Everyday

2019-12-06T16:05:00.001+08:00

Too busy to write. tsk tsk tsk

2014-04-22T18:20:00.001+08:00

THE NEW AND HAPPY CHAPTER OF MY LIFE... NEW STORIES TO COME.

hmnnnnn.

2013-03-16T03:34:00.003+08:00

THANK YOU FOR TEACHING ME...

2013-03-16T03:16:00.004+08:00

CARE, LOVE, LET GO

2013-03-16T02:57:00.001+08:00

Letting go is not always associated with love, passion and intimacy. Letting go is a universal term used to depict any act of intellectual or emotional giving up of an aspiration usually for a good end or simply the acceptance of what is

beyond ones control.

-------- Storm

It's human nature to care and to expect care in return. What if you are placed in a position where what you give is not reciprocated with at least what you expect? It is like making intellectual and emotional investments that you cannot withdraw some for yourself? Or not even a good benefit to be expected at the end of the day? One can't force others to give back something or anything in return as this needs to be voluntary. There is nothing wrong with caring however, if disappointments hits you hard quite a few times maybe you should rethink. Care is supposed to feel good not bad. Is it worth the investment? Care in this case is an emotional decision not intellectual. Your intellect will usually dictate you to act the investment however if you stop, it is only the act that stops ... not your emotional decision.

Both emotional and intellectual care will usually dictate you to be in between to decisions like being in between two huge rocks that is about to collide with each other. For you to make a decision, you will usually consider pros and cons with both in mind. Usually a hard decision to make but one needs to be made because of necessity and emotionally related value. If there is a thing called "win win situation", this could be the opposite depending on how you react or think about it.

And now love...
Billions of unsuccessful love stories are told and about to be told and they all have one thing in common ... one cannot be ones pair anymore because of many possible universal reasons. Either one or both goes the other way. Fighting for what both had is always a given scenario but its human nature to hold on... even if it scars ones dignity.

If it is not meant to be, then that is how it is. One will tend to dwell on the lingering pain simply because one wants to feel good and secured knowing the fact he or she is tightly holding on to the love that is not meant to be. Eventually, if the pain constantly batters ones intellect, emotions and dignity, the intellect will usually takeover and this is where the so called hardest part to do happens... letting go. Saying goodbye is easy... letting go is the hardest part but at the end of the day, it will usually be rewarding like being reborn. Getting in touch with oneself. That feeling of content that one is able to triumphantly battle with oneself. But here is something that is worth a ponder ;

"Goodbye... I'm letting you go but I care"

----Storm

ONE DOWN ... WILL YOU BE THE NEXT ONE?

2013-03-15T21:15:00.001+08:00

TASTE THE FEELING OF KNOWING THAT ONE WAS TAKEN OUT AND YOU COULD BE THE NEXT ... SCARY S..T EH? AND THEN YOU REALIZE YOU HAVE NO ONE TO RUN TO ... DANG!

ITS THE WAY OF THE WORLD ... TOO BAD YOU JOINED!

BLUR

2013-03-15T02:41:00.002+08:00

MY HEART REMEMBERS YOU LIKE THIS NOW... I SINCERELY THANK YOU FOR DOING WHAT YOU DID. YOU SUBCONSCIOUSLY SAND PAPERED ME AND I TURNED OUT WELL. THIS I OWE TO YOU.

EMOTIONAL TIDES

2013-03-15T01:05:00.000+08:00

"Often misunderstood but not one appreciates the courage one undertakes to truthfully express and show the montage of colors created within the depths of uncertainties." - Storm

Walking through my long time desired superficial garden everyday is far better than smelling the flowers in a rose garden. I designed it not according to how a stereotypical garden is laid out in a canvass or a blueprint. It’s not perfect but every inch of it is made with so much passion that I know the smallest detail that is beyond recognition through an unsuspecting eye. From a distance it’s chromatic but really is made up of millions of colors that are not necessarily a favorite of anyone. Colors will change in spontaneity hiding the imperfection of wilted branches and exposed roots. But still, it is my garden and I like how it feels every time I walk through it despite the imperfections… That is how I am.

I refuse to make my garden the way others do because I see things differently… I know how I want it simply because I know that it will make me happy… No other reasons.

But the reality of life will dictate you to do otherwise. It will speak its expectations like a loud thunder that will bring in undesired heavy rain and wind that will eventually break and destroy your garden… and there is nothing you can do about it… you cannot shelter your ideals with ideals. At the end of the day, it’s just another ideal.

CLOSE YOUR EYES....

2013-03-15T00:56:00.002+08:00

A HAPPY FAREWELL

2013-03-15T00:44:00.001+08:00

Enlightening ... :)

Thank you ....

