Kissing Boo

One of our usual food haunts within UP Campus is The Chocolate Kiss.

Just like Rodic's, Mang Larry's and The Tea House, this is one of the iconic and unmistakable places within the campus where students, alumni and visitors stop by for yummy cakes, delish dishes, and their famous bottomless iced tea.

Two of my "usuals" at The Chocolate Kiss are the Dayap Chiffon Cake and the Quezo Chiffon Cake. These are cakes that are not just super yummers, they're very unique, too. I don't know of any cake or bakeshop that carries the same items.

Last time we had a good meal at this place was in December. It was when Prichy, Rose, Wowie and I met for our Christmas merienda-cena. And as always, the food and company was so good!

But like many good restaurants during this pandemic, The Chocolate Kiss is about to say goodbye. Another casualty of the pandemic, much like Hop Hing Ka and Swindon in HKG.

It would be great to have one last "Chocolate Kiss." But in this current situation that we have, I doubt if we can have a proper goodbye to this UP foodie institution.

Flippin’ Over Flippers

Why do Japanese restaurants keep popping up on my feed? It makes me miss living and traveling around Tokyo with Mark - something we haven't done for more than 2 years now.

Today's pop-up was about this Japanese souffle pancake restaurant in Hachiko district called "Flippers."

Mark and I haven't tried souffle pancakes in Tokyo yet, so this is something to look forward to when we get to travel again.

They have it in all shapes and sizes - they have savory, they have it as burgers,  and of course, they have it in the usual sweet, fruity format that pancakes are most known for.

I'm definitely going for the sweet variety. I'd flip for that anytime!

Golden Girl of the Universe

While searching for and watching old clips of "Golden Girls" on youtube, I discovered an interesting factoid about one of my girls - Sofia.

It turns out that Estelle Getty - or the actress who played Sofia - was a judge in Miss Universe 1992.

Whoa! This Golden Girl is a Girl of the Universe, too!

FMM: Blessed Spell

I'm still on a grade school and high school choir mood, so today's Friday Magic Madness song is another throwback to when I was still a kid, performing in the school choir of my 2 schools - Claret and Lourdes School.

It was in the choir that I first heard of the song "Bless the Lord" from the musical "Godspell." Since the song was unfamiliar to me, it was a challenge to learn - considering we only had days in between the learning of the song and the performing of it.

But after listening to our choir master sing it several times, and after reading the lyrics thoroughly and taking to heart the beautiful message it was conveying, I immediately got the hang of the song and enjoyed singing it to Him.

In the play, this song came with the line: "Tomorrow will take care of itself." It's a very hopeful message that's steeped in faith, and it's a message that we really need to take to heart these days.

No more noodles

After reading that article about the closing of Swindon Book Co. Ltd., another store closing popped in my head. Actually, I read that article - and saw the accompanying video feature - last April, but I just remembered it a few months after.

The noodle shop in the story was Hop Hing Noodle Ka - a hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Kwun Tong that serves top notch noodles.

I discovered that store while I was looking for the infamous outlet buildings in Kwun Tong. After a day of searching and walking, I found myself in this nondescript noodle house with a few people queueing outside. Curious about what they were in line for, I joined the line and was later treated to a hearty and yummy bowl of noodles.

But unlike my other noodle haunts in HKG like the Prawn Noodle Shop in Landale, I wasn't able to go to this store as often as I wanted to, or should. It was mainly because of the distance, and the fact that there was really nothing to do in Kwun Tong that made it worth hieing off to that far part of the island. (Yup, not even MegaBox could make me go there.)

Unfortunately, that last visit to Hop Hing Noodle Ka more than a decade ago turns out to be the last time I get to enjoy their noodles. Like Swindon, when I return to HKG, the noodle shop will be no more.

The only encouraging part about this featurette was when the owner said that they hope to find another place soon and reopen their famous noodle shop. 

I'm hoping it happens soon, and I'll make sure to go there wherever it will show up next.

Closing a Chapter

When I used to live in TST, one of my usual haunts in Swindon Book Company in Lock Road.

This is one of the oldest book stores in HKG, and -personally - it has one of the best selections of books and magazines. Even better than Page One.

Aside from the selection, they're also priced better compared to the other bookstore chains. I'd often buy my InStyle Magazines there when I can't find it in HMV.

Unlike the big bookstore chains, this bookstore feels more bespoke and cozy. It's one of the places where you can get a book, find a quiet nook, then browse as much as you can. Being there feels like being in a familiar neighbourhood, and hanging out with neighbours.

Like a lot of small businesses in HKG, this pandemic has affected Swindon Book Co. Ltd. And that was confirmed when I saw this piece of news.

It's sad, but the next time I find myself in HKG, Swindon Book Co. Ltd. won't be there to welcome me anymore.

And another chapter in my book of HKG haunts come to a close.

