Next time I Paul

Since I haven't been to a Uniqlo store - particularly my favourite branch in Megamall - for over a year, the internet is my only source of information regarding the brand.

It was only through the net that I discovered about their collaboration with Anna Sui. (Got a few shirts and a dress from this collection.)

And as it turns out, their next collaboration is something worth Paul-ing for!

Yup, it's Paul & Joe for Uniqlo!

Excited as I am for this collaboration, I'll have to just look at it online.

WATN: Mohr is Less

While watching "Pay it Forward" on Netflix a few days ago, this question popped in my head:

"Where's Jay Mohr?"

Back in the late 90s to early 2000s, he was one of the Hollywood leading men to watch. After his stellar turns in Jerry Maguire, Picture Perfect, 200 Cigarettes, among many others, he was poised for an upward trajectory on the big screen.

And he did follow that trajectory, making films continuously until he fell off the radar when the 2010s came rolling in. After that, his appearances were few and far between, and the last notable film I saw him in was "The Incredible Burt Wonderstone."

Given his great acting skills and comedic chops, I wonder why he doesn't appear in Hollywood films more often now?

This Mohr is currently a lot less.

Printed Matter: Toile, we meet again

The moment - as in the microsecond-that I saw this print, it was covet-it-at-first-sight!

Not only was it Toile du juoy, it was also in my favorite color - red. But wait, there’s more! It also,had bird prints which is always a plus.

Best part is, this print is the print of this pretty dress that’s perfect for summer.

No wonder it went from the screen to my cart in seconds!

Rejoice!

This will be the 2nd year that we're celebrating Palm Sunday virtually.

The Palm Sunday Mass is one of my favourite masses during the Holy Week. There's such an uplifting feeling each time the congregation lifts up and shakes the palms while the priest walks through the sea of palms, blessing them.

It's such a joyous sight that harks back to the time when Jesus walked through a rejoicing crowd, with Palms in the air. When I read the bible as a kid, I'd play this scene in my head. Then, when films and TV shows came out depicting this scene, it was exactly what I had in my head.

I also miss spending Palm Sunday with Mark in Tokyo, particularly in the Franciscan Chapel. They give away palms there for free, same as they do in HKG. But the Palms there look quite different from the very ornate Palms we have here in the Philippines.

We might be at home again for Palm Sunday this year, but we celebrate and remember with joy the start of the Holy Week.

Not Weak at all

From the time she won the 1st edition of American Idol, I've always been a Kelly Clarkson fan.

In fact, her music has been part of my adult life. When I moved to HKG, she "accompanied" me since I'd play her "Breakaway" CD each time I'd feel antsy or melancholic. For years, her CD was on repeat at home - almost everyday! Especially "Since U Been Gone."

It's been almost 20 years since she won that singing contest, and Kelly is still considered as THE most successful product of these reality shows. 

There are many reasons for her success. First, obviously, is that voice! Powerful, evocative and distinct. Second, she's dynamic, not sticking to just one kind of genre. Third, she reinvents herself. While a singer first and foremost, she's also a host and a judge. Fourth, she's an inspiration. 

Recently, I've been binge-watching the "Kellyoke" portion of her talk show, and it never fails to put a smile on my face. Her renditions of popular songs from the past is just stellar.

Just like her rendition of the classic SWV ditty, "Weak."

While I'm a massive fan of SWV and there's no one who can sing this song as well as they can, Kelly's version is at par and not weak at all!

FMM: Getting Wind

Seawind, that is.

This is a popular Jazz group in the 80s, and Dad had a cassette tape of the group.

Their lead singer, Pauline Wilson, was half-Filipino, which is also why Dad liked their group a lot. Pauline Wilson eventually sang solo, and she's best known of her wonderful ballad "Follow Your Road" and "Stay."

That song deserves an FMM post of its own, of course.

But today, let's listen to the group where she started. Here's the 1st song from that tape:

Wat cha doing? Listening to Seawind! 

It's a Friday, after all.

Her Feast. Her Faith.

Today is The Feast of the Annunciation!

My heart is always filled with joy and my mouth breaks into a smile every time I hear this story. A story that we relive each time we pray The Angelus, and a story that we commemorate again today.

One of the lessons that the church always highlights when they tell this story is Mama Mary's Faith and how she fully placed her trust in God. An act that's immortalized in her line that is written in Luke 1:38:

"Behold, I am a handmaid of the Lord. Be it done to me according to your word."

Mama Mary's faith is truly astounding.

Shirt Tales

If only the shirts in my closet could talk, these are the things they’d probably say:

“When are you taking us out?”

“Are we going to work yet?”

“Can we go to the Mall?”

