Saw this ad earlier this evening --
Made me cry.
Also made me want to go to McDonald's and get fries and a chocolate sundae. (I don't eat them together -- but Johann does. O_o)
Thursday, January 15, 2009
More on books --
So Johann came home from Manila last Monday and gave me a copy of Rumors, the second book in the Luxe series by Anna Godbersen.
Like the first book, this one was a page-turner and I finished it in two afternoons (during Seth's nap time) --
Now I'm itching for the third book, which will be released late this month.
The good news is, I'm looking for non-romance novels to read and I now have Mary Poppins by P.L. Travers on my bedside.
It's a bit difficult to scrounge for a book to read right now because Johann and my sister are in "Fantasy-mode" and I don't read Fantasy. (They are currently reading The Ten Thousand by Paul Kearney -- which is like 300 but has 10000. <-- Johann's blurb. O_o)
Like the first book, this one was a page-turner and I finished it in two afternoons (during Seth's nap time) --
Now I'm itching for the third book, which will be released late this month.
The good news is, I'm looking for non-romance novels to read and I now have Mary Poppins by P.L. Travers on my bedside.
It's a bit difficult to scrounge for a book to read right now because Johann and my sister are in "Fantasy-mode" and I don't read Fantasy. (They are currently reading The Ten Thousand by Paul Kearney -- which is like 300 but has 10000. <-- Johann's blurb. O_o)
Monday, January 12, 2009
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Starting the year right --
When I was doing my year-end lists, I was a bit appalled by my list of Top 5 books. It took me quite some time to remember the non-romance books that I read in 2008.
Just so I don't have the same problem at the end of 2009, I've been spending the first few days of 2009 reading.
So far, I've finished:
1. Born to Buy: The Commercialized Child and the New Consumer Culture by Juliet Schor <-- I've seen this book many times at the bookstore but never bought it because it was hardcover and too expensive. It went on sale recently and I asked Johann to get me the copy. Very interesting read --
2. The Gospel of Judas edited by Rodolphe Kasser, Marvin Meyer and Gregor Wurst <-- saw the documentary on National Geographic and was curious
3. The Luxe by Anna Godbersen <-- a YA novel. This was referenced in one review of Gossip Girl and was curious about it. I was able to find a cheap copy and couldn't put it down. Had to sleep late for 2 nights straight. ^_^
It's a series and book 2 (Rumors) is currently available in hardcover format (saw this at National Bookstore Katipunan the last time I was there) and the paperback edition will be released late January.
I'm also tempted to reread Nigella Lawson's cookbooks but I haven't yet -- considering that my sugar/diet is being strictly monitored, I'm not sure it's a good idea. ^_^
* * *
On packing bags for my hubby --
My hun cannot fold clothes or pack a luggage to save his life. If I let him have his way, all of his clothes would end up wrinkled and the space wouldn't be maximized. So I pack for him.
He needs one of these:
He left for Manila today. Last Monday, I asked him whether he planned to (a) check-in his bags. He answered no, he didn't want the hassle of waiting for his small bag to roll around in the luggage carousel.
Then he went over to our cabinet and looked at the clothes that had just come back from the laundry.
This is how geeky he is -- he told me, "Hun, pack my superhero shirts." O_o
He also has this shirt, btw:
* * *
Which one is the video camera?
Me, Johann and my youngest brother chipped in and gave one to my sister for Christmas. It's a nifty little thing that can actually record 60 minutes of video! And you can connect it to your Mac via the USB. ^_^
We first heard about it in MacLife where it was reviewed. It was also reviewed in Real Simple. It comes in many colors and is actually quite affordable. ^_^
More info here.
* * *
Oh, yes, we also got Pocky --
When we saw the Giant Pocky in the box my bro sent from Japan, I went "Whoa" -- and then worried about how Seth was going to eat it. (He hasn't yet -- and we might not let him.)
To date, Seth has already consumed the Milk Pocky and has started on the small chocolate Pocky. He is so cute when he asks "Open Pocky Please." >_<
I'm seriously thinking of starting a Pocky of the Month Club -- sending out a Pocky flavor every month to everyone who subscribes to it.
Insane idea, I know. ^_^
* * *
This also came with the Pocky --
Another laugh-out-loud moment was unearthing these two from the box my brother sent.
<-- it's the Mugen Puchi Puchi (INFINITE Bubblewrap!!!) <-- there's a Wii version, btw.
And the other one is the Mugen Periperi. (INFINITE box/letter opening experience!!!)
We're giving these as gifts to two unsuspecting (poor them) friends. ^_^
Just so I don't have the same problem at the end of 2009, I've been spending the first few days of 2009 reading.
