Bato Bato Pik!

Stir Fried Shrimp w/ Sweet and Sour Chilli Sauce

2010-02-11T18:08:00.000-08:00

It’s been a while since I last posted a recipe. I thought it’s time to share another favourite of my family. It’s fortunate that my children doesn’t have any allergy on seafood because they just love eating seafood specially shrimps. Shrimps have been one of the most delectable foods there is as far as I’m concerned but it can be expensive. The bigger it gets, the more expensive it is. Well, as we always hear, indulgence doesn’t come cheap. This recipe is very simple with three basic ingredients. Shrimps or prawns can be used. If you prefer to have the head on, that would be fine too.

Let’s start with the ingredients.

1 bag of headless prawns (around 20 to 25 pieces), slit the back
½ cup of sweet and sour chilli sauce (can be found in any grocery store,)
1 tbsp of flour
1 tbsp of butter (or any cooking oil)

Direction

1. Prep the prawns or shrimps. This means have it thoroughly thawed if frozen. Pat them dry with paper towel or just lay them on a double sheet of paper towel to absorb excess liquid.

2. Dust the shrimps or prawns with flour. This will further absorb liquid and will help in absorbing the sauce later.

3. Heat butter or oil in a wok or wide pan.
4. Stir fry the shrimps (or prawns) until they changed color (which indicates that they are cooked through).
5. Then add the sauce. Continue stirring until all the shrimps have been coated. This will only takes a minute or two then turn the heat off.
6. Serve with rice.

Happy eating!

When you Wish Upon A Star

2010-02-08T12:54:00.000-08:00

When You Wish Upon A Star
Louis Armstrong

When you wish upon a star
Makes no difference who you are
Anything your heart desires
Will come to you

If your heart is in your dreams
No request is to extreme
When you wish upon a star
As dreamers do

Fate is kind
She brings to those who love
As sweet fullfillment of their secret drowns
Like a boat out of the blue
Fate steps in and see's you through

Moma when you wished upon a star
Your dreams come true

(instrumental break)

Fate is kind
She brings to those who love
As sweet fullfillment of their secret drowns
Like a boat out of the blue
Fate steps in and see's you through

Baby when you wish upon a star
Your dreams come true
When you wished upon a star
Makes no difference who you are
Your dreams come true

______________________

The pictures are courtesy of my daughter Louise. She takes amazing pictures and creates artistic images through available softwares. The star origami are also made by her and her jar is almost full. Those were alot of wishes!!!

Wish I may, wish I might... have the wish i wish tonight. What could be my biggest wish? :) that is between the star and me.

Happy wishing everyone!

A Nice Dusting of Snow - Fist snow fall of the season

2009-12-09T08:20:00.000-08:00

It was Dec 7 when the first fall of snow came. We’ve been waiting for it for a while already. Last year, it came around November. This year, it’s late but it came none the less… re assuring us of a white Christmas.

It came in slow fall, with huge flakes falling slowly and surely. It would have been nice to be out there immersed in it all. But I have to contend being out in the balcony staring at the beautiful flurries fall and cover the still green grass. I am sure that the children in school would have had the chance to go out and greet the snow personally.

There’s not much right now. The snow that fell today is just enough to dust the ground and a nice contrast to the green grass and the pine leaves.

There’s this thing about snow that make you love it and hate it. Well, children have always thought the snow is the coolest thing around in winter (except the gift giving during Christmas time..hehe). But for us adults there are lots to dread about. Behind the pretty, clean, velvety exterior that brings feeling of attraction to go out and play with it is the coldness that makes your ears and nose red and numb. It makes the road harder to drive through and walking in icy walkways is this risk of falling down and getting a concussion. We can worry all we like but snow is very much part of winter that you either love it or leave it. For me, I’ve always contented myself at looking at it falling behind a huge window with a cup of hot chocolate drink in hand. But I guess this year I would like to enjoy it more by being out and plunge myself in the midst of this white, cold thing and enjoy it more closely. Probably try a snow ball fight, make some snow angels, and be adventurous enough to do tobogganing. Brrrr…. I better get my gears ready…hehe

Celebrating Friendship - Nov 29, 2007

2009-11-30T09:09:00.000-08:00

Treasure the friendship you receive above all. It will survive long after your gold and good health have vanished."
— Og Mandino

Let me dedicate this post to a dear friend. I have not met her personally but she became as dear and as close to my heart as any bestfriends would ever be. Ours is a unique story. Each living a world apart, met through the world wide web and together began a journey of sharing and caring worthy of telenovelas and the likes. Today marks our first chika, the commencement of a long line of letters, emails, calls and chats. The beginning of a great friendship oblivious of time and space.

I have a box I call “jules box” filled with goodies from her. Whenever I am lonely or sad… I go to my jules box to find something that would lift my spirit up. It works everytime… until now I can still pick up one thing inside the box that would bring me to smile and bring me inspirations. It gives me countless ideas of what to do or what to write about. She is everything a friend is about and if Ibegin to describe her, I would not be able to finish my post. :) Hopefully ... i'm not promising anything ..hehe... that I would beable to bring her out in some of the future post I make.

She knows me enough to write my life story. And I hope I know her enough to write hers. A lot of times I long to hold her hands and to feel her warmth beside me. To share a cup of coffee and talk about anything endlessly. I wish I could always run to her house just to see her and say hi. But I guess that could wait.

I hope to meet her someday. Give her a huge embrace enough to catch up on those times we are apart. Until then.....

Thank you for being my friend Jules!!

The Lost Symbol – by Dan Brown

2009-11-24T07:55:00.000-08:00

To live in the world without becoming
aware of the meaning of the world is
like wandering about in a great library
without touching the books.

The Secret Teachings
Of All Ages

How will I start my story of Dan Browns new novel? Hmmm… The Lost Symbol somehow .. lost me. Well, compared to The Vinci Code and Angels and Demons, this last sequel didn’t come up with something new. When I say new, it’s not just new, I was kind of expecting big and spectacular. It did however kept up with the usual suspense and fast phase thrills of the two previous novels. There was a moment there that I thought Dan Brown has killed the character of Robert Langdon. I was saying to myself… the lead character is dead already and I still have several chapters to go through. Don’t be alarmed… Robert Langdon is not dead. Surely another sequel is in the process.

Robert Langdon has found himself involved in another adventure (traumatic in the most frightening way). He was summoned to Washington DC presumably to be a guest speaker when he found himself in the middle of a severed hand and an annoying assistant director of the CIA. In one night, he was tricked, harassed, fled, kidnapped, tortured, killed, re-born, and found the lost symbol. If I was in his shoes…I would be catatonic by the time I was re-born. How can one person go through those experiences in one single night? The trauma is just too great.

Anyway, the story is about the obsession of one man to find the lost word of the Ancient mysteries that is guarded by the brotherhood of masons. It was written that it was buried somewhere in Washington DC. It was complicated by the involvement of CIA claiming some sort of national security. As expected, only Robert Langdon has the capability to decode the many secret code that protects the treasure. With the involvement of Masonic brothers, he unravelled the truths behind the secret codes which some were really hard for him to accept being a non-mason himself. There were new technologies added to the story like the Noetic science, the breathable liquid, the thermal imprint thingy…hehe.

What is the lost symbol??? Should I reveal it? Nah… I will only ruin the suspense to those who are reading it or about to read it.

Laus Deo – praise God

Cast your burdens upon me.. and I will give you rest.

2009-11-22T16:36:00.000-08:00

This song has always inspired many. The many I mentioned includes me of course. But never in my life have I really felt its meaning than during my recent moments of crisis. A crisis so overwhelming, so tragic that like a heavy boat in the midst of torrent waves, I must unload some of the weight to stay afloat. I have to cast my burdens so I can focus on living. So, I did. One night, I prayed to God and asked Him if He could take these lumbers off my shoulder. I don’t want to think and worry about them from now on and He may do whatever he pleases with them.

Little do I know that He not only took the burden and carry them on His own shoulder but He is also working on them. One day, He sent me a note saying… “Your burden No. 1 has been taken cared of”. It’s that easy… the burden that I’ve been carrying for years have been taken cared of. I am a testament to His grace, wonders and blessings. Praise the Lord!

A Different CNE Experience

2009-09-08T08:43:00.000-07:00

Through the years I have developed certain anticipation to our yearly trek to the CNE. CNE, by the way is Canadian National Exhibition. A yearly end of summer fair held at the Ontario Place. It’s the last douse of summer fun before the school starts. Like i said, it just calls on me every time. This year is very special. Why? I get to share it with some very dear friends. My barkada from university days came to visit me all the way from New Jersey and also from Hamilton. It’s been how many years since we all last saw each other? It was like 20 years already! Now we have our own families and it was so nice to see and hug each other again. There were too many to say and too many to catch up on. We’re just happy to be so close to each other again. I hope we could do this many times.

The CNE itself is the same as ever but this time it was made extra special by friends who proves that “ the house to a friend is never long” . I thank God for the opportunity to feel once again the warmth of a friends embrace.

A Better View

2009-06-21T18:32:00.000-07:00

We moved to a new home! My youngest has reached the age that she needs her own space and that’s the main reason we moved from a two bedroom to a three bedroom apartment. The main thing I like about this new apartment is the view from the balcony. We are still on the tenth floor but the balcony is facing a huge park. In the mornings the park is a really really serene place where birds sing and in the afternoon it is filled with children laughing and screaming while playing games.

Below is how the park looks like in summer as seen from the balcony. The grass is green, the trees are lushed with green leaves and the air is fresh and warm. I love to spend my mornings looking out and enjoying the scenery while having my coffee or doing some stretching.

Jersey Boys – The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

2009-06-18T07:09:00.000-07:00

A Musical Performance
Toronto Centre for the Arts

I’ve had the privileged to watch a musical performance of the Jersey Boys yesterday and I should say it’s one of a kind experience. It’s a total entertainment. My two aunts and I were seated right in front of the balcony level which is not so bad at all considering the distance. We can still see the faces of the singers and audio is no problem at all. It’s just so sad that they won’t allow any camera during the show.

“The smash hit JERSEY BOYS is a candid and powerful story of how four blue-collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before the age 30.

Previews of Jersey Boys in Toronto started on August 21, 2008 with the North American touring production. Audiences and reviews alike raved about this Tony Award-winning musical, and a Canadian production seemessly continued performances in Toronto, playing to more than 300,000 people and growing.”

Audrey Dan, President
DanCap Productions

The musical number consisted of two acts with a 15 minute intermission. The first act includes popular songs like “Oh, what a Night”, “Silhouettes”, “You’re the Apple of my Eyes”, “Earth Angel”, “Sherry”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk Like a Man”. It’s so nice to see all the retro fashions they are wearing. I feel like dancing with them but I don’t want to embarrass my aunts..hehe. The audience are mostly senior people who were probably in their teens during the groups time in the limelight. I am not complaining but if there were more younger people ...they would probably be standing and dancing and screaming with the band. The second act includes the songs “Bye Bye Baby”, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”, “Fallen Angel” and “Rag Doll”.

The story line is very good, the jokes were hilarious, there was a bit of drama at the end, the props are very good ( coming like me who is a first timer in this kind of shows), and the choreography is superb. I wish I could watch more musical shows in the future.

I found the video below in youtube. It’s pretty much how the musical went except that the one we saw has different singers.

Angels and Demons by Dan Brown

2009-06-15T11:00:00.000-07:00

Victoria Vetra: "Religion is like language or dress. We gravitate toward the practices with which we were raised. In the end, though we are all proclaiming the same thing. That life has meaning. That we are grateful for that created us."
'
Robert Langdon: "So you’re saying that whether you are a Christian or a Muslim simply depends on where you were born?"

Vittoria Vetra: "Isn’t it obvious? Look at the diffusion of religion around the globe."

Robert Langdon: "So faith is random?"

Vittoria Vetra: "Hardly. Faith is universal. Our specific methods for understanding it are arbitrary. Some of us pray to Jesus, some us go to Mecca, some of us study subatomic particles. In the end we are all just searching for truth, that which is greater than ourselves."

This is an excerpt from the book which I find true. In the book, Victoria is a scientist and Robert is a Historian. Robert Langdon is the main character ( he reminds me of Indiana Jones!!). This novel of Dan Brown is intriguing to the max as he uses verifiable places and historic events. This makes the story one of a kind. It places the reader in the fine lines between fiction and reality. It breads a vague impression of ‘what if’ this is really true? ‘What if’ this can really happen in the future? What better story is there than one that allows the mind to think and wonder.

The story was about the age old conflict between science and religion. It started with a death of a scientist (which turned out to be a priest too) who happen to discover the antimatter. The death also leads to stolen antimatter big enough to annihilate an entire city. The head director of the scientific company contacted Robert Langdon, a professor of religious iconology at Harvard. Why a professor and not the police? The dead scientist was also branded on his chest the word “Illuminati” which falls under the specialty of the professor and at the same time, the director needs to keep the death at low profile due to the technology involved. Hence, started Robert Langdon’s adventure to the search of the stolen antimatter. He met Victoria Vetra, the adopted daughter of the murdered scientist and together they tried to solve the mystery behind the Illuminati. Their search led them to Rome and the Vatican City where an enclave is currently in progress. From here on was an action pact adventure that includes kidnapping of 4 cardinals, the heinous death of these cardinals on the hands of the Illuminati assassin, the controversy over the untimely death of the Pope, the involvement of the Swiss Guards, the death of the director scientist, the antimatter being located somewhere in the Vatican city ready to explode at 12 midnight and all these while the world is watching. This explosion will evaporate the whole Vatican City together with all the cardinals congregated to elect a new Pope. I especially liked the speech of the camerlengo. How did it ended? Did the anti matter exploded? Were they able to catch the assassin? Who won? Was it the Illuminati or the church? The anti matter did explode. The assassin was stopped. ... and the mastermind revealed (not to the world though). The rest of the story I leave to you guys to read.