Gosh! The last time I wore one of these shirts is a year ago. Seriously!

Maybe I should start wearing them as pajamas. Just to get to use them.

Donut tempt me!

Three things that I'm bonkers over: Oreos, Strawberries, Donuts.

Somehow, all three have come together for this:

Strawberry Frosted Donut Oreos!

Unfortunately, though, these are only available in the U.S.!

Time to contact my siblings and hopefully find a way to get this back to MNL!

LFLTAT: Modern Filipino

One of the classic looks for Pinoys is the barong and black pants combo. It's become a staple that it works for any occasion - whether it's for an event or as daily office wear.

And while it's considered "traditional," there's always a way to modernize it and bring it to daily living.

Just like this Bench ensemble from Shopee!

The top is a barong-style shirt, made of crisp, white cotton and with embroidery on the side, like a barong. This was paired with a pair of black trousers that are wide-legged and with a belt.

Together, it's an outfit that's a modern take on the barong-black pants outfit. Best part is, this cost about P800! 

How's that for a patriotically fashionable deal?

Hudson High

Because of yesterday's post on "Dreamgirls," I suddenly wondered what Jennifer Hudson is doing now.

Aside from "The Voice" which she judges, and her upcoming "Aretha" biopic, what else could she be doing.

Turns out, she's been busy with a lot of things, including this:

Whoa! JHud's rendition of one of my favourite songs from Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, and later on, Diana Ross.

It's true that there ain't no mountain enough for this powerful voice.

After the Dream

The 2006 film version of "Dreamgirls" is a memorable film for me.

When it was released, I was still living in HKG and remember that it was one of the first films that I took the time out to see on the big screen. If memory serves me right, it was in IFC, right after work, on the first day of its commercial run. Blame it on the good reviews, especially about JHud's performance.

It turns out that the film didn't disappoint. Although there were some moments of cheese, and there were some song renditions which wasn't as great as the musical version (hello, Jennifer Holliday!) overall, the film was pretty good.

And when the DVD was eventually released at HMV, I bought a copy to re-watch the film at home.

One of my favourite parts of the film is actually a cliffhanger in the end. During the final scene where Effie White finally reunites with The Dreams, this happened:

From the first time this scene played, until now that I'm watching it again, the thought in my mind has always been: "What happened after?"

Did Curtis find out that Magic is his daughter with Effie? Did Effie tell Curtis the truth? Did Magic find out that Curtis is her Dad?

It would be great to have a part 2 of this film, if only to get an answer.

FMM: Reminisce

Gosh, it's hard to believe that it's been a year since the first Community Quarantine status was implemented in the country.

Back then, it was such an odd feeling to see most of the country empty and deserted. No people, no cars, almost nothing on the streets. Watching it on TV, it felt like it was a scene from a Hollywood film, but it was real.

A year after, it feels like some things haven't changed, and some other things feel normal, now that we're in that much touted "new normal." And since we're in the mode of reminiscing, this would be a good time to play some "Little River Band" on today's Friday Magic Madness.

Listening to this song makes me just want to go back reminiscing to the late 70s when things were so much simpler and less frenetic as now.

WATN: Palmer reader

Back in the 2010s, one of the most recognizable and most often seen faces in Hollywood is that of Australian actress Teresa Palmer.

She was part of some of the biggest Hollywood hits, and a lot of those were films I watched, mainly because of her. Among them, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," "I Am Number Four," Wish You Were Here," and of course, "Warm Bodies." (Loved her here, and loved the film, too.)

While she was known for these films, especially the last one, let's not forget that the was also in the Adam Sandler starrer, "Bedtime Stories" as a Paris Hilton-esque like heiress.

While most of her early work were very light, fantasy and comic in theme, she eventually showed her more serious acting chops. Her turn in "Hacksaw Ridge" was emotionally inspired. And it was the first time she was in a period piece, which was refreshing.

After that film, though, Teresa Palmer sightings on screen were few and far between. Even until now. 

I've been checking online articles to see if she has a film coming up soon. But there's none in the horizon just yet.

Hope she makes a Hollywood appearance again soon. 

Egg-ed on

There seems to be a salted egg festival at home today.

While checking out our snack area, I discovered these:

Salted egg potato chips, salted egg mushrooms and salted egg bagnet!

Looks like snacking is going to be egg-citing!

Rolling in the Dip

I'm a YanYan kid! Growing up, one of the things we never fail to buy in Unimart is YanYan.

You can never go wrong with this snack. Crispy, crunch biscuits dipped in rich, chocolate. Each crunchy bite is sublime! The chocolate is so good that I'd often save it for last, finishing the biscuits first then scooping the chocolate with my fingers. Sublime!

