Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Via Monte Napoleone and the Rest of Milan



Last summer was the most glorious thing that happened in my life, it was "THE" most exciting one month of my adult life!

Why?

Italy.

Buca di Beppo's New Home in Manila Welcomes Family Celebrations


Buca di Beppo®, the popular Italian restaurant chain that has conquered taste buds in over 100 locations worldwide, is now in Manila, specifically at Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. Serving Italian cuisine, Buca di Beppo® celebrates sumptuous Italian family-style feasts perfect for sharing in a vintage setting that gives foodies a nostalgic and whimsical dining experience.



Monday, December 18, 2017

Cheap and Hassle-free Gifting


Sometimes giving a great gift means thinking outside of the box—literally. Stop thinking about what you can give them and start thinking about things you can give them that will enhance what they already have. For most people, a solid gift is something that won’t clutter up their home or can be used in multiples ways something that need not be expensive but are practical and useful.

Thursday, December 7, 2017

Savor a taste of Christmas at Resorts World Manila


There are three main reasons why Resorts World Manila has to be the destination for your Christmas feastings and giving.

Monday, December 4, 2017

How My Mother's Cupboard Makes Any Homemakers Swoon


This is why I can't really quit blogging, it lets me into a different world apart from the jungle I'm usually at.  Blogging or being a blogger allows me to discover the untrodden path, newfangled innovations and try out activities that open up to new friendships and networks.

This being said, I felt blessed to be one of the mom entrepreneurs to be invited to My Mother's Cupboard's workshop organized by @gamechangerph.

Thanksgiving Give-away PART 1



As you've seen it, I'm celebrating Thanksgiving Day, not exactly the Thanksgiving the US had just celebrated, in fact, every day is Thanksgiving in my blog though I have not been that vocal about it.

Friday, December 1, 2017

SM Hypermarket’s Street Food Festival 2017


After successful servings of SM Hypermarket’s Street Food Festival roadshows held at SM Mall of Asia, SM City Clark, SM Center Muntinlupa, and SM City Fairview, SM Hypermarket save the best for last in a two day Grand Finale at SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Music Hall on November 2 and 3. The Grand Finale is overflowing with full servings of different cuisines and a buffet of today’s hottest stars that it just couldn’t fit in one day. It is simply the best way to cap SM Hypermarket’s Street Food Festival 2017.

Thursday, November 30, 2017

Lumina: Walkway of Lights at the Resorts World Manila


During the launch of Grand Fiesta Manila 2017 and the Christmas Tree Lighting of  Newport Mall, another festive mall feat was also launched.

Dubbed as Lumina: Walkway of Lights, RWM's newest installation is wired with at least 100,000 multi-colored LED bulbs that if stretched in a straight line equivalent to approximately 10 kilometers, or a distance between RWM and Greenhills making it arguably the brightest and longest lighted indoor corridor in the country.

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Is Your Beauty Regimen Complete? Make it Happen with Proactiv Solution


Keeping your face clean and flawless may seem daunting to many or easy peasy to some.  But you see, it doesn't have to be complicated as many would have thought so.

Ensuring a glowing and youthful skin is just one word away, Proativ.

DOT 4A Honors Tourism Champions


Tourism icons of the Southern Tagalog region, outstanding tourism officers, and tourist destinations were feted at the 4th CALABARZON Tourism Summit spearheaded by the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region IV-A at The Bellevue Manila.

Monday, November 27, 2017

5 Best Resorts Around Bangalore International Airport


Cosmopolitan Bangalore, now known as Bengaluru, is considered to be one of the most developed and progressive cities in India. Blessed with a pleasant climate and a blend of old architecture with the modern metropolitan look, the city has an unending, growing need for dining, shopping, drinking, exploring, reading and so on. The weary traveler can mix with the locals at quirky cafes and independent craft beer joints, apart from enjoying the world-class sights of the lovely Cubbon Park and Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens, surrounded by the Victorian-era architecture.

Friday, November 24, 2017

Fantasy Funfair at Resorts World Manila


It's that time of the year when the premier entertainment and tourism destination, Resorts World Manila (RWM), launches their annual Grand Fiesta Manila.

Together with VIP friends of RWM, media and mall-goers, we witnessed the kick off of Grand Fiesta Manila 2017 yesterday (November 23) at The Plaza in Newport Mall.