The lesson? Why must we be thorn between science and faith? Don’t they come hand in hand? I do admit when we began to study the big bang theory in school, I was confused for a while. I learned very early in life that God has created everything. He made Adam and Eve. But then, at school they were telling me that man came from apes. Did that changed the perception of my faith? No. A lot of things can be explained now through science, but these answers breads new questions. And while waiting for answers, we rely on our faith, on our God, to someday reveal it to us. Let science be the child, curious and hungry for knowledge. Let God be the parents, providing tools and guidance for the child to grow and learn from its mistakes.

Let me end this with another excerpt from the book:

"Mr. Langdon all questions were once spiritual. Since the beginning of time, spirituality and religion have been called on to fill in the gaps that science did not understand. The rising and setting of the sun was once attributed to Helios and a flaming chariot. Earthquakes and tidal waves were the wrath of Poseidon. Science has now proven those gods to be false idols. Soon all gods will be proven to be false idols. Science has now provided answers to almost every question man can ask. There are only a few questions left and they are the esoteric ones. Where do we come from? What are we doing here? What is the meaning of life and the universe?"

Adam .... my American Idol :-o

2009-05-26T11:58:00.000-07:00

Oh my God! He is singing the saddest song ever. It’s one of the songs that have captured my subconscious attention around the early part of this year. I just love Adam Lamberts performances in the American Idol. He’s my secret bet for the winner and I’m just flabbergasted when they announced the first place (same thing happened in the Dancing with the Stars Winner). Adam did well in delivering this song. Even the way he dressed for it, even his very eyes can send out the emotions needed to completely entrance the audience. I knew because all through the performance, I can’t take my eyes off his face. I can’t take my eyes away from looking at his eyes… very intense and full of melancholy. From there and then, I’m Adam hooked.

After the show… I went looking for my daughter and asked her to download Adams Mad World performance in Itunes. I just have to put this in my blog. I promised myself not to talk about the mystery of why he didn’t win because in my mind and heart he’s the winner!

Anyway, here’s the lyric of the song:

"Mad World"

All around me are familiar faces
Worn out places, worn out faces
Bright and early for their daily races
Going nowhere, going nowhere
And their tears are filling up their glasses
No expression, no expression
Hide my head I want to drown my sorrow
No tomorrow, no tomorrow

And I find it kind of funny
I find it kind of sad
The dreams in which I'm dying
Are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
'Cos I find it hard to take
When people run in circles
It's a very, very
Mad World

Children waiting for the day they feel good
Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday
Made to feel the way that every child should
Sit and listen, sit and listen
Went to school and I was very nervous
No one knew me, no one knew me
Hello teacher tell me what's my lesson
Look right through me, look right through me

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button – a movie

2009-05-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

“Life isn’t measured in minutes, but in moments.”

Curious indeed!!! It’s more liked bizarre to me. Who would want a backward life? Who would want to go through life in direct opposite of all others? It’s awfully lonely and darn scary! Although scientifically impossible, one (like me ) cannot help put themselves into his shoes.

Benjamin Button, the main character portrayed by actor Brad Pitt was born old. How? Somehow it was linked to a blind man’s clock which winds backwards. I do not want to dwell deeper than that. It was recollection of past events as written in the diary of Benjamin Button himself. It was like a story telling about Benjamin, his life and his love who is Daisy (portrayed by Cate Blanchett) in a very weird circumstances. How his mother died giving birth to him and his father unable to accept how different he is. He was left on the care of a deeply religious lady and then met the girl he is destined to fall in love with. How they met in the middle and how destiny has played its part in their lives.

The dilemma in the movie is more like how would two lives in opposite direction live it’s fullest? Is it fair that Daisy be left alone to raise their daughter? Is it fair for their daughter, Caroline, to be left oblivious of her root? Is it fair for Benjamin to be far from love ones? The author has decided to break them apart for reasons that not everyone would agree with. But life is really accepting whatever the truth is. In the end, Daisy still ends up taking care of Benjamin. Caroline’s ability to love and understand was undermined and she was upset to know about it too late. Why would we prefer normalcy than accepting what is different?

My favourite line in the movie:

“You never know what’s coming for you....”

Where have you been?

2009-05-22T06:01:00.000-07:00

“Pussycat, pussycat, where have you been?
I’ve been to London to visit the Queen.
And what did you do there?
I frightened a little mouse under a chair.”

I’ve been distracted for a while. For the last few weeks I felt like I lost my creative thinking. My mind has shifted to being imaginative to being real (and boring). And sometimes reality is not an easy thing to write. When your body isn’t feeling so good... it drags your mind into it. So I slumped and let the happy moments pass me by without so much as a word. I thought I could shelve the dreams and imaginations for a while and concentrate to a more life threatening matter at hand. I was wrong... I miss my writings on my blog. After two months I realized that I don’t have to be seriously planted on the ground at all times. I can get my mind to rise into the clouds and fly and think of happy thoughts and to dream of a world apart from my physical being. I need to go back to reading, to writing, to a longer commune with nature. And maybe by doing so, I can physically heal faster.

My camera has taken so many pictures of past events. They were never given the chance to be posted. To be celebrated with words and emotions worthy of them. From now on, I will try to give myself some slack ... to go to the shelves of dreams and play a little.... and not be guilty about it.

Blue Hannah - Reality

2009-04-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Artist's Comments :

+蓝色的玫瑰+

Inspiration: Emily, my mother's Co-worker and friend
Used: Photoshop and HW tablet

I drew this while thinking of Emily.

When you're in a tough situation; in sickness or health; It might seem to be impossible to resolve. When you're world is crumbling and everything seems hopeless. Always remember to smile and we'll help you through it. Whatever the problem and no matter the costs, we'll defy gravity for you. So enjoy every moment of the present. Cherish all of the past and embrace the future.

Blue roses are reality. I'll make sure of it.
-______________________________________

The young artist's name is Hannah. She’s only 15 year old but very talented. It was really a surprise to me that she had dedicated this amazing work of art in my behalf. Even the write up is so touching.

To Hanna... thank you for the warm thoughts and the dedication. Your drawing has made me feel a lot better and brought hope to a weary heart. I wish to see you and give you a big hug someday. And this I promise you...

my future though vague for now,

I have the past to guide me through

and the present to do my best.

I believe

2009-04-10T18:11:00.000-07:00

CN tower and its glass floor

2009-04-04T12:42:00.000-07:00

I know sometimes I’m such a coward! I could not set even a foot on this darn glass floor. It just scares me to death looking at how high I am and how fragile the glass I’m stepping on. But you will never guess how brave my daughter is!

But first, let me say something about this glass floor of the CN tower as described in wikipedia. The first picture below I googled just to show the glass floor from the outside of tower. I could not possibly take such a shot with my camera.

The glass floor and outdoor observation deck are at 342 metres (1,122.0 ft). The glass floor has an area of 24 square metres (258 sq ft) and can withstand a pressure of 4,100 kilopascals (595 psi). The floor's thermal glass units are 64 millimetres (2.5 in) thick, consisting of a pane of 25-millimetre (1.0 in) laminated glass, 25 millimetres (1.0 in) airspace and a pane of 13-millimetre (0.5 in) laminated glass. Some people experience acrophobia when standing on the glass floor and looking down at the ground 342 metres (1,122.0 ft) below. In 2008, one elevator was upgraded to add a glass floor panel, believed to have the highest vertical rise of any elevator equipped with this feature.[10]

Pretty impressive, eh? Anyway, no matter how rigid and strong they say the glass is, I still could not find any courage to step on it. Let the brave hearts do it.

See how high it is?

These feet were not mine!

My dear daughter enjoying the glass floor.

Too much!

A little video of the glass floor....

My First Egg Custard Cake

2009-03-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

Not so bad... for a first timer. My son preffered the egg custard by itself but I wanted him to try first.

a cake with a cause.....

How did my son find it? well...he still like the egg custard by itself. A few more years and he'll come around..hehe

CN Tower -- a different perspective

2009-02-28T15:00:00.000-08:00

As close as one can be. I didn't know you my dear have patches but who cares?

wow... I almost saw the end of the earth.

The urban jungle

as far as the eyes can see.

No glass but the screen is needed. It was freezing in here.

the lake from high above.

See the following videos for more action: enjoy the ride

Family Day Adventures- Part 2- CN Tower

2009-02-21T17:33:00.000-08:00

We had breakfast at Niagara Falls and out of the blues decided to go the CN tower. The map above shows our route by car. It’s about 126 km and takes around an hour 24 minutes. The route traverses the outline of the Lake Ontario. It would have been shorter if we can cross the lake on a direct path. During our travel we can even see the CN tower over the other side of the lake. See the picture below:

I enhanced the picture so that the outline of Toronto be more visible beyond the lake.

Defining the Toronto skyline at 553.33m (1,815 ft., 5 in.) and the world’s tallest for over 32 years, the CN Tower is Canada’s national Tower, an architectural triump, engineering Wonder of the Modern World and award-winning dining and entertainment destination. With breathtaking views from 3 observation levels including the Glass Floor and Sky Pod, world’s highest glass-fronted elevator featuring glass floor panels, theatre, ride, arcade, shopping and award-winning dining at 360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower – it’s Toronto’s must see visited by almost 2 million people each year.

CN Tower Highlights:

The Sky Pod ---- we skipped this, which means we're coming back definitely
Lookout Level and Horizon's Café
Outdoor Observation Desk ----- freezing in here
The Glass Floor ----- i will have to post this separately
"LEGO Racers: The Ride" Simulator Ride ---nope we're there just to observe hehe
360 Restaurant - I'd like to try this sometime, i find it romantic to have dinner here
Marketplace Shopping and Café
The Edge Arcade

Details:

1. Price includes admission to the tower and the viewing areas ( Lookout Level and Observation Deck). There is an additional charge to visit Skypod which can be paid upon arrival or on the Look Out Level.

2. Tower is open from 10:00am to 10:00pm Sunday — Thursday, and 10:00am to 10:30pm on Friday and Saturday. Attractions (Simulators, To the Top, and the Arcade) are open 11:00am — 7:00pm daily.

3. Food is available at the 360 Restaurant (reservations are recommended), the Horizon's Café, or the Marketplace Café.

4. The Marketplace features 12,500 square feet of quality shopping.

5. Cameras and video cameras are permitted (and are a "must bring"!)

6. Casual dress is appropriate; however, a jacket or coat is recommended for the observation level.

7. Appropriate for all ages (except for those with a fear of heights). Height restrictions apply for simulator rides.

8. Wheelchairs can be accommodated. Service dogs are welcome.

9. Parking is available in multiple areas around the tower.

10. Prices vary depending on time of day, time of year, and proximity to the Tower. During the Family day... a family of four costs around $65.00.

Regular admission cost can be found here.

next.... some of the pictures and videos we took.

What else is there in Niagara besides the falls?

2009-02-19T18:12:00.001-08:00

Yup!!! The Clifton Hill.... the street of fun at the Falls.

But beware! it's fun but it can also be a pocket drainer.

There's the movieland! Did we watch a movie?? Nah....

Arcades with games and rides.... good thing my kids outgrew this kind of thing already.

Huge ferris wheel... not for the faint hearted... me included..hehe

Restaurants!!! No hamburgers for us. We went for a full breakfast at Denny's.

Souvenir shops!! my daughters favorite and my wallets lament.

Ripleys believe it or not museum. Interesting building!!!

Last but not the least.... the bridge going to the US of A.

Next trip will be beyond that bridge.... with me driving...lol

Family Day Adventures.... part 1

2009-02-17T18:35:00.000-08:00

It was a holiday, at least in some provincial level. I am referring to February 16 being a Family Day. It’s an extra day after the weekend for families to spend more time with each other. I am fortunate enough to be working in a family friendly company so I had this day off too. Although most of the shopping stores were closed, most of the family attractions were generous enough to offer discount for families visiting their places. So, the zoo, the museums and other places have half price discounts!

It’s fortunate enough to have a mild weather this day. The maximum temperature is 1 degree and it was bright and sunny! This is the best we can have since its still winter. Perfect to go out and have some fun without the snow. We celebrated Family day in two places. The first place we went to is Niagara.

Off we went to Niagara Falls for breakfast! It’s a two-hour car ride but we wanted to be able to get away and see the falls in winter. We had a great big breakfast at Denny’s Restaurant. After that, we just had to get our butts for a walk to the falls. The air is chilly at 1 degree but the wind makes it feel a lot colder (colder means around –4 to –6 degrees), so under the bright shining sunshine we are wearing our coats hoods up. Meet Niaga Falls in winter:

The mist is alot thicker.....

The water is also denser. This is due to ice crystals in the water.

ice formations on the rocks near the fall.

The river covered with ice. Can we ice skate? Definitely not! It's too thin right now.

The falls seemed to be lethargic ...... I think I like the falls better in the summer time.

Making scents of it all.....

2009-02-15T22:02:00.000-08:00

I got this on valentine’s day

Interesting bottle

Interesting scent

Casual and low key...

Reminds me of long walks on the beach

Like everything is okay...

Everything falls right into place.