THE END

2013-03-12T23:21:00.002+08:00

LAGI KONG SINASABI SA KAHIT KANINONG NAGIGING KAIBIGAN KO NA MAS MABUTI PA YUNG MAGALIT AKO SA IYO KASI BUKAS WALA NA YON. MAG SASALITA AKO NGAYON PERO BUKAS WALA NA YON. PERO PAG AKO MAG UMPISANG MANAHAMIK, IBIG SABIHIN, UNTI UNTI KO NANG MARARATING AND DULO NG NAPAKAHABANG TALI NA BINABAYBAY KO.

BUMBAY : KUMUSTA NA?
INTSIK : ETO MASARAP ANG PAKIRAMDAM
BUMBAY : ANONG MERON?
INTSIK : MALAPIT NA AKO SA DULO. MASARAP SA
PAKIRAMDAM KASI MATATAPOS NA.
BUMBAY : ANG ANO ANG MATATAPOS NA? HINDI
KITA MAINTINDIHAN.
INTSIK : ALAM MO NAMAN UGALI KO.MATAGAL NA
TAYONG MAGKAKILALA AT MAGKAIBIGAN.
BUMBAY : AH ALAM KO NA. BUTI NAMAN AT OKAY
KA NA.
INTSIK : OO NAMAN. GAYA DIN NAMAN SAYO YAN
NOON DI BA? SA TAGAL NG PANAHON NA
HINDI TAYO NAGKITA, NAALALA PA RIN
KITA DAHIL NAGING MABUTI KANG TAO SA
AKIN.
BUMBAY : OO NAMAN! IKAW LANG NAMAN TONG DI
BILIB SA AKIN MINSAN EH. PERO ALAM
MO, LAKING PASASALAMAT KO SAYO DAHIL
SA NAGING SAMAHAN NATIN DI MO AKO
NAKALIMUTAN. NGAYON, MAY TRABAHO
AKO AT KAHIT PAPANO, NASUSUPORTAHAN
KO PAMILYA KO.
INTSIK : AKALAIN MO, NAGKA KILALA LANG TAYO
DAHIL SA CUSTOMER MO AKO SA BAR
NINYO AT NILASING MO AKO NG NILASING
HAYUP KA. AHAHAHAHA. PERO ALAM MO,
ISA ANG NA APPRECIATE KO SA IYO.
SALAMAT AT NAGING AT TOTOONG TAO KA
KA SA AKIN.
BUMBAY : ABAAAA. DRAMA AH!
INTSIK : HINDI DRAMA YAN. KILALA MO AKO.
WHEN I SAY IT I MEAN IT.
BUMBAY : OO NAMAN. NIRERESPETO KO YAN KASI
GANYAN ANG PERSONALITY MO. PERO
ANONG MERON?
INTSIK : WALA LANG. AHAHHAHA
BUMBAY : ITATAGAY BA NATIN YAN?
INTSIK : ANO AKO DEPRESSED? HAHAHAHHA
BUMBAY : YAAN MO NA YAN. MAY MGA TAO TALAGANG
GANUN.
INTSIK : KAYA NGA BIBITAW NA AKO. HAHAYAAN
KO NA. AND IT FEELS GOOD. BINIGAY
KO ISANG KAMAY, HINDI KO NA IBIBIGAY
YUNG ISA. AT LEAST IKAW NANDYAN KA.
CONSISTENT KA NA NAGUNGUMUSTA.
MARAMING SALAMAT KAIBIGAN.
BUMBAY : AYOS LANG YUN. KILALA DIN KASI KITA.
INTSIK : ALAM MO NAMAN ANG MGA NANGYARI
NITONG NAKARAAN. BUTI ANDYAN KA.
BUMBAY : HEHE. PAINOM KA NA.
INTSIK : HAHAHHA UNGAS.
BUMBAY : BASTA KUNG AKO SAYO, HALATA NAMAN
NATIN NA AYAW NYA SA MGA KAMAY MO
KAYA WAG MO NANG IPAGPILITAN. YOU
DID YOUR BEST IKA NGA. HINDI SYA
NARARAPAT NA MAGING KAIBIGAN MO NG
MAHABANG PANAHON. DI BA AYAW NYA NA
IKAW ANG MAUUNA MAG TEXT? TAPOS
KELANGAN SYA ANG MAUUNA MAG TEXT
SAYO? TAPOS SA FACEBOOK, PAG
NAKIKITA NYA NA NAG OONLINE KA NAG
OOFFLINE SYA? IBIG SABIHIN NON,
HINDI NYA KAILANGAN ANG FRIENDSHIP
MO.
INTSIK : TAMA.
BUMBAY : SABI NGA NI MA'AM MADRE MAGTAYO KA
NA LANG DAW NG NGO. HAHAHAHAHA.
PARA SILA ANG LALAPIT.
INTSIK : SIRA DIN KAMO YUNG TALIPANDAS NA YON
AHAAHAHHAH. PERO GUSTO KO SYA KASI
CONSISTENT SYA. I WILL THINK OF
MA'AM MADRE FOR A LONG TIME GAYA
SAYO.
BUMBAY : MAS MARAMI MAAAYOS AT TOTOONG TAO NA
NAKAPALIGID SAYO. DUN KA MAGFOCUS.
INTSIK : ANO BA! NASA DULO NA NGA AKO EH.
MAPAPATID NA. HEHEHE. AND IT FEELS
GOOD KASI MAGAAN SA KALOOBAN.
NAISIP KO, NATULUNGAN KO NAMAN NA SA
STEP ONE AND TWO. SIGURO NAMAN
HINDI NA AKO MASAMA NON.
BUMBAY : OO NAMAN. BASTA, WAG MONG GAWIN
BASAHAN NG PAA ANG SARILI MO. AAPAK
LANG YANG MGA YAN SAYO KUNG MADUMI
PAA NILA. TAPOS PAG GAMIT KA NA,
ITATAPON KA NA.
INTSIK : SMART ASS! HAHAHAAHAHA.
BUMBAY : OO NGA! TOTOO YON. TINGNAN MO NGAYON
MALINIS PA KASI PAA EH KAYA DI KA
NAIISIP. DI BA MINSAN INIIWASAN
APAKAN ANG BASAHAN PAG MALINIS ANG
PAA?
INTSIK : SMART ASS ULIT. AHAHAHAHAHAH
NAREALIZE KO NA YAN. KAYA NGA DI KO
NA IBIBIGAY ISANG KAMAY. THIS IS
ME NAMAN OR PARA SA IBA.
BUMBAY : ANDYAN KA NANAMAN. MA'AM MADRE OH.
MAGTAYO NA TAYO NGO. AHAHAHHAHHAA.
WAG MO NA RIN ISIPIN KALAGAYAN
DUN NON. IKAW NGA LANG DI KA
MADAMAYAN EH. YAAN MO NA. DI MO
NAMAN MGA KAANO ANO YON.
INTSIK : YEAH.NAISIP KO DIN YAN. ALAM MO
NAMAN AKO ISUSUBO NA LANG IBIBIGAY
PA SA IBA.
BUMBAY : NAHAHALATA KO MASYADO NA YANG
NAGPAPAIMPORTANTE. IBALING MO SA
TOTOONG TAO ANG EFFORTS MO NA YAN.
INTSIK : IKAW HA MASASAPAK NA KITA. SINABI
NANG NASA DULO NA AKO EH. AHAHAHAH
BUMBAY : AY OO NGA PALA. HEHEHE. AT LEAST
IBA TAYO KAHIT WALANG WALA, AYOS
LANG. WALANG NAGBABAGO.
INTSIK : TAMA KA. SABI NGA DIN NI MA'AM
MADRE HAYAAN KO NA DAW. HINDI
DESERVING. KAHIT MAN LANG SANA DAW
PULITIKA.
BUMBAY : KAYA NGA. ALAM MO, KAHIT MAMATAY KA
SA DAAN, NI HA NI HO HINDI
MAGSISIMPATYA YAN. NAKOOO ALAM KO
ANG KULAY NG MGA HASANG NG GANYANG
KLASENG TAO. HALATA KO NAMAN PAG
MAGKAKASAMA TAYO.
INTSIK : PERO ALAM MO, ALL MY LIFE I HAVE
ALWAYS BEEN LIVING BY THE WORDS OF
ANNE FRANK;