So far, I've finished:
1. Born to Buy: The Commercialized Child and the New Consumer Culture by Juliet Schor <-- I've seen this book many times at the bookstore but never bought it because it was hardcover and too expensive. It went on sale recently and I asked Johann to get me the copy. Very interesting read --
2. The Gospel of Judas edited by Rodolphe Kasser, Marvin Meyer and Gregor Wurst <-- saw the documentary on National Geographic and was curious
3. The Luxe by Anna Godbersen <-- a YA novel. This was referenced in one review of Gossip Girl and was curious about it. I was able to find a cheap copy and couldn't put it down. Had to sleep late for 2 nights straight. ^_^
It's a series and book 2 (Rumors) is currently available in hardcover format (saw this at National Bookstore Katipunan the last time I was there) and the paperback edition will be released late January.
I'm also tempted to reread Nigella Lawson's cookbooks but I haven't yet -- considering that my sugar/diet is being strictly monitored, I'm not sure it's a good idea. ^_^
* * *
On packing bags for my hubby --
My hun cannot fold clothes or pack a luggage to save his life. If I let him have his way, all of his clothes would end up wrinkled and the space wouldn't be maximized. So I pack for him.
He needs one of these:
He left for Manila today. Last Monday, I asked him whether he planned to (a) check-in his bags. He answered no, he didn't want the hassle of waiting for his small bag to roll around in the luggage carousel.
Then he went over to our cabinet and looked at the clothes that had just come back from the laundry.
This is how geeky he is -- he told me, "Hun, pack my superhero shirts." O_o
He also has this shirt, btw:
* * *
Which one is the video camera?
Me, Johann and my youngest brother chipped in and gave one to my sister for Christmas. It's a nifty little thing that can actually record 60 minutes of video! And you can connect it to your Mac via the USB. ^_^
We first heard about it in MacLife where it was reviewed. It was also reviewed in Real Simple. It comes in many colors and is actually quite affordable. ^_^
More info here.
* * *
Oh, yes, we also got Pocky --
When we saw the Giant Pocky in the box my bro sent from Japan, I went "Whoa" -- and then worried about how Seth was going to eat it. (He hasn't yet -- and we might not let him.)
To date, Seth has already consumed the Milk Pocky and has started on the small chocolate Pocky. He is so cute when he asks "Open Pocky Please." >_<
I'm seriously thinking of starting a Pocky of the Month Club -- sending out a Pocky flavor every month to everyone who subscribes to it.
Insane idea, I know. ^_^
* * *
This also came with the Pocky --
Another laugh-out-loud moment was unearthing these two from the box my brother sent.
<-- it's the Mugen Puchi Puchi (INFINITE Bubblewrap!!!) <-- there's a Wii version, btw.
And the other one is the Mugen Periperi. (INFINITE box/letter opening experience!!!)
We're giving these as gifts to two unsuspecting (poor them) friends. ^_^
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Last post for the year! --
Happy Thoughts for the Year
1. Seth and Sidekick #2
2. My little romance novel business =^_^=
3. My Macbook
4. 1030 to 12nn from Mondays to Fridays <-- when Seth's at his Toddler class. This is my time for myself.
5. My family
Things I'm Looking Forward to
1. Turning 31<-- it sounds like a good age to be
2. Meeting Sidekick #2 in April
3. Watchmen the Movie <-- ohpleaseohpleaseohplease ...
4. Seth's 3rd Birthday <-- we didn't celebrate his 2nd but I'm thinking of celebrating his 3rd
5. Being able to drink coffee again after April (and, hopefully, going to Singapore before December 2009) ^_^
1. Seth and Sidekick #2
2. My little romance novel business =^_^=
3. My Macbook
4. 1030 to 12nn from Mondays to Fridays <-- when Seth's at his Toddler class. This is my time for myself.
5. My family
Things I'm Looking Forward to
1. Turning 31<-- it sounds like a good age to be
2. Meeting Sidekick #2 in April
3. Watchmen the Movie <-- ohpleaseohpleaseohplease ...
4. Seth's 3rd Birthday <-- we didn't celebrate his 2nd but I'm thinking of celebrating his 3rd
5. Being able to drink coffee again after April (and, hopefully, going to Singapore before December 2009) ^_^
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
And more lists --
5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Me
1. I love office supplies <-- I like to make sure we are prepared for everything. Every chance I get, I buy extra ballpens, scissors, paper clips, etc. When I travel, I make it a point to visit office supplies stores in other countries. I usually end up buying blank index cards (for Gocco), notebooks, interesting ballpens, etc.
This Christmas, one of our Christmas gift ideas was giving Dymo Labelling Kits to the 'tweens but Johann vetoed it -- saying, "Hun, not everyone shares your love for office supplies."