It's such a classic that even through high school, college to my working years, I've been noshing on YanYan non-stop, especially after they came out with more flavours like strawberry, milk and double chocolate.

A few years ago, they came up with a choco-hazelnut variant, which is most likely an offshoot of the Nutella craze. It was okay, but my loyalty was still with the original flavor. (Okay, and with strawberry.)

But last week, a discovery made me change my mind on choco-hazelnut. It's this product from my snack haunt:

Fineti Dips!

Fineti is a brand that sells choco-hazelnut spreads. I'd often buy this brand for the office whenever I'd make my choco-banana sandwiches. And as it turns out, they also have a biscuit-and-dip product. Which is really good!

To add to its kiddie appeal (which also appeals to me), it also has a freebie on the pack - either an eraser, sharpener, or stamp! Sweet!

Now, Fineti and YanYan will be 2 dips that will share a space on our snack pantry.

Faith to 500!

Yesterday was a special day for Filipino Catholics all over the world. 

At 5:00pm - Philippine Time - Pope Francis officiated a mass at the Vatican in Rome to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the coming of Christianity to the Philippines. And the Faithful attended the mass - at the church, on their TV screens, and online - to celebrate this momentous event for our country and our Catholic Community.

The procession was led by a Santo Nino, commemorating the arrival of the first Catholics in Cebu. They gave an image of the Child Jesus as a gift, and it heralded the beginning of the faith in the Philippines. Whenever I go to Cebu, I make it a point to drop by the Basilica of the Sto. Nino to relive that moment.

Needless to say, the live online broadcast was well attended by Filipinos worldwide. As the mass started, there were already more than 20,000 tuning in, and it climbed as the mass went on.

As expected, the homily of Pope Francis was inspiring and heartwarming. He talked about how God is a very generous God,  highlighting the phrases: "God so Loved," and "God gave."

He also talked about loving and giving. Part of his homily said: 

"The more we love, the more we become capable of giving. That is also the key to understanding our life. It is wonderful to meet people who love one another and share their lives in love. We can say about them what we say about God: they so love each other that they give their lives. It is not only what we can make or earn that matters: in the end, it is the love we are able to give."

Such love-filled and lovely words from a Pope who has showered our country with so much love. A love we feel from across the globe as we celebrate 500 years of the Catholic Faith.

Notice that?

“Further Notice.”

It’s a universal and commonly used phrase that’s easy to understand and easy to spell, right?

Apparently not.

Proofreader, please.

Soup-er!

One of the changes that happened the past months in our community is that the neighbors get to interact more. 

The past few years, everyone was so busy with their own work and lives that we didn’t really know who our neighbors were, much less talk to them or get to know them. But starting 2nd quarter of 2020, everyone started going out and getting to know each other more.

When mid-year came along, it felt that the compound was more of a community, with everyone greeting each other, asking about each other, spending afternoons in the common areas catching up (with face masks and social distancing), and asking if anyone needs help with anything.

Also, people started being more neighborly. Nowadays, it’s common for neighbors to share food with other neighbors. For no reason at all. Just because.

One of them, a Bicolana who lives a few units away, makes this yummy Korean inspired soup with so many good stuff inside! It’s her own recipe that she loves sharing with Mom and me whenever she cooks it.

The soup tastes good as it looks. It’s very hearty and flavorful, and it’s good on its own, or as a side dish for one of Mom’s signature viands.

It’s super how everyone is now nicer these days.

FMM: Shining Example

There are certain songs that evoke a very special vibe for me.

They're songs that transport me to another place and time, both of which are give out very happy feels. It's something that's difficult to pin or concretise, but it's a feeling that's in my gut and makes me feel good.

I've previously written about some of the songs under that category. One of those is Odyssey's "Native New Yorker." And here's another, also from that same era of the 70s. 

"Shine on, Silver Moon" by Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr. has a hypnotic sound to it. Which is why whenever the music plays, a feeling of calmness just envelopes the area. Which is what good music should do.

That's why this music will always be a shining example in my playlist.

Home, (Elizabeth and) James, Home

While Kohl's is continents away, siblings have a way of bridging that gap.

Thanks to the efforts of Ate Lissa in UT and Biboy in GA, the brand that I've been eyeing for a while now has actually reached our shores, and our home!

Yup! My Elizabeth and James haul has finally arrived!

And I'm so excited about it!

WATN: Chris crossed

Blame it on Chris Evans' turn as the latest celebrity endorser for the local telco brand - Smart. Now, people have renewed interest in celebrities named Chris.

In our D' Frendz group, there was a poll of their favourite "Chris." 

It included Chris Evans, Chris Pine, Chris Hemsworth, Chris Pratt, among others.