I guess I'm ready :)

2009-02-06T18:55:00.000-08:00

I bought this Driver's Permit Study guide last year and never really paid attention to it. Not until recently when I made my new years resolution and that is to be able to drive this year. I read the book and went to see how I can answer the questions ... the following screen shots shows my progress.

So far so good... 14 out of 15 questions.....

uh-oh..... i'm slipping. I'm down to 32 questions out of 35.

hmmmm..... 5 mistakes out of 57 questions... I guess i'm ready! :)

Dreading Tomorrow

2009-02-01T19:14:00.000-08:00

Time ticking, seconds slipping
The dread is coming, creeping slowly
Slowly but surely, like death in its wake
Time ticking, seconds slipping

Why must time keep on going?
Why can’t it stop awhile and breathe a little
Or much more take a vacation like everyone else
Why must it keep on going?

My eyelids are dropping
I must not sleep, I must keep time busy
Lest I forget and find myself
At tomorrow’s grasp, helpless and sorry.

I’m dreading tomorrow
Every second that passes by are seconds nearer
To the trepidation that gnaws upon me
Foreboding, menacing the very core of my soul.

____________

Poem by Em

Picture courtesy of Naoms

All in a day's work

2009-02-01T17:10:00.000-08:00

One early Sunday morning while walking buddy...I chanced upon the reaper of snow on the road doing its toil. It must have been quite a work keeping all the snow out of the way for motorists. Unlike rain water which will definitely find its way to the drain holes, snow just want to stay where they are. And they can cause a lot of accidents.

This lone public servant is only one of the many snow removal vehicles the government has. The bigger ones operating on the highways were bigger, meaner and it’s quite a sight to see them working together. The snow does not have chance against them.

Ahhh... all in a day’s work....

Do you have an “all in a day’s work” kinda thing?

Life is a Boat -- by Rie Fu

2009-01-27T17:32:00.000-08:00

I like the thought behind the song. It tells about the metaphor of life, the simile of living and the allegory of existence.

Like the two images ... life sometimes feels like being alone in the midst of everything gray and vagueness.

The Long and Winding Road - Beatles

2009-01-25T18:28:00.000-08:00

The long and winding road
That leads to your door
Will never disappear
I’ve seen that road before
It always leads me here
Lead me to your door

The wild and windy night
That the rain washed away
Has left a pool of tears
Crying for the day
Why leave me standing here
Let me know the way

Many times I’ve been alone
And many times I’ve cried
Any way you’ll never know
The many ways I’ve tried

But still they lead me back
To the long winding road
You left me standing here
A long long time ago
Don’t leave me waiting here
Lead me to your door

But still they lead me back
To the long winding road
You left me standing here
A long long time ago
Don’t leave me waiting here
Lead me to your door
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

________________

"Mister, do you think this road goes to the North Pole?"

Funny ... no one wants to go to the North Pole. Well, it's cold enough here to even go there. How can a road like this be deserted? Well, it's a Sunday morning and maybe people are sleepin' in. It's not a surprise to see roads here without any traffic at all.

The Evergreens - My kind of plant

2009-01-23T19:54:00.000-08:00

Resilient is the best word to describe these plants of old.

No matter how hot and no matter how cold.

It will stand it's ground and will not fold.

Seemed like Mother Nature's favorite plant to hold.

Up close and personal

2009-01-21T20:42:00.000-08:00

Ice cones! Almost ready for a lickin'!

An alien landscape going where?

Marshmallows perhaps?

Tiny grains of sugar....

cotton candies?

If you can't beat 'em.... join 'em!

2009-01-17T20:11:00.000-08:00

I know winter can be very harsh and its coming is always associated with sadness and dreadfulness. I have always expressed my dislike of it. All because for me, it takes away all the beautiful and bright things. It takes away the sun, the flowers, the green leaves and the singing bees and birds. All it brings is darkness, coldness and eerie silence. But reality is, it's here to stay and every year it will be like this over and over. How can one beat nature?? It now becomes a matter of choice......

If you can't bet 'em.... might as well join 'em!

I made my first snow angel this winter! One Sunday morning in the park with the snow still undisturbed on the ground, I just dived in and with my back on the soft snow discovered a very different perpective. I was greeted by the beautiful sight of the blue sky. How serene and peaceful.

It wasn't so bad. I may not be able to do this during the weekdays when all I can ever do is work and work but if I get to know winter during the weekends, we may end up being friends. :) Maybe next weekend, I'll try tobaggining or snow ball fights.

hot and cold... the fickle minded nature

2009-01-15T16:54:00.000-08:00

Last summer the bike trail was green and lush.
The sun and the air were warm and balmy.
The leaves were singing and dancing.
Life’s hustle and bustle was everywhere.

This is the same bike trail in winter.
The sun and the air are cold and indifferent.
The leaves have gone leaving their branches bare and lonely.
Most of all... it’s quiet and eerie.

The creek was boisterous; anyone can hear it from a distance.
The water is rushing; going somewhere and boy was he late!
And it looks like nearby plants wants to come along
Nearer to the water they try to slither some more.

In the winter the creek has slept
Completely unmoving, frozen and still
Plants have gone as far away as they can from its frozen grip
And velvet white has shrouded its deep slumber.

Time to chat with my good ol' buddy the wii fit...

2009-01-11T19:35:00.000-08:00

Remember before the holidays, my good buddy wii fit and me had a discussion about losing some weight through the Holidays? And I didn’t have the slightest idea how I will be doing it. Well, I was thinking wii will have his biggest disappointment even before I took my feet off his flat form.

The holidays have not been a walk in the park. It was a whole blur to me and all I can remember was the exhaustion and the headiness of the whole festivities. I did not restrain myself from eating but I have underestimated my body’s capacity and overworked myself. To add to that, there’s this cloud hanging over my head about work.

It’s passed Holidays and I was dreading to meet wii fit. Maybe I gained weight. It’s the Holidays, everybody is expected to gain some amount of weight. I was already justifying it even before I step on the wii flatform. I was so guilty because I have not gone back to my regular weekly fitness class. But I was so up over my head with work that there’s absolutely no time for anything else.

So ... tonight Mr. Wii Fit is giving me the looks. It’s been past my next chat with him. I’ve ignored him long enough so like I always say “better get it over with”.

It turned out; I lost some weight through the Holidays. Hmmmm...that wasn’t too hard. :D

Livin’ La Vida Loca

2009-01-10T18:25:00.000-08:00

“It’s freakin’ freezing outside!!!”

Winter is getting into my nerves now. It was so cold today that my nose, fingers and toes were black and blue while I waited for the slowest bus ever to come! Working on a Saturday is torment enough but to go through the extreme numbing temperature outside is asking too much. I know, I know it’s not my boss’s fault but it’s really not helping. I’m supposed to be sleeping in, in a warm bed, oblivious to the uninhabitable condition of the outside world.

There I am, got to work half asleep and half frozen. Worked until 3:30 pm and dreaded to brave the outside again for home. The temperature is at -9C but with the wind chill, it feels like -17C. It’s not snowing anymore but the wind is like a sharp sword lashing on my skin. Mutters to myself, “I hate winter”! I thought if I make my way home as quick as possible, then I’ll be warm and cozy at home in no time.

Maybe winter heard me and convinced fate to delay my bus. So I waited for the longest time by the bus stop. The cold is creeping through the soles of my thick snow boots, through the thick linings of my coat, my fingers were frozen inside my coat pockets and I can’t feel my nose! My feet is so cold that I was already doing tap dance to relieve it from its contact of the freezing pavement. I’m hungry and cold and the bus is nowhere in sight. Oh! “What the XXXX am I doing here in Canada??” The rest of the self check questions went on and on.... my soul is broken.

Only one thing can bring warmth to my frozen spirit......

Lugaw --- perfect pinoy comfort food

yup... that'll do!

perfect combination....

2009-01-09T21:32:00.000-08:00

Meet Buddy's Cousins

2009-01-06T18:43:00.000-08:00

Meet cousin Charlie. My aunts bunso (youngest) hehe. After her two kids went to college, she got this little guy. He belongs to the Shih Tzu breed... so I was told. I'm not so good at telling the breeds apart. For me they are all cute and lovable. Charlie has endless energy and loves to bug Buddy to death. He is only 2 years old and half the size of Buddy. Bought as a pup.

This is cousin Miki. Same age as Charlie and practically the same size. They are both toy dogs that are so used to being carried and cuddled. My cousin bought him when he's just a puppy. When the two small dogs are together, everything is in chaos. Buddy would stay away from the two of them.

This is cousin Joey! He's the oldest of them all and the biggest! He's considered the bouncer and the bully. He likes to bully the small dogs and the medium dogs like Buddy. Do you know how big he is?

Can you see Buddy behind cousin Joey? Poor Buddy! I think cousin Joey is leaning on him! I have been stepped on by Joey and boy does it hurt!!! Buddy is trying to get away from behind cousin Joey. From the looks in his face he was really serious in escaping ... hehe.

A Typical Urban Winter Scene

2009-01-04T18:33:00.000-08:00

Most streets were cleared of snow. Where does the snow go?

Of course! On the the side streets. They all pile up high at the street banks and they will stay there forever until spring comes. The difference with flood is that flood comes and goes. This snow bank will stay there for the whole winter season.

Some snow pile can be as high as the cars. They are minimountains usually seen at a corner of a parking lot. It's one place we will not wish to loose our keys in. Reminds me of the needle in the haystack. Anything can get lost in there.

This is my bus stop. Imagine standing inside that enclosure surrounded by ice. It's like being in the freezer waiting to be picked up and defrosted. The longest time I've waited for bus in a winter storm is 45 minutes. It was sear torture! I was on the verge of crying. I am very well dressed for a snow storm, with my thick coat, furred hood, thick mittens and snow boots and still the longer I stayed there waiting for the bus in the midst of snow pouring like mad is unbearable. I can see kids walking through the snow storm because there was no bus in sight. Kids who did not prepare for a storm, who were wearing thin coats and ordinary shoes. I called home just to make sure my kids were at home safe and warm. I wish these kids would just stay in door and call their parents to come and pick them up.

Do you think it would be nice to sit under that tree?? I guess, if I'm a snow man...hehe

From my family to you... A new years greeting of hope, faith and love!

2009-01-03T15:28:00.000-08:00

The past celebrations have drained me out totally. It all started on the 24thof December where I have to cook three dishes for the potluck noche Buena we had and the fact that we stayed up all night celebrating. Mass on Christmas Day and attended to visitors. On the 26th, we have to prepare for my daughters sleepover party on the 27th. 27th and 28th was all about six girls staying for dinner, not sleeping through the night, breakfast and lunch. 29th I worked. On the 30th, I spent 5 hours at work and then started preparing for the New years eve and Louise’s birthday party that I will be hosting at home. Preparing means I still have to do groceries and clean up the house. Unlike most parties that my relatives prepare where they have it catered. I usually cook all my dishes. All 10 entries, home cooked. It’s a lot of work but because I love cooking, I am actually willing to go through the back breaking endeavour. It always turns out good anyway. I would start cooking as early as the morning of the 31st and party would start around 5pm. It will last until midnight so I have to make sure everybody was entertained. January 1st was spent sleeping and attending the mass. January 2 was to fulfill a promise to my daughter that we will go to the mall so she can shop ‘till she drop from all the money she has received for Christmas and birthday. January 3 is my turn to spend the whole day in bed.... not that it was planned, if I can still have my way, there’s a pile of laundry waiting for me for a week now. But my body has reached its limit. I need to get some rest or I will not be able to go back to work in one piece...hehe.

Anyway, that’s my typical holiday every year. It’s not for relaxing and resting, it’s more tiring than doing my regular work in the office. But then again, it’s for getting together with love ones and enriching our bonds and catching up on everyone’s lives, looking at how the children has grown and ... oh yeah... one of my cousins has gotten engaged! I should have taken a picture of the engagement ring!! It was announced during our New years celebration! The best thing to look forward to next year is a wedding.

To all of these, my blog has been left behind. I have no decent new year entry on the 1st day of January. I apologize. All I can do right now is to greet everyone a prosperous new year and to do that I will include the whole clan. From my family ... wishing everyone a new year of hope, faith and love to one another!

Of daughters and sleepovers

2008-12-28T19:52:00.000-08:00

Sweet as can be
as the flower frostings on a cake
and as dear as the heart can see
joys that only daughters can make
sending little flutters of burtterflies and bees.

Six girls gathered through the night

Six friends ready to share whatever the evening may bring

Laughters, screams and sweet little things

I wonder why it's called a slumber party

When all of them would stay up through the night

Playing games, watching movies, exchanging gossips

Painting nails, doing hairs and every other things they can think about.

It's my daughters second time to have a slumber party for her birthday. I remember very well the first time. It was totally stressed out. Having six girls together for 12 hours is more than I can handle. This time I just have to relax a bit and let my daughter do most of the planning. I should say that it was better this time. I still was not able to sleep because of the noise but compared with all the screaming on the first time, this time they are more subdued.

Preparing dinner, breakfast and lunch for six girls isn't a walk in the park either. But I've surrendered cooking to buying prepared and reheatable food. Pizza, fried chicken, cut up vegetables and fruits, pancakes, macaroni and cheese, nachos, and burgers. The only thing I prepared from scratch is spring rolls which they enjoyed immensely.

*sigh* I wish I had slumber parties when I was a child.

Buddy's christmas gift

2008-12-28T18:57:00.000-08:00

"Oh, gift! gift! i'd like to know my gift!", Buddy might be saying. He probably knew it's for him and he can wait to see what it is.

Buddy has a dilema when he finally got his gift out of the bag. What happened next is shown on the video below.