“It's really a wonder that I haven't dropped all my ideals, because they seem so absurd and impossible to carry out. Yet I keep them, because in spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart.”

― Anne Frank, The Diary of a Young Girl

YON.
BUMBAY : SABAGAY PRINSIPYO MO YAN. PERO
SIEMPRE LOVE YOURSELF FIRST BEFORE
OTHERS.
INTSIK : YEAH. PERO ALAM MO THANKFUL AKO SA
MGA NANGYARI KASI ANG DAMI KO
NAREALIZE.
BUMBAY : NA ANO YON?
INTSIK : BASTA. YAAN MO NA. NOW I FEEL GOOD
KAYA FOCUSED AKO. YON. CASUAL NA
LANG. KUNG MAGKALIMUTAN NA SA
PAGDATING NG PANAHON, LET IT BE.
GANUN TALAGA. THEN BE THANKFUL NA
LANG TO THOSE WHO STAYS GAYA MO.
BUMBAY : BASTA BA HINDI MO AKO SASABIHAN NA
NASA DULO KA NA EH. KAHIT NA,
GUGULUHIN KITA SA BAHAY NYO.
SA AYAW AT SA GUSTO MO. HAHHAHA
INTSIK : GUARD! PALABASIN ANG HAMPAS LUPANG
TO! AHAHAHAHA. OY CGE NA PUMASOK KA
NA. MA LATE KA NA. BASTA HANDA
KA LANG. MALAPIT NA.
BUMBAY : SANA NAMAN. EH YUNG ....
INTSIK : YAAN MO NA. NASA TAO NA YON. GO GO
GO!
BUMBAY : OK SIGE. INGAT.
INTSIK : SALAMAT. TEXT KA PAG NASA STORE KA
KA NA.

