Katiyay

Wedding Proposal

2012-02-15T09:20:00.001+08:00

To witness a wedding proposal in public is priceless. But to be part of it (well, technically I just walked behind the soon-to-be Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Cruz AND ate salad. LOL.) is a totally different story.

Here's what happened...

Congrats Patrick and Cielo!!!

I was crying when Pat started his speech until he gave the second ring. I cried again when I watched the video this morning.

Oh, and Johnoy Danao, you had me at Secret Garden. LOL. Ang galing ng version mo, swear.

Congrats as well to my friends at 81 Events. We did it!

Here's the same video posted on Facebook.

:) Katiyay

If the shoe fits...

2012-01-30T23:10:00.000+08:00

~~I love shoes!~~ That was an understatement.

As much as I wanted to buy all the shoes in Manila, I can't. Mainly because:

1. Most of them are small for my big feet.

2. I can't afford them.

To be honest, if the shoe fits and I can afford it, I'll buy it! Or sometimes, I hoard them. :)

Like this!

Before you judge me, please allow me to depend myself. First, my last purchase of shoes was many months ago. Second, all of these, I bought on SALE!!

Shoes #1 & #3 - I bough them on sale at the Bonifacio High Street. Both from Charles & Keith. The two them costs around Php4,000. Sale price is less than Php 2,000. Not bad! It was around December and during that time, I was thinking of buying 2 Melissa Shoes on ava.ph. I tried on some Melissa shoes at Shang first, before buying them online [because of my big feet, remember?]. Unfortunately, my odd feet don't fit on both size 8 & 9. Melissa doesn't have a half size. It turn out to be a good sign because the 2 Melissa shoes costs around Php5,000.

Shoe #1 is a peep-toe flats. It's soft on my feet, so there were no blisters. It was a good buy!! I wore it to work with jeans, weekends to malls with shorts and to my cousin's wedding in a short summer dress.

Shoe #3 is a pointy-toe-pump. (I had to google it!). Looks like an ordinary wedding shoes, no? It's comfy, too. Although, with my current weight, I don't think I can walk on this all day. I wore it to work on jeans and slacks.

I didn't realize that both shoes are light colored (white & off-white) until we were home. Shoe # 3, as I said, looks like a wedding shoes. Shoe # 1, can be worn at the reception when the bride changed for her second dress. LOL.

Shoes # 2, 4 & 5 - I bought two weeks ago in Payless (Paseo de Sta. Rosa)! All of them costs Pph1,200. I'm not kidding! I was not supposed to buy shoes (or anything) before my credit cut off, I said that to myself. Pero, hindi ko kinaya! Hahaha.

Shoe #2 is a sling-back heels. Original price is Php1,250. I have not worn it yet. It will definitely be good on a dress, jeans and skirt. I'll try to wear it this week. Good luck sakin, ingat sa tapilok!

Shoe #4. Brouges. Original price is Php 1,450. Confession: this was the last pair, size 9. Medyo masikip sya. Pero, go lang! Diba, lumuluwang naman lahat ng shoes?? Bwahahaha.

Shoe #5. Wedge. Original price is Php 995. I love wedges. I wore this to work, 3 times already. All of them with jeans. Well, 4 out 5days, I'm on jeans, eh. Very comfortable at first. Pero kasi, malapad ang paa ko, kaya medyo masakit sa may unahan, pag matagal.

I think it's a steal that I bought 5 pair of shoes to the tune of Php3,200. Agree?

It's even cheaper than a pair of my current fave shoes. Haha.

But, I tell you, this is the most comfortable shoes I have worn in my entire life! I wear this almost everyday, since I bought it. Muka na syang kawawa. I'll definitely save up so I can buy my second Anthology! :)

I don't want to justify my ~~shoe addiction~~ love for shoes, but I know that I only buy when I have extra cash. In this case, it's my 13th month pay!!!

Well, my next shoe purchase will probably be in a very long time. Unless, another shoe fits..

Happy shoe shopping!!

Why am I doing this?

2012-01-21T12:38:00.000+08:00

On the later part of December, my officemates were talking about "Biggest Loser" and I didn't mind them. I thought they were talking about the show. To my surprise, they actually wanted to do a biggest loser search in our office. It was a funny a idea at first, then I realized that I need to join because: 1.) I can't do it alone, I'll be more motivated if people around me will be trying to lose weight as well; 2.) I should really start, NOW.

So on the 3rd day of the new year, I stepped on a weighing scale in front of maybe 6 or 7 people. It was hard for me. I haven't stepped in a weighing scale in a long time, more so if people were around. I remember, many months back, I dared step on a scale and asked 1 of my staff to check my weight. After which, I asked him to swear not to tell a soul or he'll be dead. I'd be so embarrassed if people will know my actual weight. This time, it's different, of course they will need to see my actual weight for the competition to be fair. I joked about ~~having big boobs~~ being well endowed, that's why I am heavier than all the men who joined. It maybe partially true, but I know that I am really big & heavy.

I weigh a whopping 84.6 kgs (186.12 lbs). I stand 5' 4&1/2". I am obese. I should just be between 133 to 136 lbs.

So, why am I really doing this? I may have the shallowest reason, but this is the one on top of my head - I have lots of money NOW but I can't buy decent clothes. Seriously!

When I say lots of money, I mean, I earn way better now than when I started working maybe 7 or 8 years ago. My first real job paid me 6500 pesos, less tax, SSS, Philhealth, Pag-ibig, etc - I am left with probably 2000 pesos per payday. I can't buy anything. It can only cover for my transportation and allowance before the next payday. Thank God I'm living with my parents back then, so I don't worry about the food expenses.

Now, when I go to the malls I usually ask for the biggest size - shirt, jeans, dress, shoes, everything - more often than not the biggest size still didn't fit me. I went to Thailand and HongKong, but I've got no luck on clothes. :( It's sad. It makes me really really sad.

The option I have is to go to those Amerincan, French, Spanish, other imported brands that has "american sizes". But these brands cost way way higher than I am willing to pay.

I just want to go to Divisoria or Greenhills and fit on those "one-size-fits-all" clothes. I am shallow. But this is the truth.

Hahaha. The health reasons came in second. *wink* Ok, buying clothes and my health are both improtant to me. I get easily tired just by walking, can you imagine if I run? I feel very heavy that I know one day, I will have bigger problems other than my weight. And really, I don't want that to happen.

So I have to start now. No, this is not another new year's resolution. This is something I need to work on. It will not happen overnight, not in a month or two, it should be a gradual thing that requires dicipline. Its a commitment between myself and my body. And no, I will not starved myself to death, I'd probably die just thinking of me starving. Hahaha.

This is what I've done and will continue to do. Yes, I have been doing this after I stepped on that scale.

1. Cut down my rice per day. Used to be 4+ cups a day. Now I'm on a 1cup per day. 1/2 cup in the morning and another 1/2 cup at lunch. No rice at dinner time.

2. NO SODA. I've been soda free for 19 days now. I did it for a month when I had tummy problems back in 2010. This time, I'll make it a year.

3. Eat more vegetables & fruits. I am a fan of fruits and veggies, but since I am working 8am-5pm, Mondays thru Fridays, I have limited option infront of me, especially when I am at work. So everytime there is an opportunity, I definitely choose veggies and fruits. Now, I can say I eat more fruits than veggies, but we'll get there.