But my personal choice for "Chris" wasn't in the list.

That, of course, is Chris Evert! 

Yup, the iconic tennis player of the 70s and 80s. I'd watch her matches on TV as a kid, and thought she was so cool.

I wonder what she's up to now.

Loving Locally

It's been almost 6 years since my discovery of the local juice brand "Locally."

Back then, it was just being introduced in 7-11 in Ortigas, and several factors drew me to it. These include the unique flavours, the eye-catching label, plus the pun-ny names. Eventually, after trying it out, the product turned out to be as good inside as it was outside.

As years progressed, they expanded their formats. After launching with the bottle, they eventually ventured out into smaller cans. Then, they had bigger packs for families who enjoy sharing refreshing juice drinks with unabashedly local fruit flavours.

Our family is one of those families, of course.

Yup, our fridge never runs out of Locally! Especially the Tamarind which is an all-time fave!

They say we should love local, that's why we're also loving Locally!

Spotted and Pinned!

This is so cool!

A photo that I took last year made it to spot's "10 Random Photos to Start Your Week" yet again!

Sometimes, an eye for funny mistakes - like this "Sharskpin" debacle - has equally fun results.

One-one-one-derful

If Lolo Iking were still around today, he'd be celebrating his 111th birthday!

Happy Birthday in heaven, Lolo! And thank you for always watching over us and guiding us from up there!

Dalgona but not forgotten

It's been almost a year since the first Community Quarantine status was implemented in the country.

That means it's been almost a year since we were introduced to Ube-Cheese Pandesal, Burnt Basque Cheesecake, Baked Sushi and Dalgona Coffee.

Yup, them food trends that were brought about by the whole CQ situation.

While some of those trends are still pretty much around, some of them have laid low. One of those under the "laid low" category is Dalgona Coffee. It's rare that people talk about it or write about it anymore.

Except for me. Because of this particular discovery.

Yes, there's Dalgona Coffee Wafers! It was something that I found (and bought) at one of my online snack haunts.

Let's see if this is enough to revive that forgotten trend.

FMM: By Association

One of the cassette tapes that Dad had which I'd always filch and play was the tape of that popular 60s group "The Associations."

Their sound and songs had a very Sunday drive and happy vibe. That's why it would usually be playing in my room on weekends, while I'm playing with my Lego toys or reading Questor magazines.

Among my favourite "The Association" songs is my chosen Friday Magic Madness song for today. It's none other than "Goodbye, Columbus!"

Their sound actually reminds me a bit of Fifth Dimension, but with a bit of The Beach Boys thrown in.

And that combination is the best combo to listen to on a Friday such as this.

View from the Balconi

 Oh, the things you discover when you spend most of the day on the computer.

Today's discovery is Balconi Strawberry Cake! 

Saw this at one of my online food haunts and it looked so yummy. Plus, everyone knows I'm a huge fan of strawberries. Ergo, anything that has the word "strawberry" to it is an add-to-cart situation for me.

Plus, looking at the photo in front, it just looks so supremely delish! The multi-layered cake, plus the filling, plus the toppings. Yummers!

Can't wait to try this later!

Black and White: Two (non) colours, two ways

While I'm a huge fan of bright colours, it doesn't mean that I can't appreciate the beauty of basic black and white. In fact, there have been a few posts on this blog about this combination of (non) colours.

Today, there will be an addition to that post, as there are 2 new and chic outfits which were recently delivered by Lazada.

The first one, a very French-looking pair, again from the Lucy Torres-Gomez x Kashieca collaboration.

You've seen this pair of trousers before. The wide-legged trousers which Ate has in caramel and blue. Now, there's a black pair in the mix. It's paired with a striped knit top, which makes this combination very nautical.

The 2nd outfit is a skirt and blouse combo, also from Kashieca.

The white top has an extended sleeve and a zippered front. It's very loose and relaxed, which is great for the coming summer months. The skirt is a mixed fabric skirt, also in black and white, with polka dot prints in 2 sizes. It's such a breezy outfit that will definitely be a summer staple.

Two very different outfits giving out 2 very different vibes, but tied together with a black-and-white theme. 

You can say it's two-chic for its own good!

Color Story: The Primaries

If you looked at my Crayola box as a kid, one glaring thing is the fact that red and blue were the shortest crayons in the box.

The reason was simple, they were my all-time favourite colours and would use them non-stop.

It's a combination that still has my heart until now. That's why when these 2 separate items popped up on my Lazada page, it was "add to cart" immediately!

It's a knit top in red, and the wide-legged trousers (that has appeared on this page several times already) in blue. Both from the Lucy Torres-Gomez x Kashieca collaboration.

