren't so bad, I wish they would replace them with something like L'Occitane, just like Sofitel did.

In the evening we proceeded to the function rooms for the symposium. Dinner buffet was served in one while the program was held in another. Both rooms had an old world European feel, both businesslike but still very comfortable. There were mirrors everywhere to make up for the rather small size of the rooms, making them bright and airy.

Dinner was largely made up of Filipino dishes. Food wasn't at all bad - there was plenty, but I'd say I've tasted better. In the other room where the program proper was held had a coffee and snack bar (sandwiches and fries). There was bottled water and candy for everyone. It was really well thought-of.

When we went back to the room we were surprised to see the television turned on, the curtains drawn, the trash bins emptied, the bed made ready for sleeping. The slippers were even laid out beside the bed for use.

Oh, and they even replenished the complimentary water bottles in the fridge. I haven't heard of such service, but it was a good one and we thoroughly appreciate it.

Noy and I brought swimsuits but woke up too late for an early morning swim, what with the very comfortable bed (finally! one large bed!), save for the blanket that always folded under the covers.

The pool was large and inviting, but we didn't want to swim in full view of the diners at Paseo Uno, where we had breakfast as well. Our table had a view of the pool, a pretty one, but the mere thought of all these people looking at me in my swimsuit while they ate prevented me from giving in =D.

There were four well-replenished food stations. While Paseo's size is a lot smaller than Spiral's, I enjoyed eating here more because there was less clutter, not to mention less people. This size allowed me to choose my food carefully and not to jump at something I haven't had before. Spiral's was just too overwhelming for me, although their food tasted a little better than Paseo's.

Paseo Uno, MO's all-day diner, with its wood-framed capiz walls, modern-inspired native furnishings and lovely anthuriums, serves homemade yogurt in cute little jars perfect for whipping up a salad dressing. The yogurt wasn't sour at all. Noy mixed it with a blueberry-flavored soya drink and made himself a yogurt masterpiece. It was very good!

I probably would not be able to forget how the attendants give utmost attention to its diners. Whenever someone left the table to get more food, an attendant would place the chair back and the refold the napkin. When that someone comes back to the table, the attendant would let that diner sit, replace the napkin on his or her side and ask if anything else is needed, like a coffee refill or a newspaper. It's almost tiring to look at the OC-ness but it's definitely something remarkable. I myself felt special whenever the bespectacled guy, bless him, almost ran just to lay the napkin out on my lap.

MO is a hotel that caters mostly to business travelers, but it's not a very bad getaway to those who are seeking mere pleasure. They have a world-renowned spa place on the 18th floor, something I would love to try and save up for. Would I come back for another weekend? Oh yes yes yes.

New World May Be Needing a Renaissance

2010-08-21T16:22:00.009+08:00

Just got back from New World Hotel in Makati, where we spent the night in order to attend an event Noy considered pretty important.

One word: disappointed.

I've revered the place for several years now, what with the ultra prime location and huge glass fountains on the facade. It's Makati after all. And it's THE hotel right across Greenbelt.

So imagine our surprise when, at the event, they served coffee, but they didn't leave a condiment tray on the table. We had to put cream and sugar right after the waiter shoved the coffee in front of us, then waited an eternity before he got back to us after calling him when we've realized the coffee was a little too robust.

It's no disappointment we were checked in at a two single-bed room since we came late, it was understandable. But for them to deprive one of us a buffet breakfast coupon because the room was registered to only one name, we were outraged. Since when did a room have to be registered under two names in order to get two breakfast coupons? It's a shame we had to accept the fact that not all rooms come with breakfast for two people HERE. In this chic hotel where the facade is as fancy as the people known to frequent the Cinnabar.

Okay, it's not like I know hotels; I don't. But I do sense when something is outdated or lacks the capacity to be called a standard or to be satisfying. In our room, everything was pretty basic - beds, furniture, toilet. Adequate, but not elegant. I never felt I was sleeping in a famous building.

I may be disappointed but I do not forego with the compliments where I feel it is deserved.

New World veered away from providing guests with the generic toiletries. Instead they got Lather all natural soap, shampoo and moisturizer to liven up the otherwise drab bathroom. I loved the smell of mint and thyme the shampoo left in my very stressed-out hair.