------------------ 30 ---------------------

Don't Burn Bridges ... Destroy it Using Your Bare Hands

2013-03-09T01:40:00.001+08:00

"Sir, someone approached me today. He told me that she heard us discussing about the weakness of our employees in the shop. According to him, he heard us talking about adding more competent employees for us to be able to sell our butters and jams"

"When was this?"

"One time we were sitting on a bench and we were discussing about it. This guy was sitting nearby".

"Oh yeah. I remember that day".

"Yes Sir. I told him to submit his resume so you can review it".

"I admire the determination. But the problem is, we still have a lot of employees".

"Just for reference".

"Okay then, I will give him the chance to be interviewed. Kindly contact him and arrange the schedule".

"Okay Sir".

"Good afternoon Sir".

"Good afternoon! How are you?".

"I'm good Sir thank you".

"I was told that you overheard us discussing about us needing employees?"

"Yes Sir. I waited for your companion one day and said that I heard the conversation. I gave a copy of my pertinent document. I was determined".

"Why?"

" I want to have experience to be able to go abroad. I have my own family already".

"What are your areas of competencies?".

"I'm good at selling bananas".

"Okay thank you very much for your time".

"He has a very good dream. Hmnnnn. I have all the staff I need right now".

"For pooling?"

"What struck me is his determination and the fact that he wants to go abroad for his family ergo he needs this experience".

"It's up to you Sir".

"Okay then, lets give him the opportunity. Let's just align budget and justify it with the need of expertise in selling bananas".

"You're hired".

"Hi guys, where are you? I'm here at the corner store eating buko pies. Where are you? Please come.".

*"Riiiing! Riiiiiing! Riiiiiing! I am not coming - you are of no use to me anymore. We discussed not to look at you anymore.... we don't need you anymore (according to your drinking buddy who used to be my drinking buddy)".

(*Repeat 7 times)

"Tooooot! Toooooot! Hi Sir! are you the President of the Republic already? Is my position there available already?"

...................................................

"Tooooooot! Toooooot! How are you sir?"

"I'm good. You?"

"Sir maybe you can help me. I'm good at selling lambanog".

"Riiiiing! Riiiiiing!"

"Dagami! This guy keeps on miscalling. I told him I will let him know if there as a slot available for lambanog seller".

"Sir right now he has a big problem. His cat is pregnant and he needs to be able to provide catfood for his cat and soon to be kittens"

"I though he was selling lambanog elswhere?"

"Not anymore sir. He overcharged his master for the raw materials and got caught".

"Really?"

"Yes Sir. Everyone in the previous circle knows about it already".

"Although I told him I might be able to help him one day but i do not expect him to bother me".

"He needs it badly because his cat is pregnant. He is desperate".

"I see. "

"You're hired!"

"Hi Sir. Thank you. I really need this. My cat is pregnant and I need to be able to prove to it's previous owners that I am worthy to be my cat's master. They despise me".

"Okay, do your best. I need those lambanogs sold. Then after that you can look for other places where you can sell whiskey already. This is your stepping stone. In the meantime you can stay in my house so you can save and be able to buy more cat food and save money for the vets".

"Thank you Sir"

"I'm leaving to go somewhere"

"Hi guys, where are you? I'm here at the corner store eating buko pies. Where are you? Please come.".

*"Riiiing! Riiiiiing! Riiiiiing! I am not coming - you are of no use to me anymore. We discussed not to look at you anymore.... we don't need you anymore (according to your drinking buddy who used to be my drinking buddy)".

(*Repeat 7 times)

......................................

"Hi Sweeeer. There is something I want to tell you but I'm worried scared".

"What is it? If it is out of goodness, there is nothing to worry".

"My close friends here do not like you".

"Why?"

"Because you see their wrong doings and you reprimand them".

"Do you think that whatever they are doing is bad?"

"Yes Sweeer because it's unprofessional".

"Can you tell me who they are?"

"Yes Sweeer .... Lucy and her boyfriend, Peggy Lee, Vice, and two Bananacue makers"

"I see. I will handle that. But for now, I'd like you to reach your potential. I have observed you being good at arranging Bananas and entertaining buyers. Would you like to try? Don't Mind them. You can do better. Focus on your development".

"Yes sweeer but I might not be able to cope up".

"Oh yes you can. Trust me."

"You're promoted! Next Stop .... you will eventually become a Management Trainee even in other companies. Just do your best".

"Thank you sweeer".

"I will walk with you all the way".

"Sweeeer I hate you. I'm sexually inlove with someone I thought you were trying to take away".

... (I thought ... I am only offering opportunities to others including you. Funny how this turned out). Lame.