He's really happy with his gift. Unfortunately the gift did not last long. He gnawed it into pieces after a day. I guess I underestimated my budget for his gift... poor baby buddy. Mommy will give you another one and she will sure it will last until you get tired of playing with it.

From my home to yours......

2008-12-24T08:35:00.000-08:00

Me and my buddy the wii fit :)

2008-12-21T20:27:00.000-08:00

The first time I tried wii fit, it told me that my wii age is 69....hehe. Truly, my first impression of the latest electronic trend is not so good. How could it say something sooooo darn awful?? I was upset to the max...hehe. But then, you know me ... I know it will change its mind sooner or later and it will see the real me and we'll be good friends at the end.

Last night, I tried it again. That is after one month ago and it told me I lost 2 pounds. oh, music to my ears..lol. It sounded like "i love you" to me ;) And below is my BMI. My weight and BMi are still in the normal range but it's in the upper normal range and I am being threatened tremendously by the fact that I can one day wake up and find myself on the much dreaded overweight range. Sca--ry!! So I have arranged for a goal of losing 2 more pounds in 2 weeks. How to do that during the Christmas season? .... is beyond me.

Below reveals my wii age at the moment. Age determination was done through some balance and agility tests. I could've done better if i practiced before but that would be cheating. The video was taken by my daughter as I do all the tests. There will be lots of noises, please excuse them for my son and our dog buddy were goofing around all throughout the video.

See?? wii fit is my buddy buddy now!

Aftermath of a day of non stop snowing

2008-12-19T19:40:00.000-08:00

It started with a snow storm warning. It came around 8am, flurries that turned to heavy snow pushed by strong winds. I was already at work and I have witnessed the torment of the snow as it lashes everything on it's path. It didn't stop one bit, kept pouring, kept swooshing all through the day. I was dreading the time to come home. By 2 pm, the snow is at 13cm and it's still howling outside. If only I brought my camera to work I would have taken some pics while the storm is at it's peak. The storm caused so much snow to gurantee a white Christmas! :) and it's not even officially winter yet.

When our dog buddy went for a walk tonight. I decided to take some pics.

This is Buddy's paradise. He just love snow.

Somehow the snow and the wind has created such dramatic formations as shown in the above picture.

A branch that has succumbed to the bitter sweet love of nature. It looks like it's lying on a bed of crystals. But then it's probably is.

A foot on the snow. I'm the first to step on that area...hehe

Flurries are still falling. I was able to catch one on the LCD of my camera and it showed it's pretty patterns. One of these winters, I will be able to take a picture of a snowflake with it's intricate patterns. That's a dream...

This shot has no flash. I wanted to catch the sparkle of the ice against natural night light. They are so pretty.

This is with flash. Not much sparkle but the color is more appreciated.

Who says you can only do that on the sand?

And the winner is........ tadaaaaaa!

2008-12-16T17:48:00.000-08:00

The prestigious parade of queen has passed. It’s time to name the best gown in town. Thanks to our judges who has given so much time and effort to share with us their excellent taste in beauty and style.

Before we announce the winner ... lets welcome back the Queens with their gowns of choice.

Without further ado, the winner for best gown is......

..................... A tie between Queen Helena and Queen Arwen!

My special thanks to the judges who are so kind enough to accompany me in my journey through this brief world of fantasy. It’s been fun to be able to share to you this moment of creativity. Many thanks from the humbled heart of em.

Reyna de las Flores (Queen of Flowers)

2008-12-10T19:29:00.000-08:00

Flores de Mayo is a Catholic festival held in the Philippines in the month of May. It lasts for a month, and is held in honor of the Virgin Mary. The Santa Cruzan is a parade held on the last day of Flores de Mayo in honor of Reyna Elena (Queen Helena).

Flores, from the Spanish word for "flowers," also known as Flores de Mayo (Flowers of May), Flores de Maria (flowers of Mary) or alay (offering), may refer to the whole Flower Festival celebrated in the month of May in honor of the Virgin Mary .

This is my entry to the Santa Cruzan ... and I call her Reyna de las Flores or Queen of Flowers.

She is supposed to carry a boquet of flowers but since she doesn't have hands, her gown was adorned by roses.

Reyna de las Flores celebrates her love of the sun through the beauty of the flowers.

______________________

This concludes the parade of Queens. Please enter your vote as who is the Queen of Queens. Who in your own personal opinion should lead this parade as the best dressed queen.

thanks in advance for your vote.

Queen Helena of Constantinople

2008-12-09T17:48:00.000-08:00

Saint Helena (Latin: Flavia Iulia Helena Augusta) also known as Saint Helen, Helena Augusta or Helena of Constantinople (c. 250 – c. 330) was the consort of Emperor Constantius Chlorus, and the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great. She is traditionally credited with the finding of the relics of the True Cross. ------ Wikipedia

Wow! Finding the relics of the true Cross is probably the best thing that could happen to anyone. It's practically in the same league as the holy Grail, the holy shroud and Veronica's veil. I can't imagine how it will feel to be that close to the One.

But for now since we can't be any closer to these most sought relics...we'll content ourselves to Queens Helena's gown :)

Red silk and laces is our gown of the night.

The white flowers has created contrast to the whole ensemble.

Simple and contemporary, the pearls outlining the edges of the sweetheart neckline and the body has created a sense of elegance and grace.

Queen Mary ... Mary...quite contrary

2008-12-08T17:39:00.000-08:00

The most common version is:

Mary, Mary, quite contrary,

How does your garden grow?

With silver bells, and cockle shells,

And pretty maids all in a row.

Like many nursery rhymes, it has acquired various historical explanations. One is that it refers to Mary I of Scotland, with "how does your garden grow" referring to her reign, "silver bells" referring to (Catholic) cathedral bells, "cockle shells" insinuating that her husband cheated on her, and "pretty maids all in a row" referring to her ladies-in-waiting - "The four Maries".

Another claims that it refers to Mary I of England and her attempts to restore England to Roman Catholicism. In this version, the "cockle shells" are identified with the symbol of pilgrimage to the shrine of Saint James in Spain (Santiago de Compostela) and the "pretty maids all in a row" with nuns.

The above mentioned information all came from Wikipedia... and there are more extreme and ugly meanings of the rhyme. If you want to read them click here.

So, this time I want to name my creation after Queen Mary.

Wearing a gown of golden silk and of yellow laces, Queen Mary is a picture of elegance.

Ahuge yellow rose on soft feathers adorns her left shoulder.

Following her is a trail of chapel length and embelished by pretty yellow flowers.

Even the back gives an empression of being majestic and regal.

_____________________

I'm running out of names for my queens. Hopefully I find ingenious names that are worth discussing and relating to their gowns.

"I am already bound unto an husband, which is the kingdom of England" - Queen Elizabeth

2008-12-03T17:50:00.000-08:00

This is an evening dress fit for a steadfast Queen. Queen Elizabeth I, Queen of England and of Ireland until her death. This gown truly embodies he unwavering commitment to her constituents.

The sweetheart neckline was embelished with flowerette lace and met by an inticate leaf design in a fine net background outlined with heavy threads to define the pattern and add dimension that followed the shape of her body.

Golden lace adorns the edges of her chapel length trail and one of her shoulder.

Long live Queen Elizabeth I!

Queen Arwen of Middle Earth

2008-12-01T19:53:00.000-08:00

Queen Arwen, fair and courageous, passionate and true. She embodies nature and nature embodies her. She wears the color of nature, mystical, a color associated with nobility and spirituality. A color that that has a special, almost sacred place in nature. It boasts of lavander, orchid, lilac and violet flowers which are often delicate and precious.

Young and vibrant Queen Arwen is a fresh breath of air.

The sweetheart neckline is adorned with purple flowers. As well as the whole length of her waist and a delicate bow completes the whole of her back.

Whimsical pinches adorns her skirt with violet roses creating an image of softness in the likes of bubbles and cotton candies.

ladies and Gentlemen.... my version of Queen Arwens evening with King Aragon. Magical and dreamy.

A big applause to Queen Anne

2008-11-30T19:54:00.000-08:00

Meet Queen Anne wearing a black and white ensemble. Luxurious white laces shaped of petals covers her top and flows down on one side of her waist.

The form fitting velvet skirt met at knee length a flounce of organza flowing from her back. A single diamond flower adorns her neck.

Intricate and classy, Queen Anne is a sight to behold.

Night and day, dark and light... Queen Annes' choice of gown has demonstrated her love of balance and equality. Precisely the sentiment of it's recipient.

____________________________________

This is her before picture.

A word from our Sponsor

2008-11-29T17:51:00.000-08:00

We interrupt our regular programming to give way to an important announcement from our sponsor.........

We will now resume the Parade of Queens... thank you very much.

Let's give a warm welcome to Queen Sophia!

2008-11-28T21:41:00.000-08:00

Queen Sophia is wearing a stunning royal blue evening dress created to allure the senses.

The gown features an eye-catching deep V-neck halter top and then falls elegantly into a mermaid skirt.

Diamond blue rhinstones has accessorized her waist. baby blue flowerettes were delicately placed around the skirt creating contrast and texture against the darker blue fabric.

And finally a huge ribbon at the back completed the whole ensemble.

Queen Sophia in all her dazzling presence...

_______________________

To appreciate Queen Sophia transformation, see the following photo

Ladies and Gentlemen.... meet Queen Victoria!

2008-11-26T19:20:00.000-08:00

Introducing Queen Victoria!

Wearing a white gown accented with gold trimmings, Queen Victoria radiates the purity of the sun and the elegance of the clouds.

In a traditionally full skirted gown reaching the ankles, it is made of a luxurious fabric and laces of which are delicately and exotically trimmed.

The back is bare with a single flower lace delicately placed at the lower back creating a focal point. Queen Victoria is a sight akin to a royal bride and a winter Goddess.

To truly appreciate Queen Victoria's transformation, view her before picture by enlarging the next picture.

_______________________

Judges...please rate Queen Victoria's gown.

The Stage is Set....

2008-11-24T20:47:00.000-08:00

This is the official stage for the parade of Queens.

Close up of the stage. I was thinking of adding a revolving platform but I guess that will be dependent on the production budget...hehe.

Hmmm.... all set for the most awaited parade of Queens...

and so does the official photographer :)

Parade of Queens, The Beginning

2008-11-23T17:03:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of the year again. Christmas is just around the corner and I’m left with the dilemma of what gift is best to give. I know that it’s the thought that matters but wouldn’t it be great if I can make it a step better? Not to mention the fact that we had fun the last time we did this. I can also remember how delighted the recipients were when they received these gifts.

So here we are again. Last year was the parade of princesses. My mom, my daughter and I have embarked on a mission to transform ordinary ballerinas to elegant princesses. The same team is now embarking on the mission of transformations in the likes of Cinderella. I could have just bought this in the big malls but it is so pricy considering the fact that I can (with the help of my mom) make one and be able to design it according to the preference of the person i’m going to give it to.

One Saturday morning, we went to this specialty store that sells these jewellery holders mannequins at a much lesser price. It is priced so because the dresses were not that pretty. It doesn’t matter at this point because we are going to change the dresses anyway. I bought bigger ones this time because I want them to be queens after. Last year was petitie ballerinas, this time they are bigger.

Meet the future Queens. They look okay... but they can be really really better.

We went to the fabric store next to buy some supplies. We need some really nice fabrics but we hope to get some at low price. All we need to do is rummage through the leftover fabrics which were being sold in a much much lower price. We were very please with what we found. We also needed some really classy laces.

Then it's time to bring out the beads, crystals, flowerettes and all the ornaments we need. Our imaginations are in full gear by now. We have searched the internet of very good gown designs that we can replicate and hopefully apply our own personal touches.

This is our workshop. My mom is incharge of the sewing machine. Me and my daughter is incharge of the glue gun. We all have inputs to the design of the gown we will be doing. I'm also the official photographer for the whole production run.

Watch out! get the front seat! Calling on all fashionistas out there! Be the judge... who the best queen will be??!

The Farm and Mills & Boons...

2008-11-21T17:46:00.000-08:00

My recent escapade to the farm has brought back a memory. It’s like I’ve seen this place somewhere before. Yeah... I’ve seen it in my imagination. The wooden barn, the stable of horses and the serene quietness of the place were all elegantly described in the romance book I was first reading during those teen years. It all reminds me of the Mills and Boons romance books. It is really funny now looking back. Those romance books characters would include Earls, Dukes to the extent of Prince and Princesses. A real classic romance fantasy in the likes of Princess Diana and almost like .... the Shrek! LOL

Below is a classic example of the Mills and Boons I usually read during my teens years.

THE TART SHOPPE by Phyllis Taylor Pianka

The sign outside The Tart Shoppe door came as a welcome relief to Lady Constance. She and her Aunt Millicent were travelling from Cornwall to London. Yet afflicted as she was with a violent illness, Constance simply had to lie down. Surely this country house would not deny them lodging for the night? The inn was unexpectedly comfortable and strangely ornate. Little did Constance suspect what events would befall her. In her exhausted slumber she didn't know that Jeremy St. James, a rakish earl, was frequenting the establishment, nor did she stir when he knowingly entered her bedchamber!

LOL. I wished I have saved even one of those paperback pocket books.

Cedarbrook Farm - corporate offsite destination

2008-11-20T19:25:00.000-08:00

This is where the company decided to hold our offsite conference. It is a farm outside of the city. It’s actually near our Burlington facility but it really doesn’t matter because I’m coming from the city which is 1.5 hours away.