This primary combination - just like my fascination for the hues - will never grow old.

What’s the Occasion?

 

It's Zalora Occasion!

Apparently, there's another sub-brand under the Zalora name. I'm familiar with Zalora Young, Zalora Basics and Zalora Core. But a few weeks ago, while browsing the Zalora site, the discovery that there's yet another sub-brand presented itself.

Zalora Occasion is a collection of party dresses and more fashionably unique options. Going through this section of the site, there were a lot of more luxe fabrics like lace, jacquard, silk gazar and silk charmeuse. Their dresses also have more embellishments like velvet, gross grain, even beadwork and crystals. Just like this dress from the collection that ended up in my cart. And at home.

For the price paid for this dress (less than P400), it's definitely a steal. The fabric was silk, the beadwork carefully sewed on, and the design, very chic! If this dress were in Zara, it would probably be in the P3000 level.

Looks like I'll be in this section of Zalora on more occasions.

Think before you click

 It's a truism not just for social media, but for online journalists as well.

Observe:

The online editor must have clicked "publish" too early. He or she didn't even notice that there's information missing and still pending.

Online proofreader. Please!

Off to Neptune!

Although the name John Kaizan Neptune may sound a bit odd, his music definitely isn't.

In fact, his music is so easy to the ears and soothing to listen to. And after a full week at work, relaxing sounds are very welcome this weekend.

So, let me indulge my ears to some John Kaizan Neptune this Saturday.

With this type of music, you can take me to Neptune anytime.

 

FMM: Labelle, ma belle!

I've been watching a number of Patti Labelle videos the past few weeks.

From old concerts to recent interviews, from tributes to surprises. In any form or format, she's really a joy to watch. That's why I've been watching her a lot.

For today's Friday Magic Madness, the Patti Labelle theme continues. But today, we go back, way back to where she started. That is, with the group "Labelle" and their iconic song, "Lady Marmalade."

There's nothing like the original. Especially when it's Patti.

Lovely Lucci

The story of Susan Lucci is the stuff of legends.

She was nominated for Best Actress in the Emmy's for 19 years, but never won. Her losing streak was so legendary that it became a part of American Pop Culture. To be nominated and never win would make you: "The Susan Lucci of _______."

But like the Soap Opera where she appears, her story came with a twist.

On her 20th nomination, she won!

You can tell by her speech that she's a gracious winner. Her speech was so heartfelt, and the part about her kids as part of why she only won now was truly lovely!

Stories like this can't help but make me smile.

Texas Pool boys

Ate Lissa and family have finally moved to TX! This makes me excited because TX has a special place in my heart. 

When we were in Mexico for the Exchange Programme, we'd often crossover to TX to get our fix of all things American. Among them is Tex-Mex food, which is sorely missed by my tummy and pallette. With their move to TX, particularly near Houston, will be able to get more legit Tex-Mex food easily! 

Not only that, their new home in TX has a swimming pool! Which makes me think that our visits there should be in summer to make full use of the pool But as early as now, it looks like Miguel and Noah are enjoying it already!

We'll swim with you there soon, boys!

I see ya, Ikea!

Whoa! The Ikea store in MOA is almost complete! 

After all that anticipation and the long wait, it's so gratifying to see Ikea finally hitting the local shores!

Question is: will people turn up in throngs when it opens?

We shall see.

Best Laid Plaids part 2

Back in the 90s, plaids were a big trend.

From shirts, shorts, jackets, even Tretorn shoes, you can find plaids in different colours. 

Since then, the pattern has been finding its way back to fashion in one way or another. In one decade after the other.

Just like right now.

After my plaid outfit post last month, we have another one:

This outfit from Bench takes a more classic route. The plaid skirt is in pretty primary hues of blue and green, with an A-line cut, with functional pockets in front. Echoing the blue, a navy blue tee completes this outfit.

And before you think that the blue tee is your usual design, check out the back!

Now, that's a fabulous plaid outfit!

Play Time

One of my favourite J. Lo songs is a song that wasn't a huge hit. Well. compared to her mega-hits like "Love don't cost a thing," "Jenny from the Block," "Waiting for Tonight," among others, this song was pretty low-key and didn't enjoy as much airtime as I hoped it would.

"Play" is one of those songs that I can listen to 20 times in a row and wouldn't get tired of it. Maybe it's the soothing electronica undertones, or that beat that makes you want to bob your head while listening to it. I'm not sure what it is exactly, but hey, there are some things you can't explain.

In the meantime, in the words of this song: "Let me hear it one more time!"

The Write Stuff

Today, I taught my class about the proper use of punctuation marks in writing. 