The M2M (yes, after much talk Noy and I were both given breakfast coupons - I still could not believe I was bitching on the phone over some breakfast coupon! jeez!) is New World's all day diner. It's modern and contemporary, svelte and stylish. The buffet breakfast is laid out in a cool funky theme not just in tables but in open cupboards with elegant lighting and concept. I was still seething with anger by the time we came down so I wasn't able to take good photos but this one -

Their attendants are dressed in a practical modern garb with eye candy shades of aqua and orchid. By the way, New World staff aren't that bad. They're courteous and warm and helpful. I just wish they'd update their rooms and their reception system to complement their good-natured employees.

K is for Okay

2010-08-16T16:10:00.014+08:00

The weekend past saw Noy and I getting invited to this corporate event at the Hotel Kimberly in Tagaytay. Since we were given a day's notice only, we arrived - oh so fashionably - one and a half hours late. I barely had time to appreciate the hotel facade at night, but the it was definitely a looker from the road, especially since it sits in the middle of a residential area. No, it's not on the main strip of famous Tagaytay establishments but it really isn't that far.

The owners paid great attention to the overall look of the place. It's minimalist with cool native Philippine furnishings. The ambience is very relaxing at the fabulous lobby, what with floor to ceiling glass walls and spacious surroundings.

I especially love the artsy capiz pieces that adorned the lobby - mirror, lamp and vase.

This statement clock is at the front desk.

This one's inside the elevator.

The Cafe at K where we had breakfast (read below).

This daybed beside the gym is inviting. I wish there's one near the pool, too.

There's an adequately-sized pool which we dipped into early Sunday. Other people may find it crazy swimming at this time of year in Tagaytay, but I found it wonderfully refreshing. There's a large play area for kids and kids at heart, like us. I bet the place is a nice venue for parties involving families with kids, even for weddings since the entire place is picturesque enough. The hotel actually has wedding packages since it has a large ballroom which can accommodate 300 guests.

The same large space concept continues on to the rooms. The hotel takes pride in having the largest rooms in Tagaytay. I haven't been to too many hotels in Tagaytay, but Hotel Kimberly's are clean and comfortable. Im guessing all rooms have a balcony. There isn't much to see since the hotel is in a residential area, but it's nice to have a balcony still. The toilet in our room is basic, but Noy and I took delight on the large shower head.

Sadly though, the hotel services cannot quite keep up with the excellence of its physical appearance. There's really nothing to rave about the food. We were served buffet-style for both dinner and breakfast, and not a single dish was worth recommending. It wasn't that bad, but elsewhere in Tagaytay there are a lot of good food choices that makes Hotel Kimberly food so average. Other failures worthy of the manager's attention:

1. There were too many insects in the pool area. They didn't look like dengue-carrying mosquitoes but they were equally scary and irritating. We even had some inside the room and on the bed. I believe there are chemicals and devices that they can invest on if they want their share of the market.

2. The water in our shower cubicle wasn't draining well. Feels like the building is tilted to one side away from the drain.

3. The shower head is nice but it was hard to regulate the temperature of the water coming out of it. I don't really mind but other people would.

4. The staff may be warm and friendly, but they need some form of training to serve their clients well. They're supposed to help the guest unload and carry their baggage. They're supposed to open doors for guests who opt to carry their food to the pool area to eat. They're supposed to ask the guest if it's okay to remove a used plate from the table even if it looks like it isn't going to be used anymore. They're NOT supposed to curse in front of the guest who wanted to try the treadmill if suddenly it didn't work. They're NOT supposed to just look if the guest is having some difficulty with any of their amenities. They should not be allowed to huddle and giggle at the bar when the restaurant is busy and there are a lot of hungry guests.

5. The guests would appreciate a wider variety of cable channels. People come to Tagaytay on a rainy weekend to stay indoors and relax. A DVD player is helpful, but just how many guests would remember to bring a favorite movie along anyway?