When I got the notice for the offsite meeting, I was bit excited because they have chosen a rustic place. In a farm and we will be using a barn for our gathering.

This is how the farm is described by the website.

Cedarbrook Farm is offers a unique venue that will be of special interest to larger groups. It is a turn of the century post and beam barn that has been renovated as a large open concept meeting place. It boasts lots of natural light, has 30 foot ceilings, a magnificent stone fireplace, two washrooms, a smaller break out / meeting room, loft area and kitchen.

It provides a uniquely private, comfortable space for workshops and meetings. We combine elegant, casual seating as well as board table set-ups. Meals and snacks can also be served in this space.

The Barn is part of "Field Mouse Farm" and abuts Cedarbrook Farm. It is only a short walk from Cedarbrook, across a bridge and stream and up a pathway to the barn. During break times, the property provides picturesque walking trails through woods and fields.

The barn is so spacious and bright. Everything is made of wood. The floor is solid wood and it does not go well with heeled boots.

The huge wood chimney keeps us warm.

This is the upper loft area which we use during breakouts and group works.

Breakfast on the second day. Goody goods! Food was so nice. Lunch on the first day was slad greens, beef meatloaf and mashed potatoes and for dessert cheese cake with drizzels of caramel and chocolate. Lunch on the second day was green peas, chicken curry and rice and dessert was ice cream with drizzel of chocolates.

How was the meeting? Being confined inside a barn for two consecutive days is a pain in the butt literally!! Hehe. I am used to be always on my feet at work. Although it was nice to finally meet the rest of the QA team for both facility and really get our heads together to prepare for next year’s strategies and plan of attack.

A short video of the barns surroundings. There's not much greens to see since it's already approaching winter. All the leaves have fallen and the remnants of snow from last night can be found on the grounds.

To read more about the farm click here.

It's raining men!! err.... leaves....

2008-11-19T17:03:00.000-08:00

When I saw the leaves falling down fast... it reminded me of this song:

Hi - Hi! We're your Weather Girls - Ah-huh -

And have we got news for you -

You better listen!

Get ready, all you lonely girlsand leave those umbrellas at home. - Alright! -

Humidity is rising -

Barometer's getting lowAccording to all sources, the street's the place to go

Cause tonight for the first timeJust about half-past ten

For the first time in historyIt's gonna start raining men.

It's Raining Men! Hallelujah! -

It's Raining Men! Amen!

I'm gonna go out to run and let myself get

Absolutely soaking wet!

It's Raining Men! Hallelujah!

It's Raining Men! Every Specimen!

Tall, blonde, dark and lean

Rough and tough and strong and mean

God bless Mother Nature,

she's a single woman tooShe took off to heaven and she did what she had to d

She taught every angel to rearrange the sky

So that each and every woman could find her perfect guy

It's Raining Men! Hallelujah! -

It's Raining Men! Amen!I

t's Raining Men! Hallelujah!

It's Raining Men! Ame---------nnnn!

I feel stormy weather /

Moving in about to beginHear the thunder /

Don't you lose your head

Rip off the roof and stay in bed

God bless Mother Nature, she's a single woman too

She took off to heaven and she did what she had to do

She taught every angel to rearrange the sky

So that each and every woman could find her perfect guy

It's Raining Men! Yeah!

Humidity is rising - Barometer's getting low

According to all sources, the street's the place to go

Cause tonight for the first timeJust about half-past ten

For the first time in historyIt's gonna start raining men.

It's Raining Men! Hallelujah! -

It's Raining Men! Amen!

It's Raining Men! Hallelujah! -

It's Raining Men!

The prodigal son has returned. Alleluia!

2008-11-15T13:43:00.000-08:00

He went on his way late July and I have never seen him after that. No news, no calls, nothing. I got worried for he never reached his destined place. I was despondent and heartbroken. Where could he be? Was he lost? Is he all alone? Is he safe? Will he be coming back to me?

August came, September too.... I have resigned on the knowledge that he is gone forever.......

Until there was a knock on the door.......

My lost package has found his way back home! Oh, such jubilation! He was lost and was found again. From his appearance, he looked weary and worn. He has seen many things and has endured everything. I am so glad to get him back.

I’ve checked and I’ve poured my attention on him. I almost had a party to celebrate his return. It looks like a genuine case of “return to sender” to me. The owner of the house (destination address) doesn’t know the addressee.

And look... he still has the treasure he's supposed to keep and deliver! Awww....... thank God!

Dear book... your owner has missed you, i know you're weary from all the travels you've done and i'm really glad to see and hold you once again. But, somewhere out there is your true owner and I am sure she is also longing to hold you in her arms. So again, in a bigger box you will go and travel again. This time we'll make sure you won't get lost....

My Energizer Batteries :D

2008-11-12T19:00:00.000-08:00

My flashlight is so bright,
I gotta wear shades! :D

So thankful for the angels that shared their bit of sunshine to me
Now, whenever I drop my mind in the midst of darkness
I will have my flashlight ready so I can recover it back.
And because my light is so intense in brightness
It may help others around me too!

Spread the sunshine !!!

______________

Many many many thanks.....

fragments of conversations.......

2008-11-11T18:29:00.000-08:00

how are you?

I’m okay. Not the best but okay.

how are you really?

Hmmmm....I guess what ever my first answer is not enough. So let me think again. Hmmm... i still think i’m okay. Although.... I miss someone. But she is just busy and soon she’ll be able to have time for chats again. So i’ll just wait and wait. I’m never going anywhere anyway.

i hope you're doing fine.

Hehe... i am okay. I’ve been better though. It’s that time of year when one can easily get depressed. I go out of the house when it’s still dark and I get out of work when it’s already dark. everyday is a perpetual darkness for me. Hehe...it’s in these kind of trips through darkness that most people lose their minds specially in this part of the world. That is why I always have a flashlight in my bag. Just in case I drop my mind on my way home or on my way to work. It served me well. But lately my flashlight isn’t so bright....

..... i know... I just need extra energizer batteries. Pahingi naman.

Anything I want Mommy? ... uh, who said that?

2008-11-09T20:30:00.000-08:00

I remember telling one of my kids to ask anything and I’ll give it. Hmmm.... it’s because he made it to the honour roll and made mommy so proud. He also said he doesn’t need anything right now but would like to keep the option open. Completely fine with me.

Meanwhile... the other kid thought she could also ask anything she wants. She probably thought that since her Kuya can’t decide what he wants, maybe she could give it a go? And go she did! “Can I have my birthday gift in advance? Please?” Oh, here we go again. Night and day she negotiated. She bugged us to death.

..... until we gave in. A gift that is 2 months early. What can I say? Anything for peace and quiet. :)

Her Kuya’s eyebrow raised and his jaw dropped when the gift arrived. Well, you are just too darn slow!

My two kids are on opposite poles. My son doesn’t want anything and my daughter wants everything! How convinient is that? I guess my daughter is so happy to have a kuya like that....

A scandal by the pond

2008-11-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

There I was, beside the pond, basking in my own reverie,

When my eyes were caught by a malicious duck not far from me,

He's doing something you see, not once or twice. I lost count after three,

You'll know what I mean, If you see him you'll agree,

Is this duck mooning me?!?!

I think he is!!! Oh! Scandalous to the Nth degree!

________________________

I should apologize to the duck... I know I'm the one with the malicious mind. Guilty, your honor!

But I did asked permission from the duck so I can post this .... :D But he's just so busy doing that.... I think he's talking to a mermaid... but he should know that people above the water are blushing everytime he does that!

It’s Bring your child to work day!!

2008-11-05T18:52:00.000-08:00

“So, how any of you guys find everything so far?” That was my first question to the kids this morning. Actually that was already half hour after noon and they just enjoyed a free lunch together with their parents and the company HR. They already went on tour on several of the company’s department before it’s my turn to face them and enthral them of the wonderful world of QA.

Well, why are these kids at work in the first place? It’s a regular school day and they are supposed to be at school learning (and minding their own business...hehe). I should know really! Because my son was also here last year bugging people who are supposed to be focusing on manufacturing products. The answer is ... today is what we call “Bring your Child to work day”. It’s a school and workplace initiative for all grade 9 students to go with their parents to work and experience firsthand the workplace environment. So these grade 9s are excused from school today but they need to go with any of their parent to work. Why grade 9? Beats me! Hehe. When I came in Canada it was already like that. hehe.. there's probably a good explanation but as of this writing... google isn't helping. I promise to have it by next time I posted another bring your child to work day.

So, the first question was cast. I was hoping these kids were the bubbly, hyperactive type but somehow all I got was stares. I almost thought I slipped and used my native language so I tried again. “You’ve all been to some of our departments and have seen quite a lot. Is there anything that caught your interest so far?” Stares again. Youthful faces with half smiles but closed lips. “None?” I looked at the HR standing at the back of the room listening, grinned and without thinking said “Oh my God, ours is one boring company!” contorted my face and laughed. I knew I had to resort to Plan B. What is Plan B? This is Plan B - Stop asking questions!!! So, I stopped.

I went on to describe why we need QA in the business and hopefully they get each explanation and its importance. Would they want to be a QA person when they grow up? .... ehem... I can’t ask question remember? J

Their day started with a brief description of the business. Then on to tours of the different departments where they need to wear oversized lab coats of their parents and oversized steel toed slip ins. They looked so cute trying to drag their shoes while walking. Then after that they spent the rest of the day at their parents’ side observing them as they work.

I should say that it is nice to have some kids at work. Let them see how hard and proud we are to be working day in and day out. To let them see the sense of our work and how our products fit in the intricate schemes of the world. And hopefully they will dream of working hard and believing that the world can be made better.

Musings on a whim....

2008-11-04T19:12:00.000-08:00

Cassava Cake ala Ems

2008-11-02T17:38:00.000-08:00

A lot of my co-workers love this dessert. They would always request it when there's pot luck at work and would ask for the recipe. I've always promised to give them. That was a long time ago and a many pot luck later. I guess its mighty time to fulfill the promise.

So here's how I do it.

Ingredients:

2 packs Grated Cassava (defrosted)

2 cans Coconut milk

1 can Condensed Milk

6 pcs Eggs

1 can Evaporated Milk

1/2 cup Sugar (optional)

1 bottle Macapuno Strings

Note: the grated cassava can be found on the frozen section of most asian store, as well as the Macapuno strings.

What to do:

1. Prepare two mixing bowls. One big and one small.

2. In the big bowl, mix 3 eggs, 3 egg whites, 1 1/2 can coconut milk, the evaporated milk, 1/3 of the condenced milk, the sugar and the macapuni strings.

3. In the small bowl, mix the 3 egg yolks, 1/2 can coconut milk and 2/3 of the condenced milk. Set this aside for this will serve as the topping.

4. Pour the mixture in the big bowl onto buttered pans.

5. Bake in 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until the cake is firm.

6. Pour the mixture of the smaller bowl on top of the cake and broil until the top turn brown and spotty :)

Thats how easy it is! Broiling needs to be looked at though because the top can burn so easily.

Happy Baking.

PS. My daughter would always forget what this cake is called. She would always call it Cavassa Cake....

Happy Na, Birthday Pa!

2008-11-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

Maligayang Bati! Maligayang Kaarawan!
To a mother and a grandmother!
Lots of best wishes, lots of love
to a wonderful person from heaven above!

Little did she know, little did she see,
how important she is in our lives
how we see her as our hope and our light
to the path we are treding day and night.

To you grandma, we wish the best!
May many more birthdays be your yearly guest
May we be the source of your pride
as you are always ours!

___________________________

My mom's birthday is always a holiday back home. We used to spend the day and celebrate at Loyola cemetery. Some days were rainy, some days were really hot but all of them fun and fulfilling. It's been our tradition to do so every year. Now that we are in a different place ... the tradition have been tweaked somehow. We still go to the cemetery and pay our respect to our departed loved ones but we can't saty too long. It is cold and it will be a feat to stay warm unless we bring some portable heaters. Now, we celebrate her birthdays at home. This year, I cooked her some pansit, roast chicken and buttered asparagus.

To you mommy.... I thank you for everything that you have done for me and for my children. I love you always!

A Halloween Turning Point....

2008-10-31T18:47:00.000-07:00

I think we have reached a turning point.

The definition of a turning point according to google is, "an action point that is a reaction to an obstacle in the way of a protagonist’s objective; turning points raise the stakes, move the action in a different direction or to a different playing area, and force the protagonist to take a new or different tack."

Hmmmm.... indeed, Halloween of 2008 is a turning point. My youngest has shifted from trick or treating to Halloween parties. She has surrendered the sack full of candies and goodies and instead immersed herself to the new path that was opened to her. Grade 7 and grade 8s were allowed to attend the Halloween party at school. Being in grade 7, it was her and her classmates first time to go. She had her costume and camera to school and embraced the new freedom.

She got home all tired and sleepy... and was quite ready to miss the traditional evening trick or treating stroll this year.

*sigh* I was hoping to get sugar high tonight...

__________________________

The pictures I used in this post were taken by my daughter during their school halloween dance party.

I dear say... they are almost as sweet as the candies and chocolates... almost....

Happy Birthday to a friend

2008-10-30T20:25:00.000-07:00

Today is a special day for it's my friends birthday. Last year, she woke up with this song greeting her. She thought then that it's not a coincidence that brought the song to her for it made her stop and think. This was what she thought then when she heard the song "Hmm... my predicatment exactly. Is this a message for me? I wonder if I get an early opportunity to be closer to my family..." . Since she got the opportunity to work in Manila, she has long to be with her family in Bohol.