In the midst of the lesson, a song suddenly popped in my head. It's a classic song from "The Electric Company" which was dedicated to the apostrophe.

Yesterday until today, The Electric Company is a great way to learn English.

Will probably share this link with my students, too. It's a fun way to learn about the subject.

FMM: Always believe in...

Yes, today's Friday Magic Madness song is a mega-hit from the 80s that's a long time coming:

And it's also a very apt song in celebration of Biboy's birthday. Sung by his fave British group, no less. 

Quoting 2 Spandau Ballet songs: I know this much as true, you are Gold, Bibs! 

In more ways than one.

House that?

 

As I mentioned to Mark, seeing this makes me miss our Pancake House dinners at Shang and our random and occasional afternoon merienda at the branch across the office.

I wonder if they’ll have this promo at the nearby Ali Mall Branch.

And wishful thinking: I wonder if they’ll have this on Food Panda. Harhar.

It would be great if we can enjoynthis promo of Pancake House at the house.

Golden Moments

When we were kids, Biboy and I were the quintessential "cat and dog." 

Our fights back then were very "kiddie," but epic! Usually, it would be about very shallow things - like toys, games, the TV, stuff like that. These would vary from fist fights, hiding each other's toys, chasing each other down Scout Gandia, and other things that - looking back - make be chuckle.

Maybe it was because we were opposites in a lot of ways. He liked Spandau Ballet while I preferred Duran Duran. He listened to Madonna while I'd listen to Cyndi Lauper. When musicians banded together to help the famine in Africa, he was team "Band Aid," while I was team "USA for Africa." Robot-wise, he liked Mazinger Z while I'm a Voltes V fan.

Not that we were complete opposites, though. We both liked BMX biking, Lego, Questor Magazines, and playing out in the street with the rest of the Gandia kids. We'd spend our summers biking around the Scout area, going to Baraquiel's Bike Shop along Morato, and trying out different "exhibitions" on our bikes.

As we grew older, our "cat and dog" slowly became "birds of the same feather." We got along more, and realized that we have a lot more in common. In High School, we both went to LSQC and he was a batch ahead of me. Because of this, he would protect me from bullying and would often have his classmates to help. In college, even if we went to different schools, we helped each other and had each other's back.

Eventually, we graduated and started working. He worked in Laguna, Bulacan, and eventually moved to Davao City. We would always look forward to his visits to Manila because it was the first time one of our siblings moved away. But it's true that distance makes the heart grow fonder, because we felt closer even if we were islands apart.

In 1996, he got married and made me his Best Man. That was really an honour! I also helped out in organizing his wedding, which was what inspired me to eventually be a part-time wedding planner.

Then, in 2002, he moved with his whole family to GA, which was way, way farther than Davao. 

Just like when he moved to Davao, his move to the US kept us closer. After all, we had Ooma and the Internet. We also looked forward to our trips to GA to visit him, and his trips to MNL to visit us.

Despite the many visits, one stood out the most. In 2019, when I got sick, he dropped everything and flew to Manila to check-up on me. And that meant the world - and the universe - to me. It was one of the reasons why I got better as fast as I did, seeing Biboy and having him around for weeks. 

As Biboy celebrates his Golden year today, it makes me break out in a big smile while remembering all these moments shared together. From our "cat and dog" childhood to our "birds of the same feather, flock together" adulthood. 

These moments make me extremely grateful to have a brother who's worth his weight in Gold!

Happy Golden Birthday, Biboy! Let's celebrate soon!

The Joy of being Kate

Effervescence and Joy are 2 things that best describe Kate Hudson.

From her personality to her roles in a lot of her films, she's always that bubbly, joyful gal who lights up the room with her smile and demeanour. Thinking of her in "How to Lose a Guy in 10 days" and "Bride Wars" still brings happy memories until now.

That's why she's an apt cover girl for InStyle's March 2021 issue which banners Joyful Optimism. 

We all know, of course, that there's almost no way to get this new issue here in Manila. *sigh*

Then again, seeing her on the cover is already something to be joyful about.

P.S. Gosh! She looks like she doesn't age!

You can stand under my Fiorella... ella... ella...

Another day, another yummy discovery.

After the Fiorella wafer bar from a few weeks back, I became interested in the brand and researched what other yummy offerings they have.

That led to the discovery of this Fiorella Crunch White!

It's a good balance of texture and flavours. From the creamy, white chocolate to the thin, crispy wafer, to the hazelnut filling. Each one is subtle, so when meshed together, each profile works and blends together.

What other yummers hides behind the Fiorella brand? That, we'll have to find out.

Black lace and promises

It’s been almost a year since i’ve Last stepped into an H&M store. And for me, a year with no H&M is equivalent to 5 years! Harhar.