Other noteworthy details -

1. They're wifi-equipped. Fast, too. In our room, at least (412).

2. Wide open parking space.

3. Plush bed and pillows, good airconditioning.

4. Large closet space & safety deposit box.

5. Morning paper (Manila Bulletin) and complimentary water.

6. Mini-bar items a lot more affordable than most hotels, albeit limited.

Since Noy and I stayed for free, I cannot really tell if this hotel maximizes the value of one's money. Would I come back for another event and stay for free? Yes, if the event is essential to my work and career, and if I'd like to come back to Tagaytay in general. No, if the event is not very important. If there's no event involved, say someone gave me a gift certificate for a free overnight stay, I'd pass it on to a friend.

Fely J's

2010-08-11T11:46:00.005+08:00

On a much lighter note, I'm delighted the TB round table discussion was held at Fely J's. Noy and I have been wanting to eat there as friends kept on suggesting that we try it. Checking out their menu though we were a bit turned off. Their prices being on the high end was one thing, not getting value for your money is another. Noy is especially wary of small servings, and I definitely do not want him disappointed over expensive food that doesn't deliver.

We were at the function room on the far right of the entrance, and it was studded with old photos, particularly of women. My attention was caught by a large photo of Binondo Church on the back wall for a long time. It was quite enchanting. The ambiance of the entire restaurant actually is, except perhaps when it's full.

I was hungry though, so I gulped my Coke light immediately and devoured the Fried Calamares in front of me. The other doctors followed suit. Someone had to start so I did. It was awkward sharing food on the same table with strangers.

Noy, hungry as well, could not eat squid because he's allergic to most seafood. Two more appetizers came in, namely Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls with large slices of shrimp, and Crispy Swahe. The rep noticed that Dr Labanda, who will introduce the speaker, wasn't eating, so she asked that the main course be served already. So in came Pancit Canton Guisado, which had large shrimps again, then Ginataang Gulay at Hipon (shrimps and vegetables sauteed with ginger and spices, finished with coconut cream). At this point I cannot enjoy my food despite the fact that the food indeed was very good.

Finally, Noy asked for a cup of rice. Then, a humongous plate of Crispy Patang Bawang was placed before him. It was funny how everyone was smiling at him and allowing him to get his fill. We've been eating for about 10 minutes while he only had sips of Sprite. The Chicken "Mabuting" Inasal was placed near him, too. The other dishes that were served were Bangus Belly Sinigang and Beef Mechado.

Desserts were served after the lecture - Sikreto ni Maria Clara and Cassava Bibingka with Buko. The former, a delightful pairing of suman sa ibus and mangoes in vanilla ice cream (i tasted a hint of coconut cream in there), is very very good. Too bad it was totally (!) consumed - no, devoured - by my fellow doctors before I even thought of taking a picture.

As a careful consumer, I'd say the dishes were okay. Portions are good and filling, but the flavor isn't something to really go crazy about - I've had better versions of each dish, flavor-wise. But the overall quality will definitely be worth the price. If they were really aiming for food that feels indulgently homemade, then they've hit the spot just right. The place is perfect for balikbayans and the like.

Will I be back? Yes, if the budget permits a little splurging. Also, I'd like to try Fely J's Dilis-cious Rice, Temple Crab and Tilapia with Sweet Plum Sauce which are notably their bestsellers. More importantly, I'd like to have a plate of Sikreto ni Maria Clara, all to myself and in peace.

Have a happy middle of the week!

photos from LJC Restaurant Group Facebook page

I Should Have Known

2010-08-09T15:23:00.008+08:00

One of the most unpleasant experiences I had was having to go to St Luke's Extension Clinic at the time when an opportunity to go to Australia on a business trip last year was pressing. I was not given a visa, and I was immensely disappointed. Most of all, I hated the pulmonologist who saw me so much I'd kill to know her name and her whereabouts.

To quote the follow-up blog to that,

"Finally I was face to face, rather face to face mask, with the pulmonologist. I was able to tell her that I am a doctor and that the same thing happened (chest PA suspicious, lordotic clear) when I was applying for internship at Makati Med, so I was not alarmed when the xray film in question turned out suspicious as well. I stated that I had been in contact with the consul and that all I needed was a clearance from her, that Im willing to do the smear & the culture & all films she wants taken as soon as I come back. I honestly told her that as a doctor I know when I would be needing help and that of course by all means I would want to be treated and cured if I have to. I mean, who doesn't?