It's her birthday again... and this time I guess it is very different. The premonition of last years birthday has come true. She is now re-assigned to Bohol and is now enjoying all her time with her family.

Now, this is my song to you. And like the song says... " It would be so fine to see your face at my door, Doesn't help to know you're just time away". I miss all our happenings.

I hope you opened your eyes this morning with a new song and a new realization. A realization that It's a wonderful world... and it's yours to take.

love always....

Wii Music -- finally! A game I understand!

2008-10-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

I may not play it myself but surely I can enjoy watching my kids play it. This new wii game that they are playing is simply awesome! It is called wii Music. They can choose an instrument to play from a wide variety of choices from percussion, string, and wind instruments. After choosing an instrument, they can choose a song to play. They can replay their game and if they like it, they can make a video out of it and save it for playback anytime.

The video below is my favorite of the many they played. My son has chosen Saxophone and my daughter has chosen steel drum to play. At the end of the video, I inserted a short clip of them playing.

Wasn't that better to watch than those fighting and shooting games?? This game is surely mommy friendly. The next video is my son's rock rendition of the song Do Re Mi. It's quite nice ... see if you agree.

Awesome!

Kaklase ko si Jim Carrey..... NOT!

2008-10-23T19:12:00.000-07:00

Ganitong ganito ang kanyang mga ngiti... hanggang ngayon akoy nakikilig..ehehe

Nakita ko si Jim Carrey nakaraang Martes.
Pero ang pangalan nya according sa kanyang nameplate ay Paul.
Kaklase ko sya sa isang training na ginanap sa facility namin sa Burlington.
Nakaupo sya sa malapit sa harapan at diretsong opposite ng kinalalagyan ko.

Sa ganyang arrangement, hindi mahirap na mahagip sya ng paningin ko sa tuwing titingnan ko ang aming guro o ang malaking projection board.
Talaga naman na nakakaaliw dahil sa striking similarity nila ng tunay na Jim Carrey.

Parang sya ang nakakabatang kapatid ng tunay na Jim Carrey.
And kanyang taas at balinkinitang pangangatawan,
Ang hugis ng kanyang mukha, ang kanyang mga mata
At higit sa lahat ang kanyang bukod tanging ngiti.
Ngiti ng tunay na Jim Carey sa maniwala ka at hindi.

Sa tuwing daraan ang paningin ko sa kanya, parang may magnet na magpapako ng aking tanaw … ulit ulit na namamamngha sa lapit ng kanilang mga mukha.
At mula sa wala, napapangiti ng bigla.
Hindi maitago aking pagka aliw at pagkamangha
Umaasang isang sandali na sya ay magpatawa.

Sa aking isip at imahinasyon… sya nga ang tunay na JimCarrey
Sa kanyang normal na buhay na empleyado at estudyante.
Pero kahit na gayon, kahit gaano na kapormal
Nakakatuwa and nakakatawa parin.

Siguro napansin nya mga ngiti kong puno ng mangha
Subalit kahit minsan hindi nya pinunlakan
Ang aking mga lihim na hiling
“Magpatawa ka naman, kahit man lang kaunti.”
Isang ngiwi ng labi habang naduling ang mga mata
Mga contorted na mukha ng comedian na si Jim Carrey

Pero sa huling sandali
Nang ang lahat ay patapos na…
Bola ng comments inumpisahang ipasa
Nagulat na bigla ang lingkod nyong tulala
Bola na hawak ni Jim Carrey
Binato sa akin … ako ang pinili

Baka naman nagkataon lang..
Baka naasar sa kakangisi ko…
Pero tuwa naman ako
Dahil napansin din kahit paano

Maganda pala kaklase si Jim Carrey
Di ka maaantok at di mabubwisit
Pero wish kolang na sa susunod
Na makadungpalad na maging magkaklase kami ulit
Na paunlakan nya aking mga nasa….

Ganito man lang sana…
Palihim at pansamantala…
Awesome talaga
Papa autograph na!

____________________

To my friends who cannot understand a word I wrote on this post... I apologize.

I'm on one of those tagalog moods.

I promise to make it up on other posts.

The Colors of Fall- The last Show

2008-10-22T19:37:00.000-07:00

Before the last leaf falls to the ground
Before the first snow flurry touch the soil
Before all the colors has gone to sleep
And pure white overcomes us all

Let’s capture the last show
That nature has to stage
A kaleidoscope of colors
A cabaret of hues and shades

The show of all shows
Magnificent, grand and free
To entertain the eyes
Fill the mind of what they used to be

Until they bow and withdraw
Behind the white curtain they will stay
Until spring comes again
When they wake up and play

And begin a colourful show
All over again.

Emo Time....

2008-10-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

"Pag may mahal ka at ayaw sayo, hayaan mo. Malay mo sa mga susunod na araw ayaw mo na din sa kanya, naunahan ka lang."

(When you love someone and he/she doesn't like you, let him/her be. You'll never know, in the coming days you will find yourself not liking him/her too, he/she just beat you to it).

"Hiwalayan na kung di ka na masaya. Walang gamot sa tanga kundi pagkukusa."

(If your not happy anymore, leave. There's no medecine to stupidity but self initiative.)

"Pag hindi ka mahal ng mahal mo wag ka magreklamo. Kasi may mga tao rin na di mo mahal pero mahal ka. Kaya quits lang."

(If someone you love does not love you, don't complain. Because there were people that you don't love but loves you. Its only quits.) Hehe... i admit i suck in translating tagalog to english.

"Hindi lungkot o takot ang mahirap sa pag-iisa kundi ang pagtanggap na sa bilyon-bilyong tao sa mundo, wala man lang nakipaglaban upang makasama ka."

(It’s not sadness or fear that is difficult in being alone but the acceptance that out of all the billion people in the world, not a single one fought to be with you.)

____________________________

Mga quotes mula kay Bobby Ong. Nag snow kasi kanina... medyo nakakalungkot. Malamig na naman... makulimlim nanaman ang mga araw at mahaba ang gabi. Sabi ko... EMO time again....

Bisingr by Christopher Paolini

2008-10-18T20:51:00.000-07:00

"Atra gulia un ilian tauthr ono un atran ono waise skoliro fra rauthr."

(Ancient Language that translate to --- “May luck and happiness follow you and may you be shielded from misfortune”)

Isn’t the ancient language cool?? I just finished reading Bisingr, the third book in a series by Christopher Paolini. If the title does not ring a bell, then I might as well mention the first book which was made into a movie recently... or not so recently. The first book was entitled Eragon. I first saw the movie before I read the book. The book cover displays a blue dragon and by the time one finishes the book, it would be obvious that the dragon is Saphira, the blue dragon of Eragon. The first book tells about how Eragon and Saphira met.

Then the second book was the Eldest. The cover is a red dragon. A new dragon hatched on the dark side. This book is about Eragons training with another rider and his dragon. It described the Elves kingdom. I am specially drawn to the elves way of life in the forest. In this book also that Eragons cousin Roran begin his saga to fame and valor. What’s with the title? The Eldest pertains to the oldest living dragon rider and his dragon.

And then the third book... Bisingr. After a year of waiting, it came out last September 20. The cover is a golden Dragon. A very handsome golden dragon. I remember a golden dragon from the second book. His name is Glaedr. He is the golden dragon of the elf rider Oromis. He and Oromis have trained Eragon and Saphira.

Hmmm.... what do I expect of the third book in the first place? I expected that Eragon and Saphira will finally destroy Murtag and Galbatorix. I expected him to recover his sword Zar’ roc from Murtag. But as most good stories goes... the third book has managed to weave its way around my expectations. Nonetheless, the story has disclosed a lot of revelations. Revelations that made everything clear to Eragon. Eragon was not able to face Galbatorix but was able to fend Murtag and Thorn away from the Varden. Eragon were not able to get back his lost sword but was able to get one for himself. The rest of the story I leave for everyone to read. What’s with the title? Bisingr is the ancient language term for Fire. It is also a name bestowed to a sword.

I should say that I was saddened by this book. I did not expect something like that to happen. But I leave it at that.

The story will continue and conclude in Book Four. Suspense, Suspense! Hopefully in the fourth book, everything will come into place.

From the ancient language..... “Eka elrun ono.” (I thank you).

The Proudest Mommy....

2008-10-17T19:59:00.000-07:00

October 16, 2008 - the Honor Roll awards night at my son's school. I sat very proud and all smiles while I waited for the program to start. I was surprised by a school letter handed to me by my son last week. It was an invitation to attend this very important night. The school is awarding all students that was able to get in the honor roll last year. And... my son is one of them. This is what I've been waiting for... for my son's turn to feel the return of his academic endeavors. All parents were so proud... and the atmosphere is an air of a bright hope for the future. Truly a celebration.

My son... you made mommy so proud! You can ask anything! Anything at all...

It is Done.... it is cast!

2008-10-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

A special day indeed

to exercise my right

and my say in government

my hope and my plight

This is my assigned voting place

X marks the spot for sure

a hundred steps from home

a thousand step to a new future

Hmmm... this is new! This is queer!!

This is not what I was used to back home..

No people around, no one to hand out little leaflets

It almost scared me but lets see some more !

No armed guards, no intimidating bullies

I went directly to my polling booth.

Gave my card and proved my identity

And in a covered desk i did my truth.

No computers, no high tech gadgets

Just a list, a ballot box and a covered desk for privacy

No lobbying, no leaflets and endless chaos

Just a stream of people, exercising their right and duty.

This is my piece of mind and my piece of hope

My first in Canadian history

May they be heeded, may they be heard

May they be an intrument of unity and harmony.

Today I Thank Thee

2008-10-13T20:56:00.001-07:00

Today we gather round this bounty
To celebrate our gratefulness
For the blessings of plenty
For deeds of compassion and kindness

We thank our Lord
We thank our family
We thank our friends
We thank everybody

I say thank you Lord
For the blessings of each day
For the gift of life
And the guidance along our way

I say thank you to my family
For their love and support
I may lose everything I own
But their love will never fall short

I say thank you my friends
For making life complete
For caring and encouraging
Making life sweet

I thank everybody
For we live in harmony
We take challenges together
And make earth a better place.

------------------------------

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO EVERYBODY! Kain na!

Another Team Building Event - Hockey Tournament (with a twang!)!

2008-10-10T20:47:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again when the company gets their employees butt out of their chairs and engage in some kind of team building event. Last year was a pot luck. This year, the management opted for another pot luck but added another activity. They have set up a street hockey tournament before holding the pot luck lunch. Teams of 4 individuals volunteered. There was female and male competition. Your's truly who has no experience or even knowledge of the game was asked to join a team. Much to my reluctance, I gave in but only after warning my team mates that if I join, there will be a possibility that I will embarass myself.

10 minutes before each game, HR calls in the team in her office. We were surprised to know that embarassment is included in the game! My goodness... the team playing were asked to wear funny accessories while playing. See the following pictures as a testament to the mortification that we were subjected in, in the spirit of fun of course!

The first womens team to play was asked to wear oversized underwears on top of their pants. Some were asked to wear a clowns hair. hehe

The male teams were asked to wear oversized bras. LOL! some wore blue wigs and pumpkin hats. We had a blast watching them play!

The champions!

After the tiring game... we feast on favorite food brought by everybody. I brought my famous cassava cake. It's my first time to taste a bit of deer meat brought by a colleague cooked as grilled steak.

Although I almost died on our first game... I managed to play the game with the least injury to myself and others. Our team finished 2nd place though.

For whatever torture the game and the garb put us through, the food has compensated. It was fun day indeed.... until the next day when we cannot move a single muscle without pain searing our consciousnes. :(

Wonderful World of Share

2008-10-08T16:06:00.000-07:00

My first concept of Share's birthday gift. I tried adding titles and I think I did not fare so well. When it was finished and I watched it over and over. Still, there is something missing and somehow I was not so satisfied. Which in the end led me to my second photostory, the sweet escape. Just the same, I still want Share to have this.

This is to remind her that she lives in a wonderful world and her pictures shows it. That the world although sometimes pickle is a place full of wonder and love. May she choose to see the world with open heart and may love abound around her.

Happy Birthday Share!

2008-10-06T18:35:00.000-07:00

This photostory is a compilation of what makes Share happy. We all have our own sweet escape and these are hers. During the making of this gift, I learned more about her. What makes her laugh, her fears, her dreams. This knowledge made me understand her as she is and it is beautiful.

To you Share... I wish the best. May you find peace within you and around you, today and always.

Keep smiling!

My First in Canadian History....

2008-10-01T15:58:00.000-07:00

Tis they sent to me....

My first in Canadian history -

It said read carefully...

and bring to the poll a proof of identity.

Identity I have of course

although sometimes I ask myself..

but that is not my distress...

My apprehension and dread....

I will go to the poll bright and early

with radiant hope and reverie

but alas! My pen stopped suddenly

Who will I vote? Who will it be?

I think they forgot to put in the card...

"When you vote, you MUST

know your nominee's name!"

--------------------------------------------

I admit it!! It's exciting to be able to vote and really feel I belong in this country. It's my first time and I'm quite excited! My excitement is quite obvious as you can see on my poem. But! I don't have the slightest idea of who i will be voting for. Politics is like a monotonous movement of the windmills for me. It completely bores me and can put me to sleep anytime. I can tell the names of the leaders and dragons in the book i'm reading and their character and leadership styles but ask me the differences between these governments politicians running in the federal elections and I'll give you a blank stare.

Okay... I may know the names of the officials but other than that... I'm completely and utterly clueless!!