My promise was once things ease up, i’ll visit the one nearest the house - either Gateway or UP Town Center and buy something. Let’s show H&M some support!

But it turns out the promise would be kept at a nearer branch - their online store at Zalora!

While the selection isn’t as vast as their physical stores, there were still some interesting buys. Like this black lace dress.

What made it more interesting? The fact that it was on sale. And really cheap!

And with this online purchase, part of my promise was kept.

Zoomin' back

After almost a year, Becky convinced me (very easily) to go back to teaching. 

But of course, the "new normal" mode of teaching is on Zoom!

I missed teaching. And while I miss teaching face-to-face in a classroom more, this is one step to doing that.

Let's zoom into the semester!

FMM: Harry and Mama Mary

Debbie Harry and Blondie has a special place in my memory and my heart.

This is the cassette tape we'd usually listen to when we'd take a long road trip from Manila to Albay as kids. Sometimes, I'd be the one sitting in front of the car and it would be my job to flip the tape when Side A was done and we'd listen to Side B.

Yup, we were old school that way.

From then on, I had an affinity both for Blondie (the group) and Debbie Harry (the lead singer.) It was an affinity that continued even when Debbie Harry went solo and churned out hits on her own.

Now, yesterday was the Feast of our Lady of Lourdes. I've said this many times that I have an affinity to Our Lady because I'm a Lourdesian and we studied her life in our CL classes every year. Mama Mary has also been a huge part of our lives - from childhood to present.

So, today's Friday Magic Madness song is a combination of these two women:

Debbie Harry's "Maria" was one of the songs she recorded during her comeback in the 90s. It was written by a long-time collaborator - Jimmy Destri - and is about his Catholic School upbringing. It might not exactly be about Mama Mary, but since it has a reference to Catholicism, I'm assuming that it might be about her as well.

After listening to this song, I have the urge to visit the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Retiro - the church where I used to go as an elementary and high school kid, the church where I used to sing, and the church where I used to perform the "Transitus" and other religious performances.

Soon. I'll do that soon.

Laugh Trip

Let's make Thursday a Throwback Thursday!

Mom showed me this very, very, very old photo that made me smile. And laugh!

It's a photo of Dad, Mom and me on a trip to Baguio. With us during our trip is my honorary Ninong, the laugh-master himself, Tito Bert "Tawa" Marcelo!

From what I remember of Tito Bert, he lived up to his name. He was always jolly, joyful and laughing. And he made sure that everyone around him would do the same.

He was also a very generous Ninong. Generous materially, generous with stories, generous with his time, and generous with his laughter.

That's why his name is perfect. Really perfect.

Green day

While I've been able to avoid the "Plantito" trend during the past few months, it doesn't mean that plants don't thrive at home.

Last Christmas, I received 2 plant gifts, and they're growing pretty well.

This week, we have a new "plant baby" at home. It's Mamu's gift and he actually arrived last week. And he came in a really cool and monogrammed pot. Nifty!

Our house, and my day, just got a bit greener.

Flights of fashion

My fascination with avian prints date way, way back to my childhood. Back then, I'd pore through encyclopedia just to learn about different members of the avian family.

This fascination was also buoyed by the fact that the family had a pet Eagle. His name was "Freedom" and I'd go inside his cage everyday to feed him fish and chicken. As a kid, I'd marvel at watching Freedom take flight, and how majestic his wings were while flying.

When I was asked to lead our Boy Scout Troop in grade school, I named our troop the "Osprey Falcons." In high school, we had a group project for the Music subject and we became known as "The Mallard Ducks."

As an adult, whenever there's a clothing item with an avian print or design or embroidery, consider it sold! 

Even if you look at the history of my Christmas wrapping themes, there were 2 years that my choice was a design with birds as part of the pattern.

Plains & Prints has had a lot of themes and designs with avian patterns. You'll find these items in my sister's closets, of course. Upon seeing how their "Euphoric Hope" collection had 2 dresses with different birds, fly to their store, I did.

Why? Because of these 2 spectacularly beautiful dresses from that collection:

A shift dress with a pleated skirt and an ornate print of exotic birds.

And this Toile de Jouy print with an interesting asymmetric detail.

Thanks to Plains & Prints, my sister's closet will once again soar in style.

Hilarious Hostel

There are commercials that make me laugh even if I've watched it several times.

Here's one of them:

It's always great when a celebrity can poke fun at herself.  And this hostelworld commercial shows that Mariah Carey doesn't take herself - or accommodations - seriously.

Taho-ly Moly!

That's one big taho!

Not just big, it's a Giant!

Thanks again, Mamu! Now, my long-standing taho cravings were satisfied.