Then she blurted away with all the technical boo hoos (she needs old films, i can't say for sure without culture, yada yada yada..) none of which I don't already know, as if she didn't hear anything I said for the past 5 minutes. She asked me what my specialization was, ausculated me and said matter of factly that if I could present previous films, I may do so. And that was it.

I stood outside to wait for the nurse's instructions, dumped yet again. I came in there to talk to a fellow doctor who I hoped would understand the situation, expecting some form of empathy, and maybe a bit of advice, or a peek into how the system works in that place. Yes, I was asking her a favor, but for the love of God it was a well-placed notion. I had no bad intentions. If I were truly sick I would not even express my intention to join. All I wanted was to attend the meeting so I can meet potential connections and hopefully employers. Apparently she chose not to hear it and she would not care.

I got out, feeling worse that I ever had in months, trying to convince myself that it wasn't about consultants looking down on GPs like GPs had no place in the medical world, blaming myself for even considering, wondering why I have been such an understading empathic doctor to my patients while some doctors are not. Not even to their fellow doctors."

Feisty, eh? I really felt bad. I thought it was something personal. It may be. Whatever. Until Noy and I got invited last Friday to a round table discussion on the new standards of TB management. The American Thoracic Society released the New International Standards for TB Care in 2006, which says that:

Standard 2. All patients (adults, adolescents, and children who are capable of producing
sputum) suspected of having pulmonary tuberculosis should have at
least two, and preferably three, sputum specimens obtained for microscopic
examination. When possible, at least one early morning specimen
should be obtained.
Standard 3. For all patients (adults, adolescents, and children) suspected of having
extrapulmonary tuberculosis, appropriate specimens from the suspected
sites of involvement should be obtained for microscopy and, where
facilities and resources are available, for culture and histopathological
examination.
Standard 4. All persons with chest radiographic findings suggestive of tuberculosis
should have sputum specimens submitted for microbiological examination.

I should have known. This came out even before I had the doomed chest xray done. I thought about all the wasted energy hating and bitching about the pulmonologist who was only adhering to the standards and doing her job.

It's a shame I even entertained the issue of being "just" a GP when the sponsor company invited ONLY GPs to this event. This is a clear revelation that even though General Practitioners are not a very popular choice in the urban health scene, they do thrive and they are being given consideration and importance by the pharmaceutical industry.

I may still have regrets over not making it to Perth, but there's really nothing I can do about it except face the fact that if I really wanted to have that visa, I will have to face the ordeal of clearing myself of the TB scare. I just wish they'd be more friendly at St Luke's though.

Improper

2010-07-30T15:28:00.002+08:00

I am saddened by the fact that an organized group whose primary goal is cancer prevention in the Philippines is losing support from its sponsors. It employees will leave in two weeks in search of more stable jobs.

I do not have the right to explore the un-explorable, but experience tells me the problems stems from bad management and improper use of funds. By improper I mean any reader is free to use every possible meaning and implication of the word.

Okay, this blog post is starting to feel like a blind item from a Sunday broadsheet. I wish I'd write something less sad and more substantial next time.

So Fab Sofitel

2010-07-26T14:46:00.000+08:00

Someone treated us for a sleepover at Sofitel Philippine Plaza, the famous hotel beside Manila Bay that has witnessed a lot of wedding preparations and receptions, not to mention various corporate events and the like. Noy and I have been countless times because of events and weddings, either as a couple or as individuals, but we've never really stayed there. We considered it when we were choosing a reception venue for ou r wedd ing but found the price a tad too expensive. We do not have regrets spending our money on Diamond Hotel instead, but we're just as thrilled to stay at Sofitel for free. =)

Previous peeks tell me they've redesigned and improved their guestrooms, to our enjoyment.

I got pretty excited to see the L'Occitane verbena line travel kit in the stylish bathroom. I just love the just-showered scent of verbena on my skin.

Noy's a fan of cool showerheads, so he is so digging this one.

Dinner buffet was great, as always.