2. I get excited trying out new bath products. <-- new shampoo, new conditioner ... but not so much on new toothpaste flavors. We recently tried the Apple-flavored toothpaste of Colgate and Johann loved it. I kinda grew into it but I'm still not a big fan. O_O
3. Every year, on my birthday (for three years now), I get a Hayao Miyazaki/Ghibli DVD. The Cat's Return in 2005, Howl's Moving Castle in 2006 and Ged's War Chronicles in 2007. This year, I was thinking of what to ask my brother for my birthday and Ponyo on the Cliff came to mind. Too bad it isn't scheduled for release yet. ^_^
4. My two favorite bread spread mixes: Butter + Strawberry Jam, especially on white bread and Peanut Butter + Nutella
5. My three favorite ice cream flavors are: Sebastian's Chocoholics Anonymous, FIC's Raspberry Rapture and Selecta's Coffee Crumble.
5 Things I miss in Manila
1. Friends T_T
2. Walking around Ateneo <-- especially now that I'm pregnant, I miss being able to "exercise"
3. Good decaf coffee <-- I miss coffee...
4. Dairy Queen and Cinnabon
5. Riding the LRT2 to Gateway <-- Although, I have a feeling that I won't like it so much when I'm actually faced with the opportunity -- it's the idea of it more than anything
5 Things that made me go "WOW"
1. Barack Obama winning the US Presidential elections
2. The ups and downs of the Peso-to-Dollar exchange rate <-- also the stock market
3. My first taste of Galbi
4. Opening ceremony of the 2008 Summer Olympics <-- especially the fireworks and the drums. Some parts were a bit slow and boring.
5. My Macbook =^_^=
1. I love office supplies <-- I like to make sure we are prepared for everything. Every chance I get, I buy extra ballpens, scissors, paper clips, etc. When I travel, I make it a point to visit office supplies stores in other countries. I usually end up buying blank index cards (for Gocco), notebooks, interesting ballpens, etc.
This Christmas, one of our Christmas gift ideas was giving Dymo Labelling Kits to the 'tweens but Johann vetoed it -- saying, "Hun, not everyone shares your love for office supplies."
2. I get excited trying out new bath products. <-- new shampoo, new conditioner ... but not so much on new toothpaste flavors. We recently tried the Apple-flavored toothpaste of Colgate and Johann loved it. I kinda grew into it but I'm still not a big fan. O_O
3. Every year, on my birthday (for three years now), I get a Hayao Miyazaki/Ghibli DVD. The Cat's Return in 2005, Howl's Moving Castle in 2006 and Ged's War Chronicles in 2007. This year, I was thinking of what to ask my brother for my birthday and Ponyo on the Cliff came to mind. Too bad it isn't scheduled for release yet. ^_^
4. My two favorite bread spread mixes: Butter + Strawberry Jam, especially on white bread and Peanut Butter + Nutella
5. My three favorite ice cream flavors are: Sebastian's Chocoholics Anonymous, FIC's Raspberry Rapture and Selecta's Coffee Crumble.
5 Things I miss in Manila
1. Friends T_T
2. Walking around Ateneo <-- especially now that I'm pregnant, I miss being able to "exercise"
3. Good decaf coffee <-- I miss coffee...
4. Dairy Queen and Cinnabon
5. Riding the LRT2 to Gateway <-- Although, I have a feeling that I won't like it so much when I'm actually faced with the opportunity -- it's the idea of it more than anything
5 Things that made me go "WOW"
1. Barack Obama winning the US Presidential elections
2. The ups and downs of the Peso-to-Dollar exchange rate <-- also the stock market
3. My first taste of Galbi
4. Opening ceremony of the 2008 Summer Olympics <-- especially the fireworks and the drums. Some parts were a bit slow and boring.