(Did that someone knew you were taking advantage by grabbing the groin while asleep and while everyone was looking? Ask the musical artist, the goddess and their company. You may also ask the gigolo and the lambanog seller. Shame on you. Pity on your poor someone. Even the neighbors at the shop already knows about it. They already look at that someone in the most disgusted way. Trust me, they asked me. Poor thing. He is laughed at until now).

"Oh, thank me because i gave you the opportunity of free accommodation so you can save ... and the advantage to see and be with someone".

"Now, hang on really tight to the knife and lick ass. You need to do that to be successful. You are good at it. I hope Lucy and her boyfriend, Peggy Lee, Vice, and two Bananacue makers doesn't find out what you did to them ".

..............................................

"Oh so cold to do the laundry".

"Sir there is a good shop who can do that".

"Okay".

"Sir can you help my daughter?"

"Why? If I can I don't see why not".

"She needs a job. she is really good".

"Okay because you are a nice person, I expect to see you in her. Give me her papers".

"I'd like to interview this. Kindly contact and ask to report. Interview for formality only".

"I'm competitive Sir and I'm very professional".

"Report!"

"Whats wrong?"

"Nothing"

"Are you sure?"

"Yes Sir."

"Let me know if you have a problem".

"Maybe I'm just tired".

"Okay. Rest then".

"I'm going".

"I don't care"

...silence... no how are you's or even hi's. oh well

............................

till next issue... with photos

............................

"What made you want to work with us?"

"Sir it was my dream po to work in hotels"

"But we are only a concessionaire"

"Okay na po sir kasi nasa bananas and lambanogs facility din naman"

"Okay and then?"

"Tapos sir, di ko po alam kung bakit di ako matanggap sa work"

"Why is that?"

"Baka sa height din"

"I see. If given the chance, what can you contribute to our organization?"

"Hardwork and performance sir. I'm a fast learner. I just need this chance to prove it"

"Please report tomorrow. You are hired"

"I have noticed these weaknesses Arwana. You need to improve yourself in these areas"

(No improvement)

"How are you with documentation?"

(Silence)

"I need you to take care of our documentary transactions. It's critical as you will need to secure payables documentation from clients. In the meantime, We'll have someone else handle your previous function. I need someone who can stay until late at night to handle clients until closing since you cant stay as you are worried of your safety when going home. Besides I'm not comfortable that your boyfriend is always waiting for you at the shop".

... ignores the very person who gave her the opportunity to work

AWOL

(tsk tsk tsk... the face)

CHOCO HUMBA (Sigh)

2013-02-17T14:22:00.002+08:00

I just realized that it has been awhile since I last made my favorite dish. I thought it will be relaxing to make one after all these years.

The members:

2 kilos belly
Make sure its thickly sliced

1/4th slice of panucha

or you can substitute the panucha with
200g to 250g reaaally brown sugar.

2 Cups light soy sauce

1 Tsp. freshly ground black pepper

6 pcs. lemon. Don't use vinegar as this will
cause the sauce to be watery

A pack of dried banana blossom

1 - 2 liters of soup stock or water

1/2 Liter of fresh pineapple juice
(or canned unsweetened)

... and of course, the native unsweetened

Chocolate medallions!

The choreography:

1. Boil pork belly cutlets in water until soft. Season it like nilaga but with very little salt. Throw in banana blossoms, black pepper and roasted peanuts (optional). Continue boiling uncovered so that soup evaporates.
2. When the soup reaches a sticky sauce like consistency, pour in pineapple juice and boil some more - uncovered
3. When the pineapple juice reaches a sticky sauce like consistency, pour in soy sauce and mix in panucha or brown sugar as substitute.... squeeze in juice of lemon.
4. Throw in one medallion of chocolate medallion (thin). continue boiling until sauce thickens. Season. follow your taste.
5. Serve with kaning lamig. Easy di ba?

Everyday: TRY THESE TOGETHER ON A LAZY AFTERNOON. :)

2013-02-03T01:22:00.001+08:00

Everyday: TRY THESE TOGETHER ON A LAZY AFTERNOON. :): TRY THESE TOGETHER ON A LAZY AFTERNOON. :)

2013-02-03T01:21:00.001+08:00

TRY THESE TOGETHER ON A LAZY AFTERNOON. :)

Everyday: TWISTS ON YOUR COOKING (Grilled Tuna)

2013-02-03T01:16:00.001+08:00

Everyday: TWISTS ON YOUR COOKING (Grilled Tuna): Tired of the regular grilled tuna? Tuna Steaks Prepare your your regular marinade. just the way you want it. The twist - Squ...

FEEL ME

2013-02-02T01:20:00.000+08:00

Insensitivity becomes an excuse because of ego. It is a fact that some things are not meant to be. We have no choice but to suffer uncertainties and the pain of knowing that some people will just play along. its the way of the world... no one can control that. But things would have been better if one is sensitive enough to at least recognize how one feels. But then again its the way of the world. one is basically is on his own... its the way of the world... no will care about how you feel... not even the most important person to you. your best way out? just get out. love is only a belief... its nothing. It's superficial. My heart right now feels that no one deserves a beat - no one.