A lot of people go crazy over Sofitel's My Bed, which is really just a thin soft sheet placed over the bed, kind of like a thin mattress, claiming to take the shape of the person on the bed. Some swear by its ultra-soft feel that makes one want to just stay in bed forever. I honestly did not see what it was all about, even after waking up in the morning. I agree the bed is ultra-comfortable, but I've slept equally satisfying nights elsewhere. I don't have anything against My Bed, I bet it's a really good product. I guess I'm just irked at other people over-reacting to it on several internet sites just to be labeled sosyal. Oh well. It's other someone will kindly point it out to me or a good sleep really depends on a lot of factors aside from the bed or the contraptions in and around it.

But I had a good sleep, Noy and I both did. By the way the pool does look awesome at night when viewed from above.

We were looking forward to breakfast at the much raved upon Spiral, Sofitel's all day dining place below the lobby.

There was food, fabulous food everywhere. I honestly didn't know where to start because everything looked and smelled so good. I must say we were given a pretty nice spot right beside the spiral staircase. Noy and I loved the hot chocolate and OJ amidst the plenty. Ahhh the simple things.

I invited my parents to come stay with us in the morning. They bought our apo, Gerard, and his Lola along. I'm so happy to see them enjoying themselves even just for a while. How I wish I can treat them to a Sofitel sleepover, too.

Someday. I can't wait!

Try This!

2010-07-24T16:37:00.000+08:00

Homemade dessert lovers should try this one.

Layers and layers of sweet lemony custard in between sheets of fluffy egg white and flour mixture coated with a thin buttery cookie layer smothered with crunchy nuts make up this big treat.

It's Brazo de Mercedes meets Sansrival.

Don't wonder. Just try. Message me for details.

The Manila Scramble

2010-07-19T13:48:00.005+08:00

Remember the pink icy goo smothered with milk powder and chocolate syrup (in Hershey's squeezable bottles, mind you, but I doubt if it's the real thing) sold in front of our schools as elementary pupils? Well, I've always wanted to taste some but never did. My papa said everything sold outside the school isn't clean and will cause us disease if we eat them. So I've been a very obedient child, not buying a cup of that girlish-looking concoction despite all my friends gobbling them up.Until yesterday night. Noy and I were looking for a gadget in Robinson's Pioneer when we noticed a long line forming outside the supermarket.

Then we saw this.

Noy jumped at the realization that it was his favorite treat in grade school, back when the rewards for having good grades were sweets and junk food. So I lined up for him while he scoured the grocery for supplies.

The Manila Scramble, a new and better version of the old skrambol so identified with our generation, is in the malls wowing up the adult crowd (those in line really are adults more than youngsters). The pink strawberry-flavored comfort food (make that a drink as well) is sold by the takal from a large clean Rubbermaid cooler, into medium (Php 10) and large (Php 17) paper containers. Small (Php 7) portions are sold in plastic cups. I of course got the small ones only since Im thinking it's one of those, despite being clean, dangerous stuff to eat when you're diabetic.

The exciting thing about this is that they've added the option of placing toppings with your scramble. I had fruit loops and rice krispies; Noy had corn flakes and marshmallows. There were a couple of other toppings whose names I don't really know. Toppings sell for Php 4 per. They add the milk for free if you're putting toppings. If you want it plain, they'll drizzle chocolate syrup onto your scramble and you're good to go; just add another Php 4 if you want milk on it, too.

So what can I say? I'd say I'm full of regrets not having skrambol as a child. I mean, Noy turned out to be a very healthy guy despite all the skrambol he had. The Manila Scramble's skrambol is so light and luscious at the same time. It's got this delightful hint of strawberry that will not overpower the chocolate syrup and whatever toppings mixed in.

This photo was taken from The Manila Scramble Facebook page.
Yes, we were THAT excited we forgot to take pictures of our own scramble.

I looked at my husband while he slowly sipped his scramble and even closed his eyes for a while, probably reminiscing his joyous grade school days, and realized the power of a pink slush in a cup. Then he gave me this disappointed look for buying just a small cup (store was closed when he finished checking in stuff from the grocery).

I'll buy a large cup tomorrow. No, two.

Would I Ask for More?