Amici, #BestWhenShared

Amici si nasce, non si diventa.
Above is a famous Italian quote which I saw painted on a wall in a restaurant, sometime during our trip to Verona.  In English, it's translated as "Friends are born, not made."

Since then, whenever I see an Amici branch, it reminds me of that quote, as "amici" means friends, plural for amica or amico, and it does not stop there, it reminded me as well of the aroma that permeated inside Italian "pizzerie" or pizza houses, the aroma of flatbreads being baked in stone or brick ovens, add to that the whiffs of herby and meaty aromas.

Oh dear, enough with the Italian words, let's go on and explore authentic Italian flavors appealing to the Filipino palate.

Thursday, November 23, 2017

Quick-Easy Granola Recipe


This is a fool-proof yummy and healthy, easy to make a snack, for your any sugar binge moments, without feeling a bit guilty.

Granola can easily be likened to trail mix and muesli, having quite the same elements except it has oats and occasionally, flaxseed.  It is usually consumed as a breakfast or snack, however, it's best as a dessert as well top it with cold Greek yogurt and you'll be a happy bee!

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Dégustation, The 17th Grand Wine Experience


You may consider efforts to address the dynamics of food and wine to be somewhat frivolous, and you certainly wouldn't be the only one to think so. I, however, beg to differ as do the Philippine Wine Merchants.  The term wine pairing was given light since time immemorial, but only a few get to experience it.  Now, foodies are more excited to tie the concept up to their habitual food-gathering and I'm loving the idea too.

Thursday, November 16, 2017

The Secret is Out: Corn Muffin Recipe of Kenny Roger's


After attending the launch of Healthy Options' Light Up Your Christmas Theme, I took myself on an organic splurge and brought home good ol' stuff from the baking aisle of Healthy Options in Shangri La Mall.

Gather at Home for the Holidays with UASHMAMA’s Distinctive Italian Style

Christmas table-setting incorporating the use of Uashmama paperbag.
Filipinos' tradition of coming together transcends all exterior expressions of the Christmas season.
Customary festive meals such as the Noche Buena and Media Noche are made meaningful by families and friends gathering together to partake of these feasts. It is a time when our people’s unparalleled hospitality can best be felt, not just by the food we serve, but also how the dining table looks when all of those holiday meals come to call.

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Hair Truths and Balayage Hairstyle at Arte Manila

At 40 I'm still learning new things, especially that times change so fast and trends just come and go. I'm not really into fashion or beauty, (thinking twice) or maybe I am, but I've not been vocal about it since I am too preoccupied with my family and my blogging.

Sunday, November 12, 2017

Endless Kitchen Possibilities With Heritage Nuts and Dried Fruits


So my daughter just came in from school, and her welcome was, "Mom, why do you need to buy lots of nuts? Oh, I remember a joke!

Q: What do you call nuts on a wall?
A: Walnuts.
Q: What do you call nuts on your chest?
A: Chestnuts.
Q: What do you call nuts on your chin?"

She then stopped and said, "never mind, Mom."

I didn't quite get the last one, perhaps, you have an idea.

Saturday, November 11, 2017

Promil Four Enheartens Parents to Nurture the Gift of Every Child


I believe that every individual is a treasure chest with jewels inside, and there are rather more of it than we can imagine. This jewels can just be hidden away or can be polished often making it more, and more brilliant after every polishing.  A child may or may not know yet these jewels inside of them, it will however manifest, but without proper stimulation or nutriment, it may become dull, or perhaps it might just not be discovered at all.


Thursday, November 2, 2017

RackShack, Racks for the Millenials

With (from left) Tina of Tinavilla.com and Michelle of  ww.r0ckstarm0mma.com

Who loves Racks? Now's the time to raise your hands.

We have loved Racks for years, it's undeniable, and I'm sure for Racks-lovers like me will get thrilled now that they have brought to life a new resto concept suited for today's vibe - Rackshack.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

P.F. Chang-inspired Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Red Cabbage Relish


Here is a quick and easy-to-do chicken recipe which can work well for a healthy rice meal or a filling snack.  If you're fond of P.F. Chang's, then you will love this blog post, as I try to experiment on a recipe I dug up from some magazine. 

What made me decide to this is remembering how I wanted to try P.F Chang eversince it opened up it's first branch in Alabang, and finding out about its closing without me even stepping into the restaurant.  Well, to be honest, I have never tried it! Not even their famous xia long bao served with a unique Filipino-taste black vinegar.