She's got game

The Mahjong scene in "Crazy Rich Asians" is one of the parts that's worth watching over and over again.



First reason, I'm a huge fan of the game mahjong. From the first time I learned it from my Mom and Grandmother, until the Morales cousins started playing it in Bicol, until the Mahjong games we'd play with Mark and the IUJ gang in Japan. Each game is a study in skill and patience.

Then, the acting of Constance Wu and Michelle Yeoh in this scene was also top-notch. There's so much restraint, strength and heart - both in what they said and how they acted. And when Rachel let Eleanor win - both with Nick and in the game - that was the cherry on top.

Gosh! It's been years since I've last played mahjong! It's something Mark and I should do once this quarantine biz is finally finished.

Memorare Mondays

It's always good to start the week with a prayer, and as a Lourdesian and a firm believer of Mama Mary, this prayer is a great way to start it:

Mama Mary, pray for us.

In(Style)terrupted

An epiphany came to me after looking at the August 2020 cover of InStyle US featuring Drew Barrymore.

I have not seen nor bought an issue of InStyle since October 2019!

It's a combination of non-availability, the lockdown, and the fact that my brother wasn't able to come home to MNL this June. (He was supposed to bring my stash for the first 6 months!)

This is the longest time that my reading of InStyle was interrupted.

And I can't wait to resume reading this magazine soon!

Comedy is King!

This is so nice of Google.

They paid tribute to the birthday of the country's King of Comedy by putting him on today's masthead!

Yup, Dolphy deserves no less.

FMM: For He is worthy to be praised

This is one of my favourite church songs to sing. We used to perform this a lot when I was in the school choir both in Grade School and High School, and its message and meaning is something that has always and continues to fill my heart.



So, for this Friday, I want to say the lines most repeated in this hymn:

"I want to Praise You Lord, much more than I do."

Designing Trio

While the current global situation has almost silenced the fashion front, it's good to know that Target is keeping a sense of normalcy by continuing its designer collaboration line this summer.

And they don't have one, not two, but they have 3 designers who they're collaborating with for a collection of summer dresses.

There's Cushnie for something that's bright and bold, Love Shack Fancy for a more woodstock-y and bohemian feel, and Lisa Marie Fernandez for something that's more along the lines of summer romance.

Although this isn't the priority of people in the current situation, it helps to see these beautiful things as a reminder to see the beauty and joy in everything.

Shady Ladies

When "Golden Girls" was on air back in the 80s, I was supposed to be quite young to understand the "old lady" humour. But strangely, I did get it, and would often guffaw-out-loud at the jokes of Blanche, Dorothy, Rose and Sofia.

It's been almost 30 years since the series ended, but every time Golden Girls snippets appear on youtube, I'd still watch it and would still laugh at. Just like this wonderful collection of shade from the Fierce Four.



Hmmm... makes me wonder if the series is on Netflix. This is a show that's worth binge-watching!

Timely text

When Bonique sent me this screenshot of Tita Norma's post on Facebook, I told her that this was exactly what I needed and arrived at the right time.

This is what they mean when they say that true Frendz know what you need even before you tell them.

From one Capuchin to another

As a Lourdesian, I was educated by Capuchin Fathers. That's why I've always been drawn to Capuchin saints like St. Francis of Assisi - our School's patron Saint along with Our Lady of Lourdes.

Last year, Ate Bullet brought me closer to another Capuchin Saint, St. Padre Pio de Pietrelcina. And his immortal words are words that I've learned to live by since getting closer to him last year.

With all the trials and uncertainties, his words ring loud and true.

Pray, Hope and Don't Worry!

Today's important discovery

Today, I met and learned about St. Expeditus.

Thank you for hearing my prayer. I am forever grateful to you and all the saints who heard our collective prayers today.

I'll keep my promise to you.

What's Zap?

Another day, another chocolate-y discovery:

Goya Zap!

What's Zap with the chocolate bar? Well, it's so good, after trying it, it's all going Zap from there!

Okay, I can Ztap now.

FMM: More Moore!

It was a hit show back in the 70s, and it had an equally hit theme song. Back then, it was everyone's favourite show, and even Oprah swore to this show and its lead actress.

That show was "The Mary Tyler Moore Show."

Aside from the effervescence of its lead star, the show's theme song was also very happy and uppity. It was filled with hope and positivity, and filled the air with good vibes.



I think this is what we need these days.

Positivity.

Hope.

And the feeling that "we're gonna make it after all."

Office-ials!

After 4 months, we've finally seen the office again!

It was very, very short, but it was great to see our work space after so many months of being apart.

Here's hoping things will normalize and we'll be back soon.

Great additions!

The additions to the photo wall of my parents' Grandkids are finally here!

Now, the 2 Great Grandkids are accounted for.

So much love and cuteness in one wall!

Act of Chivalry

One of the snacks that has stood the test of time is one of my all-time faves.