5. My Macbook =^_^=
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Still more lists --
5 Discoveries for 2008 --
1. There's no such thing as an A Cup when you're pregnant
2. One of my dad's friend's mom cooks the most amazing Chinese-style roast beef
3. Dave's Fun House is fun for Seth (he plays there) and fun for me (some "me" time to shop and do my errands)
4. Pretzels at Tinapayan, when freshly cooked, is an amazing salty-soft treat
5. I love Macs and Apple and everything Steve Jobs
5 Favorite Places - Iloilo
1. Booksale
2. Bourbon Street <-- ribs, yum!
3. Kim's Bob <-- samgyupsal, bibimbap, yum!
4. SM Department Store <-- you'd be surprised of all the great, inexpensive things you'd find there
5. Puerto Real Clubhouse <-- Seth loves to wade in the pool and walk around the covered basketball court
5 Favorite Places - Manila
1. Krispy Kreme <-- funny enough, I don't eat Krispy Kreme when I'm in Manila. We usually buy a box or two and bring it home to Iloilo and eat it there
2. Pepper Steak <-- A and G convinced me it was a good idea and I have been converted
3. The two bookstalls at UP AS Walk
4. Trinoma <-- Powerbooks, Iora, Debenhams, Gymboree, Healthy Options ... all happy places
5. Starbucks/Seattle's Best <-- when Seth napped, Johann and I would "sneak out" and have coffee and enjoy each other's company ^_^
... to be continued tomorrow. ^_^
1. There's no such thing as an A Cup when you're pregnant
2. One of my dad's friend's mom cooks the most amazing Chinese-style roast beef
3. Dave's Fun House is fun for Seth (he plays there) and fun for me (some "me" time to shop and do my errands)
4. Pretzels at Tinapayan, when freshly cooked, is an amazing salty-soft treat
5. I love Macs and Apple and everything Steve Jobs
5 Favorite Places - Iloilo
1. Booksale
2. Bourbon Street <-- ribs, yum!
3. Kim's Bob <-- samgyupsal, bibimbap, yum!
4. SM Department Store <-- you'd be surprised of all the great, inexpensive things you'd find there
5. Puerto Real Clubhouse <-- Seth loves to wade in the pool and walk around the covered basketball court
5 Favorite Places - Manila
1. Krispy Kreme <-- funny enough, I don't eat Krispy Kreme when I'm in Manila. We usually buy a box or two and bring it home to Iloilo and eat it there
2. Pepper Steak <-- A and G convinced me it was a good idea and I have been converted
3. The two bookstalls at UP AS Walk
4. Trinoma <-- Powerbooks, Iora, Debenhams, Gymboree, Healthy Options ... all happy places
5. Starbucks/Seattle's Best <-- when Seth napped, Johann and I would "sneak out" and have coffee and enjoy each other's company ^_^
... to be continued tomorrow. ^_^
Friday, December 26, 2008
More lists! --
5 Favorite Books
Admittedly, I was reading a lot of romance novels this year -- especially towards the latter part.
1. The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
2. The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
3. The Search for Delicious by Natalie Babbitt
4. Uncle John's Bathroom Reader series <-- not really a book-book
5. Private Arrangements by Sherry Thomas <-- a romance novel written by a Chinese-American (who only learned English when she came to America)
5 Favorite TV Series
1. Weeds
2. Pushing Daisies
3. Dead Like Me
4. Entourage
5. Dirty Jobs
also Ugly Betty, Avatar and Big Bang Theory
5 Favorite Magazine Finds at Booksale
1. Romantic Times
2. MacLife and MacWorld
3. cheap copies of Real Simple
4. Games <-- I get this for my youngest brother
5. Ready Made <-- newer issues are very hard to find! >_< I usually find 2006/2007 issues. Bleh.
also Parents, Cookie and Bookmark.
5 Favorite Comic Books
1. Avengers Fairy Tale
2. Green Arrow/Black Canary
3. Batman by Grant Morrison
4. Plain Janes: Janes in Love <-- a TPB
5. Umbrella Academy Series 2 <-- well... I've actually never read this because it just came out but the first series was AMAZING and I'm sure the second one will be just as good (if not better)
... more tomorrow. (If anyone wants me to list a top 5 of something, just let me know. ^_^)
Admittedly, I was reading a lot of romance novels this year -- especially towards the latter part.
1. The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
2. The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
3. The Search for Delicious by Natalie Babbitt
4. Uncle John's Bathroom Reader series <-- not really a book-book
5. Private Arrangements by Sherry Thomas <-- a romance novel written by a Chinese-American (who only learned English when she came to America)
5 Favorite TV Series
1. Weeds
2. Pushing Daisies
3. Dead Like Me
4. Entourage
5. Dirty Jobs
also Ugly Betty, Avatar and Big Bang Theory
5 Favorite Magazine Finds at Booksale
1. Romantic Times
2. MacLife and MacWorld
3. cheap copies of Real Simple
4. Games <-- I get this for my youngest brother
5. Ready Made <-- newer issues are very hard to find! >_< I usually find 2006/2007 issues. Bleh.
also Parents, Cookie and Bookmark.
5 Favorite Comic Books
1. Avengers Fairy Tale
2. Green Arrow/Black Canary
3. Batman by Grant Morrison
4. Plain Janes: Janes in Love <-- a TPB
5. Umbrella Academy Series 2 <-- well... I've actually never read this because it just came out but the first series was AMAZING and I'm sure the second one will be just as good (if not better)
... more tomorrow. (If anyone wants me to list a top 5 of something, just let me know. ^_^)
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Time for the lists! --
Well, Christmas is done and we're counting down to 2009 --
5 Things I Love About Living in the Philippines
1. Cheap, overnight, trackable delivery
<-- I love 2go and Air21 and their amazingly efficient service. We sent a gift to our inaanak in Benguet and he received it the next day. Talk about fast. It's too bad our government-run Post Office can't offer the same service.