4. Substitute cereals or oats for dinner. Or fruits, veggies - no more meat at night or anything that will be hard to digest. Been doing this.

5. Drink lots and lots of water. I can drink 2 liters of water per day. I do. I never thought I can, but I did.

I think my general rule is that I should definitely cut down my food intake. Because, seriously, I can eat a whole cow. I ~~used to~~ love buffets and I can’t say no to chocolates and all sorts of desserts. I eat A LOT.

It’s a good start. I lost 4.3 kgs in 15days just by watching what I eat. No, I don’t count the calories. I can’t. I don’t know how to. Hahaha.

I know this isn't enough. I need to exercise or do something that requires me to move, other than walking. Haha. I definitely wanted to do yoga. Soon.

I don't imagine myself being as thin as Kim Chui. I just want my old body, back in 2004 - 2005.

2004 - Walang tyanena!!

2005 - Kerinbels pa ang sleeveless

KAYA KO 'TO!

Follow me on twitter for updates. At may hashtag - #CathToLoseWeightIn2012.

2011 in Pictures (The Finale)

2012-01-16T23:44:00.001+08:00

Yes, here is Part 2.

July: RJ's Birthday + Another Birthday Celebration!!

She didn't know we (Ayi, Jeng & I) have a surprise for her. Well, technically, they were just balloons, handed to her by a Barista from Starbucks. LOL.

Ayaw nyang magtaas ng paa!!

Videoke night for my super belated birthday!!

September (Puno ng Mangga): Lucien!

First stop - Baguio

With the original GRO!

Dinner at Pagsanjan. Tanging-Yaman ang peg!

Inuman sa Rooftop.

Photo credit: RJ

Inuman sa Bubukel.

Photo credit: RJ

October: 2 Birthdays + HONG KONG

Grecth turned 31. Hahaha.

I am more excited to see Jaja than Gretch. Sorry.

Bawal daw ang labas ang ngipin.

Couple shot.

Tan 31, too! :)

Getting ready for a movie marathon in Rockwell.

Happy Lemon. Mas happy si Cookie.

HongKong is Love! My second out-of-the-country trip in 2011. I wanted to save up and go back there. It's more special this time, because I'm with my hubby.

Second day - morning! Walang ligo-ligo. Hahaha.

Scariest day. Kaloka.

Hongkong Disneyland. I was a kid again.

Nagkataon. Nagkatagpo. With my friends in HongKong.

Photo credit: Joan's BB

November: Jeng's Birthday

Dinner with his family. My simple husband. I love you!!!

The Star of the Night - Wyeth!

December: Christmas Party + Christmas with the Patricio's

With my favorite gurls from work.

My second Christmas in Marikina.

All in all, it was a good year.

Thank you 2011!!

[All photos are by Jeng Patricio, unless otherwise mentioned.]

2011 in Pictures (First half)

2012-01-16T11:56:00.001+08:00

Let the pictures walk you through my 2011! :)

March: The Proposal + Marj

My dear friend Sheva celebrated her ~~30th~~ 18th birthday! Rem and I were the host.

Photo: Erwin Leyros

We were not expecting that his boyfriend will proposed!! Sheva was in tears.

Of course, the girlfriends were sooooo happy! Congrats again, Sheva+Erwin!

Marj is one of my closest friend from my previous company. When the company closed down in Arpil 2007, we hardly had the chance to see each other. Then in 2008 she went to Dubai, got married and I never saw her again. Good thing, we were able to meet when she came home in March. Imishu!!

Marj - Me - Hycinth

April: Bruno Mars + The Wedding

For our first wedding anniversary, Jeng and I opted to watch Bruno Mars concert than to go out of town. You can read everything here.

I saw.. Phil Younghusband. Feeling ko mas gwapo si James. :)

I saw a lot of local celebs and asked Jeng to take their pictures. But when I saw Ruffa!!! Di ko napigilan ang sarili ko!! LOL.

Another girlfriend was on the spot, this time, it was Ette as she says I do to Geh.

The event will not be complete without the Rari Gang!

May: Cebu&Bohol + Anna Manuel

We spent a night in Cebu. You can read the story here.

3 days in Bohol. 1 night in Panglao island, but I can't stay there for another night.

Tarsier, Chocolate Hills, Boat Ride and a lot more just in one day.

An old church. Sorry, forgot the name.

Laoay-Loboc River. This is the new location, according to our driver/tour-guide!

Annnnaaaa!!! My one and only LS. I love her forever!! Slept over at their house after so many years, I actually stopped counting because I'll miss her more. Though, all the pictures were in her iPad2. :) Thanks to Tan's camera for this picture!

Photo credit: Tan

June: Thailand + My 30th!

My first time to travel outside of the Philippines!!! Yey! Thailand!! Jeng's birthday gift to me! With my two bestfriends - Cookie and Tanya.

We stayed at Grand Mercure Fortune Hotel. The room was huge and the buffet breakfast was love.

The train station is just a few steps away from us.

Taxi!!!

Grand Palace.

Me. :)

Photo credit: Tan

I received a bouquet of flowers for my birthday!! ;) Thanks to my one and only - Jeng.

Plus a cake!

Dinner with my family.

Beer with Ayi and RJ.

Dinner with Tan.

To be continued...

[All photos are by Jeng Patricio, unless otherwise mentioned. Bruno Mars pictures (except the one with Ruffa) and Thailand are all mine.]

Bohol Trip: Day 1 (Cebu B?)

2011-07-27T12:05:00.000+08:00

All my travel post were delayed. And this is going to be a long one, so you may choose not to read. Haha.

We booked cheap flights with Cebu Pacific early January or maybe February this year. We are going to BOHOL! The trip was scheduled on May 6-9, 4days-3nights! I was so excited!! I’ve never been to Bohol while Jeng went there 2 years ago with his family.

Weeks before the date, Jeng mentioned that they actually went to Cebu for a day during their trip to Bohol. The inggitera (envious) in me thought I wanted to go Cebu, too, as I’ve never been to Cebu. But I didn’t tell him yet, not right away.

One day, I just can’t contain my excitement, so I told him that I really want to go to Cebu because I wanted to do the Sky Walk/Ride in this hotel. Seriously, when I told him that, I’m not really sure which hotel was that, but I knew that our friends, Rona and Jay were there back in 2009 (Trivia: Jay proposed to Rona in Cebu) . I searched Rona’s facebook and found out it was at Crown Regency.

My very loving and thoughtful husband made his researched on where, when and how are we gonna squeeze in a SkyWalk/Ride in Cebu to our Bohol trip. Apparently, we can ride a perry (SuperCat) from Tagbilaran (Bohol) to Cebu. Then we can stay 1 night in Cebu and perry ride again from Cebu to Tagbiliran. Yay! Seems pretty easy, huh? But the budget isn’t friendly, so I passed on this opportunity. I convinced myself that one day I can go and see Cebu, but not now. He agreed.

Little did I know that my husband changed his mind. He emailed me a booking confirmation from Crown Regency!!! I was ecstatic that I showed it to my officemates. Haha. It was an overnight stay, with buffet dinner and breakfast, plus free SkyWalk/Ride for two to the tune of $93! Isn’t that a steal?

We almost didn’t make it to our flight, well that’s a long story that needs a separate blog post.