2012-04-05T20:31:00.001+08:00

Cher - You Haven't Seen The Last Of Me (Official Video) (From Burlesque)

2012-02-25T18:40:00.000+08:00

Cyndi Lauper "True Colors"

2012-02-07T22:58:00.000+08:00

TWISTS ON YOUR COOKING (Grilled Tuna)

2012-01-29T10:00:00.002+08:00

Tired of the regular grilled tuna?

Tuna Steaks

Prepare your your regular marinade. just the way you want it.

The twist - Squeeze in just a little prepared mustard

The twist - Add mashed ripe papaya. just enough to cover the tuna steaks

Marinade forever! aheheheh. Nah! 30 minutes is okay

The twist - Sprinkle olive oil to lock in the flavors. You do this after the marinating time.

GRILL GRILL GRILL.

The twist - add more papaya (cubes) to the left over marinade and saute for about 2 minutes. Add a little more olive oil. You can use this as a side dish or as pesto dressing for your greens. Just add sliced black olives.

VISIT www.splendidocountry.com/
check out the dishes we had.
Upper left - Deep Fried Hito topped with Binurong kanin
Upper right - Bangus Stuffed with Laing
Bottom right - Bulalo

This is the first time that I have experienced this culinary creativity and I LOVED IT! We were toured today by the General Manager Mr. Darvin Chia (thanks sir). These are the words that can best describe the facility;
Well maintained
World class facilities
Very nice staff
Very good food. Never got the chance to get the
names of the dishes - so excited to jump right in.

Know more about the facility - click click click www.splendidocountry.com/

BASIC COMMUNICATION GUIDELINES FOR F&B OPERATIONS (My Training Module)

2012-01-29T00:45:00.001+08:00

INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION

The process of transmitting verbal and non – verbal messages using a person or a group of persons as the medium or channel of communication.

With product knowledge and polished sales techniques as ingredients to successful food and beverage service, it is essential that food and beverage professionals have exceptional interpersonal communication skills. Active listening, appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication skills, effective speaking skills correct telephone etiquette and teamwork all contribute to a high level of competency and professionalism. A consistent and good interpersonal communication skill also boosts self confidence and encourages mutual professional respect among co-workers.

Ways to listen actively:

1. Make eye contact with the speaker

2. Focus on the content of the message rather than on the speaker

3. Avoid prejudging the speaker’s message

4. Show interest in what is being said

a. Slightly lean forward

b. Refrain from interrupting

c. Nod or smile as appropriate

5. Confirm your understanding of what was communicated.

a. Repeat the message in your own words (paraphrasing)

b. Ask questions to clarify the meaning

Active listening techniques

1. Talk less and listen more

2. Try to focus on ideas that will help you organize the facts

3. Give the speaker your full attention

4. Do not make judgments about a message until the speaker has finished speaking

5. Be open minded to the subject matter and to the speaker.

6. Consider the speaker’s perspective

7. Develop your listening skills by listening to challenging materials that forces you to concentrate

Non-verbal Communication

Unspoken messages

Most of the time, what you communicate non-verbally through your appearance, gestures actually holds more meaning or truth than what you are actually saying. Understanding non-verbal cues helps both the listener and the speaker to interpret the message that they send and receive. Posture, gesture, eye contact, grooming, expressions, a way a person walks, the way a person writes and even the simple handshake, all send non-verbal communication.

When a food and beverage service professional is deliberate about sending positive non-verbal messages, he can build trust with guests and colleagues. Recognizing the difference between verbal and non-verbal communication helps the food and beverage service professional to understand what the guest and co-workers really wants to communicate.

Some non-verbal cues that send a positive message:

1. Smiling and nodding - shows attentive listening skills

2. Interest and positive attitude is indicated when ones arms are not crossed

3. Avoid distracting behaviors

a. Knuckle cracking

b. Leg shaking

c. Fidgeting

d. Rolling of eyes

4. Slightly leaning forward while listening shows interest. Do not interrupt.

5. Making eye contact and giving full attention shows courtesy.

6. In response to the behavior of another person, show patience by:

a. Not sighing heavily

b. Rolling of eyes

c. Shaking of the head

Non-verbal behaviors that show professionalism

1. Be deliberate about grooming

a. Make sure you are clean and neat

b. Make sure that attire is appropriate for business

2. Show confidence by standing up straight and walking with a purpose.

3. Be respectful of the time and space of others

a. Do not keep people waiting

b. Be on time

4. Make it a priority to acknowledge people.

a. Make eye contact as soon as they enter your field of view

b. Say hi or hello

Effective verbal communication

Food and beverage service professionals are skilled at:

1. Understanding

2. Anticipating the needs and wants of guests

How to learn:

1. Adapt their communication style

2. Tones and gestures according to the needs of guests in any situation.

One will know that the process of communication has been accomplished when a feedback is produced from the listener.