2. Cheap books from both US and UK publishers
<-- Yesterday, for example, Johann found this AMAZING anthology of Steampunk Fiction published by Solaris. Cover price is GBP7.99 and we got our copy for 345 pesos.
3. Access to anime, Korean/Japanese TV Drama, US Sitcoms, British movies, etc.
4. The Food
<-- Lechon, Sans Rival, Taho ... I can go on and on ^_^
5. SSS and PhilHealth
<-- I'm a big fan of these two government institutions. I've experienced the benefits of paying my monthly dues to SSS and Philhealth. They should promote themselves more, though -- it makes me sad to know that some people don't bother to avail of these.
I also like the NSO and their e-service. Imagine being able to get your birth certificate and your marriage certificate with a click of a mouse button. (And a quick trip to the bank. ^_^)
6. Cheap airfare
<-- With PAL offering Econolite fares, domestic and international trips are now more affordable. ^_^
5 Best Purchases for 2008
1. Our White Macbook plus the RAM upgrade
<-- the beginning of a long and beautiful friendship. Next on my list is an Apple desktop.
2. My son's "Nano House"
3. Our second-hand Samsung refrigerator
<-- Early this year, we heard about a Korean student having a "sayonara sale" and was selling his appliances cheaply. We were able to guy his 4-month old refrigerator for half the price.
We have about 3 cakes in the ref right now and we appreciate the extra space. ^_^
4. Johann's phone
5. My Lesportsac bags
5 Favorite Movies of the Year
1. The Dark Knight
2. Iron Man
3. Wall-E
4. Juno
5. Kung Fu Panda
also Atonement, Wanted and Tropic Thunder (Downey deserves the Golden Globe nomination ^_^)
... more tomorrow ^_^
5 Things I Love About Living in the Philippines
1. Cheap, overnight, trackable delivery
<-- I love 2go and Air21 and their amazingly efficient service. We sent a gift to our inaanak in Benguet and he received it the next day. Talk about fast. It's too bad our government-run Post Office can't offer the same service.
2. Cheap books from both US and UK publishers
<-- Yesterday, for example, Johann found this AMAZING anthology of Steampunk Fiction published by Solaris. Cover price is GBP7.99 and we got our copy for 345 pesos.
3. Access to anime, Korean/Japanese TV Drama, US Sitcoms, British movies, etc.
4. The Food
<-- Lechon, Sans Rival, Taho ... I can go on and on ^_^
5. SSS and PhilHealth
<-- I'm a big fan of these two government institutions. I've experienced the benefits of paying my monthly dues to SSS and Philhealth. They should promote themselves more, though -- it makes me sad to know that some people don't bother to avail of these.
I also like the NSO and their e-service. Imagine being able to get your birth certificate and your marriage certificate with a click of a mouse button. (And a quick trip to the bank. ^_^)
6. Cheap airfare
<-- With PAL offering Econolite fares, domestic and international trips are now more affordable. ^_^
5 Best Purchases for 2008
1. Our White Macbook plus the RAM upgrade
<-- the beginning of a long and beautiful friendship. Next on my list is an Apple desktop.
2. My son's "Nano House"
3. Our second-hand Samsung refrigerator
<-- Early this year, we heard about a Korean student having a "sayonara sale" and was selling his appliances cheaply. We were able to guy his 4-month old refrigerator for half the price.
We have about 3 cakes in the ref right now and we appreciate the extra space. ^_^
4. Johann's phone
5. My Lesportsac bags
5 Favorite Movies of the Year
1. The Dark Knight
2. Iron Man
3. Wall-E
4. Juno
5. Kung Fu Panda
also Atonement, Wanted and Tropic Thunder (Downey deserves the Golden Globe nomination ^_^)
... more tomorrow ^_^
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Only at Christmas --
Yesterday, Seth discovered the bags of toys his Gwa-ma bought for the children of our workers. He wanted to open and play with them and we couldn't let him.
He ran around asking EVERYONE's permission but no one could give it.
The allure of shiny new things talaga. ^_^
* * *
Can only happen in a house full of kids --
I got this reply from my friend, F -- I loved the message so I haven't deleted it yet.
I'm still wrapping all my gifts! And ang hirap with 2 kids getting tape, tearing the wrapping paper, and licking the boxes!
The "licking boxes" part is what amuses me.
^_^
He ran around asking EVERYONE's permission but no one could give it.
The allure of shiny new things talaga. ^_^
* * *
Can only happen in a house full of kids --
I got this reply from my friend, F -- I loved the message so I haven't deleted it yet.
I'm still wrapping all my gifts! And ang hirap with 2 kids getting tape, tearing the wrapping paper, and licking the boxes!
The "licking boxes" part is what amuses me.
^_^
Friday, December 12, 2008
MV Doulos!!! --
MV Doulos will be in the Philippines again in 2009!