We arrived at Tagbiliran minutes before the afternoon schedule of perry leaving for Cebu. When we got there, the perry was delayed as well because it has been raining in Cebu that day. An hour and a half (maybe two) then we are officially in Cebu!

20 minutes cab from Cebu port to our hotel. Crown Regency looks old from outside. This must have been one of the oldest hotels in Cebu, if not the oldest. You can click here to learn more.

It's as if the hassle in Manila wasn’t enough, we had a problem when we got in the hotel. Well, let’s just say we waited more than 45 minutes at the lobby because the front desk staff doesn’t seem to know of their online promo. Good thing Korean's don't fail to make us smile. No offense. But they sorter / divided the dried mangoes in the lobby. Hahaha.

I forgot about the airport scene, the perry ride and the long wait at the lobby, upon entering the hotel room. It was huge. Like 12 people can fit in. Ok, maybe, 2 more queen size bed is ok and you still have enough space to jump around.

The good side - Sofa, flat screen TV, internet, bed, huge bathroom, cabinets, ceiling to floor window glass and very spacious.

Big and soft bed. Saraaaap matulog!! There's a dresser on the right side.

Flat TV

Super big mirror

Glass shower and sink on the righ side (not in photo).

Sofa. Small tables and chairs.

The not so good side – It was dark (no light at all except the side lamps and the bathroom lights) and there was no view. :(

In the morning, it looks like this.

Day light peeking through the curtains.

But all in all, I'll take it all the time compared to our room in Bohol (oh, that is another story).

The buffet dinner was good. Plenty of choices, specially the deserts. The live band sang for us. The singer (the woman) was really good and she's pretty too.

And yes, the reason we were in the Cebu in the first place, the Sky Rides.

This is on the 38^th floor of the hotel. You either walk around the edge or ride the edge coaster. When we got there, I knew I do not want to do any of this. Jeng will kill me. I knew I can’t walk so I forced myself to do ride the edge coaster. I froze! My hands and feet were sweaty, it was the coldest sweat ever! It wouldn’t be as exciting as they seem if you don’t tilt the coaster which almost gave me a heart attack. Waaaaaa. Imagining it right now, makes my whole body chills. The staff will ask you to stop and tilt the coaster, so they can take pictures. Of course, I have to smile because I need to be pretty even if I’m freaking out. It was short, but it felt forever to me. I can say that Jeng enjoyed it (and would have enjoyed it more if he can tilt the coster more) but you can never ask me to do it again. Not in this lifetime. Hahaha.

The sad part was, they didn’t give us a copy of the pictures on a cd, instead we have to buy printed pictures from them. And it’s not cheap, but I forgot how much. I used all the tricks I have so I can have soft copies because we don’t want to buy all the pictures.

    It’s our anniversary, please give it to us.
    We might not come back to Cebu to do it, please give it to us.
    I wrote my email address and asked the staff to just email them to me.
    I asked them to add me up on Facebook.

None of these works. We end up buying one picture. Then they gave us a certificate. WTF. I don’t want a certificate! I want pictures!

I had to scan this picture. :(

Afterwards, we met our friends from college, Bone and Albert. Albert was with her girlfriend Dazzie, whom I met for the first time. They were having dinner at Ayala Center Cebu when we arrived. Jeng and I were full from our buffet so we settled for coffee. Yes, me and coffee, anywhere, anytime! Though I wasn’t able to explore Ayala Center, from where we were seated it reminded me of Greenbelt. It was funny because I have not seen Bone and Albert for months (oh Bone, maybe years), then we all met up in Cebu. What a sweet coincidence!

The following day, we forced ourselves to wake up for our buffet breakfast! I love buffet breakfast but I guess I still wanted to go back to sleep because it was a ‘bed’ weather. Nonetheless, I enjoyed it.

We tucked ourselves in bed for 1 more hour then we prepared for our ride to Tagbilaran.

It was a short but a sweet escape. I didn't even see Magellan's cross! Haha. We were there for less than 24 hours. One day, we’ll be back in Cebu to see the rest of it.

Cooking 101: Simple Carbonara

2011-07-26T12:40:00.000+08:00

If there is one thing I love doing – it has to be cooking! I might not have enough dishes on my list but I am always excited to try new one. Last week when Jeng and I did the grocery, I grabbed some pasta, bacon and all purpose cream (lite). I told him I’ll cook a simple carbonara that I learned from Guise (or is it Harvey’s recipe).

For the love of my friend Marj, who is pregnant right now, this is how to do it!

Simple Carbonara

Ingredients:

I’m not so good at measurements, so just to give you an idea, here it is:

1. Pasta (cook as per packaging) – I used Del Monte. I bought the 400 grams pack and used ¾ of it. But if you’re cooking for 2 persons only, I say used half only, or less depending if you have other food to serve. In our case, we only have this and buttered toast. Still, it is more than we can consume.

2. Bacon – Doesn’t have to be the priciest bacon, I bought the Pampanga’s Best bacon (cheaper). I consumed one pack, which is ¼ kilo.

3. 3 boxes of All Purpose Cream Lite (Nestle) – The actual size you see in the grocery. Healthier!

4. 2 slices of Single Cheese (Cheddar)

5. Maggie Magic Sarap, Salt and Pepper

Procedure:

1. Cut the bacon into 2 inches then fry. Set aside a few strips for garnish.

2. Pour all purpose cream into the pan, stir occasionally. I added some water because I thought it was too thick. Or you may add cream of mushroom, if you like, but I didn’t.

3. Add cheese, seasoning, salt and pepper

4. Add cooked pasta.

Super dali no?

After, I just cut bread, add butter and put it in the toaster.

Jeng said it was good but I think Guise’ version was better. I think my all purpose cream was way too much. I can do better next time.

Project Home: Little White Kitchen

2011-07-22T16:32:00.000+08:00

One day (soon), Jeng and I will move to this house. :) Well, technically, in half of it only. The other half will have to wait, till we have enough money.

Today, I was browsing this website I stumble upon when I googled "beautiful homes blogs" and saw this cute little kitchen.

photo credit: absolutelybeautifulthings.blogspot.com

I think our kitchen will only be this small considering the space we have. I love that in such a small space, there's the fridge, sink, counter table and all the little cabinets. I want this in our house. I also love the idea of a white kitchen, looks all neat and clean. And that red door just burst in color. I love everything in this little white kitchen, except for the floor. Well, at first glance, it has this retro-cool look, but I'm worried (yes, I'm the worrier according to the hubby) about the black part. I don't know why.

Overall this is just pretty.

Yay! I'm super excited!!!

Happy Birthday JAI!

2011-06-30T23:16:00.000+08:00

Dear Jai,

I know I have that video of you singing Bahay Kubo, but I can't find it. Instead, this is what I got. Hahaha. I think my voice is louder than yours in the video, but you are still the star.

I can't wait to hear your stories about Hong Kong and Disneyland. I am sure you'll have a great time. I'll see you when you get back, ok? And please tell Ninang all your stories. Hey, did you know that Ninang Cath have not been to Hong Kong? So I really am excited to talk to you soon about your adventure.

Happy birthday Jai! Ninang Cath and Ninon Jeng love you very much.

Always obey your mommy as she only wants what is best for you. Ok? I know that you are a good boy and I am so proud of you.

I haven't bought your Angry Birds Plush Toys yet, but I'll buy soon.