Chivalry Pusit!

This brand has been around for ages! I think it's been around since I was in Grade School. It's something we would often buy in Greenhills, along with Cow Label and Twin Cow.

The taste combination of Chivalry is top notch. There's the first burst of sweetness, followed by savory then spice, then the unmistakable taste of the sea. Then, it goes back to sweet, which makes the taste go full circle.

And of course, the texture is another thing. It has the right combination of crunch and chewiness. It's the same taste and texture that made me crave for this as a kid, and until today!

I'm glad some things never change. Like Chivalry!

No(ah) argument there!

It's customary for Pinoys to teach foreigners Tagalog. And, more often than not, the first things they teach them are funny phrases.

Just like in the case of my grandnephew, Noah.

This is one of the Tagalog phrases that he can say:

Of course, he pronounces it as: "Puugeee ahkow."

Well, just one look at him and you have to agree. He's a "pogi" boy indeed!

Can't argue with that.

And incidentally, today is the birthday of his Dad, my eldest nephew - Jul!

Happy Birthday, Jul!

Hot Turkey

Presenting a discovery from today's TVC shoot.

Pringles has this limited edition flavour of Roasted Turkey!

I haven't tried it yet, but if it's really good, I'm going to be thanksgiving and buy a few more cans.

BBBB: Bonique's Belated Birthday Bash

It was a belated birthday get together for Bonique, but it didn't make it any less fun.

Especially since it was with D' Frendz!

Happy Birthday Bonique! We should have more get-togethers like this!

FMM: That's the way, Aretha!

Yup, I'm still having an Aretha Franklin moment.

This time, the song playing in my head is a hit song that she sang in 1985. An upbeat, dance ditty that's sure to make you stand up and rev up your dancing shoes. Until you go driving down the "Freeway of Love."



I'm digging everything about this - from the melody, lyrics, all the way to the MTV. It's a big Motown bonanza!

Definitely, there's no stopping Aretha from taking the wheel and driving away with our hearts with this song!

Turning Japan-eats

When Mark and I spoke last week, we were both waxing nostalgic about our hunt for eating places in Tokyo.

Usually, after church or after his classes, we would roam around Roppongi, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza and Ueno, looking for new places to eat. And in the few times I went with him to his office in Omiya, he introduced me to this nice, hole-in-the-wall sushi and nigiri place that was simply top notch.

When all this is over, and when Japan starts to accept visitors from the Philippines again, Mark and I will definitely go back. And when we do, I've spotted two places which will definitely be on our agenda.

A sushi place:

And a "monster ramen" place.

Just watching these videos make me hope that we can fly to Japan next week!

Packed to a Tea

A post about this bottled milk tea in Paranaque keeps on popping up my feed.

I must say, this tea is beautifully packed! The bottle looks very high-end, and the flavours look very promising. Especially the Toffee Milk Tea and the Hojicha Milk Tea.

If this tea pops-up in my feed again, I just might end up ordering it soon!

Of Royco and Uncle Rolly

One of the fond memories I have of our house in Morato - a story often shared with friends - is the story of when my Uncle Rolly took care of us while our parents were away.

Uncle Rolly is Mom's older/youngest brother. Older because he was 2-years older than Mom, and youngest because he was the youngest among the 5 Regalado brothers. In the Regalado clan, he was the original creative genius. He was a poet, a writer, a songwriter, and a composer. A true renaissance man.

Here's the story. He called us for dinner, and one of the things he cooked was our favourite Royco Alphabet soup. For those who don't remember it anymore, Royco was one of the most popular brands of soup in the 70s and 80s, and they were famous for their "Chicken noodle soup" and "Alphabet soup."

To our surprise, when we reached the dinner table, Uncle Rolly spelled all our names on our plates, using the letters found in the alphabet soup. I could imagine the labour he had to go through to do that for all 5 of us. Searching for each letter, fishing it out, then arranging it on our dinner plate. Yes, it was a lot of work, but it was thoughtful. And that was the type of Uncle he was - he would take great lengths to delight us nephews and nieces.

And delighted we were. You can imagine the thrill when we saw our names neatly spelled out on our plates. That made dinner much more special that evening.

That Royco story was one of the happy stories we shared with Uncle Rolly. Aside from that, there was the story of the entire clan going home to Bicol to attend his wedding to Auntie Baby (and the Manila kids - us - were part of the entourage.) And the last time I visited him in California in 2003, which is also the last time I saw him in person.

Yesterday, Uncle Rolly was given his angel wings and joined my Lolo and Lola, and his 4 older brothers in heaven. We might not be able to see him physically, but we know that his thoughtfulness, his creativity, his gentle nature and his music will always be with us.

We'll miss you, Uncle Rolly. Please continue to watch over us with your usual kindess, joy and music while you're in heaven.

Take a Sit!