1. Choose words carefully

2. Always use a positive and proper language when communicating with guests and co-workers

3. Avoid using complex language

4. Avoid slang

5. Avoid using industry jargon when speaking to a guest.

6. Speak directly to the person that you are addressing

7. Maintain a pleasant tone of voice

8. Pronounce words clearly

9. Speak at moderate pace

10. Speak loudly enough to be heard

11. Do not shout

12. If you encounter communication barriers, always smile and make contact. If the communication process is not achieved, politely excuse yourself and seek assistance.

Effective Telephone Etiquette

Telephone communication is often the first means of contact a guest has with a food and beverage establishment. First impression is very very important! Effective telephone communication will help achieve this objective.

Some reasons for unsuccessful telephone communication

1. Distorted time – when one is put on hold, a few seconds will usually seem like hours and will frustrate a guest and will have an impression that calling the establishment is a waste of time.

2. No physical contact – lack of physical contact holds the disadvantage of not knowing how a caller will react after giving information. A friendly tone and lively voice rather than an electronic voice can create a more personal atmosphere.

3. No visual contact – the supposed friendly environment of your establishment will not be seen by the guest. However, smiling while speaking to the phone will show a more positive attitude in the voice.

4. Unfamiliarity – People want to know to whom they are speaking with and why that person is calling. There is uncertainty when a voice or name is not immediately recognized. It is important to introduce yourself at the beginning of the conversation.

5. Need for confirmation – Always ask for clarity and give the listener the opportunity to ask as well.

Food and Beverage Professionals must be familiar with the telephone system features at the workplace.

Guidelines for effective telephone communication

1. Smile while speaking to the telephone

2. Listen actively when it is the listener’s turn to speak

3. Take responsibility in meeting the callers needs

4. Ensure that callers on hold are not left holding or waiting.

5. Document information when applicable

6. Thank the caller by last name if possible. Offer a closing comment.

7. Refer to company procedures regarding calling and answering a telephone.

Team Work

- A combination of efforts of team members to achieve a common goal

1. Each team member understands that he/she has an individual responsibility to contribute his/her best

2. Team members understand that they need to encourage members to do the same.

3. A sense of partnership and accomplishment should be experienced by team members.

a. To increase motivation

b. Generate pride

c. Increase job satisfaction

4. A team-oriented attitude improves communication

a. Less stress

b. Less staff turnover

c. Greater productivity

d. Lead to a company that successfully meets service goals

e. Increase opportunity of repeat business

f. Boost sales revenue

Being a team player means making a concerted effort to get along with other team members, being productive, and contributing your fair share towards achieving mutual goals. It also means a positive attitude and sometimes putting the needs of the team ahead of your own.

Behaviors that commit to team work:

1. Professional behavior

2. Display of positive attitude

3. Taking responsibility for actions.

a. Do what you say you will do

b. Do not make excuses or blame teammates for problems

4. Be complimentary. Learn how to appreciate efforts of others

5. Offer to help team members when not busy

6. Ask for assistance when needed

7. Share knowledge and skills

8. Be empathetic

9. Acknowledge co-workers and management.

10. If you have finished your assigned tasks and you still have time, offer to help team members.

11. Acknowledge others who have helped you get a task done

12. Never criticize a co-worker who is having difficulty instead, assist, be encouraging and be supportive.

Roles of Team Members

Knowing how a team is organized enhances your sense of professionalism and capability to work with a team, as this will help you become more knowledgeable about the organization and who you are working with. This will give you the opportunity of knowing the appropriate person to direct to, in terms of other operational tasks and the like.

General Food and Beverage Roles

Some of the positions would be:

1. Operations/Area – Oversees and is responsible for the operations of all outlets.

2. Store/Outlet Supervisor – Second in command to the Operations Manager, outlet level and is responsible for the operations of the outlet.

3. Assistant Store/Outlet Supervisor – Second in command to the Outlet Supervisor and assumes Store/Outlet Supervisor’s duties as required.

4. Team Leader – Coordinates operations at service areas such as the restaurant, cashier and food production

5. Service Crew – Will function as wait staff providing food and beverage service and sales to guests.

6. Cashier – Taking orders over the counter, Processing of payments

7. Commissary Supervisor – Chief in command of the commissary and outlet kitchen or food production areas. Directs the entire operations of the food production department.

8. Cook 1 – Responsible for duties within the kitchen

9. Cook 2 – Responsible for duties within a section

10.Cook Helper/Steward – responsible for cleaning of wares and some food preparation.

11.Rider/Delivery Personnel – Responsible for delivering food and beverage orders.