Love,
Ninang Cath (your favorite ninang in the world!)

P.S. Do you remember this picture?

One million things...

2011-06-30T12:36:00.001+08:00

I have tons of things in my mind and pictures on my hard drive (external) to blog about. I've been lazy. No excuse for that.

I always complain that I don't have enough time, when in reality, I have a lazy butt. Instead of writing on my free time, I surf the internet for hours. Before I knew, it's already way past my bedtime.

I NEED TO WRITE. I WANT TO WRITE. I WILL START WRITING AGAIN!

Hahaha.

But...

...tonight, Jeng and I will watch Transformers: Dark of the Moon. We've seen the trailers over and over and it felt a little weird that Megan Fox will not be playing the lead role. Her character in the movie skips my mind. I adore the Megan Fox-Sam Witwicky tandem. They look so odd on screen but the kilig is just amazing. Haha. I know, the hopeless romantic in me always comes out even in the middle of a war movie, I tell you! We'll see if this pretty vixen will can live up to people's expectations (the other one, not Charice).

Regular blogging will resume tomorrow. No this is not a promise. This is something I will DO.

[Edit: July 1, 2011 - we didn't watch Transformers last night. Will watch it next week together with Ayi and RJ]

I'm scared

2011-05-16T14:07:00.000+08:00

Dear God,

I am waiting for Jeng to pick me up, now. Then we will head to Asian Hospital for my a minor surgery on my face.*sobs*

I'm scared.

The procedure is easy, the doctor says I can cartwheel immediately after ( kahit mag-tumbling ka pa pagkatapos) the surgery. But, I am afraid of what they might find out when they do the biopsy on the mass that will be removed.

Yesterday, at the Sunday Service, the Pastor talked about, when YOU don't make sense. I laughed and actually agreed, because, seriously, sometimes YOU just don't make sense.

But, I know, that I may not understand YOU now and why is this happening to me, but my faith is strong! And even if I think that this doesn't make sense at all, I believe that YOU will be there for me because YOU love. And I love YOU, too! I do.

Love,
Cath

Congratulations and Best Wishes Gerald and Ette!!

2011-05-04T12:47:00.001+08:00

Wedding for me is magical. Most women, if not all, always had this dream of marrying their one true love, one day! I've only been married for a year and everyday is a learning process, so I am in no position to give advice. But if I have to give (unsolicited) advice, it will go something like this. Hahaha.

1. If you are arguing and you think you might say things you'll regret afterwards, just keep your mouth shut. Keep your thoughts to yourself. Ok?

2. Wag tutulugan ang problema. Kelangan mag-usap at ayusin, bago matulog. (You have to fix things or be ok before you go to bed.) - No, I don't believe that! That is bullshit! If you feel like sleeping and not talking, just go to sleep. Trust me, in the morning, when you had a very good night sleep, you'll forget about an argument you had the night before. Hahaha.

3. Marriage does not give you the license to have one Facebook account; yours will be named: GehEtte Quelnan Cruz! Please! I have friends who do that and it's their choice. But can you not?

4. Marriage gives us the license to ask for his/her passwords (email, phone, etc.) or even check their phone (text messages, calls,) but don't overdo it. Don't be like a psycho and check them all the time.

5. Be mindful of your time. Remember, someone is probably waiting at home ~~naked~~.

6. Ette, please cook for Gerald once in a while. Gerald please cook for Ette at least once a month.

7. There are things about your relationship, that you cannot just share to anyone. Not even your mother or your best friend.

8. Respect each other, all the time. But Ette can be a brat sometimes. *wink*

9. Do not forget about yourself. You may be married, but you are still 2 individuals who think and act differently. Always have a "me" time.

10. Your (Ette) money is your money! His (Geh) money, is yours as well! Hahaha. :)

That's all! Oh, and if I were asked for a speech during your wedding reception, I would have said;

To Gerald:
I know very little about you, but the fact the my friend choose to marry you is more than enough for me to believe that you are a good person. I want to know you and I want to be your friend. I am excited for you and Ette! Please, always love and take care her. Remember, you didn't just marry Ette, you are now married to the whole Rari Gang!!

To Ette:
I love you Ets! (I'm sure, maiiyak ako habang nagsasalita.) I'm still super kilig that you are now married!! I am just thankful that God gave that one special person the you love and loves you back. Take care and love Gerald.

Cheers!

The 5 People You Don’t Want to Bring to Forever 21 Sale

2011-05-03T23:11:00.001+08:00

I Love Forever 21! Not because I want to be like “shushal” (classy) or “nakikiuso” (follow trends), but I really do love shopping there, because, first, I fit in their clothes and second, they have quite a selection of clothes (and accessories as well).

Though, we now live in the south, I rarely get to go there and shop. But I got to tell you that on all my trip there, people were just crazy. Cashier and fitting room lines were unbelievable.

Last Sunday, I braved Megamall (special thanks to Jeng) to buy shorts and bikini (yay! Bikini talaga?) for our Bohol trip this weekend. I dropped by Forever 21 and since it’s on sale the crowd were crazier than ever. I seriously just wanted to buy shorts but when I get to the fitting room, ladies in line had bags of clothes. I learned that during sale, there is no limit on the number of clothes you can bring in at one fitting. I thought, if I’d waiting in line to get in the fitting room, I’d rather grab as many clothes as I can. Right? So I left my line and started grabbing on clothes I’d like to try. A good twenty minutes was spent hunting for clothes. I was alone so I get to move as fast I want to. I can’t help but notice people that I know I will not be bringing in Forever 21, with or without sale.

1. The babies. I mean, even if you have a nanny or someone to look after them, still a baby in a very crowded place is just wrong. I saw at least 3 babies on stroller. One of which seems not enjoying the crowd and cried her lungs out. Poor baby.

2. Your grandmother. Unless she can still endure hours of bargain hunting, yes bring her. Otherwise, if she’ll be following you like a turtle, I don’t think it’s a good idea. Plus, I doubt if she’ll like the clothes you will try on. Overheard a conversation:

Grandmother: Parang masyadong maliit yan sayo. (I think that is too small for you)

I had to turn my head and this was what I saw. A teenager, trying on a short skirt, which looks normal to me. Of course, her Lola will not agree. Then the girl replied:

Teenager: Lola, ito ang uso ngayon. (This is the trend now!)

3. Little siblings. I'm not talking about teenager siblings, these are the kiddos – aged from 4-11. Someone grabbed my bag from behind. Run passed by me and grab another woman’s skirt. It’s a little girl, maybe 5 years old. Running after her was a woman, maybe on her early 20’s. “Thea! Thea! Stop!”

4.Annoying moms. Hahaha. This was while I was trying on around 13 garments. The lady on the next fitting room had two companion outside, her mom and sister.

Mommy: Ate, try this one, oh.

Daughter1: Wait mom.

Mommy: Ate, this one oh, this is one size smaller.

Daughter1: Ok, mom. Thanks!

Mommy: (Talking to her younger daughter. Not in the fitting room) Get Ate a small of this one, please.

Daughter2: Be right back.

Mommy: Ate, did you try na the black dress?

Daughter1: Not yet.

Mommy: Are you done?

Daughter1: Not yet, mom.

Mommy: Ate, are you done na?

Daughter1: Not yet, mom. (A little irritated voi.)

Mommy: Ate, you done?