Maybe Zalora was in such a hurry to post something that it forgot to spellcheck.

I mean, “Sitewide” isn’t a difficult word to spell, right?

Proofreader, please!

Give this girl some R-E-S-P-E-C-T

While looking for "Respect" on youtube, this oldie but goodie video popped up.

It's a video that has been on-line for quite a number of years now. It's a little girl from North Carolina named Johanna, who was performing her dance recital, a tap dance number to the tune of Aretha's classic tune.



I've seen this before, and I'm glad I saw it again today.

This girl's dance number, her energy and her sass really deserves respect!

Call of Carl’s

Really. I don't know why I do this to myself.

Even though the prospect of traveling - much more outside the country - is still far-fetched, I still go on-line and check out my favourite haunts in SG! That includes websites for The Editor's Market, Iora, MDS, Toast Box, and of course, Carl's Jr!

It's been more than a year since I last had Carl's Jr! That's like an eternity!

No kidding. When the travel restrictions are over and we can roam around the world once again, SG will be one of my first stops. 

And Carl's Jr. along with it!

FMM: Franklin my dear...

This week, they finally dropped the official trailer of the new Aretha Franklin biopic starring Jennifer Hudson.

The biopic was aptly titled after her biggest hit, which is today's Friday Magic Madness song.



With a voice and presence like Aretha's, from the start of her career in the 1960s until the end of her last song in 2018, she definitely earned, deserved and was accorded the very same thing her song preached.

Respect!

Some-Mosas!

Another craving satisfied!

Was finally able to buy Samosas from Assad Mini Mart. Aside from the usual Indian restaurants we frequent like New Bombay, Swagat and Naan, Assad is a great place to get Samosas.

Their crust has the right crisp and flakiness, the filling is packed and spicy, and their tamarind sauce is da bomb! I can actually drink that sauce on its own! (Don't worry, I haven't gone there yet.)

Samosas - check! Naan and Curry with Mark, you're next!

Whoa Taho!

After more than 4 months of not having this truly Pinoy concoction, I'm so glad that I was finally able to have it!

Yes, the Manong Taho in our compound is back! And he's now riding a bike with a roof, which is a lot more convenient for him.

Welcome back, Manong Taho! And welcome back, Taho!

Looking forward to having you more regularly this time.

Fantastic Feud!

Whoa! And I thought the 197 points of the Victoria's Secret Angel was astounding.

Then, I saw this:



Now that's very, very, VERY impressive.

No Feud over that.

TRES long, TRES good

This is the longest time that I've not gotten a haircut.

In my life.

Ever!

This 1st week of July will be the 6th month since my last haircut. Normally, I'd be freaking out and reciting that classic film line: "It's hard to think with all this hair!" But surprisingly, I'm not too bothered by my quarantine waves. Or, as a colleague calls it, my "Cersei hair."

One thing that makes my slightly longer hair more bearable? A shampoo that I discovered a few months ago.

TRESemme!

We have bottles and bottles of TRESemme at home, thanks to Tito Pacqui who supplies for Unilever and gives us boxes of Unilever products. One time, when I ran out of my usual Human Nature shampoo and their stalls were still closed, I thought of trying out their Detox and Nourish variant.

It felt good on my hair! It made it feel soft, smooth and manageable! (Yikes! I sound like a shampoo ad! Harhar.)

After that initial trial, TRESemme Detox and Nourish became my regular shampoo, and it looks like it's going to be the brand that I'll be using now, moving forward.

And thanks to TRESemme, I don't mind growing my hair longer than usual. Looks like this new mane will be part of the "New Normal."

Well, at least until my barber finds a way to get back to work. When that happens, ask me again.

Beauty and Brains

During the game show heyday of the 80s, channel 9 was filled with some of the best game shows in the U.S.

They had "The Price is Right," "Name that Tune," "Hollywood Squares," "Wheel of Fortune," "Press Your Luck," and of course, "Family Feud."

While I enjoyed all these shows - and I'll write about each one eventually - the one that I would be most engaged in was "Family Feud." The classic version, hosted by Richard Dawson, would pit 2 families together and they would try to guess answers from surveys done in America. That's the birth place of the classic line:

"Survey says..."

In fact, we even had a "Family Feud" game at home which my grandparents sent from the U.S. And during summer, we'd play the game with our neighbors.

The current version of "Family Feud" still follows the same format, but now with Steve Harvey as host. They still follow the 80s rules - two families fight it out, and the one with the most points goes to the jackpot round.

This round was exciting because 2 players will answer the same set of questions, and they should reach 200 points to win the grand prize.

Recently, I saw an episode from the current "Celebrity Family Feud," and the contestants for the jackpot round are Victoria's Secret Angels. Yes, the ethereal beauties won the first round, and it was time to find out whether they could continue to soar and win the $25,000 grand prize.