In a big way!

M so excited!

Magnolia Bakery came into my consciousness due to 2 things:

1. It's Julia Roberts' favourite bakery. And given how much I'm a big fan of hers, anything that the Jules loves is a huge hit for me.

2. The owner of Sonja's cupcakes worked at THE Magnolia Bakery in NYC. And in my mind, if her cupcakes are SO good, what more the original?

Since then, it was a goal to try their cupcakes. Even if I had to go to NYC to try it.

Luckily, though, they opened a branch in Omotesando in Tokyo.  It quickly became one of the go-to places that Mark and I frequented when we were there. 

Memories of relaxed afternoons, sitting in Magnolia with Mark, enjoying 2 or 3 types of cupcakes, a slice of cake, and beverages still make me smile. To. This. Date.

Eventually, Magnolia Bakery opened in the Philippines in 2018, in BGC. But due to the crazy lines and crowds, there was no rush to go there. After all, I've already had my Magnolia fix several times in JPN, and that was enough to keep the sweet cravings at bay.

While we had plans to try it out, it never really happened. Then, of course, 2020 happened, and that quashed the chances of trying Magnolia Bakery even more.

Until yesterday!

Thanks to Mamu Cecile who gave me this:

Yup, she got Raspberry Lemon Cupcakes and Muffins from M Bakery. (I'm assuming they couldn't use Magnolia here because of Magnolia Ice Cream.)

Biting into those heavenly cupcakes brought me back to those relaxed weekends in Omotesando with Mark. So, yes, it's as good as the one in JPN. Whether it's as good as the OG in NYC, that remains to be seen.

Now, I'm looking forward and excited to actually going there and trying out more cupcakes with Mark. 

FMM: C'est You, C'est Me

Obviously, I'm still reeling from the Simone Rocha x H&M collaboration.

For today's Friday Magic Madness Song, I'm going all the way back to the 60s. It's a song by a singing and acting goddess, Eartha Kitt. 

You heard it right! Catwoman herself! Before putting on that iconic catsuit, she was - first and foremost - a singer. And one of her famous songs was a French one.

Yes, this is the song that inspired the title of this post on Simone Rocha.

The more you know. (Shooting star!)

The Fifth Element

I've discovered a new youtube black hole!

Watching "Plead the Fifth" on Andy Cohen's show, "Watch What Happens Live."

I can watch this all day! (And I've been doing that on weekends. Sporadically. But the whole day. Harhar.)

Simone says!

After watching this video, I'm even more interested to see the Simone Rocha x H&M collaboration!

A few more weeks...

A few more weeks...

A few more weeks...

Say Cheeze!

Since Hokkaido Cheese is a "thing," I couldn't resist buying this:

Now that I've got the "buying" thing done, it's the "trying" thing that I have to do next. And no, I haven't gotten around to opening the pack and actually tasting this interesting wafer flavour. There are still too many unopened snacks that were bought earlier, and I've got to try those first.

LFLTAT: Bench warmer

One of the places I've been frequenting the past few months - albeit online - is Bench.

With their presence both in Shopee and Lazada, it's akin to "visiting several branches" of this local fast fashion giant. But instead of hopping from mall to mall and branch to branch, I just hop from website to website, from the comforts of home and my ad hoc workstation. Before, visiting a Bench website or online store wasn't really appealing, but now, I've been warming up to the concept more and more.

As always, Bench doesn't disappoint in terms of fashionable clothing at reasonable price points. Back in 2019 and early 2020, I'd very regularly drop by Bench stores in Megamall, Galleria, Glorietta, UP Town Center, The 30th, and Shangrila, almost on a weekly basis. (Daily, in some cases.) And more often than not, I'd walk away with a bag of goodies which are usually LFLTATs.

The past months, I've also had a lot of LFLTAT purchases online, but never got around to documenting them. But as they say, better late than never, so let me start February with my first Bench LFLTAT.

These 2 items - a pair of wide-legged jeans and a cold shoulder top in a dainty print and colour - were purchased from their payday sale. So, not only is it discounted, you get additional discounts when you purchase more than one item. (Which was easy to do considering the loot they had.)

It's an outfit that has a boho-chic, 70s vibe, and the whole ensemble cost less than P800. There were actually shoes in their online store that was less than P200, but they didn't have Ate's size. Boo!

But still, this outfit is a great deal considering the quality and design of the clothes. And while I miss visiting Bench's physical branches and getting lost in great buys, shopping for it online ain't bad at all!

(Still, I'm missing my daily trips to their branches at The 30th and Megamall!)

P.S. Yes, that top is the same top from my proofreading post. Yes, it might have lacked an "h", but it didn't lack style. Harhar.