Daughter: Mom! Not, yet! Are you in a hurry???

Mommy: Oh no. Sorry. Take your time.

Hahaha. I was secretly laughing all the time. Kawawa naman the other daughter. I hope mommy got something for her, too.

5. Boyfriend/Husband. There should be a club called “Bored boyfriends/husbands at Forever 21”. Everything I wanted to say, Gabe Mercado already said on Twitter. And I quote;

@gabemercado

“Kapag samahan ka ng lalake sa Forever 21, pag-ibig na yun.”

“Kapag samahan ka ng lalake sa Forever 21 at hindi kayo nag break pagkatapos pakasalan mo na.”

“Kapag samahan ka ng lalake sa Forever 21, maaring gusto nya ring maging babae.”

“Fact: walang lalakeng hindi mainit ang ulo sa loob ng Forever 21.”

photo credit: spot.ph

Please add people you wouldn't dare bring to Forever 21. :)

Oh, by the way, I was able to buy a shorts, a bikin top and a sando. I'm ready for Bohol.

Forver 21
SM Megamall Building A (2nd Level)
SM Makati
http://www.facebook.com/Forever21ph

Happy Easter from Astoria Boracay

2011-04-24T15:54:00.000+08:00

If I can be anywhere today, I’ll be in Boracay!

Last Thursday night, we were at our friends house and we laughed about our supposed-to-be Marinduque trip for this lent. Well, it didn’t push through. Hahaha. I said that as early as possible we should book our Boracay trip for 2012 Holy week! I tried booking airfare today and it is freaking expensive! I booked me and 2 friends to Bangkong this coming June, airfare is P17000++ (approximately $395) – promo fare. That was cheap. Boracay for April 5-8, 2012, that’s Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday, is P13000++ ($318), 2pax. Damn!

Well, maybe the Boracay holy week thingy won’t happen anytime soon unless Topet will pay for our airfare tickets. Hahaha. Paging Topet!!

If that happens, I hope we can spend at least a night in Astoria Boracay! I’ve only been to Boracay three times and all the time we booked different hotels. And I have to say the Astoria is by far has the best accommodation.

In September of last year, Jeng and I spent 4days/3nights in the island, we stayed in 3 hotels. We are weird like that! We love to explore. First night was in Zuzuni, second was Astoria, third was – I forgot. Selective amnesia [read: i don't want to remember].

These are the pictures from Astoria Boracay! I do hope you’ll enjoy it!

If you're walking by the shore, you will not miss it. This modern-minimalist architecture is a sure eye catcher.

Inside was the front desk, receiving and dining area. This area is very spacious. Plus it has high ceiling which I like! There were big couches as well as tables and chairs for dining.

These are the rooms on the right side, upon entrance. Ang taray ng duyan sa taas! Hahaha.

There are also room on the left side and it also extends to the back part. This was near the road where tricycles are allowed.

Oh don't you wish you have this in your own home? I do!

This one, too! But I think I have to have a house first with a pool. This was actually used as floating device. Ang saya nya lang sa tubig, promise!! It just makes swimming a lot of fun. Same with the duyan at the back. I'd really want to bring all them of home.

If you are facing the beach, this will be the view.

Ooops. You can skip this one.

This was our room. Can I stay here forever?

The bed. Enough said.

TV. Bath. Closet.

The whole place was neat and clean. It's as if the room has not been used before. I am a huge fan of modern minimalist and this is one of a kind. I actually got the idea of painting the rooms of our future home like this. Everythin here is so easy on the eyes. Everyone will fall inlove with this place.

Deluxe - Pool Acess,per night P4000 (approximately $93). It was actually discouted from P5000. September was considered as a lean season so the rates are cheaper. I checked their website and rates are now higher. Holy week rates starts at P10000 (approx. $232). Topet?! :)

Makatay nga sa lotto!

Happy Easter everyone! Happy birthday to Wyeth. I can hear birthday songs downstairs!

Love,

Katiyay (in Marikina)

Futuretainment, never again!!!

2011-04-24T00:48:00.001+08:00

Last Sunday - April 18, 2011 - 10days after the Bruno Mars concert in Araneta, I sent an email to the concert producer Futuretaiment Inc. Unfortunately I did not receive a reply from any of them, not even an acknowledgement that they received my email. I thought, this was a "suntok sa buwan", like as if they will care and email me back. I'm a nobody. But I did give them that benefit of the doubt and email them first rather than just rant about this in my blog. Anyway, I should have trusted my first instinct.

Below was the email I sent them. Just a warning! Maroon 5 and Miley Cyrus concert coming up, both produced by Futuretainment. I do hope you will not be a victim like us.

If it's any consolation, Bruno Mars was amazing that night! He's a total performer! We would definitely pay this much if he'll come back to the Philippines. I just hope next time, it will be another producer. DEFINITELY, we'll no longer watch any concert they will produce.

__________________________________________________________________________________

Dear Futuretainment Inc.,

This is Cath Patricio and I am writing to express my disappointment on the recent Bruno Mars concert! My husband and I were very excited when we heard that Bruno Mars will have a concert here in the Philippines. I followed @futureupdate @AgustinMarvin to have updates on when the tickets will be available. The Araneta concert date – April 8 is our first wedding anniversary. Thus, instead of going on an out of town to celebrate we’ve decided that this will be our celebration. We are definitely buying the most expensive ticket available!

January 29 – Saturday, I read on twitter that tickets are now available. I probably called Ticket Net five (5) times and was repeatedly told tickets were not available yet. We live in Laguna and since I’m meeting friends at The Fort that day, my husband even went to Megamall to buy them over the counter, but still no tickets available.

January 31 – Monday, my husband drove to SM Sta Rosa to get our tickets. When asked by the lady from the TicketNet which seats he wanted, he said, the one in the middle (not on the sides near lower box). I mean, logically, if you are paying for the most expensive ticket available, of course you’d want to be in the middle (front) of the Araneta floor.

Patron ticket is @ PHP5800 + 6% tax. Hubby paid PHP 12,300 for 2 tickets. Our Section is PT104, Row D, Seat 15 & 16.

Come April 8, as we looked for our seats, we were very surprised that we’re near the exit. We were both pissed! It was unacceptable!! But what can we do?

I even counted the rows from the one nearest to the stage and there were 25 rows! Plus 3 more rows on section 104, we were on 29^throw! How much was the cost of the seat on the first 25 rows? Why was it not included on the website?

We paid PHP 12,300 – we expect our seats are near the stage. If not, at least in the middle. But we were in the EXIT! I don’t want to speak for everyone else on that section but most of them, especially the family on Row E were as pissed as we were.

I hope in the future, you’ll be more transparent with your customers. Inform us right ahead what we should expect! It would have been better if you just include on your website a VIP ticket that cost maybe P10k each. Then we would have expect less since we bought the P5800++ ticket. But actually, if there is a ticket more expensive than P5800++, maybe we would have bought it!

My husband and I, we were just ordinary people who are willing to spend to watch and enjoy a concert. We used our hard earned money. We felt cheated!!! I hope you can do something about this.

Thank you very much!

Best Regards,

Cath Patricio

__________________________________________________________________________________

O(h) My Yogurt

2011-04-22T18:53:00.000+08:00

Frozen yogurt is the new Pearl Shake! Back in the early 2000, Pearl Shake was a massive hit. Everywhere I go someone’s holding a Pearl Shake. As the decade fades away and we welcome a new one, the yogurt fever took us over. We've had a fair share but we’ve only tried White Hat.