Yay!
Their first stop is Cebu on January 16 and then Bacolod on February 12 and, finally, Manila on March 5.
I wonder if I can still ride a boat in February ... Johann might have to roll me on and off the docks by then.
Yay!
Their first stop is Cebu on January 16 and then Bacolod on February 12 and, finally, Manila on March 5.
I wonder if I can still ride a boat in February ... Johann might have to roll me on and off the docks by then.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Was going to use a titillating title but decided against it --
Another regular "filler" from my brother are copies of Metropolis -- a weekly English magazine handed out for free around Tokyo.
My favorite section is "The Small Print" where the writers of Metropolis scour daily newspapers for interesting newsbits and comment on them.
I love the title of this article:
My favorite section is "The Small Print" where the writers of Metropolis scour daily newspapers for interesting newsbits and comment on them.
I love the title of this article:
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
More random things --
We got a package from my brother in Japan yesterday.
It's always fun getting things from him because he always surprises us with fun things from Japan.
One of the usual "fillers" he adds in each box are uchiwa (Japanese fans) that are handed out for free around Japan.
Since we are the land of (almost)-regular power interruptions, it is helpful to have one by our bedsides so we can fan Seth when he sleeps (or tries to sleep).
I got excited when I sorted through the stack of fans and found these:
(from L to R: Miyazaki's Ponyo, FFXI and a fan for the Tokyo 2016 Olympics bid)
* * *
More Pocky! --
Was surprised to discover 5 boxes of Pocky stuffed in the box as well.
When Seth saw it, he immediately wanted to eat some and I told him to wait until I had taken some pictures of it for my blog.
The little one has some patience but not a lot when it comes to Pocky -- observe the tiny hand sneaking in ...
The Blueberry Pocky smelled soooo good! I guess that's why Seth chose to eat (and demolish) that box first.
Notice three different chocolate varieties? I'm curious about the Creamy Chocolate.
The flavor that frightens me the most is the Brazilian Pudding ... but Johann and I have a plan. (Cue: foreboding music and thunder)
It's always fun getting things from him because he always surprises us with fun things from Japan.
One of the usual "fillers" he adds in each box are uchiwa (Japanese fans) that are handed out for free around Japan.
Since we are the land of (almost)-regular power interruptions, it is helpful to have one by our bedsides so we can fan Seth when he sleeps (or tries to sleep).
I got excited when I sorted through the stack of fans and found these:
(from L to R: Miyazaki's Ponyo, FFXI and a fan for the Tokyo 2016 Olympics bid)
* * *
More Pocky! --
Was surprised to discover 5 boxes of Pocky stuffed in the box as well.
When Seth saw it, he immediately wanted to eat some and I told him to wait until I had taken some pictures of it for my blog.
The little one has some patience but not a lot when it comes to Pocky -- observe the tiny hand sneaking in ...
The Blueberry Pocky smelled soooo good! I guess that's why Seth chose to eat (and demolish) that box first.
Notice three different chocolate varieties? I'm curious about the Creamy Chocolate.
The flavor that frightens me the most is the Brazilian Pudding ... but Johann and I have a plan. (Cue: foreboding music and thunder)
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Cute! --
Seth's yaya is slightly OC and she had some free time yesterday and decided to organize the stuff on top of our TV.
We used to just have a Yakisoba cup stuffed to the brim with pens, pencils, scissors and whatnot. She found empty containers and decided to fix up the system.
I thought this was cute --
It's the rolls of adhesive tape that I am using for Christmas (and for my book business) --
^_^
* * *
Diaries of years past --
I try not to be a packrat but it's hard to throw away something that you've had with you for an entire year.
So I keep my yearly diaries.
I've had the pleasure of owning two Starbucks diaries (2005 and 2006 -- I think I left my 2005 diary in our place in Manila) and those were what inspired me to keep a record of my daily/weekly activities.
This year, I actually have 2 diaries -- my small, red Moleskine one for portability and a regular one I bought at National Bookstore, which I keep on my bedside. I don't really use the big one because it's usually covered by books and whatnot. I use it to keep my receipts and tracking numbers (for my book business).
I like reading my diaries -- it's fun to remember movie dates and dinner dates and when I went somewhere. ^_^
We used to just have a Yakisoba cup stuffed to the brim with pens, pencils, scissors and whatnot. She found empty containers and decided to fix up the system.
I thought this was cute --
It's the rolls of adhesive tape that I am using for Christmas (and for my book business) --
^_^
* * *
Diaries of years past --
I try not to be a packrat but it's hard to throw away something that you've had with you for an entire year.
So I keep my yearly diaries.
I've had the pleasure of owning two Starbucks diaries (2005 and 2006 -- I think I left my 2005 diary in our place in Manila) and those were what inspired me to keep a record of my daily/weekly activities.
