Super Shocked

But really, I shouldn't be.

I've seen the National Bookstore Superbranch go from 5 floors, to 4, to 3, to 2, and now, to just 1 floor.

And soon, that 1 floor will be gone, too.

They're finally saying goodbye to the Superbranch and moving it to Gateway 2. But as the sign says, an art and community center will be rising in its stead, so that's something to look forward to. 

So, thank you, National Bookstore Superbranch! Thanks for the memories!

Spaghet it!

This might be my "official meal" whenever I'm in Bicol.

For the past 4 trips, I'd always go to Bigg's to have their spaghetti and pizza bread combo.

The spaghetti is super good! 

Actually, this spaghetti is better than Jolly Spaghetti IMHO.

Bicol Beckons

Looks like 2026 is becoming my most Bicol year.

This weekend trip was my 4th for the year. And no matter how many trips I've made, I'll never get tired of this view.

Magayunon!

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!"

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!

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.