Until we discovered – O My Yogurt!

This was in SM Calamba. While Jeng and I were waiting for the movie screening we passed by and decided to give it a try. We have no idea what to expect. Upon entering the store, you’ll immediately notice that this is not your usual yogurt place. On the left side, there's a sign that says “Self-Service”. Just follow the 4 simple steps and you’re good to go!

There were 4 cup sizes – Jeng and I only get the smallest cup. I tell you this small cup will get you a lot!

One thing I love about this place is you get to choose the yogurt flavor! Here are the flavors available on SM Calamba store.

Blueberry

Almond

Vanilla

Mango

Raspberry

Honeydew

Taro-Ube

Strawberry

Chocolate

Plain Tart

I’ve only tried Blueberry and Strawberry. Jeng loved the chocolate but it tasted like chocolate ice cream to me. I mean, it’s yogurt and it must be at least sour, right? Strawberry is my favorite!

You will then pick the toppings. My bad, was not able to take photos. There are fresh fruits like strawberry, banana, mango, etc. There are dried fruits as well, chocolate, candies, cereals and other topping I’ve seen on White Hat.

When you’re done, you give it to the lady in the cashier and it will be weighed.

On the left side was Jeng's - cost about Php 160+ ($4.5). Mine is the the other one filled with fresh strawberries - P100+ ($2.5).

Not bad at all. My yogurt is just enough for my craving. And the cost is lesser than the smallest cup at White Hat. Plus the fact that I was able to choose what I put on my yogurt! Also, it's a plus points that the 2 lady attendant were nice and very accomodating.

This was actually our second try. *wink* Try this one soon!!

Locations:

MANILA OCEAN PARK - Ground Floor
Quirino Grandstand One Rizal Park Luneta Manila

SM CITY STA ROSA - Ground Floor
National road Bo., Tagapo Sta Rosa

SM CITY CALAMBA - 3rd Floor
National Road, Brgy. Real, Calamba City, Laguna

SM CITY DASMARINAS

Website:

http://www.omyyogurt.net
http://www.kmlgusa.net

Meet Stella!

2011-04-19T21:18:00.001+08:00

Jeng, Cookie and I went to “The Big Outlet Sale 2011” at Megatent, Meralco Ave., Ortigas last Saturday. I need to buy sneakers or rubber shoes, something I can use for badminton. (Off topic: Jend and I will start playing badminton, soon!!)

We got there around 11am and in less than 30 minutes I was able to purchase a Tretorn sneakers in peach/pink color. Haha. Jeng was still looking around while Cookie was eyeing for a Levi’s cap. We were about to make a full circle of the whole area when I saw this line of girls (and gays). I just had to stop and see what it was. Stella Luna shoes ~~for free~~ on sale!!

I don’t have Stella Luna shoes because first, they are expensive and second, they are expensive! Harharhar!

So to see a P1999 ($44) Buy 1 Take 1 sign, I knew I had to find the end of the line! Hahaha. The Stella Luna booth had net around it to make it somehow secluded. They only allowed 10people at a time inside the booth. 15 minutes to hoard!! When my time was up, they asked us to wait for about 30 minutes since they will be bringing in new styles and stocks! And boy I waited patiently!! I didn't feel the heat or any leg pain. Not at all. *wink*

Finally, I was inside and I saw envy eyes outside the booth! *evil grin* Unfortunately, their sizes for pumps and other closed shoes are weird on my feet. Size 39 doesn’t fit. Size 40 is too big. Or am I the one with weird feet? I can’t lose hope! I tried and tried and tried until, the shoe fits. Two actually!!! Yay!

Meet Stella Red.

Meet Stella Black.

Their boxes are cute, too! Well, the Stella Red box looked a little worn out.

I love my job because it pays for my shoes!

I love you Jeng!

2011-04-17T17:59:00.001+08:00

One of our first pictures together (2006)

I know this is a late post but it doesn't mean that I love you less. Happy first wedding anniversary, baby!

Sometimes, I feel like I am always the bad guy in this relationship and that makes me sad. :( Moody at masungit man ako minsan pero alam mo naman na mahal na mahal kita!

We've known each other for 5 years and 8months. And I am very happy that we've been together for 5 years! (Trivia: BF-GF anniv is April 2. Wedding anniv is April 8.)

Thank you for being the best boyfriend!

Thank you for 1 year of being my husband, my roommate, my driver *wink*, my photographer *hugs*, my confidant, shock absorber and my best friend! Are you ready for 50++ more years?? I am!!!

I know I am blessed to have someone in my life who is unselfish, patient and loves unconditionally. Cliché as it may sound, but I must have done something really really good in the past to deserve you.

I love you, Jeng!!

Cooking 101: Chicken ala King

2011-04-02T09:05:00.000+08:00

I love cooking! I do.

When we were still in the condo, I would cook for Jeng so that he’ll have something to eat the next day since his office shift then was 2pm-11pm. Mine was 9am-6pm. I’d do some grocery and cook. When we moved to Calamba, we literally ate at SM Calamba for maybe two weeks straight until we got an old stove from parent’s house. We then started cooking [read: frying].

I just realized now, while Im writing this post, the reason why I cook less now than before. It is because, before, I am all alone in the condo at night and I’m always takot! I’m paranoid like that. Cooking makes me busy that I forgot about how scared I was to be alone. Now, since he’s working from home, I don’t feel scared anymore so I don’t need to do anything. Haha.

OK. I’m back to my old self! Effective immediately, I will cook every day until Jeng asks me to stop.

Last Wednesday, I started out with a simple dish. This is actually our friend Marion’s recipe.

Ingredients:

1/4 kg Chicken (Breast part, adobo cut) – I bought this in the market so I asked the lady to cut it for me. I said Adobo cut. I wonder what she’ll do if I say, “chicken ala king cut, please?” I’ll try it some time.

Garlic

Onion

1/2 Bell Pepper - red or green will do

1/2 Small canned button mushrooms – 1 button mushroom cut into 4 pieces

1/2 Potato – cubed

Flour

Cream of mushroom soup – 2 tablespoons dissolved in water

Evaporated Milk

Butter
Salt

Ground Pepper

Seasoning

Procedure:

I seriously followed Marion’s but there are some things I habitually do when I cook.

1. Melt butter in a pan and fry the potatoes. Mine took a little time because the potatoes were cubed. Set aside.

2. Stir fry garlic, onion and chicken. I added onions because Jeng and I love onions. My style: At this early, i put salt, pepper and seasoning.

3. Once chicken is at least half cooked, put in the bell pepper and mushrooms.

4. Add flour, not dissolved in water. This was actually new for me. I tried it and its ok.

5. Add the cream of mushroom soup. I think I added too much, so you’d better add this gradually.

6. Add evaporated milk. Again, add gradually. You do not want to make this a chicken soup.

7. Finally add the potatoes.

If you think your chicken wasn’t cooked yet, cover the pan and put into low heat for maybe 4-5mins. Don’t forget to stir once in a while.

Serve hot. This was one serving. This is good for 2-3 servings.

Jeng says, “Perfect. 10 on a scale of 1 to 10!”

My heart skipped a bit.

Thanks Marion! Here's the link to her blog.