And to the surprise of Steve Harvey, the audience, and even me as a spectator, the 1st angel got 197 points! The highest record in the history of the show! Of course, the 2nd angel had it easy, and breezed through the final round.



These angels definitely have a good head on their shoulders!

End of the (Simple) Line

One of my former students posted this photo of our favourite tea store in front of SSC.

It's a melancholic photo, actually. It shows SimpleLine - boarded up and for rent. Which simply means it's already closed.

They must be another casualty of the pandemic.

I'll miss their Lychee Green tea with Aloe Vera and their Caramel Oolong Milk Tea with Grass Jelly.

I'll miss the Simple joy of SimpleLine.

FMM: Tumble We'd

Another week, another Friday Magic Madness song inspired by an earlier food post.

This time, it's an uppity 80s ditty from Boy George and The Culture Club, inspired by last Wednesday's Apple Crumble.

Yup, we all know where this is going.



Just like the goodness of Apple Crumble, songs of Culture Club never get old.

Bath Bomb!

When my Aunt in the U.S. mentioned this in a conversation, my first reaction was skepticism.

But after reading this article on-line, my heart sank! It's true!

The next time I visit the U.S., there will be much less Bath and Body Works and Victoria's Secret stores!

Say it isn't, so, Bath and Body Works! Say it isn't so!

I Crumble for ya!

Nope, this is not about a Boy George and the Culture Club song.

It's about the fact that Dad brought home an Apple Crumble Cake from Dough and Co. last night!

This was one of the first things I bought from Landers when they opened here in Manila, and it's still one of the things I buy whenever we find ourselves there.

The last time we had this at home was around 9 months ago, so imagine my excitement when I found out that we have a pan of this heavenly apple cake here at home.

Let's get ready to crumble!

This is sheet!

Baby steps. Baby steps.

First, it was getting a new gas oven. Second, it was getting it to actually work! (Those were 2 different things.)

This weekend, I was finally able to go to SM Department Store to buy a couple of baking sheets for cookies! That's the third step!

Looks like I'll be back to baking really soon!

Confusing numbers

When I saw this latest promo alert from Zalora, I was a bit confused.

Their promo title usually reflects the amount of added discount that you get.

So, I'm not sure if the discount here is 34% or 35%? Or maybe it's the title that's wrong? Should it be "34STRETCH"?

Oh, what is it? What is it?

Proofreader, please.

Dad’s the way I look

This is a photo of my Dad when he was just a few years older from my current age.

Further proof that I am definitely what my relatives say. I'm a carbon-copy of my Dad.

Happy Father's Day!

Oh, Love ya!

Baby Olivia is looking prettier and more charming everyday!

Hope to see you this December, you super cute and uber adorable baby girl!

FMM: Way back when...

This week, D' Frendz and I were chatting and Mona mentioned the line: "Noong unang panahon."

Of course, like the usual D' Frendz conversations, this suddenly went a totally different direction, and we were suddenly talking about that old song from "Tales of the Manuvu." Particularly this song:



"Noong Unang Panahon" is a memorable song for me. We performed this in our High School Glee Club, and we "toured" around different campuses and venues performing this song. Our teacher, Mr. Ortega, prepared a full number of songs from that musical, and our number was introduced as: "Overture from 'The Tales of the Manuvu.'"

It started as a song, transitioned into a dance, then culminated in a battle. And it was a hit everywhere we went.

Gosh, that was so long ago. Now, looking back at it, this really felt like it was "Noong Unang Panahon."

Missing Mulan

If the pandemic and community quarantines didn't happen, they would have shown Disney's live action version of "Mulan" already. And chances are, Mark and I would have already watched it.



Unfortunately, like most films, the showing has been pushed back until things go back to the "normal-normal" and theatres can open and accommodate people again.

Who knows? Maybe like Aquaman, we'll get to watch this the next time we travel to the U.S.

Traveling abroad, and watching this Mulan film, gosh, I miss both.

It's been so long, Solis!

Back in 2004, another Fab 4 invaded our TV screens. After The Beatles, and just right after the 4 ladies of SATC, they stormed the airwaves with their unique brand of dramedy with a touch of mystery.

That Fab 4, of course, are the Susan Mayer, Lynette Scavo, Bree Van de Kamp and Gabrielle Solis, or the "Desperate Housewives."

Just like SATC before it, each of the 4 housewives were characters on their own, with their own key personalities and strengths. Susan was the level-headed one, Lynette was the boss, Bree was Mrs. Perfect, and Gabby was the fashionista socialite.

While they were all funny and interesting as characters, I found Gabby Solis - played by the gorgeous Eva Longoria - as the one who was the funniest. With her questionable skills as a wife and a mother, plus her unmatched skills in fashion and style, it was the perfect combination for a fiery firecracker of a character.

One of my favourite scenes from "Desperate Housewives" was when Gabby went shopping. It showed her at her element, and her funniest.



