Friday, July 17, 2026

FMM: Times for a comeback

There's a common thread that connects the songs of the 90s.

Most of the songs in that area - the fast ones, at least - are all ear worm worthy.

Catchy beats, fun lyrics, repetitive portions - this was the formula that made bands like Aqua, Vengaboys, S Club 7 and their ilk so popular.

You can also add Ann Lee to the list.


Her 1988 hit, "Two Times" was all over, it was difficult to escape.

Then again, with a song that brings out the good times, why would you want to?

Around the bend

It's wild that "Legally Blonde" celebrates its 25th year this year.

Gosh! It's one of those moments when you just feel old.

That simply means it's been 25 years since we all bent and snapped.


To quote the guy in this clip:

"It works every time!"

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Having a ball (and chain)

And the Japanese brand invasion in Manila continues.

Now, the much loved casual bag brand from Tokyo has arrived in Manila.


"Ball and Chain" is a quirky and utilitarian bag that's a favourite pasalubong from people traveling to Japan.

Now, you don't have to go far to actually get it.

Sugoi ne!

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Entangled

With so many cup noodle brands and variants in MNL, it's easy to have noodle fatigue.

But trust Samyang to do something about it.


Tangle is one of their newer products, and it's a novel concept.

Instad of the suual noodles, it's instant pasta in a bowl!

They have 2 variants, but I've only tried the garlic oil. And it's actually good!

Can't wait to try their creamy mushroom next.

Monday, July 13, 2026

As a new week rolls along...

 ...this cute cat is rolling in his sleep.

This cat pretty much sums up everyone's sentiment this Monday.

Sunday, July 12, 2026

Tech-cash

When we were about to pay for Dad's purchase at Shopwise, this greeted me at the counter.


Shopwise now has automated payment machines!

Yup, you can just enter your bills and coins, and you're done. No more giving your money to the cashier.

Can self checkout counters be next?

Saturday, July 11, 2026

Curry up

Two weeks after blogging about that 1-2 Curry Puff punch during our trip to SG, this happens.


Hong Lim Curry Puff is opening in Trinoma.

The place where I bought the 2 Michelin starred curry puffs is called Hong Lim Hawker Center, and apparently, that's where this chain came from.

Now, it's easier to satisfy my cravings for real curry puffs.

Friday, July 10, 2026

FMM: It's her turn (around)

Gosh, this is such a shocker.

I've been doing Friday Magic Madness for decades, and it's just today that I discovered that Bonnie Tyler has never been featured!

Sacrilege.

But as they say, better late than never.

So, as a tribute to the iconic Bonnie Tyler, here's the song that she's best known for.


"Total Eclipse of the Heart" truly eclipsed many songs it was pitted against, and rightfully so. The song is well-written, beautifully sung, and is so memorable. In fact, it's so memorable that, 43 years later after its release, people still know and sing this song.

Bonnie and this song will never be eclipsed.

Thursday, July 09, 2026

Eclipsed

Today, they delivered the sad news that the 80s singing icon has gone to that great music hall in the sky.

Yes, Bonnie Tyler has passed on at the age of 75.


Any kid of the 80s will know Bonnie Tyler. Her song, "Total Eclipse of the Heart" wasn't just popular, it's iconic!

She's truly one of a kind, and she, and her voice, will be sorely missed.

Wednesday, July 08, 2026

The Godfather

No, this isn't a post about the Marlon Brando film.

It's about...

Me!

Yup, after many, many outings as a godfather to my friends' kids, I'm now - and for the first time - a godfather at a wedding!

Last Sunday was my first foray as a wedding godfather, and the lovely couple is my art director - Kat, and her new hubby, Laurence!


It's a different feeling when you're now acting as a second parent to a married couple. While I'm not equipped to give them marriage advice, I'd probably give out sound and good relationship advice.

Better get ready for this new responsibility.

Tuesday, July 07, 2026

Herring Aid

"Golden Girls" was an iconic show in the 80s. 

While we were just young kids back then, we were able to appreciate the very adult - and super old - humour. The quips and quibbles of Dorothy, Rose, Blanche and Sofia would elicit giggles and laughs. My favourite would be Rose's St Olaf stories.

Just like her story about the Great Herring War in St Olaf.


What's great about this clip is seeing Dorothy and Blanche break character and just laugh at the silliness of Rose's story. It's this kind of comedy that's a joy to watch.

I've seen this clip more than a hundred tines, and I'm still laughing each time.