Letter to James

2011-03-30T23:07:00.000+08:00

Dear James,

Congratulations!! I may not be your number 1 fan, but Im a fan.

You see, I never cared about football until I heard about Azkals! I am so in love with football now, my husband bought me this. Do you think you can teach us how to play?

I do hope I can meet you one day. *blush* Good luck to you and Azkals on your next games!

First Time at Abé (Serendra)

2011-03-30T07:15:00.001+08:00

A sumptuous dinner was served at Abé in Serendra past 10pm last Wednesday night. The Almosara family (the ones that were not in Hawaii or the US) + Tito Joel!

Tito Joel is Jeng’s uncle from the mother side. He is my mom-in-law’s brother. He lived all over the world (I guess) because of his job and last week, he’s here in PH for a 3-day business trip.

Abé (pronounced as A-beh) and Chelsea were suggestions from my friend Gretchen. when I asked for Filipino restaurant. If I need to know anything about shops and restaurant in Glorietta, Greenbelt or Fort, she is the best person to ask. That is a complement, Gretch!

We were supposed to eat at Glorietta, then Greenbelt but we end up at Fort since its already past 9pm when we left Makati.

Coming from the High Street, Abé comes first before Chealse (but only an open space separates them). We were very hungry, we stopped immediately at Abé and asked a table for 12. How fortunate of us that a table will be ready in 5minutes We wasted no time and ordered like there was no tomorrow. Seriously, we had 9 different dishes. We ordered 2 Kare-Kare and 2 Pinakbet. So that was a total of 11 viands for 11 ½ people. ½ is our cutest Wyeth. Good thing it was Tito Joel’s treat!

It was my first time to eat here and so as Jeng. And we were both excited.

Here’s what we had. For a few dishes that I was not able to eat, it will be Jeng’s taste buds that will speak.

Burong Mangga (Pickled green mango slices)

It was given as a complementary. This was really good. The taste is a combination of sweet, sour and salty in a very good way. I will try and search how to make this one.

Mutton Adobo with Popped Garlic P395

Good for 2-3 persons. It looks delicious even just looking at it.

Jeng: This was ok but little bit salty. The texture was like that of a chicken. The consistency of the meat is somewhere in between a pork and chicken meat. I will still recommend it.

Pinakbet Wen Manong P265

Good for 2-3 persons. We ordered two of these. The vegetable were cooked just right. All the green veggies are still green. Love it! Although the Ampalaya (Bitter Melon) was soooo bitter. My mom would have said that the cook was probably loud as he/she cooks it. (Pumapait ang ampalaya kapag maingay ang nagluluto.) Haha. Im sorry but I do not like Ilocano’s pinakbet. I am used to Tagalog’s pinakbet. I think the difference was the fish sauce used. What I like about this is they use authentic Ilocano vegetables I don’t normally see, like small-round shaped bitter melon and eggplant.

Pork Sinigang sa Sampaloc P330

Good for 4-5 persons. I had just the soup and vegetables in it, not the meat. I love that the soup was served hot. I like my “sinigang” sour. This one passed my sour standards, though, again, it’s a little salty.

Adobong Manok sa Gata P395

Good for 3-4 persons. I did not taste the gata (coconut milk). The chicken is tender and it taste like, well, adobo. It was an ok dish.

Binukadkad na Pla-Pla P365

Good for 2-3 persons. This was winner! My favorite of all the dishes we had. It’s crispy and the taste is just right. I also love how the name of this dish lives up to my expectation. Literally.

Squid Tactics P195

Unfortunately, Jeng and I were not able to try this.

Shrimp Halabos P275

Good for 2-3persons. Well, technically I can eat all of these. I like love shrimp! Period! This was the left over. I took this home and ate the following day. Haha.

Kare-Kare a La Bistro Burgos P475

Godd for 3-4 persons. We ordered two of these. One of my fave food of all time. I grew up eating Kare-Kare on birthdays, baptismal, graduation or any other occasion. Jeng always tease me that in my town, we always have Kare-Kare. But we do, all the time. I got some of the vegetables and bagoong which were delicious.

Nanay's Pochero P335

Jeng was not able to take picture of this. I didn’t taste it either. I saw it and it does not look like pochero. The color was very light. I imagined that it will be a little orange because of the tomato sauce but it looks like sinigang from a far.

Jeng had ripe mango shake and I ordered lemonade. Both were refreshing. Oh yeah, and you can rice all you can. :)

Since we I grew up eating these dishes, I can compare most of them to my mom’s sinigang or my uncle’s Kare-Kare or even our neighbor’s Pochero. I kind of set this high standards from the start. I think restaurant that offers Filipino dishes are more criticized than other restaurants only because it’s as if we know the perfect taste. One must have an open mind and a good appetite to actually enjoy it.

The staff were polite. They were patient enough to wait as we decide on this 9 dish. They even played with little Wyeth afterwards. The place was not crowded as the tables are properly arranged to have enough space in between. Our table is best for big group and it was at the heart of the place. I actually like it.

Abé. If you have families and friends on vacation here in the Philippines and would want to try authentic Filipino dishes Abé will definitely deliver. I can honestly say that all of us went out full and happy. We do have some take out, pa. I’d like to think some dishes were a little bit pricey, but then again, this is Serenda so one should actually expect that. Thank God for Tito Joel.

Go out and try our very own Filipino food.

I realized that it actually makes me proud to know that through our distinct Filipino food we can really show our culture.

Abé, Serendra, (Acrocss A Different Bookstore)
Global City, Taguig City

(02) 856-0526

[Disclaimer: All prices are from this site.]

Thank you SM Calamba!

2011-03-29T12:56:00.001+08:00

Photo Credit: rowenablanquera.com

Weeks ago, Jeng and I signed documents in BDO in SM Calamba. Afterwards, we had dinner upstairs and went home.

Last week BDO requested for photocopies of our IDs. I told them that we already gave it to the SM Calamba Branch and they’ve photocopied it. Unfortunately, they must have lost them and we’ve no choice but to send them scanned copies.

My passport was on my cute pink pouch. His passport was missing. That was the only time we realized that the envelope we had when we signed the documents was missing. He turned our house upside down and cleaned his car but still no luck. He asked, Ate Ethel, their help at home, to look for the envelope in Marikina but it wasn’t there as well.

Yesterday, he had the urge to go to “Lost and Found” area of SM Calamba. He asked politely if there was a brown envelope surrendered to them either on March 7 or March. He wasn’t sure about the exact date but he knew it was a Monday. To sound more credible, he mentioned what were things inside that envelope, including his passport. The lady at the counter checked their log book and patiently look for the all the items there. Then, BOOM! She found it! His passport and other documents are still intact.

Thank you! Good job!

Watch Me Lose Weight!

2011-03-29T06:30:00.002+08:00

Summer 2004

I lost 1kg in 7 days! Yay!

It will take me 1 month to lose 4.3kgs. Another month to lose a total of 8.6kgs then I can have my coffee back! Hahaha. I am hopeful!

From my last post, which was a very conceited approach (*shameless*), I was really saddened by the fact that I look very BIG besides my friends. I am actually; I am probably one of the tallest if not the tallest. Though, I am the biggest as well.

For years and years I’ve been meaning to lose weight by cutting what I eat and try to exercise.