Aha! I know what I need! A voting buddy!!! Someone who can explain to me the vested interests of these candidates. Someone who will convince me why I should vote for which aspirant. I've got to find that person in ...hmmm... 14 days!

Ugh! I'm completely hopeless!

When it rains... it pours...

2008-09-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

I never knew Bato Bato Piks birthday will be this significant. Gifts keeps coming in. Sometimes it's a bit scary. The sneaky stork left a shoe box full of sunshine beside my door. It's darn and excruciatingly big. I bit my lip while I watch my daughter dance with joy. It's like Christmas for her.... hehe. This is way too much of a gift. It almost made us feel (well, mostly me) undeserving of such generosity. I would like to have a talk to the sneaky stork about this...

But first I'd like to celebrate this wonderful gift. I have to get my guilt behind and just be glad of such blessings. To my friend... our friendship is priceless.

As Emily Dickinson put it:

The Daisy follows soft the Sun ---
And when his golden walk is done -
Sits Shyly at his feet --
He - waking - finds the flower there -
Wherefore - Marauder - art thou thee?
Because, Sir, love is sweet!

Knock, Knock? Who's there? Brisingr!

2008-09-25T18:34:00.000-07:00

My copy of Brisinger came knocking at my door the other day. It came out September 20 and I have to wait a while because Amazon has to mail it to me. So there were five days that left me longing specially when i pass by the bookstore at the mall and see them calling on me and saying ... "I'm here.. I know you want me... I know you need me... come get me..." Oh! Sheer torture! hehe

But it's here now... my new baby. I took some picture before I ruin it from reading. Can you see how handsome the dragon is? I still don't know who this dragon is but he (yes, i'm pretty sure or I wanna believe it's a HE! Indulge me for now...hehe) sure looks powerful and wise.

I am just starting to read. If I could just take a leave of absence from work just to read this. I am just so tired after work these days. I don't know when will my boss see that I need more resource so I can have a life. Maybe he needs more sleeping Ems at meetings...hehe.

Let's go back to my current obsession. This handsome dragon looks so cool on any background! I can't decide which one I like best.

K.. enough playing around. I should go and read to know about this Dragon.

I know what you're thinking Share! I know you read this book already and you're probably raring to tell me who this handsome dragon is but hold your horses! I waited five days for this book, I can definitely wait some more to get acquainted to it in a first hand basis.

*rubbing hands together* come here now Bisingr... we're going to bed! Let's get acquainted! ;)

Birthday Blog Questions and Answers... As Promised!

2008-09-23T18:03:00.000-07:00

A friend sent me birthday blog questions. There are only 20 or more questions anyway, so how hard can that be? I read and read and read… my oh my… I felt like I’m in a quiz bee or something. Kidding aside… I promised her that I’m going to answer all her questions and blog about it. So, I’m just keeping a promise and hope that I will not make a fool out of myself …and or put the poor readers to sleep….

So here goes….

THE BLOG

1. Of all the days, why September 20?

Hmmm… there’s no particular or special reason for the date. It could very well be the weather…hehe. This is quite true in a sense. September is the end of the summer season. People are slowly crawling back to their niches in anticipation of the cold weather ahead. It’s back to the cold days and school days and staying at home most of the time just gives the imagination an extra kick. It was also in September when my daughter said she wanted to have a Blog of her own. It was good that she is interested in writing because it’s the best way to express one self. I thought I should make a blog too, just to show them how things are done. A blog they can go in and read and know their Mom better.

2.Do you keep hard copies of your articles? Do you save each file in your HD?

Nope. I have not saved any in my HD. If for some reason, the www crashed to smithereens … I’m doomed.

3. You prefer to post articles that radiate positive outlook in life. Is there a time that you struggled to give positive light?

It’s a real struggle at times. There were times that I’m tempted to just rant and rant and complain. You know what? Life is a bed of roses! But these roses have thorns and once in awhile we get pricked. My children should be able to see not just the roses but the thorns as well to learn important lessons in life. Sometimes they need to see the dark to be able to appreciate the light. The only difference that I made is that I choose to express sadness, frustrations, and disappointments more in poetry.

4. Your posts are categorized as pictures, poetry, places, music, food, occasions, books, movies, etc. Do you have a favorite post for each category?

Wow… all posts are dear to my heart. Some of them are short and some of them are howling in excitement. I love my poetry… I like “Kuya Kuya”, “Mga Munti kong Anghel” at “Sino Ito”. In the food category, I like the Brazo de Mercedes the best. My favorite post in Sights and Places category is our trek at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Special occasions are meant to be special, Birthdays, anniversaries, etc.

5. Is there a post that you consider as the best entry/article?

Honestly, I need someone else to tell me this. My best entry is the one that really brought out the finest in me. Something that has exhausted all the best I can give it in terms of creativeness and resourcefulness.

THE BLOGGER

1. Who is Em according to her blog?

Em is just an ordinary lady who longs to write about the things around her in a world completely different from where she was brought up. So, Em, I guess is a frustrated poet, a fan of fiction stories and a cook at heart. Em, If I could say this is also a hopeless romantic…lol

2. What are the lessons that you learned as a blogger?

I learned that distance is not a hindrance to friendship. I learned that if I keep throwing out there what I love doing, the universe will eventually reciprocate in kind. :) It’s from a famous quote of Ophra. This quote was shared to me by a popular blogger Senior Enrique and it just so true.

3. What do you consider as your greatest strength and biggest weakness as a blogger?

My weakness is my lack of confidence in writing. I definitely need to improve my creative writing ability. My strength?? Hehe…I can think of so many weaknesses but strength? Hmmm… if I really must think…. my strength is my unlimited imagination and having myself as my best fan. I love reading my posts over and over...

4. Has anything ever irritated you in blogosphere?

The blogosphere is as huge as the universe and as unpredictable. I surely came by blogs that I am not comfortable with. But it doesn’t mean they have no right to be there. It’s freedom of expression and I just need to respect that.

5. Please share with us your blogging routine.

Blogging routine? Some days I’m just totally too exhausted to blog. Being in a challenging work environment do takes its toll to my already growing old mind. But when I have good picture or a good idea in mind, tired or not, I will write something. Inspiration counts a lot too.

BLOGMATES

1. There are six bloggers in your blogroll. How did you stumble upon their blogs?

There’s only six there but they are so loved and treasured. The first blog that made it to my top picks was my friend’s blog from back home.

Then it was Senior Enrique’s Wish You were Here. I discovered his blog from my various blog-hopping stints. The way he writes his short stories and the many vivid pictures he has of back home is truly remarkable. I wish I could write as eloquent as him. He’s my creative writing guru.

Then there was Shift+7 blog. Owned by a warm, sweet, vivacious teacher who is simply contagious. Her blog tells about life, family, the true calling of being an educator, a lover of books and poetry. She left a comment about my poem and from then, friendship started and blossomed.

Then, there were this two travel blogs that I happen to frequent. I love the way they capture the beautiful places of back home. Lawstude and Escapo are my top travel blog picks. They take me to places I have never been or reminds me of places I’ve been. They are also gracious and respectful hosts.

The most recent one is a blog named “Where Life is full of Uncertainty”. I named the young owner Share. We share fondness of the same books and movies. We are both waiting for the arrival of our pre-ordered Brisingr book of Christopher Paolini.

2. You consider them as your friends. How do you define friendship that is technology-based and what makes it different from other kinds of friendships?

As I mentioned earlier, being far from someone will not hold back the friendship. The important thing is to maintain the communication and the love inside. I guess it’s a lot harder to not physically see each but the emotional intensity between communications always compensate for it.

3. Do you see yourself meeting them personally?

I will answer this with a phrase said to me by my very first best e-friend. “I am a realistic, and I do know that the chances of us meeting personally are not extremely in our favor. But at the same time I am a romantic, and I am open to the possibilities of whatever the future holds”. Awww!

3. Do they make a difference in your life? How?

Every friendship makes a difference in life. The value of friendship has transcended time and space. I have experienced the best and the worst in friendship. ehe… I will have to use the lyrics of Natasha Bedingfield song to describe the difference my e-friends make in my life:

“They take me away
A secret place
A sweet escape
To better days
A hiding place
Where nobody know
Where the river flows
And there no more lies
There’s only butterflies.”

4. Are there other bloggers that you admire aside from those in your blogroll?

Hmmm…there’s a cooking blog that I frequent only for the recipes. It’s unfortunate that I don’t have the luxury of time to check out other blogs. I’m sure there are more fantastic blogs out there waiting to be discovered.

MISC QUESTIONS

1. What are your dreams for your children?

I only want them to be respectful of people around them. To value charity and service to the less fortunate. To find refuge and faith to the Lord. To love and be loved unconditionally.

2. How do you rate yourself as a mom?

Hmmm… another question that only my children could answer. All I can say is that I did my best. I'm a fussy mom, strict when it comes to studies and doing homeworks.

3. What do you miss most about the Philippines?

Too many to mention. I miss the food, I miss the beaches, I miss my friends and our gimmicks and happenings. I miss the laid back life in the provinces.

4. How do you cope up with work related stress?

After a stressful work, I always pass by the mall on my way home. So I guess shopping does it. Sometimes, I will subject myself to a cooking marathon.

5. Have you ever experienced racial discrimination?

Fortunately not.

6. You said once that you’re in your best element when you’re cooking. Are there other things that you feel passionate about?

Believe it or not. I am also passionate about teaching. There have not been any opportunity for me to do so but it’s the next best thing after cooking. LOL ... and shopping!

7. If you were a song, a movie and a day, what would you be?

The most challenging question! Songs have been a part of my life since I was young and i have always associated every phase of my life with a song. when I was in the University, my song was "Do You Know?". It goes like this, "do you know where you're going to? Do you like the things that life is showing you.. do you know...". I was completely clueless then...hehe. When i'm in love my song would be "Just Another Woman In Love". When I got heart broken my song was "Sad Movie". There was a phase in my life that I feel soo "I Will Survive". Now, I guess … I’d be “Happy” by Natasha Bedingfield.

If I’m a movie? Hmmm... this is tough for the only movie I watch are fiction, fantasy and comedy. Should I say Desperate Housewives??? LOL... Maybe Mama Mia... yes... i guess that's much better.

A day? A Wednesday! Did I just made that up?? Hehe… it’s a half way day of the week when the pull between work and home is balanced.

8. Who is your major influence in life?

Hmm… I should say most of my inspirations came from my faith in God.

9. What is the best advice that you can offer to anybody?

The same advice I give my children. Respect others, this goes to all people, to all living things, to your surroundings. Do your best and still be humble about it. Celebrate love and have faith in God.

10. What is your beauty secret?

My beauty secret? Love of family and friends….. :)

_____________________________

Whew!!!! Almost fell asleep !!!

I just re-read what I wrote above and I am tempted to remove it from this blog. I know that all these answers are not the greatest or the wisest. But, inspite of that, I have decided to leave it in. I guess all of you will be shocked at some of my answers and that if I don't hear from anyone again, that I have scared them off (either that or I have put you all to sleep). In any event, I do hope to hear from you.

Bato Bato Piks Birthday Celebration!

2008-09-21T18:06:00.000-07:00

Here it is! Finally! The pictures of the party!

The cake courtesy of Jules of Shift +7. The best of Goldilocks !

The food! I cooked 7 dishes on this day! Six of them in the picture.

This is a fovorite and the 7th dish!

Who could resist a game of pinata?? hehe

Happy Birthday Bato Bato Pik! Mommy loves you!

Shift +7 's gift to Bato Bato Pik!

2008-09-20T22:18:00.000-07:00

I was surprised to receive this gift from a friend blogger. Well... I did sent out invitations right? And true enough she came, celebrate and brougth this gift. It's already 1:25 AM right now, morning of September 21. I just got home from a family get together to celebrate my nephews birthday. I cooked the whole day of the 20th and went straight to the venue. I felt a bit guilty for not posting an entry on the 20th but I do need to take care of family right? Anyway, I promised to celebrate my baby's (Bato Bato Pik) birthday for a week.

I will start with this gift that we received from Shift+7. The cake looks soooo scrumptious!

This is a very lovely gift. A photostory highlighting three themes. First is Batobato Pik's birthmonth of September with the September song. Second, is the birthday song itself with candle blowing. And third, the wishes... accompanied by the song "Til There was You".

I thank you Jules of Shift+7 for the wonderful gift. It's not easy to make photostories. I've tried it once and it takes alot of patience to connect pictures with the accompanying song. It takes time to split videos, insert pictures and be able to attach the perfect transitions and effects. I had been fortunate to see some of her other works. She's the master of photostories.

It seemed that saying thanks is not enough for this wonderful gift. For now, please accept it. In time, I maybe able to find the proper means of giving back to you ... all the wonderful things that you made me feel.

And I still owe you the 20 or more birthday questions that I have to answer. They will all be blogged. I'm actually looking forward to it.

Thank you!

Pre-Birthday Reflections....

2008-09-17T18:04:00.000-07:00

It’s my baby’s first birthday! Yes, Bato Bato Pik will be one year on the 20th of September. It was exactly 8:01 pm when I posted my first entry entitled “Sino Ito” (Who is this?). It was the day I finally had the courage to share to the world wide web my piece of mind.

Why Bato Bato Pik? What’s behind the name? Bato Bato Pik is the Filipino equivalent of the “Rock, Paper, Scissor” game. Since this blog was made and dedicated to my two children, I thought I should get their attention through the game they are very familiar with. And with that, impart to them the lesson about choices. I made a poem, entitled "I Chose” to highlight this message. My objective is to let my children see and appreciate the beauty of free expression of thoughts through creative writing. To be able to articulate their emotions through pictures, poetry, places, music, food, occasions, books, movies... everything under the sun in a positive way. Not just being able to communicate but at the same time share the celebration of expression to others.