Since reunion shows are the rage these days, someone should consider doing a "Desperate Housewives" reunion - even for a few episodes.

It's been so long, and it would be great to see Gabby Solis again.

Standing error

You would think “Ovation” is a pretty easy word to spell, right?

Apparently not.

Proofreader, please!

Chef-fing good!

Even as a kid, sandwiches have always been my thing.

Early childhood memories consist of my Mom's freshly-prepared sandwiches in my lunch box. The same sandwiches that I'd devour during recess time.

Sometimes, they'd be neatly wrapped in plaid paper napkins, other times in zip-locked sandwich bags, or if she'd prepare cold sandwiches - the type that has cold cuts and crisp veggies, it would be wrapped in Reynolds aluminum foil. 

That's how sandwiches became part and parcel of who I am. And it's also why I enjoy making sandwiches for other people whenever the chance comes. These include people at home, during get togethers with D' Frendz, during slow afternoons at the office, at our faculty meetings in SSC, and sometimes for my students as part of an activity.

This weekend, I re-watched the film "Chef" on Netflix.

The film - about a hotshot chef who leaves the restaurant scene to open a food truck serving Cubano sandwiches - is one of those films that I don't get tired of re-watching. Heck, it's about a sandwich! And the first time I saw this, I ended up making grilled cheese sandwiches a few hours after.

Aside from the great sandwiches, the film also had a great cast. The combination of Jon Favreau, Sofia Vergara, John Leguizamo, Bobby Cannavale, and Oliver Platt gave the film an organic feel to it. They carried the film with such ease that it was easy to forget that several A-list Hollywood stars were in it as well. Like Dustin Hoffman, Robert Downey, Jr. and Scarlett Johansson.

After watching the film, that sudden urge to make sandwiches overcame me again. Too bad I left my panini press at the office, and in school. So, grilled sandwiches were off the menu. I had to contend with a regular sandwich with my favourite Goya Double Hazelnut Spread as filling. 

And of course, while I was eating that sandwich, I re-read the Panini cookbook that Mark gave me a few Christmases ago.

Gosh! I do hope I get to make these hot-off-the-press sandwiches again soon. 

It's been too long.

Camp Royal

Sometimes, Disney comes up with the most strangely entertaining film plots and premises.

And I'm actually on board with these films, especially if they have an element of fantasy, sci-fi or heroism in them.

Sometimes, the films can come across as slightly campy, especially with how they treat the villains, but hey, it's part of the film and ups the entertainment value. And because of that, I'm on board!

The "Witch Mountain" films were part of this genre and I thoroughly enjoyed. The first film "Escape to Witch Mountain" was shown when I was still a baby, but I remember watching it on VHS when I was in High School. The second film - a remake of sorts - "Return to Witch Mountain" was shown when I was already working, and of course, it was a film that was worth watching. Mainly because of my fascination with the first film.

While watching youtube, a trailer for a new Disney film popped up. After watching it, the feeling was similar to that thrill of watching "Witch Mountain." Yes, it has all the potential to be campy, it has a strange, underdog-ish, outcast-ish plot, but it definitely has a high chance of being entertaining.

With that, let me present the trailer for "Secret Society of Second Born Royals." (The title alone gives you an idea of how campy this can get.)



I've got a feeling this will be a bit "Sky High"-esque, with a smidge of Mission Impossible thrown in. Strange combination, yes, but you can't knock it until you've seen it, right?

Question is, will I be able to see it, though.

That's Fresh!

Clean, pristine and unassuming scents have always captured my olfactory fancy.

In a survey that was given to me ages ago, I listed "freshly-laundered bedsheets" as one of my all-time fave smells. It goes up there along with "freshly-opened balikbayan boxes."

That's why in terms of cologne or perfume, I've always gravitated to those unassuming scents that smell like soap, or fabric conditioner, or newly-ironed t-shirts. That's why "Clean" is and will always be my top pick. Their "Cotton" series (Warm Cotton and Cool Cotton) is still part of my repertoire. When they discontinued "Cotton T-Shirt," it was such a bummer for me.

Last March, when we had to buy liquid hand soap for the house, the Watsons branch I went to only had one scent left. It was this very plain, very clinical and very aseptic variant called "Fresh Clean."

When we eventually got to using it, I was just flabbergasted!

The scent was AWESOME! It was pristine and unassuming - just the way I like it! The scent was very mild, very quiet, and very clean. Heck, if they had a shower gel that had this scent, I'd buy it in bulk! They don't have it yet, but I'm hoping they will have it soon.

After this discovery, I'm not buying any other variant except this. Well, if I can help it.

FMM: Tuned into Filipino

As we celebrate the 122th anniversary of Philippine Independence, it's only apt that we have a Filipino song for today's Friday Magic Madness.