TWISTS ON YOUR COOKING

2012-01-28T22:15:00.004+08:00

During my trip to hongkong (mid nineties), i had the chance to meet two great cooks named mama paquita, papa enrique and their daughter olga. they worked for el toro spanish restaurant in kowloon. Being a filipino i was more exposed to the paella valenciana whose main ingredient is glutenous rice. as explained to me by the father maother daughter team, there are quite a lot of varieties of the said dish. to make the long story short, they taught me two simple versions that would match my particular taste (I don't really like glutenous rice as a main meal). Two ways to do it. One is cooking rice in broth in an open paellera pan. i told them we don't have that in the Philippines or at home in particular. So our regular pan will do for as long as i get the right flavors in it and the right texture. So cooking in an open pan will usually take forever so i took the easy route.... cooked (steamed) rice!!!! Ingredients really is flexible which is what i like about this dish. But its really up to you depending on how you like it but one should always keep in mind presentation.

Serves 4 - 6 persons

5 cups cooked rice (long grain is best as they don't usually break when cooked)

Mains:

remember.... portioning will depend on how you like 'em. make sure your pan will not overflow!

shelled mussels, clams, scallops, crab meat, shelled shrimps, tuna chunks, squid (and head, no ink)

chicken cutlets

cabbage, button mushrooms, asparagus spears, onion, bell pepper, garlic, peas

For flavor:

soup stock - combine chicken stock and seafood

salt and pepper

saffron .... ooops too expensive! use turmeric powder

and a bit of tomato sauce

For garnish:

chicken wings, prawns with shells, crabs, all shellfish listed above in their shell, squid heads, a few cabbage

chopped spring onions, salted eggs, fresh tomato, parsley.

1. Heat oil in pan until golden brown. quickly saute onions and sprinkle some black pepper.

2. Saute chicken cutlets until fully cooked then followed by the rest of ingredients in the main section. then sprinkle the turmeric powder. just enough to give it an orange color then the tomato sauce. remember, just cook them properly. do not overcook! you can throw in everything all at the same time pour a little stock to reinforce the cooking process. when its done, set everything aside. Oh oh! you also include here the ones listed in the garnish section. separate them from the rest as you will use this to garnish your dish.

3. Now throw in the rice. saute' saute' saute'. pour in more stock until the rice develops a lightly sticky texture. flavor some more if needed. for me, the trick to cooking is following your taste.

4. When the rice already absorbs all the liquids, mix in all the ingredients that were previously prepared then the cabbage which goes last to avoid over cooking.

5. Mix mix mix and pour in broth until you are able to achieve the stickiness you want.

6. Do not remove from pan, arrange all the garnish on top, salted eggs. etc. be creative.

7. Serve hot with slices of lemon and be proud of the artistry!

Here's my paella which i made for an auncle's bday (tito gener)

PAN BARBECUED TIKTILAAAOOOOK!

No time? forget the grill! try this!

Any version of barbecue sauce mix

A little brown sugar

Garlic

Tamato sauce and/or catsup

Cooking oil

Black Pepper

Smoke Flavor (spices section guys!)

Chicken or Pork Cutlets (Beef is okay. make sure its lean and thinly sliced for easy cooking)

Heat oil, throw in black pepper first to take advantage of its flavor. Oh oh! crushed!

then the brown sugar (adjust according to your sweetbuds). Just as the sugar is melting, throw in the meats then the sauce. Oil will usually float so remove 'em. then just a tinie winie drop of smoke flavor then continue turning over the mixture. just when you are about to be done, pour in the tomato sauce and catsup. you can serve it from here or you can throw the thing in the oven for more cooking. enjoy!

PAELLA MIXTA

2012-01-28T19:58:00.001+08:00

One of my favorite dishes to make is paella. In a way it is challenging as it usually deals with the right portion of everything and timing. Being a filipino, I am more exposed to the arroz type (using glutenous rice). However, when i went to Hongkong during the mid nineties, i met cooks papa enrique and mama paquita who made their paella using the long grain rice only. Olga (their daughter) is also a good cook and a very good dancer. She danced in the restaurant where her parents worked as some sort of an entertainment after the guests had their tasty dinner. lots of dishes caught my fascination. One of them is the Paella. We went to their flat and they taught me two versions. One is the traditional way of cooking it - cooking rice in a flavored broth on an open paellera (flat pan) and the other is using cooked rice already WHICH I PREFER!!! Speedy speedy!

(serves 4 - 6 persons)

ingredients:

5 cups of cooked long grain rice

... the following components has no limit. revise portions according to your preference.

100 grams sliced squid

100 grams shrimps (shelled)

100 grams chicken cutlets (without skin)

1 small can tuna chunks (in brine)

100 grams mussels (deshelled)

50 grams crab meat

A few slices of cabbage

Artichokes

Green bell pepper

red Bell pepper

3 pices

RESURRECTED HEART

2011-12-17T17:36:00.001+08:00

Its strange how we always connect our heart to situation that deals with emotions shared by two individuals