2010-07-04T14:42:00.008+08:00

When I was deep into my 96-hour straight workweeks, I once seriously thought I'd consider an 8-5 job? I wondered what it was like sleeping a peaceful night, no crazy calls from stupid nurses at night, no dying patients at the break of dawn, no constant fear of encountering a strange emergency case at 2 am. I longed for mornings that start at my very own comfortable bed and perked up by the smell of homemade breakfast and not the usual hospital goo. I yearned to declare "That's it for today." at 5 pm and rush home to cook my husband a simple dinner, watch Grey's Anatomy or read Nicholas Sparks, hit the sack when I feel like it. Oh yeah, and do IT of course.

Well. Im kinda having THAT life right now, thanks to my clinical trial stint, the second year of which Im celebrating today. It's a happy one of course, because it means I get a salary increase. At least now I've equalled my moonlighting earnings without burning a lot of sweat.

My current life isn't exactly ideal - my husband is away two nights a week, and when he's around, I'd be too sad cooking alone at home so I'd rather hang around at the gym while he works out. Why I'm not joining him is another story. But yes, I do wake up in a comfortable bed. I do make delicious breakfast and get a lot of pleasure watching my husband gobble it up. I do declare "That's it for today." at 5 pm everyday. Well sometimes at 4 pm. Okay, 3 pm is more like it. But I do go home every afternoon. To a nice dinner, homemade or otherwise. More importantly, I sleep after a satisfying routine of cool shower, prayer, novel.

Despite all this, I am addressed as doctor at work. I get to keep my title without the associated insanity.

I honestly miss the hospital, but I'd rather not say no to this right now. I believe it's for me and I deserve it.

The Real Crab Mentality

2010-06-26T23:22:00.010+08:00

It was a day that started early and ended late. All cancer professionals and advocates under one roof, sharing knowledge, ideas and experiences, all for the great goal of keeping the big C at bay. I felt the usual kind of tiredness, but an unusual career high. I'm proud to have been proud of this event.

Some scenes from the event -

backstage with Jam, my fellow research doctor, who helped me a lot through the coordinating process despite her other big responsibilities

jam with jesse (team medical technologist), dr mon severino, and
leidy (team nurse) at the technical box

our boss, dr cecilia llave, overall chair of the organizing committee

with dr michael sarte (in blue shirt) of the sleep society of the philippines

with dr eva cutiongco-dela paz of the institute of human genetics

with dr romulo de villa, the philippines' foremost nutritional biochemist
with ellen tordesillas, cancer survivor and advocate

with pediatrician dr anna ong-lim, vaccines expert

abbygale arenas-de leon, founding director of personi-fi, talked about the warning signs of cancer and gave good personality tips - cool!

cathy babao talked about good treatment of the dying patient

the organizing committee and officers of the philippine society of oncology

fun at the fellowship night. good food and setup too.

i heart my staff =)

Bestfriend Beverly + Bali Blessedness = Bliss!

2010-06-13T21:20:00.012+08:00

Beverly and I knew each other from elementary school. We were both winners in a Manila-wide features writing contest, she in 6th and I in second, or so she reminded me. We went to the same high school but I don't remember saying a single word to her all those four years.

It was only in college that we hit it together. Hard. She made our two bedroom apartment in Tondo her second home. We ate the same food, bought and wore the same clothes, talked endlessly about the same interests and ideas. We belonged in a group of 8 girls, all other 6 of whom accepted the fact that the two of us, Bebang and I, will always be the two closest to each other. Even when she transferred from Sampaloc to Cavite, we continued nourishing that special bond we were forming. We shared family problems, boyfriend problems, health problems, makeup, thesis, shoes, bags, and yes, underwear. The only thing we did NOT share was religion. Obviously we found a way to keep its discussion at bay, and it was never a problem.

Bebang wanted to be a doctor too, but her family's finances then made it appear impossible. So when most of us went to med school, she was juggling jobs here and there. She got a lucky break not long after with a famous company, where she still works up to now. We were vaguely in touch during the four years I was in med school, and before I knew it a Catholic guy in her office was willing to convert to her religion so that they'd be together.

For good. They got married when my physician's license was only a few months old. A part of me was dying of envy for the prosperous life she was having, and that made me kind of turn away, especially since we found her husband Bombet a little aloof. I turned down several offers to visit their home in Sta Rosa, Laguna. I couldn't feel exact happiness when Bea was born.