1. I once enrolled in a gym, mind you. And I paid a LOT to have my own trainer and a dietitian. I failed.

2. I had Reductil for maybe a day or two, but my friend immediately asked me to stop when I told her that I’ve experienced palpitation.

3. I tried eating salad only for dinner for maybe 2 weeks, but I can’t do it! There are just so many temptations around.

4. Have you heard about the tea from Japan? That one that makes your vowel movement faster? Too fast that you need to go to the bathroom at least twice a day! I tried that but I can’t drink it on weekdays.

5. Oh, how about Carnipure? Yeah baby! Bought it too.

Let’s just say that all of these did not work for me. Or, I closed my doors too early and accept the fact that I can no longer lose weight.

But for some reasons, after my friend’s ~~wedding~~ birthday, something inside me says, “you can still lose some weight, if you want!”

Of course, I WANT! I need to! Not only so I can buy the clothes have I missed wearing but also for health reasons. Well, more, on the clothes part. *wink*

But how?

I drink coffee every day. I eat rice every day. I eat meat (pork, beef, chicken) every day. I can have soda when I want to. I can have sweets when I want to. I have need to give up some of these.

I can’t live without rice, thank you very much! So I’ll still have rice. I will have to cut it down though.

I ~~can’t~~ can live without coffee. I did it for a month – Aug 2010. I can do it again.

I can live without pork and beef but I will definitely miss tocino, longganisa and my cheeseburger meal from Mcdo. I can do it!

I can pass on soda and sweets. I can still have them in moderation.

Since March 22, I stopped eating red meat (pork, beef, lamb). I did have coffee on Thursday though but that was the last time. I had a sip on Jeng’s coke on Sunday. Three maybe four forkful of cakes on weekends.

My goal this week!

Rice: 1cup (breakfast), ½ cup (lunch), no rice (dinner)

Coffee: None

Red Meat: None

Chicken: Yes, no skin. In moderation.

Fish / Sea foods: Yes! Yes! Yes!

Vegetables: Yes! Yes! Yes!

Fruits: Yes!

Soda: None

Sweets: A little (please)

Chips: None

Hot Tea: Yes

You wanna know how much I weigh last Wednesday? I am gonna kill you if you tell someone else. Let's just keep it as a secret between us. I am 79kgs. I know. *sob* I am obese.

Yesterday, I am 78kgs. Yay! Positive.

Plus, Jeng and I will play badminton soon.

Wala lang!

2011-03-21T14:09:00.002+08:00

Walang make-up. Gulo gulo ang hair. Partida.

Ang ganda ko lang! Bow. Jejeje. :)

Sensya naman, mejo conceited. Pinapasaya ko lang ang sarili ko.

Thank you to my husband for taking beautiful pictures of me.

Starbucks Coffee New Logo

2011-03-21T12:52:00.001+08:00

Today, when I woke up, all I can think of was Starbucks coffee. Then I remember, last night, I was in tears to see how gorgeous I was on pictures at my friend Sheva's party, but I am BiG, too. *sob* Anyway, this will be my last Starbucks post and last Wednesday will be my last Starbucks coffee, until I lose 10kgs. I ~~can~~ have to do this! Technically, I will not cut on Starbucks per se, but in coffee in general.

On Tuesday, our friend RJ treated Jeng and I for coffee, because… she has a new… ~~boyfriend~~ work!*wink*

Congratulations to you my dearest friend! You deserve all this and more!!! I’m sorry, but this post is not about you. Hahaha. Well, partly.

She loves Starbucks like I do! I haven’t had Starbucks since I bought this bag. I promised myself that I won’t spend much on coffee because of that bag. So, I was surprised to see that the logo of the Starbucks has changed!

Old Logo.

Old logo on a mug

The new one.

Why didn’t I get the memo? Bakit? Affected, much?

If I see someone holding this cup and not inside a Starbucks store, I’ll probably be confuse. I’ll think that that is an imitation. Just like when I saw the new Goldilocks font.

Anyway back to Starbucks, RJ said that when they introduced this new logo weeks ago, they had a promo that will automatically upgrade your Tall drink to Grande! Waaaaaaaaa! Where was I?

I listened to RJ’s stories about Jai (her son), about work and her boss, the new girl, her new work and others but half the time, I was still wondering why on earth will they change the logo. Hahaha. I want answers now! However, I only noticed the change when I was about to put an extra brown sugar on my Café Mocha. I didn’t want to just go back at the counter and ask. I was looking for an opportunity to ask one Barista without them thinking I’m some kind of psycho making a big fuss out of a little thing – but it’s BIG deal to me. Good thing, I need water after coffee. That was my chance!

Me: Kuya, bakit nagpalit kayo ng logo (Why did you change the logo)?

Barista: Ma’am hindi naman po pinalitan, pareho pa rin po, tinanggal lang yung words na Starbucks Coffee. (It wasn’t really changed; they just omit the words “Starbucks Coffee”).

Sa utak ko lang, may pagka-pilosopo tasyo si kuya!

Me: Ok, fine. Bakit tinanggal yung “Starbucks Coffee” (Fine. Why did they omit the words)?

Barista: Kasi po ang yung ibang hindi pa nakakapasok dito, akala ang Starbucks ay mga kape lang. Hindi naman po. May iba pa naman, gaya ng tea (pause for a while)… mga cakes. (It was omitted because some customers who have not been to Starbucks thought that we only serve coffee when in reality, we offer more, such as tea…and cakes.

Hahaha. Natawa ulit ako sa utak ko.

Me: Ok. Thanks!

Of course, I told RJ and Jeng the conversation I had. RJ didn’t know about this till that day.

The explanation of the Barista seems logical but I need more answers. Therefore, I turn to my best friend – Google!

Apparently, this has been posted on Starbucks website as early as Jan 5, 2011.

From psfk.com, it says, and I quote,

“Howard Schultz says that the new logo embraces and respects their identity plus evolves the company to a point that’s more suitable to the future. In this video, the CEO says that the logo is at the core the same – the love of the coffee – but by putting the Siren outside the original logo it allows the company to move beyond just being a purveyor of coffee.”

Hahaha. I only learned today that the mermaid looking thing on the logo is called a Siren? Are mermaids and Sirens the same? I’ll google some other time.

Definitely it will take some time for some people* to get use to it. [Some people* - that includes me]. On the other hand (yes, very economics) so long as the quality of their product won’t change, there shouldn’t be any problem at all.

On Wednesday, the following day, Hycinth and I met our friend Marj - fresh from Dubai. ;) I asked Hycinth who i a coffee addict (*peac*) about this logo. This is what she said,

"Gusto ng Starbucks na kahit wala yung word na "starbucks coffee" sa logo, ma-a-associate pa rin ng mga tao ang logo sa Starbucks. Example, yung "apple" na logo ng Apple, diba, wala naman nakalagay na words doon, pero pag nakita mo yung apple alam mo na agad!

"Eh, syempre, apple naman yung logo, tapos apple ang brand!" I exclaimed. Diba?

Well, I want to make a bold prediction that in less than 1 year, they will return to the old logo. Fingers crossed till March 2012. *wink*

Trivia: Did you know that this was the 4^th time the Starbucks logo was changed / modified? Parang si Kuya Kim lang no? Hahaha. (For those who don’t know Kuya Kim, please google him.)

Which one do you like?

http://www.psfk.com/

http://www.starbucks.com/