Having heard how OPM has changed in the past 4 decades, I'd like to think that the 70s and 80s were really the heydays of Filipino music. These decades were so rich with talented singers, beautiful melodies and meaningfully powerful lyrics.

These decades saw groups such as The Hotdogs, VST and Company, Circus Band, Music and Magic, The New Minstrels, and so many more. And don't get me started on the great singers of the 70s and 80s! That topic deserves multiple entries!

One of my favourite groups from that era was "The New Minstrels." Though I was too young to appreciate their music back then, it stuck to my mind and was able to go back to their music when I was older and could appreciate it more. Particularly this song from the 70s, which is very apt and relevant for Independence Day.



"Ikaw at Ako, Makakapatid," is a great reminder that no matter what differences we have, we are all Filipinos, and in turn, siblings through our country. A country who's Independence we celebrate today.

Happy Independence Day!

Let's (Man)Go!!!

During today's 7-11 run, I was standing near the ice cream freezer while in line for payment, when I inadvertently looked down and saw something inside the freezer.

It was a bright, yellow tub of Selecta Ice Cream, and it was part of their summer flavours collections. And on the lid were 2 of my favourite words in one name.

Mango. Mochi.

Yes! Selecta had Mango Mochi Ice Cream!

Of course, we all know how this one ended. We're having Mango Mochi ice cream for dessert tonight.

Maid for the music

It's play on music and musical score is one of the reasons why I'm into "The Handmaid's Tale" a lot. They have this way of weaving in modern, pop music with the dark and dystopian feel of the series.

One of my favourite scenes is a study on how beautifully interwoven these 2 things are. It's the scene from Season 3 when Serena Waterford burns her house in a suicide attempt. June saves her from the fire, and the song that punctuates the blaze is just sheer genius.



It helps that this Boomtown Rats ditty is a such an iconic song, and also, one of Biboy's faves! I thought that song couldn't get any better, but when they placed it in front of those disturbing visuals - plus June's last line to camera - it was genius!

Yup, that scene was definitely made!

Peanut Better

Yes! I have a new cheap thrill!

Presenting, Cloud 9 Peanut Butter.

The first time I tried this was February, pre-CQ, at the Mini-Stop near the office. Immediately, I fell in love with the peanut-buttery goodness of this Cloud 9 variant. It was like eating Reese's Peanut Butter cups, with a bit of a crunch!

I was so, so, SO craving for this during the ECQ period, but there was no Mini-Stop near where I lived. But this weekend, when my Dad and I eventually ventured out to pick up some stuff I had printed, we finally stopped by a Mini-Stop branch and bought a few.

Once again, cravings satisfied!

End of Regina's Era

This is a sad day for Greenhills geeks like me.

As a kid, there were 3 places I'd never miss visiting in Greenhills: Fun House for funny and weird stuff, Nova Fontana for toys, and Regina's for almost everything else.

Regina's was a treasure trove of items - particularly imported ones. Back when imported candies weren't as readily available as they are now, Regina's was the place where you could buy Lifesavers, Bubble Yum, Hubba Bubba, and a host of other imported sweets.

They also had a lot of imported novelty items, like Trapper Keepers. They had imported cologne, like Nenuco and De Ne Nes. They had imported toys, like Cabbage Patch Kids. They pretty much had everything.

It was my personal black hole as an elementary school kid. When I was inside Regina's, I'd stay there for at least an hour, browsing through every shelf, examining every nook and cranny.

As I grew older, Regina kept its same charm. But they had more items in store, including imported overruns, which I'd frequent. Before H&M opened in Manila, they already had H&M overruns there. I'd buy baby gifts there, too. And they even had imported magazines! So, they pretty much had everything I wanted.

The news that they're closing down was swift and shocking. It was expected that small businesses would suffer during this pandemic, but never did I think that Regina's would be one of them.

I just hope that they have a proper send-off before finally shuttering their doors. A place with such a storied history, and an impalpable role in the lives of Gen X-ers, deserves nothing less.

No longer a (Gilmore) Girl

The first time I saw Alexis Bledel, it was as Rory Gilmore in the US TV Series, "Gilmore Girls." This small town Dramedy was one of my guilty pleasures back in the 2000s, and I actually started following it when I was living in HKG and they would show it on TV.

Her turn as Rory had a great combination of humor and vulnerability, that's why I was hooked on the series. Of course, Lauren Graham's role as her Mom, Lorelai, made the series great to watch, too.

Since she was already a great actress as a teen, I knew Alexis would grow up to be a great adult actress as well. And I'm thrilled that my theory was proven correct.

I've seen her turn as Emily in "The Handmaid's Tale," and I'm still impressed. She still has that vulnerability that she had as a teen actress, but she also shows strength and power - especially when she defended herself from Aunt Lydia, escaped to Canada, and eventually working for a group that saves people from Gilead.