This year, I actually have 2 diaries -- my small, red Moleskine one for portability and a regular one I bought at National Bookstore, which I keep on my bedside. I don't really use the big one because it's usually covered by books and whatnot. I use it to keep my receipts and tracking numbers (for my book business).
I like reading my diaries -- it's fun to remember movie dates and dinner dates and when I went somewhere. ^_^
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Waiting for inspiration --
When I saw this a few months ago, I knew I wanted to get one for Seth.
I had such grand dreams of making a personalized discovery book for him. It's been sitting on or counter all this time, waiting for me to do something with it.
The shiny pages intimidate me! >_<
* * *
Ready for 2009! --
Last year, I splurged and got myself the red set -- but I decided to be a bit more practical this year and opted for a soft cover 2009 weekly notebook and a hardcover black moleskine notebook instead.
I had such grand dreams of making a personalized discovery book for him. It's been sitting on or counter all this time, waiting for me to do something with it.
The shiny pages intimidate me! >_<
* * *
Ready for 2009! --
Last year, I splurged and got myself the red set -- but I decided to be a bit more practical this year and opted for a soft cover 2009 weekly notebook and a hardcover black moleskine notebook instead.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Gearing up for Christmas! --
I had some free time yesterday afternoon so I decided to go to Iloilo Shanghai Bazaar -- one of my favorite places here in Iloilo. It's where most people go to buy trimmings, zippers and other appliques. I go there to buy ribbon.
I used to go every summer when I was home from university. It's lovely to just have a stash of ribbons ready for any occasion.
This is the loot from yesterday's visit:
I decided to go shiny/sparkly this year and bought a roll of gold and 10 meters each of cute green and two nice shades of blue. (I found a rare roll of kraft wrapping paper being sold at SM so I might use that to wrap gifts this year. ^_^)
I also like really thin ribbons so I bought a roll each of red, green, yellow and burgundy.
It's so pretty seeing all the colors together! >_<
Now to buy the gifts to use these ribbons with. ;-)
* * *
Happiness is --
Having a friend from Davao. ^_^
One of the things I was craving for was mangosteen and it was really difficult to find them here in Iloilo.
My friend, F told me that the harvest this year wasn't very good because of the weather.
She went to Davao a week ago to attend her nephew's birthday party and she surprised me with a boxful of goodies: mangosteen and pomelo!
Yay!
I used to go every summer when I was home from university. It's lovely to just have a stash of ribbons ready for any occasion.
This is the loot from yesterday's visit:
I decided to go shiny/sparkly this year and bought a roll of gold and 10 meters each of cute green and two nice shades of blue. (I found a rare roll of kraft wrapping paper being sold at SM so I might use that to wrap gifts this year. ^_^)
I also like really thin ribbons so I bought a roll each of red, green, yellow and burgundy.
It's so pretty seeing all the colors together! >_<
Now to buy the gifts to use these ribbons with. ;-)
* * *
Happiness is --
Having a friend from Davao. ^_^
One of the things I was craving for was mangosteen and it was really difficult to find them here in Iloilo.
My friend, F told me that the harvest this year wasn't very good because of the weather.
She went to Davao a week ago to attend her nephew's birthday party and she surprised me with a boxful of goodies: mangosteen and pomelo!
Yay!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Balance --
I'm a big believer in balance -- the universe always has a way of making things even and square.
For the past week, Johann and I have had our share of not-so-good news: his WOW:WotLK discs have been delayed because the online store we got it from ran out of stock. We decided to avail of the online download and it didn't work on the Macbook. (Took us two days to figure out how to install it on the PC)
My hubby doesn't get demoralized easily but I knew he felt pretty bad about how things had gone so far -- I told him that there has to be an exchange and the universe will make it right.
True enough, today, we got a postal notice from our local post office. Our VtES order arrived! Glee~
When I got to the post office, the lady in charge of parcels told me that another package arrived for me. (We are friendly with each other. ^_^) It was the two fantasy HCs we mooched from this really nice person from Canada. She mailed it out last July and I was getting ready to give it up for lost.
Then it arrived today.
See, balance. It's a good thing. ^_^
* * *
Why I love Bookmooch --
Bookmooch is a great, great place. You get lucky sometimes and get really great books like these:
Masterpieces of Fantasy and Wonder edited by David Hartwell
Masterpieces of Fantasy and Enchantment edited by David Hartwell
For the past week, Johann and I have had our share of not-so-good news: his WOW:WotLK discs have been delayed because the online store we got it from ran out of stock. We decided to avail of the online download and it didn't work on the Macbook. (Took us two days to figure out how to install it on the PC)
My hubby doesn't get demoralized easily but I knew he felt pretty bad about how things had gone so far -- I told him that there has to be an exchange and the universe will make it right.