The Maya Kitchen Shares 3 Easy Recipes for Holiday Gifting


If there’s a whisk, there’s a way. Whether you’re baking to give or to sell, the holiday season is a great time to showcase your skills. Baked treats make for personal and less expensive gift ideas and a great business opportunity for aspiring bakers of all ages.  So, get ready to make this Christmas the tastiest and most memorable one yet with festive holiday recipes from The Maya Kitchen.

For a kick to any Christmas spread, whip up a cheesy Jalapeño Dip. Who knew a mixture of pickled jalapeños with loads of cheddar cheese could be an excellent gift idea? Pour it in a colorful canister and chill for the dip to firm up. You can even serve it as an appetizer with nacho chips or crostinis.

Spook Treats for Tricksters


The most thrilling time of the year is just around the corner: the hunt for the perfect costume is on, jack-o-lanterns adorn every nook and cranny, and store shelves are stocked with every kind of candy imaginable. But this year, why not take your Halloween game to the next level and whip up your own ghoulish goodies?

The Maya Kitchen shares some easy tricks for crafting spooky treats that the whole family will enjoy making—and eating!

Kiss the Tiramisu, Would You?


A pretty young lady tells of a story about her first kiss in Korea.  It was on her tour on the country when she found this seemingly dessert place being lined up with people.  At first she thought why would people line up for an ice cream, but she gave in and there she had her first kiss, a kiss she couldn't forget, that very first try and fell in love with.

Monday, October 23, 2017

Healthy Options' Light Up Your Christmas Theme


Healthy Options started opening their surprise boxes to bring cheers and light to the season as they unveiled their new Christmas gift packages.


Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Your Local: Sadly, Not in my Locale


This local neighborhood foodie joint had been keeping a low profile since it opened.  But with the outpour of reviews, it didn't escape from the foodies' radar. It did give a ring to my ears and had it written down in my "Must-visit place" way back in 2014.

Until a couple of weeks ago, when I X-ed out this item in my Foodie Manila Bucket List. 

Yay! It thought they would close down before I could even write about it or even try out the dishes.

After missing out a month for my re-validation of entry back to Manila from my Italian summer tour, I was able to visit Italian Embassy and planned a tour down Esteban St. from Salcedo St.

Monday, October 16, 2017

Basil Pesto with Truffle Oil Plus Other Uses of Truffle Oil


I'm so happy I was finally able to share you this amazing kitchen discovery.  I may not be the first one to discover this yummy invention, but it was another EUREKA moment for me as I still have a bottle of truffle oil that's just sitting in the pantry for almost a year now, of course, who would want an expensive item left to spoil in the corner of the kitchen cabinet?

Dona Elena Quick Fix Sardine Pasta in Tomato and Tricolor Pepper Sauce


Did you know that October 25 is celebrated around the globe as World Pasta Day?

It was first celebrated in the year 1995 when the World Pasta Congress was held in Rome on 25th October 1995, and since then has been established as the day to celebrate pasta.

Friday, October 13, 2017

Special Benefit Screening of Seven Sundays in Partnership with Resorts World Manila


“Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten” ― Lilo and Stitch.

My daughter Danielle was still 4 years old when the Disney animated movie, Lilo and Stitch, was shown and the Hawaiian word had pat in the minds of those who have watched it.  To me, it meant a whole lot of deal in taking care of my own family.  That simple word meant life to my kids and to my husband and most especially to me.  And even though, I knew I could easily have worked abroad, I have always stick to the decision that I will never go far away from my family, even if it cost me my dreams.




Fast forward to yesterday, my daughter Danielle, who used to be the youngest then (2002), is now an Ate of two more girls.  She is our second child, next to a 21-year-old man (I was going to say, boy, as I was used to it).  Together, we went to Newport Cinema to attend Donita Rose' special movie premiere of which is also her come-back movie, Seven Sundays.




Saboten Means Perfect 10 Katsu for My Family


One gleeful Sunday - not like any other Sundays, a Sunday we would rarely have, as my daughter, Danielle went with us to attend church service at New Life the Fort.  Before we went to hear more good news about the Lord, we went to Saboten.  

Here are a few reasons why we decided to dine here for the nth time, this too after having found out that Stella is no more.  For five years of indulging us with soul food, they bid farewell and is embarking on a new concept, still under Raintree Restaurants group.

Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Keep Food Fresher Longer with the Samsung Twin Cooling Refrigerator


The Samsung Twin Cooling Refrigerator is the family’s partner in their journey to living fresh. It enables the busy homemaker to provide better-tasting food through innovative features such as the Twin Cooling System, Smart Conversion, and Digital Inverter technology.

Saying I love Samsung products is an understatement in the house, as I have been dependent on the said brand for all my digital needs.  My phone, tablet and yes our fridge, they are all Samsung.  That is why it is to my pleasure sharing you more facts about Samsung's latest innovation in modern home-living. 

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Yes to Indoor Parties with May 100% Sparkling Grape Juice


The rainy season is the perfect reason to party with your loved ones.  Whether you’re thinking of a grand gathering or an intimate celebration, we’ve got tips on how you can add a personalized touch to your indoor party.

Together with today’s famous and favored non-alcoholic delightful drink, May 100% Sparkling Grape Juice, check out the following useful tips on how you can pull off a simple but stand out get together with your family and friends. 

Monday, October 9, 2017

Shinsen, Simple


After watching Jiro Dreams Sushi, we gained a much higher respect for the sushi chefs and then this gave us a hankering for sushi, I mean authentic, traditional Japanese sushi. 

Jiro Dreams Sushi is an American documentary film directed by David Gelb. The film follows Jiro Ono (小野 二郎 Ono Jirō), an 85-year-old sushi master and owner of Sukiyabashi Jiro, a Michelin three-star restaurant. Sukiyabashi Jiro is a 10-seat, sushi-only restaurant located in a Tokyo subway station. Jiro Ono serves a tasting menu of roughly 20 courses, for a total of 30,000 Japanese yen ($281 USD). (words for Wikipedia).

However, you can't just go to Japan with just one click and taste its finest culinary offering.

Thursday, October 5, 2017

Cocktails and Filipino-Inspired Tapas All-You-Can at Romulo Cafe


Known for its popular main courses, such as Lola Virginia’s Chicken Relleno, Adobo Romulo Style, and Tito Greg’s Kare-Kare, Romulo Café now introduces a surprising lineup of cocktails and Filipino-style tapas.


“Tapas are considered strictly Spanish; associated only with Spanish food,” says Sandie Romulo Squillantini, owner of Romulo Café and granddaughter of Carlos P. Romulo. “We wanted to tweak that idea because Filipino finger foods also go nicely with wine, Cava and other drinks. Basically, we’ve taken the tried and tested a combination of beer and pulutan, and we’ve made it a little friendlier to an international clientele.”

Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Marina Bay Spa and Lifestyle Club


If you think MOA complex is just all fun, shopping and eating, think again.  There's an addition within the area that caters to the more upscale lifestyle.  A lifestyle where play is essential as much as work, and where play means exceptional wellness experience.

Saturday, September 30, 2017

At the Mothers Who Brunch Affair: Because Moms Like Me Need a Break

Lovely photo of the attendees, photo credit from MWB
Motherhood is wonderful and magical yet awful and hard. But when you’re feeling all of the awful and hard and none of the wonder and magic, don't you think It’s time to take a break. Actually, it’s past time. You are right in feeling spent because that’s exactly what you are.

Was there a day when you start the mental countdown to bedtime before your first cup of coffee?  It's a sign, one of the many, that you are spent and you needed to find a little bit of pleasure with others other than your family.

If you can't seem to get your focus on and game-face isn't working either, by all means, Mom - have a break!

Mommy breaks can be a 10-minute escape to a regular once a week habit, or once in a month (but has to be counted in days.).  I don't have the luxury of having an hour break a day, but glad my husband and I was able to fly to Kalibo and onto Boracay last month for that much-coveted break from the kids and the household.

Not long after that weekend, I was back to my daily grind and for some reason, my work doubled and our home became stress-stuffed, as one of our dogs was about to give birth to another batch of litter.  Felt the knots on my back and shoulders and my hands looked more prune-y than ever.  I turned to gardening to relieve some stress, but it seemed that it added to my workload and now the signs have shown up that I'm totally spent.

So I heeded and said yes to my inner voice, and what timing when I received an invitation from my favorite cooking besties, the kitchen divas behind Mothers Who Brunch - Mish and Sab.