Aside from Elisabeth Moss as "June," Alexis Bledel is one of the reasons why I'm anticipating the return of the next season of "The Handmaid's Tale." (Which I am a fan of, as early as the 1990s film with Natasha Richardson and Faye Dunaway.)

Haw i’ve missed you

It’s been almost 3 months since i’ve last had these yummy snackers, and i’m SO glad that I was able to get some from the store today.

Hello again, Haw Flakes! Oh how i’ve missed you!

FMM: For real, really!

Today's Friday Magic Madness song was inspired by my post last Wednesday on Juss and Real Potato Crisps.

This song was actually the inspiration for the title of that post:



It's a song from Donna Summer from 1989, and it's one of her signature catchy, poppy and upbeat dance songs. This is actually a dangerous song, because after listening to it once, it has a tendency to stick to you head and become an LSS.

Just like what's happening now. It's playing in my head over and over again already.

And this time, I know it's for real!

Fashionably Clean

Among the many "pivots" that happened during this ECQ, one of the most interesting ones for me is how local fast fashion and lifestyle brands were quick to find ways to stay relevant in this precarious time.

One such brand is Bench.

As early as March, they've shown that they're not all frills and frivolity by producing more of their signature product - Bench Alcogel! Yes, for those who are not aware, Bench actually pioneered this Alcogel industry in the Philippines. Back in the 2000s, almost everyone had a bottle of it in their bags and it was a must-have for those who want to keep their hands clean and safe.

So, they produced more of that product and distributed it to hospitals and frontliners. They also made it more available for people looking for alcohol in the market, at that time when alcohol was gold and you couldn't find it in supermarket shelves anymore.

Aside from alcohol, another thing that quickly disappeared from shelves is Lysol. The last time I was able to buy it was early March, and after that, it was so difficult to find Lysol anywhere. In supermarkets, drugstores, convenience stores - the product was snapped up so easily that it was almost impossible to find it.

At that point, I was hoping that a manufacturer or a cleaning brand would come up with their own version of a disinfectant spray as an alternative to Lysol. Thankfully, some brands did.

One such brand is Bench.

While looking for a disinfecting spray on-line, this product popped up on google.

Yes, their Alcogel formulation was now available in an aerosol spray! Like Lysol, it was designed to eliminate viruses and germs, it has 75% alcohol, and it has a nice, powdery scent. Needless to say, I was sold on it. And bought it.

Now, we keep our surfaces germ and virus free the fashionable way - with Bench!

(And oh, just when our stocks for this product arrived, so did Lysol. It was suddenly back in supermarkets in different variants and sizes again! Of course, I had to buy those, too.)

Juss time I know it's for Real!

Just when my cravings for Juss’ Peach Juice and Real Potato Crisps were at an all-time high, my orders were finally delivered. FINALLY!!!

Cravings Juss satisfied. For Real!

Jumping to June

When this entire ECQ started in March, one of the concerns of people is that time would drag on slowly since everyone is just at home and not allowed to go anywhere or do anything. (Well, anything that requires you to go out of the house.)

But lo and behold, we're now on the 6th month of the year!

Yes, just like the years before it, this year is zipping by at a remarkable speed.

Anyway, I like the June calendar heading of this one because it's more than just fun, but it also carries a relevant message. Many people are worried and concerned about the current goings-on, but this calendar reminds us not to.

Okay, half of the year is done. Let's jump to it and do something awesome with the next half of the year!

WATN: But First...

Today is the First of June.

It's an eventful day of sorts. Not only is it the first day of the 6th month of the year, but it's also the first day of the GCQ, which means the Metro is slowly inching its way back to normalcy.

And since this is the First of June, I suddenly wonder: Where's FOJ?

FOJ or First of June is a all-girl group that was a hit in the 90s. They had an eponymous single which talked about their group's name, and the lyrics still ring in my head until now:

"F.O.J. is the name of the posse, 
rocking the house, we've got the ability...
Do what we want, do what we please...
Music is hot, so get on your feet.
Check out Benj, Alana and Teri...
We have the right, we have the authority..."

Yes, it was cheesy. But it was so much fun!

Kuya Ers and I were followers and fans of this group. In fact, we would watch the group when they would perform in Music Hall in Greenhills. Mainly because they were really fun to watch and had a lot of happy, poppy songs.

Later on, they were renamed "Vanna, Vanna" and still enjoyed considerable success after that. They had songs like "He Loves Me," and "Hurting Inside."

When the 2000s rolled along, the group disappeared. I think some of their members moved abroad, which led to the group disbanding. One of their members - Teri - continued on performing with the group U-Turn. And I remember watching her in Katipunan once or twice.

Since reunion concerts are a thing now (Spice Girls, Backstreet Boys, etc.), maybe FOJ could do a reunion show here in Manila.

Kuya Ers and I would probably be one of the first to watch that, too.