True enough, today, we got a postal notice from our local post office. Our VtES order arrived! Glee~
When I got to the post office, the lady in charge of parcels told me that another package arrived for me. (We are friendly with each other. ^_^) It was the two fantasy HCs we mooched from this really nice person from Canada. She mailed it out last July and I was getting ready to give it up for lost.
Then it arrived today.
See, balance. It's a good thing. ^_^
* * *
Why I love Bookmooch --
Bookmooch is a great, great place. You get lucky sometimes and get really great books like these:
Masterpieces of Fantasy and Wonder edited by David Hartwell
Masterpieces of Fantasy and Enchantment edited by David Hartwell
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Just a quick update --
Realized I hadn't really blogged in a while --
Had dinner with our Korean friends at a newly-opened Korean restaurant near my house. It was my first time to try Galbi and I like it. I also loved all the side dishes they offered (especially the "coleslaw" which was prepared with wasabi).
Less than two years ago, I didn't even know what Galbi was and my only experience of Korean food was Johann's bottles of kimchi (which I hated back then but I love, love, love now).
I love that my food repertoire is expanding (together with my waistline) and I love that Seth's food horizons are broadening as well. Last weekend, we brought him to Rai Rai Ken and he loved the Miso soup and Chicken Teriyaki.
* * *
Great Saturday --
I had a lovely Saturday. We took a drive around the nearby subdivision where we turned off the aircon and opened all our windows to enjoy the fresh air.
We went to SM City after and came home with a stack of magazines. My current favorite magazine "find" is Real Simple. I love the tips and the ideas I find within the pages.
Crazy Crepes also opened recently and we got some for my mom and my sister. (This was Seth's first experience of Nutella and Almonds and he really loves them. I'm glad he isn't allergic to nuts. ^_^)
* * *
Rumor has it --
That Starbucks will soon open in Iloilo and Bacolod.
More franchises that will make me happy:
1. Krispy Kreme
2. Dairy Queen <-- during our last trip to Manila, we spent most of our money on Dairy Queen
3. Gerry's Grill <-- for decent sisig
4. FullyBooked and Powerbooks
Had dinner with our Korean friends at a newly-opened Korean restaurant near my house. It was my first time to try Galbi and I like it. I also loved all the side dishes they offered (especially the "coleslaw" which was prepared with wasabi).
Less than two years ago, I didn't even know what Galbi was and my only experience of Korean food was Johann's bottles of kimchi (which I hated back then but I love, love, love now).
I love that my food repertoire is expanding (together with my waistline) and I love that Seth's food horizons are broadening as well. Last weekend, we brought him to Rai Rai Ken and he loved the Miso soup and Chicken Teriyaki.
* * *
Great Saturday --
I had a lovely Saturday. We took a drive around the nearby subdivision where we turned off the aircon and opened all our windows to enjoy the fresh air.
We went to SM City after and came home with a stack of magazines. My current favorite magazine "find" is Real Simple. I love the tips and the ideas I find within the pages.
Crazy Crepes also opened recently and we got some for my mom and my sister. (This was Seth's first experience of Nutella and Almonds and he really loves them. I'm glad he isn't allergic to nuts. ^_^)
* * *
Rumor has it --
That Starbucks will soon open in Iloilo and Bacolod.
More franchises that will make me happy:
1. Krispy Kreme
2. Dairy Queen <-- during our last trip to Manila, we spent most of our money on Dairy Queen
3. Gerry's Grill <-- for decent sisig
4. FullyBooked and Powerbooks
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Because they wrote lovely things --
I stumbled upon this through a friend's blog and I really love what they wrote about the upcoming US elections.
From: Margaret and Helen: Best Friends for 60 Years and counting ...
* * *
Another link --
I love Christopher Buckley's books and I've set about collecting (and reading) all of them. From the way he writes, I would never have guessed he was Republican.
Following the US Elections, Christopher Buckley's name came up and I wondered why his endorsement of Obama caused such a big hoopla -- so I wiki-ed him.
Anyhoo, this is what he said about Barack Obama --
And this is his response to the hoopla that followed his endorsement.
* * *
One of the downsides of being pregnant --
Is not being able to sit through the 30-minute Obama informercial with weeping like crazy.
From: Margaret and Helen: Best Friends for 60 Years and counting ...
* * *
Another link --
I love Christopher Buckley's books and I've set about collecting (and reading) all of them. From the way he writes, I would never have guessed he was Republican.
Following the US Elections, Christopher Buckley's name came up and I wondered why his endorsement of Obama caused such a big hoopla -- so I wiki-ed him.
Anyhoo, this is what he said about Barack Obama --
And this is his response to the hoopla that followed his endorsement.
* * *
One of the downsides of being pregnant --
Is not being able to sit through the 30-minute Obama informercial with weeping like crazy.
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