Both Mish and Sab are moms who take delight in creating delicious moments in their own kitchen and in somebody elses' kitchen.  Despite mommy duties, they also tend to their own blogs.

The pretty amazing moms behind Mothers Who Brunch

Mish Aventajado shares her family stories and recipes at Momma n' Manila while Sabrina Cristobal-Go ardently shares her recipes on her blog Sinfully Sabrina.  I love it when like-minded mommies join their wits together and come up with something spectacular, mostly when it's for moms.


Mothers Who Brunch have been around for years already and had opened up friendship within a clique of mom bloggers who share the same interest - love for food, family and "me-time." The two have always been great hosts to their events, I should know, I've been to three of their awesome events for moms and foodies.
Mothers Who Brunch
Facebook: https://www.facebook .com/MothersWhoBrunch/
Instagram: @motherswhobrunch


The last Mothers Who Brunch was held at the sassy 81 Cafe and Bistro at the Madison Galleries in Alabang Hills.

I couldn't tell what happened first but I knew they did a demo on how to make Frose which I missed (sigh).


It was an instant favorite, as it was refreshing and perfect to banish the stress brought about by the terrible traffic that caused me to come late.  Good thing Sab shared the procedure on her Facebook page.



81 Cafe and Bistro (and Madison Galleries) is one of those hidden gems in the South.  If you needed a good meal on a venue that isn't too crowded or noisy, this is the place, plus its  right smack in front a beautiful red brick church.

Will allocate a separate post for the cafe as their food is really top notch and worth writing about, and ought to be discovered by many foodies.


The theme this time around was "Gather, Inspire, Feast."  It wasn't only a quick escape we had from our mom lives (as if we truly could), it was also an opportunity to meet other moms and learn a thing or two about how they cope up with mothering and how they take time for breaks.

What can I say, they really stuffed us up, as we can't help to have bites after bites of their Filipino-type of tapas.

81 Cafe and Bistro
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/81eats/
Instagram: @81eats

The gathering was made more special with beautifully arranged florals from Flowers by Yumi and Orly.PH


Aside from 81 Cafe and Bistro, we also checked out another spiffy place in Madison Galleries, just a few steps away from the resto- Coco Nail Studio.


I was totally envious of the moms I was with.  The invitation came with a friendly reminder - "please hold off your manicure and pedicure session as we are treating you to one."

Well, I did, it's just that I couldn't join them that day cause our dog was left at the hospital, however, it still took him a few more days to pop out.


I was envious because this seals that utterly relaxing mommy break. The relaxing studio was hidden way at the back where there are cozy sofas with throw pillows you can just bury yourself in.



Coco Nail Studio's interior is my kind of design.  It has that classy, clutter-free design scheme with light gray to white hues.  I've heard that they offer a one of kind service that makes clients go back for, plus they only use quality products that do not harm even the youngest of their guests, and brands like Orly Philippines, you can't go wrong choosing them to take care your nails.

Coco Nails
Facebook: https://www.facebook .com/coconailstudiomadisongale ries/
Instagram: @coconailstudio

Photo credit from MWB

Especially now that Orly offers breathable polishes in 18 beautiful shades (USA and Germany).

They are 10-free and have a permeable formula which allows better adhesion and less chipping. Your nails won't only look good but Orly also cares for your nails without the need for a base coat. They contain argan oil, pro-vitamin B5, and vitamin C. This one does not really require having a top coat, thanks to the no-chip formula.

When you say 10-free, it refers to the non-toxic nail polishes that are free of all toxic ingredients like formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, camphor, formaldehyde resin, xylene, triphenyl phosphate and parabens, and they also tout a lack of animal ingredients and/or fragrance.

To know more about their products and promotions check their Facebook page.

Orly Philippines
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orly.ph/
Instagram: @orlyph


Lastly, thanks to Flowers by Yumi, I came home like I was on my first date with a large fully-bloomed red rose.  Flowers by Yumi is a Japanese-inspired flower arrangement.  Do give their store a visit at The Bellevue Business Center, North Bridgeway Alabang.

Flowers by Yumi
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowersbyyumi/
Instagram: @flowersbyyumi
I have always been a follower of team MWB, and their guests, you should too as you'll definitely get enough inspirations in motherhood and learning the art of sharing your life passions.

Attendees of the MWB at 81 Cafe and Bistro