That changed when Noy , my parents and family made me feel I had a lot to be thankful for. The next five years that I spent working in Laguna was then filled with twice-monthly visit to Bebang and her family.

Eventually after our wedding, where Bea was one of the flower girls, Bombet and Noy became good friends. Before long Bebang and I didn't have to worry about keeping our husbands entertained while we chatted and caught up with each other's lives.

(I had a hard time rummaging through my external hard drive looking for bevs & bombet wedding pictures - and I can't find any! how pathetic is that? i promise to update this blog entry with those beautiful wedding pictures by Chito Vecina. Yes, we got the same wedding photographer. I hired her make-up artist too =P)

Since 2006 however we didn't have the chance to really just be with each other. I had to admit, and I bet she would too, that it's quite different having husbands and kids around while we talked about our lives and other people. So I challenged her to meet halfway, aka Alabang, to catch up and be just like old times.

She brought me to this wonderful place called Kartini Spa, an events place/restaurant/spa/art gallery with a very relaxing Bali-inspired atmosphere that makes one forget it's really just within the Alabang Town Center complex.

We had callos and gambas in comfortable rattan chairs on a sweet-looking gazebo nestled in a nicely manicured lawn accented by a koi pond. The sound of water from the mini-falls combined perfectly with the soothing overhead music. We talked and talked and talked until we felt our bladders getting heavier. We found the quaint comfort room, which accommodated only one user at a time, but we both came in and peed in front of each other. Yes we were that close!

The spa place looked so inviting we gave in to the temptation despite the growing threat of a nasty thunderstorm. Since we were the only clients we had the luxury of chatting away mindlessly while the pleasant attendants pampered our feet superbly. I never felt so amazingly refreshed. If it weren't too late I'd have a full body massage.

Too bad I was so engrossed into conversation I forgot to take pictures. I came up with these lousy ones, but you can check out Kartini's website here.

I boarded the bus home with a smile on my face. Surprisingly invigorated, I wondered, was it the food? Maybe. Was it the place? Probably, what with the beautiful intricate details and such. Was it the company? Definitely. There's nothing like a familiar warm body to radiate enough goodness to make one feel great.

Crab Mentality

2010-06-06T17:06:00.008+08:00

Yep. Im still alive. The whole IELTS hoopla thing is on a fizzle, but I've adjusted to that and I'm hoping for the best. What kept me busy these days was the title Assistant to the Overall Co-Chair of the 10th Midyear Convention of the Philippine Society of Oncology, Inc.

Obviously, it's my first time going on business like these. And like anything, I'm having ups & lows, but there are definitely more ups, so I'm quite enjoying myself. Rubbing elbows with the high and mighty in the Oncology world felt different but thrilling.

I've been into meetings here and there, and it's great to meet people in this circumstance. I get to arrange the entire program, talk to the speakers and panelists, and know about the different support groups concerned with cancer and cancer-stricken patients and their caregivers. This whole process involves a lot of learning, for which I am grateful.

Here is the ad which is hopefully being scattered here and there. And while awaiting for my affiliate membership to be approved, I'd like to invite you to this event, which is very much open to the lay, apart from medical professionals.

Registration fee is free for PSO members, Php 500 for doctors, Php 300 for nurses and other medical & allied medical professionals, and Php 100 for laypeople. It's on June 26th at the Auditorium of the Lung Center of the Philippines. For more about the midyear convention, please get in touch with the Secretariat at philsoco_pso@yahoo.com.

31

2010-04-26T23:06:00.002+08:00

When I was a lot younger, I thought reaching the age of 31 would be the end of the world. I actually dreaded not being able to see the number of my age on the calendar.

Today I turn 31, and I'm not a bit worried. In fact, I'm looking forward for more birthdays. My life right now might not be perfect, but there's little I want. I struggle at times, but I'm comfortable that most people my age. I have a loving husband and a very caring family. I have lots of people I can call true friends. My work gives me time to live my life fully without sacrificing my hard-earned title. Most of all, I have a God who makes me realize that He is bigger than any of my big plans.

Today I turn 31, and there's nothing to be afraid of. I turn 31 and I thank God for everything.