My Bato Bato Pik has acquired 3 faces. It's fortunate that a friend was able to save a screen shot of the original skin. It was born late summer of last year with a lighthouse skin. Slowly grew though winter. Slowly and surely. Threading the ebbs and tides of the world wide web.

Spring came and it shed it's birth skin, aquired this springy green color. Became more bold, acquired friends, acquired confidence and felt accepted.

Just recently, it changed to this color in time for the fall season.

After One year... after 143 posts.... where did it take me? Surprisingly, this blog has been my refuge, a sweet escape. It just takes me away, a secret place, to better days, a hiding place. It is a place I go, where nobody knows, where the rivers flows, no one cries and I call it home. The previous sentences are from a song which I associate so closely to my blog at the moment. I found relief from everyday drab, found respite from pent up sentiments, and most of all... found great friends from across the miles.

Bato Bato Pik is my pocketful of sunshine (as Natasha Bedingfield's song has aptly put it)!

Guess what's coming?? :)

2008-09-14T21:30:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

One Naked Apple

2008-09-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

My daugther was helping me make apple pie this afternoon. She was peeling the apples when an idea popped into her head. Probably brought about the monotony of her task, she placed a newly peeled apple on top of another unpeeled apple, and said "there's your naked apple".

Next thing she took the above shot! What a shot!

9/11 .. the terror that was

2008-09-11T19:58:00.000-07:00

“Time is passing. Yet, for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember the fire and ash, the last phone calls, the funerals of the children. “
- President George W. Bush, November 11, 2001

I bowed my head today
Offered my deepest respect
My utmost reverence
to the innocent lives that was lost
Lost from terror and treachery
without concience and heart
I may not know them personally
but I feel the depth of their pain and hurt
their suffering and the agony...
I bowed my head in silence...
_______________________
I can very much remember that day. I was off from work and a call came in telling me to hurry and open the TV and watch CNN. I stood there staring... i can't believe what I'm seeing. All that was coming out of my mouth was ... "no....., no.......no..... this is not happening". I was in Manila, Philippines.

My Sweet Escape

2008-09-10T19:34:00.000-07:00

I bought dessert this evening. I thought I should treat myself and my children with some good old dessert made from heaven. After a tiresome work day of meetings of one after another. Of munching fries during a lunch meeting. Of rushing a presentation for the all hands meeting. I'm pretty beat up by the time i get home. My medecine? My sweet escape? There's nothing like a good piece of cake matched with a freshly brewed cup of coffee after dinner while relaxing on the couch.

Which dessert do you think is mine?

Such a sweet escape!

Remembering Lola

2008-09-09T18:08:00.000-07:00

My grandma passed away
This 6th day of September
When the air is getting colder
And the night is getting longer

As a child I would remember her
A strict lola, ready to give an advice or two
I found myself following her around the kitchen
Learned to chop, peel and cook stew.

I watch her sew dresses from morning til night
She hauls me to the market for her sewing needs
She made me my first graduation dress
Complete with frills and ribbons and beads

She went away to Canada
But made sure she visits as much as she can
We missed her dress making and cooking
Even her long sermon to the whole clan

We met again in Canada
It’s nice to see her everyday again
It’s nice to see my children know her more
Hear her stories and her wise words

Today is the day my grandma left yet again
Today is the day she went to yet a better place

In time we will see ach other

To never never part again.

___________________

My grandmothers death anniversary was last Sept 6. It was 4 years ago. We had a mass offering in her name and spent some time with her at her resting place.

I dedicate this post to her momories.

Power of Two, A dedication

2008-09-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

You gave new meaning to the word friendship
For someone like me who had doubts and misgivings
In a world full of adversities and uncertainties
You made me realize that not all is lost
That friendship is not something to be given up
But it’s something to put my hope on.

This is my way of thanking you and letting you know
My true and deep appreciation
From my heart to yours

You rock !

Token, Token where shall we go?

2008-09-03T17:57:00.000-07:00

This is my token of freedom.

I need at least two of this each work day.

If I want to stop by the coffee shop on my way to work,

Or I need to run an errand on my way home,

I will be needing one more.

A tiny token, can go as far as the eyes can see

From one bus to another,

From one bus to a subway train

From one train to another

The fare will be the same.

One weekend I felt like going to the Mall

Two little tokens willing to get me there

I waited for a bus infront of our house

One token is all the driver need.

The bus stopped at the subway

I transferred to a subway train

I passed through tunnels, dark and deep

Until it went up and I have to take the LRT

I see green and trees and my destination

One token all the way to the mall

One token to ride them all

It is amazing for one tiny token

To get me to my most desired places

and one more to get me home sweet home

Stone Art at CNE - Awesome!

2008-08-31T13:53:00.000-07:00

The Garden show at CNE does not only showcase a wide variety of plants but it hosts a series of shows that would entertain anyone interested (or bored from shopping)...hehe. One show is about this incredible man who piles stones one on top of another without falling over. He has this unbelievable grasp of the center of gravity on each stone or creation he does. Some garden owners will like it enough to have one in their garden. I know I would... if I have a garden and only if I can afford it. I do not know how much it will cost but in time when things are ready... i probably would ask. For now, I am just thrilled at watching and enjoying the magic this man has in his hands.

You know what?? I think... the man has laser vision and he uses this laser vision to glue those stones together. That's it... i'm sure of it. :)

oh my... those were really good! But I won't stay near it though, not when the wind is blowing in my garden (wishful thinking). Looking at them is one thing...understanding the science behind it is another.

The only thing that is keeping those stones from falling down is what we call center of gravity. The stones were arranged such that the combined center of gravity prevents it from falling. I will leave the rest of the explanations to Mr Google.

For now watch the man do magic on the following video.

CNEs Direct Energy Center and my Loot!

2008-08-30T14:55:00.000-07:00

This building is the first we passed by upon entering the Princess Gates of the CNE. This is my favorite part of CNE because inside are showcases of everything I love. As you can see in the above cropped map, it houses the A. At home Pavilion, where appliances, furnitures, home gadgets are found. B, the International Pavilion where products from all over the world can be found. C. warehouse Outlets - some designer products like Revlon, Fairweather, Levis outlets are. D. IAMs superdogs where they hold dog shows and cat shows. The most beatiful cats and dogs can be seen here. They are so adorable. The Garden Show is also a must see.

A shot of the building facade.

The Lobby is full of people trying to find something to spend their precious money. Just like me, I do not know what I want to buy but I will know when I see it. I saw the hot water tub complete with all the water jet massage apparatus and I wanted to buy it ... but since i don't have a place to put it in...maybe next CNE or the next or the next..hehe.

This booth sells products from India. Lovely, lovely products.

This is only one of a few Philippine booths. I bought Boy Bawang and Ding Dong snack here.

My son's favorite spot. Yup, he asked if he can saty there while we do our window shopping.

And finally, after 2 hours of walking through this maze of woderful things, what did I find worth buying? A gazillion products and I bought only two things. If I have lots of money to splurge, I guess I could use a few more to tuck into my bag. The following pics are the two fortunate things that came home with me that day.

This is a variety of the San Francisco Plant (as we know back home). It is actually called "Croton" plant here. This is one of my favorite San Francisco Plant because of it's curly leaves. The only missing is the various colors that the leaves would exhibit. The leaves are all green right now with small dots of yellow. I hope in time the colors will come out. I still have to buy my San Francisco a pot to grow in.

This is the second that I bought. When we passed by the booth exhibiting products of South Africa, these artistic paintings have caught my eyes. The colors are so vivid. They were drawn on a clothe and they would make nice wall decors when framed properly. They come in different sizes and I chosed a poster size painting. Now, I only need to have it framed. It will go very nicely on my bedroom wall and would match the animal print blanket I have on my bed. Hehe... feeling nasa safari...

I would like to come back to that booth next year to get another one.

That ends the diary of a shopaholic. :)

Let's Go to the EX!!

2008-08-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

The last hurrah of summer! Children always knew when summer is ending. It is when parents start to plan going to the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition) Place. The slogan is “Let’s go to the EX!” where EX means the exhibition place. It is the neighbour of Ontario Place I previously posted. The EX is open starting August 16 to September 1. Yup, September 2 is the first day of school. Some students would feel sad when it’s CNE time but then after accepting that it inevitable, they decided that they might as well have fun. The exhibition place offers a gazillion activities for everybody. From children to seniors, there will be something quite interesting to see and do. The link above will give you all the information about activities in this place.

The Map above shows the CNE place. Click here to enlarge and be able to read the various information and legends. All places are accessible by foot. To be able to see everything, one must come early in the morning to cover as much ground.

For seniors, for pople who are carrying babies, or people who has disabilities or those that are simply tired can ride this train. It goes around the place at a specific shedule.

Children would be attracted by the fun rides and carnival type activities.

This building houses the pavilions of shopping galore. If you enlarge the map above, it is the huge building top right. It has the international pavilion that sells various products from all over the world. I will do this as a separate post because this is my favorite place in CNE.

Street Performances are all over the place too. These gentlemen are performing acrobatic stunts. They are very good, doing all those summersaults and human pyramids.

Part of the Candian Forces Display.

Part of the Farm showcase. Various animals are kept in the Farm building. People can pet and feed some of them.

This man is truly talented. I will post his talent on a separate entry. Watchout for him.

I guess the next few posts will be bits and pieces of our CNE adventure. There were quite alot of exciting and interesting activities worth sharing.

The Lowly..nah.. Noble Galunggong – and its memories

2008-08-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

This was our dinner last night. I was able to find some frozen Galunggong fish (Maquereau Mackerel) at one the Chinese store near our family dentist clinic. I looked at its familiar features. Remembering the numerous times this fish has graced our table when I was growing up. During those needy times when everything is so expensive that we have to tighten our belts more than ever. I used to hate this fish during those times. It’s either fried galunggong, or paksiw na galunggong (cooked in vinegar), or daing na galunggong (sun dried), or ginataang galunggong (cooked in coconut milk). I think we have practically overused this poor fish for the longest time. We cook it in all possible ways. I can still hear myself and my siblings saying in chorus “ Galunggong again??!!”. But now... I am sure that if it weren’t for the lowly Galunggong, I would not be where I am .. right now.

It’s been awhile since I last tasted the Galunggong. We call it “Gigi” then. I don’t know why we call it with that name and I did not ask for I just had enough of it to even care. I guess it’s safe to say that it’s been 20 years since I last tasted it. Now, when I saw it, I decided that it’s time for my kids to meet the fish that has fed and nourished us during tough times. It maybe lowly then but now I only think of it as a noble fish ... an unsung hero. Worthy of being weaved into life stories to be told and passed to future generations.

So in between those spoonfuls of fish and rice are conversations of times of old and the lessons to be learned. My kids actually like it. I even told them, it’s good with catsup. They won’t try it though.. L

That’s the story of the noble Galunggong fish.

Chinese Lantern Festival Continued

2008-08-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

White Elephants!

Egypt... well represented!

Total Bling bling !!

Magnificent! The reflection of the lights on the black water is so intense.

We went as far as Paris! LOL

The end of our adventure...that was one fine walk.

Chinese Lantern Festival at Ontario Place

2008-08-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

Ontario Place has another magic up its sleeve this summer. It’s the Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival. It’s a collection of huge lanterns depicting various architectural, nature and artistic creations all over the world. It opens around 7pm to be able to capture the darkness and display the magnificent use of lights and shades.

The area used for this showcase covered almost a third of the whole Ontario place as shown below. 32 majestic lantern sets are distributed all over this location. It’s a very nice night to get some walk and enjoy the lights. The map of the place and the distribution of the lanterns (as well as a brief description of each)can be found here.

I have uploaded pictures I’ve taken. I may have not captured everything but these are my favourites.

I'd like to upload more... hmmm... should I? There were so many favorites that I'd like to share. So maybe next post I will upload the rest of them? We'll see.

The Moon and Me

2008-08-26T07:34:00.000-07:00

The moon..
It’s full tonight
Amidst the dark night
Without a star in sight.

Me...
Out for a walk
Without anyone to talk
Wondering around the block

The moon..
First peeking behind a cloud
Then there he is full and proud
Inquiring why my heart is bowed

My heart is bleeding
My hope is fading
My faith is crumbling
To the dark night I’m slowly disappearing

My lady, my dearest princess
Despair has gripped your heart in darkness
Let not your spirit wallow in emptiness
For I can see the road before you filled with happiness

Let me light your path through this vagueness
Let me build you new hope as a fortress
Until you heal your faith strong and dauntless
Until your heart can fly again, soaring the sky unrelentless.

I’m glad you’re here dear moon
I’m glad you asked me why
I’m glad you made the dark sky
A bit brighter, a bit less sly

I promise you this for sure
I will heal my heart, I will endure
I will see your promise of the future
And I will rise and soar with you forever and more.

___________________________

I was awed by the beauty of the moon one night. It has inspired me to write a short poem to express the depth of wonder I feel when it's at its fullest. The way it reaches out to the melancholy of the night, waiting, foreboding. Yet .. I feel no fear but instead a feeling of lightness, an overwhelming emotion of peace and tranquility.

...hehe... i'm being sentimental...not a comedian. LOL ... in between those lines, although in all seriousness, there are 'manananggal", "tikbalang" (creatures of the night), peeking and grinning at me ready to pounce when ever I give them the signal...hehe.

But really!! I am serious!